“So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria had peace and was being built up. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it multiplied” (Acts 9:31).
The church grew because of two ingredients: walking in the fear of the Lord and walking in the comfort of the Holy Spirit. While the times may be a little different for us today, surely those same ingredients hold the power of increase for us, too.
“The Fear of the Lord”
I wrote a Bible-marking article on this topic and in that study learned what it means to fear the Lord and all the beautiful consequences of it:
It means to keep God’s commandments so that it may be well with us (Deut. 5:29).
It means to depart from evil in order to gain wisdom (Job 28:28).
It means to walk in God’s ways in order to be blessed (Psa. 128:1-4).
It brings strong confidence (Prov. 14:26).
It involves humility and the reward is riches, honor, and life (Prov. 22:4).
It means doing what is right so that God will welcome us (Acts 10:35).
“The Comfort of the Holy Spirit”
And there are blessings to walking in the comfort of the Holy Spirit:
“By the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope” (Rom. 15:13).
“The Spirit helps us in our weakness…and intercedes for us” (Rom. 8:26).
“If you live by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, and you will live” (Rom. 8:13).
“God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit” (Rom. 5:5).
What does this have to do with loving the church? The church is made up of people who are walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit. This means we have a Family filled with wise and confident people doing what is right. It means that when we gather together, we are surrounding ourselves with people who are filled with hope and God’s love. What a balm for our troubled or overwhelmed hearts!
Kennedy Waddell holding our little Jude in Bible class
I’ve never actually been to a Weight Watchers meeting, but I remember hearing about them back in the day. They were popular because the weekly in-person sessions gave dieters the opportunity to weigh in, encourage each other, and receive motivation and advice. I imagine this support played a key role in the success of sincere members. Many of us today utilize fitness apps where we can track our diet and exercise. My husband is a runner and likes to use the Strava app to log his miles and see the progress of fellow runners. What these things have in common is an opportunity to check in (or a needed reminder to show up). A little bit of accountability can make a big difference in reaching our goals.
If our particular goals were easy, we wouldn’t really need an app, would we? We wouldn’t need the motivation or accountability. We usually want these things in place because we know there will be times when we just don’t feel like doing what we’re supposed to.
I’m just going to say this. Sometimes resisting temptation is hard. There are times when I feel selfish or really feel like things should be done my way. There are times when my pride refuses to back down. My mouth really runs riot with complaining or criticizing if I’m not guarding my speech. Sometimes my zeal for soul-winning fizzles out. And sometimes it’s just hard to resist fleshly sins if there’s something I want and I don’t practice self-denial.
I once heard temptation compared to a donut for a dieter. There will be days the dieter can resist the donut with no problem. He’s feeling strong so it’s easy to say, “No, thanks!” He’ll happily reach for an apple instead. But what about those days when all he can think about is that donut? It’s hard, hard, hard to resist. I can see how sin is like that. When I’m feeling strong, it’s not such a big deal. But when I’m feeling weak, I can surprise myself with how easy it is to give in. No wonder the apostle Paul wrote, “Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands, take heed lest he fall” (1 Cor. 10:12)!
There can be many factors at play when temptation seems harder to resist. Perhaps I haven’t been diligent in personal Bible study and prayer, so my spiritual armor isn’t in place. Or maybe I’m experiencing a season of discouragement or frustration or exhaustion or disappointment. It’s easy to see how I could make things harder for myself spiritually. It’s just as easy to see how I could make things better for myself spiritually: time soaking in God’s Word, time spent in prayer, and time spent with God’s people.
God knew we would need a place of accountability and He provided it for us, a place among His people. How wonderful that, multiple times a week, we have an opportunity to show up and weigh in, if you will. To receive motivation, encouragement, and advice. To be surrounded by like-minded people who have the very same goals. And to humbly ask for help and prayers when we’re weak and either giving in or giving up.
Paul went on to say, “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it” (1 Cor. 10:13). I don’t know what I’d do without my weekly spiritual weigh-ins. There’s something fortifying about gathering with other Christians to praise God and grow together. We see each other’s struggles and life-challenges. We pray for each other and hold each other accountable in the very best way.
Think about that special moment at the end of every gospel message in worship. “If anyone needs to come…” It’s a personal invitation to receive prayers and encouragement. I get to do a heart-check every time. Do I need help resisting temptation? Is my faith growing cold? Am I in a valley, or feeling spiritually weak?
“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.”
Neal and I recently had lunch with our dear friends, Roger and Joyce Johnson. One thing I’ve noticed about them is they always have a good word to say about others. On this particular occasion, Roger described someone as “salt of the earth” and went on to list the character traits that made him such. I couldn’t help but think that we know many people who could be described that way (Roger and Joyce included).
What do you think of when you hear that someone is “salt of the earth”? I think of words like dependable, trustworthy, reliable, honest, humble, fair, true, and good. Someone who is full of integrity and committed to doing the right thing.
Jesus described the “blessed” with words like “meek,” “merciful,” “pure in heart,” and “peacemakers.” He then called them the “salt of the earth” and the “light of the world” because others would see their “good deeds” and God would be glorified (Matt. 5:1-16). He was talking to His disciples. “You are the salt of the earth.”
A couple of millennia have gone by since Jesus said those words, urging His followers to stand out by way of good character and good deeds. How many have risen to that calling since then and still do today? We have no way of knowing, but if my own limited exposure is any indication, then there have been a great number! If I were tasked with listing names of “salt of the earth” people that I know, I could small-font fill a paper in no time.
The church is filled with people humbly doing their best to glorify God with their lives. They’re not perfect. They’re just striving to be the “blessed” that Jesus described. They are the salt of the earth, and we are blessed to know them!
A favorite author of mine said something in a post that struck me. As she was thanking her online community for their support, she admitted that she always felt overlooked and lonely. When she would have a book signing in her own hometown, no one would show up. And if it weren’t for her loyal readers, she wouldn’t have any friends. I couldn’t believe it. She is a talented, award-winning author of multiple books. I assumed she was somewhat of a rockstar at home. How sad to feel invisible in “the real world”!
It led me to consider a few things:
Online community should complement, not replace, real life community. As an introvert, I get the appeal…digital connections can be way easier. But they’re nothing compared to genuine friendship and in-person fellowship.
No one is invisible in the Lord’s church. We’re family. We see, love, and pray for each other (Rom. 12:9-15). We even have shepherds who watch over us (Acts 20:28). We’re real people in each other’s real lives. Our joys are shared and so are our sorrows. We don’t go through anything alone. We have a whole church family who pays attention, cheers us on, and holds us up when we need it.
If you ever do feel overlooked or invisible in your church family, it might be a good opportunity to get more involved in the lives of others. You can look for ways to make sure others feel seen, loved, and served. Who’s hurting? Who keeps to themselves? Who lost a loved one? When you invest in the lives of others, you become entwined in the body of Christ as an essential member. Certainly not invisible.
For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you—that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine.
When we lived just outside Richmond, VA, Michael Shepherd came and held a gospel meeting for us. One night he preached about absolute truth and said, “Even a young child understands this principle.” He stepped down from the pulpit in the middle of his sermon and walked over to where we were sitting. He pointed to our five-year-old and said, “What’s two plus two?” Our son panicked and said, “I don’t know…I’m homeschooled!” Brother Shepherd said, “Son, you just ruined my illustration.” We still laugh about that moment. And tucked away in my heart are plenty more memories from worshiping with my family:
Slipping my young sons Cheerios one at a time to keep them still
A handmade “quiet book” from their Grandma Pollard
Singing “Because He Lives” the very first Sunday after having our youngest child and crying when we got to the verse, “How sweet to hold a newborn baby…”
Their giving styles: oldest son would place his change in the basket like a normal person; middle son would sling them in there like he was skipping stones; youngest son would drop them in one. at. a. time.
Adopted grandparents spoiling our kids
Singing in the car on the way to worship
A pair of red boots that each son wore after their older brother outgrew them
A son crushing on his pre-k Bible class teacher and then getting mad at her when she got married
A son belting out the “Ring It Out” part because those were the only words he knew in that song
Their first times doing the Scripture reading or serving on the Lord’s table or leading a song
Thinking how handsome they looked in their little button up shirts with freshly combed hair
The moment in each of their lives when they said, “I want to be baptized.”
I could go on and on. It wasn’t always easy. Sometimes I felt like the service was a blur because I spent the whole time wrangling little boys. But that phase didn’t last very long and was followed by years of meaningful worship. I don’t know how it went by so fast and my heart aches with the missing of it. Now those boys are grown (still wearing boots) and leading their own families to worship. I think about what Sunday mornings in their homes must look like. I imagine it looks a lot like ours used to, trying to get everyone fed and dressed and out the door on time. Perhaps a little frazzled by the time they get in the car. They’re just getting started, and I pray they’ll give themselves some grace and soak in the moments, even the messy ones.
Worship looks a little different for me these days as Neal is the only family sitting with me on the pew. But I LOVE seeing other young families all around me and hearing their children sing. I love knowing that the whole church is my family and we always get to worship together. And I especially love it when the grand babies come to visit and I get to experience the wonder of worship through their eyes all over again.
“But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”
On a recent Sunday afternoon, Neal and I walked from table to table congratulating the seniors on their upcoming graduations. Each senior’s table featured items that represented them, like photos, sports memorabilia, school banners, etc. Earlier that day, the elders had presented each of them a Bible study book. It made me think back to the times our own sons were the ones graduating and being honored.
A couple of Sundays before that, we all got together to congratulate those who participated in Lads to Leaders. As their names were called, the children (sheepishly) walked up to receive their certificates for each event they took part in.
Sprinkled here and there have been bridal showers and baby showers. It’s so sweet to see the anticipation and joy and, of course, to think back to my own so many years ago. Within the past 15 months, Neal and I have been blessed with three grandchildren. We had no idea that we would receive cards and gifts for those magical occasions!
One of my favorite things about the Lord’s church is that we share our lives together. In addition to sweet fellowship, we also celebrate momentous occasions with one another. We’ve been to “sober anniversaries” and special birthdays and wedding anniversaries. We indeed rejoice with those who rejoice (Rom. 12:15).
Significant occasions are made even more memorable when shared with our church family. When I recall my own family’s big moments, the church was always a part of them, even if it was just in the form of a thoughtful call, text, or hug. I hope we never take that for granted. And I hope we will do our best to be a part of those special events for others, too, so when they look back they’ll thank God for their supportive church family.
“Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.“
It’s a grim outlook if you watch the news to see how we’re measuring up as a nation. For the past couple of weeks, I’ve seen several studies-have-shown reports covering such topics as mental/ social/ physical health of children and adults, the education system, anger management, social media, etc. None of them have been positive. Reports are also coming in daily of the latest commodities to experience cost inflation, political scandals, and terrorist activities. I have no idea how accurate what we’re being fed actually is, but I’m not surprised that many around us seem to be affected by it.
Perhaps in your congregation you’ve experienced an increase in people showing up and looking for something. Neal pointed out to me that many of the Bible studies and baptisms here have been young adults from the community. They seem to be searching for solidarity and truth. One young woman even said, “I want to believe. I just don’t know what to believe.” She simply wanted to know about God and the Bible. Another word that keeps coming up from searchers is “community.” People are tired of disconnectedness and superficial relationships. They’re looking for family, support, and a good place to belong.
I imagine every generation thinks the condition of the world during their lifetime is the most ridiculous. Think about what our parents, grandparents, and great grandparents experienced! But no matter what is going on out there, the church stands secure (Daniel 2:44), has a solid foundation (Eph. 2:20), is full of purpose (Eph. 2:10), and is all about community and support (Rom. 12:5). What a contrast to the senselessness around us!
Let’s keep our eyes and hearts open to the souls who are hungering for more than what the world has to offer.
So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone,in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord.
‘Home’ is a word that you feel. It is often associated with security, belonging, rest, and love. It seems to me that God blesses us with a home three times over:
Our Family Home– We have the one we grow up in and the one we create as adults. If we build them with biblical wisdom, they can be “precious and pleasant” (Prov. 24:3-4).
Our Church Home– This household of God is filled with brothers and sisters who love and honor one another (1 Tim. 3:15; Rom. 12:9-10).
Our Heavenly Home– The Father’s house is filled with many rooms (John 14:2-3), will last forever (Matt. 6:19-20), and is built by the One who loves us most (Heb. 11:16).
Our family homes aren’t perfect, are they? As much as we love each other, we still experience strife, heartache, and disappointment. Yet our homes are most dear to us, and we do our best to protect and cherish them.
Our church homes aren’t perfect either because they are filled with imperfect people. Sometimes there are personality conflicts and growing pains. But we sure need each other (!), and we thank God for the love and support of our Christian family.
Only our heavenly home will be perfect. As much as we enjoy our special homes here, the best one yet is waiting for us. There will be no tears or disappointments. God is filling it with light, love, rest, peace, and true comfort. That’s what we have to look forward to! HOME.
“In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.”
When anyone says anything encouraging to my husband, I want to hug them! It warms my heart when someone tells him his sermon was just what they needed, sends a text saying they are thankful for him, or writes him a note (that he’ll keep in a special file!). He doesn’t preach for praise, but I know that those thoughtful words encourage his soul and keep him going.
I hope you know that when you take a moment to say something kind, it means something. The Bible calls it life-giving (Prov. 18:21).
The Lord’s church is filled with people who know how to build others up, and I see it all the time. I see ladies complimenting each other (and meaning it). I see people going up to the Bible class teachers and thanking them. I see our church mailboxes filled with cards, notes, and small gifts. I see people greeting each other with kind words. It makes me smile to stand in the middle of it all and overhear conversations filled with sweet words, thoughtful questions, and friendly laughter. Where else can you go and be consistently lifted up? God’s people have received His grace and love and are so good at giving it back to His people.
Let’s prayerfully remember:
To be aware of and acknowledge the efforts of others to lift us up. How easy it is to brush it off or miss it in our distractedness.
To make sure those who are awfully good at encouraging others (you know who they are) are getting it themselves.
To thank God for His people and the support they give. They really are the best!
Also remember, if you feel like there’s not enough encouragement going on, you can redouble your own efforts. I’ve said it before…when you feel something is lacking in your church family, the good news is that YOU ARE the church. You can be the change by speaking uplifting words and sending lots of life-giving texts.
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.“
(Ephesians 4:29)
Ollie napping on the couch. This has nothing to do with today’s topic. 🙂
One of our church members just lost her mother. I overheard Neal’s conversation with her on the phone. He was listening to our member describing her mother’s diligent faithfulness and examples of quiet service. At one point he said, “Her life wrote her funeral sermon.”
I’ve been to funerals where it seemed like people couldn’t say enough good things about the deceased. Stories and tears and smiles were shared as they recalled their loved one’s thoughtful acts or influence or loving spirit.
In Hebrews eleven, the inspired writer gives a long list memorializing men and women whose lives were characterized by faithfulness. He did that to encourage the readers not to give up or turn back. He calls these faithful examples their “great cloud of witnesses” that should spur them on to “run with endurance the race set before them.” And then he tells them to “look to Jesus,” the “perfecter of our faith,” their greatest example of faithfulness (Heb. 12:1-2).
I’m thankful for my own cloud of witnesses, aren’t you? Those who have gone on before me and those who are still with me, whose examples convict me and inspire me. Some have shown me that faithfulness is possible even through overwhelming difficulties or harsh circumstances. Some have inspired me through their diligent service despite physical difficulties or health issues. And many have encouraged me through their lifelong love for God, the faithful legacy they are leaving their children and grandchildren. These individuals remind me of Jesus. They remind me to look to Jesus!
Thank God for faithful Christians!
“Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.”
(Hebrews 10:35-36)
My grandpa, Dale Gillaspie, and Neal’s grandpa, H.E. Mitchell
Life and Favor (Job 10:12) 