Life By The Spirit Scripture And PracticesSample

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“Christian community exists when believers connect with each other in authentic and loving ways that encourage growth in Christ. They engage in transparent relationships that cultivate, celebrate and make evident Christ’s love for all the world.” (Adele Calhoun, Spiritual Disciplines Handbook)

Daily Prayer: Lord, draw me into genuine relationship with you and with others.

Daily Practice: Practicing community necessitates that we genuinely and authentically show up in relationships. If an unauthentic version of myself (a version, perhaps, I imagine everyone else needs or wants me to be) shows up, then I am missing out on true community. As you enter into this week, take these questions with you as you reflect on your own experience of community:

• Am I being authentic in my relationships?
• Where am I functioning out of “shoulds” or “oughts” in an attempt to meet the expectations of others?
• What expectations do I have for myself in the context of community? (Commitment, self-sacrifice, healthy boundaries, loyalty, transparency, etc.)

Ask the Lord to show you where your expectations for yourself or for others are unreasonable or unhealthy. Commit to taking a step toward authenticity this week.