We began to build each other up…

The primer is progressing well and when we meet tonight we will be going through section 3.3 through 3.5.  Although if the Holy Spirit holds true to form, we will get through only 3.3 (we usually get into deep discussions and our end goal for the evening is put to the side, but so be it!)

We were discussing our identities in Christ and a woman in our group (who is a newer believer) began to speak up.  It was instantly apparent when she began to speak that she had alot on her mind and the tears began to form as she started to talk.  She went on about how she is struggling in her faith and the frustration that comes with it. She spoke of how she sees some of the “older in faith” group members not struggling like this. She was getting bombarded with Satan’s lies and was starting to “get her armor dented.” She was obviously in a place we have all been and from time to time go back to.  Well the primers got put down and for the next half hour there was testimony, encouragement, washing with scripture and most of all love.  I watched as almost every member of our group (and we have a large one!) came along side of our sister and built her back up.  The testimonies were honest and transparent as they come.  But something more than that happened…. we began to build each other up in this conversation as well….people were admitting their weakness or sin but in the same breath would state how multiple group members have shown them strength in these areas. We ALL began to hear and see that we are not alone in our struggles, God has given us each other as examples and strength!! What one is weak in, another is strong in and God has drawn all the different people to our group perfectly.  We left this night with burdens shared and a ton of love displayed.  It was truly an awesome night and Eric and I texted each other when I got home simply “WOW.”  We all learned, understood and lived that we are set apart for each other as a body of Christ.

Our group had recently finished studying the book of Galatians and it made me think of this verse;

Chapter 6:9-10 “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.”

Look at us, we neither sow nor reap

I hope you’ve had a chance to brows through the material.  This part really spoke to my heart, especially when it asks where we find our identity.  For me, this is so key to the way I live in the world.  I love when Paul says in Philippians 3:12, Christ Jesus has made me his own.  I pray that as you read through these verses that you grow in the understanding of who you are, how we are to live in the world, and the provision that our heavenly Father provides

A tree is known by its fruit

“Today’s Primer study was shorter than most, yet just as powerful.  How awesome would it be if we took any conversation and pointed it back to Jesus?  Every suggestion or solution that came out of our mouth would be centered on the supremacy and sufficiency of Jesus.  Continue to pray and meditate how this primer can change the way we live together as a community group.”

Grace be with you,

Eric & Jackie Chavez

Community Group Leaders

Grow+Live+Display Primer

Our goal for this blog is to serve as a learning community where we will share insights and encouragement from our Cornerstone Common Groups as they journey through the Grow+Live+Display Primer. If you are in a Common Group and would like to submit an encouraging word, email dnorton@cornerstonesimi.com

We hope you enjoy!