There is a person blocking us in an endeavour we sensed the Lord directing us towards. It had seemed a case of praying and seeing how the Lord would protect his endeavour. Then Psalm 18 challenged me. I pursued my enemies and overtook them; I did not turn back till they were destroyed … [Psalm-18v37-38-NLT] The Lord … Continue reading Relational battles
Life circumstances push faith to the limit. We wonder why our ‘faithful God’ has abandoned us. Such trials expose the extent of our faithfulness to God’s word. If your law had not been my delight, I would have perished in my affliction. (Ps 119:92) We can be so angry with God for allowing affliction that spiritual … Continue reading Life in trials
We see a world in flux. The ‘best’ lasts six months. The ‘must have’ I-Phone 5, gives way to I-Phone 6. If ‘the best’ lasts a year, how can the Bible, written thousands of years ago claim to persist? The Bible is clear about itself – Your word, Lord, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens. … Continue reading Eternal Word?
Our society exalts freedom, but what does it mean to be free? Tozer makes the point that ‘there cannot be two absolutely free beings in the universe, for sooner or later two completely free wills must collide.1’ Our western secular culture prides itself in giving people freedom. It exalts the values it has worked out … Continue reading Freedom
Psalm 27:4 both inspires and challenges. One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple. First – In praying this I have seen the Lord bear fruit, … Continue reading One thing I ask …
I was overcome by fear and anger. Someone had made a threatening comment and I was churned up inside. My mind would turn on this person and fight mental arguments. I know that when I am in such a state, it would be unwise for me to open my mouth – bile would come out. … Continue reading Overcoming anger
The arguments I hold in my mind expose secondary issues that have supplanted my Father as the one to be worshipped. In Psalm 76 the Father restores perspective. 2 … his dwelling-place [is] in Zion. 3 There he broke the … weapons of war. Going to Zion, God’s dwelling, we find different priorities, there He … Continue reading Controversies and faith
In a crisis I am tempted to force a solution. The Lord shows a different way – Isaiah 56 1‘Maintain justice and do what is right, I can’t achieve righteousness through abuse, only love. for my salvation is close at hand and my righteousness will soon be revealed. The proximity of danger exposes hearts, asking … Continue reading Awaiting God’s intervention
One of Jesus’ statements is brought into new light through His apostolic ministry. “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother … yes, even his own life – he cannot be my disciple. And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:25) … Continue reading From consumer to disciple
Who is a disciple of Jesus? Jesus gave two key passages. The first – 34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35 Often discipleship … Continue reading Who is a disciple of Jesus?
adaringfaith 