04.06.09 The 5th Key for Adding Value to Your Church

5. Display Commitment to your Home Church

I recall how a Man of God visited our church one Sunday during which Shalom Galaxy had been given an opportunity to minister in a few songs. After the service, I walked to where he was to thank him for the ministry but was surprised when he revealed that he would want my band and I to shift to his church. Given that he was a foreigner, I knew that we would be given some financial allowances as a ministry. And truth be told, that would have come as a great relief considering the voluminous amounts of money that our young family was injecting into Shalom at the time. However, had we obliged his request, we could have shifted with those congregants who were attached to our gospel music. My sister, doing so would have slapped the face of the Pastor who had so encouragingly given us the pulpit to minister and the exposure that went with it. Therefore, we chose to stay at ROLEC.

When we look at Lydia, she showed outstandingly high commitment and seriousness when she took a bold step to host a group of foreigners, moreover men, without fearing to spark off a scandal, persecution, harassment or any other backlash; considering that Paul and his team were worshipping Jehovah and not the gods and goddesses of Philippi.

A value-adding church member demonstrates commitment to her home church by remaining ‘planted’ there.

Therefore, endeavour to attend services regularly (Hebrews 10:24-25, Acts 2:42) such that you grow spiritually as that will empower you to fulfill the great commission. Refrain from hoping from church to church, as snacking here and there may expose you to ‘junk’ thereby stunting your spiritual growth.

Non- or irregular attendance can discourage pastors and other members of the church leadership since they anticipatingly invest their time and effort to prepare ministering to you and others. By attending church, it shows that you value their ministry. My sister, I don’t mean that you should not visit other churches. However, it is good manners to let your pastor know in case you will be away; and of course, get his clearance, blessing and prayer cover so that you do not land on pastors out there, who are ‘wolves in sheep skin’ (Matthew 7:15-23).

Submitting to your church leadership and adhering to their spiritual authority displays humility and shows that you honour their ministry.