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Be Who You Is
I once read an interesting statement: “If you are not happy with your life, you can change it in two ways: either improve the conditions in which you live or improve your inner spiritual state. The first is not always possible, but the second is” (Leo Tolstoy, Wise Thoughts for Every Day).
It certainly seems that many of us strive to improve the conditions in which we live more than we strive to improve our inner spiritual state. We associate more money with a happier life. A new car is the key to a new attitude. The right stuff ushers in stability. Yet, all too often we find ourselves with low spirits; gloomy and listless feelings and perhaps even a bit sluggish.
What if we could replace the inevitable “summer doldrums” with “spiritual revival?” In other words, what if we strived to improve our inner spiritual state by claiming the promises of the Lord?
In Numbers 6 we find the Aaronic Benediction. Technically it was a “blessing” the Lord provided to Aaron and his sons to say to the people of Israel. This blessing was pronounced by the priest every morning and evening sacrifice with uplifted hands. At its conclusion the people would respond with “amen”—basically saying, “so be it” or “may it be so.” The people received it as the truth, and they trusted that God would fulfill the words of blessing, which in turn would revive their spiritual state.
“The Lord said to Moses, ‘Tell Aaron and his sons, this is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them: ‘The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace’” (Numbers 6: 22-26).
Friends, we must remember that even when times are difficult, when relationships are estranged, when the body of Christ disagrees, when we are lonely, when we are angry, when we feel hopeless, when we feel lost, when we feel lazy, lethargic and sluggish—we must never fail to see the face of the Lord radiantly shining upon us with promises of blessings, grace and peace.
There is an old saying that provides us with a wonderful reminder: “Be who you is; cause if you ain’t who you is you is who you ain’t.
“Summer doldrums” or “spiritual revival”—both are possible, but the second will change who you BE.
You are a child of God—claim His blessings for you today.
And all of God’s people said: AMEN.
I look forward to seeing you this Sunday as we gather together to worship and celebrate our Father.
Peace,
Trey
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Out Of Town This Sunday? Watch Us On Facebook Live Each Week!
We love gathering together each Sunday as a Grace family! But, if you are unable to join us for worship, there are two ways to join us online: You can always watch or listen to the sermons on our homepage or you can watch us live on our Facebook page.
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"In His Steps"
Tour of Israel with
Our Senior Pastor,
Rev. Dr. Trey Little
December 28 - January 6
A trip to the Holy Land is a bucket list adventure. To walk where Jesus walked is a life-giving opportunity, which will shape your faith journey. Trey would love for you to join him for what is sure to be a memorable trip to Israel. It will include a visit to sites such as the Mount of Olives, Garden of Gethsemane, Sea of Galilee, and Capernaum. For more information and to register, please visit: gpch.org/inhissteps. You may also discuss the details of the trip with the trip leader, Mike Fanning, by email or phone (mike@mikefanning.com; 210-710-6234).
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Here's What We're Learning
in the Backyard
June 17
Bible Story: You Raise Me Up (Jesus is the Cornerstone) • Ephesians 2:20-21a
Bottom Line: Jesus matters most.
Memory Verse: “I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.” Psalm 27:13, NIV
Life App: Confidence—Living like you believe what God says is true
Basic Truth: I can trust God no matter what.
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Inspire! Summer Bible Studies
June 19 - July 31
This summer we are excited about our two new studies: Discerning the Voice of God by Priscilla Shirer and Church of the Small Things by Melanie Shankle.We look forward to having you there. For more information and registration, please click HERE. |
Encore Day Trip in July
Alley Theater
Saturday, July 21, 1:30 p.m.-5:45 p.m.
Join us for a trip to the Alley Theater. Holmes and Watson is a riveting new adventure from award-winning writer Jeffrey Hatcher. Three years after the mysterious death of beloved detective Sherlock Holmes off Reichenbach Falls, Dr. John H. Watson receives a telegram that suggests his old friend may still be alive. The mysterious wire was sent from a doctor who states that three patients in his asylum’s care have each claimed to be the late Sherlock Holmes. Watson embarks on a journey to disprove these claims. Could Sherlock Holmes really be alive after all this time?
COST: $25. Registration and payment deadline is Sunday, July 8. Be at the church by 1:30 p.m. We will return to Grace by 5:30 p.m. Seating is limited. If you have questions you can contact Becky Morris (bmorris@gphc.org; 713-267-5091). |
Here's What We're Learning in the Treehouse
June 17
Basic Truth: God made me. God loves me. Jesus wants to be my friend forever.
Key Question: What tells you which way to go?
Bottom Line: The Bible tells me which way to go!
Memory Verse: “Show me the right path, O Lord; point out the road for me to follow.” (Psalm 25:4)
Bible Story Focus: The Bible tells me to look for ways to help others.
Love One Another • John 13:34-35
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High School
Pool Party
We’re heading over to the Shea-han’s house for some swimming and delicious food. Bring a friend!
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Join Us for the VBS
Block Party
Thursday, June 14, 6-8 p.m.
Come celebrate the end of the BEST WEEK OF THE SUMMER! The evening will include food trucks, airbrush face painting, balloon artist, snow cones, popsicles, inflatables, carnival rides.Tickets are $5 per person and can be purchased in the church library during VBS or at the gate (cash only at the gate). |
Middle School
Pool Party
Help us welcome the incoming 6th graders at this awesome pool party. We’ll swim, eat tons of snacks, and
hang out.
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When Helping Hurts Seminar
Massey-Tucker Fellowship Hall A
(Closest to the Massey-Tucker Lobby & Elevators)
You are invited to explore a different framework for thinking about poverty and its alleviation. Rather than simply defining it as a lack of material things, we will consider the roots of the issues: broken relationships with God, self, others, and the rest of creation. We will unpack the basic principles of poverty alleviation in an accessible way. We will meet on June 17, and conclude our final class with dinner on Wednesday, June 20. The class will meet at 10:15 a.m. in Massey-Tucker Fellowship Hall A, which is closest to the Massey-Tucker Lobby and elevators. Books will be provided. For more information, contact Chris French (cfrench@gpch.org; 713-267-5039).
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Looking Ahead in 2018…SAVE the DATE!
August 26, Harvey Remembrance - ONE Worship Service at 10 a.m.
September 23, Phases: Parent Conversations at 10:15 a.m.
October 7, World Communion Sunday - ONE Worship Service at 10 a.m.
October 12-14, Together Forever
November 6, Wood Memorial Golf Tournament
December 2, Phases: Parent Conversation at 10:15 a.m.
December 16, Grace Kids Musical & Christmas 4 the City Habitat Build – ONE Worship Service at 10 a.m.
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