Thursday, August 17, 2006

No Good Churches Around

Dear Pastor Lawyer,

As a parent with three young children and two older children, we have always attended fellowships that emphasized Christian individualism. Recently however, because of sermons and books we’ve read we’ve realized that being Covenantal and Reformed is the Biblical way to the Christian life. The problem is that we can’t seem to find a like minded church in the town where we live. Do you have any suggestions for us?

Willis

Hi Willils,

The good news is that I understand your situation. Sometimes the church can be a pretty sad situation.

Here's what I suggest: begin by drawing near to God. Read your bible, read books, listen to tapes, read them in front of the family, read them with the family, listen to the family read them to you (ability appropriate of course), etc.

Next, continue to embrace the liturgy of your current church, teach your kids, love them, hug them, take them on dates, let the new Reformed life that you say you believe flow out your finger tips all over your family. Above all, love their mother. Make it very obvious that you are loving her. Take her on dates, bring her flowers and gifts for reasons and for no reason. Study her, lift her up to God, make her (by your love for her) the most beautiful woman in town.

Also, pray that God would give you good fellowship. Look for it at work, at play, at church, at other churches, everywhere you go. Ask God for fellowship and then look for it.

Do you know of any other Christians in your area who would be interested in having a Bible study or with whom you might possibly start a church one day? Begin meeting with them and dreaming and praying with them for your community.

Don't be divisive at church, rather be winsome. Be wise, pick your battles, be a good example of godliness for your children. Pray for your older children. Did I mention taking them on dates? Don't push them, let them see the changes in you. Let them want what you have and ask about it.

Pray also for a new place to worship. Pray also for a way to move to wherever there is a good church. Consider extending the distance you are willing drive to go to church. Ask God to reveal to you a "way" to get better fellowship.

Don't forget Cornelius and the Ethiopian eunuch. God brought people to both of them in their times of need. He can do the same for you.

I hope this helps some.

Mike Lawyer Christ Church, Moscow

PS -- Where do you live? Maybe we know somone in your area to hook you up with.

No comments: