Fulfilling our purpose... Worship!

Being receivers and givers when the church gathers

Glory To God Rather Than Stroking The Ego

Whenever a person steps onto a platform in church, in front of a congregation, there is a temptation to allow ego and pride to get in the way of giving glory to God.

These kinds of thoughts can prevail: “I wonder what they think of me?” Or, “I hope they notice and appreciate my skill and talent.” Rather than thoughts along these lines: “To God be the glory.”

It is helpful for anyone who stands in front of others communicating about God to be a private worshiper of God. Focusing on God rather than self must be a regular part of a person’s life, not just something we try to do in the moments we walk onto the platform.

P.S. You’ve just read another one of the many posts in which I am primarily challenging myself because of my own tendencies before attempting to instruct others.

Why He Doesn't Go To Church

I read a blog a couple of weeks ago in which a fairly well-known Christian author wrote about choosing not to attend church services very often.  The reasons he gave for not going to church primarily had to do with himself and whether or not church provided a benefit to him.  He had determined that it was not enough of a benefit so he does not attend church very often.

Obviously, it’s a good thing for participation in church to have some benefit.  I understand how that would be an issue for everyone who attends church.  It’s pretty hard to argue with that point.  However, our participation in a church is not just about whether there is something in it for us.  It is also about God and gathering with other believers to worship Him.  It is also about our encouragement of others and our service to others.

A Christian faith primarily focused on “what’s-in-it-for-me?” is not what I find when I read the Bible attempting to understand what the church is all about.