I’m thankful you want to become involved in a church again, and I hope you won’t get discouraged if it takes time to find the right one.

But God knows your needs, and He also knows the churches in your area that could help you grow in your spiritual life. In other words, you aren’t alone in your search; God is with you! Ask Him, therefore, to guide you to the right church for you. Even if it isn’t among the first ones you visit, you’ll begin to understand their differences, and this can help as you continue your search. Incidentally, one way to find a church is to ask friends who might be familiar with churches in your area.

What should you look for in a church? First, seek one that puts Christ first — in its preaching and teaching, in its programs, and in its outreach to those in need. Look also for a church that bases its work on God’s Word, the Bible. The Bible has been given to us by God, “and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Seek a church too that isn’t only friendly, but will also give you opportunities for strong fellowship.

Church is important; without it we miss opportunities for worship and instruction. But first of all, make certain you have committed your life to Jesus Christ. If you’re not sure of this, ask Him to come into your life today.