One Or The Other!

Jesus stated…
“WHOEVER IS NOT WITH ME IS AGAINST ME, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.” ( Luke 11:23 ESV)

How does our manner of living convey the idea we are WITH JESUS? Do our actions reflect His Will or merely our own desires? Do we come across to others as wanting His Way or our way? Also, if we claim to be WITH HIM, how is that demonstrated in our commitment to His church and the members of it? Are we focused on encouraging by our own PRESENCE and INVOLVEMENT or are we a discourager by our absence? Are we striving to uplift the faith of others by our own faithfulness or are we guilty of tearing down what is being done by being critical. I’m reminded of the one who responded to another by saying, “Well, I prefer the way I DO IT to the way YOU DON’T DO IT.”

Through my years of ministry there are a couple of things I have found to be quite interesting. One of those is when I have talked with people in the community who remark, “Oh, that’s the church where _______ is a member” and the “member” to whom they referred was one who had not attended for quite some time. The other thing I have found to be quite interesting is how one person can be critical of something within a congregation of which I soon hear another speak of in a very positive way. Personal perspective is obviously the key in such a contrast. Sometimes it is merely personal desires or what one has put into it themselves that makes the difference in one’s assessment regarding what is actually there.

Certainly the church -- though redeemed and sanctified by the blood of Christ ( Revelation 5:9; Hebrews 13:12) -- is made up of imperfect people. If I ever found the perfect congregation it would become imperfect as soon as I stepped through the door. Praise God He is not finished with me yet. I still have much growing to do. There are many things I can do better. I (and each one of us) must therefore be willing to be more and more submissive to Him and be patient with my brothers and sisters.

The Hebrew writer exhorted…
“(24) And LET US CONSIDER HOW TO STIR UP ONE ANOTHER TO LOVE AND GOOD WORKS, (25) 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 ESV)

If we have a connection with Christ, the Head of His body ( Colossians 1:18), there should naturally be a connection with the members of the body (each other). There is no way one can stir up others “to love and good works” or encourage through absence -- in fact the opposite result can occur. It is something we are to “consider”! It is something to which we are to give some thought. Some may not have intended to discourage or tear down, but what is being conveyed by our life with regard to our connection with Christ and His church is of utmost importance. If there is an attachment or concern, why would one not be there? PRESENCE and INVOLVEMENT (or lack there of) make a strong declaration.

Let us practice that which Paul urged the church at Thessalonica.
“And we urge you, brothers, ADMONISH the idle, ENCOURAGE the fainthearted, HELP the weak, BE PATIENT WITH THEM ALL.” ( 1 Thessalonians 5:14 ESV)

Have a great day BEING FOR CHRIST AND OTHERS BEFORE SELF!
Carl

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