"let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do,
but encourage one another," -Hebrews 10:25 NLT
Sheep that flock together, fold together and stay together. While it is true that sheep without a shepherd can very likely scatter it is also true that when a predator comes in sight of a flock the sheep huddle together in a folding motion. They constantly fold inwards towards the middle. The ones closest to the middle are the ones least likely to get eaten by a wolf. While those on the outside and not really connected are left vulnerable and prone to be wolf chow. There is always safety in numbers. Likewise the key is to stick together if we are gonna stay together. Many Christians for one reason or another will make it a habit to not fellowship, and if they do attend church they do it irregularly and at an arms distance. While it is understandable that work and health can be factors with some, for the most I believe it comes down to the conscious decision to place self before God. And the reason many are suffering and not being able to get through the struggles of life is because of a lack of meeting together and sticking together. Like the sheep who are closest to the middle are the safest so to the Christian who chooses to make the most out of church and not just live on the sidelines. Those who do Christianity from a distance will find themselves going back to their old ways before Christ, they will find themselves weak and helpless at the mercy of sin and the devil. The Bible warns you and me to "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour." (1 Pet 5:8) I've seen it many times when people seek counseling and help it usually is due to three things; a lack of fellowship, a lack of being in God's word, and a lack of applying God's word. However sheep that gather will not scatter!
- WHAT PITFALLS CAN BE AVOIDED BY TAKING ADVANTAGE OF WHAT YOUR HOME CHURCH OFFERS? HOW IS IDLENESS THE DEVIL'S PLAYGROUND?
- "Going to church doesn't make you the church, but going to church is being the church" -Albert G.