Living In Grace

Breakfast in Bed

2012-02-02T11:17:00.000+02:00

When Jesus made breakfast on the beach for the Disciples (John 21) it was a powerful act of grace. They had deserted him in his hour of need and yet Jesus still forgave them. His act of servanthood (making them a meal), when they had been working all through the night, was deeply filled with love and mercy. You don't make a meal for someone if you don't care for them. Jesus blessed them with this early morning meal and it changed the hearts of the disciples.

Well I can't offer you breakfast on the beach or even breakfast in bed, but if you are in and around PMB on Saturday (4th Feb) please join us at our Men's Breakfast at 7am at Church. It is going to be relaxed and fun. Sorry ladies, but this one is only for the guys this time:)

Blessings
D3LM3

Let down

2012-02-01T10:09:00.000+02:00

How often have you been let down? I am sure that there have been numerous times for most of us. What surprises me is how quickly we put our trust in people even after they have let us down - which isn't always a bad thing, I guess.

However, God warned us that people would let us down and that we shouldn't take 'refuge' in other people, above Him.

"It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man.
It is better to take refuge in the Lorn than to trust in princes." - Psalm 118:8-9

Trust in God today. God will be your refuge.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Image from here

Why Not?

2012-01-31T15:47:00.000+02:00

"Don't ask 'why', ask instead, 'why not?' - John F. Kennedy

I never forget watching a documentary on Superman (Christopher Reeve) where he was asked if he ever questioned why he had to end up as a Quadraplegic. In other words, did he ever ask, "why me?"

In a profound response Reeve said something along the line of, "just cause I am a famous actor doesn't excuse me from pain. Perhaps I should ask the question "WHY NOT ME?"

We are all going to experience some kind of trial and tribulation in our lives. This applies to every human being. When we experience tough times it is not an indication that God has a personal vendetta against us. God still loves us and will be with us during our tough times.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Raising the standard

2012-01-30T20:50:00.000+02:00

We have decided to challenge ourselves as a congregation in 2012. In a way, we are hoping to raise the 'spiritual bar' in our Christian lives by committing to a number of spiritual disciplines. One of these challenges is to try and read through the Bible during the course of the year. If you have always wanted to try and get through the Bible in a year why not join us. There are plenty of reading plans one can use, but here is a easy one to follow - http://bit.ly/xtfmP2

May God's Word transform your life this year.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

What will you speak about?

2012-01-28T21:28:00.000+02:00

When something hits the headlines everyone speaks about it. Take for example the truck that ploughed into the Midlands Mall this last week - it has come up in conversations everywhere you go. It even made national news.

David wrote of how he would speak of God's greatness - he wanted the whole world to recognise God's glory. Everywhere he went David spoke about God's splendour and majesty.

"I will meditate on your majestic, glorious splendour
and your wonderful miracles.
Your awe-inspiring deeds will be on every tongue;
I will proclaim your greatness.
Everyone will share the story of your wonderful goodness..." - Psalm 145:5-7

Speak of God's greatness - the world is looking for Good News.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Spiritual gardening

2012-01-25T10:26:00.000+02:00

Gardening takes a lot of commitment, work and care - those of you with 'green' fingers are already nodding your heads in agreement. However, when we neglect the garden for a week or so, weeds start to grow and the grass gets long and very soon things start to look ragged. We popped into the old house to get a few things today and I noticed that weeds are already starting to pop up all over the place. Just a few days of neglect is enough to allow the rot to set in.

Surely the same principle applies to our spiritual lives? If we leave aspects of our faith 'unattended' then weeds will grow and we will begin to notice the affect of our neglect. A week or two may not make a big difference, but constant spiritual neglect will only led to a messy life - well, that's what I feel anyway. Your thoughts??

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Get ready

2012-01-24T19:14:00.000+02:00

Worship requires some preparation and a readiness to respond to the Glory of God. Just like we would not leave home for the Mall without getting a few things ready (wallet, keys, shopping list, cellphone etc), so we must also get ourselves ready before we come to worship. To worship without preparation is like buying a whole lot of stuff without actually taking our wallets to the shop. We should arrive at Worship ready to give glory to God and to offer our sacrifice of praise.

Ezekiel 38:7 - “‘Get ready; be prepared..."

What would "getting ready" for worship mean for you?

Living in Grace
D3LM3

What to pray?

2012-01-23T12:38:00.000+02:00

Sometimes we don't know what to pray for - life gets the better of us and our prayers stutter and fail to take off. I found this beautiful prayer on this site

"Dear Lord, thank you for all you have done for me,
It is with a humble heart that I ask you to
Grant me the strength I need during this time.
Grant me the wisdom to make the right decisions.
Grant me the patience to do what must be done.

O Lord,
I know you will be with me through this time and will you shield me from things I cannot handle.
It is with the most humble heart I ask thee.
Amen."

May God inspire us to pray, even when we don't know where the words will come from.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

God's home

2012-01-23T11:05:00.000+02:00

When King David wanted to build God a 'home', God spoke through the prophet Nathan and said:

"I have been moving from place to place with a tent as my dwelling." - 2 Samuel 7:6

This was how people understood that the Lord moved with them, wherever they went. The people took the 'tent of meeting' with them and thus God moved with them all the time. For my family, we don't need a 'tent' to know that God is with us, because we know that Christ dwells within us, but it is reassuring that God IS with us wherever we choose to live.

Thanks for the prayers for the move - still got boxes to sort out and trying to find a few things that are somewhere in the house:)

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Old Man Jesus

2012-01-19T12:35:00.000+02:00

Have you ever thought of this?

Dan Allender – “If Christ had practised the kind of love we advocate nowadays, he would have lived to a ripe old age.”

Prayer: thank you Jesus that you loved me radically and that you were willing to suffer and die to show me the extent of your love.

Living in Grace

D3LM3

Does Prayer Help?

2012-01-18T10:19:00.000+02:00

Does Prayer help?
It may seem like a strange question for a minister to be asking, but I am asking the question to get your response. Has prayer help you in the past?
Have you ever had a prayer answered?
Let me know your story please...

1 Kings 8:28 - "...give attention to your servant’s prayer and his plea for mercy, Lord my God. Hear the cry and the prayer that your servant is praying in your presence this day."

Speaking about prayer, please could I request your prayers for our family. We are moving home this weekend and we have been doing some renovations at the same time. We need your prayers for strength please:)
Thanks

Living in Grace
D3LM3

I can't speak Frog!

2012-01-16T12:36:00.000+02:00

Can you speak Frog?
What I mean is, when a Frog 'croaks' outside your window, do you understand what they are saying? To be honest, I have no clue.
However, if I could speak a Frog-language I may have been able to save the frog that jumped into one of our outside containers and got stuck. As I was cleaning up yesterday I noticed that the frog had died inside the container - he only died because he couldn't jump out again (don't ask me how he got in there in the first place!)
I am sure that the frog tried to call out for help, but no one in my family understands "Frog" so we weren't able to rescue him.

I thank God that the Holy Spirit understands and interprets my sighing and groaning. God understands all there is to know about me and God comes to our rescue. I just need to trust that God is watching out for me.

Be encouraged that God understands our "Frog language" :)

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Consistency

2012-01-15T17:35:00.000+02:00

Sometimes I feel that our society just needs a little consistency. Standards chop and change. People change. Politicians sing from a different hymn sheet. Sports teams rise and fall. Even the weather is hot one day and cold the next. So, is there something or someone who can give us hope?

Well I have looked around, but the only one who is consistent is Jesus...

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” – Hebrews 13:8

May God's faithfulness bless you today.

Living in Grace

D3LM3

Love, Courage and Wisdom

2012-01-14T19:54:00.000+02:00

A friend of mine, James, sent me this quote during the week and I think it's brilliant.

"Love without courage and wisdom is sentimentality, as with the ordinary church member.

Courage without love and wisdom is foolhardiness, as with the ordinary soldier.

Wisdom without love and courage is cowardice, as with the ordinary intellectual.

But the one who has love, courage, and wisdom moves the world."

- Ammon Hennancy (Catholic Activist, 1893-1970)

What do you think?

I'd love to hear some of your New Year's thoughts...

Living in Grace

D3LM3

Put our Hope in the right place

2012-01-13T20:24:00.000+02:00

If we put our "Hope" in the right place and person we will not be disappointed.

"May your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in you." - Psalm 33:22

"But blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him." - Jeremiah 17:7

May God bless you today,

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Rejoice and be glad

2012-01-11T16:46:00.000+02:00

"Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad;
let them say among the nations,
"the Lord reigns!"
Let the sea resound,
and all that is in it;
let the fields be jubilant,
and everything in them." - 1 Chronicles 16:31-32

Does your gladness depend upon your circumstances? Or can you praise God in spite your circumstances?

Just asking....

It's hard, but I am trying to learn to praise God in all circumstances.

Living in grace
D3LM3

Alarms

2012-01-10T22:23:00.000+02:00

Many of us have alarm systems installed into our homes, offices and even our schools and churches. The idea of an alarm is to warn us of any potential danger and hopefully to scare off any intruders. I think that we all need spiritual alarm-systems which we nurture in the Spirit of Christ. When we are in time with the Holy Spirit He will warn us of any potential danger or threats to our well-being.
Do you have this kind of alarm system in your life? If not, what are you able to do about it?

Living in grace
D3LM3

Adjusting sails

2012-01-09T13:51:00.000+02:00

Jimmy Dean once remarked, "I can't change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination."

The Spirit of God is always moving - we just need to adjust our 'sails' so that we can move in tune with the Spirit. Of course we can choose not to, but then we will end up off course.

"For he is sent by God. He speaks God’s words, for God gives him the Spirit without limit." - John 3:34

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Total Attention

2012-01-08T11:36:00.000+02:00

I could think of no better way to start my 900th post with the following words of Jesus:

"Don't look for shortcuts to God. The market is flooded with surefire, easygoing formulas for a successful life that can be practiced in your spare time. Don't fall for that stuff, even though crowds of people do. The way to life—to God!—is vigorous and requires total attention" - Matthew 7:13-14 (The message)

None of us likes it when people ignore us when we speak - do we? Listening for the voice of God and then seeking to follow that voice requires our total attention.

A.W. Tozer - “Acquaint thyself with God.”

Living in Grace

D3LM3

Worship prepares us for heaven

2012-01-07T20:29:00.000+02:00

Gathering for worship is an important part of any believers commitment and response to God's gift of Grace.
A.W. Tozer had a lot of inspiring thoughts on worship. Perhaps these can motivate us to deepen our personal worship.

“God never hurries. There are no deadlines against which he must work. Only to know this is to quiet our spirits and relax our nerves.”

“Faith is the gaze of a soul upon a saving God.”

“I can safely say, on the authority of all that is revealed in the Word of God, that any man or woman on this earth who is bored and turned off by worship is not ready for heaven.”

Living in Grace

D3LM3

Roll up your sleeves

2012-01-06T20:18:00.000+02:00

This year is going to include a fair share of "rolling up our sleeves". Our faith is not something that we can just expect to grow by itself - we need to do some pruning, watering and fertilising ourselves. Are you ready for that kind of work?

“[A Future in God]So roll up your sleeves, put your mind in gear, be totally ready to receive the gift that's coming when Jesus arrives. Don't lazily slip back into those old grooves of evil, doing just what you feel like doing. You didn't know any better then; you do now. As obedient children, let yourselves be pulled into a way of life shaped by God's life, a life energetic and blazing with holiness. God said, "I am holy; you be holy.” - 1 Peter 1:13

Have a blessed week.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Plan for 2012

2012-01-04T21:06:00.002+02:00

There can be no better plan for 2012 than the message from the following scripture verse:

"Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness." - Matthew 6:33

Any thoughts?

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Eish

2012-01-03T22:25:00.000+02:00

I have not had the best of starts to the New Year when it comes to my internet at home. It has been down for days and trying to get through to Telkom has been like trying to win the Lotto - zero luck!!! Anyway, I seem to have won the battle in the end and I have my internet 'sort of' fixed up for now.

Just when I think that things are tough for me, I am reminded that there are many other things in life more important and pressing than internet connections. Perspective is a sobering thing.

"The Lord is good to those whose hope is in Him, to the one who seeks him." - Lamentations 3:25

"I pray that a heart of thanksgiving will be your strength." - Karla Dornacher

Living in Grace
D3LM3

What will you do?

2011-12-31T17:39:00.000+02:00

As the clock runs down on 2011 we stand on the brink of another New Year. In a few hours time we are all going to blessed with a potential 366 days in 2012. We will get the same 'blank' diary to fill and we will have the freedom to choose how we fill it. So, here are a few thoughts for you before you start adding details to your calendar:

1. What role will God play in your decisions?
2. How much time will you give to God in 2012?
3. How much of a priority will your family be?
4. How will you keep fit in 2012 - in a physical, emotional and spiritual sense?
5. What hurt do you need to leave behind as you start a new year?

Praying that 2012 will be a blessing for you.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Day by Day

2011-12-30T11:27:00.000+02:00

Remember that we can't do it all in one day. We will have to take 2012 one day at a time. May God bless you each and every day in the New Year.

"Day by day, dear Lord,
Of thee three things I pray;
To see thee more clearly,
To love thee more dearly,
To follow thee more nearly,
Day by Day." - Richard of Chichester (1197 - 1253)

Living in Grace
D3LM3

We were told about this

2011-12-30T07:35:00.000+02:00

I know that Jesus told his disciples that they would have trouble in their lives (and the same applies to us), but for many people 2011 has given us enough difficulty and challenges already. It is time for a new year - new challenges, new difficulties and new adventures. It is a relief to note that Jesus finished off his comment to the disciples by promising to be with them - come what may!

"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart I have overcome the world." - John 16: 33

Living in grace
D3LM3

After Christmas

2011-12-27T09:36:00.000+02:00

Eight days after Jesus' birth he was consecrated to the Lord, which was part of the Jewish custom. These are the words of Simeon who blessed baby Jesus:

"For my eyes have seen your salvation,
which you have prepared in the sight of all people,
a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel." - Luke 2:30-32

May Jesus be a light for us.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Blessed Christmas

2011-12-24T13:22:00.000+02:00

May Jesus Christ be incredibly real for you this Christmas time. May the Spirit of Christ bring you peace, joy and hope. Amongst all your gifts may Jesus be your most prized gift.

Praying that you would all have a blessed Christmas,

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Great description of Christmas

2011-12-22T22:27:00.000+02:00

I can think of no better words to describe Christmas, than the following thoughts from George McDougall:

Best of all, Christmas means a spirit of love,
a time when the love of God and love of our fellow men should prevail over all hatred and
bitterness, a time when our thoughts and deeds and the spirit of our lives
manifest the presence of God.

Hope your preparation for the birth of Jesus is filled with love, forgiveness and grace.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

No lights

2011-12-20T10:55:00.000+02:00

The last couple of days we have been so hectic, that we haven't even turned on our Christmas tree lights. With all the renovations, church services, arranging kid's lives, work etc, we haven't had a moment to turn the lights on and enjoy the ambiance of the Christmas lights.

Sometimes we do the same with Jesus - we pack our lives with "things" that we forget that he is around and that he offers to be Light in our lives.

So, here is what has struck home for me today:

You may forget the Christmas tree lights this year, but please don't forget Jesus.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Two Promises for today

2011-12-19T16:15:00.000+02:00

"He heals the broken hearted,
binding up their wounds.
he counts the stars
and calls them all by name." - Psalm 147:4

There are 2 huge promises in these verses:
One - God will heal our broken hearts.
Two - God knows you by name.

Simple, but deeply profound and reassuring for me.
What do you feel?

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Kids grow up

2011-12-18T17:13:00.000+02:00

At this time of the year, it is easy to forget that our worship should be focused on Jesus - the baby who grew up and became a man. It was the promise of salvation that made everyone get excited, when Jesus was born. However, this promise was only fulfilled in his adult years - Jesus grew up; he loved all people; he accomplished the will of His Father; we were offered Salvation.

As hard as it is, sometimes kids need to grow up in order to fulfil their purposes...

Luke 2:52 - "And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and men."

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Extreme Makeover

2011-12-17T18:15:00.000+02:00

We have enjoyed doing some renovations in our new home - it has been quite exciting to make adjusts to the space which we now refer to as 'our own.' Amidst all the renovations, I have reflected on the fact that when we invite God into our lives (house), He also wants to make some renovations. In a lot of cases, God needs to do an extreme makeover on our messed up lives.

What is God wanting to change in you right now? Are you willing to let him?

Living in Grace
D3LM3

DOne

2011-12-15T10:40:00.000+02:00

It has been done for us already, so why do we always try and sweat it out by ourselves?

Watchman Nee – "Christianity is a strange business. If at the outset we try to do anything, we get nothing. If we seek to attain something, we miss everything. For Christianity begins not with a big DO, but with a big DONE.”

Christ's birth reminds us that God has DONE everything for us. He sent a Saviour into the world to rescue us. What more could we ask for?

Living in Grace

D3LM3

Celebrating another birthday

2011-12-14T20:26:00.000+02:00

Today we celebrated Declan's ninth birthday. It was good to see him enjoy the presents and the cake. We had a low key day in the end, as he has already had his actual party - we just had a few of the family and his friends around to share cake and tea.

His birthday has got me thinking about how we all celebrate our own birthday's - how do you like to celebrate your special day? Do you like a small family get-together or do you prefer a big fuss?

Oh yes, I wonder what God thinks of the way we celebrate Jesus' birthday? I wonder if it pleases him or not? What do you think?

Have a blessed Advent season.
Living in Grace
D3LM3

What do you do with failure?

2011-12-13T19:59:00.000+02:00

When Robert Fulton was still a teenager he became fascinated with a remarkable idea. He had seen the impact of the new steam engines and had thought about transferring the same principle onto a paddle boat. His first attempt was a complete flop - the boat sank. This setback didn't stop him from achieving his dream. Today he is accredited as designing and building the first commercial steamboat. In 1800 he was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte to design the Nautilus, which was the first practical submarine in history. Not bad for a young person, hey?

What do you do with failure? Do you allow it to stop you from fulfilling your dreams? Or do you see failure as a way of refining your purpose and destiny?

Living in Grace

D3LM3

Godincidence or what?

2011-12-12T10:56:00.000+02:00

I love the way God speaks to us. I used an illustration in my sermon on Sunday about Leo Buscaglia's family. If you don't know anything about Leo, perhaps you can look here if you have a moment. Anyway, this morning I wrote something in my journal and I glanced at the bottom of the page. Every page of my journal has a quote and today's quote was written by none other than Leo Buscaglia - coincidence, no ways! Godincidence, absolutely!!

"What we call the secret of happiness is no more a secret than our willingness to choose life." - Leo Buscaglia

May God surprise you today.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

What gives you strength?

2011-12-10T20:49:00.000+02:00

We turn to all kinds of things and people to give us strength at times, but have we ever stopped to comprehend these words ...

Nehemiah 8:10 – “This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the LORD is your strength!”

Nehemiah points out that our strength can come from the JOY of the Lord. Sounds interesting hey? Perhaps it's worth a try. What do you think?

Living in Grace
D3LM3

In One Word

2011-12-07T15:03:00.000+02:00

Often we only need a single word to communicate something or a particular feeling to someone else. Today, in Pietermaritzburg, it is extremely warm, so if I just said 'HOT' most of you would know what I mean (unless you are in the UK right now...)
If you had to try and communicate the message of Christmas to someone, only using one word, what word would you choose?
It's an interesting concept - try it!

My word would always be "GRACE."
Let me know your word please....

Living in that Grace
D3LM3

Destiny

2011-12-06T14:06:00.000+02:00

Christmas reminds us that Jesus' destiny was to fulfil the will of the Father. His coming into the world speaks of a new beginning - the era of grace suddenly broke into being. God's Grace had already been in existence, but humanity had never understood it, or perceived it, in such a profound way before.

"Jesus is the Alpha as well as the Omega, genesis as well as Telos. Jesus is not only the end and the goal, he is the beginning and origin of God's purposes with the world." - Frederick Bruner

Living in Grace,
D3LM3

Waiting for Christmas

2011-12-05T15:33:00.000+02:00

I love Christmas!
I love the fact that churches embrace Advent and that we celebrate the birth of our Messiah. But sometimes I wish that people were more vigilant about Christ's second coming than we are about his first! I want to take nothing away from the Incarnation, but we must not forget that Jesus will come again. I am just saying....

Let's be expectant in new ways this Christmas.

Peace and Grace.

D3LM3

Psalm 101

2011-12-04T20:44:00.000+02:00

^"I will sing of steadfast love and justice;
   to you, O LORD, I will make music.
²I willponder the way that is blameless.
   Oh when will you come to me?
I will walk with integrity of heart
   within my house;
³I will not set before my eyes
   anything that is worthless.
I hate the work of those who fall away;
   it shall not cling to me.
⁴A perverse heart shall be far from me;
   I will know nothing of evil." - Psalm 101:1-4

Have a blessed week.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Birthday celebrations

2011-12-02T21:52:00.000+02:00

In the season of Christ's birth, our family has the special treat of celebrating many birthdays. I guess we are privileged to throw a party for each other, as well as throwing a huge party for Jesus. What do you like to do for your family birthdays?

“Fly free and happy beyond birthdays and across forever, and we'll meet now and then when we wish, in the midst of the one celebration that never can end." – Richard Bach

“The best way to remember your wife's birthday is to forget it once.” - Joseph Cossman

Oscar Wilde - The old believe everything; the middle aged suspect everything: the young know everything.”

God bless you this weekend.

Living in Grace

D3LM3

A day to remember

2011-12-01T14:00:00.000+02:00

We mark the 1st December as World Aids Day and I believe that it is extremely important that we do all we can to remove the stigma attached to HIV/Aids. Jesus cares for all people and we need to respond with love and dignity to all people.

However, today is also the day that we remember the life of Edmund Campion. I knew nothing of this godly man until I recently read about his life. At the age of 41 Edmund was hanged, drawn and quartered for leading an underground Catholic ministry in Protestant England of the Sixteenth Century.

The witness of this priest didn't go unnoticed and he impacted many lives, even in his cruel death. Eventually 300 years after his death, he was honoured as a saint. I truly marvel at the commitment of martyrs, especially when they are killed at the hands of other "Christians". It is sad that we find so much hatred in the place we should find the most grace and love - the church. May God forgive us!

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Yummy stuff inside

2011-11-30T10:42:00.000+02:00

You have got to laugh at the brilliance of kids. As we were leaving for school this morning, our Labrador Bella was smelling Nathan's stomach - I thought he had snuck some cookies under his jersey, but he hadn't:)
Getting into the car, I asked him, "Why was Bella smelling your tummy boy?"
He replied, "Perhaps she can smell all the yummy food I had yesterday - the cupcakes and sweets."
I had to laugh and then quietly mentioned to him, that dogs can't smell the insides of our stomach's, but it would be cool if they could.

So, next time your pet smells your tummy, just remember that perhaps they are smelling all the 'yummy stuff inside.'

May God bless us with his Spirit to fill us with grace, peace and joy - on the inside:)

Living in Grace
D3LM3

No Fairytale

2011-11-29T08:24:00.000+02:00

Advent reminds us that the birth of Jesus is no fairytale made up for little children. Sure, the details around his birth may be debated by some, but the one thing that even historians can't avoid is that Jesus existed. His birth changed the face of religion and his life is still impacting lives today.

Jewish historian, priest and later commander of Jewish forces in Galilee, Flavius Josephus wrote these words concerning Jesus:

"Now there was about this time Jesus, a wise man, if it be lawful to call him a man; for he was a doer of wonderful works, a teacher of such men as receive the truth with pleasure. He drew over to him both many of the Jews and many of the Gentiles. He was [the] Christ. And when Pilate, at the suggestion of the principal men among us, had condemned him to the cross, those that loved him at the first did not forsake him; for he appeared to them alive again the third day, as the divine prophets had foretold these and ten thousand other wonderful things concerning him. And the tribe of Christians, so named for him, are not extinct at this day."

Josephus had nothing to gain from writing these words - as an historian he could not deny that Jesus existed. People in today's world can respond to Jesus how they like - they can deny him, they can refuse to worship him, but they can not refute his existence.

May Jesus Christ be REAL for you this Advent season.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Life is fragile

2011-11-28T13:07:00.000+02:00

I don't know what to say about it, too be honest, but I just feel I need to try and write something. I heard the news of Gary Speed's death yesterday and was shocked. Another person who had everything going for them - a awesome family, a brilliant career and a huge support base - yet Gary took his own life. We don't have any answers as yet, but it seems that he may have been struggling with dperession. There are thousands of people who choose suicide every year, yet it still leaves me feeling numbed when I read these stories.

Another footballer, Stan Collymore, wrote of his struggle with depression in this post. Christian writers Jeff Lucas and Adrian Plass have also struggled with depression. Singers, authors, musicians, politicians, actors, rich, poor, young and old - many people struggle with depression. In this season of peace and goodwill, it is still common for us to feeling overwhelmed and desperate. But, I believe in the hope of Advent - the hope that Christ can make a difference.

May Jesus truly bring His light and hope into our lives this Christmas - even if we don't have all the answers.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Scottish Proverbs

2011-11-27T11:46:00.000+02:00

I have enough Scottish blood in me to take offense when the 'Scots' are ripped off about something. So, in order to pass on some of our ancient wisdom I have included a few one-liners - if you like, these are also called Scottish Proverbs:

“Confession is good for the soul.”

“Egotism is an alphabet of one letter.”

“Fools look to tomorrow. Wise men use tonight.”

“Never marry for money. You can borrow it cheaper.”

“Better be ill spoken of by one before all than by all before one.”

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Month to go

2011-11-25T11:05:00.000+02:00

So there is a month until Christmas! The silly season is upon us - shops are getting busier and people are spending their December pay checks already. Do we, as Christians, follow the pattern of the world around us, or do we at least strive to remind ourselves of Christ in the chaos? This is what the season of Advent is meant to help us focus on - it's our spiritual preparation for the birth of Jesus.

As we begin the period of Advent this weekend, read this poem as a starting point. May Christ be real to us in our anticipation of the Saviour's birth.

Let Christmas not become a thing
Merely of merchant's trafficking,
Of tinsel, bell and holly wreath
And surface pleasure, but beneath
The childish glamour, let us find
Nourishment for soul and mind.
Let us follow kinder ways
Through our teeming human maze,
And help the age of peace to come
From a Dreamer's martyrdom. - ~Madeline Morse

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Mene, Mene, Tekel, Parsin

2011-11-24T20:24:00.000+02:00

I love reading Bible stories to the boys. It is so refreshing to read these familiar accounts with the eyes of a child. Tonight we read the accounts of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in the fiery furnace and then the one where Daniel has to interpret the writing on the wall. Obviously the kids version is quite dramatic, yet simple. It doesn't include the words: "Mene, Mene, Tekel, Parsin" (thankfully), which were the actual words written on the wall.

If you want to know what they mean you will have to look it up yourself -
That's your home-work for today :)

May God bless us with enough simplicity to read and understand his word.

Living in Grace,
D3LM3

Disillusionment

2011-11-23T13:49:00.000+02:00

It is easy to be disillusioned now days. Our national sports teams toy with our emotions. Our national government passes a Bill that takes us back to the 'good old bad days'. Rising food and petrol prices put pressure on our bank balances.

So where can we turn?

Well, I find solace in the Scriptures because they remind me that previous generations have also felt disillusioned, but that God has come through for them.

"My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion for ever." - Psalm 73:26

"I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge." - Psalm 73:28

Oswald Chambers - "If our trust is placed in human beings, we will end up despairing of everyone."

First Bible

2011-11-22T12:48:00.000+02:00

This morning, I found one of the first bibles I was given as a kid - I was 6 at the time. It was such a special moment to find the bible again. It reminded me of the little Gideon's bibles we used to get at school. I used to always love the fact that the blue Gideon's bibles had verses to guide you through different circumstances. If you were worried or angry; needing direction or peace; seeking answers or upliftment, the references helped you to find the right verse to read.

Can you remember the first Bible you ever had. Tell me about it - I'd love to know.

If you are needing courage today then perhaps you can read this verse:

"Energize the limp hands, strengthen the rubbery knees. Tell fearful souls, "Courage! Take heart! God is here, right here, on his way to put things right And redress all wrongs. He's on his way! He'll save you!" - Isaiah 35:3

Living in Grace
D3LM3

John said ...

2011-11-20T16:47:00.000+02:00

John Lennon once said: "Life is what happens to you while you are making other plans."
So, are we busy making plans (only) and not living? Sure, it is important to plan and prepare for the future, but we mustn't forget to live life to the full.

May you have a blessed week.

Living in Grace,
D3LM3

Am I Hitler?

2011-11-18T10:08:00.000+02:00

Alright, it's official - Movember is becoming awkward. In fact, I am feeling persecuted, rejected and discriminated against. I have also been called all kinds of names. I admit that my moustache is a little weird, but in the last few days I have been told I look like 'Hitler', 'Super-Mario', 'Charlie Chaplin' and even something worse!!! Please pray for me and all other men who are growing their 'taches. We are doing it for a good cause.

If you want to know more about Movember visit this website. We are doing it to raise awareness of Prostrate and Testicular cancer.

Oh yes, please don't call me Hitler - I am feeling sensitive:)

Living in Grace
D3LM3

P.S. the guy in the photo is not me, nor any of my friends!!!

What is friendship?

2011-11-17T11:45:00.000+02:00

Leading on from my previous post, I have a question for us to think about:
What would your definition of friendship be?

Reading in John 1, I encountered the following description of Jesus' mission - he came into the world "full of grace and truth." Jesus came to earth full of grace and truth - it was these 2 qualities that revolutionised our world.

I want my friendships to be laced with these 2 qualities - GRACE and TRUTH. Grace to deal with my inadequacies and imperfections, but Truth to speak into my life and to hold me accountable to my callings to be a husband, father, child, brother, friend, pastor and leader.

"Don't walk behind me; I may not lead. Don't walk in front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend." - Albert Camus

Living in Grace

D3LM3

What a friend!

2011-11-17T11:36:00.000+02:00

We all need friends! I am speaking of friends of the good type. The ones who are there for you and who encourage you. The friends who you can call at all times of the day or night. The friends who you may not see often, but are still committed to the friendship. I am grateful that I have a number of awesome friends. I am also grateful that I view Jesus as my friend too.

What a friend we have in Jesus,

all our sins and griefs to bear!

What a privilege to carry 
everything to God in prayer! 
O what peace we often forfeit,
O what needless pain we bear, 
all because we do not carry 
everything to God in prayer. - Joseph Scriven

May you know Christ as your friend today.

Living in Grace,

D3LM3

A different take on studying

2011-11-15T20:29:00.000+02:00

Most of what we study we forget. As a lecturer, it is sad for me to admit this, but I know that now that my students have written their final exam, most of the information will soon be forgotten. I guess the real challenge comes in why and how we study. I like Ezra's take on studying...

"Ezra had committed himself to studying the Revelation of God, to living it, and to teaching Israel to live its truths and ways." - Ezra 7:8

Imagine if we all studied God's word with the purpose of living it out and then teaching it to others? Studying becomes multi-dimensional and actually useful. Wow, now there is a thought!

Living in Grace
D3LM3

This might not work!

2011-11-14T21:52:00.000+02:00

I have been enjoying reading Seth Godin's new book 'Poke the Box.' He writes a great paragraph on the topic of these 4 words - This might not work!

Seth argues that it is alright to say these 4 words. He adds:
"Is your work so serious and flawless and urgent that each thing you do, every day, must work? Change is powerful, but change always comes with failure as its partner. "This might not work" isn't merely something to be tolerated; it's something you should seek out." - Seth Godin

What do you think? Does your world allow you the freedom to risk?
Does the Church allow you the chance to do this?

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Proverbs 12

2011-11-13T22:06:00.000+02:00

We concluded our preaching series on Proverbs today, looking at chapter 12. Every word from the Scriptures speaks light into our lives and this chapter is no different. Here are a few verses that spoke to me:

¹ If you love learning, you love the discipline that goes with it— how shortsighted to refuse correction!

² A good person basks in the delight of God,
   and he wants nothing to do with devious schemers.

³ You can't find firm footing in a swamp,
   but life rooted in God stands firm.

¹⁸ Rash language cuts and maims,
   but there is healing in the words of the wise.

¹⁹ Truth lasts;
   lies are here today, gone tomorrow.

Why don't you take a read of the chapter and let me know which verse strikes you.

Have a blessed week,

Living in Grace,
D3LM3

Birthday request

2011-11-12T14:59:00.000+02:00

As you get older people start to ask you what you want for your birthday. It's a strange thing to ask, but I guess it does mean that you end up with good presents :)

To the Israelites, God asks a similar question:

"He said, "You're my son,
And today is your birthday.
What do you want? Name it:
Nations as a present? continents as a prize?
You can command them all to dance for you,
Or throw them out with tomorrow's trash."- Psalm 2

If God asks you what you want for your birthday, what would you say?

Living in Grace,
D3LM3

Remember for a reason

2011-11-11T18:45:00.000+02:00

We stopped for a moment of silence and prayer today, as did millions of others. There will never be another Remembrance Day like today's event, ever again....11-11-2011.

But what is our purpose in Remembering all those brave souls who died in battles all over the planet? There must be something deeper. Miroslav Volf is a Christian theologian and he argues that there is a powerful reason for our Remembrance:

"The proper goal – the appropriate end – of the memory of wrongs suffered is the loving reconciliation of all people, both perpetrators and victims. And when that love is reached – imperfect and fragile in this life but complete and invincible in the next – then the memory of those wrongs can end as well." (Volf, in the words of Craig Hamilton)

Is this why we Remember the sacrifice of Christ in Holy Communion? Not to remember the agony of the cross so much, but rather to understand the love and reconciliation of our Saviour.

Just thinking!

Living in Grace,
D3LM3

Bold Prayers

2011-11-10T09:51:00.000+02:00

Do you ever feel that your prayers are weak and lack any meaning? I sometimes do! Perhaps it is because we sell God short and we don't have the faith to pray bold prayers. David was always willing to be bold in his prayers, as well as deeply honest. Here is an example of part of one of his prayers:

Psalm 139:23-24
"Search me, God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting."

May your prayers be bold and honest today.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Your most important move

2011-11-07T14:21:00.000+02:00

We all disappoint God at times! We all sin and fall short of God's glory (Romans 3:23), but when we remain defeated and feel unworthy of God's love that's when our problem's really multiply. The most crucial move we make will be the move after we have realised our sin. If we move towards the grace of God, we can experience forgiveness and redemption. If we move away from God, we will feel guilt, alienation and dis-ease.

"The Most important move you will ever make in your life is the move you make right after you fail God. Will you believe the accuser's lies and give up in despair, or will you allow yourself to receive the forgiving flow of God's love?" - David Wilkerson

It's your move!

Living in Grace
D3LM3

What is in your heart?

2011-11-06T21:34:00.000+02:00

Pastor and author, Andy Stanley reflects on what is in our hearts.

“It is when our hearts are stirred that we become most aware of what they contain.”

“In the shadow of my hurt, forgiveness feel like a decision to reward my enemy. But in the shadow of the cross, forgiveness is merely a gift from one undeserving soul to another.”

As you begin this week may God stir your heart and may you remember that God loves you.

Living in Grace,
D3LM3

Asking the wrong question

2011-11-04T11:42:00.000+02:00

In his inaugural address American President John F. Kennedy said these famous words:
"Ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country."

I feel that we should change this statement rather to read as follows:
"Ask not what God can do for you, but rather what you can do for God!"

This is the question we should be asking.
If we dare...

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Too much on your plate

2011-11-03T21:57:00.000+02:00

The other morning one of the boys made himself some breakfast and when I looked at his bowl of cereal I knew he was never going to finish it - he had put way to much Pronutro into the bowl. When he was about half way through the breakfast he said to me "I can't finish it - there is too much on the plate!" I thought to myself, "No kidding, boy! Even Jonah Lomu wouldn't have finished that bowl of cereal."

In truth, how often do we do the same thing, but particularly in the things we take on. We can find ourselves getting to a place we were throw our hands up and say, "I have taken on too much! I can't finish all of this."
Can you relate to this?

May God grant us wisdom to do the important tasks and not to fill our lives with other 'stuff.' Saying NO is not a crime.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Greater Heights

2011-11-02T11:37:00.000+02:00

During the recent Willow Creek leaders summit, one of the speakers asked us to raise our hands. Every hand in the auditorium was raised. He then asked us to raise our hands 3 inches higher - which everyone managed to do. His point was this: "When asked to do something, why is it that most people just do the bare minimum? Why was it that no one raised their hands to their capacity the first time?"

He makes an interesting point, don't you think?

When we ask God to be our Saviour he invites us to go to great heights with him.

"The love of Christ compels us to do what we never thought we could do and go to heights we never thought we could reach. Precious is the name of Jesus!" - Max Lucado

May Jesus help you to reach heights for his sake.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Prayer for exams

2011-11-01T21:26:00.000+02:00

I found this prayer for exam times. If you are preparing to write exams, or know someone who is, may these words give you courage. Enjoy...

Lord, as I move into examination time I turn

once more to You, asking for your blessing and

assistance. I ask you to give me peace of mind with

a strong sense of work at this time. May I give

myself space and time to revise and prepare to sit

my examinations. Help me to keep focused on this task

and not get too distracted by other aspects of my

life. Keep me from getting into a panic and help me

to do justice to all my work and preparations.

On the days of my examinations keep me calm,

help me to think clearly and understand what I am

being asked and so to recall the study and work

I have put in so far this past year.

Above all Lord I ask that you will

allow my efforts to bring about the

life you have planned for me, may I

be open to your vision of what you

wish for me and may I accomplish

this now and in my future life.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Exam prayer discovered here

2 months to go

2011-10-31T21:45:00.000+02:00

As of today there are only 2 months left of 2011. The year is not finished yet, so let's do all we can to live our lives to the fullest. Catch your breath, say a prayer and live courageously.

"Don't be fooled by the calendar. There are only as many days in the year as you make use of." ~Charles Richards

"May you live all the days of your life." ~Jonathan Swift

Here are some things to do in the next 2 months:

1. Read a book for fun

2. Read a book from the Bible

3. Write a letter to a friend

4. Celebrate with family and friends

5. Think about others this Christmas and bless them

6. Watch 'that' DVD you have been meaning to watch

7. Take a walk and appreciate God's creation

Be blessed

Living in Grace

D3LM3

God is AWEsome

2011-10-30T22:31:00.000+02:00

Man, I love Jesus!

God is so AWEsome. At our 3 worship service today we celebrated a time of Thanksgiving. It is basically a time for people to share testimonies of thanks of what God is doing in their lives. WOW, I was blown away. God is at work, friends. If I had doubted this, well today I was reassured that God is still moving in our midst. The moving testimonies reminded us all that God takes care of his children and that God wants us to hang onto him. We know that life is full of 'dung' (as someone put it), but God wants to take us out of the mess and to lift us up. We can't escape the mess of life, but we can know that God is by our side.

Be blessed because God loves you. There are other men and women of faith who are also struggling on the same journey as you. You are not alone.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

P.S. The photo is of Nathan playing in the mud. Life can be muddy, but Jesus can make us clean :)

God gets a mention

2011-10-29T20:15:00.000+02:00

In our family prayer times we always ask the boys to thank God for something. It usually goes quite 'normally', but last night Josh prayer an interesting thing:

"Thank you God for mommy and daddy, Declan, Nathan, Bella (the dog), the bird, the fish and thank you for God...."

That's right Josh was thanking God for God! I am sure that God had a huge smile on his face - we certainly did. I think God was chuffed to get a mention in Josh's shopping list of prayers.

What do you think?

Living in Grace,
D3LM3

Inspiring quotes - part 2

2011-10-29T20:08:00.000+02:00

Our second day at the Global Leadership Summit was better than the first. There were so many amazing speakers and some deeply moving worship. Here are a few of my favourite quotes from the day's speakers:

"I would rather deal with anger than apathy." - Michelle Rhee

"When a wise person hears the truth, they adjust themselves to match the truth." - Dr Henry Cloud

"Humility is the noble choice to forgo your status and use your influence for the good of others." - John Dickson

"We are God's instruments to create the future." - Erwin McManus

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Inspiring leadership quotes

2011-10-28T15:24:00.001+02:00

We are attending the Willow Creek Leadership Summit at Kloof and it is inspiring.
Here are a few quotes from the various speakers today.

We live in a world that's crying out for better leadership - Bill Hybels

Instead of calling it failure, just call it an exercise in learning something
nobody else knows - Len Schlesinger

Before you tell me what you teach and preach. Show me how you
Live and give - Cory Booker

Make art. Give gifts. Lead. Make a difference - Seth Godin

Are you ready to break through your sound barrier? - Brenda McNeil

Living in Grace,
D3LM3

What are you aiming for?

2011-10-27T22:04:00.000+02:00

What are you aiming for? What is driving you at the moment?

"Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither." -
C. S. Lewis

May our aims be Godly.

Living in Grace,
D3LM3

Longing to be gracious

2011-10-26T13:31:00.000+02:00

God longs to be gracious to us. God looks for opportunities to bless us. This is what Isaiah says:

"Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you;
he rises to show you compassion.
For the Lord is a God of justice.
Blessed are all who wait for him!" - Isaiah 30:18

This is a far cry from the picture of God people try to paint - God is only out to get us. Or God is looking for ways to punish us. I think I prefer Isaiah's picture of God.
What about you?

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Courageous

2011-10-24T11:13:00.000+02:00

Muhammed Ali once remarked that "The person who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life."

For me, God took the ultimate risk in becoming a human, in the person of Jesus Christ. There is no greater risk than giving up your power! Perhaps this is why Jesus is revered and honoured above anyone else on this planet.

Risk is worth it!
Combine love with risk and you have enough power to change the world!

Living in Grace,
D3LM3

Take advice

2011-10-23T21:25:00.000+02:00

More wisdom from Solomon to start your week...

"Dear friend, take my advice;
   it will add years to your life.
I'm writing out clear directions to Wisdom Way,
   I'm drawing a map to Righteous Road.
I don't want you ending up in blind alleys,
   or wasting time making wrong turns.
Hold tight to good advice; don't relax your grip.
   Guard it well—your life is at stake!
Don't take Wicked Bypass;
   don't so much as set foot on that road.
Stay clear of it; give it a wide berth.
   Make a detour and be on your way" - Proverbs 4:10-15

God bless you this week,

Living in Grace
D3LM3

BE

2011-10-22T18:54:00.001+02:00

To be or not to BE - that is the question!

"BE doers of the Word." - James 1:22

"BE imitators of God ... And walk in love." - Ephesians 5:1-2

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Thank God

2011-10-20T15:56:00.001+02:00

When last did you say, "Thanks Lord!" I am not talking about how many people use the
term in a derogatory way - I mean in a genuine attitude of thanks!

Psalm 136:1 - "Thank God! He deserves your thanks. His love never quits." (MSG)

So, what are able to thank God for today?
I thank God for my family, my friends, my church, my health and all other blessings.
I thank God for the opportunity to do some writing this week.
I thank God for some struggles that make me rely fully on Jesus.

Thank God today!

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Press on

2011-10-19T10:35:00.000+02:00

We don't always reach our goals quickly. When it comes to our faith, it will take a lifetime. May you have the strength and grace to carry on. May God grant you perseverance and stamina for the journey.

"One thing I do, forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 3:13-14

Living in Grace
D3LM3

God is near

2011-10-18T10:06:00.000+02:00

In case you had forgotten - God is near to us. Spend a moment in quiet and ask the Spirit to help you sense God's presence. God has not gone anyway - God is with you right now. Believe it...

"What other nation is so great as to have their gods near them the way the LORD our God is near us whenever we pray to him?" - Deuteronomy 4:7

“The kingdom of God is near." - Mark 1:15

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Changing ourselves

2011-10-16T12:54:00.000+02:00

"Everybody thinks of changing humanity and nobody thinks of changing himself." - Leo Tolstoy

Matthew 7:3-5 - “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? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye."

Let's change the world, by changing ourselves first!

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Two Daddies...

2011-10-14T08:11:00.001+02:00

I was helping Josh brush his teeth this morning when he suddenly said, "Look, I see two Daddies?" I wasn't sure what he was getting at, but then noticed he was pointing at the mirror and then at me - two daddies - one in real life and one in the mirror!

How true his little statement is! There are two of me. The person the world sees and the 'real' me. How different the two 'daddies' can sometimes be. We all wear masks - we all try to portray ourselves to be better than we truly are. The real struggle in our Christian walk is to allow Jesus to take the 'real' me and to transform him into the person I was created to be. God knows our potential and he is willing to chip away at all our rough edges, making us into his masterpiece.

Jeremiah 17:9 - "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?"

Who are you?

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Christians believe in...

2011-10-13T10:18:00.001+02:00

What do you think of God? Is our picture of God damaged by disappointments and other people?
I want to echo these words - this is what I believe...

"Christians believe in a God who speaks. Ours is not a silent God, a God who sits,
Sphinx-like, looking out unblinking on a world in agony...
He speaks because he loves. Love always seeks to communicate."
- Donald Coggan

What do you believe?

Living in Grace,
D3LM3

Promise for today

2011-10-11T09:50:00.001+02:00

Be still and know that I am God! - Psalm 46:10

Come to me all you who are burdened and I will give you rest. - Matthew 11:28

Rest in His Grace
D3LM3

Needing wisdom

2011-10-09T21:50:00.000+02:00

If you are seeking wisdom, ask God for it! God has promised to give us wisdom - just read James 1 if you don't believe me.

Abraham Lincoln - "I have been driven many times to my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go. My own wisdom and that of those about me seemed insufficient for the day."

I have found the following 3 steps helpful in my life:

ASK God.
PRAY through your decision.
ACT in faith.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Prayer of Francis of Assisi - part 2

2011-10-07T07:45:00.000+02:00

Remember I mentioned 2 days ago that sometimes it is best to digest profound writings in smaller bites? Well, here is the second half of St Francis of Assisi's prayer. Enjoy and be blessed:

O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand;
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive;
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen

Living in grace
D3LM3

Spiritual heroes

2011-10-06T11:31:00.000+02:00

Most young boys go through a superhero phase. Josh has recently gone through the Batman phase, where all he ever wants to do is wear his Batman outfit - it is hard to convince a 3 year old that clothes need to be washed sometimes!

Dallas Willard is convinced that our world needs spiritual superheroes. This is what he had to say:

“The world can no longer be left to mere diplomats, politicians, and business leaders. They have done the best they could, no doubt. But this is an age for spiritual heroes- a time for men and women to be heroic in their faith and in spiritual character and power. The greatest danger to the Christian church today is that of pitching its message too low.”

Any thoughts? I'd love to hear from you sometime.

Living in Grace,
D3LM3

Prayer of Francis of Assisi - part 1

2011-10-05T10:35:00.000+02:00

The following prayer of St Francis is well known. There is so much depth in the words of his prayer that sometimes we lose the impact of each phrase and word. For me, it is best to 'digest' the words in smaller amounts - I appreciate their meaning more.

"Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love,
where there is injury, pardon,
where there is doubt, hope,
where there is darkness, light,
where there is sadness, joy."

Think on these words today.

Be Blessed by His Grace,
D3LM3

What I want

2011-10-03T11:25:00.000+02:00

We often get so caught up in 'what we want' that we forget to discern what God wants or needs from us. We live in a world that encourages us to take what we want, or to expect things to go our way, that when things don't, then we get upset with God.

"The world with all its wanting, wanting, wanting, is on the way out - but whoever does what God wants is set for eternity." - 1 John 2:17

May the Spirit of God teach us to discern what the heart of God wants.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Beginning of wisdom

2011-10-02T20:37:00.000+02:00

“Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Only fools despise wisdom and discipline.” – Proverbs 1:7

“Start with God—the first step in learning is bowing down to God...” – The Message

Let's put first things first!

Living in Grace

D3LM3

Proverbs

2011-10-01T20:16:00.000+02:00

Proverbs have the ability to convey a large amount of truth in a small number of words. Solomon was clear as to why he wrote these Proverbs down. This is what he had to say:

"Their purpose is to teach people wisdom and discipline,
to help them understand the insights of the wise.
Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives,
to help them do what is right, just and fair." - Proverbs 1

It sounds like our world should start reading Proverbs right away!

What do you think?

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Pray with us

2011-09-29T17:12:00.000+02:00

I sometimes find it helpful when people keep me accountable to pray. Because prayer is such a private devotion at times, we feel awkward to do this, but I think it is necessary. So I am inviting you all to join us in a day of prayer on Saturday (1st October). Pray where you are or join us at Wesley between 8am and 3pm. Pray for anything and anyone - pray for 5 minutes or 5 hours. Just pray.

1 Corinthians 14:15 - So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my understanding; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my understanding.

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Teresa of Avila

2011-09-29T15:27:00.000+02:00

I never quote people because I want to glorify them, but I recognise that often God has given them a deeply profound insight that blesses me. Teresa of Avila is one of the Christian Mystics who has inspired millions of people. Her 'success' is only founded in her love of Jesus. Read some of her insights that I have quoted below:

“To have courage for whatever comes in life - everything lies in that.”

“There are more tears shed over answered prayers than over unanswered prayers.”

“Let nothing disturb thee; Let nothing dismay thee; All thing pass; God never changes. Patience attains All that it strives for. He who has God Finds he lacks nothing: God alone suffices.”

“It is love alone that gives worth to all things.”

Living in Grace

D3LM3

I Care cycle tour

2011-09-28T20:39:00.000+02:00

A group of young cyclists have just finished a tour from Jo burg to Durban. What has made this trip remarkable is that they have completed this journey in 4 days - that's an average of 160 km's a day. I am tired just thinking about riding for that long:)

They have done this all in aid of "I Care" - an organisation which seeks to rehabilitate street children. Their commitment is an inspiration to many and we pray that their Cycle Tour will help set up a shelter in Pietermaritzburg. If you want to check out their Facebook page click on this link - They are still looking for donations towards the "I Care" ministry.

Thanks for the inspiration guys - Mike, Paul, Darren, Jane, Brad, Quin, Stu and the others...

Living in Grace,
D3LM3

No great man ever complains of want of opportunities.
Ralph Waldo Emerson

All shall be well

2011-09-27T15:19:00.000+02:00

Julian of Norwich is best known for the following quote:

“All shall be well, and all shall be well and all manner of things shall be well.” (She does repeat the first part on purpose:)

These words speak of her incredible faith in Jesus, because she was not going through a good time when she wrote those words. Sometimes we need to claim the promises of God, despite how we are feeling. Faith requires action.

This is another one of her thoughts...

“Let nothing disturb you. Let nothing frighten you. Everything passes away except God.”

Be blessed by the Spirit of God.

Living in Grace

D3LM3

Lesson from the Mystics

2011-09-26T17:26:00.000+02:00

I am currently leading my church history students through a study on the Christian Mystics. I find so much inspiration in the lives of people like Thomas a Kempis, Julian of Norwich, Meister Eckhart, St John of the Cross and Teresa of Avila. I would love to share some insights with you, from these humble Christians. Hopefully I will get to include a quote from each of them, over the next few days. May you be inspired by these words from St John of Cross today:

“In the evening of life, we will be judged on love alone.”

“In tribulation immediately draw near to God with confidence, and you will receive strength, enlightenment, and instruction.”

Living in Grace,
D3LM3

No matter what!

2011-09-25T12:51:00.000+02:00

When Peter wrote to the early church he wanted to encourage the Christians to keep the faith and to believe that God was with them, no matter what they were facing.

“My purpose in writing is to encourage you and assure you that the grace of God is with you no matter what happens.” – 1 Peter 5:12 (NLT)

May you know that God is going to be with you today, NO MATTER WHAT HAPPENS!

Living in Grace,
D3LM3

You call out the stars

2011-09-23T19:11:00.000+02:00

I had the privilege of sharing in the confirmation service at the Wykeham Collegiate School today. During our time of worship we sang a wonderful song called 'You call out the stars' - these are some of the words of the song:

"When I think the closest star is more than a million miles away
I can't even dream, how great you are
When I think that all I have is what you've given me
I'm so thankful Lord, so thankful Lord.

When I think you walked on water and calmed the raging seas
I am overwhelmed, how great you are
Amidst the storms and troubles, Lord beckon me
To walk on water, I'll walk on water.

To whom can I compare you, Holy One
Who is your equal, Lord there is none
There is none besides you, how great you are
There is none so worthy, how great you are
How great you are, Lord, how great you are."

Living in Grace,
D3LM3

Is this right?

2011-09-21T20:24:00.000+02:00

Aristotle is said to have been one of the wisest men to have ever lived. He is quoted as saying:

"Happiness is the meaning and the purpose of life, the whole aim and end of human existence."

Can this be true?
What do you think?
What would Jesus say about Happiness?

Living in Grace
D3LM3