BY JANICE COLE HOPKINS, GRACE ATTENDER
Why do you attend the church you do? Have you ever thought about it? You don't have to answer to anyone but yourself, so be honest. Answers are often as varied as the people themselves. Some say they attend where their families have gone for generations. Others go for the programs offered or music they enjoy or dynamic preaching. Some even go to large churches to get lost in the crowd so they don't have to do much.
I think too many might go about this all wrong. They try to find a church that appeals to them, instead of the one where God wants them. I find that more and more today, people look to be entertained and moved. They look for a church that can meet their needs. Perhaps it would be better to consider one where they are needed, where they can best serve God. Certainly, they need to pray and turn the decision over to Him.
It's fine to consider how well you'll be fed by God's word and encouraged by His people, but sometimes God wants us to go where we can make a difference -- where we can feed people and be an encourager. I strongly believe the key to any decision is seeking God's will. He can see the big picture - the past, present, and future. You can trust Him to never lead you astray. When we serve Him according to His will, we will have a special peace that we can find nowhere else.
I've known some people who have become church hoppers. They stay at a church for a little while, eventually, see something they don't like, and move on to another church to repeat the process. This is not what Christ intended. We are to be servants, not spiritual gypsies. Unless God moves you, serve where you are planted. How active are you in God's kingdom building? How willing are you to answer God's call when He sends opportunities your way? In what ways could you make your church stronger, according to God's plan?
Of course, we do want to bring light to any churches or situations where you are being abused spiritually, mentally, and/or physically. That is most certainly not what God intended. We want you to know that 1) we are sorry that this has happened to you and 2) we hope Grace can offer a safe place where you can heal and feel the love of Christ.
Not Connected Yet?
Have you been hurt by the church and are still deciding if you want to give it one more try? Or, are you nervous about coming to church for the first time? Well, we want to help you take the first step. We offer online live streaming services for you to enjoy in the comfort of your own home if you're still a little shy about attending. If you know you're ready to attend in person, we can't wait to see you at one of our campuses. Just click here for the times and locations. Just be sure to come to the info center when you come so we can welcome you and give you a gift!