Moses knew quite a bit about fellowship (aka: community or doing life together). We all have learned how this gospel giant led God's people out of slavery and to the promised land but few take the time to learn about the trip these hundreds of thousands took together as they did life together. Time after time they see the hand of God do miracles as He met their needs and yet time after time they grumbled against Him and each other. It got toa point that this great spiritual leader, Moses could do nothing else from morning to night but listen to people gripes about each other and make judgments. How was God's chosen suppose to lead them to the promised land if he was stuck listening to the gripes of the people?

At times, doing life together is not an easy task. Let me share with you some reasons why it can be so hard for us.

Fellowship requires Accountability - We are accountable to each other as we build each other up into perfection in Christ. It says in Ephesians 5: 21 that we are to "Submit to one another of reverence for Christ". However, this doesn't give us license to get into everyone's personal business and gossip about one another but it does show us we need to care for one another. We need others who have similar goals and desires that can encourage us to grow more.

While this can be scary to find a few to let our guard down with, take courage from Psalm 15: 31-33 where it says "He who listens to a life-giving rebuke will be at home among the wise. He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding. The fear of the Lord teaches a man wisdom, and humility comes before honor."

Fellowship requires Responsibility - We find that we are commanded and have a responsibility to each other in the family of God. Again in Ephesians (Eph. 4: 1-6) it says "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.  Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. " As we hold one another accountable, we must realize that....

Fellowship requires Honest, Loving Communication - Pay attention to the words in Ephesians 4: 25 - 29 "Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. "In your anger do not sin" : Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry,  and do not give the devil a foothold.

He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."

If we are doing life together in a responsible and accountable way, we must adhere to honest and loving communication. It may be tough at times to confront another who is hurting you, others or themselves but we can not give Satan a foothold to damage the body of Christ.

Fellowship requires Self-Sacrifice - We are but a sinful creature saved by grace. Often our own desires, wants and motivations can keep us from doing life with our Christian family in the way God ordained us. Listen to His plan spelled out in Ephesians 5: 3-10..."But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people.

Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a man is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.

Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them. For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. "

It sounds like a lot of work doesn't it but there is nothing better than the fellowship of God. When we all come together in love and for a higher purpose as we bring our gifts, callings, and experiences together under the blood of Christ, it pleases Him. When we stand at God's throne together in harmony at the ready to do His will, nothing can stop us. The Fellowship of the Ring and The Three Musketeers could learn a lot from the Fellowship of God when it comes to honor and family love that produces incredible acts of courage and love.  There's nothing quite like it when it's being done God's way.

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