Summers are nice without the hectic schedule of the kids’ school or the many requirements of holidays. I look forward to it in the beginning but usually by the end of summer I’m thirsting for Christian fellowship. This summer I already started out thirsty for fellowship and so now I’m super dry. During spring, our home remodeling unexpectedly prevented me from attending many weekly bible studies and the fellowship I get there. 

When I recommitted myself back to the faith I knew fellowship was crucial and so I made it a priority to look for a local church. I visited about five different churches alone. I settled into one of the biggest church in my area because that is where I got the most peace about rooting myself in. Attending a service once a week on Sundays is not rooting in; you have to look for and join a small group too. This is very important especially to a young believer, and so the Holy Spirit makes it crystal clear which church and small group to belong. 

From my observations, there are no perfect marriages. Likewise there are no perfect churches. If I focus on the negatives in my marriage or my church then that attitude would eventually lead me to isolation. I don’t mind being a social or spiritual hermit especially if I don’t have to deal with difficult people or situations. But I don’t believe this life style will bring glory or honor to God. When I encounter difficult members and situations in the family or in the church, and learn to deal effectively by seeking wisdom from God’s word and guidance through prayer and other believers, then I can transfer my knowledge to relationships and situations outside the family and church. At least that’s what I’ve discovered. 

I just finished reading the best seller book, “I am Malala.” It’s a true story of a young brave girl who fought for the education of girls in a Taliban-controlled Pakistan. When someone wants to take away your education then you truly see the great value of education. Likewise for me, not having much Christian fellowship past six months has made me truly appreciate this blessing that God has richly given us. It’s important to not take it for granted and to thank God for the people he brings into our lives for fellowship. It’s important to seek after these blessings by searching out for local church and small group to root into. Remember there are no perfect churches; just like there are no perfect marriages. But in the imperfections, I have learned how to put ‘love’ before ‘being right’. I have also learned how to be content, to continually forgive and to overlook faults and weaknesses including mine. We are all ‘work in progress’. 

If you aren’t rooted in yet to a local church and small group, I’ll be praying for you. Please keep me in your prayers for greater fellowship in my life. I’m very thirsty for the fellowship. Thank you! God bless you! – From the heart with love. 

Philippians 4:11-13Living Bible (TLB)
11 Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to get along happily whether I have much or little. 12 I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of contentment in every situation, whether it be a full stomach or hunger, plenty or want; 13 for I can do everything God asks me to with the help of Christ who gives me the strength and power.

Colossians 3:13-15Living Bible (TLB)
13 Be gentle and ready to forgive; never hold grudges. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.
14 Most of all, let love guide your life, for then the whole church will stay together in perfect harmony. 15 Let the peace of heart that comes from Christ be always present in your hearts and lives, for this is your responsibility and privilege as members of his body. And always be thankful.

Proverbs 19:11Expanded Bible (EXB)
11 The wise [insightful] are patient [hold in their anger]; they will be honored [praised; glorified] if they ignore insults [offenses].