1 Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all sound judgment (Proverbs 18:1)
For the first few years of seriously (somewhat) following Christ, I struggled. Coming out of depression, health issues, and broken relationships, I found that a life with Jesus is simply better (not easier). However, I struggled because I was stubborn with change. Perhaps part of me just figured that I could remain the same and just use Jesus as an add-on. No one told me that He came to ruin as much as redeem. To wreck as much as save. If my old way of living worked, then I wouldn’t have needed Him. One of the most ignorant mindsets of mine has always been that I can do life on my own. On paper, relationships seem like a good idea but practically speaking, they are a ripe with heartbreak and let down. Who needs that?
It is no surprise then that my faith was stagnant.
God always calls us to others. We were made in and for community. In the garden, Adam had a relationship with God, with nature, and then with his wife and it was good. When one of these aspects are out of alignment in us then, we faulted. Yes, people will hurt you and yes, they will be the biggest source of frustration but they will also be your biggest source of growth. It is funny how we learn more about ourselves as we commit to others. It is God’s way of affirming our need.
Today, don’t allow your relationships be comfortable. Walk toward others as if God had something to teach you. Have faith that nothing is wasted and that people matter. In the end, people are worth it and you are better for putting yourself out there.
Matt simon blog 