Today, I'm reflecting on Jude's admonishment to "build each other up on the foundation of your most holy faith." It's got me thinking about the people I've known who have wanted to grow in faith, but didn't know how. Most of them have been new to faith in Jesus.
They wondered what they were supposed to do. How were they supposed to grow something they knew next to nothing about?
Of course, there are things I can do that grow my faith. I learn how to read and study scripture, pray, fast, and serve. Worship is another way to increase our sense of faith in God. And that's saying nothing about learning to be generous, more patient, or humble. Do those things with and for yourself.
But also understand that faith was never intended to be a solo venture.
Notice Jude didn't say, "Build yourself up and move on." Instead, the call is to build each other up. That means our words, attitudes, and assumptions matter. Tearing down people is fast and loud. And normal! Building up can be slow and require patience. And that's a witness! Plus, this kind of encouragement we're talking about isn't mere sentimentality. We're building something. So, that's structural. Every conversation adds weight and strength. Every interaction either supports or weakens the frame.
The reality is that everyone is building something, whether we realize it or not. Even our silence can impact the structure. Our disengagement compromises the building. There is no neutral space in community life. The question isn't whether you're a builder. You are. The question is what your presence is helping create.
Consider this today: What are you helping build in the lives around you?
Our faith grows strongest not when we stand alone, but as we patiently and lovingly build, side by side.
Stay blessed...john | 
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