Uplifting Church
When, in Psalm 73, the psalmist finds himself frustrated by his daily struggles and aggravated by the inequities of life, it is amazing how quickly and simply his angst is resolved. This is especially true when you begin to sympathize with the depth of his annoyance. He says “all day long” he is “plagued,” “grieved” and “embittered.”
Those are strong words to which most of us can relate when life gets tough and we run into harsh disappointments. The fix? Simpler than you might imagine. The psalmist confesses that the turnaround came when he “entered the sanctuary of God” (v.17). He speaks of a profound and needed adjustment to his perspective as he encounters God and God’s people in a place of worship.
Remember that while many may view church as an extracurricular activity, it is in reality God’s essential prescription to keep your life, your heart and your emotions out of the gutter. With that in mind, we’d be wise to reaffirm our commitment to never “give up on meeting together” at church each weekend (Heb.10:25).
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Out of the 87yrs that God has let me study His word, I still find truths in His word that enrich my everyday relationship with the God of all the universe. Thanks for sharing with those outside your immediate church area about these truths that enrich all who care about their relationship with Jesus Christ and want to share what the truth really is about Him.
Thanks
Thank you so much for this message. Isn’t it so true that people view Church as an extracurricular activity when in fact it is essential. Thank you for saying this so clearly for us.
Amen. So well said. I often find myself greatly encouraged by being with God’s people when I have had a period of discouragement or whatever.
I find that when I coop myself up in my own mind, and don’t have right accountability, I deceive myself, and it inevitably leads to sinful thinking, if not actions. I love this devotional, encouraging me to submit my thoughts to GOD’S thoughts (by reading His Word), and surround myself in His Church!
Thanks for this uplifting message. Hit me right between the eyes.
Before I REALLY decided to freely follow Jesus fully forever, going to church was optional. And I’m embarrassed to say, less enticing than my warm bed, steaming coffee & the Sunday newspaper.
Now, Sunday can’t come soon enough, by Thursday I’m totally jonesing for my time to praise & worship Christ with other followers. I also love seeing the newcomers. They may look excited or reticent or even desperate. But when they hear our top notch band spring to life, the reaction is always the same-they jump back a little(it’s loud!) and then smile a big pleasantly surprised smile. I LOVE THAT! I know God is continuing to soften their hearts and encourage them through our mighty praise.
And ……IT’S SUNDAY-YAY. See you at church!
PS There’s even better steaming coffee at church than at home. And even though I’m not in my PJ’s-I’m much more comfortable. :-)