Thursday, April 11, 2013

Thirsty Thursdays: FellowShip

Fellowship: Friendly association, especially with people who share one's interest; A group of people meeting to pursue a shared interest or aim. Fellowship is very important in the lives of believers.  It provides a sense of community, support, acceptance and belonging. It helps to further build the kingdom of God, while positively effecting our lives.

Peter, addresses the crowd explaining how they were all able to understand what was being said he goes on to tell them “36…God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah” Acts 2:36. When the people heard this they were shocked and saddened and did not know what to do. Peter replies by saying “38 Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” Acts 2:38. Many accepted the message and were baptized. “44 All the believers were together and had everything in common 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Everyday they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved” Acts 2:44-47

The community that fellowship provides is amazing. As seen in this chapter of Acts the believers all shared a common interest. As they did more and more together, more believers were added unto them thus increasing the Kingdom of God. For me personally, fellowship is one of the best parts of church. Life is not always easy and this walk can be difficult. Unfortunately, we do not always have the answers to our problems. Through fellowship we have a support system, a group of people we can lean on, who accepts us and will help us get through our issues. We do not have to face these adversities alone. The fellowship that goes on from Sunday service to my Tuesday night bible study and Wednesday night small group session is amazing. The open nonjudgmental forum provides an exceptional environment for spiritual growth. As we gain a better understanding of God's word and will for our lives, we are also afforded the opportunity to voice questions, cares and concerns. We share our knowledge and wisdom from personal experiences allowing us learn new things not only about each other but ourselves. The positive reinforcement, encouragement and support strengthens our relationship with each other as well as God. Fellowship is a vital part in self improvement, helping others and reaching the world for Christ thus building the Kingdom of God. 

Stay Thirsty My Friends

Thirsty Thursdays: Ron

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