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Freedom In the Flock

    When we are feeling upset or rejected or lonely, it is our natural response to come inside ourselves. We can tend to shut down and isolate in the hard times. However, when we are dealing with that kind of pain it is usually best that we do the opposite.

    When we are upset and alone, we tend to get stuck in our thoughts. Our minds circulate over whatever is going on and we cannot easily escape. We can easily have our own little pity party and bring ourselves further into sorrow and loneliness. Satan often uses our thoughts as a trap. He plants thoughts that upset us and lead us into sin and darkness. 

    We are designed as the body of Christ which means we function as a unit and not on our own. If we are hurting, the whole body hurts. Do you think that the body would not try to ease the pain since all suffer together? We are not to be on our own in the wilderness of the world, especially when we are suffering.

1 Corinthians 12:14 For the body does not consist of one member but of many. (ESV)

1 Corinthians 12:26 If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. (NIV)

    When we are alone, Satan has a foothold on us. He is able to step in and blur our vision when we do not have the community of Christ around us to keep our eyes on Jesus. When we are left alone with our emotions and circumstances it gets hard to see. When we stay together Satan cannot break into our herd so easily. He preys on those who are weak and isolated from the flock and less on those within it.

Proverbs 18:1 Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all sound judgment. (ESV)

Hebrews 10:25 Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. (ESV)

Genesis 2:18 Then the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.” (ESV)

 Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken. (NLT)

    Nevertheless, we recognize that Jesus is the true healer and encourager. We should be in connection with His people, whom He is living in, but also with Him directly. He is the One who will not fail to be there for us and will always give us sound direction. Man is flawed but He is perfection. He will never leave us. Next time you feel like isolating yourself, consider that it may be a better plan to get around some people who can shift your focus back to Jesus.

Joshua 1:5 No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you. (ESV)

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