Each month I write a little encourager for our church’s newsletter. Here is the one for March
A question I get every now and then is what is the benefit to me of attending as many of the means of grace events as I can at Bethany? Though before we get into that it is worth it to take a second and define what that last thing means, no not Bethany, but “means of grace event”. Seems like an odd phrase, and it can be for sure. However, what is meant by that phrase are the opportunities designed and brought forward by the Session for the people of God at our Church in order that they would grow in spiritual health and be fed by the word in various settings. It is true that Sunday Worship is distinctively set apart by our Lord for His praise and our help. Whether in the morning or in the evening (as seen in Psalm 92) these are times especially when we are called together by our Father to be strengthened by prayer, praise, fellowship, and proclamation.
The other, more focused, teaching times are also provided for us for similar reasons. Sabbath School historically came about in the 19th century because the children of a community would be in the mines, factories or the farm and didn’t have time/prospect to be taught how to read or write. Churches then took it upon themselves to set up “Sunday Schools”, since that was the only day that they wouldn’t be laboring (a thankful gift of observing the Sabbath). While that particular need is not as prevalent anymore in our place, we still do something similar in giving time to learn more about Jesus and His Bible in a class setting. We know that this school is not just for the littles, but for the adults as well. Through the catechism and curriculum we learn the ABC’s and 123’s of our faith.
Both young and old need a moment to be helpfully brought forward in knowledge, not just in head, but more importantly in their heart. This is also why Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting and Youth Groups are vital not to neglect. A praying church is a living church. It is one of the most basic building blocks of the Christian life. It’s something which is so unique. Nothing else compares to it or can do what it does. As we bring our spiritual and physical needs before our God we know by His grace and promise that He not only hears our prayers, but the Lord answers those petitions offered in Christ. As with worship this is best accomplished through the gathering together of the saints.
Private times of devotion and prayer are vital to be sure. We cannot neglect those times and must be in the Bible and on our knees asking for divine mercy and love on a regular basis, but it is no substitute for the call of the Holy Scriptures to not neglect the coming together of brothers and sisters in Christ in prayer.
We need it. You need it.
I know there are a lot of things you have going on from day-to-day, week-to-week. Our family is busy as well. When it comes down to it is a matter of priority, what is primary in our lives. If we want our children to know what is central to who we are, and if we are desirous to show God that there are no other gods before Him then we must take advantage of prayer and study when we can.