I passed a field of corn and I noticed something strange. The majority of the stalks on the edge of the field were shorter and many were wilted. This is caused by what some call “the edge effect.”
This “edge effect” can stem from various factors such as increased wind and sun exposure, temperature fluctuations, and variations in soil conditions. Additionally, the edges may experience more weed competition and potential issues with fertilizer or herbicide application. Because it is harder to ensure adequate herbicide coverage on the edges. More insect pressure, insects moving from field to field obviously generally enter the field at the edges first and start their munching there.
You see, because these stalks are on the edge of the field they don’t have the protection from the elements that comes from being surrounded by other stalks. It’s a dangerous existence in the edge of the field.
This is why it’s important to go to church to be surrounded by like minded people. This gives us strength through the trials that come. When the winds blow and the sun is hot it gives us someone to lean on, someone to pray with. We get the benefit of hearing the preached Word of God. And we know that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God (Romans 10:17 WEB). This fertilizes our soul. This, as herbicide, gives us knowledge and the ability to remove the things that don’t belong that would choke out our walk. This is why it’s a dangerous existence in the edge of the field. Because we don’t get the benefit of these things.
It is imperative that we surround ourselves regularly with the people of God. To attend church and hear the preached Word of God. To get the help and the things we need to not just survive, but to flourish. Don’t be a result of the edge effect.
Hebrews 10:22-25 ISV 22 let us continue to come near with sincere hearts in the full assurance that faith provides, because our hearts have been sprinkled clean from a guilty conscience, and our bodies have been washed with pure water. 23 Let us continue to hold firmly to the hope that we confess without wavering, for the one who made the promise is faithful. 24 And let us continue to consider how to motivate one another to love and good deeds, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another even more as you see the day of the Lord coming nearer.