Page 10 - March 2024 News On 7

CULTIVATING CHURCH HEALTH: TAKING OWNERSHIP OF OUR SPIRITUAL JOURNEY
"Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a
spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another's burdens,
and so fulfill the law of Christ." ~ Galatians 6:1-2
Finding the right church goes beyond simply attending services on Sundays; it involves
discovering a spiritual home where we can flourish, build connections, and work together in
service. But how do we know if we’ve found the right place to call home?
Some key factors to consider when looking for the right church include finding a congregation that preaches sound biblical
doctrine and provides opportunities for spiritual growth and community involvement. It’s important to consider the
church's values and beliefs, as well as its stance on important theological issues. Additionally, assessing the church's
approach to worship, outreach, and discipleship can help determine if it aligns with your own spiritual needs and
preferences. Remember to also consider the sense of community and fellowship within the church, as well as the quality of
pastoral care and leadership.
It's essential to feel comfortable and supported in your spiritual journey, so take the time to visit different churches, attend
services, and participate in various activities to get a sense of each community's dynamics. Don't hesitate to ask questions
and seek guidance from church leaders or members to help you make an informed decision. Ultimately, choosing the right
church is a personal decision that should be based on prayer, reflection, and seeking God's guidance.
While there are likely many churches in your area that could be a good fit for you, it's important to be aware of certain
warning signs that should be avoided. If you feel that the church you are attending is unhealthy for you, it is important to
prioritize your well-being.
Here are some signs that indicate an unhealthy church environment:
Using guilt, shame, or fear to motivate members
Elevating the church's well-being over that of its members
Lack of financial disclosure
Employing peer pressure to make you behave in a certain way
Believing it possesses the truth while disregarding other perspectives
Questioning your judgement/motivation when you make choices they don’t agree with
Speaking/justifying more than listening to/addressing concerns
Trying to distance you from other relationships or support systems
Punishing you with demotions, isolation, or silent treatment for questioning or stepping outside its rules
Trivializing your feelings or concerns
Discouraging you from seeking spiritual guidance elsewhere
Blaming you for any issues or problems, deflecting responsibility from the leaders
Recognizing these signs can help you make informed decisions about your involvement with the church. Your well-being
should always come first. In extreme cases, you may want to consider exploring other options that align better with your
beliefs and values. However, before resorting to that, you can take steps to address the situation with the church in
accordance with biblical principles:
Open Communication: Follow Matthew 18:15-17, which encourages resolving conflicts directly with the individual(s)
involved.
Seek Mediation: Consider involving a neutral third party following 1 Corinthians 6:1-8, promoting resolution through
mediation.
Educate: Share biblical teachings respectfully, guided by Ephesians 4:15, to help the church understand and align with God's
Word.
Community Support: Lean on fellow believers, as emphasized in Hebrews 10:24-25, for mutual encouragement and support
within the church.
Self-care: Prioritize self-care as your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), setting boundaries in a spirit
of love and respect.

To read more click here:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1adHpCI3jyiFxagkNXs8R7e1LBD82yW30EiYsbRmaQEU/edit?pli=1

Tracy is a Marketplace Minister, licensed wedding officiant, life/marriage coach, and funeral celebrant. For more info, visit
xolifecelebrations.com. To view her other content such as Topical Articles, Devotionals, Process of Illumination Blog & Practical Ministry
Podcast on Substack go to tracybrichards.substack.com