The weather over the last few days has changed dramatically as we have moved from wall to wall sunshine to an overcast sky. The rather dark morning today reminds me that we are meant to be light – whatever the weather. For in Ephesians 5:8 we are reminded that “For you were once darkness, but now you are the light in the Lord. Live as children of light.” So this weekend, why not really try to bring the light into your neighbourhood.
Thank you for joining us for what is an unusual way of “doing” church. We trust that the online service offered here will truly bless you, and that after this virus has passed, you will be able to join us as we resume our normal services and activities. In spite of what is going on at the moment, this is a time for personal growth and getting closer to God, and so our prayer is that you and your family will know Him and His great peace, in all things. This Sunday with Simon away on holiday, Clive Bennett, who is one of our members, is continuing our series on “Hidden Heroes of the Bible” with Mordecai. This service will include communion
Worship time – The Lion and the Lamb
Worship time – Build my life
Sermon – Mordecai – with Bible verse and prayer included – Clive Bennett
Worship time – Great things
Communion
Worship time – Amazing grace (My chains are gone)
Blessing to close
“Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favour and a good name in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:3-6
Although God has already done many amazing things for us, we sometimes still struggle to grasp that we need need His power in our lives if we are to be the people He wants us to be. Consequently, this week, why not pray that you may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ (Eph 3:17-18); and that you may then use that power to spread the Gospel?
I wonder what sort of week you had this week? Did it bring it’s share of stresses and challenges? I also wonder what difference it would have made if you held the Gospel truth at the forefront of your mind. As the old song says, “Take it to the Lord in prayer”. It will certainly help.
Have you ever felt, “I have really messed up this time. I am absolutely useless. God will not want anything to do with me now!?” Maybe you feel like that now. In which case I listen to what God is saying to you right now, “I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go … I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you (Genesis 28:15). Good news indeed.
Although the Coronavirus restrictions are slowly being lifted, we still live in challenging times. This week, why not make a real effort to bring your most immediate challenges to the Lord. Throw your anxieties at His feet and receive His peace.
As we all seem to have a bit more time on our hands at the moment, why not think about what Jesus has done for you so far on your spiritual journey. The really good news is the best is yet to come! Praise the Lord.
Even though we still can’t meet together, spend some time this week praying for each other. It will be wonderful when things finally get back to normal. Pray too for opened eyes as you read your Bible this week. Just is the Lord trying to tell you?
This week my Bible reading reminded my that we need to make time to stop and simply remember the goodness and faithfulness of God in our lives. It is so easy to forget what an amazing God we have.