"Is it time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses while this house lies desolate?"
Haggai 1:4
Today, many are asking, "What is happening to our church?" They cite reduced attendance, reduced contribution, reduced programs and reduced passion to name just a few things. While it is true that the movement of society away from its moral and God fearing foundation is a factor, the best place to begin the search for answers is in the mirror.
We must truly examine ourselves and ask if we are doing the things that God has commanded in order to effect results with which He would be pleased. Though far from an exhaustive list, consider the following:
• Love God with everything you have-Matt 22:37
• Show your love through obedience-John 14:15
• Search the scriptures daily to know what He says-Acts 17:11
• Do not just listen, act-James 1:25
• Give generously-Acts 4:34-35
• Introduce others to Jesus-Matt 28:19-20
• Use your gifts for the benefit of the body-1 Cor 12:4-12
• Do not fail to attend worship yourself-Heb 10:25
• Stay prayed up-Eph 6:18
Beloved, we must each take personal responsibility for the health and welfare of the local congregation and by extension, the church universal. We are placed in the church as our organs are placed in our bodies. Each has a responsibility to accomplish a function. To do anything less is to put the whole in jeopardy. If you are not satisfied with the condition of the church, know that God has already told us what we should do. It is up to [insert your name here] to do it.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
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