Barnabas Ministries UK

May 31^st

Rev. E. Anderson

AN IN MESSAGE FOR TODAY

Never languish in failure or defeat. Such take place in the lives of the most gifted and successful of people. The important thing is to take fresh breath, renew your vision and get up and going. Failures are like hurdles and obstacles that have to be surmounted and put behind as a later testimony. The Lord has all the time in the world for those who have seemingly hashed up things and feel useless. So, today, whatever, choose to make progress. Let all your past be but a preparation for a glorious future in God and with Him.

LIFE’S EXPERIENCES

An Unforgettable Experience which was my lot in Lincoln. We often had the pleasure of having missionaries stay with us. I never forget the occasion when Teddy Hodgson came to visit and minister to our small congregation. Before tea he wanted to go for a walk. It was sheer inspiration and delight to be him on that stroll. He had so much to talk about and give and I was a welcome hearer to the choice dealings of God in his life. He had a unique, dynamic way of telling things and that hour will not be forgotten. Shortly afterwards he returned to Congo and was martyred for Christ.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

COSTLY SERVICE – Acts 14: 1-2

These two inspired missionaries, Barnabas and Paul, were to find that serving the Lord in the preaching the Gospel was to cost them a great deal. They were willing to give themselves unreservedly in devoted labour to bring the Good News to others, both Jews and Gentiles. Whilst the Lord confirmed His word in doing miracles, nevertheless, there were those who were opposed and spoke maliciously of them. But they were not put off by the activity of these evil people because they sensed the urgency of making known the truth of the Christian message.

At Iconium a hostile mob was intent on hurling not only abuse but stones. They managed to escape from this but later at Lystra it literally occurred. It states that“they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, apparently dead” – v19. In spite of this horrendous treatment and experience, he suddenly gets up and goes back into the city. He was not going to be put off by anyone or anything as he had made up his mind with Barnabas, cost what it may, he would serve the Lord. Later on in 2 Corinthians 11 & 12 he gives a list of the things that he had had to face for the sake of the Christian testimony. Christ was worthy of such devotion and sacrifice.

The Lord never declared that it would be easy in serving Him. In founding the Christian Faith and Gospel it had cost Him everything. Those who would love and honour Him may well have to pay quite a price in suffering and even in death for His cause and sake. Whilst it is a wonderful thing to know the blessing of miracles in evidence of the message preached, there may well be the cost of personal sacrifice in abuse and affliction as well. Do not be ashamed or afraid to make your stand for Him knowing He is worthy of your total allegiance.

FURTHER NOTES FROM THE MINOR PROPHETS

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THE DIVINE SHEPHERD

Zechariah 11-13

One of the principal ministries to be known and exercised within that of God’s ancient people was that of a shepherd. God’s people were likened to a flock of sheep. It can be readily understood because one of the main vocational factors was that of the shepherding. There were an abundance of sheep and sheepfolds and this called for people who knew how to tend sheep efficiently and successfully. The same could be said on the spiritual front. They had known some very great and good shepherds, namely Moses and David. At the time of Zechariah he could foresee what was going to occur down the line, the appearance of shepherd/leaders who did not care about the Flock of God and they are branded evil shepherds. However, he speaks prophetically of one who would stand out in Israel’s history in a unique way and give details regarding Him. The prophecy can only refer to Jesus Christ.

1/. HE STOOD IN CONTRAST TO THE EVIL SHEPHERDS AND EXPOSED THEM – vv4-7

Regrettably Israel had been beset with leaders that simply fleeced the flock to their own end. They had never sought to care, feed and look truly after the Lord’s elect but had used and abused them to their own advantage. They were not genuinely interested in the good of the people but the looking after their own interests. Really, the people were like sheep without a shepherd. Christ came and exposed the falseness of these leaders in His day and they didn’t like it. In contrast, He went after winning and wooing the nation to Jehovah in caring for them in a magnificent manner.

2/. HE REVOKES THE DIVINE COVENANT THAT GOD HAD MADE WITH THIS PEOPLE- vv8-11

The time came however when a decision had to be made. There was an animosity and hatred towards Him in spite of all the good done. He had definitely tried and showed the heart of God when He said: “How often I would have gathered you.” Israel failed to respond to the previous prophets and now were to turn away from the greatest Shepherd of all. The Lord makes a definite decision to break covenant with this people. They are to be rejected and be in a position of lost identity and dignity and present destiny. What could have been was lost and it was to become a nation of wanderers without a divine leader.

3/. HE PAYS A PRICE FOR THE ROLE THAT HE FULFILLED – vv12-14

Israel rejected Christ and had Him done away in crucifixion. He was to be sold for ‘thirty pieces of silver’ and the amount ‘thrown to the potters in the Temple.’ From that moment the covenant was broken and it was carried through to the Cross. Thankfully a New Covenant of greater worth was being established and He was to become the Great and Good Shepherd on a greater scale.

4/. HE MAKES THE WAY FOR ANOTHER FALSE SHEPHERD TO ASSUME LEADERSHIP –vv15-17

Since that time, Israel has been exposed to worthless shepherding and it will not be rectified until the Messiah returns to manifest His grace.

May 30^th

Rev. E. Anderson

AN IN MESSAGE FOR TODAY

As you take time to review your life and trace all the dealing of God in your affairs, it will do two things: there will be gratefulness and thankfulness to God expressed as to His great grace and goodness and an assurance much more is on the way thus guaranteeing your future. In being and living this way you become a silent but powerful witness to Him who is Unseen but influential in your daily existence. Others will envy your life and life-style and will be impacted in the right way and lead to a real faith in God.

LIFE’S EXPERIENCES

Whilst looking after the fellowship in Lincoln, we had the task of caring after the visiting speakers and missionaries that itinerated. Often, when we had done our loving Christian duty, there was nothing in the purse at the beginning of the week. This was so on one occasion and our eyes were turned heavenward for answer. It came in the post on time through a registered envelope with the two pound notes enclosed. Someone had lovingly sent it from Hounslow without appending their name. What a lovely tome of praise and excitement we had over this! ‘My God shall supply all your need!’

DAILY MEDITATIONS

A QUALITY PERSON – Acts 13: 13-52

This was what David the former king of Israel was credited to be in the eyes of God. Paul quotes from the OT in describing him – “David son of Jesse is a man after my own heart, for he will do everything I want him to” – v27. Although he had his faults and failings, there was within this individual the desire and readiness to follow through the mind of God. He made his mistakes and had to pay for them, nevertheless, he more than anything else loved and wanted to serve and please Him in every way. The Lord saw it and was moved and impressed by this quality of commitment.

He was, however, but a type of the One who was to come that was quality through and through. Paul’s main emphasis was on Jesus Christ, God’s Son, who utterly and perfectly pleased the Father at all times, even to the point of death. He really did carry out in full detail everything that the Father had planned for the salvation of mankind. So impressed was the Father with Christ that He raised this quality person from the dead never to die again – v34. He is assured, too, of the blessings guaranteed to David: “I will give you the sacred blessings I promised David” –v 34.

The Lord still seeks and requires quality people. Christ is not only the example and standard for all men to note; it is in and through Him that people can be renewed and changed to become like Him and turn out to be a divine quality person accepted and approved by God the Father. Through His forgiveness and indwelling, He gives the dynamic power and drive to resist evil and to apply oneself diligently to doing all that God requires in a divine manner. The consequence of this faith and obedience is to be noted in God’s blessing being manifested in life.

May 29^th

WELCOME TO THIS CHISTIAN SITE

Rev E. Anderson

AN IN MESSAGE FOR TODAY

On this wonderful Bank-Holiday, know that the Lord is not on holiday or vacation. He never takes time out at all or leaves you to the mercy of whatever may come. He is always tuned and timed in to you every moment and situation of everyday. He takes His overseeing and providing diligently and is conversant to those elements of surprise that are not always welcome. He knew what Joseph and Job had to encounter and enabled them to deal with all sudden intrusions and obstacles. You, too, are a special object of His care and love and will never fail you at any time.

LIFE’S EXPERIENCES

KNOWING THE LORD’S HELP

When in our first pastorate in Lincoln we had not got a great deal of money. I did have a licence to drive a tractor on the road but this did not give me the right to drive a car etc. It seemed stupid because I had taken big-four wheeled trailers and other implements great distances on the highways. My brother showed me favour by paying for lessons and on my first attempt, passed. I was able to get a part time job at a fruiters and florist. The Mason’s in Lincoln were quite big business! The boss bought a seven ton lorry. Little did I know what was in store! He asked me if I had driven such and I truthfully replied only in a field when we loaded lorries years ago. He took the lorry and me just outside Lincoln and then asked me to drive. After a while he said, ‘you’ll be okay’ and sent me off the next morning to get a load of goods from Hull docks. What a challenge! I was away early the next day. Unfortunately there was a slight fog. Did I pray? I needed the LORD all the way there and back and managed without mishap! One thing is certain: I would never have done it without Him. So it may be you have something cast across your pathway you which is formidable you didn’t ask for. Well put yourself in His hands. He will see you through! 

DAILY MEDITATIONS

FULFILLING MISSION – Acts 13: 1-12

The Lord was to initiate the beginning of missions in bringing the Good News of Christ to all men. A wonderful base of operations had been formed at Antioch in the conversion of many Jews and Gentiles and now it was time to enlarge and move into all nations. Barnabas and Saul had been groomed by the Lord in this great fellowship of believers and were ready for a much bigger task. As a group of leaders waited on the Lord they heard and received a divine summons to engage in an enterprise that would change the face of the world. They became obedient.

What a success story to record and relate when they came to the island of Paphos! A person of considerable influence was waiting to become a Christian disciple by the name of Sergius Paulus. He was the governor and a man of considerable insight and understanding. However, a false preacher, who was a sorcerer, sought to prevent Christ’s messengers from getting their message over. Paul with divine authority rebuked him and caused the sorcerer to be stricken with blindness. This led to the governor’s conversion and to the fulfilling of their mission.

The Christian Church must follow through what the Lord commenced through these two men. There is still a need for local churches to become bases from which people are sent to do the work of evangelization. Each Christian must become an integral part of divine mission either by going or supporting those that are called to go. You need to know from the Lord the special role that He wants you to play in the success of missions. If your task is to stay at base see that you fully support in prayerful and financial commitment and so advance the cause.

May 28^th

Rev. E. Anderson

WELCOME TO THIS CHRISTIAN WEBSITE

AN IN MESSAGE FOR TODAY

In the midst of the ordinary one can get a sense of the extraordinary taking place. Often in a quiet, unassuming way the Lord works some of His most incredible works and shows that He really is in charge of your life. You need to rest in His goodness, faithfulness, love and power that silently operates in an unpublicised fashion to do the best. Know that you are never out of His sight or heart and at an instant ready to perform to your blessedness. What you now know are but starters for something bigger when He returns!

LIFE’S EXPERIENCES

Good leaders are worth their weight in gold. It is always a great thing when you have people alongside in a very supportive role. My first elder in Lincoln, Harold Comins, was such a man. Little, but large in God! The Lord and His work, plus his family meant everything to him. A very gift man, a metallurgist, he could have securely settled down in luxury but chose to live in a council house on an estate with his family. Although a busy man, he never missed meetings and was an ardent man of prayer. When John Shelbourne arrived in Lincoln he was there to give him his full backing and blessing. He was one of the originals who paved the way for much more for the city. He was desperate to be filled with the Holy Spirit and his experience was unforgettable as in the middle of the street of his home city, God gave him a mighty baptism! One looks forward to renewed fellowship in heaven very soon!

DAILY MEDITATIONS

OVERTHROWING EVIL – Acts 12

It did look as if the early Church had its back against the wall when one of their leaders, James, was beheaded. Things did not look any better when Peter was taken with the intention of Herod to have him disposed of. Many Christians must have been somewhat dismayed and perplexed that evil seemed to be in the ascendancy. The powers of sin and darkness were assuming control and doing their utmost to bring about the defeat of Christendom. The spiritual fight was on and it was needful to have a significant reversal to show who really was in charge.

How heartening to read that the Church gave itself to earnest and instant prayer – v5. Peter may have been in prison but it did not stop them from pleading to the highest authority of all, the Lord. In an amazing show down the Lord sent an angel to deliver him. Without ado, God provided a light and simply loosed the chains. He told Peter to get dressed, put on his sandals and coat and led him out. Meanwhile He kept the guards and the rest of the prisoners asleep. Finally, he opened the iron gate without a problem. The conclusion to it all was the demise of Herod in a remarkable way. He paid an awful price for his action against James and the Christian Church.

When the Church or the believer is in major difficulty (and sometimes God allows it), it is that they may discover the power of prayer and the sovereignty of God. At all times there is access to the One who sees and knows all that is occurring and possesses the power to act and transform situations. Peter evidently rested in God whilst people prayed and experienced a miracle. So it is possible for you to pray for others who are facing a problem and then see God’s answer.

May 27^th

Rev. E. Anderson

WELCOME TO THIS CHRISTIAN WEBSITE

LIFE’S EXPERIENCES

Good people are worth their weight in gold. Most individuals have benefited by the input of some person that has been humbly motivated. I shall ever be indebted to a man by the name of Tom Cranswick. When I first got saved he was my fist pastor andhow he loved and cared for people. He was anxious for their welfare and ever sought their betterment. This was so for me. He taught me to love God and how to pray. We held days of prayer and fasting and this set my course for the future. It was a shock to me when the LORD called him higher at this time. It is still a mystery to me. But what he sowed then still yields fruit.

AN IN MESSAGE FOR TODAY

If you are really going to make something of today and of your life, you must sort out what is priority, best and most rewarding. Your inward motivation towards that which is the greatest in the things that are of quality must be ever present and rule. You can follow the finest example, Christ. One knows what dominated and directed all of His life. He never deviated from this constant inspiration: “I always do those things that please the Father” – John 8:29. The reason why He is the King of heaven is due to this being fulfilled. Do not settle for second-best but commit yourself always to things which are of primary worth and good.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

RIGHTLY CALLED – Acts 11: 19-30

It is choice to read how the people in this church at Antioch were called ‘Christians’ – v26. The term had never been used before but as these early believers had embraced the Christian Gospel, and put it into practice, the name was given to them. They must have exhibited Christ by their faith and deeds. They had given themselves to Christ and also been brought up under good, spiritual leadership, namely Barnabas and Saul, who had truly taught them about Christ in every way. They had been keen and eager to learn and receive His life and adopt His lifestyle,

One of the ways in which they revealed Christ’s nature and deeds was in caring for others in great need. In being acquainted that fellow believers were about to go through hard times, they immediately took up a generous, freewill offering that would bring some relief. Their Christianity was released in making sure that their fellow believers were catered for. When the opportunity came to give visible evidence they were Christians, they were not slow in proving it. Their testimony was not only to be known in Antioch but in the sacred city of Jerusalem, too.

As people observe, can they recognize the fact that you are a Christian by what you both say and do. Your belief in its expression must be fully backed up in a behaviour that is in accord with your words. Creed and conduct are to concur so that your faith is beyond dispute. Christ will give you ample opportunities of being able to relate to others so that they can see Himself manifested everyday in every way. The Lord desires that you be successful in being a true and worthy representative of the Christian message and He will help in this vital exercise.

May 26^th

Rev. E. Anderson

WELCOME TO THIS CHRISTIAN WEBSITE

LIFE’S EXPERIENCES

It is many years ago since we pastored our first congregation in Lincoln. We had no house to go to but were able rent accommodation outside in Bracebridge Heath. It wasn’t very helpful as needed to be in the city. We were surprised when an advert appeared in the Lincoln Echo that a lady was offering a house for rent but she wanted to know what the people would pay in. We wrongly thought she was desirous of the best returns. We reckoned we didn’t stand a chance but our church secretary wrote to the lady and she replied for more details. We left it for a while but on a Tuesday evening felt constrained to go and see her. She was a widow and welcomed us and listened to our situation. She said she was looking for a good neighbour as she had lost her husband and had her aged father living with her. Before we left she said, “I believe you are the people I am looking for and that will do me fine”. The house was ours with two weeks free rent for decorating! Whilst there, she became a real mother to us and we her friends. When our first baby was born she hugged it with delight!

AN IN MESSAGE FOR TODAY

Never ever forget that it is God that works in you both to do and will of His good pleasure. It means to say that He has nothing but the best and greatest in mind for you now as well as eternally. The present programme of life is intrinsically bound to His eternal plan. As you are faithful and fruitful now this is all preparation for something more choice and wonderful. There is no way as your Father that He wants you to miss out in either realm.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

UNDER DIVINE DIRECTION – Acts 11: 1-18

After this amazing experience with the Gentiles, Peter has to return to Jerusalem to the church there. When he gets back he discovers that the news had gone ahead of   him but not a full version of what had actually occurred. Unfortunately there were those who were ready to put a wrong slant and so criticized his actions. It needed sorting out. The apostle was able to give a clear, divine resume of the event and experience and proved beyond any doubt whatsoever that he had been under the Lord’s orders. He had acted at the behest and confirmation of the Lord.

What he had to state was the unmistakable guidance of heaven and these Gentiles had received the testimony of the Holy Spirit that made it absolute. He came to this sure conviction: “And since God gave these Gentiles the same gift He gave us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to argue?” v17. If they got a problem with the matter then they would have to sort it out with the sovereign Head of the Church! He had been the One who had initiated and brought the whole thing about and Peter had just been the seeming reluctant servant in it all. So the issue was resolved – v18.

When the Lord does things that are different in our lives and experiences not everyone may understand at the time because there may be some strange element in them. However, there will be the sure knowledge and evidence of His word and working that will be undisputed witness to His administration. If others conflict, know how to answer so they will come to the conclusion that this is something of His doing. Do not cultivate an argumentative spirit but learn to explain things in a gracious true and clear manner and everything will be settled in a godly fashion.

May 25th

Rev. E. Anderson
WELCOME TO THIS CHRISTIAN WEBSITE

LIFE’S EXPERIENCES
It is true to say our lives are often influenced by the not so gifted and quiet people. May be it is because they are not a threat and welcome our spiritual input. When a pastor, I loved the pleasure of visiting these kind of people. It was where I got to know them and built a wholesome accord. Two spinsters. Mabel and Beth Rice at Louth where choice. How they delighted when I popped in! They did not have a lot in terms of possessions but in nature, love and consistency were outstanding. They were regular at the meetings and supportive in every way. They were worth their weight in gold to any Christian minister and fellowship. So many times in the past I have been most grateful for their presence, smile and contribution. It is nice to know I’ll meet them in heaven!

AN IN MESSAGE FOR TODAY
You live in a world of doubt and fear manipulated by Satan who persistently seeks to waylay your mind and spirit with such and so create a state of hopelessness, panic and restlessness. In Christ, through the Holy Spirit and God’s Word you can utterly negate and destroy them. His presence and promises far outweigh all that he can throw at you. He and his operations can and will be nullified by the matchless and miraculous power of God acting in your defence and attack. Enjoy living in the goodness of Him today for all is well.

DAILY MEDITATIONS
A BLESSED HOUSEHOLD– Acts 10: 34-48
The Lord certainly had some surprise in mind as Peter arrives at this Gentile home. It suddenly dawns upon his spiritual understanding that the Lord is truly interested in and committed to people distinct from his own race, Israel! It must have been quite a shock to his system! There is a divine conviction in his being that God does not show partiality and that “he accepts those who fear him and do what is right” – v15. The inspiration is upon him to make the Christian message known and to make the truth of Christ’s work plain to all who are assembled in the home.

What a response as he was preaching because it was to a captive, believing audience! They drank in every word and found no difficulty in accepting Christ as the message was being delivered. The Lord was so thrilled that the Holy Spirit was immediately sent and given to the household, so they were doubly blessed. They were saved and filled with the Spirit to the astonishment of those who had come with Peter who were Jews. In one moment this home was owned by the Lord in a special and significant manner and would become a permanent witness to Him.

When people are of this spiritual nature, the Lord will move in and demonstrate His grace and power. As real hunger for the things of God exist, then He has ways of turning up and doing things in an extraordinary fashion. It is good to know that He wills to bless households. You and your home can be wonderfully blessed by the Lord as you give Him room to come and operate. The Lord has no favourites but He does note those who have a high regard for Him and who seek to pursue the path of righteousness. Let your household be one that knows His grace in a unique way.

G

May 24th

Rev. E. Anderson
WELCOME TO THIS CHRISTIAN WEBSITE

LIFE’S EXPERIENCES
One Saturday morning years ago, at the time when our firstborn was about 18 months, I was calmly reading the newspaper when he decided to climb on the table to walk around. I saw the threat and took action. Unfortunately he saw me coming and moved away from any contact. Regrettably he dropped off at the other side of the table that was close by a window which smashed in the descent. He caught the nape of his neck at the back and cut it badly. Immediately we had to rush to the hospital in Louth for attention. Whilst the doctors attended to him we prayed in the waiting room rather chastened. Having stitched it they kept him in the ward because they were worried whether he had damaged some other part. That night our home was desolate! Sunday was Breaking of Bread service, and having prayed for our son, we refused to detract from our real reason of spiritual gathering. Going to see him in the afternoon, he was up in his cot, chirpy and soon out and has never had any after effects. We are most grateful to the LORD!

AN IN MESSAGE FOR TODAY
The world in which you reside is full of uncertainty on a daily basis. Christ taught that each day is different and uncertain. The only real assurance is about the Lord who creates, oversees and overrules in its proceedings. You can be certain about Him. He desires that you be anchored to Him and His procedures and promises so that you can exist in believing that he will work everything out in His love, wisdom and power to your present and eternal good. Partnership with Him is the best thing that could be your lot because nothing surprises or baffles Him and this is to your blessedness.

DAILY MEDITATIONS
FAITH’S ADVENTURE – Acts 10: 9-33
The Christian life and experience must be viewed as one of an adventure in faith. God’s plan in Christ is to lead the believer and leader into that which is unique, inspiring and fulfilling. There will be challenges that will have to be taken up but as they are followed through yield great results. As Peter went on the house top to pray he little realized what lay in store for him. A vision was given that really shook him and filled him with perplexity as to its meaning. He was challenged to eat food that he believed was utterly forbidden but the Lord assured it was alright to do so.

He is not to be left in any doubt as men sent by Cornelius arrived at that moment and he was given a sound message: “Go down and go with them without hesitation. All is well, for I have sent them” – v21. He was to embark on an errand for the Lord not knowing what was purposed and so he is on a new enterprise that will require faith and commitment. Here he is, a Jew called to go and see a Gentile! This was not customary and in the usual order of things. The Lord was about to break a mould, and Peter was to be used in bringing it about in the Lord’s schedule.

The Lord does not want His people to settle down in a hum-drum existence but loves to see them stepping forth in faith under His inspiration and direction. There are always new things to be accomplished in and through the believing and obedient soul. As you seek the Lord truly in your life and affairs, sense that He has things to unveil that will make your service more satisfying and fulfilling as you respond to His demands. Do not lose the awareness that He wills to direct in fresh ways that will open you up to blessing others in a bigger manner and measure.

May 23^rd

Rev. E. Anderson

WELCOME TO THIS CHRISTIAN WEBSITE

AN IN MESSAGE FOR TODAY

You are encouraged through the Scriptures not to “Cast away your confidence which hath great recompense of reward” – Hebrews 10:35. Those early Christians were in danger of losing out because they were losing their spiritual grip. Satan was and is ever on the prowl to denude you of that assurance you have found in a through Christ and His Word. Your confidence will be rewarded at the right time in incredible fashion. So hold on until you enjoy its benediction. You may have a battle but you will experience the blessing!

LIFE’S EXPERIENCES

I recall when I had a real amusing answer to prayer but it was so true, memorable and encouraging. We were having a holiday in Mablethorpe years ago with good friends who helped us in our early days of pastoring. We were bathing early in the sea on the Monday morning having a time of frolic and fun. Suddenly the husband called out that he had lost the top set of his false teeth. Immediately he felt upset and so we all gathered where he was to see if we could feel them on the sea bed. It was a pointless quest. After chatting on the beach, I suggested we both go back to the front. Having arrived, I suggested he go one way and I the other. Before I started out, I prayed and told the Lord how vital these teeth were to this man and He was present to answer prayer. I had hardly gone twenty paces when rolling over on the crest of the wave was a top set of teeth. I never forget the joy and excitement of the occasion! When I tell the story of how the teeth fitted people get a good laugh. This has ever servted as an inspiration to pray for me!!!

DAILY MEDITATIONS

TAKEN NOTE OF – Acts 10: 1-8

It is quite something to be taken note of even when you are not completely aware of it. Such was the case of Cornelius, a Roman army officer, who had a tremendous respect for God and others. He was a man who impressed his household in a godly manner by his faith as it was carried out in loving service. He not only prayed regularly, he sought where he could do good for others in a kind and benevolent manner. Those around were truly impressed by the way he conducted his life and were happy to live under his command. He was taken note of by those near him.

More than this, he had real influence with God. As He viewed from above, there was a admiration and recognition of this Gentile. The Lord wanted to honour and reward him in a meaningful way and did so, first of all, by assuring him that his prayers were answered and his giving acceptable. There was much more in the pipe line for him and his household as he responded to divine directions. Immediately Cornelius takes notice of the inspired word and prepares himself and household for what is to be revealed by the Lord. His faith is quickly followed by obedience.

How much do you claim the attention of the Lord by your faith, devotions and liberality? He certainly observes the way people believe and behave and His eyes are watchful of you as to your manner of life. There is much more that He wants to accomplish in, for and through you and as you sincerely follow out His purposes in everything, He will similarly respond. Give yourself to God and others in simple and loving service and you will discover that all is observed by Him and in the process of time, and His arrangements, He will surprise with many choice things.

FURTHER NOTES FROM THE MINOR PROPHETS

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Subject  PROPHETIC PORTRAITS OF CHRIST

Zechariah 9 & 10

A preview is given of Messiah, Israel’s future Saviour and deliverer and what He will be to His people. There is a disclosure of His person and work and what a significant role He will play in the forwarding and blessedness of the nation. He will certainly make a powerful difference as His presence, influence and exercise is known. God’s people will have every reason to be assured and glad in the manifestation of His person and the input He will make.

1/. THE HUMILITY OF THEIR MONARCH – 9:9,10

This prophecy we know was fulfilled by Jesus Christ as He entered into Jerusalem prior to His crucifixion. He did not ride in on gallant steed or war-horse but on a domestic animal to the astonishment of all. The lowly animal that had never been broken in was mastered by the Master in humble fashion and in the event unveiled the quality of His person. There was no pride or arrogance in the Christ. He was different to other conquerors and this was His city!

2/. THE ABILITY OF THEIR WARRIOR – 9: 11-15; 10: 5-12

He is to be seen as one that is ready to enter into conflict and fight battles and emerge as the mighty warrior and conqueror. He is fully armed and sounds the trumpet and moves with great speed against His foes and to protect His people. Those that stand against Him have no hope of success because He has strength, skill and speed. When He moves out to fight His enemies they have good reason to fear and quake for they will prove to be helpless at the sight of Him and the demonstration of His omnipotence. There is a further portrait given of Him in the book of Revelation, mounted on His white horse read to lead heaven’s allied forces into battle. What a sight for the eye to behold! 

3/. THE MINISTRY OF THEIR SHEPHERD – 9:16,17; 10: 2-4

Yet another view of Him is as the Shepherd of His people and the revelation of His ministry to His flock. He sees them scattered as a flock but comes to rescue them from mortal danger and shows His intense love of and for them. They will be subject to His tender care and provision. He comes to take over the essential leadership so that they will be no longer in difficulty. He will also transform this flock in many ways so that they will take on His qualities.

May 22nd

Rev. E. Anderson

WELCOME TO THIS CHRISTIAN WEBSITE

AN IN MESSAGE FOR TODAY

You are encouraged through the Scriptures not to “Cast away your confidence which hath great recompense of reward” – Hebrews 10:35. Those early Christians were in danger of losing out because they were losing their spiritual grip. Satan was and is ever on the prowl to denude you of that assurance you have found in a through Christ and His Word. Your confidence will be rewarded at the right time in incredible fashion. So hold on until you enjoy its benediction. You may have a battle but you will experience the blessing!

LIFE’S EXPERIENCES

I recall when I had a real amusing answer to prayer but it was so true, memorable and encouraging. We were having a holiday in Mablethorpe years ago with good friends who helped us in our early days of pastoring. We were bathing early in the sea on the Monday morning having a time of frolic and fun. Suddenly the husband called out that he had lost the top set of his false teeth. Immediately he felt upset and so we all gathered where he was to see if we could feel them on the sea bed. It was a pointless quest. After chatting on the beach, I suggested we both go back to the front. Having arrived, I suggested he go one way and I the other. Before I started out, I prayed and told the Lord how vital these teeth were to this man and He was present to answer prayer. I had hardly gone twenty paces when rolling over on the crest of the wave was a top set of teeth. I never forget the joy and excitement of the occasion! When I tell the story of how the teeth fitted people get a good laugh. This has ever served as an inspiration to pray for me!!!

DAILY MEDITATIONS

DOING GOOD – Acts 9: 32-43

She was quite a remarkable and outstanding lady. Her Christianity was of a practical and social nature that influenced many. What she could do she did so with her whole heart as she made garments and cared for those in desperate need, especially the widows and the poor. So many people benefited from her gracious and generous doings that were wrought from a loving spirit and compassionate heart. The whole area had become dynamically moved by her constant contribution to the welfare of all. Whenever she saw a need she sought to minister to it. Her name Dorcas means gazelle and in a sweet manner she demonstrated her faith.

Little wonder that when she fell ill and died there was quite a stir. Folks were disturbed and truly distressed over her loss and when the Christians heard that Peter was not too far away sent for him. He believed for and worked a miracle for them in the name of the Lord and so she was resurrected and restored to the people. She was able to continue her good work with the added testimony of the miracle that had occurred. This ordinary woman became more extraordinary as she witnessed in life and good deeds the faith and goodness she had found in Christ.

It is important that once we have been saved and received the new nature in and through Christ that it is seen to work in the manifestation of loving service to others. Having become Christ’s, there should then be a true disclosure of His disposition in countless acts of kindness to all around. The best witness that you can give to those about regarding your Christian conversion is to shower them with gracious words and deeds. The manifestation of the ordinary through an extraordinary inspiration will have a telling effect upon your neighbours etc.