In the previous blog I focused on the big picture and general applications of Hebrews 10:23–25; today, it will be more personally appropriate.
Bottom line: there are times when I just want to withdraw into “hermit world.”
I understand there are those times in our spiritual disciplines where seclusion, silence, and meditation/prayer are essential to our spiritual wellbeing. It is actually something that needs to be practiced more. It is especially true with a bi-vocational minister who constantly has something that must to be done, either with their family, work, or church.
However, I am not speaking about that necessity.
Rather, I am speaking of just a withering away to (what is perceived as the utopic world of) “Hermitville.”
I am thinking others may have the thought of that very journey too—maybe even going as far as having their ticket already punched.
But the truth is, we were not made to be alone.
From the creation of man to the predestined Body of Christ, we were made to be in fellowship. We were made to be, of and for, one of another:
“So we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.”
– Romans 12:5 NASB
“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor.”
– Romans 12:10 NASB
“Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation.”
– Romans 12:16 NASB
Prior to that day, iniquity will abound and the love of many will wax cold. I have concluded that coldness can be a catalyst to confinement and a promoter to travel into self-seclusion.
In those times of considered travel into complete privacy is when I really need to run into the public.
When I am feeling like being totally isolated for all the wrong reasons, I need to be surrounded by other believers who can lift my spirit.
I need to practice Hebrews 10:25,
