First Baptist Church of Diana, Texas

Hebrews 11:25—Should I be Faithful in Attendance to Church?

This week we have considered questions believers might have concerning various aspects of life.  Today I would like for us to answer this question, “Should I be faithful in church attendance?” It seems as though many believers are answering that question in the negative these days. They may not say it with their mouths but they are saying it through their actions. Of course that brings up another question, how much do I have to attend to be faithful? I would say if we use the phrase “have to” we have already misunderstood why believers gather in the first place.

One of the primary purposes for assembling is encouragement. The picture here is one of a world that is continually trying to pull the believer away from the kind of radical faith Jesus described in the Gospel of Matthew. Wise Christians know they need to get together with other believers on a continual and consistent basis for the reason of giving and receiving encouragement. Through the encouragement of other saints, we are stimulated to good works and to love like Jesus loves.

This passage underscores a belief God is stirring in my heart. In order for any church to be effective in ministry in their own communities and around the world, they must not neglect being faithful to the ministries of their own church. There are so many choices these days. The option of attending church and being involved in church ministries often finds itself in great competition with so many other activities. Perhaps that is why the church seems so anemic and powerless to influence the surrounding world. Perhaps that is why a young generation is simply writing off the church as a non essential part of their lives. We need the encouragement of one another to hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering.

Prayer Challenge
Ask the Lord to help you grow closer in your relationship with Him today. Think back through your attendance at your church meetings over the last couple of months. Have you been obedient to Hebrews 11:25?  Pray for God to give you guidance concerning your church attendance.

Pray for your Life Group teacher and those who lead your group. Pray for them to be full of the Holy Spirit  with a Word from Heaven to share with you and your group as you make preparations to attend this Sunday.

Ministry Challenge
Send a message of encouragement to your Life Group teacher today.

Mission Challenge
It is prayer walk Friday. As you approach your place of employment today, be sure to pray for the salvation and spiritual awakening of the employees where you work.

Reflection 

What did God say to me from this Scripture reading, devotional, and or  prayer time?

What did I say to God?