I think that we all know that everyone who goes to church may not make it into Heaven. It's sad but everyone does not go for the same reasons. There are people who go because they truly want to learn and grow closer to the Lord. Some people go out of habit, because they have to or because they feel obligated. And there are others who don't have good intentions or just want to see what's going on. With that being said I believe that there is more to God than just going to church.
Yes, going to church is important for many reasons. To be gathered with people who believe as you do can help motivate you to continue this way of life. Church is a place where you can learn from one another, receive guidance and even correction if needed. Church is also a place where you can encourage each other and help each other grow. Like the Bible says iron sharpens iron, so together we can make each other better.
The story of my church life is a bit disappointing. I went to church most of my adult life. I was actually the member of one church for over 20 years. I was very active in my church and attended service several days every week. I paid my tithes and offerings. I did everything that my religion required of me and even after so many years of doing all this I was left unsure of where I stood with God. And that only changed for me when I decided to get to know who God was for myself.
I am writing this blog and sharing my story, not to bad mouth or condemn anyone or any church. But rather to reach anyone out there, that may be just like me. Going through all the motions but not having any real connection to God. I had no idea that there was more to God than what I was experiencing in church. But there is so much more to experience in a personal relationship with Him.
So, I just want to present some ideas and questions. These are meant for self reflection and if needed, to cause you to seek more of Him for yourself. Deep down inside we all know where we stand with God. Read my thoughts below and ask yourself...where do you stand with Him?
-Do you adhere to all the rules of your church but still are not living your life right?
-Are you the perfect Christian inside of your 4 church walls but living a different life outside in the world?
-Do the people in the world know that you are a Christian?
-Do you have a prayer life?
-Have you ever read the Bible?
-Have you ever received the Baptism of the Holy Spirit? Are you filled with the Holy Spirit?
-Is your life fruitful?
-Do you have a real connection to God?
-Do you know who God is for yourself?
-if this way your last day alive, are you sure of where you would spend eternity?
I know that the title of this blog is a little harsh...but don't let this be you.
Matthew 7:7 7Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:
Matthew 18:20 20For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
Hebrews 10:24-25 24And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: 25Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
Proverbs 27:17 17Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.
1 John 5:14-15 14And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: 15And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.
James 5:16 16Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.
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