SEELE Faith Editor, KB Chakela writes that when we have the right friends, there will be moments of worship through edifying conversation, which inevitably invites in the presence of God

As I was reading Malachi 3:16 in the New King James Version (NKJV), a profound realization struck me: "Then those who feared the Lord spoke to one another, and the Lord listened and heard them; so a book of remembrance was written before Him for those who fear the Lord and who meditate on His name." This verse highlights the significant impact of godly fellowship and how our conversations can capture God's attention. It reminded me of the cherished moments I share with my friends, where we engage in deep, meaningful discussions about our faith. Whether we are speaking in psalms, correcting one another, or simply offering encouragement, these interactions create a spiritual environment that invites God’s presence.

Reflecting on this scripture, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the friends who have become like family to me. These relationships are not just social connections; they are spiritual lifelines that draw us closer to God. Our conversations, whether held jokingly or seriously, are like a sweet aroma to the Lord, pleasing Him and prompting Him to listen and hear every word. This realization caused my spirit to leap with joy and appreciation for the blessed friendships that foster the presence of God in our midst.

The Bible also reinforces this idea in Matthew 18:20 (NKJV): "For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them." This promise assures us that when we come together in the name of Jesus, His presence is with us. The significance of this is profound. It means that our fellowship is not just a gathering of people but a sacred assembly where God Himself is present. This divine presence transforms our interactions, making them powerful and spiritually enriching.

There are moments in our Christian journey when we might feel distant from God, especially during challenging times. The storms of life can make us feel isolated and far from His presence. However, the scriptures provide a clear path to drawing near to God: by fearing the Lord and engaging in fellowship with others who share that same reverence. When we speak to one another about our faith, God listens. This act of coming together and sharing our spiritual experiences creates a connection with God that transcends our individual struggles.

To fear the Lord means to hold Him in reverence and awe, recognizing His majesty and sovereignty in our lives. This reverence is the foundation of our relationship with Him. When we fear the Lord, we align our lives with His will, seeking to honor and please Him in all that we do. This alignment draws us closer to God, fostering a deeper, more intimate relationship with Him.

Engaging in fellowship with other believers is equally crucial. These interactions are not merely social; they are spiritual exercises that build and strengthen our faith. By speaking to those who also fear the Lord, we create a supportive and encouraging environment that nurtures our spiritual growth. Whether through phone calls, meetings, or casual conversations, these moments of fellowship are opportunities for God to be present and active in our lives.

The Bible emphasizes the importance of community and the power of collective worship and discussion. In Hebrews 10:24-25 (NKJV), we are urged to "consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching." This passage highlights the need to come together, to encourage and uplift one another, especially as we anticipate the return of Christ.

In these gatherings, our conversations become acts of worship, pleasing to God and beneficial to our spiritual well-being. They serve as reminders of His promises and faithfulness, strengthening our resolve to live according to His will. Moreover, these interactions help us to see God's hand in our lives, reinforcing our faith and trust in Him.

In conclusion, the reflections from Malachi 3:16 and Matthew 18:20 underscore the importance of godly fellowship. They remind us that our conversations and gatherings are not just social activities but spiritual engagements that invite God's presence and attention. As we fear the Lord and speak with those who share our reverence, we draw nearer to Him, experiencing the fullness of His presence in our lives. This fellowship is a blessed gift, transforming our interactions into moments of divine connection and spiritual growth. Let us cherish these relationships and continue to seek out opportunities to gather in His name, knowing that where two or three are gathered, He is there in the midst of us.