Last night we had horrible storms come through Missouri. The weathermen had a long night. They kept warning different places that a possible tornado would be in your area within the next few minutes – get your family and go to your “safe space. Get as many walls between you and the outside as possible.” This made me think about how we are often caught out in the storm of the world with it’s sinful gusts of winds, tossing us about, but, God provided a “shelter” – a “safe place” from the storm – it’s the church.
Some people feel that they don’t need the church and they don’t attend services – or if they do, they’re the “Sunday morning worship service only” folks. Oh, what they are missing! The church is a “safe place” when you need comfort. It is a “safe place” when you are struggling with sin and need prayers. The church is a “safe place” to have “clean” fun and great fellowship. It’s where you go to “re-fuel” and grow in your knowledge and understanding of God’s Word. It is where all are accepted and such a family bond forms when we worship and praise our Lord together. None of our physical families live close to us, but I can’t begin to tell you what my church family means to me. They are there when I need them. We have laughed and cried together on many occasions. I am always uplifted and feel better after going to services, no matter what kind of day I’ve had. I don’t understand why others don’t take advantage of this great blessing that the Lord has provided.
When Peter was imprisoned in Acts 12, the church was gathered, praying for him. When the angel led him out of prison, the first place he went was where his spiritual family was gathered. When Dorcas died in Acts 9, the church gathered to mourn for her, but also to celebrate her life by showing the coats and garments she had made. (Acts 9: 39) Peter and John after being let go after interrogation by the Sanhedrin in Acts 4, immediately “went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elder had said.” (4:23) Yes, the Lord knew that all of us must go through storms in this life, but He provided a “safe place” for us. The church is a very strong wall that can protect us from the winds of temptations, hate, negativity, and deceit. This wall can guard us from the dangers of the world. We are not alone. Thank you, Lord, for the church. Are you taking advantage of this “shelter in the time of storm?” God Bless, Courtney