Keep Standing: When the Weight Feels HeavySample

Church Is Still God’s Plan

Going to church doesn’t make you a Christian. But being a Christian should make you want to go to church.

Why? Because church isn’t about checking a box… it’s about belonging.

It’s family, not formality.

It’s feeding, not just feeling.

It’s fellowship, not just function.

Yet in today’s culture, a growing number of believers are embracing the phrase, “I don’t need to go to church…I am the church.” That sounds spiritual, but it’s not scriptural.

From Genesis to Revelation, God’s people have always been a gathered people. In the Old Testament, they met at the Tabernacle. Later, they worshiped at the Temple. Jesus Himself taught in synagogues. The early Church gathered in homes and cities. Most of the New Testament was written to churches, not just individuals. And in Revelation, Jesus sends letters to churches, not isolated Christians.

The message is clear: Christians belong in community. Always have. Always will.

Hebrews 10:25 doesn’t say, “Try to meet up if it’s convenient.”

It says: “Don’t forsake the gathering.”

Church isn’t about earning God’s love…it’s about responding to it. It’s where you’re reminded of grace, sharpened by truth, and strengthened by others who are running the same race.

When Christ lives in you, showing up doesn’t feel like a chore…it feels like coming home.

Father, thank You for creating the Church…not just as a place, but as a people. Help me see gathering with other believers not as an obligation, but as an opportunity. Grow my love for Your house. Help me show up, not just for myself, but to strengthen and encourage others. Let my life reflect the truth that the Church is still Your plan. In Jesus name, Amen.

Have I been treating church like a duty or a delight? What’s one intentional way I can re-engage with the community God’s called me to be part of this week?