Freedom

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (Galatians 5:1 KJV)
Growing up in a southern Methodist and Baptist environment meant rules. Sitting still and quiet during preaching. Women wore dresses only or skirts and men suits on Sunday morning. We wouldn’t dare wear pants to church. So many rules and regulations along with hellfire and condemning sermons lead to oppressed people. People become focused on showing up, dressed properly and sitting quietly to get their word and go home.
Some churches still operate along the lines of religious rules while others have broken free of the old time ways and are drawing people in with a come as you are attitude. Love people where they are, how they are. This is an awesome concept because that’s how God is; but there are dangers here too. People tend to be welcome in these new churches as long as they conform to the leadership rules. 
We have to be very mindful of who we are following and seeking. It is so easy to get caught up in rules and turn our focus from God to what others think of us. Focusing on how we look and what we wear. Focused on what people would think if we missed a Sunday or didn’t bring a dish. We also have to be careful of who we are following. It is very easy to fall into following the preacher. Becoming faithful to the leader of the church and not even realizing it. 
Now more than ever it is so important to find freedom in Christ. He gives us great freedom if we just accept the gift. There is a great relief to realize that we don’t have to please anyone except God. We are free to be who God made us to be not what society says we have to be.  Seek God first with a pure heart toward Him and find freedom in Christ.