Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV)

While being a part of a church community is all about making connections, there is no such thing as instant friendship. Many of us struggle to grow and develop meaningful relationships with other Christians. Most times our conversations and interactions are incredibly superficial, lacking depth and substance. If we desire a healthy church family, we must devote time and opportunities to developing mutual trust, love, and resilience.

We must recognise that the prevalent culture of individualism and self-centred independence has influenced how we view friendship and community. We are taught to love ourselves first and prioritise our own needs over the needs of others. Such an unhealthy habit of constantly thinking about ourselves and being content with living for ourselves will lead to a selfish life. This is why the Apostle Paul exhorts the Philippians to avoid an individualistic approach to Christian living.

The gospel transforms us from self-centred to Christ-centred.

It is old flesh thinking if we continue to believe that our needs are more urgent and important than anyone else's. We need to renew our minds in Christ so as to have new faith thinking. So instead of being consumed by our own worries and fear, we can trust in God's grace and sovereign power to turn our circumstances for our good and His glory. This frees us to serve others and to bring blessings to them as our Father works in us and through us as His sons and daughters.

Our friendship and community should reflect the gospel in every way, with complete sincerity and without compromise. Christ says He will build His church, and we are His co-labourers. The church can only be as loving and caring as the people who make up its membership. It is good and wise to learn how to walk alongside one another, nurture one another's faith, uphold one another in prayer, and encourage one another to minister together to a lost and broken world.