In different terminology, both the Bible and secular psychologists echo the same thing: community is vital. Psychology Today says, “we are relational beings in nature” and even shares that research within the field of interpersonal neurobiology proves our “biological need for community”. Interpersonal neurobiologist Dr. Daniel Siegel says “Relationships are not icing on the cake; they are the cake. In fact, they are the main course as well as the dessert.” Of course, if you’ve spent some time in church, you likely know that the Bible tells us the same thing:

“Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!” Psalms 133:1

“… though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him- a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” Ecclesiastes 4:12

“For where two or three gather in my name, there I am with them.” Matthew 18:20

“And let us consider how we may spur one another toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another…” Hebrews 10:24

The list truthfully goes on and on. On Tuesday evenings, the Lubbock Unified Women’s Bible Study group is dwelling in unity together, sharing prayers and praises together.

As the women gathered this past Tuesday, they wrote their prayer requests down and collectively lifted each request to the Lord. The beautiful sounds of their prayers penetrated the hallways. After their time of prayer these women, from all walks of life, shared of the goodness of the Lord that they had seen in their weeks. One woman shared through joyous tears about her family members being reunited. Another shared her freedom that came with overcoming her insecurity. With each moment, this group of women got to bear one another’s burdens as we are instructed to in Galatians. The encouragement and blessing practically flowed from one person to the next and Larissa* even shared that she “always leaves feeling more uplifted and ready to take on the rest of the week”.

These women meet weekly and share life daily. It’s so beautiful to see community being cultivated and thriving here at Lubbock Impact with Lubbock Unified Church.