Colossians 2:2-3 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God’s mystery, which is Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. ESV

Yesterday I ended my devotional with a question. Are you a member of a local church body? Being in church is not the same as being a member of the body of Christ. Being a family member, you are knitted together in love. It is within these relationships that we should practice what we have learned.

In my discipleship to my brothers in Christ, once I have established sound doctrine, imparted wisdom and seen their growth in Christ, I ask them to encourage others within the body of Christ. I do this because members of the same body have the same head, Christ. Early development in the natural needs to build on success. Growth in Christ is no different.

It is easier to encourage people to do what they know to be right, true and honest. We all need to be encouraged to do what we know in our hearts is right. Encouragement serves the body of Christ in two ways. It strengths the bonds of unity and it restores strength in parts that have been weakened by lack of use. Just as you strengthen muscles by use, members of a church body are strengthened in faith by use.

We all need to participate if our local church bodies are to grow in Christ.

John 13:35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

It begins there.