I had a coke with a friend last evening. We spent an hour or so just catching up on the news. It was fun to chitchat and exchange news we heard from some of our friends. Nothing can take the place of friends. I am thankful for my friends who are well and doing good, but I am sad for those who are not doing so well. Life can certainly be unbalanced sometimes. Like a teeter- totter we are up and down. Each time I lose a friend to death I have a hard time getting over it. Over the years I’ve had so many till it seems as though everybody is my friend. I thank God for giving me peace and understanding. I am a senior citizen therefore, I am losing someone close to me quite often. I still enjoy long chats with those who are well in mind and body. Every time we count our friends we are counting our blessings. “Thank you Lord.”
Rick and I visited another church this morning. The service was a complete change from what we are used to. It was lengthy, and mostly consisted of singing with band music. There were no hymns or piano music at all. The singing was words of one praying to God, with the same line being sang over and over. The congregation was asked to stand through the entire song service, probably 45 minutes. This church has the largest congregation of any in this city. It is beautiful, and the people are extra nice and friendly. What more can I say? I am still trying to digest it all, but am having a hard time passing it off. What are we looking for in a church today? I truly have to say, I don’t know what I need to feel safe and secure amongst a crowd of people. I am tempted to say I get more personal contact with Jesus in my home. But the bible teaches us not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together. I do believe the churches have been robbed of the sweet, sweet spirit we used to sing about. We keep trying to find it, but I don’t think it will ever feel welcome in our churches again. If the Holy Spirit can’t find someone to move through, and to speak for Him, then He will not hang around. I do have to say I believe there has been so much ignorance exploited in the church in past times until the real spirit of God cannot wedge himself into the one who is yielded and still. Yes, ignorance is the greatest hindrance God has to deal with. Not evil, but ignorance. Too many people try to force their own feelings on others. This is definitely not God’s way. The Holy Spirit Himself will descend upon the one who is chosen for the delivery of His power. He needs no volunteers, although one has to be yielded. When the Spirit descends there is complete harmony in the crowd. No individual, or individuals should attempt to force God’s power upon the congregation. That is self control and it does not please God. There is more to be said about this than I am qualified for, so I will leave it there for now.
God Bless
Myrtle Jean Sharp
No comments:
Post a Comment