#20 Choices

My wife and I have had to make our choice of a congregation to join 7 times as we've moved distances short and long. And as I think back, we've chosen a variety of types - big and small, new and old. But there are several characteristics that we gave priority to.

A. Is the Congregation's thinking consistent with the basics of Christianity (ie, see posts #1-19). In my mind, these things are non-negotiable, although the way congregations live them out will vary.

B. Do I feel like I could "put my shoulder to the wheel" in this congregation? It might take some time to figure out just what my role could be, but would I enjoy doing it?

C. Would I feel supported? Such as - while I'm getting involved; or if I'm experiencing personal trouble, or if I have questions.

D. Would I feel challenged? Or just comforted? Comfort is good, unless

it becomes my priority.

E. Are there relevant opportunities to have a healthy spiritual diet? Bible studies, prayer opportunities, sermons that make me think, discussions about choices in life, close spiritual friends.

F. Are there relevant opportunities to have healthy spiritual exercise? Ways to serve others, to help make the church actually work, to contribute ($ and time) liberally given my circumstances, maybe to do something no one will likely notice. (Personal observation: just like physical diet and physical exercise result in physical strength, spiritual diet and spiritual exercise result in spiritual strength.)

G. Do I feel God's spirit leading me to this congregation at this time?

Your list will probably be different, but being in a good, positive fellowship is very important for your spiritual health. It's like the campfire analogy; a log by itself will have a hard time staying lit, but a log with several others will burn brightly.