At a Christmas gathering someone asked me if I thought that the Pastor’s speaking ability was what would lead me to go to a given church. My response was that it matters not where you sit on Sunday but rather where you sit daily. A personal relationship with Jesus Christ is what should lead you. Sitting at His feet daily and choosing to let Him lead you is the key. Then, wherever you may go on Sunday Christ is with you and in that place.
Of course a Spirit lead church leadership is critical, especially in these times. A solid Biblical foundation and presentation is paramount in any given church. However, just remember, Jesus did not come to establish religion or denomination. Man did that. The conflicting doctrine of man is not why Jesus came to earth. He did not come to divide His church and cause conflict within those who believe in Him. Man did that.
He came that you might have eternal salvation. He came to establish His Kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. He brings His Kingdom to earth today through His people. So, first and foremost, establishing and maintaining a personal relationship with Him is the most important thing you will ever do in your life. Without that personal relationship you are simply punching your ticket on Sunday if you choose to go to church. That ticket punch alone will not get you to heaven.
We are in treacherous times both in the natural and in the spiritual.
First, make sure you are right with God daily. Accept Him as the Lord of your life and let Him lead, direct and guide you every day.
Second, make sure that you put on the whole armor of God every day.
Third, read and meditate on the Scriptures every day. It is through His Word that you will grow in Him and equip yourself with the only offensive weapon in the armor of God…the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.
Fourth, forgive. Forgive yourself and forgive others. Forgive often.
Fifth, pray without ceasing for one another, for our leaders, for our military, for our youth, for peace in Israel, for the Kingdom of God to saturate this earth in this season.
These are just some basics to stay on track and not get led astray by the world. During this last week of 2017, take some time to look over the last year. Repent where needed. Forgive with abandon. Purpose to walk a closer walk with the Lord in 2018. Let Him lead you and connect you. He has your very best interest at heart.
If you have never committed to make Jesus Christ the Lord of your life, do it now for the time is so very short. If you have become lax in your relationship, re-commit today.
Remember, it is not where you sit on Sunday that matters. It is sitting daily at the feet of Jesus that will equip, anoint and empower you to bring His Kingdom to earth as it is in heaven ‘for such a time as this!’
For it is written:
“And in vain do they worship me, teaching doctrines and commandments of men.”
Jesus
Matthew 15:9
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
Jesus
Matthew 6:14-15
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Therefore put on the whole armor of God that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins gird about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, with which you shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, (underline added) and being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints-”
Ephesians 6:10-18
“Let the words of Christ dwell in you richly; in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts unto God.”
