First Things First
Wednesday 27th December 2023
As we get ready to begin a new year, let us anchor our aspirations, decisions, and endeavours in the timeless wisdom of Matthew 6:33:
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
“First things first" is a powerful principle as we step into 2024. It serves as a guiding beacon, urging us to reassess our priorities and align our pursuits with the eternal purposes of God. The new year stretches before us, laden with possibilities, goals and dreams. In the clamour of ambitions and the whirlwind of plans, the call remains unwavering—to put God's kingdom and His righteousness above all else.
A new year isn't just about making resolutions; it's about setting the right priorities. There's a divine invitation to reorient our lives and to dedicate our time, talents, and resources toward advancing God's kingdom.
What does it mean to seek His kingdom first in 2024? It involves an intentional and wholehearted commitment—an unwavering dedication to understanding and advancing God's kingdom values in every aspect of our lives.
Seeking His kingdom means embracing compassion, extending grace, promoting justice, sharing the Gospel, and fostering unity. It's about actively engaging in God's work and contributing to His mission of love and redemption.
But alongside seeking His kingdom, pursuing His righteousness is also essential. This requires a continuous pursuit of holiness, a commitment to living righteously in a world often fraught with moral ambiguity. Seeking His righteousness means aligning our thoughts, actions, and aspirations with His perfect will.
This commitment to God's kingdom and righteousness isn't limited to a specific season; it's a lifelong journey—a daily commitment to putting God first in our lives.
As we navigate the days ahead in 2024, let us resolve to prioritize God above all else. Let us seek Him fervently in prayer, through His Word, and in our interactions with others. Let us dedicate our resources—our time, finances, and talents—to glorifying His name and furthering His purposes.
In the new year, let's not merely chase after fleeting ambitions or temporary gains, let's invest in eternal values. Let's sow seeds of love, compassion, and hope in a world thirsty for God's touch. Matthew 6:33 assures us that when we prioritize His kingdom and righteousness, God faithfully provides for our needs. Let this assurance make us bold us as we step into the unknowns of the new year.
May our lives in 2024 be sincerely dedicated to God and His kingdom, and may it be a year where His light shines through us, transforming lives and impacting our world for His glory.
No Service | Sunday 31st December
Please be reminded that there is no worship service on Sunday, 31st December. We want to thank our volunteers who have served at Berwick Church of Christ and hope you have a wonderful holiday break with your family and friends. Please take this opportunity to catch up on some of the fantastic messages you missed throughout the year. Watch on our 'YouTube Channel' here.
Kids Church | ONLINE ONLY | 31st December | 10 am
Onsite Kids Church is enjoying a holiday break. Our online Kids Church program is available on Sunday 31st of December. We wish you a blessed Christmas with your family and friends.
Sunday 31st December
2 to 4-year-olds | The wise men go to see Jesus, God’s Son | Matthew 2:1-2, 9-11
5 to 12-year-olds | Following yonder star: Wise Men | Matthew 2:1-12
Sunday services are back! | 7th January 2024 | 10 am
How would you like to start 2024 on the path of spiritual growth and fruitfulness?
Join us as we discover the foundational principles of seeking God’s kingdom first in our lives. Drawing inspiration from the Parable of the Sower in Matthew 13, this series will delve into three aspects of living intentionally for God’s kingdom.
- Preparing the SOIL of your heart
- SOWing seeds of kingdom living
- Nurturing the GROWth of kingdom fruit
You will discover how to step into the New Year to actively seek God’s kingdom first and experience a transformative and fruitful 2024. We look forward to seeing you at Kingdom First!
Men's Prayer Group | Sunday 7th January 2024 | 5.45 pm
The Men’s Prayer Group is a group of men who meet regularly to pray together. James 5:16 – speaks about the effect of fervent prayer and how it achieves great things! Come along and enjoy fellowship, worship, and prayer as men of faith gather to seek God for mighty breakthroughs. Time: 5.45 pm – 7.30 pm.
Young Families Picnic | 14th January 2024
January can feel long, especially after the Christmas and New Year rush ends!
Pop the Young Families Picnic in your diary for some fun and connection. We are meeting near the playground at the Old Cheese Factory on January 14 at noon. Bring a rug and your lunch (or grab some takeaway) for a lovely chance to socialise with other families and maybe make some plans for a mid-week catch-up while you're there!!
Kids Church is back! | 21st January 2024 | 10 am
Kids Church 2024 kicks off on 21st January for a fun reconnect day!! Yay!!!! Kids come in your favourite colour, wear a big smile and be prepared for serious fun! Our team is ready for another great year of learning more about Jesus and how we can be like him. Sign-in opens at 9:45 am and closes at 10:15 am.
Young Families Camping Weekend at Warburton Holiday Park | 23rd-25th February 2024
Yes, it's on again in 2024! This year about 60 people had an amazing time together at our first-ever Young Families Camping Weekend.
We are so looking forward to our next Young Families Camp in 2024. This is an awesome opportunity to invite camping friends who don't attend church and give them a chance to connect with other Christian young families in a relaxed environment.
Please check out next year's event by clicking on the link below and booking as soon as possible to avoid missing out on a campsite.
>>>BOOK NOW<<<
Xtreme Character Challenge | Men | 21st-24th March 2024
An XCC is a mind, body, and soul adventure – an active and challenging endurance event for men out in the wild. This is NOT a Church Men’s Camp. The XCC is set up like an endless adventure; for 72 hours, men are confronted with significant physical challenges, deep camaraderie, and profound moral and spiritual input moments. Through the XCC process, men find perspective; they evaluate who they are and find a purpose worth living for.
Details:
- Date: 21st – 24th March 2024
- Where: Scenic Rim, Queensland
All participants will be screened to ensure they are up for the challenge. Please note that a full refund will be provided if you are not eligible to participate.
* This event is independently organised by 4MAUS.
>>>BOOK NOW<<<
Thank you for being His Presence in Every Place!
BRAAM BOTHA
Senior Pastor
