What if God hit pause?

This is just a thought. I can’t point to any particular Bible verse, or say with any certainty what the mind of God might be, but here are a few simple ideas about the current situation.

1. We live in such selfish and self centred times. Our natural human tendencies are currently being seen in the panic shopping, hoarding of goods, financial worry and feelings of loneliness and isolation. Am I trusting God is still in control of His creation?

2. The church in many places has become detached and irrelevant to the outside world. They don’t know us, trust us or care what we believe. If the outside world doesn’t come to us, do I go to them?

3. Christians, if anything like me, have become comfortable, dependant on ourselves and happy with the status quo. “We’re doing our best but people just don’t care”. Dutifully doing what we think is best, but how much is done out of genuine love of the Lord?

4. There is always somewhere to go, something to watch or listen to, something to occupy our minds every second of the day and night. Entertainment is 24/7. When do I give God any time? 

So what if God allowed, using His permissive will, an illness to spread to see what humanity would do? To see how His people would react? We know that to God, all life is precious, from the unborn child to the elderly adult. Each person passing away through Covid-19 has either accepted or rejected God’s wonderful offer of salvation, the chance to have their sins forgiven through faith in His son. The bible clearly shows “The Father sent the Son (Jesus) to be the saviour of the world”. 

But to a world (and maybe a church) so preoccupied with themselves, with lives so full of entertainment and sport, how does God reveal Himself? If you’d told me last year every cinema, club and bar, restaurant, cafe and sporting event were to be closed, not just in the UK but in many of the countries around the world, I’d never have believed you. But they have. Perhaps now, God can be heard.

But how? 

The Lord Jesus told His followers that “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself."

‭‭Luke‬ ‭10:27‬

It’s really encouraging to see churches and Christians reaching out to their communities. They aren’t the only ones of course, but they’re showing the love of God to others. They’re also reaching out to other members of their church, behaving like a family would. Thinking “What are their practical needs? Would they like a phone call? Can I pray for them?”

They’re looking to meet the needs of others with what they have, sharing and not keeping it to themselves.

They’re looking to God with greater trust, because in the uncertainty of it all, what else can we do? It’s unprecedented. It’s unheard of. But in the uncertainty of it all, God remains the same, faithful and present. So many of us Christians are finally able to put into practice the advice of God to “Be still and know that I am God” Psalm 46:10. Self isolating and social distancing were unknown concepts (to me at least) until recently, but they’ve allowed us all a chance to slow down and appreciate the important things in life. To give God some quality time. 

Also, now that the churches can’t meet in person, they’re having to come up with ways to “meet”, to keep in touch. It reminds me of Peter’s letter to the “Strangers and pilgrims” who were scattered due to persecution. Peter’s advice was “Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.”

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭2:12‬ ‭

The one lesson I’m hoping to learn and put into practice is that the world is watching. What if they saw the measure and practicality our love? What if they saw the genuine nature of our faith? Whay if they saw that our hope was truly like an anchor for our souls? What if they saw that the church listened to the wisdom of God-gifted doctors and nurses? What if they saw that when difficulties came, the Church was the tangable body of God in this world. 

Wouldn’t that make all this worthwhile? 

Thank you for reading a few scattered thoughts, I’d love to know yours too. Please leave a comment below, particularly if you’ve a verse that you’re finding helpful. And as with all of these things, any sharing of the post to Christian friends is appreciated. 

For Him and His glory. 

Emmanuel

Christmas reminds us that God has spoken in a fuller way. A lasting way. A clearer way. 

It’s been so long since I’ve posted, my last blog will soon be nearly two years old! I’d like to be able to say I’ve been off on some adventures around the world (my last post was before I went to Angola for six weeks, so I guess that’s something), but life is currently the ordinary, necessary routine of life. The busy period of Carol Service invite distribution, teens practicing their lines (including pronouncing words which they’d never use in normal life), and Christmas parties. All while attempting to do my day job. Christmas cards have been written to relatives and friends who you never speak to all year round and presents bought for people who already have everything they need. But why? When we stop and think about how busy life is, why do we bother? Here’s a short post for now, I’ll try and write a little more in the New Year... should anyone want to read them ha ha. 

Among all of the decorations, gifts and carols, there is one constant theme each Christmas time. God has spoken.
He’s done so before down the years through many prophets, priests and kings, telling us what He wants us to know. Christmas though reminds us that He’s spoken in a fuller way. A lasting way. A clearer way. (John 14:9)

After the angel Gabriel spoke to Joseph, Matthew quotes the prophet Isaiah, saying “The virgin will be pregnant. She will have a son, and they will name him Immanuel,” but adds “which means “God is with us.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭1:23‬ ‭


No longer do we need to know how God feels about us. We never have to wonder if God cares, “God is with us”. The eternal, sinless, creator God has come to where we are. He came to tell us about the Father who loved us enough to send Him to us (John 3:16). Who sent his only son to become the saviour of anyone who trusts in Him (1 John 4:14). 

We don’t need to wonder anymore if we can live a life ourselves that pleases God. The very fact that Jesus humbled himself to come means that we can be sure sin is a problem. A serious problem. It separates us from our creator, and removes the possibility of a relationship with God which He desires. We know He can’t be pleased with the choices we make, so we just cut Him out of our lives; pretend He’s not there. But He is there. In fact shown us He’s here, “God is with us”. 

God didn’t want us to miss the fact that His son had arrived. Between the virgin birth, the mysterious star, the only baby wrapped in rags and sleeping in a manger in Bethlehem, He would make it clear. The most unique entrance into humanity was reserved for Jesus. John describes it by saying “The word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14)  Even Mary’s cousin Elizabeth experienced a miraculous birth, in order for God to have a messenger ready to proclaim the arrival of “the light of the world”! 

Finally, we know that because He came, His promises are reliable, and He will be coming again. To take everyone who has trusted in him for the forgiveness of their sins to be in Heaven with him. So as we get caught up with the festivities, remember the significance of the first Christmas, “God is with us”.

If I don’t see you before, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas! 
* please feel free to leave comments/ thoughts/ suggestions 

In Him
Dan 

When seeing isn't believing

It's been quite a while everyone, appreciate you checking back in...

Been reading John 12 tonight, and there's a verse which says...

"But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him:”
John 12:37

Depressing eh? Even the miracles of Jesus couldn't convince some people to trust Him. I just can't get out my head the thought that so many of the people we have contact with in our Christian lives today are described by this verse. Should Jesus appear before them, where they were and perform a miracle in front of their very eyes, they wouldn't believe. Guess they'll never be won, so we should give up right?

How is it that so many people experienced Jesus and yet failed to follow him? Was it too difficult a lifestyle change, was his teaching too controversial or perhaps he didn't measure up to their expectations? After all, he was hardly the Roman-defeating, rebellion leading, captivity freeing deliverer they were hoping for was he. To some, he would only ever be "Jesus of Nazareth", or "the son of the Carpenter". Preconceived ideas clouded the mind and closed the eyes. Today, so many people are raised being taught in school that science has the answers, and that the Big Bang, evolution etc are fact. No amount of evidence, debate or conversation can change their way of thinking. Humanly speaking, their eyes are closed to the truth.

However, what's encouraging is to realise that God is in the business of opening eyes. Even more encouraging, is that He uses us to do so. Paul was told

"I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting. Stand up! I have chosen you to be my servant and my witness—you will tell people the things that you have seen and the things that I will show you. This is why I have come to you today. I will keep you safe from your own people and also from the others. I am sending you to them to open their eyes so that they may turn away from darkness to the light, away from the power of Satan and to God. Then their sins can be forgiven, and they can have a place with those people who have been made holy by believing in me.’”
Acts 26:15-18

The question isn't what do we say, or do to lead people to Christ; we don't know who will respond. The question is am I showing them and telling them the gospel? The rest God will do when He sees fit. Maybe that child of a Christian couple who has for many years sat emotionless in church, (and maybe even left church behind), suddenly realises they need Christ in adulthood. God opened their eyes! The neighbour or work colleague who is antagonist to Christianity, finally sees the love of Christ in us and in how we treat them. "God opened their eyes!" That religious person, trusting in themselves  and good works to gain acceptance from God, sees that Jesus is "THE Way, THE truth and THE life". God opened their eyes! Like the sower casting his seed in the field among the different types of ground, let's keep doing our bit, knowing that God will do his... despite what we may think, for our God said "I am the LORD, the God of every person on the earth. Nothing is impossible for me.”
Jeremiah 32:27

Thanks for reading; all comments, thoughts, questions and shares are welcome...

Building Work

“God began doing a good work in you, and I am sure he will continue it until it is finished when Jesus Christ comes again.”

As a church we’ve just started a course called “Discipleship Explored”. So far (Just had the second week out of eight) it has been extremely challenging. Reading the words of Paul to the Christians in Philippi who were suffering persecution, we noted how it’d be easy for him to be wallowing in self pity and self lothing. Yet he isn’t. He is more concerned about their welfare, their spiritual condition. Despite his chains, Paul is an enthusiastic, determined man, grounded in his own appreciation of God’s love and plans for his life. He was at peace that where he was, he was meant to be. Being able to pray with Joy from a prison cell while chained to a couple of Roman  soldiers isn’t the norm!

His great prayer for them was that their love would grow, and in turn their knowledge. This would ultimately allow them to be able to know right from wrong and make the decision that would glorify God. The verse above has been on my mind ever since, and I’m hoping it’s as encouraging for you as I’ve found it to be. The reminder that “God began doing a good work”. Not my own efforts, lest I should slacken off or give up if it got difficult. Also, God is doing a work in me which is unlike anyone else, and likewise the work he’s doing in you if you’re a Christian (Are you prepared?) is unique to you. God isn’t making robots which are all the same shape, size and with identical gifts and abilities. He’s making a family, a “Body” or a “Building”, with lots of unique parts that make up one harmonious object, all coming together to bring glory to God.

I’m guessing you’ve failed God since you were saved? Yeah, surprisingly me too! Not just a few times either, many occasions when sin prevailed and holiness lost. Did you notice that God “will continue it until it is finished”, or “perfect” as some bibles phrase it. God keeps building and building, allowing for the leaks, problems, stalling and back tracking that sin brings to our growth, knowing that ultimately one day the project will finally be finished, and at that moment, at God’s perfect time, we will be made complete in the image of Christ.

We’re all at different stages of the developments too, some are just at the foundation stage, newly saved and freely relying on our Rock. Some perhaps are further on down the line,  with many years of Christian living behind them meaning the building is nearing completion. Paul had reached that stage. Week two’s verse was “To me the only important thing about living is Christ, and dying would be profit for me.”(Phil 1:21) He was ready to go, with nothing earthly to tie him, and his love for Christ to drive him.

Spiritually I feel that the building work has been delayed in my life recently, maybe even stopped. Hopefully this course will be a big help in once again creating the right conditions for work, and soon God can again continue building. How is the building work going for you? What’s stopping the work of God in your life? I’d love to know your thoughts or any comments you have, especially other verses perhaps which come to mind? Also, if you find this blog helpful, please feel free to Like, Share, and Retweet it. But especially to share your thoughts.

In Him

Dan

Divine Schedule

Our days and weeks are so tightly scheduled; we haven’t time for the unexpected.

In our society, we’re used to taking the initiative. Making sure we’re maximising our potential and multitasking our lives to the nearest minute. We can do everything instantly, using our smart phones to update, search, buy, speak and entertain us. When something unexpected comes along we usually don’t know how to cope. Our days and weeks are so tightly scheduled; we haven’t time for the unexpected.

Jesus was 30 when his earthly ministry started. Beginning at his baptism, he spent 3 years obeying his father God, leading his disciples, teaching the people and healing the sick. Nature and death would all bow to his miraculous power, and neither would prevent his work and mission. A stormy sea calmed. A friend raised to life. Rich taxmen completely changed. The incurable healed. John sums up what he achieved in 3 years by saying “There are many other things which Jesus did. If every one of them were written down, I suppose the whole world would not be big enough for what would be written.” - John 21 v 25. What could he achieve in 10 years? Or 20? Perhaps if he lived to 70 years old, what could those 40 years contain?

He was always fully aware of his Father’s plan and the Divine Schedule he was to uphold

So was the crucifixion of Jesus a derailment of his awesome life? Was it a waste of the potential life he could have lived? Were it the account of my life or yours, the answer would almost certainly be “Yes”. The passing into eternity of any young person is usually viewed with much sorrow at their unfulfilled potential. Jesus however, was in full control of his life. He was always fully aware of his Father’s plan and the Divine Schedule he was to uphold. Several times the enemies of Jesus tried to kill him, but each time the Lord could say “My time has not yet come” - John 7 v 8. However, One day, just before the Passover feast, as Jesus was leading his disciples towards Jerusalem, He would tell them “Look, we are going to Jerusalem. The Son of Man will be turned over to the leading priests and the teachers of the law, and they will say that he must die. They will give the Son of Man to the non-Jewish people to laugh at him and beat him with whips and crucify him. But on the third day, he will be raised to life again” – Matt 20 v 18-19

Throughout the Lord’s final hours; from his arrest, through his trial and onto his crucifixion, Jesus showed his complete control. Showing restraint as the soldiers arrested him. Submitting to Pilate's authority (While acknowledging it was only his because Heaven had given it to him) and even patiently enduring the sickening treatment at the hand of gentile soldiers (Suffering Saviour). Ultimately, the greatest display of his control over his life was the final minutes before his death. He, having saved the criminal on the neighboring cross, and sought his disciple John to care for his mother, and endured the full, unknown weight and punishment of sin for humanity, cried with a loud voice and bowed his head and died. Jesus had cried “It is finished” – John 19:30. Anyone else would have died and their head drop, but Jesus having finally finished the great work of salvation, “Bowed his head and died”. He knew the very moment, location, means but ultimately the purpose of his death. His Divine Schedule had for a little while finished; 3 days it would be left blank. But God gloriously raised him up from the dead, showing many people that he was alive again. 

Our lives are for the living now, a time to serve the Lord and to worship him in the world; but at anytime, maybe today, our schedules will be over. Whether we are alive or “dead in Christ” (1 Thess 4:16) when he returns, our work and labour will be over and we shall finally have rest. May we too submit to the Divine Schedule, going where and when our Lord calls, and seeking those who he has planned appointments with.

Yours in His name.

Dan

Lukewarm Walking

I know, and have known for sometime that the Christian life is not a continuation of mountaintop experiences. I realise that there are periods of valley trials and temptations which are often God's way of drawing us closer to Himself. Sometime, I find that life seems to be somewhere in between. Not the consistent walk with the Saviour we should strive for, but more the lukewarm stroll through life neither being on fire for God or cold enough to abandon everything.

The last few months have been a real mix for me, and at times I've been privileged enough to teach and disciple young Christians at camp. To equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to love and serve The Lord. However, at other times life's pace and problems, mixed with the attractions of the world sap the energy and drive to be or do anything for God. If anyone has the solution to a more consistent, closer walk with The Lord, then please comment below. I'm sure many others feel the same way as me, taking 2 steps forward and 3 back. Vowing to serve Jesus completely but giving in after the first discouragement. 

I do find this blog a real encouragement to write, and share and if no one commented it'd still be beneficial for me. But it is nice when you know that there are people out there who feel the same, or have helpful suggestions. Your comments and shares (retweets) show me that at least it's hit a positive note with someone out there in internet land.

I plan to get back to writing more (I know I've said that before), and to use it for my own walk. To grow closer to The Lord so that the highest highs and lowest lows are dealt with in the same way and to generate the same levels of trust. I've learnt that it doesn't happen passively, and it takes work, time and most of all a desire to keep coming back when you deviate. 

To be less lukewarm and more burnt out for God!

Now is the time to take the advice of Hebrews 12 v 1-2.... "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God."

Yours in Him

Dan

Patience

Patience may be the greatest answer to our deepest problem

We've all been there. The foot tapping, constantly checking the time, searching the crowd. Waiting is never enjoyable. The longer the wait, the more frustrated we feel. 

Where are they? What’s taking so long? Why aren't they here? 

We can all be guilty of showing impatience. The more we’re looking forward to something, the slower it seems to come round. If most people had to name a weakness or fault they were conscious of most, i imagine for many it would be impatience.


This impatience is often magnified when it comes to waiting on God. 

We know we should, and we know it’d be best, but we cant help it. 

Why isn't He bringing me that job? Where is the husband/ wife I’m looking for? When will this illness leave? When will my finances improve?

Waiting for God can be frustrating at times, and not knowing when or how He will act also can cause us to doubt His promises. Many of the Old Testament saints experienced periods of waiting for God. Hannah had prayed for many years. Abraham tried to speed up God’s promises. The people of Israel grew tired of waiting for Moses to return, so they built a golden calf to worship. 

The chance to save him was lost, and all hope had gone.


When we come into the New Testament, we find that patience is still in short supply. Mary and Martha have sent for the Lord Jesus. They tell Him “Lord, he whom you love is ill” (John 11:3). They waited for Jesus to come and heal their brother Lazarus. “Surely He’ll come?” They thought. “He loves Lazarus, why wouldn't He?”. They must have been sad when Lazarus died, and they buried their brother in a tomb. The chance to save him was lost, and all hope had gone. They had patiently waited, but Jesus had failed to help. But God’s timing is different to ours. Sometimes He wants us to go through trials and temptations to increase our faith, and so that when He does act, it’s in a far more miraculous way. Had Jesus gone to Bethany, He could have performed a miracle and given Lazarus his health back, but instead He was going to demonstrate a far greater miracle than that, He would bring him back to life.


There, outside of the village Martha met Jesus, and said “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that whatever you ask from God, God will give you.” (John 11 v 21-22). How right she was! Lazarus wouldn't have died, but then they all would have missed out on a wonderful experience! Standing at the graveside, Mary and Martha were reunited with their brother, four days after burying him. How deeper their appreciation would be for their friend Jesus, no longer just the healer of the sick, but the restorer of life! How much stronger their faith would be in “The Resurrection and the Life”.


What about us? Do we always expect our prayers to be answered that same day? or week? 

Perhaps sometimes they are. Maybe it will take many months, or even years, to see God respond to our hearts deepest longings. But could it be that God is trying to teach us patience? It may be that He has something far greater in store if we just wait. 

Patience may be the greatest answer to our problems!

Yours in Him

Dan

Questions to consider:

What are you waiting for most at this moment in time? 

How can you increase your patience?

What other bible verses would encourage us to wait on God's timing?

Hidden Years

Hi Everyone,

It’s been 81 days since my last post, and that seems too long. Perhaps some of you might think that it isn't long enough? Ha. I’m so grateful to everyone who has continued to read the various posts and leave comments on them, shared them with friends and generally just being an encouragement to me. It's been a busy few months for one reason or another, but hopefully it'll be a bit quieter for a while. Here's hoping. There have been a few times recently when I've felt burdened to write about a particular topic, only for it to disappear from memory the moment I've sat down to write it.

Why are so many of the year's of Jesus' life hidden from our view?

One thing I have thought a lot about recently is the hidden years of Jesus’ life. After a unique birth through the virgin Mary, and suffering the rejection of not only his own people, but his own Creation, we read that “The child grew and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon Him”. (Luke 2:40) Imagine what type of Child Jesus would have been? Perfect, honest, friendly, caring, loving, gentle, wise and purposeful. In contrast to his siblings, he was so very different! Each of them needed discipline, correcting, told off, grounded; but Jesus did no sin. There was no arguing, fighting, hating, lying, cheating, stealing, swearing with him. How could his brothers not notice he was so different? Why wouldn’t they believe on Him?

He already knew that in 21 years time he’d be nailed to a cross outside of this very city!

But after 12 quiet years, he suddenly appears back on the pages of scripture. He’s at the place where he always is that time of year; in Jerusalem, at the feast. On this occasion though, it would be different. This time, He wouldn't be with the travelling party as they returned home, he’d stay behind with the teachers of the law. His worried parents found him after 3 days and queried “Why have you dealt with us in this way? Behold, I and your father have sought you sorrowing” (Luke 2:48). Jesus however corrects their view of him, “Do you not know that I must be about my Father’s business?”. This wasn't Joseph’s carpentry shop, but the work of His only father; God. His desire, even as a child, was to please God. He already knew that in 21 years time he’d be nailed to a cross outside of this very city. He’d bear the sin of the world to reconcile it to God. He’d offer himself a ransom for many. It’s no great surprise that Mary “Kept all these things in her heart” (v51). The next time we hear Mary speak, she’ll say “Whatever he tells you to do, do it!” (John 2:5). She had noticed he was different, and even the impossible was possible for him!

Finally, Luke writes “He went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject onto them:”. How amazing to think that the eternal Son of God, the creator of all things, was subject to human parents. He went to a place which was noted as being extremely sinful, yet for 30 years he managed to remain untarnished, and unblemished by sin there. He walked a perfect walk, and lived a perfect life and “Increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man” (v52). Jesus learnt, and increased in wisdom. I would suggest to you that the subjection he showed to his parents helped him to be subject to the soldiers and captors later on. When they whipped, scourged, beat, spat and crucified him, he'd be quiet (Suffering Saviour). He would learn how to remain silent before mans accusations. How to be Just among the unjust, Perfect among imperfection, and Truth itself among falsehood.

"He has done all things well"

30 hidden years can be summed up with one heavenly declaration – “You are my beloved Son, In You I am well pleased!” (Luke 3:22). All that he was, and had done, and said, was perfect to God. I’d love to know more, and to hear more, but God in His wisdom has hidden it from view. All we know is that “He has done all things well” (Mark 7:37)

Have you any thoughts about the hidden years? Please share them in the comments below....

Trust you’re all well

In His name

Dan

Are you prepared? Part 2

In the last blog post, we looked at the warning God gave to King Hezekiah (2 Kings 20 v 1-3) "Are you prepared??". This first part looked at how a non-Christian might respond to news that their life was to soon come to an end. But how would a Christian respond? 

I think firstly, there would be a sense that we had unfinished business. There were places we'd still like to visit, people we'd want to see before we go, but ultimately there would be a lack of fear. Death contains no fear for those who are certain of their eternal home.

Walk in a manner worthy of the Lord

When a person comes to know Jesus Christ as their Saviour, they gain something this world can't guarantee. Peace. 

Peace within, peace with God, peace of mind, peace about eternity. "Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." (Romans 5:1) We have peace with God when we believe in Jesus His Son; His perfect life and sufficient sacrifice for sin. This peace is given to us the moment we believe through faith. Instantaneous, and eternal!

There is also the knowledge that a Christian has of where they will spend eternity. To know the destination makes the journey all the more bearable. "Our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself." Phil 3 v 20-21. A Christian already has a hope that they'll be in heaven because they're already citizens there. Waiting for a day when they will go there forever. 

But this takes us onto our next point. These bodies of ours, which sin, and age and eventually die, will one day be changed. We (Christians) will be given a new body, an incorruptible body, just like the The Lord Jesus. "For we know that if the tent that is our earthly home is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this tent we groan, longing to put on our heavenly dwelling." (2 Cor 5 v 1-2). Our earthly bodies are temporary and decay and are marked by sin, but there's a heavenly and permanent body to come. Just like a fish's body isn't suited for life on land, our current bodies aren't equipped for heaven, but one day all that will change. 

Finally, (and there are many more we could add), we will try to live a life that is pleasing to God. "Walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God." (Col 1:10) God wants us to live for Him all through our lives, not just in the easy times, or when we want. There is a future reward for all of the work we have done for Him, and while our work doesn't save us, it does bring rewards in heaven. I hope today you could honestly answer that you'd have the peace of God (through salvation), hope of a future home in heaven, corruptible bodies in the future to look forward to and are living lives which are pleasing to God; waiting to hear those words "Well done, you good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little, I will set you over a lot. Enter into the joy of your master" (Matt 25:21)

Yours in His name

Dan x

Are you prepared?

Hi Everyone. A post from a few years back...

"Set your house in order, for you shall die, and not live."

What would you do if you were informed that you didn't have long left to live? Would you give up your job or leave college? Perhaps you would make an effort to visit family and friends that you hadn't seen for a while. I think I’d want to travel a bit more to see some of the places i’ve never managed to visit. Lots of people are starting to make ‘Bucket lists’ of things they want to do before they die, so maybe we’d try to complete that.

“In those days Hezekiah was sick and near death. And Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, went to him and said to him, “Thus says the Lord: ‘Set your house in order, for you shall die, and not live.’ Then he turned his face toward the wall, and prayed to the Lord, saying, “Remember now, O Lord, I pray, how I have walked before You in truth and with a loyal heart, and have done what was good in Your sight.” And Hezekiah wept bitterly." (2 Kings 20:1-3)

King Hezekiah was informed that his current illness would ultimately be his last. He was going to die. He was given prior warning to “Set your house in order, for you shall die and not live”.

Firstly, if you aren't a Christian, how would receiving this news make you feel? Would it make you think about life after death? Would you consider the existence of God more? Amos exclaimed “Prepare to meet your God!”. The bible clearly states that “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” (Gen 1:1), and goes on to tell us that He ultimately made all good things. If this is true, while your parents ‘made’ you, ultimately the source of all life and existence comes from God, including YOU! This world has become hostile, rebellious and disobedient towards God, and many people have publicly claimed their lack of faith in Him. However, I’ve heard of atheists who have been fearful of death. Scared to pass into the next life. Unsure of the unknown. Their once strong belief that death is the end is often wavering when that death is looming close. That is because I believe, it is human nature to seek a higher power. We can try to fill that longing with family, friends, fun, employment and pleasures, but they can never provide lasting happiness. They need to be repeated, replaced or increased.

When Jesus (God’s son) was here on earth, he boldly claimed that “I am the way, the truth and the life. No-one comes to my Father except through me” (John 14:6). People can’t live their lives as they please and then expect to go to Heaven. God’s holiness could never allow it. He will judge and punish every person who dies without trusting in His son. Not because He is bad, but because He is Just! 

Any judge must punish the guilty and free the innocent. No one is 100% innocent in their life. No one can claim to have lived perfectly, and if we’re all guilty of at least failing God once in our lives, none of us could ever be good enough for heaven. We can’t rely on our good works and effort, as none of them give us any right standing in God’s eyes.

 “Prepare to meet your God!”

Here’s where Jesus comes in: God loves you. He tells us many times in the bible how He acts out of love for people, despite knowing that most will never reciprocate that love. In John, we read the most (probably) famous bible verse in the world, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only much loved Son, that whoever believes in Him will never perish, but will have everlasting life” (John 3:16). If sin keeps us out of heaven, then removing that sin would allow us in? That’s what Jesus was saying: “I am the Way”; Not ‘A’ way, or the ‘best’ way, but ‘THE’ way! God, outside of Jerusalem, 2000 years ago punished His own son in a once and for all sacrifice for sin. This doesn't make everyone instantly innocent, but does mean that God will forgive anyone’s sin that trusts in Jesus. The moment we finally realise our guilt before God and confess it to Him (you aren't telling Him anything He doesn't already know), and believe that God punished Jesus for your sin, God removes the debt our sin has built up. Forever! 

Jesus made it possible for anyone to be saved, but only those who believe on him WILL be saved. 

Imagine if I left a large bag of money in London and promised it was for anyone to use to pay their household bills. The money is already there because I’ve done my part and paid, but you only get the benefit when you believe my promise and go and take the money. God has promised to save from eternal punishment because of their sin ANYONE who believes that Jesus is His son, and His death, burial and resurrection made it possible. 


If you found out you were to die soon, would you be prepared?

I haven’t got time to tell you the proofs of Jesus’ existence by secular archaeology and history etc (perhaps a blog post soon on this), but I believe wholeheartedly the bible when it tells us “These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.” (John 20:31). My next post will God willing look at how a Christian would respond to the same revelation that their death is imminent. 

I hope someone finds this helpful.

In His Name

Dan

Evangelism

I didn't plan to do another post for a few weeks, but this subject captured my imagination. This is the first blog post which I've written that is born out of a simple questionnaire. Sometimes I get curious, and on one particular day this week I was thinking about when people are saved and what influences it? Does evangelism work, and who does it work on and when? I asked the following two questions:

1) How old were you when you became a Christian?

2) Where were you when you got saved?

Before I look at the responses, and what they indicate to us, let me leave a little disclaimer. This is not a 100%, definitive questionnaire. It doesn't allow for the person's upbringing, background, location or in some case what type of church group/ camp etc they attended. There were 105 people who took part, and it was quite a diverse group of people, but It doesn't account for everyone.

The answers fell into 4 groups, people became Christian's when they were:

• Children (Aged 4 - 10) - 55%
• Teens (Aged 11 -18) - 29%
• Young Adults (Aged 19 - 30) - 8%
• Adults (Aged 31 - 99) - 9%

But I just want to look at the first two, Children and Teens.

The "children" section (which includes me) is by far the largest, with most children becoming Christians between 5 - 8 years old. Of the 58 people saved as children, 76% of them said they were saved at home. (19% of them said they were saved at a church event; either Sunday school or childrens meetings). What we can assume from these numbers is that hearing the gospel as a child is a great thing! Children as young as 4 became Christians, children I would suggest come from Christian homes who have seen, heard and believed Godly example of Christian parents.

I hope that encourages any current parents, future parents and Sunday school leaders! Parents, do you take your children to church? Do you allow them to go to Sunday school, youth groups and gospel meetings? Do you read and pray with them? I urge you to keep going, It really works! I myself was saved at a Childrens meeting at the age of 7. Most of the children heard the gospel at organised meetings, but it was interesting how many mentioned parents and grandparents who had influenced them towards salvation. Its vital that Christian parents (Which I'm not, but hope to God willing be one day) not only encourage children to attend gospel efforts, but provide a good example at home and create an environment that encourages a love for and understanding of the Saviour. Keep on going!

Paul wrote to Timothy and said "as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures,which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus." (2 Tim 3:14-15 NIV)

Children who are raised with bible stories, praying parents, childrens meetings and hearing the gospel are more likely to be saved.

Teens

Then, there are the teens. There were 30 people who became Christians in their teenage years. Again, 40% trusted the Lord while they were at home, but I'm fairly sure that the influence of church events (Which accounted for 20%), and camps (33%) lead to many of them being saved later on at home. 

Again, I encourage any parents to keep allowing/ urging your children to attend gospel work at church and go to gospel camps. Even teenagers who had heard the gospel since childhood came to trust the Lord in their teens. Hearing the gospel many times isn't a bad thing, and on any such occasion a person can be convicted to be saved. Keep on going!

KEEP ON GOING!

What about the rest? Here is a quick break down of the older people.

19-30 Year olds 8%

31-99 Year olds 9% (17 people in total)

Interestingly 59% of them were saved at church organised events. Do you have a bible course, coffee morning, gospel meeting, mother and toddlers? Adults, some even in their 30's (and one in his 60's!) are being saved. Keep on going!

While this post isn't particularly well written or presented, I hope it shows simply that God still saves. There is no formula, and no guarantees. We don't know when or if a person will be saved, but we do know that it's still possible! Have you a young child? Keep going! Are they teenagers now? Its not too late, keep going! Are they adults? Until the moment they die, they can still be saved.....Keep on going! Keep praying that God blesses our families, churches and countries with salvation.

What If you're reading this and you aren't a Christian? If you couldn't fill this questionnaire? Please take the time to read My Testimony (Why and how I became a Christian) and see the explaination there. If you weren't one of the people who sent me their answers, why not answer them in the comment box below? I'd love to hear your story! 

I hope this is an encouragement. - Dan Bilton

Insomnia

There are few things worse in life than having sleepless nights. Knowing you need sleep and that your body is tired, but you're experiencing "Temporary Insomnia". The frustration of tossing and turning and getting nowhere. Sleep being the furthest possible thing from your mind. Lying wide awake with nothing but thoughts going round and round in your head. Perhaps it's worry, anxiety, fear, nerves, doubts, excitement or anticipation. Whatever it is, it seems to last forever. Every second, minute and hour seems to last a lifetime. 

As a Christian, we aren't exempt from those feelings and emotions. We still have nights of great sadness and worry. We possibly never admit publicly that we are struggling, however, what we also have is a God who knows and loves us. He knows our lives up to their very end, and He cares for us throughout them. Remember "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change" (James 1:17 ESV). Also, we have a Saviour (Suffering Saviour) who loved us enough to die in our place. And inside each and every true born again Christian is the Holy Spirit, the God given comforter and guide to help us on our heavenward journey. The three members of the God-head all working together out of love for you. 

I don't know what keeps you up at night. Maybe its marriage or relationship problems, work responsibilities  Parental concerns, health issues, financial worries or exam stress. God always gives His people hope, wants them to have faith, teaches them patience. It will get better. He does know the outcome. He can be trusted. In all your problems remember that "Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning." (Psalm 30:5)

Yours in Him
Dan