Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Matthew 6:27
A worrying mind robs you of precious time. Most of what a person worries about never actually happens.
Do not let your life be affected by something that does not even exist.God has been teaching me recently that I can trust in him completely. Being his child means that I am always able to live in peace: what an amazing privilege!
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. Thessalonians 3:16
My friend Mat and I have just recently returned from our
Mission 193 to Tunisia.
Hot sun, beautiful beaches, narrow colourful medina streets, loud Arabic and French talk, beeping taxis and mopeds, locals sitting outside cafes drinking coffee and smoking: the atmosphere was fast moving and friendly.
Despite being washed in western influence, Tunisia is still deeply rooted in Muslim tradition. We were however able to meet with many of the local Christians. We encouraged them and prayed with them for the work they were doing.
One of the things I was reminded of last week was this: when you make yourself available to be used by God, He will always place divine opportunity in your path.
'May your God make the name of Solomon better than your name and his throne greater than your throne!' 1 Kings 1:47
God reminded me again this morning of his heart to have a people who fully understand the significance of inheritance.
It is so important that we determine to go beyond those who have gone before us; that we build on what they have built; that we exceed their spiritual maturity and ministry.
It is also important to understand that in building God's Kingdom, one is part of a purpose greater than one's own ministry. We must be active in seeing those younger than ourselves take hold of all that we have seen and run with it.
David's response clearly shows his passion to see Solomon take his throne:
'Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel who has granted one to sit on my throne today while my own eyes see it.' 1 Kings 1:48
I have just finished watching the television series 'Band of Brothers'.
This powerful drama gives the history and tells the story of Easy Company, 506th Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division, U.S. Army. The series chronicles the experiences of these young men who knew extraordinary bravery and extraordinary fear.
If you want to understand the practical outworking of the covenant that we have entered into with one another as the People of God, then watch it!Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Romans 12:10
Recently the Church in Cardiff has been recieving teaching on the book of proverbs. I found last weeks session particularly helpful:
The wise man determines the course of his life and he avoids danger.
He is marked by his determination. Here are a few things a man of wisdom should determine: to be someone who is happy, focused, someone who listens, rules his thought life, controls his tongue and his temper, lives by the Holy Spirit and loves God's word.
He is also smart enough to avoid. The best of men have fallen because they do not avoid certain things in life. To avoid is not to be weak but is to be wise. Here are a few things a man of wisdom should avoid: worry, immoral women, bad company, worthless talk, debt, hasty judgment and sin dabbling.
