Summer time, as we know it, is about ready to come to an end. For those who have kids on summer break, know that the summer time has many opportunities to gather as a family. This can be good and bad, depending on where you are in life. My family was blessed to experience a family vacation, where we were able to experience a lot of laughter. My prayer is that this season has been filled with wonderful memories that can be cherished for a long time. For some, you have faced many trials and hardships. It seems to me, on any given day, life can be filled with so many different emotions. We have to learn to be spirit led not emotion led. No matter where you are in the journey, one thing I know for sure. We need to be connected. Life’s circumstances and the devil will do all he can to disconnect you from the body of Christ. Whatever it takes, STAY CONNECTED, for the devil is a liar. The devil will continue to tell you- “you are too busy, too messed up, too confused, or TOO LAZY to get with other believers or go to church. Even though this is the very thing you need. We need to run to church, not from it…we need to run to group, not from it. Being with other believers is what keeps us strong and on track. You need other believers in YOUR life to keep you sharp.
The apostle Paul in the book of Hebrews said it like this, “Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:23-25) In this passage we learn to Hold Tight…God can be trusted. No matter where you find yourself; “Hold On”. The other thing we learn is we need to motivate one another to do good things for others. This works best in a Life Group with people you know.
If you are going to church and do not know anyone, than how can you motivate someone, Motivation is best expressed out of relationship, you need to get connected to be known and to know. We need to STOP isolating ourselves from the very people that can strengthen our faith and keep us moving in the right direction with the HOLY SPIRIT! We also learn in this passage, to NOT NEGLECT MEETING TOGETHER, church and Life Group are vital to a believer’s life. Whatever it takes, we need to stay connected to church and our Life Group. It is through Life Group we feel accountability, a sense of belonging, and cared for. As well as challenged to read and study the scriptures, discuss the word, and influence others for Christ. Apostle Paul ends this passage with the most amazing thought; we should stay and meet together until Christ returns. This fall Antioch Church will be doing a church wide study in Life Groups on the book, “What in the World is Going On?” by Dr. David Jeremiah. You will not want to miss out on this study. It promises to be a very challenging and encouraging time in Life Group. If you are not in a Life Group, please take time and go by the Life Group booth, pick up a card, fill it out, and turn it in. I would encourage all to read this book.
