Why a Diverse Community Is Better for Your Growth
Think about the people you surround yourself with. Are there clear similarities between them?
It’s easier to build a community around people like yourself: people of similar socioeconomic status, age, ability, gender and — whether you’ve thought about it or not — likely skin color. It’s more comfortable that way.
It takes more effort to build relationships with people who are not like you. But what might it look like to step outside of your comfort zone and be in community with people with whom you have no obvious similarities?
<strong>The Benefits of a Diverse Community</strong>
I challenged myself to find a diverse community within my church, and I was surprised at how it made me rely on the Lord for patience, kindness and understanding.
Here are four benefits of a diverse community that I discovered.
A diverse community —
- Brings out differing opinions, values and expectations that draw us into conversation with others.
- Deepens our understanding of the world around you and God.
- Transforms the way you view your own life experience.
- Builds empathy, compassion and gratitude in your heart.
Growth in community starts with understanding that diversity in community is necessary. Different people bring different things to the table that can stretch your values, understandings and beliefs.
A Common Bond in Christ
God has made people diverse. But if you have placed your faith in Christ for the forgiveness of our sins, He’s given us a connecting point through a relationship with Him. A common bond in Christ allows people who are different to live and learn from each other.
God invites people to understand more about His character through their similarities AND differences. But you have to be willing to take a step of faith — outside of your comfort zone — to move toward a better understanding of the kingdom of God.
God’s kingdom is not segregated by ethnicity, age, gender, physical ability or socioeconomic status. Part of what it means to live a God-honoring life is that you are unified with other Christ-followers because of your shared hope in Christ (Ephesians 4:4). Jesus said to pray for God’s kingdom to come — to pray that all things would be made right (Matthew 6:10). You have the opportunity to help answer this prayer by actively moving toward one another in pursuit of diversity.
<strong>Next Steps:</strong>
This week, try taking steps toward a more diverse community.
- Read “‘I Don’t Know’ and Other Things I’m Learning About Diversity.”
- Read “How to Experience the Power of Community.”
- Start a conversation with someone different from you (ethnically, in ability, socioeconomically, etc.).
