October 17, 2019(Thursday)
Yesterday I published a blog entitled “Grow in Grace and Knowledge,” and I suggested “Six Simple Steps to Christian Growth.” (See below). The first of these steps was, “Go to Church.”
Of all the steps mentioned in the blog, “go to church” is probably the easiest. All you have to do is show up. Of course you will get the most value from the service if you pay attention to what’s happening there.
You can start by taking a good look at the words of the hymns or spiritual songs. Think about the meanings of those words. Let them speak to you or for you.
At some point in the worship service, someone will read verses of Scripture. Listen carefully. What do those words mean? Make a mental note (or write it down) to ask someone about it later. It’s just words unless you know what they mean. As you grow in knowledge of the Bible, you will begin asking questions about the Scripture verses you hear, like “what was the writer of these words saying to his generation?” and “how may I apply the meaning of these verses to my own life?”
No doubt an offering plate will be passed. If you are a new Christian, you have much to learn about stewardship. Your offering is an amount of money that can be used in the Lord’s work, but, more importantly your offering is a symbol of how much God means to you. It is an expression of your love for him.
Somebody will pray during the worship service. Perhaps several people will offer prayers. Listen carefully to what they are saying to the Lord, and pray with them in your heart. Perhaps some day you will be asked to pray publicly. Don’t be afraid. Just talk with the Lord, because that’s what prayer is.
The preacher will rise and begin speaking. Your part of the service at that time is to breathe a prayer for him as he presents a message to you from God. He may begin his sermon by reading a passage from the Bible. Hopefully, his sermon will be based on those words from the Bible. He may explain what those verses mean, and what they can mean for you. Listen carefully, and take the message personally. God speaks to us in many ways, and the sermon can be one of those ways.
Never leave at the end of the service without offering a silent prayer of dedication to your Lord. You can make a promise to the Lord. Be sure it’s a promise that is practical–something you can do.
Step number one, “Go to church,” is something you can do. It will help you grow in the grace and knowledge of your Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
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Grow in Grace and Knowledge
But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. (2 Peter 3:18 NIV).
I am suggesting some steps for the new Christian to experience growth. These steps can also be good for seasoned Christians who desire a renewal of faith and a fresh start in living for Jesus. The six steps are: 1. Go to Church 2. Read the Bible 3. Pray 4. Talk about Jesus 5. Read Devotional Writings 6. Be aware of your daily life.