Growing in Faith by Kinya

“Let us not give up the habit of meeting together, as some are doing. Instead, let us encourage one another all the more, since you see that the Day of the Lord is coming nearer“.

Hebrews 10:25

Understanding what Church is

Before being part of a church, I think it’s important to have a healthy view of what church is. It’s me and you – two imperfect human beings who are trying, learning, failing, and yet being shown grace. It is us coming together to worship as one body, as God asks. Holding this view may help not to expect perfection from church. In my case, it gives me the courage to be part of one, despite my failings as a human being.

Growing up without a Church

I was born into Christianity, but not into a church. Growing up, I never identified with a specific church because my family moved so often. I went to more churches than I can count, but I never formed roots.

I eventually got saved through an online service that I used to love listening to. At the end of one sermon, the preacher said, “Find a good Bible-based church and make it your home.” Those words stayed with me. I prayed and told God that I wanted a church where I could learn – because I felt like there was so much I didn’t know about Him. I asked for a teacher. This was my true, deep desire.

The Human side of my search

But there was a second layer to my search – the human part of me. I wanted a church with young people so I could make friends. I also wanted a church where people looked successful, hoping I could build connections, especially because I was jobless at that time.

Interestingly, I found all of those things – in three different churches. One had an active youth group. Another had people who seemed to be doing well. Yet, my core need still felt unmet.

Finding Home

The church I finally found was just a stone’s throw away from my house. The first day I went there, I just knew. Even though it was only day one, my heart felt settled. It did not have all the secondary things I wanted – or at least, that’s what I thought at first, but it had what my spirit needed. And there was nothing wrong with the other churches; I just didn’t want my outward desires to overshadow my spiritual need.

When Seasons Change

But even when you find a church that feels like home, change can still come. God may lead you into a new season. For me, that meant moving to a different country. Leaving felt like being uprooted. It felt like betrayal. It hurt in ways I didn’t expect.

When I finally joined a new church, I carried this pain with me. At first, I did not allow myself to become part of the community or form relationships. I would go, worship, listen and leave. I told myself ” I don’t know how long I’ll be here.” I did not not want to risk being uprooted again.

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So if you are seeking a church, remember that churches are made up of people, and people are not perfect. Trust God to guide you to where you will grow. The rest will come.

 “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you “

Matthew 6:33

And when seasons change, trust that God is leading you still – even if it feels like starting over.

All our journeys with God are unique.