Dear Church Family, I love the song, “Healing Begins,” by Tenth Avenue North. The idea is that it is only when we let go of hiding our sins and bring them to the light, that we can truly find healing. Just as Jesus said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners” (Mark 2:17b). I was reading Isaiah 57 this week and God addresses the idolatry prevalent in Israel in this chapter. This idolatry can only be addressed if the people recognize it and want to get rid of it. The sad reality is, right in the middle of God listing out their blatant and gross sin, He issues these sad words: Isaiah 57:10 (ESV)
You were wearied with the length of your way, but you did not say, “It is hopeless”; you found new life for your strength, and so you were not faint.
This should be the moment when they finally humble themselves in brokenness, but instead they dig in even deeper. Instead of it being their breaking point, they refuse to come to the light. Because of this, there is no hope for healing. Instead, God turns them over to their idols: Isaiah 57:13 (ESV)
When you cry out, let your collection of idols deliver you! The wind will carry them all off, a breath will take them away. But he who takes refuge in me shall possess the land and shall inherit my holy mountain.
For each of us there’s a moment of decision. When we get to the point of hopelessness in our idolatry, we can either humbly turn to the Lord or we can stubbornly dig in our heals in our sin. We can either receive the refuge of God’s grace and healing or we can let our idols deliver us. Has God been showing you recently the hopelessness of your idols? Please don’t let this be the moment you dig in even deeper, but let it be the moment you let go. That’s when the healing can begin. What’s Happening at Gospel Life:Ladies Spring Tea: Join us next Saturday, April 29, from 10am-2pm for our first GLBC Ladies Spring Tea! We will be sampling different teas, indulging in tea time food, and encouraging one another to Start Fresh. Fun is also part of the plan, so be sure to sign up early! You can sign up here: https://gospellifebiblechurch.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/1648660Nampa Farmers Market Outreach Possibility: We are gathering interest for who would be willing to help with a new possible outreach. The Nampa Farmer’s Market meets April-November every Saturday from 9 am – 1 pm and we could host a booth offering prayer to those that attend. We are hoping to have enough people sign up that you could serve one Saturday every other month. If you are interested in helping, you can sign up below:
https://gospellifebiblechurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/532322 Request Prayer: It’s important for us to be praying for each other as a church! If you ever need prayer, we would love to come alongside you. You can always turn in a prayer request on Sundays using the Connection Card, but you can also submit a prayer request online at any time:
https://gospellifebiblechurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/368653 Life Groups: Life Groups are an important way to connect and grow at Gospel Life. We have several exciting groups for men, women, or both. You can hear about some of these groups here: https://youtu.be/4GEoz7aeYTE?t=873
If you’re looking for a group to join, you can sign up below or stop by the Welcome Table on Sunday.
https://gospellifebiblechurch.churchcenter.com/groups/small-groups This Coming Sunday:
Great Enough to Serve – Join us this Sunday as we continue our series through The Gospel According to Mark and look at Mark 10:32-45. In this passage Jesus reminds us that true greatness is found in serving. Watch Previous Worship Services
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLW5IMNeRoI99I-QNoGMnuWDy6Y5svTt_c | 
