Fight the good fight of faith

12Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses

                                                                             1 Timothy 6:12    NKJV

As Christians, we have certain standards and this means that we try to live our lives modelling ourselves on Jesus. So, when we strike up a friendship with a neighbour or work colleague, we avoid certain gossip or certain things that they may say, including some jokes which do not give witness to our faith. This can tend to label us as 'Religious' and some people may avoid us like we have the plague.

It takes a special person to  live in this world with a label such as we have been given and, this in itself can be hard going. When Paul mentions to fight. He is not referring to being a fighter such as in a boxing match: 'Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air.  27But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.'  1 Corinthians 9:26-27. He is actually describing life as a Christian being difficult to live, it can be a fight at times.

Being committed to Jesus does not mean that we have to isolate ourselves from unbelievers, not at all. If we did that, how would people get saved? What it does mean is that we do not divert from our Christians standards - we can mix with them but not be a part of them or their ideology. Some people have nothing to do socially with an unbeliever, possibly because they don't want to be sucked into their beliefs. This is wrong in my opinion; we can still be friends with them without being tainted with the same brush.

Let us not forget that we are lights in this world (Matthew 5:14-15), we shine up the darkness all around. However, we don't put a basket over the light when we are with non Christians friends; in fact we can be just as we are when we are with Christian friends. The last thing we want to portray is being called a 'Holy Joe'. Jesus went where unbelievers were present and so should we

Copyright 2025 Grahame Howard. 

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now:

Lord Jesus, I have sinned. I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today. 

In Jesus' Name. Amen'

dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com  

If you would like to contact me, grahame.howard@hotmail.co.uk

Member of the National Association of Christian Ministers

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A Priestly Blessing

24“The Lord bless you and keep you; 25The Lord make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; 26The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace.” 

                                                                    Numbers 6:24-26   NKJV

Moses discussed The Priest's Blessing here in his fourth book that was called Numbers. There are some powerful statements to be found here and it would be helpful for us to walk our way through them. Firstly, there is the phrase to:

(1)  BLESS YOU   This means to take care of us and watch over us. Next there is:

(2)  KEEP YOU   May we be protected, sustained and guarded. It also means to be kind and gracious towards us. Rather like sheep, God wants to protect us and place a guard around each one of us.  

(3) HIS FACE SHINE UPON US  In other words, this is the idea of God smiling down on us. What a lovely description to have of Him. He smiles as He blesses us. What parent doesn't want to smile at their child when they are blessing them. Well God is our chief parent and He loves to smile at us.

(4)  GRACIOUS TO US No matter what, Our Father wants to bless us with all that He has.

(5)  LIFT UP HIS COUNTENANCE UPON US He shows us His favour on a daily basis. He'll even show you favour when you're driving around  searching for a car parking space. If there isn't a space, He'll create one. He's interested in the small things as well as the large.

(6)  GIVE YOU HIS PEACE This is the full meaning of peace that Jewish men greet one another, Shalom, Shalom - peace in all of its fullness.

God offers us happiness (Blessing) and His love, and let's face it, He knows more about love than we can ever know in a lifetime. Love is God's name. He is love. 1 John 4:8 tells us so - God is love and so Love is God. He fills the heavens with His love. Do you know, God can't help loving us. He longs to spend long periods of time with us, His children. Tony Campolo used to say that God has a photograph of us in his back pocket, 'Have you seen my children?' It's a nice thought. His angels even have instructions about protecting and watching over us (Psalm 91:11-13). He just cannot hide His love and blessing for us. He would love us to do the same for Him and show Him our gratitude, thanks and love at all times

Copyright 2025 Grahame Howard. 

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now:

Lord Jesus, I have sinned. I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today. 

In Jesus' Name. Amen'

dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com  

If you would like to contact me, grahame.howard@hotmail.co.uk

Member of the National Association of Christian Ministers

Why not order my Daily Commentary from Amazon - Paperback or Kindle 

Check it out. Just tap on Grahame Howard books.

A True Friend

• "A man who has friends must himself be friendly, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother."                 Proverbs 18:24    NKJV

  
  

  This verse says it all about real Christian love. When you consider these words, they describe the love that Jesus has for each of us. But there are friends and there are true friends, and 

  this scripture is describing this; a true friend will always be there for us, no matter what.

  Bible Gateway gives a good example below:

  Depth of Friendship:

  The proverb contrasts the superficiality of many companions with the deep and enduring quality of a true friend. It suggests that real friendship is not merely about shared experiences or familiarity, but about a bond built on trust, loyalty, and a deep commitment to one another. 
• Loyalty and Support:

  The phrase "sticks closer" implies a relationship where a friend remains steadfast in times of need, offering support and strength even in the face of adversity. This type of friendship can be a source of comfort and encouragement, going beyond the comfort of mere companionship. 
• Transcendence of Family Ties:

  The proverb suggests that the bond of a true friend can be stronger and more intimate than even the closest family ties, highlighting the unique power of chosen relationships. 
• Example of Christ:

  Some interpretations draw a parallel between this proverb and Jesus's relationship with his disciples, emphasizing his unwavering love and support. Jesus is seen as the ultimate friend who lays down his life for his friends, exemplifying the depth of loyalty and commitment described in the proverb. 
• Biblical Context:

  The proverb is rooted in biblical teachings, particularly Proverbs 18:24, which emphasizes the importance of choosing wise and reliable friends. 

In essence, "a friend sticks closer than a brother" serves as a reminder of the profound value of genuine friendship and the special bonds that can be forged through trust, loyalty, and a commitment to one another. 

Merely having large numbers of "friends" does not always mean having many deep, committed allies in times of need. In this context, a "man of many companions" suggests a person who seeks popularity and shallow relationships. When times are good, those kinds of associates can be a source of pride, or entertainment. But when times are rough, one finds out quickly who their true friends really are. Therefore, to have a good, reliable friend is something worth cherishing. However, to be a true friend is a two-way commitment and needs nurturing at times to maintain continuity, rather like our relationship needs this with Jesus.

Copyright 2025 Grahame Howard. 

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now:

Lord Jesus, I have sinned. I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today. 

In Jesus' Name. Amen'

dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com  

If you would like to contact me, grahame.howard@hotmail.co.uk

Member of the National Association of Christian Ministers

Why not order my Daily Commentary from Amazon - Paperback or Kindle 

Check it out. Just tap on Grahame Howard books.

Don't let a thorn rule your life

"And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. 8Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me.  9And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong."      2 Corinthians 12:7-10   NKJV

Paul knew what it was like to be frustrated because what scripture describes as a thorn in the flesh. No one really understands what this thorn was but, many have speculated. Whatever it was, it was beginning to drag Paul down, in fact, he was becoming frustrated by it all. The Lord told him 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.' And Paul accepted this for what had been making him weak, he was now able to be strong. 

Notice that Paul didn't moan about this thorn, not at all. He decided to look at the situation from another direction and instead of being negative about his situation, he decided that without God he is weak, with Him, he is strong and that was all that mattered to him. There were some things that he couldn't do because of the thorn, but, there were many more things he could do by changing his attitude to it.

Many Christians are afflicted with some type of disability. This may have been the results of a serious illness. It may also have been caused by an accident of some sort or a medical condition that was caused by surgery or medication. When a person can't do what they used to do because of this condition, frustration can take up residence, quickly followed by depression and anger. The frustrating thing is, no matter what they say or do, it cannot be changed, unless Jesus intervenes and alleviates this problem. Sometimes He does but at other times He doesn't. We don't know the answer to this but it is not because He doesn't 't care, He does but there is a deeper purpose that He has in mind. 

How better qualified is a person who has their own kind of thorn and who can help a person in a similar situation? You may be one of these people who has carried a thorn for sometime and you may be struggling with the affect of it all. Consider that God just might, want you to help others in this situation. You won't know until you ask Him. And you won't be in any condition to help anyone if you don't accept what has happened, so think on that one.

There are a few things that you can't do anymore, but there are a host of things that you can do. As long as you have breath, you are a candidate for God's work. So let Him know that you are available.

Copyright 2025 Grahame Howard. 

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now:

Lord Jesus, I have sinned. I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today. 

In Jesus' Name. Amen'

dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com  

If you would like to contact me, grahame.howard@hotmail.co.uk

Member of the National Association of Christian Ministers

Why not order my Daily Commentary from Amazon - Paperback or Kindle 

Check it out. Just tap on Grahame Howard books.

Allow God to instruct you

 8I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will give you counsel and watch over you. 9Do not be like the horse or mule, which have no understanding; they must be controlled with bit and bridle to make them come to you.                                                                                     

                                                                          Psalm 32:8-9.  NKJV

God gives us many promises that we can trust and rely on; this is one of them. These verses have given me the victory every time I have claimed them. Perhaps you would benefit from claiming them too.

If you are at high school, college or university, you will have noticed that it is not always plain sailing. Much study has to take place to be able to achieve  success and it can be very tiring and stressful at times. Look at our two verses again, God tells us that He will instruct us and teach us the way we should go. I know for a fact that this is true. Like most people, I had exams and essays coming out of my ears years ago and when I initially read through the requirements, I had that negative feeling that, 'I can't do this, I'll never cope. However, I was wrong and I accomplished all of my requirements with good results. But it was not my academic skill that got me through them, it was God showing me this promise. I firmly believed it and it paid off.

You may have done this as well. On the other hand, you may be sitting there with your head in your hands thinking, 'This is impossible.' It is not but,there is a condition with this promise. Check out v9: ' Do not be like the horse or mule, which have no understanding; they must be controlled with bit and bridle to make them come to you.' Basically if we kick and scream, refusing to understand or take note of God's promise, then you will have to find your own way through all of this, and, it may not be successful.

God wants the best for you; you're at the centre of His thoughts daily and He always wants us to be obedient to His Word. Why? Because He is right and He knows the way to go. He has all of the answers and what's more, He is willing to share this with you. But, if you remain stubborn, sadly you are on your own until such time you ask Him again for help.

This promise is not just for academic concerns but also, for everything in our lives. He wants to show us the way forward, teaching us and protecting us. But He will not force His help upon us; we have to ask and if pride takes over you, you will struggle big time. It's far better and easier to do it God's way!            

Copyright 2025 Grahame Howard. 

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now:

Lord Jesus, I have sinned. I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today. 

In Jesus' Name. Amen'

dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com  

If you would like to contact me, grahame.howard@hotmail.co.uk

Member of the National Association of Christian Ministers

Why not order my Daily Commentary from Amazon - Paperback or Kindle 

Check it out. Just tap on Grahame Howard books.

                           

Accept that He is with you!

16And the Lord said to him, “Surely I will be with you, and you shall defeat the Midianites as one man.”   Judges 6:16  of v13-16    NKJV

Gideon, a man of God, was given a commission by God to go and relieve Israel from the oppression of the Midianites. However, rather like Moses had been, he was full of excuses. However, God told him something that we all need to take on board - reassurance: 'Surely I will be with you' 

This statement is one that Jesus made to His disciples and consequently to us too “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.  19

therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  20teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.    Matthew 28:18-20

In our walk with Jesus, troubles will come and attempt to overpower us if we let them. It is not easy at times and it would be easy to throw in the towel and walk away from the Christian life. But hey, that is what Satan wants you to do. Through your relationship with Jesus, you have become a threat to him. He has a plan and he doesn't want you spoiling it like you have been doing. So do as Peter tells you: 

6Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, 7casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.  9Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.  10But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.  11To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.  1 Peter 5:6-11

You need to realise what Jesus has given you; do you know the impact you make on this world when you walk down the street with the power of God upon you. You should do. Satan does, and this is why he doesn't particularly like you and wants to make your life very unpleasant. But, you have Jesus right beside you - your Commander and ~ Chief and He has given you a commission. Therefore, accept that He is with you and continue to do what Jesus wants you to do.

Copyright 2025 Grahame Howard. 

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now:

Lord Jesus, I have sinned. I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today. 

In Jesus' Name. Amen'

dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com  

If you would like to contact me, grahame.howard@hotmail.co.uk

Member of the National Association of Christian Ministers

Why not order my Daily Commentary from Amazon - Paperback or Kindle 

Check it out. Just tap on Grahame Howard books.

When you have lost your way

"Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path."     Psalm 119:105   NKJV

Have you ever been out at night, completely in total darkness, and in  the middle of nowhere? You may know where you are but, until you receive your night sight, it could be anywhere. Suddenly a light is shone in the darkness and you may be able to get a bearing where you are, although a good fieldcraft person would have a compass and be guided by that or the stars. It's the same in a dark tunnel, when there are no trains about. Some tunnels are very long and as you walk along, you have no idea of where you are because you can't see the stars. A compass from a 'phone may not even work as you have no signal. All you can do is follow the rail tracks, obviously avoiding the high voltage one. Suddenly, you may see a light as you reach the tunnel's exit and it is jubilation.

In a way, it is a similar experience when a person has lost sight of God. It can be a dreadful time. You may feel that the Holy Spirit has left you, but He hasn't, it is you who has moved. This has happened because of a situation that has completely taken over your thinking. It could be anything, debt, worry, illness, a marital breakdown or something very similar. Your brain has been so absorbed in this problem and perhaps you haven't even prayed about it because, it has taken over.

At times like this, you need to focus on the Light - Jesus Christ but, sometimes that is the last thing you want to do because you are so discouraged. King David knew all about times such as these. In Psalm 42, we see how everything appears to be getting on top of Him and he becomes so discouraged. He starts going down Memory's Lane and remembers how he used to be a somebody (v4). He then comes to his senses and speaks to God and himself

5Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.

                                     Psalm 42:5

We need to do this quite often. Life events come our way, and we become overrun by them and they take over everything. They can reduce us to being disarmed - the battle is taking us over. Don't let it. You will have times such as this but, seek the Light (Jesus). He is right next to you just waiting to help. However, He's a gentleman and won't jump in unless you ask for His help. So ask Him.

He is the Light. He illuminates your path and shows you the way forward. Your light bulb may have gone out but, Jesus is the ever ready Light.

Copyright 2025 Grahame Howard. 

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now:

Lord Jesus, I have sinned. I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today. 

In Jesus' Name. Amen'

dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com  

If you would like to contact me, grahame.howard@hotmail.co.uk

Member of the National Association of Christian Ministers

Why not order my Daily Commentary from Amazon - Paperback or Kindle 

Check it out. Just tap on Grahame Howard books.