It was several years ago that we had a delightful surprise of old friends stopping in to see us! These dear folks – John and Becky, were saved under my husband’s ministry years ago in Indiana. People that trust the Lord during the time you’re at a church become so special; they are your spiritual children. It’s always refreshing to see them or hear from them and learn that they are still walking with the Lord and being faithful to Him.
After I walked in and found them sitting in our church, we had our squeals and hugs, of course, then the service started. As we sang and worshiped together I thought about how surprised they would have been if we hadn’t been at church! They just assumed that since it was Sunday night we would be at church! I’m glad they found us there. I’m glad we were doing what we were supposed to be doing!
Later as I considered that thought I wondered, “If someone came looking for me early in the morning would they automatically assume I’d be in my quiet place? Would they find me at the computer checking Facebook instead? Would I be at prayer meeting on Wednesday night or would I be home instead because I was tired from a busy day and this is the only night I have to rest?”
More importantly, would the Lord find me doing the things I ought to be doing? We don’t do the things I mentioned for men’s approval, but because we love our God.
Many “good” Christians attend church two out of every five Sundays. Church is sort of optional and we’re missing the blessing of the church and it’s having a terrible effect upon our culture. The church was meant to be God’s place of encouragement for His people where you heard the Word of God and where you were strengthened in the things of the Lord. ~ David Jeremiah
Where will you be found when someone comes looking for you? We all need rest, but there is always time to do the right thing. I’m certainly not always faithful, but my friends’ surprise visit was a good reminder that where we find ourselves is a good indication of our priorities. We are also preaching a message to those that are watching our lives – unsaved neighbors and our children. May others always find us faithfully living for our Savior!
Friends, may I just ask if you are faithful to your local church? What is your priority? Your family? Why not bring them with you to church? Show them your priority is God’s house. Why not give them an appetite for preaching, teaching and the fellowship of God’s people? Is your priority your leisure activities? Remind yourself of the One that gave you that to enjoy!
Make the church an integral part of your life.
You need the church.
The church needs you!
Be found in your church this week! Even tonight!
RefreshHer 
Thank you so much for this post. The area of faithful church attendance is something my husband and I have been burdened about for a long time. A dear lady from our church, whom we all call ” Grandma” ,says if you can’t survive on one meal a week, there is no way you can spiritually survive on just a service every once in a while or even just one service a week. I also wish that people knew that those of us who do try to make church a priority, ( don’t misunderstand we are not perfect either😊), we long to have you there worshiping along side us! While it is always wonderful to hear from God’s word it is even more encouraging hearing and discussing it with other believers. Thank you Denise for your words of wisdom.
Beth ( your blog visiting friend😉)
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The grandma in your church is exactly right! You made a good point that we are encouraging other families by our attendance. We are showing that it makes a difference and it is important in our spiritual growth! I’m sure you are being a great testimony to other people that are observing your sweet family. Keep on keeping on, Beth! It’s always good to hear from you! 😊
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