Paint Stores & Churches

The well-stocked store is organized by sections. Ladders, drop cloths, tape, brushes, and paint. All the necessary tools for completing a painting project.

My husband and I have been in the painting business over thirty years (S & N Paint Contractors, Inc.). I visit a paint store infrequently, but Hubby goes on a regular basis to pick up sundries and paint. You see, he already has the skills and experience to complete a project, but to be fully equipped, he must restock supplies.

Much like the believer and the church.

One reason we go to church every week is to be better equipped. How? Glad you asked.

• With insightful sermons to expand our Biblical understanding and to encourage life application, an important part of the sanctification process.
• With small group Bible study with like-minded folks who are whole-hearted working their faith daily.
• By opportunities to share in spreading the Gospel. Like giving of tithes, donating items for the less fortunate, and serving as a missionary in our small corner of the world or possibly some place far off.
• By opportunities to use our spiritual gifts like teaching, discernment, and hospitality, among others. And our talents like singing, playing an instrument, or nurturing children.

There are many more but I'm sure you get the point.

Paint stores equip painters like the Body of Christ equips Christians.

When I'm greeted as I walk into my church, my heart resonates with connection. Connection to folks I cherish and folks I don't even know. Because there is a common bond, a common Light in our hearts, a common Love. We share Holy Communion, life struggles and sweet victories.

We may often miss the mark and fall short, but we brush ourselves off and stand again. We encourage and pray for each other. We serve and grow. We love and live.

And we're better equipped to follow and share the Gospel, because we're members in the Body of Christ.  Life isn't easier because I go to church. But I believe I'm better equipped to handle struggles because I do attend regularly.

What about you? Do you feel a strong connection with fellow church members? Do you feel better equipped? Any thoughts? Comments? Please share.

By the grace of God and perpetual spiritual and emotional renovation, Tammy Van Gils writes and blogs about Hope for the Everblooming Life at Tammyvangils.com. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers Association and Word Word Weavers International. Visit her on Facebook  and Twitter.