Fear is something most people face on a regular basis. King David found the answer in praising and seeking the Lord for help and in Psalm 34 he sets out a blueprint for dealing with fear. The same God who delivered David will deliver you if you will seek Him! Jean-Louis opens the word.
Jesus promised that His followers would be 'set free' but this has not always been the believers' experience. As Jane Cavanna explains, it is essential to 'know the truth' in order to be free. A deep revelation of sin's consequences, the power of the cross to separate us from the past, and the overwhelming wonder of God's love will transform anyone's life forever.
Ancient wineskins had to be regularly changed because the pressure of the wine ruined them. New chapters will bring the need for new changes, and if we don't adapt they can cause us great difficulty. Whether considering the family, work or church life, how ready are you for expansion this year?
As children grow up, parents see it as a sign of maturity when they start to say 'Thank you' for life's good things. Equally, the Scripture exhorts followers of Jesus to be a thankful people, acknowledging God as their source. Gratitude changes our lives. What do you need to give thanks for today?
Dealing with personal rejection, for whatever reason, is something that everyone has to learn how to do well. Jesus was rejected at Nazareth and there is much to learn from His experience. Will you be defined by your critics and bad experiences, or will you let God's word shape your identity?
In the Old Testament, during the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem, the enemy commander's speech has overtones characteristic of a satanic confrontation. The steps that the King of Judah took to overcome his mind games will encourage anyone today who feels that they are literally in a diabolical situation. Whose report will you believe?
There can be no doubt that people of devout faith and devotion to God go through difficult periods and seasons of suffering. How should a Christian respond to this, and to the Lord, during such times? This practical message is drawn from the wise instruction found in the First Epistle of Peter.
Despite its common use today, the word 'Christian' rarely appears in the Bible, and it is only used by those who are not followers of Jesus. What did this term really mean in the first century and how can we learn and live out a true 'Christian' life in the modern world? Thought provoking! Part one of two.
King David had a challenging life, one in which God was able to reveal His wisdom. Examining three such instances, Jane Cavanna encourages the church concerning handling conflict, ensuring the cost of worship and the importance of preparing the next generation for the Kingdom to come.
'Spirit Filled' is a favourite phrase of the writer Luke, being found throughout his Gospel and the Book of Acts. But what does it really mean? Does it refer to an experience of tongues and spiritual gifts, or to so much more? Peter Cavanna opens the Scriptures in this helpful teaching message.