Have you ever tried to start a new workout routine on your own? What about a new diet without the support of your family? Commit to a running plan only to find yourself snuggled under the covers when your alarm is going off? Starting a new habit or routine can be challenging on our own, but when we have others to join us we are much more likely to succeed! I would like to think I am a self-disciplined person, but the truth is, if given the opportunity to sleep in or run alone, I would probably hit snooze more times than I would like to admit. This is one of the reasons the Charles Street Run Club started and why I teach group fitness classes! The challenge to stay motivated is much harder without a support system. Most individuals need like-minded people with the same goals to help support their own personal journey. Just like the communities we build in health and fitness to help us stay consistent, we need that same accountability in our faith. This is why the author of Hebrews 10:25warns us, to “not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of His return is drawing near.” Why?
Because there is accountability in community.
Ordinary Women exists for this very reason. Building those intentional relationships with other Christian women is so vital in strengthening your own faith in the Lord. There have been many times in my walk with God that I have had to lean on the strength of my sisters in Christ to get me through my own personal struggles. At a moment’s notice, there is a group of women that I could text who would drop everything to come pray with me, and I would do (and have done) the same for them. James 5:16 says this about praying for one another: “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” Those women and that tribe of Believers that help encourage me and keep me accountable are all Ordinary Women. This process of discipleship was designed to build a community of women that will help support and cheer you on as you disciple others. But in order to reap the benefits of community, you have to be willing to open up and show up and put in the work. There may be times when you are struggling to make time with the Lord, love others, or make a difficult decision and you will need someone to speak godly wisdom into your life. Lean on the ladies in your group and in other groups, and watch how God will use their influence to make your faith even stronger.
Let’s do this!
Emily
xoxo