So What Can We Do? Part 3

Here is the final instalment of some practical steps we can take to move our churches toward health and growth.

Fifth, engage in sacrificial acts of love and service for the purpose of displaying the glory of God. "You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is not longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven (Matt. 5:13-16).

The Bible assumes we will do good works in the world. After all, faith without works is dead (James 2:26). But there is a way that we can do good works that puts the attention on us instead of God. This happens when our motivation is to meet a need and at the same time be thought of as generous. If, however, we are bent on displaying the love, goodness, and glory of God as our greatest motivation for good works, others will notice God and be drawn to him. So in humility do good works for the purpose of putting God on display through your life.

Finally, we should pray, pray, and pray some more. Admittedly, this should have probably been first. Most Christians, of course, believe in the practice of prayer. We write slogans about prayer like: A prayer a day will keep the devil away; A family that prays together stays together; or Seven days without prayer makes one weak. But are we as good at actually praying? How often do we pray for renewed spiritual zeal? How many times do we ask for effectiveness in witness. At the end of the day, church growth and health is a work of God, and He grants us the privilege of participating through prayer. Do not let this weapon go neglect in the fight of faith.

As I said before, this list is not exhaustive. That is, there is more to be said. But there is no doubt that these things will make a real difference in turning our churches around for the glory of Christ.