April 12, 2024

Dear Church Family,

Who knows you best? Do you have that friend or spouse who knows you so well that they can complete your sentences? This morning as I read Psalm 139, I was reminded that we have that friend. God knows us better than anyone else, even ourselves. He knows us so well, “Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know it altogether” (Psalm 139:4 ESV). I love these words at the beginning of the Psalm:

Psalm 139:1-3 (ESV)
O Lord, you have searched me and known me!
2    You know when I sit down and when I rise up;
you discern my thoughts from afar.
3    You search out my path and my lying down
and are acquainted with all my ways.

David’s only conclusion is, “Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it” (Psalm 139:6 ESV). It’s amazing that the God of the universe would care so much about us! Not only does He know us and care about us, but David later declares that it was God Himself who knit us together in our mother’s womb (Psalm 139:13). Even more amazing than this, though, is that He still loves us. Even though He knows our darkest secrets and most wicked thoughts and actions, He still loves us! In fact, David is overwhelmed by the fact that there’s no where he can run to flee from God’s presence. God loves you no matter what! If you get a chance, I encourage you to read Psalm 139 today and thank God for His deep love for you.
Here are two other encouragements for you today. First, seek God’s guidance. If God knows you better than anyone, He also knows what’s best for you. That’s why David says that no matter where he goes, “even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me” (Psalm 139:10). Second, ask for God’s insight. There are hidden areas that we can’t even see in our hearts and minds that need God’s uncovering. Ask Him to reveal to you those destructive things so He can graciously and lovingly remove them.

Psalm 139:23-24 (ESV)
Search me, O God, and know my heart!
Try me and know my thoughts!
24    And see if there be any grievous way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting!

What’s Happening at Gospel Life:

Communion: We will be celebrating the Lord’s Supper as part of our Sunday morning service this Sunday, April 14th. Through the ordinance of communion, we remember the sacrifice Jesus made to save us from our sins.

Youth Group: Join us this Sunday, April 14th, from 5-7 pm at the Bronleewes’ house.  We’ll have dinner, games, worship, and conclude our Bible study in Joshua.

Women’s Ministry: Introducing John 14:6 Ministries. Ladies, please join us on Saturday, April 20th from 10:00 – Noon for a time of fellowship, refreshment, and time in the Word of God as we discuss certain cultural statements from a Biblical perspective. Jane Jandayan will be hosting this first meeting.

Church Potluck: Join us after the morning worship service for a potluck meal on Sunday, April 21st. Please bring one of your favorite dishes to share with the group.

Men’s Meating: We’re excited for our first ever Men’s Meating. Yes Meating, where we all get together and share some of our secret BBQ or smoked meats with each other, and we learn more about the gospel. We’ll be meeting at the Gerdes’ house on April 27th from 5-7 pm. Drinks, sides, and dessert will be provided. You just need to bring yourself, a friend, and if you would like, a BBQ or smoked meat for all to share. There will be a signup on Sunday at the Welcome Table which will help us to plan the event.

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

This Coming Sunday:
When the Gospel Takes Root – This Sunday we’re continuing our series through 1-2 Thessalonians, titled Strength for Today and Bright Hope for Tomorrow. We’ll be in 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10 and see three different ways the Gospel takes root in our lives.
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLW5IMNeRoI99I-QNoGMnuWDy6Y5svTt_c