As a Church

Like many of you, I have been praying for our country and especially our military personnel this week. I am praying for peace and a swift resolution to the conflict. I was asked what my response as a pastor to the church would be concerning the situation in the Middle East.  Here are my thoughts.

• As a Church, stay fervent. Our call is to pray.  We should pray that God’s will be done.  We pray for peace if it be His will but only God knows what the outcome will be.  We pray for safety of our soldiers and leaders. We pray for God’s protection upon the innocent, and we pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Our call is to pray in these situations. Read Philippians 4:6-7.
• As a Church, stay focused.  We must focus on the proper things.  It is so easy to be consumed by the details of the war. If we are not careful, we will find ourselves paralyzed by the fear of what might happen, and it can impact our spiritual journey.  Paul once said in the book of Colossians, “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Colossians 3:1-2.  Paul reminds us that the things of this world are not comparable to the things of heaven.  Focus on those things which are eternal and not temporary.  Stay focused on God and be consumed in His glory.
• As a Church, stay faithful.  In this time that we live in more than ever the church needs to come together as one.  Remain faithful to the Lord and to one another. We need each other in days of uncertainty.  Read Hebrews 10:24-25.
• As a Church, stay fruitful.  Because of the times we live in more people are open to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Though many conversations may want to engage politics, we should use this as an opportunity to engage the spiritual need for God in your life. We must ask ourselves the question at times, what is more important our political views or a spiritual conversation? Though I may have my personal opinions concerning events around our world, my words will not change those events.  However, for the person I encounter in front of me, my words of sharing the gospel could help change that person’s world forever. “Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.” Philippians 1:27.
• As a Church, stay filled.  It is in times of stress that we often become detached from that which we need most. More than ever abide in Christ daily as He abides in us.  Because of the world’s situation there are usually many opinions and disagreements. If we are not careful those things will creep into the church as well. But if we remain connected to the Holy Spirit daily, the more the fruit of the Spirit will be seen in us.  Read Galatians 5:22-23.
• As a Church, stay firm.  From the early church to today’s church, persecution has always followed. Jesus reminded us, if they hated Him, they in turn would hate us as well. In a day of high anxiety in our world, we must remain firm and steadfast. “but Christ as a Son over His own house, whose house we are if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm to the end.” Hebrews 3:6.
• As a Church, stay forward.  This is not a time for retreat, nor is it a time to freeze up. As the old hymn stated, “Onward Christian soldiers…” it is a call to continue to move forward with the calling upon us as a church and as believers.  Don’t allow the things of this world which are out of our control keep us from continuing the mission of the church.  Do not be discouraged by the news but be encouraged by the Good News. “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9.