I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. 14 Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles.

Philippians 4:12-14 (NIV)

 

People are looking for real, authentic, and caring relationships. Nothing makes this so apparent than our recent lockdown restriction. Over the past few months, some friends in ministry have been engaging in conversations over the internet with random people who don't normally talk about religion or faith issues. Though many may have their prejudices and doubts about the Christian faith, those conversations have opened opportunities to talk about things and issues that matters to the heart. And often those conversations lead to people deciding to follow the Lord.

To be real and authentic is not about being perfect but to be honest at where we are at and where we are going in life and our need for God's grace to get us through each day.

The Apostle Paul was honest about his circumstances and emotions and not afraid to share his story. He showed us that he could be vulnerable with his fellow believers because he built authentic relationships with them. This is why he could say "I can do all this through Him who gives me strength". Paul knew Christ will help him to endure the sufferings of persecution and he also knew the church will support him during difficult times.

It is obvious we cannot engage and relate with everyone in church at a deep personal level. That's not the goal. The hope is that each one of us has a core group of real friends—and I really mean real friends whom you can trust from bottom of your heart.

We all need to know cultivating caring relationships and a feeling of belonging begins with us. It is so important that we learn to support and love each other through all seasons of life, and in particular the difficult ones. This becomes the basis that we can show the world that our church community can be a safe place in times of trouble.