We Need Each Other: The Power of Community

I was talking to a friend the other day and looking at how it feels as though my generation, which would be the millennial generation, was built in a society that taught us to recluse ourselves deeper into ourselves. Where GenX had video arcade games to go and hang out, video consoles brought millennials home. Where phones were paid by the minute for talk and text and forced those older than us to still have conversations face to face, by the time were in high school and college, it was unlimited and we began to have smart phones to recluse ourselves even more. Where GenZ and Alpha express their independence on their phones and GenX survived by drinking water from a backyard water hose (which we did too), millennials were taught that it is okay to go into your room and be alone and seclude yourself. This may not be the result for all of my generation, but it is the definitive education of what was being taught. You don't want to draw attention to yourself, be your own boss, be your own individual, most importantly, do it on your own.

In a world that celebrates independence, Scripture reminds us that God designed us for something much greater—community. From the beginning, humanity was never meant to live in isolation. We were made for connection, accountability, and encouragement. As the Church, we are called to carry one another’s burdens, strengthen one another’s faith, and walk together through every season of life.

Let’s look at three biblical truths that remind us why community is so essential for our spiritual and mental health.

1. We Need Community (Galatians 6:2)

"Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."

Paul’s words in Galatians speak directly to the heart of what it means to live out the love of Christ. True community isn’t just about fellowship dinners or Sunday services—it’s about walking beside each other in both joy and pain. When we share our struggles, we not only lighten our load, but we also give others a chance to live out the gospel through compassion.

Carrying one another’s burdens doesn’t require us to have all the answers. Sometimes it simply means listening, praying, or just being present. In doing so, we fulfill Christ’s command to love one another deeply and unselfishly.

2. Community Edifies Our Soul (Proverbs 27:17)

"As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."

Healthy community strengthens us spiritually. It challenges us to grow, corrects us when we’re off course, and encourages us to pursue righteousness. Proverbs 27:17 reminds us that we become better disciples when we surround ourselves with people who push us closer to Jesus.

When we isolate, our perspective narrows. But when we open ourselves to others—sharing our faith journeys, doubts, and victories—we experience spiritual sharpening. God often uses others to refine us, shaping our hearts to reflect His character more fully.

3. Community Keeps Us Mentally Healthy (Hebrews 10:24-25)

"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together... but encouraging one another."

Mental health thrives in connection. God knows our hearts need encouragement, and He calls us not to neglect gathering with other believers. Whether through small groups, worship, or simple conversations, meeting together builds emotional resilience.

Isolation, especially, ministry isolation, can magnify feelings of anxiety, depression, or loneliness—but community reminds us that we are seen, known, and loved. In a world filled with stress and uncertainty, the body of Christ provides a safe space where healing and hope take root. Don't feel like you have to do this on your own, you can still be the boss, take charge, but reach out. Don't isolate yourself because you think you have to do this on your own. Ministry is lonely, it doesn't mean you have to do it alone.