Belonging is a fundamental human need, a feeling of being accepted, included, and valued as part of a group or community, leading to a sense of security and connection. Belonging is more than just being present or acquainted; it’s about feeling a strong connection and a sense of being part of something larger than one’s self.

A sense of belonging is crucial for mental and physical well-being, fostering resilience, reducing stress, and promoting overall happiness. In social psychology, the need to belong is an intrinsic motivation to affiliate with others and be socially accepted, influencing social interactions and behaviors.

The consequences of a lack of belonging can lead to negative consequences, including lower self-esteem, increased stress, anxiety, depression, and even suicide. Try as you may, you cannot fulfill this need by just having four thousand, or four million followers on your favorite media platform. 

The late/s Jerry Butler, “The Iceman,”1963, written by Curtis Mayfield, said it best in this song, A man needs to belong to someone; “It hurts to be known as no one. I want to be kissed, and held tight, I want to be missed on a cold and lonely night. Someone please hear my plea and call out to me. I need to belong to someone.” 

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs: Maslow’s theory places the need for belonging and love as a fundamental social need, essential for human flourishing. Belonging can be found in various contexts, such as family, friendships, work, religious groups, or community organizations.

A sense of belonging at work is rooted in being seen for unique contributions, feeling connected to coworkers, being supported in daily work and career development, and being proud of the organization’s values and purpose.

“It is not good that the man/woman should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him,” indicating that God designed humans to be in relationship (Genesis 2:18). The Bible reveals that God desires a personal relationship with humanity, and that this relationship is the foundation for belonging and flourishing.

The concept of the church as a family, where people find belonging and support, is a key theme in the New Testament. Jesus emphasizes the importance of love for one another, stating that people will know we are his disciples by our love for each other.

I (emphasize) do not believe one can be a Christan by themselves. It is such a good feeling that one would want to share it with everyone they know.