Belonging

Today we’re talking about something we all crave deep down—and that is to belong. Whether it's finding your spot in a new group, feeling seen at church, or just wanting to be invited to the lunch table—belonging is a big deal. And guess what? In God’s family, there’s no such thing as being left out. So, let’s talk about finding your place and helping others find theirs, too.

Romans 12:5 (NLT) — "So it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other."

Let’s talk about the need to belong—because we all feel it. Even the most independent folks have that inner desire to feel connected.

Ever walk into a room and wonder, “Do I fit here?”

I remember visiting a new church once or twice when I went away for college and feeling totally out of place. I even had a friend with me, but still, it was something new—and you just start to wonder, do I belong here? Is this the right fit?

This question can come to mind no matter where we are or what we’re doing. But I think the best way to know if we belong is to ask God where we should go and what we should do.

When we rely on the Lord to lead us, it actually takes the questions out of the forefront of our minds—and we begin to look at the place we're in with a different perspective.

We’ve all tried to ‘blend in’ before. Like joining a running group when you’re really more of a “walk briskly to snacks” kind of person.

I’m no runner—but I did do a 5K one time, with others who were runners. It’s okay though! I wasn’t a runner, and no one really cared. We just all enjoyed being with each other and doing something together.

There have been moments of feeling like there are expectations or like all eyes are on you when you’re joining something new—but just know that belonging isn’t about performance; it’s about being accepted.

Taking a step into something uncomfortable can make us question so much of who we are—even when we know we’re capable and that we do belong.

Satan can and will use that doubt, but we need to stand strong in the moment and think about how God may have placed us there—and how He will use us.

So, if you’re feeling like the odd one out today, please hear this: You belong. You are part of something bigger than yourself, and you have a place at the table.

Now let’s dive into what it looks like to find your people. And sometimes… it takes a few awkward potlucks to get there!

Belonging doesn’t usually happen overnight. It grows through showing up, laughing at inside jokes you don’t understand yet, and maybe helping someone move a couch on a Saturday.

I can be pretty awkward—so I’m glad that belonging doesn’t happen instantly, although that would be super easy. But first impressions aren’t always who we really are. That “over time” concept really shows more of our character.

So the showing up and getting to know people? That’s actually where the fitting in begins.

Don’t get discouraged if after one time you don’t feel like you fit in. Give it another try—and see how you feel then.

Church families are like real families—quirky, quite different, sometimes messy—but full of love. We don’t all have to be alike to be united. That’s the beauty of the Body of Christ.

That’s the most unique thing about the Body of Christ: we all have different lives and walks, yet the one thing we agree on is that Christ is Lord.

We don’t know everyone—and we don’t have to—in order to feel like we belong. It’s through the camaraderie of Christ as Lord that we do belong.

Sometimes we don’t feel like we belong until we get involved. I’ve heard it said, “I didn’t feel like I belonged until I started serving.” That’s powerful.

Sometimes belonging starts when we step in and give of ourselves.

Here’s the deal: if you haven’t found your crew yet, don’t give up. Keep showing up. Get involved. At the right time, the right people will see you, love you, and welcome you in.

Romans 12:5 (NLT) — "So it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other."

We’ve talked about feeling like you belong… but what about helping others feel that way?

Now it’s all about creating space for someone else.

Remember that moment when someone made you feel included? You can be that person for someone else today. It might be a smile, a hello, or asking someone to sit with you.

Be the person who welcomes others and helps them feel like they belong.

Ever had someone remember your name when you didn’t think they would? That stuff matters. Little things make people feel like they matter.

I’m bad with names, so every time someone is good with names—especially after meeting me once—I’m amazed!

So, listen—if I ever meet you, just know that I will enjoy every minute of talking with you, but I may forget your name. Don’t hold that against me!

At any rate, being able to help someone feel seen and like they belong is so important. We need to love, care, and show that they are welcome the best we can.

Jesus gave us a great example to follow. He felt deep compassion for others.

The greatest thing about the Body of Christ is that it’s big enough for everyone. Let’s make it our mission to remind people they’re seen, they’re needed, and they belong—because in God’s family, nobody sits alone.

Romans 12:5 (NLT) — "So it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other."

Belonging isn’t just a feeling—it’s a gift we give and receive. So go out and be that friendly face, that welcoming heart. You are loved. You are needed. You belong.

And also know that here at KJIC, you belong. We are so glad you’re a part of this family as we do our best to share Jesus and bring comfort, encouragement, and spiritual strength every day.

The support you give does not go unnoticed.