LOVE FOR GOD'S HOUSE
Psalm 26:8, "LORD, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth."
The Psalmist speaks of his love for "the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth." Five years ago on July 14th I celebrated my 51st spiritual birthday, and had the privilege on that day to lead two teenage boys to our Savior. There is no greater joy for me than to know I am born again, no greater honor for me than to be a pastor, and nothing I would rather experience than leading people to Christ. Now those boys needed to learn the importance the church plays in their spiritual growth and development. Many profess salvation while ignoring the great institution of the local church.
Like the Psalmist, I love God's House (His church in the New Testament). It is in the church that God is glorified most. It is in the church that God's honour is recognized and fleshed out in the lives of individuals. There is no other place on earth that matches the glory of the local church. That is why fourty-two years ago this past February I left a secular job and began serving God full time in the local church. Ephesians 3:21 says, "Unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen." The Apostle Peter concludes his writings with the following: "But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and for ever. Amen."
May we love God's House, the local New Testament Church. For it is in the church where God's honour dwells and He is glorified.
Your Friend and HIS,
Pastor Abbott
QUESTIONS TO PONDER
1. Are you faithful in your church attendance? Describe the church’s importance?
2. What do you get most from your church attendance?
3. How is the church distinct from other organizations in lifting up the Saviour?