All over the world, in various forms of Christianity, people often hear and repeat the sentiment that they should treat their fellow believers like family. However, as deeply rooted and well-intentioned as this idea is, most of us need practical tips and tools for making it a reality. The following six suggestions are provided with the goal of translating this admirable, biblical ideal from an empty cliché into concrete action.

1. Know Their Stories

In any close-knit family, members usually know one another's backgrounds, stories, successes, failures, hopes, and fears. While it's unrealistic to think we can have complete knowledge about all the details in another's life, we do our part when we make a concerted effort to learn from those we worship alongside. Regularly ask about and remember significant events or struggles that others share. Asking how we can pray for one another and sharing prayer requests can build familiarity. Just knowing details shows that we care.

2. Love in Real Life, Not Just Online

Many Christians use social media as a platform to express love and support for each other. This online fraternity and sisterhood is a good foundation but does not replace the need to develop genuine relationships in person. Consider showing up, volunteering together, or spending time away from phones and screens. Authentic care for one another, even (or especially) in real life, will signal love and commitment far beyond the virtual realm.

3. Encourage Spiritually and Practically

The Bible calls us to be "encouragers" (1 Thessalonians 5:11), and encouragement is more than a smile or kind words—although, those things matter too! It also means being in touch during times of crisis, providing physical or emotional support, and offering grace, empathy, and patience when needed. True "family" isn’t just there for the fun times—they’re at or back in tough times as well.

4. Stand Up For One Another

Blood siblings will often defend each other without hesitation. In the Body of Christ, this mutual defense should also exist. This doesn't mean taking to the pulpit to harass critics, but rather, standing against those w ho gossip or slander fellow Christians outside the church setting. The Apostle Paul exhorted believers to “stop deceiving one another, every one of you saying whatever brings profit, accumulating for yourselves these earthly treasures,” (Colossians 3:9). In a biblical sense, treating others as family entails speaking up for their reputations and dignity.

5. Celebrate Each Other's Wins

Families take delight in celebrating birthdays, milestones, and accomplishments. To truly cultivate the "family vibe" in our Christian communities, we need to give joyful acknowledgement to the victories and blessings God has given to one another. This may involve encouraging words, party planning, gift-giving, or making time to simply celebrate together.

6. Always Strive for Reconciliation

In a biological family, conflicts, misunderstandings or even mistakes are worked through and eventually forgiven. It may not always be pretty or easy, and for Christians, working towards reconciliation restores unity (Ephesians 4:3). When challenges rise within the Church, seek forgiveness, restitution, and healing before divisions widen the cracks between brothers and sisters.

Ultimately, the purpose of these suggestions is to help institute the longing of God’s Word into practical and personal steps. By following them, we move closer to nurturing family atmospheres within our churches and genuinely loving one another as the Bible instructs.

Interested in more on applying faith in daily life? Explore more from Bethany Nelson here.

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Bethany Nelson

As an American ex-pat, writer, speaker, & Biblical Life Coach, Bethany Nelson invests her life in empowering women to seek their complete fulfillment in Christ Jesus. She is the Director of Women’s Ministries at EGL Manchester (UK) and the founder of THEOPOISE, dedicated to raising up mature disciples grounded in love, wisdom, and truth. She and her husband Gary enjoy a blended family of six adults, as well as two young grandsons. Bethany loves experiencing Europe’s rich culture, walking her hometown canal paths, and tapping into endless travel adventures with her husband. You can connect with Bethany on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn. Visit www.theopoise.com to learn more about discipleship resources designed by Bethany to engage and challenge women of all ages.