There is safety in the fellowship of the brethren. You are an easier target for the devourer and all the challenges of life when you wander off on your own especially outside the guiding path of the creator. In today’s Bible reading, the parable is told of a shepherd who leaves his 99 sheep in search of a lost one. It is often seen from the lens of how God is intentional about every single soul which is very valid. An additional lens though is the confidence that the shepherd had in leaving the 99 behind.  If he cares that much for one then he cares at a multiple for the 99 but he knows though that they have a better chance of coverage as long as they stick together. This is why when wild animals come after flocks they often try to scatter them so that they can catch those that are lagging behind or detracted. There is strength in unity as the later part of the chapter shows us that a three fold chord is not easily broken so leaving the 99 was not out of lack of care, it was more from the confidence that as long as they stuck together they are better off than the missing one.  So, do you take advantage of the fellowship of brethren? Don’t be caught on your own in the storms of life. The reason why the devil consistently tries to sow the seeds of discord between brethren is so that he can strike the solo ones individually. Don’t be caught off guard. 

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for the power of the trinity that is made available to us your children. Thank you for the guidance and assurance of your presence in unity. Lord, please open my eyes to see opportunities to connect with brethren so that together we can chase thousands to the glory of your name 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾. ‎