Unchurch to be the Church

Hey prayer closet warriors!! It’s been a while since I posted something…not because I have nothing to say. But, I’ve been taking some time out with our Father. I have a lot to catch you up on! I want to start here first.

Going to a new church can be a nerve-racking experience and I didn’t realize exactly how intimidating it was for me. Yes, I’ve been a part of a ministry for 2 years now however, it operates outside of the church walls. Being a part of The Realizing Destiny ministry taught me what a true relationship with Jesus is, how to discern and hear his voice, and be confident with my walk.

I recently reconnected with my friend Nakema and she invited me to her new church. Yes, I was curious, and I have been asking God to lead me to a Church home, but attending church made me feel a certain way. I couldn’t put my finger on it but now I understand why.

Last Sunday, April 26 I rolled over and asked Abba, “should I go visit this church today?” I heard, “yes”. I didn’t jump up right away, I asked again to be sure lol. He said, “yes” again.

I started getting myself and Jiraiya ready. I didn’t know what to wear, my hair wasn’t done and I was praying JJ pooped before we left the house. The way this toddler can dump a load! 😅 That’s why we’re potty training, Amen! Lol

Anyways, I asked Abba again, “Are you sure you want me to go? You know we can just have church at home like we have been doing.” I felt his peace and with that, I knew it was ok. However, I still felt uncomfortable. I grabbed my anointing oil and prayed over myself and Jiraiya. In my head I thought, “I’m not taking any chances with being in this building.” I asked the Holy Spirit to be with us as we made our way to the church and while in the sanctuary. I needed to know his presence was there.

We were welcomed with smiles, waves, and a big hug. The Usher escorted us to our seat, and guess what?! We sat right next to my Nakema. This was not planned by me or her because I didn’t let her know I was coming that morning. Trust me, God worked that out. The warm and inviting atmosphere made all the difference for us as visitors.

During praise and worship, I just kept asking the Holy Spirit to be present in the service. I didn’t want to feel alone/uncovered even though I was in a room full of believers.

The Pastor stepped up to the podium and taught his message for the day titled, “Being saved by a whisper”, Highlighting 1 Kings 19. The teaching was filled with encouragement and enriching words that inspired me. Let me add, it inspired my 2-year-old also. During the sermon, he kept placing his iPad on his lap to clap and shout Amen. Lol.

When the sermon ended the worship kept going and some people lined up for prayer. I didn’t think I needed prayer. To be honest, I was being a little prideful and that uncomfortable feeling was still on me. I stayed seated, closed my eyes, and asked the Holy Spirit, “Are You Here?”. I felt a fire hit me and I started speaking in tongues. The Holy Spirit arrested me at that moment. I was so caught up in praising God I lost track of Jiraiya. He was of course in good company and the members didn’t hesitate to comfort him as I spoke to our Father.

I was blown away by God’s “show up and shout out.” Like Sir, “Okay! My scarf almost fell off and my Ms. Sealy hairstyle would have been exposed, in the sanctuary.”😂

It was such an amazing feeling though.

After service, we were fed GOOD healthy food (I’m emphasizing good because IT WAS JUST THAT GOOD! I’m still thinking about the eggplant that was made!) I connected with other members and enjoyed the meaningful conversation and Jiraiya received two toys.

Driving home I asked Abba, “what was that uncomfortable feeling I kept having? Why did I feel the need to take extra precautions before getting to the church?” He revealed to me it was from experiencing church failure and the fear of being misguided again. The prideful feeling was me thinking God wasn’t going to show up because this wasn’t a ministry I was “used” to. Basically, limiting God with my narrow view.

Before meeting Destiny and being a part of her ministry, I had NO idea what spiritual warfare was, soul ties, demonic covenant, alters, I didn’t even know if speaking in my heavenly language was something I could do/ something I needed, etc.

God has equipped me to be in a space that I once felt uncomfortable in. He has prepared and pruned me for spaces I’ve doubted myself in. We like to think we know our capabilities and capacities, but as you grow in Christ, unlearn to relearn, and become willing vessels, God's love stretches us beyond what we think possible.

I’m still in prayer about a church home but, I know Abba has my back 100%.

I want to thank Wellspring Global Fellowship for their dedication to the community and to God‘s kingdom. People are thirsty to hear from God and you represent a spring for the thirsty. If you live in the Boston area I HIGHLY recommend visiting this church.

I titled this post, “Unchurched to be the church” because so many people have been under the impression that the “building” is the representation of God. But, the physical building means NOTHING without the people.

1 Corinthians 6: 19-20, “Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you? If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him; for God's temple is sacred, and you are that temple.”

Ephesians 2:20-21, “built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him, the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord.”

I pray this encourages you. ❤️

Sincerely,

Natasha

The Prayer Closet Mama ™