Where is Your Focus?

Many Christians refrain from engaging in church ministries due to past negative experiences. They often describe church members as mean and judgmental, causing unnecessary emotional pain. At times, we let these individuals deter us from our church, our duties, our calling, and even our blessings, simply because we've allowed their words to hinder our spiritual growth. We might abandon a church with sound biblical teaching, active youth ministry, and Christ-centered activities, all because of a single offensive remark. The potential for offense is always there, but so is God's omnipresence. Luke 17:1 (NKJV) states, “It is impossible that no offenses should come...." Offenses are inevitable, but our reaction is what counts. Do we leave, or do we remember why we came in the first place?

Let's consider why you joined the church. What motivated you to seek out a ministry? Was it the people, the pastor, the sense of community, or something similar? If so, then you're vulnerable to being hurt by the church. This happens when our focus shifts from God to people. When we aim to please others rather than God, disappointment is often the result.

Remember Peter's story; when he took his eyes off Jesus, he started to sink. We face a similar risk when we concentrate on others' opinions rather than on pleasing God. We should ask ourselves: Is God pleased with my worship? Is He satisfied with my devotion? Am I honoring God with my actions?