A Heart Untroubled

As a first year bible college student we read through the bible as a requirement of the course, and since that time, I have continued to read through the bible that way, but sometimes as I read something I think "I am sure that wasn't in there before!"  At some moments as we read the Word, there are portions that have been there all along, but the Holy Spirit brings to our attention when he wants to show us something, and it never hit us before... Today was like that. As I was reading, I was struck with the verse in 2 Corinthians 9:11 (The Passion Translation - TPT) "You will be abundantly enriched in every way as you give generously on every occasion, for when we take your gifts to those in need, it causes many to give thanks to God. " The bible speaks about being a cheerful giver, and I long ago realized that God cannot be out-given and so I give from a thankful heart because of what he has done for me!  I give because I know I can trust God with

I do enjoy doing stuff, but I also love that quiet time at the beginning of my day, where I can sit with a cuppa, my bible and the sound of the birds (and the squirrels) when nobody else is around.   It's one of the reasons I love to start work early.  There's just something good about the pause before the business of the day. In the well known chapter Psalm 23, David says "He leads me beside the still waters.  He restores my soul" (v2b-3a). The opening verse of Psalm 23 says "I shall not want" (lack anything). Our soul (our mind, will & emotions) can grow weary and worn down almost in more ways than our bodies.  In this day and age we are bombarded with information and mental stimulation.   We have distractions galore and it can sometimes be overwhelming. God's desire for is to have life and live it to the full, and that means having that metal and motional peace which can only come through relationship with him. The theme of the whole

This week, we've had the honour of hosting a team of students from Charis Bible College Atlanta.  It's been a lot of fun. We've laughed and cried and prayed and chatted as they have been ministering and learning here. One of the things I thought was interesting was how, despite later nights and early mornings, I am not as tired as you might have expected.  As I considered this,  I realized that when we are doing the things God designed us to do, there is a supernatural energy that comes from doing it! If you're weary and tired, I would suggest that it's time to look at what you're doing. Being in the wrong role will often result in being burnt out or discouraged. I know that every day is not going to necessarily be wonderful and perfect, no matte what we do, but in general, if you feel drained and tired from your day's activities, then something is out of place.  There is a sweet fulfillment that comes with working in the way God created us to. Go

Every now and then I like to do a little spiritual health check.  I take a quiet moment to see where I am in my heart. What I mean by that is, it's a bit like taking your temperature.  When you want to see if there's anything amiss in your body, one of things you do is take your temperature. Likewise, spiritually there are certain things that tell me what's going on in my heart.   Being angry or short-tempered v being patient and joyful; worshipping and praying v moaning and complaining; being full of gratitude or criticism - these are all things that show me something about my focus. Sometimes we need to stop and take our spiritual temperature.  How have I been this week?  Have my words been kind; have I been thankful; have I been patient? When my focus is on the fleshly, things, the fruit I exhibit is very different to when I focus on the spiritual things.   Galatians 5:19-23 (NLT) puts it this way " When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the