Even if the sign out front says the church we attend is “of Christ,” that does not make it so. Regardless of the name we wear, if we are not governed by Christ’s authority, and if we do not love Him as we should, then we have no connection to Him.
Being “example conscious” will prompt us to go the extra mile so that others see an unmistakable, unequivocal example of godliness in our lives. Let’s not deprive our friends of what may be the only godly example they have a chance to be exposed to.
Let’s meditate on the importance of obedience to God and determine that we’re going to accept the responsibility that goes along with knowing what we know about the truth. God wants us not only to know the right thing but to do the right thing.
We ought to appreciate the local congregation as the Lord designed it, contributing wholeheartedly to the work God has given the church to do. To the extent that we can enjoy our work together, we will enjoy the happiness of heaven . . . together!
We need what the assemblies of the church are intended to offer. Just as a burning ember dies when it is separated from the fire, those who neglect to gather for worship with their fellow Christians are likely to grow cold in their devotion to God.
God’s revelation of Himself to us is a great gift. When we recognize the many benefits and blessings that come to us through God’s word, we should be grateful that He has chosen to give us His truth. His word is a blessing we are privileged to enjoy.
Let’s be thankful for every expression of God’s grace in our past (and there have been many), and let’s determine that we’ll hold on to our hope in Christ, no matter what happens. Gratitude and hope. These two ways of thinking will keep us faithful.
On earthly journeys, we like to have a map or an itinerary. But on our spiritual journey, no such map is given to us. We only know that God is waiting for us at the end. He has not told us everything we will see or do along the way.
In Christ, there is work to do that is the most important work in the world — and when we can do it together with others who are in fellowship with Christ, that makes it even more special. Let’s give thanks for our brothers and sisters in Christ.
If we love our Lord, how can we not be filled with joy at the thought of His return? After Paul had spoken to the Thessalonians about the return of Christ, he said, “Therefore encourage one another with these words” (1 Thessalonians 4:18).
