FITS OF EXCITEMENT
Today's reading: Joel

"...There are no joyful celebrations in the house of our God." Joel 1:16 NLT

A sinner saved receives honorable mention in between announcements and special singing.

A past forgiven and a future insured is applauded then given the handshake of fellowship.

A backslider welcomed amidst the whispered condemnations.

Chains of bondage loosed at our altars and we fret over parking spots at the crowded restaraunt because service times have exceeded what's normal.

A child of God birthed into the church family and left to fend for themselves when it comes to discipleship and training.

What's wrong with our churches? We can whoop and holler during 'church night' at the ballfield. We can certainly call attention to matters of importance when it comes to elected officials and wronged
family members. We can belt out all four verses of Amazing Grace, regardless of whether or not it still amazes us at all. So, what's wrong with our churches?

Maybe it's not happening like that at your church. Congratulations!

Maybe there's nothing happening at all. No excitement. No enthusiasm. No growth. No moving of the Holy Spirit. Nothing. Barely a pulse. I'm so very sorry to hear it.

Want to change that? Want to see some zeal in your pews? Want souls saved? Families restored? Lives experiencing life?

It starts with you. When you get excited about God, what He's doing, what He can do, what you're believing Him for, what changes He's brought about in your life, when what He says to you during your prayer time and your time in the Word thrills you to no end--others will become excited.

It starts with you. A joyful celebration starts with you!