Out of the Mouths of Babes II
Many years ago, I was in the middle of a tutoring session when I received some very bad news. The news crushed my spirit, and I struggled to regain my composure. I abruptly ended the tutoring session and jumped in my car. I recall being disoriented and inconsolable. I was in a really dark place. When I finally got to a place where I could talk, I poured out my heart to my daughter. I shared my hurt, my pain, and my loss. I had rambled on for almost an hour when she jumped in and said, “Ma, get ahold of yourself. God is still on the throne”.
Those words thundered in my spirit and shook me out of my stupor. She said, “Look, this is bad, but God is still in control. Don’t allow the enemy of our souls to break you down. You’ve always told us that it is his plan. Now, remember who you are and whose you are.” As I listened, I was reminded of God’s faithfulness. Her words empowered me, and the hopelessness dissipated. I took a deep breath and moved forward.
Years have passed, and all is well. Friends, God is always in control, and I am so thankful that He places us in a family. See, family and friends keep us grounded in our identity and in our faith. I now understand the importance of surrounding ourselves with people who love God. That’s why being part of a church family is so important for spiritual growth. While it’s okay to “do church” at home during a crisis, God gives us a church family for a reason. This family—whether by blood or spiritual bonds—holds us accountable. We learn from one another and help carry each other’s burdens, which is something we can’t do alone.
Believers thrive in community, not isolation. When alone for extended periods, we become susceptible to the enemy’s attacks, as Satan observes and exploits our weaknesses. He wants us to sin, and without regular fellowship with other Christians, we will. Therefore, our thoughts, actions, and entire way of life need constant grounding in the Word of God. This grounding is consistently found within a church that faithfully preaches and teaches the Bible. Within a community of believers, we are better equipped to navigate our spiritual journey, working out our salvation with fear and trembling. (Philippians 2:12) The experiences of life, both positive and challenging, contribute to our growth and development as followers of Christ.
During a moment of struggle, my daughter was led by the Holy Spirit to share with me the very words I had once spoken to her and others. It was a humbling reminder of Romans 15:1: “We who are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak.” We all experience moments of both strength and weakness, and family is crucial during our most vulnerable times, just as my daughter was for me. Friends, the Bible teaches in Hebrews 10:25 not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together. So, actively participating in a church community is not just essential for receiving blessings like this one, but it is a commandment!
Friends, do you have a church home? If not, I urge you to pray and go. Ask God to direct you to a church where the Word of God is being preached. Pray and study on your own so that you can rejoice in the truth and recognize error. Once there, get involved. Attend Sunday School, Bible Study, Small Group Study, and anything else the church offers. The church was planted by Jesus himself. He is the head, and the gates of hell will not prevail against it. (Matthew 16:18)
Will you do it? I certainly hope so and would love to hear about your journey. Email me at [email protected] or simply go to the “contact us” page.
For God’s Glory,
Tahnee
