Hiding from evil

"Hide me from the conspiracy of the wicked, from the plots of evildoers." - Psalm 64:2

It is very easy for us as South Africans to draw a parallel from today's reading, to the recent events of looting and violence in our country. It seems clear that those behind the actions plotted and conspired to bring maximum destruction to our communities. 

So, in light of these events, how do read David's words and what do we make of them? Would this mean that we hope God can hide us from the physical evildoers, or is he asking for protection from the fallout of their actions? Or is it a little of both? It is clear that as Christ-followers we will not be exempt from suffering, but what can we expect from God during these times? 

I realise these are tough questions, but they are on everyone's minds at the moment. Perhaps my response is too simplistic for some, but I want to believe that I can turn to God for help in my time of need and that God will protect me from the 'evil one.' This doesn't mean that I will never face trials or sorrow, but I see it as God's promise to keep my 'soul/spirit/life' safe from the clutches of the enemy. Even in ultimate death I can know that I am in the strong hands of my loving Saviour.

"Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings." - Psalm 17:8

Living in Grace

D3LM3

17 - Grace Graffiti

Would you be willing to accept Graffiti if the words and pictures spoke of love and grace? We are used to negative words spray painted on bridges and buildings, fences and walls, but it seems that most graffiti artists (not all) are hell bent on voicing their opinions from a negative slant, instead of using their spray-cans to speak words of life.

Here is a thought: If God were going to spray paint some graffiti on the walls of your heart what would God say?

Psalm 17:6-7 - "I call to you, God, because I’m sure of an answer.
    So—answer! bend your ear! listen sharp!
Paint grace-graffiti on the fences;
    take in your frightened children who
Are running from the neighbourhood bullies    straight to you." 

As we continue through the season of LENT let us look out for the messages of LIFE that God has painted all over our communities. They may not be as obvious as Graffiti, but they are definitely there.
 
Living in Grace
D3LM3

Proverbs 23 - Soak yourself

Capetonians don't have the luxury of having a soaking bath anymore, but I am sure we can all remember a moment where a long bath helped alleviate much stress. So, if you can imagine yourself getting into a soaking hot bath, then add Solomon's thoughts into the mix - he suggests that we rather soak ourselves into the 'Fear of God.'


Don’t for a minute envy careless rebels;
    soak yourself in the Fear-of-God—
That’s where your future lies.
    Then you won’t be left with an armload of nothing. - Proverbs 23:17-18 (Message)

His suggestion seems very weird and awkward, but his point is this: "By submerging ourselves in AWE of God, we are ready to give our all to God and not focus on temporary things. When we are fully covered by God's presence we know that God will cleanse us and renew our hearts.

Thoughts?

Psalm 17:8 - Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings

Living in Grace
D3LM3

Praying for a change

The volatile situation in our country has got a lot of us on our knees again. People have been called to a massive nationwide prayer event in Bloemfontein this weekend and we trust that all these prayers will make a difference. For those people who can't travel across country to this event, the churches in Hayfields are getting together to pray on the 22 April from 2-3pm. If you want to be part of this prayer time, please come along and join us. We are going to be meeting at the St Matthews Church in Hayfields - they have a lovely outdoor area, where we can sit and pray together as a community. Please pass on to anyone who may be interested.

Psalm 17:6 - I am praying to you because I know you will answer, O God. Bend down and listen as I pray.

Living in Grace
D3LM3