Isolation. The ancient proverb speaks true about present reality. In our connected world.
Where media takes a word like “social” and turns it upside down.
“The one who isolates himself pursues selfish desires;
he rebels against all sound wisdom.”
Proverbs 18:1
Fruit of isolation
We see the fruit of isolation.
Inward focus. Fears. Distrust. Detached from discernment and wise counsel.
Sometimes endangering one’s self. And others.
For good reason, the Body of Christ calls out believers who try to make faith a solo journey.
A part separated from the whole cannot thrive. Or survive.
Body life
We abide in Christ through prayer. And the Word.
But also by participating. Together. In His Body.
We need each other. To persevere in obedience. And pursue holiness.
Body life teaches us to work together. Pray for one another. Come alongside to weep with those who weep.
And rejoice with those who rejoice.
No solo act
Christ-followers are no solo act. But part of something intricately designed with His purpose and glory in its DNA.
Orchestrated for the music that changes and transforms single notes into a unified whole.
A Masterpiece declaring the gospel to the lost, the foolish, the rebellious, the isolated.
Sound wisdom countering sound bites and takes of the day.
Resisting the one that has glorified self-serving pursuits since the garden of Eden.
United in spirit
“If then, there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, make my joy complete by thinking the same way, having the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. Everyone should look not to his own interests, but rather to the interests of others. Adopt the same attitude as that of Christ Jesus….”
Philippians 2:1-5
What about you?
Have you encountered the dangers of isolation? How has the Body of Christ taught you that we need each other?
Related
By design – Eclectic – Standing on gravestones – Words – Integrity – Proverbs 18:1 – Philippians 2 – 1 Corinthians 12:12-31 – 1 Corinthians 13 –
9 replies on “Isolation”
I hear myself talking to everyone who will listen about the importance of godly community! We need each other!
Yes, we do! Thankful for your fellowship of believers where you live and serve, sister.
Most church facilities are not configured with disabilities factored in. In today’s world with scooters, electric wheelchairs, there are a myriad of access barriers, from insufficient disabled parking, steps, restroom layouts. Large groups in confined spaces are difficult to navigate.
Thanks so much for bringing this to light. That is hard and a good thing to pray about and advocate for. Meanwhile, hopefully finding ways to gather with members of the Body in other more accessible spaces for study of the Word and prayer and building one another up in the Lord during the week can welcome and encourage those who feel isolated. The Lord sees and knows the need and can open unexpected ways for His people to gather.
Yes, the internet has opened up many opportunities to interact with the Body of Christ from around the world, from online studies via ZOOM to live worship services. And the Lord presents opportunities for witness in various arenas from time to time locally.
We had those verses read on our wedding day. The Holy Spirit had given me those verses. I am thankful for that and for the blessing of almost 48 years of marriage. Praise Him.
Praise God! When Todd and I got engaged, Philippians 2:2 was “our verse”—and that passage has been our prayer too! Celebrating 39 years of marriage later this year 😊
Thank you for wtiting this important message on isolationism. As I have aged I have seen the danger of this very word. Staying in touch with friends & family by phone, email, or written letters has helpeds me reach out to friends in my city, friends in another state and beyond. One thing I have also tried is sending encouranging quotes to friends and family. All have expressed gratitude and joy at receiving something new to think about.
Such a wonderful way to use your gifts and encourage brothers and sisters in the Body of Christ. Thank you for sharing!