Oct 31^st

Rev. E. Anderson

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:

NEW BEGINNINGS

There times and occasions when all require a fresh start, the opening out into something meaningful, pleasurable and profitable. It can be so in spite of age, circumstances or prospects

NEW BEGINNINGS WITH GOD’S PRECEPTS

One of the great reasons for the giving of the Holy Scriptures is in order to give pure and true command and direction into your life by God. There are many sacred charges given by the Almighty to make certain that humanity understands His nature and what He expects in honest response from those who to have a positive relationship with Him. Adam and Israel etc., were to be left in no doubt as to His standard requirement. There was no way forward unless this was attended to. Christ by example and instruction clearly revealed that God required love, faith and obedience at all times. Having commenced to know and obey there is much more to be discovered. Fresh beginnings are called for by Him if you are to build a permanent and rewarding association with Him. Remember what Jesus taught: “If you know these things, happy are you if you do them” – John 13;17.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

A HUMBLE DISPOSITION – Luke 14: 1-14

When Christ was invited to a meal at the home of a prominent Pharisee, he noticed what a certain group of people did. He observed that they chose certain seats of prominence and honour, preferring themselves above others. Christ latched on to this and gave a crucial lesson to one and all. What He sought to drive home was the fact that it was vital to develop and evidence a humble disposition. Instead of seeking out the highest places which revealed a spirit of pride, it was needful to possess a lowly attitude that was of immense worth. In no way was He trying to demean a person by this teaching but to create a noble attitude to and in life.

He does also make the point that the genuine humble attitude will not be rejected but honoured. The humble have a wonderful way of being promoted and exalted. They will be given their rightful place and one of distinction. There is a proverb which states: “before honour is humility.” This is a wise saying and underpins what Christ taught here. The great example of humility is to found in the One that taught this divine principle – see Philippians 2: 5-11. He demonstrated to all, forever, what it truly means to humble self and to allow God to promote.

This is a very hard lesson to take on board and to learn because the human spirit is beset with pride. It is only by the grace and enabling of the Lord that this kind of attitude can come into being and manifestation. Pride is revealed as the primary of the deadly sins and must be disposed of. When it is known that humility is the best and worthy of attitudes then a person can set their sights and desire on its possession. As you rightly humble yourself before God and men, He will exalt you.

SERMON TO NOTE:

THE ENCOURAGING LORD – Isaiah 61

PROPHETIC DISCLOSURE: The ancient prophet gives a beautiful portrayal of Chris with regard to impact and influence of Christ’s Spirit-filled ministry in His day. It certainly is revealed as a most encouraging life and service to the people of Biblical times. He was not present amongst them in a condemning role and manner but there to inspire, bless and do them good and leave them better off after His ministry. He discovered such a desperate need and He came on to the scene to change it and bring immediate relief in an encouraging manner..

NEEDFUL MINISTRY: A battered and bruised society requires a ministry that can regenerate, renew and lift to a condition of hope, health, usefulness and destiny. When evil has done her work and left humanity devastated and utterly dejected, there is a demand for those who can bring fresh inspiration and life and alter the awful state of affairs – Ezekiel 37. This is where Christ came, in order to perform a divinely anointed work. He was/is the real Minister of Encouragement.

POWERFUL EXERCISE; He had the capacity and capability through word and work of raising the spiritual climate in peoples’ lives and situations and inspiring them to feats of character, life and expression beyond the norm. He sought to birth in people divine worth and potential and raise the standard of life in every way.

BALANCED QUALITIES: He encouraged production on every front because He desired to see people reach their potential in character and service in and through God.

• HE ENCOURAGES LOVE AND SACRIFICIAL SERVICE – LUKE 10

All who would embrace and follow Him must be ready for the expression of love and devoted service to Him and others for this is one of the main reasons for being and life – Mark 10:45. This is what He sought to get over to this young man and illustrated and emphasized it with the account of the Good Samaritan.

• HE ENCOURAGES FAITH ANDS ITS FULL GROWTH – MARK 11

The cursing of the fig tree and the subsequent developments happened so as to encourage His disciples into a greater state of faith and expectancy. It did not occur should to provoke and promote wonder but to initiate and instill the principle and power of faith, a believing condition of mind and heart that would pave the way for supernatural ministry and manifestation.

• HE ENCOURAGES HUMILITY AND LOWLINESS OF SPIRIT – MATTHEW 23:1-12; 5:3

So often Jesus exposes the vanity of pride and reveals it has no place or room within His kingdom and neither should it have its root or influence in those who are His disciples. The greatest demonstration model concerning this is Himself – Philippians 2. Humility leads to ascendancy. The way up is the way down.

• HE ENCOURAGES TO A LIFE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS – MATTHEW 5:6,20; 6:33; JOHN 8

1. 1. He is the great inspiration to righteousness being the Righteous One. He sought to create in people a desire and will to go after righteousness, to hunger and thirst after it. It had to exceed man’s idea of it and be in on God’s standard. He did not condone the sin of the woman. Whilst forgiving her He sent her on her way to love differently.

• HE ENCOURAGES PERSISTENTCY AND PERSERVERANCE – LUKE 18:1-1-8; MARK 7:26-29

The reason why many do not receive from God is due to the fact that they easily quit in prayer and in their relationship with God. People lose heart, encouragement, because things do not happen speedily. There is the need to press through with God until what is desired takes place – Illustration:   Hannah 1 Samuel 1.

• HE ENCOURAGES A DISPOSITION OF REST AND TEACHABLENESS   – LUKE 10;38-42

He was not commending idleness or laziness but the readiness to be willing to sit back and be taught the important things of life. Service, of course, is important but even such has to be conducted from a state of mind and spirit that is relaxed. Sometimes there is a need to pull off in order to get the right attitude to it and ministry from the Lord is essential to restore the balance.

• HE ENCOURAGES CONVERSATION AND DISCUSSION – JOHN 4; LUKE 24
• So often Jesus desires to conduct a healthy and helpful time of conversation and discussion so that we may spiritually profit. He draws alongside, just like the woman at the well and the two on the Emmaus Road to start communications going that will be inspiring and uplifting.

• HE ENCOURAGES ESSENTIAL MINISTRIES TO AID OTHERS – JOHN 21
• Having been greatly encouraged by the greatest Encourager of all with the greatest encouragement, so we must also see to it that our time, thought and talent be devoted to this vital ministry.
• When Peter felt he had flopped it and that he had no alternative but to go back fishing in depressed mood, He discovered the Lord knew where he was going and the mind-set of his being and went to put fresh heart into him – Matthew 28:7. The Lord had already spoken on this matter – Luke 22:33.

Oct 30^th

Rev. E. Anderson

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:

NEW BEGINNINGS

There times and occasions when all require a fresh start, the opening out into something meaningful, pleasurable and profitable. It can be so in spite of age, circumstances or prospects

NEW BEGINNINGS WITH KINDNESS

No matter how good you have been in showing kindness to others, why not a further breakthrough in connection with it. God has always been kind to mankind but then He really shone and broke through in the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ. Among the list of the fruit of the Spirit is this desired quality. The influence and blessing of this grace is beyond description, influence and measure. See Dorcas in Acts 9:36-42: She became an indispensable member of the community and her Christian testimony was renowned by her good deeds although she was but a widow. You have been called and equipped to be as the Good Samaritan who overflowed with kindness to an opposite number. Begin to specialize in and through Christ’s grace this outstanding blessing and see its impact!

DAILY MEDITATIONS

INFLUENCE – Luke 13: 18-35

Someone has stated that one of the greatest forces in life is that of influence. It is defined as the effect of one person or thing upon another person or thing. Christ gives illustration of this in a parable on a mustard seed and yeast in vv18-21. A seed of itself in the hand is not really of much worth until it is planted in fertile ground and then the influence of mother earth brings its influence upon it to make it highly productive.  The same with flour, when yeast is kneaded into it and then it is placed in the environment of a warm and heated oven, the effect is powerful.

Christ is making a relevant comparison here with those in whom the kingdom of God is birthed and is allowed dynamic function. The kingdom of God is where God is King. Where He is permitted residence and rule the effect is tremendous. The life, nature and order of God become manifest, which in turn reveals His authority, presence, goodness and blessing in remarkable ways. It becomes patently obvious that the divine is having supreme influence and others are greatly affected and moved by it. There is no limit to which a person and life is enriched.

Every Christian should know what it is to have Christ personally and powerfully active in heir lives and service. The consequence of His indwelling and inspiration must have some spiritual influence that reveals that the kingdom of God is operational to the utmost degree. Being placed in Christ and Christ’s residence within, there could be no better or greater environment to be situated in. The influence of Christ in and on you should cause you to grow and at the same time make you a dynamic influence among others. Let your influence count for Christ.

Oct 29^th

Rev. E. Anderson

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:

NEW BEGINNINGS

There times and occasions when all require a fresh start, the opening out into something meaningful, pleasurable and profitable. It can be so in spite of age, circumstances or prospects

NEW BEGINNINGS WITH GENEROSITY

It is so important to learn the lesson of generosity. It was one of the major truths that Christ sought to get over to His disciples. He, himself, had no problem with this quality characteristic. He declared: “Give and it shall be given unto you . . .” Enriching others is to be an attitude and way of life and it paves the route to such good things. No matter where you are in relation to this, there is a divine call to a bigger disclosure and demonstration of it. From Christ’s instruction there comes a bountiful explosion of life and blessing as it is engaged upon. Barnabas was such a disciple that practiced it and it led him into a very full and blessed life and ministry. Look today to bless someone with a loving gift and enjoy its compensations.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

TRUE PRAYING – Luke 11: 1-13

Many things are highlighted here on the subject of prayer that should be noted. The disciples were personally impressed as they saw Christ at prayer and also observed the influence it had upon His life and ministry. They sensed that this was one of the main reasons for His success. Besides showing the disciples who they were really addressing in prayer – ‘Father’, and the subject matter of prayer, He then made known that true, effective prayer calls for persistence. He gave a story to back home this particular requirement in prayer.

It would seem that prayer must possess this essential ingredient if it is to be successful. The danger of quitting is ever around and must be guarded against. Faith and determination must seek to win through so that the answers are forthcoming. It is illustrated in the man who would not cease knocking at his friend’s door until he got what he wanted. There was no way that he was going to leave that house until he had the bread in his hands. He would only be satisfied in having the results of his praying on his way back home to bless others.

No one should ever give up in prayer when the promise that Christ gives concerning true praying is appreciated. From vv9-13 Christ gives guarantee and reveals that good things are lined up to all of God’s children by this means. It is apparent that God is committed to the prayer ministry and wants to perform greatly through it. Every believer ought to be highly involved in true praying so that God’s grace and power will be experienced every day and in so many ways. Be assured, as you use your spiritual and legal right in prayer through Christ and His promises, you will yet see God at work in your life on every front.

Oct 28^th

Rev. E. Anderson

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:

NEW BEGINNINGS

There times and occasions when all require a fresh start, the opening out into something meaningful, pleasurable and profitable. It can be so in spite of age, circumstances or prospects

NEW BEGINNINGS WITH PRAYER 

No doubt you have already discovered the power of prayer in your Christian experience. There are definite occasions where you proved that He worked in accord with your requests. It is the start of the journey for greater development and answers. Be encouraged by the assurance that “The effectual prayer of a righteous man (person) availeth much” – James 5:16. Elijah in his day was able to both lock and unlock the heavens and bring down heavenly fire to consume the sacrifice on the altar he had built to and for the LORD. At times there appears to be no immediate answer hence the call for persistency that yields outstanding results. Possibly you require a further breakthrough in this, hence the summons to sticking at the ministry. Much more is to flow as you grow in prayer! Bigger answers are on the way! You have got to believe it”. Men always ought to pray and faint not – see Luke 18:1.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOUR – Luke 10: 25-42

On this occasion Christ made known what should be practiced by those who profess to love God. In testing a man as to which is the greatest commandment, He then made it clear what it meant to love one’s neighbour by telling the parable of the Good Samaritan. He highlighted the fact that it was not only essential to love God, but all fellow men. Really, loving God and having His love within will cause this unique revelation of love and care. God’s love motivates to worthy action.

The neighbour in the story is the one who has been way-laid by evil and finished up in desperate straits. Unless one came along and did something about it then he would die. It required someone with love and enough compassion to move in with practical help and relief. Unfortunately, in this instance, it did not come from the people one would have thought would have helped. They all saw, but only one moved in to answer; the Good Samaritan. He became the friend and neighbour! He lived up to the expectations of God and so justified his faith.

All who are in the ranks of Christendom are called upon to act in this capacity: to be a friend and neighbour to all. In passing through life each day, eyes have to be open to see where aid can be given. The heart must be moved with divine compassion to render immediate assistance to those calling out for relief. All are required to emulate the Christ in this way, by ministering to those who need help. As you go through each day, watch out for those to whom you can minister to both materially and spiritually. Take hold of every opportunity of being used by the Lord.

Oct 27^th

Rev. E. Anderson

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:

NEW BEGINNINGS

There times and occasions when all require a fresh start, the opening out into something meaningful, pleasurable and profitable. It can be so in spite of age, circumstances or prospects

NEW BEGINNINGS WITH RELATIONSHIPS 

You only pass through this life once and it is essential you build and know sweet and profitable relationships with others. Of course, if you have a dynamic accord with God, this will break out in opening up and enjoying true oneness with others born on real interest and affection. Paul knew what it was to have so many friends. Remember the wise saying: “he who desires friends must show themselves friendly.” There are many ways you can set things in motion in this: by visit, phone-call, handshake, letter, even Facebook! May I wish you well in this worthwhile pursuit. By the way, I am happy to be your friend through this message!

DAILY MEDITATIONS

CHRIST’S DELIGHT – Luke 10: 1-24

It is good to read of the sheer delight of Christ as the reports came from His disciples at the success of their mission. They had gone forth under His direction and as a consequence some tremendous things took place. In response to Christ, they had believed His word and so came back affirming to Christ especially that they had seen people wonderfully freed from evil powers besides other wonderful blessings. Having been rather frustrated before on this (c.f. 9: 40), it must have been rather inspiring to see this failure completely dealt with.

No wonder Christ was ecstatic with rapture, not only for the disciples’ and Kingdom’s sake, but Satan and his realm was being invaded and decisively dealt with. He could inform His chosen leaders that Satan was really a defeated foe because He had witnessed His fall. But Christ rejoiced more in the fact that these men were becoming more and more recipients of divine revelation. They were now living in a new sphere of understanding and enterprise. Headway was now being made with this team of men that would become influential for Him.

It gives Christ enormous pleasure when He sees those whom He has chosen and called moving forward in response to His summons. When He beholds His servants reacting positively to His commission and His Kingdom advancing then He is overjoyed. Certainly, in today’s world, Christ desires to see His servants be more up-front in bringing ruination to the works of darkness by demonstrating the power of God. Remember, He has called you to be a dynamic witness for Him in word and deed and you can blaze a trail for Him where you are by His Spirit.

Oct 26^th

Rev. E. Anderson

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:

NEW BEGINNINGS OF HOPE

There times and occasions when all require a fresh start, the opening out into something meaningful, pleasurable and profitable. It can be so in spite of age, circumstances or prospects.

NEW BEGINNINGS OF HOPE

It would seem at times that some certain hopes born within are dashed and their hope of realisation doomed impossible. Be encouraged by Christ. He had to face a humiliating death yet nurtured within Him was the conviction He would rise again. The Old Testament had affirmed it would be so – Psalm 16:8-11. He died in assurance after a spiritual battle. What an incredible event – He arose having conquered man’s worst enemy! So the Lord gives ground for hope when you are in impossible circumstances and such will be accomplished. Let those hopes that have and are being begotten in you live and be fed until their glorious fulfilment. Know the best is to be in and through God!

DAILY MEDITATIONS

WRONG ATTITUDES – Luke 9: 37-62

Christ had a great deal of sorting out to do with regard to the disciples that were close to Him. They certainly had wrong concepts and attitudes that required sorting out through the ministry of Christ. In the first instance they appeared to be jockeying for position with regard to who would become greatest. – v46. They lacked courtesy for each other. Then they had rebuked a man for casting out demons because he was not one of them – v49. There was also a terrible attitude shown by James and John with regard to the Samaritans – v54.

The Lord did not leave these situations without answering them. He gave them an illustration on the need for grace and humility by the use of a little child, showing what true greatness is. He further expressed the fact that they must not stop others doing good because they were not in the seemingly same administration. Finally, He made it known there was a need to get rid of an angry spirit and temper that was not conducive to the spiritual nature and life. They could not afford to allow these kind of mind sets and attitudes to direct their lives.

The grace and kindness of Christ is to be manifested within the believer in a way that it touches the whole of life in its performance. In no way should there be a nursing of ideas and feelings that are contrary to the way Christ thinks and behaves. Christian life should conform to the very nature and conduct of Christ. As relationship is known with Him, He will point out those things that are out of line with His own thoughts and considerations. Make sure that all the bad and wrong opinions and moods are eliminated from your life and conduct by His grace.

Oct 25^th

Rev. E. Anderson

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:

NEW BEGINNINGS OF LOVE

There times and occasions when all require a fresh start, the opening out into something meaningful, pleasurable and profitable. It can be so in spite of age, circumstances or prospects

The greatest quality that possesses and motivates a being and person is that of pure and true love. The infinite virtue that God has ever exhibited is that of love. John, the apostle of love calls God, ‘God is love.’ That is what totally describes and sums Him up and must be the main feature of your being and behaviour. It is more than a fleshly affection but is a dynamic manifestation and ministration of holy passion that is behind the doing of things especially for others. Whatever there has been of this in some degree in you, there can be a greater beginning  and release of it now in and through you. It will transform you and others!

DAILY MEDITATIONS

THE DIVINE DIRECTIVE – HEAR HIM – Luke 9: 18-36

In a choice way the Lord had revealed Himself to His disciples. First of all, Peter had perfectly answered the question posed to them by Him when He said, ”But who do you say that I am?” In an instant he replied: “The Christ of God.” Over the past period of time spent with Him, listening to His words, seeing the miracles, observing His attitudes and noting His ways he had come to know that He was no ordinary man. The Spirit of God drew the veil further aside on this occasion and he was possessed with the divine conviction that He was the Christ, Israel’s and the world’s Messiah and Redeemer. The proof was all conclusive.

To underline the fact of His deity and Messiah-ship, the Lord was to manifest Himself further in a unique manner to three chosen disciples. They would be given an undeniable and unforgettable experience that would highlight His person. The scene on the mount was a divine transfiguration of Christ that authenticated who He was. Whilst the Father acknowledged His Son, the real message was – “Hear Him.” He was the One that they must give strict attention to and believe in Him and take note of every word. They were to make sure that they paid close heed to this divine Prophet for He had things to communicate of immense importance.

The whole of Christendom must be fully conscious of Jesus Christ and of the place that He holds in its government and affairs. Every Christian must be so united with Him that they are awake to what He has to speak and reveal into everyday living. He does seek to make Himself known as to who He is, what He has done and what He wills should be fulfilled at a personal level. The summons to you is to be fully alert to every command that He is calling for in your faith and obedience. 

MESSAGE FOR THE WEEK – THE CONTINUING LORD – Hebrews 13

SIGNIFICANT TRUTH: One of the great revelations of the Lord within the Scriptures was given to Moses at His great calling to leadership – Exodus 3. There the Lord affirmed His Name as Jehovah. Newberry interprets it as “I continue to be what I continue to be.” It is a clear testimony from Himself of His eternal existence. This truth is certain, “He is and He will continue to be.” No one and nothing will be able to alter or amend this eternal reality. The Eternal One is eternal.

ASSURING FACT: This statement is purposed to create real assurance for creation especially the creatures that are in special and unique relationship with Him. This definitely was to be so for Moses about to embark on a very demanding role as deliverer and leader of God’s people. This stable truth has to become the base on which we live, move and act.

EXPERIENTIAL KNOWLEDGE: It is to be more than a doctrinal deduction and theological consideration; it is be known and experienced on a daily front within life and testimony. This truth must adorn faith and practice in a dynamic manner and fashion. The reason why the writer to the Hebrews makes the declaration in v8 – “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, today and forever” was in order to stir and stimulates to know His input and action into life, faith and ministry. This to be seen in many directions:

• HE CONTINUES IN ORDER TO EXPRESS HIS PRESENCE

The most beautiful, wonderful and meaningful fact of life is to sense and know the immediate presence of the Lord and this can and should be the lot of daily life and living. As far as Moses was concerned, he had made this all-important discovery: the presence of the Lord was the vital requirement for Israel and himself – Exodus 33:12-17. The first pair was to know the divine visitations on a daily basis – Genesis 3:8.

• HE CONTINUES TO AFFORD HIS COUNSEL

1. 1. It is imperative that we know the input of the Lord in relation to wisdom and guidance. He knows all there is to know because of His omniscience (c.f. Isaiah 40), and we are but limited in knowledge and understanding. There are so many things that we are ignorant of and so require the best of counsel and direction. He is around in order to act in this capacity –(Proverbs 3:5,6; Joshua 5:13-15).

• HE CONTINUES TO INSPIRE FAITH AND ASSURANCE

One of the things to be contended with is fear but the awareness that He is near and at hand eliminates this evil monster. David could say: “I will fear no evil for YOU ARE WITH ME” – Psalm 23:4. If confidence is low and fear is seeking the ascendancy there is the need to turn to Him for the witness and confirmation of His Presence.

• HE CONTINUES TO BESTOW DIVINE LIFE

He is around always to create and bequeath life in all of its freshness and fullness so that there can be a performance of faith and service that is powerful and effectual. He never made us and brought us to Himself just to admire Him, good and essential as that is, or to merely exist, He wants us to throb and thrive in His presence and to live and accomplish good and great things – Genesis 2:7

• HE CONTINUES TO RELIEVE ALL DIFFICULT SITUATIONS

1. 1. He is never under pressure from anyone or anything and possesses the ability to inspire others to feats of great accomplishment in the most demanding of circumstances and challenges – David – 1 Samuel 18. When he knew the Lord was with him he knew and sensed he could achieve anything – c.f. Psalm 18: 29, 32,-34.

• HE CONTINUES TO PRESENT HOPE FOR THE FUTURE

The fact that He is ever going to exist and be present settles the whole issue for all the tomorrows, for the future and eternity. They are all in the hands of His that is Mr. Always. There is no need to worry regarding Him or what the days ahead hold because He will always be there in His efficient way to attend to all that is to be. In fact, He has planned and prepared for all that is to come – 1 Corinthians 2:9. He does not exist in any uncertainty as to what will be because He has foreseen it and purposed it.

• HE CONTINUES TO EXTEND HIS RICH BENEDICTION

He is the great benediction of life. Just to know He is here and there is the benediction itself. But then, He wills to enrich the whole of life with His goodness, kindness and bestowments so that all may enjoy His grace and gifts. The One who gave the promise of blessing to Abraham – Genesis 12:1-4 is still here to extend that blessing further to us. Whatever He has done in former generations to many people is still here and all-sufficient to give out of His fullness. As there is no end to Him so there is no end to His goodness and blessing – Psalm 23:6.

Being aware of His continuance means that He is with us today, right now: It is time for us to accept this eternal fact and rejoice that He is with us in a real very sense and desires to act in every capacity within our affairs. No matter what, He stands as the Rock of Gibraltar in life and He is there to stabilize life for us and minister freely into all our needs.

Oct 23^rd

Rev. E. Anderson

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:

NEW BEGINNINGS

There times and occasions when all require a fresh start, the opening out into something meaningful, pleasurable and profitable. It can be so in spite of age, circumstances or prospects

Why not know a new beginning in using, enlarging and enriching the God-given abilities and aptitudes that are yours! Some gifts and graces may have been neglected or even despised and so have withered to some extent. The real you in Christ is not so evident. Paul called Timothy, a choice young man to ‘stir up the gift of God within him’. It could break out and yield much more. The apostle was with him in such a fresh release and break-out. This day is to mark for you some choice addition to existing qualities as you step out anew with God. You have got to believe and expect !

DAILY MEDITATIONS

UNDER DIVINE COMMISSION – Luke 9: 1-17

Christ was a man under divine commission and possessed a unique and absolute authority in exercising it. He had the right to call and appoint other people to be involved with Him in serving the great cause of God and humanity. Here He enlisted the services of men who were one with Him in the ministry of the Kingdom of God. He sent them forth to preach concerning the Kingdom of God and to evidence the power of it in a supernatural way. Those to whom they were to speak and minister would be given abundant proof of its appearance and worth in the deliverance of people from their diseases and demonic power.

As they went forward in faith under the commission they saw what Christ said would come to pass. They were not to be disappointed in any way but God’s grace and power was much in evidence. In their obedience to the summons they were to witness some astonishing happenings. It states: “So they set out and went from village to village, preaching the gospel and healing the people everywhere” – v6. What a wonderful period in the life of these apostles as they were used to bring so much blessing to all the people! They must have been thrilled as they returned with good reports.

It must never be forgotten that Christ has given the Christian Church a great commission for all time – Matthew 28: 18-20; Mark 16: 15-20. Every believer is called to be a witness for Christ and the Kingdom of God and can expect His confirmation as they testify for and of Him to those who do not know Him. He has given the Holy Spirit to bear divine testimony both in word and deed so that great miracles of healing and deliverances will take place in confirmation. Know that He is with you to bless as you diligently live and work under His commission.

Oct 19^th

Rev. E. Anderson

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:

SOMETHING MORE – MORE GOD’LOVE

The great eternal, perfect quality characteristic in God is that of His immeasurable love. It has ever motivated and will always motivate in all He does especially towards His creatures. With pure passion the Trinity exists to demonstrate it affection to all whom Has been made. God loves you and desires through Jesus Christ you taste the dynamic of it and that it take possession of your being and that it becomes the driving force in your daily living. Others see and witness God alive in you because His love is shed abroad and visible. It cannot be contained. Paul said: “The love of God is shed abroad in hearts”.

DAILY MEDITATIONS

MASTER OF ALL – Luke 8: 22-56

This particular section of Scripture shows Christ in action and reveals His sovereign power at work in a number of difficult situations. He was more than sufficient to deal with each problem as it arose. There was the need to deal with the outrageous storm that had arisen that would have swamped the boat and drowned all on board; the demand to deliver a man who was possessed with evil powers that made him restless and a threat to society; the call of a woman who was losing blood at such a rate that everything looked bleak because no one could cure her; finally, a daughter that was greatly loved and had died. The four factors called for an answer and He was up to them!

Without any fuss or bother He ministered to each situation. The storm was stilled by a brief but dynamic word; the man was delivered and restored to a state of sanity and usefulness in a moment; the woman was healed in an instant and was able to live in health; the daughter was raised from the dead and caused astonishment all round. He left a fabulous witness wherever He went, and whoever He ministered to, showing He was the master of all.

It is of importance to know that Christ is still alive and in business and that He has not lost any of His ability. He can still quell the storms that arise in people’s lives, release individuals controlled by the forces of evil, heal the seemingly incurable and raise the dead. In no way has He lost any of His authority or ability but wills to manifest it now. Whatever you need, realize that He is the one that is the absolute answer to it. Turn yourself and problem over to Him and He will answer you.

Closing down for a few days until I make a full health recovery.