God Scheduled Appointments

The Merriam Webster Online dictionary defines communion as “the act or instance of sharing:  intimate fellowship or rapport:  communication.” Obviously, this is not something that we can do alone.  There is no substitution for assembling together to worship as the body of Christ.  Through worship we commune with God and with each other.  It is more than worship; and includes growing in grace and knowledge.

2 Peter 3:18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.    

The New Testament church assembled together against all odds.  At times it was down right dangerous.  Meeting together seems to be a natural desire and characteristic of Christians.  It is also vital for our spiritual health.  New Testament teaching warns against forsaking, or missing church services.  The English Standard Version uses the word, “neglecting.”  The warning has an even greater urgency for our generation that is witnessing the events that will lead to that approaching day of Christ’s return.

Hebrews 10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

For the new convert as well as the mature member of apostolic life; the moves of God experienced during church services should be the high points of every week.  Church services on Sunday morning and evening, along with Wednesday night Bible Study/Services should quickly become viewed as appointments with God, along with monthly prayer meetings.  Missing any of these appointments is truly a “missing out” experience.  Sometimes we miss a message that was tailor made for us; not because the pastor knows our circumstances in life, but because God does.  Crystal Lake United Pentecostal Church is blessed to have very anointed preachers who work together with a dedicated and loving shepherd.  They work in oneness under the anointing of the Holy Ghost.  Pastor looks out for the souls of the flock as one who has to give an account to God.

Hebrews 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.    

Stating it frankly, it would be a waste of time for us if we do not come to church with a joyous, and eager spirit to give and receive from God.  We are to come, presenting our lives as a living sacrifice.

Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.     

When attending services is viewed as appointments with God; with the expectation to hear what we need, to grow in our faith; then we attend with an enthusiasm that not only profits our soul, but builds our brothers and sisters in the household of faith.