Be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine. – Romans 1:12
It has become so common to communicate by phone calls, texts, and emails to the extent that you may seldom see another person face to face. Though it is great to be able to connect with others that you may not have seen since childhood or with friends around the world, it is important for believers to meet together.
In the New Testament, though the apostles wrote when they were away from their churches, and thank God they did, they preferred fellowshipping with other believers in person. Paul wrote, “But since we were torn away from you, brothers, for a short time, in person not in heart, we endeavored the more eagerly and with great desire to see you face to face” (1 Thessalonians 2:17).
More can be communicated face to face. Eye contact builds connection and trust. Touch adds depth to relationships, either by shaking hands, a pat on the back, or hugs. The early church greeted each other with a holy kiss (Romans 16:16). The experience of worshiping together builds unity as the message is received, songs are sung, and prayers are prayed for each other. “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near” (Hebrews 10:24-25).
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many have gotten out of the habit of going to church. Pray for believers to value and return to church attendance. And remember Jesus’ promise, “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them” (Matthew 18:20).
Today’s Verse: Romans 1:12
that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Hebrews 10:22-27
22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
26 For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, 27 but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
