Feeling disconnected? Discover the power of community and faith at church

First Baptist Church: Is going to church important?

Let’s just be honest, for most people it’s easy to convince ourselves to skip church. Reminds me of the old story of the man who told his wife that he just did not want to go to church one particular Sunday morning. She asked him if he was sick and he said no, he just did not want to go to church. She told him that he had to go anyway because he was the pastor!

There are many excuses to keep from attending church. Maybe you’re tired, your schedule is hectic, or Sunday feels like the only day to rest. You tell yourself, “I’ll go next week,” or “God knows my heart—church attendance doesn’t define my faith.” But in skipping church, we might miss out on something far greater than we realize.

The Bible is clear about the importance of gathering together as believers. Hebrews 10:25 calls us to keep meeting, encouraging one another in faith—especially as we draw closer to the return of Christ. “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:25).

Church isn’t just about filling a seat; it’s about spiritual connection, growth, and community.

When we show up for church, we participate in something profoundly beautiful. Worshiping together reminds us we aren’t alone in our faith. It’s a place where God speaks—through His Word, through others, and through moments of worship that fill our hearts with His presence. By skipping church, we might miss these powerful encounters with God.

Church is also where we build up one another. We all face challenges, and life’s burdens can feel heavy. But when we gather as the body of Christ, we find encouragement, prayer, and support. Paul writes in Galatians 6:2, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Your presence might even be the blessing someone else needs. Our faith requires intention. Just like eating sustains our physical bodies, spiritual food sustains our souls. Church offers a weekly opportunity to be nourished by God’s Word, strengthened for the week ahead.

If you’ve found yourself skipping church lately, ask God for strength and renewed purpose in prioritizing time with your church family. Maybe it starts with simply showing up one Sunday, even when it’s hard. You might discover that being present not only draws you closer to God but also provides the community and encouragement you've been longing for. Take that step this week—go to church, connect with others, and experience the joy of growing in faith together, because God is waiting to meet you there.

If you are looking for a place to worship, please allow me the opportunity to invite you to visit with us at Caruthersville First Baptist Church, 801 Ward Ave. We gather for Bible study time on Sunday mornings at 9:30 and then at 10:30 for worship. We meet at 5:00 on Sunday evenings for worship and a time of Bible study led by our pastor in our fellowship hall. We also have an online Bible study time on Wednesday evenings at 6:00 on our Caruthersville First Baptist Church Facebook page. We would love to have you visit with us!