Johnhwilburn.com

Last Sunday I had the sweetest service in my entire furlough. While all of the churches I visited have been an encouragement, the Lord gave me a special liberty to share my heart for SVG.

Why was last Sunday such a blessing?

Because they knew me.

During furlough I attend with my parents a little country church about ten minutes from our house when I’m not traveling. Being there consistently (especially when the furlough was just beginning) gave me the opportunity to spend a lot of time with the members and develop a close relationship with them.

So I shared Sunday with dear friends who knew me….and stood with me

This is actually why I love little country churches, because there is a closeness of fellowship there.

Now please understand, I am not against large churches. In fact, I love them too!!! But it is more difficult to have those close friendships in these churches since there are more people.

I’m so thankful for the large churches God is blessing with numbers.

But I am also very grateful for the little country churches where everyone knows everyone, and they often gather outside of church to encourage one another.

The sad truth is making true friendships is hard. It takes time, transparency, and a willingness to take the initiative in the relationship. Many of us are surrounded by acquaintances but have very few true friends.

Over the last three months the members of that country church have seen me, interacted with me, and lived with me face to face. And they have become my friends.

So, let’s build the church friends by evangelism and discipleship through the power of Christ.

But let’s make sure we are building a family as well.