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September 11, 2026 | ||
Dear Church Family, Have you ever hit rock bottom? Where do you go from there? Today I read two psalms, Psalm 42 and Psalm 43, and both speak of a soul feeling cast down and in turmoil. These psalms, by the Sons of Korah, have a repeated, common refrain, found in 42:5-6a, 42:11, and finally, 43:5.
There are many reasons why our souls might be downcast. Sometimes, like the psalmist, we feel abandoned or rejected by God (43:2). Sometimes we face unmet expectations, extreme injustice, pain or loss, or ongoing difficult circumstances. Whatever the reason, it’s a difficult place to be. The first thing I noticed is that the psalmist had to talk to himself. Sometimes we have to do this; we must tell ourselves to hope in God; that even at rock bottom we will find a Rock on which we can stand. What truths do you need to remind yourself of today? Another thing I noticed is that, during this difficult present, the psalmist looks both backward and forward. It hasn’t always been like this. He remembers the past times he would worship God from the bottom of his soul:
He looks to the future, telling himself, “for I shall again praise him,” (Psalm 42:5, 42:11. 43:5). Whether in death or life, he knows that his present circumstances will not last forever. It won’t always be like this. What past praise or future hope can help you in the present? Finally, the psalmist asks for God’s truth to lead him from where he is to where he should be. God’s truth shines light into the darkness of our circumstances and He will help lead us out.
–Pastor Dave ————————————————————————————————————————- What’s Happening at Gospel Life:Evangelism Workshop: God calls us to, “Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time,” (Colossians 4:5 ESV). We would love for you to join us for an evangelism workshop this Sunday, September 13th after the morning worship service, from 12-2 pm at Columbia High School. This workshop is aimed at providing you practical tools to more effectively share your faith. If you are interested in attending, please contact Pastor Dave (daveb@gospellifebc.com). Sunday Evening Youth Group: We’re excited to begin meeting again on Sunday evenings starting on September 20th. If you are in 6-12 grade, we’d love to have you join us at the Bronleewes’ house from 5-7 pm. We’ll have dinner, games, worship, and start a new study through the book, A Case for Christ, looking at the incredible evidence for the biblical Jesus. Ladies Hike: Women and girls are invited to join us for a hike and outdoor fellowship on Saturday, September 26th from 2:30-8:00 pm. We will meet at Evelyn Seashore’s home and carpool up to Mores Mountain Loop Trailhead just past Bogus Basin. After the 2 mile hike we will enjoy a picnic dinner, fellowship and breathtaking views. If you would like to join us please let Evelyn or Abby know so that we can plan for carpooling and dinner. Be sure to invite a friend! Upcoming Date: Communion (September 20th), Elder Training (September 22nd)Life Groups: If you’re interested in joining a life group, we have several to choose from. You can check them out here: https://gospellifebiblechurch.churchcenter.com/groups/small-groups 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: This Coming Sunday: Previous Worship Services: | ||
Why are you cast down O my soul?
