It's not you, It's me

George Costanza from the classic comedy "Seinfeld" said he invented the phrase, "It's not you, it's me".  This is a phrase many have used when trying to explain the end of a dating relationship. While in that context it is more about assigning blame, it can also be a statement of accountability. With that in mind let's now consider this.

Recently I read a Facebook post from an individual who had visited a new church. While giving their impressions of this first time visit they stated, "I have never experienced God's presence like I did today" (not a direct quote but paraphrase). After chewing on this statement for a while it hit. Really??? (this person was not a new believer and while I don't know how many churches they have been to it was clear this was at least their second). Here's the point experiencing God's presence should have nothing to do with where we are, whose praying, preaching or leading worship, how good the band is, how "cool" the lighting is. In other words if you can't enter into His presence don't blame the preacher, the worship leader, or the church. Blame yourself. Better yet ask yourself why you can't enter in? Far too many believers love to play this blame game and go church hopping in search of that perfect place. But honestly, if you need to find a certain church or environment to enter His presence than I think you are missing it because we should be able to enter in to His presence no matter where we are if our heart is right and if we are really hungry for Jesus. This is one of the top reasons we see church hoppers (shoppers?).

So if you're having trouble entering in this Sunday, don't look at the pastor. Don't look at the worship leader or band. Don't look at the people around you. Look in the mirror and realize it's not them it's you. Be accountable and stop blaming others.

Until next time,

Pastor Paul