Daily Devo
Get Connected
By: Lisa Hodgins
Monday, January 20, 2025
Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
We began attending Calvary Chapel Melbourne back in the late 90’s, but we never imagined how many wonderful people we would meet. We also never imagined how many of them would eventually become close friends as we "shared life" and followed Jesus. Really, it all got started when I began serving as a volunteer in CCM's welcome center. Serving opened doors to make new friends, and I'm happy to say one of the friends I made has been my best friend for over 20 years now!
Trying new things can be intimidating, especially for us introverts... The Lord stretches us to break us out of our shells, but He does it gently, in ways that bring us blessings. CCM has many different types of small groups, and you can join one in many different ways. You can join a serve team (like I did), sign up for a class, or attend a home fellowship group. Joining a small group is fun, and it will deepen your walk with the Lord. In a group you will gain the support and encouragement of like-minded believers, and believe me, that is invaluable! When my husband was diagnosed with cancer, I can’t describe how important it was to have our friends from church pray with us and encourage us.
The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense. Proverbs 27:9 (NLT)
If joining a group sounds intimidating, a wonderful way to get connected is to sign up for a class. Taking a class helps us spiritually mature, and we get to grow alongside others. When my husband joined a new men’s class, I saw how much that class impacted his spiritual growth. I remember thinking, "I want that too!", so I signed up for a women's small group class called Journey. That class deepened my relationship with the Lord, and I made deep, long-lasting friendships with the ladies in the group. Joining a small group will keep you focused on God, provides accountability and support, and opens doors for new friendships to flourish.
For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them. Matthew 18:20
As this verse from Matthew says, the best part of being in a small group is the blessing of Jesus being right there with you! So don't be shy, step out of your comfort zone and get connected with your church family.
Read: Hebrews 10:24-25, Acts 2:42