Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep His promise. Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of His return is drawing near. - Hebrews 10:23-25 NLT
Most of us remember the chorus from the hit TV show Cheers. "Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name, and they're always glad you came; You want to be where you can see, our troubles are all the same; You want to be where everybody knows your name."
While the world looks to a bar to feel connected and find encouragement from others, Christians are encouraged to gather with other believers at church. We support each other, and inspire each other to acts of love and good works when we come together in our houses of worship!
So why does the bible tell us not to neglect meeting together? Because there are many things that can get in the way of building and maintaining relationships at church.
We meet to grow, share our burdens, and strengthen each other's faith. You never know who you might encourage just by showing up to church! Someone may be going through a difficult time in their life, and seeing you brings puts a smile on their face and gives them hope. Or vice versa. Maybe you need to be encouraged.
Maybe you have been away from regular church attendance; you got hurt and walked away; maybe you got lazy, or you've been involved in sporting events that took you away from attending your church.
Why not decide to get back to church? Get connected to the vine. John 15:4 says, "Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me."
Find a local church to worship with your brothers and sisters this weekend to get strengthened, encouraged, and uplifted in your faith!
Dig Deeper
1. Identify what is currently keeping you from church?
2. How do you think being a part of a church can help you?
3. If work is keeping you from church what are some ways you can connect with other Christians?
