Well after deciding that we needed to find another church, we took a few weeks off from church. I think we just really needed some downtime. The transition from our home church has been a little rocky. We tried to quietly slip away and not be real vocal about leaving ... or even why we were leaving. Unfortunately, it has not worked out the way we thought it would. There are always people out there that want to make everything a big drama and I am just not a drama person.
So, we took a few weeks to chill and work on home. I have really enjoyed it too! I definitely needed a break. I have been involved in so many different ministries for so long now that I was literally at church six days out of a week, most weeks. I never had time for myself or the things I love. It was all about church ... all the time. I took my responsibilities very seriously and I am a bit of a perfectionist, so I worked hard to make sure that everything was as it should be.
Now I am back to reading and studying again. I am enjoying working on my yard and getting some things done around the house that have been neglected for far too long. Plus, I have been able to spend some real quality time with the baby and I have really enjoyed that. She is so much fun and such a hoot!
I have so enjoyed not having to deal with church politics ... even if I have had to still deal with the gossip. But, I have worked hard to not get caught up in it and not let it get me down. That in and of itself is a major achievement, especially when so much of it has targeted me.
Anyways, we decided last Sunday to visit another church. We have had a number of friends try to get us to come for awhile now but we never did. We have always been very faithful to our church and rarely ever visited another one. I am so glad we picked this church though! I really, really enjoyed it. The preaching was sound biblically and the worship was really good. We both enjoyed it.
And going really made me realize how much I miss church and good preaching! I always loved our pastor's preaching. He could always get and keep my attention and I miss being fed like that. I love hearing the Word of God preached and I really love hearing it preached well.
So we are going back. I think we will still check out a few other churches, but I am definitely liking this church. We will see how it goes and where God leads. :)
Changing churches can be difficult. I dont know what it is but it seems that a lot of people take it like you are personally attacking the church if you want to leave it. They will say hurtful things to you and even emotionally manipulate you. I have never understood it but suddenly you are treated like an apostate instead of a member of the brethern who just happens to not want to go tot hat church.
Glad to hear you found someplace that might be a good fit.
Hi Rogue Angel,
I'm new to the site and read the last couple posts. Sounds like you're going through some changes at church and wanted to say: Stay encouraged!
I don't know what happened at your church, but in a way, the devil is in the details. Spread the good message--you're a messenger for truth and light. God's in control... let Him bring justice to all situations.
Take care :)
Jen
Thank you for the words of encouragement, Jen! They are greatly appreciated. :)