Brethren, we are commanded to “grow” as Christians. Now, this is not referring to the “number” that attend our services. We cannot force people to come worship with us, we cannot force brethren to worship with us instead of going somewhere else. But, we are to “grow”! We are to “grow up into Christ (Ephesians 4:15); we are to grow in respect to our salvation (1 Peter 2:2); we are to grow in grace and knowledge (2 Peter 3:18). These we do have control over, these we can insure that we are doing everything within our power to grow both individually and collectively as a congregation in everyone of these areas. As a result of our growing in all of these areas we will begin to influence those around us. We will strengthen and encourage each other and, as a result, our congregation will grow stronger which will enable us to reach out more effectively to those around us. As a result of this, over time, our congregation will grow, mature and bring others in. This is a process that takes time, effort and patience. And, with God’s help, great things can be accomplished IF we will just listen to and follow God’s plan.
Until next week, I love you all,
Dan