Encourage One Another

“Jonathan came to David in Horesh and encouraged him in his faith in God.” 1 Samuel 23:16 

There are two brothers mentioned in Scripture I want to talk about. One was not really a biological brother but he was a great brother to David. His name was Jonathan. He had a deep sense of love, loyalty and compassion for David. On several occasions he was a great encouragement to David. They had been through thick and thin together. They had seen good days and bad as they journeyed through the storms of life. David’s life was falling apart but God had big plans for him. So God sent Jonathan to encourage David and help bolster his faith at just the right time. 

 Then there is an actual brother who is a really lousy one. His name is Cain. He got so angry with God that he killed his brother then when God confronted him he said, “Am I my brother’s guardian?” He was only concerned about himself. The Bible persistently reminds us “it is not good to be alone” (Genesis 2:18). God intends for each of us to help one another become more like Jesus. The early church gathered daily to study the teachings of the Apostles, as should we. Many of you know that where two or three are gathered there the Spirit of the Lord is (Matthew 18:20). By joining together with other believers we can help one another become who we are created to be.

 Paul once said that bad company corrupts good morals (1 Corinthians 15:33). When we spend more time away from believers and more time on worldly events, sports and adventures we become more and more self-centered, but when we participate in corporate worship and small groups here at Ridglea we become more like Christ. If you are in a small group invite others to join you. If you are not, just listen, someone is about to invite you to theirs.