Haggai 1:14, "And the LORD stirred up the spirit of Zerubbabel the son Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and the spirit of Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest, and the spirit of all the remnant of the people; and they came and did work in the house of the LORD of hosts, their God."  

Dr. Charles Stanley wrote, "Believers have two responsibilities. The first is to worship God and the second is to work for His kingdom. Where and how we serve is based upon our unique talents, skills, and calling. But the one place where we are all expected to give of ourselves is the local church.    

When you were saved, the Lord baptized you by the Holy Spirit into His church—the body of believers who live all over the world but are united by trust in Jesus Christ. You then chose, according to the will of God, to become part of a local, autonomous group of believers. He placed you there because He knows that you are needed (1 Cor. 12:18). You are significant to your home church.  

The church is more than a community. It is an interdependent body with individual members who were created by God to function in communion with one another. We Christians, like the world at large, are a diverse group, and that means we often have to strive hard for unity. But our differences are actually something to be celebrated because each person uniquely contributes to God’s purpose. A church that is truly operating as a unit—with all its varied gifts, talents, personalities, and intellects focused toward kingdom goals—must be a beautiful sight before the Lord.  

Christianity isn’t a spectator religion. We all have jobs to do in God’s kingdom. The body of Christ functions best and most beautiful when all members resolve to serve God and each other to the best of their ability (v. 25). What are you doing for your church?"

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1. Have you identified yourself with a body of believers through membership in a local church? If not, why not?

2. How do you fit into your local assembly? Are you serving God in your church? What is your responsibility?

3. Do you recognize how important it is for you to be involved in serving the Lord? How do you demonstrate faithfulness in going about your God-given responsibilities?

4. Will you be rewarded by the Lord for faithfully Him?