You and I were created for community, but not just any community. We were created to live in and for a healthy and vibrant community. Whether you are an atheist, agnostic, Jesus-follower or part of another faith group, you know that each and every one of us thrive when surrounded by a positive and encouraging group of people who love us. Whether it is a family, a group of friends, or a gathering of people with common interests and/or beliefs, these communities create in us a sense of fulfillment.

PositivePsychology.com has identified 10 traits of positive communities. Every one of those traits is vital for the group to thrive. From working together toward a common goal to making sure each member is valued and communication is clear, these traits are vital to maintaining a positive and safe atmosphere.

But what makes a community strong?

I would argue that it is the strength of the calling, a clear understanding of each member’s worth and the ability to put aside differences for the sake of what unifies them. There is no place for narcissism (Philippians 2:1-4) or negativity, but rather a clear focus on the point of it all.

Throughout Scripture, God gives us insight into what makes up a strong community.

A strong community is filled with friends committed to the betterment of one another (Proverbs 27:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:13-15). We are able to hear hard truths from one another, able to become more self-aware and more selfless. When we learn to live in unity, even in the middle of our disagreements, it is a blessing we both give and receive (Psalm 133:1-3; Galatians 6:1-6; 1 Corinthians 1:10).

A strong community will hold one another up through difficult times. We lean on one another for support, rather than allowing disagreements to tear us apart and choosing to go our own way. Look, life is hard, and we need each other for those moments that everything is just too much (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12).

A strong community will not go unnoticed. God says that when even just two of us come together in prayer that He is there in our midst (Matthew 18:20). He honors the commitment we have to one another. When we come together and live in the way that God has commanded us, in love and generosity, then people take notice. The testimony of our commitment to one another attracts others (Acts 2:42-47), as do the qualities that each of us makes an effort to weave into our individual life (Colossians 3:12-14). It leaves a mark on our own nature that people notice.

A strong community remains focused on the essentials. For Jesus-followers, that means we hold on to the promises and we keep pushing forward, loving and helping out. We come together regularly to be reminded of those promises and to follow through with our commitments (Hebrews 10:24-25). We forgive one another (Colossians 3:13-14), and we focus on the grace given to us through Jesus’ life, death and resurrection (Galatians 6).

A strong community depends on the individuals who make up its whole. When one part of the community hurts, every part hurts, and when one part celebrates, all celebrate (1 Corinthians 12:25-27). Our value is found in functioning together as a whole. Each individual’s gifts and talents are vital to the community, but none are more important or less important than another’s. We function best when we work together (Romans 12:4-6). Because of this we look for the best in one another and encourage one another to live into their full potential (1 Thessalonians 5:13-15).

A strong community loves and lives generously, giving the credit fully to God (1 Peter 4:7-11).

At Centerpoint, we are breaking down every barrier that keeps people from the love of God. We don’t shy away from the hard questions. No matter where you are in your faith journey, you are welcome to join us! Atheist, agnostic or Jesus-follower, there is a seat for you at our table.