Week of 7/27/25 and Potlunch/Roots Class

Dear Church Family,
On my mind this morning is wonderfully cool weather for this time in July and the fact that we are days away from August! We are almost done with the 'break' of summer, which strangely is very busy in its own way, especially those trying to get things together for the fair next week. Before you panic I would encourage you in a few things...
1) If you don't feel you connected with someone you hoped to, or didn't have enough vacation to reset - do something simple, yet intentional with your child/spouse/loved one to connect, even if it's just a few hours. At some point ask them how things are going in their relationship with God, whether Jesus' love is a present reality or something is clouding that from their view. Sit down with the Lord and ask yourself the same question.
2) Give thanks to God in this season. Are you taking anything for granted? Are you trusting him that your difficult circumstance is for his purposes in your life?
3) Plan ahead. What simple things will you prioritize going into this fall to help you grow in 'knowing God and making him known' in your life?

Home Enjoyment
Read 1 Samuel 29.
How had David choices and situation led him to this point? (1 Samuel 27:1)
Based on 1 Samuel 28:19, is there any way David could have moved forward and not ended up fighting against God?
Was David righteous/innocent toward Saul and Israel up to this point?
Was David honest or righteous in totality?
What did David do to deserve getting out of this situation?

Have you ever looked back on a situation where God 'saved you from yourself' or closed a door only to see his divine hand at work? Why doesn't it always feel merciful at the time?
What difference does it make in your life whether you see God as merciful or not?
Read Romans 8:26-30.
How does it change your view of God to know the Holy Spirit is interceding for all those who belong to him... even when we don't know what to say? How does that fit David's story?
When it says that all things work together for good(vs 28), what is the good that God is most wanting to work in us? (Vs 29)
Paul says that God has predestined - decided ahead of time, that all who believe in him will be taken to completion in the process of being made like Christ. How does that encourage you today to know you have been called by him, justified by Jesus' sacrifice, and will be glorified in Jesus forever?
Reflect on God's goodness and faithfulness in that and rejoice!
Finish by reading and reflecting on how Romans 8:31-39 has been and will be true for the rest of your life!

Coming Up...
Potlunch this coming Sunday - Always a good opportunity to meet new folks and encourage one another. Please bring enough for you/your crew and to share!
The Roots Class, for those wanting to know about GCBC and/or becoming a member, will start as soon as folks come over with their food. If you have not signed up please call the office so we can have materials for you and let us know if you need childcare.
Youth Skit Night - Next Sunday, August 3rd at 6:30pm for Jr High and High School in the Youth Room. Last summertime activity before school starts up!

May God's mercy be evident to you and upon you as you walk with him today,
Pastor Phillip