Barnabas Ministries UK

July 31^st – 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

“Beloved, now we are children of God, and it is not yet revealed what we will be. But we know that, when he is revealed, we will be like him; for we will see him just as he is” 1 John 3:2:2

When Jesus returns, we will be like Him because we will see Him as He is. This Scripture tells us that at this point, we don’t know what that will look like. All we know is that when we fix our eyes on Jesus, there will be a final transformation that will take place to conform us into His image completely.

While this promise gives us hope for the future, it also speaks directly into our present situation. The Apostle John encourages us that we are sons of God now! We do not have to wait until we see Jesus face to face to experience the tangible reality of being God’s kids. We are His children now, and one day, we will see all of the human trappings of our flesh consumed in the fire of the presence of Jesus when we see him face to face.

But until then, we have an amazing promise that we are already the children of God right now! May each one of us be able to see with our spiritual eyes today that the promise of God is not only for the future, but for the present!

WISDOM THAT WORKS

THE GREAT QUESTIONS OF LIFE – Rev. Bob Stevenson

“I am too stupid to call myself a human being. I cannot understand man, let alone God. Who else but God goes back and forth to heaven? Who else holds the wind in His fists and wraps up the oceans in His cloak? Who but God has created the world? if there is any other, whet is His name — and His Sons name — if you know it?”.

Read: Proverbs 30: 1-4

“Who created the world?” or “How did it come into being?” are questions which have occupied some of the sharpest minds in history. Every day that goes by we are learning more and more about the world as it exists today. We still discovering new species of life on earth in the oceans around us.

The make up of the human frame can be reduced to a few chemical compounds easily obtained from anywhere on earth. They can now measure the earth’s size and weight with incredible miniscule accuracy. We map out the intricate genetic codes of minescule living beings. We can even identify the DNA every individual human being on the planet to almost 100% accuracy. We can fly to the moon and send remote controlled vehicles to land on Saturn. We can investigate the wonders the cells in our body which contain more than the components parts of a Boeing 747 aircraft. And so we could go on in areas microbiology, physics and the whole gamut of the other sciences.

However nobody has ever yet satisfactorily found the answer to our two basic questions. Is it any wonder that Agur thought himself stupid in even posing the question, that could be any other than God and his Son?

QUOTES TO NOTE – John Maxwell

Teamwork makes the dream work, but a vision becomes a nightmare when the leader has a big dream and a bad team.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

THIRSTING FOR GOD – Psalm 42

What descriptive language is used here by the psalmist to reveal what he felt in his being toward God! He expresses the depth of his whole inward state in these choice words – “As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after You, O God” – v1. There had been times when he had seen these creatures in their quest for water in a desperate state, especially in a dry season. They literally craved, sought and called out for a drink of water. In this sight he saw a picture of his own spiritual longing for God to come and satisfy his immediate need. He had a seemingly unquenchable thirst to know and experience God in His fullness in his life.

The rest of the psalm makes known that he was in a trying situation. He was feeling low and depressed and required the intervention and blessing of God in his life and affairs to lift him out of himself. Thankfully he was aware of the fact that only the Lord could and would answer this prevailing condition. To look to anyone else or elsewhere would be a vanity. Deep within, he firmly believed that the Lord would turn up and refresh him totally. He did say, “Yet the Lord will command his loving-kindness in the day-time . . .” He would not be left high and dry but the Lord would more than compensate his thirst and quest.

So with you: be sure that when things are all dried up and you are in impossible straits, keep on in your reach out for God. You may be may be at full stretch at this moment, desperate for the answer of the Lord Himself: He will come and provide an oasis of life and sustenance that will renew and satisfy you to the full. No one else can meet and minister to you like Him, and He is still on the scene to make sure you do not die of thirst.

July 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 perusa

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

“Therefore, I tell you, don’t be anxious for your life: what you will eat, or what you will drink; nor yet for your body, what you will wear. Isn’t life more than food, and the body more than clothing? 26 See the birds of the sky, that they don’t sow, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns. Your heavenly Father feeds them. Aren’t you of much more value than they?” – Matthew 6:25,26

This is a relatively short promise compared to the lengthy corresponding Bible text. But if you look at the simple message that Jesus is saying, the promise is short and sweet. When I was growing up, I was taught that worry was a sign of being responsible. If I didn’t worry, then I didn’t care.

As I get older, I am learning that many of the things that I was told were actually not the truth. Worry is not helpful to us. Worry is not a sign of responsibility. While worry cannot extend our lives, studies show that it can shorten our lives because over 70% of illnesses are stress related. This only goes to show that our bodies were not created to deal with a lot of stress.

Jesus encourages us to ‘take no thought for our life’…period. The reason we don’t have to worry is because we have a Father in heaven who has promised to take care of us all of the days of our lives. In this passage of Scripture, Jesus tells how His Father cares for the birds of the air who do not sow or reap or store into barns. He then asks the question… How much more valuable are you than the birds?

Worry is a sign that we are not yet convinced of our value to God. Don’t worry about how much you worry though! Just ask God to give you a deeper revelation of your worth to Him. Fathers provide for their children. Children don’t have to beg for their provision, they can just rest in the knowledge that they are being cared for by a loving Dad. Don’t worry… God will take care of you!

WISDOM THAT WORKS

INTIMIDATION – Rev. Bob Stevenson

”A man who assists a thief must really hate himself! For he knows the consequence but does it anyway. Fear of man is a dangerous trap, but to trust God means safety”.

Read: Proverbs 29:24—25

It is a sad fact of life that there will always be those pathetic individuals who by various ways and means use the power of intimidation to achieve their nefarious ends. Whether by verbal or physical abuse, their strategy is to gain the controlling upper hand by instilling fear into their victims mind and heart leaving them powerless and demeaned.

It is also a sad fact that there are always going to be the more gentle spirited folk around for such bullies to take advantage of. Fear will ultimately paralyze and immobilize to such a degree that it makes any attempt to enjoy a normal, healthy life impossible — especially the fear of man, or woman for that matter. And don’t imagine that it is only the abusive that can create a sense of fear. There are those who can be quite charming in every respect but nevertheless intimidating and controlling.

But praise God here is the good news. Whatever your temperament, the antidote to such intimidation is twofold. Firstly you must see it as a dangerous trap and therefore to be avoided at all costs. Secondly, you have to develop a confidence and trust in the Lord, enabling you yourself to be strong and of a good courage. Why‘? Because if God is for you, who can be against you! Be sure you know it! (See Rom 9:37-39)

QUOTES TO NOTE – John Maxwell

A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

A SUPREME QUALITY – Psalm 40

One of the distinct and crowning virtues of life is that of patience. If there is one quality that the Lord seeks to create and cultivate within a person in relationship with Him, it is this one; the ability to wait with grace, patience, faith and calmness for His out-workings on their behalf. Seemingly the psalmist had this distinctive resigned attitude to the Lord in this given situation of great straits and difficulty. It says: “I waited patiently for the LORD; and He inclined unto me, and heard my cry.” When placed in a very arduous circumstance he somehow has learned to remain calm, cool, collected and confident.

In v2 he describes the state he was in. He was in a horrible pit, in sinking miry clay and he looked as if he would disappear. He was not simply in a hole; he was like Jeremiah, in a mire that was pulling him ever downward to death. Panic could have easily taken over in the light and force of his extreme need. In the situation he prays, and prayer had a calming influence causing him to look to the Lord in assurance knowing He would step in even if it seemed to be the last  moment.

It may well be that you are stuck in an experience where you are really threatened and everything would cause you to be distressed and panic. Hold steady at this moment and place yourself and request into the hands of the sovereign Lord and He will quieten your spirit and cause you to rest in Him. Waiting for the Lord is the best line to take, and be assured in your being; He will not fail or let you down. The answer when it comes will be on time and will more than meet the situation. Remember, patience is one of the greatest rewarding virtues of life, and although it takes a great deal of divine cultivation, it is worth possessing.

 July 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 135,000 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

“In the day of my trouble I will call on you, for you will answer me” – Psalm 86: 7

Jesus told us that in the world, we would have trouble. He went on to encourage us that we could be cheerful because He had overcome the world. In this Psalm, David is calling out to God to help him. David is aware of the many promises that God made to Israel and was confident that when trouble came, God would answer him.

Sometimes I think that God is there for the really big problems, but He is leaving me to my own resources for the little problems that pop up in every day life. I believe that God is ready, willing and able to help me in whatever problems I face today. Big or small. He promised to be a Father to me (2 Corinthians 6:18) and fathers are there for their children all the time.

Whatever trouble you might face today, be encouraged in knowing that when problems do arise, you can call out to your Heavenly Father and He will answer you.

WISDOM THAT WORKS

STANDING ON THE SHOULDERS OF GIANTS – Rev. Bob Stevenson

“Pride ends in a fail, while humility brings honour”.

Read: Proverbs 29:23

Pride is the arrogant assertion or claim to an honour or achievement which only recognizes oneself as the source and originator of such achievement. Pride has a certain smugness and cockiness. It is a lustful craving for acknowledgement and recognition. Pride and humility are difficult to explain in absolute terms because there is a rightful place and time to have a sense of personal pride. For example when you know you have done a really good job for somebody, you have a wonderful feeling of satisfaction — even pride – in its accomplishment. The same goes for humility. When we are honoured by others we rightly feel gratified that someone has recognized our efforts even though we made the effort without any thought of being honoured or recognized for it.

As with pride and humility, taken beyond their legitimate boundaries, they both appear obnoxious. Pride, for it’s smelly arrogance and humility for it‘s fawning reticence — false humility. The bottom line is that we have all of us gained our knowledge, expertise or ability from the myriad of people who have had their influence and input into our lives.

Like the words of our title, which are engraved around the edge of every two pound coin in the UK, we are all in one way or another, “Standing on the shoulders of giants”. And it is good to recognize that fact.

QUOTES TO NOTE – Jim Elliot

The sound of ‘gentle stillness’ after all the thunder and wind have passed will the ultimate Word from God

DAILY MEDITATIONS

WATCH YOUR WORDS – Psalm 39

The tongue is quite a powerful and useful organ of the body. It is used for tasting and eating and for the communication of thoughts and ideas by the employment of words. It serves a tremendous role in life and is to be carefully watched and attended to. The psalmist deliberately takes a positive stance with regard to in v1. He said: “I said, I will take heed to my ways,  that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked are before me.” We might add, “and whilst in the presence of the righteous, too.” Proverbs 18: 21 states: “death and life are in the power of the tongue” and James 3 has a great deal to say about it.

It reveals that the tongue in its use of words and speech has the ability to be constructive and destructive and that is why it has to be safeguarded. The psalmist conveys the thought of putting a bridle and rein on it, like a person who is to ride a strong, energetic animal. A constant check has to be kept on it until it knows how to make the right responses for the safety of its rider. So the door of the mouth must be careful what it lets out so that it may render great good to those to whom it communicates words and messages.

The finest example for us to emulate is Christ. We read of Him that “gracious words proceeded from His lips.” Only the best and choicest words were employed by Him to bless His hearers and followers. He was in supreme charge of His lips and knew when to be quiet. To maintain diligence here ensures the blessedness of life for speaker and hearer alike. Watch your words today so that all you speak will be profitable and pleasurable! You need to take up a deliberate position on the matter. You can be the means of bringing great inspiration and uplift as you speak choice messages into the lives of others.

 July 27^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

“For what great nation is there, that has a God so near to them, as Yahweh is near to us whenever we call on him? ­ Deut Deuteronomy 4:7

In this particular Bible verse, the nation of Israel is marvelling that there is no other nation on the earth that has a God that is so close to them that He is near whenever they cry out. What an advantage over every other nation of the day! They worshipped a God who was near and attentive to the cries of His people.

And that was the Old Covenant relationship with God. In the New Covenant, God is even closer! He lives within those who have accepted the free gift of His Son, Jesus Christ. We are the very temple of the living God! He is closer to each one of us than we could possibly imagine.

My prayer today is that each one of us would be aware of the tangible presence that dwells within us and that we would know that our God is really close to us when we cry out to Him.

WISDOM THAT WORKS

PAMPERING – Rev. Bob Stevenson

“Pamper a servant from childhood, and the will expect you to treat him as a son! A not tempered man starts fights and gets into all kinds of trouble.

Read: Proverbs 29: 21-22

Let’s face it, we all enjoy a bit of pampering now and again even if it is only something a simple as a back scratch or foot massage after a particularly hard day. However, like everything else in life, if the desire for pampering goes beyond reasonable bounds, you are heading for trouble.

Pampering creates an over genteelness which is not healthy. In the real world we are all going to have to get our hands dirty at some time or another. Pampering is a pandering to a fleshly appetite and as far as God is concerned, our flesh or carnal nature needs to be treated with the corrective discipline it deserves.

Pandering can be a form of over protectiveness, especially in the rearing of children. How unfortunate those juveniles are, who are never allowed to do the normal things kids do, for fear of contracting some germ or illness. Or getting injured on the playground equipment and being exposed to some potential hazard. And then there is the pampering which can come with position or status, bringing with it the unwholesome desire to be recognized or acknowledged beyond a level of normality.

In the context of our lives as followers of Jesus there is no room for pampering. Whatever our social status we are all called to serve, whatever the cost. So don’t get accustomed to too much pampering!

QUOTES TO NOTE – Jim Elliot

Most laws condemn the soul and pronounce sentence. The result of the law of my God is perfect. It condemns but forgives. It restores – more than abundantly – what it takes away

DAILY MEDITATIONS

AN ORDERED PATH – Psalm 37: 21-40

The psalmist had been greatly disturbed and agitated with regard to the evil-doer. It seemed that everything went smoothly and sweetly for him whilst the righteous had a difficult time. He had given a great deal of time and thought to this issue and come to a definite conviction on it and formed a procedure of life. His opening remark sums this up in v1 – “Fret not yourself because of evildoers” and he describes their end – vv35, 36. It is not worth getting upset about because the end of the wicked is horrendous. He refused to be wound up about their easy pathway and apparent success because he had discovered something better.

In v23 he highlights what makes the difference – “The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and He delighteth in his way.” It could not be better. Someone remarked: “The stops as well as the steps are directed by Him.” This indicates God has a purposed plan for the life of those who make Him their grounds of trust and rest. Security and real prosperity is not to be found in things but in the Lord. Even when things are far from easy, when one looks likely to topple and fall, He is around in a supportive role and keeps the believer going on in the right direction and with the right perspectives.

As you step out into the next hours, realize who is in control of your life and destiny. He wills that you move forward conscious of His presence and direction. His goodness will lead you to experience His kindness and make you into a good person. You will not envy the wicked: the wicked will envy you because you are on a better road and achieving more lasting qualities. The Lord has so much to achieve in and through you as you go all the way with Him.

FURTHER NOTES ON THE MINOR PROPHETS

(7)

DESCRIPTIONS OF GOD’S PEOPLE

HOSEA 7

Throughout this chapter there is an unveiling of the actual state of God’s people. In no uncertain words or terms the messenger of God makes very clear the awful condition that they had sunk to that made judgement inevitable. Each comparison illustrated some particular aspect that described the awful situation that they were in and had arrived at.

(1) THEY WERE LIKE A BAKER’S OVEN — vv4-7

It is a revelation of a burning fire and is indicative of passion and desire. Unfortunately it represents evil lusts and longings and exposes what inflamed their hearts. They were impassioned by carnal appetites that drove them to do abominable things. insatiable yearnings of an evil character burned within.

(2) THEY WERE LIKE A HALF-BAKED CAKE – v8

Possibly there can be nothing worse to the palate than the partaking of something that is half-done/baked.. This is so in the case of real bread and pastries. Such is good for nothing and is reckoned to be objectionable, not to be tolerated, rejected and is to be spewed out. It gives no satisfaction/delight.

(3) THEY WERE LIKE A GREYING HEAD — v9

The greying hair is symptomatic of old age, deterioration and weakness. It speaks of the loss of the vitals of life and is a forerunner of the end. The first grey hair is usually pulled out because it is a sign of decadence and a pointer to the fact that one is on the way out.

(4) THEY WERE LIKE A SENSELESS DOVE – vv1 1,12

The description is ‘ a witless dove’ and signifies a bird that lacks sense. It is in a state of confusion and conflict and is chasing around looking for help everywhere. It does not know where to go or who to turn to. There is no prevailing knowledge, faith and peace and as it is at panic stations.

(5) THEY WERE LIKE A CROOKED BOW – v16

This piece of weaponry lacks the ability to give direction. The archer would place the arrow in the bow but was absolutely sure that it would veer off in flight and not hit the target. It would not achieve purpose or destiny. It did not sense the end for which it had been made. There was a failure to fulfil and so it was really useless in spite of the archer’s skill.

CLIMAX

When all these images are put together it can be truly noted how bad God’s people were. They unveil in their full view the terrible plight of God’s elect and make it apparent that there is no alternative but rejection and judgement. It is a needful exercise to consider whether these signs are existent in the Church of today and also pondered at a personal level. They can help in assessing where we fit in our relationship with God and His true judgment on us

July 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

“There remains therefore a Sabbath rest for the people of God. For he who has entered into his rest has himself also rested from his works, as God did from his” _ Hebrews 4: 9, 10

One thing that marks the orphan world system that we live in is the absence of the ability to rest. Busy, busy, busy. There is so much to do in too little time to do it. Rushing from work to home, rushing from home to work. Rushing to do the groceries, driving the kids to sports, going to church, etc. Throw in the thousands of media messages that we all get bombarded with every day. Busy, busy, busy.

It is exhausting just thinking about it. God is calling each one of us into a deep Sabbath rest in the very core of our being. While on the outside this might appear like pure inactivity and therefore unproductive, I believe the very opposite is true. When we allow ourselves to come into a place in our hearts where we cease from our own works, we are demonstrating in a very practical way that we are relying on God to work on our behalf.

This very real form of trust moves the heart of our heavenly Dad in a way that nothing else can. As long as we try to do all the work ourselves, carrying the weight of the world on our shoulders, we will be trying to do the work in our own strength. When we come to a place where we can slow down in our hearts and quiet the busyness that resides in the depths of our soul, we will find the Prince of Peace waiting for us to join Him.

Sure work needs to get done, groceries need to get bought, kids need to be driven to their various activities. But I believe it is our Papa’s heart that we enter into a deep Sabbath rest in our hearts where we cease from all our own striving and join Him in His rest. May God give each one of us wisdom today to show us how we can labour to enter into that place of rest.

WISDOM THAT WORKS

UNHEEDED WORDS – Rev. Bob Stevenson

“Sometimes mere words are not enough – discipline is needed. For ‘the words may not be heeded. There is more hope for a fool than for a man of quick temper.

Read: Proverbs 29: 19~20

As soon as l read this proverb I heard my mother’s voice ringing in my brain, “If i have to tell you one more time to stop playing about and get ready for school, you will get a good hiding”. It didn‘t take me long to learn by experience when the time had come for action, otherwise I was going to find myself in serious trouble.

As we get older we don’t change much and for one reason or another we devise all kinds of strategies to delay taking action on the words we don’t want to hear. We become adept at avoiding requests from our wives or husbands to do something for them. “I’ll do it in a minute”, we say, when in reality we don’t have the slightest intention of complying.

We can get away with this approach for a while but it won’t be long before crunch time comes, and the last word will be spoken, and we pay the price for our reluctant attitudes.

We can even be like this when God speaks to us again and again about some issue in our lives and imagine foolishly that we can treat him in the same way. Is it any wonder Jesus said on more than one occasion, “He who has ears to hear let him hear” and having heard acts accordingly! (See Matt 11 :15/ 13:9)

QUOTES TO NOTE – Jim Elliot

Wherever you are – be all there.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

GREAT SPIRITUAL COUNSEL – Psalm 37: 1-20

Within the context of this psalm is some vital advice that needs to be taken on board. A great deal of inspired guidance is given that if taken heed to will introduce tremendous blessing on all fronts. The directives of vv1, 3, 4, 5, 7, must surely be pondered on and possessed because they are sure to make a major difference to life in every way. There will be confidence, peace, fulfillment and satisfaction as they becomes the consistency of application.

One of the choice pieces of counsel is that found in v4 and can be considered as a divine promise: “Delight yourself in the LORD; and He shall give you the desires of your heart.” This is to be a pleasurable occupation. It is true to say that the believer is not always able to rejoice and delight in his circumstances and conditions, but he can always be full of wholesome inspiration in relation to the Lord. He is ever present and gives His continual input into life on a daily basis. In no way is He likely to fail even when pressures are being applied that would seek to destroy and debilitate.

Today, maximize on this spiritual procedure. Learn to exploit this text to the full in the program of your life. Let the Lord fill your mind and heart and set in motion the joy of praise and thanksgiving to Him for all the blessings He has already heaped upon you in days gone by. Remember, you are setting up the platform for the revelation of His great goodness in many more ways, and besides this, you will not give Satan any room to operate.

July 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

“For I will restore health to you, and I will heal you of your wounds, says Yahweh; because they have called you an outcast, saying, It is Zion, whom no man seeks after” – Jeremiah 30:17

In this fallen orphan world that we live in, sickness is part of every day life. We all know someone who is struggling with some form of infirmity, or we ourselves may be struggling. When Jesus taught us to pray the Lord’s Prayer, He said for us to ask our Father to bring His kingdom to this world. Since there is no sickness in heaven, we can receive comfort in knowing that healing is part of the good news of the gospel.

In today’s promise, God promises to restore health to our bodies and to bring healing to all our wounds. How the fulfillment of that promise applies to us personally is as unique as each one of us is different. God’s ways are not our ways and the fulfillment of this promise is tailored uniquely to our own circumstance.

Personally, I have suffered partial deafness as a result of a childhood ear infection. I can’t count the number of times that I have received prayer for healing. While the healing has not yet manifested itself, I still hold on to the promise that God is faithful and healing is part of the New Covenant, bought and paid for by Jesus Christ.

Though there are times when I feel disappointment for not yet receiving my healing, I continue to open up my heart for more prayer. Sometimes that feeling of disappointment can open the door to disillusionment about healing. It is times like this that I need healing for the wounds of my soul.

In Jeremiah 30:17, God promises to bring health to our bodies and healing to all the wounds we suffer in our heart.  I pray that whatever your circumstance is today, that faith would rise up in your heart and you would believe God for the healing you need for both your body and your soul.

WISDOM THAT WORKS

N0 RESTRAINT – Rev. Bob Stevenson

“Where there is ignorance of God, crime runs wild; but what a wonderful thing it is for a nation to know and  keep His laws.

Read: Proverbs 29:18

This Proverb so aptly describes the scenario of the days prior to the coming of Jesus to rule and reign over the earth, when He comes to establish truth and righteousness. It is recorded in 2 Thessalonians 2:7 that, “He who now restrains will restrain until He be taken out of the way”, speaking of the Holy Spirit. Jesus said we are the salt of the earth. We know that salt is only a preservative and has no power to make us any more healthy. However, it definitely does have the power to prevent things going worse and also has the power to delay the process of decay. So in the same way, the presence of the church in the world may not be able to bring total healing to it, but it does have the power restraint.

The world may wrongly imagine the church to be some irrelevant nonentity, when in ‘actual fact it stands in the way of a society going completely unhindered in its reckless quest for an environment of unrestrained wrong-doing.

Happy is that nation whose citizenry know and love the God of the Bible. More than that — who have a commitment to keep His laws and walk in obedience to His will. absence of such godly influence only allows crime to run wild and provide elements of society with no restraint.

QUOTES TO NOTE – Jim Elliot

He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

A HEALTHY, HOLY HABIT – Psalm 34

From the opening remarks of the psalm it is possible to see that David cultivated this wonderful healthy and holy habit that worked spiritual wonders in his being and life. He declares – v1 “I will bless the Lord at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth.”  He had proved it to be such a profitable and worthy exercise that he invites others to join him in the procedure- v3 “O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His Name together.” He just loved to bless, praise and worship the Lord. It became the inspired routine of life and living. As he thought on the Lord, on a regular basis, and on His doings in his affairs, he found that the blessing the Lord was a spontaneous factor within him. It was a spring of life within him.

Many blessed things result from this spiritual activity. To name one of importance:  the person takes on a divine radiance and glory as the Lord is looked to and praised – v5. “They looked unto Him, and were enlightened: and their faces were not ashamed.” The countenance is not blushing red temporarily with embarrassment but is glowing with a divine lustre and glory because God is lighting up the spirit in a unique manner and measure, and it is more abiding than a blush. Because there is a true blessing of Him there is a pure blessing from him that ignites and fires the inward state that in turn is seen in the glowing, natural face.

It may well be that you need to adopt this healthy holy habit so that your whole spiritual relationship with God and life is enhanced. Instead of being beset with a murmuring and moaning spirit, why not put on consistently ‘the garment of praise’ and learn the ministry of blessing the Lord. The answers that you require in your life may well come by praise and not by prayer! Whilst it is good to pray, it is infinitely better to praise, and after all, the Scriptures teach that ‘praise is comely for the righteous. Do not miss out on today’s spiritual exercise!

July 24^th – 2016

Rev. E. Anderson

WELCOME TO THIS CHRISTIAN WEBSITE

A GOLDEN PROMISE

“Yahweh, the Lord, is my strength. He makes my feet like deer’s feet,
and enables me to go in high places” – Habakkuk 3:19

Have you ever watched a deer or a mountain goat walk on the side of a mountain? It is really quite an amazing sight to see. They are so sure-footed that they can walk on ledges so thin that it would seem impossible in the natural.

In this promise, Habakkuk says that since the Lord is his strength, God will make his feet as steady as those of a deer so he can walk in high places. I believe that God wants to take us all to greater heights and walk in the sure-footedness that only comes from walking not in our own power or self-effort, but from the strength from Almighty God.

In 1 Corinthians 1, Paul says that eye has not seen, nor has ear heard what God has prepared for those who love Him, but God has revealed it to us by His Spirit. There is a great adventure calling each and every one of us to come up higher in the Spirit.

May we not allow our fear of heights to prevent us to go today where He is calling. He will equip us with the strength we need to go where He is calling us to go. All we have to be is willing vessels.

WISDOM THAT WORKS

HELL BENT – Rev. Bob Stevenson

“Scolding and spanking a child helps him to learn. Left to himself, he brings shame to his mother When rulers are wicked, their people are too. . . . . . Discipline your son and he will give you happiness and peace of mind”.

Read: Proverbs 29: 15-17

You have probably heard this saying before when we seek to describe the actions of some recalcitrant individual by observing their stubborn determination as being ‘hell bent’. It means there is no more room for persuasion to be effective. lt means that any sense of reason has gone out of the window. It means that there is nothing you can say or do to prevent them from going headlong into what is obviously going to be of serious injury to them.

Whether it is a wicked ruler surrounded by evil aides, who is hell bent on oppressing the poor of his realm, or an undisciplined child, both will end up with a backlash deserving of their intractably stubborn ways.

Our proverb says that a tyrant’s downfall is like the driving force of an unstoppable train. So don’t even attempt to stand in its way or in any way seek to halt it because you could get damaged by your efforts. In spite of all this, l still want to believe that there is hope for everyone to change their ways and be saved, however I do have to acknowledge that some individuals seem to be hell bent on destroying themselves.

King David said, “He had fainted except he had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living”. (Psalm 27:13) So let’s keep believing!

QUOTES TO NOTE – Henri Nouwen

Jesus, there are no countries to be conquered, no ideologies to be imposed, no people to be dominated. There are only children, women and men to be loved.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

THE ALL-SEEING EYE – Psalm 33

These are very assuring words given in v18 – “Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear Him, upon them that hope in His mercy.”  This is something that has to be really taken notice of as expressed in the word, ‘Behold!’ It must not be allowed to slip by without thought or attention.  The reason being, so much is dependent upon the application of what is stated. This must become perceived and be a spiritual motivation and regulating feature of life. It states on whom God’s loving eye rests.

Two things in particular are emphasized: one is a deep reverence and respect for the Lord, the other, a quiet but sure faith in Him to act in loving action in time of need. The important thing is the creation and cultivation of these two essential ingredients. One ought not to find it difficult to embrace both. Honour and obedience ought to be given Him in the light of who He is. It affirms in v8 – “let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him.” He is majestic, marvellous and mighty and deserves all respect. In trusting His kindness there will come a gracious display of His goodness in so many ways in all kinds of situations. He keeps a watchful eye to act in the interests of them whose interest is in Him.

We have the opportunity of putting this beautiful principle into operation in our lives, now. As we behold Him and hold Him in fullest regard, He beholds us and holds us in fullest regard. He, above all, is desirous of nothing but the best for us during our brief stay on this planet. It pays therefore to observe this procedure. Be watchful of Him because He is watchful for you – see Psalm 32: 8.

July 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

“But let all those who take refuge in you rejoice, Let them always shout for joy, because you defend them.  Let them also who love your name be joyful in you” _ Psalm 5;11

In the NLT & NIV Bible versions of this verse, the psalmist asks God to ‘spread His protection over them’. The Amplified Bible says ‘make a covering over them’. When I think of this promise, I imagine that Papa God spreads a huge canopy, a nice warm comforting blanket over us that provides warmth, protection and shelter all the days of our life.

The knowledge of a loving God that is brooding over us and protecting us will cause us to trust Him even more and fill us to overflowing with unspeakable joy. I chose this particular photo of cloud cover to remind me that just as the clouds can shield us from the heat of the sun’s rays, so God’s love covers us and shields us from the harshness that life can bring our way.

May each one of us snuggle under the blanket of God’s protecting love today and may our hearts be filled with joy knowing that we are safe and secure today and for the rest of our lives.

WISDOM THAT WORKS

THE GREAT LEVELER – Rev. Bob Stevenson

”A wicked ruler will have wicked aides on his staff. Rich and poor are alike in this: each depends on God for light. A king who is fair to the poor will have a long reign”.

Read: Proverbs 29: 12- 14

When it comes down to basic human existence, light is the great leveller! Rich or poor, we depend on the rays of the sun to not only give us health and comfort but also illumination. The ability to see where we are going and be able in do the things we do, would be impossible, if we were in constant total darkness.

Whoever we are and whatever advantages life may have apportioned us, we cannot exist without light. Light brings life and in this respect it is the great leveller. Whether animal or vegetable, light is essential to existence and as

such becomes the common denominator for the propagation of every living thing.

John the Apostle said these words of Jesus, ‘In Him was life and the life was the light of men’. (John 1:4) That means without the light of God in your life you are actually walking in darkness and darkness can only result in death. The light of truth in Jesus is available to all who want to receive it, whether rich or poor. The Bible says, ‘God has given to every man a measure of faith’ – (Romans 12:3). That faith is freely available to all who have the desire to walk in the light as He is in the light. This is why whether rich or poor, light puts us all on the same level. SO make the most of it while you can!

QUOTES TO NOTE – Henri Nouwen

To learn patience is not to rebel against every hardship.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

BLESSING OF FORGIVENESS – Psalm 32

It is truly affirmed in vv1, 2 that divine blessing is afforded to those who have been forgiven by God. The Living Bible really puts it in language to be understood and reveals what a boon it is to know this choice experience. It records, “What happiness for those whose guilt has been forgiven! What joys when sins are covered over! What relief for those who have covered their sins and God has cleared their record!” He makes it obviously clear that when the matter of human sin and guilt has been rightly dealt with before God, it brings freedom, relief, joy and untold happiness.

After all, he was writing from personal experience. He knew what it was to sin greatly and sense untold conviction that made life unbearable. Over a long period he carried a load of guilt and shame and was miserable in it all – vv3, 4. It was when he admitted and confessed to God his wrong doing and evil in genuine repentance, he received divine forgiveness that brought a covering and cleansing and a renewed relationship with God. What a blessing it was!

It maybe that you have slipped up and failed and sin has taken over. The worst sin is to remain in an unrepentant state. Do not wallow in your messed up state, rather turn to God, get right with Him through genuine sorrow and confession. Remember 1 John 1: 9 “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”  Be restored today in your relationship and joy!

July 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

“Put on the whole armour of God,  that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil” – Ephesians 6;11

In Ephesians 6, Paul the Apostle exhorts the church at Ephesus to put on the full armour of God in order to be able to stand against the tricks of the enemy. It is interesting to note that the armour does not belong to us, but it belongs to God. It is His armour.

He has given us His helmet of salvation to guard our mind and give us peace. He has given us His breastplate of righteousness to protect our heart. He has given us His belt of truth so that we would know the truth and the truth would set us free. He has prepared our feet with shoes of peace so we can proclaim the good news wherever we go. He has given us His shield of faith so that when we lift it up, we quench all of the firey arrows from the enemy.

And last but not least, He has given us an offensive weapon, the sword of the Spirit, the very Word of God so we can advance the kingdom. Our God and Father has given us everything we need to live a godly life through Jesus Christ our Lord. We stand in His armour, His power, His protection… not our own. So having done all to stand in the power of God’s might, continue to stand today.

WISDOM THAT WORKS

UNBRIDLED  EMOTION – Rev. Bob Stevenson

“There’s no use arguing with a fool. He only rages and scoffs, and tempers flare . . . . A rebel shouts his anger; a wise man holds his temper  and cools it”.

Read: Proverbs 28:9-11

Temper, as we know, is the unleashing of an unbridled emotion. lt could be unbridled anger, frustration, or disappointment and the like.

Whatever emotion we allow to get out of control it is usually manifesting itself by some verbal or physical outburst which, more often than not, ends up with disastrous repercussions. Things are said and done in fits of temper or rage that are afterward regretted and can be impossible to rectify. So what is the remedy for avoiding such destructive scenarios? Well, fortunately for most of us, such tendencies of uncontrolled behaviour were quickly nipped in the bud by our perceptive parents, when we were just not allowed to get away with such tantrums and we soon learned the value of self control. However there are some poor individuals who never had these outbursts put in check. This allowed their rogue temperament a free hand.

Our proverb calls these benighted souls fools, so don’t even think of getting into heated dialogue with them. There is only one way to deal with any rising heat of temper — cool it before it gets out of control.

Happy are the people who can detect the early warning signs of an uncontrollable emotion and take the necessary steps to diffuse potential explosions!

QUOTES TO NOTE – Henri Nouwen

For Jesus, there are no countries to be conquered, no ideologies to be imposed, no people to be dominated. There are only children, women and men to be loved.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

A PRIORITY PURSUIT – Psalm 27

There is an evident spiritual longing in David that is a singular and a dynamic directive in his being. He has the right and best sort of craving inspiring and directing his whole inward life and he formulates it in v4 – “One thing have I desired of the Lord . . ..” This does not mean to say that he had no other personal and spiritual yearnings but that this was the one that was primary and ascendant. It reveals that he was desperately seeking a close and continuous relationship with the Lord. He wanted to get to know the Lord in all of His beauty, greatness and to discover His mind and purpose for his life. He somehow could crystallize in a clear way what was regulating his soul.

He knew that as this was fulfilled he would be infinitely better off.  In placing the Lord first he sensed he would be a priority in the Lord’s mind and agenda.  There were some very positive spin offs that was his as he applied this principle. For example, the Lord would be His light and salvation always, delivering from fear and untoward evil circumstances and foes. He would be taught the way of the Lord and receive courage and many other essentials for effective living. The Lord would afford all as he maintained his faith consistently in Him.

Is the Lord in primary place in your life? Is He your daily pursuit? Are you making honest and earnest inquiry of Him? He knows the place you give Him in your affections and pursuits and you must not leave Him in any doubt that He holds first spot in everything. The consequence of this will be seen in His obvious presence, grace and blessing on and in and through our lives in all things. As He is placed in the position of priority you will discover that He will have you always in mind and work out all things for your advantage and good.