"Winning Strategy" | February 23, 2025 | Ps Joel Lowery

In a world that often feels disconnected and divided, the concept of genuine community has never been more crucial. But what does true community look like, especially within a spiritual context? Let's explore some powerful insights on building authentic connections that foster growth, love, and purpose.

The Foundation of Community

At its core, community isn't something we create—it's the fruit of our actions and attitudes. As theologian Henry Nouwen beautifully articulated, "Community is first of all a quality of the heart. It grows from the spiritual knowledge that we are alive, not for ourselves, but for one another." This profound statement challenges us to shift our perspective from self-centered to other-centered living.

True community blossoms when we prioritize the interests of others above our own. It's not about manufacturing a sense of belonging, but about nurturing giving hearts. This mindset aligns perfectly with the biblical call to "love one another" and serves as the foundation for authentic connection.

The Power of Spiritual Gifts

Each of us has been entrusted with unique spiritual gifts, but these gifts aren't meant for personal gain or glory. The book of Ephesians teaches us that our gifts are given "to equip God's people to do His work and build up the church." This reveals a beautiful cycle of growth within a community:

1. We use our gifts to equip and build up others.
2. As others grow, they in turn use their gifts.
3. The entire community is strengthened and matures together.

Understanding this purpose for our gifts shifts our focus from self-importance to service. It challenges us to ask, "How can I use what God has given me to bless and strengthen those around me?"

The Journey of Spiritual Maturity

Growth is at the heart of healthy community. Just as a child grows physically and emotionally, we are called to grow spiritually. This growth isn't always comfortable—in fact, it often involves struggle and pain. But as we mature, we become more grounded in truth and less swayed by false teachings or passing trends.

Ephesians 4:13 provides a powerful metric for spiritual maturity: unity in faith and knowledge of God's Son. This dual focus on both communal unity and personal knowledge of Christ creates a balanced approach to growth. It reminds us that maturity isn't a solitary journey, but one deeply intertwined with our relationships in the community of faith.

The Art of Speaking Truth in Love

One of the most challenging aspects of authentic community is learning to address difficult issues with grace and honesty. We often shy away from confrontation, choosing to keep the peace rather than speak up. However, this avoidance can stunt both individual and communal growth.

The biblical instruction to "speak the truth in love" (Ephesians 4:15) provides a delicate balance. It's not about harsh criticism or turning a blind eye—it's about caring enough to have the hard conversations, always motivated by love and a desire for growth.

This principle extends to how we receive correction as well. Proverbs reminds us that "fools have no interest in understanding; they only want to air their own opinions." Cultivating a teachable spirit, even when it's uncomfortable, is crucial for personal and communal growth.

The Seasoning of Grace and Truth

Colossians 4:6 offers a beautiful metaphor for our interactions: "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt." This imagery paints a picture of grace as the primary ingredient, with truth (salt) added in the right measure. Too much salt can ruin a dish, just as too much blunt truth without grace can damage relationships. Finding the right balance is an art that requires wisdom and practice.

Keeping the Big Picture in Focus

In any community, it's easy to get sidetracked by minor issues or personal preferences. However, we're called to keep the main thing the main thing. Ephesians 4:16 reminds us that when each part of the body does its special work, it helps the other parts grow, creating a healthy, loving whole.

The ultimate goal of spiritual community isn't just to make us feel like we belong. It's to help us grow, become healthy, and be full of love. When we focus on these primary objectives, the secondary benefits—like a sense of belonging and purpose—naturally follow.

Practical Steps for Building Community

1. Intentionality: Don't wait for connection to happen by chance. Enter each gathering with the mindset of blessing and connecting with others.

2. Vulnerability: Be willing to share your struggles and victories. Authentic community thrives on openness.

3. Active Listening: Practice truly hearing others, not just waiting for your turn to speak.

4. Serve: Look for ways to use your gifts to meet the needs of those around you.

5. Forgiveness: Be quick to forgive and slow to take offense. Remember the "thick skin, soft heart" principle.

6. Consistency: Building deep connections takes time. Commit to showing up regularly.

7. Prayer: Invite God into your relationships, asking for His wisdom and love to flow through you.

As we journey together in faith, may we be intentional about creating spaces where authentic community can flourish. Let's commit to using our gifts, speaking truth in love, and keeping our focus on growing together in Christ. In doing so, we'll not only experience the joy of genuine connection but also become a powerful witness of God's love to a world in desperate need of true community.