Yesterday, I was talking with a woman who was explaining to me why she left a certain church. She basically felt like she could not bring others to her church because they would be judged for their appearance and lifestyle. She felt like her church was more like a club than a church. If she did not feel comfortable bringing a seeker to that church, then she felt she needed to change churches.

I hear this kind of complaint a lot. It is as if people are asking for their church to represent the Love of Christ but not the Laws of Christianity. Are some churches more like clubs today? Clubs attract likeminded people: people to be a certain way, live a certain way, act a certain way and pay their bill.

I used to frequently go to a tennis club during my high school years. I was not a member but a guest. However, I do remember that one of my peers was a member who broke his foot. After a while, he felt uncomfortable hanging out at the club because his injury prevented him from doing club events. It is funny to think that a nonmember would be more comfortable than a paying member. Christians sometimes feel the same way. If you are hurting, struggling, actively sinning or sense a lack of victory, you might feel like you do not belong for a season.

Just know that we are saved not because of our righteousness but because of Christ extending His righteousness to us. Jesus welcomed failures and those who were honest about their shortcomings. Jesus accepted all types, at all places. Who did He reject?

Even if you are in that season right now, remember that the Lord never leaves you or forsakes you. Just because people might disappoint you, the Lord knows and understands. Continue to turn to Him. Get your eyes off of others and on to Him. Only He can heal you and save you from yourself.

As for the church club thing, it is nice to sense the feeling of belonging. There is nothing wrong with being with likeminded people. If you do not feel welcomed at a certain church, the issues might not be the church but that it is time for you to make a change. God is not limited to places, times or events. Go where He leads and brings others with you…