Through it all

Every now and then a song keeps playing in my mind and it speaks directly into my heart. In preparing for last Sunday's services, I was reminded of this song called "Through it all." The lyrics speak of how God is with us through the seasons of our lives and that when we look back, we can offer God our prayers of thanks and gratitude.

"You are forever in my life
You see me through the seasons
Cover me with Your hand
And lead me in Your righteousness

And I look to You
And I wait on You

I will sing to You, Lord
A hymn of love
For Your faithfulness to me
I'm carried in everlasting arms
You'll never let me go
Through it all."

If you get the chance, please listen to the song as it really is a beautiful song. You can use this link if you need. May we all remember that 'through all that happens to us, Christ is with us."

Isaiah 43:1-3

 But now, O Jacob, listen to the Lord who created you.
    O Israel, the one who formed you says,
“Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you.
    I have called you by name; you are mine.
2 When you go through deep waters,
    I will be with you.
When you go through rivers of difficulty,
    you will not drown.
When you walk through the fire of oppression,
    you will not be burned up;
    the flames will not consume you.
3 For I am the Lord, your God,
    the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.

Living in grace

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Being intentional about this important aspect of our lives

How many times have you recently thought to yourself: "I am tired. I need to get some rest. I feel drained." If you have experienced these feelings and emotions, then I ask another question: "have you managed to find a gap to restore your soul?"

When Jesus was constantly in the public arena and ministering to the crowds, he felt the same as we often feel. He was tired and needed time to recoup and regain his inner strength. Even in the midst of the demands, he made time to withdraw, even if it was for a short time.

45 Immediately after this, Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and head across the lake to Bethsaida, while he sent the people home. 46 After telling everyone good-bye, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. (Mark 6)

The people that Jesus sent home were the 5000 that he had just fed - that is a lot of people to send packing. However, Jesus did this graciously and knew that without taking care of his own soul, he would have nothing to give the people in the future. This is such a hard practise for us to get right, but something that it well worth us being intentional about.

Vane Havner once said: If you don’t come apart and rest, you will come apart.”

If you would like to read another similar post on this topic, please re-read the post from last week. For some reason, this post was 'taken down' by Facebook and so many haven't been able to read it. I think it was due to the name of the energy drink I mentioned in the title :)

Living in grace

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Even in your darkest hour, Christ wants to draw near to you.

 

"Late that night, the disciples were in their boat in the middle of the lake, and Jesus was alone on land. He saw that they were in serious trouble, rowing hard and struggling against the wind and waves. About three o’clock in the morning, Jesus came toward them, walking on the water." - Mark 6: 47-48

At three o'clock in the morning it is arguably one of the darkest periods of the night. It certainly can be one of the loneliest too. For the disciples trying to row back home on the Sea of Galilee, they were really up against the elements that particular evening. They were physically and emotionally spent. 

However, what I love about Mark's account of this incident, is that Jesus 'sees' them and then makes a movement towards them. Too often we get caught up in trying to figure out how Jesus actually walked on water - we struggle to get our minds around the physics of the moment, forgetting the gift of his calming presence. 

Jesus wants to come to us, even in our darkest hour. Do you feel that you are struggling with many things at the moment, and you are getting into serious difficulties? If yes, then why don't you call out to God and open your heart to His life-giving presence.

Living in Grace

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No greater gift

 
Mandela Day is celebrated on the 18th of July (his birthday) and many people try to do something charitable to honour his life. When we look at some of Mandela's words, we can understand why this is important. 

"You can never have an impact on society if you have not changed yourself."

"It is in your hands to create a better world for all who live in it."

"There can be no greater gift than that of giving one’s time and energy to help others without expecting anything in return."

One of my favourite quotes is this one: "Do not judge me by my success, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again."

Thoughts: As Christians we know that serving others is what Jesus asked us to do, so being part of Mandela Day activities is another chance for us to serve Christ, as we serve others.

Mark 10:45 - "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Living in Grace

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Pushed to my knees!

When Paul proclaimed that he was okay about his weaknesses, because they allowed God's strength to be revealed (2 Corinthians 12), I wondered how I could get to that same place. To be content in all situations is a hard journey to take.

However, as I re-read these words, from Eugene Peterson's paraphrase (The Message), I began to understand more of what this would require from me. And in truth, it is the simple knowledge, that when I am pushed down by my weaknesses and struggles, then I am moved into the best pose for honest prayer!

^7-10 Because of the extravagance of those revelations, and so I wouldn’t get a big head, I was given the gift of a handicap to keep me in constant touch with my limitations. Satan’s angel did his best to get me down; what he in fact did was push me to my knees. No danger then of walking around high and mighty! At first, I didn’t think of it as a gift, and begged God to remove it. Three times I did that, and then he told me,

My grace is enough; it’s all you need.
My strength comes into its own in your weakness." - 2 Corinthians 12:1-12

Action: If you would like to listen to my 20-minute podcast reflection on this passage, you are welcome to follow this link. 

Living in Grace

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P.S. Please let me know if the link works for the podcast. Thanks so much 

Red Bull - it can give you wings!

The energy drink, Red Bull, boasts that it can 'give you wings' and make you fly through life. Although it is a modern drink, one wonders if John Wesley had something like Red Bull in his day. The reason I say this is because according to biographers, John Wesley rode 60-70 miles per day (on horseback remember), preached 3 sermons a day (on average). It is estimated that he preached close on 42000 sermons in his lifetime. 

In his 83rd year, Wesley wrote in his diary: "I am a wonder to myself. I am never tired, either with preaching, writing or travelling." 

Do you see what I mean? He must have been sipping some Red Bull on his horse :)

But seriously, the only thing he would put forward as a logical reason for his energy and stamina, would be the 'Grace of God' and the power of the Holy Spirit. You can't keep going like that, without the power of God's supernatural favour and grace.

1 Peter 4:11 - If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

Thought: Are you relying on your own strength at the moment, or are you trusting in the power of God's spirit? May God grant you his strength and grace today.

Living in Grace

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Pilgrims on the journey

Followers of Jesus are often called 'Pilgrims.' There is a wonderful sense of coming together for one purpose, and that is to journey to the heart of God. In the Old Testament, it was about making the pilgrimage to Jerusalem, and as you did this, you meet with others, sang songs of praise and began to experience profound joy.

"I rejoiced with those who said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.”
2 Our feet are standing in your gates, Jerusalem." - Psalm 122:1

Isaiah 30:29 - You will be filled with joy, as when a flutist leads a group of pilgrims to Jerusalem, the mountain of the Lord— to the Rock of Israel.

"Pilgrims are persons in motion -
passing through territories not their own -
seeking something we might call completion,
or perhaps the word clarity would do as well,
a goal to which only the spirit's compass
points the way." - Richard R. Niebuhr

Thought: May you know the peace and joy of Christ as you continue to journey towards the heart of God.

Living in Grace

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Hope that is strong and trustworthy

There is not a lot in our world that one can call, 'strong and trustworthy.' In fact, displays of power and strength are usually more abusive than trustworthy. However, when I read through the book of Hebrews, I was captivated by verse 19 in chapter 6. 

Hebrews 6:18-19 - So God has given both his promise and his oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us. ¹⁹ This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. It leads us through the curtain into God’s inner sanctuary.

Holding onto a Hope that is strong and Trustworthy seems like something that is worth holding onto. 

"Trust is the glue of life. It's the most essential ingredient in effective communication. It's the foundational principle that holds all relationships." - Stephen Covey

Living in grace

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Refuge - a place of safety

"Then I pray to you, O Lord. I say, “You are my place of refuge. You are all I really want in life." - Psalm 142:5

The word Refuge is mentioned over 23 times in the book of Psalms alone, as well as in many other places in the Bible. It is a wonderful reminder for all of us, that when we face difficult times, we know that God will be our place of rest and safety. 

Deuteronomy 33:27 - The eternal God is your refuge, and his everlasting arms are under you.

2 Samuel 22:3 - my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. He is my refuge, my Saviour, the one who saves me from violence.

Nahum 1:7 - The Lord is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those who trust in him.

Thought: No matter what you are facing this week, remember that you can also take refuge in the presence of Jesus.

Living in Grace

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Saint Benedict - words of wisdom and a prayer

Saint Benedict was an Italian monk who had a profound influence on the Christian faith in the 5th Century, and his legacy lives on through the 'Rule of St. Benedict' and the monasteries founded in his name. 

Two of his famous quotes give us some insight into his soul. 

"He who labors as he prays lifts his heart to God with his hands."

"Prefer nothing, absolutely nothing, to the love of Christ."

In reflecting on his feast day, Malcolm Guite, wrote a beautiful poem/prayer to remember the life and work of this godly man. Here is part of his writing.

"You call us all to live, and see good days,

Centre in Christ and enter in his peace,
To seek his Way amidst our many ways,
Find blessedness in blessing, peace in praise,
To clear and keep for Love a sacred space
That we might be beginners in God's grace." - Malcolm Guite

Living in grace

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Stand firm in this grace

There are so many things that threaten our peace of mind, spirit and lives. It can be extreme weather conditions, like we are experiencing at the moment; challenges at work or in your family; financial strain or even worries about the future.

So, when these waves break over you, how do you manage to stand firm? What do you do? Who do you hold onto? I have been reminded again and again that the best way for me to stay strong, is to rest in the Grace of God. 

2 Chronicles 20:20 - Believe in the Lord your God, and you will be able to stand firm.

Psalm 33:11 - But the Lord’s plans stand firm forever; his intentions can never be shaken.

1 Corinthians 16:13 - Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong.

1 Peter 5:12 - My purpose in writing is to encourage you and assure you that what you are experiencing is truly part of God’s grace for you. Stand firm in this grace.

Prayer: Lord, help me to lean upon your amazing grace and so then, to stand firm in the peace that you give to us. Amen.

Living in Grace

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Are you looking for some direction?

"If, then, you are looking for the way by which you should go, take Christ, because He Himself is the way." - Thomas Aquinas

As we embark upon any activity today let us commit to take Christ with us. This may seem like a simple thing to do, but how many times do I rush out the door in the mornings, without offering my day to Jesus? 

And as we face challenging tasks in the day, wouldn't it make us feel more at peace, if we could say: "Lord, Jesus, you are MY way. Help me to keep my eyes on You."

Thought: If you are seeking direction in your life, why don't you start with making Christ your center, your way, your life? Once we have this in place, we can trust that God will lead us on into the unknown.

Psalm 5:8 - Lead me in the right path, O Lord, or my enemies will conquer me. Make your way plain for me to follow.

Living in Grace

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Guide me, O thou Great Jehovah

When William Williams wrote the words of Guide me, O thou Great Jehovah, I wonder if he realised what an influence it would have on many of our lives. As we read (or sing) these words, what comes to your mind?

Guide me, O thou great Jehovah, pilgrim through this barren land. I am weak, but thou art mighty; hold me with thy powerful hand. Bread of heaven, bread of heaven, feed me till I want no more; feed me till I want no more.

Open now the crystal fountain, whence the healing stream doth flow; let the fire and cloudy pillar lead me all my journey through. Strong deliverer, strong deliverer, be thou still my strength and shield; be thou still my strength and shield.

When I tread the verge of Jordan, bid my anxious fears subside; death of death and hell's destruction, land me safe on Canaan's side. Songs of praises, songs of praises, I will ever give to thee; I will ever give to thee.

They surely give us some insight into the trials that Williams may have faced in his native Wales (in the 1700's), as well as his trust in God's deliverance. Taking examples from the Old Testament, Williams reminds us that God is our provider, deliverer and redeemer. Williams is remembered as one of the most famous Welsh Methodist hymn writers.

Blessings to you.

Living in Grace

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Beware of the leaks

As the winter rains start in the Western Cape, so we also begin to notice the places in our buildings where leaks have started to show. This can be a devasting time for people, as many don't know how they will contain their fragile coverings and homes. 

It struck me again this week, as I was trying to deal with a leaking washing machine, that unless we deal with these leaks when we first notice them, they will only get bigger and more destructive. 

I guess, the same would apply in our spiritual lives too - unless we take note of the places where we feel we are weak or cracks are beginning to show, then we could be in for some very difficult times.

"Laziness lets the roof leak, and soon the rafters begin to rot." - Ecclesiastes 10:18

Thoughts: Do you have some cracks beginning to show in your faith? What can you do to mend the problem areas? 

Living in Grace

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Late or right on time?

"There’s more to come: We continue to shout our praise even when we’re hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next. 

In alert expectancy such as this, we’re never left feeling short-changed. Quite the contrary—we can’t round up enough containers to hold everything God generously pours into our lives through the Holy Spirit!

Christ arrives right on time to make this happen. He didn’t, and doesn’t, wait for us to get ready. He presented himself for this sacrificial death when we were far too weak and rebellious to do anything to get ourselves ready." - Romans 5: 3-8(Message)

I really enjoy Eugene Peterson's paraphrase of these verses from Romans. It gives me the peace that Jesus is always showing up in our lives, at just the right time! If you read it in different versions, you will get the same confirmation, but with a slightly different emphasis.

"When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners." - Romans 5:6

Living in Grace

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A prayer for the start of a new week

As you begin the new week, I wanted to offer you a beautiful prayer to help you in your plans and preparations. May it be a blessing to you.

“O Lord, who has mercy upon all, take away from me my sins,

and mercifully kindle in me the fire of Your Holy Spirit.

Take away from me the heart of stone,

and give me a heart of flesh,

a heart to love and adore You,

a heart to delight in You,

to follow and to enjoy You,

for Christ’s sake.” - St Ambrose of Milan, 337-397 AD

"I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh." - Ezekiel 11:19

Living in grace

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Take my hand

There are many stories of how difficult circumstances have birthed songs, books or poems. The songwriter, Thomas Dorsey, wrote the words to "Precious Lord, take my hand", after hearing of the tragic death of his wife and infant son. I can't imagine the pain he must have been experiencing, but I find it remarkable how he was able to put his emotions into these words. I believe that these words can offer us all some hope and courage in our own times of difficulty. 

Lead me on, let me stand,
I am tired, I am weak, I am worn;
Through the storm, through the night,
Lead me on to the light:

Take my hand, precious Lord,
Lead me home.

When my way grows drear,
Precious Lord, linger near,
When my life is almost gone,
Hear my cry, hear my call,
Hold my hand lest I fall:

When the darkness appears
And the night draws near,
And the day is past and gone,
At the river, I stand,
Guide my feet, hold my hand:

Psalm 73:23 - Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand.

Living in Grace

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Remembering that God will help us to face all obstacles

Hudson Taylor – “All God’s giants have been weak people who did great things for God because they reckoned on God being with them.”

As these words began to sink into my mind, I thought of all the 'spiritual giants' in the Bible and realised that Hudson Taylor is right. The reason why they all did great things for the Lord is because they remembered that God was always with them. This doesn't mean that they didn't encounter tough times, but their faith's foundation was built on the promises of God. 

Do you know that God is with you? What stops you believing this?

We note the confidence in young David when he stood up to Goliath. He knew God would deliver him from the hands of the giant. 

"The Lord who rescued me from the claws of the lion and the bear will rescue me from this Philistine!” Saul finally consented. “All right, go ahead,” he said. “And may the Lord be with you!” - 1 Samuel 17:37

Living in Grace

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Our confidence in Christ

Can our confidence in Christ help us in our everyday witness for the Gospel? If you are not sure what I am really asking, then please read these words from Huldrych Zwingli and see if my question then makes sense.

"Our confidence in Christ does not make us lazy, negligent, or careless, but on the contrary, it awakens us, urges us on, and makes us active in living righteous lives and doing good. There is no self-confidence to compare with this."

Zwingli's words make sense to me. It reminds me that when we rely on the gift of the Holy Spirit, we can be confident in God working through our lives.

Hebrews 10:35 - So do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you!

Living in Grace

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If God is for us...

 

Our thought for today is really simple. I pray that it would help you in whatever you are facing.

"What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us?" - Romans 8:31

Try and remind yourself that it is not just 'you' facing the world alone; but rather it is 'Christ and you' standing together. When Christ is 'for you', nothing can stand against you.

Living in Grace

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Trying to find the right balance

As Christians we wrestle with the dilemma of being submerged in our communities, as witnesses for Jesus, but at the same time, not wanting to take on the ways of the world. It is a hard balance to live out. Too much of an influence from the outside, can pull us away from the Christian Life; but if we stay hidden away from a world that is searching for answers, how will people ever hear about Jesus?

It is interesting to read these words from the early Church Father, Tertullian, who shows us how the Christian community didn't shrink back from the world in which they found themselves:

“We have filled every place among you – cities, islands, fortresses, towns, marketplaces, camps, tries, companies, palace, senate, forum …. We are not like (others) exiling themselves from ordinary life…. We go to your forum, your market, your baths, your shops, your workshops, your inns, your fairs, and the other places of trade.” - Tertullian

“You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it salty again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless.

“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. 15 No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house." - Matthew 5:13-14

Thought: Ask God to help you shine His shine into your community today.

Living in Grace

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Prayers for post-Election deliberations

As we contemplate the outcome of the elections in South Africa and as we nervously seek a way forward, we have been asked to hold these deliberations in prayer. Here is a prayer that was given to us by the Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa. Even if you are currently living in another country, I believe the prayer is appropriate for all of us to use. Let us believe in miracles. God bless you. 

"Heavenly Father,

We come before You with hearts full of hope and faith, seeking Your divine intervention in the formation of a government of national unity in South Africa. We acknowledge Your sovereignty and wisdom over all nations and leaders.

Lord, we came together and petitioned You for peaceful elections and You answered our prayers. We seek Your face once again Lord and ask for Your guidance and wisdom to be upon our leaders as they navigate the complexities of governance. Grant them the humility to set aside personal ambitions and partisan interests for the greater good of our nation. May they be inspired by a spirit of collaboration and mutual respect, recognizing the value of each contribution towards a unified and prosperous future.

Instill in them a deep sense of justice, compassion, and integrity, so that they may serve with a heart for the people, especially the marginalized and vulnerable. Help them to listen to one another, to seek common ground, and to forge a path that promotes peace, stability, and shared prosperity.

We pray for the people of our nation, that we may support and encourage our leaders in their endeavors. Unite us in purpose and resolve, so that we may all work together towards a future where harmony, equality, and opportunity abound for everyone.

In Jesus name, we place our trust and hope. Amen."

Living in Grace

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Following closely - like a shadow

When Simon (the Sorcerer) came to know Jesus as his Lord, he left his old life and followed Phillip wherever he went. It was as if he felt that in being close to Philip, this would keep him close to Jesus.

"Even Simon himself believed and was baptized. From that moment he was like Philip’s shadow, so fascinated with all the God-signs and miracles that he wouldn’t leave Philip’s side." - Acts 8

Of course, there is a lot of wisdom in his actions, as we would all do well to follow the example of Godly people. However, we should do this without glorifying the actions of people, but rather seeing Christ in their lives.

Thought: If you could walk in the shadow of another person, who would that be?

Living in Grace

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Why do we make excuses?

Many Christians make excuses for the lack of something in the spiritual lives. We may hear someone say: "I can't share my faith because I am a shy person" or "I don't know as much about the Bible as others " or "I am not perfect." 

While all of these statements may well be true, when we speak like this, we deny the power of God's spirit to work in the "ordinary-ness" of our lives. There are plenty of Biblical examples of people who used the same excuses we do, yet they eventually allowed the power of God to change their lives. 

Take Stephen as an example: Stephen was chosen as one of the 7 new disciples because “he was a man full of the Spirit and wisdom” and we see that when Stephen surrendered himself fully to Jesus, he “performed amazing miracles and signs among the people.” (Acts 6:8) However, if you read the rest of the story, you will note that he was initially chosen to be a kitchen-worker and administrator - solving the issues that had arisen in the distribution of food. 

“Stephen, the kitchen worker, stands tall in the annals of faith as one of those men who did much for God’s Kingdom. Clearly, God doesn’t need everyone to be preachers and teachers; he just needs ordinary people who will learn from Him and be willing to be used in extraordinary circumstances.” – NLT Bible commentary

Thought: What can we do for the kingdom of God?

Living in Grace

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Through the strength of God

“We are used to viewing the early apostles as superstars on a pedestal that we can easily forget that they were pitifully inadequate for the task which they were given.” – Phil Moore

This quote brings us back to the reality that the disciples were simply 'human', just like we are. They allowed the Holy Spirit to equip them and strengthen them for all the tasks that lay ahead, even when they didn't know what these would be. How often have we been confronted with a task or situation that we have felt ill-equipped for, and God has come through for us? I know that this has happened to me many times.

Thought: What are you facing today that you need to be reminded of God's strength and provision?

"The members of the council were amazed when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, for they could see that they were ordinary men with no special training in the Scriptures. They also recognized them as men who had been with Jesus." - Acts 4:13

Living in Grace

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You are my hiding place

I have found such comfort in these words over the past few days. 

"For you are my hiding place;
you protect me from trouble.
You surround me with songs of victory. 

The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life.
I will advise you and watch over you." - Psalm 32:7-8

In my mind I see two big ideas that are conveyed to us through the words of this Psalm.

1. We can find shelter, protection and care, in the presence of Jesus.

2. The Lord guides us into paths that are best for us.

Thought: 

Which one of these speaks to your situation at the moment?

There is a beautiful song that put these words into music and verse. If you have time, you can listen to it on this platform. 

Living in Grace

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The riddle of the Universe

The Universe is a complex system that we only know a small fraction of. However, as Christians, we believe that when we come to know the Author of Life, we get closer to understanding the heartbeat of this universe. 

Michael Green reflects on how the Holy Spirit changed the lives of the disciples so much, that it was as if they had discovered the 'riddle of the universe' and they were prepared to live and die for it. 

“Here were men and women of every rank and station in life, of every country in the known world, so convinced that they had discovered the riddle of the universe, so sure of the one true God whom they had come to know, that nothing must stand in the way of their passing on this good news to others….”

Hebrews 11:3 - By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.

Thought: Are you still looking for the answers to Life? Why not place your trust in the Author of all Life?

Living in Grace

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Walking with a limp

I was reading a quote from Brian McLaren, that spoke of 'admitting that we walk with a limp.' It was in the context of speaking of Church Orthodoxy and Faith, but I like the concept he was suggesting. 

How often do we, as Christians, pretend that all is well and that we have all things figured out? We do this to cover up our own questions, fears and failings. It is as if we carry an injury with us, but we are too proud to walk with the limp - we want to give the impression that we are strong and healthy. Yet, that is living a lie.

The longer I serve Jesus, the more I see that indeed I walk with a limp. I am wounded and God is okay with my wounds. I will keep following in the ways of Jesus, even if I walk with a spiritual limp. 

As we reflect on this, we are drawn to the familiar story of Jacob. We find it in Genesis 31:

24 So Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him till daybreak. 25 When the man saw that he could not overpower him, he touched the socket of Jacob’s hip so that his hip was wrenched as he wrestled with the man. 26 Then the man said, “Let me go, for it is daybreak.”
But Jacob replied, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.”

27 The man asked him, “What is your name?”
“Jacob,” he answered.

28 Then the man said, “Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome.”

29 Jacob said, “Please tell me your name.”
But he replied, “Why do you ask my name?” Then he blessed him there.

30 So Jacob called the place Peniel, saying, “It is because I saw God face to face, and yet my life was spared.”

31 The sun rose above him as he passed Peniel, and he was limping because of his hip."

If God could walk with Jacob, and still choose him to become Israel (Genesis 32:28), then we are in great company.

Thought: Don't be afraid to walk in the footsteps of Christ, even if your walk is not perfect.

Living in Grace

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A prayer for the Elections in South Africa

 

As we embark upon another National Election, this is what is on my heart at the moment. These are just a few words that express my prayers for South Africa.

Lord, we pray for our elections in South Africa, and for all involved in monitoring that they are undertaken in a free and fair manner.

We pray that peace would prevail in our beloved land, despite the short-sighted people that seek to be disruptive and divisive.

We pray for all who will vote, believing that our individual vote can make a difference.  

We step forward in hope, trusting that our voices will be heard and that political parties will start to make good on their promises.

Our deepest longing is for trustworthy leadership in South Africa. For men and women who would not bribe us for our votes and then take advantage of their positions for the next 4 years.

We pray for servant leaders, who are willing to roll up their sleeves and help us provide solutions to the myriad of problems we face. (At the moment, it seems that most leaders rather want to roll down their sleeves to protect their Rolex’s and expensive jewellery.)

We pray for a miraculous outpouring of love, grace and unity in our communities. Where people with divergent opinions and political viewpoints, can use our collective humanity to change our world.

We pray for a reawakening in the spiritual lives of all South Africans, so that we would see how Your hand can guide us and lead us into the future.

We pray that Faith, Hope and Love, would permeate the breadth of our land and that we would experience Your peace.

Lord, in your mercy,

Please hear our prayers. Amen.

Living in Grace

D3LM3

After Aldersgate

John Wesley's heart-warming experience in Aldersgate (24 May 1738) is well documented. However, what is not well known is it that although John's encounter with God gave him deep assurance of his salvation, he was not exempt from further trials. This is important for all Christians to know and understanding. Any encounter with God will deepen our faith and our experience of Jesus, but we will continue to live in a broken world. It is how we are now equipped and prepared for the new challenges that makes all the difference. 

Listen to how John Wesley describes his new attitude to challenges: 

"After my return home, I was much buffeted with temptations; but cried out, and they fled away. They returned again and again. I as often lifted up my eyes, and he sent me help from his holy place. And herein I found the difference between this and my former state chiefly consisted. I was striving, yea, fighting with all my might under the law, as well as under grace; but then I was sometimes, if not often, conquered: now I am always a conqueror." - John Wesley

Before Aldersgate, Mr. Wesley felt that he was striving and fighting in his own strength. After his Aldersgate experience, he allowed God to do the fighting.

Romans 8:37 - No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.

Thoughts: What can John's story teach us about our own journey of faith?

Living in Grace

D3LM3

Now unto Him

Benedictions have become an integral part of many churches over the centuries. Sadly, sometimes we forget that these 'last words' or 'parting blessings' are not just a nice way to end the time of worship, but also a careful reminder of the incredible power of God. It is almost as if we need a final reminder, before we head out into the world, that God is bigger than we realize, and that the Holy Spirit will help us more than we hoped.

Take this passage for example, see what it tells us.

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen." - Ephesians 3:20-21

Thought: The next time you sing (or say) a Benediction, think about the words you are speaking over life. 

Living in Grace

D3LM3