Faith is communal. Notice the use of first-person plural pronouns (us, we, our) in this passage. There is contagiousness to faith and the assurance that faith brings. This call to hold unswervingly to the hope we profess is easier and more enjoyable when we don’t do it alone. Like coals piled together, our faith grows warmer in proximity to the faith of others.

It is a gift and a grace of God that we have one another in the faith endeavor. When I am weak your strength can carry me till mine returns and in time, I will return the favor. So, it is not disgraceful or shameful that at times, you need the faith of others to buoy your own. That’s just what it means to be human.

When we gather with others and stir one another up with the stories of God’s faithful love, everyone is strengthened in joy. Recounting, as a community, the truths of what God has done and who He is, stabilizes and unifies every member of the community. Speak with others about the hope we profess in Jesus and watch that hope intensify. Hear from others about their experiences with Jesus and witness our passion for the Lord increase.

Are there others in your life whose faith is a comfort in the midst of your doubts? What would be a next step for you to be intentional in encouraging one another? If you don’t have someone in mind, what is a next step you can take to be around others who share your faith in Christ?