It’s Better Growing Together

On my way to and from work I enjoy reading.

Sometimes I’ll read a book.  Sometimes I’ll read blogs or other articles online through my mobile device. either way I enjoy reading. I’ll come across something and it will grab my attention and I’ll be fascinated with it.  Depending on what I’ve read I’ll note it. I might even tell my wife about it.

What I’ve enjoyed of late, however, is that learning and growing is far more fun in the context of a group of people doing it together.  Last month as this blog reflected, I was marching through the book of Proverbs. I had the great honour of doing the journey in the company of others through various communication means. It was a thrilling journey.  People were making contributions that brought insight to some Proverbs that not only had I not considered before, but it challenged me about how I did what I did.  Books might have done that, but not with the level of interactive and personal investment that intentionally growing in community allows.

I’m convinced now more than ever that things like Bible Study are best done in community.  That’s not to negate personal study and the personal responsibility needed for development.  That one to one time with God is vital.  It’s evident, however, that God certainly made other means by relationship to develop, blossom and grow. I’m not sure if we truly make the most of those relational avenues.  There’s a great pressure on our time to squeeze out quality time together.

That makes it all the more important to live in a way that highlights what our priorities are.

For His Name’s Sake

Shalom

C. L. J. Dryden