Bad, but Could be Worse

As I apply myself to the (seemingly endless) task of straightening my desk, this picture brought me some comfort:





Better get back to it!

Three Thoughts from Sunday

Humility by CJ Mahaney

1 The following is part of a book review I wrote on Humility in February 2006:

Get it! That's the most I can say. Without a doubt, if you are short on time and can only read a small bit per day, read Scripture. But if you can read a little more, I would then encourage meditating on Scripture, by reading works that are immersed in it. This book continually reminds you to get to the foot of the cross.

CJ uses so much Scripture in context that he can't help but his theology to be accurate. Though I don't agree with all of his positions, he is so clear that regeneration comes only through the work Christ, by faith given by Christ because of the grace of God in Christ. By taking you to the gospel continually, he does not keep things at the entry level (as some might assume) but actually calls you to dig deeper than most believers probably go.

However, this is not a doctoral dissertation, splattered throughout with difficult to understand words and concepts that are difficult to apply in everyday life. Near the end of the book, he gives suggestions for cultivating humility. One of his suggestions is "play more golf." After just a week of seeing how many of his suggestions do cultivate humility, I'm actually thinking of getting my clubs out of storage and giving it a try. Of course, I think that's probably more humiliation than humility.

CJ's life is graced with an infectious smile and joy. His book is a joy to read as well. But even more exciting, by God's grace, I have discovered that humility is not a painful Christian obligation, but an amazing joy.

I praise God that He has begun cultivating humility in my life and pray that He continues to do so (for I've got much much further to go). I am thankful to CJ, and the man who gave me this book, because God used it to reveal His Word to me and cultivate a heart that wants humility. I'd strongly encourage you to check it out!

2 By the way, CJ has an excellent blog I would commend to you. There is a grace, joy (and yes!), humility to CJ's life and ministry. On his blog, CJ links to some articles that display humility while calling people to exercise discernment as well. Take a look at Rob Bell, the Pastor's Task of Discernment and My Heart. Even though you may not be a pastor, and may have never heard of the Nooma series, you'll see a grace and compassion in his article that I strive to emulate. (If it strikes your interest, I too would encourage you to follow the links from CJ's site to Greg Gilbert's careful reviews.)

3 Lastly, what a surprise (and joy) to have a couple of you approach me wondering how to find the book on the Patristics. The name sounds imposing, but it really isn't that tough a read (if, like me, you read the translation, rather than the original greek). It's pretty interesting to see how the first disciples after the apostles wrote. If you are interested, you can find it here.

Announcements for February 25-March 2

MAP PACK UPDATE--Thank you for your wonderful support! As the totals came in, it looks like the team will be able to buy 3-4 MAP Packs to help our missionaries in the Dominican Republic. That has the potential to equate about 2,000 treatments...all of which, would present opportunity to present the glorious message of the gospel of Jesus Christ!!! Pray with us that these packs treat many physical needs as the Nilsens and Wolfes (along with others on staff) seek to present the gospel which cures our great spiritual need!


MEN’S PRAYER BREAKFAST: Are you looking for a good breakfast and a great discussion? Come join other men in the church for our Men’s Prayer Breakfast at 7am this Saturday (here at the church). This week, we’ll be discussing the discipline of work.


COMMUNITY PRAYER FOCUS: Interested in praying for our community with believers throughout the community? Join Nigel Symons at the YMCA at 9am this Saturday in the board room.


ARE YOU INTERESTED IN BEING BAPTIZED? If you trusted Jesus Christ as your Savior, the Scripture teaches it’s God’s desire you obey Him in water baptism. We have a service coming up soon (see the insert in your bulletin). Contact the office to arrange an appointment.


LEARNING TO DISCERN: Looking for a good book to read that is faithful to the Spirit of Christ? Sometimes the options seem overwhelming and a recommendation would go a long way. Did you know that is one of the things our blog offers? Check out http://ggbcnews.blogspot.com to get book recommendations, church updates and additional information. You can also find the blog by following the link from our main website (greenvillegrace.org).


Women’s Ministry

Unlimited Fun Outing for Your Unfinished Originals
February 29, March 28, April 25--6:30 pm - 10:30 pm
See brochure on table in Narthex for more details.

Women’s Bible Study
Beth Moore - Stepping Up (Psalm 120-134)
Monday Evenings, March 10 - April 21 @ 6:30 pm
Thursday Mornings, March 13 - April 24
Sign up sheet on table in Narthex

Young Mothers Group: (Mothers of children 5 and under).
Wednesday, March 12th @ 9:30 am
“Godly Parenting in a Godless Society”
Panel Discussion
If you would like a question addressed, please write your
question on the tear off portion of the bulletin and turn into
the office.

Must Read for Sports Fans and/or Sinners

CJ Mahaney has a great post regarding some of the steroids scandal in baseball and the recent "confessions" created by the scandal.

Genuine confession of sin is something we have to guard closely to make sure our sin doesn't effect even our confessions. Check out this paragraph:

Though I’m seeking to grow in godliness (by God’s grace), I know indwelling sin remains, and that means I will sin against my wife, son, or friends at some point this week. I am the worst sinner I know, not Andy Pettitte. I am more familiar with my sin than I am with his sin. And I have my own moment fast approaching when I will need to acknowledge my sin.

It's a great article. Check it out here.

Announcements for Feb. 18-24

Young Mothers Group: Wednesday, March 12th @ 9:30 am. There will be a panel discussion on “Godly Parenting in a Godless Society.” If you would like to submit a question for the panel, please use the tear off portion of the bulletin and place the question in the offering, or turn your question into the office. All mothers of young children (5 and under) are welcome to join us. See Rachel Wooten or Charity Wright for details.

Are you looking for book recommendations, information about our church and updates on events? Check out our Greenville Grace News Blog (http://ggbcnews.blogspot.com). Also, remember to check out our website (http://greenvillegrace.org) for sermon and Sunday school audio, LIFE Group questions and children’s materials.

Women’s Ministry
Unlimited Fun Outing for Your Unfinished Originals
February 29, March 28, April 25--6:30 pm - 10:30 pm
See brochure on table in Narthex for more details.

Women’s Bible Study
Beth Moore - Stepping Up (Psalm 120-134)
Monday Evenings, March 10 - April 21 @ 6:30 pm
Thursday Mornings, March 13 - April 24
Sign up sheet on table in Narthex

AWANA Opportunity--If you are interested in further discipleship training for your children, Bible Fellowship Church has invited any of our children to join their AWANA program (6:30pm on Wednesdays). Many families in our church have taken advantage of this training. Our elders wholeheartedly encourage you to consider this program and our church recently contributed $500 toward this valuable ministry.

DEADLINE TODAY FOR “MAP PACKS.” One $400 pack can provide 500-700 treatments in the Dominican. If you would like to give toward this project, simply place your gift in the offering, marked “MAP PACK.”

TRASH CAN of DRUGS: We want to fill a garbage can full of over-the-counter drugs for medical teams. Drop off unopened packages of Motrin, Tylenol, Neosporin, Zantac or their generic equivalents. Deadline is NEXT SUNDAY.

Is every sin unbelief?

Yesterday, I challenged us that every sin we commit is an outworking of our lack of faith. We do not believe God will act with justice, therefore, we lose our temper and attempt to exact justice on our own. We do not believe that God alone can be fully satisfying, therefore we covet and become filled with envy and greed. We do not believe God can work all things together for His good, therefore we sacrifice our integrity to avoid a difficult situation. In each of these situations, we have compromised our view of God when understanding His Glory.



A friend of mine (not knowing the point of this Sunday's message) had posted on his blog a great resource for exploring this truth. Desiring God Radio are podcasting a series of messages by Pastor John Piper. These messages are free to download and examine each sin in regard to battling unbelief.

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Desiring God Ministries is by no means perfect (they wouldn't claim so), but they are a very beneficial ministry. They desire to exalt Christ in all things and stand firmly on the Bible. The elders of Greenville Grace have found Desiring God to be so beneficial, they have been added to our 2008 budget for support. We strongly encourage you to check out their resources.

Why This Blog?

If you are wondering why we encourage reading this blog and your bulletin and have been trying to cut back on announcements, the answer can be found in 1 Corinthians 17!

Oh, if only it were true!

(HT:Dunker Journal)

Beth Moore Study Correction

Women’s Bible Study
Beth Moore - Stepping Up (Psalm 120-134)
Thursday Mornings, March13 - April 24
Sign up sheet on table in Narthex

There is also a MONDAY EVENING class available. It will begin on March 10th.

There is still time to sign up for either class.

Drugs for Kids!

In an age where churches will do anything to get people in their doors...do not panic. We are not offering drugs to children if they attend. We are gathering up medications for the Dominican Republic Missions team.

MAP International Travel Pack Fund Ends Sunday

Simply mark your gift "MAP Pack" and place it in the offering. (You can read more about the packs here.)

Trashcan of Drugs

We want to fill a garbage can full of over-the-counter drugs for medical teams. Drop off unopened packages of Motrin, Tylenol, Neosporin, Zantac or their generic equivalents. Deadline: February 24 (Next Sunday)

Announcements for February 10th

WOMEN'S MINISTRY

Unlimited Fun Outing for Your Unfinished Originals
February 29, March 28, April 25--6:30 pm - 10:30 pm
See brochure on table in Narthex for more details.

Women’s Retreat - Balanced Chaos
March 7-8th, Doubletree Hotel, Downtown Dayton
Deadline to register is today! If interested, you need to see
Charity or Diana Manges to get registration sent in.

Women’s Bible Study
Beth Moore - Stepping Up (Psalm 120-134)
Thursday Mornings, March13 - April 24
Sign up sheet on table in Narthex


AWANA Opportunity--If you are interested in further discipleship training for your children, Bible Fellowship Church has invited any of our children to join their AWANA program
(6:30pm on Wednesdays). Many families in our church have already taken advantage of this training. Our elders wholeheartedly encourage you to consider this program and our church recently contributed $500 toward this valuable ministry.

DRUGS FOR THE DOMINICAN!
Our friends in the Dominican Republic could use our help for their medical missions. There are two ways you can help:

MAP Travel Pack
One $400 pack makes 500-700 treatments. We would love to send a couple packs to the D.R. Simply mark “MAP Pack” on your offering envelope when giving an extra gift.
Deadline: February 17

Trashcan of Drugs
We want to fill a garbage can full of over-the-counter drugs for medical teams. Drop off unopened packages of Motrin, Tylenol, Neosporin, Zantac or their generic equivalents. Deadline: February 24

Contact the office (547-0065) or see Mike & Linda Fourman with questions.
www.greenvillegrace.org--Did you know that you can get LIFE Group questions, Children’s Church Curriculum, “Table Talks,” Sermon Audio and adult Sunday School lessons off of our website? What, you didn’t know we have a website? Check it out.

Congratulations Kati Stephens, Aaron Hoblit, Sheri Fleming and Sue House in winning free books at our church blog. Go to ggbcnews.blogspot.com to check announcements, read articles and see recent information about the church.

FINANCIAL REPORT
February 3rd Giving: $6821
2008 Average Weekly Need: $6147

The Treasure Principle

In Sunday's message, Matt mentioned the Treasure Principle. While Matt's sermon was about treasuring Christ, it obviously has a secondary focus on not treasuring the things that often tempt us. Jesus Himself said we cannot serve both God and money. Certainly, when we treasure Christ, we will handle all things differently. I know of no better book that deals with finances, from a perspective of treasuring Christ, than The Treasure Principle. I was going to write a recommendation, but instead decided to just give you the book's introduction:

All your life, you've been on a treasure hunt. You've been searching for a perfect person and a perfect place. Jesus is that person; heaven is that place. So if you're a Christian, you've already met the person, and you're already headed to the place.

But there's a problem. You're not yet living with that person, and you're not yet living in that place!

You may attend church regularly, pray, and read the Bible. But life can still be drudgery, can't it? You dutifully put one foot in front of the other, plodding across the hot, barren ground, longing for a joy you cannot find, a treasure that eludes you.

Jesus told a story like that. It's about a hidden treasure that, once discovered, brings life-changing joy. But before we get started on our little journey, I want you to know something. Some books try to motivate giving out of guilt. This isn't one of them.

This book is about something else--the joy of giving. The Treasure Principle has long been buried. It's time to unearth it. It's a simple yet profound idea--with radical implications. Once you grasp it and put it into practice, nothing will ever look the same. And believe me, you won't want it to.

When you discover the secret joy of the Treasure Principle, I guarantee you'll never be content with less.

The Gift of (Not) Giving

and whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do the things that are pleasing in His sight.--1 John 3:22

Sunday, I mentioned how easy it is for us to distort this verse. Taken out of its context, it appears that John is telling us that God can be our "divine wishing well." The fact that we would jump to this conclusion shows that our passions are often placed more on stuff than on God. As I thought more about it, it also revealed my arrogance...that I would actually think I know what I need.

In the message, I used the example of praying for a Ferrari. It would be great to have a Ferrari, so I simply (yeah, right) need to obey His commandments, and trust that God will bring it to my doorstep. Could it possibly be a bad thing receive a 2007 Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano for free? (estimated value = $270,034)

Consider the Cost:

Financial--Receiving a car for free, that regularly costs about three houses, does not mean you've gotten off cheap. I checked a "ball park quote" on an insurance website. To secure this particular Ferrari into their "good hands" would cost $4200 a year...for the most basic coverage possible. That was including no other driver and no other vehicle. (Conversely, Charity and I combined with both our cars on the ball park estimate came out to $740/year.) That's about $3500 that my family would be paying out just for insurance! (And let's be honest, driving in a car with a 3.97 zero-60 time probably means I'd be facing some tickets...thus higher insurance rates) I also calculated the cost of gas increase (my truck has a higher mpg). If I only drove about 8,000 miles/year, I'd be paying about $400 extra just in gasoline.

Relational--Though the whir of the the V-12 is pure music, it could be difficult to hold a conversation. There are no back seats (meaning 2 of our family of 6 can be in the car at once) and I doubt the seats are conducive for car seats. We usually travel as a family in our van, and I use the truck to travel alone or take one (or maybe two) kids somewhere, so it wouldn't change too much. However, my favorite "full family" trip in my truck every year is our family of six heading to Sickels Tree Farm and bringing home a Christmas Tree...something I don't see the family doing in a Fiorano.

Spiritual--This should be the first thought, and the more I think, the more I can see a free Ferrari would exact a great cost. I already mentioned the temptation to break the law in such a car. Deuteronomy 6 is probably harder to fulfill when I'm forced to travel alone, or at least in silence. And though it would be susceptible to moth and rust, it would be a temptation to make it my treasure.

Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us,--Ephesians 3:20

God certainly is gracious (understatement of the year). He has given us His Son to be the Savior of the World (which, Scripture reminds, He did before we asked.)! He has also given us everything we need for life and godliness!

And sometimes, He pours out His grace to us by not giving us what we want. He would not be His grace to give me anything I have asked for. We should praise God for His grace, when He does not give us that which would tempt us to stray from Him.

Announcements for Feb. 4-10

"WELCOME TO GRACE" CLASS STARTS FEB. 10th--If you’ve been attending Grace for a while (or even if this is your first week) and you would like to find out more about the church, as well as have a format for asking any questions you may have, we strongly encourage you to consider our Welcome to Grace Fellowships (February 10, 24 and March 9). In these three weeks, we will try to cover all the details that will help you better understand “why we do what we do.” (These fellowships are a requirement for all considering membership, but are not limited to those considering membership). If you are interested, please sign up on the table in the narthex or fill out the tear off and place in the offering.

ELDER STUDY BEGINS MONDAY NIGHT, FEB. 4 - Be here at 7pm as we begin our study on “Biblical Eldership”.

GRACE MOM’S GROUP - Wednesday, February 6, 9:30 am here at the church.

JOY FELLOWSHIP - Saturday, Feb. 9, 4:30 pm at Longfellow’s Shadows Restaurant, Sater St., Greenville

WELCOME TO GRACE - Starts next Sunday night, Feb. 10th at 6:30 pm

VOTER REGISTRATION DEADLINE- If you want to influence government with Christian principles, are you prepared to express your values at the ballot box? Monday, Feb. 4th is the deadline to register for the March primary elections. You can register today in the foyer by filling out a one page form. Leave it here and we will take your registration to the Board of Elections for you.

FINANCIAL REPORT
Average Weekly Jan. Giving: $6938
2008 Average Weekly Need: $6147