Churches that emphasize rigid adherence to religious rules and regulations can sometimes foster a legalistic environment that suppresses joy. Moreover, the anomaly of a joyless Church can lead to its core downfall since this is a body of Christ. We defeat Christ’s purpose when we act too uptight around fellow believers who are there to serve with authenticity and joy.

Additionally, we begin to rob them of that when we act like the Pharisees who constantly nitpicked Jesus on His ministry. Embodying a judgmental or self-righteous atmosphere can drive away newcomers, but more so, the ones we have served with for a while. Such instances can stifle the joy of experiencing God’s grace and acceptance. This can lead to performance-focused worship rather than a genuine relationship with God...