Find People That Nurture Your Joy
"For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another." - Romans 12:4-5
In Nehemiah 8, a striking theme emerges: the emphasis on community. The phrase “all the people” appears repeatedly in the first twelve verses, highlighting the unity of the Israelites as they gather at the Water Gate. They listen to the Word together, lift their hands in praise, and are encouraged to eat and drink with joy.
Nowhere do we find individuals navigating their struggles in isolation. Instead, they are surrounded by one another, drawing strength from their shared experiences.
This is significant because, during tough times, the enemy often tries to isolate us. When we face difficulties, it can be tempting to shut down, stop responding to calls, and withdraw from the communities that can support us. We may skip gym sessions, avoid social gatherings, or even stop attending church.
But isolating ourselves during these moments is a setup for failure. It breeds negativity, despair, and hopelessness. When we distance ourselves from the people who encourage, inspire, and support us, we risk burning out in our struggles. If you’re going through a tough season and have isolated yourself, remember that you are not meant to navigate life alone.
Scripture emphasizes the importance of community, using the phrase “one another” over a hundred times in the New Testament. We are called to stir each other up to love and good works, to bear one another's burdens, and to build each other up. Joy is often found through these connections.
If you’re struggling to find joy in difficult times, take a moment to examine your connections. Are you surrounding yourself with people who uplift you? Are you engaged in community and worship? By nurturing these connections, you can cultivate joy, even in joyless seasons. So, reach out, reconnect, and allow others to help nourish your spirit. Choose community, and you’ll discover the joy that thrives in togetherness.
In Nehemiah 8, a striking theme emerges: the emphasis on community. The phrase “all the people” appears repeatedly in the first twelve verses, highlighting the unity of the Israelites as they gather at the Water Gate. They listen to the Word together, lift their hands in praise, and are encouraged to eat and drink with joy.
Nowhere do we find individuals navigating their struggles in isolation. Instead, they are surrounded by one another, drawing strength from their shared experiences.
This is significant because, during tough times, the enemy often tries to isolate us. When we face difficulties, it can be tempting to shut down, stop responding to calls, and withdraw from the communities that can support us. We may skip gym sessions, avoid social gatherings, or even stop attending church.
But isolating ourselves during these moments is a setup for failure. It breeds negativity, despair, and hopelessness. When we distance ourselves from the people who encourage, inspire, and support us, we risk burning out in our struggles. If you’re going through a tough season and have isolated yourself, remember that you are not meant to navigate life alone.
Scripture emphasizes the importance of community, using the phrase “one another” over a hundred times in the New Testament. We are called to stir each other up to love and good works, to bear one another's burdens, and to build each other up. Joy is often found through these connections.
If you’re struggling to find joy in difficult times, take a moment to examine your connections. Are you surrounding yourself with people who uplift you? Are you engaged in community and worship? By nurturing these connections, you can cultivate joy, even in joyless seasons. So, reach out, reconnect, and allow others to help nourish your spirit. Choose community, and you’ll discover the joy that thrives in togetherness.
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