Seed 5....The Bible says....

 

6th October, 2025     

The Bible says...a lot!!!  I hope you will revisit some of the words sown here over these 10 years.

Do you have a favourite verse or chapter or story?

(Do you have a verse of story you try to avoid??)

 

Jesus said a lot!

And it isn't always easy to understand or agree with him at first listening....or the tenth!!

 

Recently I have been reminded of his words....from Matthew chapter 6.... I still trying not to worry....

I'll let you take time with Jesus......

 

 

25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?
“And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

 

 

6th September, 2025     

Paul said these incredible words of faith....towards the end of his letter to the church at Phlippi....  I am encouraged that he, the great Christian worker and leader, had to learn to be content..... I am challenged as I look at my current situation in life.....

 

 I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it.  I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.  I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.  I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

 

 

 

7th July, 2025     

In the Old Testament book of Lamentations we find these words.....from the Good News Translation.... chapter 3

 

The Lord's unfailing love and mercy still continue,
23     Fresh as the morning, as sure as the sunrise.
24     The Lord is all I have, and so in him I put my hope.

 

Meditate on them.

Claim them. Believe them.  Hold onto them.

 

Hold onto the LORD of unfailing love and mercy.......and hope in Him above all others......

 

 

 

16th June, 2025     

Psalms 31 and 32 and 34.

 

These words, and these honest truths, are part of our Bible.

 

As you settle down with them....one after the other...... make room and space for God to meet with you.... Father, Son and Holy Spirit.....and make many of these words your words....and may the God of Psalm 31, 32 and 34 surprise and forgive and help and bless you!

 

 

 

28th April, 2025   

In Luke chapter 11....Luke records that Jesus said the following words.....after he received a request....

 

One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.”

2 Jesus said to them, “When you pray, say this:

‘Father:
    May your holy name be honored;
    may your Kingdom come.
3 Give us day by day the food we need.
4 Forgive us our sins,
    for we forgive everyone who does us wrong.
    And do not bring us to hard testing.’”

 And Jesus said to his disciples, “Suppose one of you should go to a friend's house at midnight and say, ‘Friend, let me borrow three loaves of bread.  A friend of mine who is on a trip has just come to my house, and I don't have any food for him!’  And suppose your friend should answer from inside, ‘Don't bother me! The door is already locked, and my children and I are in bed. I can't get up and give you anything.’  Well, what then? I tell you that even if he will not get up and give you the bread because you are his friend, yet he will get up and give you everything you need because you are not ashamed to keep on asking.  And so I say to you: Ask, and you will receive; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.  For those who ask will receive, and those who seek will find, and the door will be opened to anyone who knocks.  Would any of you who are fathers give your son a snake when he asks for fish?  Or would you give him a scorpion when he asks for an egg?  As bad as you are, you know how to give good things to your children. How much more, then, will the Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”

 

 

 

17th March, 2025     

And then Jesus prayed the words that we read in John 17 verses 20-26.....  and we are challenged and encouraged to pray for others in God's Church and in our world during this Lent time.....

 

“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message,  that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one—  I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.

 “Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.

 “Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me.  I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them.”

 

 

 

3rd February, 2025     

Through the valleys of verses 4 and 5.....

Even though I walk through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;  my cup overflows.     

 

Some valleys are very deep.  Some are incredibly dark.  Light is nowhere to be found.

Some valleys have an evil aspect to them.   Some are of our making.  Many are not.

But very often others have travelled through a similar valley.   And sometimes others joureny with us, step by step.

And wonderfully...verse 5 tells us that the valley is not an end in itself!   The Shepherd has gone ahead to prepare a table of rewards......sometimes in this life....sometimes not....

 

 

8th January, 2025     

As we consider W W J D.........and His challenging words for our daily lives......  here is another instance (from John chapter 21) when Jesus said and did something unexpected...... be encouraged as well as challenged!

 

When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”

“Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”

 Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”

He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”

 The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”

Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.  Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.”  Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!”

 

 

 

13th November, 2024     

The Bible can be very practical at times.  How are we to get ready?  Luke 3 verses 10-14....

 

 

 “What should we do then?” the crowd asked.

John answered, “Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.”

 Even tax collectors came to be baptized. “Teacher,” they asked, “what should we do?”

 “Don’t collect any more than you are required to,” he told them.

 Then some soldiers asked him, “And what should we do?”

He replied, “Don’t extort money and don’t accuse people falsely—be content with your pay.”

 

And so, us......how should we get ready?  Is there something practical we should be doing.........

 

 

 

7th October, 2024     

I always find it interesting that Ezekiel was told to do something.....and not just to look and see the valley of dry bones!

 

 Then he said to me, “Prophesy to the breath; prophesy, son of man, and say to it, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Come, breath, from the four winds and breathe into these slain, that they may live.’”  So I prophesied as he commanded me, and breath entered them; they came to life and stood up on their feet—a vast army.

 

The prophet himself was included in what was to happen.

And when he did......something happened!!

 

When God speaks (or gives a vision) He isn't just always informing us or showing us something.

He is including us in His Kingdom ways.

And often our participation is needed to further the Divine Plan.

 

Amazing isn't it?!

 

So......what has God been showing you recently? Or saying to you?

And.....what have you done with it?

 

And what happened??

 

 

29th August, 2024     The Bible records that Jesus said.....in Matthew chapter 7.

As you read these words (again).....what strikes you?

what are you asking for at the moment?

what are you seeking in your walk with God?

who do you know is knocking on heaven's door at this time?

 

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.  For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.

 “Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone?  Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?  If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!  So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets."

 

 

17th July, 2024   

The Bible definitely says a lot about Prayer.

 

God's People prayed. Fact.

 

God's People asked and asked.

God's People said thank you, LORD.

God's People saidd sorry, LORD.

God's People heard and received God's answers.

 

When you think of teaching about Prayer in the BIble.....what comes to mind?

what encourages you to keep praying?

what challenges you to start praying for someone or something?

 

what did you recently pray for today?

 

what are you still praying for?

 

 

 

27th May, 2024

 

The Lord said to his people, “Stand at the crossroads and look. Ask for the ancient paths and where the best road is. Walk in it, and you will live in peace.”       (Jeremiah 6 verse 16)

 

So, as we pause and take time-out at this time of the year, and in the weeks ahead........a reminder to listen out for God's message and guidance and advice........

 

Have a journal nearby......keep a note of what He says.....and don't forget to take the best road......

 

 

 

12th April, 2024     

Of course, some of us are in a hurry!  We want the Kingdom of God on earth NOW as it is heaven NOW!

Jesus doesn't promise that.  Ho hum.

 

But the Bible does end with some great scenes and truths in the book of Revelation.

 

Consider these words...from chapter 21...and let your mind roam upward with the Spirit....

 

Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea.  I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.  And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.  ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

 He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”

 He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life.  Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children.  But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.”

 

 

 

 

14th March, 2024

Easter is all about Jesus....God's solution of our sinful problem.

At the Cross we pause with heads bowed....

At the empty tomb we raise our heads and hands and voices in celebration!

 

It was Jesus, therefore, who said.....

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

 

He still says these words.

His offer still stands!

 

 

9th February, 2024     

At the very end of the last book in the Bible.....we find these words...... how do you react to them?

 

 “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star.”

 The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.

I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll.  And if anyone takes words away from this scroll of prophecy, God will take away from that person any share in the tree of life and in the Holy City, which are described in this scroll.

 He who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon.”

Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.

 The grace of the Lord Jesus be with God’s people. Amen.

 

 

5th January, 2024     

Words from Jesus to ponder as we stand at our crossroads......from Matthew chapter 7.....

 

 “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.  For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.

 “Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone?  Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?  If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!  So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets."

 

So.....with a confidence........Ask.....Seek....Knock.........and receive from Father God.....

 

 

30th November, 2023     

Later on in Luke chapter 1......Zechariah's mouth is truly opened in a song of praise!

Are some of his words below in our song of praise this Advent time, as we look back over our 2023 I wonder...

 

67 John's father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit, and he spoke God's message:

68 “Let us praise the Lord, the God of Israel!
    He has come to the help of his people and has set them free.
69 He has provided for us a mighty Savior,
    a descendant of his servant David.
70 He promised through his holy prophets long ago
71     that he would save us from our enemies,
    from the power of all those who hate us.
72 He said he would show mercy to our ancestors
    and remember his sacred covenant.
73-74 With a solemn oath to our ancestor Abraham
    he promised to rescue us from our enemies
    and allow us to serve him without fear,
75 so that we might be holy and righteous before him
    all the days of our life.

76 “You, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High God.
You will go ahead of the Lord
    to prepare his road for him,
77 to tell his people that they will be saved
    by having their sins forgiven.
78 Our God is merciful and tender.
He will cause the bright dawn of salvation to rise on us
79     and to shine from heaven on all those who live in the dark shadow of death,
    to guide our steps into the path of peace.”

80 The child grew and developed in body and spirit. He lived in the desert until the day when he appeared publicly to the people of Israel.

 

 

3rd November    and 8th October, 2023   

The Bible says.....in 2 Samuel chapter 6......

 

Then David was angry because the Lord’s wrath had broken out against Uzzah, and to this day that place is called Perez Uzzah.

David was afraid of the Lord that day and said, “How can the ark of the Lord ever come to me?”  

He was not willing to take the ark of the Lord to be with him in the City of David. Instead, he took it to the house of Obed-Edom the Gittite.  The ark of the Lord remained in the house of Obed-Edom the Gittite for three months, and the Lord blessed him and his entire household.

 

As I ponder these events again........so I look again at these questions.....

 

What makes you angry?

What makes God rightly angry?

What blessing has God given you recently?

 

 

2nd August and 11th September, 2023   

So, Seed 5 is for you and me to pick and choose....

 

Which verse(s) stays with you from Psalm 18?  Is there a particular reason at this time - different from last month perhaps?

Which words will you hold onto?

Which verses will you return to and ponder again...and again....?

 

I leave you to pick and choose......

 

 

9th June, 2023   

In Seed 1... I mentioned Psalm 23.

In the Good News Translation of that psalm are the words...

 

The Lord is my shepherd;
    I have everything I need.
2 He lets me rest in fields of green grass
    and leads me to quiet pools of fresh water.
3 He gives me new strength.
He guides me in the right paths,
    as he has promised.

 

The Bible does not lie or mislead us.

God's Word = the Bible.

 

He is willing to restore and renew and lead and give and guide......as He did all those years ago for David....

why not take time with Him....tell Him how you are feeling.....where you are weak.....and receive from Him....

 

 

1st May, 2023   

The last book in the Bible - Revelation - is so confusing at times!

It raises more questions than answers - sometimes.

 

And yet, chapters 4 and 5 are most wonderful and lift our eyes upward to a majestic scene in Heaven.

 

Let me invite you to grab your Bible or open your Bible app at Revelation chapter 4.....and take time to picture the scene.....and the truths behind the words....

 

Majesty!  Worship His majesty!

 

 

31st March, 2023   

From the Psalms - and before - to the words of Paul in his letters - and the Revelation of heaven - God's people are encouraged to give thanks.

Let me invite you to sit down with your Bible/Bible app and look for words of thanks, reasons found and how thanksgiving was offered to the LORD God, our God.

 

There is no shortage to be found!

 

Now add your own words and reasons and songs of praise.....

 

 

 

8th March, 2023   

Once more, in this Season of Lent,  I encourage you to sit and ponder Jesus' example below.....

 

 

4th February, 2023   

The Bible says (more than once) that Jesus took time-out with Father God...to pray...to ask...

Can we find a better example to follow?

 

 Very early the next morning, long before daylight, Jesus got up and left the house. He went out of town to a lonely place, where he prayed.  But Simon and his companions went out searching for him,  and when they found him, they said, “Everyone is looking for you.”      (Mark 1 verses 35-37)

 

 At daybreak Jesus left the town and went off to a lonely place. The people started looking for him, and when they found him, they tried to keep him from leaving.  But he said to them, “I must preach the Good News about the Kingdom of God in other towns also, because that is what God sent me to do.”        (Luke 4 verses 42-43)

 

 Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.”  He took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee. Grief and anguish came over him,  and he said to them, “The sorrow in my heart is so great that it almost crushes me. Stay here and keep watch with me.”

 He went a little farther on, threw himself face downward on the ground, and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, take this cup of suffering from me! Yet not what I want, but what you want.”

 Then he returned to the three disciples and found them asleep; and he said to Peter, “How is it that you three were not able to keep watch with me for even one hour?  Keep watch and pray that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

 Once more Jesus went away and prayed, “My Father, if this cup of suffering cannot be taken away unless I drink it, your will be done.”  He returned once more and found the disciples asleep; they could not keep their eyes open.

 Again Jesus left them, went away, and prayed the third time, saying the same words.  Then he returned to the disciples and said, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Look! The hour has come for the Son of Man to be handed over to the power of sinners.     (Matthew 26 verses 36-45)

 

 

 

13th January, 2023     

The Bible says in Jeremiah 6.....   This is what the Lord says:

“Stand at the crossroads and look;
    ask for the ancient paths,
ask where the good way is, and walk in it,
    and you will find rest for your souls.
    But you said, ‘We will not walk in it.’

Where are you at the crossroads......standing?  looking?  asking?  asking again?  walking?

 

 

25th November, 2022   Come, Lord Jesus!

 

As the Bible closes its message......the final words are about a coming....the Second Coming of the One we call Jesus, the Son of God, King of kings, Lord or lords.....   We may (or may not) be looking forward to Christmas Day......are we (or not) looking forward to His Return??

 

“Listen!” says Jesus. “I am coming soon! I will bring my rewards with me, to give to each one according to what he has done.  I am the first and the last, the beginning and the end.”

Happy are those who wash their robes clean and so have the right to eat the fruit from the tree of life and to go through the gates into the city.  But outside the city are the perverts and those who practice magic, the immoral and the murderers, those who worship idols and those who are liars both in words and deeds.

 “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to announce these things to you in the churches. I am descended from the family of David; I am the bright morning star.”

 The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come!”

Everyone who hears this must also say, “Come!”

Come, whoever is thirsty; accept the water of life as a gift, whoever wants it.

 I, John, solemnly warn everyone who hears the prophetic words of this book: if any add anything to them, God will add to their punishment the plagues described in this book.  And if any take anything away from the prophetic words of this book, God will take away from them their share of the fruit of the tree of life and of the Holy City, which are described in this book.

 He who gives his testimony to all this says, “Yes indeed! I am coming soon!”

So be it. Come, Lord Jesus!

 May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with everyone.

 

 

28th October, 2022   

From his prison, to the church at Philippi, Paul wrote......

 

And I am not saying this because I feel neglected, for I have learned to be satisfied with what I have.  I know what it is to be in need and what it is to have more than enough. I have learned this secret, so that anywhere, at any time, I am content, whether I am full or hungry, whether I have too much or too little.  I have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me.

Philippians 4.11-13

 

 

30th September, 2022     

In John chapter 3, the Bible says that Jesus and a man named Nicodemus had a conversation..... 

 

Now there was a Pharisee, a man named Nicodemus who was a member of the Jewish ruling council.  He came to Jesus at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the signs you are doing if God were not with him.”

 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.”

 “How can someone be born when they are old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother’s womb to be born!”

 Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.  Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit.  You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again.’  The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.”

 “How can this be?” Nicodemus asked.

 “You are Israel’s teacher,” said Jesus, “and do you not understand these things?  Very truly I tell you, we speak of what we know, and we testify to what we have seen, but still you people do not accept our testimony.  I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things?  No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven—the Son of Man. Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.”

 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.  For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.  Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.  This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.  Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed.  But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.

 

 

 

24th August, 2022   

The Bible says...from the experienced Paul to the younger Timothy.......in 1 Timothy chapter 2

 

First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, requests, and thanksgivings be offered to God for all people;  for kings and all others who are in authority, that we may live a quiet and peaceful life with all reverence toward God and with proper conduct.  This is good and it pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to come to know the truth.  For there is one God, and there is one who brings God and human beings together, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself to redeem the whole human race. That was the proof at the right time that God wants everyone to be saved, and that is why I was sent as an apostle and teacher of the Gentiles, to proclaim the message of faith and truth. I am not lying; I am telling the truth!

 

A timely reminder of how we should respond to news reports, newspaper articles and those who dominate social media stories.....not always easy.....but are your national and world leaders on your prayer list - whatever your political persuasion??

 

 

11th June, 2022   

The Bible says....in Psalm 23 verse 6.....

 

Your kindness and love
will always be with me
    each day of my life,
and I will live forever
    in your house, Lord.

 

And so we claim these promises as we step into today...into tomorrow... and into life after death for each and all in Christ Jesus.

 

Do you?

Or do you find this a tough one in your life at this time?

 

Why not put the Good Shepherd to the test and trust Him for today....one day at a time....one situation at a time...

He will not let you down.

He is the Good Shepherd.

He is ready to show kindness and love.....forever...

 

 

30th April, 2022     

The Bible says....in the closing words of Hebrews chapter 12....

 

Let us be thankful, then, because we receive a kingdom that cannot be shaken. Let us be grateful and worship God in a way that will please him, with reverence and awe;  because our God is indeed a destroying fire.

 

So....as you ponder these words......what is your response?

 

What are you thankful for in your life at this time?

What does God's Kingdom rule mean to you?

What is your response to God being described as 'a destroying fire'?

 

 

1st April, 2022       

The Bible says.....in Philippians chapter 2.....be like Jesus.....

I think we all need to read and re-read these words often.....

 

Don't do anything from selfish ambition or from a cheap desire to boast, but be humble toward one another, always considering others better than yourselves.  And look out for one another's interests, not just for your own.  The attitude you should have is the one that Christ Jesus had:

6 He always had the nature of God,
    but he did not think that by force he should try to remain equal with God.
7 Instead of this, of his own free will he gave up all he had,
    and took the nature of a servant.
He became like a human being
    and appeared in human likeness.
8 He was humble and walked the path of obedience all the way to death—
    his death on the cross.
9 For this reason God raised him to the highest place above
    and gave him the name that is greater than any other name.
10 And so, in honor of the name of Jesus
    all beings in heaven, on earth, and in the world below
    will fall on their knees,
11 and all will openly proclaim that Jesus Christ is Lord,
    to the glory of God the Father.

 

 

 

4th March, 2022       

At the end of Psalm 139, we find these words.....searching words for this season of Lent....

 

Examine me, O God, and know my mind;
    test me, and discover my thoughts.
24 Find out if there is any evil in me
    and guide me in the everlasting way.

 

May they cause us to pause...and sit with God...in honest humility....

May we not be quick to judge others...

May we give God space and time to talk with us...

May we receive from Him....

 

 

3rd February, 2022   

The Bible says...in Romans chapter 13...

 

Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.  Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.  For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended.  For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.  Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.

 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honour, then honour.

 

 

 

 

7th January, 2022   

The Bible says.........Psalm 1 verses 5 and 6

Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
    nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.

6 For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous,
    but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.

 

There is Judgment coming one day.....to all....

This is not just an Old Testament theme found here and elsewhere.

Jesus taught about it a lot.

Matthew 24 and 25 for example.

Paul wrote about it.

1 Corinthians 15.

The Bible ends with this truth in Revelation.

 

The Bible says......

 

What is your response to this part of God's written Word to us all?

 

 

10th December, 2021   

The Bible says an amazing understatement in Luke chapter 2....

 

There were some shepherds in that part of the country who were spending the night in the fields, taking care of their flocks.  An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone over them. They were terribly afraid,  but the angel said to them, “Don't be afraid! I am here with good news for you, which will bring great joy to all the people.  This very day in David's town your Savior was born—Christ the Lord!  And this is what will prove it to you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

 

So...as you imagine this scene.....the shepherds 'were terribly afraid' has to be the Christmas understatement once more!  Shepherds....sheep....in quiet fields.....at night......AND AN ANGEL APPEARS....and then A GREAT ARMY OF ANGELS APPEAR!!!!

Terribly afraid??!!  Yep!!

 

But the angel didn't finish telling the Good News when he saw their fear.

And their fear was probably quadrupled when the singing angelic army appeared!!

 

God wanted the shepherds to hear the Good News.

God wanted to catch their attention first!

 

So..this Christmas....when God catches your attention....stay with Him.....look and listen!

 

 

 

October 2021 

The Bible Says...is not the only seed sown in Seed 5 over these 6 years.

 

So..let me encourage you to dig around...discover...and taste the fruit of 84 issues!

 

 

Friday 13th August, 2021   

The Bible says that Jesus took time out - in prayer - from the crowds following Him.

I guess then that it's ok to follow His example and do the same from time to time....

 

'Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray.'

Matthew 14.22-23

 

When do you pause and take time out to pray?

When do you dismiss the crowding issues and take time out with God?

 

Jesus did.

 

 

 

Friday 11th June, 2021   

The Bible says....Ask...Seek...Knock... in Luke chapter 11

 

And Jesus said to his disciples, “Suppose one of you should go to a friend's house at midnight and say, ‘Friend, let me borrow three loaves of bread.  A friend of mine who is on a trip has just come to my house, and I don't have any food for him!’  And suppose your friend should answer from inside, ‘Don't bother me! The door is already locked, and my children and I are in bed. I can't get up and give you anything.’  Well, what then? I tell you that even if he will not get up and give you the bread because you are his friend, yet he will get up and give you everything you need because you are not ashamed to keep on asking. 

 And so I say to you: Ask, and you will receive; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.  For those who ask will receive, and those who seek will find, and the door will be opened to anyone who knocks.  Would any of you who are fathers give your son a snake when he asks for fish?  Or would you give him a scorpion when he asks for an egg?  As bad as you are, you know how to give good things to your children. How much more, then, will the Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”

 

So.....are you asking for something for someone?   seeking for an answer or some guidance?  knocking on a door for direction?

 

 

Thursday 13th May, 2021   

The Kingdom is to come.....

 

Jesus said in Matthew 25....

 

“At that time the Kingdom of heaven will be like this. Once there were ten young women who took their oil lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom.  Five of them were foolish, and the other five were wise.  The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any extra oil with them,  while the wise ones took containers full of oil for their lamps.  The bridegroom was late in coming, so they began to nod and fall asleep.

“It was already midnight when the cry rang out, ‘Here is the bridegroom! Come and meet him!’  The ten young women woke up and trimmed their lamps.  Then the foolish ones said to the wise ones, ‘Let us have some of your oil, because our lamps are going out.’  ‘No, indeed,’ the wise ones answered, ‘there is not enough for you and for us. Go to the store and buy some for yourselves.’  So the foolish ones went off to buy some oil; and while they were gone, the bridegroom arrived. The five who were ready went in with him to the wedding feast, and the door was closed.

 “Later the others arrived. ‘Sir, sir! Let us in!’ they cried out.  ‘Certainly not! I don't know you,’ the bridegroom answered.”

And Jesus concluded, “Watch out, then, because you do not know the day or the hour.

 

 

Monday 19th April, 2021 

The Bible says......in John 11 verses 38-44

Deeply moved once more, Jesus went to the tomb, which was a cave with a stone placed at the entrance. “Take the stone away!” Jesus ordered.

Martha, the dead man's sister, answered, “There will be a bad smell, Lord. He has been buried four days!”

 Jesus said to her, “Didn't I tell you that you would see God's glory if you believed?”  They took the stone away. Jesus looked up and said, “I thank you, Father, that you listen to me.  I know that you always listen to me, but I say this for the sake of the people here, so that they will believe that you sent me.”  After he had said this, he called out in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!”  He came out, his hands and feet wrapped in grave cloths, and with a cloth around his face. “Untie him,” Jesus told them, “and let him go.”

 

 

Thursday 11th March, 2021   

The Bible says that Jesus said.....

John 3 verses 16 and 17

 

 For God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not die but have eternal life.  For God did not send his Son into the world to be its judge, but to be its saviour.

 

It is as simple as that.

It is as deep as that.

It is as personal as that.

 

 

 

Friday 5th February, 2021   

The Bible says in Philippians chapter 4....

Thanks for the Gift

10 In my life in union with the Lord it is a great joy to me that after so long a time you once more had the chance of showing that you care for me. I don't mean that you had stopped caring for me—you just had no chance to show it.  And I am not saying this because I feel neglected, for I have learned to be satisfied with what I have.  I know what it is to be in need and what it is to have more than enough. I have learned this secret, so that anywhere, at any time, I am content, whether I am full or hungry, whether I have too much or too little. 13 I have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me.

 

Paul, the great preacher and missionary, tent-maker and traveller, discusser and teacher....that Paul had learnt a great lesson.......to be content.....whatever...whenever.........

I find his words SO challenging each time I read them....and in these present circumstances they seem to have a real significance for daily living.......

 

 

Thursday 31st December, 2020   

And so the Psalm ends with these words

 

You prepare a banquet for me,
    where all my enemies can see me;
you welcome me as an honored guest
    and fill my cup to the brim.
6 I know that your goodness and love will be with me all my life;
    and your house will be my home as long as I live.

 

It is a theme that runs through the Bible....there is a wonderful certain future for God's people!

 

We look around.

We look within.

But we must also keep looking upward and forward!

 

It is the great hope in the book of Revelation!

 

This has been our Hope in 2020.

This is our Hope for 2021.

 

 

 

Sunday 29th November 2020   

Of course Advent is all about the future!

 

Jesus Is Coming Back - Revelation 22!

 

“Look, I am coming soon! Blessed are those who obey the words of prophecy written in this book.”

 I, John, am the one who heard and saw all these things. And when I heard and saw them, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who showed them to me. But he said, “No, don’t worship me. I am a servant of God, just like you and your brothers the prophets, as well as all who obey what is written in this book. Worship only God!”

Then he instructed me, “Do not seal up the prophetic words in this book, for the time is near. Let the one who is doing harm continue to do harm; let the one who is vile continue to be vile; let the one who is righteous continue to live righteously; let the one who is holy continue to be holy.” 

“Look, I am coming soon, bringing my reward with me to repay all people according to their deeds.  I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.”

Blessed are those who wash their robes. They will be permitted to enter through the gates of the city and eat the fruit from the tree of life.  Outside the city are the dogs—the sorcerers, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idol worshipers, and all who love to live a lie.

 “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this message for the churches. I am both the source of David and the heir to his throne. I am the bright morning star.”

 The Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” Let anyone who hears this say, “Come.” Let anyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who desires drink freely from the water of life.  And I solemnly declare to everyone who hears the words of prophecy written in this book: If anyone adds anything to what is written here, God will add to that person the plagues described in this book.  And if anyone removes any of the words from this book of prophecy, God will remove that person’s share in the tree of life and in the holy city that are described in this book.

He who is the faithful witness to all these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon!”

Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!

 

And..if He came back before December 25th 2020..I wonder how we would react?? 

 

 

Monday 2nd November, 2020     

Paul remembers as he writes to young Timothy in his second letter....

 

This letter is from Paul, chosen by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus. I have been sent out to tell others about the life he has promised through faith in Christ Jesus. I am writing to Timothy, my dear son.

May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord give you grace, mercy, and peace.

Timothy, I thank God for you—the God I serve with a clear conscience, just as my ancestors did. Night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. I long to see you again, for I remember your tears as we parted. And I will be filled with joy when we are together again.

I remember your genuine faith, for you share the faith that first filled your grandmother Lois and your mother, Eunice. And I know that same faith continues strong in you. This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you. For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.

 

I have always liked this passage.

I have good memories of my grandparents.

But moreso....I am regularly reminded here to remember and pray for others!  Hence I started to keep a prayer list on my phone....a daily reminder of those I said I would pray for!

 

The Bible says here....remember, remember, remember!!

 

 

 

Friday 2nd October, 2020 

More than The Bible Says...

 

Seed 5 awaits your digging and tasting.......so when you have the opportunity, sit back and try the seeds sown here over the last 5 years!

 

Fruitful blessings I hope and pray for you...and others!

 

 

 

Friday 4th September, 2020 

The Bible says......

 

From God speaking to Eve in Genesis 3 right through to the Final Judgment in Revelation 20 the Bible does not avoid the reality of suffering, pain, illness, plagues, mourning or death - until the New Heaven and the New Earth!

 

It is quite a task - but meaningful and humbling - to sit down with a Bible/Bible app and work through all the occasions when suffering and illness and plague and death appear in the Old and New Testaments.

 

There are times that it is a consequence of sin - consider Achan in Joshua 7.

Jesus had things to say about judgment and suffering - look at Matthew 11.20-24.

There are time when it is not that straightforward - Jesus' words in Luke 13.1-5.

 

The Bible says a lot.

I shall leave you to dig around in the Bible - I can do no better!

 

But...for now let me point you to Paul's words in Romans 8....

 

Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later. For all creation is waiting eagerly for that future day when God will reveal who his children really are. Against its will, all creation was subjected to God’s curse. But with eager hope, the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God’s children in glorious freedom from death and decay.  For we know that all creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.  And we believers also groan, even though we have the Holy Spirit within us as a foretaste of future glory, for we long for our bodies to be released from sin and suffering. We, too, wait with eager hope for the day when God will give us our full rights as his adopted children, including the new bodies he has promised us.  We were given this hope when we were saved. (If we already have something, we don’t need to hope for it.  But if we look forward to something we don’t yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently.)

 And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words.  And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will.  And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.  For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.  And having chosen them, he called them to come to him. And having called them, he gave them right standing with himself. And having given them right standing, he gave them his glory.

 

 

Friday 7th August, 2020 

Since October 2015 Seed 5 has brought us tastes of Who is Jesus and what I Believe and recently what The Bible Says.....and a lot more!

 

Let me encourage you to take some time-out in the near future and do some digging into this Seed.....there is plenty to consider!

 

Let me invite you to consider what you believe....and why....

 

 

 

Friday 10th July, 2020 

The Bible says......'scale a wall' and 'on the heights' 

 

So....we focus in on verse 29 and verse 33....my fave parts of the Psalm !

25 To the faithful you show yourself faithful,
    to the blameless you show yourself blameless,
26 to the pure you show yourself pure,
    but to the devious you show yourself shrewd.
27 You save the humble
    but bring low those whose eyes are haughty.
28 You, Lord, keep my lamp burning;
    my God turns my darkness into light.
29 With your help I can advance against a troop;
    with my God I can scale a wall.

30 As for God, his way is perfect:
    The Lord’s word is flawless;
    he shields all who take refuge in him.
31 For who is God besides the Lord?
    And who is the Rock except our God?
32 It is God who arms me with strength
    and keeps my way secure.
33 He makes my feet like the feet of a deer;
    he causes me to stand on the heights.
34 He trains my hands for battle;
    my arms can bend a bow of bronze.
35 You make your saving help my shield,
    and your right hand sustains me;
    your help has made me great.
36 You provide a broad path for my feet,
    so that my ankles do not give way.

David does not see a wall as a final outcome. It is not a hurdle that stops him in his tracks.

With God I can scale a wall.

 

Is there a wall in your life at this time?

Are you ready to let God get over it?

 

David is not prepared to let the high road scare him into inaction.

He causes me to stand on the heights.

 

Is there a route that God is asking you to take that scares you?

Are you prepared to let Him lead you? 

 

 

I love verses 25-36 I do!!

 

 

 

Friday 12th June, 2020

The Bible says.....as Habakkuk saw the bigger picture and spoke out his faith.

 

 

3 This prayer was sung by the prophet Habakkuk

2 I have heard all about you, Lord.
    I am filled with awe by your amazing works.
In this time of our deep need,
    help us again as you did in years gone by.
And in your anger,
    remember your mercy.

3 I see God moving across the deserts from Edom,
    the Holy One coming from Mount Paran.
His brilliant splendor fills the heavens,
    and the earth is filled with his praise.
4 His coming is as brilliant as the sunrise.
    Rays of light flash from his hands,
    where his awesome power is hidden.
5 Pestilence marches before him;
    plague follows close behind.
6 When he stops, the earth shakes.
    When he looks, the nations tremble.
He shatters the everlasting mountains
    and levels the eternal hills.
    He is the Eternal One!

 

And then these great words of faith.....

 

16 I trembled inside when I heard this;
    my lips quivered with fear.
My legs gave way beneath me,
    and I shook in terror.
I will wait quietly for the coming day
    when disaster will strike the people who invade us.
17 Even though the fig trees have no blossoms,
    and there are no grapes on the vines;
even though the olive crop fails,
    and the fields lie empty and barren;
even though the flocks die in the fields,
    and the cattle barns are empty,
18 yet I will rejoice in the Lord!
    I will be joyful in the God of my salvation!
19 The Sovereign Lord is my strength!
    He makes me as surefooted as a deer,
    able to tread upon the heights.

 

Habakkuk has definitely moved from fear to faith! 

Will we?


 

 

Friday 15th May, 2020 

The Bible says....

The faithful love of the Lord never ends!
    His mercies never cease.

Great is his faithfulness;
    his mercies begin afresh each morning.


I say to myself, “The Lord is my inheritance;
    therefore, I will hope in him!”


The Lord is good to those who depend on him,
    to those who search for him.


So it is good to wait quietly
    for salvation from the Lord.

 

(Lamentations 3.22-26)

 

 

Wednesday 8th April, 2020 

The Bible is quite something eh?!

Life and death time and again.

Leaders and rulers.

Men and women and children.

Right and wrong.

Isolated people and crowds of people.

 

And God.

The LORD God.

Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

 

Unchanging.

Eternal.

Sovereign.

 

In charge ultimately.

 

The Bible says.........

God is our refuge and strength,
    an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
    and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam
    and the mountains quake with their surging.

There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
    the holy place where the Most High dwells.
God is within her, she will not fall;
    God will help her at break of day.
Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall;
    he lifts his voice, the earth melts.

The Lord Almighty is with us;
    the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Come and see what the Lord has done,
    the desolations he has brought on the earth.
He makes wars cease
    to the ends of the earth.
He breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
    he burns the shields with fire.
 He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;
    I will be exalted among the nations,
    I will be exalted in the earth.”

The Lord Almighty is with us;
    the God of Jacob is our fortress.

 

(Psalm 46)

 

 

 

Friday 20th March, 2020

The Bible says........ Isaiah 40 verse 31.

 

Please see the words in the image above....and hold onto them in these days!

 

 

Saturday 11th January, 2020

The BIBLE  -  an Introdcution

 

66 books.  39 and 27.

 

Written over many, many years in various languages and styles.

 

History and Law.

Poetry and Proverbs.

Prophets.

Gospels.

Letters.

 

And yet.......there is something very unique about the Bible.

 

God's written Word to men and women through men and women.

 

Alive.

Relevant.

Encouraging.

Challenging.

Guiding.

Uncomfortable.

 

To me and you.

 

So...next time.....what and why??

 

 

Thursday 28th November, 2019

In 2020 Seed 5 will spend time looking at the Bible....God's Living Written Word?

 

For now...as Advent leads us towards CHRISTmas Day....

Do you have a Bible passage you hold onto?

Is there a Bible passage you struggle with??

Which Bible writer would you most like a chat with??

 

For me...

Psalm 18!

Leviticus!!

David...

 

See you in 2020!

 

 

Friday 16th August, 2019

Before Seed 5 has a new flavour after the summer...2 issues...2 seedings!

 

Today.... www.trypraying.co.uk is worth a look!

 

'trypraying is a simple prayer guide for people who are not religious and don't do church.'

It is a simple and meaningful way to get to know God and pray with Him......and many people around the world are discovering it works!

 

Try it?

Pass it on! 

 

 

Friday 5th July, 2019

Before Seed 5 has a new flavour after the summer...2 issues...2 seedings!

 

Today.... www.prayerchain.org.uk is worth a look!

Prayer is a mystery indeed but it works.

Prayer chains are a living reality in our world!

 

Are you part of one?

Interested in becoming a link?

 

 

 

Who is this Jesus?

 

Seed 5 has a new flavour....a question.

 

Over these next few issues we are trying to answer this question about the Person who is central to the Christian faith.

For now - let me invite you to sit down, ponder the question and list 12 possible answers!

The Bible will certainly help you - but let me encourage you to answer in your own words!  It could be very interesting to ask those around you how they would answer.........

 

Let's catch up next time around......and talk more about this Jesus!

 

------

,

Friday 7th June, 2019

 JESUS is……the King of kings

 

Kings and Queens have been around for a long time!

Will Charles be king one day??

What will William be like as a king??

 

Pilate had a sign put above Jesus on the cross that said

‘This is Jesus, the King of the Jews’.

 

Peter said aloud to the crowd in Jerusalem many years ago

‘God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified’.

 

Paul wrote to the church in Philippi

‘God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father’.

 

It is in 1 Timothy 6 and Revelation 17 and 19, however, where Jesus is spoken of as ‘the King of kings and Lord of lords’.

It is a present statement of who Jesus is.

It is a future declaration of Jesus’ title and role.

 

It is something that gives confidence and hope to those who believe and trust in Him.

 

It is not just a title.

It is who He is.

It has an impact on how we respond to His words and teaching.

 

It will decide who we bow down to at the end of the day.

 

 

 

Friday 10th May, 2019

 

If Jesus was and is who He said He was....whom have you told recently??

 

 

 

Fridays 15th March and 12th April, 2019

8.  JESUS is....the Saviour of the World....so who will you tell this Easter??

 

Yesterday

Today

Tomorrow

Until He comes

 

When He died on that cross

 

For you

For me

 

For your family

Colleagues

Neighbours

Each and all of them

 

For those you travel with

Shop beside

Walk towards

 

For those on your screen

Mobile

TV

Tablet

 

Here

There

Everywhere

 

When He died on that cross

For them

 

16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.   (John 3)

 

 

Tuesday 12th February, 2019  

What does Jesus really mean to you I wonder?

How would you describe Him?

How would you describe Him to others?

 

Who did you last introduce to Him?

 

 

Friday 5th January, 2019

Several months ago, in the second part of this series about Jesus, we looked at Jesus = the Word of God.

As 2018 came to a close I was reading a chapter of a book about this Person...and the lights came on...and I saw the wonderful truth as clear as can be. 

 

JESUS is the WORD of GOD.

 

God spoke through Him when He came from heaven to earth.

God spoke through Him when He taught and spoke over 2000 years ago.

And He still speaks to us today. He has not changed.

 

So I understood that I should listen a bit better to Him.

I should look more closely at what he said all those years ago.

I should pay attention.

I should learn.

I should discover what God is saying through Jesus, His Living Word.

 

Will you join me?

 

 

Friday 30th November, 2018

7.   JESUS is……the Miracle Worker

 

The One born in a manger

In the town on Bethlehem

The Servant King

 

The One who teaches

On a mount on a hillside

The Teacher sent by God

 

The One who called

Andrew and Peter

James and John

Matthew and Philip

Their Rabbi, Master.

 

This Man

Performed miracles

One after another

And people definitely saw them.

 

Matthew and Mark

Luke and John

Wrote them down

And people told people

 

He either did or

He didn’t do these miracles

 

I choose to believe that He did

And the blind man saw

And the storm was calmed

And Lazarus was raised from death

And a lot more happened!

 

Because This Man

Was the Son of God

On earth from heaven

 

And God’s power was at work

In Him

 

John wrote that ‘Jesus performed many other miracles’ which were not written down in his book. ‘But these have been written in order that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through your faith in him you may have life.’    (chapter 20 verses 30+31)

 

I choose to believe

Do you?

I choose to believe

In this power

Today

Do you?

 

 

Friday 2nd November, 2018 

At this time of remembrance, when suffering is on our minds as we consider the events of 2 world wars and the wars around our world, it is good to pause and consider who Jesus is, what He did and how He suffered.

The prophet Isaiah put it like this some 8 centuries before Jesus came to earth from heaven in human form and we are clearly left to understand that this Person knows what it is to suffer and can truly empathise with those who do. 

 

The Suffering Servant

13 The Lord says,

“My servant will succeed in his task;
    he will be highly honored.
14 Many people were shocked when they saw him;
    he was so disfigured that he hardly looked human.
15 But now many nations will marvel at him,
    and kings will be speechless with amazement.
They will see and understand
    something they had never known.”

53 The people reply,

“Who would have believed what we now report?
    Who could have seen the Lord's hand in this?
2 It was the will of the Lord that his servant
    grow like a plant taking root in dry ground.
He had no dignity or beauty
    to make us take notice of him.
There was nothing attractive about him,
    nothing that would draw us to him.
3 We despised him and rejected him;
    he endured suffering and pain.
No one would even look at him—
    we ignored him as if he were nothing.

4 “But he endured the suffering that should have been ours,
    the pain that we should have borne.
All the while we thought that his suffering
    was punishment sent by God.
5 But because of our sins he was wounded,
    beaten because of the evil we did.
We are healed by the punishment he suffered,
    made whole by the blows he received.
6 All of us were like sheep that were lost,
    each of us going his own way.
But the Lord made the punishment fall on him,
    the punishment all of us deserved.

7 “He was treated harshly, but endured it humbly;
    he never said a word.
Like a lamb about to be slaughtered,
like a sheep about to be sheared,
    he never said a word.
8 He was arrested and sentenced and led off to die,
    and no one cared about his fate.
He was put to death for the sins of our people.
9 He was placed in a grave with those who are evil,
    he was buried with the rich,
even though he had never committed a crime
    or ever told a lie.”

10 The Lord says,

“It was my will that he should suffer;
    his death was a sacrifice to bring forgiveness.
And so he will see his descendants;
    he will live a long life,
    and through him my purpose will succeed.
11 After a life of suffering, he will again have joy;
    he will know that he did not suffer in vain.
My devoted servant, with whom I am pleased,
    will bear the punishment of many
    and for his sake I will forgive them.
12 And so I will give him a place of honor,
    a place among the great and powerful.
He willingly gave his life
    and shared the fate of evil men.
He took the place of many sinners
    and prayed that they might be forgiven.”

 

 

Friday 5th October, 2018.......  a song to listen to as you consider who this Jesus is to you.....and as you walk and talk with Him along life's ups and downs....  https://youtu.be/yUQ7RvWUDSQ

 

 

 

6.  Jesus is...the Teacher

 

Matthew records that Jesus of Nazareth taught about Anger, Adultery, Revenge, Loving Enemies, Prayer, Money, Possessions and a lot more.

Mark tells us He taught about Fasting, Inner Purity, Divorce and more about the Kingdom of God.

Luke records Jesus teaching on Good Fruit/Bad Fruit, Hypocrisy, Forgiveness, Faith and more.

John recalls what and when He taught to the crowds around and His disciples and followers.

 

There is no shortage of finding the words and times when Jesus of Nazareth, Son of God and Son of Man taught.

He wasn't always liked or agreed with.

He didn't always crowd please for sure.

He taught truth.

He taught the working out of Kingdom of God on earth - and in the future.

 

Maybe the Church needs to teach these more?

Maybe it begins with you and me?

 

Maybe we need to read Jesus' teachings a bit more regularly.....

 

 

Thursday 12th July, 2018

Time to pause and listen to Casting Crowns singing Tis so Sweet to Trust in Jesus.

Rest in Him afresh at this time of the year :-)

https://youtu.be/4A1AdwVUwm8

 

 

 

5.   JESUS is…..the Lamb of God

 

The hairy, unconventional, locust-eating cousin of Jesus has always intrigued me. He is the man we know as John the Baptist. I am so hoping that in heaven I have a room next to him!  

In John chapter 1 he is the one who says something profoundly significant as he sees Jesus approaching those around him out in the wilderness. Out there his preaching was different, radical and achieving results and he was probably in full flow (locust in beard and all) as he watched the man Jesus come closer.

 

“There is the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”

 

And in that moment eyes change direction. Minds are intrigued. Lives start to change from the inside out.

 

‘The next day John was standing there again with two of his disciples, when he saw Jesus walking by. ”There is the Lamb of God!” he said.’

 

The same phrase.

Twice.

Probably heard twice by those two followers of his.

The same phrase.

 

The Lamb of God.

 

Spoken to Jewish ears.

To those who knew a thing or two about sacrificial lambs.

Jewish laws, teachings, practices.

To those whom God had spoken years and years before and who, for years and years, had sacrificed a lamb…again and again….and again and again.

 

“There is the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”

 

God’s provision.

God’s sacrifice.

God’s solution.

The sin of the world.

Our sins.

My wrongdoings and failings as a human being in doing what is wrong in God’s perfect eyes.

 

Something that no sacrificial lamb could ever do for me – from the inside out.

To take the punishment in my place.

To put my sins away.

To open the door wide between God and me.

 

Here is the Lamb of God!

For you!

For me!

For the sin of the world!

 

God’s provision.

God’s sacrifice.

God’s solution.

The sin of the world.

Our sins.

 

Lives changed.

Lives made clean.

Forgiveness.

Born again.

 

Andrew was one of those first two.

And then he went off and found Peter and told him all about this Jesus.

And then Philip and Nathaniel.

And then another..and another..and another…

And ever since one and another have looked and found in Jesus God’s answer.

 

Something that no sacrificial lamb or anyone else could ever do  – from the inside out.

To take the punishment in my place.

To put my sins away.

To open the door wide between God and me.

For the whole wide world.

 

A sacrificial death on a rough wooden cross.

Once and for all.

 

WOW!

 

https://youtu.be/tUqfdaCLm0Y sums it up.

 

 

Thursday 10th May, 2018      

John chapter 14  -  Good News Translation

 

Jesus the Way to the Father

“Do not be worried and upset,” Jesus told them. “Believe in God and believe also in me. 2 There are many rooms in my Father's house, and I am going to prepare a place for you. I would not tell you this if it were not so. 3 And after I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to myself, so that you will be where I am. 4 You know the way that leads to the place where I am going.”

5 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going; so how can we know the way to get there?”

6 Jesus answered him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one goes to the Father except by me. 7 Now that you have known me,” he said to them, “you will know my Father also, and from now on you do know him and you have seen him.”

8 Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father; that is all we need.”

9 Jesus answered, “For a long time I have been with you all; yet you do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. Why, then, do you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10 Do you not believe, Philip, that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I have spoken to you,” Jesus said to his disciples, “do not come from me. The Father, who remains in me, does his own work. 11 Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me. If not, believe because of the things I do. 12 I am telling you the truth: those who believe in me will do what I do—yes, they will do even greater things, because I am going to the Father. 13 And I will do whatever you ask for in my name, so that the Father's glory will be shown through the Son. 14 If you ask me for anything in my name, I will do it.

The Promise of the Holy Spirit

15 “If you love me, you will obey my commandments. 16 I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, who will stay with you forever. 17 He is the Spirit, who reveals the truth about God. The world cannot receive him, because it cannot see him or know him. But you know him, because he remains with you and is in you.

18 “When I go, you will not be left all alone; I will come back to you. 19 In a little while the world will see me no more, but you will see me; and because I live, you also will live. 20 When that day comes, you will know that I am in my Father and that you are in me, just as I am in you.

21 “Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. My Father will love those who love me; I too will love them and reveal myself to them.”

22 Judas (not Judas Iscariot) said, “Lord, how can it be that you will reveal yourself to us and not to the world?”

23 Jesus answered him, “Those who love me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and my Father and I will come to them and live with them. 24 Those who do not love me do not obey my teaching. And the teaching you have heard is not mine, but comes from the Father, who sent me.

25 “I have told you this while I am still with you. 26 The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and make you remember all that I have told you.

27 “Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid. 28 You heard me say to you, ‘I am leaving, but I will come back to you.’ If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father; for he is greater than I. 29 I have told you this now before it all happens, so that when it does happen, you will believe. 30 I cannot talk with you much longer, because the ruler of this world is coming. He has no power over me, 31 but the world must know that I love the Father; that is why I do everything as he commands me.

 

Is Jesus your way to the Father?

Is the Holy Spirit your Helper?

What is God saying to you today from these words?

What is your response to God - the Father, Son and Holy Spirit?

 

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4.    JESUS is……….The Son of Man

 

Son of God and Son of Man?

Yes.

 

The One born to Mary.

The One who finally represented mankind before the Living God.

The One who became the First Man of the New Covenant and  the Kingdom of God on earth.

The One who overcame death and brings resurrection life to all who believe and trust in Him.

The One who will return from heaven and come on the clouds with great power and glory and who Jesus mentions in Matthew 24 – Jesus Himself in all His triumph and with trumpets a-sounding loudly!!

 

This is the One mentioned in all four of the Gospels.

This is the One mentioned by Jesus when He is speaking of Himself, pointing to the fact that He is more than Jesus of Nazareth.

He came from heaven for a purpose.

He came to represent men and women on the cross.

He came to be the firstfruits of great things.

He will come again to complete all that God has achieved through Him.

 

So come let us adore Him!!

 

 

Let me encourage you – to sit down with a Bible and slowly work your way through the Gospels – and look at every time you read of the Son of Man – and ask God to teach and help you understand more about this Wonderful person…

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3.    JESUS IS…….THE SON OF GOD

 

As you read through John’s Gospel in particular you realise that Jesus has a very close relationship with God.

As you read it all you are left with the very clear understanding that Jesus is called the Son of God.

When you come to the early chapters in the book of Hebrews you discover that the Early Church supported and taught this.

 

And we are left with all the questions ever since!

How? When? etc etc!

 

There is much the Bible tells us.

There is much the Bible doesn’t tell us in the way we would have liked!

(There is more in the Bible on this subject than just John or Hebrews.)

 

There is no doubt that Jesus knew God as His Father. Uniquely.

(Read John now before you read on?)

 

There is no doubt that the Bible teaches that this relationship existed before Jesus was born and even before the world was created.

(Read Hebrews 1 and 2 now?)

 

The Bible teaches that this relationship is based on Love.

The Bible teaches us that this relationship is the model for Jesus’ disciples to follow.  Father becomes Our Father.

 

There is closeness and obedience in this relationship.

There is sacrifice and purpose in it.

There is dependence and trust.

 

Let me stop here…and invite you to grab a Bible and read through John’s Gospel and ponder the relationship…..between Jesus and His Father and between Jesus and His disciples.

What words and images stay with you?

What encourages and challenges you?

 

How would you describe your relationship to God? to Jesus?

 

------

 

2.   JESUS  is  -   the WORD  -  the Logos

 

 

In John chapter 1 directly (and indirectly in Colossians 1 and Hebrews 1) we are introduced to Jesus as being the Word, (the Logos in Greek)……and it is a deep deep topic…..so seatbelts fastened and minds alert – here we go!

(Thank you JI Packer and Donald Guthrie for your books guiding me through this hand in hand with the Spirit.)

 

Some background first.

It is a philosophical term. In 500BC Heraclitus used it as his explanation of God, an abiding principle in a continuously changing world. ‘Logos was the unifying principle, the Law or Reason which accounted for the stable pattern in the ever changing world.’ (Guthrie p 321) 

Another scholar, Anaxagoras, sees the Logos as more of a mediator between the invisible God and the visible world. Philo speaks of the Word/Logos being pre-existent with God as His first-born son.

But there was no clear teaching in Greek thought that the Logos could become incarnate. It was an impersonal image of God at work in creating and sustaining and had revelation and wisdom in its nature.

 

In Jewish thinking however there is a development and the Logos is ‘regarded as an intermediary between God and the world’ (Guthrie p 325) as part of the teaching given through the rabbinic ideas from the Torah.

 

And into the minds of Greek and Jewish thinking and the world of his time, and the Bible for us today, John penned his Gospel.

Jesus is the Logos, the eternal Word…..and He is a Person. He is God Himself come to earth in human form.

 

John tells us that this Person has existed before Creation with God the Father.

John then tells us that there is a direct link between this Logos Person and the world.

And John teaches that this Person came to earth in human form for a purpose.

 

This is who Jesus is.

He is not a philosophical concept to be understood.

He is a Person to be known.

He is not a remote invisible force or being.

He is the image of the invisible God, He is eternal God Himself.

Creator and Sustainer.

Saviour and Redeemer.

The Logos/Word become flesh – exactly as John saw Him all those years ago!

 

Oh of course there is so much to unpack here.

But God did not send Jesus into the world to be debated over and rationalized and contained.

 

God reached down from heaven’s throne and gave of Himself, so that we might know Him and love Him and worship Him and serve Him.

 

Let me invite you to sit down over the next couple of days with a Bible and read through John chapter 1, Colossians chapter 1 and Hebrews chapter 1 and try to understand who this Jesus is a little bit more.

 

And then to spend time with Him in conversational prayer – telling Him your thoughts about what you read and asking Him to help you understand better and to love Him more and to follow Him and His teaching closer.

 

He really is the Special One.

 

------

 

1.    JESUS is  -   the planned baby Servant King
 

Advent is but a few weeks away.
Angel wings and mangers and straw and shepherd outfits will be getting planned and prepared.

Just like Father God planned and prepared and promised.

 

Years before.

Years and years in fact.

 

Isaiah chapter 9.

Micah chapter 5.

Matthew chapter 1.

 

When Advent and then Christmas arrive for 2017 will you be prepared?

 

Will Jesus – the Servant King from heaven to earth – take central place in your celebrations?

Or is he just a baby in a nativity play for you?

Will it be Xmas or CHRISTmas?

 

This was no ordinary birth – and ever since this Jesus has made a difference to many, many, many people.

The Prince of Peace became the Lamb of God and the Risen Lord.

 

Who is He to you – right now?

Will you bow the knee and bring your gift to the Servant King?

-------

 

Friday 13th October, 2017

As I look back over my life thus far, I realise that following Jesus closely was not always a living priority sadly for me.  Verbally it was.  Practically it wasn't.

And yet He was there for me - and has called me even closer to Him in these recent years especially. Me? Wow! Amazing is an understatement!

 

His first disciples weren't perfect in following Him.

They questioned and disagreed and ran away.

 

And yet Jesus chose them to spread the Good News about Him and the Kingdom of God!

And Jesus uses me to reach others and disciple them!?! 

 

This Jesus really is someone very special.

Unique.

Son of God.

Saviour for the world. 

 

As I look back I recall those I have walked with in leading them to Jesus and helping them on the journey of faith in Him.

I still hope to lead others in the days to come.

 

Can you recall names and lives changed by Jesus?

Are you in a place where you can be a signpost for Jesus?

Are you praying for others?  Are you talking about him?  Are you living for Him right where you are?

 

This Jesus is my Jesus of some 52 years now and I love Him.

He loves you!

 

I am trying to keep closer to Him these days....

 

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 Friday 22nd September, 2017

So - what answers did you get?

 

I was reminded of a very personal answer from a song of yesteryear when our Link Group (housegroup) met this week...

He lives! He lives!

Christ Jesus lives today.

He walks with me, and talks with me along life's narrow way.

He lives! He lives! Salvation to impart!

You ask me how I know He lives - He lives within my heart.

 

Without this, without Him, Lasting Fruit is empty and just words.

Without Him, my life would crumble from the inside out.

Without Him, my hope of eternal life - starting here on earth - would be futile.

 

And you?

 

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My Heart  –  a Summer MOT – week III

 

A few weeks ago I came across a piece of A4 paper that caused me to pause and ponder.

It was left in our church’s Upper Room, a space that we set aside each Tuesday from 7.30am-7.30pm for people to take time-out with God.

 

It is a sheet of paper that invited us to pause and consider some of the (many) verses in the Psalms that contain reference to the condition of the psalmist’s heart, his very inner being, the deepest part of his human nature.

 

Over these 3 summer issues, let me invite you to take some time out, ponder over the verses given and (with God’s help) allow yourself a summer MOT…..

The verses have started the same each week – with additions now!

 

‘In your anger do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent.’    Psalm 4 verse 4

 

‘You have filled my heart with greater joy…’    Psalm 4 verse 7

 

‘Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices;

my body will also rest secure..’       Psalm 16 verse 9

 

‘May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.’      Psalm 19 verse 14     

 

‘Though an army deploys against me, my heart is not afraid; though a war breaks out against me, still I am confident.’    Psalm 27 verse 3

 

‘I groan because of the anguish of my heart.’     Psalm 38 verse 8

 

‘My heart is moved by a noble theme as I recite my verses to the king;  my tongue is the pen of a skilful writer.’    Psalm 45 verse 1

 

‘Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.’

Psalm 51 verse 10

 

‘My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.’     Psalm 73 verse 26

 

‘Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.’

Psalm 90 verse 12

 

 

O Living God

Father, Son and Holy Spirit

Search me - deeply

Try me

Know me

Repair me - deeply

Renew me

Restore me

Amen

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My Heart  –  a Summer MOT – week II

 

A few weeks ago I came across a piece of A4 paper that caused me to pause and ponder.

It was left in our church’s Upper Room, a space that we set aside each Tuesday from 7.30am-7.30pm for people to take time-out with God.

 

It is a sheet of paper that invited us to pause and consider some of the (many) verses in the Psalms that contain reference to the condition of the psalmist’s heart, his very inner being, the deepest part of his human nature.

 

Over these 3 summer issues, let me invite you to take some time out, ponder over the verses given and (with God’s help) allow yourself a summer MOT…..

 

‘In your anger do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent.’    Psalm 4 verse 4

 

‘You have filled my heart with greater joy…’    Psalm 4 verse 7

 

‘Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices;

my body will also rest secure..’       Psalm 16 verse 9

 

‘May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.’      Psalm 19 verse 14     

 

‘Though an army deploys against me, my heart is not afraid; though a war breaks out against me, still I am confident.’    Psalm 27 verse 3

 

‘I groan because of the anguish of my heart.’     Psalm 38 verse 8

 

‘My heart is moved by a noble theme as I recite my verses to the king;  my tongue is the pen of a skilful writer.’    Psalm 45 verse 1

 

 

O Living God

Father, Son and Holy Spirit

Search me

Try me

Know me

Repair me

Renew me

Restore me

Even this summer season!

Amen

 

 

 

My Heart  –  a Summer MOT  -    week I

 

Recently I have come across a piece of A4 paper that has caused me to pause and ponder.

It was left in our church’s Upper Room, a space that we set aside each Tuesday from 7.30am-7.30pm for people to take time-out with God.

 

It is a sheet of paper that invited us to pause and consider some of the (many) verses in the Psalms that contain reference to the condition of the psalmist’s heart, his very inner being, the deepest part of his human nature.

 

Over these next 3 issues, let me invite you to take some time out, ponder over the verses given and (with God’s help) allow yourself a summer MOT…..

 

‘In your anger do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent.’    Psalm 4 verse 4

 

‘You have filled my heart with greater joy…’    Psalm 4 verse 7

 

‘Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body will also rest secure..’       Psalm 16 verse 9

 

‘May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.’      Psalm 19 verse 14     

 

 

O Living God

Father, Son and Holy Spirit

Search me

Try me

Know me

Repair me

Renew me

Restore me

Amen

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Let  Us  Pray…..

 

Prayer has been there since God created man.

It is how we converse with/to God.

It is how He hears our praises, our confessions, our thanksgivings, our requests and needs for others and ourselves.

It is how we hear Him as we wait before Him wherever and whenever we are.

 

And it so much more!

 

The only way we know what prayer is is when we pray.

 

The Bible has so many prayers for us to learn from.

 

Jesus prayed.

Jesus taught His disciples to pray.

 

Prayer worked for so many people in the Bible years – and ever since!!

 

Prayer is crucial for each one of us if we are serious about walking with God.

Nicky Gumbel has said that it is ‘the main way in which we develop a relationship with our Father in heaven’ in his book Alpha, Questions of Life.

 

Prayer is talking with God – even when we can’t find the right words.

Prayer is Father God talking with us – sometimes with images as well as words.

 

Prayer is confessing to God – admitting we took the wrong directions and telling Him we are truly sorry for the wrongs done and the good not done and asking for His help to change from the inside out.

 

Prayer is listening to God – willingly, although sometimes that takes time.

Prayer is God listening to us – amazingly He does!

 

Prayer is being open to the Holy Spirit at work – the green light needs to be always switched on for this – not a red light!

 

Prayer is changing things God’s way…..and it is so very often how God changes us!

 

So….as you read this Introduction (and hopefully read also about the two books I am reading at the moment in another Seed ) let me encourage you to take some time-out with God in prayer…..about your prayer life.

I hope that the seeds that follow in the weeks to come will encourage you and challenge you to pray, to keep on praying, to go deeper in prayer, to meet with others to pray and to experience some great and (even) surprising answers in prayer from Father God!

====

 

15.      Finally -  Prayer needs to abound in our lives, in the Church and across our world  -   please!!

 

We say that prayer does change things……Try Praying  and  Thy Kingdom Come are timely reminders in our day that people do and will pray.

 

So why do some churches not have regular times of prayer together?

Why do some of us not see prayer times with others as a practical priority in our schedule and timetable?

       

I have come to realise that I need to be disciplined in my prayer life – and so I created daily prayer lists to cover all those who were on my heart and mind and who were seeking prayer. I don’t need reminding to pray – I needed a daily discipline set before me.

I have also again discovered that prayer lists get interrupted – and I need to keep in step with the Spirit on this.

I have gained soo much from praying with others – weekly and monthly – that I look forward to these times together and anticipate answers and encouragements to keep on praying!

I need to be informed and so a couple of organisations keep me up-to-date with what is happening in our nation and in our world – it really does help.

 

I am still learning.  Aren’t we all!?!

 

Please please keep on praying – daily, together, for others and may we be regularly astonished at how and when God answers our prayers!

Acts 12 verses 5-16 is a wonderfully amusing example!

 

Perhaps a regular MOT on our prayer life should be planned into our personal and church schedules??

 

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14.   The Church in Prayer – Pilgrims Together

 

 

So Jesus says, in Matthew 18, that He is present when even two or three of his followers meet together.

The Early Church believed that and met together – for prayer, worship, fellowship and sharing needs – as the book of Acts tells us.

And prayers were answered.

 

The Church ever since has gathered to pray – in large cathedrals, small chapels, classrooms, homes, prisons, on hilltops, in gardens, outside supermarkets and many, many, many other places.

And prayers have been – and are being – answered.

 

It is good to be part of prayer ventures like Try Praying and Thy Kingdom Come.

 

It is a good thing to be part of a gathering for prayer.

 

It is a good thing to be part of a small or large group who meet regularly to share and pray together.

 

We need encouragement.

We need to see and hear answers.

We need to be challenged to keep on praying.

 

Who do you pray with – regularly?

Where do you gather for prayer with others?

What answers have you seen together?

What are you praying for at this time?

 

And remember what Jesus promised………and look forward to His presence at your next prayer time!

 

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13.     A New Testament Prayer Not From Paul

 

3rd John verse 2.  ‘Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all  may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.’

 

The third last book in the Bible.

Only 14 verses in it.

 

And one of them is a prayer – from John for his dear friend Gaius.

 

A simple prayer.

A short prayer.

 

Oh how this verse challenges me – how I complicate my prayers.

Oh how this short prayer challenges me – to pray for my friends’ health as well as their souls.

Oh how this verse encourages me – the apostle John, one of Jesus’ closest disciples, doesn’t fill his short letter with a long, theological prayer!

 

My daily prayer list doesn’t need to be complicated or long – but I do need to pray for others who mean something to me – even if I haven’t seen them for a while and have to rely on others’ reports for news (look at verses 3 and 4).

 

 

Time to pause and (briefly) pray (for a friend) me thinks.

  

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   12.   Another New Testament Prayer from Paul

 

At this time of the year I have no problem pointing you to Paul's words in Ephesians 1 verses 15-23 - his prayer seems more than timely and meaningful!    (Never mind the verses before in 3-14 of course!!)

 

Bible open?          Here we go!

 

Paul's prayer follows on from God's wonderful work of salvation in Christ Jesus - verses 3-14 - and on that strong foundation his prayer is offered for the believers in Ephesus.

Verse 3 puts our concept of Easter into proper context - it all begins and ends with God - Praise Him indeed!

Verses 4-6 expand the truths of John 3 verse 16 - God's plan of love in action.

Verses 7 and 8 remind the believers that forgiveness and freedom are ours - only because of Jesus.

Verses 11-14 bring God's worldwide plan right home to Ephesus.

 

And all that is a very, very shortened understatement of God's outrageous grace to sinners like you and me!

 

So let me invite you to read through Paul's prayer now...

 

It is because of God at work in and through Christ Jesus - and the believer's response by faith - that all that Paul prays is possible.

It is ALL possible for ALL Christian believers.

For you.

For your local church.

For that believer you pray for on your prayer list. (note again verse 16)

 

Look carefully at verses 17-20 again.

 

What do you want Father God to give you this Lent and Easter?

Where will you allow the Spirit of God to fill in your life?

Do you need to dive into verse 18 - and receive and enjoy all the glorious blessings in Christ Jesus??

Is the power of verses 19 and 20 your missing piece of the jigsaw?

 

This prayer cannot be rushed.

 

God's work of grace cannot be rushed - verses 3-14 reminded us it has to be God's timing and plan that is over all.

 

I would suggest that each of us needs to re-visit this prayer - more than once - even at this time of the year.

 

And do remember - Paul prayed all this for others - not himself!

 

O God and Father of the Lord Jesus, hear our prayers!

 

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   11.     A New Testament Prayer from Paul

 

1 Thessalonians 1 vs 2+3?

Colossians 1 vs 3-14?

Philippians 1 vs 3-6?

Ephesians 1???

 

In the light of God is…. the Trinity in this Issue, Ephesians 1 might be an obvious choice to consider here.   Or Paul’s lovely words about praying in 1 Thessalonians 1? 

However I am drawn to Paul’s words in Philippians 1 verses 3-6…..

 

There is something delightfully refreshing about the letter to the Philippians every time I dip into it.

 

And these 4 verses bring a smile each time!

 

And a challenge of course!

 

‘I thank my God every time I remember you’

 

‘I always pray with joy’

 

‘being confident of this…’

 

Three wonderful short phrases from Paul, in prison, to a church he help found some eleven years previously it is reckoned.

 

And today they cause us to stop and ponder them afresh as we consider our prayer lives….

 

Do we thank God for others – or just criticise them and complain to God about them – thanking Him we are not like them!?

 

Does our prayer list – daily or weekly – have a slot to thank God for someone??

 

Are our prayers flavoured with joy – or do we pray grudgingly?

 

Do we pray ‘with joy’ – or do we reluctantly fit in time with God when we can?

 

Do we pray with a confidence in our God – the LORD Almighty -  in the name of Jesus – as the Spirit leads us?

 

Are we rooted in Christ and on that foundation bringing our prayers confidently to the throne of grace?

 

Time to re-read Philippians 1 verses 3-6…….and then to put it into practice…..

 

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10.       Another Old Testament Prayer - Jonah 2

 

It was either Daniel 9 or Jonah 2…..and then my mum texted me about something this morning and mentioned Jonah chapter 2……talk about a God-moment!!

 

Both these chapters had come up recently in our church’s daily devotions and both stayed with me for different reasons.

 

Daniel chapter 9 is such a powerful prayer of confession – by one man on behalf of his nation.  How we need to follow his example in these days!

 

However, Jonah chapter 2 came up one Monday in January when the church was looking at some of the prophets in the Old Testament as we began the year together.

Of course I know the story of Jonah.

Of course I had read this prayer before.

 

And yet something about it struck me afresh……

 

Let me take you there now…

  1. Jonah prays when he was in trouble…he had run away.

  2. Jonah was in deep trouble…deep deep trouble.

  3. Jonah could see no way out. Trapped.

  4. BUT God rescued him. He did!

  5. Jonah promises to keep his word and serve God. Second time around.

     

    Does any of that hit home with you?

    Are you in a place of troubled waters – maybe deep waters?

    Is there no clear escape route?

    Have you promised something to God – but not followed it through?

     

    BUT God…….

    Have you asked Him to help you? Are you expecting Him to??

    Are you waiting patiently for His rescue plan to happen – or are you trying your idea ‘just in case’……?

    Do you need to confess upwards and start again with Him?

     

    I am no saint! I have definitely been a Jonah at times in my life!

     

    BUT God……

     

    Maybe you are the reason Jonah 2 is here today – and not Daniel 9.

     

    If so….don’t panic…..but ‘When I was in trouble, LORD, I prayed to you, and you listened to me. From deep in the world of the dead, I begged for your help, and you answered my prayer.’  (Jonah 2 verse 2/CEV)

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  9.            Another Old Testament Prayer-Psalm 143

 

Help!

HELP!

NOW!!

 

There are prayers of all kinds in the Old Testament – worship and thanksgiving, confession and need, and for others.

 

Psalm 143 is a clear cry for help.

Big time.

 

The psalmist is in despair, hunted down, ready to give in, utterly hopeless.

 

The waves are high. The ocean is deep. The sharks are too close for comfort.

 

 

And yet he stills trusts in God – look at verse 8.

 

That is faith in action.

 

And we don’t know what happens next. The psalm doesn’t tell us.

 

 

There are those we pray for whom we will never know what happens to.

There are cries for help that appear to go unanswered.

 

And yet we are called to still trust in God.

To put our faith into action.

 

Psalm 143 can teach us much about praying – try it – today – even if it all seems hopeless.   After all God is still there.

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Saturday 31st December 2016

Let me encourage you to take time and put this Seed into practice.....

Pray.

With Adoration to God Most High.

In Confession to Father God. 

With Thanksgiving to God, gracious and kind.

In Supplication, bringing requests and needs before God Himself, in and through Jesus' Name.

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8.         An Old Testament Prayer   -   Nehemiah’s Arrow Prayer!

 

I have learned that it is always good to learn from others concerning prayer.

I am ears-open-wide when someone talks about their experience of prayer.

 

Nehemiah.

 

Arrow-praying!

 

After the history of Samuel, Kings and Chronicles come the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, somewhere scholars think about 446BC.

 

The people of Judah were in exile and Jerusalem was a broken city.

 

Nehemiah was cupbearer to King Artaxerxes in modern Iran….and he hurt.

His people were suffering and the great city of Jersualem needed some serious attention.

 

He could not hide his feelings when he brought wine to the king.

 

And so Artaxerxes asked him why he was so sad…..and what he wanted.

 

So Nehemiah…paused…shot an arrow in prayer upward……and then answered.      (Chapter 2 verses 1-5.)

 

Lesson to be learnt.

There are times it is good to pause….and pray…..before giving an answer or making a decision.

We take time to stop and think before we speak – how about developing the practice of hear/see – pause – pray – respond.

 

Arrow-praying!

 

It can be as simple – and effective – as that.

 

Today.

Tomorrow.

Whenever and wherever we are.

 

Arrow-praying.

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7.       a c t  S

 

Asking is such a crucial part of prayer…..and there is no shortage of who and what to pray for – in our world, our community, our church, our family circle and our own lives!!

 

 

Jesus says….ask, seek, knock…He teaches the Lord’s Prayer…..plus He says that Father God is waiting to give His children good gifts.

His words in Matthew 6 and 7 are worth a visit.

James said that we do not have because we do not ask.

His words in James 5 about praying for others are helpful indeed.

Paul often wrote encouraging believers to pray for others…..and for himself!

Have a read of Ephesians 6 vs 18-24, Philippians 1 and Colossians 4.

 

So…when you pray in Jesus’ name…do you pray believing that Father God hears you and will answer?  Do you seek His Kingdom will and purpose for others?  And do you thank Him afterwards when the prayer is answered (or even as you wait for the answer) ?

 

I find that there is always a constant struggle in my prayer life – between praying for my needs and for others.  So I have a daily prayer list on my mobile calendar and each morning…after my Bible reading and meditation….praying for others is part of my prayer of response as the day starts. My praying is not perfect. There are times I just want to cry out for myself – and I do.  However it is a wonderful thing to pray for others and to see those prayers being answered! I recommend it as a stepping stone to inner joy while praying – J(esus first) O(thers next) Y(ourself) last.

 

 

A C T S.

Adoration.

Confession.

Thanksgiving.

Supplication.

 

A C T S has kept me praying for many a year.  I hope it helps your adventure of faith take another step forward with God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit who ‘comes to help us, weak as we are. For we do not know how we ought to pray: the Spirit himself pleads with God for us…’

 

But oh please please don’t just read these human words of mine  –  pray, pray, pray  –  even right now?

 

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Saturday 29th October, 2016...........let me encourage you to scroll down below and re-visit the comments on praying.  Is there something particular that causes you to pause and ponder....and to turn it all into prayer?   Above all I really hope that you grow in your prayer life and learn again the truth that prayer does change things......I am still learning and re-learning!

 

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Friday 14th October, 2016

Let me invite you to scroll down and re-read the Introduction to the I Believe In.....series.  Then why not read again I Believe In The Bible?

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6.      a c T s

 

….and then (have a quick look back) comes THANKSGIVING after Confession.

 

‘Have you said thank-you?’

‘And don’t forget to say thanks!’

 

I was brought up to say ‘thank-you’!

 

We bring our prayer of confession………we receive God’s gracious forgiveness

……..and we should offer our heartfelt thanksgiving – every time!

 

The Bible has many, many prayers of thanks and, daily, we have a lot to be thankful for!

Have a read of Psalm 136 or Ephesians 1 or Philippians 1.

 

*  As you read this now….what are you thankful for today?

(Please don’t read on but take time to pause and think and say thank you to God.)

 

*  As you look back on life….what are you thankful for?

*  As you look back on your journey with God….what are you thankful for?

*  As you lay down tonight in bed….what will you be thankful for today?

 

Please, please……don’t forget to say thank you!

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16th September 2016

Let me invite you - to pray.

To pray for someone you know to meet with Jesus.

To pray for other believers you know in a place of need.

To pray with another person today or tomorrow.

Fruitful blessings - as God hears and answers your prayers!

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1st September 2016

As I sit here, on this Thursday morning, a group of us will be meeting this evening in prayer and preparation for an ALPHA course beginning very soon in our church.  It is essential that the course is covered by prayer – before during and after. There are aspects of the evening ahead that need prayerful wisdom! There will be people attending for whom we can pray. There are people in the group preparing who have come under testing times even this week.

Let me invite you to prayerfully support an ALPHA course being run near you or somewhere in the world at this time.

Let me encourage you to prayerfully seek out a course if it would help in your life at this time.

Some of the previous comments on Prayer may help you.

 

Thank you!

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5.    a C ts

 

….and then comes C for Confession.

 

Admitting the wrong done.

Owning up.

Saying sorry.

 

And meaning it.

 

Seed 3 this time is about the omniscience of God – His knowing everything.

 

And so our confessions have to be real and genuine and meaningful. As Father God He longs to hear us own up, although He already knows why and what and when and where. It doesn’t have to be awkward with Him therefore.

 

But isn’t it better to wipe the slate clean sooner rather than later.

 

Our church daily devotions (www.libertonkirk.net) are currently working through 1 John and the other day we were all reminded from chapters 1 and 2 that ‘If we confess our sins, he (God) is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness’ and ‘if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defence – Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.’

 

Confession  >  forgiveness  >  cleansing.

 

Something happens when we let go and confess to God!

Something happens from God’s side when we confess!

Something changes in us when we confess to God and receive from Him!

 

And it is still going on after all these years across the whole world!

 

There is not much more to say.

It is down to you and me now.  And God.

God is faithful and just and will keep His end of the deal – so please please do not pass this opportunity by – time and time again, day after day.

 

Confession really is good for the soul!  Don’t put it off!

 

Father God may cause you to take other steps after time with Him so be prepared for His leading….

 

Psalm 51 may help….

====

 

4.        A  cts

 

I remember some things from my days in the Boys’ Brigade – like how to lay a table or sew on a button – and what A C T S was all about.

 

ACTS was how I was taught to pray.

A = adoration

C = confession

T = thanksgiving

S = supplication (or bringing requests)

 

And it has served me well all these years since!!

 

Have you tried it?

 

Sometimes we rush into God’s presence and blab out our needy request.

Sometimes that is what Father God is waiting for.

 

Often however we are more concerned with our needs than to whom we are speaking and ADORATION puts everything into perspective. It gives God His place in our prayerful lives. It says that we are aware of His sovereignty and who He is.

 

We are pausing in His presence of glory and grace.

We are becoming aware of His holiness.

We are giving Him our worship and praise.

We are taking time to bring our adoration of Him.

 

And when we do – confession and thanksgiving and supplication take on a new dimension in our prayers as we remind ourselves who we are praying with.

Our confession is so right in His presence.

Our thanksgiving for this and that is heartfelt.

Our requests are made in the light of His purposes, His mercies and His power.

 

Let me invite you to take up A C T S – daily – and to start now.

* Take time and praise the King of heaven!

* Worship the LORD God Almighty!

* Adore Him, Christ Jesus, Saviour, Lord of lords and the One who will Return!

 

 

‘We rejoice and delight in you; we will praise your love more than wine.’

(Song of Songs 1 verse 4)  

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3.       Jesus Taught His Disciples How NOT to Pray

 

And before we leave Matthew chapter 6, did you notice?

Jesus teaches His disciples how they should NOT be praying.

  • Do not be hypocritical

  • Do not be showing off

  • Do not babble on and on and on

     

    And that’s all before He taught the words of the Lord’s Prayer.

     

    I find that I am pausing here and now, realising afresh that before I pray, alone or with others, my lifestyle must be in accordance with what I am saying. God already knows all I do and say and think. He knows my intentions and motives. He knows my feelings towards others and towards my possessions.

     

    My prayers will have no kingdom effect if I am being a total hypocrite.

    My prayers will have no kingdom effect if they are only being uttered for effect, to look and sound good in front of others. It would be better if I said nothing at all.

    My prayers will have no kingdom effect if I am just using air space and flowery language when a simple arrow prayer would mean more to Father God.

     

    I long for God’s people in these days to take prayer seriously and to seriously pray for others to be saved, for our society to be changed and for God’s kingdom will to be done on earth as it is heaven, visibly and invisibly.

    I long for the Church to gather and pray – believing on the Lord to act according to His promises in John 14-16.  I long to see greater things being done!!

    I long for Christian disciples to be a people of prayer – more and more.

     

    BUT I long for us all to take heed of Jesus’ words and not to be a bunch of hypocrites, showing off and babbling on and on.

     

    And if we do, then we are ready to make the Lord’s Prayer our prayer and God’s kingdom purposes will be achieved, even through the likes of you and me!

     

     

    So maybe before we go off to the prayer meeting we should read and apply Matthew 6 verses 5-8 all over again…and again…

    =========

2.    Jesus Taught His Disciples to Pray

 

How did you get on in Matthew chapter 6?

What did you learn?

What did God say to you from those verses about Prayer?

 

When Jesus taught His disciples to pray three things seem significant to me:

=========

1.  Jesus Himself prayed to Father God

  1. He expected them to pray

  2. He taught them to pray to Father God

  3. He confidently taught that their prayers would be answered

     

    He expected them to pray.

    There are no ‘ifs’. It is a ‘when you pray’.

     

    I was brought up to pray. It was a big part of our church life.

    Is it still so in our churches? Sadly I know of churches in this land who do not have a corporate church prayer gathering, although prayer happens in small groups.

     

    Jesus expects me to pray.

    And His teachings are a clearer guide as to how I should.

    The Lord’s Prayer is more than words from Jesus. It is His model for His disciples so that Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving and Supplication are all active parts of our prayer life as His disciples and not just vain repetition.

     

    He taught them to pray to Father God.

    When you pray who do you speak with? Are you clearly addressing God the Father, the Son or the Holy Spirit? Do you pray and ask in Jesus’ Name?

     

    In 10 verses in Matthew 6 Jesus refers to Father God 6 times.

    He prayed with His Father in heaven and He was teaching His disciples that when we pray then we pray to the same Person. We have access to Father God, person-to-Person, and we can talk with Him freely – and He with us hopefully. After all prayer is not about presenting a shopping list but conversing with the living God who ‘already knows what you need before you ask him’.

     

    Our God may be in heaven but He is only a prayer away.

    He may reign in heaven but He longs for His will to be done on earth.

    He is the Creator of all things and yet He gives us our daily bread.

    He is the forgiving God who is able to work in our human relationships,

    He is the One who alone gives us victory over temptation and the evil one.

     

    He is Father God, our Father in heaven.

     

    He confidently taught that their prayers would be answered.

    And for this I dipped into Matthew chapter 7 and verses 7-12.

     

    It is something that I have been learning all over again recently.

    To pray expectantly.

    To ask, seek and knock in prayer expecting God to answer, provide and open doors.

     

    I believe that Jesus taught this because He Himself knew it worked and He wanted His disciples to share in the joy of answered prayers! God gives good gifts to those who ask Him Jesus says!

     

    Is this your experience?

    Is this the experience of your church family?

    Do you share the answers and the gifts?

     

    Oh that we would see and hear more of the good gifts Father God gives!!

    Oh that we would ask and seek and knock and find and receive!

    Oh that we would confidently pray to Father God in Jesus’ Name!

     

     

    Dear reader…..I would urge you in these days to pray more and more as Jesus taught…and keep on praying! I would encourage us all to be a people of prayer, at home, at work, in small groups, in larger congregations, with others in our towns and cities asking, seeking and knocking until God gives and provides and opens the doors. Oh He may not answer as we wish or when we wish but Jesus taught His disciples to expect answers, to see answers and to see God’s Kingdom come, His will done on this earth as it is being done in heaven right now.

     

    Amen and Amen

 

Often.

Alone.

 

Why not read the Gospels and note down when and where.

 

He prayed to His Father in heaven before big decisions.

 

He prayed to His Father for strength.

 

He prayed to Father God and taught His disciples to do the same.

 

It was the way He explained prayer should start in Matthew 6 and Luke 11.

 

It is as simply profound as that.

We converse with Father God in heaven because Jesus showed us that is the way to do it……and He put it into practice – often.    So should we then because we need to so much more than Jesus, Son of Man and yet Son of God.

 

We may know all this already.  We may not.

So........How is your prayer-life going?

Is Jesus your example and model?

Do you speak with and listen to Father God?

 

Let me leave you to spend time in Matthew 6 and John 17…….

=======

 

I BELIEVE IN........

 

Several years ago, Hodder & Stoughton published a series of books under the series I Believe In….

There were some great titles and books in that series – including I Believe In Man.. The Church..

The Historical Jesus.. The Great Commission.. to name just four of them.

 

This is not a comparable series by any means!

I am certainly not qualified to rival the minds of those who penned those books.

 

However, I am regularly challenged by what I do believe about my Christian faith…its implications for my living….and why!

 

I hope that by sharing some of my thought here, you too will give consideration to what you believe…

why or why not…and what the consequences are for your daily living.

I hope you will dig around in the Bible and the many many Christian books out there –

whether in hard copy or online nowadays. And certainly try and discuss it all with someone else.

I am sure that you will not all agree with me on every point.

 

If you are not sure what you believe or are struggling with stepping out in faith for the first time –

you are not alone by any means!

Keep going though – the journey is well worth it and the rewards are heavenly – they really are!

 

I believe.

Do you?

 

I encourage you to read on!

------------

I Believe in LIFE AFTER DEATH

(just like my dad)

 

Really?

Yes!

 

REALLY??

YESS!!

 

 

If not…then Christianity has nothing to offer beyond death. It can give you peace and joy and strength now but after the grave….zippo….nothing at all.

For some people, okay that might be enough…..for now. Eat, drink and be merry for tomorrow we all die stuff etc etc?!

 

The problem (if we can call it that) is that Jesus rose again after Death.

 

Ask John or Peter or Andrew or Philip or James or…Thomas. They all saw Him after He was dead and He was now very much alive!  Grab a Bible and read what John wrote at the end of his Gospel or the first of his short letters almost at the end of the New Testament.

 

I wasn’t there then.

They were.

Their accounts are our historical basis.

 

And that changes everything – absolutely everything from death onwards is now part of the Big Picture.

 

Now with this happening and all that Jesus said about life after death, the Day of Judgment, heaven, His coming again in the future and eternity, there is a further dimension we all have to decide about and choose for ourselves.

 

And so all the questions arise – one after another after another.

 

Who?

Where?

When?

What?

How?

 

That was Thomas’ issue in John chapter 20. Proof please guys? And then Jesus appears right in front of him!

 

Jesus is clear.

The Bible is clear.

ALL who believe and trust in Jesus as their Saviour and Lord share in His resurrection life.  ALL.

ALL of us who so believe will share in heaven’s rewards. ALL.

ALL of us who don’t won’t. ALL.

The when, what and how is not so clear and sadly some of us get caught up in trying to finely analyse all the details.  Jesus didn’t give us all the details. The Bible doesn’t provide every detail of life after death.

 

That’s where our faith and trust and hope come into play.

 

I truly believe in Life After Death – just like my dad. He was a believer in Christ Jesus and that is why we prayed and sang at his graveside last year. I am not clear where his spirit is right now, I don’t understand the when and what about the resurrection of his body or when and how Jesus will come again but I share fully my dad’s hope that one day all of us in Christ Jesus will be united with Him in heaven and death will truly be no more.

 

Of course we humans have minds and God does not bypass our thinking.

1 Corinthians 15 and the book of Revelation are worth a careful read sometime.

 

 

In the meantime, do you hope?

Is this part of your life?

If not….before death….get it right with God through Jesus!

If so….are you living with this sure and certain hope in Jesus, yesterday, today and forever?

 

I believe.

My dad believed.

Do you??

 

https://youtu.be/IZZm7VDfXtU

What a song!

======

 

I Believe in ENCOURAGEMENT

(just like Paul and Barnabas)

 

Barnabas – great name I’ve always thought!

Barnabas – good guy in the Early Church!!

 

 

It was he who introduced Saul of Tarsus to the apostles, convincing them he was saved by God’s amazing grace.

It was he, in Acts 11, who greatly encouraged the young church at Antioch.  Could verse 24 there be said of us??

A man of encouragement, by word and action.

 

There are times we need a Barnabas in our lives, someone to come alongside us and encourage us, to encourage us to keep going, to encourage us we are doing okay, to encourage us when life is tough and the clouds are dark.

 

I am grateful for all those in my life who have been encouragers to me and for those who are now my Barnabases, especially in my church family at Liberton Kirk and Barbara, my wife, and my dear mum.

 

We all need an encouragement now and again!

 

Paul needed encouragement – look at Romans 1 verse 12.

Paul encouraged others to encourage others!! Look at what he wrote in 1 Thessalonians 5 verse 11.

 

Encouragement builds up.

Discouragement knocks down.

 

A word can do it.

A text or email or telephone call can do it.

A visit or a hug can do it.

A fish pie or a bunch of flowers can do it.

A shift at a charity shop can do it.

 

Let me encourage you to encourage someone – today – tomorrow – and every day – and you’ll be surprised how encouraged you become too!!

 

----------

I Believe in SPIRITUAL WARFARE

(just like the Salvation Army)

 

 

It seems to me, nowadays, that many followers of Jesus have not been taught that they are in a War.

 

Look again at my thoughts on Soul Wars in Seed 1.

 

 

Consider all the battles that Israel had to fight in God’s name in the Old Testament.

Remind yourself of Jesus vs Satan in the desert.

Read again Paul’s words in Ephesians chapter 6 and take note that scripture teaches of ‘spiritual forces of evil’.

 

 

And the Salvation Army?

Well, they took it all very seriously and have been working hard to help people change sides and to love in action those battered and bruised along the way of life.

I can think of no better time than Easter to recognise that there is a spiritual war ‘in the heavenly realms’ and on earth.

BUT, although there are battles to be fought still, the War is won!!

 

 

Let me invite you to take time at this Easter and read

1 Corinthians 15 and the book of Revelation.

 

 

Of course, we need to be on our guard and be alert – always.

 

We need to walk close to the Lord – ever.

 

We must wear and make use of the armour God provides – always.

 

We need to help those wounded and struggling in the heat of battle.

 

And…..we must take every opportunity to save some, by God’s grace and power, before that final whistle is blown.

 

 

And if you feel battered and bruised, defeated or lost on the battle-field……then don’t give up…..get first aid….seek our help….admit if you took a diversion during the battle….or if your need is for another who did…..get that armour eventually back on…..and above all let the God of all comfort come near to you and apply His healing touch….the words of Outrageous Grace can be your reality at this time – now!

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LENT

 

Let me encourage you to ponder over what you do believe and why at this time of Lent.

May Ephesians 1 verse 18 be true for you.

 

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I Believe in FELLOWSHIP

(just like your church??)

 

Oh really??

Tell me more!

 

Growing up I never ever thought my church was Biblically-perfect.

But I did consider it pretty good…..and so did the many others who filled the seats week-by-week.

 

Years later, I was part of a smaller church fellowship…..and it wasn’t Biblically-perfect either…..although it was pretty good too….and so did the others who met week-by-week….although there were plenty of seats always available!

 

The amazing thing is that no church in the New Testament was perfect either…not a single one.

After all….look at those people Jesus started with….His first disciples were a mixed bunch to put it mildly….and yet from them the Lord has had a Church on earth ever since!

 

As Christians we need each other.

We are members of a Body after all.

 

Jesus’ teachings and the Early Church do have a lot to tell us however and there are basic principles for each and every local church family or fellowship rooted in Scripture that we should be constantly checking against.

 

Let me take you to Bruce Milne’s book Know The Truth and over a couple of chapters he fills in the following….

 

  • From Pentecost and Acts chapter 2 the Church is corporate… individuals bound together in Christ by the Spirit.

  • Church is the people of God….the body of Christ…God’s holy building…..it is His great project on earth!

  • It is a visible evidence of the Kingdom of God at work on earth

  • It is the family of God….the bride of Christ…God’s vineyard and flock

  • It is called to be one, holy, at prayer and a people on a mission

  • Church should have worship...fellowship/sharing...ministry by the gifts of the Spirit upward, inward and outward…growing in all three directions at the same time!!

     

     

    So…how does that sound to you?

    Is this your church?   

    Wait a minute however…..before you answer remember this………if God hasn’t finished with you yet then He certainly isn’t finished perfecting His people, the Church local and global!!

     

    But of course don’t give up on it either!!

    Each and every part and member is needed by God

    to make the Body whole.

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I Believe in PRAYER…. part 3 – Conversation with God

(Asking and Seeking………and Waiting)

 

Some people have perfected the art of interrupting a conversation!

 

Small children have a natural way of asking a parent for a toy they spy!!

 

There is something in most of us that longs to ask for something we want

…or think we need!

 

And Jesus knew that.

 

In His Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5-7 Jesus teaches about prayer in some of the words…..who and how to ask…..and how not to ask too!

 

Grab a Bible…..or look online?

 

How not to……. 6 verses 5-8.

 

Who and how…….6 verses 9-15.

 

Ask, seek, knock……7 verses 7-12.

 

Now compare our prayer lives.

 

Who are we more like?

How do we talk with Father God?

Do we ask..seek..knock….wait?

Are we expecting Father to answer our requests?

Do we thank Him when He gives us what is truly best for us??

 

Recently in our church at Liberton God answered a prayer that was made over and over again in the last few months.

We had asked and sought His kingdom will.

We had knocked and knocked…and knocked.

 

But oh the joy when the answer was given and the door opened wide!

It was worth the waiting for sure.

 

 

Jesus knew what He was talking about.

After all God is His Father.

His is the perfect example to follow.

His teaching about prayer is based upon His knowledge of God.

 

Father God is waiting for us to ask….seek….knock….and wait.

He is waiting to answer….give….reply!

 

Go on…Ask Him!

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I Believe in PRAYER…. part 2 – Conversation with God and Others

 

Some of us much prefer to pray alone at home.

Many of us get very uncomfortable praying with others…..and be heard!

 

However in the Bible we so often read that followers of Jesus were encouraged to pray together..and they did…and prayers were answered!

 

 

Of course, in the letters written by Paul to Christians he so often tells them that he was praying for them….and often tells them what he was praying for them!

 

 

So why should we meet with others and pray??

 

Jesus teaches it….even if there are only 2 or 3 gathered in His name.

(Matthew 18 verses 19 and 20).

The early Church practised it….Acts 2 verses 42-47 for example.

It works….as the believers found out in Acts 12!!

 

 

So…let me encouragingly challenge you.

When do you gather with other believers to pray?

What are you asking to happen when you come together??

What are you expecting to happen when you meet to pray with others???

 

And when it works……are you telling others??

 

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I Believe in PRAYER…. part 1 – Conversation with God

(just like Jesus did)

 

How does anyone really define Prayer?? It is a mystery indeed.

A wonderful mystery in fact.

 

Look at the prayers by David…by Paul…by Jesus Himself.

 

I have just started reading Cleddie Keith’s book Praying the Lord’s Prayer and already I am learning new things.

Richard Foster’s book Prayer and Listening to God by Joyce Huggett are significant books for me on this immense topic.

 

Over the years of my life I have discovered that Prayer is simply yet profoundly chatting with God, the LORD God, Father God, Saviour God.

Asking…..listening….seeking….waiting….knocking on heaven’s door indeed.

With others or on our own.

In a church building or absolutely anywhere!!

 

Wherever.

Whenever.

Whoever.

 

If only I had believed that time and time again in my life and put that into practice….instead of stubbornly doing my own thing, convinced that God was on my side and not truly stopping, listening, hearing, asking, following…….

 

Now I have the great privilege of being part of the Prayer Team on duty at Liberton Kirk each Sunday morning…and at other times during the church week.

 

Over this and the next 2 Issues I hope to encourage you…and challenge you

Regarding your prayer life….It really is that important.

 

Let me encourage you today to find one prayer made by Jesus or something He said about prayer……and spend some time pondering.

 

Maybe Matthew 6 verses 5-15…or chapter 7 verses 7-12

…from the Sermon on the Mount

Or Mark 1 verses 35-39?  Or Luke 6 verses 12-16?

Or John chapter 17?

 

What did Jesus say?  Why?

What does it say to you?   Why?

 

 

And then to turn to the One He prayed to…..and p r a y in Jesus’ Name.

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I believe in….Jesus as the Saviour of the World……(not Flash Gordon)

                                         

Flash Gordon is one of my fave movies…sci-fi at its best - and worst.…and with a great soundtrack! One of the most memorable scenes is where Flash is told he only has a certain amount of time left to save the earth.  But it is only a story....entertainment pure and simple.

 

However we all need a Saviour…..not merely from ourselves or this world.

When Jesus was given his name it was said that ‘he will save his people from their sins’.

The book of Romans in the New Testament paints a very clear picture of this truth....especially in the early chapters.

 

However, let me put it like this….

You are in a boat..on a river..when others onboard start to jump into the water. You join them. It is fun at first.

But then you hear a warning that rapids are approaching and they will cause disaster and death.

You need to find safety….soon….but how? where? who?  The others are no use because they too are in deep waters…..the branches you hold onto are okay for a time but are not deeply rooted enough to last….the rocks give you a momentary reprieve but…..

 

You need a Saviour who can get alongside you in the water but also survive the rapids….someone you can trust…..after all you and the others got it wrong.

 

And that is Sin….getting it wrong, breaking God’s laws and not doing it His way.

There are consequences ahead too…for everyone.

 

Some of the people decide to take a risk at the rapids, it may pay off.

Some say ‘oh well, never mind, it’s been a blast being in the river’.

Others hold onto this or that branch.

 

 

Well over 2000 years ago a Saviour was promised…the warning was issued.

Then 2000 years ago the Saviour arrived on the scene.

 

Look at John 3 verse 16 or 4 verse 42…..or Acts 4 verse 12 or Romans 10 verses 9-21.

 

The choice is ours.

To be saved or not.

 

 

Isn’t Christmas a wonderful time to reach out and trust Jesus to be Saviour, your Saviour, the Saviour or the world!?!

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I Believe in THE OLD TESTAMENT PROPHETS

(what would they be saying today??!!)

 

We live in such a different world from Samuel, Jeremiah, Amos and Malachi in so many ways….I wonder what they would make of space travel, mobile phones,

i-pads, Skype and the heady world of corporate finance?!?

 

The Old Testament prophets so very often had a message for the people of God (and at times also other nations of the world) about their relationships with other people in family, work, society and the world, what they spent their money on and how they entertained themselves.

 

Things have not changed really, have they? I do wonder what some of the fiery prophets would be saying if they came to our cities, our churches, our homes…..

 

I confess that in all three areas above I have failed to please God as I ought.

I have used people for my selfish purposes, mis-spent money and often made the television my entertainment-idol.

 

Last week I came across again Micah’s words in chapter 6 verse 8….

And it struck me that it is all as simple as that. God expects His people to act justly, to love showing mercy and to walk humbly with Him.

 

If only it were that simple to put into practice.

We start with that goal but soon we put Self at the top of the justice board, get a tad weary being kind to others and develop a swagger in our Christian life.

 

I have found this section the toughest to write out so far.

It hits home.

It prompts a reaction.

It needs attention.

 

I really don’t want to have to avoid Amos or his fellow-prophets up in heaven

so I had better do something about it….very soon in fact!

 

However it strikes me that their messages were from God Himself and He is the One I will have to give an account to one day.

And that hits home harder.

That requires a response above all else.  Today.

 

Time to return quietly to Micah 6….some soul searching….and some praying me-thinks about others, my monies, my possessions.…..and our world in these needy days for justice, mercy and knowing God.

Will you join me?

 

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I Believe in PREACHING

(like Peter, CH Spurgeon, George Duncan, CH Simpson & Peter Grainger)

 

 

Simon Peter, the big-mouthed disciple…..the star of Acts 2!

CH Spurgeon, the Baptist preacher of yesteryear.

George Duncan, a minister and passionate preacher I had the privilege of hearing at Bible conventions.

CH Simpson, minister of my home church in Glasgow where I grew up…what a great Bible-teacher he was.

Peter Grainger, former pastor at Charlotte Chapel in Edinburgh, who used to run up into the pulpit!!

 

And others who were at times seemingly like the blind leading the blind, as I was once described several years ago!

 

So then….. Who?   What and where and when?   And Why?

 

First of all a reminder. Preachers are people and different from other preachers.

Each is called to be a channel only, a jar of clay who may at times display the odd crack or flaw. We should chew over their message and respond to the One who is ultimately speaking to us and not assassinate their character, hairstyle or choice of footwear!!

 

Who then should preach?

Whoever is called and gifted by God to do so….from young Jeremiah to hairy John the Baptist and a rugged fisherman called Simon.

 

What should they preach?

Whatever message God gives them really! From a burning word in their spirit to the Good News of Jesus and the living, written Word of God I would have to say. After all, preachers are but the mouthpieces of the Living God. It is His message that He is eager we hear!

 

Where should they preach?

We have become so used to pulpits and church buildings in the West but don’t forget that in the Old and New Testament Isaiah, Paul and others preached and taught where they found people gathered together, city gates, religious places and market squares and anywhere really! Jesus Himself spoke to the people from a fishing boat!!!  The rare sight of a street preacher should remind us of that.

 

When should they preach?

Only on a Sunday? Why??

I think I’ll leave you to answer that one for yourself…..

 

And finally, why should they preach?

Because they have to! A person called and gifted by God must speak the word to others that they have been given. It is a divine mission. It is a major way that God saves people, teaches them of His ways and helps them understand how to be more like Jesus, God’s living sermon on earth some two thousand years ago.

 

I believe in preaching. I really do. And I love to hear what God is saying whenever I sit (or stand) and listen.

 

I just need to be a bit more willing to hear and less of a pew-critic I guess…..

 

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Photo taken by nephew currently working in Japan : www.danhighwood.com/photography

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