How firm is your foundation?
“Life change can never begin until some circumstance brings you to the unalterable conclusion that our current course is taking you somewhere you don’t want to go.” James McDonald
That’s how we become a church for Jesus Christ. A group of people from all walks of life coming together to support and nurture each other through the guidance of God’s Holy Spirit.
The worship service is only a part of what it means to be the church. The music, the prayers, this sermon are all helpful but what follows is the relationships that come out of worship and the ministry and missions that happen in our community and world because of those relationships.
Our church and each of you are put on earth to make a difference within our community and our world.
The results are obvious: “A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.” – Acts 2:43-44, 47
Each day, the Lord added to their fellowship.
The following emails stress the value of a strengthened foundation:
“A few weeks ago, I asked for prayer about attending church, after a long desert journey wandering away. I have been visiting a wonderful church and have signed up for ministries and classes to strengthen my walk.”
“Often the church is referred to as light. Like a moth, I am drawn to the light. Sometimes I fly close to the light and enjoy the warmth. Other times I stray into the dimly lit area and fly my own way. God allows me to dart out into the dark, but I am always drawn back to the light of the church.”
“Some of our children moved away but when they visit, they always want to go to our church because this is home. Having lost my husband, this church was my salvation. I cannot imagine being anywhere other than here. This is my home and my family.”
“Outside the Church doors, there are so many distractions and people who are different in their interests, beliefs, values, priorities. Inside is a haven, a place to commune, worship, and learn. I thank God we have the privilege and freedom of going to Church.”
“My church planted important seeds in my life. My church is an anchor when winds howl, storms come, and turbulent seas become too rough. As I head toward the Lords Day, I can see a lighthouse guiding me and an anchor that holds me fast. When I step through those church doors, I feel peaceful and realize I was never alone in the storm: One greater than I was there all along.”
“We had a youth group called ‘The Way Station’ which met every Friday night to hear Gods word, share testimonies, and sing songs. My Christian life grew so much during that time. I often wonder if I would be a Christian today without that experience.”
“I am a retired Marine. The church is important to me because in the twenty years I served our country, traveling around the world; the church became my family. No matter where I went, my family was there waiting.”
“I was a Youth Pastor when my marriage fell apart. I stepped down. I couldn’t serve God effectively and go through the pain. I pulled away from God and everyone around me. I fell into a deep depression and reached the point that I couldn’t see any reason to continue living. It was my relationship with God and the church family praying for me that pulled me out of the depression. I now lead a divorce care group.”
Despite the many problems and shortcomings, the church is still the best place I know to strengthen your connection with Christ and find your God-given purpose for living.
So… How firm is your foundation?
“Digging Deeper: Three Questions for Pastors and Church Leaders” will challenge all of us to walk away from the habits and practices that prevent our churches from being fruitful and effective.