Connections that Count |March 12, 2021

Read 

12 See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. 13 But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. 14 We have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original conviction firmly to the very end. Hebrew 3:12-14 

21 They preached the gospel in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, 22 strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said. Acts 14:2

Reflect

· What are the reasons these verses give for sharing and receiving spiritual encouragement? 

· What barriers prevent you from doing this? 

· How can you encourage others to remain faithful, resist sin, and endure hardships? What would this practically look like in your life and relationships?

Apply 

We are often more comfortable giving encouragement toward the accomplishments, qualities, and aspirations of others. In today’s age, encouraging another’s faith can seem intimidating. We have been fooled into thinking our faith is to be private. But we are not meant to journey alone! With the deceitfulness of sin and hardships of life, encouraging faith and faithfulness is a must. 

· In the days to come, have a spiritual conversation to encourage and be encouraged by another

Pray

God, thank you for giving us a community of faith where we can share and receive encouragement. Help me to go beyond surface level to have spiritual conversations. Give me courage to overcome my reluctance, fears, and excuses. Give me eyes to see those who are struggling in their faith, deceived by sin, or discouraged by hardship. By your power I will follow your lead! Amen

Listen

Kutless – What Faith Can Do