From the Pulpit
On any given Sunday I stand in the pulpit to preach the gospel to an assembly of people. My vantage point gives me the ability to watch things that others may never see.
I saw a couple holding hands while all were singing. What a joy to see a husband and wife together for worship. It surely is a delight as God beholds a family gathered together to worship Him (John 4:23; Psalm 127:1). It is thrilling to see a family filling up an entire pew. Families come to worship because they love God and also love one another (Ephesians 5:23-25). This preacher is thankful for all our godly families.
I saw many opening their Bibles to find the scriptures being studied. God has given us the greatest book. We are to be “noble” like the Bereans (Acts 17:11). It is a grave danger not to study for ourselves (2 Timothy 2:15). We are to “desire the sincere milk of the word” (1 Peter 2:2). What a joy to know that there are godly people wanting to know what God desires of them (Ephesians 5:17).
I saw an older Christian woman who is faithful to all the services. Oh, she could make “excuses” for not being able to come but she doesn’t. She has put God first (Matthew 6:33) in her life. Her example is a great one for all to follow (1 Corinthians 11:1). She probably doesn’t know how much of an encouragement she is. God bless you.
There is also a young Christian mother who brings her child to worship. Regrettably, she doesn’t have the support of a godly mate. She is doing all she can to “train up” (Ephesians 6:4) her child. She wants to be like Lois and Eunice who taught Timothy (2 Timothy 1:5; 2 Timothy 3:15). Little does she know that her children will one day be great servants for God. One day these precious souls will arise (Proverbs 31:28) to bless their godly mother. Don’t become discouraged in doing this great work.
I have seen young, old and those in between singing from the heart. There may not always be a visible smile on their face but you can tell they really enjoy singing (James 5:13). “Amazing Grace” is a song that reminds them of their life’s story. They are offering to God the “fruit of their lips” (Hebrews 13:15). Singing is a means of teaching and admonishing others (Ephesians 5:19). It comes from a soul that is full of the Word (Colossians 3:16).
I’ve seen a soul respond to invitation of Jesus. No, this person didn’t come forward but you could the determination on their face. They have been “pricked in their heart” (Acts 2:37) by something that has been said. They want to do better and be better. They rejoice in the fact that God longs for His children to return to Him and be faithful (Acts 17:30; 2 Peter 3:9; Luke 15:21-24).
There are widows and widowers that I’ve seen. They’ve lost the love of their lives, but they haven’t lost their love for God (Luke 14:26). They understand that earthly ties are momentary but there is an eternity to be enjoyed with God (2 Corinthians 4:16-5:2). While there will be no marriage in heaven (Matthew 22:30) they earnestly desire to dwell with all the saved.
What or who have you observed lately? Do you realize that someone is also watching you?
Terry Claunch