Don't Stop
The Dented Fender Ministry strives to “Equip people to successfully navigate through life’s tunnels so they can boldly shine.” This can happen through the day to day experiences in our lives. The DF recognizes that God speaks through many different people from all walks of life. Today, we welcome Guest Blogger, Rhonda Stinson, who shares about the importance keeping moving.... in life... in worship... in our relationship with God.
DON'T STOP by Rhonda Stinson
Have you ever noticed that your vehicle is more gas-efficient on the highway than it is in the city? I know I have been feeling the sting of rising gas prices! Starting from a complete stop takes more gas and energy than a car continuing in motion. My Buick is a true gas hog (with a pork rump on the side).
In 2020, many churches found it necessary to offer online services due to COVID-related shutdowns. It was a time of uncertainty. Wearing pj’s "to church" became the new trend. It became easy to multi-task worship with the convenience of earbuds. Housework, exercise, or working on a hobby could be done while “worshiping.”
I don’t know about anyone else, but I got complacent about worship during this time. When the church doors opened again, I was still in a stopped position, and it took a lot of energy to get myself going to church again.

Yet, as soon as I entered the church and saw the people, I realized the importance of gathering together. I felt like a flower opening to the sun. What if I’d made the choice to continue watching online? I would have totally missed out. What a spiritual tragedy!
Each believer is a part of the body of Christ and is entrusted with spiritual gifts. Gathering for worship can help grow and nurture these gifts. Check out these scriptures about spiritual gifts:
“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit” (1 Corinthians 12:4 NIV).
“Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7 NIV).