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You are welcomed in God's House

Dear Daddy,

Easter is coming soon and you know this is the time of year when many of your children who never come to church will break this habit and attend an Easter service or event. Why do you think this is the case? Why do so many people avoid church altogether?

I'm sure you have heard many excuses before, like these for example:

1. I don't have any gas
2. I don't have anything to wear
3. Church people make me uncomfortable
4. Christians are fake
5. The preacher just wants my money
6. The choir can't sing
7. The church is too big. I'm used to a smaller church.
8. I feel like they are talking about me through the entire sermon
9. We are all God's children, why do I have to go to church?
10. I'm having church at home

Although people will always have excuses for not attending church, I'm praying that the Body of Christ will do what it takes to win people to Christ. Here are some suggestions:

1. Get relational. Evangelism is most effective when it occurs through relationships. Statistics show that nine of 10 people who come to church are invited by a friend, co-worker, relative or neighbor.

   We need to continue to tell others about Christ outside the the 4 walls of the church.

2. Get ready. This includes being more welcoming to newcomers, having small groups where non-members can ask questions and make friends, and by offering life-changing worship and sermons.

3. Get right. If we want to win souls, we must live right. Our life is a living testimony. What we do has a greater voice than what we say. A willingness to change or repent is the first step in getting right with God and reach others.

Daddy, lastly I know that if we’re going to attract the unchurched we’re going to have to express love for one another. I pray that prior to the Easter holiday, believers everywhere are walking in the love of God and living a lifestyle that is pleasing to you. I pray that as we stand before the unchurched, they see a transformed life and want to get to know you. When the doors of the church open, when the ministers invites those that haven't accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior, they will immediately respond and be welcomed into the family of God.

Daddy, thanks in advance for hearing and answering my prayer.