Daily Power #300

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16 ESV)

It happened again the other day. I met someone new to our community. Like always, I asked them how they’re adjusting and how they like their new home. When I brought up church, I found out that this person was already a Christian—and a very frustrated one.

Within seconds, they had already told me about seven different churches they had tried since moving here. Then they listed off the various reasons that none of those churches could “meet their needs” and “minister to their family.” Then they delivered the line that’s a critical deathblow to my pastor’s heart: “We’re still church shopping.”

Too often, we view ourselves as spiritual consumers with the church as the product. Before long, this polluted mindset creeps into our theology. Well, since I’m going to church and doing good things, then God should answer my prayer, get me the job I want, help my sports team win the championship, and ensure that my twelve-year-old becomes class secretary. And if any of this doesn’t happen the way I want it to, then God has failed me. Because remember: everything is all about me. Right?

We seem to forget that we are not made to be spiritual consumers. As Jesus gave his life for us, we are to give our lives by serving and loving others. And the church is not some place we go. The church is who we are. So be the church today as you show the love of our Savior.

Power Lift

I pray you will use your church, Lord, to attract and serve those who do not know you. Protect us from becoming consumers focused only on ourselves. Give us your heart for those who are lost.