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March 9, 2024 | ||
Dear Church Family, Have you ever had a conversation start out incredibly positive, and then dramatically change moods, leaving you wondering what just happened? As I read Psalm 95 today, the passage started off incredibly upbeat, as the Psalmist reflected on the character of God and worthiness of praise and thanks. Right at the end of verse seven, though, the mood dramatically changes to a warning.
So, what is the connection between the two halves of this Psalm? This is a warning against hardening our hearts. Meribah and Massah are referenced, which draw us back to Exodus 17, where the people once again complain against the Lord after finding no water. Of course, God provides water for them from the rock, but at the heart of this rebellion is a growing doubt concerning God’s goodness and presence. They grumbled because they thought things were better back in Egypt. Even though their eyes had seen God countless times provide for them, they still questioned Him, saying “Is the Lord among us or not?” (Exodus 17:7). So, what does this have to do with praise and thanksgiving? The Psalmist overflows with praise because he acknowledges what he has seen. The opposite is also true. Those who refuse to see God’s presence in their lives, simply will not overflow with praise. It’s not that God hasn’t been at work all around them. It’s that they have hardened their hearts in refusing to give Him the praise and credit due His name. This warning is so important for us, because we don’t want hard hearts. Have you been missing what God has been trying to show you? Has He been working in your life, but you’ve simply failed to see it? How can you turn today from doubt to praise? How can you soften your heart today to Him? What’s Happening at Gospel Life:Daylight Savings: Just a reminder that we will spring forward one hour this coming Sunday. Youth Group: Join us this Sunday, March 10th, from 5-7 pm. This Sunday we’ll be meeting at the Borrors’ house. Elder Training: Our next Elder Training will be postponed one week to Tuesday, March 19 at 7 pm at the Bronleewes’ house. We’ll continue our study in 1 Timothy 3. Please contact Pastor Dave if you have any questions or need a copy of the homework. Men’s Movie Night: Guys, join us for a movie night on March 15th at 6 pm at the Kropf’s house. We’ll be watching “Jesus Revolution” and have pizza and soft drinks. There will be a sign up sheet at the Church this Sunday, so please be sure to sign up and please note if you will bring a friend. Ministry Opportunities: Are you interested in serving in the Audio/Video ministry? Each Sunday we are blessed with volunteers who run slides, sound, and camera. If you have experience or would like to learn, please contact Pastor Dave. 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: 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: Watch Previous Worship Services | ||
We Don’t Want Hard Hearts
