"And Jesus said, 'Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham' "
Luke19:1 - 10 NKJV
Zacchaeus was a very short man, so short in statue that when he heard that Jesus was going to pass by, he ran to see. However, there was a crowd and he couldn't see over them. He therefore climbed a Sycamore tree.This type of tree is very wide and open at the base with low branches. So he could climb this easily.
Zacchaeus was considered as a social outcast by the people because he was a chief tax collector and it was thought that he co-operated with the Roman government. He was not popular. He so much wanted to see Jesus as he had heard so much about him.
As soon as Jesus passed by, Jesus actually saw him first and shouted for him to come down because He wanted to stay at his house.
He shot down the tree and as they spoke, Zacchaeus shared how he was generous with his money and if he had cheated anyone, he would pay them back four-fold. Jesus said that this day salvation had come to this house - to Zacchaeus and that he had once been a physical son of Abraham but was now a spiritual son. His life changed.
The word salvation here is the Greek word -Soteria which means, deliverance, preservation, soundness, prosperity, happiness, rescue and general well-being. (Spirit Filled Life Bible) It's used in a material, temporal sense and in a spiritual, eternal sense. Therefore, salvation is a present possession with a fuller realisation in the future.
And this is not only for Zacchaeus. It is for all who make Jesus their Lord and Saviour. Zacchaeus had been a social outcast but now He was in the family of God. His life changed; and so can yours too. There are many outcasts in our times. Many people suffer this terrible stigma for one reason or another. Is that you? If so, you'll never be an outcast again if you turn to Jesus, or even if you know Jesus already but have carried this stigma all of your life. Zacchaeus climbed a tree to see Jesus. You will not have to do that. He is here right with you. All you need to do is speak to Him and tell Him how you feel - ask Him to set you free from the burden you've carried around all this time. Look at the benefits. They're not means-tested and you don't have to pay Him back either. He offers it free.
Why not claim it today:
'Lord Jesus, come into my life; forgive my sins; fill me with Your Spirit and be my Lord and Saviour.
Thank you Lord. Amen'
Why not give me some feedback dailylifewithjesus@protonmail.com
This is a blog that centres on Jesus Christ - my Lord and Saviour. My aim is to describe how He has helped over the years, together with offering daily teaching and encouragement
Thursday 28 February 2019
Wednesday 27 February 2019
The Tongue
"Where there is no wood, the fire goes out; and where there is no talebearer, strife ceases"
Proverbs 26:20 NKJV
At times the tongue is an unruly object that can do untold damage. People tear down and hurt others with their words. Like an adder, the tongue strikes with deadly poison. Like a raging fire can be started with just a spark, such as the bush fires in Australia, gossip can pierce the heart and cause very great damage.
Solomon writes in Proverbs 18:21, 'Death and life are in the power of the tongue; and those who love it, will eat its fruit.' Not being in control of the tongue can ruin a person's reputation. Gossip can be received as the honest truth and many lives have been shattered by this practice.
The tongue is such a tiny component of the human body and yet, can be so powerful. If used wisely, it can impart great wisdom into a situation. Out of control, it can be deadly.
James tells us in James 3:8-10, 'But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our God and Father and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God'
We praise God and curse, criticise and judge our neighbour, friends, church family and whoever else springs to mind. We become jealous of others too, possibly because at this time they are having a better time than us and have a better car, a better paid job and more money in the bank. We also covet what others have, 'I want that, why should they have this, it's not fair. I worked hard to get that job and now he has it.' etc etc.
And all the time, God sits and listens. I wonder what He thinks of it all. I'll tell you, this kind of thing breaks His heart. He wants much better from us because he wants to bless us, but how can He when we act the way we do.
Probably, it's time to get on our knees and repent; seek His forgiveness. We'll get it too because He is faithful and just to cleanse us from all unrighteous 1 John 1:9. He loves us beyond measure and wants us to be like Him. It takes effort on our parts - everything we have, but it is achievable and well worth it.
If you would like to send feedback to me Please contact dailylifewithjesus@protonmail,com
Proverbs 26:20 NKJV
At times the tongue is an unruly object that can do untold damage. People tear down and hurt others with their words. Like an adder, the tongue strikes with deadly poison. Like a raging fire can be started with just a spark, such as the bush fires in Australia, gossip can pierce the heart and cause very great damage.
Solomon writes in Proverbs 18:21, 'Death and life are in the power of the tongue; and those who love it, will eat its fruit.' Not being in control of the tongue can ruin a person's reputation. Gossip can be received as the honest truth and many lives have been shattered by this practice.
The tongue is such a tiny component of the human body and yet, can be so powerful. If used wisely, it can impart great wisdom into a situation. Out of control, it can be deadly.
James tells us in James 3:8-10, 'But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our God and Father and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God'
We praise God and curse, criticise and judge our neighbour, friends, church family and whoever else springs to mind. We become jealous of others too, possibly because at this time they are having a better time than us and have a better car, a better paid job and more money in the bank. We also covet what others have, 'I want that, why should they have this, it's not fair. I worked hard to get that job and now he has it.' etc etc.
And all the time, God sits and listens. I wonder what He thinks of it all. I'll tell you, this kind of thing breaks His heart. He wants much better from us because he wants to bless us, but how can He when we act the way we do.
Probably, it's time to get on our knees and repent; seek His forgiveness. We'll get it too because He is faithful and just to cleanse us from all unrighteous 1 John 1:9. He loves us beyond measure and wants us to be like Him. It takes effort on our parts - everything we have, but it is achievable and well worth it.
If you would like to send feedback to me Please contact dailylifewithjesus@protonmail,com
Tuesday 26 February 2019
Enter into His Gates with thanksgiving
"Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise". Psalm 100:4 NKJV
For some people, going to church can be a very vulnerable time. For ministers, worship musicians and other people involved in the work of the church, this can be an opportunity for the devil to attack. Let me explain. The minister or pastor is focused on the sermon he has to preach. He or she needs to spend time with God before they leave home. For some, this can be difficult, especially if there are young children around demanding their attention and their partner lets them know that the washing machine has broken down, flooding the kitchen. Probably, an extreme example. However, anything that comes in the way of the minister spending special time with God, can be a distraction.
Then there is the journey to church, clearing frost from the windscreen and then having to de-mist the internal screen, making them late to get to church. Once on the way, it can seem that every slow driver in the world is in front. Temporary traffic lights, JCB's, hold ups. This can all play on the mind.
It may be then, that the minister and partner have a few words. Stress and pressure has built up and a few harsh words spoken can then turn into a full-scaled war. Finally arriving at church, the false smile is adopted, as if you're all the perfect family. However, deep down, the devil's rattling the chains and accusing you of hypocrisy. As you walk to the church doors, there is a massive sign saying:
ENTER INTO HIS GATES WITH THANKSGIVING, AND INTO HIS COURTS WITH PRAISE
I speak from experience here. I can remember a few times that my wife and I have had this happen to us and when it's come to the sermon, I've seen her face staring at me as if to say, 'Come on pastor, preach your sermon on love and marriage.' Ouch!
People, try not to bother your pastor with problematic things before a service. Instead, pray for him or her. It really is a most vulnerable time and one in which the devil is skilled in trying to disrupt.
Pastor, make sure you have the time set aside on your own, to prepare. Get up earlier if need be. Recognise that this is battle time.
Congregation, make sure also that you are standing firm. This type of stuff doesn't only happen to the ministers; it can happen to you too. Check yourself out. Make sure the armour is on and that you attend church to give as well as receive. And then, we can all Enter into His Gates with Praise.
For some people, going to church can be a very vulnerable time. For ministers, worship musicians and other people involved in the work of the church, this can be an opportunity for the devil to attack. Let me explain. The minister or pastor is focused on the sermon he has to preach. He or she needs to spend time with God before they leave home. For some, this can be difficult, especially if there are young children around demanding their attention and their partner lets them know that the washing machine has broken down, flooding the kitchen. Probably, an extreme example. However, anything that comes in the way of the minister spending special time with God, can be a distraction.
Then there is the journey to church, clearing frost from the windscreen and then having to de-mist the internal screen, making them late to get to church. Once on the way, it can seem that every slow driver in the world is in front. Temporary traffic lights, JCB's, hold ups. This can all play on the mind.
It may be then, that the minister and partner have a few words. Stress and pressure has built up and a few harsh words spoken can then turn into a full-scaled war. Finally arriving at church, the false smile is adopted, as if you're all the perfect family. However, deep down, the devil's rattling the chains and accusing you of hypocrisy. As you walk to the church doors, there is a massive sign saying:
ENTER INTO HIS GATES WITH THANKSGIVING, AND INTO HIS COURTS WITH PRAISE
I speak from experience here. I can remember a few times that my wife and I have had this happen to us and when it's come to the sermon, I've seen her face staring at me as if to say, 'Come on pastor, preach your sermon on love and marriage.' Ouch!
People, try not to bother your pastor with problematic things before a service. Instead, pray for him or her. It really is a most vulnerable time and one in which the devil is skilled in trying to disrupt.
Pastor, make sure you have the time set aside on your own, to prepare. Get up earlier if need be. Recognise that this is battle time.
Congregation, make sure also that you are standing firm. This type of stuff doesn't only happen to the ministers; it can happen to you too. Check yourself out. Make sure the armour is on and that you attend church to give as well as receive. And then, we can all Enter into His Gates with Praise.
Monday 25 February 2019
Everything's going to be alright
"And My God shall supply all your need, according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4: 19 NKJV
When we look at this scripture we are tempted to think that it is concerned with money. It is, but that's not all. Look at it again. It reads 'all'. This includes our finances - not for greed but for need. The 'all' stands for everything that we will need in our life with Jesus. It includes our material, spiritual, social and emotional need, and that is where the 'all', comes in.
God is concerned about every little detail of our lives and this is why He tells us to seek Him and not the world. He is our source, our provider. He knows what we need and will ensure that we have it. (See Matthew 6:31 - 34) But let's try and move away from the money side of things for a moment. God is concerned with our health and whether we are sick. He wants us well. He's interested in our life style, whether we eat and drink sensibly. If we allow Him to; He will help us manage diets and our fitness control. You may ask, 'Is He interested in this?' You bet He is.
He's interested in where we live; what job we have or if we're unemployed, He's interested enough to help us find some work. Further to this, He's interested in disabilities, and how livings standards can be improved. He's devoted to marital status and wants married couples to live their marriages for Him. When a couple place Jesus at the centre of their marriage, they are on a sure route to be blessed.
So why are we worrying about things? We know Jesus tells us not to worry (Matthew 6:31), so why are we disobeying Him? What are you worried and scared about? You don't have to carry this alone; Jesus wants to help. But you've got to ask Him, trust Him and be patient whilst He sorts things out for you.
Sleepless nights are not the answer. Worrying yourself sick isn't either. If you can do anything about what you're worrying about, then do it. If you can't, what's the point in worrying. You'll make yourself ill and the problem will still be there.
God is saying to you, 'Everything's going to be alright.' Do you believe this? What you're carrying around is too heavy, isn't it? Could you do with some help? Then give it to your friend, Jesus. He cares for you so much.
'Lord Jesus, You tell me not to worry so I need Your help. The burden of.......................................
has become too much for me to bear. So I ask for Your help, Lord.
Amen
Philippians 4: 19 NKJV
When we look at this scripture we are tempted to think that it is concerned with money. It is, but that's not all. Look at it again. It reads 'all'. This includes our finances - not for greed but for need. The 'all' stands for everything that we will need in our life with Jesus. It includes our material, spiritual, social and emotional need, and that is where the 'all', comes in.
God is concerned about every little detail of our lives and this is why He tells us to seek Him and not the world. He is our source, our provider. He knows what we need and will ensure that we have it. (See Matthew 6:31 - 34) But let's try and move away from the money side of things for a moment. God is concerned with our health and whether we are sick. He wants us well. He's interested in our life style, whether we eat and drink sensibly. If we allow Him to; He will help us manage diets and our fitness control. You may ask, 'Is He interested in this?' You bet He is.
He's interested in where we live; what job we have or if we're unemployed, He's interested enough to help us find some work. Further to this, He's interested in disabilities, and how livings standards can be improved. He's devoted to marital status and wants married couples to live their marriages for Him. When a couple place Jesus at the centre of their marriage, they are on a sure route to be blessed.
So why are we worrying about things? We know Jesus tells us not to worry (Matthew 6:31), so why are we disobeying Him? What are you worried and scared about? You don't have to carry this alone; Jesus wants to help. But you've got to ask Him, trust Him and be patient whilst He sorts things out for you.
Sleepless nights are not the answer. Worrying yourself sick isn't either. If you can do anything about what you're worrying about, then do it. If you can't, what's the point in worrying. You'll make yourself ill and the problem will still be there.
God is saying to you, 'Everything's going to be alright.' Do you believe this? What you're carrying around is too heavy, isn't it? Could you do with some help? Then give it to your friend, Jesus. He cares for you so much.
'Lord Jesus, You tell me not to worry so I need Your help. The burden of.......................................
has become too much for me to bear. So I ask for Your help, Lord.
Amen
Sunday 24 February 2019
The darkness trembles
Read Acts 16:25 - 34 (To get the whole story)
Text for today:
"But at midnight, Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God and the prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly, there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone's chains were loosed." Acts 16: 25 - 26 NKJV
Praise brings release! Paul and Silas had been arrested for forcing a demon out of someone and they were beaten with rods and placed in the inner prison - that is like the basement where it is filthy, dark, rat infested and very smelly. They were chained into stocks.
What would you have done in their position? Their backs must have been cut and bleeding and they would have been in agony. Again, I ask, what would you have done?
Paul and Silas prayed loudly and sang hymns, praising God. They sang so loud, that the other prisoners were listening to them and were probably amazed.
All of a sudden, there's an earthquake and the chains fall off every prisoner. The jailor woke up fearing for his life and was going to kill himself, because he would probably suffer much more at the hands of the authorities, for this.
Paul shouted and stopped him, telling him that no one had escaped, they were all there. With this, the jailor raced in with a light to check for himself. Everyone was there. He was so amazed, grateful and blown away that he asked Paul how he could be saved and follow Jesus. Paul told him and when taken out, prayed for him and his family to become Christians.
Praise open doors - chains fall off - lives are changed. Let me tell you, Jesus makes the darkness tremble. Paul, Silas and the other prisoners, had all been in the dark but when Paul and Silas praised and prayed, the darkness trembled, the chains fell off and freedom came.
Satan tries to block our every path. He attacks us and does all he can to cause disruption. But praise and prayer stops him in his tracks. He can't cope with that, at all.
Many people throughout the world are suffering for their Christian faith. Many are killed or locked in prisons until they denounce Jesus. Many still stay faithful to Jesus. Organisations like Open Doors help these suffering and persecuted Christians. Here, in this country, we have freedom to worship God but even that is difficult at times.
What about the chains in your life? What is keeping you imprisoned? Don't you think it's time you started praising God again? He wants you to be free. He has work for you to do. Praise Him and shout your victory as He makes the darkness tremble; as He breaks the chains that are holding you back. It's time to move on and stand your ground.
Text for today:
"But at midnight, Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God and the prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly, there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone's chains were loosed." Acts 16: 25 - 26 NKJV
Praise brings release! Paul and Silas had been arrested for forcing a demon out of someone and they were beaten with rods and placed in the inner prison - that is like the basement where it is filthy, dark, rat infested and very smelly. They were chained into stocks.
What would you have done in their position? Their backs must have been cut and bleeding and they would have been in agony. Again, I ask, what would you have done?
Paul and Silas prayed loudly and sang hymns, praising God. They sang so loud, that the other prisoners were listening to them and were probably amazed.
All of a sudden, there's an earthquake and the chains fall off every prisoner. The jailor woke up fearing for his life and was going to kill himself, because he would probably suffer much more at the hands of the authorities, for this.
Paul shouted and stopped him, telling him that no one had escaped, they were all there. With this, the jailor raced in with a light to check for himself. Everyone was there. He was so amazed, grateful and blown away that he asked Paul how he could be saved and follow Jesus. Paul told him and when taken out, prayed for him and his family to become Christians.
Praise open doors - chains fall off - lives are changed. Let me tell you, Jesus makes the darkness tremble. Paul, Silas and the other prisoners, had all been in the dark but when Paul and Silas praised and prayed, the darkness trembled, the chains fell off and freedom came.
Satan tries to block our every path. He attacks us and does all he can to cause disruption. But praise and prayer stops him in his tracks. He can't cope with that, at all.
Many people throughout the world are suffering for their Christian faith. Many are killed or locked in prisons until they denounce Jesus. Many still stay faithful to Jesus. Organisations like Open Doors help these suffering and persecuted Christians. Here, in this country, we have freedom to worship God but even that is difficult at times.
What about the chains in your life? What is keeping you imprisoned? Don't you think it's time you started praising God again? He wants you to be free. He has work for you to do. Praise Him and shout your victory as He makes the darkness tremble; as He breaks the chains that are holding you back. It's time to move on and stand your ground.
Saturday 23 February 2019
What is your giant?
"Then David said to the Philistine, 'You come to me with a sword, with a spear and with a javelin. But I come to you in the Name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel , whom you have defied.' " 1 Samuel 17: 45 NKJV
Goliath must have been an awesome sight as he stood there, over nine feet tall and clad in all his armour. He was intimidating and the Israelite army were scared of him and no one would go forward and take the challenge to fight him. For 40 days he carried out the intimidation, standing there laughing and goading King Saul's army. But no one had the bottle to take him on. That is until David came along.
David, a young shepherd boy, only very small in build, saw the sight of this Philistine parading up and down and asked, 'Who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?' He then made plans to see King Saul and go out to face this giant.
After much discussion and trying on Saul's armour, which was ridiculous to even consider as Saul was very tall, where David was very short. David decided he didn't need this. He chose 5 smooth stones for his sling and went to face this Philistine in the Name of the Lord of hosts. As we can see from our scripture above, David stayed the giant with one small stone and cut off his head, as he had told the giant he would do. David triumphed over this formidable creature' yet he had only been the willing instrument. God had been the victor.
We all have giants in our lives and many times they can be very daunting. I would describe a giant as something or someone that appears too powerful to overcome. This for some, can be alcohol, smoking, overeating, adultery, pornography, fornication, jealously stealing, spending money they don't have, credit cards just to name a few. There may be many more that I haven't mentioned here.
If these are relevant to you, you may have tried and tried to shake these off but they are still clinging like sticky buds. David would never have won over Goliath had he gone in his own strength. It would have been quite difficult for someone who probably wasn't even five foot to take on a nine foot giant warrior. He would have been ripped to pieces. However, he went in God's power. He knew God and, even though very young, he had a close relationship with Him, writing his poetry and songs to worship Him.
This account of David and Goliath teaches us a great lesson. It shows believers how to defeat giants in life. We need to remember that God is bigger than anything or anyone we face. He will give us the victory everyday as long as we turn to Him in faith and seek Him.
Now are you going to carry on letting your giant/s slay you, or are you going to stand up, in the Name of Jesus and be a giant slayer?
Goliath must have been an awesome sight as he stood there, over nine feet tall and clad in all his armour. He was intimidating and the Israelite army were scared of him and no one would go forward and take the challenge to fight him. For 40 days he carried out the intimidation, standing there laughing and goading King Saul's army. But no one had the bottle to take him on. That is until David came along.
David, a young shepherd boy, only very small in build, saw the sight of this Philistine parading up and down and asked, 'Who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?' He then made plans to see King Saul and go out to face this giant.
After much discussion and trying on Saul's armour, which was ridiculous to even consider as Saul was very tall, where David was very short. David decided he didn't need this. He chose 5 smooth stones for his sling and went to face this Philistine in the Name of the Lord of hosts. As we can see from our scripture above, David stayed the giant with one small stone and cut off his head, as he had told the giant he would do. David triumphed over this formidable creature' yet he had only been the willing instrument. God had been the victor.
We all have giants in our lives and many times they can be very daunting. I would describe a giant as something or someone that appears too powerful to overcome. This for some, can be alcohol, smoking, overeating, adultery, pornography, fornication, jealously stealing, spending money they don't have, credit cards just to name a few. There may be many more that I haven't mentioned here.
If these are relevant to you, you may have tried and tried to shake these off but they are still clinging like sticky buds. David would never have won over Goliath had he gone in his own strength. It would have been quite difficult for someone who probably wasn't even five foot to take on a nine foot giant warrior. He would have been ripped to pieces. However, he went in God's power. He knew God and, even though very young, he had a close relationship with Him, writing his poetry and songs to worship Him.
This account of David and Goliath teaches us a great lesson. It shows believers how to defeat giants in life. We need to remember that God is bigger than anything or anyone we face. He will give us the victory everyday as long as we turn to Him in faith and seek Him.
Now are you going to carry on letting your giant/s slay you, or are you going to stand up, in the Name of Jesus and be a giant slayer?
Friday 22 February 2019
Don't listen to the enemy's lies
"Be sober, be vigilant because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world." 1 Peter 5:8 - 9. NKJV
Stand firm and don't be intimidated when you're under attack. The devil's time is short and he knows it. RT Kendall says, 'The next time satan reminds you of your past, remind him of his future. He knows his time is short. ( Revelation 12:12 )'
The devil is the great accuser and he'll do all he can to heap condemnation upon you so that you feel awful and sinful, guilty and that you've blown your place in Heaven. This is not true and you need to hang onto scripture at times like this. Romans 8:1 says, 'There is therefore now, no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus.' You may have let yourself down just lately - argued with someone, let bad words come out of your mouth, looked at something you know you shouldn't have or just been like a bear with a sore head as you pointed your finger at someone who has wound you up. Relax, you're normal and Jesus knows that. This is why John wrote:
'If we confess our sins, He (Jesus) is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.' 1 John 1:9
How many times have you felt worthless and in a hopeless position? You may have felt isolated and unable to cope and felt so bad that you even wanted to die because there is nothing left for you or nobody seems to care. Well, Jesus does. He cares enough to have died in your place and He wants you to be free. You're not worthless; you're a priceless jewel in God's eyes and He loves to spend time with you. But really, isn't it time that you left the past behind? Your memories of the past may not be good, so bury them. Don't let them live in your life anymore. They're holding you back from the best. If you're a Christian, the past has gone, you're a new creation. Live in that.
Why not say this prayer with me:
'Jesus, I come to You and ask for Your help. I'm not living my life the way You would want me to. I've been living the past, re-living the bad memories and feeling angry and hurt. I've been living under condemnation and listening to the lies of the evil one. Please forgive me and help me to live my life for You from this moment. I forgive anyone who has done me wrong right now and come to You
Amen.
Stand firm and don't be intimidated when you're under attack. The devil's time is short and he knows it. RT Kendall says, 'The next time satan reminds you of your past, remind him of his future. He knows his time is short. ( Revelation 12:12 )'
The devil is the great accuser and he'll do all he can to heap condemnation upon you so that you feel awful and sinful, guilty and that you've blown your place in Heaven. This is not true and you need to hang onto scripture at times like this. Romans 8:1 says, 'There is therefore now, no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus.' You may have let yourself down just lately - argued with someone, let bad words come out of your mouth, looked at something you know you shouldn't have or just been like a bear with a sore head as you pointed your finger at someone who has wound you up. Relax, you're normal and Jesus knows that. This is why John wrote:
'If we confess our sins, He (Jesus) is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.' 1 John 1:9
How many times have you felt worthless and in a hopeless position? You may have felt isolated and unable to cope and felt so bad that you even wanted to die because there is nothing left for you or nobody seems to care. Well, Jesus does. He cares enough to have died in your place and He wants you to be free. You're not worthless; you're a priceless jewel in God's eyes and He loves to spend time with you. But really, isn't it time that you left the past behind? Your memories of the past may not be good, so bury them. Don't let them live in your life anymore. They're holding you back from the best. If you're a Christian, the past has gone, you're a new creation. Live in that.
Why not say this prayer with me:
'Jesus, I come to You and ask for Your help. I'm not living my life the way You would want me to. I've been living the past, re-living the bad memories and feeling angry and hurt. I've been living under condemnation and listening to the lies of the evil one. Please forgive me and help me to live my life for You from this moment. I forgive anyone who has done me wrong right now and come to You
Amen.
Thursday 21 February 2019
Don't be Afraid
"Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled , neither let it be afraid" John 14:27 NKJV
'Why has this happened to me, Why? I've never hurt anyone. It's not fair.' This is the kind of stuff that we come up with when the chips are down. When we have done all we can to sort something out and the problem is still there. Why?
We may be dealing with major problems such as our health - a serious diagnosis, or someone who is close, who needs help. It may be a work problem or the fact that no matter how hard you've tried, you find out that your job is coming to end and you'll be unemployed. 'What about the bills? or 'What about the mortgage?' These fears may be upper most in your mind. Someone may have been robbed, credit and debit cards cloned and are penniless. Then again, it may be something very tragic that has all of sudden taken place.
Certain emotional issues can hit us hard and when this happens we can feel totally inadequate and helpless. Some of the things that we may face are:
Immobilisation. We can feel numb to the situation and can't make any sense of what has happened. Confusion begins to set in and it is probably very difficult to think things through.
Minimisation. Some may try to deny what has happened because they need to be strong - for the family and can't be seen to be weak at a time such as the.
Anger. Tempers can erupt as the mind cannot process why it has happened and has a defence mechanism which can fly off the handle, because we're scared and unable to change things at this time.
Depression. This is always around, waiting to take us under its wing. It can be a safe place to be, especially if we can't cope with life at the present.
However, it should not be allowed to carry on for a length of time without seeing a doctor.
Take another look at the scripture above. Jesus tells us that He wants to give us peace in the hurting time. He also tells us not to be afraid. He is in control, if we allow Him to be. Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue came to see Jesus one day and fell at Jesus' feet and begged Him to come to his house as his daughter was very ill and close to death. Jesus agreed but on the way, He got held up with another person who also needed a healing touch. This took a little time and someone came from Jairus' house and told him that his daughter had died. Jesus heard this and said to Jairus, 'Do not be afraid; only believe and she will be made well.' And she was. Luke 8:40 - 56.
That is the requirement. Inviting Jesus to come and help you and believing He can. He may be the only one who can and He can give you the peace you need whilst He is helping you.
Why not say this prayer:
"Lord Jesus, I am so confused and full of panic. I just don't know what to do. Please will You help me with this....................................................... I really am quite scared but I see that You don't want me to be this way. You don't want me to be afraid. You want me to believe, which I do right now.You promise me peace and a troubled free time as I go through this situation. You're all I've got that can really help me and I'm pouring my heart out to You at this moment. Please come and help me/us because I believe that you have the answer. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Now try and relax and keep believing Jesus.
'Why has this happened to me, Why? I've never hurt anyone. It's not fair.' This is the kind of stuff that we come up with when the chips are down. When we have done all we can to sort something out and the problem is still there. Why?
We may be dealing with major problems such as our health - a serious diagnosis, or someone who is close, who needs help. It may be a work problem or the fact that no matter how hard you've tried, you find out that your job is coming to end and you'll be unemployed. 'What about the bills? or 'What about the mortgage?' These fears may be upper most in your mind. Someone may have been robbed, credit and debit cards cloned and are penniless. Then again, it may be something very tragic that has all of sudden taken place.
Certain emotional issues can hit us hard and when this happens we can feel totally inadequate and helpless. Some of the things that we may face are:
Immobilisation. We can feel numb to the situation and can't make any sense of what has happened. Confusion begins to set in and it is probably very difficult to think things through.
Minimisation. Some may try to deny what has happened because they need to be strong - for the family and can't be seen to be weak at a time such as the.
Anger. Tempers can erupt as the mind cannot process why it has happened and has a defence mechanism which can fly off the handle, because we're scared and unable to change things at this time.
Depression. This is always around, waiting to take us under its wing. It can be a safe place to be, especially if we can't cope with life at the present.
However, it should not be allowed to carry on for a length of time without seeing a doctor.
Take another look at the scripture above. Jesus tells us that He wants to give us peace in the hurting time. He also tells us not to be afraid. He is in control, if we allow Him to be. Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue came to see Jesus one day and fell at Jesus' feet and begged Him to come to his house as his daughter was very ill and close to death. Jesus agreed but on the way, He got held up with another person who also needed a healing touch. This took a little time and someone came from Jairus' house and told him that his daughter had died. Jesus heard this and said to Jairus, 'Do not be afraid; only believe and she will be made well.' And she was. Luke 8:40 - 56.
That is the requirement. Inviting Jesus to come and help you and believing He can. He may be the only one who can and He can give you the peace you need whilst He is helping you.
Why not say this prayer:
"Lord Jesus, I am so confused and full of panic. I just don't know what to do. Please will You help me with this....................................................... I really am quite scared but I see that You don't want me to be this way. You don't want me to be afraid. You want me to believe, which I do right now.You promise me peace and a troubled free time as I go through this situation. You're all I've got that can really help me and I'm pouring my heart out to You at this moment. Please come and help me/us because I believe that you have the answer. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Now try and relax and keep believing Jesus.
Tuesday 19 February 2019
Unsatisfied longing
"But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. then when desire has conceived , it gives birth to sin, and sin when it is full-grown, brings forth death"
James 1:14 - 15 NKJV
This is something that effects us all. We can be so easily drawn away to temptation - whatever that temptation is. It happened to Eve in the Garden (Genesis 3). There was one particular tree that she knew she wasn't to eat from. The fruit must have been wonderful and the devil knew this too as he led her to look at it. As she looked, desire filled her soul. She was drawn away and enticed and she fell to the temptation. The longer you look into the face of temptation, the more dangerous it becomes and one can easily be enticed. Remember, Joseph ran out of the house when Potiphar's wife tried to seduce him. We have to run from the temptation before it overcomes us.
As Christian's, we are in a never-ending battle with spiritual attacks. They come from everywhere. This is why we need to put on God's Armour. (Ephesians 6). There is temptations and struggles at every corner and we have to be so careful that we're not drawn in.
One root of desire is 'Unsatisfied longing.' This is probably something that has been resident within certain people and they never knew. Perhaps there was something that you never received as a child, whether that be love, attention or affection etc. There is a unsatisfied longing element that is burning away and it is demanding some attention. This may be a need to drink, take drugs, bet money, have adulterous relationships, spend money that you don't have but with a credit card you do have or whatever else you have the need for. It is a battle and one in which needs attention before it goes too far.
God can deal with this unsatisfied longing. It may be too embarrassing to tell someone about it. That is for you to decide. However, you do have access to God 24/7. His office door is always open.
James 1:14 - 15 NKJV
This is something that effects us all. We can be so easily drawn away to temptation - whatever that temptation is. It happened to Eve in the Garden (Genesis 3). There was one particular tree that she knew she wasn't to eat from. The fruit must have been wonderful and the devil knew this too as he led her to look at it. As she looked, desire filled her soul. She was drawn away and enticed and she fell to the temptation. The longer you look into the face of temptation, the more dangerous it becomes and one can easily be enticed. Remember, Joseph ran out of the house when Potiphar's wife tried to seduce him. We have to run from the temptation before it overcomes us.
As Christian's, we are in a never-ending battle with spiritual attacks. They come from everywhere. This is why we need to put on God's Armour. (Ephesians 6). There is temptations and struggles at every corner and we have to be so careful that we're not drawn in.
One root of desire is 'Unsatisfied longing.' This is probably something that has been resident within certain people and they never knew. Perhaps there was something that you never received as a child, whether that be love, attention or affection etc. There is a unsatisfied longing element that is burning away and it is demanding some attention. This may be a need to drink, take drugs, bet money, have adulterous relationships, spend money that you don't have but with a credit card you do have or whatever else you have the need for. It is a battle and one in which needs attention before it goes too far.
God can deal with this unsatisfied longing. It may be too embarrassing to tell someone about it. That is for you to decide. However, you do have access to God 24/7. His office door is always open.
Our 'Soul'
"Bless the Lord O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His Holy Name!
Bless the Lord O my soul and forget not all His benefits.
Who forgives all your iniquities. Who heals all your diseases. Who redeems your life from destruction. Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies. Who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagles." Psalm 103:1 - 5. NKJV
The word 'soul' mentioned here in this scripture is made up of your Mind, Will and Emotions. The dictionary explanation is:
'The animating and vital principle in humankind credited with the faculties of thought, action and emotion.' ( Reader's Digest Universal Dictionary )
So in a nutshell, it is connected with our thoughts - what we think about things, our action - what we do about certain things and our emotion - how we handle each and every situation. In this Psalm by King David, he is encouraging us to bless God in all things, with everything that we have got within us - our mind, will and emotions. It is so important, that he mentions it twice 'Bless the Lord O my soul'. God has given us life and everything we have and will have in the future. There are many people who have left this world who would give anything to be able to do this.
Let us take a look at what is on offer here:
BENEFITS
We are not to forget His benefits. Now, let me say this. God's benefits are not means tested. What He offers us, we get. It is not given in one hand and taken back out of the other. We get it all.
FORGIVENESS
Whatever we do wrong, as we confess this to Jesus, he forgives. We make many mistakes and He knows we will continue to do so, but He is forgiving. That doesn't mean though, that we can go out and paint the town red, white and purple, sinning here, there and everywhere because we know He'll forgive us. A word of caution, we should never test the Lord. He is patient but He will not be messed about by this type of deliberate action.
HEALS
He is a healing God and His desire is that we should be in good health. He is Jehovah Rapha, which basically means the Lord heals. The meaning in Hebrew is that He mends and cures. We should go to Him, believing that he can and will heal us of all diseases. The healing can be instant, and I've seen this happen. At other times, it can be long and drawn out and He may not heal us the way we expect Him to. However, we should never doubt. Always live in biblical hope.
REDEEMS
He redeems us from destruction. I can certainly testify to this. Just over a year ago, I was washed out to sea as I walked along the beach in a storm. Try as I may, I could not get back to the shore line so that I could get out, as large waves washed me back. Out of nowhere, the hand of a lady, pulled me out to safety. I don't know who she was or where she came from. But I was rescued. That is one way of being redeemed from destruction. However, He also redeems us from death. One day we'll all have to stand before Him and give an account of our life. If Jesus is your Saviour, you are redeemed. If not it'll be too late.
CROWNED
He crowns with His kindness, His love and helps us be content, giving us His mercy. He loves us so much.
SATISFIESS AND RENEWS
He provides all we need, from clothes and food, to friendship, love and security. He is all we need.He makes us feel content, blessed and satisfied. He also revitalises and refreshes us giving us the strength to get through each and every situation. And He reserves a place for us in Heaven.
Now, I don't know about you, but that is my God. His love is endless. He is faithful and with us always. The thing is, if you don't know Him, I could talk alike this forevermore. You have to try Him out for yourself. You'll believe me then.
Bless the Lord O my soul and forget not all His benefits.
Who forgives all your iniquities. Who heals all your diseases. Who redeems your life from destruction. Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies. Who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagles." Psalm 103:1 - 5. NKJV
The word 'soul' mentioned here in this scripture is made up of your Mind, Will and Emotions. The dictionary explanation is:
'The animating and vital principle in humankind credited with the faculties of thought, action and emotion.' ( Reader's Digest Universal Dictionary )
So in a nutshell, it is connected with our thoughts - what we think about things, our action - what we do about certain things and our emotion - how we handle each and every situation. In this Psalm by King David, he is encouraging us to bless God in all things, with everything that we have got within us - our mind, will and emotions. It is so important, that he mentions it twice 'Bless the Lord O my soul'. God has given us life and everything we have and will have in the future. There are many people who have left this world who would give anything to be able to do this.
Let us take a look at what is on offer here:
BENEFITS
We are not to forget His benefits. Now, let me say this. God's benefits are not means tested. What He offers us, we get. It is not given in one hand and taken back out of the other. We get it all.
FORGIVENESS
Whatever we do wrong, as we confess this to Jesus, he forgives. We make many mistakes and He knows we will continue to do so, but He is forgiving. That doesn't mean though, that we can go out and paint the town red, white and purple, sinning here, there and everywhere because we know He'll forgive us. A word of caution, we should never test the Lord. He is patient but He will not be messed about by this type of deliberate action.
HEALS
He is a healing God and His desire is that we should be in good health. He is Jehovah Rapha, which basically means the Lord heals. The meaning in Hebrew is that He mends and cures. We should go to Him, believing that he can and will heal us of all diseases. The healing can be instant, and I've seen this happen. At other times, it can be long and drawn out and He may not heal us the way we expect Him to. However, we should never doubt. Always live in biblical hope.
REDEEMS
He redeems us from destruction. I can certainly testify to this. Just over a year ago, I was washed out to sea as I walked along the beach in a storm. Try as I may, I could not get back to the shore line so that I could get out, as large waves washed me back. Out of nowhere, the hand of a lady, pulled me out to safety. I don't know who she was or where she came from. But I was rescued. That is one way of being redeemed from destruction. However, He also redeems us from death. One day we'll all have to stand before Him and give an account of our life. If Jesus is your Saviour, you are redeemed. If not it'll be too late.
CROWNED
He crowns with His kindness, His love and helps us be content, giving us His mercy. He loves us so much.
SATISFIESS AND RENEWS
He provides all we need, from clothes and food, to friendship, love and security. He is all we need.He makes us feel content, blessed and satisfied. He also revitalises and refreshes us giving us the strength to get through each and every situation. And He reserves a place for us in Heaven.
Now, I don't know about you, but that is my God. His love is endless. He is faithful and with us always. The thing is, if you don't know Him, I could talk alike this forevermore. You have to try Him out for yourself. You'll believe me then.
Monday 18 February 2019
Hope
"I would have lost heart unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living." Psalm 27:13 NKJV
How many times have we been tempted to give up. This may have been a cross country run, one in which every fibre of your body is hurting and you feel that you can't go on any longer. The temptation to give up at this stage is immense.
Then there is the times when we have been waiting ages for something - whether it be an answer to prayer, or a job offer. The waiting sucks at times and we feel like giving up at this stage. There is also the despair that comes from daily Christian life - waiting to be used in a particular field within the church - waiting for answers to prayer that never seem to come. Waiting; hoping; hanging on to the dream; waiting for that miracle. We need hope - the biblical hope that I've mentioned in earlier readings.
Dr Thomas Fuller, clergyman and historian from the 16th century, wrote: If it were not for hope, the heart would break'. Yesterday has gone. It has ended, there is no hope in that. But today is a new day, full of anticipation and hope:
'Through the Lord's mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. "The Lord is my portion" says my soul. therefore I hope in Him.' Lamentations 3:22 - 24 NKJV
Hope begins and ends with Jesus. Hope inspires and pushes us to embrace the future - the future that God wants us to have. Without hope, we're lost. Are you reading this and wishing that you could have this type of hope? Are you thinking, 'Things good only happen to other people, not me? Do you know something, if out of many millions of people who had been rescued from some worldly disaster, you were the only person who were lost somewhere; Jesus would stop doing what He was involved with and He would go out looking for you, to bring you to safety. That is Jesus, and you know what? He loves you more than I could ever tell you. Now that is something to hope about, isn't it? And you know something? He is calling out to you, "Where are you? Are you going to answer Him?
How many times have we been tempted to give up. This may have been a cross country run, one in which every fibre of your body is hurting and you feel that you can't go on any longer. The temptation to give up at this stage is immense.
Then there is the times when we have been waiting ages for something - whether it be an answer to prayer, or a job offer. The waiting sucks at times and we feel like giving up at this stage. There is also the despair that comes from daily Christian life - waiting to be used in a particular field within the church - waiting for answers to prayer that never seem to come. Waiting; hoping; hanging on to the dream; waiting for that miracle. We need hope - the biblical hope that I've mentioned in earlier readings.
Dr Thomas Fuller, clergyman and historian from the 16th century, wrote: If it were not for hope, the heart would break'. Yesterday has gone. It has ended, there is no hope in that. But today is a new day, full of anticipation and hope:
'Through the Lord's mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. "The Lord is my portion" says my soul. therefore I hope in Him.' Lamentations 3:22 - 24 NKJV
Hope begins and ends with Jesus. Hope inspires and pushes us to embrace the future - the future that God wants us to have. Without hope, we're lost. Are you reading this and wishing that you could have this type of hope? Are you thinking, 'Things good only happen to other people, not me? Do you know something, if out of many millions of people who had been rescued from some worldly disaster, you were the only person who were lost somewhere; Jesus would stop doing what He was involved with and He would go out looking for you, to bring you to safety. That is Jesus, and you know what? He loves you more than I could ever tell you. Now that is something to hope about, isn't it? And you know something? He is calling out to you, "Where are you? Are you going to answer Him?
Sunday 17 February 2019
Come away
"My beloved spoke and said to me, 'Rise up my love, my fair one, and come away. For lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth; the time of singing has come, and the voice of the turtle dove is heard in our land. The fig tree puts forth her green figs, and the vines with their tender grapes give a good smell. Rise up, my love, my fair one, and come away. O my dove, in the clefts of the rock, in the secret places of the cliff, let me see your face, let me hear your voice; for your voice is sweet, and your face is lovely.' "
Song of Solomon 2:10 - 14 NKJV
This lovely piece of scripture of the Shulamite and her husband - Solomon, is a beautiful analogy of how God loves us. How much He cares for us and becomes concerned when we're not flowing properly. When we have problems and worries, it tends to take over our mind and we are tempted to be so involved with these that we leave, the one who matters most, out of the equation.
Things may have happened in your life that are so horrific; so painful, that you cannot forget them. They are uppermost in your thoughts on a fairly regular basis. I believe that God is speaking to you at this very moment. I believe that He is saying, 'The past is over. You cannot change it. Come away with me. It is spring, a new beginning for you, a fresh start. The scripture says, "Rise up'. In other words, 'Get up, it's time to move on. There's life out there and it belongs to you. Rise up.'
Have you ever walked in the countryside in the summer and smelt the beautiful fragrance that is around. There is something so lovely and refreshing about the fragrance. Well, this is what God wants you to do. It is time for healing, for living your life to the full. Don't hide yourself away (verse 14). This serves no purpose whatsoever. Show your face; your beloved - Jesus is here. Speak out to Him, take His hand because He loves you so much. Rise up my love, my fair one.
It is time. The turtle dove is heard in the spring. Things are refreshing and beautiful in the spring. For me, it signifies a new start. Haven't you ever wished you could start again? You can. Say this prayer with me:
'Lord Jesus, things were not good in the past, but I trust that you wish me to leave these things behind and start again - afresh with You. I give You my life now and ask You to lead me to a brighter and happier future. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Song of Solomon 2:10 - 14 NKJV
This lovely piece of scripture of the Shulamite and her husband - Solomon, is a beautiful analogy of how God loves us. How much He cares for us and becomes concerned when we're not flowing properly. When we have problems and worries, it tends to take over our mind and we are tempted to be so involved with these that we leave, the one who matters most, out of the equation.
Things may have happened in your life that are so horrific; so painful, that you cannot forget them. They are uppermost in your thoughts on a fairly regular basis. I believe that God is speaking to you at this very moment. I believe that He is saying, 'The past is over. You cannot change it. Come away with me. It is spring, a new beginning for you, a fresh start. The scripture says, "Rise up'. In other words, 'Get up, it's time to move on. There's life out there and it belongs to you. Rise up.'
Have you ever walked in the countryside in the summer and smelt the beautiful fragrance that is around. There is something so lovely and refreshing about the fragrance. Well, this is what God wants you to do. It is time for healing, for living your life to the full. Don't hide yourself away (verse 14). This serves no purpose whatsoever. Show your face; your beloved - Jesus is here. Speak out to Him, take His hand because He loves you so much. Rise up my love, my fair one.
It is time. The turtle dove is heard in the spring. Things are refreshing and beautiful in the spring. For me, it signifies a new start. Haven't you ever wished you could start again? You can. Say this prayer with me:
'Lord Jesus, things were not good in the past, but I trust that you wish me to leave these things behind and start again - afresh with You. I give You my life now and ask You to lead me to a brighter and happier future. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Saturday 16 February 2019
There's a light at the end of the tunnel
"Not that I have already attained or am already perfected, but I press on that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me." Philippians 3:12 NKJV
Sometimes the trials of life can be so overwhelming and stressful. "When will they end?" we may plead. When we are at the end of line and don't know what to do or where to go. We often hear, 'There's a light at the end of the tunnel,' and that may be so but sometimes the light is difficult to see.
There used to be a sign in a particular social work office where I worked, and it said. 'I thought I saw a light at the end of the tunnel, but it was just somebody, with a torch, bringing me more work.' And that's the way it can seem at times such as these.
In our scripture today, Paul is encouraging us to keep going, not to lose heart. One of Winston Churchill's most infamous talks at Eton, consisted of just six words. He stood up in front of all the assembly, who were expecting a long and interesting speech from this very powerful man. However, he said, 'Never, never, never, never, give up.' He then sat down and the place was filled with silence until the full impact of what he had said, was realised. There was then very loud applauding and shouts of understanding. We should never give up, no matter what we're faced with. The going may be difficult; the road ahead dark and confusing, fearful and scary. But we should never, ever give up.
From one point of view, if anyone has ever done any night walking, we can fix our eyes on a particular light and as we move forward, it gets nearer and nearer, until we're there. But when we're in a tunnel of despair, it is more difficult. But I can assure you, there is a light in that tunnel and His name is Jesus. No matter what we go through, he is right there with us, encouraging us; and what's more, He has promised to never leave us. Hebrews 13:5.
What are you going through at this moment. Are you in that tunnel and the light at the end cannot be seen? Relax, the light is right beside you and He'll lead the way - if you ask Him. Asking Him is the secret. It's no use trying to sort things out on your own, especially at times like this. Pray, and pray some more.
There is a way through the trials and problems that you are facing. Just pour out your heart to the King of kings, the one who died in your place - Jesus He's waiting. Reach out to Him now
Sometimes the trials of life can be so overwhelming and stressful. "When will they end?" we may plead. When we are at the end of line and don't know what to do or where to go. We often hear, 'There's a light at the end of the tunnel,' and that may be so but sometimes the light is difficult to see.
There used to be a sign in a particular social work office where I worked, and it said. 'I thought I saw a light at the end of the tunnel, but it was just somebody, with a torch, bringing me more work.' And that's the way it can seem at times such as these.
In our scripture today, Paul is encouraging us to keep going, not to lose heart. One of Winston Churchill's most infamous talks at Eton, consisted of just six words. He stood up in front of all the assembly, who were expecting a long and interesting speech from this very powerful man. However, he said, 'Never, never, never, never, give up.' He then sat down and the place was filled with silence until the full impact of what he had said, was realised. There was then very loud applauding and shouts of understanding. We should never give up, no matter what we're faced with. The going may be difficult; the road ahead dark and confusing, fearful and scary. But we should never, ever give up.
From one point of view, if anyone has ever done any night walking, we can fix our eyes on a particular light and as we move forward, it gets nearer and nearer, until we're there. But when we're in a tunnel of despair, it is more difficult. But I can assure you, there is a light in that tunnel and His name is Jesus. No matter what we go through, he is right there with us, encouraging us; and what's more, He has promised to never leave us. Hebrews 13:5.
What are you going through at this moment. Are you in that tunnel and the light at the end cannot be seen? Relax, the light is right beside you and He'll lead the way - if you ask Him. Asking Him is the secret. It's no use trying to sort things out on your own, especially at times like this. Pray, and pray some more.
There is a way through the trials and problems that you are facing. Just pour out your heart to the King of kings, the one who died in your place - Jesus He's waiting. Reach out to Him now
Friday 15 February 2019
People pleaser
"Obviously, I'm not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ's servant." Galatians 1:10 New Living Translation
People pleasers are some of the nicest people you could ever meet. They're so helpful, always willing to lend a hand wherever it's needed. They never like to say no as they don't want to hurt someone or let them down, because they think this is being selfish and consequentely they end up being taken for granted.
From one point of view being a people pleaser is a good characteristic. This is the hallmark of a good servant. From another, and probably more important, it is not good. People pleasers spend more time trying to please other people than looking after themselves and it stems from insecurity probably caused by something earlier in life. They find it hard to say no, and if they do, they beat themselves up with guilt that they may have let the person down. They have a fear inside about this.
One way a people pleaser can free themselves from this is to start saying, 'No', to small things and sticking to this decision. At first it can seem difficult because the thoughts of guilt start to pile in. However, as this is exercised on a more regular basis, it becomes easier. People will not like this. They have always been used to you being there, willing to help at a moments notice. But as you establish that what you say, stands, they will begin to see that you mean it.
Possibly deep down in your past, you were ignored, unloved or passed over for someone else. Therefore, you had to force yourself forward to get attention, always wanting to be the one that does things well. When you didn't receive thanks or praise for what you did, it hurt but also made you more determined to do better next time.
Listen to me, the only person that you need to please is God - and he is not demanding but will always be grateful for everything you do. Stop people pleasing and start putting God first. This doesn't mean being rude to people and never helping out. But it states that there are other people who can help out for once instead of just little old you.
A final word is that God is so pleased with you. He loves you more than I could ever write about here. Relax in Him; be at peace and enjoy the privilege of being His friend.
People pleasers are some of the nicest people you could ever meet. They're so helpful, always willing to lend a hand wherever it's needed. They never like to say no as they don't want to hurt someone or let them down, because they think this is being selfish and consequentely they end up being taken for granted.
From one point of view being a people pleaser is a good characteristic. This is the hallmark of a good servant. From another, and probably more important, it is not good. People pleasers spend more time trying to please other people than looking after themselves and it stems from insecurity probably caused by something earlier in life. They find it hard to say no, and if they do, they beat themselves up with guilt that they may have let the person down. They have a fear inside about this.
One way a people pleaser can free themselves from this is to start saying, 'No', to small things and sticking to this decision. At first it can seem difficult because the thoughts of guilt start to pile in. However, as this is exercised on a more regular basis, it becomes easier. People will not like this. They have always been used to you being there, willing to help at a moments notice. But as you establish that what you say, stands, they will begin to see that you mean it.
Possibly deep down in your past, you were ignored, unloved or passed over for someone else. Therefore, you had to force yourself forward to get attention, always wanting to be the one that does things well. When you didn't receive thanks or praise for what you did, it hurt but also made you more determined to do better next time.
Listen to me, the only person that you need to please is God - and he is not demanding but will always be grateful for everything you do. Stop people pleasing and start putting God first. This doesn't mean being rude to people and never helping out. But it states that there are other people who can help out for once instead of just little old you.
A final word is that God is so pleased with you. He loves you more than I could ever write about here. Relax in Him; be at peace and enjoy the privilege of being His friend.
Thursday 14 February 2019
Be Happy
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says:
"Rejoice always. , pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
In this day of stress and pressure, we need to stay ahead of it all. It is so easy to say how busy you are and don't know how you'll manage. It's so easy to let it get on top of you and end up depressed and miserable and piling in to all of the pressure. The Apostle Paul tells us to 'Rejoice', not just now and again. Not just when we get some good news or something goes right for once. No, Paul says to 'Rejoice - ALWAYS'. In other words be happy in your life.
Now this isn't always easy, not with everything being fired at you on a daily basis. It's a choice. We all have the ability to choose things, no matter what comes our way. Paul is basically saying, 'Choose every day to be happy. Every moment of every day, choose to live your life in enjoyment, despite the circumstances.' You may say, 'That's not easy. You don't know what I'm going through.' This is very true, I don't know what you're going through, but you still have choices. You can still choose to be happy, even if it's the last day of your life. But this takes practice. I've worked in a hospice with dying people and their relatives and I've been amazed how they've opened up to me and allowed me to help them reach this place of dignity. Easy? No. Achievable? Yes.
There's always a way through most things. If there isn't God will provide a way. The thing is, we have to be in a place to allow Him to help us. We may have debts and demands for payment coming through the post every day. This can't be ignored. We have to do something about it, and there are people skilled in this area to help you through this. Seek them out. It can't be ignored, it needs action.
There may be family issues, marital problems, loss of employment, unable to find work issues. The list can be endless. But we still have choices. You may have made a few bad choices lately. However, there's a way through this. Set yourself free from the worry by giving it all to God and put a smile on your face. No matter what you're going through, Jesus is still on the throne and if you allow Him, He will take control. However, you must talk to Him; share it all with Him and seek His help. He'll be only too willing to offer this help. He won't wash it all away though. We have to learn by the mistakes of life. Sometimes it may not be our fault, but we're still left with the problem and it still needs His help.
The first place to start is with Jesus. Start praising Him. He has the answer. Allow Him to put that smile back on your face and to be happy. When we're happy, the way forward doesn't appear so bad; it's only when we allow things to get on top of us.
So start rejoicing and give it to your Friend.
"Rejoice always. , pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
In this day of stress and pressure, we need to stay ahead of it all. It is so easy to say how busy you are and don't know how you'll manage. It's so easy to let it get on top of you and end up depressed and miserable and piling in to all of the pressure. The Apostle Paul tells us to 'Rejoice', not just now and again. Not just when we get some good news or something goes right for once. No, Paul says to 'Rejoice - ALWAYS'. In other words be happy in your life.
Now this isn't always easy, not with everything being fired at you on a daily basis. It's a choice. We all have the ability to choose things, no matter what comes our way. Paul is basically saying, 'Choose every day to be happy. Every moment of every day, choose to live your life in enjoyment, despite the circumstances.' You may say, 'That's not easy. You don't know what I'm going through.' This is very true, I don't know what you're going through, but you still have choices. You can still choose to be happy, even if it's the last day of your life. But this takes practice. I've worked in a hospice with dying people and their relatives and I've been amazed how they've opened up to me and allowed me to help them reach this place of dignity. Easy? No. Achievable? Yes.
There's always a way through most things. If there isn't God will provide a way. The thing is, we have to be in a place to allow Him to help us. We may have debts and demands for payment coming through the post every day. This can't be ignored. We have to do something about it, and there are people skilled in this area to help you through this. Seek them out. It can't be ignored, it needs action.
There may be family issues, marital problems, loss of employment, unable to find work issues. The list can be endless. But we still have choices. You may have made a few bad choices lately. However, there's a way through this. Set yourself free from the worry by giving it all to God and put a smile on your face. No matter what you're going through, Jesus is still on the throne and if you allow Him, He will take control. However, you must talk to Him; share it all with Him and seek His help. He'll be only too willing to offer this help. He won't wash it all away though. We have to learn by the mistakes of life. Sometimes it may not be our fault, but we're still left with the problem and it still needs His help.
The first place to start is with Jesus. Start praising Him. He has the answer. Allow Him to put that smile back on your face and to be happy. When we're happy, the way forward doesn't appear so bad; it's only when we allow things to get on top of us.
So start rejoicing and give it to your Friend.
Wednesday 13 February 2019
Let down badly
Genesis 40:23 "Pharaoh's chief cup-bearer however, forgot all about Joseph, never giving him another thought." New Living Translation
Let's take another look at Joseph. To get the full picture, it may help to read chapters 40 and 41.
Let's do a recap on Joseph's life:
* He was hated by his step brothers because of their jealousy towards him for being a favourite.
* They took him and threw him into a pit, taking his colourful coat, soaking it in sheep's blood
and telling Jacob, their father, that he must have been killed by a wild beast.
* Soon after this they sold him into slavery to some travellers. They, sold him on to Potiphar,
Pharaoh's Chief of Bodyguards, where Joseph worked as a servant in his house.
* Being quickly promoted to running the whole house, Potiphar's wife, soon became sexually
interested in Joseph and made passes at him. Joseph refused and she accused him of trying to
rape her. Joseph was thrown into prison.
* Joseph interpreted dreams that the Chief Baker and Cup-Bearer had. The Chief Baker was hanged
and the Cup-Bearer promised to mention Joseph's false imprisonment to Pharaoh. He forgot.
* It was a full two years until the Cup-Bearer finally remembered him
Wow, that's a lot of stress for a young man to bear. He was only 17 when he arrived in Egypt and he spent 13 years, serving Potiphar and the prison services before he was eventually brought before Pharaoh.
Joseph must have felt let down; forgotten and left on the side lines. Have you ever felt this way?
Anger and frustration must have reigned in his life at times. He was human. Yet on meeting Pharaoh, he never spoke ill of the Cup-Bearer. There was no record of wrongs. He knew God was on his side and that he would eventually be rescued from this situation. He trusted God, wholeheartedly. He never gave up hope, although he would obviously been tempted to feel sorry for himself.
Memories and thoughts of the past would probably have been uppermost in his thinking. If we listen to our negative thought for too long, we begin to believe them and then we're on a journey to nowhere. Re-train your thoughts to think healthy things. Philippians 4:8.
Meditate on some of the things that Joseph went through. Probably the hard ones would have been being severely hurt by his family - rejected. Also having his hopes dashed by someone he trusted forgetting about him.
Have you been rejected and had your hopes shattered? Have you been hurt by someone very close to you? God understands and wants to heal the wounds of all the suffering. He is the only one that can be totally trusted. Jesus will NEVER let you down, reject you or forget about you.
Why not draw close to Him today and share your heart with Him. He's waiting!
Let's take another look at Joseph. To get the full picture, it may help to read chapters 40 and 41.
Let's do a recap on Joseph's life:
* He was hated by his step brothers because of their jealousy towards him for being a favourite.
* They took him and threw him into a pit, taking his colourful coat, soaking it in sheep's blood
and telling Jacob, their father, that he must have been killed by a wild beast.
* Soon after this they sold him into slavery to some travellers. They, sold him on to Potiphar,
Pharaoh's Chief of Bodyguards, where Joseph worked as a servant in his house.
* Being quickly promoted to running the whole house, Potiphar's wife, soon became sexually
interested in Joseph and made passes at him. Joseph refused and she accused him of trying to
rape her. Joseph was thrown into prison.
* Joseph interpreted dreams that the Chief Baker and Cup-Bearer had. The Chief Baker was hanged
and the Cup-Bearer promised to mention Joseph's false imprisonment to Pharaoh. He forgot.
* It was a full two years until the Cup-Bearer finally remembered him
Wow, that's a lot of stress for a young man to bear. He was only 17 when he arrived in Egypt and he spent 13 years, serving Potiphar and the prison services before he was eventually brought before Pharaoh.
Joseph must have felt let down; forgotten and left on the side lines. Have you ever felt this way?
Anger and frustration must have reigned in his life at times. He was human. Yet on meeting Pharaoh, he never spoke ill of the Cup-Bearer. There was no record of wrongs. He knew God was on his side and that he would eventually be rescued from this situation. He trusted God, wholeheartedly. He never gave up hope, although he would obviously been tempted to feel sorry for himself.
Memories and thoughts of the past would probably have been uppermost in his thinking. If we listen to our negative thought for too long, we begin to believe them and then we're on a journey to nowhere. Re-train your thoughts to think healthy things. Philippians 4:8.
Meditate on some of the things that Joseph went through. Probably the hard ones would have been being severely hurt by his family - rejected. Also having his hopes dashed by someone he trusted forgetting about him.
Have you been rejected and had your hopes shattered? Have you been hurt by someone very close to you? God understands and wants to heal the wounds of all the suffering. He is the only one that can be totally trusted. Jesus will NEVER let you down, reject you or forget about you.
Why not draw close to Him today and share your heart with Him. He's waiting!
Tuesday 12 February 2019
Grace
"My Grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness" 2 Corinthians 12:9
Many years ago, my faith led me into a dodgy situation, one where I was on the verge of losing my job, because I was a Christian. I was a social worker at the time and the only Christian in the whole complex. One of the other social workers, who openly admitted that he didn't like Christians, caused a problem by stating that my faith could become a problem dealing with some of the cases. This was untrue and was made to single me out as someone who was a liability.
This social worker was very 'well in' with the other team members, whilst I had only been in this particular team, about a year. He made such a fuss over this accusation that it became an official complaint. I had done nothing, except be a Christian, and I was totally exasperated by it all.
A day was allocated when I would have to answer the complaint made against me. The complaint, was hypothetical, one that had not even happened but could cause a problem if it did. It was about homophobia. This chap felt that I would not be able to work with people who were gay, because of my faith and how God felt about this. This was ridiculous. I had worked with gay people before and it had never been a problem. I was there to be of help, not to judge people. However, they wouldn't listen to this and I was going to be hanged before a trial.
The first half of the meeting was about what could happen and how they felt it was too sensitive to have me on the team. In the second half of the meeting, I would have to explain myself - why I felt this was not a problem. However, I was up against a no win situation. they had already made their decision.
It was lunch time and I sat in some gardens just giving it all to God. This was so unfair. I was being victimised and also it was persecution and a kind of religionism against me. And yet, there was nothing I could do. Suddenly I felt God say to me, 'My Grace is sufficient for you. Don't worry, it'll be ok.' When I went back for the second half of the meeting, it was almost like God took over everything. Even when I spoke, He was in control of my words. The meeting ended where they found I had done nothing wrong whatsoever and I was vindicated. For my own peace of mind, I moved to another team and it wasn't long before the team I had left, were disbanded and moved to other areas, separately.
You know, people can try but they'll never be able to take God on and win. I was in a difficult position but as I cried out to God, He came and sorted it.
What about you? Are you going through a difficult time? Are you being mistreated? Give it to God, He is the master at sorting things out. 'Where sin abounded, grace abounded much more'Romans 5:20
God's grace is sufficient for you. You may be weak, but God is so strong and He is committed to you. Trust Him, He so wants to help.
Many years ago, my faith led me into a dodgy situation, one where I was on the verge of losing my job, because I was a Christian. I was a social worker at the time and the only Christian in the whole complex. One of the other social workers, who openly admitted that he didn't like Christians, caused a problem by stating that my faith could become a problem dealing with some of the cases. This was untrue and was made to single me out as someone who was a liability.
This social worker was very 'well in' with the other team members, whilst I had only been in this particular team, about a year. He made such a fuss over this accusation that it became an official complaint. I had done nothing, except be a Christian, and I was totally exasperated by it all.
A day was allocated when I would have to answer the complaint made against me. The complaint, was hypothetical, one that had not even happened but could cause a problem if it did. It was about homophobia. This chap felt that I would not be able to work with people who were gay, because of my faith and how God felt about this. This was ridiculous. I had worked with gay people before and it had never been a problem. I was there to be of help, not to judge people. However, they wouldn't listen to this and I was going to be hanged before a trial.
The first half of the meeting was about what could happen and how they felt it was too sensitive to have me on the team. In the second half of the meeting, I would have to explain myself - why I felt this was not a problem. However, I was up against a no win situation. they had already made their decision.
It was lunch time and I sat in some gardens just giving it all to God. This was so unfair. I was being victimised and also it was persecution and a kind of religionism against me. And yet, there was nothing I could do. Suddenly I felt God say to me, 'My Grace is sufficient for you. Don't worry, it'll be ok.' When I went back for the second half of the meeting, it was almost like God took over everything. Even when I spoke, He was in control of my words. The meeting ended where they found I had done nothing wrong whatsoever and I was vindicated. For my own peace of mind, I moved to another team and it wasn't long before the team I had left, were disbanded and moved to other areas, separately.
You know, people can try but they'll never be able to take God on and win. I was in a difficult position but as I cried out to God, He came and sorted it.
What about you? Are you going through a difficult time? Are you being mistreated? Give it to God, He is the master at sorting things out. 'Where sin abounded, grace abounded much more'Romans 5:20
God's grace is sufficient for you. You may be weak, but God is so strong and He is committed to you. Trust Him, He so wants to help.
Monday 11 February 2019
Complaining
Exodus 15:24 "And the people complained against Moses saying, 'What shall we drink?' "
Exodus 17 :2 -3 "Therefore the people contended with Moses and said, 'Give us water, that we may
drink.' So Moses said to them, 'Why do you contend with me? Why do you tempt
the Lord?'
And the people thirsted there for water and the people complained against Moses
and said, 'Why is it you have brought us out of Egypt to kill us and our children
and our livestock, with thirst.?' "
Grumble, grumble, complaint, complaint, in fact moaning and groaning. The Israelites were never satisfied. God had used Moses to bring them out of Egypt, to freedom and all they could do was moan about him. They were totally ungrateful and were getting ready to stone Moses because of their feelings.
The main thing here, is that they were looking to man to provide not God. They had placed their trust in Moses instead of the Lord Almighty. Jeremiah 17:5 says, " Cursed is the man who trusts in man, and makes flesh is strength. Whose heart departs from the Lord." It is futile to put our trust in another person.
An important point here is that, it is so easy to put your trust in a pastor because, after all, he is our leader and like a shepherd, he leads us in our walk with Jesus. That is ok if we don't put him in God's place. We should always have trust and respect for our leader but it is God who supplies, not him or her. It is God who will take us into Heaven, not the pastor. It is God who died in our place and no one else.
Point two, is grumbling and complaining just separates us from people. Who wants to spend time with a moaning old and so? All that does is rob us of our peace. It does not build us up.
Philippians 2:14 tells us, "Do all things without complaining and disputing". And that includes having the mental thoughts and questions in our minds. Deal with these thoughts before they lead you further from God.
God deserves our praise, not our moans and groans and dis-satisfied comments. How can people see Jesus in us when we are angry, disputing things and generally being dis-satisfied. What if God were to moan and groan about us. He would find much more to grumble about in us. However, He gives Grace. We don't deserve it but we get it and honestly, we should be so grateful to Him that through Jesus, He sees no stain on us.
Exodus 17 :2 -3 "Therefore the people contended with Moses and said, 'Give us water, that we may
drink.' So Moses said to them, 'Why do you contend with me? Why do you tempt
the Lord?'
And the people thirsted there for water and the people complained against Moses
and said, 'Why is it you have brought us out of Egypt to kill us and our children
and our livestock, with thirst.?' "
Grumble, grumble, complaint, complaint, in fact moaning and groaning. The Israelites were never satisfied. God had used Moses to bring them out of Egypt, to freedom and all they could do was moan about him. They were totally ungrateful and were getting ready to stone Moses because of their feelings.
The main thing here, is that they were looking to man to provide not God. They had placed their trust in Moses instead of the Lord Almighty. Jeremiah 17:5 says, " Cursed is the man who trusts in man, and makes flesh is strength. Whose heart departs from the Lord." It is futile to put our trust in another person.
An important point here is that, it is so easy to put your trust in a pastor because, after all, he is our leader and like a shepherd, he leads us in our walk with Jesus. That is ok if we don't put him in God's place. We should always have trust and respect for our leader but it is God who supplies, not him or her. It is God who will take us into Heaven, not the pastor. It is God who died in our place and no one else.
Point two, is grumbling and complaining just separates us from people. Who wants to spend time with a moaning old and so? All that does is rob us of our peace. It does not build us up.
Philippians 2:14 tells us, "Do all things without complaining and disputing". And that includes having the mental thoughts and questions in our minds. Deal with these thoughts before they lead you further from God.
God deserves our praise, not our moans and groans and dis-satisfied comments. How can people see Jesus in us when we are angry, disputing things and generally being dis-satisfied. What if God were to moan and groan about us. He would find much more to grumble about in us. However, He gives Grace. We don't deserve it but we get it and honestly, we should be so grateful to Him that through Jesus, He sees no stain on us.
Sunday 10 February 2019
A.W.I.P.
1 John 3:2 - 3 "Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be; but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is. And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself just as He is pure."
We have a hope that one day we will see Jesus face to face; we will be with Him eternally. That is our hope. However, the word hope can often seem more like a wish. We often say to someone, 'I'll see you later hopefully,' or, 'The job will be finished this afternoon - hopefully.' Really what we're saying is wishful. We're not certain that we can fulfil what we've said, but we'll try. Look at the word 'hope' here in verse 3. It's a Biblical hope, it carries with it a certainty that it will happen. The word hopefully, is therefore stretched into 'hope - fully'. We fully hope that this will happen. There is a certainty about this.
Kenneth Copeland say, 'Wishing will not accomplish anything in the Kingdom of God. But hoping will, especially when you couple it with faith and love. (1 Corinthians 13:13)
If we are believers, that is if we have asked Jesus to be our Lord and Saviour, we have a Biblical hope that one day we will be with Him. It's not a 'hopefully' it's a 'hope -fully - a certainty.' However, we can often fear that we won't be good enough to get to Heaven. You may think that, because you keep on letting God down with this sin and that sin, that there is no chance whatsoever.
Wrong. you are 'A.W.I.P. This means you are 'A Work in Progress'. You are. 'Under Construction.' God knows where you fail. He knows how hard you try to be a Christian - how you try and live up to His Name. The thing is, he knows our hearts. He knows our intentions are good and He knows how sad we feel when we mess this up.
The Apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 1:6:
"Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you, will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.
We are A.W.I.P - a work in progress. We are under construction. However, as Christians we have that Biblical hope that we will make it.
We have a hope that one day we will see Jesus face to face; we will be with Him eternally. That is our hope. However, the word hope can often seem more like a wish. We often say to someone, 'I'll see you later hopefully,' or, 'The job will be finished this afternoon - hopefully.' Really what we're saying is wishful. We're not certain that we can fulfil what we've said, but we'll try. Look at the word 'hope' here in verse 3. It's a Biblical hope, it carries with it a certainty that it will happen. The word hopefully, is therefore stretched into 'hope - fully'. We fully hope that this will happen. There is a certainty about this.
Kenneth Copeland say, 'Wishing will not accomplish anything in the Kingdom of God. But hoping will, especially when you couple it with faith and love. (1 Corinthians 13:13)
If we are believers, that is if we have asked Jesus to be our Lord and Saviour, we have a Biblical hope that one day we will be with Him. It's not a 'hopefully' it's a 'hope -fully - a certainty.' However, we can often fear that we won't be good enough to get to Heaven. You may think that, because you keep on letting God down with this sin and that sin, that there is no chance whatsoever.
Wrong. you are 'A.W.I.P. This means you are 'A Work in Progress'. You are. 'Under Construction.' God knows where you fail. He knows how hard you try to be a Christian - how you try and live up to His Name. The thing is, he knows our hearts. He knows our intentions are good and He knows how sad we feel when we mess this up.
The Apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 1:6:
"Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you, will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.
We are A.W.I.P - a work in progress. We are under construction. However, as Christians we have that Biblical hope that we will make it.
Saturday 9 February 2019
'Will my flesh rule this moment, or my spirit?'
The way we react to certain things is so important that we need to look at it, time and time again. We can either react in a way that creates a great atmosphere or react in a way that keeps things calm. However, I believe that it is a life long practice, one in which we have to be on guard day and night.
One never knows from one moment to the next what we're going to be faced with. Therefore, that is why it is so important to start the day by having a 'Quiet time' - reading the bible and praying, also ensuring that we are equipped with the Armour of God. (See a previous message).
Psalm 37:8 says, "Cease from anger and forsake wrath. Do not fret, it only causes harm"
I love what RT Kendall says, 'Will my flesh rule this moment, or my spirit?' In other words, how are we going to react to a certain obstacle in our lives. We can either look at it in a suspicious and angry manner, which will obviously shatter any peace that existed; or react in a way that brings about peace and integrity. Don't get me wrong, I know this isn't easy. Some people have to go into therapy and undergo Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to help them with their thoughts and actions. This is very successful as it helps people to sort out why they did a certain thing or why this was said and how could it have been done better. If you have been referred for this, keep at it as it will help.
However, from a Christian point of view, as we read about the great people in the bible we often see that many were angry, depressed and wanting to pack it all in. Some, like Peter were prone to a quick temper at times and could be outspoken. At one stage in the Garden of Gethsemane he cut off someone's ear with a sword. You may not have gone that far but you may identify with this reading.
What are your reactions like? I'll be honest, mine are not good at times and I have to work at how I handle myself. God knows this. He knows how we are. He created us and gave His life for us and He puts up with us daily - thank God. But at times, we need to let Him help us sort stuff out. We need to be honest, He knows about how we react anyway. As we offer ourselves to Him, asking for His help, He will teach us to learn how to react differently. How to change how we think (Romans 12:2), and begin to help us to be free from making a mess of things on a frequent basis.
It can start with allowing time each day to spend in God's Word, spending time with Him and learning be more like Him.
Give it a try and before long, you will be allowing your spirit to rule, not your flesh.
One never knows from one moment to the next what we're going to be faced with. Therefore, that is why it is so important to start the day by having a 'Quiet time' - reading the bible and praying, also ensuring that we are equipped with the Armour of God. (See a previous message).
Psalm 37:8 says, "Cease from anger and forsake wrath. Do not fret, it only causes harm"
I love what RT Kendall says, 'Will my flesh rule this moment, or my spirit?' In other words, how are we going to react to a certain obstacle in our lives. We can either look at it in a suspicious and angry manner, which will obviously shatter any peace that existed; or react in a way that brings about peace and integrity. Don't get me wrong, I know this isn't easy. Some people have to go into therapy and undergo Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to help them with their thoughts and actions. This is very successful as it helps people to sort out why they did a certain thing or why this was said and how could it have been done better. If you have been referred for this, keep at it as it will help.
However, from a Christian point of view, as we read about the great people in the bible we often see that many were angry, depressed and wanting to pack it all in. Some, like Peter were prone to a quick temper at times and could be outspoken. At one stage in the Garden of Gethsemane he cut off someone's ear with a sword. You may not have gone that far but you may identify with this reading.
What are your reactions like? I'll be honest, mine are not good at times and I have to work at how I handle myself. God knows this. He knows how we are. He created us and gave His life for us and He puts up with us daily - thank God. But at times, we need to let Him help us sort stuff out. We need to be honest, He knows about how we react anyway. As we offer ourselves to Him, asking for His help, He will teach us to learn how to react differently. How to change how we think (Romans 12:2), and begin to help us to be free from making a mess of things on a frequent basis.
It can start with allowing time each day to spend in God's Word, spending time with Him and learning be more like Him.
Give it a try and before long, you will be allowing your spirit to rule, not your flesh.
Friday 8 February 2019
Enjoy your day
"This is the day the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118: 24 NKJV
As I sit at my window the weather is awful, teeming down with rain, the wind is blowing things all over the place. Looking out of the window at all of this, I notice rubbish bins blowing all over the garden but it is so wet and cold, I don't want to go out and rectify this.
Have you ever felt like this? What about when you wake up and realise it's not the weekend, it's a work day and possibly the busiest you're going to have for ages. How you wish you didn't have to go to work, 'If I could only win the lottery.'
At times, we're very tempted to say that it's an awful day, because of the weather or because we have such a massive workload ahead of us. Really though, why not turn this thought around and be grateful that you have a job to go to; a job that provides your needs. Many wish they had this. The weather may be awful but thank God we have weather. Many people who have died would give anything to have the weather back in their lives. The weather may be atrocious but that doesn't mean it's a bad day, just that the weather could be better than it is.
It comes down to choices. We have the choice to make the best of the day; to seize the opportunity and enjoy what life may bring. Or we can be down in the dumps and moan and groan about it.
The Psalmist tells us, 'This is the day the Lord has made.' God has made this day for us - another day of our life. Many people won't wake up today, we have and He has given us a day to enjoy, to breathe in the joy He gives us.
Next the Psalmist says, 'We will rejoice and be glad in it.' This part of the verse could be personalised by submitting the word, "I," instead of "We." As I've mentioned, we have a choice, the bottle is half full or half empty. We can say 'I will rejoice in it,' or we can moan and whinge about all we have to do and it's not fair that we have to do this etc etc. We can either throw a pity party or rejoice and be glad.
Jesus Christ is faithful. He loves us more than we could ever realise and He wants us to get the most out of what He has given us to do. There are people dying in this world right now. People are starving and/or homeless. How grateful we should be to Jesus that by His grace, we are not one of them. The thing to ask ourselves, is, 'Can I do anything to help them? Can I pray for them or send an organisation some cash to help deal with a crisis? Can I personally do something and make this day a day that can promote rejoicing?
Think about it.
As I sit at my window the weather is awful, teeming down with rain, the wind is blowing things all over the place. Looking out of the window at all of this, I notice rubbish bins blowing all over the garden but it is so wet and cold, I don't want to go out and rectify this.
Have you ever felt like this? What about when you wake up and realise it's not the weekend, it's a work day and possibly the busiest you're going to have for ages. How you wish you didn't have to go to work, 'If I could only win the lottery.'
At times, we're very tempted to say that it's an awful day, because of the weather or because we have such a massive workload ahead of us. Really though, why not turn this thought around and be grateful that you have a job to go to; a job that provides your needs. Many wish they had this. The weather may be awful but thank God we have weather. Many people who have died would give anything to have the weather back in their lives. The weather may be atrocious but that doesn't mean it's a bad day, just that the weather could be better than it is.
It comes down to choices. We have the choice to make the best of the day; to seize the opportunity and enjoy what life may bring. Or we can be down in the dumps and moan and groan about it.
The Psalmist tells us, 'This is the day the Lord has made.' God has made this day for us - another day of our life. Many people won't wake up today, we have and He has given us a day to enjoy, to breathe in the joy He gives us.
Next the Psalmist says, 'We will rejoice and be glad in it.' This part of the verse could be personalised by submitting the word, "I," instead of "We." As I've mentioned, we have a choice, the bottle is half full or half empty. We can say 'I will rejoice in it,' or we can moan and whinge about all we have to do and it's not fair that we have to do this etc etc. We can either throw a pity party or rejoice and be glad.
Jesus Christ is faithful. He loves us more than we could ever realise and He wants us to get the most out of what He has given us to do. There are people dying in this world right now. People are starving and/or homeless. How grateful we should be to Jesus that by His grace, we are not one of them. The thing to ask ourselves, is, 'Can I do anything to help them? Can I pray for them or send an organisation some cash to help deal with a crisis? Can I personally do something and make this day a day that can promote rejoicing?
Think about it.
Thursday 7 February 2019
Being stubborn
Exodus 8:32
"But Pharaoh again became stubborn and refused to let the people go"
Stubborness can be described as a person showing total determination not to change one's mind, attitude or position about a particular thing. Despite heated arguments and pressure, a stubborn person may refuse to cooperate . They can be obstinate and hard-hearted, difficult and pig-headed in their approach. Data taken from (the Free Dictionary online).
Pharaoh's example of having a hard heart and stubbornness was through total unbelief in God. However, we as Christians can come pretty close at times especially if someone has hurt our feelings in the church or through lack of grace when we feel that we are right and everyone else is wrong. This type of stubbornness can lead us to being unteachable if we're not careful. Our attitude can stink and then we end up completely on the verge of ruining our credibility.
The Apostle Paul tells us in Ephesians 4: 1 - 3 'Therefore, I the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with long-suffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the body of peace.'
Sometimes we can be certain that we're right about a particular thing. In this case we need to talk the subject through with whoever it is that has caused you an upset or disagreement, if this is at all possible. Failing that, run it by a pastor or leader to gain some wisdom on the subject. Whatever happens, avoid the temptation to be stubborn, claiming, 'I'm right and no matter what, I will not change my opinion.' all this does is drive a wedge between us and the peace of the Holy Spirit lifts off of us. (Not leaves us - ever, but we seem to lose our anointing).
We've all been stubborn at times. Come and live with me for a week or so and you'll discover that I am far from perfect. But then again, we are all the same in various levels.
Is there anyone that you may have offended in this way. Is it possible to speak with them and put things right, so that the unity of the Spirit can flow again. Stubbornness can lead to hard-heartedness. That is something we really need to avoid.
"But Pharaoh again became stubborn and refused to let the people go"
Stubborness can be described as a person showing total determination not to change one's mind, attitude or position about a particular thing. Despite heated arguments and pressure, a stubborn person may refuse to cooperate . They can be obstinate and hard-hearted, difficult and pig-headed in their approach. Data taken from (the Free Dictionary online).
Pharaoh's example of having a hard heart and stubbornness was through total unbelief in God. However, we as Christians can come pretty close at times especially if someone has hurt our feelings in the church or through lack of grace when we feel that we are right and everyone else is wrong. This type of stubbornness can lead us to being unteachable if we're not careful. Our attitude can stink and then we end up completely on the verge of ruining our credibility.
The Apostle Paul tells us in Ephesians 4: 1 - 3 'Therefore, I the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with long-suffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the body of peace.'
Sometimes we can be certain that we're right about a particular thing. In this case we need to talk the subject through with whoever it is that has caused you an upset or disagreement, if this is at all possible. Failing that, run it by a pastor or leader to gain some wisdom on the subject. Whatever happens, avoid the temptation to be stubborn, claiming, 'I'm right and no matter what, I will not change my opinion.' all this does is drive a wedge between us and the peace of the Holy Spirit lifts off of us. (Not leaves us - ever, but we seem to lose our anointing).
We've all been stubborn at times. Come and live with me for a week or so and you'll discover that I am far from perfect. But then again, we are all the same in various levels.
Is there anyone that you may have offended in this way. Is it possible to speak with them and put things right, so that the unity of the Spirit can flow again. Stubbornness can lead to hard-heartedness. That is something we really need to avoid.
Wednesday 6 February 2019
You can do it
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13 NKJV
This verse does not mean that if you decide to do something like swimming the channel when you can't swim, God will give you the strength to do it. What it does mean that Jesus will enable you to do whatever He asks you to do. Nothing is impossible when He calls you to do some work for Him.
The thing is, if God called you into His ministry and asked you to give up your job and go to
wherever, would you do it? Many people have and many have not. It is something that would need much wisdom, especially if you have a family to provide for. You would have to be sure that He was calling you out. That's not easy. Many have felt they are called and have failed because they got it wrong. The fact of the matter is, if Jesus calls you to go to bible college; go and work abroad on a missionary field etc. etc. He will clarify this. You will feel deep in your heart that this is the real thing. When you do, then comes the time when you have to put this into action. That can be the scary bit. 'How will we manage?' 'How will the bills be paid?' 'Who is going to foot the bill for all of this?' Some organisations provide finance to train, with housing. However, many don't, so it becomes a faith thing.
Bob Gass says, 'How many times does something look impossible simply because you think it is?' At a time such as this, our thought life can play havoc and it would be so easy to pack it in thinking you've got it wrong. That can be the wrong decision. If God is calling you out, He will provide what is necessary!. Check out: Philippians 4: 19:
"And My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
God is our source. We need to believe Him and receive His supply to us. This is where the faith thing really kicks in. There's no need to beg Him. He will supply and I know from experience that, even though it can seem scary at time, it is exciting watching Him supply in the most amazing ways.
Is God calling you out? Is He asking you to do a particular thing for Him? You may feel petrified about this. You may feel inadequate and think that you can't do that. God doesn't get things wrong. If He is calling you, it is because He trusts you and thinks you are very capable - with His help - to fulfill what He has in mind for you to do.
Get alone with Him and listen to what He is saying. Ask Him questions; He'll let you know. People like Moses had big doubts when God called him to go and speak with Pharaoh. He tried his best to get out of it. (Exodus 3 & 4). However God provided the way for him, and He will you too.
This verse does not mean that if you decide to do something like swimming the channel when you can't swim, God will give you the strength to do it. What it does mean that Jesus will enable you to do whatever He asks you to do. Nothing is impossible when He calls you to do some work for Him.
The thing is, if God called you into His ministry and asked you to give up your job and go to
wherever, would you do it? Many people have and many have not. It is something that would need much wisdom, especially if you have a family to provide for. You would have to be sure that He was calling you out. That's not easy. Many have felt they are called and have failed because they got it wrong. The fact of the matter is, if Jesus calls you to go to bible college; go and work abroad on a missionary field etc. etc. He will clarify this. You will feel deep in your heart that this is the real thing. When you do, then comes the time when you have to put this into action. That can be the scary bit. 'How will we manage?' 'How will the bills be paid?' 'Who is going to foot the bill for all of this?' Some organisations provide finance to train, with housing. However, many don't, so it becomes a faith thing.
Bob Gass says, 'How many times does something look impossible simply because you think it is?' At a time such as this, our thought life can play havoc and it would be so easy to pack it in thinking you've got it wrong. That can be the wrong decision. If God is calling you out, He will provide what is necessary!. Check out: Philippians 4: 19:
"And My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
God is our source. We need to believe Him and receive His supply to us. This is where the faith thing really kicks in. There's no need to beg Him. He will supply and I know from experience that, even though it can seem scary at time, it is exciting watching Him supply in the most amazing ways.
Is God calling you out? Is He asking you to do a particular thing for Him? You may feel petrified about this. You may feel inadequate and think that you can't do that. God doesn't get things wrong. If He is calling you, it is because He trusts you and thinks you are very capable - with His help - to fulfill what He has in mind for you to do.
Get alone with Him and listen to what He is saying. Ask Him questions; He'll let you know. People like Moses had big doubts when God called him to go and speak with Pharaoh. He tried his best to get out of it. (Exodus 3 & 4). However God provided the way for him, and He will you too.
Tuesday 5 February 2019
The Armour of God
"Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the Gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God, praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit." Ephesians 6: 14 - 18. NKJV
The armour is based on the first century battle dress that a Roman soldier would wear. Many Christians read this passage but don't fully understand the meaning of it. Let's take a few minutes to look:
(1) The belt of truth It refers to the truth of scripture in contrast to the lies of the devil. We live by the truth of God; He has set us free and people should be able to see in us, integrity and dedication to our faith. When we live in the truth, the devil finds it hard to hoodwink us.
(2) The Breastplate of righteousness This breastplate covers the heart and vital organs of our body. It is Jesus' righteousness that protects us - not ours. He gives us this freely. The breastplate protects us against the accusations and charges that satan spreads about us. We are righteousness but it's Christ's righteousness, not ours.
(3) Shoes of the Gospel of peace We are to advance in peace as we meet and speak with people. There's enough hatred and unrest in this world. We, as Soldiers of the Lord, put on the shoes of peace and we walk into every kind of situation, spreading the Peace of God, wherever we go.
(4) The shield of faith Roman soldiers used to carry a very large shield when they went into battle. It would cover the whole of the front of their body and would be covered in very thick leather, which they would saturate in water. Often the enemy they met would fire arrows at them that had been dipped in pitch and tar. They would then be lit. The arrows would sink into the shields and be extinguished because of the water. Satan attacks us with fiery darts or arrows which can come in the guise of doubt, fear, accusation, temptations and lust, to name but a few. Ensuring we hold up our spiritual shield will help us to combat these attacks.
(5) Helmet of salvation The helmet protects the head and is symbolic of making sure we use this to protect us from all the bad thoughts that may come into our minds, the one's that bring doubt and suspicion; jealousy and envy.
(6) The sword of the Spirit We need to read our bibles so that we will be equipped to combat false truth that may come our way. In the Word of God, there are promises we can stand on; there is direction that we surely need and assurance of God's love and commitment to us. As we memorise these scriptures, we are able to use them in time of need. However, if we don't read, we'll be in need when the flak comes against us and we may live to regret not studying it. It is food to Christians, if we go without food, we will soon become ill. In the same way, if we fail to eat of God's Word, we will suffer.
(7) Prayer Prayer is quite simply our conversation with God. However, it is more important. Prayer changes situations. People become healed when we pray. Amazing changes can come about by praying. We need to pray all the time. You don't need to get down on your knees each time. We can pray in the shower, the car, the supermarket in fact, wherever we choose. God speaks back to us but we need to learn to recognise His still, quiet voice. In a nutshell, prayer changes things.
We all need to put on the armour each and everyday. We never know what we will meet as we leave home and go into this busy world. Make a practice of doing this each day. Also, find time to study this piece of scripture yourself. There is far more in it than I could cover here.
The armour is based on the first century battle dress that a Roman soldier would wear. Many Christians read this passage but don't fully understand the meaning of it. Let's take a few minutes to look:
(1) The belt of truth It refers to the truth of scripture in contrast to the lies of the devil. We live by the truth of God; He has set us free and people should be able to see in us, integrity and dedication to our faith. When we live in the truth, the devil finds it hard to hoodwink us.
(2) The Breastplate of righteousness This breastplate covers the heart and vital organs of our body. It is Jesus' righteousness that protects us - not ours. He gives us this freely. The breastplate protects us against the accusations and charges that satan spreads about us. We are righteousness but it's Christ's righteousness, not ours.
(3) Shoes of the Gospel of peace We are to advance in peace as we meet and speak with people. There's enough hatred and unrest in this world. We, as Soldiers of the Lord, put on the shoes of peace and we walk into every kind of situation, spreading the Peace of God, wherever we go.
(4) The shield of faith Roman soldiers used to carry a very large shield when they went into battle. It would cover the whole of the front of their body and would be covered in very thick leather, which they would saturate in water. Often the enemy they met would fire arrows at them that had been dipped in pitch and tar. They would then be lit. The arrows would sink into the shields and be extinguished because of the water. Satan attacks us with fiery darts or arrows which can come in the guise of doubt, fear, accusation, temptations and lust, to name but a few. Ensuring we hold up our spiritual shield will help us to combat these attacks.
(5) Helmet of salvation The helmet protects the head and is symbolic of making sure we use this to protect us from all the bad thoughts that may come into our minds, the one's that bring doubt and suspicion; jealousy and envy.
(6) The sword of the Spirit We need to read our bibles so that we will be equipped to combat false truth that may come our way. In the Word of God, there are promises we can stand on; there is direction that we surely need and assurance of God's love and commitment to us. As we memorise these scriptures, we are able to use them in time of need. However, if we don't read, we'll be in need when the flak comes against us and we may live to regret not studying it. It is food to Christians, if we go without food, we will soon become ill. In the same way, if we fail to eat of God's Word, we will suffer.
(7) Prayer Prayer is quite simply our conversation with God. However, it is more important. Prayer changes situations. People become healed when we pray. Amazing changes can come about by praying. We need to pray all the time. You don't need to get down on your knees each time. We can pray in the shower, the car, the supermarket in fact, wherever we choose. God speaks back to us but we need to learn to recognise His still, quiet voice. In a nutshell, prayer changes things.
We all need to put on the armour each and everyday. We never know what we will meet as we leave home and go into this busy world. Make a practice of doing this each day. Also, find time to study this piece of scripture yourself. There is far more in it than I could cover here.
Monday 4 February 2019
Don't Flap - Soar
"He gives power to the weak and to those who have no might He increases strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary. And the young men shall utterly fall.
But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles,
They shall run and not be weary. They shall walk and and not faint." Isaiah 40: 29 - 31 NKJV
Things may have been difficult lately. You may have had no energy to cope with the endless pressures around you. You may have even felt like shouting the: 'Where are You lord?' syndrome. But tough times don't last - tough people do! You need to stand on your foundation which is, 'Christ in you, the hope of glory.' Jesus lives in you (if you've asked Him too.) He is in your heart, your life, your hands, your fingers, your feet etc etc.
But at times of tiredness and being battered by life's storms, it's hard to realise this. But don't confess that you're at your wits end or you'll receive that. Instead confess, 'I am receiving power to overcome; the Lord is increasing my strength.' But how? Well, firstly, we need to rise above the worry and anxiety by taking action and we can do that by waiting on God. Let's look at our text today:
Verse 31 tells us, 'Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength.' You need to be one of 'Those', as you do this, just focusing on Jesus and pouring your heart out to Him, He will give you the necessary strength to cope with things. But waiting is difficult. We usually want things, NOW! However, life with Jesus is not always like this. He wants to give you rest. He wants to comfort and build you back up again. He wants to bathe the wounds that life has passed your way. Let Him and then: 'They shall mount up with wings like eagles.' Have you ever seen an eagle in flight? it soars and hardly ever flaps. It mounts itself off and soars above all predators and birds that try to hassle it. We can learn a lot by studying this. God wants to have you mount up on eagle's wings and soar above every problem that has come or will come your way. Remember, don't flap - soar.
Then we read, 'They will run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.' Have you ever done any running. It can hurt until you're at your peak fitness and when you are, it can still hurt some more. However, God is saying that as we wait on Him, we will run and not become weary. In other words, waiting on Him can take you to new heights, giving you the strength to tackle whatever comes your way, because waiting on Him, spending time with Him and resting in Him will bring you to peak, spiritual fitness.
Give it a try, today! Don't flap - soar!
But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles,
They shall run and not be weary. They shall walk and and not faint." Isaiah 40: 29 - 31 NKJV
Things may have been difficult lately. You may have had no energy to cope with the endless pressures around you. You may have even felt like shouting the: 'Where are You lord?' syndrome. But tough times don't last - tough people do! You need to stand on your foundation which is, 'Christ in you, the hope of glory.' Jesus lives in you (if you've asked Him too.) He is in your heart, your life, your hands, your fingers, your feet etc etc.
But at times of tiredness and being battered by life's storms, it's hard to realise this. But don't confess that you're at your wits end or you'll receive that. Instead confess, 'I am receiving power to overcome; the Lord is increasing my strength.' But how? Well, firstly, we need to rise above the worry and anxiety by taking action and we can do that by waiting on God. Let's look at our text today:
Verse 31 tells us, 'Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength.' You need to be one of 'Those', as you do this, just focusing on Jesus and pouring your heart out to Him, He will give you the necessary strength to cope with things. But waiting is difficult. We usually want things, NOW! However, life with Jesus is not always like this. He wants to give you rest. He wants to comfort and build you back up again. He wants to bathe the wounds that life has passed your way. Let Him and then: 'They shall mount up with wings like eagles.' Have you ever seen an eagle in flight? it soars and hardly ever flaps. It mounts itself off and soars above all predators and birds that try to hassle it. We can learn a lot by studying this. God wants to have you mount up on eagle's wings and soar above every problem that has come or will come your way. Remember, don't flap - soar.
Then we read, 'They will run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.' Have you ever done any running. It can hurt until you're at your peak fitness and when you are, it can still hurt some more. However, God is saying that as we wait on Him, we will run and not become weary. In other words, waiting on Him can take you to new heights, giving you the strength to tackle whatever comes your way, because waiting on Him, spending time with Him and resting in Him will bring you to peak, spiritual fitness.
Give it a try, today! Don't flap - soar!
Sunday 3 February 2019
Get Rid of the Baggage
"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us; looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."
Hebrews 12:1 - 2 NKJV
I remember my army days where we had to do 10 - 15 mile bashes. That's what we used to call route marches. We would be dressed in full kit, with a weighted pack on our backs, plus a heavy weapon and we had to march, on our own, from A to B. It was sheer pain, especially at first and the thought to throw off a piece of the heavy kit, was so tempting. Anything to relieve the constant struggle.
The Christian life is often described as a race. Check out 2 Timothy 4:7 and 1 Corinthians 9:24. It can seem so competitive at times but that's only because we make it seem that way. To be a Christian is not easy. As soon as we start, we are faced with our enemy, the devil, who will do anything to prevent us carrying on with this life and will put every type of temptation in our way in order to bring shame upon us.
If the Christian life isn't hard, why then do we have to run with endurance, the race set before us? Of course the Christian life is hard but that's where our endurance needs to kick in. The devil doesn't want us to succeed. He can't have this type of life and the blessings that come with it, so he'll try all he can to prevent us from enjoying it too by putting temptation in our way. Think of Eve in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3), the serpent tricked her into staring, longingly at the fruit on the tree, until she couldn't stand it any longer and ate it. That was when sin was introduced into the world. It's no different today. There are temptations all around us and we need to deal with them as they crop up, or enter our minds.
The one sin that repeatedly defeats us is the one that the enemy will tempt us with. It can be alcohol abuse, adultery, homosexuality, pornography or a host of other things. This may be the one that we struggle with and the one that we need to address by getting rid of this baggage. It's a weight that is holding us back. It ensnares us, prevents us from reaching our goal. We need to lay it aside. How? By looking and focusing on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (V2). Easy, no it is not but is is achievable as we admit we need help and we throw ourselves on His mercy. You see, He is dedicated to taking this burden from us (Psalm 55:22 and 1 Peter 5:7) because He cares.
Today, let Him set you free from the weight that ensures you so that you can run with endurance:
Lord Jesus
I need Your help. As I come to You now, please set me free from the weight of.................. and help me to run with endurance, by keeping my eyes on You. I ask in Jesus' Name . Amen
And if you have never given your life to Jesus, why not do it now:
Lord Jesus
I ask You to come and live in my heart. Please forgive my sins and fill me with Your Spirit, and be my Lord and Saviour. Amen
Hebrews 12:1 - 2 NKJV
I remember my army days where we had to do 10 - 15 mile bashes. That's what we used to call route marches. We would be dressed in full kit, with a weighted pack on our backs, plus a heavy weapon and we had to march, on our own, from A to B. It was sheer pain, especially at first and the thought to throw off a piece of the heavy kit, was so tempting. Anything to relieve the constant struggle.
The Christian life is often described as a race. Check out 2 Timothy 4:7 and 1 Corinthians 9:24. It can seem so competitive at times but that's only because we make it seem that way. To be a Christian is not easy. As soon as we start, we are faced with our enemy, the devil, who will do anything to prevent us carrying on with this life and will put every type of temptation in our way in order to bring shame upon us.
If the Christian life isn't hard, why then do we have to run with endurance, the race set before us? Of course the Christian life is hard but that's where our endurance needs to kick in. The devil doesn't want us to succeed. He can't have this type of life and the blessings that come with it, so he'll try all he can to prevent us from enjoying it too by putting temptation in our way. Think of Eve in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3), the serpent tricked her into staring, longingly at the fruit on the tree, until she couldn't stand it any longer and ate it. That was when sin was introduced into the world. It's no different today. There are temptations all around us and we need to deal with them as they crop up, or enter our minds.
The one sin that repeatedly defeats us is the one that the enemy will tempt us with. It can be alcohol abuse, adultery, homosexuality, pornography or a host of other things. This may be the one that we struggle with and the one that we need to address by getting rid of this baggage. It's a weight that is holding us back. It ensnares us, prevents us from reaching our goal. We need to lay it aside. How? By looking and focusing on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (V2). Easy, no it is not but is is achievable as we admit we need help and we throw ourselves on His mercy. You see, He is dedicated to taking this burden from us (Psalm 55:22 and 1 Peter 5:7) because He cares.
Today, let Him set you free from the weight that ensures you so that you can run with endurance:
Lord Jesus
I need Your help. As I come to You now, please set me free from the weight of.................. and help me to run with endurance, by keeping my eyes on You. I ask in Jesus' Name . Amen
And if you have never given your life to Jesus, why not do it now:
Lord Jesus
I ask You to come and live in my heart. Please forgive my sins and fill me with Your Spirit, and be my Lord and Saviour. Amen
Saturday 2 February 2019
Respect
"Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro, his father in law, the priest of Midian. And he led the flock to the back of the desert; and came to Horeb - the Mountain of God. And the Angel of the Lord appeared to him in a flame of fire from the midst of a bush. So he looked and behold, the bush was burning with fire, but the bush was not consumed. Then Moses said, 'I will now turn aside and see this great sight, why the bush does not burn'. So when the Lord saw that he had turned aside to look, God called to him from the midst of the bush and said, 'Moses, Moses.' And he said, 'Here I am.' Then, He said, 'Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is Holy ground.' " Exodus 3:1 - 5 NKJV.
Horeb or Sinai as it can be called, was the Mountain of God. It was set in what is called, the back of the desert, because it is a wilderness, dry and dusty. It as no accident that Moses approached the Mountain of God. God had planned it that way. When we approach God, things begin to happen and change! And things were certainly going to change - big time, for Moses.
Moses saw a bush burning near to him. Now this was nothing unusual in such a hot and dry place. However, this was different because the bush was not burning up and it also began to talk. Moses realised that it must be God. Can you imagine such a thing happening to you? Wow, what would you have thought?
The Hebrew term for such a happening as this is called a Theophany - This is an appearance of God or god, to a human being. A divine manifestation. Theo indicates God. In this case it was the Angel of the Lord, possibly the preincarnate Christ The flame of fire was the Glory of God's presence - the Shekinah, which transformed everything and everyone it touched.
As Moses drew as near as he could, the Angel of the Lord told him to take his sandals off as he was standing on Holy Ground. In the East, removing one's shoes or sandals, is a form of respect.
We should always respect God in all we do and never take His name in vain. Moses here was only allowed to draw so close to God. But James tells us to, 'Draw near to God and He will draw near to you' James 4:8. It would have been too consuming for Moses to get any closer.
As we draw near to God He will draw near to us, especially if we are in a dry state spiritually and feel like we're in the back of the desert. However, we need to submit to Him. Give Him our all. He will then guide us through whatever we are struggling with. He requires our love, our life, our all and total respect.This is not a game we're involved in. We are dealing with the Most High God. The Almighty God. He is on Holy Ground but through our friend, Jesus, we have permission to approach the Throne of Grace boldly. Hebrews 4:16.
Are you feeling dry and rejected, as if you've been left on one side. Take a look at our text in verse 4, it says 'So when the Lord saw that he turned aside to look, God called' In other words, when God knows He has your attention He will call to you.
Give Him your attention and see what happens!
Horeb or Sinai as it can be called, was the Mountain of God. It was set in what is called, the back of the desert, because it is a wilderness, dry and dusty. It as no accident that Moses approached the Mountain of God. God had planned it that way. When we approach God, things begin to happen and change! And things were certainly going to change - big time, for Moses.
Moses saw a bush burning near to him. Now this was nothing unusual in such a hot and dry place. However, this was different because the bush was not burning up and it also began to talk. Moses realised that it must be God. Can you imagine such a thing happening to you? Wow, what would you have thought?
The Hebrew term for such a happening as this is called a Theophany - This is an appearance of God or god, to a human being. A divine manifestation. Theo indicates God. In this case it was the Angel of the Lord, possibly the preincarnate Christ The flame of fire was the Glory of God's presence - the Shekinah, which transformed everything and everyone it touched.
As Moses drew as near as he could, the Angel of the Lord told him to take his sandals off as he was standing on Holy Ground. In the East, removing one's shoes or sandals, is a form of respect.
We should always respect God in all we do and never take His name in vain. Moses here was only allowed to draw so close to God. But James tells us to, 'Draw near to God and He will draw near to you' James 4:8. It would have been too consuming for Moses to get any closer.
As we draw near to God He will draw near to us, especially if we are in a dry state spiritually and feel like we're in the back of the desert. However, we need to submit to Him. Give Him our all. He will then guide us through whatever we are struggling with. He requires our love, our life, our all and total respect.This is not a game we're involved in. We are dealing with the Most High God. The Almighty God. He is on Holy Ground but through our friend, Jesus, we have permission to approach the Throne of Grace boldly. Hebrews 4:16.
Are you feeling dry and rejected, as if you've been left on one side. Take a look at our text in verse 4, it says 'So when the Lord saw that he turned aside to look, God called' In other words, when God knows He has your attention He will call to you.
Give Him your attention and see what happens!
Friday 1 February 2019
Dead to Reaction
"Likewise, you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Therefore, do not let sin reign in your mortal body that you should obey it in its lusts."
Romans 6: 11 - 12 NKJV
As Christians we are to be Dead to Reaction. Dead men don't react and therefore, neither should we because we have died to sin and been made alive in Jesus. So when sin tries to get the better of us, we need to deny its existence. Die to it. Very difficult I know. But with practice, we can do it. When we are faced with something that may cause us to lose our peace, we need to remember that, Dead men don't react. We are dead to reaction.
James tells us: 'You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.' James 1: 19 - 20. New Living Translation.
A complete overhaul is required to allow us to get into the place God would have us be. It takes training and self-discipline. It doesn't just happen overnight. We as Christians, are a work in progress. An athlete doesn't become a great sportsman and medal winner straightaway. He has to take charge of his body and pound it into shape until he is at his peak fitness. It's the same for us.
Paul says: 'I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.' 1 Corinthians 9:27. New Living Translation.
This takes self-discipline; self-denial and self-control and we'll fail miserably at times, even though we may have been Christians for many years. The thing is, we're not perfect yet. Perfection will come when we're standing face to face with Jesus on that wonderful day in Heaven. Until then, we need to get into practice. Learning to be dead to reaction causes the devil all kinds of problems. He schemes to get us into things we shouldn't be involved in and when we stand tall and are dead to the reaction he would expect, it completely throws him and he has to come up with something different. He'll never stop trying hassle us so we need to take action to combat the attacks. Being dead to reaction is a great way to start.
Romans 6: 11 - 12 NKJV
As Christians we are to be Dead to Reaction. Dead men don't react and therefore, neither should we because we have died to sin and been made alive in Jesus. So when sin tries to get the better of us, we need to deny its existence. Die to it. Very difficult I know. But with practice, we can do it. When we are faced with something that may cause us to lose our peace, we need to remember that, Dead men don't react. We are dead to reaction.
James tells us: 'You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.' James 1: 19 - 20. New Living Translation.
A complete overhaul is required to allow us to get into the place God would have us be. It takes training and self-discipline. It doesn't just happen overnight. We as Christians, are a work in progress. An athlete doesn't become a great sportsman and medal winner straightaway. He has to take charge of his body and pound it into shape until he is at his peak fitness. It's the same for us.
Paul says: 'I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.' 1 Corinthians 9:27. New Living Translation.
This takes self-discipline; self-denial and self-control and we'll fail miserably at times, even though we may have been Christians for many years. The thing is, we're not perfect yet. Perfection will come when we're standing face to face with Jesus on that wonderful day in Heaven. Until then, we need to get into practice. Learning to be dead to reaction causes the devil all kinds of problems. He schemes to get us into things we shouldn't be involved in and when we stand tall and are dead to the reaction he would expect, it completely throws him and he has to come up with something different. He'll never stop trying hassle us so we need to take action to combat the attacks. Being dead to reaction is a great way to start.
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