Take a closer look

Have you ever felt all alone? Like you are the only one who is doing what God is calling you to do, or maybe in the workplace you are the only one who is doing what is right. This is an ordinary feeling for people to have, because we get so wrapped up in doing our jobs, accomplishing things that we forget to notice what others are doing. We may know our comfort levels and be pushing right on through them, but, we don't know the strengths or comfort levels of others so we judge them.
It's very easy to put yourself on an island in these situations. I've been there, and in some circumstances left the situation and looked back to see that I was correct. I have also stepped away to realize I was completely wrong and that my "perception" was way off.
In the church setting, what is said outside of church is just as important to the church as what is said inside. What is shared on Sundays, and felt during its meetings are just as important as what the community thinks of the church. Perception is reality, and the only reality that we have sometimes is what we percieve, and what we perceive is what we know. Take a closer look at yourself, at those around you, and your church family. What is the community saying about you? As a person, as a body of believers what does the community see you standing for, and against? Does the community feel like you are important to them? These are all important questions.
"The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too" (1 Kings 19:14).
In this passage the Israelites as a whole seemed to be rebelling against God, and the majority were. But, there were those who were not, but the perception that was given off was far too strong. Now we won't always be able to have any say at all in what the community thinks of our groups, and our bodies of beleivers, but our imput can affect the perception.
You've heard the saying, "The only Jesus some people see is what they see in you." Well, the only perception of your church people may see is what they see in you. So take a closer look at how effective you are in the perception of your church, and see what changes must be made to reach your community for Christ.
Thanks for reading and have a great day!