Paul Benger began a three-part series last night on Faith. The first part being on the ‘Power of Perspective’.
How we view things is really important. We’re not talking about the power of positive thinking – although even that is better than the power of negative thinking.
Our perspective can give us peace and joy OR torment. Look at Saul...
1 Samuel 18:1-16 (Saul’s perspective)
Saul began to view David as an enemy and not as an ally. His perspective became negative. Full of jealousy and fear about his position and place. Instead of joy...sadness. All of this because of the power of perspective.
God doesn’t want you to live with your view on life – But His view, His perspective. Have the same mind as God’s. See what he sees, be one in perspective. Philippians 2:5 – Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.
Your perspective will lead your decisions. Your perspective will chose your friends. Your perspective will govern your priorities.
Psalm 4 (David’s perspective)
4 perspectives of David...
Verse 1 – God is working all things together for good
Romans 8:28 – And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them
We often let our troubles change our view of God. We become introspective.
6 important areas to consider concerning God working things together for our good:
1. This is a trial of my faith not my endurance
2. God is enlarging me through this trial
3. God will relieve the pain and burden of this trial if we refuse ownership – give it to God. (Cast all your burdens on Him)
4. God will carry the burden for you
5. God has not changed His opinion of you
6. God will have mercy on you and will hear your prayer
Verse 3 – God has positioned me for good success
We are set apart by God for His purposes (saved and called). We are here to extend His kingdom. All things are beneath His feet and also beneath our feet. We will overcome and conquer. Get the right perspective – you are above and not below!
Circumstances don’t make you a winner or a loser. Paul’s perspective – Because of Christ, I can do all things.
Verse 6 – God will reveal Himself to me
God will light my way. His word is a lamp to my feet. In any sphere of your life look where God is shining His light. Look for His perspective. Get out of the darkness, out of the unclear places where we’re not making the right decisions.
Verse 8 – God will protect my life
Have confidence in God that He will protect you. Think eternally. Where are you looking to for protection? Peace comes from knowing God. Psalm 27:4-6 - God hides you. He puts you under His wings in the day of trouble. We’re surrounded by the protection of God.
Monday, February 27, 2006
Monday, February 20, 2006
Overcoming Our Fears
Mark Wilkins brought a great message in church last night - all about Abraham and how he had to come to terms with his fears.
Genesis 12-15
Despite the promises of God, Abraham still had to confront and overcome a number of fears. Rational and irrational.
He obeys and follows God but hits several problems along the way which causes fear and him losing sight of the promises of God.
Eventually the passage of time begins to cause him to doubt and question God. Begins to see things through human eyes...forgetting God’s promises for his life. He tries to accomplish things in his own strength.
The longer time goes on...we begin to question, did God really say that? This is a difficulty for us in our ‘instant’ culture. God teaches us patience.
Overcoming our FEARS...
The Cause – We lose sight of God’s promises for us. The passage of time causes us to doubt and question. We become afraid.
The Cure – We need to focus on the promises of God. Read what God has said in his Word about us, about the plans he has for us. (Isaiah 41) Build your faith...live in the promises of God.
The Outcome – We will grow stronger in our faith. Be able to stand in a position of strength.
Romans 4:17-22 – (17) That is what the Scriptures mean when God told him, "I have made you the father of many nations." his happened because Abraham believed in the God who brings the dead back to life and who brings into existence what didn't exist before. (18) When God promised Abraham that he would become the father of many nations, Abraham believed him. God had also said, "Your descendants will be as numerous as the stars," even though such a promise seemed utterly impossible! (19) And Abraham's faith did not weaken, even though he knew that he was too old to be a father at the age of one hundred and that Sarah, his wife, had never been able to have children. (20) Abraham never wavered in believing God's promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God. (21) He was absolutely convinced that God was able to do anything he promised. (22) And because of Abraham's faith, God declared him to be righteous.
Genesis 12-15
Despite the promises of God, Abraham still had to confront and overcome a number of fears. Rational and irrational.
He obeys and follows God but hits several problems along the way which causes fear and him losing sight of the promises of God.
Eventually the passage of time begins to cause him to doubt and question God. Begins to see things through human eyes...forgetting God’s promises for his life. He tries to accomplish things in his own strength.
The longer time goes on...we begin to question, did God really say that? This is a difficulty for us in our ‘instant’ culture. God teaches us patience.
Overcoming our FEARS...
The Cause – We lose sight of God’s promises for us. The passage of time causes us to doubt and question. We become afraid.
The Cure – We need to focus on the promises of God. Read what God has said in his Word about us, about the plans he has for us. (Isaiah 41) Build your faith...live in the promises of God.
The Outcome – We will grow stronger in our faith. Be able to stand in a position of strength.
Romans 4:17-22 – (17) That is what the Scriptures mean when God told him, "I have made you the father of many nations." his happened because Abraham believed in the God who brings the dead back to life and who brings into existence what didn't exist before. (18) When God promised Abraham that he would become the father of many nations, Abraham believed him. God had also said, "Your descendants will be as numerous as the stars," even though such a promise seemed utterly impossible! (19) And Abraham's faith did not weaken, even though he knew that he was too old to be a father at the age of one hundred and that Sarah, his wife, had never been able to have children. (20) Abraham never wavered in believing God's promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God. (21) He was absolutely convinced that God was able to do anything he promised. (22) And because of Abraham's faith, God declared him to be righteous.
Monday, February 13, 2006
Your Place - Christ's Body Part 3
Ephesians 1:22-23 – (22) And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, (23) which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all. (English Standard Version)
Paul Benger hadn’t quite finished with us yet. He carried on this excellent series last night looking at the second characteristic of those who make up Christ’s body – the church...
We are supernaturally joined to other believers by the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit in you...this is what makes you alive! The flicker of desire within you to be a part of God’s House – that is the Holy Spirit at work in your life. Let that flicker become a flame!
In the Old Testament the Ark of the Covenant signified the presence of God. Today we don’t have a box we have you and me – we carry the presence of the Living God.
Jesus made things real. The presence of God is not some mystical thing – it is where there is a culture of faith.
God is among us – He speaks into our life and gives us hope. The church is a place of hope. God is in the House when there is...
A spirit of Service, of Praise and Worship, of Generosity, of Trust, of Salvation, of Healing…and where there is a Good Attitude!
We need to check we have these things on a daily basis. These are the signs of the presence of God.
In the midst of tough times do we have the presence of God in our lives, which means we cling to Him – we trust Him?
From the Old Testament people are still looking for the literal restoration of the Temple...as we come into the New Testament we see that WE are that Temple...the Church.
Ephesians 2:18-22 – (18) Now all of us, both Jews and Gentiles, may come to the Father through the same Holy Spirit because of what Christ has done for us. (19) So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens along with all of God's holy people. You are members of God's family. (20) We are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself. (21) We who believe are carefully joined together, becoming a holy temple for the Lord. (22) Through him you Gentiles are also joined together as part of this dwelling where God lives by his Spirit.
5 great things about the Temple
- The Temple is built on a Solid Foundation
- The Tempe is built with a God Given Structure
- The Temple is built on God Given Connections
- The Temple is built in a Holy Fashion
Not religious, not solemn – but set apart for God, putting him first. Doing things for God with excellence. Because God is holy our service to God is holy.
- The Temple is built by the Holy Spirit
Paul Benger hadn’t quite finished with us yet. He carried on this excellent series last night looking at the second characteristic of those who make up Christ’s body – the church...
We are supernaturally joined to other believers by the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit in you...this is what makes you alive! The flicker of desire within you to be a part of God’s House – that is the Holy Spirit at work in your life. Let that flicker become a flame!
In the Old Testament the Ark of the Covenant signified the presence of God. Today we don’t have a box we have you and me – we carry the presence of the Living God.
Jesus made things real. The presence of God is not some mystical thing – it is where there is a culture of faith.
God is among us – He speaks into our life and gives us hope. The church is a place of hope. God is in the House when there is...
A spirit of Service, of Praise and Worship, of Generosity, of Trust, of Salvation, of Healing…and where there is a Good Attitude!
We need to check we have these things on a daily basis. These are the signs of the presence of God.
In the midst of tough times do we have the presence of God in our lives, which means we cling to Him – we trust Him?
From the Old Testament people are still looking for the literal restoration of the Temple...as we come into the New Testament we see that WE are that Temple...the Church.
Ephesians 2:18-22 – (18) Now all of us, both Jews and Gentiles, may come to the Father through the same Holy Spirit because of what Christ has done for us. (19) So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens along with all of God's holy people. You are members of God's family. (20) We are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself. (21) We who believe are carefully joined together, becoming a holy temple for the Lord. (22) Through him you Gentiles are also joined together as part of this dwelling where God lives by his Spirit.
5 great things about the Temple
- The Temple is built on a Solid Foundation
- The Tempe is built with a God Given Structure
- The Temple is built on God Given Connections
- The Temple is built in a Holy Fashion
Not religious, not solemn – but set apart for God, putting him first. Doing things for God with excellence. Because God is holy our service to God is holy.
- The Temple is built by the Holy Spirit
Friday, February 10, 2006
What is Intelligent Design?
Read this recently...
"Intelligent design" refers to a scientific research program as well as a community of scientists, philosophers and other scholars who seek evidence of design in nature. Through the study and analysis of a system's components, a design theorist is able to determine whether various natural structures are the product of chance, natural law, intelligent design or some combination thereof.
For example, consider Mount Rushmore:
The pattern of the rocks in the talus slopes below the faces is due primarily to chance and natural law. The pattern of erosion alongside the faces is due primarily to natural law and chance. The pattern of the presidents' faces is due primarily to intelligent design.
"Intelligent design" refers to a scientific research program as well as a community of scientists, philosophers and other scholars who seek evidence of design in nature. Through the study and analysis of a system's components, a design theorist is able to determine whether various natural structures are the product of chance, natural law, intelligent design or some combination thereof.
For example, consider Mount Rushmore:
The pattern of the rocks in the talus slopes below the faces is due primarily to chance and natural law. The pattern of erosion alongside the faces is due primarily to natural law and chance. The pattern of the presidents' faces is due primarily to intelligent design.
Sunday, February 05, 2006
Your Place - Christ's Body Part 2
Paul Benger completed his excellent message on the church tonight.
Ephesians 1:22-23 (The Message) – (22) He is in charge of it all, has the final word on everything. At the centre of all this, Christ rules the church. (23) The church, you see, is not peripheral to the world; the world is peripheral to the church. The church is Christ's body, in which he speaks and acts, by which he fills everything with his presence.
After recapping on last weeks main points Paul homed in on the first point from last week...
We are united by our loyalty to Jesus Christ
We cannot be a Christ follower and be disconnected from the Body.
Unity is Life Giving
Psalm 133 – (1) How wonderful it is, how pleasant, when brothers live together in harmony! (2) For harmony is as precious as the fragrant anointing oil that was poured over Aaron's head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe. (3) Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon that falls on the mountains of Zion. And the LORD has pronounced his blessing, even life forevermore.
Unity gives life to us, there is an anointing that comes upon the church and makes us succeed. When we’re not pulling in different directions but all pulling in the same direction.
Unity of the Spirit
Ephesians 4:1-6 – (1) Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God. (2) Be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other's faults because of your love. (3) Always keep yourselves united in the Holy Spirit, and bind yourselves together with peace. (4) We are all one body, we have the same Spirit, and we have all been called to the same glorious future. (5) There is only one Lord, one faith, one baptism, (6) and there is only one God and Father, who is over us all and in us all and living through us all.
Unity is a supernatural thing...the Holy Spirit joins our hearts!
Unity of Gathering
Ekklesia (Greek) – to be called out from...and gathered for a purpose. We’ve been called by God to this place.
If we stripped everything away what would we need to survive as a Christian? What is the ‘irreducible minimum’?
The Bible, prayer, giving - all very important in our Christian walk.
Our gathering together is the most important thing. When we connect for the purposes of Christ. There is power when we gather – not when we are on our own.
There is more healing, more strength, and more revelation when we gather. That’s why even in countries where Christians are persecuted or have been persecuted through history they have always made every effort to meet.
3 people in the Old Testament who left the places where God had called them to be - Abraham, Lot and Naomi. They faced trouble and hardship until they eventually found themselves back in the place where they should have been.
Stay in your place! Christ’s body – the Church. Connect and flourish!
Ephesians 1:22-23 (The Message) – (22) He is in charge of it all, has the final word on everything. At the centre of all this, Christ rules the church. (23) The church, you see, is not peripheral to the world; the world is peripheral to the church. The church is Christ's body, in which he speaks and acts, by which he fills everything with his presence.
After recapping on last weeks main points Paul homed in on the first point from last week...
We are united by our loyalty to Jesus Christ
We cannot be a Christ follower and be disconnected from the Body.
Unity is Life Giving
Psalm 133 – (1) How wonderful it is, how pleasant, when brothers live together in harmony! (2) For harmony is as precious as the fragrant anointing oil that was poured over Aaron's head, that ran down his beard and onto the border of his robe. (3) Harmony is as refreshing as the dew from Mount Hermon that falls on the mountains of Zion. And the LORD has pronounced his blessing, even life forevermore.
Unity gives life to us, there is an anointing that comes upon the church and makes us succeed. When we’re not pulling in different directions but all pulling in the same direction.
Unity of the Spirit
Ephesians 4:1-6 – (1) Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God. (2) Be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other's faults because of your love. (3) Always keep yourselves united in the Holy Spirit, and bind yourselves together with peace. (4) We are all one body, we have the same Spirit, and we have all been called to the same glorious future. (5) There is only one Lord, one faith, one baptism, (6) and there is only one God and Father, who is over us all and in us all and living through us all.
Unity is a supernatural thing...the Holy Spirit joins our hearts!
Unity of Gathering
Ekklesia (Greek) – to be called out from...and gathered for a purpose. We’ve been called by God to this place.
If we stripped everything away what would we need to survive as a Christian? What is the ‘irreducible minimum’?
The Bible, prayer, giving - all very important in our Christian walk.
Our gathering together is the most important thing. When we connect for the purposes of Christ. There is power when we gather – not when we are on our own.
There is more healing, more strength, and more revelation when we gather. That’s why even in countries where Christians are persecuted or have been persecuted through history they have always made every effort to meet.
3 people in the Old Testament who left the places where God had called them to be - Abraham, Lot and Naomi. They faced trouble and hardship until they eventually found themselves back in the place where they should have been.
Stay in your place! Christ’s body – the Church. Connect and flourish!
Thursday, February 02, 2006
Song Transposing
For all you worship leaders/song writers/musicians...
Here's a useful tool for transposing those songs....you know the ones that are either too high or too low!
Here's a useful tool for transposing those songs....you know the ones that are either too high or too low!
Monday, January 30, 2006
Your Place - Christ's Body
Paul Benger’s thorough message on ‘church’ in church last night...
Ephesians 1:22-23 – (22) And God has put all things under the authority of Christ, and he gave him this authority for the benefit of the church. (23) And the church is his body; it is filled by Christ, who fills everything everywhere with his presence.
The Message – (22) He is in charge of it all, has the final word on everything. At the centre of all this, Christ rules the church. (23) The church, you see, is not peripheral to the world; the world is peripheral to the church. The church is Christ's body, in which he speaks and acts, by which he fills everything with his presence.
We’re part of a Body...not disconnected. We are where we belong, where we find our purpose. Where we find fulfilment.
1 Corinthians 12:12-13 – (12) The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up only one body. So it is with the body of Christ. (13) Some of us are Jews, some are Gentiles, some are slaves, and some are free. But we have all been baptised into Christ's body by one Spirit, and we have all received the same Spirit.
Jesus is in charge. He is the head of the body. He gives leadership to the church but He is still the head.
The HEAD has the ideas, the revelation is given...but to get the ideas actioned it needs a BODY! We are that BODY...God uses the church, His Body, to get things done. Things won’t just happen on their own.
We grow when we remain within the body, not when we are disconnected.
Our gifts/abilities contribute to the body...help it to grow.
You cannot just attend church...you are an integral part of it.
You are not a misfit...you fit in Christ’s Body somewhere.
Acts 2:42-44 – (42) They joined with the other believers and devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, sharing in the Lord's Supper and in prayer. (43) A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. (44) And all the believers met together constantly and shared everything they had.
We have a part to play in...worship; lifestyle (Christ’s followers); giving; fellowship; prayer; learning; using our gifts/talents.
The New Testament was written to the Church not individual believers.
A healthy church is the foundation of life = fruitfulness.
Together we continue Christ’s ministry on earth...we are becoming the Church God wants.
4 characteristics of the people connected to Christ’s Body...
- We are united by our loyalty to the person of Jesus Christ
- We are supernaturally joined to other believers by the Holy Spirit
- We get empowered by the Holy Spirit to preach the good news
- We are organised by Jesus into a powerful army
Your place is in Christ’s Body.
Ephesians 1:22-23 – (22) And God has put all things under the authority of Christ, and he gave him this authority for the benefit of the church. (23) And the church is his body; it is filled by Christ, who fills everything everywhere with his presence.
The Message – (22) He is in charge of it all, has the final word on everything. At the centre of all this, Christ rules the church. (23) The church, you see, is not peripheral to the world; the world is peripheral to the church. The church is Christ's body, in which he speaks and acts, by which he fills everything with his presence.
We’re part of a Body...not disconnected. We are where we belong, where we find our purpose. Where we find fulfilment.
1 Corinthians 12:12-13 – (12) The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up only one body. So it is with the body of Christ. (13) Some of us are Jews, some are Gentiles, some are slaves, and some are free. But we have all been baptised into Christ's body by one Spirit, and we have all received the same Spirit.
Jesus is in charge. He is the head of the body. He gives leadership to the church but He is still the head.
The HEAD has the ideas, the revelation is given...but to get the ideas actioned it needs a BODY! We are that BODY...God uses the church, His Body, to get things done. Things won’t just happen on their own.
We grow when we remain within the body, not when we are disconnected.
Our gifts/abilities contribute to the body...help it to grow.
You cannot just attend church...you are an integral part of it.
You are not a misfit...you fit in Christ’s Body somewhere.
Acts 2:42-44 – (42) They joined with the other believers and devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, sharing in the Lord's Supper and in prayer. (43) A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. (44) And all the believers met together constantly and shared everything they had.
We have a part to play in...worship; lifestyle (Christ’s followers); giving; fellowship; prayer; learning; using our gifts/talents.
The New Testament was written to the Church not individual believers.
A healthy church is the foundation of life = fruitfulness.
Together we continue Christ’s ministry on earth...we are becoming the Church God wants.
4 characteristics of the people connected to Christ’s Body...
- We are united by our loyalty to the person of Jesus Christ
- We are supernaturally joined to other believers by the Holy Spirit
- We get empowered by the Holy Spirit to preach the good news
- We are organised by Jesus into a powerful army
Your place is in Christ’s Body.
Thursday, January 26, 2006
War on Science?
More than half the British population does not accept the theory of evolution, according to a survey.
Furthermore, more than 40% of those questioned believe that creationism or intelligent design should be taught in school science lessons.
The survey was conducted by Ipsos MORI for the BBC's Horizon series.
Its latest programme (showing tonight), A War on Science, looks into the attempt to introduce intelligent design into science classes in the US.
Over 2000 participants took part in the survey, and were asked what best described their view of the origin and development of life:
Furthermore, more than 40% of those questioned believe that creationism or intelligent design should be taught in school science lessons.
The survey was conducted by Ipsos MORI for the BBC's Horizon series.
Its latest programme (showing tonight), A War on Science, looks into the attempt to introduce intelligent design into science classes in the US.
Over 2000 participants took part in the survey, and were asked what best described their view of the origin and development of life:
- 22% chose creationism
- 17% opted for intelligent design
- 48% selected evolution theory
- and the rest did not know
Monday, January 23, 2006
Change Your Life
Simon Wood spoke a ‘life-changing’ message in church last night.
Move on from the old way of doing things. God wants to take us to the next level. Jesus said, ‘I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full’.
You can change your future. Be passionate about what you believe in. The greatest thing we can give to God is our love. Be passionate for God; be passionate for His house.
Finding real fulfilment is not about changing your job, you partner, your house, your hobbies - it’s all about...
Deuteronomy 6:5-9 - (5) Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. (6) These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. (7) Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. (8) Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. (9) Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
Everywhere you go put God first. Involve Him in every part of your life. The tragedy is when we see a God that gives WHOLEHEARTEDLY and we give HALFHEARTEDLY
When it comes to what we take in – eat healthily. Take in a balanced diet. We are what we eat! God’s WORD should be in our hearts. Feast on it...let it shape our soul. Don’t let negative/bad news effect our lives to the extent that they control our daily living.
See things God’s way and not the world’s way.
Proverbs 4:20-23 – (20) My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words. (21) Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; (22) for they are life to those who find them and health to a man's whole body. (23) Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.
Don’t lose your first love...let it be restored!
Get rid of the things in our lives that need to shed. We can start again. God is our Redeemer. He forgives us and helps us start anew. He restores our joy!
Move on from the old way of doing things. God wants to take us to the next level. Jesus said, ‘I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full’.
You can change your future. Be passionate about what you believe in. The greatest thing we can give to God is our love. Be passionate for God; be passionate for His house.
Finding real fulfilment is not about changing your job, you partner, your house, your hobbies - it’s all about...
Deuteronomy 6:5-9 - (5) Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. (6) These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. (7) Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. (8) Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. (9) Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
Everywhere you go put God first. Involve Him in every part of your life. The tragedy is when we see a God that gives WHOLEHEARTEDLY and we give HALFHEARTEDLY
When it comes to what we take in – eat healthily. Take in a balanced diet. We are what we eat! God’s WORD should be in our hearts. Feast on it...let it shape our soul. Don’t let negative/bad news effect our lives to the extent that they control our daily living.
See things God’s way and not the world’s way.
Proverbs 4:20-23 – (20) My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words. (21) Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; (22) for they are life to those who find them and health to a man's whole body. (23) Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.
Don’t lose your first love...let it be restored!
Get rid of the things in our lives that need to shed. We can start again. God is our Redeemer. He forgives us and helps us start anew. He restores our joy!
I'll Never Forget...
I remembered the other day a great parody done by comedian, Tony Capstick a number of years ago. He did it in my very own Yorkshire dialect with Dvorák’s Symphony No. 9 From the New World playing in the background (you know…the old Hovis advert)
I'll never forget that first day at t'pit.
Me an' mi father worked a 72 hour shift, then wi walked home 43 mile through t'snow in us bare feet, huddled inside us clothes med out o' old sacks.
Eventually we trudged over t'hill until wi could see t'street light twinklin' in our village.
Mi father smiled down at mi through t'icicles hangin' off his nose. "Nearly home now lad", he said.
We stumbled into t'house and stood there freezin' cold and tired out, shiverin' and miserable, in front o' t' meagre fire.
Any road, mi mam says "Cheer up, lads. I've got you some nice brown bread and butter for yer tea."
Ee, mi father went crackers. He reached out and gently pulled mi mam towards 'im by t'throat. "You big fat, idle ugly wart", he said. "You gret useless spawny-eyed parrot-faced wazzock." ('E had a way wi words, mi father. He'd bin to college, y'know). "You've been out playin' bingo all afternoon instead o' gettin' some proper snap ready for me an' this lad", he explained to mi poor, little, purple-faced mam.
Then turnin' to me he said "Arthur", (He could never remember mi name), "here's half a crown. Nip down to t'chip 'oyl an' get us a nice piece o' 'addock for us tea. Man cannot live by bread alone."
He were a reyt tater, mi father.
He said as 'ow workin' folk should have some dignity an' pride an' self respect, an' as 'ow they should come home to summat warm an' cheerful.
An' then he threw mi mam on t'fire.
We didn't 'ave no tellies or shoes or bedclothes.
We med us own fun in them days.
Do you know, when I were a lad you could get a tram down into t'town, buy three new suits an' an ovvercoat, four pair o' good boots, go an' see George Formby at t'Palace Theatre, get blind drunk, 'ave some steak an' chips, bunch o' bananas an' three stone o' monkey nuts an' still 'ave change out of a farthing.
We'd lots o' things in them days they 'aven't got today - rickets, diptheria, Hitler and my, we did look well goin' to school wi' no backside in us trousers an' all us little 'eads painted purple because we 'ad ringworm.
They don't know they're born today!
I'll never forget that first day at t'pit.
Me an' mi father worked a 72 hour shift, then wi walked home 43 mile through t'snow in us bare feet, huddled inside us clothes med out o' old sacks.
Eventually we trudged over t'hill until wi could see t'street light twinklin' in our village.
Mi father smiled down at mi through t'icicles hangin' off his nose. "Nearly home now lad", he said.
We stumbled into t'house and stood there freezin' cold and tired out, shiverin' and miserable, in front o' t' meagre fire.
Any road, mi mam says "Cheer up, lads. I've got you some nice brown bread and butter for yer tea."
Ee, mi father went crackers. He reached out and gently pulled mi mam towards 'im by t'throat. "You big fat, idle ugly wart", he said. "You gret useless spawny-eyed parrot-faced wazzock." ('E had a way wi words, mi father. He'd bin to college, y'know). "You've been out playin' bingo all afternoon instead o' gettin' some proper snap ready for me an' this lad", he explained to mi poor, little, purple-faced mam.
Then turnin' to me he said "Arthur", (He could never remember mi name), "here's half a crown. Nip down to t'chip 'oyl an' get us a nice piece o' 'addock for us tea. Man cannot live by bread alone."
He were a reyt tater, mi father.
He said as 'ow workin' folk should have some dignity an' pride an' self respect, an' as 'ow they should come home to summat warm an' cheerful.
An' then he threw mi mam on t'fire.
We didn't 'ave no tellies or shoes or bedclothes.
We med us own fun in them days.
Do you know, when I were a lad you could get a tram down into t'town, buy three new suits an' an ovvercoat, four pair o' good boots, go an' see George Formby at t'Palace Theatre, get blind drunk, 'ave some steak an' chips, bunch o' bananas an' three stone o' monkey nuts an' still 'ave change out of a farthing.
We'd lots o' things in them days they 'aven't got today - rickets, diptheria, Hitler and my, we did look well goin' to school wi' no backside in us trousers an' all us little 'eads painted purple because we 'ad ringworm.
They don't know they're born today!
Friday, January 13, 2006
The Eagles are Coming!
Notes for this Sunday’s message on STRENGTH…
Isaiah 40:27-31 – (27) O Israel, how can you say the LORD does not see your troubles? How can you say God refuses to hear your case? (28) Have you never heard or understood? Don't you know that the LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth? He never grows faint or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. (29) He gives power to those who are tired and worn out; he offers strength to the weak. (30) Even youths will become exhausted, and young men will give up. (31) But those who wait on the LORD will find new strength. They will fly high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Where do we get our strength? (What is the source?)
Finding and knowing God’s STRENGTH…
Waiting
Lean heavily on the Lord for strength. To wait on God means…to have a sincere and steady dependence on Him with an obedient trust.
Dwelling
Psalm 84:4,6,7 – (4) Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you. (5) Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. (7) They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion.
Need to know…
1. GOD IS AWARE (He knows)
(27) O Israel, how can you say the LORD does not see your troubles? How can you say God refuses to hear your case?
God is aware! He is aware of what’s happening to us from day to day.
2. GOD IS ABLE
(28) Have you never heard or understood? Don't you know that the LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth? He never grows faint or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding
Not only does He not lack strength...He supplies it. (29) He gives power to those who are tired and worn out; he offers strength to the weak. (30) Even youths will become exhausted, and young men will give up.
3. GOD IS AVAILABLE
He is available, to renew the strength of "those who wait" on Him.
(31) But those who wait on the LORD will find new strength. They will fly high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40:27-31 – (27) O Israel, how can you say the LORD does not see your troubles? How can you say God refuses to hear your case? (28) Have you never heard or understood? Don't you know that the LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth? He never grows faint or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. (29) He gives power to those who are tired and worn out; he offers strength to the weak. (30) Even youths will become exhausted, and young men will give up. (31) But those who wait on the LORD will find new strength. They will fly high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Where do we get our strength? (What is the source?)
Finding and knowing God’s STRENGTH…
Waiting
Lean heavily on the Lord for strength. To wait on God means…to have a sincere and steady dependence on Him with an obedient trust.
Dwelling
Psalm 84:4,6,7 – (4) Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you. (5) Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. (7) They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion.
Need to know…
1. GOD IS AWARE (He knows)
(27) O Israel, how can you say the LORD does not see your troubles? How can you say God refuses to hear your case?
God is aware! He is aware of what’s happening to us from day to day.
2. GOD IS ABLE
(28) Have you never heard or understood? Don't you know that the LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth? He never grows faint or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding
Not only does He not lack strength...He supplies it. (29) He gives power to those who are tired and worn out; he offers strength to the weak. (30) Even youths will become exhausted, and young men will give up.
3. GOD IS AVAILABLE
He is available, to renew the strength of "those who wait" on Him.
(31) But those who wait on the LORD will find new strength. They will fly high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Monday, January 09, 2006
Godly Confidence
Paul Benger kicked off the New Year with a great message in church last night. He spoke on developing and maintaining a Godly confidence.
Hebrews 10:32-39
How often do we give up to early or too easily? How many times do we lose our confidence? Our confidence is so important and the enemy wants to strip us of our confidence.
Don’t throw away your confidence. Have confidence in God; in who He is and in what He’s done...it’s a lifesaver! It will take us through 2006. Resolutions are broken because confidence is lost.
Isaiah 40:31 - But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
God wants us to maintain our confidence. Have a confident spirit. Don’t listen to the voices of discouragement...they’re not from God.
A Godly confidence is not arrogant. It’s because of Christ. Philippians 4:14 - I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Four things that help us develop our Godly confidence...
Remember whose image you are
We are created in God’s image. Because of Him we are strong. We can find His strength in every situation. The situation may not have changed but our perception can, it’s the power of perception. Consider Gideon (I am weak) - the revelation that came from God – ‘Go in MY strength’, ‘I am with you!’
Consider also David. His confidence was diminished, who battled with his confidence. The revelation that came to him...Psalm 139:14 - I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well
Commit to decisions of growth
A people who know God will stand firm and take action. Peter initiated the walking on water! Commit to growth.
Know there will be challenges to your confidence
The bigger the dream the greater the cost. The greatest challenge to us as a church is the spirit and attitude in our hearts and minds. Psalm 37:24 - though he stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with his hand.
God lifts to a higher level those that fall.
Maintain a God conditioned heart
It can be easy to get frustrated to begin to question why things are not happening. But keep our hearts trusting in God.
Proverbs 4:20-23 – (20) My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words. (21) Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; (22) for they are life to those who find them and health to a man's whole body. (23) Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life
Hebrews 10:32-39
How often do we give up to early or too easily? How many times do we lose our confidence? Our confidence is so important and the enemy wants to strip us of our confidence.
Don’t throw away your confidence. Have confidence in God; in who He is and in what He’s done...it’s a lifesaver! It will take us through 2006. Resolutions are broken because confidence is lost.
Isaiah 40:31 - But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
God wants us to maintain our confidence. Have a confident spirit. Don’t listen to the voices of discouragement...they’re not from God.
A Godly confidence is not arrogant. It’s because of Christ. Philippians 4:14 - I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Four things that help us develop our Godly confidence...
Remember whose image you are
We are created in God’s image. Because of Him we are strong. We can find His strength in every situation. The situation may not have changed but our perception can, it’s the power of perception. Consider Gideon (I am weak) - the revelation that came from God – ‘Go in MY strength’, ‘I am with you!’
Consider also David. His confidence was diminished, who battled with his confidence. The revelation that came to him...Psalm 139:14 - I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well
Commit to decisions of growth
A people who know God will stand firm and take action. Peter initiated the walking on water! Commit to growth.
Know there will be challenges to your confidence
The bigger the dream the greater the cost. The greatest challenge to us as a church is the spirit and attitude in our hearts and minds. Psalm 37:24 - though he stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with his hand.
God lifts to a higher level those that fall.
Maintain a God conditioned heart
It can be easy to get frustrated to begin to question why things are not happening. But keep our hearts trusting in God.
Proverbs 4:20-23 – (20) My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words. (21) Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; (22) for they are life to those who find them and health to a man's whole body. (23) Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life
Friday, January 06, 2006
New Guitar
I've been able to fulfill a dream today of being able to buy a second guitar. I once owned a Takamine and always fancied having another one (like the one below) and now I have. It sounds great and goes well with my Ovation. Thanks to those who enabled me to live this dream!
Takamine EG560C-BS
Takamine EG560C-BS
Friday, December 30, 2005
Been Away
We’ve just got back from our Christmas break. We spent a week with Jane’s Mum and Dad and also her sister and husband who are over from Perth, Australia. We stayed in a quaint cottage down in the lovely village of Caldecott, Rutland. We had snow....so it was a real Christmas experience - along with all the great food and family debates!
We saw the Chronicles of Narnia while we were away....a great family film – I really enjoyed it.
Great to be back....happy new year to everyone!
We saw the Chronicles of Narnia while we were away....a great family film – I really enjoyed it.
Great to be back....happy new year to everyone!
Thursday, December 22, 2005
King Kong
Saw it last night. A great film...although at 3 hours it seemed a tad too long. I also felt I should have been a little more emotional at the end but I still couldn't bring myself to shed a tear for a 50 foot Gorilla...now a 3 foot Hobbit, well that's a different thing altogether!
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
Movies over Christmas
Looking forward to going to see a couple of films over Christmas. First up will be the new King Kong film and then closely followed by the Chronicles of Narnia, the Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe.
Early reviews suggest I’m going to enjoy the Kong film the most, but we’ll see...
Early reviews suggest I’m going to enjoy the Kong film the most, but we’ll see...
Monday, December 12, 2005
Your Burning Bush
Here’s a summary of my notes from another great message from Paul Benger in church last night. Paul spoke on having our own burning bush experience a la Moses. Main text: Exodus 3:1-18
Moses spent 40 years in the backside of the desert. He had been groomed to be a Pharaoh. I wonder if Moses thought a lot about missed opportunities? He questioned God on who he was. ‘Who am I?’
One of the questions many people are asking in life, ‘Do I matter to anyone?’
Even with Moses’ low self-esteem, God is still saying – ‘He is the one’. Even though he thought he’d blown it, God stayed with him! Never think you’ve blown it – God will find a way!
Three things from which the world gets it’s WORTH:
Style – Appearance and fashion. Proverbs 31:30 – Beauty does not last! Nothing wrong with wanting to look good, but it’s not where we get our self-worth.
Status – Keeping up with the Jones’ – not the place where we get our value.
Success – God wants us to do well, but again it’s not where we get our significance. Only in God. Knowing him and knowing his forgiveness.
Moses had all 3 when in Egypt – lost them all in a minute! Even so God still had Moses and Moses still had God.
3 things we need to know about the burning bush experience…
1) God calls you
He is not a silent God – he speaks to us. We need to be ready to hear what God is saying about our lives. Be in church the place where we can find out what God is saying!
2) Where you are right now is holy ground
Where God is – his presence. You might not feel it, just like Moses. But He is with us.
3) It’s time to discover who you are and who God is
Moses asked (vs 11) – Who am I?
And (vs 13) – Who shall I tell them sent me?
Realise who God is – Almighty, awesome God who can do all things! ‘I am who I am’
Realise who you are – God is intimately, infinitely involved in our lives!
Know Who You Are (Paul’s Top 10):
I am CREATED
I am CHOSEN
I am PROTECTED
I am COMPLETE
I am VICTORIOUS
I am SAVED
I am FORGIVEN
I am FREE
I am LOVED
I am ACCEPTED
Moses spent 40 years in the backside of the desert. He had been groomed to be a Pharaoh. I wonder if Moses thought a lot about missed opportunities? He questioned God on who he was. ‘Who am I?’
One of the questions many people are asking in life, ‘Do I matter to anyone?’
Even with Moses’ low self-esteem, God is still saying – ‘He is the one’. Even though he thought he’d blown it, God stayed with him! Never think you’ve blown it – God will find a way!
Three things from which the world gets it’s WORTH:
Style – Appearance and fashion. Proverbs 31:30 – Beauty does not last! Nothing wrong with wanting to look good, but it’s not where we get our self-worth.
Status – Keeping up with the Jones’ – not the place where we get our value.
Success – God wants us to do well, but again it’s not where we get our significance. Only in God. Knowing him and knowing his forgiveness.
Moses had all 3 when in Egypt – lost them all in a minute! Even so God still had Moses and Moses still had God.
3 things we need to know about the burning bush experience…
1) God calls you
He is not a silent God – he speaks to us. We need to be ready to hear what God is saying about our lives. Be in church the place where we can find out what God is saying!
2) Where you are right now is holy ground
Where God is – his presence. You might not feel it, just like Moses. But He is with us.
3) It’s time to discover who you are and who God is
Moses asked (vs 11) – Who am I?
And (vs 13) – Who shall I tell them sent me?
Realise who God is – Almighty, awesome God who can do all things! ‘I am who I am’
Realise who you are – God is intimately, infinitely involved in our lives!
Know Who You Are (Paul’s Top 10):
I am CREATED
I am CHOSEN
I am PROTECTED
I am COMPLETE
I am VICTORIOUS
I am SAVED
I am FORGIVEN
I am FREE
I am LOVED
I am ACCEPTED
Saturday, December 10, 2005
ON YOUR MARKS!
Good news on the London Marathon front, after receiving confirmation the other day that my name had not been selected in the ballot - I’ve just received a call from the local Hospice (Ashgate, Chesterfield) and they’ve asked me to run for them!
I’d been a little disappointed in not gaining an automatic place...but after reading the LM magazine and seeing one of the charity pages (Help the Hospices) I decided to try another door, as it were. I was always going to make it an opportunity to raise some money for a great cause and so my goal has still been achieved (in a roundabout way!)
I want to raise as much money as possible for the Hospice. They do a fantastic work of which we’ve had experience of in recent years after the death of my brother-in-law Mark Loveday a few years ago. We spent a number of weeks with him in the local hospice down in Gravesend, Kent. This run will be mainly for him who I know would have been very proud of what I’ve achieved in the last couple of years. The London Marathon will be run on 23rd April...almost 5 years to the day since Mark passed away.
My running mate, Rob, will be running with me. He got an automatic place...and has promised to help raise money with me.
I’m also thinking about setting up another blog to keep track of my training progress, monies raised so far etc. There will also be a link to my ‘Just-Giving’ site where monies can be donated/pledged. So...
WATCH THIS SPACE!
I’d been a little disappointed in not gaining an automatic place...but after reading the LM magazine and seeing one of the charity pages (Help the Hospices) I decided to try another door, as it were. I was always going to make it an opportunity to raise some money for a great cause and so my goal has still been achieved (in a roundabout way!)
I want to raise as much money as possible for the Hospice. They do a fantastic work of which we’ve had experience of in recent years after the death of my brother-in-law Mark Loveday a few years ago. We spent a number of weeks with him in the local hospice down in Gravesend, Kent. This run will be mainly for him who I know would have been very proud of what I’ve achieved in the last couple of years. The London Marathon will be run on 23rd April...almost 5 years to the day since Mark passed away.
My running mate, Rob, will be running with me. He got an automatic place...and has promised to help raise money with me.
I’m also thinking about setting up another blog to keep track of my training progress, monies raised so far etc. There will also be a link to my ‘Just-Giving’ site where monies can be donated/pledged. So...
WATCH THIS SPACE!
Friday, December 09, 2005
Ashes Rematch?
The England coach Eriksson admits he would rather avoid the "English speaking countries" such as Australia and the United States.
"They are desperate to beat England in a big tournament, which is why I don't want to play them," he said. "But there is a wider aspect to Australia, there is a sporting rivalry between the two countries. What I saw during the summer in the cricket was amazing."
Read on
"They are desperate to beat England in a big tournament, which is why I don't want to play them," he said. "But there is a wider aspect to Australia, there is a sporting rivalry between the two countries. What I saw during the summer in the cricket was amazing."
Read on
Monday, December 05, 2005
Blessed! Part II
Last night in church, Paul Benger continued our series and spoke a great message on the Foundations of Blessing.
We looked at the ‘blessed man’ in Psalm 112. He mentioned that the blessed man had no name, that it could be anyone....it could even be YOU!
As we read the bible we cannot escape the fact that God has blessed us, and it’s not because of what I can do for God but because of what He had done! Faith says it’s not what I’ve done – but what God has done.
The foundation of blessing is God himself. God created us for relationship, fellowship and blessing – right from the beginning. God’s position has always been, ‘I want to bless my people’.
Deuteronomy 30:19 - Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, that you and your descendants might live!
We have a choice to make. We need to reposition ourselves. Choose God’s way…
Psalm 112:1 - Fear the Lord
Not being afraid of God but having reverence, respect, putting Him first. Is God first in your life? To fear God takes faith. Are you faith-filled or faith-drained?
God wants to bless you...make God first in your life. Plant the seed that produces faith in your life. We cannot induce faith, we need to sow the seed, search God’s word. Romans 10:17 - Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.
Promises for fearing the Lord…
Psalm 112:2-4 – Their children will be successful everywhere; an entire generation of godly people will be blessed. They themselves will be wealthy, and their good deeds will never be forgotten. When darkness overtakes the godly, light will come bursting in. They are generous, compassionate, and righteous.
Our past does not dictate our future. God’s grace gives us a brand new start!
The blessed man is fearless and confident - trusting in God.
Psalm 112:7-8 - They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the LORD to care for them. They are confident and fearless and can face their foes triumphantly.
We looked at the ‘blessed man’ in Psalm 112. He mentioned that the blessed man had no name, that it could be anyone....it could even be YOU!
As we read the bible we cannot escape the fact that God has blessed us, and it’s not because of what I can do for God but because of what He had done! Faith says it’s not what I’ve done – but what God has done.
The foundation of blessing is God himself. God created us for relationship, fellowship and blessing – right from the beginning. God’s position has always been, ‘I want to bless my people’.
Deuteronomy 30:19 - Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, that you and your descendants might live!
We have a choice to make. We need to reposition ourselves. Choose God’s way…
Psalm 112:1 - Fear the Lord
Not being afraid of God but having reverence, respect, putting Him first. Is God first in your life? To fear God takes faith. Are you faith-filled or faith-drained?
God wants to bless you...make God first in your life. Plant the seed that produces faith in your life. We cannot induce faith, we need to sow the seed, search God’s word. Romans 10:17 - Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.
Promises for fearing the Lord…
Psalm 112:2-4 – Their children will be successful everywhere; an entire generation of godly people will be blessed. They themselves will be wealthy, and their good deeds will never be forgotten. When darkness overtakes the godly, light will come bursting in. They are generous, compassionate, and righteous.
Our past does not dictate our future. God’s grace gives us a brand new start!
The blessed man is fearless and confident - trusting in God.
Psalm 112:7-8 - They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the LORD to care for them. They are confident and fearless and can face their foes triumphantly.
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