Chapt. 20 Restoring Broken Fellowship

This is a heavy subject that only mature people can handle (and even then it's a tough challenge.) I will try to sum up this chapter and be sensitive because many of us have been hurt and still have some broken relationships out there.

The PDL does a great job on talking about how we are called to be peacemakers. In fact we are called to peacemaking (Romans 12:18). That doesn't mean we become a doormat or a people pleaser but rather we are committed to love, peace and truth.

Here are the 7 Biblical steps to restoring a relationship 1. Talk to God before talking to the person. 2. Always take the initiative. 3. Sympathize with their feelings. 4. Confess your part of the conflict. 5. Attack the problem, not the person 6. Cooperate as much as possible. 7. Emphasize reconciliation, not resolution.

After this, you have done all that you are asked to do. Leave the rest in God's hands - and theirs.

Chapter 19- Cultivating Community

There are many challenges involved when you bring multiple cultures and personalities together. In order to grow and thrive in any diverse community, there are tools of cultivation that must be used. Two of the main tools that come to mind are humility and honesty. What else does it take to cultivate a positive, productive group?

I thought Warren brought it together nicely on page 151 where he said, "I urge you to make a group covenant that includes the nine characteristics of biblical fellowship: We will share our true feelings (authenticity), encourage each other (mutuality), support each other (sympathy), forgive each other (mercy), seek the truth in love (honesty), admit our weaknesses (humility), respect our differences (courtesy), not gossip (confidentiality), and make group a priority (frequency)."

What came to mind for me is what Paul wrote to the Galatians about the fruit of the spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control..." If you exercise the fruit of the spirit, you will cultivate successful communities and relationships.

Chap. 18 - Experiencing Life Together

Life is meant to be shared! How true that is and really what a gift that is to each of us. Sometimes, it is a challenge and sometimes it's pure bliss. Either way we need others in our life to motivate, challenge, love, share and grow. The Bible calls this shared experience "fellowship." We need places and groups that we can expose our faults, forgive, heal, give and receive. Jesus created the need for community deep within us. The body of Christ can be the greatest example of true "fellowship." I encouraged you to get involved in Bible study or home fellowship group where you can grow in friendships and be encouraged and challenged by other Christians. If you have a story on how a group really helped you grow, please share it here. We love hearing from you.

Happy New Year!

Today, my friend, we are one year closer to Jesus' return. Let's celebrate by making the most of each day of this year!