How can I know if it's time for me to change churches? The one I've been going to for the last few years doesn't have any community service projects that I can get involved in, which is something I'd really like to do now that I'm retired. — L.F.
I'm grateful you want to help others in your community; far too many people assume their usefulness is over once they retire. But it doesn't need to be that way; some of God's choicest servants made their greatest impact later in life. Moses (for example) was 80 when God called him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.
I don't know whether or not you should seek another church home -- but God does, and I urge you to pray about this decision and seek His will. As you consider this, however, I hope you'll keep two things in mind. First, no church is perfect. Some people seem to spend their lives looking for one that is -- but they never find it, because it doesn't exist this side of heaven!
Second, don't overlook the good points in your present church. Is the Bible honored as God's Word, and is it preached and taught? Does your church provide other opportunities for your spiritual growth? In other words, don't focus only on the church's shortcomings, but also on its strengths. And are you taking advantage of them?
In addition, don't overlook the possibility that God may want to use you to start a community service project of some type in your present church. It not only could fulfill your desires, but also help others to put their faith into action. The Bible says, "If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, 'Love your neighbor as yourself,' you are doing right" (James 2:8).
PRIVACY
