They continued steadily learning the teachings of the apostles and joined in the fellowship. (Acts 2:42)
I once heard “fellowship” described as two fellows on the same ship. If you were on a cruise, unless you stayed in your cabin the whole trip, predictably, you’d have “fellowship” with some people. Most likely, you would get to know the others on board because, after all, you’re going to the same destination.
Many of my golfing friends enjoy spending time with other golfers. Since the Bible talks about fellowship as a top priority for believers, I’ve found that being with people who love Christ and play golf has led to wonderful friendships, and yes, fellowship.
Besides these daily devotionals, Links Players helps golfers establish fellowship groups. These “fellowships” invite golfers to share life, on and off the course. They are made up of golfers with different handicaps, from different denominations, with different ages, hair colors, shirt sizes, and swings.
Links Fellowships also serve as a decompression process for golfers who may not typically step into a church building, providing a supportive community that facilitates reflection and processing of biblical truths, offering challenging life perspectives, and fostering a sense of belonging.
Links Fellowships facilitate spiritual curiosity and growth because they provide a safe space in a non-judgmental environment for sharing experiences and challenges that we all face in life.
Connecting with others undergoing similar experiences helps individuals realize they are not alone. Sharing personal stories and insights can normalize experiences and validate emotions, counteracting the feeling, “I’m not the only one!”
Fellowship members bring their unique experiences and perspectives, offering diverse insights. This variety expands individual views, challenges beliefs, and promotes deeper personal and spiritual growth.
Above all, Links Fellowships provide a supportive network during times of joy and struggle. Members offer encouragement, empathy, and practical advice as individuals navigate the challenges associated with being a Christ-follower in challenging times. We minimize our differences and maximize what we have in common by keeping the main thing the main thing— we’re all saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.
All Links Fellowships subscribe to the mission of Links Players:
Love God and others, Matthew 22:37-39: “‘Love the Lord your God… ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
Integrate Christ’s reign and authority into all of life, Matthew 6:33: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness…”
Network friends together in Christ, Acts 2:42: They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship.
Kindle compassion for the poor and needy, Matthew 25:40: “‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for the least of these… you did for me.’”
Share Christ through the great game of golf, 2 Corinthians 5:20: We are Christ’s ambassadors…
Many who read these devotionals don’t belong to a golf club, but they play multiple public courses. Recently, we’ve started weekly Links Fellowships through local churches. We’re hoping golfers not yet familiar with God’s love and grace will be invited to join these “fellowships.”
Are you the one to gather some golfing friends and start a Links Fellowship? Check out https://linksplayers.com/start-a-fellowship/ for helpful hints on starting a fellowship at your club, course, or church.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, could you use me to recruit a few Christ-following golfers to help organize a Links Fellowship either at the club, the course where I play, or through the church I attend?