Several years ago former prison- ers of war were interviewed to determine what methods used by the enemy had been most effective in breaking their spirit. Researchers learned that the prisoners didn’t break down from physical deprivation and torture as quickly as they did from solitary confinement or from being frequently moved around and separated from friends. It was further learned that the soldiers drew their greatest strength from the close attachments they had formed to the small military units to which they belonged.

These observations give us insight into why Christians need the experience of group fellowship with other believers to help them remain loyal to the Lord. Our own personal relationship to God, vital as that is, is not sufficient to produce spiritual maturity and endurance. Relationships within a unified body of believers, filled with the Spirit, are essential for growth and for maintaining our individual faithfulness to the Saviour (Heb. 10:23-25).

Sometimes we would rather not be involved in church life, thinking it’s easier just to go it alone. But Christians who do that miss out on all the benefits. Let’s remember that God in His wisdom has grouped us for strength.

Believers stand strong when they don’t stand alone.

Author

Mart DeHaan

Topics

Our Daily Bread