Barnabas Ministries UK

June 30^th – 2016

Rev. E. Anderson

WELCOME TO THIS CHRISTIAN WEBSITE

Welcome to this Christian Website which has now been going for a number of years. Over 130,000 people have visited it since 2006. On the left hand side of the introductory page is a host of subjects and material that have been placed during this time and is there for your interest, study and perusal.

I feel it is time and right to change the format and to present day by day something a little simpler and trust will benefit and bless those who visit it. It will consist of A Golden Promise from the Scriptures, Wisdom that Works by Bob Stevenson, Choice Quotations and daily Meditations, working through the whole Bible, something to focus your mind on are included that can be developed more fully by you. I trust you will find such refreshing and helpful.

A GOLDEN PROMISE

“From now on, there is stored up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give to me on that day; and not to me only, but also to all those who have loved his appearing” – 2 Tim 4:8

The Apostle Paul is nearing the end of his life when he makes reference to his spiritual son, Timothy. He boldly proclaims that there is a crown of life/righteousness that is stored up in heaven for him that God Himself will place on his head on that special day.

He also says that there is not only a crown waiting for himself, but for all those who love the Lord Jesus Christ and look forward to His appearing. That makes me wonder if there is a literal crown prepared for each one of us that is in some heavenly storage case waiting to be presented on the day of Christ’s appearing.

It is comforting for me to know that one day, I will stand before my God and Father and beside my elder brother, Jesus Christ, when the crowns will be handed out. Imagine what it will feel like to have the King of kings place a crown on your head that will never fade!

While I have no ability to process such a glorious thought, it does cause my spirit to rise up in anticipation for that amazing day.

WISDOM THAT WORKS

MAKING THE SPARKS FLY – Rev. Bob Stevenson

“A friendly discussion is as stimulating as the sparks that fly when iron strikes iron”.

Read: Proverbs 27:17’

This phrase is commonly used in a negative sense to describe the outcome of some imminent confrontation between conflicting parties. I well remember my mother exhorting me to get some task completed before myfather came home from work, warning me, ‘Otherwise, sparks will fly’.

The setting in which these ‘flying sparks’ are put here in Proverbs has quite the opposite of meanings.

I don’t know about you but there is something arresting and compelling about the sight of sparks flying. It grabs your attention irrespective of the means by which they are generated. In my younger days I had opportunity to watch a blacksmith at work. Sam, as he was called, was outwardly one of the most uncouth individuals I have ever met. Yet for all this, I loved to see him at work in his blacksmiths shop and could spend my whole lunch break captivated by the sparks he made to fly, as his hammer made contact with red hot metal. These same moments of inspiration are replicated when you are able to talk with somebody who is on your wavelength, who rings your bell so to speak, and engages you in stimulating conversation. Just like those sparks, it holds your attention and has you on the edge of your seat, and when appropriate, stimulates you to contribute your insights and observations. So keep those friendly discussions going!

QUOTES TO NOTE – Henry Ward Beecher
It is one of the severest tests of friendship to tell your friend his faults. So to love a man that you cannot bear to see a stain upon him, and to speak painful truth through loving words, that is friendship.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

GOOD INSTEAD OF EVIL – 1 Samuel 24; Romans 12: 17-21

It did appear as if Saul had been deliberately put into David’s way to dispose of him. He was certainly put under pressure by his men that this was the opportune hour to get rid of the man that was making his life extremely difficult. The argument that they stressed seemed legitimate: “This is the day of which the Lord said to you ‘Behold I will deliver your enemy into your hand. . .’”. It would have been easy to have  yielded to the will of these men who had stood by him, but he restrained himself from such a deed although it seemed justified.

He discovered a greater principle directing his action and thus he was saved from making a grave mistake.  Even though Saul was in this evil grip he was aware of the fact that he had been appointed and anointed king by the Lord. It was not his responsibility to perform this evil but to show kindness and this he did leaving his enemy convicted and overwhelmed. He put into operation the principle taught by Christ in Matthew 5: 43-48 and Paul in Romans 12: 17-21. He could not afford to live with real regrets on this matter.

Be determined to always practice that which is kind and good even to those who may not seek your welfare. Do not to be overcome by wrong attitudes and deeds but be positive in your approach that would work in opposition and seek your humiliation. The best way is to “kill our foes with kindness.” This Christ-like procedure can have a powerful effect upon them and cause them to know the reality of the Christian message. In showing the Christian disposition you are not only revealing the law of the divine Kingdom, you are releasing a powerful ministry and influence.

June 29^th – 2016

Rev. E. Anderson

WELCOME TO THIS CHRISTIAN WEBSITE

Welcome to this Christian Website which has now been going for a number of years. Over 130,000 people have visited it since 2006. On the left hand side of the introductory page is a host of subjects and material that have been placed during this time and is there for your interest, study and perusal.

I feel it is time and right to change the format and to present day by day something a little simpler and trust will benefit and bless those who visit it. It will consist of A Golden Promise from the Scriptures, Wisdom that Works by Bob Stevenson, Choice Quotations and daily Meditations, working through the whole Bible, something to focus your mind on are included that can be developed more fully by you. I trust you will find such refreshing and helpful.

A GOLDEN PROMISE

“And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me for his heavenly Kingdom; to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen. 2 Timothy 4:18

Paul the Apostle, was writing to his spiritual son, Timothy, when he made this reference. We know from the telling of Paul’s life in the Bible that his life was difficult. He was stoned, beaten, ship wrecked, imprisoned and persecuted at every turn.

I am sure there were times where he struggled with discouragement. But even through the darkest moments, we do know that he eventually came to a place where he declared in Romans 8:38 that nothing on earth or in heaven, could ever separate him from the love of God in Jesus Christ.

From what I understand, this letter to Timothy was near the end of Paul’s life and he was already looking towards his eternal home in heaven. Praise God for his declaration that the Lord would rescue him from evil and safely deliver him into an everlasting kingdom where there would be no more pain or suffering.

Praise God for this promise! No matter what trials you are suffering at this moment, you can rest assured that our God and Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ will rescue you and safely deliver you into an amazing, everlasting kingdom.

WISDOM THAT WORKS

THE COMPLAINTS DEPARTMENT – Rev. Bob Stevenson

“A constant dripping on a rainy day and a cranky woman are much. alike! You can no more stop her complaints than you can stop the wind or hold on to anything with oil slick hands. .”.

Read: Proverbs 27:15-16

In these days of ‘user friendliness’ and customer satisfaction, many of the major retailers provide a Complaints Department. This is not so much for the individual satisfaction of some aggrieved shopper but rather a sincere attempt to give due diligence to all the various aspects of an effective customer service. I have the greatest admiration for the staff who have to service these outposts of verbal frustration from the public. These outbursts oftentimes develop into personal abuse and anger which has to be so carefully managed.

Sensible organizations roster staff carefully so they do not become frazzled or unnerved by the constant bombardments of abuse. Imagine then, the domestic scenario of having to live day after day with a complaining and nagging partner, hell bent on unloading their daily dissatisfactions and unpleasantries. I use the word ‘partner’ for a purpose! Although our proverb singles out the female gender, my experience has taught me that there are more than enough individuals of both sexes ready to bend somebody’s ear with their moans and groans.

Given time, like dripping water, it will be a constant annoyance and any attempt you make to silence these complaints will have as much chance of success as trying to halt the wind with your outstretched hand, or take hold of something with greasy fingers.

QUOTES TO NOTE – Henry Ward Beecher
The soul without imagination is what an observatory would be without a telescope.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

ENCOURAGEMENT – 1 Samuel 23

There were moments when David required encouragement, especially in the circumstances that he was placed in when Saul was after him. Having been kind to the people of Keilah in delivering them from the Philistines, Saul discovering his whereabouts was determined to go there and destroy him. In inquiring of the Lord as to what the inhabitants would do should this occur, the Lord makes it plain that the people could not be trusted to secure his welfare. The fact that the Lord informed him of this must have been an encouragement’

At this point Jonathan his friend was able to make contact and it states in v16 – “Then Jonathan, Saul’s son, arose and went to David in the woods and strengthened his hand in God.” What a choice ministry to perform at a difficult time! He went out of his way to give assurance and encouragement. David must have welcomed the sight of him and his words. He was further encouraged when Saul had to retreat from him when he was very near because of the invasion of the Philistines – v27.

It is well to realize that one of the urgent ministries in life and in the Christian Church is to be an encourager. It is enriching to be in the situation where you are able to speak the right inspired word, perform a gracious deed that will lift the spirit of someone and refresh their heart. Why not seek out someone who is in desperate need of some stimulated word and assistance that will make them feel good and enable them to carry on and press through! It is a rewarding exercise!

FURTHER NOTES ON THE MINOR PROPHETS

(5)

TOO LATE!

HOSEA 5

The Lord plainly tells His people that there will come a moment when it will be too late to seek Him because they have gone too far over the edge and judgment will be inevitable – v5. He was addressing the professed spiritual leaders and expressing the fact that the northern part was doomed because of the utter wickedness of all. There was no way that He could forestall judgement any further and no action on their part could stop what was to be. These are very sad words – “Too Late!” They disclose and describe a hopeless state of affairs.

(1) IT WAS SEEMINGLY TOO LATE TO AMEND THEIR WAYS

It appears from v6 that there does look as if there was some attempt to find God and make amendment but one just wonders whether it was genuine or mere outward show. Maybe it was an effort to try and prevent what they knew was going to happen and there was an absence of a true seeking of the Lord. They could now read the signs and so were driven by fear rather than a wholesome desire to know, love and worship Jehovah. The Lord could read the situation perfectly and had no time for it.

(2) IT WAS TOO LATE FOR THE LORD TO RETURN AND SHOW GRACE

The Lord had left them to their true deserts. They had tested His grace to the utmost limit and it was now time to withdraw it. To have further demonstrated some favour may well have brought further abuse of it. It would have been senseless to have gone back because it would not have improved matters as God in His wisdom could foresee. The only way forward was to let things take their course.

(3) IT WAS TOO LATE TO PREVENT THE AWFUL CONFLICT And SLAVERY

The Lord foretells what is to be and it does not make comfortable reading. Judgment is to fall like a waterfall – v1 O. The people will be consumed like a moth eats wool and their strength will be utterly weakened like dry rot. It is just an exposure and end as revealed in their nature and practise. They will be torn apart and finish up in bondage – v14. When it all occurs they will know that there is no escape route.

(4) IT WAS TOO LATE UNTIL THE TIME OF RENEWAL OCCURRED

Thankfully, at the concluding part of this section there is the promise of the Lord’s return and the revelation of His grace. Until that time schedule and ultimate intervention everything is in abeyance. God’s people will have to wait the Lord’s time for the restoration of His grace that will ensure a new beginning and future. Whilst the Lord says “Too Late”, Now! thankfully His covenant word and grace still exist for future unveiling.

CLIMAX

There is a major lesson to learn in all this. One must not presume upon or abuse God’s grace and favour. One should know Him and His timing.

June 28^th – 2016

Rev. E. Anderson

WELCOME TO THIS CHRISTIAN WEBSITE

Welcome to this Christian Website which has now been going for a number of years. Over 130,000 people have visited it since 2006. On the left hand side of the introductory page is a host of subjects and material that have been placed during this time and is there for your interest, study and perusal.

I feel it is time and right to change the format and to present day by day something a little simpler and trust will benefit and bless those who visit it. It will consist of A Golden Promise from the Scriptures, Wisdom that Works by Bob Stevenson, Choice Quotations and daily Meditations, working through the whole Bible, something to focus your mind on are included that can be developed more fully by you. I trust you will find such refreshing and helpful.

A GOLDEN PROMISE

“The world is passing away with its lusts, but he who does God’s will remains forever” – 1 John 2: 17

We live in a temporal society. Here today, gone tomorrow. Things rust, thieves break in and steal, economies crash. There is nothing in this life that will last forever. The Bible says that even the heavens and the earth will one day be re-created. We are encouraged in God’s Word to look at the unseen things and not the things that are seen. The eternal things, not the temporal things.

Much of the world’s focus is in the realm of the temporal things. What we wear, where we live, what car we drive, how much money is in the bank, etc. But God makes an unshakeable promise that has nothing to do with the temporal things of this world.

Those who do the will of our God and Father will live forever! What a promise! May we fix our eyes today on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith and seek to simply be obedient to what He calls us to do at this moment. Because of Jesus, we have a promise to live forever in His glorious kingdom. Hallelujah!

WISDOM THAT WORKS

TIMING IS EVERYTHING – Rev. Bob Stevenson

“If you shout a pleasant greeting to a friend too early in the morning, he will count it as a curse”.

Read: Proverbs 27:14

Saying the right thing at the wrong time is as bad as saying the wrong thing at the right time. We have all either witnessed or experienced occasions when somebody is so obviously distressed, even to the point of tears, when some individual will come along and say, “Is anything wrong, dear?” To state the obvious when it is plain to all and sundry that something is very much wrong, can be the most galling of experiences. Then there are the times when you have a break-down problem with your car and some bright spark asks you if everything is okay!!

Now we all know that these comments are most of the time sincere attempts to be sympathetic or at least be a genuine offer to be of some help. But the timing of such intended pleasantries can cause them to have the very opposite effect. What is intended to be a blessing actually turns out to be a curse and all because the timing was wrong.

The exhortation of our proverb is to try to be sensitive to the situation before you open your mouth and put your foot in it.

A sense of occasion not only requires us to present ourselves in the right way but to consider the timing of our remarks and be aware of the adverse effect they may have.

QUOTES TO NOTE – Henry Ward Beecher
The soul without imagination is what an observatory would be without a telescope.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

MAKING A TEAM – 1 Samuel 22: 1-4; Mark 3: 13-19

Who would have thought that in the midst of David’s dilemma and difficulty the Lord would enable him to form and forge a constructive team that would serve David and the interests of the kingdom of Israel! Yet that is what occurred. At this time, when he was under so much pressure, there came to join him not only his family but something like four hundred men, and he began to assume command over them. One would have thought it was enough to be seeking his own security and good without this burden. But he is not overwrought about it but is prepared to assume the duty to lead and care. It says, “he became captain over them” – v2.

The men who joined up with him certainly appeared to be problem people with huge needs – “And everyone who was in distress, everyone who was in debt, and everyone who was discontented.” What a motley crew! Who could imagine that a worthwhile body of soldiers, men of nerve, strength and ability would be produced from such material? In looking at the twelve Christ chose to be His disciples and leaders one would not have given much in the way of prospect with regard to any of them. In the case of both David and Christ, they welded these people into dynamic teams.

People need to be brought under the inspiration and blessing of good and godly leadership. It was not what these men had been: it was what they became under noble leaders that took them under their wing. They were ready to be directed and disciplined and so became a powerful unit for good. Under Christ and Christian leadership today there is no reason why we cannot be made into people of noble character and with capable ministries conducting successful missions in teams. As you put your self under good men who are prepared to disciple then you make the grade and graduate with and for God.

June 26^th – 2016

Rev. E. Anderson

WELCOME TO THIS CHRISTIAN WEBSITE

Welcome to this Christian Website which has now been going for a number of years. Over 130,000 people have visited it since 2006. On the left hand side of the introductory page is a host of subjects and material that have been placed during this time and is there for your interest, study and perusal.

I feel it is time and right to change the format and to present day by day something a little simpler and trust will benefit and bless those who visit it. It will consist of A Golden Promise from the Scriptures, Wisdom that Works by Bob Stevenson, Choice Quotations and daily Meditations, working through the whole Bible, something to focus your mind on are included that can be developed more fully by you. I trust you will find such refreshing and helpful.

A GOLDEN PROMISE

“The name of Yahweh is a strong tower: the righteous run to him, and are safe” – Proverbs 18:10

The name of our Lord and God is a strong tower, a mighty fortress that we can run to any time, night or day, and find safety. Psalm 91 talks about this strong tower being ‘the secret place of the Most High’. It is a place where we can stay our entire lives, dwelling under the shadow of the Almighty.

Many of the anxieties that we experience in our society come from a place where we do not feel safe and secure. God is our strong tower! We can rest assured that safety is found in the borders of His love. What father wouldn’t have a heart to protect his children?

God is the perfect Father and promises to be there for us…as a fortress that we can depend on for shelter.  When I think of this promise, I feel peace in my heart knowing that I have a safe place where I can go, and so do you!

WISDOM THAT WORKS

 POOR CREDIT RISKS – Rev. Bob Stevenson

”The world’s poorest credit risk is the man who agrees to pay a strangers debts”.

Read: Proverbs 27.-13

Today’s Proverb makes the parable of the Good Samaritan even more amazing to |me, I have always marvelled at this Bible story of the unbelievable kindness and generosity of the Samaritan man He not only helped at traveller in distress, but was prepared to pay whatever it took to see this unfortunate man back on his feet (See Luke 10 30-37)

I was always under the impression that the main thrust of this parable was the triumph of compassion over religious prejudice but this proverb has given me an added insight. Not only can you be religiously bigoted as racially prejudiced but you can actually have the support of the very word of God, as our proverb for today points out, and use it to over-ride a heart of compassion

The Samaritan did the very opposite with Old Testament scripture Even if the religious scribe and priest had allow pity to extend to one so incapable of helping himself l doubt if they would have rash as to say they would pay another man’s debt

If your heart of compassion makes you susceptible to some financial loss, go with your heart every time. After all, its only money you can lose, but your kindness will pay rich dividends.

QUOTES TO NOTE – Henry Ward Beecher

The soul without imagination is what an observatory would be without a telescope.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

LOYALTY – BEING TRUE – 1 Samuel 20

These two godly men, Jonathan and David, had entered into a sacred and loving covenant and it was to be severely tested in terms of fidelity and trust. The time came when it would be under pressure but when that happened it did not fail on either side. They were both committed to God and each other. Jonathan was quite a remarkable individual because he knew David was destined to be king. He was not jealous about it but delighted and ready to surrender his claim and right. All that he wanted for his real pal and comrade was his exaltation.

His father would seek to antagonize Jonathan against his friend and colleague but he would have none of it, in fact, he sought earnestly to bring sense into the situation and create peace and good will. It became evident that David’s life was in jeopardy and so he took the measures whereby he could rescue him out of the clutches and evil intention of his father. Before they parted on this occasion he said: “Go in peace, since we have sworn in the name of the LORD saying, ‘May the LORD be between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants forever.’ So he arose and departed, and Jonathan went into the city . .” –  v42.

It is well to honour commitments made out of love and loyalty. In a world of social and spiritual relationships, where peoples’ words appear to be no longer their bond, how essential it is that Christians maintain fidelity to what has gone from their lips, especially in sacred covenant to God and others. If you desire to keep your friendships intact and worthwhile, then we make sure that your stated intentions are sustained even though it may be at great personal cost and loss. This kind of thing makes for the wholesome production of a noble character and life.

June 25^th – 2016

Rev. E. Anderson

WELCOME TO THIS CHRISTIAN WEBSITE

Welcome to this Christian Website which has now been going for a number of years. Over 130,000 people have visited it since 2006. On the left hand side of the introductory page is a host of subjects and material that have been placed during this time and is there for your interest, study and perusal.

I feel it is time and right to change the format and to present day by day something a little simpler and trust will benefit and bless those who visit it. It will consist of A Golden Promise from the Scriptures, Wisdom that Works by Bob Stevenson, Choice Quotations and daily Meditations, working through the whole Bible, something to focus your mind on are included that can be developed more fully by you. I trust you will find such refreshing and helpful.

A GOLDEN PROMISE

“Yahweh executes righteous acts, and justice for all who are oppressed” – Psalm 103: 6

Isn’t it good to know that God promises to provide justice for those who are oppressed? I am amazed at the number of verses in the Bible which speak about God’s heart for the weak of this world, the poor, the mistreated, children, widows, orphans, etc. He has always been the protector of those who have difficulty protecting themselves.

He is a God that does not rejoice in evil or injustice, but rejoices when the truth wins out. (1 Corinthians 13:6) Whatever unjust situation that you find yourself in today, be encouraged to know that God is for you and He understands your life and your suffering. It is my prayer that each one of us will be able to rest in our God and Father’s saving, protecting power today.

WISDOM THAT WORKS

 DEFENSIVE DRIVING – Rev. Bob Stevenson

“A sensible man watches for problems ahead and prepares to meet them. The simpleton never looks and suffers the consequences”.

Read: Proverbs 27: 12

There are driving courses which are designed to impart the skills of trying to anticipate what other road users might do in certain traffic scenarios. One of these skills is the development of a far sighted reading of the road conditions ahead. This requires the ability to keep your focus well ahead of your vehicle in keeping with your speed and the potential for a hazard emerging. Lots of  accidents occur just because people are inept at reading the road signs and hazard signals which are not always displayed so obviously. No! Not the literal road sign and signals but the ones that have the dynamics in place for a disaster to occur. For instance, the sight of small children on the edge of the roadway could spell danger. Because of their juvenile volatility and impulsive behaviour, this could cause them, without warning, to run suddenly out into the road.

So it is with the journey of life, if we don’t develop the anticipatory skills enabling us to read the warning signs ahead of us. We are told the simpleton can only see as far as the end of his nose and therefore suffers the consequences of his short-sightedness. Be on the lookout for the problems ahead and take all the defensive action necessary.

QUOTES TO NOTE – Henry Ward Beecher

The soul without imagination is what an observatory would be without a telescope.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

MARVELLOUS PRESERVATION – 1 Samuel 19; Psalm 121

This further phase of divine preservation in the life of David displays just what a unique destiny he was called to. What comes to view is the capacity of the Lord to keep His prospective servants in all kind of situations. Time and again he was to discover that he was covered in all sorts of dangers. It was the mind and heart of Saul to dispose of David and even Jonathan expressed the fact so clearly – v2. The Philistines once again mustered their forces and David led the battle against them and won the day and was divinely preserved – v8.

It was not welcome news to Saul and when the opportunity came for him to throw his spear to kill David, the Lord was there to safeguard – v10. In his wife, at that time, he found an ally, and when Saul would have taken and disposed him she enabled him to escape. He found refuge with Samuel and again Saul sent messengers to arrest him but they were arrested by God’s Spirit. He went, with evil intent, and was overcome in a sovereign manner by the Spirit of God – v23. He was not permitted to carry through the wicked notions entertained in his mind.

There is security and safety in the will of God and no evil enacted by men, demons or even Satan can overcome us while we live under His grace and covering. The Lord knows how to preserve His saints and to keep them in all kinds of difficult conditions. Today you are not only well thought of by the Lord, He will look after you and your interests as you keep Him in focus and first place in your life. There is divine preservation on you on this planet till your work is done!

FURTHER NOTES ON THE MINOR PROPHETS

(5)

TOO LATE!

HOSEA 5

The Lord plainly tells His people that there will come a moment when it will be too late to seek Him because they have gone too far over the edge and judgment will be inevitable – v5. He was addressing the professed spiritual leaders and expressing the fact that the northern part was doomed because of the utter wickedness of all. There was no way that He could forestall judgement any further and no action on their part could stop what was to be. These are very sad words – “Too Late!” They disclose and describe a hopeless state of affairs.

(1) IT WAS SEEMINGLY TOO LATE TO AMEND THEIR WAYS

It appears from v6 that there does look as if there was some attempt to find God and make amendment but one just wonders whether it was genuine or mere outward show. Maybe it was an effort to try and prevent what they knew was going to happen and there was an absence of a true seeking of the Lord. They could now read the signs and so were driven by fear rather than a wholesome desire to know, love and worship Jehovah. The Lord could read the situation perfectly and had no time for it.

(2) IT WAS TOO LATE FOR THE LORD TO RETURN AND SHOW  GRACE

The Lord had left them to their true deserts. They had tested His grace to the utmost limit and it was now time to withdraw it. To have further demonstrated some favour may well have brought further abuse of it. It would have been senseless to have gone back because it would not have improved matters as God in His wisdom could foresee. The only way forward was to let things take their course.

(3) IT WAS TOO LATE TO PREVENT THE AWFUL CONFLICT AND SLAVERY

The Lord foretells what is to be and it does not make comfortable reading. Judgment is to fall like a waterfall – v1 O. The people will be consumed like a moth eats wool and their strength will be utterly weakened like dry rot. It is just an exposure and end as revealed in their nature and practice. They will be torn apart and finish up in bondage – v14. When it all occurs they will know that there is no escape route.

(4) IT WAS TOO LATE UNTIL THE TIME OF RENEWAL OCCURRED

Thankfully, at the concluding part of this section there is the promise of the Lord’s return and the revelation of His grace. Until that time schedule and ultimate intervention everything is in abeyance. God’s people will have to wait the Lord’s time for the restoration of His grace that will ensure a new beginning and future. Whilst the Lord says “Too Late”, Now! thankfully His covenant word and grace still exist for future unveiling.

CLIMAX

There is a major lesson to learn in all this. One must not presume upon or abuse God’s grace and favour. One should know Him and His timing.

June 24^th – 2016

Rev. E. Anderson

WELCOME TO THIS CHRISTIAN WEBSITE

Welcome to this Christian Website which has now been going for a number of years. Over 130,000 people have visited it since 2006. On the left hand side of the introductory page is a host of subjects and material that have been placed during this time and is there for your interest, study and perusal.

I feel it is time and right to change the format and to present day by day something a little simpler and trust will benefit and bless those who visit it. It will consist of A Golden Promise from the Scriptures, Wisdom that Works by Bob Stevenson, Choice Quotations and daily Meditations, working through the whole Bible, something to focus your mind on are included that can be developed more fully by you. I trust you will find such refreshing and helpful.

A GOLDEN PROMISE

“Leave your fatherless children, I will preserve them alive; and let your widows trust in me” – Jeremiah 49:11

In the Old Testament Hebrew culture, a child who was fatherless was considered an orphan even if they were still under the care of their mother. That is why James says that pure religion is to take care of the widows and the orphans. God’s heart is for those who are vulnerable. God’s heart is for the underdog and those who are exploited in our society.

I personally believe that this promise not only applies to those who have had their father/husband die, but all who do not have a father/husband in their home. With the divorce rates reaching the 50% mark in many Western countries, I believe that this promise that God makes to protect the fatherless and the widows is very relevant in the society in which we live.

If you are in a situation where you are (or feel) fatherless, be encouraged that our God and Father promises to protect you. If you are widowed, divorced or separated in some way from your husband, God knows your needs and He will care for you like no one else possibly could.

WISDOM THAT WORKS

 KIDS WILL BE KIDS – Rev. Bob Stevenson

“My son, how happy I will be if you turn out to be sensible! It will be a public honour to me”.

Read: Proverbs 1: 1-6

A long time ago my wife and I made the decision that whatever, or however, our children ultimately turned out to be, sensible or not so sensible, we would always be there for them if they needed us

Your children can never stop being your children and you can never stop being their mother and father. You may choose to disown your children and vice versa, but that can never break the blood bond between you and your DNA will always be identical whether you like it or not.

Children can be a blessing or an embarrassment. They can evoke pride of place in their parent’s hearts or sadness and disappointment. Either way, the reason for either response, like it or not, is our parentage. We enjoy the proud moments because we can rightly claim that we had a part in their creation and to some degree their development. We get hurt and offended at the disappointing moments for exactly the same reason. We are blessed to have children we are extremely proud of. Their mother and l can sing their praises to all our friends and associates. That does not mean that disappointments have been altogether absent. However, our decision has been set in concrete. Whatever happens, we will never revoke our privilege and responsibility of parenthood to them.

 QUOTES TO NOTE – Henry Ward Beecher

The real man is one who always finds excuses for others, but never excuses himself.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

UNNECESSARY JEALOUSY– 1 Samuel 18: 6-30

Looking at the life of Saul at this period of life, he appears to be making a rod for his own back in his treatment of David. Instead of acting with the grace of wisdom, he behaves in a very jealous manner, which was uncalled for. David was not his enemy, but he acted in envy because of a number of things that were creditable in him.  He was jealous over his success, over the fact that the Lord was with him, that he knew constant victories and that those who he led were impressed by him, also, that he conducted himself in a wise and becoming way. David never sought to gain any advantage over him but endeavoured to serve him in humility.

The king should have been glad and grateful that he had a trustworthy servant and he could have made way for him as his successor.  Instead he took the opposite stance in seeking to remove him.  This young man became a threat to his whole life and future. He allowed himself to be ravaged by a wrong mindset and attitude that robbed him of real peace and pleasure. What an opportunity for the monarch to introduce a wholesome spirit and attitude into the nation!

The apostle Peter gives some sound advice for all to heed to in 1 Peter 2:1. He says, “Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy and all evil speaking.” These things must not be allowed to be birthed and developed within amongst the Christian community because they spoil character and the good that can be accomplished. Do all within your power through God’s grace to keep your inward condition holy and healthy at all times. This provides a wholesome basis from which God can work through in a greater manner and measure.

June 23^rd – 2016

Rev. E. Anderson

WELCOME TO THIS CHRISTIAN WEBSITE

Welcome to this Christian Website which has now been going for a number of years. Over 130,000 people have visited it since 2006. On the left hand side of the introductory page is a host of subjects and material that have been placed during this time and is there for your interest, study and perusal.

I feel it is time and right to change the format and to present day by day something a little simpler and trust will benefit and bless those who visit it. It will consist of A Golden Promise from the Scriptures, Wisdom that Works by Bob Stevenson, Choice Quotations and daily Meditations, working through the whole Bible, something to focus your mind on are included that can be developed more fully by you. I trust you will find such refreshing and helpful.

A GOLDEN PROMISE

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God” – Matthew 5:9

How do you think a father feels when he sees his children are fighting with each other in his home? As a father myself, I know how grieved I have felt when I have seen my children not getting along. A father’s heart is for peace and harmony for his kids.

When I think of this promise, I am encouraged that there is a blessing for us when we love peace and we do everything within our power to live at peace with all those around us. Sometimes it is simply not possible, but as far as it is within our control, may we be a people that love peace. In today’s promise, we read that the children of God will be peacemakers.

Since we have been made one with Jesus and one of His names is the Prince of Peace, may we love to bring peace wherever we go. May we be dispensers of peace in places of turmoil. May the peace that passes our understanding guard our hearts and our minds in Christ Jesus. My heart’s cry is that all of us within the Body of Christ would look to nurture peace wherever we go.

WISDOM THAT WORKS

 A FRIEND IN NEED – Rev. Bob Stevenson

“Never abandon a friend – either yours or your fathers.  Then you won’t need to go distant relatives in your time of need”.

Read: Proverbs 27.-10

Maintaining and cultivating friendships is a very important part of our lives. Friendships can be forged for a lifetime and can in some cases be even more meaningful in their association than those of our blood relatives. How do you foster friendships that can stand the test of time’? l

mean those friendships that you know you could count on to help when you are really in trouble?

Recently a neighbour whom we had never met before knocked on our door in the early hours of the morning. There was an emergency with her father who had some kind of seizure and had to be taken to hospital. Since that time we have developed a wonderful friendship with this family. I am sure that as a result of us helping out in their emergency, we could, without hesitation, feel free to call on each other at any time of the day or night to get help if needed.

Of. course friendships have to be fostered and kept alive! Not always by life changing, cataclysmic events, but by the occasional small, and not very expensive kindness of an out of the blue phone call, an email or an invitation for coffee.

Whatever happens, don’t abandon your friends, whether long standing or recently acquired, you might need them some day.

QUOTES TO NOTE – Henry Ward Beecher

Hold yourself responsible for a higher standard than anybody expects of you. Never excuse yourself.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

COVENANT FRIENDSHIP – 1 Samuel 18: 1-4

What a good spirited and warm-hearted person Jonathan was! This had already been reflected in his life in close association with the one who bore his armour. His associate then had discovered what a fantastic attitude he had and was happy to link up with him in vital conflict. Now it is to be manifested in a greater measure with David after his success over Goliath. The coming together of these choice people was to serve the interests of God and of Israel and to be an illustration of what true spiritual friendship could mean and achieve.

It could be said they were kindred spirits, appreciating the good and the courageous that possessed them both. Jonathan, it would seem took the initiative, being the older and also the king’s son, in forming this strong spiritual bond. He was not jealous of David’s success but was glad that he had arrived to bring about such through God for Israel.  In humility and honesty they could appraise and approve the virtues of each other and not be envious. He was not afraid to express his great appreciation and affection – v4.

Maybe there is someone that the Lord wants you to form a close liaison with, someone that you can find pleasure and profit with. Our meeting with others can be so providential that mutual gain can arise in the rich union of spirits. It happened with Elijah and Elisha, Peter and John and others. Two are better than one and can be a real helpmeet to each other especially in seasons of conflict. If you have not such a close bond with someone, why not ask the Lord to send a person across your pathway so that your life and ministry can be blessed and so that you can have an unselfish interest and input into such an individual.

June 22^nd – 2016

Rev. E. Anderson

WELCOME TO THIS CHRISTIAN WEBSITE

Welcome to this Christian Website which has now been going for a number of years. Over 130,000 people have visited it since 2006. On the left hand side of the introductory page is a host of subjects and material that have been placed during this time and is there for your interest, study and perusal.

I feel it is time and right to change the format and to present day by day something a little simpler and trust will benefit and bless those who visit it. It will consist of A Golden Promise from the Scriptures, Wisdom that Works by Bob Stevenson, Choice Quotations and daily Meditations, working through the whole Bible, something to focus your mind on are included that can be developed more fully by you. I trust you will find such refreshing and helpful.

A GOLDEN PROMISE

“Or do you despise the riches of his goodness, forbearance, and patience, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?” – Romans 2:4

I love this promise. Romans 2:4 basically says it is the very goodness of God that leads people to repent. Many times, when we think of repentance, we think of it as a shame based response to some form of judgment in our lives. But really, it means to go in another direction or to change our mind.

When Jesus said, ‘Repent for the kingdom is near’, He was calling people to go in a new direction, a new way of thinking where they would know the truth and the truth would set them free. For too long, the word repentance has had far too many negative connotations.

There may be a place for a fire and brimstone, or a turn or burn message in the proclaiming of the gospel. But there is also a place when we simply proclaim God’s goodness and His love and the result is that people will respond by going in a new direction… towards their loving Father through Christ. I  believe that it is the love of God that will cause people to truly repent. In John 4:19, it says…We love because He first loved us.

God loved us while we were still His enemy (Romans 5:6-10). I believe it is the love of the Father that will melt the hearts of humanity and draw each one into His bosom through the free gift of His Son, Jesus Christ. It is our Papa’s goodness that will lead us to change our minds and go in a new direction.

When I think of this promise in this light, it changes the way I see evangelism. It is the goodness of our Heavenly Father that will cause the biggest transformation in a person’s heart.

WISDOM THAT WORKS

FAMILY TIES – Rev. Bob Stevenson

”Even honey seems tasteless to a man who is full; but if he is hungry, he’ll eat anything. A man who strays from home is like a bird that wanders from its nest. Friendly suggestions are as pleasant as perfume”.

Read: Proverbs 27:7-9

There come times in the lives of most of us when we want to settle down and begin to feather our nest. ln the normal course of events we are happy to spend our quality time just being together with our newfound loved one.

This doesn’t mean that we cut ourselves off from friendships, associations and pastimes that have occupied us in the past. Even in a marriage relationship there has to be opportunity given for the individual pursuits of each partner. However problems can arise if we imagine that we can live the same kind of lifestyle that we enjoyed in our single state. Once we make a commitment to a permanent relationship we have to be prepared to accept the responsibility and in some instances, the restrictions on our movements that such a commitment requires.

The animal kingdom can teach us many lessons on parental and relational responsibilities. Like the bird referred to here, the significant word that is used is ‘wander’.

Legitimate times and seasons of separation do no relationship any harm whatsoever, but If the wanderlust spirit is allowed to get the upper hand, those family ties can soon be jeopardized and trouble is ahead!

Remember, absence makes the heart grow fonder too much absence makes it wander! So make sure you don’t stray too far away from home!

QUOTES TO NOTE – Henry Ward Beecher

Gratitude is the fairest blossom which springs from the soul.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

WEAPONS OF OUR WARFARE – 1 Samuel 17; 2 Corinthians 10: 1-5

Besides trusting in the Name of the Lord and in His ability, David had a proven track record with his sling. Through his shepherd days he learned the art of throwing stones with a sling and hitting the mark with devastating impact. He knew that Goliath was depending on his might, size and weapons in the contest. His sling and stone seemed insignificant in contrast.  But he was confident in his God that all he required was one stone to register in the right place and so he threw with inspiration, power and direction. With God’s help he succeeded in bringing his opponent down – “So David prevailed over the Philistine with sling and stone, and struck the Philistine and killed him. But there was no sword in the hand of David” – v50.

Paul made it abundantly clear that in his life and ministry for Christ, victory and success depended not on carnal weapons but the prayerful use of spiritual abilities that God has given through His Spirit and Word. Strongholds of evil were no match for the people who were trained and gifted by God with the armour of righteousness, love and truth etc. Satan, and the hosts of wickedness, could be beaten by the right means.

We learn the lesson that we must become familiar with the use of our spiritual artillery so that we can successfully wage war with the wicked powers arrayed against us. No weapon that is formed against us can prosper so victory is ours! We can win the day and register triumph in our times over the power of evil. It is now opportune for us to register divine triumphs by the same means.