Southland’s 2014 V.B.S. - “WEIRD Animals”

July 28-31 (Monday - Thursday)

6-8:30 each night

It’s going to be a great time as we help our kids think about Jesus’ love.

Don’t forget to register

(see page 3 for details).

Southland Vine The

July 23, 2014 1630 W. Republic Road * Springfield, MO 65807

417.881.7405 * gosouthland.org

Southland Christian Church ...

equipping you to LIVE OUT your faith

as you ENCOUNTER God, CONNECT with others,

GROW DEEP and BUILD UP one another.

What’s Inside …

2-4 General Reminders & Info

5 "WE DO!"

6 What MATTers to Me 7 Les’ Latest ... (Children/Youth)

8-9 southlandwomen

10-11 Encounter

12-13 Connect 13 Grow Deep

14-15 Build Up

16 August Serving Schedule

17 Live Out

Upcoming Leadership Meetings:

Aug. 7 @ 6 PM Elders/staff

Aug 21 @ 6 PM Elders

We will publish the next edition of The Southland Vine on August 27.

SSeeee ppaaggee 22

ffoorr ddeettaaiillss

We will again have a time of fellowship with donuts and

coffee from 9-9:45 AM.

Aug. 31 at 10 AM One last

“Together again” Summer Sunday

one combined service at 10 AM

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GGeenneerraall RReemmiinnddeerrss aanndd IInnffoorrmmaattiioonn ......

AUGUST 24, 2014 at 6 PM ... since 2012, FLOURISH has been a special annual gathering for our whole church family. It takes place each August as we prepare to launch into a new ministry year. At FLOURISH, we share a delicious meal together. Then, we take time to celebrate the past year and look forward to where God is leading us as we move forward! It’s a great opportunity to gather as His church and re-focus on His purposes for us.

Our FLOURISH 2014 theme is “Relentless Pursuit.” We want this phrase to characterize us as we chase after God’s priorities here. As we move forward as His church, we want His Spirit to motivate us to be relentless in our pursuit of Him and His will.

Because of the meal we serve with FLOURISH, we need you to RSVP by August 17. There are forms available in CONNECT Groups and at the registration table in the front right corner of the auditorium starting July 27 (you

should also receive a copy in the mail). Please fill one of these out so we can best plan for the evening.

Southland Leadership

Here’s an update for you regarding our elder nomination process …

We offered SCC members the opportunity to recommend names of men to potentially serve as elders. The result of that was 1 name submitted for consideration. We are currently in dialogue with this individual about his pursuit of this position of leadership responsibility – this will include an interview process with the current eldership if he decides to pursue this role. We do this to help a potential elder both (a) understand the expectations that go with this responsibility and (b) help clarify whether or not this is God's call for his life at this point.

At some point in August, we will have available a list of those who will be serving for this next ministry year beginning in September. This list will include current elders and any potential new name. We will provide a window of time for congregational feedback. This doesn’t take the form of a vote, but giving SCC members a format for identifying Biblical reasons why a certain man might not be suitable for the responsibility.

Remember, the goal of this entire process is to recognize those men the Holy Spirit is calling to serve in this vital role of church leadership (see Acts 20:28). Whatever human process a church may have in place, He is the One who ultimately appoints such leaders. We want to make sure that we are doing our due diligence to align ourselves with where He is leading.

Congratulations to the following people on being immersed into Christ recently at

Southland!

April Carmichael Matthias Carmichael

Simeon Martin Emily Weber

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"THANK YOU" Notes ...

Southland’s 2014 V.B.S. – “Weird Animals” July 28-31 (Monday-Thursday evenings)

There are two options for registering kids: (1) Paper forms at the V.B.S. display in the foyer (2) Register on-line at the following web address www.gosouthland.org/vbs

V.B.S. requires the participation of many different people! Check out page 14 (in the “BUILD UP” section) for various ways you can help us share Jesus with children through this ministry (there’s a whole section there

devoted to V.B.S.). Even if you are not able to actually be present and serving during the evenings, there are ways you can contribute! The same basic information can be found at the display in the foyer as well.

BJ Harvill, Becky Hamm & Marty Hamm’s new address:

4813 N. 11th St. – Ozark, MO 65721 Also, they no longer have a house phone – only cell phones

Craig and Gabrielle Carroll’s new address:

2935 W. Maplewood, Apt D201 – Springfield, MO 65807

updates

SSAAVVEE TTHHEE DDAATTEE!! Sunday, October 26 – 5 PM

A new event for 2014 (replacing the Southland

BBQ) … a night of food, fun and fellowship for the

entire church family! Be looking for more details as

the day draws nearer.

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We are excited about this new ministry tool that has come to the Southland family! It’s already getting some rave review. In case you are not aware of what this is about, read on …

Right Now Media gives us digital access to a vast library of Biblical content through online video streaming. It’s kind of like NETFLIX … Jesus-style!

In addition to all the ways we will be able to use this in our ministries here at Southland, we are most excited about what it makes available to everyone connected to the SCC family. Through our church-wide subscription, you can have your own log-in with FREE access to all the content wherever and whenever you have an online connection (via smart phone, computer or any other connected electronic device).

This is a tool that fits who we are. Right Now Media identifies their goal as “equipping people to live out their faith in Jesus at home, at work and around the world.” While not identical to our process, hopefully that sounds familiar to you! If you haven’t yet, please send a request via e-mail to the church office (info@gosouthland.org) and we will help you get set-up.

One more note about RNM … with this tool, you will receive direct access to materials from across the spectrum of conservative Christianity. Because of that, we do encourage you to use appropriate discretion. While most of the content will be consistent with our with our beliefs (see the “What We Believe” section of our website), some material may not be. It’s a good reminder whenever we are reflecting on spiritual content – we need to check it against the Word of God.

We are excited to be utilizing the YouVersion “app” for tablets, smart phones, and other electronic devices during our Sunday services. Among other things, it's a great way to follow along with the sermon and even take electronic notes. You can even send your own notes to your e-mail account from right there within the app! See the posters around the building for specific instructions on how to find our LIVE event using this app each week: “SCC – Sunday ENCOUNTER.”

FINANCIAL UPDATE ... June 2014 (the most recently completed month)

We want to provide this basic info to keep you aware of what's happening. Keep in mind, this is a snapshot of one month. Please feel free to ask any questions you might have through the office staff.

INCOME ...

Regular tithe for the month - $42,678.00 (since Sept. 2013 = $411,072.80)

Average weekly tithe for the month - $9,771.25 (for Sept. 2013 - June 2014 = $9,342.56)

Weekly budgeted goal - $8,650 (This is based on an estimated annual budget of $450,000 ... NOTE: This is our target; we adjust as necessary along the way.)

Love Offerings - $695

We encourage you to take advantage of Southland's online presence ... check out our website

to listen to sermons, register for VBS, check out upcoming events, etc. Don't forget: you can also

get updates and information by "liking" our "Southland Christian Church" Facebook page.

To share a prayer requests with the Southland church family, you can send an e-mail to us at prayer@gosouthland.org or you can call the church office.

PRAYER Got Questions?

While we work hard to communicate all the right information, there may be additional questions you have about Southland. If you have questions, please contact the office and someone on staff will help you out. To e-mail questions, send them to the following address: gotquestions@gosouthland.org.

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One of the great privileges and joys of following Jesus is being joined together with other believers as His church.

Here at Southland, we express that vital connection in part through our “Membership Covenant.” It provides the

basic parameters for belonging to the church family here – the commitments we have made to Christ and one

another as His people. Now, these are not just our own ideas. Rather, they are our attempt to communicate the

teaching of God’s Word when it comes to His Church – just what does it require of us to belong to His Body? In

this section of the Vine, we will be reviewing these commitments – 1 from each of the 4 sections of the covenant

in each edition. It’s a way for us to keep fresh in our hearts and minds just what it means to be connected to one

another as His church here at Southland.

GENERAL LEADERSHIP COMMITMENT (for both elders and staff) … We covenant to be faithful stewards of the

resources and opportunities God provides. Andy Stanley says this: “Leadership is stewardship – it’s temporary and

you’re accountable.” Church leaders serve as those who are above all under God’s authority and responsible to Him.

That’s why elders and staff members have the obligation to utilize whatever He provides to accomplish His

purposes. That’s what stewardship is about. All of us in Christ are called to be faithful stewards with what He has

entrusted to us. Likewise, on a church-wide level, God entrusts people, financial resources, opportunities to serve,

open doors, etc. As leaders, our commitment is to be faithful in how we use what He has provided.

ELDERS’ COMMITMENT … We covenant to embrace the unique and sacred responsibilities entrusted to us by God.

The New Testament teaches the vital role of elders (it’s always a plurality in the NT) in the church. It’s part of His

design: men of character, wisdom and life experience who lead His people. In the church, elders receive this unique

and sacred trust from Christ Himself (1 Peter 5:2; see also Acts 20:28). These leaders are therefore given the

primary responsibility and accountability for the well-being of a local church. That’s why God’s Word instructs

elders as shepherds to “watch over” the flock as those “who must give an account” (Hebrews 13:17).

STAFF COMMITMENT … We covenant to partner with other staff members, functioning as a unified team for both

greater effectiveness and, more importantly, God’s glory. It is clear that unity matters within the church. Such

oneness brings glory to God, enhances our ministry to those outside of the church and even produces maturity

within the body (see John 17:20-23 and Ephesians 4:1-16). Working together in harmony with one another is

especially important within the staff team. In fact, just as with the body as a whole, each part of the staff should

work in tandem with the other parts. We are co-laborers in Christ, relying on one another and supporting one

another so that we can honor Him and effectively do the work He has given us to do.

MEMBERS’ COMMITMENT … We covenant to strive for holiness so that [our] lifestyle appropriately represents both

Christ and Southland. As followers of Jesus, we have been called to “be holy” (see Hebrews 12:14 and 1 Peter

1:13-16). At the very core, holiness is about living in obedience to God’s instructions found in His Word, reflecting

His holy character in our lives. We pursue what is good, righteous and pure by His standard, living out godly values

even in the midst of a world where they are unpopular. This is not how we earn our salvation, but it is how we

reflect our new identity in Christ (e.g. see Romans 12:1-2; Ephesians 4:20-24 and Colossians 3:5-11). This is

especially important as Christ’s representatives in this world since our conduct reflects both Him and His church.

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What MATTers to me …

As a parent, I certainly want things FROM my children – their love, their hugs, their respect, their obedience, etc. I want to experience from them the joyous blessings and structure of father-child relationships at their God-designed best. However much that might be true, the major driving force behind much of what I do as a dad is that I want things FOR my children. For example, when I give them instructions or guide them to doing what is the right thing, it’s not because I’m some kind of self-controlled egomaniac who needs to be respected. Ultimately, it’s because as a dad, I want what is absolutely best FOR them. I want them to learn the long-term blessings of doing the right thing, even if the initial outcomes aren’t the best. I want them to value respect and obedience towards those who are in charge. I want to them to be shaped and molded into all that God desires for them to be. It’s not because I need something FROM them; it’s because I want what’s best FOR them.

No analogy is perfect as they all break down at one point of comparison or another. So it is with this analogy – God’s desire for us is the same! Sure, when it comes to the God who sits enthroned above the universe, He desires, deserves and even demands things FROM us. Quite honestly, He has every right to all of that – it’s your prerogative when you are the Sovereign Lord of all. And yet, consider this: from all we can tell in His Word, God is not in the habit of giving us instructions just so we will give something to Him (as if He truly needed anything from us). Whatever He may get from us in love, devotion, obedience, etc., there’s also a major sense of it’s because of what He wants FOR us!

Here was the line that was used on Sunday, July 20 when it comes to God’s wisdom in Proverbs regarding money (a line paraphrased from Randy Gariss from College Heights Christian Church in Joplin):

When it comes to His instructions regarding giving or cultivating contentment or even avoiding the trap of greed, it’s not because God needs us to give to Him instead. He is the God who owns everything. So especially when it comes to this issue, it’s not what God needs FROM us, but FOR us! In other words, the same thing I want for my kids – that in the long run, they thrive at life because of their character – is what our Heavenly Father wants for us as His children. He wants to lead us to life, and that can only happen when we are following His ways.

Here are a couple of key themes we can see in Scripture that affirm this heart in Him:

1. In the OT Law, God’s instructions were intended for the good of His covenant people. We see words that emphasize His blessing upon His people’s obedience – words like “that it may go well with you” (see Deut. 4:40 or 12:28). On one level, it means that God blesses His people’s faithful devotion. On an even deeper level, it’s a reminder that God’s instructions are ultimately for His people’s good – helping them both avoid dangers and even find the life that He has in store! We must always make sure we are applying His commands properly (especially those from the context of the OT and the old covenant). But, this fundamental truth remains: God’s instructions are not just about what He needs FROM us, but about what He wants FOR us.

2. It’s the same with His wisdom for life – what we find in Proverbs. This current series has been so good for me personally on so many levels. Here’s one specific way: because it’s drawn me back to this reality that God intensely desires that we find real life. Over and over again in Proverbs, we see blessing as the end result of following His wisdom – it’s the God-blessed path for our journey through life (see 2:9-11; 3:6 and 3:13-18; compare that to Jesus’ words in John 10:10). Whether it’s in regard to our money, our speech or any other category, God’s wisdom is not because of what He needs FROM us, but because of what He wants FOR us.

Now, in the end, it’s right for us to do what God instructs us to do because He is our Lord and because we need to submit to Him. Even more, it is what He deserves from us. And yet, when you get to the very bottom of it all, what a blessing it is indeed that we can trust His heart enough to know that His guidance is in the end leading to our good! I That’s the heart that beats in me as a dad. If that’s the kind of heart I have, how much more must the immensely greater heart of our incomparably good heavenly Father beat that way towards us. May we respond appropriately!

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This Changes Everything Each Summer, Southland's Sr. High students load the trailer with bags and settle in vans for a road trip to the MOVE Conference. This five-day camp is designed by Christ In Youth to help students engage in worship, expose God's Word and encourage them to become "Kingdom workers."

The theme of this year's conference was entitled "This Changes Everything," focusing on the book of James – a book written by the brother of the resurrected Christ. By the end of the week, students discovered that faith begins with the resurrection. It’s the power that flows from this history-altering event that aligns faith with deeds, establishes justice and seeks the lost – it changes everything!

This week was made up of several opportunities to laugh, share, listen, express brokenness, find healing and truly worship. We explored the reality that the Maker of the universe placed His Holy Spirit in us and His presence in our lives changes everything.

Special thanks to our adult leaders for investing their time with our students: Doug & Susan Graves, Janet Kubitschek, Kelly Loftis, Terry Ochs, Austin & Amanda Presko, Amy Ritz, Emily Sampson, Nathan White and Sydney Wooldridge.

Come experience the thrill of the new Kapau Plummet water slide. Admission for the evening is just $20.00, or simply use your White Water Season Pass. Be sure to bring $$ for dinner inside the park.

You can still sign up at the youth display or confirm your participation by texting Les @ 417-773-1650.

Parent sponsors are needed to help with transportation.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Layton Flatt and his band were selected to perform at the Ozark Empire Fair.

Congratulations to Matthew Graves and Kaitlyn Graves for their participation in the annual Branson Firecracker Races. Matthew received an overall first place finish in the mile run. Kaitlyn received a first place finish in her age division for the 10 kilometer run.

Kayla Gray has been cast in the Springfield Little Theater production of Mary Poppins.

Sydney Wooldridge returned from M.S.U. classes in Italy. She's finishing her summer as the head cook for Maranatha Bible Camp.

Cheers! Trevor Cobb accepted a challenge card from last year's MOVE conference to drink only tap water for one year. Proceeds were designated to Clean Water, an organization that provides clean drinking water in third-world countries.

Sara Hickle, a youth ministry graduate of Evangel University was recently hired as the Youth Director for Parkview Christian Church.

Group Huddle Activity:

LLeess'' LLaatteesstt

UUppddaatteess ffrroomm tthhee CChhiillddrreenn’’ss && YYoouutthh MMiinniissttrriieess “Night Water at White Water”

Friday, August 1 Meet at the church at 4:00pm

Return to the church at 10:00pm

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Raising a child can be a tremendous blessing. There is nothing quite like hearing your baby say “Mama” or “Dada” for the first time. The joy that swells in a parent’s heart from a child’s spontaneous hug or “I love you!” is indescribable. Parents keep stacks of “treasures” and papers small hands have created, typically, even remembering the occasion when their little artist proudly presented them with such masterpieces. The peacefulness of a sleeping child, the scent of a baby, the utter glee of a toddler’s belly laugh – all of these things and more are memories God etches into our minds and hearts as we raise the children He has entrusted to us.

And yet, if we are honest, we must admit that parenting is also full of heartache and frustration. There are times when you find it hard to believe that your precious, chubby, cuddly baby has morphed into a willful, opinionated, demanding child. Almost every new mom has a list in her head of things her child will never do. Any seasoned mom hears “My kid will never…” and thinks, “Yeah, well good luck with all that!” There are few things as humbling as being reduced to tears by a little person a fraction of your size with only a fraction of your knowledge. It is a fact of life that children can confound an intelligent, competent adult, leaving them feeling clueless and searching for answers. The problem comes when parents try to find those answers through worldly resources. Not only do they often come away with information overload, but quite possibly a whole lot of bad advice. How are they supposed to decipher what works and what doesn’t? Even more, how are they supposed to do it the right way?

One of the goals of MSA (Moms Set Apart) is to help moms sort through the glut of worldly information so they can focus on parenting God’s way. That is why this year, in both MSA Mornings and MSA Nights, we are going to be going through a course called “Shepherding a Child’s Heart.” Jesus tells us in Luke 6:45 that “out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks.” We are using “Shepherding a Child’s Heart” in MSA as a way of teaching moms how to speak to the HEART of children of all ages. It is easy to address misbehavior in the moment, but it is much more difficult to help a child to understand that behind their behavior, is a heart issue that needs to be brought into line with God’s heart. That takes intentional parenting!

In the introduction to course, author Tedd Tripp lays out his own heart and intentions with these words:

“Today’s parents are frustrated and confused. Children don’t act like they should and parents don’t understand why. Many have concluded the job is impossible. Some simply turn away in frustration. Others keep trying to make the old 1950’s John Wayne approach work. Meanwhile, a generation of children is being wasted.

Our evangelical culture is nearly as lost as the society at large. We are losing our children. Parents of little children live in mortal fear of adolescence. Parents of teens continually remind them that their day is coming. When I had three teenage children, people would console me. The expectation is that the problems grow with the children.

…You can raise children in godly ways at the beginning of the 21st century. You need not – indeed, you dare not – cave in, concluding that the task is impossible. Experience may tell you failure is inevitable, but experience is an unsafe guide.

The only safe guide is the Bible. … It presents an accurate and comprehensive picture of children, parents, family life, values, training, nurture and discipline – all you need to be equipped for the task of parenting.

God’s ways have not proved inadequate; they are simply untried. … The parenting task is multifaceted. It involves being a kind authority, shepherding your children to understand themselves in God’s world and keeping the gospel in clear view so your children can internalize the good news and someday live in mutuality with you as people under God.”

southlandwomen

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SUMMER Moms Set Apart

If you have not had the chance to come and see what MSA is all about, this is the perfect time to join us! Find support and build friendships while you receive the encouragement all women need to be the women, wives and moms God wants us to be. We will even take care of your kids for you so you can have a little break!

M. S. A. Summer Mornings – 1st & 3rd Thursdays of each month … 9:30-11:30 AM Contact Danielle Keeton … msamornings@gosouthland.org

M. S. A. Summer Nights – August 26 … 7-8:30 PM Contact Kristie Martin… msanights@gosouthland.org

In the midst of a plethora of parenting books and ideas, it is hard to find one, even in a Christian bookstore, that is centered wholly around the Word of God. It is just as hard to find one that gives practical ideas that can help a parent move beyond the theory of Biblical parenting into the practice of Biblical parenting. This course covers both the theory and the practice.

To further equip parents even beyond “Shepherding a Child’s Heart,” we are going to spend time at the meetings assembling another truly wonderful tool - it is called “The Child Training Bible.” Is your child having trouble with selfishness, lying or some other heart issue? This Bible kit will give you quick, color-coded verses that you can read with them so that they see their behavior is not only a problem for you, but more importantly, for God.

I am so excited about this year! I consider it a privilege to serve alongside the MSA Morning and Nights leaders to help equip moms to raise their children to the glory of God. I would encourage you, if you are a mom with kids of any age, to come to Moms Set Apart starting in September. Regular sessions are the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month for MSA Mornings (Fall session starts September 4) and the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month for MSA Nights (Fall session starts September 2). This is not just another mommy’s group. To be sure, we laugh, shed a few tears, share blessings and frustrations, and eat A LOT of chocolate! In fact, we have chocolate, chatter and childcare – what more could a woman want? But seriously, we are ultimately about being intentional in our goal of equipping women to be the best women, wives and moms they can be. And toward that goal, I think this year will be especially meaningful.

Begin now to consider becoming a Mom Set Apart. We promise it will become something you look forward to each and every session!

Ladies Bible Study will also resume in September!

Box Top Girls BTG will resume on Friday, September 5. Be looking for more

information about this ministry designed for the young ladies of Southland. More information about the next year of BTG will be

shared in the weeks to come.

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Thoughts Behind the Song “Great I Am” … by Jon Carmichael

I don’t know if we can ever truly grasp the significance of what it means to be in the presence of the one true holy and righteous God.

When we come before God in prayer or worship, it’s not just a meeting between two buddies. Yes, Jesus does call us His friends in John 15, but that does not belittle who God is when we enter into His presence. Consider for a moment the scene in Isaiah 6. Isaiah describes his encounter with the Almighty as follows:

“I saw the Lord, high and exalted, seated on a throne; and the train of His robe filled the temple. Above Him were seraphim, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with

two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. And they were calling to one another: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.’

At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke. ‘Woe to me!’ I cried. ‘I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean

lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty.’”

Does that seem like Isaiah had a light-hearted, casual encounter?

Or also consider the few times recorded when Moses had personal encounters with the God of the universe in Exodus 3, 19 and 20. Let us evaluate … fire, lightening, smoke, trembling mountains, earthquakes and the sound of loud trumpets? Casual, friendly encounters?

Yet today, when we come before God in prayer or in song, it seems to be extremely casual. Where is the awe, where is the wonder?

The argument today is that Jesus changed everything we once knew (or thought we knew) about God – that, because of grace, we can come before God without fear and without trembling. That is true. Hebrews 4:13 says, “Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” However, God is still the same God yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8). Has the glory of God changed? Has the mighty power of God been tamed? Has the wonder of God been completely solved? Do we truly know the God we pray to or to whom we sing?

The awesome thing about what Jesus accomplished through the cross is that we now can be a part of God’s greatness—that we can be fully immersed in God’s untamed, mighty power, His unsolvable wonder and his unchanging glory! But I still have a hard time believing that God ever desired for our encounters with him to be casual, laid-back or especially, dare I say, routine.

The song “Great I am” by Jared Anderson captures this message extremely well, I believe – although God has opened the door for us to have a personal relationship with Him through Jesus and His Holy Spirit, He is still the Almighty One. He is still the creator of this endless universe. He is still the Great I Am.

Weekly ENCOUNTER ... a time to gather in God's presence together.

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Summer 2014 features a sermon series through the OT book of Proverbs (you may have noticed). We’re calling it “The Wise Life … Pursuing God’s Path.” If we want to experience God’s blessing, then Proverbs would tell us that it comes by chasing after and living out God’s Wisdom in all our ways! We started this series two introductory themes: (1) choosing to trust God and (2) embracing God’s Wisdom. Since then, we have been considering various themes that arise throughout the book. The Wisdom of Proverbs is about how we choose to live in our ordinary, everyday lives. Life is about a series of decisions. This book helps us to navigate through all the options, seeking and submitting ourselves to God’s way in all our ways!

Upcoming sermons in the series: July 27 … The theme of MARRIAGE – especially SEX (rated PG-13 due to the theme, we will have special plans for students up through 8th grade and, of course, typical children’s ministry programming) August 3 … The theme of ALCOHOL August 10 … The theme of WORK (guest preacher) August 17 … The theme of HUMILITY vs. PRIDE August 24 … series over (a FLOURISH-related theme)

NOTE: During this series, we have been encouraging you to be reading the book of Proverbs. Our look at the various themes on Sunday morning will become more valuable and beneficial for each of us personally as we listen in to the wisdom God is trying to speak into our lives. Once you have read the book, please sign your name on the posters on the back wall of the auditorium.

If you miss a sermon, you can catch it online! Go to the "Sermons & Media" tab on the home page of our website. Once there, click

"Launch Sermon Player" to find the one you want to hear.

UPCOMING PREACHING CALENDAR

I want to be close, close to your side, Heaven is real and death is a lie I want to hear voices of angels above Singing as one …

Chorus: Hallelujah, Holy, Holy, God Almighty, Great I am Who is worthy? None beside Thee, God Almighty, Great I Am

I want to be near near to your heart Loving the world hating the dark I want to see dry bones living again Singing as one

(Back to Chorus)

Bridge:

The mountains shake before Him

The demons run and flee

At the mention of the Name, King of Majesty

There is no power in hell or any who can stand

Before the power and the presence of the Great I am

The Great I am, The Great I am,

The Great I am, The Great I am, The Great I am.

(Back to Chorus)

There is a beautiful balance between God’s majesty and God’s grace when it comes to our worship. But, in the end, it’s not until we come to realize His greatness, His wonder, His power and His majesty that we can fully grasp the gift of grace.

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CONNECT Groups that meet outside of Sunday mornings …

242/Sync (7 PM @ back at the Carmichaels) … this group will be using a curriculum based on The Reason for God by Timothy Keller. This will focus on some of the hard questions that Christians face from those outside of the faith – and even from within their own hearts. How do we answer these questions in such a way that is consistent with who God is and actually affirms His reality?

CONNECT Groups that meet at 9 AM on Sunday mornings …

Free at Last (in the Fellowship Hall) … Deliver Us from Evil, is “a video series that offers

ammunition for today’s warfare of ideas. Ravi Zacharias empowers informed believers to

change their world. It is a series filled with eloquently told stories, historical references

and timeless truths that will open eyes in remarkable ways.” It will run throughout the

summer.

The Refuge (in the Gathering Room – off of the Great Room) … this group will be

doing a Bible study through Paul’s letter to the Ephesians.

The Morning Branch (in the Great Room) … this group will be using a curriculum

called Unstuck … Moving from the Mundane to the Meaningful. There are many

ways where we can be “stuck” in our spiritual life. This study is about helping us

move to the life that God has in store for us.

CONNECT Groups that meet at 10:30 AM on Sunday mornings …

Free at Last (in room #6) … currently, Ernie Emmerton is leading a study on heaven – what does God’s

Word truly teach about it? What will it be like? How is heaven supposed to impact our lives even in the here

and now? These are the kinds of questions being answered.

Empty Nesters (in the Fellowship Hall) … this group is currently doing a series titled “A Shepherd’s Look

at the 23rd Psalm.”

CONNECT Ministries ... a place to discover Christian community.

We have designed our CONNECT Ministries to help people discover Christian community. They provide the right kind of place to build relationships with other believers, pray with and for one another as we strive to follow Jesus faithfully and consider how God’s Word applies to our lives. Please see the "CONNECT Counter" in the foyer for information about where these groups meet weekly (mainly 9 and 10:30 on Sunday mornings), and for more details about any upcoming events (also listed below).

In the August Vine, we will lay-out plans for CONNECT Groups in the Fall … September 7th will be the

next date when all groups will be launching new materials at the same time.

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New Deeper Life Groups are going to be forming as we move into the Fall. They’re a great place to GROW DEEP in God’s Word and

your relationship with Jesus as we do it together!

To be a part of a “D-Group,” please fill out one of the GREEN CARDS found at the Welcome Center, and we will add your name to the list.

CHILDCARE IS AVAILABLE FOR D-GROUPS MEETING ON WEDNESDAY EVENINGS BEGINNING AT 6 PM. Contact Debbie Nelson to make sure we have it appropriate staffed when/if necessary.

At Southland, a significant way we help people grow is through our Deeper Life Groups (a.k.a. "D-Groups"). While we occasionally offer other teaching opportunities, this is our primary way of helping people plant DEEP roots into Christ and God's Word (see Colossians 2:6-7).

G ROW DEEP Ministries ... an opportunity to plant deep roots in Jesus and God's Word.

Ice Cream Social … August 15 @ 7:00 at church. Contact Shirley to find out what to bring.

CCoonnnneecctt MMiinniissttrriieess –– UUppccoommiinngg EEvveennttss ((oouuttssiiddee ooff rreegguullaarr ggaatthheerriinnggss))::

Join us on August 10 for our last scheduled

Branch event for the Summer. We will

announce specific

details during the morning Branch. For

now, save the date and

plan to be there!

Effective July 1st: Wednesday breakfasts will be at Ziggy’s on Republic Rd. at 9 AM

Shirley 773-8094 * Dorothy 827-6997 * Sue 883-8536

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OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE & “BUILD UP” THE BODY: VBS is coming soon!

For this to be successful, we need help in all kinds of ways by all kinds of people. Even if you cannot

be here to serve during VBS, there are many different ways we can use your help. Here are a few examples of how you can serve as part of VBS

this year:

1. Volunteer to serve during the evenings of VBS. At the display table in the foyer, there is a place for you to indicate how/where you wish to serve. It’s a great time not only serving the kids but getting to know other workers as well!

2. There will be a “Decoration Day” on Saturday, July 26. It’s a time when we need lots of hands helping to get the building ready for the week. If you show up, there will be a way you can help.

3. If you desire, you can simply donate money that will be used to purchase those same kinds of items for VBS.

4. Pray! Pray! Pray! … for good weather, a fun/safe time, but most of all that we take advantage of the opportunity to share of God’s great love for these kids!

This section of the Vine provides a central place for you to be informed about how to become active in service at Southland. One of our major priorities is to be a place where God's people BUILD UP one another. In fact, according to Ephesians 4:16, the overall health of the church (the Body) depends upon each part doing its "own special work." Through our acts of service, God uses us to help others grow. At the same time, here’s what is beautiful about God's design: what we do for the benefit of others even has benefits for our own growth as followers of Jesus. That's why we share this section with you. While we cannot include every potential opportunity to serve, we want to (1) highlight some specific areas where we have a need for help, (2) make you aware of special opportunities to serve and (3) provide a place to thank some of our volunteers.

Opportunities to BUILD UP ... a way to serve others and even help ourselves grow.

To volunteer to serve in any area of ministry, please fill out one of the BLUE "Build Up" response cards at the Welcome Center. We will pass your name along to the appropriate leader.

July 28-31 – 6 - 8:30 PM

In connection with FLOURISH, we will provide a list of “opportunities” where we need volunteers.

In so many ways, we are able to cover all the necessary areas because of our servant-hearted

volunteers. But, there are occasionally spots where we need some specific help. Maybe you can

fill-in a gap we know about. Maybe you’ll be able to volunteer to serve in an area of need we

don’t currently see. Regardless, be praying about ways you can serve in preparation for that.

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SHOWCASING A SERVANT: Terry Ochs

Music has been a big part of Terry’s life. He met his wife Brenda while he was working

as a DJ for the college radio station. Brenda called in on a dare from a friend and

told him that she was his “Secret Admirer” even though she had never seen him. She

said that she was madly in love with him and requested that he play the song, “I’m

on Fire” by 5000 Volts. They eventually met, dated, got married and it’s been their

song ever since. Brenda and Terry have attended Southland since they moved to

Springfield in 1997. He became a Deacon when he was asked to head up the Building

Campaign. Over the years he has been involved with the Drama Ministry, and taught

Men’s Sunday school.

He is currently involved as a Connect Group Leader, D-Group Leader, Worship Team

member, Youth Group Sponsor and Elder.

As a graduate of Kansas University … Oh wait … wrong school … As a graduate of Kansas State University he bleeds purple and is a fan

of their football and basketball teams. He likes to give a hard time to all of the KU fans around Southland. He’s got a great sense of humor

and enjoys making up games as anyone in the Free At Last Connect Group can attest.

There’s never a dull moment at Christmas when Brenda’s side of the family comes to visit and Terry comes up with the theme for that year.

When the theme was “Christmas in Paradise” you may have seen them parading around Springfield in freezing temperatures wearing tropical

shirts, Bermuda shorts, sunglasses, straw hats, sandals and black socks.

His current job requires that he travel most every week so he cherishes spending his free time with his wife and family.

Terry’s positive, “We can do this!” attitude is infectious. It is hard not to get enthused when Terry is driving a project or leading a group. His

heart for Christ and the Church are evident in every area he serves. Thanks Terry for all you do and for the example you set for us!

Thank you to Wilber Kaylor for fixing the classroom doors and all the other jobs you have done this

past month! YOU ROCK!

Thank you to Dennis and Kay McCann, and Keith Wall for moving and hanging the shelves and baby

changing station in the nursery area after the recent renovation.

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SERVING SCHEDULE – August 2014

Communion Prep: Karen and Truman Haynes

GREETERS WELCOME CENTER 8/3/14 - 1ST SVC 8/3/14 - 2ND SVC

10:30 Free at Last Connect Group (9:45-10:10) 9:00 Free at Last Connect Group

Jay and Kim Tyler Edith Moody/Sue Malina

8/10/14 - 1ST SVC 8/10/14 - 2ND SVC

Empty Nesters Connect Group (8:45-9:10) 242 Connect Group (10:15-10:40)

Mike Seal/Mike Lippert Keith & Christy Wall

8/17/14 - 1ST SVC 8/17/14 - 2ND SVC

10:30 Free At Last (8:45-9:10) 9:00 Branch Connect Group (10:15-10:40)

Shawn and Amelia Latimer Dennis & Kay McCann

8/24/14 - 1ST SVC 8/24/14 - 2ND SVC

Empty Nesters Connect Group (8:45-9:10) Refuge Connect Group (10:15-10:40)

Dustin and Lacey Shumaker Shirley Bloss/Pat Burge

8/31/14 - 1ST SVC 8/31/14 - 2ND SVC

10:30 Free at Last Connect Group (9:45-10:10) 9:00 Free at Last Connect Group

Mike and Carolyn Owen Keith and Christy Wall

SERVERS 1ST SERVICE 2ND SERVICE 8/3/14 Various People Austin Presko Team

8/10/14 Various People Doug Graves Family

8/17/14 Various People Ben Jennings Team

8/24/14 Various People Les Londeen & Youth Ministry

8/31/14 Various People Les Londeen & Youth Ministry

NURSERY CHECK-IN 1ST SERVICE 2ND SERVICE

8/3/14 Kelly Loftis Amanda Miller

8/10/14 Amanda Hamilton Debbie Gray

8/17/14 Stacy Gambill Susan Graves

8/24/14 Jill Sims Gabrielle Carroll

8/31/14 Pam Sewell Erica Shaw

NURSERY 1ST SERVICE 2ND SERVICE 8/3/14 Laura & Mike Lippert/Kelly Loftis Millers & Stewarts

8/10/14 Dustin & Lacey Shumaker/Amanda Hamilton Debbie Gray/Jill Cobb & Family

8/17/14 Melissa Mittag/Amanda Hamilton/Linda Jones Graves Family

8/24/14 Cheryl McAnally/Margie Pierce/Jill Sims Danielle Keeton/Michaela Kubitschek/Gabrielle

8/31/14 Lori Hembree/Pam Sewell Sue Malina/Erica Shaw/

Wee Cruisers’ LEADER

Li'l Cruisers’ LEADER

Cruisers’ LEADER

8/3/14 Kristin Londeen Britney Shearin

AJ and Terra Gegg Shelby Ritz

Austin and Amanda Presko

8/10/14 Gabrielle Carroll

Elizabeth Kubitschek Brad and Marsha Foster

Victoria Kubitschek Brad and Ashley Worthy

8/17/14 Debbie Jennings

Allison Ritz Ceci Drake

Linsey Drake Les

8/24/14 Tammy Worthy

Kayla Bryant Sara Emmerton Alexis Simpson

Shawn and Amelia Latimer

8/31/14 Danielle Keeton

TBA Sara Emmerton

Anna Martin Les

COMPUTER 1ST SERVICE 2ND SERVICE 8/3/14 Katy Carmichael Sonya Simpson

8/10/14 Dan Gray Dan Gray

8/17/14 Jordan Marsh Jay Butler

8/24/14 Carl Simpson Sonya Simpson

8/31/14 Assigned by Jon Assigned by Jon

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CURRENT NEEDS OF THE YOUTH HOME:

Sugar (brown & white) Flour Vegetable oil Canned goods Mac & Cheese Pudding & Jello Pasta Sauce Common Spices Cake Mixes/Frosting Drink Mix, tea, juice Peanut Butter Kids’ Cereal

Non-Food items needed: “HE” Liquid Laundry Detergent, fabric softener, dish detergent, 13 & 55 gallon trash bags, cleaning supplies, paper products, zip-lock bags, AA and AAA batteries, twin bedding and new pillows.

LIVE OUT Ministries

... a path for putting faith into action.

"Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers." - Galatians 6:10

To keep you informed about Southland’s foreign missions partners, we strive to provide updates when available in the alcove of the auditorium (by the map). This is really the only way one of our partners can communicate with us. Their location makes any online presence too risky from a security standpoint. We do make their newsletters available as they come in.

There is a website for the “Central India Christian Mission.” Check out www.indiamission.org for more information about some of the global Kingdom work we get to partner in here at Southland. You can also “like” their Facebook page for ongoing updates.

To be in prayer for the country of Tunisia, we encourage you to “like” the Pray4Tunisia Facebook page and/or visit the website (www.pray4tunisia.com) to be added to the e-mail distribution list.

The SHOW-ME CHRISTIAN YOUTH HOME will hold their annual open house on September 6th at the main campus in LaMonte, MO. This is a good time to visit and learn more about the home.

The Empty Nesters are planning to attend the open house and would be happy to have any of you join them. LaMonte is about 15 miles west of Sedalia.

This youth home receives no government support, being supported primarily by churches and individuals. That is why our Empty Nesters want to collect items from the congregation to take with them on September 6th. Items will be collected at Southland during the last two weeks of August. Monetary donations will also be collected and delivered to the home. Checks should be made to: Show-Me Christian Youth Home.

THIS IS A PROJECT OF THE G6:10 MINISTRIES.