Research and the Bible seem to agree on the significance of community in shaping one’s well-being. According to a study published in the Journal of Health Psychology, social support and belongingness are essential factors in dealing with stress and negative emotions (Segerstrom et al., 2018). The Bible also emphasizes the value of community in promoting spiritual growth and emotional health, stating in Proverbs 27:17, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (NIV).
Similarly, a report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine found that social isolation and loneliness can have adverse effects on health, including heightened risk of cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline, and depression (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2020). The Bible also speaks about the impact of isolation and loneliness, with Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 stating, “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up” (NIV).
In conclusion, both research and the Bible recognize the essential role of community in fostering well-being and fulfilling one’s potential. We need the support, encouragement, and accountability of others to thrive in all aspects of life. As Christians, we are called to love and serve one another, and being part of a community enables us to put that into practice.
References:
Segerstrom, S. C., Hardy, J. K., Evans, D. R., Boggero, I. A., & Alden, L. E. (2018). Social support, social integration, and heart rate variability: A prospective study of dawning day. Journal of Health Psychology, 23(3), 445-456. https://doi.org/10.1177/1359105316632048
National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. (2020). Social isolation and loneliness in older adults: Opportunities for the health care system. The National Academies Press. https://doi.org/10.17226/25663
