Finding a Church Home in Challenging Times Sample

Belonging in Military Life

There are few constants in military life. From one set of orders to the next, we move across states, countries, and cultures, unpacking our lives in temporary homes and saying goodbye just as friendships begin to take root. While this lifestyle fosters resilience, it can also lead to spiritual whiplash if you aren’t careful. Each move requires us to restart everything, and one of the hardest places to start over is finding a new church home.

I’ve walked into many sanctuaries with hope in my heart and my Bible in my hand, praying this would be the place where my family could worship, serve, and belong. Sometimes we found that place quickly.

Other times… we didn’t.

But one thing has remained true: finding a church home is not optional. It’s essential.

The Bible gives us two beautiful, interconnected truths about what the church is meant to be. In Greek, the word ekklesia refers to the gathering of believers, the collective identity of the Church under the authority of Christ. It’s both universal (all Christians across time and geography) and local (the church down the street or on the installation). Then there’s koinonia, the shared fellowship among believers. This is the authentic, relational, day-in-and-day-out life of the body of Christ.

Greek Term: Ekklesia

Meaning: The gathered body of believers, structured, mission-focused

Importance in Military Life: Helps us anchor our faith in truth and accountability, no matter where we live

Greek Term: Koinonia

Meaning: Relational, intimate fellowship; shared life in Christ

Importance in Military Life: Meets our deep need for connection, encouragement, and spiritual family

This 9-day devotional explores the letters to the seven churches in Revelation as a guide for discerning what to look for in a church. The Book of Revelation, revealed to John through divine vision, is most known for terrifying depictions of the coming end times to include marks on foreheads, giant beasts, the sky being rolled away, and confusing symbolism. It’s not the first place you would look when beginning a search for a new church home. In between these pages, however, there is great wisdom on what God Himself views as worthy (and unworthy) attributes within the walls of a church. Whether you’re walking into a chapel on base or visiting a local congregation off post, these reflections will help you ask the right questions, notice the right fruit, and walk in with both discernment and hope.

No matter where the military sends you, you are part of Ekklesia.

You already belong.

At Planting Roots, we walk this military journey together because we’ve lived it, every PCS, every chapel visit, every season of searching and settling. As you seek a church home, we pray that the Lord will lead you with His wisdom, rooted in His Word.

You're not alone in this.

We are right here with you, coffee in hand and faith on the move.

Prayer: Father, You walk with us through every move and transition. As we begin this devotional, give us wisdom and insight. Help us recognize sound teaching and genuine fellowship. Lead us to the place where we can grow in our love for You and serve Your people with joy. Amen.