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Building on the image of the church as the bride of Christ, let's consider an aspect of bridal behavior. Have you ever been to a wedding where the bride stands in a corner by herself? Of course not, she's the center of attention, she's glad to meet and greet, and she's sociable because that's the way a bride naturally behaves. Now let's connect the dots. The church is likened to a bride, and so we should expect to see some sociability among those who comprise the church. We ought to enjoy 'hanging out' with each other because it's what ought to happen when a bunch of brides get together.

Sadly, I've seen a tendency among some within the church to pull away and distance themselves from their fellow Christians. This kind of behavior goes against our nature as Christ's bride, and God specifically warns us against this unsociable attitude in His Word:

And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. (Hebrews 10:24-25 NKJV)

Something special happens when God's people gather. It creates a unique environment to stir each other up toward love and good works. I see this happen every time our church hosts one of our workdays. Folks from the fellowship come out on a Saturday morning, roll up their sleeves, and go to work on whatever needs to be done around God's house. It's a joy to watch as those serving side by side are soon sharing their 'God stories' and celebrating their salvation with each other.

Whether it happens to be a special event or a church service, it's always a joyous occasion when the bride of Christ comes together. There's Christ-centered conversation that's contagious and a spirit of servanthood that strengthen the soul. Let's be on guard against the inclination to isolate because it goes against God's will for us and it isn't bridal behavior.

DIG - What are some reasons that people might want to isolate themselves from the rest of the church?

DISCOVER - What is God's will for your life when it comes to your interaction with the body of Christ?

DISPLAY - How can you become more involved in your church?