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Why We Fellowship

     Peter wrote, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.” (1Peter 5:8-9)

In the wild, the animals that are devoured by the enemy most often are the ones who stray from the others. They are alone, weak, and vulnerable. A hungry lion sees them as an opportunity.

Likewise, as Christians we must keep in mind our enemy the devil. He is like that lion seeking whom he may devour. It is for this reason that our fellowship with one another is so vital. The moment we begin to believe that coming together as the unified body of Christ in unimportant, the devil smiles.

Fellowship is vital for several reasons. First, it reminds us that we are not alone. Anytime one feels like they are alone in a cause, they quickly become overwhelmed with discouragement and run the risk of wanting to quit.

We remember Elijah who became discouraged because he thought he was the only one left who was striving to please God. He said, “I have been very zealous for the Lord God of hosts; because the children of Israel have forsaken Your covenant, torn down Your altars, and killed Your prophets with the sword. I alone am left; and they seek to take my life.” (1Kings 19:14).  The Lord responded, “Yet I have reserved seven thousand in Israel, all whose knees have not bowed to Baal, and every mouth that has not kissed him.” (vs. 18).

Just being together reminds each of us that we are not alone in the Christian life. We have one another lean on in time of need. This is what keeps us motivated when life becomes difficult. When one tries to face the adversities of life on his own, the lion salivates.

Second, fellowship is vital because we build one another up. The Hebrew writer stated, “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:24-25)

The Day of the Lord is drawing closer every moment. Therefore, it is imperative that we maintain our focus on the road ahead that leads to everlasting life. Nothing helps us quite like the strength we receive when we come together as the family of God. As we prepare for this New Year to come, let us have as one of our goals, to fellowship and strengthen one another as often as we can.

God Bless each of you,

Eric Hicks

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