With the Flock

Most wounds result from living with the flock. So the shepherd regularly inspects his sheep because he doesn't want today's wounds to become tomorrow's infection ~ Word for You Today, 25 Aug, 2010

There are definitely benefits to living "with the flock:" warmth, love, relationships, protection, encouragement, etc. But because you live so closely with others who are flawed, just like you, it's more likely that someone will step on your toes, butt heads with you, or cut you without even knowing it. When these things happen, we need to remember two things: 1) No one is perfect and eventually wounds will happen. Since sin entered the world (with the exception of Christ), there has never been a perfect person. To think otherwise is set ourselves or others up for failure. Eventually, the person or people you thought perfect will injure you in some way.

2) We need to determine if the relationship is worth saving. Since God never intended us to be alone, then He intended us to be in community with others, (Genesis 2:18). When wounds are inflicted, we need to decide if this relationship is worth working through the pain of rebuilding. Regardless of our decision, however, we are commanded to forgive others, even if the relationship is not restored, (Matthew 6:14). If someone steps on your toe, is the relationship over? What if you get cut and the wound is deep, is it worth rebuilding and restarting? Only you can make that decision. But, before you make a decision to go it alone, just remember all the benefits and comforts you enjoy as a part of the community--protection, knowing someone's got your back--will not be available to you in solitude or isolation.

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three stands is not quickly broken. ~ Ecclesiastes 4:9-12.