The Church Attender

Before I received eternal life I was raised in church and attended regularly, but I really had no love for God or the church. Church was fun at times but there came a time when I realized I clearly did not care for the things of God like my family and the other church attenders. Because I had no desire to be there I felt quit empty and I felt as though there was no purpose in being there.

I remember sitting in the dining room at my best friends house on a Sunday morning thinking this was is it I'm done with church. But, my friend turned to his mom and said mom Craig said he's not going back to church. She glared at me and placed her hands on her hips and just looked at me until I shook my head. I felt such guilt and I felt so selfish in that moment.

In those moments I realized I had made church all about me and had not been attending for the right reason. I began attending a church on my own and came in late one Sunday night to hear the pastor preaching about that day being your last day and where would you be. There was no doubt in my mind I was lost and needed Jesus. If that was my last day to live and I stood before God there was no reason He would allow me into His kingdom. That night I trusted Jesus Christ alone for my forgiveness and trusted Him to save me. By the grace of God I was made right with God and my relationship with Christ Jesus began.

Following this life changing experience I had a whole new perspective about God, my relationship with Christ, and the church. I instantly had a new desire to learn the Word, to worship God, and I loved the church like never before. Soon I found areas where I could serve in the church and most of all I was asked to help teach a class from time to time. Later in my walk with the Lord He used me to work with college ages, teenagers, worship ministry, and through it all He blessed me to proclaim His Word in so many places.

My trusting Jesus was truly a from darkness to light experience. What would be worse than a person living a church lifestyle thinking everything was ok because he was part of all the churchy stuff. I was a fake in the worst sense and I'm so glad God spoke to my heart and drew me back.

Over the years I have learned so much about my Lord and His great love for me. I'm so glad I no longer feel empty and as if I have no purpose, but in Christ I've never felt more complete. Not only has my life changed to love the church but I know for sure that I have a home in heaven with my Lord through Jesus Christ. If today were my last I trust the promise of God and know I will be in heaven.