The Word for Today

You Are Special

Thu, 23 May 2013 14:00:00 +0100

'...My unfailing love for you will not be shaken...' Isaiah 54:10 NIV Chinese missionary John Bentley distributed a book written by Max Lucado, entitled You Are Special, to children who lived in a Chinese orphanage. In China, male children are favoured over female ones. Healthy babies outrank impaired ones. Indeed, children who cannot speak or hear stand little chance of a healthy, productive life. Every message of history and culture tells them, 'You don't matter.' The story in Lucado's bo...

Who Are You Trying to Please?

Wed, 22 May 2013 15:07:16 +0100

'Let my words and...thoughts be pleasing to You, Lord...' Psalm 19:14 CEVAre you afraid to speak up in case you encounter disapproval? The Bible says, 'Fearing people is a dangerous trap...' (Proverbs 29:25 NLT) And fear is common among people-pleasers. Kristin Armstrong writes: 'A pleaser daughter is one who, at any age, still tries to please her parents. From report cards to parenting style...her decisions are coloured by the opinions of the people who raised her. But remember what Paul said, "...

Thinking For A Change

Tue, 21 May 2013 15:06:36 +0100

'The plans of the diligent lead to profit...' Proverbs 21:5 NIVIn his book, Thinking for a Change, Dr. John Maxwell says, 'The right thought, plus the right people, in the right environment, at the right time, for the right reason, always produces the right result.' Let's take a minute and break those words down: (1) The right thought. Thinking produces ideas, and ideas have incredible power and potential. But every idea begins as a 'seed thought,' so you have to nurture and protect it. (2) The r...

Tap into Your Creativity

Mon, 20 May 2013 15:13:43 +0100

'God created man in His own image...' Genesis 1:27 NIVThe Bible says: 'God created man in His own image...male and female He created them. God blessed them and said... "Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over...every living creature that moves on the ground." Then God said, "I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours..."' (Genesis 1:27-29 NIV) God has given you everything ...

Imagination and Freedom of Choice

Sun, 19 May 2013 15:09:00 +0100

'...The world and all that is in it is Mine...' Psalm 50:12 NRSThe Bible says, '...God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being.' (Genesis 2:7 NKJV) Until then, we were just inanimate lumps of clay in human form. At that point God breathed into us two important things: (1) Imagination. It distinguishes us from all other living creatures. It's what makes us capable of going to the moon, inventing the internet, having a ...

Have You Been Rejected?

Sat, 18 May 2013 15:08:00 +0100

'...Do not be afraid...I am with you...' Acts 18:9-10 NIVWhen Paul tried to share his new faith with his old friends, 'They opposed him.' (Acts 18:6 NKJV) It hurts to be rejected by those you love. It seems like Paul was so hurt by their rejection that God had to encourage him, saying, 'Do not be afraid...I am with you, and no one is going to...harm you.' Even when Paul reached out to some of the apostles, they were wary of him. They saw him as too Jewish to be Christian and too Christian to be J...

Are You in the Wilderness?

Fri, 17 May 2013 15:05:53 +0100

'He...guided them in the wilderness...' Psalm 78:52 NKJVThe wilderness is a place where growth is difficult, water is scarce, and you plod on when there's no end in sight. You can have a wilderness experience anywhere: at a graveside, at the Job Centre, or in a divorce court. In the wilderness: (1) There seems to be no way out. In Scripture, the number forty represents struggle. Noah experienced storms for forty days. Moses spent forty years alone in the desert. Jesus was tempted by the Devil for...

Don't Run Out of Steam!

Thu, 16 May 2013 15:12:59 +0100

'I bear him witness that he has a great zeal...' Colossians 4:13 NKJVJohn Wesley, founder of the Methodist Church, travelled 400,000 km on horseback, averaging 32 km a day for 40 years. He preached 40,000 sermons, produced 400 books, and knew ten languages. At 83, he was annoyed that he couldn't write more than 15 hours a day without his eyes hurting. And at 86, he was ashamed he couldn't preach more than twice a day. He complained in his diary of an increasing tendency to lie in bed until 5.30 a...

Getting Serious about God (4)

Wed, 15 May 2013 15:14:55 +0100

'Let us not give up meeting together...' Hebrews 10:25 NIV They took God's Word seriously. 'They spent their time learning the apostles' teaching...' (Acts 2:42 NCV) Researchers tell us that, today, personal Bible reading is less common among Christians than prayer. Instead of a Word from God that fortifies us for the challenges of the day, we've substituted exercise and cappuccino. Our Bible reading is confined to the pastor's Sunday sermon. The early disciples were so committed to the Word that...

Getting Serious about God (3)

Tue, 14 May 2013 15:24:09 +0100

'All the believers devoted themselves to...prayer.' Acts 2:42 NLT They took prayer seriously. The New Testament church was conceived in the womb of prayer. After ten days of united prayer in the upper room, 'Everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit...' (Acts 2:4 NLT) What happened next? They launched a church that's still impacting the world after two thousand years. Did their prayer-life diminish once the church was established? Not in the least! 'All the believers devoted themselves...t...

Getting Serious about God (2)

Mon, 13 May 2013 15:06:08 +0100

'The believers met together...and shared everything...' Acts 2:44 NLT Getting Serious about God (2) They took fellowship seriously. We are more than a common-interest-based social club. We're a family: birth-children of our heavenly Father, blood relatives. The cross made it so. '...We have all been baptised into one body by one Spirit...' (1 Corinthians 12:13 NLT) Those early disciples valued their relationship. It went beyond merely singing hymns and hearing sermons. They 'met together...shared...

Getting Serious about God (1)

Sun, 12 May 2013 15:12:16 +0100

'The believers met together in the Temple every day...' Acts 2:46 NCVIt's estimated there are over half a billion practising Christians in the world. But the church wouldn't even exist today if it hadn't been for a small group of disciples who were sold on Christ. The things of God were not a part-time interest or a convenience-based commitment to those early Christians, but their highest priority. If you want to be serious about God, stop and reflect on what they took seriously. They took churc...

Beatitudes for Parents

Sat, 11 May 2013 15:06:00 +0100

'Train up a child in the way he should go...' Proverbs 22:6 NKJVA mathematics teacher, who agreed to babysit while her friend went shopping, left her this note: 'Dried tears 11 times...tied shoelaces 15 times...blew up balloons, five per child... warned children not to cross the street 26 times...children insisted on crossing the street 26 times. Number of Saturdays I'll volunteer to do this again - zero!' The following Beatitudes for Parents were written nearly 50 years ago by Marion E. Kinneman...

Deal With It Now

Fri, 10 May 2013 15:24:44 +0100

'No matter how fast you run, you won't escape. No matter how strong you are, you will lose your strength...' Amos 2:14 CEVSorry, but problems don't magically solve themselves because you refuse to deal with them. Actually, they multiply, and 'no matter how fast you run, you will not escape.' Kristin Armstrong says: 'We become...adept at running...We try to flee from our pain, our past and our issues. The problem is, we can't run or hide or push things away forever. Eventually we'll tire...and hav...

Show Hospitality

Thu, 09 May 2013 15:09:47 +0100

'...Given to hospitality.' Romans 12:13 NKJVMaking others feel loved and valued is a hallmark of discipleship (John 13:34-35). Welcoming newcomers was important in the early church, and it's just as important today. Social customs may change, but God's Word doesn't. Jesus said, 'Anyone who receives you receives Me...' (Matthew 10:40 NLT) As a follower of Christ it's your job to make new people feel like part of 'the household of faith' (Galatians 6:10 NKJV). Established friendships within churche...

E-V-A-L-U-A-T-E

Wed, 08 May 2013 15:14:23 +0100

'Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?' Amos 3:3 NKJVA successful marriage is based on two things: 'finding' the right person, and 'becoming' the right person. And the second thing is harder than the first. Just because two people share the same bed and the same name, it doesn't guarantee harmony. Here are some practical suggestions based on the word E-V-A-L-U-A-T-E: Enjoy. Do you enjoy the same things? Maybe it's not a big deal now, but later when your husband is glued to the big match ...

Adapting to Change

Tue, 07 May 2013 15:11:13 +0100

'...Along unfamiliar paths I will guide them...' Isaiah 42:16 NIVChange forces us out of our comfort zone and into the discomfort of the unfamiliar. And while it can turn your world upside down, it makes you face your greatest fears and deal with the things that steal your joy, peace, and confidence. Change can be your friend or foe, depending on how you use it. Running away turns it into an enemy; embracing and learning from it makes it one of your greatest allies. C. Neil Strait said: 'Change i...

Confidentiality

Mon, 06 May 2013 15:05:59 +0100

'...They gather gossip, and...spread it...' Psalms 41:6 NLTA man is said to have approached Socrates one day to share some gossip. The wise philosopher asked, 'First, are you certain it's true? Second, is it something good? Third, is it something useful?' When the man said, 'Not really,' Socrates replied, 'Well, if it's not true, good or useful, why talk about it?' Gossip can feel like a form of intimacy, but it's actually a false bond motivated by the desire to diminish another person and make y...

Spiritual Maturity Comes By Degrees

Sun, 05 May 2013 15:05:16 +0100

'...From one degree of glory to another...' 2 Corinthians 3:18 AMPHow would you describe someone who is spiritually mature? Leonard Wedel says: 'A mature person does not take himself too seriously...keeps himself alert in mind...does not always view with alarm every adverse situation that arises...Is too big to be little...never feels too great to do little things, and is never too proud to do humble things...never accepts either success or failure in themselves as permanent...is one who is able ...

Change Your Self-Talk

Sat, 04 May 2013 15:09:43 +0100

'You will also declare a thing, and it will be established for you...' Job 22:28 NKJVIt's not what others say to you or about you that determines your future; it's what you say to yourself when others have finished speaking! The Bible says, 'Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.' (Proverbs 18:21 NKJV) You say, 'I'd love to have a better relationship but I'm afraid that if I make the first move and they don't respond, I'll feel rejected.' Or, 'I'd...

Keep Your Eyes on Jesus (2)

Fri, 03 May 2013 15:10:45 +0100

'...Jesus...went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil.' Acts 10:38 NKJV The Bible says: 'Peter answered Him and said, "Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water." So He said, "Come." And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, "Lord, save me!" And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and s...

Keep Your Eyes on Jesus (1)

Thu, 02 May 2013 15:09:17 +0100

'The boat was now in the middle of the sea, tossed by the waves...' Matthew 14:24 NKJVJesus had accompanied His disciples in a previous storm and calmed it. But now He was up on a mountain praying, and they were alone, 'tossed by the waves'. Why? Because sometimes the teacher has to step back in order to see how much the pupil has learned. Is that what's happening in your life at the moment? The Sea of Galilee is only about 21 km long and 12 km wide. But when the wind sweeps down from the Golan H...

The Power of Forgiveness (2)

Wed, 01 May 2013 15:13:21 +0100

'...Forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another...' Colossians 3:13 NIVIn Restoring Your Spiritual Passion, Gordon MacDonald writes: 'One memory that burns deep within is that of a plane flight on which I was headed toward a meeting that would determine a major decision in my ministry. I knew I was in desperate need of a spiritual passion that would provide wisdom and submission to God's purposes. But the passion was missing because I was steeped in resentment toward a colleague....

The Power of Forgiveness (1)

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 15:09:22 +0100

'...Forgiving each other, just as...God forgave you.' Ephesians 4:32 NIVThe power of forgiveness is an awesome thing. No relationship can survive without it, much less thrive. Whatever the issue, forgiveness sets both sides free, takes a weapon out of Satan's hands, and opens the door for God to go to work in the situation. This is never more so than in your family. The truth is, it's easier to forgive an enemy you seldom see than a loved one you have to live with every day. But you must do it. A...

Have Realistic Expectations (2)

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 15:09:17 +0100

'...He knew what was in a man.' John 2:25 NIV Here are three areas in which you must learn to have realistic expectations: (1) You must have realistic expectations of yourself When you do things poorly you usually feel bad. That sets in motion a neverending cycle of reaching for things that are out of reach, hoping to prove something you don't have to prove in the first place. You think you should be able to do what others do, yet if you are not similarly gifted you cannot excel in it. You don't ...

Have Realistic Expectations (1)

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 15:15:30 +0100

'...He knew what was in a man.' John 2:25 NIVJesus saw the best in people and worked to bring it out. But He wasn't naïve; He understood human frailty. When people disappointed Him, He didn't retaliate in anger, or distance from them. What did He do? '...Many people saw the miraculous signs He was doing and believed in His name. But Jesus would not entrust Himself to them, for He knew all men. He did not need man's testimony about man, for He knew what was in a man.' (John 2:2325 NIV) Jesus cons...

Whatever It Takes

Sat, 27 Apr 2013 15:09:27 +0100

'The sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.' Proverbs 13:4 NIVThe word 'diligence' includes such qualities as hard work, honesty, persistence, and striving for excellence. The New Living Bible Translation puts it this way: 'Lazy people want much but get little, but those who work hard will prosper.' One expert says, 'Success doesn't come from being a hundred percent better than your competition, but from being one percent better in a hundred differe...

Learn to Be Tactful

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 15:09:13 +0100

'...I try to find common ground...' 1 Corinthians 9:22 NLTTact is the knack of making a point without making an enemy. To win someone over, you must first do two things: (a) understand them; (b) become comfortable with diversity. Paul wrote, '...So I can bring them to Christ...I try to find common ground with everyone...' (1 Corinthians 9:2122 NLT) Paul wouldn't yield a millimetre when it came to the truth, but his strategy was always one of love. Whether he was speaking to Jews, Greeks, Romans o...

Secure In God's Presence

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 15:10:15 +0100

'My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.' Exodus 33:14 NIVUnless you spend time in God's presence you will always have an underlying sense of insecurity. There are certain people we draw security from just by being around them; their presence and approach to life make us feel better. Likewise, when you need to be lifted and strengthened you must spend time with God. Being in His presence is like being in a room filled with perfume; you take the fragrance of it with you when you le...

The Cost of a God-Given Dream (3)

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 15:17:40 +0100

'...I have suffered the loss of all things...' Philippians 3:8 NKJVStop and listen carefully to what some of the people around you are saying. Many of them express regret because they backed off from their dream of earlier years: a career not pursued, an opportunity left unseized, a relationship allowed to wither and die. Decades later, they come back to it and think more about it. But for some, it's too late. They can't achieve their dream at any price. For others, the dream is possible but the ...

The Cost of a God-Given Dream (2)

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 15:15:54 +0100

'...I have worked...been in prison...been flogged...' 2 Corinthians 11:23 NIVSecond, there's the ongoing cost We all want what successful people have. The problem is we don't want to pay the price they paid initially, and continue to pay every day. Paul spells out the true story behind his success: '...I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Thr...

The Cost of a God-Given Dream (1)

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 15:13:05 +0100

'...I consider everything a loss...compared to...' Philippians 3:8 NIV Your dream will never be fulfilled unless you're willing to pay the price that comes with it. And that price is paid not once, but over a lifetime. First, there's the initial cost. You will have to make personal and sometimes painful sacrifices. You may have to walk away from attractive options and valued relationships because they don't fit with God's plan for your life. Leaving things that have given you your security and y...

Your Heart Condition

Sun, 21 Apr 2013 15:09:03 +0100

'Above all...guard your heart...it is the wellspring of life.' Proverbs 4:23 NIVHeart disease will kill you if you don't detect it and treat it in time. That is true - physically and spiritually. It's why the Bible says, 'Above all...guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.' Wanting to look your best is commendable. It can enhance your sense of selfworth and improve your prospects in life. But it's a big mistake to dwell on your appearance and neglect your character. When all is said ...

'Thank You'

Sat, 20 Apr 2013 15:08:42 +0100

'...He will not forget how hard you have worked for Him...' Hebrews 6:10 NLTAre you thinking, 'I do so much for others; now I just want a little appreciation in return'? But there doesn't seem to be any coming, so you feel unappreciated and taken for granted. Just two simple words, but oh how much they mean: 'Thank you!' Has it been a long time since you heard them? If so, understand this: others may fail to thank you, but your heavenly Father appreciates all that you do and all that you are. You...

Are You Searching For Contentment?

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 15:33:29 +0100

'My people have...forsaken...the...living water, and...dug...broken cisterns.' Jeremiah 2:13 NIVIt's easy to be content when things in life are going your way. But how often does that happen? The Bible says we are to practice being 'happy at any time in everything' (Philippians 4:12 NCV), because if you put your life on hold waiting for what you want to happen, you may be waiting a long time! Epicurus said, 'Don't spoil what you have, by desiring what you don't have. Remember that what you now ha...

Don't Lose Control!

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 15:12:07 +0100

'...Anger resides in the lap of fools.' Ecclesiastes 7:9 NIVThe word 'anger' is just one letter short of the word 'danger.' When you lose control you risk losing other things as well, like the respect of others or the chance to find a constructive solution. Anger toward human suffering is not only appropriate; it's the catalyst for change. Paul writes, 'Be angry without sinning. Don't go to bed angry.' (Ephesians 4:26 GWT) There's a saying: 'Anger is the wind that blows out the lamp of the mind.'...

God's Timetable

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 15:13:49 +0100

'By your patience possess your souls.' Luke 21:19 NKJVWhen God makes you wait for something longer than you want to, He's teaching you patience. Your emotions are like a wild horse - they need to be reined in. 'Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God's will. Then you will receive all that He has promised.' (Hebrews 10:36 NLT) Your impatience will just make you and everybody around you miserable, but it won't rush God. He works according to His own plan and time...

Roots and Wings (5)

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 15:09:00 +0100

'For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother...' Genesis 2:24 NIVHealthy parenting calls for finding the right mix of autonomy with each of your children. Some children distance sooner, some later; some take small tentative steps, some leap confidently into the gap. There are no 'good' or 'bad' children when it comes to this, just more or less challenging ones. As a parent you discover by trial and error what works for you and your children. Criticising, controlling, threatening incar...

Roots and Wings (4)

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 15:17:39 +0100

'For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother...' Genesis 2:24 NIVYou can't always prevent your child from getting hurt. '...In this world you will have trouble...' (John 16:33 NIV) Either they'll get hurt and learn to deal with reality, or suffocate in your cocoon, never becoming mature - a hurt much sadder and much more painful and debilitating. What's involved in giving your child wings? (1) Realise that without autonomy they'll never become healthy adults This involves learning thi...

Roots and Wings (3)

Sun, 14 Apr 2013 15:22:24 +0100

'For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother...' Genesis 2:24 NIVThe second gift you must give your child is 'wings' They are born to fly, not stay in the nest. By becoming overly protective and stifling them in the name of "responsible parenting", you'll end up losing them. Jesus said children are designed to leave and go out and build a home of their own. Their drive for freedom is Godgiven, not a sign of ingratitude, disrespect or rebellion. A good carpenter works with the grain, n...

Roots and Wings (2)

Sat, 13 Apr 2013 15:32:18 +0100

'For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother...' Genesis 2:24 NIVOn the journey from adolescence to adulthood, your children will experience insecurity, contradictions and mood swings. They will send you conflicting signals: needing closeness, yet distance; connection, yet independence, all at the same time. They will pull you in with one hand and push you away with the other. You must understand that your children still need to feel securely attached, even while they're distancing fr...

Roots and Wings (1)

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 15:12:04 +0100

'For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother...' Genesis 2:24 NIVYou'll know you've succeeded as a parent when your children are able to leave you and go out and build a successful life on their own. You will never cut them off, but there comes a time when you must 'cut the apron strings' and let them stand on their own two feet. Remember, the children you are raising right now belonged to God before they belonged to you. 'The earth is the Lord's...and all who live in it.' (Psalm 24:1...

Up Close and Personal

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 15:13:08 +0100

'That...which we have heard...seen...touched...' 1 John 1:1 NIVYou can draw closer to the Lord if you really want to. You can have firsthand knowledge of Him. You don't have to settle for Sunday morning sound bites, secondhand information or a longdistance relationship. You can get 'up close and personal' with Him. John writes, 'That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched - this we proclaim concerning...

Show Your Gratitude

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 15:12:49 +0100

'Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord...' Psalm 107:8 NKJV The Psalmist writes, 'Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord, for His goodness...' Notice the word 'would.' A thankful attitude is a choice you make regardless of the situation. You choose your attitude just like you choose the food you eat and the clothes you wear each day. And there's plenty to be grateful for. You say, 'Yes, but there's plenty to complain about too.' The point exactly - so you've a choice to make! Robinson Cr...

De-Stressing

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 15:19:47 +0100

'My people will live in peaceful dwelling places...' Isaiah 32:18 NIV Years ago stress was considered mostly a male problem, but not anymore. Women are experiencing the stress of pursuing perfection, looking a certain way, competing in the workplace, attempting to do it all, never saying no, and having no time for themselves. That's not how God wants you to live! 'The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever. My people will live i...

Healing For Your Grief

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 15:11:32 +0100

'He heals the brokenhearted...' Psalm 147:3 NIVOne of the most moving scenes in Scripture is Jesus weeping at the graveside of Lazarus. It's not that He was powerless to change the situation, which He did, but that He empathises with us in our time of loss. 'He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.' The Lord didn't promise to protect us from pain and loss, but to bring us through it. Perhaps these suggestions will help: (1) Don't isolate Expand your 'family.' '...Better a neighbour t...

How to Experience God's Grace

Sun, 07 Apr 2013 15:10:08 +0100

'Grace be unto you, and peace, from God...' 1 Corinthians 1:3 KJVSeveral of Paul's epistles open with the words, 'Grace be unto you, and peace, from God.' That's because you cannot experience God's peace unless you first know how to receive His grace and walk in it. There are three things about grace you need to understand: (a) it cannot be earned; (b) it is God doing for you what you cannot do for yourself; (c) it doesn't kick in until you stop struggling and trying to do it in your own strength...

Covetousness (4)

Sat, 06 Apr 2013 15:11:28 +0100

'...Be content with such things as you have...' Hebrews 13:5 NKJVIf your goals are Godcentred, He will help you to achieve them. But if you are asking Him for something just because your neighbour has it, you'll be disappointed. The Bible says, '...No good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly.' (Psalm 84:11 NAS) When God withholds something from you, trust Him; He knows what He's doing. God loves you too much to give you what you're not ready for, can't handle, doesn't fit into Hi...

Covetousness (3)

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 14:12:03 +0100

'He gave them their request, but sent leanness into their soul.' Psalm 106:15 NKJVSee if you recognise this pattern. As slaves in Egypt the Israelites pray, 'God, get us out of here!' So He does. Then in the wilderness, on their way to the Promised Land they say, 'God, we're going to die out here. We were better off in Egypt. At least there, we had all the food we wanted.' So God sends bread from Heaven. He even delivers it to their door. It was a diet so perfect that '...there was not one feeble...

Covetousness (2)

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 14:11:50 +0100

'You shall not covet...' Exodus 20:17 NKJVWhy do we keep giving in to sinful desires? For two reasons: (1) Because the new birth doesn't automatically do away with the old nature Like two cars approaching crossroads at the same time, your old and new natures are always on a collision course. (2) Because if you dwell on a desire long enough, yielding is only a matter of time Ever gone to your fridge when you weren't really hungry, but weren't really satisfied, sort of looking for something to grab...

Covetousness (1)

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 14:18:15 +0100

'Let your conduct be without covetousness...' Hebrews 13:5 NKJVCovetousness begins with craving, and then evolves into conniving to get what you want. Achan, Ahab, Ananias and Sapphira were willing to steal, lie or kill to get what they wanted. 'Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you."' This Scripture means that what you have in Christ is greater than whatever else you don't have! Covetous...

What's New?

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 14:13:06 +0100

'...His compassions...are new every morning...' Lamentations 3:22-23 NIV Are you going through a hard time at the moment? You're not alone! Things were so bad in Israel that there's a whole book in the Bible, attributed to Jeremiah, called Lamentations. In a positive-thinking, feel-good world, that's not exactly a best-selling title. Jeremiah describes God's people as a 'widow' and a 'slave,' and says, 'All her friends have dealt treacherously with her; they have become her enemies.' (Lamentatio...

Sound Thinking

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 14:11:51 +0100

'God has...given us...a sound mind.' 2 Timothy 1:7 NKJVThe Bible says, 'God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.' In order to improve your life you must change two things: (1) Your thought processes Gordon MacDonald says: 'People who are out of shape mentally usually fall victim to ideas and systems that are destructive to the human spirit... They have not taught themselves how to think, nor have they set themselves to the lifelong pursuit of the growth...

Rejoicing in Trouble

Sun, 31 Mar 2013 14:00:00 +0100

'...Breath came into them, and they lived, and stood upon their feet...' Ezekiel 37:10 NKJV Your hopes may be dead and your dreams buried, but God can breathe into them again. Ezekiel stood in a valley of dead, dry bones. That's about as bad as it gets! Right? Then something amazing happened. God said to the prophet, 'Prophesy...and say... "Thus says the Lord God: 'Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe on these slain, that they may live.'" So I prophesied as He commanded me, and breath...

Christ's Resurrection, And Yours

Sat, 30 Mar 2013 14:10:28 +0100

'We believe that Jesus died and rose again...' 1 Thessalonians 4:14 NIVThe word 'resurrection' means 'the standing up of the dead'. Most religions teach the concept of immortality, but only the Christian faith teaches bodily resurrection. 'If we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.' The patriarch Job, whose children all died tragically in a single day, asked, 'If a man dies shall he live again?...' (Job 14:14 NKJV) We ask this whe...

What Wondrous Love

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 14:16:15 +0100

'...My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?' Matthew 27:46 NKJVImagine having to stand on a stage and watch every sin you've ever committed replayed for the entire world to see - your secret addictions, your selfish motives, your angry outbursts, your critical attitudes and your jealous heart. How do you think you'd feel? Well, Jesus experienced much worse. The Bible says: 'He...bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness - by whose stri...

How To Die Right

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 14:18:40 +0100

'He is not here, but is risen!' Luke 24:6 NKJVChrist, the founder of Christianity, was the only man capable of making an appointment beyond the grave and turning up to keep it. Jesus told His disciples, 'After I have been raised, I will go before you to Galilee.' (Matthew 26:32 NKJV) And He did. If you visit the graves of those who founded the great religions of the world, you will find that they are still occupied. But if you visit the grave where they laid Jesus, you will find that it is empty ...

'Time Out!'

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 14:12:01 +0100

'...Stand here awhile, that I may announce to you the Word of God.' 1 Samuel 9:27 NKJVHere's an ancient Scripture with a modern message: 'As they were going down to...the city, Samuel said to Saul... "Stand here awhile, that I may announce to you the Word of God."' Today we are told that in order to succeed we must hit the floor running at a hundred kilometres an hour, and keep it up until we collapse in bed at night. And what's the downside to all this? Our walk with the Lord slows to a crawl, o...

Let Go Of Your Independent Attitude

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 14:18:24 +0100

'...We will find grace to help us when we need it most.' Hebrews 4:16 NLTThe Bible says, 'Let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive His mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.' Most of us grew up being told, 'If you want something you'll have to work for it.' But a strong work ethic can skew our thinking when it comes to receiving what God wants to freely give us. God is always pouring out His blessing, and as empty, thirsty vessels we must...

Be Real

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 14:10:12 +0100

'...Beware of...hypocrisy.' Luke 12:1 NKJV The word 'hypocrisy' could be translated as 'hype'. And hype, no matter how religious it is, is only a charade. Jesus denounced it. Speaking about the religious leaders of His day, He said: '...Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, nor hidden that will not be known. Therefore whatever you have spoken in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have spoken in the ear in...

The Treasure Within You

Sun, 24 Mar 2013 14:12:24 +0100

'We have this treasure in earthen vessels...' 2 Corinthians 4:7 NKJVGod has given you talents and He wants you to use them. They may lie dormant under layers of failure, fear or low selfesteem. You may be aware of them, yet not know how to put them to work. Maybe you've been going from relationship to relationship hoping to find someone who will acknowledge what's within you and draw it out. If so, read this: 'But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be o...

The 'Blessed' Man and Woman

Sat, 23 Mar 2013 14:13:28 +0100

'Blessed is the man who...' Psalm 1:1 NKJVHere's a scriptural key to being blessed: 'Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly...But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper.' (Psalm 1:13 NKJV) A 'blessed' man or woman tends to stand out because their character is deeper...

Bumps

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 14:09:11 +0100

'These trials will show that your faith is genuine...' 1 Peter 1:7 NLTIt is impossible to tell by looking at a person how much faith they have. Compare your faith to a covered bucket of water; you only discover how much is inside when somebody bumps it. Likewise, when life bumps you, you spill out what you are full of. Maybe you took a financial hit in the last few years: bump! What spilled out, fear or faith? Maybe you, or a loved one, received bad news from the doctor and you're going for tests...

Winning Your Personal War With Satan (5)

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 14:12:37 +0100

'...Wash your hands, you sinners...' James 4:8 NIVJames continues, 'Wash your hands, you sinners.' The moment you 'come near to God,' you become aware of your condition. Notice, God doesn't demand you wash your hands before He will respond to you! All your attempts at selfimprovement won't work. Why? Because His grace is the only basis on which He can relate to you (Ephesians 2:89). God points to your defeat zones not to condemn you, but to cleanse you. He knows that dirty hands enable Satan to a...

Winning Your Personal War With Satan (4)

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 14:29:47 +0100

'Come near to God and He will come near to you...' James 4:8 NIV Resisting the devil is imperative, but it is not the endgame. This is: 'Come near to God and He will come near to you.' Satan's goal is to drive a wedge between you and God, so how do you keep him from doing it? By closing the gap between you and God! Observe three things: (1) Distancing from God is done unconsciously You become preoccupied, selfcentred, or overcommitted. Before you know it, prayer is limited to grace said over mea...

Winning Your Personal War With Satan (3)

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 14:18:10 +0100

'...Resist the devil...he will flee from you.' James 4:7 KJV Once you become self-controlled, alert, and submitted to God, your next step must be to: 'Resist the devil...he will flee from you' When you are properly aligned with Jesus, His power and authority are behind you and at your disposal. Then when you act or speak you do so, not on your own, but as His representative. Think about it this way; when a police officer orders you to stop because you're driving too fast, the entire force of the...

Winning Your Personal War With Satan (2)

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 14:09:21 +0100

'Submit yourselves therefore to God...' James 4:7 KJV Being 'self-controlled and alert' to Satan's strategies empowers you to be proactive in your personal war with him (1 Peter 5:8 NIV). But your next step is crucial. The art of war follows set rules of engagement. If you're losing more than winning, then you may have omitted this vital rule: 'Submit yourselves therefore to God.' Salvation doesn't enrol you in a club for the religious elite; it enlists you in the army of the Lord. And this war ...

Winning Your Personal War With Satan (1)

Sun, 17 Mar 2013 14:09:59 +0100

'Be self-controlled and alert...' 1 Peter 5:8 NIV When nations decide to end a conflict, their leaders sign treaties that allow for the restoration of peaceful relations between them. Christ's death and resurrection defeated Satan fairly and squarely. Then Christ the victor '...ascended up on high, [and] He led captivity captive...' (Ephesians 4:8 KJV) He was welcomed back in Heaven as conqueror. But here on earth, no treaty was ever signed between Satan and God's people. You are still his targ...

Give Them Another Chance

Sat, 16 Mar 2013 14:10:56 +0100

'...Mark...is profitable to me for the ministry.' 2 Timothy 4:11 KJVPaul, who demanded 100 per cent commitment from himself and those he worked with, was angry with Mark for wanting to take a break. Paul and Barnabas split up over Mark's return. But later, after reconsidering the whole thing, Paul gave Mark a second chance, saying, 'He is profitable to me for the ministry.' God sees potential in people, even flawed people, and we must too. When we believe in people and encourage them, they can mo...

Let It Go

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 14:12:16 +0100

'Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God...' Psalm 143:10 NIVWhen God promises you something and it doesn't happen right away, it's easy to get impatient, start doubting Him and think He needs you to go to work and make it happen. Abraham did that. God promised him children '...as numerous as the stars...' (Genesis 22:17 NIV) Tired of waiting, he took matters into his own hands and fathered Ishmael with his wife's maidservant, Hagar. And that's when his troubles began in earnest. Now, God lo...

The Touch of the Master's Hand

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 14:15:19 +0100

'Jesus...touched him...' Mark 1:41 NKJVMyra Brooks Welch wrote: 'It was battered and scarred and the auctioneer thought it hardly worth his while to waste much time on the old violin, so he held it up with a smile. "What am I bid for this old violin? Who'll start the bidding for me? A dollar, a dollar, who'll make it two? Two dollars, and who'll make it three? Three dollars once, three dollars twice, going for three," but no; from the back of the room a greyhaired man came forward and picked up t...

Handling Criticism

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 14:25:32 +0100

'...Judge nothing before the appointed time...' 1 Corinthians 4:5 NIVSomeone once quipped, 'Every footie team could use someone who knows how to play every position, is never off-side and never makes an error. The only problem is; it's hard to make him put down his burger and come out of the spectator stands!' All of us need the advice and input of others. But you should only consider the advice of a critic when: (1) You know you are valued by the one who criticises you. (2) The criticism is not ...

Lazarus

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 14:10:58 +0100

'...If you would believe you would see the glory of God.' John 11:40 NKJVIn the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead, you'll notice three important principles: (1) Mary and Martha had a close relationship with Jesus before the crisis arose. When Jesus came to town, He stayed at their home and ate at their table. They were givers, not takers. You can't refuse to give God a minute of your time, an ounce of your energy or a cent of your money, then when trouble comes, say, 'Lord, why did You...

Shrink Your Fears

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 14:14:35 +0100

'When I am afraid, I will trust in you.' Psalm 56:3 NIVMary loved being a homemaker. She'd been married for thirty years to John, a successful businessman. Because John had always taken care of things, Mary had learned never to take risks. As a result, her biggest fear was that she'd be left alone one day. Sometimes she would tell her friends, 'I hope I go before John because I don't think I could handle things by myself.' But when John became ill, Mary was placed in the position of caring for hi...

Always Tell the Truth

Sun, 10 Mar 2013 14:14:50 +0100

'You desire truth in the inward parts...' Psalm 51:6 NKJV The Bible says, '...Nor was any deceit in [Christ's] mouth.' (Isaiah 53:9 NIV) And if God has His way with us, none will be found in ours either. God doesn't seek to minimise our deception, but to eliminate it altogether. He is blunt about dishonesty. 'No one who is dishonest will live in My house...' (Psalm 101:7 NCV) Paul lists the types of people who will not inherit the Kingdom of God - those who sin sexually, worship idols, get drunk...

When a Mother Prays

Sat, 09 Mar 2013 14:09:02 +0100

'For this child I prayed, and the Lord has granted me my petition...' 1 Samuel 1:27 NKJVEvery terrorist was once a child. So was every missionary. The difference between them is often the influence of a parent. Samuel the prophet led the nation of Israel for 40 years and guided it through a crucial time of transition, but who was the dominant influence in his life? His mother! Listen, 'Therefore Ihave lent him to the Lord; as long as he lives he shall be lent to the Lord...' (1 Samuel 1:28 NKJV) ...

The Most Important Skill You Can Teach Your Child (4)

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 14:08:25 +0100

'... [There is] a time to be silent and a time to speak.' Ecclesiastes 3:7 NASTeach your child to ask: (1) 'Is this the best time to make this decision?' Decisions made in haste are often regretted. 'There is a time to be silent and a time to speak.' Poor decisions are situationally driven, caused by momentary stress, peer pressure, mood swings and temporary emotions like loneliness etc. When the situation changes, our feelings change and our decisions often look doubtful. Can the decision be mad...

The Most Important Skill You Can Teach Your Child (3)

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 14:16:34 +0100

'...Your thoughts...are the source of true life.' Proverbs 4:23 CEVTeach your child to ask themselves these two questions: (1) 'How will I feel afterwards?' What outlasts our decisions are the subsequent feelings of selfrespect versus shame, and positive selfworth versus negative selfworth. Our actions ultimately become history, but our thoughts about them continue to shape our future. 'Carefully guard your thoughts because they are the source of true life.' Children with selfrespect are much les...

The Most Important Skill You Can Teach Your Child (2)

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 14:21:02 +0100

'...A man reaps what he sows.' Galatians 6:7 NIVIt's said, 'Yard by yard life is hard, inch by inch life's a cinch!' For their life to go right, your children must learn to think right. So teach them to ask: (1) 'What are my options in this situation?' But do it with the right attitude. If your face is like thunder when you talk to them, they'll run for cover. Brainstorm with them, writing down every option that's offered. Tell them that no answers are wrong and no idea will be judged as silly; a...

The Most Important Skill You Can Teach Your Child (1)

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 14:08:28 +0100

'...Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve...' Joshua 24:15 NIV Good decision-making is the key to a happy life. But good decision-making is not a skill some of us are naturally blessed with, while poor decision-making is a handicap others seem to be born with. Courage, education or the ageing process don't automatically produce better decision-makers. Spending time with good decision-makers is wise, but it doesn't necessarily rub off on you. And the earlier you teach this skill to y...

Prayer Thoughts (2)

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 14:16:51 +0100

'Be still, and know that I am God...' Psalm 46:10 NIVGive God your whispering thoughts. Throughout the centuries, Christians have learned the value of brief sentence prayers. These are prayers that can be whispered anywhere, in any setting. Frank Laubach sought unbroken communion with God by asking Him questions. Every two or three minutes he would pray, 'Am I in Your will, Lord? Am I pleasing You, Lord?' Imagine considering every moment as a potential time of communion with God. By the time your...

Prayer Thoughts (1)

Sun, 03 Mar 2013 14:16:30 +0100

'...Every morning, I tell you what I need, and I wait for your answer.' Psalm 5:3 NCVIt takes time, but eventually sheep grow familiar with the voice of their shepherd and learn to trust him for everything they need. So how can you become equally familiar with the voice of God? Here are a few ideas: (1) Give God your waking thoughts With your head on your pillow and your eyes still closed, offer God the first seconds of your day. Say, 'Thank You for a night's rest. Today I belong to You.' CS Lewi...

Growing into Leadership (4)

Sat, 02 Mar 2013 14:11:49 +0100

'Listen...and I will give you some advice...' Exodus 18:19 NIVAs a leader, it's your job to see that things get done. But as the workload grows you will have to find people with talents equal to the task; otherwise you will stop growing. So what keeps us from seeking out the right people and delegating the right tasks to them? (1) Past hurts: Somebody let us down so we're reluctant to trust anybody. (2) Pride: We don't want to share the credit with others. (3) Perfectionism: We are not willing to...

Growing into Leadership (3)

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 14:10:22 +0100

'The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge; the ears of the wise seek it out.' Proverbs 18:15 NIVThe story's told of two men out hunting, when one of them falls to the ground. He doesn't seem to be breathing and his eyes are rolled back in his head. The other man whips out his mobile phone and calls 000. Frantically, he tells the operator, 'Robert is dead! What can I do?' The operator says, 'Just take it easy. First let's make sure he's dead.' There is silence, and then a shot is heard. The ...

Growing into Leadership (2)

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 14:11:43 +0100

'Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me...' Psalm 139:23 NLTIn his Pogo cartoon strip, Walt Kelly said, 'We have met the enemy, and he is us.' The hardest person in the world to lead will always be yourself. Human nature seems to endow us with the ability to size up everybody except ourselves. After having a victorious Goliath experience, followed by a devastating Bathsheba experience, the Psalmist wrote, 'Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out ...

Growing into Leadership (1)

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 14:16:16 +0100

'I, Tertius, the one writing this letter for Paul, send my greetings...' Romans 16:22 NLTPaul surrounded himself with people who were willing to lay down their lives for him (Romans 16:34). Some of them are virtually unknown. Ever heard of Tertius? He recorded Paul's thoughts so we could read them. We all know about Timothy, but do you know about Gaius? '...He is my host and also serves as host to the whole church...' (Romans 16:23 NLT) Many served in the shadows so Paul could work in the limelig...

Why God Accepts You (2)

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 14:19:37 +0100

'...Approved and acceptable and in right relationship with Him...' 2 Corinthians 5:21 AMPThe world tells us that our value is connected to our 'doing'. Growing up, we're constantly compared. When asked why we weren't doing as well as our brother or sister, we felt we were doing our best and we had no answer. So we resolved to try harder, but no matter how hard we tried, someone still wasn't satisfied. We were still getting the message, 'Something's wrong with you.' This leaves us burned out, conf...

Why God Accepts You (1)

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 14:09:22 +0100

'...Approved and acceptable and in right relationship with Him....' 2 Corinthians 5:21 AMP God loves and accepts you as much on your bad days as He does on your good ones. In a performance - based society, that's easy to forget. But you mustn't! God's acceptance is based on your standing in Christ, not the state of your life at a given time. 'For our sake He made Christ [virtually] to be sin who knew no sin, so that in and through Him we might become [endued with, viewed as being in, and example...

Moving from Doubt to Faith

Sun, 24 Feb 2013 14:08:44 +0100

'Lord, "Increase our faith."' Luke 17:5 NKJVWhy do we experience so much doubt? (1) Because doubt satisfies our need for selfprotection We don't like to be wrong, to get hurt, or to fail, so our subconscious reasoning says, 'It's easier not to trust, to lower my expectations so I won't be disappointed.' But you are disappointed, aren't you? Why? Because of your doubt. (2) Because doubting comes easily We don't wake up in the morning and say to ourselves, 'Today I'm going to doubt God.' No, doubt ...

'Let Us Pray'

Sat, 23 Feb 2013 14:12:47 +0100

'Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion...' Ephesians 6:18 NLT In August 1806, five Williams College students met in a field for one of their twiceweekly prayer meetings when a thunderstorm drove them to take refuge in a nearby haystack. Continuing in prayer, Samuel John Mills shared his burden that Christianity should be sent abroad, and the group prayed that American missions would spread Christianity through the east. The haystack prayer meeting held in Williamstown, Massachuset...

God Will Take Care of You

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 14:08:09 +0100

'Give all your worries...to God, for He cares about you.' 1 Peter 5:7 NLTThink about the things you worried about last year, or even last week. How many came to pass? Statistically, 10 percent at most! And did all your worrying make them better or worse? And what about the physical and emotional toll that worry is taking on you? Dr. Charles Mayo, founder of the famous Mayo Clinic, said, 'Worry negatively affects the circulation, the heart, the glands, and the whole nervous system. It profoundly a...

He Understands (2)

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 14:17:12 +0100

'...He faced all of the same testings we do...' Hebrews 4:15 NLTAre you disappointed in people? Jesus understands, because in the final analysis, those He loved and counted on let Him down. Judas, His treasurer, sold Him out, and then sealed the deal with a kiss. Even in His darkest hour, Gethsemane, His closest disciples, Peter, James and John, couldn't stay awake and pray with Him for an hour (Matthew 26:40). Are you tired of all the demands? Jesus understands. 'A vast crowd brought to him peop...

He Understands (1)

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 14:11:15 +0100

'...He faced all of the same testings we do...' Hebrews 4:15 NLTThe Lord understands what you are going through today because He has been where you are. The Bible says: 'This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do...So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.' (Hebrews 4:15-16 NLT) That means: (1) Jesus understands your family problems He had a fam...

Knowing What God's Called You to Do

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 14:16:45 +0100

'...Who are you...?' John 1:22 NKJVWhen asked, 'Who are you?' John the Baptist replied, '...The voice of one crying in the wilderness: Make straight the way of the Lord...' (John 1:23 NKJV) After listening to John for a while, his disciples left him to follow Christ. And that was ok with John, because he knew what he was called to do. Do you? You can only go on for so long 'trying things.' At some point you've got to discover what God's called you to do and give yourself fully to it. Apparently P...

Prayer, Not Pressure, Changes People

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 14:23:37 +0100

'But we all...are changed...by the Spirit of the Lord.' 2 Corinthians 3:18 KJVJesus asked the question, 'Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?' (Matthew 7:3 NIV) Expecting more out of people than they're able to give will hurt your relationships, not help them. People need the freedom to be who they are. That doesn't mean they don't need or want to change. But nobody appreciates being given the message, even subtly, that t...

When God Lights a Fire Under You

Sun, 17 Feb 2013 14:24:28 +0100

'...Great persecution broke out...and all...were scattered...' Acts 8:1 NIVJesus never intended for His disciples to get comfortable in Jerusalem and stay there. He told them, '...Forgiveness of sins will be preached in [My] name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.' (Luke 24:47 NIV) They were only supposed to remain in Jerusalem long enough to be infused with power, then take the Gospel to the world. But they '...returned to Jerusalem...and...stayed continually at the temple, praising God.' (...

The Call to Leadership (3)

Sat, 16 Feb 2013 14:09:25 +0100

'The Lord said..."Go on before the people..."' Exodus 17:5 KJVTo be a good leader you must do these two things: (1) Spend time with the people For four hundred years the children of Israel had been leaderless. As a result, they had no identity or selfworth. Actually, they had a slave mentality. So Moses often walked amongst them, because sheep gain confidence by smelling the shepherd's scent and rubbing up against him. Getting the idea? If you're afraid to get close to people, maybe it's because ...

The Call to Leadership (2)

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 14:12:33 +0100

'Teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you...' Matthew 28:20 NKJVIf God has called you to be a teacher in the church, here are three principles you need to live by: (1) Before you feed others, feed yourself Don't just go to the Bible for something to say, go for something to eat. Jeremiah said, 'Your words were found, and I ate them; and Your Word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart...' (Jeremiah 15:16 NKJV) People know when you're saying things that are not a reality ...

The Call to Leadership (1)

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 14:09:17 +0100

'...Rise and stand on your feet...' Acts 26:16 NKJVIf God has called you to leadership, you'll be unfulfilled in any other role. God told Paul, 'Rise and stand on your feet; for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to make you a minister...' Notice what the call to leadership requires: (1) Competence You must recognise your gifts, and then channel your energies into where you're most likely to succeed. That means acknowledging your limitations and helping equip others to fill them. To do that...

Love

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 14:13:09 +0100

'...Let us...love one another...' 1 John 4:7 NLTLove is slow to suspect but quick to trust; slow to condemn but quick to justify; slow to offend but quick to defend; slow to expose but quick to shield; slow to reprimand but quick to empathise; slow to belittle but quick to appreciate; slow to demand but quick to give; slow to provoke but quick to help; slow to resent but quick to forgive. Jerry Cook talks about a church where the people make the following pledge to each other: 'I'll never knowing...