A Word In Season

The Lord says " Come to Me and sink into My love. There is a refreshing that will gently wash over you as you linger in My presence. Just as a child snuggles into its bed at night and relaxes in the warmth of the blankets, so you come and nestle in My love for you. Sink down, relax and let me take control. Do not be in a hurry to move from this position for you will find the healing there that you need. Let your soul be at rest and abide (stay put) in the experience. Don't be hasty over decisions, or plans, allow the waters to flow over you and soften your heart and motives. Your spiritual eyes have become weary with trying to see through the fog of many emotions. Now is the time to let all that go and rest in My love. I will show you the new pathway you must tread as you awake from your rest. Do not fear complacency. This is ordained of Me. There will be new vigour and direction, but wait for it to come from my Spirit".
'Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.' Matt 11:28

Stand Firm!

These are days in which you need to put your roots deeply into God. The winds of change in the world will try to force you in their direction. But you have help to keep you firm in your purpose. The Holy Spirit is there to be your advocate, counseller, teacher and friend. Keep your heart humble before God and ask for His help and leading. At the right time He will exalt you and your feet will stand upon a rock, and then He will establish your goings.
It is important to stay the course when all around you crumbles. You will be a help to those in distress, and lead them into faith. Just stay steady until the right time comes for you to gain ground again. Continue to feed on God's word each day, pray in faith, and help others when you can. These things will keep you firm in His ways. The Lord WILL do His part, make sure you remain faithful in your part.
'Having done everything stand. Stand firm then..............and pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests' Eph 6:13,18

New Things

Two disciples were walking along a road going towards a village. They were busy discussing events that were on their minds. They were confused, despondant, disappointed, and doubting because all their hopes were dashed. Jesus was walking that same road. He saw that they were sad and downcast. He asked them all about it Lk 24:13-17. They poured it all out to Him, just thinking He was a stranger.
Jesus has walked through everything we walk through in life. He has been there before us, and even knows what we think and feel beforehand. The two people said 'we had hoped' but now all is lost. To them all their dreams had come to an end; there was no future hope. Looking at it the way they saw it all, nothing made sense.
But it was only half the truth! There was more to come that turned out to be 'the best'. Jesus was with them, when they thought He was dead. Jesus explained the scriptures to them when they could not understand. Jesus came and ate with them and revealed His presence. Sorrow was suddenly turned to joy!
Often we jump to conclusions in our lives. We don't give God a chance to finish what He was saying to us; we pre-judge the outcome insted of waiting for Him to unfold new things and bring light. We want to 'know the end before the beginning'! When you pour your heart out to Him you can be sure that there is another chapter to come in your life that will put things in a new light.

Take Courage!

We may feel feeble and weary with the state of the world and circumstances around us. There maybe few we know that really believe in God, and many around us in unbelief. But take heart! be strong and of good courage! let us wait for our God; that waiting is not in vain. God will hear and help, for He will never disappoint His people. In the presence of our enemies we feel so weak and we so often have to wait for deliverance to come. The blessings for which we plead are spiritual and all unseen, things that are impossible with men, heavenly, supernatural, divine blessings. And we faint at times because the seen things around us seem more real than the unseen we are asking for.
Come to God, and however feeble you may feel, just wait in His presence. Just as the sunshine penetrates the body of an invalid that needs warmth, so the sunshine of God's holy love will warm the cold areas of your soul. Just absorb that love. No one sitting in the sunshine fights and struggles and says " I must soak this warmth up. I need it, and must get hold of it" No! they just lay in the sun and let it do the work. Come to God's love and let it do it's work in you. Slowly, little by little, He will permeat your being with His divine life. You will hardly notice it at first, but soon you will feel it and know it!
'Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart; wait I say, on the Lord' Ps 27:14

The Blessed Hope

Our hope and love will be consummated at the appearing of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. The expectation of this gives us a bond of unity unknown in other religions. We are awaiting the appearing of the God of Love. As His people our hearts cling to Him and also to those who genuinely love Him. Our master said that we were to love one another. And we show our love for Him by our love for His people. It is possible for our faith to be strong and our expectancy great, yet be lacking in true Love. Many will appear to worship, adore, praise, honour Him, yet fail to LOVE. Our love for God is measured by our love for one another.
'If anyone says, "I love God," yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen'. I John 4:20

Simply Worshipping

Just as His entrance into the world through natural birth, changed the course of history, so will His second coming change everything forever. Thinking of the miracle of His birth gives us a revelation of our future in Eternity. He came and He comes! Are we ready for that appearing? He came insignificantly the first time, but the second time He comes, every eye shall see Him.
It will be a quick happening! there will be no time to change sides! Either we are for Him, or against Him. Are we allowing Him to have His way with us? And are we loving Him above all else? The few that were involved with His birth, worshipped. But on that day many will worship and call Him Lord! If He is not Lord of all in your life, then He is not Lord at all!
We need to live every day as if He were coming. Even if we pass from this life to the next before His return, we must live each moment, simply worshipping, like a child loves and adores. That is not too hard for us, is it? Just love Him and enjoy His presence.
'Behold, I am coming quickly! hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown.' Rev 3:11

Waiting For Instructions

An important part of the Christian life is receiving instructions from God. We have the Bible to teach us, but also we need that word to come direct from the Lord in our particular need or circumstances. It has to be living and vital for each day. We can count on God to teach us His way, and show us His path in special difficulties or times of perplexity. Jesus said that His sheep hear His voice. And there is nothing more wonderful than when He speaks into the heart with a direct word of instruction, encouragement, and enlightenment.
There is something He wants to say especially for you! Not for others, but for YOU in your circumstances and life. He is so interested in your life and longs to communicate His purposes to you. But you need to wait quietly before God, in your times of prayer, in your heart as you go about your daily tasks. Show God that you are 'waiting' to hear what He has to say to you. He WILL speak, when you are ready to hear.
"Show me thy ways, O Lord; Teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: For thou art the God of my salvation: On thee do I wait all the day" Psalm 25:4,5

Waiting For Supplies

Sometimes, when an army is sent out to march into an enemy's country, but is not advancing, the question is asked 'why'. The answer will often be 'waiting for supplies'. All the stores of provisions, clothing, vehicles, ammunitions, have not yet arrived. Without these it dare not proceed. Something has held them up. It is like that in our Christian life, day by day, at every step, we need our supplies from above. And it is necessary to cultivate that spirit of dependance on God, and the confidence that refuses to go on without the needed supply of grace and strength.
We sometimes cry out to God "I haven't got what it takes!" But the necessary supplies will arrive! They have been sent. They are on their way. Wait for them before you proceed. Be it, strength, faith, wisdom, grace, finance, whatever is needed for your advancement is coming to you. But wait in confidence.
'My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus'. Phill 4:19

God's Suddenly's!

God leaves room in His plans for some things to happen spontaneously. Suddenly a rainbow appears in the sky after heavy rain. Suddenly the desert blossoms with flowers after years of dryness. Suddenly a baby smiles. Unexpected things happen which bring a new season in our lives. Suddenly the sun appears from behind the clouds, and suddenly a bird sings. Each day brings unexpected blessings to us. He works everything together for our good.
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men on whom His favour rests". Lk 2:13

Blind Faith?

Two blind men followed Jesus. In the hustle and bustle of the crowd they kept calling out "Have mercy on us Son of David!" They kept following and kept calling. They were determined to get an answer. Jesus went into a house and the blind men went in after Him. They came up to Jesus and He asked them, "Do you believe that I am able to do this?". "Yes, Lord," they replied. So He touched their eyes and said, "Acording to your faith will it be done to you", and their sight was restored. Matt 9:27-30.
The question today is "Do you believe I am able to do what you ask?". What is your answer? can you simply say "Yes Lord".
'Jesus Christ is the same Yesterday and today and forever' Heb 13:8

God With Us

To all the Heavenly Hosts, and created beings, the wonder of God coming to Earth and taking on human flesh is an amazing mystery. The Angels sang at His entrance into the world. They all marvelled that He CHOSE to come. He wanted to be with us, not out of duty, but out of a great unspeakable LOVE.
God had never experienced what it was like to be a Man. He took the risk and He lived amongst other men and women, had friends, loved to laugh with them, and share their lives. He knew what it was to weep, to be heartbroken, to be tired, forsaken, and bleed to death. The wonder is that He came at all , without any welcome!!
Welcome Him into your life again. Open the door of your heart and let Him in. God with us bringing His light, comfort, friendship, understanding. He knows ALL about you and loves you unconditionally.
'Call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us' Matt 1:23

Prince Of Peace

God is the one who gives Peace. It is a gift. It came wrapped in the person of Jesus. It is not like the world's peace, which is fragile and man made subject to change. The peace of God is constant and is not a blessing that He bestows, but rather it is God Himself. How we need that peace! We need it between nations, between families, between the body of Christ. We need that peace as a bond, keeping things together, holding us close in these days of upheaval and unrest. Pray for Peace! Call upon God to fill you with His peace. Shalom is not just the absence of hostility, strife, and disorder, but it is also the condition and sense of being safe and secure. It describes the relationship between us and God, because Jesus took away the divisions between us when He died  on the cross. If you are insecure in your heart, call upon God to change you inside until you feel His constant peace. He will do it.
'His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

Give Thanks

Why not try this today! Chase the shadows away, cast out your fears, turn from your doubts, push all negative thoughts behind, fling them all off and discipline yourself to give thanks. Do it just for one day, and do it for one more day, and one more, and one more. Train your mind to thank God. There are many blessings in your life so rise above the confusion and intimidation around you. Make a decision from your will to do this. Rise like a balloon floating on the wind. Let your soul enjoy the goodness of God, and your spirit rejoice in God your Saviour. For He has done great and mighty things for you. Maybe you cannot see them as yet. But He has done them!
'Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father by Him' Col 3:17

Keep Clean!

Typical African scenes are the clothes that lay stretched out on bushes. They have been washed and strewn around to dry in the sun. Most of them are old clothes, some threadbare clothes, but all have been washed. God does not expect us to be perfect, but He expects us to be spiritually clean through the washing of Jesus precious blood. And His blood can wash away ALL sin, if we avail ourselves of it.
Oh! the glorious feeling of being clean! There is a lightness in the soul, a happiness that fills the heart, even if circumstances are hard, and darkness is all around, it does not have to be within. All we have to do is 'come', be honest, ask for forgiveness, and say sorry, with the desire not to secretely hold onto our sin. He forgives, washes, restores, and delivers from the power of sin over us! Hallelujah!
'If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness'. 1 John 1:9

Able To Keep

I was thinking about the possibilities, potential, and plans I could make for 2012. Already there seems to be work developing for the spread of the Good News of Jesus Christ. I could do this thing, I could do that thing, but as yet it is in my imagination all unseen to the natural eye. So I took all my thoughts, hopes and plans, and put them one by one in a large sheet of paper and then wrapped them tightly up.
I then tossed them, hurled them towards God, and He caught my parcel of precious things and held it in His strong hands (those hands that created the Universes). Then He carefully unwrapped the paper and took out each desire one by one, looked intently at them, and then put them in a safe place. He will hold everything until the appointed time. Some of my plans will be returned to me one by one as I am able to accomplish the tasks, along with it will come grace, strength, health, finance to finish the work assigned to me. Other plans will not be returned to me as they will not be God's will for my life. He is KEEPING all that I have committed in a SAFE place. I can rest content, without worry, because my Father knows best!
' I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed to Him, against that day.' 2 Timothy 1:12

Prayer Of Faith

God's goodness is shown through His general providence. He makes sun to shine upon the evil and the good alike. But there is another privilege for the Christian, that is His special providences, those are the blessings we get when we pray. Blessings we would not receive if we did not pray in faith. These provisions are especially given because they were specially asked. The prayer of faith is the mightiest force in the world. God governs the world by it. We get special protection, special deliverance, special blessings, and special comfort because someone is praying. Have you ever felt a comfort in your soul and thought to your self 'someone is praying for me'? Pray especially for someone today!
'And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well: the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned he will be forgiven.' James 5:15

You Will Understand.

We do not understand what God is doing in our lives and sometimes it makes us feel that He is doing nothing! But He is at work, little by little. He says "I will put My laws (My will) into your heart and write it in your minds. I will make you understand all that is needful to settle all the questions that need to be settled. As time passes and the days follow on, and the years roll by, and you see no settled future, I am present to unfold it all, bit by bit. You will understand, today, tomorrow, and the next day".
He will not unfold ALL the future at the present time, because it will throw you into distraction by the flood of thoughts. It would make your brain reel, you would be overwhelmed, and your life would crumble under the pressure. He will come and speak little by little, just as you can bear it, just as you need it, day by day.
Jesus said,"What I am doing you do not understand now, but you will know after this". John 13:7

Pleasing God

Today is a good time to ask for God to give 'Faith'. Faith is a fruit of the Spirit Gal 5:22. It develops in our lives through abiding in Christ and obedience to His will. It is also a gift of the Spirit. Romans 12:7,9 says' 'Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good..............to another faith by the same Spirit'. It is given by God for a purpose, that is, the good of others.
By faith, mountains can be removed! Mountains of unbelief, mountains of trouble, mountains of hindrance and stumbling. Things can change through faith Hebrews ch 11. 'Without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists, and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him' Heb11:6
You can ask and it will be given you. Faith and wisdom make good wings to soar in the Spirit and overcome the world's snares, temptations and afflictions.

Wisdom

Now is a good time to ask God for Wisdom. There are decisions to be made over the coming weeks and months, and a clear path to tread. Ask for Wisdom to help you put your faith into practice. It will equip you for the bracing journey you will take. There are tasks for you to do, and you need to know 'how' to go about them. Godly Wisdom is worth more than any earthly treasures; more than wealth, because it will show you how to get wealth for your kingdom work. Wisdom brings peace with it. It does not tread upon others. It brings success. It is pure.
'If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt.' James1:5,6

Take The Opportunity!

'Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip,"Go south to the road - the desert road - that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza." So he started out, and on his way he met an Ethiopian eunoch, an important official in charge of all the treasury of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians." Acts 8:26,27.
Don't look for great opportunities when the one that God wants you to take is just the next step that comes your way. The nearest opportunity is often the one that leads to something wonderful. Use your common sense and step forward into the obvious. The angel was just a messenger. He did not have wings!
Philip could have procrastinated and said "Why go into the desert, there is nothing and no one there." BUT he just happened to see the most important man, after the queen, in Ethiopia. And so the Gospel was preached, the man was saved and baptized, and he took the good news back with him to Ethiopia. This one man was more imortant to God, on that day, than ten thousand men!

The Power Of Praise!

The most important time to praise God is when we don't feel like it! Give thanks to Him for He is GOOD. He never fails. He is always merciful and kind. He washes away our sin and heals our wounded souls. Praise Him for the wonder of His creation. Praise Him for the new day; the trees and flowers; the birds and animals. Bless His name today! Bless His handiwork; your friends and family; your health and strength. Praise Him that you can breathe; Praise Him for the sunshine and light. Praise Him for loving you, just as you are!
As you give thanks, absorb His love into your being, just as you soak up the sunshine on a beautiful day. Even if your day is not beautiful, still praise Him, it will change, for all things change. There is an old chorus that says 'count your blessings, name them one by one, count your blessings, name them one by one, and it will surprise you what the Lord has done!'
'This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it'. Ps 118:24

Quality Not Quantity

God does not look at the amount of work we accomplish for Him. He is after quality. A pint jar can be as perfectly filled as a gallon vessel. We may have little, but it is what we do with our little that counts with God. If we surrender all we are and have to God it is as acceptable as if we had ten times that amount in capacity, ability or strength. We make a great mistake if we estimate the value of service to God by the amount accomplished. We put people in the world on a pedestal if they give a lot, or do a lot, or are in the public eye alot, doing more than we could ever do.
God's eye is upon the one who renders a small but perfect service, in honesty and love. It is on the same level and of the same value to God as a great serrvice rendered. Likewise, a great service for God is of the same value as the small service. All things are on the same level to Him. He looks at every task accomplished and sees if the person has done it for the Glory of God. We are all different, some have a greater ability, capacity, to accomplish things in this life. But all we need to do is use our time, gifts, talents, to the full. If you are a pint jar, be filled to the brim! If you are a gallon vessel, be filled to the brim! use what you have!
'Be filled with the Spirit' Eph 5:18

God Is Able

He is able to meet your need. He is able to change your circumstances. He is able to heal and save. He is able to deliver. He is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work 2 Corinth 9:8. Praise Him continually that He is ABLE, and WILL do through you what is needed. He desires to pour through you to others.
But remember this:Whoever sows sparingly will reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 9:6.
He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food, will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion. 2 Corinth 9:10,11. Don't store seed just for yourself. Sow generously, sow with a cheerful heart. GIVE AND IT SHALL BE GIVEN TO YOU! OVERFLOW IN EXPRESSIONS OF THANKS TO GOD. HE IS ABLE TO MAKE ALL GRACE ABOUND TOWARDS YOU.

God Makes Things Grow

Each person is assigned a task from God. No one is greater or less than another. We are all His servants. Therefore, don't follow anyone, however spiritual they may appear. Everyone is mortal. All are mere men! and can be wrong. Look to Jesus and He will provide the teaching, support, counsel, all that you need. He will use His body, His servants, but don't permanently lean on them, they will fail you. For a season you will be helped, and then when that season is over you must move on. If not, God will allow them to fail you, or forsake you, or neglect you, so that you will not root yourself in a relationship with them.
One man plants a seed, another waters it, but God makes it grow. We work together with God for the good of others, but we are not God. Only God can make the seed grow. 1 Corinth 3:4-8.

School Of the Spirit

Every child of God experiences at one time or another His discipline. When we are saved we then enter into the plans the Father has for us. To fulfil those plans we need to be trained and disciplined. Just like a child needs the example, teaching and training of parents, school, and family. In the Holy Spirit's School we are taught to perfection! Every trial, test, and affliction can bring us into the place of surrender and humility as we become more like Jesus. Because the purpose of this training is that we will be 'like Him', and our lives will shine in the world as a light, just as He is the Light of the world.
There is no other way for us to become like Him. We have to go through many waters, but are not overwhelmed; through the fires of testing, but are not burned; through darkness, but are not stopped; through disasters, but are not killed. In prison, but delivered! sick, but healed! Yes, we pass through many trials on this earth as we make our way to heaven. And at the time they are not pleasant. We wonder why a loving God can let us experience these things; we sometimes lose hope, and feel that He has forgotten us; we wonder what we have done wrong, if we have brought this upon ourselves, or if we have strayed away.
But it is all for a purpose! Take heart. Lift up your feeble hands and rejoice! God is dealing with the flaws in your character. He is making a vessel of honour out of you. You will see the harvest and reap it. This time is not in vain.
'No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however,it produces a harvest of righteousness asnd peace for those who have been trained by it. Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees'. Heb 12:11,12.

A Time For Everything

'There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven' Ecc 3:1. It takes 9 months for a baby to develop in it's mother's womb and then be born. The gestation time for an elephant to be carried in the womb is 22 months!
Everything has an allotted time. If we try to force changes it that time schedule God has planned then there are problems. It takes time for character to be formed. It takes time for habit patterns to change, and time to mature relationships.
We can't know God in a hurry! it takes time to BE with Him, SIT with Him, LISTEN to Him, TALK to Him, ENJOY His presence, and time to KNOW Him. In fact it takes a lifetime!
Don't try to change the season of life you are in. Let it happen in God's time, in His way, by His design. If you try to push it yourself it will lead to frustration. God's timing happens in Peace.

Father's Business

Our daily work and ordinary life is where we learn most the things and ways of God. When Jesus was 12 years old, He went to the Temple with His parents Lk 41-52. He was caught up in the wonder of it all and like any boy got absorbed in all the sights and experiences of life. He had a sense of calling that developed over those few days. He was becoming aware of His destiny. A new awakening within His soul gripped Him, He cleaved to being in His father's house about His Father's business.
But this significant time passed. He had to return to Nazareth and lived obediently to his parents wishes and direction Lk 2:51. He was a good son to His earthly mother and father. He learned a trade and became a carpenter eventually running the business and caring for His widowed mother. Everyone knew Him and liked Him, because He was so pleasant to be with. The Bible tells us ' that He grew in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
Jesus was obedient in earthly ways before heavenly things were trusted to Him. He was not full of presumption, going around doing 'great things' for God or forcing His teachings upon people. He lived and proved His worth in daily living. being honest, kind, committted, faithful, caring, forgiving, reliable, trustworthy, humble, and pure. His ministry and works that were manifest when He was around 30 years of age were built upon the foundation that had been laid during those silent, obedient years in Nazareth. Jesus showed us that ministry comes out of character and that is the way we need to walk.

Dawn Is Breaking

Waiting requires patience and discipline. Qualities that grow with use! We so often cry to God to answer 'now', and don't realise that He has to work on us to get us ready for the answer. The psalmist says 'My soul waits for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning: I say more than they that watch for the morning' Psalm 130:6
Through a long sleepless night, the thought of morning light coming for sure, gives a ray of hope. The morning will come and the shadows will flee away! Those that wait upon the Lord do not wait in vain. As sure as the morning breaking, so He will break through and bring a new light.
But the soul has to look for, eagerly anticipate, be sure of, His coming. No casual seeking gains anything. No'hot and cold' receives anything. No double minded person gets an answer. The commitment, the longing, the yearning for God's visitation, has to be from the whole heart. Then, as sure as the morning breaks, so our God will come to you, and in His coming, meet your hearts desire. WATCH!

It's Alright!

I saw a child happily skipping along a straight road. When asked why it was on it's own, yet so happy, the reply was " I'm on my way home and nearer than when I started. I am not afraid because my Father has just been along this way and made it safe for me".
Everything in our lives, things that happen to us, choices we make, all prepare us for Eternity. Even the bad things He can turn and use for good. We can go along with a happy heart in God's Way, or we can struggle and trudge along our own way. Every day that passes brings us nearer to our heavenly home. Our Father is waiting for us with a welcome beyond our dreaming. Even if the clouds are dark and dreary around us, we can have a warmth in our hearts knowing we are on our way home.
I was fortunate to have a mother that loved her children. When I ran home from school each day, she was always there with hot tea for me. I felt welcomed, warm and loved. At Christmas time we had presents waiting in their bright paper to be unwrapped. It was only Birthdays and Christmas that brought gifts. There was nothing else for children throughout the year, not like today! We always had an apple and an orange in our stockings and relished eating them at midnight, when we were supposed to be asleep!
But Oh! my heart was so warm at the thought of surprises at Christmastime. Often I would have a new dress that my mother had made. Wearing it gave me a sense of belonging and pride. Mother had made it 'for me'!
A whole new world is waiting for us. Heaven is a place prepared for you. There are lovely surprises planned by our Father for each loved child. There is a welcome beyond words, beyond any good thing experienced on this earth. There are no more bad things, no more sorrow or pain or sickness. No more loneliness or rejection or hatred. Just Perfect LOVE.
'I will go before you, and make the crooked places straight: I will break in pieces the gates of brass, and cut through bars of iron'. Isaiah 45:2

A day At A time!

Jesus tells us not to take anxious thought about tomorrow. He does not say that we are not to think about tomorrow, make plans, or to pray about the future. But we are not to worry as it is fruitless and unprofitable. None of us can control our circumstances, or add anything to our lives by worrying. It is a habit pattern of thinking that can cause us great distress and halt our progress in life. We are really saying that our heavenly Father does not care about every detail of our lives, when we worry! Has He not said that even the hairs on our head are numbered?
Most of our troubles are imaginary. Our forebodings about the future, our forecasts about what will or might happen are just predictions and unfounded fears. The Lord can, and does deliver from them. So if you are burdened today, bring it all to Jesus, with thanksgiving, because He cares about you. As you discipline yourself to lay the weights down at His feet, so you will experience release and deliverance from the scourge of worry. Matthew 6:34.

Encourage One Another

There are so many ways we can encourage others. The word means 'to put courage in'and 'to inspire with spirit or hope'. The Bible speaks a lot about encouragement. In Acts 9:31 the church was encouraged by the Holy Spirit bringing a time of peace after persecution. Barnabas was sent to Antioch and encouraged the believers to remain true to the Lord Acts 11:23. Prophets were used to bring encouragement Acts 15:9. The testimony of Paul and Silas when they came out of prison was an encouragement to the Christians Acts 16:40. Letters were sent; disciples brought encouragement as they travelled and met with others.
As Christians we can mutually encourage each others faith; we can stand in the gap and intercede; we can send a letter; we can make a phone call; we can bring wisdom into a situation; we can give someone a meal; share our home; provide finance for missions; send Bibles to poor countries.
We all need encouragement to serve the Lord and continue in the faith as the days grow darker and discouraging! Be an encourager. Support and listen to others. Help to grow their faith and gifts. Smile!
'And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds' Heb 10:24.

A Place Of Comfort

' And each man shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a refuge from the storm, like streams of water in the desert and the shadow of a great rock in a thirsty land' Isa 32:2. Be someone that others can turn to in their need and distress. Embrace your loved one's when they are in need, and whatever they may have done to you, forgive. Help them in their trouble and be like Jesus in your compassion. Be kind, tenderhearted and loving, remember that you too have had trouble and needed someone to turn to. No one is perfect and most of us are often foolish, but because we have a hiding place, a refuge, in Jesus, we can be Him to others. He never turns us away.

What About Him?

God has given gifts and talents to each one of us. It is our responsibility to use them. He has given; we must be good stewards. One of the reasons we bury our gifts in the sand is that we are afraid of what others think. If we have been put down, despised, criticised or mocked, it is difficult to rise above the things others have said. But today is a day to leave all that behind and start anew. What is your gift? God has given great diversity. Start using it again. It may be spiritual, but it may be natural. Decide to use what you have and it will grow. Jesus used what He had in the motley band of His disciples and trusted them to continue the work He started. He gave the Helper, the Holy Spirit, to come and dwell within them and be alongside them. So we are not alone in using our gifts. There is a Helper to show us what to do. Don't look at what others are doing, their particular gifts, or how successful they are. But look to Jesus and use what you have been given out of thankfulness to Him. He can show His love through you in seemingly small ways to accomplish much.
John 21:21.

You Are My Hiding Place

The psalms are always a help when I feel low and helpless, needing some encouragement. The writers are so human, and yet so inspired. It is wonderful to come to God and say anything to Him. Just to share the depths of my heart with all its questions, inadequacies, fears, and hopes. And tell Him what I really think! He hides me in the secret of His presence and lets me off load everything as He patiently listens. God will listen to anyone who comes with an honest heart, wanting counsel and direction; encouragement and help. Don't bottle things up! Share it! Tell Him everything, both good and bad.
'I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you'. Ps 32:8

In Your Hands

'I trust in You, O Lord; I say, "You are my God" My times are in Your hands; deliver me from my enemies and from those who pursue me. Let Your face shine on your servant; save me in your unfailing love'.Psalm 31: 14-16. Let us rest content in knowing that our times are in His hands......and He never drops anything! And no-one can snatch us out of our Father's hand Jn 10:28.

Where Is God?

I saw a steep mountainside with someone stumbling along a narrow pathway. There was mist hovering and little visibility. They could only place one foot in front of the other and it seemed that there was no sure path ahead. The exertion of climbing up caused them to stagger, but they were able to hold onto small rocks along the way. To go back was not an option, they had to keep moving forward and hope that the mist would lift. If they could have seen the way in sunshine, it would have been clear that the path was a sure footed way up a beautiful mountainside with breathtaking views. But whether sunshine or mist, they had to walk by faith to reach the top. Job said that he could not find God 'when I go to the east, He is not there. When I go to the west, I do not find Him. When He is at work in the north, I do not see Him; when He turns to the south I catch no glimpse of Him. BUT He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me I will come forth as gold. My feet have closely followed His steps; I have kept to His way without turning aside'. Job 23:8-11.

The Day Of Small Things

Don't think that the work you do for the Lord is insignificant. It may seem small at the moment, but seeds grow, if they are properly watered. God who started the work will bring it to completion. He is watching over it and protecting His interests, even though you feel He is leaving you to struggle on your own. Keep praying about these things, because your prayer accomplishes much. Pray until you are assured of breakthrough! The breakthrough always comes first in the spiritual realm, then manifests in the physical. This takes time, because the enemy will try to hinder on every side. But he has lost the battle; you just need to wait for the victory to be revealed. Be in an attitude of praise!
'The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this temple; and his hands will also complete it' Zechariah 4:9 Don't despise the day of small things 4:10.

Out Of The Wilderness

Because of your wilderness experience your heart has changed. You have become bonded to Me alone. I know that it has been a testing time for you, but you have passed the test! This time was necessary for character building, and your motives to be purified. You have become even more determined to follow through and not give up. You have made your calling sure and as new opportunities open up for you to serve Me, you will rise to the challenges with new vigour. Now you lean on Me in a new way. Not as one afraid and timid, but as a Bride, radiant with the love of her Beloved. People will notice you, they will honour the work you do for Me. They will see you in a new light.
'Who is this that comes up from the wilderness, leaning upon her Beloved' Song of Sol 8:5

Watch And Pray

An oak tree does not spring up in a night! The tiny acorn falls into the ground and then lies hidden for a season until the right time for it to sprout and grow. Little by little, a stage at a time it grows from youth to maturity. Keep sowing seeds into other peoples lives; into situations; into your own life. And then water them through prayer, and watch and wait. Don't try to dig them up to see if they have germinated! But work at caring for the ground where you have sown them.
Our printing business started very small. We used our garage and home to start with because we could not afford the rent on a shop. We sometimes worked twelve hours a day. Slowly, slowly, it grew.We then rented a small shop, so it grew some more and then we rented an industrial unit. It was hard but we watered it in prayer and God gave us favour with new customers. At the same time that we started the printing business, another new company started up. They grew so quickly! Work was obtained by taking printing away from other businesses; large sums of money were borrowed; new cars and houses were purchased. After some years of prosperity the company went bankrupt, and they could not pay their debts.
They did not start righteously, they grew too quickly, they then could not sustain themselves in time of drought. They were not careful with their money and were greedy. We still live in the same house, our car is over ten years old, and we give away our resources to God's work in Africa. And we are happy! James 5:11

Our Great God

John the Baptist knew his place before God. He must have been a very humble man, he said 'He (Jesus) must become greater; I must become less' Jn 3:30. We can afford to be very small in His presence, stripped of all pretence, all religious claims, and self righteousness. We must decrease so that He can increase in our lives. God resists the proud and gives grace to the humble 1 Pet 5:5.
The only boasting we can have is the Blood of Jesus. We enter the Holy of Holies through the Blood; we have forgiveness by the washing of the Blood; we can speak and prevail with God because of the Blood; we are counted as righteous by the Blood. It is only on the merit of the shedding of Jesus Blood that we can know God as Father. We can stand before Him clean and He hears and answers our petitions. We are 'nobody' but He has made us 'somebody', we are significant, but not in our own merit; we are loved, though we were unlovely. Good works will not get us to Heaven, neither will good intentions! But faith in the finished work of Jesus on the cross and the all sufficient sacrifice of His Blood avails for us. Let us live out our faith through thankful hearts. 'Just as I am without one plea, but that thy Blood was shed for me...............Jesus I come'.

Be Alert!

We are in a spiritual battle that intensifies the more we go on with the Lord. The devil will use every lying tactic to disarm, alarm, discourage us, with the intention of moving us out of our faith in Christ. But we have an assurred victory if we put on  the armour of God. Eph 6:13 tells us to put on the 'whole' armour. Don't leave anything off! It is a spiritual clothing that equips us in a spiritual battle. We need to make sure we are living in 'Truth' which is like a belt around the waist, holding everything together. 'Righteousness' like a breastplate protects our hearts so that we do not fall into sin. Our spiritual feet must be ready to share the gospel wherever we go. Our 'Faith' is like a sheild that we can raise to extinguish the lies and accusations of the evil one. Our minds need to be protected with the helmet of 'Salvation', for we need to remind ourselves we are saved by grace. And we can then weild the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, standing firm in all Christ has won for us on the cross. So we stand, not in our own strength, but in the strength, He supplies.
With all this in mind we are alert and praying on all occasions, with all kinds of prayers and requests, especially for all the saints around the world Eph 6:18. Remember the saints! Those who are persecuted and suffering in many countries. We are part of the mystical body of Jesus, when one member suffers, we all suffer. When one member rejoices we all rejoice 1 Corinth 12:26

Friendship

It says in Proverbs, that a man that has friends must keep being friendly Prov 18:24. It is saying that if you have many friends you have to keep being involved with them and pleasing them, otherwise they may drop you! It is so easy to go along with the crowd and do and say things things to stay popular. Even in Christian circles. People, even the closest of buddies, can easily drop you for a variety of reasons.
It goes on to say that there is a Friend who sticks closer than a brother, who will stay with you through  joys and adversities. He literally sticks to you bonded and glued to your side! Paul says that everyone forsook him but the Lord was by his side 2 Tim 4:16,17. Every true child of God has to go through the fires of testing where sometimes friends, church, or family shun you. It is then you discover who truly is your Friend forever.
'What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear,
What a privelige to carry, everything to God in prayer.
Oh what peace we often forfeit, Oh what needless pains we bear.
All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer'.
If you are hurting because a friend has let you down, or spoken against you, forgive them and pray for them, and accept that God is drawing you closer to Jesus through this. He is your Faithful Friend, the Friend of sinners.

Don't Be Hasty!

Be careful about making decisions out of fear. God leads by His peace and you can afford to wait for His peace to settle in your heart before you move forward. Fear pushes us to hasty decisions, and causes us to panic and try to keep control of our lives. God's peace leads gently and there is a feeling of 'rightness' about the proposed plans. Fear brings a darkness that shadows the ability to think things through calmly. Peace bring light and there is no claustrophobic pressure with it. Bring everything to the Lord for His guidance and then wait for Him to reveal the next step. Overcome fear by faith. 'God has not given us a spirit of fear; but of power, and of love and of a sound mind' 2 Tim 1:7.

Mature Thinking

Dwelling on past failures or missed opportunities will not help your progress. Thoughts of 'if only', and 'why did it happen' or 'things could have been different' just keep you bound to an earthly level. Rise higher in your thinking! God can turn everything to profit as you yield to His word today. There are weights upon you that you need to release and lay at Jesus feet. You cannot change the past, but your attitudes can determine the future. Paul says from experience that he had to forget those things which were behind him and press on Philip 3:13. He could have lived in the morbid thoughts of how many believers he had killed and persecuted before he met Jesus. He could have thought about all those who forsook him; the awful stonings; the shipwrecks; the hunger and cold; the prison. So many dreaded things! But he knew that the mature let all these things go and press forward to the prize of the high calling v 14-15. As you look towards the sun the shadows fall behind! let us look to Jesus the author and finisher of our faith. He is trustworthy!

Encourage Yourself!

David had a lot of trouble on every side. Trouble with the Philistines; trouble with the Amalekites; trouble with his own people and trouble with his friends. When David and his men came to Ziglag they found the city burned, their wives, sons, and daughters taken captive. They all wept until they could weep no more 1 Sam 30:4. David had lost his wives, and was greatly distressed. His own people had also lost their wives and wanted vengeance. They turned on David and wanted to stone him because of their grief.
David had lost everything. Even his friends were not standing with him in his distress. So David encouraged himself in the Lord his God 1 Sam 30:7. He was strengthened and pursued the Amalekites and recovered all that they had taken 'there was nothing lacking to them, neither sons nor daughters, neither spoil, nor anything that they had taken; David recovered all'. 1 Sam 30:19
If no one else encourages you, encourage yourself in the Lord. Sing hymns, spiritual songs, believe God's word, shout it aloud in the face of the enemy. The devil wants to bring discouragement, but be encouraged for you shall take the spoil from your enemies if you hold fast to the Lord God Almighty. He will give you the victory.

New Vision

Wait for new vision and motivation to come to you from the presence of the Lord. As you worship, read His word, and bring your requests to Him, He will empower you with a new perspective and new thoughts. The vision will bring direction and clarity to your path and the things that seemed difficult and wearysome will suddenly become easy. The fresh wind is gently blowing and will gather momentum to take you forward. Keep stepping forward, even though you think the steps are small, they are significant. Your efforts are not in vain.
'Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labour is not in vain' 1Cor 15:58.

Think About These things!

I visited an Aquarium recently and gazed with my grandson at the wonders of God's design. The variety of Marine life under the oceans is infinite. And each creature seemed to express something of it's Creator. He truly is an amazing Master Artist! Every fine detail of line and colour filled me with awe. As an artist I appreciate shape, colour, detail and composition. But I know that I could not design such wonders. God is not a magician. Things did not just happen without pre-meditation. Did He have a drawing board and intricately design each species that Adam named? Did He have a sense of anticipation, excitement and exhilaration at the good things He was creating? He had a deep satisfaction at what He had done because after each stage 'He saw that is was good' Gen 1:4.
If we look there is always something wonderful to behold. It is good to fill our hearts and minds with the wonders of God's creation. It is there for us to enjoy also as we are the crowning of it all. He enjoyed creating Man and placing us in His Creation. I know there is so much pain and war, evil has contaminated the purity of the world He created. Even the lovely Marine fish eat one another!
'Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things' Phill 4:8.

Daily Bread

It always amazes me to read about the way God provided the Manna in the wilderness for the Children of Israel. The grainlike flakes appeared each morning with the dew for six days. They collected as much as was needed and enough for two days on the sixth day as nothing fell on the seventh. It was there for them without fail. When the camp moved on to a new place, so the Manna fell in that place too. Quietly, silently, it fell, making no big show about it. I'm sure they took it for granted, and they complained about the simplicity of the diet. It was not their choice. But it was God's provision that gave them strength for each day, kept them healthy, and they travelled many miles on that Manna! Jesus said ' I am the Bread of Life' Jn 6:35. He is there for us every day, has planned our provision, never fails, gives us extra when we need it, and is sufficient for all of our life come what may! All we have to do is come and collect His blessing each day, let the dew of His Spirit to wash us, and be lovingly obedient to His words.

Don't Give Up!

You are nearer your goal than when you started, so give it your best and keep going. The seeds that you have planted will come to fruition at the right time. Ok! it seems that nothing is happening and no one is looking, or seeing the amount of effort you are putting in. But God watches and says that a reaping is guaranteed. Your life touches many others and the quality of your faith shows endurance. It is your gaining ground each day, bit by bit, that speaks of a righteous life in the sight of God. And it is Him that you are doing it for. He is looking! You shall reap what you have sown, and more than you have sown, because all will multiply. That which you have done in secret will be rewarded openly and God will be honoured because of it. 'Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up' Gal 6:9.

Heavenly Helper

When we don't know how to pray, or what to do, or how to proceed, there is Someone just waiting to help us. He is ready to be called upon every moment of every day. What problems we cause for ourselves because we don't avail ourselves of His help. The Holy Spirit is our Helper in every situation. He gives us boldness and power with God. He gives us access into the very presence of the Father. He prays for us with groans and sighs that words cannot express. He makes loving intercession in us for all the saints. It is our highest privilege as priests to be intercessors. How amazing that our prayers can move Almighty God! we can pray for people thousands of miles away; people we have never met, and God hears our hearts and answers our petitions. Ask for the Holy Spirit to help. We cannot pray without Him. He can go where we cannot go, do what we cannot do, attend to the very root of a situation, all because we ask!

Set Your Sails!!

You have been waiting in the harbour for the storms to pass and now is the time for you to move out. Raise your sails of hope and expectancy because there is a fair wind about to blow! This wind will take you many miles across the ocean to a new continent of adventure and work in the Kingdom. Enjoy the journey and the bracing air that will fill your spiritual and physical life with a new vigour. You have the wisdom and maturity to discern the seasons and make sound decisions therefore on this journey you will not make mistakes. But be sure that you don't look back to port, instead face into the wind and sail on to your new destination.

Can You Be Trusted?

The way to increase and blessings in the Kingdom of God is by using what you have, then God gives you more. You can't ask for more if you are not using fully what you have already been given. God tests our stewardship and promotes us according to what we do with what we have. The water of life has to flow out of our innermost being to stay fresh. One of the key qualities of a Christian has to be their honesty. In speech and action!
'Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?' Lk 16:10,11 God waits to see if our motives are right in serving Him.Then He will bring spiritual and material increase. You cannot serve God and money! Lk 16:13.

Out Of The Ditch

Listen to the words of someone who was deeply tried 'I waited patiently for the Lord: He turned to me, and heard my cry' Ps 40:1. Hear what he passed through 'He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire'. Have you seen an animal stuck in a muddy, marshy place, crying out in distress? It was looking for water but got trapped in a bog instead. The more the animal struggles to get free the more it sinks into the mire. Finally through exhaustion it waits patiently, unable to help itself, waiting for someone to lift it out.
The psalmist who wrote these words knew what it was to suffer patiently with no natural way out. The word patience suggests the thought of being under the constraint of some power from which we would gladly be free. We submit to our circumstances against our will knowing it is vain to resist, like the animal in the slimy pit. The only way out is for the Lord to come and rescue us as we cry out to Him.
It says in Psalm 40: 2,3 that David was lifted out, had his feet set upon a rock, and God put a new song in his mouth! What a testimony! O soul, do not be impatient, because patient waiting on God brings a rich reward; the deliverance is sure.

Faithful God

In the book of Lamentations the writer speaks of the desolation of Jerusalem, the beloved city. He says it is solitary and lonely. It was once full of people and he likened it to a widow, who weeps bitterly in the night Lam 1:1,2 (amp).
He urges the people in captivity to 'recall and have hope'. Lam 3:21. He says 'we are still alive'. Because of God's mercy and lovingkindness, and His tender compassions that do not fail they are not totally consumed. 'His mercies are new every morning: great is your faithfulness' 3:23
The Lord is good to all those who wait on Him. Today is a new day. Look for the Lord's love and His word to you today. He is speaking in quiet ways through a still small voice. Maybe you have wept through the night, feeling there is no hope. But God is saying  'today is a new day, because I am faithful I will not abandon you, or leave you alone. It is not in my Nature to forsake those who call on Me. I have heard your cries and will respond'.

Keep Praying!

When asked about how long a person should keep praying about something, Reece-Howells replied 'Until you get the answer, or get the assurrance that the answer is on it's way'. He was a great intercessor who knew how to pray. Real intercession is 'work'. Faith, boldness, and persistence are qualities needed to fulfill the call Lk 11:8. It is a faithful, hidden work. The Holy Spirit makes intercession to the Father for us Rom 8:26. So we need the Holy Spirit to help us pray. We can't do it on our own. Some saints of God have prayed for many years and the answers have come after they have gone to heaven! Gosh! that is commitment!
But we do know that the Father is more willing to give than we are to pray. Jesus said ' ask and it shall be given to you' and that everyone who asks, receives Lk 11:8,9. And that the Father will give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him Lk11:13.
Let us ask for the Holy Spirit to fill us so that we can pray according to the will of God and receive the answers. God works on earth in answer to our prayers. We co-labour with Him for the world, our nations, our families, ourselves. If we don't ask, we don't get!

Wisdom

Many years ago I was given some wise advice by a seasoned elderly lady. She said 'don't believe all you see, and only believe half of what you hear!' People spin their own stories to suit their own purposes. There are always hidden motives underneath. In difficult relationships, especially in church situations it is wise to give time to let opinions cool down, and let some water to go under the bridge. More damage can be done by being hasty. We usually think 'we' are right. And we may well be! But we can also be proud of 'being right' and approach a situation in the wrong attitude. There is always another side to the story and it is important that we only speak the truth in love. And sometimes don't speak at all unless it is in our power to change things.
'Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and He will make your paths straight'. Prov 3:5

God's Plans For Increase!

When the Israelites were taken into exile in Babylon, Jeremiah sent a letter to them giving them the word of the Lord. He told them to increase in number by marrying and having children and to increase in business. Also he told them to seek the peace and prosperity of the city where they were captives. 'Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers you too will prosper' Jer 29:7 We are praying for the prosperity of our customers so that they will need more printing work. About 35 printing businesses a month are closing down in the UK. We need to provide for our own family, pay our employees wages, and have money to give to God's work.
God also promised deliverance from captivity after seventy years. That gave them something to work towards. He said 'I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future' Jer 29:11.
Hang in there! Don't give up hope! Keep trusting! God has good plans for you. The time of captivity will bring you increase as you look to Him. Deliverance WILL come in His time.

Who Is In Control?

'It is in the way of man to make plans, but the Lord directs his steps' Prov 16:9. Life does not always go the way we plan it! We can arrange our days; decide our future; organise our activities; and it all take a different course in minutes. Who is in control? have we given the reigns to God or are we deciding our own course without consciously giving all our days into His hands? The safest and best route is for Him to be Lord every day, then we are secure. Chaos can rule; misadventure hit; confusion can reign, all because we did not surrender the control of our lives to God. When we do this we are assured that whatever adversity, affliction, or dissapointment comes our way, that it passes through His will first. Daily ask Him to take control. Daily give your pathway to Him, then enjoy the security of knowing that 'He knows all' because you chose to give all to Him.

Enter In

So often we stand at the door and look in but don't take the step of abandonment and enter into God's presence. There is much more for each one of us. We may feel unworthy, or rejected, or just ignorant of our Father's love. But there is a warm welcome waiting us, a kindly presence longing to reach out to us, a listening ear waiting to hear our voice. Strength for today is there for us, and the joy of having fellowship with Almighty God. He wants to 'be' with you.
When Jesus was on earth He showed us what God was like. Jesus loved to 'be' with His friends. To walk with them, eat with them, stay in their homes. In this daily context He taught them and revealed the nature of the heavenly Father. God loves people! and because Jesus died on the cross and shed His blood all who want to come to Him, can come. 'Whoever comes to Me I will never drive away' Jn 6:37. You can come freely, knowing that He forgives and restores.

Fruit For Others

In England we are now in the season of Autumn. This year has produced a bountiful crop of fruit. Nuts, apples, plums, pears, as well as yellow, orange, and red wild fruits. A fruit bearing tree lives solely to bear fruit that others use for refreshment and life. As soon as the fruit on the branch is ripe - it lets it go! It starts afresh the cycle of fruit bearing for another season. If it holds on to it the fruit will rot, then fall to the ground and be trodden underfoot as it is not good for anything. No, fruit is for partaking, sharing. The seed is passed on as the fruit is spread out to others.
Our lives are meant to be a blessing to others. The fruit is not for us. Life becomes stagnant if we do not allow others to enjoy the fruit of the Spirit within us. As we become a blessing, others are refreshed and experience Christ. Selfishness can make us decide to keep the fruit. We want it for ourselves and are not willing to continue to give it away. Keep offering love, joy, peace, longsuffering,, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, self control. Gal 5:22

A Step At A Time

In the Ugandan villages people walk miles to get anywhere. The widows walk several hours to get to Church. They keep a steady, slow pace, placing one foot in front of the other. it is very hot and dusty, with only red earth tracks to follow.No rushing, no car or bicycle. I have learned so much from them. The only way we can acheive anything in our Christian walk is to take one step at a time. It is very simple just doing the next thing you need to do. And that next step may seem very ordinary and mundane, with no honour or glory attached to it. But when you do it with Jesus it is transformed into some thing blessed.
It was only a plain bowl and towel that Jesus took to wash the disciples feet. Only servants work; just a cleaning job! But Oh the love that He put into it. And the genuine humility of His attitude. The proud do not do the work of a servant! Be faithful in the small things and God will give you greater things to do. Whatever you do, do it for the Lord. He appreciates all that you do for Him, and sees your faithfulness, your willing attitude, and above all your loving actions. John 2:5.

Back To Basics!

I often sit alone awhile, settle my heart into an uncomplicated mode and ponder on the wonders of creation. It seems right to prepare myself to enter God's presence with intent, not with vague wandering thoughts. Then after a few minutes I speak aloud the verse of a hymn that I learnt as a child. It has become my theme tune! and reminds me of the many years I have travelled the Christian path and known God's faithfulness.
' O Jesus I have promised to serve Thee to the end. Be Thou ever near me my Master and my Friend. I will not fear the battle if Thou art by my side. Nor wander from the pathway if Thou will be my Guide'
There is so much confusion, chaos, pain and trouble around in the world. Of course we need to pray! for our friends, family and nations. But it is so imortant that we are still and know that He is God. Not we are God, or any one else.
In over 52 years I have found that 'God is there for me'. He never turns anyone away who comes to Him in trust and honesty asking for help in time of need. His presence is more than a happy feeling, it is an assurrance of Someone greater than it all, being there with you in it all!

Do It Today

Don't put off until tomorrow what you can do today!The window of opportunity may become closed to you. Tidy up your affairs today if they are in disorder. You cannot work in God's kingdom if there is confusion or chaos in your relationships. They need attending to. Even if the other person does not reach out to you, humble yourself and be the one to do the reconciling. However do not attempt it with anger hidden in your heart. Let the relationship be restored in peace. First let your heart be cleansed and then ask for God's compassion to come and fill your heart and motives. Even if you are nervous still move towards putting things right. But if they will not receive you, peacefully let them go, trusting God to work things out because you have obeyed the scriptures. 'And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake has forgiven you. Eph 4:32.

Half The Story!

Two disciples were walking along a road going towards a village. They were busy discussing events that were on their minds. They were confused, despondant, dissapointed, and doubting because all their hopes were dashed. Jesus was walking that same road. He saw that they were sad and downcast. He asked them all about it Lk 24:13-17. They poured it all out to Him, just thinking He was a stranger.
Jesus has walked through everything we walk through in life. He has been there before us, and even knows what we think and feel beforehand. The two people said 'we had hoped' but now all is lost. To them all their dreams had come to an end; there was no future hope. Looking at it the way they saw it all, nothing made sense.
But it was only half the truth! There was more to come that turned out to be 'the best'. Jesus was with them, when they thought He was dead. Jesus explained the scriptures to them when they could not understand. Jesus came and ate with them and revealed His presence. Sorrow was suddenly turned to joy!
Often we jump to conclusions in our lives. We don't give God a chance to finish what He was saying to us; we pre-judge the outcome insted of waiting for Him to unfold new things and bring light. We want to 'know the end before the beginning'! When you pour your heart out to Him you can be sure that there is another chapter to come in your life that will put things in a new light.

God's Hands And Feet

There is an account in the Bible about Peter catching a fish and in its mouth is a gold coin. Jesus told him to pay the tax that was due with it. It was a miracle of provision, but Peter had to do the fishing, and the first fish he caught contained the provision. There is a well known verse 'my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus' Phil 4:19. But read the verses beforehand 15-19 and see this verse in context. God provides through the generosity of others!
I was invited to a special dinner in Uganda and the host was an important person. Because I was the honoured guest I was first in line at the buffet table. I put a small amount of food on my plate because there were many guests behind me and I was not sure that there was enough to feed everyone. Half of the people behind me piled their plates high with food, probably because it was a free meal. But that left the other half in the line with nothing!
Sharing what we have is the important thing. We may have little, but it is the generous giving that God sees; He sees what we have kept for ourselves, and what we have given to others in their need.

God Of Wonders

When the children of Israel were in the wilderness they questioned whether God could provide a table for them to eat from. Water gushed out of the rock, but could He also provide bread? Their expectations could not rise above their past experiences, they had seen the water but not yet the bread. When they thought of God doing something new they limited Him. In every honest prayer there are two sides at work. One is your little, dark, human thoughts of what you need and what you would like God to do. The other is God's great heart with it's infinite and divine purposes of blessing you.
Let us choose to trust the God of miracles! He is able to do exceeding abundantly above all we ask or think Eph 3:20 Keep your eyes on Him. Keep trusting in Him. Today you are nearer to the answer,so don't give up hoping!

Keep Looking Forward

Jesus said that the gate to life is very narrow Matt 7:13. as Christians we lead limited, yet unlimited lives, with only one choice that brings abundance! The choice is to let go of your own life and follow Jesus in obedience which leads to receiving His life. His life is abundant. Our love for Him and others has to be genuine. Our commitment to Him and His work has to be total. We can't be half hearted and expect to receive anything from God. Make up your mind, don't change it, then you will receive great benefits that far outweigh any losses. God often tests our commitment to Him and His kingdom. He watches to see if we will press forward and see things through. Pass the test! Don't give up! Keep following each day, you will reap! Life will not always be like it is now. Things can suddenly change with Jesus in control. He is preparing you for good works now and in Eternity Eph 2:10.

Give This A Try!

Many years ago the Lord spoke to me about my motives when praying. He said 'Are you willing for others to be more blessed than you'. I had to admit I wanted those that I prayed for to be as blessed as myself. But more prosperous, more healthy, more respected and loved, closer to God than me, well that was a challenge! it was a revelation of my selfishness! It had to change. And with God's help it did.
It is true that it is more blessed to give than to receive. I started blessing others in a new way. I genuinely wanted them to have the best God could give them. I wanted them to 'abound' in blessings! And God opened the way for me to go to Uganda and be a blessing to the poor.
Often my prayer times are just 'blessing' others, all those I can think of. I ask for God to bless their lives, then I bless their lives, then I thank God that they are blessed. This has practical results.
Our family printing business is in a row of three industrial units. A few years ago we needed more space. The third unit was rented by a picture framing business. I started praying for that business to be blessed. Some months later they moved out into other premises more suitable for them. We took over their unit and just knocked a hole through the wall into the new place. No big expense of having to move heavy equipment, no loss of man hours in the move, no inconvenience at all!! The captivity of Job was turned when he prayed for his friends Job 42:10. Job prayed for his friends blessing and because of his unselfishness God changed his own situation .

Use Your Wings!

It takes patience to wait on the Lord. Being still takes practise and perseverance. But as we get into that place of stillness our strength is renewed by God. He gives us His strength Is 40:31. Then we need to flap our 'wings' of faith and trust. We can rise above our circumstances that worry us daily if we put our trust in God who is Almighty, the Everlasting one, who never faints or grows weary. But it is not 'magic', we actually have to DO something, that is put our trust, by choice, in God mercy and goodness towards us. And not in anything else!
Faith is the currency of heaven. We receive everything from God by faith. By believing in His absolute goodness and power toward us. When I go into a shop to purchase something I use money, and expect to get the goods I have paid for. So likewise when I go to God I use my faith in Him, to receive all that I need for that day. Just a day at a time!! not the whole of my life in one lump! Just for each day. It is easier that way because life can get very complicated if I am worrying too far ahead!
So TODAY use your wings of faith and trust and see what God will do for you, and who He will BE to you. Having a close, loving relationship with someone wonderful is what we all need. And that someone is the all loving, all powerful, kind and gentle Jesus. He does care, He does want things to change in your life, He is able to help you, so flap your wings!

God's delays are not 'No'

It has been said that 'patience is a virtue' and no-one I have ever met seems to have been born with patience! I often hear children yelling and screaming to get their own way. When they want something they want it now! And we carry these traits into adulthood. Few people wait until they have saved the money to purchase goods, they use their credit card ( I am not against using plastic cards, if you can pay it off easily). Many get into debt because they can't handle their financial situation. And advertising adds pressure to daily life by giving tempting offers of how to get things 'now'. We get tempted to purchase things we 'want' not just what we 'need'. One of the fruits of the spirit is self-control Gal 5;23 and it takes time for that to develop. It has to be practised!
I often get weary of waiting patiently for God to answer my prayers. It is easy to think 'why pray, He is not answering' when we have not given enough time for the answer to be worked out. The answer is on the way! but there is a delay so we think God is saying 'No' to our request. Sometimes a delay is a test of our patience. Are we willing to wait patiently for the answer? When our patience is stretched it is strengthened. The best things are worth waiting for. And we can wait eagerly expecting an answer in God's time, not our own.
When in Uganda I have visited hospitals where people sit on the grass outside waiting, waiting, waiting, for days hoping to see a doctor. In Africa people wait often doing nothing because there is no other choice. They can't phone the bank to complain, or the phone company, or anyone! Nothing is instant there! let's give God a chance to answer us. He'll give us the best because He is a loving Father. Let's stop complaining and be thankful!

Living One Day At A Time

Yesterday is over and gone! Tomorrow is not yet here! So the only option is to live in each day, and each moment trusting God that He is sufficient to hold today in His hand, cover yesterday in His love, and direct my footsteps towards tomorrow. This is why I painted the picture 'Be Still'. I wanted to sit under the shadow of His wings, gaze into the pool of Life, and find some beauty there. Around me are tall trees of righteousness; solid rooted beings who have their stature in God and watch over my progress as a Christian. I hope that you can see that in this painting.