John 13:35

Scripture: 

John 13:35 - By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another (NASB). 

Observation:

It's not about us - a good friend reminded me of this. There are times when we must leave a church. My friend suggested that we not use the term "leave," but use the word "transfer" for the work of the Lord continues no matter where we go. He was right. You see many years ago, I had to leave, I mean transfer, from one church to another. It was a difficult decision. I had many friends and co-workers of His Kingdom there. There were memories of great times and moves of the Spirit. There were even tears along the way, as in all church communities, but in the end, I had to face either the loyalty of man or the loyalty to God. I could have stayed, but I would have made it about me and that is not what Christ is all about. It is about serving others. So I made the decision to transfer to where I felt God calling. I learned that church was not about me but about Him. I pray as we engage in the community of Christ, no matter where we find ourselves, we view church as not about ourselves but about being the ultimate witness to those who do not know our Savior, Jesus Christ. May you spend time in a Christ centered church where He calls you. 

Application:

• Personal Application: Continue spending time with the Lord daily. Sow righteousness and reap the fruit of God's unfailing love.
• Family Devotional: Read this chapter to your family. Ask them if anything spoke to them as you read. Talk about their answers and show them that one important aspect of this chapter is that we continue to spend time with the Lord and keep our hearts focused on His plans and purposes. Pray for them.

TOM SEMBER has been involved in ministering to men for over 20 years. He is an ordained minister with the AG in the NY Ministry Network.