I was reading the paper, when my eyes fell on a picture of people living in the state of Acre in Brazil. They were people who resented outsiders because they brought diseases and took land. Why this picture interested me
went back to a time in my Christian life, when I felt God was calling me and my family to go there and serve Him. At that time I belonged to a church which was missionary orientated. One of the ex-pastors, had founded the Acre Gospel mission, and so a work began, A couple from this church had gone out to Acre, but on their way there they both became ill, and the wife died. The husband was told he needed to go home because of his illness ,but he didn't, He believed Gods call was still on his life, he was a very gifted man, and God used him, to establish churches, For the rest of his
life he served God in Brazil, until he went to be with the Lord, his name may not appear in ,whose ,who book of fame,but we are told,''Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.......they will rest from their labour,for their deeds will follow them''[Revelation 14 v13-14 ]
A prayer.
Dear God we thank you for those people who served You in very difficulty
circumstances ,who were faithful, and are now blessed in glory, in Jesus name Amen.
[ I will return to my Blog Monday 2nd of Jan, every blessing]
Thursday, 29 December 2016
Wednesday, 28 December 2016
God loves that church. [ Nehemiah 1 v 1-6 ]
I was talking to a friend on the phone, who lives in Ulster, and I asked him,
had he heard how the church we used to attend is getting on. His reply
caused me great sadness, he said people were leaving the church, and there was no Sunday school. I sort of felt like Nehemiah ,when he was told of the state of Jerusalem, we read, that the walls of the city were broken down,
like Nehemiah, I did shed a tear, and offered up a prayer. This was the fellowship that I went to as child, were I first trusted the Lord. They always had a thriving children's work ,I remember teaching a Sunday school glass , of the lively missionary interest they had. It was the place were I met my first wife and it was there I got married. The Pastor was a faithful minister of Gods word, and ministered there for many years. So you can imagine how I feel, and yet it is the story of many churches, once thriving affairs,
they are now no longer in existence . One wonders why,there are different reasons, disunity, lack of love, unforgiveness , lack of meaningful outreach.
Whatever the reason it saddens me greatly, What can one do?, well our first port of call must be prayer, now I must pray on a regular bases for this fellowship, which I love, and most of all, God loves, will you join with me in praying for that church,?.
A prayer.
Dear God have mercy upon that church ,and all such churches,in mercy
may the Holy Spirit move in that situation, in Jesus name Amen
had he heard how the church we used to attend is getting on. His reply
caused me great sadness, he said people were leaving the church, and there was no Sunday school. I sort of felt like Nehemiah ,when he was told of the state of Jerusalem, we read, that the walls of the city were broken down,
like Nehemiah, I did shed a tear, and offered up a prayer. This was the fellowship that I went to as child, were I first trusted the Lord. They always had a thriving children's work ,I remember teaching a Sunday school glass , of the lively missionary interest they had. It was the place were I met my first wife and it was there I got married. The Pastor was a faithful minister of Gods word, and ministered there for many years. So you can imagine how I feel, and yet it is the story of many churches, once thriving affairs,
they are now no longer in existence . One wonders why,there are different reasons, disunity, lack of love, unforgiveness , lack of meaningful outreach.
Whatever the reason it saddens me greatly, What can one do?, well our first port of call must be prayer, now I must pray on a regular bases for this fellowship, which I love, and most of all, God loves, will you join with me in praying for that church,?.
A prayer.
Dear God have mercy upon that church ,and all such churches,in mercy
may the Holy Spirit move in that situation, in Jesus name Amen
Tuesday, 27 December 2016
I am a witness. [Acts 1 v8 ]
I had taken a person to a hospital appointment, and I was going to fetch my car, and I noticed a lady in her nightgown sitting smoking, there is no smoking allowed in hospitals. I felt led to ask her how she was, it turned out she had cancer, she said it could be treated but there was no cure. I felt laid to witness to her, I spoke of Christ, and the importance of knowing Him. That if one knows Christ ,then death brings glory, you close your eyes in death and the next moment you open them in heaven. I realise I may the only person she would hear these words from, but she has heard, so we water our witness, by our prayers. I must be faithful, I must, and the same goes for all Christians, oh yes show them you are a Christian, but do not make this an excuse of not telling them about Christ, let us remember its not about us, it is about Christ. who said ,we are to be His witnesses [ Acts 1 v8 ].
A prayer.
Dear God help us to be faithful ,not just by our lives, important as that is, but to speak to people about their need of Jesus your son Amen.
A prayer.
Dear God help us to be faithful ,not just by our lives, important as that is, but to speak to people about their need of Jesus your son Amen.
Monday, 26 December 2016
A favourite actor. [ 1 Timothy 1 v 12-15 ]
Just recently I watched a famous actor being interviewed, it was awful to watch, I do not know how to describe his, manner and attitude. I hope I am not judging him, it just made me feel so sad, for as a child, I remember going to the cinema and watching him, he made us children laugh and even cry. But there he was a hard and cynical old man, he was no longer that person, he portrayed on silver screen. I am so glad that he is not my next door neighbour, and yet as I wrote this blog, I offered up a prayer for him. For I know that Jesus did not come into a world that is perfect, He did not come for those who thought themselves righteous, He came for sinners, yes even for the hard and cynical people, let us not write anybody off, no one is beyond redemption.
A prayer
Dear God we pray for that old hard, and cynical actor, have mercy upon him, we thank you that Christ came into the world to save sinners, In His name we ask this Amen.
A prayer
Dear God we pray for that old hard, and cynical actor, have mercy upon him, we thank you that Christ came into the world to save sinners, In His name we ask this Amen.
Sunday, 25 December 2016
It is no myth. [ John 3 v16 ]
I transported a lady to a friends funeral, those gathered were told that the
deceased had not wanted a service. A young man took the service, he did pray the Lords prayer, but it was obvious that he did not touch on anything spiritual . He spoke well from a purely secular point of view, after the service I spoke to him, he told me he was funeral facilitator, and said he was an agnostic. I felt laid to say to him, that the resurrection of Jesus was an
historical fact. Our faith is not built upon myth, or make believe, Christ was born in Bethlehem, the story of his birth is not just a little homely, it actually happened .When a follower of Christ wrote about Him, he testified
how he had heard Him speak, seen Him, touched Him.[ 1 John 1 v 1 ].They saw the miracles that He had performed, listened to His teaching, heard him tell them of His death and His resurrection. [ Matthew 17 v 22-23]. The
disciples witnessed His death, and His resurrection, they heard His farewell
message, before He was taken up to heaven. Many stop thinking about Christ after Christmas,but the story is larger than His birth, the meaning
of His birth, life and death, is of vital importance for the whole of humanity
To sum up, when it come to Christ ,He was a historical reality, the meaning
of that reality, was, Gods answer to mans great need, the salvation of this world, that does not mean that all will be saved, even though Christs death
could save everyone, it is a gift freely offered, and as many as receive that gift, receive forgiveness, and eternal life.
A prayer.
Dear God we thank you for Jesus ,His birth , life, death and resurrection,
grant that this Christmas,many will receive,Him as their Saviour Amen.
deceased had not wanted a service. A young man took the service, he did pray the Lords prayer, but it was obvious that he did not touch on anything spiritual . He spoke well from a purely secular point of view, after the service I spoke to him, he told me he was funeral facilitator, and said he was an agnostic. I felt laid to say to him, that the resurrection of Jesus was an
historical fact. Our faith is not built upon myth, or make believe, Christ was born in Bethlehem, the story of his birth is not just a little homely, it actually happened .When a follower of Christ wrote about Him, he testified
how he had heard Him speak, seen Him, touched Him.[ 1 John 1 v 1 ].They saw the miracles that He had performed, listened to His teaching, heard him tell them of His death and His resurrection. [ Matthew 17 v 22-23]. The
disciples witnessed His death, and His resurrection, they heard His farewell
message, before He was taken up to heaven. Many stop thinking about Christ after Christmas,but the story is larger than His birth, the meaning
of His birth, life and death, is of vital importance for the whole of humanity
To sum up, when it come to Christ ,He was a historical reality, the meaning
of that reality, was, Gods answer to mans great need, the salvation of this world, that does not mean that all will be saved, even though Christs death
could save everyone, it is a gift freely offered, and as many as receive that gift, receive forgiveness, and eternal life.
A prayer.
Dear God we thank you for Jesus ,His birth , life, death and resurrection,
grant that this Christmas,many will receive,Him as their Saviour Amen.
Saturday, 24 December 2016
Nice people. [ Romans 3 v23 / 6 v23 ]
Lionel Blue a well known radio rabbi died aged 86,I remember listening to
him years ago, he seemed a nice person. A newspaper published an article
by him, where he related how he came to a belief in God, at a Quaker meeting, and how he eventually became a Rabbi .The god he discovered he called Fred, he believed in an afterlife. As I thought of him my mind turned to another religious person ,the Dalai Lama, aged 81,he is still alive, he like LB appears a nice person, he is a Buddhist. There are many nice people in the world, nice Muslims, Hindu's, non -Christians ,atheist, and so on, nice people, that 's how we see them, but the important question how does God see them?.How can a person know, does He see people as I see them?,no , He see's that we are all sinners, who are in rebellion against Him. It is interesting that the Dalai Lama is called ,''His Holiness'', like a certain nice man in the Vatican. There is an old hymn which proclaims ,''Only Thou art Holy''. speaking of God, we should call no man his holiness, for only God is truly holy. The fact is nice people are but sinners, and who do they need ? Jesus who came to save sinful nice people.
A prayer.
Dear God forgive us in ignoring what Your word tells us ,that we all have sinned and come short of Your glory, and that all men need a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord Amen
him years ago, he seemed a nice person. A newspaper published an article
by him, where he related how he came to a belief in God, at a Quaker meeting, and how he eventually became a Rabbi .The god he discovered he called Fred, he believed in an afterlife. As I thought of him my mind turned to another religious person ,the Dalai Lama, aged 81,he is still alive, he like LB appears a nice person, he is a Buddhist. There are many nice people in the world, nice Muslims, Hindu's, non -Christians ,atheist, and so on, nice people, that 's how we see them, but the important question how does God see them?.How can a person know, does He see people as I see them?,no , He see's that we are all sinners, who are in rebellion against Him. It is interesting that the Dalai Lama is called ,''His Holiness'', like a certain nice man in the Vatican. There is an old hymn which proclaims ,''Only Thou art Holy''. speaking of God, we should call no man his holiness, for only God is truly holy. The fact is nice people are but sinners, and who do they need ? Jesus who came to save sinful nice people.
A prayer.
Dear God forgive us in ignoring what Your word tells us ,that we all have sinned and come short of Your glory, and that all men need a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord Amen
Friday, 23 December 2016
The seriousness of.....[Romans 6 v 23 ]
A man called Kellogg wrote the following, ''Many are exceedingly loth to
believe that sin can be such a serious matter''. As I study the book of Leviticus ,it is becoming more and more clear how serious sin is, how contact with God was a very restricted affair,this is seen in the sacrifices, in all the regulations, in the tabernacle, and in the temple, there was a place called ,the holiest of hollies. Gods presence was there, He who is holy, only one person could enter that place, and that only once a year, on the day of atonement, and when he did he had to take the blood of a sacrificed animal,
and sprinkle it on those things within. We read in Hebrews 9 v22,''Without
shedding of blood there is no forgiveness''. These animal sacrifices did not completely deal with sin, they were but a temporary answer [Psalm 40 v6], but God had a plan, The plan God came up with was extreme ,and this plan shows the seriousness of sin, it was beyond words to fully describe. Gods ,
answer was Jesus His son, He would leave heaven, be born of a virgin,He
would have an earthly name Jesus which means ,that he would save people from their sin[Matthew 1 v21].The seriousness of sin meant that if Jesus had not come, Hell for all us would be the result, that's the consequence of sin. But Jesus did come, and through His death sinners could be saved. The awful tragedy is this most people do not see the true meaning and purpose
of Christs coming. We return to that opening statement, ''Many are exceedingly loth to believe that sin can be such a very serious matter''
A prayer
Dear Holy God and Father, open the eyes of our understanding, to the seriousness of our sins, and the vital importance of accepting Christ as our Saviour. Amen.
believe that sin can be such a serious matter''. As I study the book of Leviticus ,it is becoming more and more clear how serious sin is, how contact with God was a very restricted affair,this is seen in the sacrifices, in all the regulations, in the tabernacle, and in the temple, there was a place called ,the holiest of hollies. Gods presence was there, He who is holy, only one person could enter that place, and that only once a year, on the day of atonement, and when he did he had to take the blood of a sacrificed animal,
and sprinkle it on those things within. We read in Hebrews 9 v22,''Without
shedding of blood there is no forgiveness''. These animal sacrifices did not completely deal with sin, they were but a temporary answer [Psalm 40 v6], but God had a plan, The plan God came up with was extreme ,and this plan shows the seriousness of sin, it was beyond words to fully describe. Gods ,
answer was Jesus His son, He would leave heaven, be born of a virgin,He
would have an earthly name Jesus which means ,that he would save people from their sin[Matthew 1 v21].The seriousness of sin meant that if Jesus had not come, Hell for all us would be the result, that's the consequence of sin. But Jesus did come, and through His death sinners could be saved. The awful tragedy is this most people do not see the true meaning and purpose
of Christs coming. We return to that opening statement, ''Many are exceedingly loth to believe that sin can be such a very serious matter''
A prayer
Dear Holy God and Father, open the eyes of our understanding, to the seriousness of our sins, and the vital importance of accepting Christ as our Saviour. Amen.
Thursday, 22 December 2016
Merry , ?. [Isaiah 53 ]
Do you believe in Santa?well of course ,as an adult you don't, but if one is a parent we play a pretend game with our children .Our next door neighbour has a little sign outside her door which reads, ''Santa call here''. Now of course it is just make believe, we sing about him getting stuck up the chimney,even though many new homes have no chimneys. People even put food out and we sing about his reindeer's, and the one with the shiny nose, hopefully all it is, is innocent fun. Many put on nativity plays, mainly for the children,that tells the story of a couple who find themselves with no shelter for the night, but manage to find room in a stable, were baby Jesus is born, later shepherds come to see the child, that angels told them about. Then we have the wise men coming who bring gifts, so that's it, a nice little story, for children ,along with Santa, it all adds up to what? .For many that is all there is to it, along with the carols, turkey and Christmas lights, Christmas cards, and a merry Halloween, oh I mean Christmas.
A prayer.
Dear God we ask that in your mercy ,that the true meaning of the Christ event may ,become real to each of us, in Jesus name Amen.
A prayer.
Dear God we ask that in your mercy ,that the true meaning of the Christ event may ,become real to each of us, in Jesus name Amen.
Wednesday, 21 December 2016
Christmas Carol. [ Matthew 1 v 23 ]
Charles Dickens wrote many wonderful stories, that have given millions of
people great pleasure. Christmas Carol is a great favourite at this time, which has a message for everyone of us. The main character in the story is
Ebenezer Scrooge, a mean, and miserable person, who hates Christmas.
Then one night when he goes to sleep, he has a visit from the ghost of Christmas past, who takes him on a journey, of his past history, and how unloving he had been, and other aspects of his existence, and ends with him
looking at a gravestone with his name on it. All this awakens him, the awfulness of his past life, and the fate that awaits him. So he turns to his ghostly companion, and he asks this question,''Are these things that shall be, or are they things that may be?''. I do not believe in fatalism, we can choose, just like our first parents did,[Genesis 2 v 15-17].in Deuteronomy 30 v15, we read,'' See, I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction''. Continually God pleads through the prophets, to turn from their sin, warning them of the consequences if they didn't. Judgement which fell upon them was not fixed, but alas they maintained a stubborn resistance and so they suffered. Yes nothing is fixed Nineveh repented and was shown mercy,in the book of Revelation the seven churches ,are warned [chapter 2-3] the church at Ephesus was called on to repent, in other words, they had
a choice. The coming of Christ, means we all have a choice, when we accept Him, we can be different, we can change, we can know there is a wonderful future.
A prayer.
Dear God we thank you that in Christ we can change, and our future ,both for time, and eternity can change Amen.
people great pleasure. Christmas Carol is a great favourite at this time, which has a message for everyone of us. The main character in the story is
Ebenezer Scrooge, a mean, and miserable person, who hates Christmas.
Then one night when he goes to sleep, he has a visit from the ghost of Christmas past, who takes him on a journey, of his past history, and how unloving he had been, and other aspects of his existence, and ends with him
looking at a gravestone with his name on it. All this awakens him, the awfulness of his past life, and the fate that awaits him. So he turns to his ghostly companion, and he asks this question,''Are these things that shall be, or are they things that may be?''. I do not believe in fatalism, we can choose, just like our first parents did,[Genesis 2 v 15-17].in Deuteronomy 30 v15, we read,'' See, I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction''. Continually God pleads through the prophets, to turn from their sin, warning them of the consequences if they didn't. Judgement which fell upon them was not fixed, but alas they maintained a stubborn resistance and so they suffered. Yes nothing is fixed Nineveh repented and was shown mercy,in the book of Revelation the seven churches ,are warned [chapter 2-3] the church at Ephesus was called on to repent, in other words, they had
a choice. The coming of Christ, means we all have a choice, when we accept Him, we can be different, we can change, we can know there is a wonderful future.
A prayer.
Dear God we thank you that in Christ we can change, and our future ,both for time, and eternity can change Amen.
Tuesday, 20 December 2016
Denial [ John 9 v25 ]
Many people are in denial, those who have addictions, will deny that they
have a problem, many of us will not acknowledge our short comings. The result is we continue on,and suffer, or make others suffer, because we are not willing to face reality. Better to face up to the truth, for its only as we do
will we hopefully begin to deal with those things ,that need dealt with. they say that honesty is the best policy, especially when it comes to ourselves. Especially when it comes to knowing God, we can never know Him unless we are honest with Him. Until we realise that He demands and expects openness from everyone, nothing will change, and its change that we all need, if we are honest enough to admit it. Think about the most important thing that you need, your salvation, yes we all need to be saved.
Right away pride raises its ugly head and we are into denial, I have been there, we all start there. From the moment we are born we go astray, and we
will not acknowledge the truth ,that we are sinners. We are on the run from
a holy God, yet denying that reality, Germany were never willing to face the
reality of Nazism, because under Hitler they had employment, and food on their tables, and we all know where that led to.
A prayer.
Dear God open our minds, and help to see our lostness, our need of Christ,
Amen.
have a problem, many of us will not acknowledge our short comings. The result is we continue on,and suffer, or make others suffer, because we are not willing to face reality. Better to face up to the truth, for its only as we do
will we hopefully begin to deal with those things ,that need dealt with. they say that honesty is the best policy, especially when it comes to ourselves. Especially when it comes to knowing God, we can never know Him unless we are honest with Him. Until we realise that He demands and expects openness from everyone, nothing will change, and its change that we all need, if we are honest enough to admit it. Think about the most important thing that you need, your salvation, yes we all need to be saved.
Right away pride raises its ugly head and we are into denial, I have been there, we all start there. From the moment we are born we go astray, and we
will not acknowledge the truth ,that we are sinners. We are on the run from
a holy God, yet denying that reality, Germany were never willing to face the
reality of Nazism, because under Hitler they had employment, and food on their tables, and we all know where that led to.
A prayer.
Dear God open our minds, and help to see our lostness, our need of Christ,
Amen.
Monday, 19 December 2016
So thats it [John 11 v25 ]
I was watching a comedy program about a person trying to think of a place
to scatter his aunts ashes. Ashes, is that all its about? ,it is a fair question likewise as one who has taken funerals, be it at a grave or crematorium ,the question is still the same. I attended a cousin,s funeral ,and when it came to the graveside there was nothing said ,prayed, or read, it gave the impression that was that. The death of a person appears to me as being unreal, the persons is there one moment, then they are gone ,it is real but on the other hand it is hard to get ones head around what has happened. It appears that Queen Victoria, found it very hard to come to terms with the loss of Prince Albert. I suppose I am touching on something that is very sensitive, so what can I say?. I write as a Christian, and as Christian I know that when a Christian dies, there is hope, when our body dies we go to heaven,[ John 17v 24] Then there will be a moment when Jesus comes back again,[ 14 V 1-3], then something wonderful will happen, all those who died whatever way, will miraculously , be resurrected, with new new transformed bodies, and will forever be with the Lord.[ 1 Corinthians 15 v 35-49]
A prayer.
Dear God words fail us to adequately to praise You for the hope we have as Christians, that we hope that goes beyond our deaths ,because of Jesus.
Amen.
to scatter his aunts ashes. Ashes, is that all its about? ,it is a fair question likewise as one who has taken funerals, be it at a grave or crematorium ,the question is still the same. I attended a cousin,s funeral ,and when it came to the graveside there was nothing said ,prayed, or read, it gave the impression that was that. The death of a person appears to me as being unreal, the persons is there one moment, then they are gone ,it is real but on the other hand it is hard to get ones head around what has happened. It appears that Queen Victoria, found it very hard to come to terms with the loss of Prince Albert. I suppose I am touching on something that is very sensitive, so what can I say?. I write as a Christian, and as Christian I know that when a Christian dies, there is hope, when our body dies we go to heaven,[ John 17v 24] Then there will be a moment when Jesus comes back again,[ 14 V 1-3], then something wonderful will happen, all those who died whatever way, will miraculously , be resurrected, with new new transformed bodies, and will forever be with the Lord.[ 1 Corinthians 15 v 35-49]
A prayer.
Dear God words fail us to adequately to praise You for the hope we have as Christians, that we hope that goes beyond our deaths ,because of Jesus.
Amen.
Sunday, 18 December 2016
Lonliness [ Hebrews 13 v 5 ]
I do not have a twitter account, nor do I go on face book, this is not saying its wrong,but for me at this time it is not for me . Face book and twitter meet a need within our modern society, why is that? , it could be that many people are lonely and isolated. That is not good, the word of God tells us it is not good for man to be alone [Genesis 2 v18],God made us to be social
beings.It is a strange thing, as the population of the world has grown,there
are cities with populations of 20 million, many people are lonely and isolated. I myself at times have felt lonely, less than I used to, but it is not a nice feeling, yes even as a Christian one may feel lonely. And so we have
these web sites, that do help ,in some sense to meet a need, though they are not perfect, and can be used as channels of abuse. That's why we must show a degree of caution in what we put on these sites, everyone reading what you put on ,is not your friend. Can anything good come out of our times of loneliness?, well if we are a Christian, we are in a very favourable position
there is one with us ,who understands our need, for social contact, but He also wants us to develop a deep relationship with Him. I have come to realise that my Saviour seeks what is best for me, He has sent different friends into my life, will remove them as He sees fit, to remind me that the only relationship that is permanent is His.
A prayer.
Dear Lord ,you know just how we feel,when we are lonely, you know what
we need, and can supply our needs, help to see our greatest need is you, in
your name we ask this Amen.
beings.It is a strange thing, as the population of the world has grown,there
are cities with populations of 20 million, many people are lonely and isolated. I myself at times have felt lonely, less than I used to, but it is not a nice feeling, yes even as a Christian one may feel lonely. And so we have
these web sites, that do help ,in some sense to meet a need, though they are not perfect, and can be used as channels of abuse. That's why we must show a degree of caution in what we put on these sites, everyone reading what you put on ,is not your friend. Can anything good come out of our times of loneliness?, well if we are a Christian, we are in a very favourable position
there is one with us ,who understands our need, for social contact, but He also wants us to develop a deep relationship with Him. I have come to realise that my Saviour seeks what is best for me, He has sent different friends into my life, will remove them as He sees fit, to remind me that the only relationship that is permanent is His.
A prayer.
Dear Lord ,you know just how we feel,when we are lonely, you know what
we need, and can supply our needs, help to see our greatest need is you, in
your name we ask this Amen.
Thursday, 15 December 2016
Support the family. [John 13 v 34 ]
The term backslider is a term that I never hear these days, but where I come
from, it was a common expression, used of someone who had gone away from the Lord. I have met many professing Christians who have gone back from following the Lord, and there are those I pray for everyday. Because
I remember my backsliding days, yes I trusted the Lord, but it was an off and on relationship, it was not till a week before my 20th birthday, I finally came home again. I was fortunate that I was supported by a dear Christian, and that helped a lot, in fact I am indebted to different Christians, who have supported me through my Christian life. We all need those Christians who will support us, and befriend us, on our journey to glory, Timothy had his Paul, David had his Jonathan. Some Christians have only churches they go to, but have no fellowship, some Christian ministers rarely visit their folk.
Yet let me stress it is important for us all to support our family, for that's what the Christian church is, a family. One of my sons who is a leader in a fellowship, arranged a curry evening, for folk in his fellowship . A lady who did not like curry volunteered to babysit, for a young couple, so they could go.that young couple really enjoyed their evening out, it had been a long time since they had enjoyed such an occasion. We need to support our family of believers, lets not leave it to others, or to the Pastor.
Blest be the tie that binds
Our hearts in Christian love;
The fellowship of kindred minds
is like to that above.
We share our mutual woes,
Our mutual burdens bear,
And often for each other flows
The sympathising tear.
[Word by John Fawcett]
[I will return to my Blog on Sunday, every blessing ]
from, it was a common expression, used of someone who had gone away from the Lord. I have met many professing Christians who have gone back from following the Lord, and there are those I pray for everyday. Because
I remember my backsliding days, yes I trusted the Lord, but it was an off and on relationship, it was not till a week before my 20th birthday, I finally came home again. I was fortunate that I was supported by a dear Christian, and that helped a lot, in fact I am indebted to different Christians, who have supported me through my Christian life. We all need those Christians who will support us, and befriend us, on our journey to glory, Timothy had his Paul, David had his Jonathan. Some Christians have only churches they go to, but have no fellowship, some Christian ministers rarely visit their folk.
Yet let me stress it is important for us all to support our family, for that's what the Christian church is, a family. One of my sons who is a leader in a fellowship, arranged a curry evening, for folk in his fellowship . A lady who did not like curry volunteered to babysit, for a young couple, so they could go.that young couple really enjoyed their evening out, it had been a long time since they had enjoyed such an occasion. We need to support our family of believers, lets not leave it to others, or to the Pastor.
Blest be the tie that binds
Our hearts in Christian love;
The fellowship of kindred minds
is like to that above.
We share our mutual woes,
Our mutual burdens bear,
And often for each other flows
The sympathising tear.
[Word by John Fawcett]
[I will return to my Blog on Sunday, every blessing ]
Wednesday, 14 December 2016
Secure [Psalm 121 ]
My wife and I were returning from the supermarket, she was driving, when all of a sudden, a car swerved around the central reservation into our paths. Fortunately my wife swerved, and the car missed us, it could have been so serious, but God protected us. I have driven thousand and thousands of miles I am not a perfect driver, yet God has preserved me form all harm. We live in a potentially dangerous world, we could be the best driver in the world, but that will not stop us being in an accident, being injured, or even killed,now I am not wanting to put fear into you, but rather to encourage
you to look to God, who alone is able to keep us safe, in the battle field, or on the road. It was John Ryland who wrote the following
Plagues and deaths around me fly;
Till He bids, I cannot die;
Not a single shaft can hit,
Till the God of love sees fit.
you to look to God, who alone is able to keep us safe, in the battle field, or on the road. It was John Ryland who wrote the following
Plagues and deaths around me fly;
Till He bids, I cannot die;
Not a single shaft can hit,
Till the God of love sees fit.
Tuesday, 13 December 2016
Open hearts. [ Acts 16 v 14 ]
Lead me to people whose hearts are open, that is a prayer I pray continually, so many people, hearts are closed to Gods word. So is He?, I believe He is.
Let me share something, we had to have our boiler serviced, so a man came,
appeared to do the job. But later we were concerned that there was a problem so we phoned the gas company, they sent another man to look at it. The first thing about this young man he was very polite, and before he left,
he shared with me that his mother had died, and how it made him realise how short life is, this opened up the door that enabled me to speak to him.I
suggested he read a particular scripture, which he said he would. I really
felt that here was a man whose heart was open to Gods word. All my Christian life, the importance of witnessing about Christ has stayed with me ,it is a challenge,
I leave the result with God, I can do no other.
When Jesus has found you,
Tell others the story.
That my loving Saviour
is your Saviour too;
Then pray that your Saviour
may bring them to glory,
And prayer will be answered,
was answered for you.
[Words, Samuel. O.M.Cluff.]
Let me share something, we had to have our boiler serviced, so a man came,
appeared to do the job. But later we were concerned that there was a problem so we phoned the gas company, they sent another man to look at it. The first thing about this young man he was very polite, and before he left,
he shared with me that his mother had died, and how it made him realise how short life is, this opened up the door that enabled me to speak to him.I
suggested he read a particular scripture, which he said he would. I really
felt that here was a man whose heart was open to Gods word. All my Christian life, the importance of witnessing about Christ has stayed with me ,it is a challenge,
I leave the result with God, I can do no other.
When Jesus has found you,
Tell others the story.
That my loving Saviour
is your Saviour too;
Then pray that your Saviour
may bring them to glory,
And prayer will be answered,
was answered for you.
[Words, Samuel. O.M.Cluff.]
Monday, 12 December 2016
Thine be the glory [ Jeremiah 9 v23-24 ]
We finish the Lords prayer with the following words,''Thine be the Glory for ever and ever, Amen ''in other words we want to give all the praise to God.There's a term which I have not heard for a long time, and its this, ''He was a self made man''. Right away we are attributing praise to that person, consider the following words,' 'No king is saved by the size of his army; no warrior escapes by his great army[Psalm33 v16]. Wealth and honour come from you, you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now ,our God, we give you thanks and praise your Glorious name.[ 1 Chronicles 29 v12-13 ]Why is it ,God throughout the Bible, chooses the most unlikely people for His purposes?. Consider a few Jacob, the twister, Rehab a harlot, Samson a strong but weak man, Gideon's 300,David the shepherd boy, who defeated a giant , Ruth a Gentile, and so the list goes on. Why did He choose them?, so that He would get the glory, He choose you and me in order that He would get the glory, the thing is, let us give Him the Glory, which is His due
A prayer.
Dear God we give you all the glory, for you alone worthy,in Jesus name Amen
A prayer.
Dear God we give you all the glory, for you alone worthy,in Jesus name Amen
Sunday, 11 December 2016
Holy Ground [ Exodus 3 v1- 6 ]
I have read the book of Leviticus many times, but personally I have not studied it in depth,at this time I am studying it,using as a help a book by Derek Tidball ,I am up to chapter 8 and have found this book very helpful,
this chapter deals with the ordination of Aaron and his sons.This was carried out publicly by Moses,for all to see,it was not done in secret.The first thing that was done was,they were washed,symbolically indicating
cleansing.there is standard for all Christian ,holiness,besetting sins must be dealt with.So from cleansing to clothing.and it is here that DT points out that there is no mention of footwear,I never noticed that before ,indicating
that they performed their duties barefoot,as DT points out,''as was considered fitting for those who were standing on holy ground in the
presence of the Lord''My mind turned to the time when Moses met with God at the burning bush,and was told,'' Take of your sandals, for the place
where you are standing is holy ground''[Exodus 3 v 5 ]Now I am not saying that we should take of our shoes when we come to worship Him,but I would say we should at all times remember that God is Holy.Robert Louis Stevenson,would conduct family worship in the mornings for his household.
he always concluded by praying the Lords Prayer.One morning in the middle of the prayer,he left the room.His wife followed him ,thinking he was unwell.He told her, I am not fit to pray the Lords Prayer.''Robert had suddenly discovered that when one comes into Gods presence we are standing on Holy Ground.
This is the place
Where dreams are found,
Where vision comes
Called holy ground.
Holy ground,
I'm standing on holy ground
For the Lord my God
Is here with me.
Your fire burns
But never dies;
I realise
This is holy ground.
The Great I Am,
Revealed to man;
Take off your shoes,
This is holy ground.
[Words by Dave
Bilbrough]
this chapter deals with the ordination of Aaron and his sons.This was carried out publicly by Moses,for all to see,it was not done in secret.The first thing that was done was,they were washed,symbolically indicating
cleansing.there is standard for all Christian ,holiness,besetting sins must be dealt with.So from cleansing to clothing.and it is here that DT points out that there is no mention of footwear,I never noticed that before ,indicating
that they performed their duties barefoot,as DT points out,''as was considered fitting for those who were standing on holy ground in the
presence of the Lord''My mind turned to the time when Moses met with God at the burning bush,and was told,'' Take of your sandals, for the place
where you are standing is holy ground''[Exodus 3 v 5 ]Now I am not saying that we should take of our shoes when we come to worship Him,but I would say we should at all times remember that God is Holy.Robert Louis Stevenson,would conduct family worship in the mornings for his household.
he always concluded by praying the Lords Prayer.One morning in the middle of the prayer,he left the room.His wife followed him ,thinking he was unwell.He told her, I am not fit to pray the Lords Prayer.''Robert had suddenly discovered that when one comes into Gods presence we are standing on Holy Ground.
This is the place
Where dreams are found,
Where vision comes
Called holy ground.
Holy ground,
I'm standing on holy ground
For the Lord my God
Is here with me.
Your fire burns
But never dies;
I realise
This is holy ground.
The Great I Am,
Revealed to man;
Take off your shoes,
This is holy ground.
[Words by Dave
Bilbrough]
Saturday, 10 December 2016
Tiny sins and big sins.[ James 2 v10 ]
The Roman Catholic church teaches that there are two classes of sin, mortal and venial '',Mortal sin is described because it is a great offence against the law of God, and is so called because it is deadly ,killing the soul and subjecting it to eternal punishment. It can be forgiven. but they believe that an unknown amount of punishment remains to be expiated in purgatory. Venial sins on the other hand, are small and pardonable offences against God or our neighbour. Technically, venial sins need not to be confessed since they are comparatively light and can be expiated by good works, prayers, extreme unction,and the torments of purgatory''[Loraine Boettner]It is Derek Tidball who says that there is no hierarchy of sin, and yet many people see that there is, of course there are sins that are more serious ,and yet all sin in Gods eyes is serious. God we are told is holy and the reality is that all sin is equally offensive to God, He looks not on any sin in a light manner,and will judge the offender,our human reasoning thinks that, the Hitlers,child murders,etc deserve hell,in fact we would rule them out of ever getting into heaven.But the fact is even one sin would bar us from heaven,because in Gods sight all sin is an act of rebellion,and must be
dealt with ,rebels will never be allowed into heaven. Until we see sin in its entirety, and that it needs forgiven, we will never be saved, never.
A prayer.
Dear God help us all to see the seriousness of all sin,that there is no hierarchy of sin,that all sin needs to be forgiven ,or it will condemn us to a lost eternity,in Jesus name we ask this Amen.
dealt with ,rebels will never be allowed into heaven. Until we see sin in its entirety, and that it needs forgiven, we will never be saved, never.
A prayer.
Dear God help us all to see the seriousness of all sin,that there is no hierarchy of sin,that all sin needs to be forgiven ,or it will condemn us to a lost eternity,in Jesus name we ask this Amen.
Friday, 9 December 2016
The fire is extinguished [Isaiah 53 ]
Let us return to that verse in Leviticus 6 v13,''The fire must be kept burning
on the altar continuously, it must not go out''. Consider what this may mean
in relation to Christ ,for as Derek Tidball writes,'' The ultimate significance of Leviticus finds its fulfilment in Christ''.It was John the Baptist who called Jesus the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.[ John 1v29],and in that great chapter of Isaiah 53,we read of one who was a lamb
being led to the slaughter[v7 ].Now consider those words in Leviticus as regards the fire on the altar not going out. In Hebrews 12v29 and Deuteronomy 4 v24, we are told that God is a consuming fire, the animals
that were sacrificed by fire, reminds us of Gods wrath being poured out, continually. All through Israel's history the fire on the altar would continually be as it were be poured out on the animals that were sacrificed. So it would continue until the lamb of God, Jesus would experience the wrath of God for all who would be saved, in other words the wrath of God that was their due would be extinguished, they would be saved from wrath to come.[1 Thessalonians 1v10]For as we are told in Isaiah 53 v10,that it was the Lords will to crush him, the result would be ,those who trusted in Him would not be crushed.So it is that on a coming day those who have not trusted Him will be crushed.
The wrath of God that was my due
upon the Lamb was laid.
,
on the altar continuously, it must not go out''. Consider what this may mean
in relation to Christ ,for as Derek Tidball writes,'' The ultimate significance of Leviticus finds its fulfilment in Christ''.It was John the Baptist who called Jesus the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.[ John 1v29],and in that great chapter of Isaiah 53,we read of one who was a lamb
being led to the slaughter[v7 ].Now consider those words in Leviticus as regards the fire on the altar not going out. In Hebrews 12v29 and Deuteronomy 4 v24, we are told that God is a consuming fire, the animals
that were sacrificed by fire, reminds us of Gods wrath being poured out, continually. All through Israel's history the fire on the altar would continually be as it were be poured out on the animals that were sacrificed. So it would continue until the lamb of God, Jesus would experience the wrath of God for all who would be saved, in other words the wrath of God that was their due would be extinguished, they would be saved from wrath to come.[1 Thessalonians 1v10]For as we are told in Isaiah 53 v10,that it was the Lords will to crush him, the result would be ,those who trusted in Him would not be crushed.So it is that on a coming day those who have not trusted Him will be crushed.
The wrath of God that was my due
upon the Lamb was laid.
,
Thursday, 8 December 2016
Do it. .[Philippians 2 5 -11]
In the book of Leviticus 6 v13 we read that ,''The fire must be kept burning on the altar continually it must not go out'' First of we see it was a command of God, let us consider what it meant for them, it meant what it said, it was as simple as that, God said it they must simple do it. there's was to reason why ,there's was to obey .May be there were those serving in the tabernacle,
may have thought it was beneath them to do that job. Listen any job, task God gives us to do is important,no matter what it is. Consider that great an important lesson Jesus taught us when he took a bowl of water, and washed the disciples feet. He said'', I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you[John 13 v15]Jesus said that He was a servant[Luke 22v27], consider those awe inspiring words we read in Philippians 2v6-7,''Who being in the very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped ,but made Himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant''. Today the challenge comes afresh to us to serve,
no if's or but's, do it, no matter how lowly a task it is.
A prayer.
Dear Lord as you served others, so help us all to be obedient servants, Amen.
may have thought it was beneath them to do that job. Listen any job, task God gives us to do is important,no matter what it is. Consider that great an important lesson Jesus taught us when he took a bowl of water, and washed the disciples feet. He said'', I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you[John 13 v15]Jesus said that He was a servant[Luke 22v27], consider those awe inspiring words we read in Philippians 2v6-7,''Who being in the very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped ,but made Himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant''. Today the challenge comes afresh to us to serve,
no if's or but's, do it, no matter how lowly a task it is.
A prayer.
Dear Lord as you served others, so help us all to be obedient servants, Amen.
Wednesday, 7 December 2016
We prayed. [ Acts 12 v12 ]
We prayed. A fellow Christian has Parkinson, when my wife called to see his wife, she was distressed, her husband was not responding in her efforts to wake him up. My wife phoned me asking me to inform the prayer chain that is set up in our fellowship. This I did and of course I prayed for him, later in the morning ,my wife and I called to see them, and the good news was ,the brother was awake, and reasonably bright, I heard the lady saying that it was an answer to prayer. We prayed,have faith, yes ,faith when you pray, that God hears and answers our prayers. I know there are things we pray about and they are not answered, or so it appears, but the fact is this, we are encouraged and challenged to pray, and keep praying, trusting God whose ways are perfect, and one who will never cause his children to shed a needless tear. So keep on praying,and when we get to heaven we will be surprised to discover just how many times God has intervened, on behalf of others, because we prayed.
By Thy birth,Thy cross,Thy passion,
By Thy tears of deep compassion,
By Thy mighty intercession,
Lord and Saviour,help us.
[Words Henry Alford ]
By Thy birth,Thy cross,Thy passion,
By Thy tears of deep compassion,
By Thy mighty intercession,
Lord and Saviour,help us.
[Words Henry Alford ]
Tuesday, 6 December 2016
Think spiritually [Psalm 73 ]
In a movie ,one he character is looking down on someone she loved, she was breaking her heart, because he was dead. She looks to a friend who is standing by, and asks why does it hurt so much, and he replies, because it was real. A person I know who lost his wife many years ago, and yet he still
mourns her death, and he asks the same question that the character asked in that movie, why after all those years does it hurt so much, and the reply is the same as was spoken in the movie, ''because it was real''. How does one cope, how are you coping with your losses and cross's?. The godly people
in the bible experienced trials, observed the evil ,and struggled to cope
with what they saw and were going through. I have been following Selwyn
Hughes comments on Psalm 73,which I have found helpful. It is all about a man who was struggling, he did not blurt out his doubts to anyone but sought God, and received an answer. Selwyn points out that the man had been allowing a human viewpoint to dominate his thinking rather than thinking spiritually about his problem. Ultimately Selwyn writes ,''the problems and difficulties of life are all spiritual, so the sooner we learn to think spiritually the better we will be''. That man who lost his wife ,whom he loved dearly,told me looks at a verse which reads,'' And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God''[Romans 8 v28 ],and those words comfort Him, even though he does not fully understand the reason why his wife died, so it is, like him we must think spiritually,
A prayer.
Dear God help us to think spiritually, to resist the temptation, to give into
doubt and despair, in Jesus name Amen.
mourns her death, and he asks the same question that the character asked in that movie, why after all those years does it hurt so much, and the reply is the same as was spoken in the movie, ''because it was real''. How does one cope, how are you coping with your losses and cross's?. The godly people
in the bible experienced trials, observed the evil ,and struggled to cope
with what they saw and were going through. I have been following Selwyn
Hughes comments on Psalm 73,which I have found helpful. It is all about a man who was struggling, he did not blurt out his doubts to anyone but sought God, and received an answer. Selwyn points out that the man had been allowing a human viewpoint to dominate his thinking rather than thinking spiritually about his problem. Ultimately Selwyn writes ,''the problems and difficulties of life are all spiritual, so the sooner we learn to think spiritually the better we will be''. That man who lost his wife ,whom he loved dearly,told me looks at a verse which reads,'' And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God''[Romans 8 v28 ],and those words comfort Him, even though he does not fully understand the reason why his wife died, so it is, like him we must think spiritually,
A prayer.
Dear God help us to think spiritually, to resist the temptation, to give into
doubt and despair, in Jesus name Amen.
Monday, 5 December 2016
Are you thirsty. [ John 4 v 10- 15 ]
I have just purchased a smart TV, I don't thing I will be smart enough to use it other than for ordinary TV. Why is it called a smart TV?, has it been to
university?, how many O, OR A, levels has it? It again bears in upon me how things have changed, an older brother said they had when he was young a TV, with an nine inch screen. Modern TV screens are getting bigger and bigger. there was time long ago when it was questionable to have TV,it was considered worldly. Now ,that has all changed, leaders of a church years ago, forbid their members to own a TV, but now those same leaders are appearing on TV.I wonder if the thought ,man shall not live for TV alone, is appropriate for this generation?, we could also apply to so many things, to sport ,to buying ,to sex. Do we live in sex grazed world?we can make gods of anything, and everything. I knew a person when he was dying ,he found it hard that he would not be able to drive his car.In our home group we have been looking at the book of Ecclesiastes, it was written by Solomon because he was so rich, and so powerful, he tried everything possible,but in the end, found so much that he tried, pointless ,and meaningless. God speaking of his people, said they had forsaken Him, the spring of living water, for that which could not satisfy.[Jeremiah 2 v 13 ]. It is our Saviour who cried out,''If anyone is thirsty , let him come unto me and drink.[John7 v 37]
Are you thirsty?
university?, how many O, OR A, levels has it? It again bears in upon me how things have changed, an older brother said they had when he was young a TV, with an nine inch screen. Modern TV screens are getting bigger and bigger. there was time long ago when it was questionable to have TV,it was considered worldly. Now ,that has all changed, leaders of a church years ago, forbid their members to own a TV, but now those same leaders are appearing on TV.I wonder if the thought ,man shall not live for TV alone, is appropriate for this generation?, we could also apply to so many things, to sport ,to buying ,to sex. Do we live in sex grazed world?we can make gods of anything, and everything. I knew a person when he was dying ,he found it hard that he would not be able to drive his car.In our home group we have been looking at the book of Ecclesiastes, it was written by Solomon because he was so rich, and so powerful, he tried everything possible,but in the end, found so much that he tried, pointless ,and meaningless. God speaking of his people, said they had forsaken Him, the spring of living water, for that which could not satisfy.[Jeremiah 2 v 13 ]. It is our Saviour who cried out,''If anyone is thirsty , let him come unto me and drink.[John7 v 37]
Are you thirsty?
Sunday, 4 December 2016
I'm accepted. [ Romans 5 v1- 11 ]
Let us remember that all Gods children are precious to Him, He has no favourites. As you listen to certain Christians, it appears they have a greater
position before God than you and I, but it is not true. For we are all accepted equally, by Jesus, none of us are left out in the cold. When I was younger I help run a football team, we had to leave people out of the team, that is alright in sport, but when it comes to God ,it is about being part of a family.Jacob had a favourite son Joseph, that caused so much trouble. The family was torn apart by it, jealousy, hatred filled the hearts of those who
felt less loved. Today I want us all to grasp the truth that we are all loved equally by our loving heavenly Father. He loves his bright children and those not so bright, the gifted children and those who are not so gifted.God
is not swayed by a persons success, nor a persons failure, let us take comfort
this day ,because God loves us, nothing can change that, nor will change that.
I'm accepted, I'm forgiven,
I am fathered by the true and living God.
I'm accepted, no condemnation,
I am loved by the true and living God.
There's no guilt or fear as I draw near,
to the Saviour and Creator of the world.
There is joy and peace as I release
my worship to You, O Lord.
[ Words by Rob Hayward ]
position before God than you and I, but it is not true. For we are all accepted equally, by Jesus, none of us are left out in the cold. When I was younger I help run a football team, we had to leave people out of the team, that is alright in sport, but when it comes to God ,it is about being part of a family.Jacob had a favourite son Joseph, that caused so much trouble. The family was torn apart by it, jealousy, hatred filled the hearts of those who
felt less loved. Today I want us all to grasp the truth that we are all loved equally by our loving heavenly Father. He loves his bright children and those not so bright, the gifted children and those who are not so gifted.God
is not swayed by a persons success, nor a persons failure, let us take comfort
this day ,because God loves us, nothing can change that, nor will change that.
I'm accepted, I'm forgiven,
I am fathered by the true and living God.
I'm accepted, no condemnation,
I am loved by the true and living God.
There's no guilt or fear as I draw near,
to the Saviour and Creator of the world.
There is joy and peace as I release
my worship to You, O Lord.
[ Words by Rob Hayward ]
Saturday, 3 December 2016
Money. [ Psalm 23 ]
Whither we like it or not ,money is an important part of our lives, we need it to live on, The challenge for the Christian, is to not love money, we need it,
without it ,we would be in difficulties. It is no joke to find yourself with no money, there are times when I had none, when I was young ,money was very scarce, I don't know how my mother managed to feed us and cloth us,
but somehow we got through. I remember a friend of mine, telling me of a time when he had no money, he was Christian, was hungry, so he did something unusual, he went into a cafe and ordered something to eat. When the food came he bowed his head and give thanks to God. He discovered someone had paid for his food, a customer in the cafe, had said to himself
that if he saw someone saying grace,he would pay for that persons meal.
From experience I have proved that God is faithful,our faith can be tried
but God has promised to meet our needs.[ Philippians 4 v19],so trust Him.
A prayer.
Dear Father God we thank you that you will look after all your Children,
and meet their needs, through Jesus your Son Amen.
without it ,we would be in difficulties. It is no joke to find yourself with no money, there are times when I had none, when I was young ,money was very scarce, I don't know how my mother managed to feed us and cloth us,
but somehow we got through. I remember a friend of mine, telling me of a time when he had no money, he was Christian, was hungry, so he did something unusual, he went into a cafe and ordered something to eat. When the food came he bowed his head and give thanks to God. He discovered someone had paid for his food, a customer in the cafe, had said to himself
that if he saw someone saying grace,he would pay for that persons meal.
From experience I have proved that God is faithful,our faith can be tried
but God has promised to meet our needs.[ Philippians 4 v19],so trust Him.
A prayer.
Dear Father God we thank you that you will look after all your Children,
and meet their needs, through Jesus your Son Amen.
Friday, 2 December 2016
My Grace is sufficent for thee. [ 2 Corinthians 12 v 1-10 ]
I was listening to a radio program and it set me of thinking about an aspect of my life, that I have struggled with, Some difficulties do not necessary go away, and one has to rely on God to enable one to cope, by praying and submitting to Gods will, and not run away from the difficulty. There are things that we cannot share with others, and just seek the grace of God, to help one to cope. Paul had his thorn in the flesh, and he was told that Gods grace would be sufficient, and it was , so much so, that he was glad of his weakness, because of what God put in its place, His power. As I consider my difficulty I can appreciate what Paul wrote out of his own experience. God has kept me, and enabled me ,by His power to cope, and so like Paul I can say, when I am weak ,them am I strong.
They that trust in the Lord are secure,
Though the storm rages dark o'er the sea;
For this anchor of promise is sure-
My grace is sufficient for thee.
Neither trial nor doubt brings dismay,
Nor from danger that comes will I flee,
For I stand on this promise to-day,
My grace is sufficient for thee.
They that trust in the Lord are secure,
Though the storm rages dark o'er the sea;
For this anchor of promise is sure-
My grace is sufficient for thee.
Neither trial nor doubt brings dismay,
Nor from danger that comes will I flee,
For I stand on this promise to-day,
My grace is sufficient for thee.
Thursday, 1 December 2016
The day of trouble. [ Psalm 50 v15 ]
A fellow Christian was telling me of an occasion when God answered prayer, he loves sailing, a number of years ago, on a stormy day, he took his boat out, feeling he would be able to cope. But it was not long before he realised that he was in serious trouble, he was being swept out to sea. So he prayed ,he confessed to the Lord how foolish he had been and asked Him to save him. And no sooner had he prayed this ,and he found himself, blown back to the shore and safety. In Psalm 50v15,we read, ''Call upon me in the day of trouble, I will deliver you , and you will honour me''.
A prayer.
Dear God we believe you hear and answer prayer, and so we lift a voice to You, in the name of Jesus Amen.
A prayer.
Dear God we believe you hear and answer prayer, and so we lift a voice to You, in the name of Jesus Amen.
Wednesday, 30 November 2016
Holiness. [ 1 Timothy 1 v8-9 ]
I have just started studying the book of Leviticus using a book written by
Derek Tidball,I have read this Leviticus many times,but I have never studied it.It is not a book that one hears preached ,I have preached from it many years ago.I am sure it is one of the most neglected books in the Bible, why is that?,maybe you have never read this book,D.T,points out,that the key message of Leviticus is that the children of Israel should be holy,as God is holy [ 19v2].DT,goes on to point out, ''that the key to holiness,involves,
separation and purity and that Israels lifestyle was to be different from those around them,in how they they worshipped,what they ate,how they
loved,and in their dealings with each other.''Now of course as children of the new covenant we are not under any restrictions as to what we should eat.But you get the picture ,holiness was to be comprehensive,again as D.T
points out ,''no area of life is untouched by it.''I end again by quoting D.T,
''Like Israel ,we to have been set free by Christ, but not so that we might continue to live in sin or with indifference to God;rather ,we have been set free to be holy''.
A prayer.
Dear God we worship you ,we acknowledge that You alone are holy, and your will for our lives,is that we should seek to be holy,help us Lord by your Holy Spirit,in Jesus name Amen .
Derek Tidball,I have read this Leviticus many times,but I have never studied it.It is not a book that one hears preached ,I have preached from it many years ago.I am sure it is one of the most neglected books in the Bible, why is that?,maybe you have never read this book,D.T,points out,that the key message of Leviticus is that the children of Israel should be holy,as God is holy [ 19v2].DT,goes on to point out, ''that the key to holiness,involves,
separation and purity and that Israels lifestyle was to be different from those around them,in how they they worshipped,what they ate,how they
loved,and in their dealings with each other.''Now of course as children of the new covenant we are not under any restrictions as to what we should eat.But you get the picture ,holiness was to be comprehensive,again as D.T
points out ,''no area of life is untouched by it.''I end again by quoting D.T,
''Like Israel ,we to have been set free by Christ, but not so that we might continue to live in sin or with indifference to God;rather ,we have been set free to be holy''.
A prayer.
Dear God we worship you ,we acknowledge that You alone are holy, and your will for our lives,is that we should seek to be holy,help us Lord by your Holy Spirit,in Jesus name Amen .
Tuesday, 29 November 2016
I loved to choose. [Mark 5 v 18 ]
William Barclay wrote,''Christ still needs His witnesses;He needs those who are not so much to die for Him,as to live for Him. The Christian struggle and the Christian glory still exsist''.That applies to most of us,but of course in certain places in the world many are witnessing for Christ by their deaths.What does it mean to live for Christ?,to be missionary?it may mean that,the world needs missionaries.When Jesus healed a demon possessed man,we read that the begged to go with Him.But Jesus did not let him.Rather He said to him,''Go home to your family,and tell them how much the Lord has done for you,and how He has had mercy on you''.[Mark 5 v 18] Someone I know is not happy in their job,would like to move,and I suggested to her that God had her there for a purpose.Dr Bernardo was on his way to China, when He found that God had a work for him to do in London.I sought to serve God on the mission field in Brazil,and various other places,but God brought me to England.Consider how the man begged,to go with Jesus,he was very earnest and sincere,but he was humble and obedient enough to accept what his master said,and serve Him where he was sent.
Lead kindly Light,amid the encircling gloom
lead Thou me on;
The night is dark, and I am far from home;
The night is dark,and I am far from home,
lead Thou me on.
Keep Thou my feet; I do not ask to see
the distant scene ;one step enough for me.
I was not ever thus, nor prayed that Thou
should lead me on;
I loved to choose and see my path; but now,
lead Thou me on.
I loved the garish day,and spite of fears,
pride ruled my will; remember not past years.
[ Words J.H.Newman ]
Lead kindly Light,amid the encircling gloom
lead Thou me on;
The night is dark, and I am far from home;
The night is dark,and I am far from home,
lead Thou me on.
Keep Thou my feet; I do not ask to see
the distant scene ;one step enough for me.
I was not ever thus, nor prayed that Thou
should lead me on;
I loved to choose and see my path; but now,
lead Thou me on.
I loved the garish day,and spite of fears,
pride ruled my will; remember not past years.
[ Words J.H.Newman ]
Monday, 28 November 2016
Saved [ Matthew 1 v 18-25 ]
Arabella. C. Hankey wrote the hymn I love to tell the story,of unseen things
above.Of Jesus and His glory,of Jesus and His love.That's the good news, which the gospel is,but is everyone wanting to hear that good news?.As a
minister I know it is vital to tell people about Jesus,the question is,why do they need Jesus,why does anyone need Jesus.It is only as they realise the why they turn to Him and be saved.The challenge for us Christians is
to be faithful,in telling people why they need Jesus, we dare not fudge the truth, as to why they need Jesus.When Joseph was told that his virgin wife was expecting,he sought to divorce her quietly,but the angel of the Lord came and spoke ,telling him to marry Mary.He was told to call Him Jesus
the Greek name for Joshua,meaning,the Lord saves.it gives us a clear clue as to why He had come.The angel declared that He would be known as Immanuel,meaning God with us.[CP Isaiah 7 v14]He was truly man and truly God. This does not tell us why He came,well we are told that He shall save His people from their sins.This is the reason why He came to save us from our sins,you see, sin dams us to Hell,sin destroys,it cuts us of from a relationship with God.People do not want to here this,because they do not grasp the seriousness,of sin, the consequences of sin.To die in your sin is to find yourself being judged by a holy God.That's why we have to warn people,to tell them clearly as to the consequence of sin,yes that's our task, We must not fail in it,no we must be faithful.
Man of sorrows what a name
For the Son of God who came
Ruined sinners to reclaim,
Hallelujah what a Saviour.
[Words by Philip.P.Bless ]
above.Of Jesus and His glory,of Jesus and His love.That's the good news, which the gospel is,but is everyone wanting to hear that good news?.As a
minister I know it is vital to tell people about Jesus,the question is,why do they need Jesus,why does anyone need Jesus.It is only as they realise the why they turn to Him and be saved.The challenge for us Christians is
to be faithful,in telling people why they need Jesus, we dare not fudge the truth, as to why they need Jesus.When Joseph was told that his virgin wife was expecting,he sought to divorce her quietly,but the angel of the Lord came and spoke ,telling him to marry Mary.He was told to call Him Jesus
the Greek name for Joshua,meaning,the Lord saves.it gives us a clear clue as to why He had come.The angel declared that He would be known as Immanuel,meaning God with us.[CP Isaiah 7 v14]He was truly man and truly God. This does not tell us why He came,well we are told that He shall save His people from their sins.This is the reason why He came to save us from our sins,you see, sin dams us to Hell,sin destroys,it cuts us of from a relationship with God.People do not want to here this,because they do not grasp the seriousness,of sin, the consequences of sin.To die in your sin is to find yourself being judged by a holy God.That's why we have to warn people,to tell them clearly as to the consequence of sin,yes that's our task, We must not fail in it,no we must be faithful.
Man of sorrows what a name
For the Son of God who came
Ruined sinners to reclaim,
Hallelujah what a Saviour.
[Words by Philip.P.Bless ]
Sunday, 27 November 2016
I'm coming home. [Luke 15 v 11ff ]
I read this recently,''Sin will take you further than you want to go,keep you
longer than you want to stay,and cost you more than you want to pay''. I do
not know who wrote these words but the are very thoughtful and full of meaning .Lets consider these words, sin will take you further than you want to go,David looked on a married woman,lusted after her,slept with her,and thought that was that.That is as far as he wanted it to go,but sin took him further ,he discovered she was pregnant,and he ended up, having her husband killed,sin had taken him further than he wanted to go.What we see as a one night stand,can lead on a road that that we do not want to be on.There are people in prison who thought they could sin and that was it,but now they are in prison.There are people who clicked unto a sex site on the inter-net,now they are hooked. Yes it is very true ,sin will take you further than you want to go,many people never thought it would, but it has. Jesus told of a young man,who wanted to be free from parental control,and went down a road that practically destroyed him.[Luke 15v 11ff]
I've wandered far away from God;
Now I'm coming home;
The paths of sin too long I've trod;
Lord ,I'm coming home
I've wasted many precious years;
Now I'm coming home;
I now repent with bitter tears;
Lord, I'm coming home.
I'm tired of sin and straying Lord;
Now I'm coming home;
I'll trust Thy love,believe Thy word;
Lord I'm coming home.
My soul is sick,my heart is sore;
Now I'm coming home;
My strength renew, my hope restore;
Lord , I'm coming home.
[Words by W,J.Kirkpatrick]
.
longer than you want to stay,and cost you more than you want to pay''. I do
not know who wrote these words but the are very thoughtful and full of meaning .Lets consider these words, sin will take you further than you want to go,David looked on a married woman,lusted after her,slept with her,and thought that was that.That is as far as he wanted it to go,but sin took him further ,he discovered she was pregnant,and he ended up, having her husband killed,sin had taken him further than he wanted to go.What we see as a one night stand,can lead on a road that that we do not want to be on.There are people in prison who thought they could sin and that was it,but now they are in prison.There are people who clicked unto a sex site on the inter-net,now they are hooked. Yes it is very true ,sin will take you further than you want to go,many people never thought it would, but it has. Jesus told of a young man,who wanted to be free from parental control,and went down a road that practically destroyed him.[Luke 15v 11ff]
I've wandered far away from God;
Now I'm coming home;
The paths of sin too long I've trod;
Lord ,I'm coming home
I've wasted many precious years;
Now I'm coming home;
I now repent with bitter tears;
Lord, I'm coming home.
I'm tired of sin and straying Lord;
Now I'm coming home;
I'll trust Thy love,believe Thy word;
Lord I'm coming home.
My soul is sick,my heart is sore;
Now I'm coming home;
My strength renew, my hope restore;
Lord , I'm coming home.
[Words by W,J.Kirkpatrick]
.
Friday, 25 November 2016
A certain hope . [ John 11 v 25 ]
Yesterday we looked at a young girls request,to be put into cold storage,in the hope that in a coming day she may be brought back to life.I believe it is a vain hope, that it will never be possible,and many think that to be brought back like that young girl wants,is unthinkable,once is enough. Many people of course think that when one dies,that's it,oblivion.Well I believe in a historical Christ,in other words He was a real person,I believe He existed as God the Son,with God the Father,and God the Holy Spirit,not three Gods of course,but our triune God.In Gods word it was foretold that He would come,and so we have Christmas.He manifested power beyond what anyone ever did,His coming was to die on a cross,that if we believed in Him our sins would be forgiven.Yes He really died ,but on the third day He came back to life,He said He would,and He did.But He also said this,if we trust in Him,we can also be resurrected,and live with Him for all eternity.Yes death need not have the final say,because of Jesus ,we can have a certain hope.
A prayer.
Dear God we thank you for your dear son Jesus,who died that we might be forgiven,and go at last to heaven, Amen
/ I will return to my Blog Sunday,every blessing/
A prayer.
Dear God we thank you for your dear son Jesus,who died that we might be forgiven,and go at last to heaven, Amen
/ I will return to my Blog Sunday,every blessing/
Thursday, 24 November 2016
I want to live. [John 11 v25 ]
A young girl who died of cancer ,requested that her body would be preserved,she was only 14,she did not want to die,but she accepted that she
would,The mother went with her daughters request,but the father didn't.It was taken to court and it was agreed by the judge that the young girl should have her request.Of course this is not a new thing,it has been going on for a long time ,those who want this are hoping that in a coming day a cure will be found for the disease,they died from,and so they will be revived,cured, and live again. Why do we die?well when God made man,death did not exist,we were never meant to die,but alas we do,nothing can change that,it is an appointment we all have to keep.Genesis 2 v17/Hebrews 9v27 .Death is called an enemy [1 Corinthians15 v26],we cannot defeat it,at most we but prolong it,but it will happen.The prolonging brings with it problems the body and often the mind deteriorates,the result of this we all know about.Is their any hope as regards death,when we die is that it?,is it for many a happy release,is there life after death,more tomorrow.
A prayer.
Dear God help us to face up to the reality of death,help us to cope when
death comes,and help us to cope when we loose someone whom we love,
in Jesus name Amen.
would,The mother went with her daughters request,but the father didn't.It was taken to court and it was agreed by the judge that the young girl should have her request.Of course this is not a new thing,it has been going on for a long time ,those who want this are hoping that in a coming day a cure will be found for the disease,they died from,and so they will be revived,cured, and live again. Why do we die?well when God made man,death did not exist,we were never meant to die,but alas we do,nothing can change that,it is an appointment we all have to keep.Genesis 2 v17/Hebrews 9v27 .Death is called an enemy [1 Corinthians15 v26],we cannot defeat it,at most we but prolong it,but it will happen.The prolonging brings with it problems the body and often the mind deteriorates,the result of this we all know about.Is their any hope as regards death,when we die is that it?,is it for many a happy release,is there life after death,more tomorrow.
A prayer.
Dear God help us to face up to the reality of death,help us to cope when
death comes,and help us to cope when we loose someone whom we love,
in Jesus name Amen.
Wednesday, 23 November 2016
Amazing Grace. [ Ephesians 2 v 1 -10 ]
John Newton
[1785-1807 ]
Once an infidel and libertine
A servant of slaves in Africa.
By the rich mercy of our Lord
and Saviour Jesus Christ.
Preserved,restored ,pardoned.
So reads the words on his gravestone,he lost his mother when he was six,his
father was a sea captain,and eventually he joined the Navy.For a great deal of his life he was involved in the slave trade,even after his first religious experience,but eventually the reality of his faith in Christ took hold,and he became an opponent of the slave trade.He even wrote a booklet on its evils,which became very popular. He served as a Church of England priest,was a popular minister,friends of William Wilberforce,and William Cowper.He passed into the presence of his Saviour at the age of 82.
Amazing grace,how sweet the sound
That saved a wretched like me
I once was lost but now an found;
Was blind but now I see.
Twas grace that taught my heart
to fear,
And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed.
Through many dangers,toils,and snares
I have already come;
Tis grace has brought me safe thus far.
And grace will lead me home.
The Lord has promised good to me,
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and Portion be,
As long as life endures.
Yes when this flesh and heart
shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil
A life of joy and peace.
When we've been there a thousand
years,
Bright shining as the sun,
We've no less days to sing God's praise
Than when we first begun.
[1785-1807 ]
Once an infidel and libertine
A servant of slaves in Africa.
By the rich mercy of our Lord
and Saviour Jesus Christ.
Preserved,restored ,pardoned.
So reads the words on his gravestone,he lost his mother when he was six,his
father was a sea captain,and eventually he joined the Navy.For a great deal of his life he was involved in the slave trade,even after his first religious experience,but eventually the reality of his faith in Christ took hold,and he became an opponent of the slave trade.He even wrote a booklet on its evils,which became very popular. He served as a Church of England priest,was a popular minister,friends of William Wilberforce,and William Cowper.He passed into the presence of his Saviour at the age of 82.
Amazing grace,how sweet the sound
That saved a wretched like me
I once was lost but now an found;
Was blind but now I see.
Twas grace that taught my heart
to fear,
And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed.
Through many dangers,toils,and snares
I have already come;
Tis grace has brought me safe thus far.
And grace will lead me home.
The Lord has promised good to me,
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and Portion be,
As long as life endures.
Yes when this flesh and heart
shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil
A life of joy and peace.
When we've been there a thousand
years,
Bright shining as the sun,
We've no less days to sing God's praise
Than when we first begun.
Tuesday, 22 November 2016
Omission in preaching. [ John 3 v36 ]
A man I know said a visiting speaker mentioned something in his sermon,
that he had not heard from his own minister ,the word Hell.The visiting speaker wondered why some modern preachers do not mention Hell in their preaching. I wonder also, there are reasons,they cannot come to terms with it, and cannot equate it to their concept of God. Surely a God of Love would not send people to such a place,so they do not mention it. Surely they can see people come to faith in Christ without mentioning such a doctrine, they appeal to people from the bases of their human reasoning.These preachers have problems with the accounts of the violence ,perpetrated by Israel
, as they conquered the promised land.Now we cannot cover all these things in full,but the fact is we have accounts of God judging people,right
throughout the Bible.Not only judgements relating to time, but a promise of Judgement in eternity [Hebrews 9 v27 ].Consider how the message , most of the prophets proclaimed, had a strong threat of judgement,and this carried through into the NT,the term wrath is used continually. yes even by Jesus.
[ Matthew 10 v 28].The man in the street or those within the cults may pick
and choose what they should believe in,but the preacher in the pulpit cannot
if he does,he will be held accountable. Consider, who would want that on their conscience?,I would not,so even though it is doctrine that is not in vogue, I can speak no other.
A prayer.
Dear God of truth help those who stand between their fellowmen and a holy God,not to neglect, to warn them of the fearful judgement awaiting all who die without Christ , Amen
that he had not heard from his own minister ,the word Hell.The visiting speaker wondered why some modern preachers do not mention Hell in their preaching. I wonder also, there are reasons,they cannot come to terms with it, and cannot equate it to their concept of God. Surely a God of Love would not send people to such a place,so they do not mention it. Surely they can see people come to faith in Christ without mentioning such a doctrine, they appeal to people from the bases of their human reasoning.These preachers have problems with the accounts of the violence ,perpetrated by Israel
, as they conquered the promised land.Now we cannot cover all these things in full,but the fact is we have accounts of God judging people,right
throughout the Bible.Not only judgements relating to time, but a promise of Judgement in eternity [Hebrews 9 v27 ].Consider how the message , most of the prophets proclaimed, had a strong threat of judgement,and this carried through into the NT,the term wrath is used continually. yes even by Jesus.
[ Matthew 10 v 28].The man in the street or those within the cults may pick
and choose what they should believe in,but the preacher in the pulpit cannot
if he does,he will be held accountable. Consider, who would want that on their conscience?,I would not,so even though it is doctrine that is not in vogue, I can speak no other.
A prayer.
Dear God of truth help those who stand between their fellowmen and a holy God,not to neglect, to warn them of the fearful judgement awaiting all who die without Christ , Amen
Monday, 21 November 2016
William Cowper. [Romans 8 v28 ]
Another of my favourite hymns is,''God moves in a mysterious way'',it was written by William Cowper,who lived in the, 18th century.He was poet as well as a hymn writer,and a great poet of his day,he wrote a poem against slavery,called,''The Negro's complaint'',which Dr M.L.King,quoted from.He suffered from mental illness,on one occasion attempted suicide,and spent 2 years in a institution for the insane,he was a devout Christian.
God moves in a mysterious way
His wonders to perform;
He plants His footsteps in the sea,
And rides upon the storm.
Deep in unfathomable mines
Of never-failing skill,
He treasures up His bright designs,
And works His sovereign will.
Ye fearful saints,fresh courage take,
The clouds ye so much dread
Are big with mercy ,and shall break
in blessings on your head.
Judge not the Lord by feeble sense,
But trust Him for His grace;
Behind a frowning providence
He hides a smiling face.
His purposes will ripen fast,
Unfolding every hour;
The bud may have a bitter taste,
But sweet will be the flower.
Blind unbelief is sure to err,
And scan His work in vain;
God is His own interpreter
And He will make it plain.
God moves in a mysterious way
His wonders to perform;
He plants His footsteps in the sea,
And rides upon the storm.
Deep in unfathomable mines
Of never-failing skill,
He treasures up His bright designs,
And works His sovereign will.
Ye fearful saints,fresh courage take,
The clouds ye so much dread
Are big with mercy ,and shall break
in blessings on your head.
Judge not the Lord by feeble sense,
But trust Him for His grace;
Behind a frowning providence
He hides a smiling face.
His purposes will ripen fast,
Unfolding every hour;
The bud may have a bitter taste,
But sweet will be the flower.
Blind unbelief is sure to err,
And scan His work in vain;
God is His own interpreter
And He will make it plain.
Sunday, 20 November 2016
Be still my soul [ Psalm 46 v 10 ]
There are certain hymns that are dear to us all,hymns that touch our hearts, ,such as, 'Be still my soul,' it was Eric Liddells favourite hymn.He died in a Japanese internment camp,in China.Just before he went to heaven,he asked the Salvation band to play the hymn.With chapped,frozen fingers and cracked lips,the wind blowing around them,the band fulfilled it.
Be still my soul,the Lord is on thy side;
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In every change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul,thy best,thy heavenly Friend
Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.
Be still, my soul,thy God doth undertake
To guide the future as He has the past.
Thy hope, confidence, let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last,
Be still,my soul,the waves and winds still know
His voice Who ruled them while He dwelt below.
Be still, my soul,the hour is hastening on
When we shall for ever with the Lord,
When disappointment grief and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love's purest joys restored.
Be still my soul,when change and tears are past,
All safe and blessed we shall meet at last.
[ Words. K.A.D.Von Schlegel ]
Be still my soul,the Lord is on thy side;
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In every change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul,thy best,thy heavenly Friend
Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.
Be still, my soul,thy God doth undertake
To guide the future as He has the past.
Thy hope, confidence, let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last,
Be still,my soul,the waves and winds still know
His voice Who ruled them while He dwelt below.
Be still, my soul,the hour is hastening on
When we shall for ever with the Lord,
When disappointment grief and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love's purest joys restored.
Be still my soul,when change and tears are past,
All safe and blessed we shall meet at last.
[ Words. K.A.D.Von Schlegel ]
Saturday, 19 November 2016
Wait [ John 13 v 7 ]
A lady who had lost her son in war, was asked by a friend,have you forgiven Him?,the woman replied,forgiven who? ,God, for taking your son,
the lady replied,''I never blamed Him'',Should I blame God,or should I trust God?,many people blame God,after all they say God has the power to cause it not to happen,so why does He not stop it?.Well there are many things we cannot answer,we can look up to heaven and in bitterness and unbelief, point the figure and say you are to blame.There are so many questions as
regards life we cannot answer,and may never answer .Everyday ,tragedies
are happening,injustice is taken place,listen to the news ,read a news paper.
Why ?,is the question on many peoples hearts,and the answer is, we do not know why,but blaming God is not the answer. How can God let such things happen?,I do not know,but some day I will know,in the mean while,I will not fall into despair,but trust in God who is just and loving,and is working everything out ,to a perfect conclusion.Much of life is filled with the
question why,it is not wrong to ask why,but we should wait until God ,one
day will give us all the answer.
Poem by Corrie ten Boom.
My life is but a weaving
Between my God and me.
I cannot choose the colours,
He weaveth steadily.
Of''t times He weaveth sorrow;
And I in foolish pride,
Forget He sees the upper
And I the underside.
Not till the loom is silent,
And the shuttles cease to fly,
Will God unroll the canvas,
And explain the reason why,
The dark threads are as needful,
In the weaver's skilful hands,
As the threads of gold and silver,
In the pattern He has planned.
He knows,He loves,He cares.
Nothing ,that truth can dim.
He gives the very best to those
Who leaves the choice to Him.
the lady replied,''I never blamed Him'',Should I blame God,or should I trust God?,many people blame God,after all they say God has the power to cause it not to happen,so why does He not stop it?.Well there are many things we cannot answer,we can look up to heaven and in bitterness and unbelief, point the figure and say you are to blame.There are so many questions as
regards life we cannot answer,and may never answer .Everyday ,tragedies
are happening,injustice is taken place,listen to the news ,read a news paper.
Why ?,is the question on many peoples hearts,and the answer is, we do not know why,but blaming God is not the answer. How can God let such things happen?,I do not know,but some day I will know,in the mean while,I will not fall into despair,but trust in God who is just and loving,and is working everything out ,to a perfect conclusion.Much of life is filled with the
question why,it is not wrong to ask why,but we should wait until God ,one
day will give us all the answer.
Poem by Corrie ten Boom.
My life is but a weaving
Between my God and me.
I cannot choose the colours,
He weaveth steadily.
Of''t times He weaveth sorrow;
And I in foolish pride,
Forget He sees the upper
And I the underside.
Not till the loom is silent,
And the shuttles cease to fly,
Will God unroll the canvas,
And explain the reason why,
The dark threads are as needful,
In the weaver's skilful hands,
As the threads of gold and silver,
In the pattern He has planned.
He knows,He loves,He cares.
Nothing ,that truth can dim.
He gives the very best to those
Who leaves the choice to Him.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)