What do you think of when you hear the word flourish? Maybe you think of something in nature like a beautiful flower or tree, maybe you think of yourself living your dream life. Whatever comes to mind, it’s important to understand that to flourish is more than a poetic phrase that rolls off the tongue. To flourish is actually defined as deep, vigorous growth, bold action, or undergoing great increase. How amazing is that? Who doesn’t want deep, vigorous growth in their life that is accompanied by living boldly? The beautiful thing about flourishing is that whether in nature or in our lives, it relies on environment and intention. A flower won’t grow without water or sunlight, and we won’t grow without healthy community and perseverance. Especially as women, we crave a tight knit community but how do we know if that community is healthy?
Hebrews 10: 24 - 25 puts it this way, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. “
Community is CENTRAL for flourishing and I love this passage because it gives us practical ways to measure that. If you want to know if your current community is providing an environment to flourish ask yourself these three questions...
Does your community spur each other on towards good deeds and love or temptation and negativity?
Are you and your community consistent? Are you being intentional with not giving up on your community or is there lack? This doesn’t mean you have to hang out and talk every day, but even in the in-between, there should be intention of prayer, thoughtfulness, and care.
Does encouragement easily flow or is the energy draining? A flourishing community will always lift each other up, never tear each other down.
Take some time to think through this in your own life and community as you ask yourself, how are you flourishing? My prayer is that through this you search your life with intention in ways to grow and plant yourself in a healthy environment with eyes on the Lord. God wants to see you flourish this year, how can you act boldly to partner with Him in this mission?
