Sharpened Together
"As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." —Proverbs 27:17
We live in a world that often celebrates individualism—emphasizing personal independence and self-reliance. While self-sufficiency has its merits, an overemphasis on individualism can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. The truth is, we were never meant to navigate life alone. God, in His infinite wisdom, created us for relationship—to lean on, support, and encourage one another. Living in isolation is not part of His brilliant design.
God didn’t just design us to worship Him in solitude, although personal time with Jesus is essential. He also calls us to worship together. Community worship deepens our faith and reminds us that we are part of something far greater than ourselves—the body of Christ.
During His earthly ministry, Jesus Himself modeled the importance of community. Though He possessed the power to carry out His mission alone, He chose to gather a group of believers—the twelve disciples—to journey with Him. These men traveled alongside Jesus, learning from His teachings, witnessing His miracles, and carrying His message forward even after His death and resurrection. By choosing to live in community, Jesus demonstrated that spiritual growth flourishes best in the context of relationships.
Community is where friendships are formed, encouragement is shared, and spiritual accountability is nurtured. Friends who walk alongside us during life’s trials not only offer comfort but also help us remain steadfast in our faith. Likewise, we are called to support and uplift others, reflecting Christ’s love through our relationships.
Being part of a community is not just beneficial—it’s essential. We need people we can trust, rely on, and turn to for wisdom and guidance. Fellow believers can challenge us to grow, gently correct us when we stray, and remind us of God’s truth when we falter. Just as iron sharpens iron, strong relationships refine us, helping us become more Christlike.
Ultimately, living in community is not just a suggestion—it’s a vital aspect of the Christian life. We are stronger together, called to bear one another’s burdens, celebrate each other’s joys, and pursue God’s purposes side by side. In a world that often whispers, “You can do it on your own,” God gently reminds us, “You were never meant to.”