Billy Graham on TV once struck a cord with me in my non-church going days. "Having faith and not attending a church is like being in the Navy and not having a boat to go to sea on." Without a boat, your not in the Navy, not really. Without my home church to pump me up, help me grow, challenge me, love me, and help me lick my weekly wounds, it would keep me from doing many of the things I do for God. That is the simple truth. God blessed my church in a very significant way and I am so proud to be appart of it. Thank God for the worlds greatest support group. - Kevin

This is another time God is speaking to me. - mike

If you have not been brought up going to church, it is very intimidating & uncomfortable to go to a church service. You tend to think everybody there understands more than you do (which is not always true!). The more contemporary church with really great music will be more attractive to newbies. I think churches could attract more people with cool music & a laid back atmosphere, & make the message apply to modern life. Not to water-down the message, but to make it vibrant & relative. Traditional hymns & organ music still make me uncomfortable for some reason. - Anne

I am tryinng to find my way back to church. I definitely believe in the importance of church and know that we honor God when we worship corporately. Somewhere I heard that Jesus taught us to pray, "Our Father..." because we are suppose to be together as a group. I am an introvert and have some personal issues I am working on. I hope soon to be back in church where I can sing with others the praise music and the old hymns which both have value to God. - Janice

Some very good observations about Church. I'm like a previous poster--introverted, shy and single. All 3 of which for some reason make me feel like a pariah at church, which is why I don't go on a regular basis. I don't know if there really is a "perfect" solution to get people to want to go to Church on a regular basis. The last sentence of today's devotion is a bit of a joke to me. Since when does "not going to church disqualify you from salvation"? - Another Kevin

Janice- may I ask what personal issues you are working on? None of my business certainly, but sometimes it's good to talk about it I think. - Erik

I receive the word today as God's way of speaking to me. I have not been going to church faithfully since my grandmother and her sister passed in February and my brother passing in April. I have been looking for the perfect church and there really is not one. I've been searching and seeking for something but I just did not know what is was that I was looking for but one day God did reveal to me is that everything I need is in him. The word today really blessed me.

Thank you,

Althea Jenkins - ALTHEA JENKINS

Another Kevin, if you will read the devotion again, you'll see that there is nothing in it that says going to church has anything to do with salvation. It's merely a place where people gather to worship the Lord, share lives and grow together in Him. Going to church has absolutely nothing to do with qualifying you or anyone else to become a Christian. In fact, if it was based on us being "qualified," none of us would make it. Christianity is all about having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, based on what He did for us. It is a gift and there is nothing we can do to earn it, regardless of whether you attend church regularly or not. I do understand how difficult it can be, however, to find a place where you feel at home. I think it's just something you have to keep trying until you find the one that fits your needs. I hope you'll keep looking until you find it! - ME

Thanks, Erik, for your concern but I equate personal with private.
Question for all:
I am curious if there might be a ministry outreach in Atlanta for those who are introverted, shy, etc. I think there could be a promise of a harvest if more of those silent saints could be brought into the fold. - Janice

Sounds good to me although I think some people will take advantage of any loophole whether it's in the Bible or in the law. I think people may get a break if they only committ the offense a time or two. But, I don't think they should or will if they continuously use a loophole for their own selfish purposes. I always remember the phrase that basically goes that lots of people you think will be in heaven won't and lots you think will be there won't. Too many excuses for not doing the right thing and God isn't as forgiving as we'd like to think. Otherwise, he'd let everybody into heaven and never send anybody to Hell...read the Bible and you'll see that he sent people to Hell because he knew they knew better when they willingly committed their sins. God make some harder decisions about people than we do and rightfully so. If you know better, do better not try to act like you don't know any better and hope God won't notice. We want everybody to be good just because they know how to use loopholes to their advantage but they aren't otherwise we'd have not hell or jailhouses. - SJJ

When the six strong men carry your body back to church. It is too late. In the casket it is a shell where your soul/spirit was enclosed while on earth because when you breath that last breathe. If Jesus Christ is not living on the inside of you it is over for you. We must have a real relationship with God the Father and son Jesus Christ and to know that we know that Jesus Christ love us and want the best for in worshiping him praising him in everything we do to serve with all our heart. The church is a place to worship, to be encouraged from real christian that truly love Jesus Christ that can really express the true love of God. - Jackie

I joined this site because I have always enjoyed Bryant Wrights sermons when I would go to church at JFB. However, I do not feel nor ever have felt, that I NEED to go to church to have a strong relationship with Jesus Christ. It's more of a personal relationship for me and I have it because I feel good about it. Not because I want my neighbor to see me at church and think I must be "an ok guy" or socially acceptable. I wonder how many do sit in church week after week and do not feel fulfillment spiritually? I would imagine there are plenty. - Matt

MATT, you hit it pretty good with that one, how many sit in church that don't even know who Jesus is... I personally think it is about ten percent... If you like to hear great preaching, true Bible preaching that we are not getting in our pulpits please check out www.livingwaters.com 'Hell's Best Kept Secret" and true and false conversion.. another good site is www.hisholyspace.com - John

Thanks John. I will definitely check those sites out. - Matt

Matt, let me know when you get online at His Holy Space, I can invite you as a friend and we can have a great discussion with out you know who's comments! HA - John

John, don't forget that it's the Eriks of the world who give us cause to redefine and often rediscover the real meaning of our individual beliefs. So, be careful what you say, even in jest. - ME

John, I actually have come to enjoy Erik's comments as he does put a new perspective on things. I don't necessarily condone every point but it's interesting to read. At least he's done his homework before commenting. Erik, remind me never to debate you in anything. - Matt

Matt & Me, please also remember that it was satan himself who came to try and put doubt in our LORDS mind, remeber he even misquoted scriptures in his effort. The scriptures also warn us that the companion of fools will see harm. My pastor has a pretty neat saying along those lines...if you lay down with dogs you WILL get fleas. My 'in jest' is not actually a jest but more so a calling out. You see Erik has admitted in the discusions that Erik does not believe in the inherent Word of God. How can I realistically take head of someones thoughts who does not even believe the most basic beliefs of Christianity? Without firm belief in The diety of Jesus Christ, and the unfallable Word of God there is NO CHRISTIANITY. Satn from the begining of time has tried to cause doubt in these two very important doctrines. If you want to give credit to that...Well if that is so I will be praying for your eyes to be opened. My prayer is not that I offend Erik, buit that I may be used of God to spurn Erik, or others for that matter, to truely seek the truth. That they may ask God Himself to open there eys to the truths that they are arguing.. Love you all and this is why I feel so strong that it must be called wht it truly is. PS> I can back this up scripturally, as it is His battle not mine. dig deep enough Jesus Himself said he did not come to bring peace on earth but to divide the lambs from the wolves, unfortunately we live in a day when there are very very few lambs or sheep left. - John

Matt- thanks for that. John- I sense pain and woundedness in your comments. Be kind to yourself. - Erik

Erik, the only pain you may sense is that of knowing I have knowledge that could help many if only they open their hearts to accept it. It is like the state highway dept knowing the bridge is out and they have a choice of either posting a sign and trying to place a barricade to stop you from passing on to the open missing span of that bridge, but watching as you just ignore the sign and barricade driving around it and ultimately to your death. If you could see this happening to your closest friend or neighbor wouldn't you want to help?? You are my neighbor.. Signed no animostity just LOVE - John

John, I was only referring to the way you said you could have a great discussion with Matt without "you know who's comments." I thought it was unnecessary to add a slam to Erik at the end of your comment. As believers, we should always strive to show love to those who don't know Him. Although I totally agree that we need to be upfront and unafraid to espouse the absolute truth as we know it, cute little jabs don't represent the Christ you're trying to defend. - ME

ME, yes, maybe you are right. That is why we are still left here on this sinful earth after salvation. We all have some flesh left in us.. I hope taht is the worst I have. As you remeber in the scriptures though Christ himself up turned the tables of those who would exploit His house (or forum?) I was merely stating that that persons arguing ofver the validity of scriptures and the fact they also found these daily devotions offensive that maybe a little slap on the face may awaken some facts for that person. If I came off a little harsh please accept my appology as it was not ever meant to offend rather turn one from the bashing of the Holy Scriptures and BW's attempt to enlighten some of God's truths with his purchasing of air time with the 750 am station that was refered to. If that person finds it offensive they should contact that station and then step up to the plate ..BUY THAT TIME SLOT . Obviously the radio station even if they would find the program offensive is more interested in the money from the paid programing than one persons concern that the material is not appropriate. However far fetched that idea is. Again I did not mean harm to My LORDS name or cause but I sometimes get sick and tired of christians being backed into a corner afraid to say the truth, look where our country has gone because we stayed back and let one person say prayer was offensive??? Remember what happened with that one and how far satan has twisted it..Psalms 9:17 God have mercy on us and this country.... - John

Erik, a question for you. How do you know so much about scriptures when it seems you take almost an anti-biblical stance in terms of people putting too much faith in its messages? Was there a life altering event for you that made you question what you had once studied? Since this is like e mail and the tone can get lost, I am asking purely out of curiosity and not a judgement. - Matt

Matt- I thank you for and welcome your question. I also take it as a compliment that you say I know something about the Scriptures since I don't feel like I know much at all.
To answer your question, there was a time in my life when I was a very "strong" Christian- saved, sanctified, filled with the Holy Ghost and on fire for the Lord.(We all know what happens to the "lukewarm" ones, right?) I felt that we had been given a tremendous gift in having God's inerrant, infallible word given to us to guide us in our lives, so I made it a practice to study the word on a daily basis, even going so far as to learn Hebrew and Greek in order to better understand it. I would even spend one day a week fasting, drinking only water and studying and memorizing Scripture for 24 hours, that I might be able to "engraft" the word in my heart.
That kind of devotion is tough to sustain obviously, but even later when I didn't study the Scriptures as much I maintained my beliefs. Later in college I learned many amazing facts of science that were irreconcilable with my literalist beliefs and... well, let's just say it was all down hill from there. Given over to a reprobate mind! Actually, I still love reading the Bible and find it endlessly fascinating, but nowadays I think I read it for what it is, not for what I wanted it to be. I am still kind of upset when I think about how seldom the Bible is actually studied in churches. Reasonable people can disagree, obviously, and I'm not one of those folks who looks down on believers. But I do think people should have all the facts, even the unpleasant ones. And I keep an open mind. I don't have a lot of answers, but I do think it's important that we honestly (and fervently) search for truth. Thanks for letting me share this with you.
- Erik

Erik, wow, Just as I thought you used to go to church and believe... Hope that comes back to you one day. I hope you don't think my comments have been given ill fated, as a one point in your life I assume you were also defensive of Gods word..Correct? The sad thing is that the science you refer to is all almost speculation also, The Bible does confirm science if you are willing to look... www.livingwaters.com look for science confirms the Bible there are a great many examples that you can find to prove the Bible through science. Unfortunatley many of our young children go off to a world veiw college only to be ridculed for their faith and more or less brain washed into unproven thoughts...Thus the Bible has and always will be a book of FAITH, a spiritual bokk opened only by the Holy Spirit, but if as you say then you know this to be true. And if I may with out judging it seems much deeper than you explain as to why the turn in faith. That is only speaking from experience yes I have ups and downs in my walk also. But my down times are when I either stop walking or walk a different way than Christ. God has always been a progressive God always moving forward and never changing it is us that is always changing thus the disaapointments and dissatisfactions. Not God's fault only ours... It still wonders me why you find these devotions so offensive if you once walked this path?? Is it possible you tatsed of the Great Water until one time He allowed bitter water to follow down your steam you got upset and left? I don't know only asking... If I could interest you and challenge you I would like you to relisten to a teaching that I am almost sure will not be like anything you have ever heard before.. www.livingwaters.com 'Hells Best Kept Secret'and True & False Conversion They teach something very unique and it has changed the beliefs of many, including so called or proffessing Christians. Proffessing does not make one possessing. I pray you will receive this in the love I have been trying to share and show you. As I was one of the first to actually answer your question. In Christ's service - John

Erik, thanks for sharing that about yourself as it was interesting. I do not judge anyone in one fashion or another and feel everyone is entitled to their own faith. As you have said in so many words within other comments, one should take an interest in knowing themself and understanding thyself. I feel there is a huge difference in serving Christ because you are a lost soul and serving Christ because deep within your heart, you are a true believer. Both can be a good reason to do so but I do believe there is a difference. John, I do admire your devotion and I guess I fall somewhere between you and Erik. I definitely have faith and read the bible and say a prayer every single night before I go to bed. I have been for at least 20 years. However, I am less inclined to take the teachings of the Bible so literally. I do believe that over the years that some things have been elaborated on or perhaps sensationalized but I do accept Jesus as my savior. In all my years of reading the Bible and going to church the one thing that will always stand out most is the idea of FORGIVENESS. It is critical in my book to always offer forgiveness and even to those you may see as your greatest enemy. - Matt

I see only one as an enemy. SATAN all others are just as God has recorded. He wishes that not one would perish but come to repentance. I am unsure how one can take the Bible as not literal and still be saved But I guess that has to be a personal thing..I don't think That one will be explainable to me so please don't try. I am under the understanding that either the whole Bible is true or it is as any other book, just fabales.. I personally have experienced way to many things of it to think that it is fables. It may sound strange but yes I do have those one on one conversations with My Saviour, and have seen many miracles personally and just in general. Look at the bridge collapse in Minnesota. We could say what a tragedy (which it is) or we could say what a miracle that is with so few losing their lives in such a mess. Our choice is either to look at a cup half empty or half full. I believe my faith is so strong as I have a half full or full glass always, even if I have only a drop in there. You see I know that if Christ can feed over 5000 with only 2 loaves and fish, why He can do all things I NEED But only when I have the faith. He also said that with faith as litlle as a grain of mustard seed I could move mountains. Have faith start trusting Him in all things and you will see this happen. It took sometime for me to reach this point in my walk but it is great finally realizing what total faith is. Try Him and see if He is faithful.. - John

So John, basically what you have just said is that I can't be saved because of the way I see it and that I do not take every passage in it's literal sense. I do not think you are qualified to make that decision. As far as explaining it, don't worry, I won't try. I am not imposing my position on people here as you are. I am merely sharing my experiences and enjoy reading those of others. - Matt

Matt I must apologize. I was not judging you or anyone else for that matter. It is not mine to Judge only God. My question is how can we pick and choose what is literal and what is fable. Kind of like if I take mans law and say that I agree with the murder laws but not the speeding fines. Just my thoughts and experiences. I DID NOT SAY YOU COULD NOT BE SAVED JUST QUESTIONED That is between you Jesus, and God. If you look in my earlier post I CLEARLY SAID"I am unsure how one can not take it literal and still be saved but I also added that it was a personal thing..Where is the judging come from in that statement. Look my deal is I love all. If I can proke you or anyone for that matter to search the truth and find the truth then I have done as God has called me to do. I fish, He cleans.. Love you any way hope you see more clearly I am not judging you or anyone,. I like Erik also believe that the Bible is not studied or taught in churches today I also believe that about ten percent of those who claim to be christians are, otherwise our world and country would not be in the shape that it is. You see those who opppose the truth get behing it with all they are and have. Christians say it loud but don't back it with actions. No money given, no standing on picket lines, no door knocking, nothing !! They merelyt warm pews and think God is pleased. That is why my passion is what it is. Yes I sometimes am a little, no a lot forward. you see I believe we are verey close to the end, that means time is short to help lead some to Christ, whether they be 'churched' or not - John

Matt- I agree with you completely on the subject of forgiveness. That is one of the Great Truths that I do find in the bible. - Erik

I HAVE BEEN OUT OF CHURCH FOR ABOUT 5 WEEKS BECAUSE i WENT TO A SMALL CHURCH THAT FOLDED. PASTOR HAD TO RESIGN DUE TO EXTREME PERSONAL DIFFICULTIES. I FEEL LOST. I LOVE THE WORSHIP MUSIC AND TO BE FRANK I LOVED TO BE LOVED ON BY MY FELLOW SISTERS AND BROTHERS IN CHRIST. I NEED THE CONNECTION AND TO KNOW OTHERS ARE TRULY PRAYING FOR ME. I AM VISITING A NEW CHURCH THIS WEEK AND CAN NOT WAIT TO BE IN A HOUSE OF WORSHIP WHERE THE SPIRIT OF GOD IS WELCOME AND TO WORSHIP HIM IN SPIRIT AND TRUTH AND SONG AND RAISE MY HANDS TO MY MAKER. I DON'T GET THAT IN FRONT OF THE TV! SUSAN - SUSAN

I have tried many churches looking for the right fit. Somewhere that I can share my talents, but I don't know when you are an older single adult sometimes you do not feel as if you fit in. - Gail