Why Church is Important
Church is important. Maybe you're reading and thinking, "Of course you would say that … you're a pastor"! Truth is I don't have to say it. I honestly want to say it. I believe in that statement. But research also says it's true.
Harvard School of Public Health says:
"The results showed that people who attended religious services at least weekly in childhood and adolescence were approximately 18% more likely to report higher happiness as young adults (ages 23–30) than those who never attended services. They were also 29% more likely to volunteer in their communities and 33% less likely to use illicit drugs."
But why is church important? Here are some reasons I believe church is important.
God commands it. Hebrews 10:24-25 says “24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” God commanded it because He knows we need the encouragement. God says, don't neglect to meet together, but encourage one another. Going to church will allow you to encourage others and for you to be encouraged.
Church teaches the Word of God. As parents, we are commanded by God to teach our kids in the discipline and instruction of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). Any healthy, bible believing church can help with that. Our kids need to know right from wrong. They need to have a moral compass to navigate life. God is the one true source of morality. Culture and the world is doing what it can to teach our kids anything but Godly morals. And not only do our kids need that, but parents need that.
You need community. You need other people who can help you in times of need. The church can become your second family. Sometimes it's your only family. A lot of my longest lasting relationships have come from church. Having a baby? Moving? Need encouragement? Need to be challenged? Going through a divorce? A death in the family? Your church family is there to support, challenge, and encourage you no matter where you find yourself in life.
Quality friends. You become like the people you hang out with. Nobody is perfect, we all know that. But you're more likely to find quality friends at church than anywhere else. Proverbs 13:20 says: “He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.”
Church provides opportunities to serve others. It's not about us. Matthew 20:28 says Jesus did not come to be served but to serve others. The best way to combat selfishness is to serve others. Going to church helps us get away from ourselves, thinking about ourselves and points us to helping others.
There are lots more reasons why church is important. So let me here them! Why is it important you and your kids go to church?
