Dear Church Family, On Sunday we looked at the Lord’s prayer and the importance of praying, “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10 ESV). It’s so important for our prayers, and our lives in general, to be centered on the Kingdom of God. This is tough when we live in a world that lives by a completely different standard and rule. It not only refuses God’s Kingdom rule, but openly mocks His value system. Have you ever struggled when you look out at the evil and injustice that many seem to get away with? Have you ever wondered if it really pays to live by God’s kingdom standards in a wicked and unjust world? I was reading Psalm 37 today and wondered if David’s world was a bit like our own. The whole Psalm seems to be an encouragement to live a righteous life in the middle of a wicked world. He opens with the charge, “Fret not yourself because of evildoers; be not envious of wrongdoers!” (Psalm 37:1 ESV). In the middle of the Psalm, David acknowledges. that, “The wicked draw the sword and bend their bows to bring down the poor and needy, to slay those whose way is upright” (Psalm 37:14 ESV). So, how does David keep from giving up on God’s values and caving into the world’s scheme? Throughout the Psalm there is a steady belief that God’s kingdom and His kingdom values will win in the end. Even though it doesn’t look like it now, “In just a little while, the wicked will be no more; though you look carefully at his place, he will not be there. But the meek shall inherit the land and delight themselves in abundant peace” (Psalm 37:10-11). Keep your eyes fixed on the King! Don’t give up or give in. Live for His Kingdom and by His Kingdom rules. I love David’s reminder for us today, “The wicked plots against the righteous and gnashes his teeth at him, but the Lord laughs at the wicked, for he sees that his day is coming” (Psalm 37:12-13 ESV). What’s Happening at Gospel Life:Men’s Breakfast: Guys, don’t forget about Men’s Breakfast tomorrow morning from 8-10 am at The Greens Clubhouse (6745 E. Greens Dr. Nampa, ID 83687). Our theme will be “How Has the Spirit Gifted Me?” Youth Group: Join us this Sunday, January 28th, from 5-7 pm at the Bronleewes’ house. We’ll have dinner, games, worship, and continue our Bible study through the Book of Joshua. Church Potluck: Join us after the morning worship service for a potluck meal on Sunday, February 4th. Please bring one of your favorite dishes to share with the group. Church Directory: We’re updating the church directory for 2024. Please stop by the Welcome Table on Sunday to make sure your contact information is up to date. You can also update your information online. Here is some information on how: https://pcochurchcenter.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/7992221192347-Update-Your-Profile#contact-and-profile-information-0 Life Groups: If you would like to grow in your relationship with the Lord and other believers, please consider joining a Life Group. We have groups for men, women, and youth. You can check them out here: https://gospellifebiblechurch.churchcenter.com/groups/small-groups?enrollment=open_signup%2Crequest_to_join&filter=enrollment 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 Upcoming Dates: 2024 Budget Meeting (Feb. 11th), Youth Super Bowl Party (Feb. 11th), Prayer Night (Feb. 20th) This Coming Sunday: An Overflow of Praise – Join us this Sunday as we continue our series Keep on Praying. This week we’ll look at a powerful prayer of praise in Psalm 145. Watch Previous Worship Services https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLW5IMNeRoI99I-QNoGMnuWDy6Y5svTt_c |