A Dozen Don’ts to Avoid When at Church

Church is a place of worship. It’s a place where everyone can feel like they belong. But it’s also a place where a dozen things can go right, or very wrong. Mistakes and mishaps are no respecter of person or place. Nevertheless, the church is a place that invites happiness and welcomes laughter, too. Below is a dozen “Don’ts” to avoid when at church. Some are essential while others are whimsical. You probably think you have heard it all, but a “don’t” on this list might surprise you.

1. Don’t be late. You’ll only be missing out on all the good stuff, not to mention, all the blessings.

2. Don’t show up alone. Bring a family member, a friend, or even a stranger. There’s always something for everyone in the house of the Lord.

3. Don’t hand out pamphlets/programs with a sad face. A smile will always compliment the message inside each handout.

4. Don’t leave a child with a microphone unattended. Children are darlings, but as Bill Cosby’s show states, “Kids say the darndest things.” What they say might make you laugh-out-loud or leave you embarrassingly silent.

5. Don’t be the lady in the very big, very broad hat. Ladies, let’s be considerate of others. Those sitting behind would like to see what’s happening on the rostrum too.

6. Don’t nod-off during service. Again, you’ll miss out on the excitement and blessings.

7. Don’t exit the bench with your back towards those seated. Your departure will leave those in the bench feeling violated, due to the limited space between rows.

8. Don’t use your phone. After all, God cares for us 24/7, we should be able to give Him 2 or 3 hours of our undivided attention.

9. Don’t give the brothers a hard time, sisters. Let’s make our appearance one less sin our brothers have to ask forgiveness for—cover it up.

10. Don’t let the children sit beside each other. This will only cause mayhem. With their chattering, fighting, and playing, they’ll steal all your attention from the service.

11. Don’t assume the pastor is preaching at you. You’ll miss the message God is sending you by focusing on the messenger.

12. Don’t overdo talking and walking. Remember, churches are God’s temple, and we must reverence His sanctuary.

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens … ” (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

How many of these “Don’ts” have you done? Can you think of any I left out?