By God’s grace, the Christian runs to win by: off everything that hinders. through being fixed on Jesus. discipline to grow in self-discipline. EFCA SOF Article 8– Christian Living: We believe that God's justifying grace must not be separated from His sanctifying power and purpose. God commands us to love Him supremely and others sacrificially, and to live out our faith with care for one another, compassion toward the poor and justice for the oppressed. With God’s Word, the Spirit’s power, and fervent prayer in Christ’s name, we are to combat the spiritual forces of evil. In obedience to Christ’s commission, we are to make disciples among all people, always bearing witness to the gospel in word and deed. Applying God's Word to Life Think about learning a new skill (driving, sports, music, parenting, etc.). What helped you grow the most—a coach, practice, correction, encouragement, or something else? Why? What do you think it means to “miss” or fail to appropriate God's grace in everyday life (Heb. 12:15)? What’s our role in helping others to not miss out? Why do you think bitterness and living for our appetites are highlighted as sins that can keep us from running the race God has for us? In what ways does focusing on Jesus help us to overcome? In what ways is discipline described as loving, caring, and correcting love that is for our good in this passage? How might this understanding help us? Can you identify a difficult season that God later used to strengthen your character, deepen your faith, or grow you in grace? Which of God's “training tools” do you most need to lean into this week? How will you embrace God’s grace for your growth and your good today? Announcements Baptism and Food, Fun & Friends: This Wednesday, August 12 at 6:00 pm at Lakeshore Park in Starbuck. Taco bowls are on the menu. No Wednesday Sermon Based study August 12. “Connections: Women Connecting with Women”: will meet for coffee on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month at 10:00 am at Gather, next one is August 19. No need to RSVP-just show up and enjoy the conversations! Rejuvinate Women's Retreat at Camp Shamineau: September 18-20. Pick up a flyer on the welcome table or go to shamineau.org to register. NOTE: Hope Community is no longer providing scholarships for adult retreats. Minnewaska Moms Group Starting in September: They meet the 2nd and 4th Fridays during the school year from 9:30-11:00 am at Restoration Church in Glenwood. There is limited spots for preschool children childcare. Moms with children of all ages are welcome to join. The cost is $35 a year. Contact Mataya Cihlar at (320) 424-1639 or Sam Spader ((320) 424-8111 if you have questions. Moms Group is Looking for Childcare Volunteers: Contact Mataya Cihlar at (320) 424-1639 or Sam Spader ((320) 424-8111 if you are able to help all or even some of the Fridays. No Children’s Church July & August: Activity packets are available for during the sermon. NO Tuesday Sermon Based Small Group in Glenwood for the Rest of the Summer: This group will start again sometime in the Fall.