I wonder what you think of the following,written by D.Martyn Lloyd-Jones,
''We cannot read the Bible without coming to the conclusion that the thing
that really differentiates Gods people from all others is that they have always been people who walk in the consciousness of their eternal destiny.
The natural man does not care about his eternal future;to him this is the only world.It is the only world he thinks about;he lives for it and it controls him.
But the Christian is a man who should walk through this life as conscious that it is but transient and passing,a kind of preparatory school.He should
always know that he is walking in the presence of God,and that he is going
on to meet God,and that thought should determine and control the whole of
his life.''
A prayer.
Dear God help us to set our hearts on things above,where Christ is,and also help us to set our minds on things above,not on earthly things. Amen.
Tuesday, 31 May 2016
Monday, 30 May 2016
No half finished work. [ Jude 34 ]
Often I despair at my failure to be the man I should be,but I do not despair
as regards my loving heavenly Father.Now I am not saying that I see Him as an indulgent father,no,but I do believe that by His grace I am a better man than I used to be.I do not necessary see the change,but His sanctifying grace has not been a total failure,nor will it ever be,and I know that He will never give up on me and cast me aside.I take great encouragement from Gods word,which tells us,that God who has began a good work in me,will
carry it on to completion.[Philippians 1 v6].The one who has saved me from judgement will by his grace save me from myself,He will perfect that which concerneth me.[Psalm 138v8.AV]as Spurgeon wrote,''God will not leave off
till he has finished''.
The work which his goodness began,
The arm of His strength will complete;
His promise is yea and Amen,
And never was forfeited yet.
as regards my loving heavenly Father.Now I am not saying that I see Him as an indulgent father,no,but I do believe that by His grace I am a better man than I used to be.I do not necessary see the change,but His sanctifying grace has not been a total failure,nor will it ever be,and I know that He will never give up on me and cast me aside.I take great encouragement from Gods word,which tells us,that God who has began a good work in me,will
carry it on to completion.[Philippians 1 v6].The one who has saved me from judgement will by his grace save me from myself,He will perfect that which concerneth me.[Psalm 138v8.AV]as Spurgeon wrote,''God will not leave off
till he has finished''.
The work which his goodness began,
The arm of His strength will complete;
His promise is yea and Amen,
And never was forfeited yet.
Sunday, 29 May 2016
An open marriage. [Romans 6 v23]
The young and very attractive young lady,looked out at me from the pages of a glossy magazine,this young and foolish young lady was giving an account of her open marriage.She and her husband had agreed that they could have sexual relationships with other people.Her husband was away from home a great deal ,so they thought that this was good idea.They had their ground rules,he had sex with prostitutes,and others,she told of her sexual encounters.She did not express any concern as to what she was doing
it was to her and her husband,a logical thing to do.When I had finished reading the article,I found myself saying but they are sinning,they are
breaking Gods law,which tells us clearly,that we are not to commit adultery.
[Exodus 20 v14]Sin is not just the wrong things we do to each other, our wrong actions are against a holy God.[ Psalm 51 v4]It can never be seen as
acceptable,no matter how we dress it up,no matter how sophisticated it appears no matter how we rationalise it.Adultery is a sin,you do not have be a genius to see the awful consequences of adultery,in our society.God tells us clearly that adultery is a sin,and sin always has consequences,always.
A prayer
Dear God help us, to not lean upon our own understanding,your word tells us adultery is a sin,help us not to yield to temptation,help us to seek forgiveness,through your son Jesus,Amen
it was to her and her husband,a logical thing to do.When I had finished reading the article,I found myself saying but they are sinning,they are
breaking Gods law,which tells us clearly,that we are not to commit adultery.
[Exodus 20 v14]Sin is not just the wrong things we do to each other, our wrong actions are against a holy God.[ Psalm 51 v4]It can never be seen as
acceptable,no matter how we dress it up,no matter how sophisticated it appears no matter how we rationalise it.Adultery is a sin,you do not have be a genius to see the awful consequences of adultery,in our society.God tells us clearly that adultery is a sin,and sin always has consequences,always.
A prayer
Dear God help us, to not lean upon our own understanding,your word tells us adultery is a sin,help us not to yield to temptation,help us to seek forgiveness,through your son Jesus,Amen
Saturday, 28 May 2016
Hands [ Psalm 139 v 13-18]
Returning to what I was writing about yesterday,on Melanie Reid,and the place where she wrote about her hands,she wrote,''Ah,how to describe them?.The things on the end of your arms.Who ever realises how astonishing,vital, supple,expressive and superbly designed our hands are?
she writes how most of us take them for granted,''apparently a quarter of the brain's motor cortex is dedicated to controlling muscles in your hands''Now the thing that struck me in this article was,Melaine's words,that our hands our superbly designed .Now I don't know if Melanie is a Christian,but in those words ,as regards our hands ,being superbly designed,she was intentionally or unintentionally,challenging the belief that all things happened by chance.You see ,where we have design, we must have in essence a designer it follows,as sure as night follows day.What
Melaine stated is so obvious,yet so profound,and is a challenge,to the belief that everything just happened.
A prayer.
Dear God we praise You,as the one who designed,and made all things,we acknowledge you as our creator,in Jesus name Amen.
she writes how most of us take them for granted,''apparently a quarter of the brain's motor cortex is dedicated to controlling muscles in your hands''Now the thing that struck me in this article was,Melaine's words,that our hands our superbly designed .Now I don't know if Melanie is a Christian,but in those words ,as regards our hands ,being superbly designed,she was intentionally or unintentionally,challenging the belief that all things happened by chance.You see ,where we have design, we must have in essence a designer it follows,as sure as night follows day.What
Melaine stated is so obvious,yet so profound,and is a challenge,to the belief that everything just happened.
A prayer.
Dear God we praise You,as the one who designed,and made all things,we acknowledge you as our creator,in Jesus name Amen.
Friday, 27 May 2016
The gift of life. [ Acts 17 v26-31]
There used to be a popular song,many years ago,it went ,'You need hands',I
was struck with something,I read in a magazine,written by a lady called Melanie Reid.She is tetraplegic,after she broke her back in a riding accident.
She wrote about her ,physical condition,how gradually things have become a bit better,here is what she wrote,''Nothing pins down the New Normal
better than my hands. Ah how to describe them?.The things on the end of your arms''.She goes unto write how gradually she has regained the use of her hands,and the wonder of being able to do even simple things,like opening a tube of toothpaste,turning the pages of a book,it is a lovely positive article.She ends her article by saying.''However constrained my movement,I'm profoundly grateful that my body can still somehow express
exasperation,warmth,emphasis,a silly story-and I can say,I'm alive''.There are a number of things I could say about this lady,her gratitude that she is alive, even it is a struggle,life is a precious gift from ,even though it may mean we struggle,so today let us thank God for the gift of life,
A prayer.
Dear God thank you for the gift of life,that in you we live and move and have our being,in Jesus name Amen.
was struck with something,I read in a magazine,written by a lady called Melanie Reid.She is tetraplegic,after she broke her back in a riding accident.
She wrote about her ,physical condition,how gradually things have become a bit better,here is what she wrote,''Nothing pins down the New Normal
better than my hands. Ah how to describe them?.The things on the end of your arms''.She goes unto write how gradually she has regained the use of her hands,and the wonder of being able to do even simple things,like opening a tube of toothpaste,turning the pages of a book,it is a lovely positive article.She ends her article by saying.''However constrained my movement,I'm profoundly grateful that my body can still somehow express
exasperation,warmth,emphasis,a silly story-and I can say,I'm alive''.There are a number of things I could say about this lady,her gratitude that she is alive, even it is a struggle,life is a precious gift from ,even though it may mean we struggle,so today let us thank God for the gift of life,
A prayer.
Dear God thank you for the gift of life,that in you we live and move and have our being,in Jesus name Amen.
Thursday, 26 May 2016
Making decisions. [ Acts 16 v 30-31 ]
I received through the post a ballot card,on the 23rd, the country is going to vote,as to our membership of the EU.This is very important ,our Prime Minister, has said it is more important than a general election.The only thing is ,many people do not know which way to vote,I suppose ,the fact that it is so important,people are a bit concerned,that if they vote to leave, what will the result mean.In the light of this I am glad that God is sovereign,
and in the end He will have the final say.Life is full of decisions ,some unimportant ,marginally important,very important.I am reminded of a time in Israels history when things where so very bad spiritually,most of the people had forsaken God.But one man stood out, his name was Elijah, God choose him to challenge the nation,his life and ministry is very instructive
but it brought with it dangerous consequences.In 1 Kings 18 we read of him standing alone,in front of an ungodly king,false prophets,and the people of Israel.Here is what he said to them,''How long will you waver between to
opinions?. If the Lord is God,follow him;but if Baal is God follow him''.Things have not changed we are still faced with a choice,and it comes from Jesus,who says follow me.False gods there are in plenty,false ways there are in plenty,false people there are in plenty.Yet today, He who is the way the truth and the life,stands before us and says follow me,I know the
seriousness of making the wrong decision,do you?. Over 52 years ago I said yes to Jesus,that decision transformed my life,and saved me from wrath to come.
O happy day, that fixed my choice,
On Thee,my Saviour and my God,
[P.Doddridge]
and in the end He will have the final say.Life is full of decisions ,some unimportant ,marginally important,very important.I am reminded of a time in Israels history when things where so very bad spiritually,most of the people had forsaken God.But one man stood out, his name was Elijah, God choose him to challenge the nation,his life and ministry is very instructive
but it brought with it dangerous consequences.In 1 Kings 18 we read of him standing alone,in front of an ungodly king,false prophets,and the people of Israel.Here is what he said to them,''How long will you waver between to
opinions?. If the Lord is God,follow him;but if Baal is God follow him''.Things have not changed we are still faced with a choice,and it comes from Jesus,who says follow me.False gods there are in plenty,false ways there are in plenty,false people there are in plenty.Yet today, He who is the way the truth and the life,stands before us and says follow me,I know the
seriousness of making the wrong decision,do you?. Over 52 years ago I said yes to Jesus,that decision transformed my life,and saved me from wrath to come.
O happy day, that fixed my choice,
On Thee,my Saviour and my God,
[P.Doddridge]
Wednesday, 25 May 2016
We can and should make a difference. [ 1 John 4 v8 ]
I am glad that I live in a stable country,so may countries are experiencing
so much turmoil,in dear old Canada, they have had an enormous Forrest fire.In the Middle East we have awful violence,which has resulted in over 16 million refugees and internally displaced persons.Millions of people are on the move,seeking a place which is peaceful,free from the bullet and the bomb,and cruel religious fanatics,just recently there was a report of such a group going into a footballers supporters group and killing most of them, there reason being they believed that football was against their religion. There are also millions who are fleeing poverty,many of these dear people, are dying in their attempt to reach their goal.If we are Christians we cannot close our eyes to suffering,Jesus never did,and we are reminded that the law of God is fulfilled,in one word love.What can we as Christians do?,we can pray,our prayers can make a difference,it may not happen immediately ,but it will eventually, in Gods time ,we can befriend those who have come to live in our homelands.Let us remember that we who have experienced mercy,should show mercy,and we who have experienced love,should show love.
A prayer.
Dear God as you have loved us,so help us to embrace the lonely,and the unloved in Jesus name Amen.
so much turmoil,in dear old Canada, they have had an enormous Forrest fire.In the Middle East we have awful violence,which has resulted in over 16 million refugees and internally displaced persons.Millions of people are on the move,seeking a place which is peaceful,free from the bullet and the bomb,and cruel religious fanatics,just recently there was a report of such a group going into a footballers supporters group and killing most of them, there reason being they believed that football was against their religion. There are also millions who are fleeing poverty,many of these dear people, are dying in their attempt to reach their goal.If we are Christians we cannot close our eyes to suffering,Jesus never did,and we are reminded that the law of God is fulfilled,in one word love.What can we as Christians do?,we can pray,our prayers can make a difference,it may not happen immediately ,but it will eventually, in Gods time ,we can befriend those who have come to live in our homelands.Let us remember that we who have experienced mercy,should show mercy,and we who have experienced love,should show love.
A prayer.
Dear God as you have loved us,so help us to embrace the lonely,and the unloved in Jesus name Amen.
Tuesday, 24 May 2016
Groaning [ 1 Corinthians 15 v 51-58]
A friend of mine has Parkinson disease,it is a progressive illness,which
gradually,effects the persons ability to cope.He needs 24/7 care,it is distressing for him,and his family,his wife and daughter are recovering from cancer.My friend and his wife are Christians,In Romans 8 v23,we read,how ''the Christian groans inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons,the redemption of our bodies.''John Stott writing on the,incompleteness
of our salvation,as we share with the creation in the frustration,the bondage to decay and the pain. So one reason for our groaning is our physical fraility and mortality.The apostle Paul expresses elsewhere;'Meanwhile we groan ,
longing to be clothed with our heavenly,dwelling.[meaning probably our resurrection body]....for while we are in this tent[our temporary, flimsy,
material body],we groan and are burdened.Stott also mentions how that our fallenness,causes us also to groan.'' He then goes on to say,'' Our groans express both present pain and future longing.Some Christians,however ,grin to much[ they seem to no place in their theology for pain]and groan to little.''
A prayer.
Dear God grant us grace to bear with those difficult things we have to cope with,may our inward groaning not turn into complaining,in Jesus name we ask this Amen.
gradually,effects the persons ability to cope.He needs 24/7 care,it is distressing for him,and his family,his wife and daughter are recovering from cancer.My friend and his wife are Christians,In Romans 8 v23,we read,how ''the Christian groans inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons,the redemption of our bodies.''John Stott writing on the,incompleteness
of our salvation,as we share with the creation in the frustration,the bondage to decay and the pain. So one reason for our groaning is our physical fraility and mortality.The apostle Paul expresses elsewhere;'Meanwhile we groan ,
longing to be clothed with our heavenly,dwelling.[meaning probably our resurrection body]....for while we are in this tent[our temporary, flimsy,
material body],we groan and are burdened.Stott also mentions how that our fallenness,causes us also to groan.'' He then goes on to say,'' Our groans express both present pain and future longing.Some Christians,however ,grin to much[ they seem to no place in their theology for pain]and groan to little.''
A prayer.
Dear God grant us grace to bear with those difficult things we have to cope with,may our inward groaning not turn into complaining,in Jesus name we ask this Amen.
Monday, 23 May 2016
I feel weak [ Hebrews 12 v 1-2 ]
Sometimes I feel tired,like now,I suppose there are a number of reasons,the main one being my age.I am also get up early each day, and I do a bit of physical work.I am tired,of course there is a tiredness of spirit,when things
just pull you down.Often the answer is rest,so I may for a change go to bed early,I may.read a little before I do that. Samson was a man who manifested
great spiritual strength,yet experienced times of great weakness,Samson was raised up by God to defeat the Philistines, when he was faced with them we read that the Spirit of the Lord came upon him[Judges 15 v19]When he sinned,he became weak,sin weakens ,if there is sin in our lives it will effect us. Here is the word of Lord to all of us,/ Let us throw of everything that hinders, and the sin that easily entangles, and let us run with
perseverance the race marked out for us./That is the first thing we should do, and the next thing is,/Let us fix our eyes our eyes on Jesus,the author and perfecter of our faith.[Hebrews 12 v1 -2]
A prayer.
Search me, O God,and know my heart,
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.
Amen.
[Words from Psalm 139]
/
just pull you down.Often the answer is rest,so I may for a change go to bed early,I may.read a little before I do that. Samson was a man who manifested
great spiritual strength,yet experienced times of great weakness,Samson was raised up by God to defeat the Philistines, when he was faced with them we read that the Spirit of the Lord came upon him[Judges 15 v19]When he sinned,he became weak,sin weakens ,if there is sin in our lives it will effect us. Here is the word of Lord to all of us,/ Let us throw of everything that hinders, and the sin that easily entangles, and let us run with
perseverance the race marked out for us./That is the first thing we should do, and the next thing is,/Let us fix our eyes our eyes on Jesus,the author and perfecter of our faith.[Hebrews 12 v1 -2]
A prayer.
Search me, O God,and know my heart,
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.
Amen.
[Words from Psalm 139]
/
Sunday, 22 May 2016
Rescue the perishing. [ Isaiah 61 v 1-3 ]
I attended a meeting recently,the speaker was telling us about the work of a mission in the Philippians.The work they are involved with is with children, who live on a massive city dump ,were thousands of people live.Many dear children have no one to look after them,so they survive as best they can.All this is very sad,but one thing in particular ,was a photo he showed of little girls under ten ,selling themselves for sex.When things are bad in this world
they are very bad,but thankfully the Christian mission is making a difference.The fact of the matter is,all who are Christians are meant to make a difference,in this needy world.Jesus said we are to be light [to shine in the darkness],and salt[to stop the corruption].It was William Booth who raised an army of people,who went into the slums,and made a difference,to thousands of people. We cannot solve all the worlds problems,but we can help to a degree by our giving,praying,going,remember Christ will reward even the smallest act of kindness[Matthew 10v42].Our deeds will speak
[Matthew 5v16],but not only our deeds,but also our words,for as awful as mans physical needs are,their spiritual needs are also great,they need to hear about Jesus,if we neglect to tell them ?,who will?
Rescue the perishing,
Care for the dying.
Snatch them in pity from sin and the grave;
Weep o'er the erring one,
Lift up the fallen,
Tell them of Jesus the Mighty to save.
[Words by Fanny J. Crosby]
they are very bad,but thankfully the Christian mission is making a difference.The fact of the matter is,all who are Christians are meant to make a difference,in this needy world.Jesus said we are to be light [to shine in the darkness],and salt[to stop the corruption].It was William Booth who raised an army of people,who went into the slums,and made a difference,to thousands of people. We cannot solve all the worlds problems,but we can help to a degree by our giving,praying,going,remember Christ will reward even the smallest act of kindness[Matthew 10v42].Our deeds will speak
[Matthew 5v16],but not only our deeds,but also our words,for as awful as mans physical needs are,their spiritual needs are also great,they need to hear about Jesus,if we neglect to tell them ?,who will?
Rescue the perishing,
Care for the dying.
Snatch them in pity from sin and the grave;
Weep o'er the erring one,
Lift up the fallen,
Tell them of Jesus the Mighty to save.
[Words by Fanny J. Crosby]
Saturday, 21 May 2016
Being resonsible [1 Thessalonians 4 v11]
John Stott wrote the following,''God's sovereignty never diminishes our responsibility''.We are always challenged in the Bible to act in a responsible
manner,while God will provide,we are expected to work.While God will
protect we are not to be irresponsible,and put ourselves in danger. Success does not come without effort,the farmer ploughs the field,plants the seed.
There is little point in praying to God to lead us not into temptation,if we
put ourselves in a place where we are vulnerable.We are responsible to work at our marriage,a good marriage does not happen automatically.As regards money,we cannot borrow,barrow,borrow,spend,spend,spend,and not reap the consequences.We cannot flirt with that work colleague,and expect God to keep us from ,its consequences.We cannot continually ignor the speed limit,without being stopped for speeding.You may be a five point Calvinist,but you are still called to be responsible.Salvation is of Lord,but we are still told to go into all the world and preach the Gospel.I hope you have got the picture,I hope I have got the picture.
A prayer.
Dear God help us all to grasp this truth that we are called to act in a responsible manner,in Jesus name we ask this Amen.
manner,while God will provide,we are expected to work.While God will
protect we are not to be irresponsible,and put ourselves in danger. Success does not come without effort,the farmer ploughs the field,plants the seed.
There is little point in praying to God to lead us not into temptation,if we
put ourselves in a place where we are vulnerable.We are responsible to work at our marriage,a good marriage does not happen automatically.As regards money,we cannot borrow,barrow,borrow,spend,spend,spend,and not reap the consequences.We cannot flirt with that work colleague,and expect God to keep us from ,its consequences.We cannot continually ignor the speed limit,without being stopped for speeding.You may be a five point Calvinist,but you are still called to be responsible.Salvation is of Lord,but we are still told to go into all the world and preach the Gospel.I hope you have got the picture,I hope I have got the picture.
A prayer.
Dear God help us all to grasp this truth that we are called to act in a responsible manner,in Jesus name we ask this Amen.
Monday, 16 May 2016
I shall not fear,if. [ Matthew 28 v 20 ]
Moses had gone up Mount Sinai,to meet with God ,he was there a long time
and the people complained, they where in the wilderness,he was no longer around.So they acted sinfully,by having Aaron,make an idol,which they declared to be their god.When Moses came down from the mount,things had deteriorated ,and severe action had to be taken.It was then God spoke to Moses,as regards the people moving forward to the promise land, he promised that an angel would go before them,to drive out His enemies.He tells Moses that He will not go with them,because of their tendency to sin,the result might be,their destruction. Moses reasoned with God,and He assured him that he would be with him personally,but Moses wanted more he wanted Gods presence to be with his people.God granted him that request.[Exodus 32-33]The point I am coming to is this,Gods presence with us is vital,without that we cannot,go forward,but with His presence with us, we can confidently go forward.Although Jesus is in Heaven He is also with us by His Spirit,as we face whatever this day has for us,we are not alone,here the words of Jesus,''I am with you always''.
O Jesus I have promised
to serve Thee to the end;
be Thou for ever near me,
my Master and my friend.
I shall not fear the battle
if Thou art by my side,
nor wander from the pathway
if Thou wilt be my Guide.
[Words by J.E.Bode]
[ I will return to my blog on Saturday,every blessing ]
and the people complained, they where in the wilderness,he was no longer around.So they acted sinfully,by having Aaron,make an idol,which they declared to be their god.When Moses came down from the mount,things had deteriorated ,and severe action had to be taken.It was then God spoke to Moses,as regards the people moving forward to the promise land, he promised that an angel would go before them,to drive out His enemies.He tells Moses that He will not go with them,because of their tendency to sin,the result might be,their destruction. Moses reasoned with God,and He assured him that he would be with him personally,but Moses wanted more he wanted Gods presence to be with his people.God granted him that request.[Exodus 32-33]The point I am coming to is this,Gods presence with us is vital,without that we cannot,go forward,but with His presence with us, we can confidently go forward.Although Jesus is in Heaven He is also with us by His Spirit,as we face whatever this day has for us,we are not alone,here the words of Jesus,''I am with you always''.
O Jesus I have promised
to serve Thee to the end;
be Thou for ever near me,
my Master and my friend.
I shall not fear the battle
if Thou art by my side,
nor wander from the pathway
if Thou wilt be my Guide.
[Words by J.E.Bode]
[ I will return to my blog on Saturday,every blessing ]
Sunday, 15 May 2016
Remember who you are.[ 1 John 3 v 1-3 ]
It is John Stott who writes the following,''On 28May 1972 the Duke of Windsor,the uncrowned King Edward 8th,died in Paris.The same evening a TV programme rehearsed the main events of his life.Extracts from earlier films were shown,in which he answered questions about his upbringing, brief reign and abdication.Recalling his boyhood as Prince of Wales,he said; 'My father[ King George V] was a strict disciplinarian. Sometimes when I had done something wrong, he would admonish me saying,'' My dear boy,
you must always remember who you are''.John Stott goes unto to write, 'It is
my conviction that our heavenly Father says the same to us every day; 'My
dear child,you must always remember who you are'
A prayer.
Dear loving heavenly Father,help us to remember that we are your children,
so that we may not bring dishonour to your name,in Jesus name we ask this Amen.
you must always remember who you are''.John Stott goes unto to write, 'It is
my conviction that our heavenly Father says the same to us every day; 'My
dear child,you must always remember who you are'
A prayer.
Dear loving heavenly Father,help us to remember that we are your children,
so that we may not bring dishonour to your name,in Jesus name we ask this Amen.
Saturday, 14 May 2016
Happy birthday, Sir David Attenborough. [ Psalm 19 v 1-6 ]
Sir David Attenborough has just turned ninety,in case you do not know he is a world famous naturalist.He has made many program's for TV,which have
been shown over all the world.He is much loved and appreciated,and to celebrate his birthday he appeared on a special TV programme,with a studio audience,a number of people appeared on the programme,others from around the world were shown,one being Prince William,all spoke highly
of Sir David.I enjoyed the programme,but when it was over,I thought that the one who should have been honoured,never got a mention.No it was all
about Sir David,the creature,not the creator,it's like He does not exist.Of course for many people,including Sir David ,He doesn't.Now of course I am not as educated as him,he was educated at Cambridge University,I am not a qualified naturalist.I suppose I am a silly Billy,who cannot accept the just happened theory,but then this is nothing new, CP, Romans 1 v19ff.I suppose I agree with old Paul Robeson song,which went, ''Only God can make a tree''.It appears to me that Sir David,and his follows reject that God created all things, as not being rational,and yet go on to accept the totally
irrational,of a god called evolution.
I think that I shall never see,
A poem lovely as a tree.
A tree whose hungry mouth is prest,
Against the earth's sweet flowing breast.
A tree that looks out God all day,
And lifts his leafy arms to pray.
A tree that may in summer wear,
A nest of robins in her hair.
Upon whose boson snow has lain,
Who intimately lives with rain.
Poem's are made by fools like me,
But only God can make a tree.
[Words by Joyce Kilmer ]
been shown over all the world.He is much loved and appreciated,and to celebrate his birthday he appeared on a special TV programme,with a studio audience,a number of people appeared on the programme,others from around the world were shown,one being Prince William,all spoke highly
of Sir David.I enjoyed the programme,but when it was over,I thought that the one who should have been honoured,never got a mention.No it was all
about Sir David,the creature,not the creator,it's like He does not exist.Of course for many people,including Sir David ,He doesn't.Now of course I am not as educated as him,he was educated at Cambridge University,I am not a qualified naturalist.I suppose I am a silly Billy,who cannot accept the just happened theory,but then this is nothing new, CP, Romans 1 v19ff.I suppose I agree with old Paul Robeson song,which went, ''Only God can make a tree''.It appears to me that Sir David,and his follows reject that God created all things, as not being rational,and yet go on to accept the totally
irrational,of a god called evolution.
I think that I shall never see,
A poem lovely as a tree.
A tree whose hungry mouth is prest,
Against the earth's sweet flowing breast.
A tree that looks out God all day,
And lifts his leafy arms to pray.
A tree that may in summer wear,
A nest of robins in her hair.
Upon whose boson snow has lain,
Who intimately lives with rain.
Poem's are made by fools like me,
But only God can make a tree.
[Words by Joyce Kilmer ]
Friday, 13 May 2016
Well do you?. [ Philippians 3 v 8 ]
Jesus asked Peter, these challenging words, ' do you truly love me more than these?'.We like Peter have many things that we love,today Jesus asks us all the question,'do you love me more than these?',what will our answer be?.I cannot go ,I cannot give,why should I?,I am to old,what about my wife and children?,my marriage is to difficult,I have no time,why me?why not
,that other person?.It will only mean heartache and pain,who wants that,my
plans have already been made,I would be a fool,or seen as fool.I did not work and sacrifice to give it all up,for that which I cannot see.So it goes on,and on,our protesting,our reasoning,our resentment,but still the words of
Jesus come,words we would rather not hear,'do you truly love me more than
these?.'
When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride.
Forbid it, Lord,that I should boast
Save in the cross of Christ my God;
All the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to His blood.
See from His head, His hands,His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down;
Did e'er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?.
Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were an offering far to small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life ,my all.
[ Words by Isaac Watts]
,that other person?.It will only mean heartache and pain,who wants that,my
plans have already been made,I would be a fool,or seen as fool.I did not work and sacrifice to give it all up,for that which I cannot see.So it goes on,and on,our protesting,our reasoning,our resentment,but still the words of
Jesus come,words we would rather not hear,'do you truly love me more than
these?.'
When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride.
Forbid it, Lord,that I should boast
Save in the cross of Christ my God;
All the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to His blood.
See from His head, His hands,His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down;
Did e'er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?.
Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were an offering far to small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life ,my all.
[ Words by Isaac Watts]
Thursday, 12 May 2016
Not just the God of history. [ Psalm 46 ]
I read today that the Christian life is like a marathon,I agree with that,but I also see it as an obstacle race.Reflecting on my past I see the many obstacles I have had to face,but I also reflect on how God has sustained me,
and helped me.Consider the following words by John Flavel,''How is it that
you have survived so many dangers,sicknesses,accidents,designs of enemies to ruin you?.It is,I presume,beyond question with you that the very finger of
God has been in these things,and that by His care alone you have been preserved''.As I look back on my whole life ,I would say an Amen to that, how many scrapes and difficulties God has brought me through,I highlight one,as a child when I was saved from drowning,and I declare with the hymn writer to God be the glory great things He has done.Are you experiencing difficulties now dear child of God,are you tempted to despair?
look back on past deliverance's,and take encouragement from them in your present situation,His mercy has not been withdrawn from you.As in the past so in the present,He can bring deliverance,meet that need,heal that sickness,open up a door of service,a door of opportunity,He is not only the
God of history,but the God of the present,take encouragement from the
following words.
Begone,unbelief,
My Saviour is near
And for my relief
Will surely appear;
By prayer let me wrestle
And He will perform;
With Christ in the vessel
I smile at the storm.
His love in times past
Forbids me to think
He'll leave me at last
In trouble to sink;
Each sweet Ebenezer
I have in review
Confirms His good pleasure
To help me quite through.
[ Words by John Newton]
and helped me.Consider the following words by John Flavel,''How is it that
you have survived so many dangers,sicknesses,accidents,designs of enemies to ruin you?.It is,I presume,beyond question with you that the very finger of
God has been in these things,and that by His care alone you have been preserved''.As I look back on my whole life ,I would say an Amen to that, how many scrapes and difficulties God has brought me through,I highlight one,as a child when I was saved from drowning,and I declare with the hymn writer to God be the glory great things He has done.Are you experiencing difficulties now dear child of God,are you tempted to despair?
look back on past deliverance's,and take encouragement from them in your present situation,His mercy has not been withdrawn from you.As in the past so in the present,He can bring deliverance,meet that need,heal that sickness,open up a door of service,a door of opportunity,He is not only the
God of history,but the God of the present,take encouragement from the
following words.
Begone,unbelief,
My Saviour is near
And for my relief
Will surely appear;
By prayer let me wrestle
And He will perform;
With Christ in the vessel
I smile at the storm.
His love in times past
Forbids me to think
He'll leave me at last
In trouble to sink;
Each sweet Ebenezer
I have in review
Confirms His good pleasure
To help me quite through.
[ Words by John Newton]
Wednesday, 11 May 2016
Be discerning. [ John 16 v 13 ]
If you read my thought for the day,you will observe,that I quote from different writers,but a note of caution,I do not agree necessary with all their views.No more that the apostle Paul agreed with those poets he mentioned in [Acts17 v28],the point I am making is,be a prayerful discerning person,as
to what you read, or for that matter what you hear preached. In Acts 16 we read of the apostle Paul ministering at a place called Berea,he had a difficult
time in Thessalonica,the Jews as usual had,rejected the message,blinded by
envy,they never really took time to look into what Paul was saying.So he
moved on to Berea,where we read,'These were more noble than those in
Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind,and searched the scriptures daily,whether these things were so.'Two things that are important,be willing to receive what is according to scripture,and reject what is not in accordance with scripture.
A prayer.
Dear God grant unto us willing hearts to receive your truth,but also to be discerning ,so that we are not lead astray,in Jesus name we ask this Amen.
to what you read, or for that matter what you hear preached. In Acts 16 we read of the apostle Paul ministering at a place called Berea,he had a difficult
time in Thessalonica,the Jews as usual had,rejected the message,blinded by
envy,they never really took time to look into what Paul was saying.So he
moved on to Berea,where we read,'These were more noble than those in
Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind,and searched the scriptures daily,whether these things were so.'Two things that are important,be willing to receive what is according to scripture,and reject what is not in accordance with scripture.
A prayer.
Dear God grant unto us willing hearts to receive your truth,but also to be discerning ,so that we are not lead astray,in Jesus name we ask this Amen.
Tuesday, 10 May 2016
Evidence.. [ Matthew 5 v16 ]
I found myself singing an old gospel song this morning,I cannot remember
who wrote it,it goes .
''Each day I'll do a golden deed .
By helping those who are in need,
My life on earth is but a span,
And so I'll do the best I can''
The story is told of soldiers who broke into a monastery,demanding of the Abbott to give up their money and jewels,the Abbott took them to a room wherein lay the sick.The Abbott pointed to them and said these are our riches,these are our jewels.We rejoice that we are not saved by our good works,but the evidence that we are saved is shown by those good works we do,[James 2 v18].We often pray for the Lord to guide us as to what we should do,well we read in Ephesians 2 v10. ''For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them''.
A prayer.
Dear God we thank and praise you that we are not saved by what we do,but
what you did through Jesus your son.We ask that you will help us to show by good works,the reality of our relationship with you,in Jesus name we ask this Amen
who wrote it,it goes .
''Each day I'll do a golden deed .
By helping those who are in need,
My life on earth is but a span,
And so I'll do the best I can''
The story is told of soldiers who broke into a monastery,demanding of the Abbott to give up their money and jewels,the Abbott took them to a room wherein lay the sick.The Abbott pointed to them and said these are our riches,these are our jewels.We rejoice that we are not saved by our good works,but the evidence that we are saved is shown by those good works we do,[James 2 v18].We often pray for the Lord to guide us as to what we should do,well we read in Ephesians 2 v10. ''For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them''.
A prayer.
Dear God we thank and praise you that we are not saved by what we do,but
what you did through Jesus your son.We ask that you will help us to show by good works,the reality of our relationship with you,in Jesus name we ask this Amen
Monday, 9 May 2016
Want of trust. [ Proverbs 3 v5-6]
We sang a song at our fellowship recently which had the following words,
'We will put our trust in the Lord' this was repeated.these words our so easily sung,or spoken.But it is one the greatest challenges we have to rise
to,continually.I remember reading the life story of Hudson Taylor,a man who founded the China Inland Mission.Before he went to China he trained to be a doctor,one day as he was assisting in examining a dead body,he got infected ,and he was advised to go home,put his affairs in order,for he was going to die.Hudson believed God had called him to go to China,so he trusted God to live,which of course he did,and he went on to serve God in the land of China.Here is something he said,'Want of trust,is at the root of almost all our sins and all our weaknesses'.Why is it when a problem arises
I hear God saying to me,'Trust me'?,because our relationship is built on trust.Life is a challenge,it throws many things at us,the list is endless,but whatever you are facing today,the way through it,is to simply trust in the Lord with all your heart,and to lean not upon your own understanding[Proverbs 3 v 5].
A prayer.
Dear Lord grant unto us the grace of simple trusting you,no matter what comes into our lives. Amen.
'We will put our trust in the Lord' this was repeated.these words our so easily sung,or spoken.But it is one the greatest challenges we have to rise
to,continually.I remember reading the life story of Hudson Taylor,a man who founded the China Inland Mission.Before he went to China he trained to be a doctor,one day as he was assisting in examining a dead body,he got infected ,and he was advised to go home,put his affairs in order,for he was going to die.Hudson believed God had called him to go to China,so he trusted God to live,which of course he did,and he went on to serve God in the land of China.Here is something he said,'Want of trust,is at the root of almost all our sins and all our weaknesses'.Why is it when a problem arises
I hear God saying to me,'Trust me'?,because our relationship is built on trust.Life is a challenge,it throws many things at us,the list is endless,but whatever you are facing today,the way through it,is to simply trust in the Lord with all your heart,and to lean not upon your own understanding[Proverbs 3 v 5].
A prayer.
Dear Lord grant unto us the grace of simple trusting you,no matter what comes into our lives. Amen.
Sunday, 8 May 2016
Run as if your very life depended on it. [1 Corinthians 3 v10-15]
I love sport and one thing sport throws up is what we call an underdog,who surprises everyone by winning,now I do advocate gambling,but the bookies
were giving odds of five thousand to one,of a certain team winning the
Premier league. To everyone's surprise they did just that,of course I am writing of a football team, Leicester City.Now on the run up to winning, I read these words being attribute to their achievement,'eternal glory. I thought of what the apostle Paul wrote of those who won events,'they do it to win a prize that will fade away'[1Corinthians 9 v25]Now I do not want to take away from what that team did,but I can assure you it is nothing to do with eternal glory.The apostle compared the Christian life as to a race ,and reminds us that we will receive an eternal prize',now the Christian cannot merit salvation,but the apostle stresses,that as Christian we should see what is absolutely important,eternal values,eternal rewards[1 Corinthians 3 v10- 15 ]
A prayer.
Dear God ......O let me feel Thee near me,
The world is ever near;
I see the sights that dazzle,
The tempting sounds I hear;
My foes are ever near me,
Around me and within;
But Jesus,draw thou nearer,
And shield my soul from sin.
Amen.
[Words by John. E. Bode ]
were giving odds of five thousand to one,of a certain team winning the
Premier league. To everyone's surprise they did just that,of course I am writing of a football team, Leicester City.Now on the run up to winning, I read these words being attribute to their achievement,'eternal glory. I thought of what the apostle Paul wrote of those who won events,'they do it to win a prize that will fade away'[1Corinthians 9 v25]Now I do not want to take away from what that team did,but I can assure you it is nothing to do with eternal glory.The apostle compared the Christian life as to a race ,and reminds us that we will receive an eternal prize',now the Christian cannot merit salvation,but the apostle stresses,that as Christian we should see what is absolutely important,eternal values,eternal rewards[1 Corinthians 3 v10- 15 ]
A prayer.
Dear God ......O let me feel Thee near me,
The world is ever near;
I see the sights that dazzle,
The tempting sounds I hear;
My foes are ever near me,
Around me and within;
But Jesus,draw thou nearer,
And shield my soul from sin.
Amen.
[Words by John. E. Bode ]
Saturday, 7 May 2016
We can make a difference.[ 1 Samuel 17 v 12ff]
William Barclay wrote the following,''The pagan world was an unclean world.The pagan world did not know the meaning of chastity....in Rome
unwanted children,especially girls,were literally thrown away.Every night
numbers of them were left lying in the forum.They were collected by dreadful characters,who ran brothels,and nurtured up to be prostitutes.''In the 19th century,God raised up a man called William Booth,who was the founder of the Salvation Army,and although England was a supposedly Christian country,such was the state of the country among a great deal of the population,he wrote a book called .'Darkest England'.It took a long time but thankfully things changed,much of it due to Christian influence.God used the Salvation Army,and many other Christian to bring changes for the better.Yet in so many places in this world the sex trade is active,drug barons
ply their trade,much evil is being perpetrated by Godless religions,and so many other dark powers.As I look back on history it seems as soon as one evil is put down,another stands in to take its place.The word of God tells us
that the days are evil[Ephesians 5 v16],that this a spiritual evil,on earth,and in the heavenly realms[Ephesians 6v12]The need of the hour is great and will become even worse,only as we are surrendered to God,will we be able to stand,and make a difference,and we can ,remember David the giant killer.
A prayer.
Dear God there is so much darkness in this world,help us your children,to make a difference,use us to bring the message of our Saviour,to those who sit in darkness,in His name we ask this Amen.
unwanted children,especially girls,were literally thrown away.Every night
numbers of them were left lying in the forum.They were collected by dreadful characters,who ran brothels,and nurtured up to be prostitutes.''In the 19th century,God raised up a man called William Booth,who was the founder of the Salvation Army,and although England was a supposedly Christian country,such was the state of the country among a great deal of the population,he wrote a book called .'Darkest England'.It took a long time but thankfully things changed,much of it due to Christian influence.God used the Salvation Army,and many other Christian to bring changes for the better.Yet in so many places in this world the sex trade is active,drug barons
ply their trade,much evil is being perpetrated by Godless religions,and so many other dark powers.As I look back on history it seems as soon as one evil is put down,another stands in to take its place.The word of God tells us
that the days are evil[Ephesians 5 v16],that this a spiritual evil,on earth,and in the heavenly realms[Ephesians 6v12]The need of the hour is great and will become even worse,only as we are surrendered to God,will we be able to stand,and make a difference,and we can ,remember David the giant killer.
A prayer.
Dear God there is so much darkness in this world,help us your children,to make a difference,use us to bring the message of our Saviour,to those who sit in darkness,in His name we ask this Amen.
Friday, 6 May 2016
Distorting History. [ John 1 v1-5 ]
I recently purchased a book on the history of the Roman empire,and was
a bit confused,in the way the author dated events.Instead of the usual,BC
,before Christ,or AD,in the year of our Lord,we have the letters BCE,and CE.I had not a clue as to what they meant.I ask my son John about it,and he explained ,that BCE,means ,Before common era,and CE,means,Common era.It appears that this is the new political correct usage,I must confess I
was a bit annoyed,dropping the words BC, and Ad,but I suppose I should not be surprised,it is a sign of the times when Political correctness is
the in thing,BC/AD,are considered,terms that might offend ,even though they are the historical terms terms that that have always been in use,because in terms of world history,they are important.It appears to me that the historical reality of Christianity is being expunged out,being removed as something undesirable.As humanity continues to deny God as creator and replace Him with their god of evolution,the darkness appears to be gaining
control.I like the NLT translation of John 1 v5,which reads,'The light shines in the darkness,and the darkness can never extinguish it.'Irrespective of those who distort history,Christ came,and through His life,death and resurrection,will continue to ,to transform the lives of people on planet earth.
A prayer.
Dear God we thank that we have your truth,and that no matter if so called historians distort the truth,the darkness shall not extinguish the light,even
Jesus who is the light of the world Amen.
a bit confused,in the way the author dated events.Instead of the usual,BC
,before Christ,or AD,in the year of our Lord,we have the letters BCE,and CE.I had not a clue as to what they meant.I ask my son John about it,and he explained ,that BCE,means ,Before common era,and CE,means,Common era.It appears that this is the new political correct usage,I must confess I
was a bit annoyed,dropping the words BC, and Ad,but I suppose I should not be surprised,it is a sign of the times when Political correctness is
the in thing,BC/AD,are considered,terms that might offend ,even though they are the historical terms terms that that have always been in use,because in terms of world history,they are important.It appears to me that the historical reality of Christianity is being expunged out,being removed as something undesirable.As humanity continues to deny God as creator and replace Him with their god of evolution,the darkness appears to be gaining
control.I like the NLT translation of John 1 v5,which reads,'The light shines in the darkness,and the darkness can never extinguish it.'Irrespective of those who distort history,Christ came,and through His life,death and resurrection,will continue to ,to transform the lives of people on planet earth.
A prayer.
Dear God we thank that we have your truth,and that no matter if so called historians distort the truth,the darkness shall not extinguish the light,even
Jesus who is the light of the world Amen.
Thursday, 5 May 2016
No never alone. [Matthew 28 v20]
The disciples were facing a crises ,Jesus was about to die,He then would be
resurrected,and then He would ascend to Heaven.That means He would not be around,yes physically that would be so,but the Holy spirit would come,and His presence would make the presence of Christ,a living reality.I read of many dear Christians who are suffering persecution,in some countries were there are few Christians.they feel isolated.There are Christians who are the only Christians in their families,in there place of work,in their schools.The word of the Lord to them today,and to all of us we are not on our own,there is an unseen presence with us all.For He says to us all,I am with you always,as one writer points out,'The Gospel that began with the assurance that this baby would be Immanuel [God with us. Matthew 1 v23],closes with the assurance that he is with them still,and will be with them to the end of time[Matthew 28 v 20]. Dear child of God,no matter how what you may be facing,no matter how isolated you are,you are not alone,He, your Saviour is with you.
No never alone,no never alone,
Though trials may press you
And burdens distress you
He'll never leave us alone.
His promise is true,
He will not forsake you,
No never alone.
resurrected,and then He would ascend to Heaven.That means He would not be around,yes physically that would be so,but the Holy spirit would come,and His presence would make the presence of Christ,a living reality.I read of many dear Christians who are suffering persecution,in some countries were there are few Christians.they feel isolated.There are Christians who are the only Christians in their families,in there place of work,in their schools.The word of the Lord to them today,and to all of us we are not on our own,there is an unseen presence with us all.For He says to us all,I am with you always,as one writer points out,'The Gospel that began with the assurance that this baby would be Immanuel [God with us. Matthew 1 v23],closes with the assurance that he is with them still,and will be with them to the end of time[Matthew 28 v 20]. Dear child of God,no matter how what you may be facing,no matter how isolated you are,you are not alone,He, your Saviour is with you.
No never alone,no never alone,
Though trials may press you
And burdens distress you
He'll never leave us alone.
His promise is true,
He will not forsake you,
No never alone.
Wednesday, 4 May 2016
I do not understand. [Job 13 v 15]
In Charles Swindoll's book the ,'The mystery of Gods will.' he quotes a poem by John Oxenham,written in 1613,called,'' God's Handwriting''.
He writes in characters too grand
For our short sight to understand;
We catch but broken strokes,and try
To fathom all the mystery
Of withered hopes of death,of life,
The endless war,the useless strife-
But there,with larger,clearer sight,
We shall see this-
His way was right
His way was right.
The fact is, as to Gods way's,so much is a mystery,that this side of eternity
we will never understand,but as the poet writes,when we enter the eternal realms,we shall see,that His way was right.
A Prayer.
Dear God there are so many things we do not understand,grant us the grace
to trust in You,even through pain and tears,in Jesus name we ask this.Amen
He writes in characters too grand
For our short sight to understand;
We catch but broken strokes,and try
To fathom all the mystery
Of withered hopes of death,of life,
The endless war,the useless strife-
But there,with larger,clearer sight,
We shall see this-
His way was right
His way was right.
The fact is, as to Gods way's,so much is a mystery,that this side of eternity
we will never understand,but as the poet writes,when we enter the eternal realms,we shall see,that His way was right.
A Prayer.
Dear God there are so many things we do not understand,grant us the grace
to trust in You,even through pain and tears,in Jesus name we ask this.Amen
Tuesday, 3 May 2016
Books. [ Isaiah 53]
I love reading,when people tell me they are not readers ,I find it hard to take it in,and would love them to enjoy the world of books.I always liked reading,I am not a fast reader,some books I gave up on,but I have read many books,not as many as some.Reading can enhance ones life.Reading
will not make you a better person,Stalin was obsessed with reading.but it can gave one much enjoyment.As a minister I believe reading is invaluable,of course the book that I have read the most is the Bible.It is important to read the Bible ,but it is important to understand the Bible,and of course many people who read the scriptures,have never trusted the Christ of the scriptures.The Jews had the scriptures what we call the old testament,or old covenant,and though Christ pointed out those scriptures, that spoke of Him and His sacrificial death they refused to accept Him,and in doing so they fulfilled what was written by the prophet Isaiah 53,which speaks of the one who would be despised and rejected of men.The supreme message of the Bible is Christ,a Christ who was both God and man,and a Christ who died on a cross to save us.
A prayer.
Dear God we thank you for your word,that is able to make us wise unto salvation,Amen
will not make you a better person,Stalin was obsessed with reading.but it can gave one much enjoyment.As a minister I believe reading is invaluable,of course the book that I have read the most is the Bible.It is important to read the Bible ,but it is important to understand the Bible,and of course many people who read the scriptures,have never trusted the Christ of the scriptures.The Jews had the scriptures what we call the old testament,or old covenant,and though Christ pointed out those scriptures, that spoke of Him and His sacrificial death they refused to accept Him,and in doing so they fulfilled what was written by the prophet Isaiah 53,which speaks of the one who would be despised and rejected of men.The supreme message of the Bible is Christ,a Christ who was both God and man,and a Christ who died on a cross to save us.
A prayer.
Dear God we thank you for your word,that is able to make us wise unto salvation,Amen
Monday, 2 May 2016
I love my garden.[ Revelation 21 v1-5 ]
My wife and I often visit old stately homes,most of them have beautiful
gardens,we like also visiting gardening centres,and of course we have a garden of our own.All these give us great pleasure,it is interesting that when God created Adam and Eve,he placed them in a garden,where they looked after it,and of course we all know what happen then,they disobeyed God,
and where excluded from that earthly paradise.John Milton wrote of Paradise lost.Yes we lost so much that awful day,and I was thinking, about this love for gardens,[Joseph Stalin loved gardening]which many of us have ,could it be that our love of gardens,goes back to the Paradise we lost,is there within all us a desire for that world we lost?.The fall of humanity effected everything, more than most of us realise,it effected the world the universe[Job 15v15],and worst still, it effected humanities relationship with God.We cannot return to that earthly Paradise,but there is hope,in the book of Revelation we read of a new heaven and a new earth[21v1].All who trust Jesus are new creations,and only they will will be part of that wonderful future,it really does depend on knowing Jesus as your Saviour,the one who is making all things new.[Revelation 21v5 ]
A prayer.
Dear God we rejoice that there is a wonderful future ,for all who trust Jesus
as Saviour,Amen.
gardens,we like also visiting gardening centres,and of course we have a garden of our own.All these give us great pleasure,it is interesting that when God created Adam and Eve,he placed them in a garden,where they looked after it,and of course we all know what happen then,they disobeyed God,
and where excluded from that earthly paradise.John Milton wrote of Paradise lost.Yes we lost so much that awful day,and I was thinking, about this love for gardens,[Joseph Stalin loved gardening]which many of us have ,could it be that our love of gardens,goes back to the Paradise we lost,is there within all us a desire for that world we lost?.The fall of humanity effected everything, more than most of us realise,it effected the world the universe[Job 15v15],and worst still, it effected humanities relationship with God.We cannot return to that earthly Paradise,but there is hope,in the book of Revelation we read of a new heaven and a new earth[21v1].All who trust Jesus are new creations,and only they will will be part of that wonderful future,it really does depend on knowing Jesus as your Saviour,the one who is making all things new.[Revelation 21v5 ]
A prayer.
Dear God we rejoice that there is a wonderful future ,for all who trust Jesus
as Saviour,Amen.
Sunday, 1 May 2016
I don't want to be there. [Hebrews 9 v27]
John Stott, writes,'Death is the one event over which [in the end] we have no control,and from which we cannot escape.Woody Allen epitomizes for many modern people this inability to cope with the prospect of death.'It's not that I'm afraid to die,'he quips; 'I just don't want to be there when it happens.'Thats what many people would like,but unlike the dentist appointment ,we don't want to keep,we all ,will be there, when it comes to dying.Death in one sense unnatural,but when we sinned in the garden of Eden ,we invited an unwelcome guest in,In our present state of deterioration,to prolong life indefinitely is not possible,nor would it be a blessing.In one sense death is a mercy,of course for many who die young,it does not appear so.And of course death is painful for the bereaved,yet it will happen,be we old ,or young,there is nothing we can do about it. Of course death is not the end of the story,for there is another appointment we will all have to keep, we read that after death the judgement[Hebrews 9 v27].On that day we all stand before Christ ,and the question is ,will He be our Saviour or our judge?. During our life time we have an opportunity to accept Christ,and receive forgiveness,or to reject Him and remain in our sins,the choice is ours.
A prayer.
Dear God help us to cope with the death of those we love,but help us all
to be prepared for our own deaths,by accepting Christ as our Saviour. Amen.
A prayer.
Dear God help us to cope with the death of those we love,but help us all
to be prepared for our own deaths,by accepting Christ as our Saviour. Amen.
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