19: CULTIVATING COMMUNITY

THE PURPOSE- DRIVEN LIFE

DAY 19

POINT TO PONDER: Community requires commitment.

VERSE TO REMEMBER: "We understand what love is when we realize that Christ gave his life for us. That means we must give our lives for other believers." 1 John 3:16 (GWT)

QUESTION TO CONSIDER: How can I help cultivate today the characteristics of real community in my small group and my church?

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I think it's best that I follow the tips written in this chapter. According to this book, there are nine characteristics of biblical fellowship that a church should possess:

• Authenticity- we should share our feelings and shortcomings
• Mutuality- we should uplift each other and help everyone feel good about themselves
• Sympathy- when someone falls down, everyone should be there to support and help that person get back up
• Mercy- after sharing our sins and flaws, everyone must be able to forgive each other
• Honesty- we should be open and speak the truth at all times
• Humility- it's a must that we admit our imperfections and weaknesses
• Courtesy- respect begets respect and I can not stress that enough
• Confidentiality- when someone opens up to us, we should keep it within the group and not gossip about it
• Frequency- we should make our group a priority and allot enough time to be with the members