Thankful - Day 1 - Church

Today marks the first day of November.  A month were we celebrate our thankfulness and wrap it into a holiday were we stuff ourselves with carbs and family!

Like I did last year on Facebook, I am going to try to write a daily post of something I am thankful for, big and small.

I want to start by saying how thankful I am for my church. 

A few months ago, I came across on old journal.  As I was reading through it I found this entry. 

Nov 21 2010
Church was very...interesting.  We almost didn't go.  The kids weren't cooperating and we were just getting angry.  Shawn finally said, "forget it" but I wasn't ready to give up.  that is how Satan works.  He wants it to be hard.

When we showed up to the church (we decided to go to Life Church aka Valley Assembly of God) and it was like walking into a Christian rock concert.  People were on stage performing with guitars and drums, people in the audience were waving their hands, clapping, and singing.  Needless to say, Ciara really enjoyed it. I felt really out of place.  I doubt we will ever go back.  Maybe the next church we find will have the "this is it!" feeling.

I read that entry now and I remember those feelings.  Feeling so out of place and uncomfortable.  It was like no church that I had ever been to.  And to this day, I don't know why we ever went back.  But I do know that I am so thankful that we did.

Now, the things that made me feel so out of place before, make me feel closer to God.  And every time I walk in, I feel that "this is it!" feeling!  This is what I was searching for!  This is what I need to help me survive another week!  This is my reminder of what He has given me!  This is what I need to remember my promises to Him.  This is where I learn to be more like Him.  THIS IS IT!

When I sing at church I feel like I am worshiping and praising Him!  It is a celebration for what He has done for me and the miracles He has done inside of me.  I am now one of those people who lift my hands in worship and thanks.

My church has brought my family closer.  We share prayer and scripture time.  I feel closer to my Heavenly Father more now than I ever have.  It amazes me.  And although I know the thing I am most thankful for is my strengthened relationship with the Lord and that was given to me from Him not any church, but I am so thankful for LifeChurch for giving me that rock to stand on while I opened the door and let Him in.