Uplifting Church
When, in Psalm 73, the psalmist finds himself frustrated by his daily struggles and aggravated by the inequities of life, it is amazing how quickly and simply his angst is resolved. This is especially true when you begin to sympathize with the depth of his annoyance. He says “all day long” he is “plagued,” “grieved” and “embittered.” Those are strong words to which most of us can relate when life gets tough and we run into harsh disappointments. The fix? Simpler than you might imagine. The psalmist confesses that the turnaround came when he “entered the sanctuary of God” (v.17). He speaks of a profound and needed adjustment to his perspective as he encounters God and God’s people in a place of worship. Remember that while many may view church as an extracurricular activity, it is in reality God’s essential prescription to keep your life, your heart and your emotions out of the gutter. With that in mind, we’d be wise to reaffirm our commitment to never “give up on meeting together” at church each weekend (Heb.10:25).
-- Pastor Mike
JANUARY OFFER
Nothing has the potential to capture your heart like a brand new baby—especially when it is your own. Seventeen years ago I experienced the joy of being a dad for the very first time. I can still remember that cute little guy all bundled up in blankets snuggled with his mom. He looked so small, so helpless, and so innocent. But I knew better. He might have been tiny and dependent, but he was not innocent, at least not in a theological sense. From the very moment of his existence, my son, like every other child, was a sinner.
As parents, one of our primary callings is preparing our children for conversion. Unfortunately, we are incapable of saving our kids. It is the Holy Spirit alone who convicts the heart and brings people to repentance. But we can equip our sons and daughter with a clear understanding of who God is. It is never too early to begin teaching your kids sound theology.
Our passion for helping families understand and communicate the gospel message is reflected in the book we chose this month. We would like to send you a copy as our “thank you” for your donation to Focal Point. Written by Marty Machowski, the book is titled Old Story New: Ten-Minute Devotions to Draw Your Family to God. This substantial devotional provides 78 weeks of interactive material on biblical stories that all point back to the gospel message. As you read through with your family, you will have opportunities to study Scripture, discuss questions and pray together. Of course, this book is not just for parents. It is a useful resource for grandparents, aunts, uncles, Sunday school teachers, childcare workers, and anyone who has an opportunity to influence children and prepare them to know and follow after God.
Request Old Story New with your donation of any amount this month.
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