Many years ago, when my family and I lived in Opelousas, Louisiana, we attended and were members of the First Baptist Church. Even though we were there for only four years we made many good friends and still correspond with several of them today. Our pastor was an ex-banker and had a fire about him for preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ.
This church was having a growth spurt, and the Lord was moving people in town from other areas. The attendance was good every Sunday and the church was growing in many directions. We were experiencing a good economy due to the oil industry.
I remember one family that would arrive for worship service every Sunday and would sit toward the back of the church. They were either early or on time, however when it was 12 noon, they would get up and leave the church. They did not bother anyone or create any disturbance because they were sitting next to the aisleway about four rows from the back door. This did not happen just one time, it happened every Sunday that I can remember. I am sorry to say that I did not know this family personally, however many of my friends did.
I do not know the reason for their leaving as they did, but there must have been an explanation. Maybe it was time for lunch, and they did not want to be late. Maybe they only had a limited amount of time to spend in God’s house and felt they needed to leave. Maybe the pastor preached too long, which on many occasions he went past noon, and they felt they had enough religion for that day. Anyway, at noon time it was time for them to go.
My family and I moved to Louisiana for a newspaper job. We did not plan on staying forever because it was to be a steppingstone to a job, we wanted and closer to family. My wife and I had four young children, and our plans were to allow them to know and grow up close to their grandparents. However, the Lord had other plans for us.
We do not know the plans of those around us. Many times, our plans change due to circumstances beyond our control. Corporate ownerships change and it affects everyone within the chain.
For those of us that know Jesus as our Lord and Savior realize He will never leave us or let us down. This is His promise to us even though we take our eyes off Him and stray out into an unknown world.
For my family it came time to leave Louisiana. The oil industry went down, and many people were losing their jobs and leaving. The oil industry affected the economy and left many people searching for other employment.
I was fortunate, and I did not lose my job. However, I was offered another job, even though it was not the one that I was wanting. It was a job that put me into a path that brought me to where I am today.
Romans 8:28 says: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who been called according to his purpose.” For my family and me, God provided a way for us to leave, and it was a fruitful path that He provided.
For the family that left worship service at noon every Sunday, I cannot speak to why they left or where they are today. I pray they are well and happy and doing what the Lord wants them to do.
Do you know Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior? If not, accept Him into your heart today and He will lead you where He wants you to be. He will not forsake you!
Prayer: Thank you, Jesus, for your love. Thank you for leading me when it comes time for career changes and moves that helped my family. Amen.
