Acts 11:21 “And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord.”
Having the Lord’s blessing or hand upon one’s life, work, ministry, or church is a humbling thing to think about.  Most churches are known by certain characteristics: a great location, a beautiful facility, a great preacher, outstanding programs, etc.  Would it not be wonderful to be known for having upon us the hand of the Lord? To be honest isn’t that what really matters?  Pleasing the Lord is not only the most important thing – IT IS “THE THING!” Our effectiveness, our existence as a scriptural assembly, and our eternal value (what matters most from an eternal perspective) are all dependent upon the Lord being pleased with us, taking notice of our labor (for Him), and being involved in it (His hand upon us).  What is our motivation?  May it not be driven by pleasing the crowds – BUT – by pleasing our Heavenly Father.