Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of [Jesus’] return is drawing near. Hebrews 10:23-25 (NLT, emphasis added)

I was recently part of a guided group experience where the participants each wrote and shared a story of childhood trauma. The facilitator helped us navigate these tender and vulnerable places with curiosity and grace. Our facilitator shared his story the first week, modeling transparency and vulnerability. He coached us in sensitively accompanying each other as we courageously shared our stories week by week. The level of safety and vulnerability that grew among us in a relatively short period of time was really amazing. I’m so glad I had the opportunity to journey with these kind and courageous companions!

Can you think of anyone who would love for you to be isolated and alone in your journey of life and faith? I’ll give you a hint… It’s NOT Jesus! God encourages us in Hebrews to gather regularly and encourage one another. We see patterns of friendship in faith throughout scripture, notably in the life of Jesus with his beloved disciples, especially as he approached his appointment with the cross! If Jesus “earnestly desired” to share the passover meal with his disciples before his death (Luke 22:15, ESV), how much more so do we need to walk consistently in vulnerable community with spiritual friends and companions!

Have you ever noticed how hard it is to find and foster vulnerable community? Have you struggled finding friends who you can safely share the hidden and tender stories of your life with? Do you have at least one or a few close friends who can help you safely process the questions you’re carrying, the invitations you’re sensing, or the shame you’re hiding? I’m so glad if you already have those loving and caring spiritual friends and companions in your life right now. Praise the Lord!

Even if you’re already experiencing vulnerable community with a few close friends in the faith, I’d encourage you to keep reading. And especially if you’re struggling finding and fostering vulnerable community in this season of your life, please keep reading as well! Since the Secret Sauce of Vulnerable Community has many flavors and varieties, the rest of this guide contains ideas to explore rather than a one-size-fits-all recipe!

• Questions you and others can consider as you come together in community
• Other considerations for spiritual friends and groups
• Books and articles
• Cohorts and programs fostering vulnerable community—Please exercise due diligence on any of these cohorts and programs before you join or commit. These are all reputable organizations as far as we know, but we can’t make any claims about their suitability for your particular situation.
• Need more ideas? Ask Chat GPT, of course!

Remember, finding and fostering vulnerable community is not a one-size-fits-all concept. There are numerous flavors, textures, and aromas of Secret Sauces. May the Lord bless you in this challenging, yet rewarding, journey! I pray you’ll find a Secret Sauce that brings out a much fuller flavor in your journey of life and faith! I’d love to hear about your experience, and I’m happy to have a conversation if you’d find that helpful. Please see the feedback form and “Explore with me” link, below.

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To connect via email or arrange a complementary call, visit Explore with US

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Cover photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash.

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<aside> 💡 © 2024-2025 Stewart (Stu) Lynch. All rights reserved.

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