Friday 1 October 2010
Friday 17 September 2010
Take up thy Cross (Charles William Everest)
So often we think life on earth should be easy but this song reminds us its not always that way.
Take up thy cross, the Savior said,
if thou wouldst my disciple be;
deny thyself, the world forsake,
and humbly follow after me.
Take up thy cross, let not its weight
fill thy weak spirit with alarm;
his strength shall bear thy spirit up,
and brace thy heart and nerve thine arm.
Take up thy cross, nor heed the shame,
nor let thy foolish pride rebel;
thy Lord for thee the cross endured,
to save thy soul from death and hell.
Take up thy cross then in his strength,
and calmly sin's wild deluge brave,
'twill guide thee to a better home,
it points to glory o'er the grave.
Take up thy cross and follow Christ,
nor think til death to lay it down;
for only those who bear the cross
may hope to wear the glorious crown.
To thee, great Lord, the One in Three,
all praise forevermore ascend:
O grant us in our home to see
the heavenly life that knows no end.
Take up thy cross, the Savior said,
if thou wouldst my disciple be;
deny thyself, the world forsake,
and humbly follow after me.
Take up thy cross, let not its weight
fill thy weak spirit with alarm;
his strength shall bear thy spirit up,
and brace thy heart and nerve thine arm.
Take up thy cross, nor heed the shame,
nor let thy foolish pride rebel;
thy Lord for thee the cross endured,
to save thy soul from death and hell.
Take up thy cross then in his strength,
and calmly sin's wild deluge brave,
'twill guide thee to a better home,
it points to glory o'er the grave.
Take up thy cross and follow Christ,
nor think til death to lay it down;
for only those who bear the cross
may hope to wear the glorious crown.
To thee, great Lord, the One in Three,
all praise forevermore ascend:
O grant us in our home to see
the heavenly life that knows no end.
Tuesday 3 August 2010
A Mighty fortress Is Our God
Read the words of this hymn today by Luther and it's like gold...such precious words about how great a God we have.
1. A mighty fortress is our God,
a bulwark never failing;
our helper he amid the flood
of mortal ills prevaling.
For still our ancient foe
doth seek to work us woe;
his craft and power are great,
and armed with cruel hate,
on earth is not his equal.
2. Did we in our own strength confide,
our striving would be losing,
were not the right man on our side,
the man of God's own choosing.
Dost ask who that may be?
Christ Jesus, it is he;
Lord Sabaoth, his name,
from age to age the same,
and he must win the battle.
3. And though this world, with devils filled,
should threaten to undo us,
we will not fear, for God hath willed
his truth to triumph through us.
The Prince of Darkness grim,
we tremble not for him;
his rage we can endure,
for lo, his doom is sure;
one little word shall fell him.
4. That word above all earthly powers,
no thanks to them, abideth;
the Spirit and the gifts are ours,
thru him who with us sideth.
Let goods and kindred go,
this mortal life also;
the body they may kill;
God's truth abideth still;
his kingdom is forever.
1. A mighty fortress is our God,
a bulwark never failing;
our helper he amid the flood
of mortal ills prevaling.
For still our ancient foe
doth seek to work us woe;
his craft and power are great,
and armed with cruel hate,
on earth is not his equal.
2. Did we in our own strength confide,
our striving would be losing,
were not the right man on our side,
the man of God's own choosing.
Dost ask who that may be?
Christ Jesus, it is he;
Lord Sabaoth, his name,
from age to age the same,
and he must win the battle.
3. And though this world, with devils filled,
should threaten to undo us,
we will not fear, for God hath willed
his truth to triumph through us.
The Prince of Darkness grim,
we tremble not for him;
his rage we can endure,
for lo, his doom is sure;
one little word shall fell him.
4. That word above all earthly powers,
no thanks to them, abideth;
the Spirit and the gifts are ours,
thru him who with us sideth.
Let goods and kindred go,
this mortal life also;
the body they may kill;
God's truth abideth still;
his kingdom is forever.
Saturday 31 July 2010
At Peace?
Death is it, that’s what people say
No more bills to pay
They all shout hurray
They’re at peace at last they say.
But open your eyes look all around
Do you think THIS is really it?
Are they sleeping safe and sound?
With not a care upon their mind?
Each tiny baby beautifully crafted inside its mother’s womb
That flower in beautiful bloom
Each tree so tall and ant so small
Was it all just chance indeed?
Death and life, joy and sorrow
All those worries about tomorrow
And that deep down felt sorrow
Don’t believe the world’s lies and swallow.
For me death will not be the end
And into heaven I will ascend
In Jesus Christ I abide and his grace is sublime
And sufficient all of the time.
No more bills to pay
They all shout hurray
They’re at peace at last they say.
But open your eyes look all around
Do you think THIS is really it?
Are they sleeping safe and sound?
With not a care upon their mind?
Each tiny baby beautifully crafted inside its mother’s womb
That flower in beautiful bloom
Each tree so tall and ant so small
Was it all just chance indeed?
Death and life, joy and sorrow
All those worries about tomorrow
And that deep down felt sorrow
Don’t believe the world’s lies and swallow.
For me death will not be the end
And into heaven I will ascend
In Jesus Christ I abide and his grace is sublime
And sufficient all of the time.
Thursday 27 May 2010
banana
As I was baking today a terrible joke came into my head and I thought it has been too long since my last one so I share it with you today.
Q. What is a banana's favourite exercise.
A. The banana splits!
Q. What is a banana's favourite exercise.
A. The banana splits!
Tuesday 11 May 2010
Babylon
Today i thought I would share some thoughts about what I've been reading from my Bible notes. It was a real challenge. Some people after the flood moved east Genesis 11 said and they decided they would build a tower and as it said in my ESV translation "make a name for ourselves". But God had other ideas and if you read on you can see that Babylon did not end up in a good way. Revelation 18 explains about the end of Babylon. It's very scary reading. This got me thinking...how are we any better? trying to make a name for ourselves instead of serving our saviour, our creator. And my thinking produced a poem/song. Read the passage in Genesis 11 v1-9 and Revelation and 18 and see what you think yourself.
I am Lord
I am Lord and King of all
Of all things both great and small.
I formed the trees so green and tall
And the unborn babies small.
Yet I weep and mourn the loss
Of my people who have tossed
My word, my hope for all the lost
For a lie the world has taught.
Many people they are working
Working hard all day and night
For the dream that’s just in sight
Trusting hard in their own might.
My people you are mine
Everyone of all mankind.
I created you to glorify me
Why do you get drunk on wine?
So I weep and mourn the loss
Of a people whom I love.
Yes I died upon the cross
To seek and save the Lost.
I am Lord and King of all.
Of all things both great and small.
Come near and taste and see.
Oh see that I am good.
I am Lord
I am Lord and King of all
Of all things both great and small.
I formed the trees so green and tall
And the unborn babies small.
Yet I weep and mourn the loss
Of my people who have tossed
My word, my hope for all the lost
For a lie the world has taught.
Many people they are working
Working hard all day and night
For the dream that’s just in sight
Trusting hard in their own might.
My people you are mine
Everyone of all mankind.
I created you to glorify me
Why do you get drunk on wine?
So I weep and mourn the loss
Of a people whom I love.
Yes I died upon the cross
To seek and save the Lost.
I am Lord and King of all.
Of all things both great and small.
Come near and taste and see.
Oh see that I am good.
Tuesday 4 May 2010
He cares
What will I wear?
Does anybody care?
What shall I eat?
Do you know my street?
Don’t worry your heavenly father knows.
He knows what you need.
He even the sparrow’s mouth doth feed.
And the beautiful lily grows.
Seek first his kingdom and righteousness.
And don’t be anxious about what tomorrow brings.
He knows what we need and it will save us a lot of sorrow.
If we seek after our heavenly fathers kingdom and righteousness.
I am clothed in righteousness
And fed from his most holy word
Yes he knows my street and every word I tweet.
And in his hand I’m complete.
Seek first his kingdom and righteousness.
And don’t be anxious about what tomorrow brings.
He knows what we need and it will save us alot of sorrow.
If we seek after our heavenly fathers kingdom and righteousness.
Based from Matthew 6v25-34.
Thursday 29 April 2010
When I Survey
"But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ." Galations6v14.
Tuesday 27 April 2010
I’m Justified By faith (Romans 5v1-11)
I’m justified by faith and receive Gods blessed peace.
As I stand in this grace, may His Glory Increase.
Suffering produces endurance and endurance character.
Character produces hope and hope it does not shame
Because of God’s most Holy name.
I’m justified by faith and receive Gods blessed peace.
As I stand in this grace, may His Glory Increase.
For even weak as I am and with a heart full of sin.
I’m saved from God’s wrath as Jesus the victory he did win.
Yes Jesus Christ, he died for my sin.
I’m justified by faith and receive Gods blessed peace.
As I stand in this grace, may His Glory Increase.
I stand now reconciled to God by the death of his son.
I rejoice that I am saved not by what I have done.
Yes Jesus Christ, he died for my sin.
I’m justified by faith and receive Gods blessed peace.
As I stand in this grace, may His Glory Increase.
Wednesday 24 March 2010
My hope
Today I thought I would share one of my favourite hymns which I from time to time remind my husband I want sung at my funeral. I love the hymn my hope is built in nothing less. It was written by a Edward mote a baptist minister who died in November 1874. A great quote from him when he was offered the church building as a gift from his congregation "I do not want the chapel, I only want the pulpit; and when I cease to preach Christ, then turn me out of that." Indeed we should all preach Christ in our lives and what a solid rock we have in Christ.
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly trust in Jesus’ Name.
Refrain
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
When darkness seems to hide His face,
I rest on His unchanging grace.
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.
Refrain
His oath, His covenant, His blood,
Support me in the whelming flood.
When all around my soul gives way,
He then is all my Hope and Stay.
Refrain
When He shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh may I then in Him be found.
Dressed in His righteousness alone,
Faultless to stand before the throne.
Refrain
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly trust in Jesus’ Name.
Refrain
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
When darkness seems to hide His face,
I rest on His unchanging grace.
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.
Refrain
His oath, His covenant, His blood,
Support me in the whelming flood.
When all around my soul gives way,
He then is all my Hope and Stay.
Refrain
When He shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh may I then in Him be found.
Dressed in His righteousness alone,
Faultless to stand before the throne.
Refrain
Monday 22 March 2010
My dwelling place (psalm 84)
How lovely is thy dwelling place.....Can we really say this? What a challenge to be able to say that with all our heart. So many things in our lives fight to take Gods place but ultimately we are made for a relationship with our creater and we are only truely happy in his presence...following his highway. What a great thing that God is everywhere and his presence is with us day and night, in happiness and sadness. His presense is lovely in every moment of life...just like its great to have a friend/spouse/someone you love with you in happy times and in sad, so no matter what life brings it is indeed truely lovely to have our saviour with us...to be in his dwelling place no matter what.
Psalm 84
84:1 How lovely is your dwelling place,
O Lord of hosts!
2 My soul longs, yes, faints
for the courts of the Lord;
my heart and flesh sing for joy
to the living God.
3 Even the sparrow finds a home,
and the swallow a nest for herself,
where she may lay her young,
at your altars, O Lord of hosts,
my King and my God.
4 Blessed are those who dwell in your house,
ever singing your praise! Selah
5 Blessed are those whose strength is in you,
in whose heart are the highways to Zion. [2]
6 As they go through the Valley of Baca
they make it a place of springs;
the early rain also covers it with pools.
7 They go from strength to strength;
each one appears before God in Zion.
8 O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer;
give ear, O God of Jacob! Selah
9 Behold our shield, O God;
look on the face of your anointed!
10 For a day in your courts is better
than a thousand elsewhere.
I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God
than dwell in the tents of wickedness.
11 For the Lord God is a sun and shield;
the Lord bestows favor and honor.
No good thing does he withhold
from those who walk uprightly.
12 O Lord of hosts,
blessed is the one who trusts in you!
nb- this is a lovely song based on this psalm on youtube.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yeitZ0y2EQM
Psalm 84
84:1 How lovely is your dwelling place,
O Lord of hosts!
2 My soul longs, yes, faints
for the courts of the Lord;
my heart and flesh sing for joy
to the living God.
3 Even the sparrow finds a home,
and the swallow a nest for herself,
where she may lay her young,
at your altars, O Lord of hosts,
my King and my God.
4 Blessed are those who dwell in your house,
ever singing your praise! Selah
5 Blessed are those whose strength is in you,
in whose heart are the highways to Zion. [2]
6 As they go through the Valley of Baca
they make it a place of springs;
the early rain also covers it with pools.
7 They go from strength to strength;
each one appears before God in Zion.
8 O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer;
give ear, O God of Jacob! Selah
9 Behold our shield, O God;
look on the face of your anointed!
10 For a day in your courts is better
than a thousand elsewhere.
I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God
than dwell in the tents of wickedness.
11 For the Lord God is a sun and shield;
the Lord bestows favor and honor.
No good thing does he withhold
from those who walk uprightly.
12 O Lord of hosts,
blessed is the one who trusts in you!
nb- this is a lovely song based on this psalm on youtube.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yeitZ0y2EQM
Thursday 18 March 2010
A joke I thought of!
What did the duck say to his mother after I've a very long swim?
I'm cream quackered!
Tuesday 16 March 2010
My Shepherd
The Lord in my shepherd his voice I will head.
I have in my Lord every little thing that I need.
The Lord is my shepherd his voice I will head.
I will follow Him where his hand he doth lead.
The lord is my shepherd, my soul true rest it receives,
By green pastures and still waters as my saviour he leads.
The Lord is my shepherd and my life’s only guide.
In Christ, as paths of righteousness we together find.
My saviour I do trust, even when through the trials we tread.
I know he will lead me, yes even as I lie on my death bed.
For you are my rock, my protector.
My guide, always by my side.
I have all I need on earth with my shepherd by my side.
As wonderful mercy, grace and truth he provides.
As on this earth this path we together stride,
Until in heaven with my saviour I abide.
Wednesday 10 March 2010
Beauty
O Lord thank you for the beauty,
The beauty of that sparking sea,
The wonder of those trees I See,
Wonderful beauty, created by You.
Amen
Friday 5 March 2010
I came across this lightbulb denominational Joke online at: http://wilk4.com/humor/humorc8.htm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Take this with a smile, it's not meant to insult anyone. We all need to laugh at ourselves from time-to-time. We presbyterians are still waiting to hear back from the committee our elders appointed about what our answer should be -jw)
How many Charismatics does it take to change a light bulb?
Only one since his/her hands are in the air anyway.
-Or-
Five. One to change the bulb and four to bind the spirit of darkness in the room.
How many Calvinists does it take to change a light bulb?
None. God has predestined when the lights will be on.
-Or-
Calvinists do not change light bulbs. They simply read out the instructions and pray the light bulb will decide to change itself.
How many neo-evangelicals does it take to change a light bulb?
No one knows. They can't tell the difference between light and darkness.
How many Pentecostals does it take to change a light bulb?
Ten. One to change the bulb and nine to pray against the spirit of darkness.
How many TV evangelists does it take to change a light bulb?
One. But for the message of light to continue, send in your donation today.
How many fundamentalists or independent Baptists does it take to change a light bulb?
Only one because any more would be compromise and ecumenical standards of light would slip.
How many liberals does it take to change a light bulb?
At least ten, as they need to hold a debate on whether or not the light bulb exists. Even if they can agree upon the existence of the light bulb, they still may not change it to keep from alienating those who might use other forms of light.
How many Anglicans or Catholics does it take to change a light bulb?
None. They always use candles.
How many campfire worship leaders does it take to change light bulb?
One. But soon all those around can warm up to its glowing.
How many Episcopalians does it take to change a light bulb?
Ten. One to call the electrician, and nine to say how much they liked the old one better.
-Or-
Four. One to change the bulb. One to bless the elements. One to pour the sherry. And one to offer a toast to the old light bulb.
How many Baptists does it take to change a light bulb?
CHANGE???????
-Or-
At least 15. One to change the light bulb, and three committees to approve the change and decide who brings the potato salad.
How many Southern Baptists does it take to change a light bulb?
About 16,000,000. However, they are badly divided over whether changing the bulb is a fundamental need or not.
How many Nazarenes does it take to change a light bulb?
Two. One to change the bulb. Another to replace the new with the old after shaking it and finding it can be revived with a second blessing.
-Or-
Six. One woman to replace the bulb while five men review church lighting policy.
How many United Church of Christ members does it take to change a light bulb?
Eleven. One to change the light bulb. And ten more to organize a covered dish supper that will follow the changing of the bulb service.
How many Lutherans does it take to change a light bulb?
There is some question here. But we have it on good authority that they have appointed a committee to study the issue and report back at their next meeting.
-Or-
We read that we are to so fear and love God that we cannot by our own effort or understanding comprehend the replacement of an electromagnetic photon source. It is, rather by faith, NOT by our efforts (effected toward the failed worldly incandescence), that we truly see, and that our own works cannot fully justify us in the presence of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Of course, it is still dark.
-Or-
None. Lutherans don't believe in change.
How many Amish does it take to change a light bulb?
What's a light bulb?
How many Mormons does it take to change a light bulb?
Five. One man to change bulb & four wives to tell him how to do it.
How many Presbyterians does it take to change a light bulb?
None. Lights will go on and off at predestined times.
How many Unitarians does it take to change a light bulb?
300. 12 to sit on the Board which appoints the Nominating and Personnel Committee. 5 to sit on the Nominating and Personnel Committee, which appoints the House Committee. 8 to sit on the House Committee, which appoints the Light Bulb changing committee. 4 to sit on the Light Bulb Changing Committee, which chooses who will screw in the Light Bulb--those 4 then give their own opinion of "screwing in methods" while the one actually does the installation. After completion it takes 100 individuals to complain about the method of installation and another 177 to debate the ecological impact of using the light bulb at all.
How many United Methodists does it take to change a light bulb?
We choose not to make a statement either in favor of or against the need for a light bulb. However, if in your own journey, you have found that a light bulb works for you, that is fine. You are invited to write a poem or compose a modern dance about your personal relationship to your light bulb and present it next month at our annual light bulb Sunday service, in which we will explore a number of light bulb traditions, including incandescent, fluorescent, three-way, long-lived, and tinted; all of which are equally valid paths to luminescence through Jesus Christ.
-Or-
Undetermined. Whether your light is bright, dull, or completely out, you are loved --you can be a light bulb, turnip bulb, or tulip bulb. Church wide lighting service is planned for Sunday. Bring bulb of your choice and a covered dish
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Take this with a smile, it's not meant to insult anyone. We all need to laugh at ourselves from time-to-time. We presbyterians are still waiting to hear back from the committee our elders appointed about what our answer should be -jw)
How many Charismatics does it take to change a light bulb?
Only one since his/her hands are in the air anyway.
-Or-
Five. One to change the bulb and four to bind the spirit of darkness in the room.
How many Calvinists does it take to change a light bulb?
None. God has predestined when the lights will be on.
-Or-
Calvinists do not change light bulbs. They simply read out the instructions and pray the light bulb will decide to change itself.
How many neo-evangelicals does it take to change a light bulb?
No one knows. They can't tell the difference between light and darkness.
How many Pentecostals does it take to change a light bulb?
Ten. One to change the bulb and nine to pray against the spirit of darkness.
How many TV evangelists does it take to change a light bulb?
One. But for the message of light to continue, send in your donation today.
How many fundamentalists or independent Baptists does it take to change a light bulb?
Only one because any more would be compromise and ecumenical standards of light would slip.
How many liberals does it take to change a light bulb?
At least ten, as they need to hold a debate on whether or not the light bulb exists. Even if they can agree upon the existence of the light bulb, they still may not change it to keep from alienating those who might use other forms of light.
How many Anglicans or Catholics does it take to change a light bulb?
None. They always use candles.
How many campfire worship leaders does it take to change light bulb?
One. But soon all those around can warm up to its glowing.
How many Episcopalians does it take to change a light bulb?
Ten. One to call the electrician, and nine to say how much they liked the old one better.
-Or-
Four. One to change the bulb. One to bless the elements. One to pour the sherry. And one to offer a toast to the old light bulb.
How many Baptists does it take to change a light bulb?
CHANGE???????
-Or-
At least 15. One to change the light bulb, and three committees to approve the change and decide who brings the potato salad.
How many Southern Baptists does it take to change a light bulb?
About 16,000,000. However, they are badly divided over whether changing the bulb is a fundamental need or not.
How many Nazarenes does it take to change a light bulb?
Two. One to change the bulb. Another to replace the new with the old after shaking it and finding it can be revived with a second blessing.
-Or-
Six. One woman to replace the bulb while five men review church lighting policy.
How many United Church of Christ members does it take to change a light bulb?
Eleven. One to change the light bulb. And ten more to organize a covered dish supper that will follow the changing of the bulb service.
How many Lutherans does it take to change a light bulb?
There is some question here. But we have it on good authority that they have appointed a committee to study the issue and report back at their next meeting.
-Or-
We read that we are to so fear and love God that we cannot by our own effort or understanding comprehend the replacement of an electromagnetic photon source. It is, rather by faith, NOT by our efforts (effected toward the failed worldly incandescence), that we truly see, and that our own works cannot fully justify us in the presence of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Of course, it is still dark.
-Or-
None. Lutherans don't believe in change.
How many Amish does it take to change a light bulb?
What's a light bulb?
How many Mormons does it take to change a light bulb?
Five. One man to change bulb & four wives to tell him how to do it.
How many Presbyterians does it take to change a light bulb?
None. Lights will go on and off at predestined times.
How many Unitarians does it take to change a light bulb?
300. 12 to sit on the Board which appoints the Nominating and Personnel Committee. 5 to sit on the Nominating and Personnel Committee, which appoints the House Committee. 8 to sit on the House Committee, which appoints the Light Bulb changing committee. 4 to sit on the Light Bulb Changing Committee, which chooses who will screw in the Light Bulb--those 4 then give their own opinion of "screwing in methods" while the one actually does the installation. After completion it takes 100 individuals to complain about the method of installation and another 177 to debate the ecological impact of using the light bulb at all.
How many United Methodists does it take to change a light bulb?
We choose not to make a statement either in favor of or against the need for a light bulb. However, if in your own journey, you have found that a light bulb works for you, that is fine. You are invited to write a poem or compose a modern dance about your personal relationship to your light bulb and present it next month at our annual light bulb Sunday service, in which we will explore a number of light bulb traditions, including incandescent, fluorescent, three-way, long-lived, and tinted; all of which are equally valid paths to luminescence through Jesus Christ.
-Or-
Undetermined. Whether your light is bright, dull, or completely out, you are loved --you can be a light bulb, turnip bulb, or tulip bulb. Church wide lighting service is planned for Sunday. Bring bulb of your choice and a covered dish
Tuesday 2 March 2010
What do you smell like?
Our sense of smell is a very good thing as I've found out recently when i lost it for a while. I read on the BBC today that our noses are being investigated as a possible source of identification i.e. nose prints. What a lovely thing it is to smell good smells e.g. freshly cooked bread, fresh flowers, perfume/aftershave and alternatively its not so nice to smell rotten food, mold and smelly feet. The Bible in 2Corinthians 2v15-17 says:
For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life. Who is sufficient for these things? For we are not, like so many, peddlers of God’s word, but as men of sincerity, as commissioned by God, in the sight of God we speak in Christ.
Paul describes us as the aroma of Christ to God.....what a thought that God delights in us and our lives as a result of being made clean and fresh in Christ and having our sins forgiven. But what a challenge...the aroma of our life can point people to life or death. When you smell nice bread in the supermarket of course you are more likely to buy it than if you smell mould. Likewise if our lives smell sweet to others they will be more likely to be attracted to learn more about Jesus and taste and see that God is good. But also what a sobering thought that Christians can also stink...and people can be put off Christianity by this. But the final bit of verse 17 says we are commissioned by God i.e. its God who sends us out and equips us with the sweet smelling fruit of the spirit (Galatians 5v22-24)....love, joy ,peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. How can we smell good? By being IN CHRIST....by knowing him better..by following him closer..by feeding on his word. So I ask myself and you....how are you smelling today?
For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life. Who is sufficient for these things? For we are not, like so many, peddlers of God’s word, but as men of sincerity, as commissioned by God, in the sight of God we speak in Christ.
Paul describes us as the aroma of Christ to God.....what a thought that God delights in us and our lives as a result of being made clean and fresh in Christ and having our sins forgiven. But what a challenge...the aroma of our life can point people to life or death. When you smell nice bread in the supermarket of course you are more likely to buy it than if you smell mould. Likewise if our lives smell sweet to others they will be more likely to be attracted to learn more about Jesus and taste and see that God is good. But also what a sobering thought that Christians can also stink...and people can be put off Christianity by this. But the final bit of verse 17 says we are commissioned by God i.e. its God who sends us out and equips us with the sweet smelling fruit of the spirit (Galatians 5v22-24)....love, joy ,peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. How can we smell good? By being IN CHRIST....by knowing him better..by following him closer..by feeding on his word. So I ask myself and you....how are you smelling today?
Tuesday 23 February 2010
feeling ill?
Well as i'm feeling a little under the weather i thought a joke was apropriate
A little nine year old girl was in church with her mother when she started feeling ill.
"Mommy" she said "Can we leave now?"
"No" her mother replied.
"Well, I think I have to throw up!"
"Then go out the front door and around to the back of the church and throw up behind a bush."
In about two minutes the little girl returned to her seat.
"Did you throw up?" her mother asked.
"Yes" the little girl replied.
"Well, how could you have gone all the way to the back of the church and return so quickly?"
"I didn't have to go out of the church, Mommy" the little girl replied, "They have a box next to the front door that says 'for the sick'."
A little nine year old girl was in church with her mother when she started feeling ill.
"Mommy" she said "Can we leave now?"
"No" her mother replied.
"Well, I think I have to throw up!"
"Then go out the front door and around to the back of the church and throw up behind a bush."
In about two minutes the little girl returned to her seat.
"Did you throw up?" her mother asked.
"Yes" the little girl replied.
"Well, how could you have gone all the way to the back of the church and return so quickly?"
"I didn't have to go out of the church, Mommy" the little girl replied, "They have a box next to the front door that says 'for the sick'."
Saturday 20 February 2010
Mission Possible.
I have just finished listening to a sermon from our church last Sunday night and thought i would share my thoughts and it's overview.
John 20v21
"Jesus said to them again, 'Peace be with you. As
the father has sent me, even so I am sending you'".
This talk was based around looking at mission from a trinitarian perspective i.e. Father, son and Holy spirit. When we become Christians we are invited into this trinitarian relationship. As Jesus was sending out his disciples in the verse above so he sends us out in the same way.
So...The Fathers Role- It was interesting to note the father initiated his mission on earth by sending Jesus (John 4v34). God was at work and continues to be at work on earth. I agree with the speaker that all too often we don't realise that God is already at work and we just have to join in. That's encouraging isn't it? God works in peoples hearts...we don't.
Secondly the son's Role i.e he modeled mission in a few ways
1. It was done in human weakness i.e. God got tired and needed to eat. Humanity was a big part of Jesus mission. Sometimes we think we need to be superhuman but God can use us despite the excuses we try to make....i can't do mission...I'm too quiet/loud etc. People need to see how God is part of our lives despite our failings and humanity.
2.It was costly-He explained many of the disciples were killed for their faith. He explained it should not be a surprise that we are sent on costly missions as Jesus paid the greatest cost i.e. he died on the cross.
3. It was relational- Jesus did mission because he was passionate about his love for the father and Jesus should compel us to mission. I agree with the speaker that the best motivation for mission is beautiful grace.....Jesus love should compel us and we should not be able to keep his love from overflowing.This can be a magnet for many who don't know God...when they see how we love each other in the church and the community because Christ loved us.
4. It is all about forgiveness-John 20v23. What greater need to we all have but to have our sins forgiven at the cross?
Lastly the Holy Spirit-How do we do all this? With the Holy spirits power. How did the disciples who were so afraid when Jesus died, end up being martyred for their faith? How did they have such boldness to proclaim the gospel?
By the indwelling work of the holy spirit. I thank God that he has entrusted us with
the Holy spirit's power in our hearts and lives.
After this sermon mission doesn't seem that scary does it? It's exciting...let's get involved and thank God for the trinity...what a blessing!
Here is the sermon for a listen yourself if you have about 25Min's.
http://sermon.net/download.php?c=18071-count_audio_download-2345259
John 20v21
"Jesus said to them again, 'Peace be with you. As
the father has sent me, even so I am sending you'".
This talk was based around looking at mission from a trinitarian perspective i.e. Father, son and Holy spirit. When we become Christians we are invited into this trinitarian relationship. As Jesus was sending out his disciples in the verse above so he sends us out in the same way.
So...The Fathers Role- It was interesting to note the father initiated his mission on earth by sending Jesus (John 4v34). God was at work and continues to be at work on earth. I agree with the speaker that all too often we don't realise that God is already at work and we just have to join in. That's encouraging isn't it? God works in peoples hearts...we don't.
Secondly the son's Role i.e he modeled mission in a few ways
1. It was done in human weakness i.e. God got tired and needed to eat. Humanity was a big part of Jesus mission. Sometimes we think we need to be superhuman but God can use us despite the excuses we try to make....i can't do mission...I'm too quiet/loud etc. People need to see how God is part of our lives despite our failings and humanity.
2.It was costly-He explained many of the disciples were killed for their faith. He explained it should not be a surprise that we are sent on costly missions as Jesus paid the greatest cost i.e. he died on the cross.
3. It was relational- Jesus did mission because he was passionate about his love for the father and Jesus should compel us to mission. I agree with the speaker that the best motivation for mission is beautiful grace.....Jesus love should compel us and we should not be able to keep his love from overflowing.This can be a magnet for many who don't know God...when they see how we love each other in the church and the community because Christ loved us.
4. It is all about forgiveness-John 20v23. What greater need to we all have but to have our sins forgiven at the cross?
Lastly the Holy Spirit-How do we do all this? With the Holy spirits power. How did the disciples who were so afraid when Jesus died, end up being martyred for their faith? How did they have such boldness to proclaim the gospel?
By the indwelling work of the holy spirit. I thank God that he has entrusted us with
the Holy spirit's power in our hearts and lives.
After this sermon mission doesn't seem that scary does it? It's exciting...let's get involved and thank God for the trinity...what a blessing!
Here is the sermon for a listen yourself if you have about 25Min's.
http://sermon.net/download.php?c=18071-count_audio_download-2345259
Thursday 18 February 2010
My glorious Lord of hosts.
God spoke in the beginning and behold it was so.
The earth was filled with light and water it did flow.
God spoke in the beginning and behold it was so.
The earth was filled with plants, and fruit from trees did grow.
God crafted us in his image to glorify his name.
To live a perfect life on earth, without a hint of pain.
But tempted by the serpent we could never be the same.
Our eyes knew good and evil, and our heart it was now stained.
But God he did not leave us, alone troubled with our sin.
It was the virgin Mary who had the Christ child within.
Born in a stable manger, in Bethlehem that night.
The angels gave the shepherds quite an unexpected fright.
“Glory to God in the highest and peace with whom his favour rests”,
The angels sang that night with joy and happiness.
Jesus grew in strength and wisdom until that blessed day.
“My beloved son with you I am well pleased” the Father he did say.
Jesus began his mission on earth in the holy spirits power.
He called the 12 disciples to help his message tower.
He healed a lot of people and his word of truth did shower.
He then told his disciples behold now is the hour.
Jesus Christ our Lord and saviour tread the road to be crucified.
His feet and hands that day upon the cross were tied.
Our saviour hung in agony, until with one final sigh.
It’s finished, done, he cried!
But the grave it did not hold him.
He had paid the price for sin.
He told the disciples the work was to begin.
To spread the news to everyone of their forgiven sin.
Jesus Christ my loving saviour his name is all my boast.
I thank him for his throne of grace I boldly now approach.
So I’ll run the race set before me, until that final post.
Until in heaven I see, my glorious Lord of hosts.
The earth was filled with light and water it did flow.
God spoke in the beginning and behold it was so.
The earth was filled with plants, and fruit from trees did grow.
God crafted us in his image to glorify his name.
To live a perfect life on earth, without a hint of pain.
But tempted by the serpent we could never be the same.
Our eyes knew good and evil, and our heart it was now stained.
But God he did not leave us, alone troubled with our sin.
It was the virgin Mary who had the Christ child within.
Born in a stable manger, in Bethlehem that night.
The angels gave the shepherds quite an unexpected fright.
“Glory to God in the highest and peace with whom his favour rests”,
The angels sang that night with joy and happiness.
Jesus grew in strength and wisdom until that blessed day.
“My beloved son with you I am well pleased” the Father he did say.
Jesus began his mission on earth in the holy spirits power.
He called the 12 disciples to help his message tower.
He healed a lot of people and his word of truth did shower.
He then told his disciples behold now is the hour.
Jesus Christ our Lord and saviour tread the road to be crucified.
His feet and hands that day upon the cross were tied.
Our saviour hung in agony, until with one final sigh.
It’s finished, done, he cried!
But the grave it did not hold him.
He had paid the price for sin.
He told the disciples the work was to begin.
To spread the news to everyone of their forgiven sin.
Jesus Christ my loving saviour his name is all my boast.
I thank him for his throne of grace I boldly now approach.
So I’ll run the race set before me, until that final post.
Until in heaven I see, my glorious Lord of hosts.
Wednesday 17 February 2010
Dr Dr
I thought it was time for a joke that i saw and chuckled at. Have a read....
Doctor, Doctor I've got wind! Can you give me something?
Yes - here's a kite!
Doctor, Doctor I've got wind! Can you give me something?
Yes - here's a kite!
Friday 12 February 2010
Yes surrender!
Just a little reflection on trust today. I've been thinking over this as a result of a Bible study on Philippians on being content in every circumstance. Why are we so often discontent...not enough money..not enough friends...not enough possessions? In reality its about not enough of God in our lives and no surrender to Him. So often we say to God 'No Surrender'...we can handle this ourselves...we can achieve whatever we want by ourselves. The answer is to humbly realise it's God we need...to rely on his strength through prayer for every detail of our life. To know him better by studying his word.
"Do you not find yourselves forgetful of Jesus? Some creature steals away your heart, and you are unmindful of him upon whom your affection ought to be set. Some earthly business engrosses your attention when you should have your eye steadily fixed upon the cross. It is the incessant round of world, world, world; the constant din of earth, earth, earth, that takes away the soul from Christ. Oh! my friends, is it not too sadly true that we can recollect anything but Christ, and forget nothing so easy as him whom we ought to remember? While memory will preserve a poisoned weed, it suffereth the Rose of Sharon to wither."
C.H. Spurgeon
To finish what a great song about surrender to God by J.W. Van Deventer :
1.All to Jesus I surrender,
All to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust Him,
In His presence daily live.
I surrender all,
I surrender all.
All to Thee, my blessed Savior,
I surrender all.
2.All to Jesus I surrender,
Humbly at His feet I bow,
Worldly pleasures all forsaken;
Take me, Jesus, take me now.
3.All to Jesus I surrender,
Make me, Savior, wholly Thine;
Let me feel Thy Holy Spirit,
Truly know that Thou art mine.
4.All to Jesus I surrender,
Lord, I give myself to Thee;
Fill me with Thy love and power,
Let Thy blessing fall on me.
5.All to Jesus I surrender,
Now I feel the sacred flame.
Oh, the joy of full salvation!
Glory, glory to His name!
"Do you not find yourselves forgetful of Jesus? Some creature steals away your heart, and you are unmindful of him upon whom your affection ought to be set. Some earthly business engrosses your attention when you should have your eye steadily fixed upon the cross. It is the incessant round of world, world, world; the constant din of earth, earth, earth, that takes away the soul from Christ. Oh! my friends, is it not too sadly true that we can recollect anything but Christ, and forget nothing so easy as him whom we ought to remember? While memory will preserve a poisoned weed, it suffereth the Rose of Sharon to wither."
C.H. Spurgeon
To finish what a great song about surrender to God by J.W. Van Deventer :
1.All to Jesus I surrender,
All to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust Him,
In His presence daily live.
I surrender all,
I surrender all.
All to Thee, my blessed Savior,
I surrender all.
2.All to Jesus I surrender,
Humbly at His feet I bow,
Worldly pleasures all forsaken;
Take me, Jesus, take me now.
3.All to Jesus I surrender,
Make me, Savior, wholly Thine;
Let me feel Thy Holy Spirit,
Truly know that Thou art mine.
4.All to Jesus I surrender,
Lord, I give myself to Thee;
Fill me with Thy love and power,
Let Thy blessing fall on me.
5.All to Jesus I surrender,
Now I feel the sacred flame.
Oh, the joy of full salvation!
Glory, glory to His name!
Wednesday 10 February 2010
Created for His Glory.
Today I'm in a reflective mood. It's been lovely weather here and I've been pondering the beauty of creation over the last few days...the beauty of a crisp day with a glorious blue sky...the beauty of purple heather along side high rocks near where I live. God did create a beautiful world.
"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters." Genesis 1 v1-2.
God has always been here before He even created what we know today as earth and in Genesis we see how He formed it and filled it with many things, including us human beings. He made man in God's image but as we see in the Bible sin came into the world and ruined this. As we look around today we see how our world has gone so wrong. Psalm 139 explains how God knows us so well....everything about us from when we were being formed in our mothers womb to our life here on earth to eternity, wherever that will be. God KNOWS us! But we choose to accept the world's lies.....to think that it is OK to be our own god. For example it's deemed completely legal here to kill a baby in the womb which God has created....we are debating that euthanasia is fine here in the UK.....it's sad. But God wants to fill us, to form us, to give us true life full of grace and truth. It's such a shame many people here just don't hear this good news. Why is our world so lost? Maybe we as Christians have something to do with it. I really pray God would help us to be that strong light which the world needs and not a damp squid which goes out after a short time.
In the same way let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good deeds and give glory to the Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5v16.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GOLZdZsHzM
"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters." Genesis 1 v1-2.
God has always been here before He even created what we know today as earth and in Genesis we see how He formed it and filled it with many things, including us human beings. He made man in God's image but as we see in the Bible sin came into the world and ruined this. As we look around today we see how our world has gone so wrong. Psalm 139 explains how God knows us so well....everything about us from when we were being formed in our mothers womb to our life here on earth to eternity, wherever that will be. God KNOWS us! But we choose to accept the world's lies.....to think that it is OK to be our own god. For example it's deemed completely legal here to kill a baby in the womb which God has created....we are debating that euthanasia is fine here in the UK.....it's sad. But God wants to fill us, to form us, to give us true life full of grace and truth. It's such a shame many people here just don't hear this good news. Why is our world so lost? Maybe we as Christians have something to do with it. I really pray God would help us to be that strong light which the world needs and not a damp squid which goes out after a short time.
In the same way let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good deeds and give glory to the Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5v16.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GOLZdZsHzM
Sunday 7 February 2010
What's the Point?
Today i thought i would share with you a sermon broadcast today on BBC radio about the answer to this question from the Bible's perspective. For me life only has meaning as a follower of Jesus Christ. I'll let you deide what you think. It will only be up for a limited time so take a listen while you can.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0079g7f
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0079g7f
Saturday 6 February 2010
A little Joke
On a ligher note, today i thought i would share a really bad joke!
What do you call a chicken in a shell suit?
An egg.
What do you call a chicken in a shell suit?
An egg.
Friday 5 February 2010
Aren't they lovely when they're asleep?
As my child is currently asleep(and I can have a cup of coffee and ponder!), today i thought i would enlighten you who are parents or will be in the future on a great book about parenting I read before my little girl was born. It's short and could be read in no time at all i.e. 30mins, so no excuses. It's written by Ann Benton a mother, author and lecturer. It's divided into 6 key concepts of parenting : Accept, beware, communicate, discipline, evaluate and fear the Lord. It is very practical and contains examples of how to apply these concepts to your child/children. I know I found this book very enlightening and it especially makes you think about how your parents' parenting style has an impact on how you think and act as a parent, how you can develop unhelpful practices and how the Bible can help us understand our children and role as a parent. A well worth read and i will not spoil it by telling you any more. I recommend you read it and find out for yourselves!
Thursday 4 February 2010
The beginning
This is the beginning of my first blog. So hopefully it will continue. As time permits i will reflect on whatever is most pertinent to me. Today its about the mind.
"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." (Romans 12:2)
The mind is a wonderful thing...we think all the time sometimes subconsciously; as our mind processes that we need to move that hand to open the door;sometimes very consciously...as we wonder about many things...as we worry about our family/money/health..as we analyse what we think we need to do/know. As humans We THINK! And thinking usually results in action. Mahatma Gandhi quotes
“A man is but the product of his thoughts what he thinks, he becomes.” This is so true.
I love the hymn by Kate Wilkinson Music: Arthur Barham-Gould. 1925: May the mind of Christ my saviour
May the mind of Christ, my Savior,
Live in me from day to day,
By His love and power controlling
All I do and say.
May the Word of God dwell richly
In my heart from hour to hour,
So that all may see I triumph
Only through His power.
May the peace of God my Father
Rule my life in everything,
That I may be calm to comfort
Sick and sorrowing.
May the love of Jesus fill me
As the waters fill the sea;
Him exalting, self abasing,
This is victory.
May I run the race before me,
Strong and brave to face the foe,
Looking only unto Jesus
As I onward go.
May His beauty rest upon me,
As I seek the lost to win,
And may they forget the channel,
Seeing only Him.
Here is a nice arrangement on U tube. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8cHP6aneis
It's my prayer the the mind of Christ may dwell richly in your heart and mine. What a joy to think on Christ...to run the race looking to Christ...to seek only him...to seek the lost. What a thought!
"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." (Romans 12:2)
The mind is a wonderful thing...we think all the time sometimes subconsciously; as our mind processes that we need to move that hand to open the door;sometimes very consciously...as we wonder about many things...as we worry about our family/money/health..as we analyse what we think we need to do/know. As humans We THINK! And thinking usually results in action. Mahatma Gandhi quotes
“A man is but the product of his thoughts what he thinks, he becomes.” This is so true.
I love the hymn by Kate Wilkinson Music: Arthur Barham-Gould. 1925: May the mind of Christ my saviour
May the mind of Christ, my Savior,
Live in me from day to day,
By His love and power controlling
All I do and say.
May the Word of God dwell richly
In my heart from hour to hour,
So that all may see I triumph
Only through His power.
May the peace of God my Father
Rule my life in everything,
That I may be calm to comfort
Sick and sorrowing.
May the love of Jesus fill me
As the waters fill the sea;
Him exalting, self abasing,
This is victory.
May I run the race before me,
Strong and brave to face the foe,
Looking only unto Jesus
As I onward go.
May His beauty rest upon me,
As I seek the lost to win,
And may they forget the channel,
Seeing only Him.
Here is a nice arrangement on U tube. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8cHP6aneis
It's my prayer the the mind of Christ may dwell richly in your heart and mine. What a joy to think on Christ...to run the race looking to Christ...to seek only him...to seek the lost. What a thought!
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