How to go to church

Often we get in the routine of just 'turning up' at church. In Hebrews 10:25 we are told "Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another — and all the more as you see the Day approaching."

Our weekly church meetings are really important for encouraging each others as Christians. Here are some ideas to help us make the most of our time together on Sundays:

1. Deliberate planning - when you do something important you plan for it. It is important to plan when it comes to church. The first thing to do is plan to be there. These days there are so many competing things for your time. I'm sure there is plenty of things to do on Sundays (most people have no difficulty filling up their weekend without church!). As Christians we need to make meeting weekly with our brothers and sisters in Christ a top priority.
   
   The second thing to plan is your arrival time. Being early is great for meeting new people and helping people find a seat without cutting into our time of praise. Don't rush, just plan to have the time you need to get ready.
   
   If you have invited friends or acquaintances then plan to travel with them or meet them so you can help them when they first arrive at church.
   
   
2. Purposeful participation - Church is about meeting together around God's word. Prepare for church by preparing your hearts and minds to hear from God. Listen carefully to the Bible readings and talk. As we are lead in prayer, make it your prayer and say a hearty 'Amen'. As we sing, do it with all your heart (whether you are good at it or not!). During the break in the service you might like to introduce someone new to a friend.
   
   At morning tea you might like to talk about something significant you have learnt. Look for someone you might encourage or just help out with serving morning tea in some way.
   
   
3. Thoughtful application - don't forget what you have been challenged by. Think carefully and deeply about your life and what you have heard from the Bible. Think about what attitudes you need to change, what priorities need shifting, what behaviours need to change. Pray that God would enable you to live the way he wants you to.