Hope That Lives in Community

“Encourage one another and build each other up.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Hope is both personal and communal. While we each carry our own stories, our hope grows strongest when shared with others. Mary’s hope was confirmed when she entered Elizabeth’s home and heard words she didn’t even know she needed. That’s the power of spiritual community — it speaks truth when we’re unsure and lifts us when our strength falters.

We sometimes treat hope as a solo practice, but it was never meant to be. God designed us for interdependence. We steady one another. We remind each other of God’s promises. We hold faith on one another’s behalf when circumstances feel heavy. This is why gathering — whether in worship, in groups, or around the table — shapes our spiritual development so deeply.

Hope grows when spoken aloud. Hope strengthens when shared. Hope becomes durable when held together.

Application:
Share one thing today with someone you trust — a prayer request, a hope, or a place of struggle — and allow someone else to speak encouragement into your life.

Prayer:
Lord, help me receive and offer hope within the community You’ve given me.

40 Days of Gratitude Reminder:
Give thanks today for someone whose encouragement strengthened your hope.

Song: A Little Help From My Friends – Beatles