The House Matters

When I speak to family and friends about church, I find that there are standards that must be met by the church of their choice. Folks say the church must have good music; they say they prefer a church with activities for the young people; while the older saints say they like a church with activities that appeal to seniors. Some even go as far as to stress that at their church the preacher must be able to keep their attention. I am finding that many persons of faith go to church looking for what validates themselves and nothing to do with what God has said.

The Word of God lays some foundations to help us narrow down what should matter about the local church we attend. In Matthew 21:13, Christ proclaimed His house shall be called a house of prayer. Then Hebrews 10:25, emphasizes the motivation in our attending as well as our purpose in assembling together. We must not fail to assemble or fellowship with those of like faith. For this is how we establish the Word of God and the practices that aide our faith in the Lord Jesus. When we assemble, we stir up love and good works with exercises, such as prayer.

Prayer is our direct communication with the Lord we say we are serving. We saw prayer
practiced by Jesus. In the Garden of Gethsemane, we read where Jesus prayed for the
obedience and strength to die on the cross. Scripture says He cried to the Father tears like
great drops of blood, even. When we see the way Jesus honored prayer, we understand that prayer should be deemed essential to our faith. It is what gives power to the believer. Without it, we become an offense and we neglect one of the great privileges of the believer. Scripture teaches we should always pray. I came to GBFC on Walker Ave., and I remember the many prayers that went forth for Deacon Williamson’s healing. Every Wednesday the saints prayed for our dear brother. Then, one Sunday before church started, he came walking down the center aisle. I knew it was the deacon in question by the saint’s cheers of praise. The saints had diligently prayed according to and in alignment with God’s Word...and because God’s promises are yes and amen; GBFC was able to see our brother raised up again, and all for the glory of Jesus. Hallelujah!!

PRAYER: Lord, sometimes we lose sight of where we should be and who should direct our choices. Forgive us. Help us to remember Psalm 119:105, “Your Word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path.” You are the One we are to trust always. That whatever may come, we believe You are the One to order our steps and You are always clear. May we believe You, Oh Lord, above what others may say or do. In Jesus’ Name-Amen!
By Sis. Lisa Williams