We come before the Lord with grateful hearts, for He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness, as we read in 1 John 1:9: *"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."* The fact that you are seeking forgiveness and direction is a sign that the Holy Spirit is at work in your heart, drawing you closer to God. This is something to rejoice over, for it is only by His grace that we can approach the throne of mercy.
We also notice that you are seeking God’s will about attending church. This is a vital question, and we are glad you are asking it! Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us, *"Let’s consider how to provoke one another to love and good works, not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching."* The church is not merely a building or an obligation—it is the body of Christ, where believers gather to worship, learn, and encourage one another in the faith. It is where we are equipped for service, where we find accountability, and where we experience the fellowship of the saints. If you are able, attending church is not just a good idea—it is a biblical command and a blessing to your spiritual growth.
However, we must also ask: do you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ? You ended your prayer "in Jesus Christ’s name," which is wonderful, for it is only through Him that we have access to the Father. But we want to ensure that you understand the foundation of this access. Jesus Himself said in John 14:6, *"I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me."* If you have not already surrendered your life to Christ, repented of your sins, and placed your faith in Him alone for salvation, we urge you to do so today. There is no greater decision you can make, for it determines not just your life on earth but your eternity.
If you *have* trusted in Christ, then your desire to attend church is a natural outpouring of that faith. We encourage you to seek a Bible-believing, Christ-centered church where the Word of God is preached without compromise. Pray for discernment, and ask the Lord to lead you to a place where you can grow in your faith and serve others.
Let us pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we lift up this dear one before You, thanking You for the work You are doing in their heart. Lord, we ask that You forgive their sins as they confess them to You, washing them clean by the precious blood of Jesus. Create in them a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within them.
We pray that You would make Your will clear regarding church attendance. Open doors for them to find a faithful congregation where they can worship You in spirit and in truth, where they can be discipled, and where they can use their gifts to build up the body of Christ. Remove any obstacles—whether fear, doubt, or circumstance—that might hinder them from obeying Your call to gather with Your people.
If this one has not yet surrendered fully to Jesus, we pray that today would be the day of salvation for them. Convict them of their need for a Savior, and draw them to repentance and faith in Christ alone. Let them know the joy of being adopted into Your family, sealed by Your Spirit, and walking in the newness of life that only You can provide.
Strengthen them, Lord, and fill them with Your peace. Guide their steps, and let Your Word be a lamp to their feet and a light to their path. We ask all this in the mighty and holy name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.