By Rhonda Stinson
Have you ever noticed that your vehicle is more gas-efficient on the highway than it is in the city? I know I have been feeling the sting of rising gas prices! Starting from a complete stop takes more gas and energy than a car continuing in motion. My Buick is a true gas hog (with a pork rump on the side).
In 2020, many churches resorted to online services due to Covid-related shutdowns. It was a time of uncertainty. Wearing pj’s became the new trend. It was so easy to multi-task with the convenience of earbuds. Housework, exercise, or working on a hobby could be done while “worshiping.”
I don’t know about anyone else, but I got complacent about worship during this time. When the church doors opened again, I was still in a stopped position. As soon as I entered the church and saw the people, I realized the importance of gathering together. I felt like a flower opening to the sun. What if I’d made the choice to continue watching online? What a spiritual tragedy!
Each believer is a part of the body of Christ and is entrusted with spiritual gifts.
- “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit” (1 Corinthians 12:4 NIV).
- “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7 NIV).
- “The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ” (1 Corinthians 12:12 NIV).
- “If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it” (1 Corinthians 12:26 NIV).
We are essential to the health of the entire body. How can a church body thrive when some of its parts are still chilling on the sofa?
This is an encouragement for those who’ve stopped attending church services. People need you and you need them. God created humans for fellowship. It’s a part of our DNA.
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another and all the more as you see the Day approaching (Hebrews 10:24-25 NIV).
The church is a place for spiritual, mental and physical health and I am praying you will join the next service. Come get your gas tank filled to overflowing!
Looking for a way to connect with God daily? CLICK HERE to check out our new daily devotional: Living in Truth Mind, Body, Spirit.
