You might ask yourself, ‘What difference will going to church make for me’? You may also have preconceived notions about what church is, or you might just be disillusioned with the concept of going to church. Churches are not perfect places where perfect people meet each week. However, a church can serve a very important role in your life and can ultimately become an anchor for you and your family.

The reason we should be encouraged to find a good church is because the Bible instructs us to be in relationships with other believers. If we are part of Christ, we will recognize our need to fit into the body of believers. Church is the place where we come together to encourage one another as members of Christ’s body. Together we fulfill an important purpose.

Attending church provides many benefits. Here are just five ways that going to church can bless you and your family.

1. Church anchors us.

We are all bombarded with technology, materialism and questionable media messages. In many families, religion and spirituality have taken a backseat to life’s distractions.

Setting aside a few hours each weekend to attend church provides a much-needed balance. At church, we can grow closer to God, learn morals and standards and be strengthened spiritually. Church keeps us grounded.

2. We receive forgiveness and spiritual strength at church.

Some people question the point of attending church. They argue that they can visit the outdoors and feel close to God in nature. Or, maybe they feel that Sunday is strictly a stay-in-bed, relax-with-the-family day.

While these can be good pursuits, attending church gives us much more. Jesus is among His people through the preached Word and the Sacraments. Proclaiming the full forgiveness that Jesus won for us on the cross is the main point of all Christian worship services. This is the amazing thing about our God. He is among His people not primarily to receive but to give. To give the precious forgiveness of sins. He does this through the preaching of the Gospel, Holy Absolution, and the Lord’s Supper. What a joy it is to weary souls who have been struggling with their sin all week to hear and receive God’s pardon given through Word and Sacrament. Worshiping, praying, communion, baptism and being exposed to the Word of God with a congregation uplifts and strengthens our spirits. The spiritual strength we receive weekly at church, as kids and adults, helps sustain us for each week ahead.

A family day is a great idea, so why not attend church as a family?

3. Church provides fellowship.

Our associations with members of our congregations are uplifting and strengthening. When life throws challenges our way, it is nice to have a church network to lean on. The encouragement and love we receive through our churches truly enriches our lives.

Many church members lend a hand in times of need. They might provide meals, help with our children and sometimes just listen. We can enjoy new friendships and fun church activities, as well.

Children’s Ministries and Youth Groups serve a critical need of engaging our kids in a wholesome environment. Our children can surround themselves with kids that have standards and values similar to their own.

4. Church presents opportunities to serve.

Jesus taught that we should bear one another’s burdens and love our neighbors as ourselves.

We often get so wrapped up in our own lives that we miss opportunities to reach out to others. Church congregations are like an extended family. Through church we are provided with many opportunities to serve.

We can involve our kids in helping with church activities, serving the community around us and assisting fellow church members together.

Service to others teaches both adults and children how to look beyond our own needs, creating a more loving community.

5. We get to know God.

Of course, the ultimate prize in church worship is growing closer to God. Learning about him, His teachings and commandments helps us to be more equipped to face the world, find contentment and truly enjoy a grace filled, forgiven life. We experience God’s love and this brings us happiness.

Jesus said, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”

– Matthew 18:20

While we would love to see you at Epiphany Lutheran Church, we encourage you to find a church that aligns with your beliefs and values. Strengthen your children spiritually by going to church. Add peace to your family’s lives through church worship.