Responding with Love and Grace
In every Christian’s journey, there are seasons of joy, growth, and deep fellowship. Yet, there are also seasons that bring heartbreak, moments when we see brothers and sisters in Christ choosing paths that seem to drift from the faith they once cherished.
One such disheartening reality is witnessing fellow believers neglect worship, Bible study, and fellowship with the body of Christ, while wholeheartedly committing to worldly pursuits. As ministers, leaders, and members of the faith, we grapple with this sadness and seek to respond with love and truth.
The Value of Worship, Study, and Fellowship
Church worship, Bible study, and fellowship aren’t just “checkbox” activities in a believer’s life. They are lifelines. Opportunities to connect with God and one another.
In worship, we bow in awe before our Creator, giving Him the praise He is due and allowing His Spirit to refresh our souls. The words of Jesus to the woman at the well serve us well to remember, “God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth” (John 4:24).
In Bible study, we dive deep into His Word, gaining wisdom and aligning our lives with His will. The Psalmist wrote, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105).
Fellowship nourishes us as we encourage one another, bear burdens together, and celebrate God’s faithfulness in our lives. The Hebrews writer encourages us, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near” (Hebrews 10:24-25).
The Pull of Worldly Pursuits
It’s no secret that the world offers an array of distractions, promising satisfaction, success, and self-fulfillment. From entertainment to career ambitions, leisure activities to personal goals, the pull of worldly pursuits can feel overwhelming. The apostle John reminds us, “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him” (1 John 2:15).
While many of these pursuits aren’t inherently sinful, the danger lies in misplaced priorities—when these activities take precedence over spiritual growth and commitment to God’s people.
What makes this reality even harder to bear is not just the absence of individuals from worship or fellowship, but the apparent indifference toward the faith family they leave behind. It’s heartbreaking to see believers so immersed in worldly endeavors that they forget the vital role they play in the lives of their brothers and sisters in Christ.
Responding with Love and Grace
As we reflect on this discouraging trend, let us also consider how we respond. First, we must guard our own hearts against judgment or bitterness. Instead, let’s approach this issue with Christlike love, seeking to encourage and restore rather than condemn.
Here are some ways we can respond:
#1 – Pray Fervently: Bring your sadness and discouragement to the Lord. Pray for those who are missing spiritual growth and fellowship, asking God to reignite their passion for Him. “The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working” (James 5:16).
#2 – Reach Out: Sometimes, a simple conversation can make a world of difference. Share your concerns in love, reminding your brothers and sisters of the joy and purpose found in gathering as the body of Christ. “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).
#3 – Lead by Example: Live out your faith authentically and joyfully. Your dedication to worship, study, and fellowship can inspire others to reconsider their own priorities. “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
#4 – Teach and Equip: Help believers understand the value of spiritual commitments. Share Scriptures that emphasize the importance of gathering and growing in faith as a community.
A Heartfelt Plea
To my fellow believers: if you prioritize worldly pursuits over your walk with Christ and your relationships within the faith family, I urge you to pause and reflect. The treasures of this world are fleeting, but the joy of fellowship with God and His people endures eternally. You are missed, loved, and deeply valued in the body of Christ. Your presence matters—not just to us, but to the Lord who calls you His own. “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21).
May this serve as a gentle reminder for all of us to keep our hearts fixed on what truly matters. Let us not grow weary in encouraging one another and holding fast to our faith, for our hope lies in Christ alone.
When It’s Time to Move On: Following Christ’s Example
As much as we desire to see every believer thrive in their faith, there comes a time when not everyone will embrace the commitment and actions that accompany a walk with Christ. For some, the Word is known but not lived; for others, worldly pursuits overshadow spiritual growth, leaving them indifferent to the faith family and its shared goals of worship, fellowship, and being a light to the world.
Even Jesus recognized that there were moments when it was time to move on. When He sent out His disciples to share the gospel, He instructed them: “If anyone will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet when you leave that house or town” (Matthew 10:14). This was not a command rooted in anger or dismissal, but in wisdom—a recognition that the message must move forward to those willing to hear and respond.
In the same way, we must prayerfully discern when to move on from relationships that are draining the spiritual growth and energy of the faith community. If individuals persistently reject the actions and commitments of a believer while consuming the time and energy of those seeking to grow, it may be time to lovingly step back. This does not mean giving up on them entirely, but entrusting them to God’s hands, while redirecting our focus toward nurturing relationships with those eager to walk in faith. “Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you” (Matthew 7:6).
As difficult as it may be, letting go is sometimes necessary for the health and growth of the body of Christ. It allows us to pour our energy into fruitful relationships and efforts that advance God’s kingdom.
Let us remember that God’s plans are sovereign, and He alone can transform hearts in His perfect timing. “Some people plant, others water, but God gives the growth” (1 Corinthians 3:7).
Just some thoughts,
