July 13, 2025
You can find the order of worship and songs here.
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Christians are supposed to be forgiving and gracious. So it is jarring to read how David prayed against his enemies. Psalm 25:2 "O my God, in you I trust; let me not be put to shame; let not my enemies exult over me." David's prayer almost feels petty, if not downright immoral. Why does he not seek the good of his enemies? And why does he even have enemies to begin with?
But we must not forget. David never once went looking for unnecessary conflict. And it is clear that David was not really concerned about his personal advantage over others he deemed his enemies. Rather, David was keenly aware that people and powers were not only against David, but against David's God and his ways. The victory of his enemies, then, would mean the discrediting and the defeat of God's kingdom. This becomes clear throughout Psalm 25. "Indeed, none who wait for you shall be put to shame … Make me to know your ways, O LORD; teach me your paths … Good and upright is the LORD; therefore he instructs sinners in the way … All the paths of the LORD are steadfast love and faithfulness, for those who keep his covenant and his testimonies."
At the same time David is keenly aware of the fact that he is himself a liability to God's kingdom. "Remember not the sins of my youth or my transgressions; according to your steadfast love remember me, for the sake of your goodness, O LORD!" David, in other words, was himself fighting against God and his ways. The enemy lived within.
Many, in the name of Christ, focus their indignation on others while turning a blind eye to their own deep need for God's mercy. But while our focus remains exclusively or mainly on others, our agenda may not be God's agenda. But there is integrity in David's prayer for God's kingdom because he had no illusions about his own disqualification. David's only hope was God's mercy.
So we approach God with humility. We, no less than the unbelievers, desperately need God's grace. So we humble ourselves and pray. "He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way. All the paths of the LORD are steadfast love and faithfulness, for those who keep his covenant and his testimonies."
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Growth Resources
This year: Please see the full list of 2025 books as well as Bible reading plans on our church webpage.
In July we are reading “The Consequences of Ideas” by R.C. Sproul.
This week: We are reflecting upon Shorter Catechism Q. 27.
Everyday: Noted pastor and theologian Sinclair Ferguson posts a short reflection every day, each around 5 minutes long. "Things Unseen" cover various aspects of the Christian life, worship, and theological topics in a very accessible and edifying way. We encourage you to incorporate this into your daily life. Please see this page for more information. There you will find links to various podcast platforms as well as YouTube page.
Upcoming Events and Notices
July 13 (Lord’s Day): Please welcome Rev. Steven Cooper, who will be ministering God’s Word to us. Rev. Cooper will also give a presentation on how to minister to the LGBTQ folks during the lunch hour.
July 13 (Lord’s Day): Please join us for the fellowship lunch after the worship service.
Thank you for your continued support of Grace Fallbrook (PCA). Your loving support makes the proclamation of the gospel and the building up of the saints possible. Please visit gracefallbrook.church/give and click on "Give Online Now." You will be directed to the PCA Foundation where you can give towards Grace Fallbrook (PCA).