Getting ready to gather with God’s people is an important step before you go to church this weekend. Here are 10 “not’s” to remember as you go:
- I have not prepared for worship if I haven’t prayed beforehand.
- Church is not about me.
- I cannot worship well if I have unconfessed, unforsaken sin in my life.
- Worship through music is not about my preferences.
- I do not know all the burdens my pastor carries to the pulpit.
- The Bible is not just a book.
- The gospel is not intended to make me feel comfortable.
- I have not given sacrificially to God’s work until it costs me something.
- If nothing changes in my life after the service, I have not genuinely worshiped God.
- Many believers around the world will not have the privilege of worshiping that I have.
What "not's" would you add to this list?
That list is all about me, what’s wrong about me. You can have a great experience this coming Sunday morning. It depends on many factors. Some of these are out of my control. If I stay behind the pulpit or sit in the pews I want have the right attitude. I want to hear from God well done good servants
Thank you, Christoph.
The singers and musicians are there to bring all of us into worship and the presence of God. They are not there to entertain us. We have to be participants.
Thanks, Sherry.
It’s not polite or beneficial to tell a new person at the church they are in someone else’s seat. It’s not your job to be the seat police. In fact it’s rude and could cause someone to not come back.
True. Thanks, Chris.
The musicians and singers are the lead worshippers rather than the worship leaders. I thank God for them and our pastor who faithfully teaches God’s Word and equips us for ministry.
Blessings, Roy.
It’s NOT what can I get, it’s what can I give?
Thanks, Janet.
I believe some of these excuses are excuses for the pastor not doing a good job and I believe putting these things on internet is what keeps people away from church. How about we just believe in Godsword and follow what he says instead of finding excuses,
Thank you, Sharon.
Do not expect the Spirit of the Living God to show up when we want Him and stay only as long as we want Him in our prearranged services. If He shows up at all He will be there for it all and be the sole reason we are there or we just had a “religious” club meeting.
Blessings, Bryan. Thanks.
The Good News (gospel) of Jesus is NOT about what I can do for Him, but about what He has done for me. Honestly, this list puts the focus in the wrong place. Work harder, pray longer, give more… Those things are fine if they can truly be done from subconscious gratitude and not because of guilt-induced religious obligation.
Thank you for your thoughts, Norm.
Thank you Mr. Lawless for your insights, I love reading them. They are easier to read than to practice! The spirit is willing but my flesh is weak. Thanks be unto God who always gives us the victory through Christ Jesus! Blessings
Thanks, Sandy!
Here’s one. My decision on whether or not to attend this Sunday is NOT just a personal decision but is a decision that affects the whole body as I am a part of the body.
True. Thanks!