Titus 2:1-5 NKJV

[1] But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine: [2] that the older men be sober, reverent, temperate, sound in faith, in love, in patience; [3] the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things— [4] that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, [5] to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.

One of the things I have come to appreciate about a smaller church is the closeness of the relationships. It is personal. It feels more like family and less like a formal gathering. There are more opportunities for connection and less chance for people to fall through the cracks.

During our time of church hopping, I found it far easier to be involved without being connected. I could volunteer and serve without people knowing the real me. I was present in my attendance without spiritual accountability. That disconnect eventually led to isolation... which led to stupidity, foolish behavior, and bad decisions.

I appreciate privacy. I like doing my own thing on my own time. Satan likes solitary behavior. A sheep is easier to pick off away from the flock. One thing I have learned over the past few years is the power and importance of real connection. I have people who aren't afraid to speak into my life. They love me enough to correct me. The purpose of the church isn't to create a comfortable environment for stunted spiritual growth. It should be a team of godly people challenging one another to serve faithfully, grow together, and pursue Jesus as a tribe.