Next Steps (While you wait)-Connect with a Local Church

In the last blog post I talked about how important it is to pursue an intimate relationship with God through Christ while you wait. This post will focus on the importance of connecting with a local church (if you are not regularly attending one.)

Notice what the writer of the book of Hebrews says in Chapter 10.

"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near” (Hebrews 10: 24-25).

Consider the phrase “not neglecting to meet together as is the habit of some.” Apparently not being faithful to regularly attend the assembly of believers is not a new phenomenon. It was a problem in the early church as well.

Created for Community

As a new believer in Christ, the man who discipled me helped me understand that the Christian life was never meant to be lived alone. He taught me that the church was made up of the “called out” ones. As Christ followers, we have been called out of the world and into fellowship with God and His people.

This is reflected in Acts Chapter 2. On the day of Pentecost, Peter is filled with the Holy Spirit and preaches the gospel. The Bible records that three thousand people came to faith in Christ and were baptized. Notice what scripture says they were doing in Acts 2:42.

“And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers” (Acts 2:42).

Also, notice what verse 46 and 47 says,

“And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved” (Acts 2:46-47).

These believers were meeting corporately for worship and in small groups from house to house. Listen, God created you for community! If you are not a part of a local church, let me encourage you to identify with a local body of believers.

Get to know the Pastor and other Spiritual Leaders

As you are getting connected with the church, make it a priority to spend some time with the pastor and/or other spiritual leaders in the church to share what God is doing in your life. Set up an appointment with his assistant for lunch or coffee with the pastor rather than talking to him before or after services in the hallway. Because of the gravity of what God is doing in your life, it will be important to be able to share your story free from interruption.

If the pastor is unavailable during this season, perhaps he would suggest a staff member that could meet with you and encourage you. At any rate, godly pastors or staff members can be a valuable resource as you prepare for next steps. Why? Because they know what you are going through and can identify with what you are feeling and experiencing.

Volunteer for a Serve Team

In addition, I would encourage you to volunteer with a serve team. Many churches have spiritual gifts inventories that will help you discover your spiritual gifts. Also, what you are passionate about can also help you get to the “right” team.

If the church is smaller, you may want to begin by talking with the pastor or lay leaders in the church to determine the “right fit” for you.

This “on the job” training can be invaluable in discovering and developing your spiritual gifts and abilities.