God’s Purpose for the Church
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,
Hebrews 10:24-25
not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
Everyone who believes in Christ and accepts Him as Lord and Savior is in God’s family, the Church. If we are in God’s family, how important is it to worship with our brothers and sisters in Christ? First, it has been proven that the more we worship our Lord the more we become Christ-like. This is called modeling in scientific terms. Secondly, the church is essential. As we minister to souls in this lost world we can become emotionally and physically drained opening our hearts to help others with their physical and spiritual needs. The verse above says, spur one another on toward love and good deeds. This is what we receive and give when worshipping with our Christian brothers and sisters. We are uplifted while worshipping and receiving God’s love through our eternal family, giving us the motivation and endurance to go back into this world as the Lord’s servants.
However, if we are not in this sinful world seeking to minister to lost souls, living a Christ-like life, then the church will not have the same spiritual impact on us. Worshipping with our brothers and sisters will become a meaningful, spirit filled social event praising and thanking God. But, we will not fully experience the power of God renewing our strength so that our hearts will be on fire to go back into the world revealing Christ. Being with our Church family, through worshipping our Lord, is what keeps the fire burning in our hearts.
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. (John 10:10) When we minister in the sinful world, even though we experience hurt and pain, God sustains us through the Spirit and through our church family. This brings life to the full, because the Lord is present with us and fills our heart with his love, peace, and joy. And we live our lives trusting him. We minister as God’s servants, not being part of this world. We give God control because if we don’t, the world can destroy the fire in our hearts.
Today, know in your heart how important your brothers and sisters are to you. They are your brothers and sisters for all eternity. Seek God’s power in the worship service; his power and courage to boldly proclaim the Word to the world. Seek opportunities to encourage and uplift people through the Spirit’s guidance. When we minister in this world we live in the Word. Pray without ceasing, and anticipate the opportunity to worship with our brothers and sisters.
Let’s pray: Lord, guide me to be your servant and to give you control, leaving the outcome in your hands. Give me your wisdom, strength, and courage to be a light for Christ. And when I worship with my brothers and sisters, stir the fire in my heart, driving my motivation to serve you and seeking souls to reflect your love. In Jesus name, Amen.