What a privilege it is to gather together with the saints. There is much joy and many blessings that are to be had each time we assemble as the church. Those who share the precious faith in Christ Jesus can be a great encouragement to each other. The weak are made strong and all are better each time we meet.
In our day-to-day struggles, we all need help as we deal with the adversities of life. God knew our needs would be met when we gather with the saints. We come with uncertainties; we leave with greater faith. We come “down and out”; we leave edified and built up. We come in sorrow and leave with joy in our hearts. Paul told the Philippian saints to “rejoice in the Lord” (Philippians 1:1; 4:4). In dealing with the topic of salvation, Peter said believers “rejoice greatly with joy unspeakable” (1 Peter 1:8). Remember our “light affliction is but for a moment” (2 Corinthians 4:17).
What are some of the joys and blessings of faithfulness? God’s Word admonishes that we not forsake the assembly of the saints (Hebrews 10:25). So when we come together as the church, we take joy in the fact that the Lord’s admonition is heeded. When we gather in His name, we enjoy His presence (Matthew 18:20). When we assemble regularly, we in joy follow the example of the early church (Acts 2:42; 20:7). When we worship faithfully, we rejoice in proclaiming the Lord’s atoning death till He comes (1 Corinthians 11:26). When we gather with the saints, we find joy in anticipation of the final reward for the faithful (James 1:12; Revelation 2:10; 22:14).
