The King's Church International Audio Podcast

Physical thirst reminds us of another, deeper thirst affecting billions—spiritual thirst. Across the world, millions lack clean water. Yet even more lack spiritual satisfaction. There is a profound longing in the human soul for meaning, purpose, acceptance, peace and connection with God.The Bible speaks clearly about this thirst: Psalm 42:1–2, Psalm 63:1, Matthew 5:6 In Isaiah 55:1–3, the prophet gives what has been called an “Invitation to the thirsty”:“Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters… Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labour on what does not satisfy? … Listen, that you may live. I will make an everlasting covenant with you…”These words were spoken to exiles looking forward not only to freedom from Babylon but ultimately to the coming Messiah who would bring salvation to the world.1. Be Thirsty For God Because Only He Can Give True Satisfaction• God Can Give You The Satisfaction You Need; “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters…” (Isa 55:1)The water represents God Himself. In John 4:13–14, Jesus told the Samaritan woman:“Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst.”She was searching for acceptance and meaning, yet her deeper thirst was spiritual. Jesus offered her living water—salvation, restoration and eternal life. Only He could satisfy the ache in her heart.The same is true today. Spiritual thirst cannot be quenched by temporary solutions.• Money Alone Cannot Satisfy“Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labour on what does not satisfy?” (Isaiah 55:2)The exiles were building lives in Babylon but losing spiritual focus. They were investing energy in things that could never truly satisfy.Money, popularity, knowledge and power promise fulfilment but leave people wanting more. As Jesus said in Matthew 6:24, no one can serve both God and money. A divided heart leads to dissatisfaction.Even immense wealth cannot fill the God-shaped space within the human heart. True contentment comes from seeking first the Kingdom of God.2. Be Thirsty For God Because He Wants To Satisfy Your ThirstGod is not distant. He is inviting.• This Gift Is For Everyone “Come, ALL you who are thirsty…”The invitation is open to everyone—young and old, rich and poor, regardless of background. Water in Scripture symbolises cleansing, renewal and new beginnings. No one is excluded from God's grace.• This Gift Is Free“Come… buy and eat… without money and without cost.”Forgiveness and new life are offered freely because the price was paid by Jesus, the suffering servant described in Isaiah 53. Salvation is by grace.Ephesians 2:8–9 declares: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith… it is the gift of God.”1 John 3:1 reminds us of the lavish love of the Father in calling us His children. The cost was great—but the gift is free.3. Be Thirsty For God Because He Will Satisfy You When You ComeThe key word in Isaiah 55 is “Come.” “Come… listen… that you may live.”God calls continually: Matthew 11:28, John 7:37–38 When we come to Him, He satisfies. He gives rest to the weary, forgiveness to the sinner, strength to the weak, and the Holy Spirit to empower.The question is not whether God will give—but whether we will come to Him.

As part of the series Living Confidently in Times of Great Change, Isaiah 54:1–3 calls the people of God to prepare for expansion:“Sing, barren woman… burst into song… Enlarge the place of your tent… do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes. For you will spread out to the right and to the left…”These words were spoken to a people who saw themselves as captives and victims. Jerusalem had been destroyed, the temple ruined, and the nation scattered. Yet God declared that restoration and multiplication were coming. They were not to prepare for survival—but for growth.History shows what can happen when this word is taken seriously. In 1792, a young shoemaker, William Carey, preached from this very passage and ended with the now-famous challenge: “Expect great things from God. Attempt great things for God.” From that moment the modern missionary movement was launched. What began small grew to impact nations. God still calls His people to move from limitation into expansion.1. It's Time To SingIsaiah 54:1 “Sing, barren woman… burst into song…”The command to sing was given to the barren, the fruitless, the disappointed and the hurting. Before they saw change, before fruit appeared, they were told to rejoice.Captivity had stolen their song. God was restoring it.Singing represents a mindset shift—from despair to faith, from victim to victor. Revival always carries a sound of praise because it reflects confidence that the Redeemer lives.Isaiah 54 continues with promises of: Growth, Dignity, Restoration, Everlasting love, Prosperity, Family blessing, ProtectionThe season of barrenness does not define the future. The first step into new growth is choosing praise before the breakthrough appears.2. It's Time To Stretch Isaiah 54:2–3“Enlarge the place of your tent… do not hold back… For you will spread out to the right and to the left.”The exiles had developed a survival mentality. When people face hardship, the instinct is often to withdraw, conserve, and protect what remains. But God commands the opposite: Do not hold back.The imagery is of a Bedouin tent being expanded—new skins added, cords lengthened, territory extended. Growth requires stretching beyond comfort.This is the mission of the Church:Acts 1:8 – “You will be my witnesses… to the ends of the earth.”Matthew 28:19 – “Go and make disciples of all nations.”Growth means moving outward—into communities, workplaces, campuses and neighbourhoods. It means sharing the gospel intentionally and believing for multiplication.Stretching requires faith. It requires stepping up to lead, to serve, to speak, to invite. Fear shrinks back; faith expands forward.3. It's Time To StrengthenIsaiah 54:2 “…strengthen your stakes.”Expansion without strengthening leads to collapse. As growth increases, foundations must deepen.• Strengthen Yourself In The WordPsalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp for my feet.”2 Timothy 3:16–17 – “All Scripture is God-breathed… so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped.”The Word equips, corrects, trains and guides. Growth demands daily discipline in Scripture. Strong tents require strong stakes.• Strengthen Yourself In The Holy SpiritJohn 3:34 – “God gives the Spirit without limit.”Acts 1:8 – “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you…”Jesus was “full of the Holy Spirit” (Luke 4:1). Effective witness flows from spiritual empowerment. Stretching cannot happen in human strength. Dependence on the Holy Spirit must deepen daily.• Strengthen Yourself OrganisationallyGrowth also requires order. Time, habits, finances, priorities and family life must align with purpose. Capacity must increase to sustain expansion.Organisation creates room for multiplication.In ConclusionGod is preparing His people for new levels of growth. The word is clear:Sing – shift the mindset from barrenness to fruitfulness.Stretch – refuse to hold back; expand in faith.Strengthen – deepen foundations in the Word, the Spirit and disciplined living.Isaiah 54:4 declares:“Do not be afraid; you will not be put to shame.”This is not a season of retreat, but of advance. Not survival, but multiplication. Not limitation, but expansion.Expect great things from God. Attempt great things for God.

Isaiah 53 is one of the most significant chapters in the whole Bible. Written more than 700 years before Jesus was born, it gives the clearest Old Testament picture of the Messiah—not as a conquering king, but as a suffering servant who would give His life for the sins of humanity.This passage has shaped Jewish hope, Christian faith, and the honest searching of countless people across generations. In the early church, it was Isaiah 53 that led a high-ranking official to faith in Jesus when Philip “told him the good news about Jesus” (Acts 8:35).Today, Isaiah 53 still confronts every person with the same question: Who is Jesus, and how will I respond to Him?Key Passage: Isaiah 52:14–53:121. Recognise That Jesus Suffered GreatlyIsaiah 52:14–53:3“His appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any human being… He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain.”Isaiah foretells a Messiah who would suffer extreme physical, emotional, and relational pain. Jesus was beaten beyond recognition, mocked, rejected, and abandoned—despite being completely innocent.He is described as a “tender shoot”—someone gentle, humble, and without earthly power or status. He did nothing to deserve suffering; it came because of who He was and the mission He accepted.Jesus was not only familiar with pain—He entered into it fully. Because He suffered, He understands human suffering at its deepest level.Isaiah 43:2“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you…”Jesus does not stand distant from our pain. He walks through it with us.2. Recognise That Jesus Is the Greatest Substitute for Every SinnerIsaiah 53:6“We all, like sheep, have gone astray… and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.”This is the heart of the gospel. Humanity has gone its own way, yet Jesus stepped in as our substitute. He took upon Himself what belonged to us—our sin, guilt, and separation from God.Isaiah 53:5“He was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins.”Jesus did not suffer for His own wrongdoing. He suffered for us. Like a substitute in a match, He willingly took our place—but at the ultimate cost of His life.Our sin was nailed to the cross, dealt with once and for all. Because of Jesus, forgiveness is complete, and freedom is possible.3. Recognise That Jesus Gives Us the Greatest StrengthIsaiah 53:4“Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering…”Jesus not only carried our sin—He carried our grief, sorrow, and pain. The cross was a divine exchange: what crushed us was placed upon Him.1 Peter 5:7“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”You do not have to carry what Jesus has already carried. Grief, loss, fear, and sorrow can be laid at His feet. In our weakness, His strength becomes real and sustaining.4. Recognise That Jesus Achieved the Greatest SuccessIsaiah 53:10“Though the Lord makes his life an offering for sin, he will see his offspring… and the will of the Lord will prosper in his hand.”The cross was not a tragedy—it was a triumph. Jesus' suffering fulfilled God's deliberate plan of salvation.Acts 2:23“This man was handed over to you by God's deliberate plan and foreknowledge…”Jesus endured the cross willingly, knowing that through it, many would be saved.Revelation 7:9“A great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language…”The resurrection proves that suffering was not the end. Jesus' obedience brought victory, salvation, and a redeemed people from every nation.ConclusionIsaiah 53 leaves no room for indifference. Jesus cannot be reduced to merely a good teacher or moral example. He is the promised Messiah—the suffering servant who stood in our place, carried our pain, and secured our salvation.The question is not who Jesus is—Scripture makes that clear.The question is how will we respond?MinistryToday is an invitation to recognise Jesus personally:If you do not yet know Him, you can receive forgiveness, freedom, and new life by trusting in what He has done for you.If you do know Him, take time to reflect on the cost of the cross and worship Him with renewed gratitude and surrender.Jesus suffered for you.Jesus stood in your place.Jesus offers you life.Let us respond with faith, worship, and wholehearted devotion.

The film "Life Is Beautiful" tells the story of a father who uses imagination, love, and sacrifice to protect his son from the horrors of a concentration camp. In the middle of extreme ugliness, he creates an atmosphere of joy and hope. While that story offers a beautiful illusion, scripture reveals something far greater: it is truly possible to live a beautiful life in an ugly world through the good news of God.In the second part of Isaiah, God's people were facing harsh and painful realities. Captured by the Babylonian army, they lived in exile, far from home. Yet Isaiah suddenly speaks words of hope, beauty, and restoration. In the midst of devastation, God announces freedom, joy, and salvation.Isaiah 52:7“How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the one who brings good news, who announces peace, who brings good news of happiness, who announces salvation, and says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns!'”In Scripture, feet represent action—how faith is lived out on earth.* Feet symbolise service and humility (John 13:14–15)* Feet represent stability and standing firm in faith* Feet point to direction in daily life—walking in God's will* Feet represent dominion and victory, with the enemy under our feet* Feet represent the spread of the gospelIsaiah pictures messengers running across the mountains to announce joyful news to a broken and hopeless people. God would defeat Babylon through King Cyrus and restore Jerusalem and the temple. What looked impossible was about to become reality.This same image appears again in Nahum 1:15, pointing to victory over Assyria, and later in Romans 10:14–15, where Paul applies Isaiah's words to the gospel of Jesus Christ. God's people are called to be bearers of beautiful news in a world full of pain.If a beautiful life is desired, the priority must be to become a messenger of good news in a bad-news world.1. The Beautiful Privilege of Bringing PeaceIsaiah 52:7Peace is something every heart longs for—peace in minds, families, workplaces, communities, and nations. Jesus is called the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6), and through Him, peace with God and peace within becomes possible.John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.”The peace of Jesus calms the storms of life. When peace with God is established, fear, panic, despair, and anxiety lose their grip. This is a beautiful message in a troubled world.2. The Beautiful Privilege of Proclaiming God's RuleIsaiah 52:7 “…who say to Zion, ‘Your God reigns!'”Zion represents Jerusalem, but also the Church—the people among whom God dwells. This declaration reminds God's people that no earthly power is ultimate. Babylon was not in control. Persia was not in control. God reigns.The kingdom of God speaks of His sovereign rule, established through Jesus Christ and lasting forever.Mark 1:15 “The kingdom of God has come near.”Because God reigns, no one needs to remain captive to fear, sin, darkness, or the past. God's authority brings freedom and hope. Proclaiming His rule is a powerful and beautiful privilege.3. The Beautiful Privilege of Sharing God's ComfortIsaiah 52:9 “Break forth together into joy… for the LORD has comforted His people.”This continues the message that opens the second half of Isaiah:Isaiah 40:1–2 “Comfort, comfort my people… Speak tenderly to Jerusalem…”God sees human fragility. He knows when hearts are breaking and strength is gone. He comes alongside His people to heal, steady, and restore. This is why the Holy Spirit is known as the Comforter. Sharing God's comfort brings beauty to lives marked by pain and loss.4. The Beautiful Privilege of Proclaiming SalvationIsaiah 52:8–10 “All the ends of the earth will see the salvation of our God.”The ultimate good news is salvation. God rescues, restores, and redeems. Jesus is the Saviour of the world.Luke 19:10 “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”Jesus taught that heaven rejoices when what is lost is found (Luke 15). A soul is of greater value than any success, wealth, or position.Mark 8:35–36 “What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?”True beauty, joy, and fulfilment come from living for the salvation of others.The calling to bring good news requires a response.Romans 10:14–15 “How can they hear without someone preaching? … How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”Pastor Adriana shared how the verse in Isaiah 6:8—“Here am I. Send me!”—changed her life. Saying yes to God led her into difficult places, nations, and new opportunities to proclaim Jesus. Her feet were not just for comfort or personal ambition, but for God's purpose.William Booth, founder of the Salvation Army, captured this calling when he wrote:“Some men's ambition is art. Some men's ambition is fame. Some men's ambition is gold. My ambition is the souls of men.”ConclusionA beautiful life in an ugly world is not built on illusion, success, or comfort. It is found in carrying the beautiful message of Jesus—His peace, His rule, His comfort, and His salvation—into a hurting world.This is the calling and DNA of God's people: to speak up, to go out, and to bring His kingdom into homes, communities, and nations. The Holy Spirit empowers this calling and brings joy, purpose, and lasting beauty to those who say, “Here am I. Send me.”

The world is shaking—politically, socially, economically, and within families and communities. Things that once felt stable are being shaken up, but this is no surprise to God. Scripture teaches that God is the ultimate mover and shaker, and He shakes what is temporary so that what is eternal will remain.Recent world events have shown how quickly the “old order” can shift. As global leaders gathered in Davos, assumptions and alliances were disrupted. Whatever people think about political leaders, one thing is clear: some people move and shake. Yet above every human agenda stands the Lord, who rules over history, nations, and the future.God declares His power to shake the world throughout Scripture: Haggai 2:6–7, Haggai 2:21, Hebrews 12:26–27God has shaken nations before, and the world order is shaking again. Revival has always brought both a wake-up and a shake-up—what historian Paul Johnson called “profound seismic movements.” When the early Church prayed, even the place around them shook: Acts 4:31In Isaiah 52, God calls His people not only to wake up, but to move. Being awake is not the same as being up. Many people wake up, but still live in the heaviness and lethargy of yesterday. God's people are called to be movers and shakers—not settlers and observers.Key VerseIsaiah 52:2–3“Shake off your dust; rise up, sit enthroned, Jerusalem. Free yourself from the chains on your neck, Daughter Zion… You were sold for nothing, and without money you will be redeemed.”This passage gives three clear calls for how to live in a shaking world.1. Shake Up“Shake off your dust” (Isaiah 52:2)The Israelites were told that although the world around them was shaking, they also needed to shake things off. Dust represents dirt, mess, and accumulation—what builds up when something stays still too long. Dust in Scripture often points to spiritual uncleanness, defeat, sorrow, and death. A life can be alive, yet still covered in dust. The Holy Spirit exposes where dust has gathered so it can be shaken off. Shake off sinSin may start small, but undealt with it accumulates and entangles. Hebrews 12:1Compromise becomes normalised when sin is hidden or justified. Wrong attitudes, offence, bitterness, unforgiveness, dishonour, secret habits, and unclean influences must be shaken off. Sin must go, because it becomes a doorway for the enemy.Shake off doubt and cynicismDoubt undermines faith, and cynicism destroys joy and expectation.John 20:27 “Stop doubting and believe.”Shake off laziness and apathyDust settles where things stagnate. Comfort and compromise can replace passion for God and love for people. Laziness and apathy are dangerous, and they often lead to spiritual vulnerability—just as David's downfall began when he stayed back instead of doing what he should have done.Shake off rejectionRejection must not be carried or allowed to shape identity.Mark 6:11 “…leave that place and shake the dust off your feet…”Shake off wrong relationshipsSome relationships are no longer life-giving and can hinder, control, or destroy. It is not wisdom to blindly continue what pulls the heart away from God's will.Shake off old ways of thinkingGod is always doing something new, and old mindsets must not keep people stuck in old limitations.Isaiah 43:19“See, I am doing a new thing… do you not perceive it?”2. Rise Up“…rise up, sit enthroned…” (Isaiah 52:2)God's people are called to rise up from negativity, self-pity, and settling. The throne represents honour, identity, and authority. There is always a choice: stay in the dust, or rise into what God says is true.Even in hardship, there is a choice of attitude and response. Captivity does not have to define the future.Galatians 5:1Isaiah's instruction is clear:Isaiah 52:2 “Free yourself from the chains on your neck…”Chains can look like legalism, religiousness, negativity, self-reliance, a victim mindset, sickness, or even debt. Freedom requires both faith and action—trusting God for breakthrough while also doing what is wise and practical. When God's people rise up, they stop living as victims and start living as those with authority.3. Look Up“Without money you will be redeemed” (Isaiah 52:3)God reminds His people that redemption is not earned—it is given by His power and promise. The Lord foretells what He will do so that when it happens, His people will recognise His hand and trust His name.Isaiah 52:6 “My people will know my name… they will know that it is I…”In a world that is shaking, faith must stay fixed on God's reliability.Hebrews 10:23 (AMP)“Let us seize and hold tightly the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is reliable and trustworthy and faithful…”So there is no need to fear when nations shake. God is in control. The call is to shake off the dust, rise up into freedom, and look up to the God who redeems and restores.ApplicationGod desires to bring people from captivity into freedom. Jesus declared His mission clearly:Luke 4:18–19“The Spirit of the Lord is on me… to proclaim freedom for the prisoners… to set the oppressed free…”For those who feel captive, Jesus offers a new beginning through relationship with the Father. And for believers, the challenge is urgent: shake off sin, doubt, laziness, rejection, wrong relationships, and old mindsets. Choose today to rise up and walk in freedom. When God's people do what they can, God does what only He can.

On the morning of 6 June 1944, thousands of highly trained Allied soldiers stormed the beaches of Normandy. The success of the invasion depended on the first few critical hours. Powerful German tank divisions stood ready to respond, yet the decisive orders never came in time because Adolf Hitler was asleep. By the time he was awakened, the moment had passed and the liberation of Europe had begun.In the same way, spiritual warfare is raging today between the powers of darkness and light. At such defining moments in history, the Church — and especially its leaders — must be fully awake. More than ever, the world needs another national and international Great Awakening, like those that transformed hearts, nations, and cultures in the past.In the 18th century, the Methodist revival came at a time when, according to Bishop J.C. Ryle, “the spirit of slumber was over the land.” Yet when John and Charles Wesley, George Whitefield, and others awakened spiritually, the nation followed. Many were convicted of sin, many were converted, and communities were transformed.One of Satan's most effective strategies is to lull believers into spiritual sleep when vigilance is required. Scripture repeatedly warns of the danger of sleeping through moments of destiny.Matthew 26:40–41“Could you not keep watch with me for one hour? Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.”At Jesus' darkest hour, His disciples slept. Later, Jesus taught that while people were sleeping, the enemy sowed weeds among the wheat (Matthew 13:25). And in Matthew 25, all ten bridesmaids fell asleep and were caught off guard when the bridegroom arrived.R.T. Kendall observed that the parable of the ten virgins reflects the Church today — asleep, unaware of its condition, and resistant to being awakened.Against this backdrop, Isaiah's prophetic call resounds with urgency.Key VerseIsaiah 52:1–2“Awake, awake, Zion, clothe yourself with strength! Put on your garments of splendour, Jerusalem, the holy city.”From this passage flow three vital calls for the Church today.1. Wake Up to Who You AreZion is both a place and a people. Historically, it referred to Jerusalem and the dwelling place of God's presence. Spiritually, it represents the people of God — redeemed, chosen, and destined for the heavenly Jerusalem.The call to awaken is a summons to reclaim identity after humiliation and exile. God's people are not captives of Babylon but citizens of Zion. Though God's people may endure hardship or cultural decline, God never forgets them.Isaiah 49:15“Can a mother forget the baby at her breast? … I will not forget you!”Even when society appears hostile to faith, God's purposes for His people remain intact. Awakening begins when believers rediscover who they are.1 Peter 2:9“A chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession.”God intends to reveal His wisdom to the powers of heaven through the Church.Ephesians 3:10–11Jesus promised that His Church would prevail.Matthew 16:18“I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.”When the Church awakens to its identity, everything can change.2. Wake Up to the Authority You Have“Clothe yourself with strength” is a call to rise out of weakness and into God-given authority. This is not a time for fear or apology, but for confidence rooted in Christ's victory.2 Peter 1:3“His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life.”Believers have authority to overcome spiritual strongholds.Luke 10:19“I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy.”1 John 4:4“The Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.”Believers also carry authority to bring the life of Jesus to a dying world.Matthew 28:18–20Acts 1:8A clear sign of spiritual awakening is urgency for the lost. Keith Green captured this burden in his song Asleep in the Light, confronting a well-fed but unmoved Church while the world perishes in darkness.3. Wake Up to How You Must Live as God's Holy PeopleIsaiah calls Jerusalem “the holy city.” Awakening is inseparable from holiness. God restores His people not only to strength, but to purity.Romans 13:11–14“The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber… put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armour of light.”1 Thessalonians 5:5–6“You are all sons of the light… let us be alert and self-controlled.”True awakening always begins with repentance and renewed obedience.ConclusionThe prophet's call rings out across history: Awake, awake!Every revival and reformation has begun when God's people were awakened first — before nations changed, before cultures shifted. Today, the Church is invited to respond again.- Repent and renounce sin- Choose obedience- Fast- Pray- Stand together in God-given authorityEphesians 3:20–21“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine… to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.”

At the beginning of each year, King's Church International lays a strong spiritual foundationthrough focused prayer and fasting. At the start of 2026, the church commits to ten days ofprayer and fasting, believing in new levels of spiritual breakthrough. Every church thatdesires a continued outpouring of the Holy Spirit must be a praying church.Acts 1:14“They all joined together constantly in prayer.”Matthew Henry said, “When God intends great mercy for His people, the first thing He doesis to set them praying.”Pastor David Yonggi Cho taught that prayer releases the supernatural anointing of God,fuels the church, and brings change to lives, families, circumstances, and even wholenations.Jesus commanded prayer for the nations:Mark 11:17“My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.”Prayer for the nations is a central calling of the Church. Scripture consistently points God'speople beyond self-focused prayers to bold, faith-filled prayers for the world.1. Pray with Passion for All NationsEvan Roberts, one of the leaders of the Welsh Revival, prayed for revival for eleven yearsbefore it came. He wrote, “There was never a day when I did not fling myself before God andcry out to Him to send the Holy Spirit to my native land.”Persistent, heartfelt prayer has always preceded spiritual awakening.2. Pray with Faith for All NationsIsaiah 40:15 “Surely the nations are like a drop in a bucket.”Isaiah 40:23 “He brings princes to naught and reduces the rulers of this world to nothing.”God raises up nations and brings them down. Nothing is beyond His authority.Habakkuk 1:5“Look at the nations and watch — and be utterly amazed. For I am going to do something inyour days that you would not believe, even if you were told.”Though the world can appear dark and unstable, God loves the nations. His saving,protecting, and healing power can be released everywhere through prayer.Patrick Johnstone wrote that prayer gives authority to pull down strongholds, releasecaptives, open and close doors, raise up and remove leaders, and extend the Kingdom ofJesus Christ. Through prayer, believers can influence the course of history.Why We FastFasting means abstaining from food and can take different forms depending on health andcircumstances. Some may fast meals, certain foods, or follow a Daniel fast. Others may fastfrom distractions such as television or social media. Fasting should always be done wiselyand prayerfully.Matthew 4:4“Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”Fasting is a God-given means of grace. It is not a ritual to earn favour or a hunger strike toforce God's hand. Fasting changes the one who fasts and aligns the heart with God'spurposes.Psalm 42:1“As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God.”Fasting expresses hunger and thirst for God and reorients the heart from earthlydependence to divine dependence.Fasting and Spiritual SensitivityActs 13:2“While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said…”Fasting heightens sensitivity to the Holy Spirit and creates space to hear God clearly.Fasting and HumilityFasting is an act of humility, often accompanied by repentance, acknowledging the need forGod's mercy and grace.1 Corinthians 9:27“I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should.”Fasting disciplines the flesh, strengthens self-control, and reminds believers that the body isa servant, not a master.Fasting for Direction and BreakthroughJudges 20:26“They fasted that day until evening and presented burnt offerings and fellowship offerings tothe Lord.”Joel 2:12“Return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.”Daniel 9:3“I turned to the Lord God and pleaded with Him in prayer and petition, in fasting…”Throughout Scripture, fasting is closely linked with prayer when seeking guidance,breakthrough, repentance, and the advance of God's Kingdom. Daniel understood thatprayer and fasting were essential to seeing God's purposes fulfilled among the nations.ConclusionPrayer and fasting are both a privilege and a responsibility. God calls His people to simplifytheir lives, pray faithfully, and pray boldly — for their lives, families, churches, communities,and the nations of the world. As the church prays and fasts together, faith is stirred to believefor miracles, direction, and spiritual breakthrough in 2026 and beyond

A new year marks a new beginning. Scripture declares, “If anyone is in Christ, the newcreation has come: The old has gone, the new is here” (2 Corinthians 5:17). For thosewhose lives are built on faith in Jesus, the future is always filled with hope. No matter thedifficulties of the past or the challenges of the present, God offers new favour and freshopportunities.Every year — and every day — must begin with God. The Bible opens with the words, “Inthe beginning God…” (Genesis 1:1). When God is placed first, His creative power isreleased. Jesus promised that when the Kingdom of God is prioritised, everything else findsits proper place (Matthew 6:33). God has greater things prepared than can be imagined.This year is an invitation to receive His dreams and to see them fulfilled.Dreams are powerful. They help turn impossibilities into realities. Scripture shows thatdreams and visions are part of how God speaks. Joel prophesied a time when God's Spiritwould be poured out, and people of every generation would dream and see visions (Acts2:17). Abraham was shown a vision as vast as the stars and believed God's promise(Genesis 15:5–6). Joseph was given dreams as a teenager that later shaped nations. Godhas always worked through dreams, and He continues to do so today.Key Verse: Habakkuk 2:2“Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so that he may run who reads it.”This verse captures the heart of God's desire: that His people would receive His visionclearly and live it out with purpose.1. Receiving God's DreamsNot every dream is from God. Some dreams are driven by selfish ambition or destructivemotives. God's dreams are always rooted in His Word and aligned with His character.Abraham first received a word from God before he saw the fulfilment of the promise(Genesis 12:2–3).God continues to speak today, and Scripture reminds us that He has given “very great andprecious promises” (2 Peter 1:4). A new year is not primarily about personal plans, but aboutseeking God's plans through prayer, fasting, and attentiveness to His voice.2. Acting in Faith Toward the DreamFaith is never passive. Abraham obeyed God and stepped forward, even without knowingthe full outcome (Hebrews 11:8–9). Scripture is clear that faith without action is dead(James 2:17).Action may look different for each person — aligning more closely with God, developing newhabits, leaving harmful ones behind, gaining skills, studying, preparing financially, orstepping into new responsibilities. When faith moves, God responds.3. Persevering Until the Promise Is FulfilledThe greater the dream, the greater the need for perseverance. Abraham believed against allhope, fully convinced that God was able to do what He had promised (Romans 4:18–21).Scripture encourages perseverance so that God's promises may be received (Hebrews10:36).Delay is not denial. Prayer, declaration of God's Word, and steadfast faith must continue untilfulfilment comes. Often breakthroughs are closer than they appear.4. Writing Down God's DreamsGod instructs His people to write the vision and make it clear (Habakkuk 2:2). Writing bringsfocus, clarity, and endurance. Throughout Scripture, God emphasises the importance ofrecording what He has spoken (Jeremiah 30:2–3; Revelation 1:19).Writing down dreams, goals, and promises keeps faith active and aligned with God'spurpose. When God's Word is written and declared, it projects a future that trusts Him to dofar more than imagined. Dreams can be written across key areas of life:Dreams with God:Deepening relationship through prayer, Scripture, and devotion.Personal dreams:Health, emotional restoration, character, habits, and growth, trusting God's plans to prosperand give hope (Jeremiah 29:11).Family dreams:Restoration, peace, strong marriages, and a legacy of faith.Ministry dreams:Serving, leading, worshipping, discipling, and building the church as a light to the world.Dreams for the world:Career, finances, leadership, stewardship, generosity, and growth in wisdom.ConclusionA new year is an invitation to move forward with faith and confidence. God calls His peopleto receive His dreams, act with obedience, persevere through challenges, and write thevision clearly. He is faithful to fulfil every promise and to lead His people into a future filledwith hope

“O Holy Night” captures the heart of the Christmas message with the words: “A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices.”Written in 1847, the carol has an extraordinary history and has been sung in moments of suffering, injustice, and hope across generations. From abolitionists during the American Civil War to the first-ever radio broadcast in 1906, the songhas endured because it expresses the beauty and wonder of the night when Christ was born.Christmas proclaims that Jesus was not just a special child, but the unique Son of God—God come to earth in human form. This truth was foretold centuries earlier by the prophet Isaiah. Isaiah 9:6 “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” This verse reveals three profound truths about God.1. The Generosity of God“…to us a son is given” God is a giver. John 3:16 declares that God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son. God the Father gave what was most precious to Him. God the Son gave Himself, bearing human suffering and ultimately giving His life to save people from sin.God is not distant or withholding. He offers love, mercy, grace, forgiveness, power, and Hispresence. Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10). Christmas announces new beginnings and the possibility of a restored life, both now and forever.2. The Majesty of God“…and he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”Each title reveals the greatness of who Jesus is:Wonderful Counselor – One with perfect wisdom and insight, able to accomplish His purposes.Mighty God – All-powerful, with limitless resources; nothing is impossible with Him.Everlasting Father – A loving, compassionate Father who remains forever.Prince of Peace – The only one who can bring true peace to human hearts and relationships.When Jesus enters a life, peace replaces anger, bitterness, and fear. His peace guardshearts and minds, even through life's storms.3. The Humility of God“…unto us a child is born.”God came to humanity not with overwhelming power, but as a vulnerable child. John 1:14says the Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. Jesus was born into povertyand obscurity, choosing the path of humility.Philippians 2:5–8 describes how Christ, though fully God, made Himself nothing and took thenature of a servant. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, comforted the broken, and servedthose overlooked by society. Though exalted, He stooped low to meet human need. God gives grace to the humble and invites people to know Him by coming with humility and a willingness to serve others.ConclusionChristmas is an invitation to respond—to fall on our knees, to listen for heaven's voice, andto draw close to Jesus. The weary world can rejoice because the King has come. He bringsgenerosity, majesty, humility, and hope—and He desires to come into every heart, today and always.

“O Holy Night” captures the heart of the Christmas message with the words: “A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices.”Written in 1847, the carol has an extraordinary history and has been sung in moments of suffering, injustice, and hope across generations. From abolitionists during the American Civil War to the first-ever radio broadcast in 1906, the songhas endured because it expresses the beauty and wonder of the night when Christ was born.Christmas proclaims that Jesus was not just a special child, but the unique Son of God—God come to earth in human form. This truth was foretold centuries earlier by the prophet Isaiah. Isaiah 9:6 “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” This verse reveals three profound truths about God.1. The Generosity of God“…to us a son is given” God is a giver. John 3:16 declares that God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son. God the Father gave what was most precious to Him. God the Son gave Himself, bearing human suffering and ultimately giving His life to save people from sin.God is not distant or withholding. He offers love, mercy, grace, forgiveness, power, and Hispresence. Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10). Christmas announces new beginnings and the possibility of a restored life, both now and forever.2. The Majesty of God“…and he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”Each title reveals the greatness of who Jesus is:Wonderful Counselor – One with perfect wisdom and insight, able to accomplish His purposes.Mighty God – All-powerful, with limitless resources; nothing is impossible with Him.Everlasting Father – A loving, compassionate Father who remains forever.Prince of Peace – The only one who can bring true peace to human hearts and relationships.When Jesus enters a life, peace replaces anger, bitterness, and fear. His peace guardshearts and minds, even through life's storms.3. The Humility of God“…unto us a child is born.”God came to humanity not with overwhelming power, but as a vulnerable child. John 1:14says the Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. Jesus was born into povertyand obscurity, choosing the path of humility.Philippians 2:5–8 describes how Christ, though fully God, made Himself nothing and took thenature of a servant. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, comforted the broken, and servedthose overlooked by society. Though exalted, He stooped low to meet human need. God gives grace to the humble and invites people to know Him by coming with humility and a willingness to serve others.ConclusionChristmas is an invitation to respond—to fall on our knees, to listen for heaven's voice, andto draw close to Jesus. The weary world can rejoice because the King has come. He bringsgenerosity, majesty, humility, and hope—and He desires to come into every heart, today and always.

Loneliness is one of the greatest challenges of our time. Despite unprecedented connectivity through technology, many people feel isolated and unseen. This is especially true among young adults, with large numbers reporting ongoing loneliness. Christmas speaks directly into this reality with a powerful message of hope: no one needs to be alone.At the heart of the Christmas story is the name given to Jesus — Immanuel, meaning God with us. Matthew 1:23 records the angel's words to Joseph, quoting Isaiah 7:14, a prophecy spoken 700 years before Jesus' birth. These three words, God with us, offer hope not only at Christmas but in every season of life.1. God with us shows that God wants to come close personallyThe Bible presents God as the Creator of all things (Genesis 1:1), the sustainer of everything that exists (Colossians 1:17), the Ruler over nations (Isaiah 40:15; Psalm 95:3), and the Holy God who dwells in unapproachable light (1 Timothy 6:15–16).Yet this same holy and eternal God chose to enter human history through Jesus Christ. John 1:14 declares that the Word became flesh and lived among us. God did not remain distant; He made Himself visible, vulnerable, and accessible. Jesus could be seen, heard, and touched (John 20:27).Humanity could not reach up to God, so God came down to reach humanity. The almighty God humbled Himself so that people could know Him personally.2. God with us means that He wants to help usJesus entered the world to walk alongside people in real life. He attended weddings, visited homes, shared meals, and built relationships. He showed how to live by loving the overlooked, forgiving enemies, living with mercy, integrity, and purity, and caring for the poor and broken.Jesus also understands suffering. Isaiah 53:3 describes Him as a man of sorrows, familiar with pain. John 11:35 shows Jesus weeping with those who mourn. He comforts the grieving and binds up broken hearts.Above all, Jesus came to save. The angel announced His birth as the arrival of a Saviour (Luke 2). Matthew 1:21 explains that Jesus came to save people from their sins. Humanity's deepest problem is separation from God, and Jesus came on a rescue mission. At the cross, He gave His life in place of sinners so that forgiveness and restoration could be possible.3. God with us means that He will never leave usBefore ascending to heaven, Jesus promised, “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:19–20). God's presence is not limited to a moment but extends through every stage of life — youth, adulthood, family life, old age, and even death.Psalm 23:4–6 declares that God is present in the darkest valley and brings comfort, protection, and eternal hope. Hebrews 13:5 affirms God's promise: “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”God has been with people in their past, even through pain and loss. He is present now, and He will remain faithful in the future, no matter how uncertain it may seem.ConclusionGod invites people to draw near, promising that He will draw near in return (James 4:8). Forgiveness, healing, and a personal experience of God's presence are available through Jesus Christ.Those who respond in faith begin a new relationship with God, marked by forgiveness, peace, and hope. As Scripture promises, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us” (1 John 1:9).God is with us — and because of that, there is hope this Christmas and always.

Loneliness is one of the greatest challenges of our time. Despite unprecedented connectivity through technology, many people feel isolated and unseen. This is especially true among young adults, with large numbers reporting ongoing loneliness. Christmas speaks directly into this reality with a powerful message of hope: no one needs to be alone.At the heart of the Christmas story is the name given to Jesus — Immanuel, meaning God with us. Matthew 1:23 records the angel's words to Joseph, quoting Isaiah 7:14, a prophecy spoken 700 years before Jesus' birth. These three words, God with us, offer hope not only at Christmas but in every season of life.1. God with us shows that God wants to come close personallyThe Bible presents God as the Creator of all things (Genesis 1:1), the sustainer of everything that exists (Colossians 1:17), the Ruler over nations (Isaiah 40:15; Psalm 95:3), and the Holy God who dwells in unapproachable light (1 Timothy 6:15–16).Yet this same holy and eternal God chose to enter human history through Jesus Christ. John 1:14 declares that the Word became flesh and lived among us. God did not remain distant; He made Himself visible, vulnerable, and accessible. Jesus could be seen, heard, and touched (John 20:27).Humanity could not reach up to God, so God came down to reach humanity. The almighty God humbled Himself so that people could know Him personally.2. God with us means that He wants to help usJesus entered the world to walk alongside people in real life. He attended weddings, visited homes, shared meals, and built relationships. He showed how to live by loving the overlooked, forgiving enemies, living with mercy, integrity, and purity, and caring for the poor and broken.Jesus also understands suffering. Isaiah 53:3 describes Him as a man of sorrows, familiar with pain. John 11:35 shows Jesus weeping with those who mourn. He comforts the grieving and binds up broken hearts.Above all, Jesus came to save. The angel announced His birth as the arrival of a Saviour (Luke 2). Matthew 1:21 explains that Jesus came to save people from their sins. Humanity's deepest problem is separation from God, and Jesus came on a rescue mission. At the cross, He gave His life in place of sinners so that forgiveness and restoration could be possible.3. God with us means that He will never leave usBefore ascending to heaven, Jesus promised, “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:19–20). God's presence is not limited to a moment but extends through every stage of life — youth, adulthood, family life, old age, and even death.Psalm 23:4–6 declares that God is present in the darkest valley and brings comfort, protection, and eternal hope. Hebrews 13:5 affirms God's promise: “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”God has been with people in their past, even through pain and loss. He is present now, and He will remain faithful in the future, no matter how uncertain it may seem.ConclusionGod invites people to draw near, promising that He will draw near in return (James 4:8). Forgiveness, healing, and a personal experience of God's presence are available through Jesus Christ.Those who respond in faith begin a new relationship with God, marked by forgiveness, peace, and hope. As Scripture promises, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us” (1 John 1:9).God is with us — and because of that, there is hope this Christmas and always.

Harry S. Truman grew up in a poor family in the Midwestern United States. By age twelve, he had read the Bible twice, not knowing that one day he would help fulfil ancient prophecy. On 14 May 1948, eleven minutes after David Ben Gurion read the declaration of the State of Israel, Truman recognised the new nation despite opposition from allies and political authorities. He later referred to himself as “Cyrus,” echoing the role of the ancient Persian king God used to restore His people.1. God has a purpose for you even before you were bornIsaiah 45:1-4 speaks of King Cyrus, whose name is mentioned 150 years before his birth: “This is what the Lord says to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I take hold of… For the sake of Jacob my servant, of Israel my chosen, I summon you by name and bestow on you a title of honour.”God had a plan for Cyrus far beyond his own understanding, faith, or awareness. Similarly, God forms each person with a purpose before birth (Psalm 139:13-16; Jeremiah 1:5). Circumstances, background, or perceived limitations do not change God's plan. Even those who seem unimportant or overlooked have a destiny that is part of a larger divine story.2. God has a specific purpose to bring deliverance and blessing through youIsaiah 45:1 says: “To Cyrus, whose right hand I take hold of… I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the Lord.”Cyrus was called to subdue nations, open doors, and rebuild God's city.This principle continues today: people are called to be agents of deliverance and blessing. Communities, cities, and families can experience freedom through God's work in people's lives. Jesus came to bring freedom to captives (Isaiah 61:1-2; Luke 4:18-19). Individuals are raised up to be a blessing, bringing light into dark places, hope to the broken, and healing where there is pain.3. God has a purpose that will be fulfilledIsaiah 44:28 and 45:1 show that Cyrus would become king and rebuild Jerusalem. Ezra 1:1-4 records God moving Cyrus' heart to fulfil His prophecy:“The Lord moved the heart of Cyrus king of Persia to make a proclamation throughout his realm… to build a temple for him at Jerusalem in Judah.”God's promises may take years, even decades, to unfold. Abraham waited 25 years for God's promise that he would have a son to be fulfilled. Paul faced shipwrecks and trials before reaching Rome (Acts 27:23-24). Yet God fulfils every purpose and promise He makes. The Jewish people returned to their homeland despite centuries of exile. The Church continues to grow despite persecution (Matthew 16:18; Acts 2:17).APPLICATIONYou have a purpose: God created you intentionally with a plan (Psalm 139:16; Jeremiah 1:5).You are called to bless and deliver: Communities, families, and nations experience God's goodness through His people (Isaiah 45:1; Matthew 5:14).God will fulfil His plans: No obstacle is too great. Every God-given promise, prophecy, and calling will come to pass (Isaiah 41:10; Acts 2:17).God's Spirit brings cleansing, revival, fulfilment and fruitfulness (Titus 3:5-6; Galatians 5:22-23; John 7:37-39). He has prepared a greater future for you, your family, this church and this nation than you can imagine and He is ready to pour life into every dry place.

Harry S. Truman grew up in a poor family in the Midwestern United States. By age twelve, he had read the Bible twice, not knowing that one day he would help fulfil ancient prophecy. On 14 May 1948, eleven minutes after David Ben Gurion read the declaration of the State of Israel, Truman recognised the new nation despite opposition from allies and political authorities. He later referred to himself as “Cyrus,” echoing the role of the ancient Persian king God used to restore His people.1. God has a purpose for you even before you were bornIsaiah 45:1-4 speaks of King Cyrus, whose name is mentioned 150 years before his birth: “This is what the Lord says to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I take hold of… For the sake of Jacob my servant, of Israel my chosen, I summon you by name and bestow on you a title of honour.”God had a plan for Cyrus far beyond his own understanding, faith, or awareness. Similarly, God forms each person with a purpose before birth (Psalm 139:13-16; Jeremiah 1:5). Circumstances, background, or perceived limitations do not change God's plan. Even those who seem unimportant or overlooked have a destiny that is part of a larger divine story.2. God has a specific purpose to bring deliverance and blessing through youIsaiah 45:1 says: “To Cyrus, whose right hand I take hold of… I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the Lord.”Cyrus was called to subdue nations, open doors, and rebuild God's city.This principle continues today: people are called to be agents of deliverance and blessing. Communities, cities, and families can experience freedom through God's work in people's lives. Jesus came to bring freedom to captives (Isaiah 61:1-2; Luke 4:18-19). Individuals are raised up to be a blessing, bringing light into dark places, hope to the broken, and healing where there is pain.3. God has a purpose that will be fulfilledIsaiah 44:28 and 45:1 show that Cyrus would become king and rebuild Jerusalem. Ezra 1:1-4 records God moving Cyrus' heart to fulfil His prophecy:“The Lord moved the heart of Cyrus king of Persia to make a proclamation throughout his realm… to build a temple for him at Jerusalem in Judah.”God's promises may take years, even decades, to unfold. Abraham waited 25 years for God's promise that he would have a son to be fulfilled. Paul faced shipwrecks and trials before reaching Rome (Acts 27:23-24). Yet God fulfils every purpose and promise He makes. The Jewish people returned to their homeland despite centuries of exile. The Church continues to grow despite persecution (Matthew 16:18; Acts 2:17).APPLICATIONYou have a purpose: God created you intentionally with a plan (Psalm 139:16; Jeremiah 1:5).You are called to bless and deliver: Communities, families, and nations experience God's goodness through His people (Isaiah 45:1; Matthew 5:14).God will fulfil His plans: No obstacle is too great. Every God-given promise, prophecy, and calling will come to pass (Isaiah 41:10; Acts 2:17).God's Spirit brings cleansing, revival, fulfilment and fruitfulness (Titus 3:5-6; Galatians 5:22-23; John 7:37-39). He has prepared a greater future for you, your family, this church and this nation than you can imagine and He is ready to pour life into every dry place.

Life can bring seasons that feel dry, overwhelming, or uncertain. But God promises that even in the driest times, He can still pour out His Spirit and bring renewal. Isaiah 44:3–4 is a promise not just for individuals, but for families and future generations — God gives us confidence by reminding us that His Spirit can transform any situation.Isaiah 44:3–4“For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out MySpirit on your offspring, and My blessing on your descendants.”God can see places in our lives that might feel empty or barren, but He promises to bring life,refreshing, and generational blessing. 1. You Can Be Confident You're Not Limited by Your Present ConditionEven “dry ground” is not a problem for God — it's the exact place where He works. ● Dryness can look like disappointment, lack of direction, fear, or emotional exhaustion.● Psalm 107:35 reminds us that God turns desert places into pools of water.● Many people today are thirsty — for love, acceptance, hope, and purpose — andGod can satisfy that thirst by pouring out His Spirit.● Your condition is not your conclusion. God can bring renewal where things lookimpossible. 2. You Can Be Confident in the Work of the Holy SpiritTrue transformation comes from the Spirit working in us.The Spirit brings:● Cleansing — Titus 3:5–6: We are washed and renewed.● Reviving — God breathes life into what seems dead or stuck.● Sustaining — John 7:37–39: Streams of living water flow from within us.● Growth — Galatians 5:22–23: The Spirit produces lasting fruit (love, joy, peace, etc.).Our confidence will grow when we rely on the Spirit daily — through prayer, the Word, worship, and remaining in God's presence.3. You Can Be Confident Because God's Promise Is GenerationalGod's work in your life is not meant to stop with you.● Isaiah 44:3–4 shows that God pours out His Spirit on your children and descendants.● Acts 2:38–39: The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off.● Acts 2:17: God pours out His Spirit on every generation.● God desires revival in families — restoration of relationships, unity, and for spiritualblessing to be passed down.You can trust that what God starts in your life can mark your whole family line.APPLICATION● Believe that God is working right now, even where things feel dry or difficult.● Welcome the Holy Spirit into every area of your life — He renews, restores, andstrengthens you.● Pray for generational blessing. Ask God to move in your family, children, and futuredescendants.● Expect renewal, not just survival. God wants you to flourish, not just endure.● Let the dry places become places of testimony. They are where God can pour out HisSpirit most powerfully.

Life can bring seasons that feel dry, overwhelming, or uncertain. But God promises that even in the driest times, He can still pour out His Spirit and bring renewal. Isaiah 44:3–4 is a promise not just for individuals, but for families and future generations — God gives us confidence by reminding us that His Spirit can transform any situation.Isaiah 44:3–4“For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out MySpirit on your offspring, and My blessing on your descendants.”God can see places in our lives that might feel empty or barren, but He promises to bring life,refreshing, and generational blessing. 1. You Can Be Confident You're Not Limited by Your Present ConditionEven “dry ground” is not a problem for God — it's the exact place where He works. ● Dryness can look like disappointment, lack of direction, fear, or emotional exhaustion.● Psalm 107:35 reminds us that God turns desert places into pools of water.● Many people today are thirsty — for love, acceptance, hope, and purpose — andGod can satisfy that thirst by pouring out His Spirit.● Your condition is not your conclusion. God can bring renewal where things lookimpossible. 2. You Can Be Confident in the Work of the Holy SpiritTrue transformation comes from the Spirit working in us.The Spirit brings:● Cleansing — Titus 3:5–6: We are washed and renewed.● Reviving — God breathes life into what seems dead or stuck.● Sustaining — John 7:37–39: Streams of living water flow from within us.● Growth — Galatians 5:22–23: The Spirit produces lasting fruit (love, joy, peace, etc.).Our confidence will grow when we rely on the Spirit daily — through prayer, the Word, worship, and remaining in God's presence.3. You Can Be Confident Because God's Promise Is GenerationalGod's work in your life is not meant to stop with you.● Isaiah 44:3–4 shows that God pours out His Spirit on your children and descendants.● Acts 2:38–39: The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off.● Acts 2:17: God pours out His Spirit on every generation.● God desires revival in families — restoration of relationships, unity, and for spiritualblessing to be passed down.You can trust that what God starts in your life can mark your whole family line.APPLICATION● Believe that God is working right now, even where things feel dry or difficult.● Welcome the Holy Spirit into every area of your life — He renews, restores, andstrengthens you.● Pray for generational blessing. Ask God to move in your family, children, and futuredescendants.● Expect renewal, not just survival. God wants you to flourish, not just endure.● Let the dry places become places of testimony. They are where God can pour out HisSpirit most powerfully.

Many people think that God is old fashioned, outdated, and irrelevant. The God of the Bible is the God of the New: (John 13:34; John 3:7; Ezekiel; 36:26; Isaiah 65:17; Romans 6:4).   God has new plans for you personally, in your marriage and your church. Every day we can expect something new from God (Lamentations 3:22-23). When you have difficulties, sadness and negativity it can be hard to believe that things can change. This was exactly the situation for the Jewish people after they were taken from their country and saw everything destroyed. But from Isaiah chapter 40 onwards, the prophet shows them that new days are ahead.  Isaiah 43:18-19: 18 “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. 19 See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.   1.To Take Hold of a New Future You Must Leave the Past Behind Change your mindset. (Philippians 3:13–14; Revelation 21:5). When God says: “do not dwell on the past” He is saying I gave you those experiences to draw from, not to dwell in. We must learn and move forward.  Apply: Make a decision to not dwell in the past anymore, to not mourn for what did or did not happen in your life. Release and detached from the comfort zone and step into the new.  2.To Take Hold of a New Future You Must Receive a New Vision Isaiah 43:19a: See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?  (2 Corinthians 5:17; Romans 12:2; Genesis 17: 1-2; Psalm 84:7) You must receive a new Vision Apply: Lift your eyes and see the new, a new beginning is not always quitting your job and looking for a new one, sometimes a new beginning is a new attitude towards the people at your workplace, or taking the hands of your family and praying with them.  3.To Take Hold of a New Future You Must Expect Miracles God works through us to bring healing to people, we can see miracles of healing, deliverance, financial provision and miracles of restoration in broken families. Apply: What do you consider to be a wilderness area in your life? In your relationship with God, your personal life, your family and your ministry? 

Many people think that God is old fashioned, outdated, and irrelevant. The God of the Bible is the God of the New: (John 13:34; John 3:7; Ezekiel; 36:26; Isaiah 65:17; Romans 6:4).   God has new plans for you personally, in your marriage and your church. Every day we can expect something new from God (Lamentations 3:22-23). When you have difficulties, sadness and negativity it can be hard to believe that things can change. This was exactly the situation for the Jewish people after they were taken from their country and saw everything destroyed. But from Isaiah chapter 40 onwards, the prophet shows them that new days are ahead.  Isaiah 43:18-19: 18 “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. 19 See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.   1.To Take Hold of a New Future You Must Leave the Past Behind Change your mindset. (Philippians 3:13–14; Revelation 21:5). When God says: “do not dwell on the past” He is saying I gave you those experiences to draw from, not to dwell in. We must learn and move forward.  Apply: Make a decision to not dwell in the past anymore, to not mourn for what did or did not happen in your life. Release and detached from the comfort zone and step into the new.  2.To Take Hold of a New Future You Must Receive a New Vision Isaiah 43:19a: See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?  (2 Corinthians 5:17; Romans 12:2; Genesis 17: 1-2; Psalm 84:7) You must receive a new Vision Apply: Lift your eyes and see the new, a new beginning is not always quitting your job and looking for a new one, sometimes a new beginning is a new attitude towards the people at your workplace, or taking the hands of your family and praying with them.  3.To Take Hold of a New Future You Must Expect Miracles God works through us to bring healing to people, we can see miracles of healing, deliverance, financial provision and miracles of restoration in broken families. Apply: What do you consider to be a wilderness area in your life? In your relationship with God, your personal life, your family and your ministry? 

Fear is a powerful emotion that must not rule your life. All of us can have fears that we need to conquer. Maybe you are afraid about: your future, your children, your health, your finances, your marriage or not finding the right person to marry. People can fear social interactions/how you relate to others; heights; death; spiders; public speaking; and enclosed spaces.   The Bible has much to say about overcoming fear by knowing and trusting God. In Isaiah chapters 40-66, for the Jewish people it seemed like their whole world had collapsed around them after their nation was invaded, Jerusalem was destroyed and they were taken as prisoners to a foreign land. But from chapter 40 onwards, God comforts His people through the prophet Isaiah by promising them a better life and future than they had imagined was possible and He told them there was no need to fear (Isaiah 41:9-10).   There are powerful and encouraging words in Isaiah 43:1-7 which start with a reminder that God is not only the creator of the heavens and the earth but He is the one who has created the Israelite people and formed them. He is intimately and personally connected to them. In these verses we see how they then, and we also today, have no need to fear. We can:  1. Live a fear free life because we are redeemed by God (Isaiah 43:1-4 NIV & MSG; John 8:34-36 MSG) 2. Live a fear free life because we are personally called by God (Isaiah 43:1) 3. Live a fear free life because we belong to God (Isaiah 43:1b) 4. Live a fear free life because are precious to God (Isaiah 43:4; Zechariah 2:8) 5. Live a fear free life because we are loved by God (Isaiah 43:4; Jeremiah 31:3) 6. Live a fear free life because God is with us even in difficult times (Isaiah 53:5; Hebrews 4:15-16) 7. Live a fear free life because God has a good plan for our children as well as us (Acts 2:39; Isaiah 43:5-7) Apply  1. Live a fear free life because we are redeemed by God. Redeemed is a biblical word which means to buy back. As Christians we have been bought out of the slave market of sin because Jesus paid the price of our sins with His blood (Isaiah 43:1-4 NIV & MSG). Before we were Christians we used to live a life of pain being slaves to sin and perhaps you think what your living now is a consequence of your own sin, your own decisions but when you're in Christ, when you believe in Him and follow Him, the price is paid and you are no longer a slave to sin. You have been forgiven and freed from the kingdom of darkness (John 8:34-36 MSG). 2. Live a fear free life because we are personally called by God (Isaiah 43:1). Why were these people of Israel afraid? Because they feared they had been abandoned by God due to their own rebellion and sin, leading to a sense of hopelessness. They needed to be reminded that God had a personal claim on them and that's why He starts reminding them I created you, I formed you. In those moments we can feel that fear is taking control over our life, but I would like to take this moment to remind you that today, you can live a fear free life He has called you by name just like Jesus called His disciples. Imagine that! God Himself knows your name. You are on His radar.  3. Live a fear free life because we belong to God (Isaiah 43:1b). When someone has paid for something, it means it is theirs. That's who we are to the Lord, because He was the one who paid the price for our ransom. When we were slaves to sin we were not His, but at this point it is a clear declaration of belonging. Everyone wants to belong and the Lord wants you to know that you belong to Him, you do not need to live a life of orphan. We are sons and daughters of God.   4. Live a fear free life because are precious to God (Isaiah 43:4). You matter to God. God said of the Israelites who felt so unwanted that they were the apple of His eye (Zechariah 2:8). Referring to the pupil of the eye, this is the most delicate and guarded part of the body, which means you feel anything that touches your eye. God is sensitive to everything that touches us. God says you are precious to Him. 5. Live a fear free life because we are loved by God (Isaiah 43:4). It is one thing to say ‘I love you', it is another is to show love. These words here are so meaningful. God doesn't change, doesn't lie, whose words are irrevocable is saying “I love you” (Jeremiah 31:3). His love for you is real and everlasting. More than any other thing in life, in God's love for you is unchanging.   6. Live a fear free life because God is with us even in difficult times (Isaiah 53:5). The Israelites were captured, far from home, hopeless, it was one of the most difficult situations someone could be. It all seemed too overwhelming. But the Lord wanted them to know He would always help them. The verse doesn't says “if” you pass through the waters or the rivers, or the fire, it says “when.” But what could these waters, rivers and fire represent for us today? Are you going through a situation that makes you think it is bigger than you? That you can't handle or is overwhelming? There are situations in life where you feel pushed by a strong river without even strength to hold onto anything to get out. Well the promise here is that God says ‘don't fear. You will not drown. You will not be burnt. You will come through. And that is true for you and for our families, churches and nations. There is a big difference between believers and non-believers. We both go through tests and difficulties but when we are with Christ we are never alone in life, the heaviness of the tests is not on us, we can be helped but someone who not only knows the circumstances but who has gone through the same in victory (Hebrews 4:15-16). 7. Live a fear free life because God has a good plan for our children as well as us. When the world seems dark it's easy to worry about your children, but like the parents of Moses we need to have faith that God will protect and use our children to lead their generation and not be overcome by the pressures around them. The Holy Spirit is promised to be poured out on the young as well as the old; your sons and your daughters (Acts 2:39). Here there is a promise that the children of Israel will be regathered from far and wide (Isaiah 43:5-7). This literally happened when the Jews were able to return home and rebuild Jerusalem and the temple. And it happened in May 1948 and since then, when the Jews after 1900 years of being scattered around the world, returned to the ancient homeland. God is also interested in your children, and He will gather them to himself and fulfil the plans He has for them. So don't fear about your children. Trust God.  

Fear is a powerful emotion that must not rule your life. All of us can have fears that we need to conquer. Maybe you are afraid about: your future, your children, your health, your finances, your marriage or not finding the right person to marry. People can fear social interactions/how you relate to others; heights; death; spiders; public speaking; and enclosed spaces.   The Bible has much to say about overcoming fear by knowing and trusting God. In Isaiah chapters 40-66, for the Jewish people it seemed like their whole world had collapsed around them after their nation was invaded, Jerusalem was destroyed and they were taken as prisoners to a foreign land. But from chapter 40 onwards, God comforts His people through the prophet Isaiah by promising them a better life and future than they had imagined was possible and He told them there was no need to fear (Isaiah 41:9-10).   There are powerful and encouraging words in Isaiah 43:1-7 which start with a reminder that God is not only the creator of the heavens and the earth but He is the one who has created the Israelite people and formed them. He is intimately and personally connected to them. In these verses we see how they then, and we also today, have no need to fear. We can:  1. Live a fear free life because we are redeemed by God (Isaiah 43:1-4 NIV & MSG; John 8:34-36 MSG) 2. Live a fear free life because we are personally called by God (Isaiah 43:1) 3. Live a fear free life because we belong to God (Isaiah 43:1b) 4. Live a fear free life because are precious to God (Isaiah 43:4; Zechariah 2:8) 5. Live a fear free life because we are loved by God (Isaiah 43:4; Jeremiah 31:3) 6. Live a fear free life because God is with us even in difficult times (Isaiah 53:5; Hebrews 4:15-16) 7. Live a fear free life because God has a good plan for our children as well as us (Acts 2:39; Isaiah 43:5-7) Apply  1. Live a fear free life because we are redeemed by God. Redeemed is a biblical word which means to buy back. As Christians we have been bought out of the slave market of sin because Jesus paid the price of our sins with His blood (Isaiah 43:1-4 NIV & MSG). Before we were Christians we used to live a life of pain being slaves to sin and perhaps you think what your living now is a consequence of your own sin, your own decisions but when you're in Christ, when you believe in Him and follow Him, the price is paid and you are no longer a slave to sin. You have been forgiven and freed from the kingdom of darkness (John 8:34-36 MSG). 2. Live a fear free life because we are personally called by God (Isaiah 43:1). Why were these people of Israel afraid? Because they feared they had been abandoned by God due to their own rebellion and sin, leading to a sense of hopelessness. They needed to be reminded that God had a personal claim on them and that's why He starts reminding them I created you, I formed you. In those moments we can feel that fear is taking control over our life, but I would like to take this moment to remind you that today, you can live a fear free life He has called you by name just like Jesus called His disciples. Imagine that! God Himself knows your name. You are on His radar.  3. Live a fear free life because we belong to God (Isaiah 43:1b). When someone has paid for something, it means it is theirs. That's who we are to the Lord, because He was the one who paid the price for our ransom. When we were slaves to sin we were not His, but at this point it is a clear declaration of belonging. Everyone wants to belong and the Lord wants you to know that you belong to Him, you do not need to live a life of orphan. We are sons and daughters of God.   4. Live a fear free life because are precious to God (Isaiah 43:4). You matter to God. God said of the Israelites who felt so unwanted that they were the apple of His eye (Zechariah 2:8). Referring to the pupil of the eye, this is the most delicate and guarded part of the body, which means you feel anything that touches your eye. God is sensitive to everything that touches us. God says you are precious to Him. 5. Live a fear free life because we are loved by God (Isaiah 43:4). It is one thing to say ‘I love you', it is another is to show love. These words here are so meaningful. God doesn't change, doesn't lie, whose words are irrevocable is saying “I love you” (Jeremiah 31:3). His love for you is real and everlasting. More than any other thing in life, in God's love for you is unchanging.   6. Live a fear free life because God is with us even in difficult times (Isaiah 53:5). The Israelites were captured, far from home, hopeless, it was one of the most difficult situations someone could be. It all seemed too overwhelming. But the Lord wanted them to know He would always help them. The verse doesn't says “if” you pass through the waters or the rivers, or the fire, it says “when.” But what could these waters, rivers and fire represent for us today? Are you going through a situation that makes you think it is bigger than you? That you can't handle or is overwhelming? There are situations in life where you feel pushed by a strong river without even strength to hold onto anything to get out. Well the promise here is that God says ‘don't fear. You will not drown. You will not be burnt. You will come through. And that is true for you and for our families, churches and nations. There is a big difference between believers and non-believers. We both go through tests and difficulties but when we are with Christ we are never alone in life, the heaviness of the tests is not on us, we can be helped but someone who not only knows the circumstances but who has gone through the same in victory (Hebrews 4:15-16). 7. Live a fear free life because God has a good plan for our children as well as us. When the world seems dark it's easy to worry about your children, but like the parents of Moses we need to have faith that God will protect and use our children to lead their generation and not be overcome by the pressures around them. The Holy Spirit is promised to be poured out on the young as well as the old; your sons and your daughters (Acts 2:39). Here there is a promise that the children of Israel will be regathered from far and wide (Isaiah 43:5-7). This literally happened when the Jews were able to return home and rebuild Jerusalem and the temple. And it happened in May 1948 and since then, when the Jews after 1900 years of being scattered around the world, returned to the ancient homeland. God is also interested in your children, and He will gather them to himself and fulfil the plans He has for them. So don't fear about your children. Trust God.  

Are you feeling on top of life right now or do you feel life is on top of you? Are you tired of being tired? The subject of ‘How to be strong when you are weak' is very relevant to every one of us. So many people look like they are strong and on top of life, but the truth is that they are struggling to find the energy to just keep going in life.   So how can you cope and conquer when you experience times when you may feel physically, emotionally, mentally and even spiritually fatigued; when you feel you have little or nothing more to give? Well, as always, the Bible has answers for us. There are many references to weariness in the Bible (1 Samuel 30:10; Galatians 6:9; Matthew 11:28-30 NIV and MSG).   In Isaiah 40:28-31, the prophet Isaiah shows us how to overcome weariness, saying: “Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; 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.” We see some key points from these verses: 1. We all need strength (Psalm 31:9-10; 1 Corinthians 2:3; 2 Corinthians 11:27-28; 2 Corinthians 1:8-9)  2. God can give us the strength we all need (Isaiah 40:26-31; Psalms 28:7, 46:1, 59:16-17, 73:26, 118:14; 2 Corinthians 12:9-10; Philippians 4:13).  3. God can give us Strength for new conquests (Isaiah 40:31b; 2 Corinthians 5:7; Ephesians 4:1; 1 John 1:7)  Apply  1. We all need strength. As human beings who have a body, a soul and spirit, which means we need physical strength, emotional or mental strength and spiritual strength. But the fact is that everyone at different times lack strength. Here says “even youths”! Can you imagine if even those who should have the most strength because they are young feel tired, how much more tired and weary must everyone else be? Everyone can experience weakness. Even the great king David, winner of many battles, who defeated the giant Goliath, often felt cornered and about to be destroyed by his enemies. Often in the Psalms he reveals his sense of vulnerability (Psalm 31:9-10). The great apostle Paul wrote of his many weaknesses, despair, and challenges (1 Corinthians 2:3; 2 Corinthians 11:27-28; 2 Corinthians 1:8-9). If spiritual giants like King David and the apostle Paul experienced weakness, we should not be surprised when we also may face struggles in our personal lives or health, with our families, at work, in your career or finances, perhaps even in our romantic relationships. Maybe right now you feel yourself becoming weary, tired, and weak maybe you feel exhausted or perhaps overwhelmed. Remember younger as well as older can feel this way which is why you need to learn what the Bible teaches here.  2. God can give us the strength we all need (Isaiah 40:28-31). Last week, from earlier verses in this same chapter, we learnt about the awesomeness of God, the Holy One who is greater than all nations and idols, the creator of the heavens and all the earth, of the constellations and all the stars to which He has given names (Isaiah 40:26). Our God has no equal; He cannot be compared to anyone. The Lord is the everlasting God. You need to understand who God is and that He will never grow tired or weary. Because of who He is, He is more than able to help you when you are weary. When you put your trust and hope in the Lord you will have a strength transfusion. Your weakness, your weariness is not a problem to God. You just have to connect with His strength. You need to stop trying to fight your own way out of every situation. You need to start relying on God. As Jesus directed, you need to come to Him in your weariness and get yoked to Him. This is what men and women of God throughout the Bible and church history have learned, including king David and the apostle Paul. Scripture speaks of singing about God's strength and steadfast love, acknowledging Him as a fortress and refuge, and being able to do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Psalms 28:7, 46:1, 59:16-17, 73:26, 118:14; 2 Corinthians 12:9-10; Philippians 4:13). We too daily need to learn this secret that the Lord is the source of our strength and also, we need to see how many possibilities there are when we receive His strength.  3. God can give us Strength for new conquests (Isaiah 40:31b). Soaring like eagles speaks of rising to a higher level. Eagles look down from a high position and a different perspective. You too can rise above your problems, your anxieties, or weaknesses. With God you can go higher in life than you ever imagined. Today God is giving you this promise: that when you rely on His strength “you will soar on wings like eagles.” You can also run without stopping. The prophet Isaiah says “they will run and not grow weary.” Running speaks of speed and acceleration. God can help you not just to start running the race as a Christian but to keep running all through your life. The Lord can lift the weight of our sins and anything that hinders us from running successfully toward the eternal reward. And you can walk without fainting. Walking speaks of consistent and steady progress. The Bible tells us about Enoch who walked faithfully with God for 300 years through every season and circumstance. The Bible says a lot about how we should walk as Christians. We must "walk by faith, not by sight" (2 Corinthians 5:7), "walk in a manner worthy of the calling" (Ephesians 4:1), and "walk in the light, as he is in the light" (1 John 1:7). Other verses encourage us to walk with wisdom, walk humbly, and walk in love. Our walk to heaven may take many years like Nelson Mandela's "Long walk to freedom." But we can keep on walking, even if sometimes we feel tired, when we look to the Lord for strength. Today no matter how tired or weary you may feel take time to come to the Lord for your strength and to rest secure in all His plans and promises. For when you do you too will find that He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. You too ‘will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.'  

Are you feeling on top of life right now or do you feel life is on top of you? Are you tired of being tired? The subject of ‘How to be strong when you are weak' is very relevant to every one of us. So many people look like they are strong and on top of life, but the truth is that they are struggling to find the energy to just keep going in life.   So how can you cope and conquer when you experience times when you may feel physically, emotionally, mentally and even spiritually fatigued; when you feel you have little or nothing more to give? Well, as always, the Bible has answers for us. There are many references to weariness in the Bible (1 Samuel 30:10; Galatians 6:9; Matthew 11:28-30 NIV and MSG).   In Isaiah 40:28-31, the prophet Isaiah shows us how to overcome weariness, saying: “Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; 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.” We see some key points from these verses: 1. We all need strength (Psalm 31:9-10; 1 Corinthians 2:3; 2 Corinthians 11:27-28; 2 Corinthians 1:8-9)  2. God can give us the strength we all need (Isaiah 40:26-31; Psalms 28:7, 46:1, 59:16-17, 73:26, 118:14; 2 Corinthians 12:9-10; Philippians 4:13).  3. God can give us Strength for new conquests (Isaiah 40:31b; 2 Corinthians 5:7; Ephesians 4:1; 1 John 1:7)  Apply  1. We all need strength. As human beings who have a body, a soul and spirit, which means we need physical strength, emotional or mental strength and spiritual strength. But the fact is that everyone at different times lack strength. Here says “even youths”! Can you imagine if even those who should have the most strength because they are young feel tired, how much more tired and weary must everyone else be? Everyone can experience weakness. Even the great king David, winner of many battles, who defeated the giant Goliath, often felt cornered and about to be destroyed by his enemies. Often in the Psalms he reveals his sense of vulnerability (Psalm 31:9-10). The great apostle Paul wrote of his many weaknesses, despair, and challenges (1 Corinthians 2:3; 2 Corinthians 11:27-28; 2 Corinthians 1:8-9). If spiritual giants like King David and the apostle Paul experienced weakness, we should not be surprised when we also may face struggles in our personal lives or health, with our families, at work, in your career or finances, perhaps even in our romantic relationships. Maybe right now you feel yourself becoming weary, tired, and weak maybe you feel exhausted or perhaps overwhelmed. Remember younger as well as older can feel this way which is why you need to learn what the Bible teaches here.  2. God can give us the strength we all need (Isaiah 40:28-31). Last week, from earlier verses in this same chapter, we learnt about the awesomeness of God, the Holy One who is greater than all nations and idols, the creator of the heavens and all the earth, of the constellations and all the stars to which He has given names (Isaiah 40:26). Our God has no equal; He cannot be compared to anyone. The Lord is the everlasting God. You need to understand who God is and that He will never grow tired or weary. Because of who He is, He is more than able to help you when you are weary. When you put your trust and hope in the Lord you will have a strength transfusion. Your weakness, your weariness is not a problem to God. You just have to connect with His strength. You need to stop trying to fight your own way out of every situation. You need to start relying on God. As Jesus directed, you need to come to Him in your weariness and get yoked to Him. This is what men and women of God throughout the Bible and church history have learned, including king David and the apostle Paul. Scripture speaks of singing about God's strength and steadfast love, acknowledging Him as a fortress and refuge, and being able to do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Psalms 28:7, 46:1, 59:16-17, 73:26, 118:14; 2 Corinthians 12:9-10; Philippians 4:13). We too daily need to learn this secret that the Lord is the source of our strength and also, we need to see how many possibilities there are when we receive His strength.  3. God can give us Strength for new conquests (Isaiah 40:31b). Soaring like eagles speaks of rising to a higher level. Eagles look down from a high position and a different perspective. You too can rise above your problems, your anxieties, or weaknesses. With God you can go higher in life than you ever imagined. Today God is giving you this promise: that when you rely on His strength “you will soar on wings like eagles.” You can also run without stopping. The prophet Isaiah says “they will run and not grow weary.” Running speaks of speed and acceleration. God can help you not just to start running the race as a Christian but to keep running all through your life. The Lord can lift the weight of our sins and anything that hinders us from running successfully toward the eternal reward. And you can walk without fainting. Walking speaks of consistent and steady progress. The Bible tells us about Enoch who walked faithfully with God for 300 years through every season and circumstance. The Bible says a lot about how we should walk as Christians. We must "walk by faith, not by sight" (2 Corinthians 5:7), "walk in a manner worthy of the calling" (Ephesians 4:1), and "walk in the light, as he is in the light" (1 John 1:7). Other verses encourage us to walk with wisdom, walk humbly, and walk in love. Our walk to heaven may take many years like Nelson Mandela's "Long walk to freedom." But we can keep on walking, even if sometimes we feel tired, when we look to the Lord for strength. Today no matter how tired or weary you may feel take time to come to the Lord for your strength and to rest secure in all His plans and promises. For when you do you too will find that He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. You too ‘will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.'  

For many people, God is bad news, and religion is the cause of all the problems in the world. But Christianity is not about religion. It's about the reality of God as a person who is awesome and incomparable. He has no equal. There is no one like Him. God is able to help you, your family, our culture and our world because He is far above any and every human problem we may face. His greatness is beyond human comprehension.    Today many of us may be busy, discouraged and depressed. Looking at ourselves, looking down, comparing ourselves to others. Busy with our to do lists, our work, the piles of laundry, or discouraged by the state of the nation and of society. But everything changes when we get a new perspective of the greatness of God. What is so big to us is so small to Him. What has impressed, impacted and impeded our lives so far is as nothing to Him.    We've seen in Isaiah 40:1-5 that God is a God of consolation who wants to comfort us. He's a God of preparation – He wants to get us ready and shape us up for the best lives. And He wants us to have a revelation of His glory to come. But the rest of this opening chapter of the second part of Isaiah lays the foundation of who God really is. We see: 1. Far above natural creation (Isaiah 40:12,22,25-28) 2. Far above all idols (Isaiah 40:18-20; Romans 1:25; Genesis 1:31) 3. Far above human understanding (Isaiah 40:13-14,27; 1 Corinthians 1:27) 4. Far above the nations (Isaiah 40:15-17) 5. Far above human rulers (Isaiah 40:23-24,28; Daniel 7:14; Isaiah 6-11) Apply  1. Far above natural creation (Isaiah 40:12,22,25-28). We are told to ‘lift your eyes and look to the heavens…' The more we know about our world and its relationship to entities beyond our world makes us realise how much we don't know. Even though we can travel quickly around our world there is no disguising that the oceans and deserts and continents of our world are simply vast. Even bigger is the universe. So how much greater is the God who made them? The Bible is clear that there is a God and that He is the Creator of all we know. (See: Bill Bryson ‘A short History of nearly everything'; Olivier Bonnaissies and Michel-Yves Bolloré ‘God: Science, the Evidence'; Lee Strobel ‘The Case For A Creator'). If you want to study the arguments in more depth, you can read the books, but basically their conclusions are very much in line with the vision of the prophet Isaiah who gives us a picture of the almighty creator of a vast creation.  2. Far above all idols (Isaiah 40:18-20). Almost half of Isaiah chapters 40 to 55 talk about rival gods and the idol of the people had turned to worship. Here Isaiah compares how ridiculous it is for someone to worship a lump of wood with some gold or silver attached to it over the greatness of the one true God. The apostle Paul also highlighted this (Romans 1:25). Of course God ‘saw all that he had made, and it was very good' (Genesis 1:31) but that does not mean we should exchange our worship of God to worship things created by Him or for His glory – such as looking to the stars for guidance through horoscopes, instead of looking to God who created the stars. Idols can topple. And when we put anything in place of our God, those things will eventually fall. Only our God endures forever. 3. Far above human understanding (Isaiah 40:13-14, 27). The mind of God is far beyond the intelligence of any human cleverness (1 Corinthians 1:27). No-one can understand the mind of the Lord, except the Lord reveals a portion of His thinking to us through His word the Bible.  The most qualified academic, or the most convinced rationalist, the most so-called ‘enlightened' spiritualist, may be publicly celebrated for the brilliance of their intellect. But compared to God they are nothing.  4. Far above the nations (Isaiah 40:15-17). Nations are nothing that will make a difference in the big picture. This gives us a good perspective! Through history nations and empires have arisen in great power. The Babylonians, Persians, Greeks and Romans etc. Yet walk around the Acropolis or the Coliseum today and they are ruins. The Romans thought they could persecute Jesus and Paul and the early Christians in such violent ways as they saw fit, but pagan Rome is gone and Christianity survives today. Even the British Empire ‘where the sun never set' seemed impossible to change, yet now look at what humbled and humiliated state our nation is in. Look at the nations today and it's still the same – India and its 1.46 billion people, China and its more than 1.4 billion people,… it might sound big to us, but to God it's all just a drop.  5. Far above human rulers (Isaiah 40:23-24). So many rulers of this world have been so proud and arrogant. Alexander the Great, Napolean, Stalin, Hitler who boasted of a 1000 year Reich that lasted little more than a decade. Hitler committed suicide in a bunker. Mussolini was strung up by his own countrymen. Ceausescu of Romania seemed an all-powerful dictator but saw his rule collapse in days. Everybody, even the great Queen Elizabeth II, has a limited reign. Only God is eternal (Isaiah 40:28). Daniel had a great vision of the God whose rule was eternal (Daniel 7:14). So do not be so impressed with the powers of this world. They will all pass away.  Our God is far above natural creation, all idols, and all human understanding, He is far above the nations and above human rulers. But what does this mean for us? Well Isaiah says to the people that this God is your God. He is bigger than your sad history of captivity. He is bigger than your sadness and depression. He is bigger than your worries. He is bigger than your debt. This is why God is good news (Isaiah 40:6-11). God is with you, God is for you. This great and almighty God gently wants to lead you and keep you close to His heart. So decide to put your confidence is this great God today and every day.  

For many people, God is bad news, and religion is the cause of all the problems in the world. But Christianity is not about religion. It's about the reality of God as a person who is awesome and incomparable. He has no equal. There is no one like Him. God is able to help you, your family, our culture and our world because He is far above any and every human problem we may face. His greatness is beyond human comprehension.    Today many of us may be busy, discouraged and depressed. Looking at ourselves, looking down, comparing ourselves to others. Busy with our to do lists, our work, the piles of laundry, or discouraged by the state of the nation and of society. But everything changes when we get a new perspective of the greatness of God. What is so big to us is so small to Him. What has impressed, impacted and impeded our lives so far is as nothing to Him.    We've seen in Isaiah 40:1-5 that God is a God of consolation who wants to comfort us. He's a God of preparation – He wants to get us ready and shape us up for the best lives. And He wants us to have a revelation of His glory to come. But the rest of this opening chapter of the second part of Isaiah lays the foundation of who God really is. We see: 1. Far above natural creation (Isaiah 40:12,22,25-28) 2. Far above all idols (Isaiah 40:18-20; Romans 1:25; Genesis 1:31) 3. Far above human understanding (Isaiah 40:13-14,27; 1 Corinthians 1:27) 4. Far above the nations (Isaiah 40:15-17) 5. Far above human rulers (Isaiah 40:23-24,28; Daniel 7:14; Isaiah 6-11) Apply  1. Far above natural creation (Isaiah 40:12,22,25-28). We are told to ‘lift your eyes and look to the heavens…' The more we know about our world and its relationship to entities beyond our world makes us realise how much we don't know. Even though we can travel quickly around our world there is no disguising that the oceans and deserts and continents of our world are simply vast. Even bigger is the universe. So how much greater is the God who made them? The Bible is clear that there is a God and that He is the Creator of all we know. (See: Bill Bryson ‘A short History of nearly everything'; Olivier Bonnaissies and Michel-Yves Bolloré ‘God: Science, the Evidence'; Lee Strobel ‘The Case For A Creator'). If you want to study the arguments in more depth, you can read the books, but basically their conclusions are very much in line with the vision of the prophet Isaiah who gives us a picture of the almighty creator of a vast creation.  2. Far above all idols (Isaiah 40:18-20). Almost half of Isaiah chapters 40 to 55 talk about rival gods and the idol of the people had turned to worship. Here Isaiah compares how ridiculous it is for someone to worship a lump of wood with some gold or silver attached to it over the greatness of the one true God. The apostle Paul also highlighted this (Romans 1:25). Of course God ‘saw all that he had made, and it was very good' (Genesis 1:31) but that does not mean we should exchange our worship of God to worship things created by Him or for His glory – such as looking to the stars for guidance through horoscopes, instead of looking to God who created the stars. Idols can topple. And when we put anything in place of our God, those things will eventually fall. Only our God endures forever. 3. Far above human understanding (Isaiah 40:13-14, 27). The mind of God is far beyond the intelligence of any human cleverness (1 Corinthians 1:27). No-one can understand the mind of the Lord, except the Lord reveals a portion of His thinking to us through His word the Bible.  The most qualified academic, or the most convinced rationalist, the most so-called ‘enlightened' spiritualist, may be publicly celebrated for the brilliance of their intellect. But compared to God they are nothing.  4. Far above the nations (Isaiah 40:15-17). Nations are nothing that will make a difference in the big picture. This gives us a good perspective! Through history nations and empires have arisen in great power. The Babylonians, Persians, Greeks and Romans etc. Yet walk around the Acropolis or the Coliseum today and they are ruins. The Romans thought they could persecute Jesus and Paul and the early Christians in such violent ways as they saw fit, but pagan Rome is gone and Christianity survives today. Even the British Empire ‘where the sun never set' seemed impossible to change, yet now look at what humbled and humiliated state our nation is in. Look at the nations today and it's still the same – India and its 1.46 billion people, China and its more than 1.4 billion people,… it might sound big to us, but to God it's all just a drop.  5. Far above human rulers (Isaiah 40:23-24). So many rulers of this world have been so proud and arrogant. Alexander the Great, Napolean, Stalin, Hitler who boasted of a 1000 year Reich that lasted little more than a decade. Hitler committed suicide in a bunker. Mussolini was strung up by his own countrymen. Ceausescu of Romania seemed an all-powerful dictator but saw his rule collapse in days. Everybody, even the great Queen Elizabeth II, has a limited reign. Only God is eternal (Isaiah 40:28). Daniel had a great vision of the God whose rule was eternal (Daniel 7:14). So do not be so impressed with the powers of this world. They will all pass away.  Our God is far above natural creation, all idols, and all human understanding, He is far above the nations and above human rulers. But what does this mean for us? Well Isaiah says to the people that this God is your God. He is bigger than your sad history of captivity. He is bigger than your sadness and depression. He is bigger than your worries. He is bigger than your debt. This is why God is good news (Isaiah 40:6-11). God is with you, God is for you. This great and almighty God gently wants to lead you and keep you close to His heart. So decide to put your confidence is this great God today and every day.  

The difference between being a church attender and a church member is commitment. Church is not about buildings but about people: people who are followers of Christ who join together to represent Christ in each locality. When the church began and grew rapidly in the first century, the newborn Christians immediately became part of a church family (Acts 2:41,46-47).  Something that we see in theses verse is that church was part of their daily lives and that the church community grew daily. Church was about constantly living together as a family rather than just pitching up for an event on one day a week. Church is God's great idea, not just for individuals to be saved in isolation, but to bring every believer into a united body that reflects His character and carries out His mission on earth. Church is what Jesus loved so much that He died that the church may live. Church is what Jesus promised to build through all generations and despite all forms of opposition and persecution (Matthew 16:18). We see some important points on why everybody needs to be an active member of a local church: 1. Being committed to the church is obeying the commands of scripture (Hebrews 10:25; John 13:35; Galatians 5:13; 1 Peter 1:22; Ephesians 5:21; 1 Peter 5:5; Romans 12:10; Romans 14:13; James 4:11; Ephesians 4:2; Ephesians 4:32; Hebrews 3:13) 2. Being committed to being part the church shows that there is power in unity (Acts 2:1; Acts 4:32; 1 Corinthians 1:10; Psalm 133:1) 3. Being committed to the church will help you grow in your faith (Ephesians 4:12-13; 1 Corinthians 12:27; Romans 12:4-8) 4. Being committed to the church will bring great conquest (Ephesians 3:10-11; Ephesians 5:27; Revelation 7:9; Ephesians 3:20-21) Apply  1. Being committed to the church is obeying the commands of scripture (Hebrews 10:25). This isn't just about attending services, it's about belonging and participating in a community where we encourage, serve, and grow together. The New Testament has many commands about how to treat one , another as fellow members of the church, i.e. “Love one another” (John 13:35); “Serve one another in love” (Galatians 5:13); “Love one another deeply, from the heart” (1 Peter 1:22); “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ” (Ephesians 5:21); Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another” (1 Peter 5:5); “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honour one another above yourselves” (Romans 12:10); “Stop passing judgment on one another” (Romans 14:13); “Do not slander one another” (James 4:11); “Be patient, bearing with one another in love” (Ephesians 4:2); “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32); “Encourage one another daily” (Hebrews 3:13). If you asked ChatGPT “If you were the devil what would you do to keep people away from Church?” it says:  - Encourage a constant “too busy” culture — work, kids' activities, side-projects — so skipping worship is normalised and feels responsible.  - Emphasise “I can pray/read at home — I don't need church” until community atrophy is normal.  - Amplify stories of hypocrisy, hurt, or abuse so people assume church always harms.  - Allow services to become routine, bland, or like an obligation—no discipleship, no engagement, just “attendance.”  - Promote entertainment, friendship networks, or causes that substitute for church belonging.  - Spread half-truths or relativism that dilute core gospel truths so church seems unnecessary or irrelevant.  - Make faith seem like a rules game — either you're perfect or you don't belong — causing people to avoid church rather than confess.  - Encourage small compromises that add up — one missed Sunday, then two, then a season — until leaving is easy So, then we all need to obey the many commands of Scripture about being part of the church.  2. Being committed to being part the church shows that there is power in unity. The Holy Spirit was poured out with great power on the Day of Pentecost when the disciples were all in one place (Acts 2:1; Acts 4:32). All this was an answer to the prayer of Jesus (John 17:20-23). We all have our part to play in keeping unity in the church at all levels and between all individuals and groups (1 Corinthians 1:10). When we each take responsibility to be part of the answer and not a creator of divisions, we will discover the power of unity (Psalm 133:1). 3. Being committed to the church will help you grow in your faith. We need to be built up in our faith and developed to be a fruitful disciple. The apostle Paul makes clear the work of God-called leaders (Ephesians 4:12-13). There are so many benefits of belonging to a church family as it helps you to: focus on God; face life problems with support; strength your faith; find your place to make a difference; fulfil your life mission; build the church. Every Christian has something to give to the church to help others (1 Corinthians 12:27; Romans 12:4-8). Each believer has unique gifts that build up the rest. When you separate from the body, you lose both the strength of others and the opportunity to strengthen them.  4. Being committed to the church will bring great conquest. What we can achieve together is far more powerful than what we can achieve on our own (Ephesians 3:10-11). The Kingdom of darkness will be brought down when the church of Christ stands up in unity and Christ given authority. Being a committed part of the church is one of the greatest opportunities for us to live purpose driven lives together in local church families and to be part of a vast company of fellow followers of Christ around the world in each nation and locality. Together we can model and advance the Kingdom of God on earth. We can be confident that God is at work (Ephesians 5:27). One day Jesus is coming back for such a beautiful church. One day we will see in heaven what God has accomplished (Revelation 7:9). What a privilege it will be, to be with the church from all nations and generations in heaven. But equally it is a privilege, and a responsibility, to be part of the greatest society on earth (Ephesians 3:20-21).  

The difference between being a church attender and a church member is commitment. Church is not about buildings but about people: people who are followers of Christ who join together to represent Christ in each locality. When the church began and grew rapidly in the first century, the newborn Christians immediately became part of a church family (Acts 2:41,46-47).  Something that we see in theses verse is that church was part of their daily lives and that the church community grew daily. Church was about constantly living together as a family rather than just pitching up for an event on one day a week. Church is God's great idea, not just for individuals to be saved in isolation, but to bring every believer into a united body that reflects His character and carries out His mission on earth. Church is what Jesus loved so much that He died that the church may live. Church is what Jesus promised to build through all generations and despite all forms of opposition and persecution (Matthew 16:18). We see some important points on why everybody needs to be an active member of a local church: 1. Being committed to the church is obeying the commands of scripture (Hebrews 10:25; John 13:35; Galatians 5:13; 1 Peter 1:22; Ephesians 5:21; 1 Peter 5:5; Romans 12:10; Romans 14:13; James 4:11; Ephesians 4:2; Ephesians 4:32; Hebrews 3:13) 2. Being committed to being part the church shows that there is power in unity (Acts 2:1; Acts 4:32; 1 Corinthians 1:10; Psalm 133:1) 3. Being committed to the church will help you grow in your faith (Ephesians 4:12-13; 1 Corinthians 12:27; Romans 12:4-8) 4. Being committed to the church will bring great conquest (Ephesians 3:10-11; Ephesians 5:27; Revelation 7:9; Ephesians 3:20-21) Apply  1. Being committed to the church is obeying the commands of scripture (Hebrews 10:25). This isn't just about attending services, it's about belonging and participating in a community where we encourage, serve, and grow together. The New Testament has many commands about how to treat one , another as fellow members of the church, i.e. “Love one another” (John 13:35); “Serve one another in love” (Galatians 5:13); “Love one another deeply, from the heart” (1 Peter 1:22); “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ” (Ephesians 5:21); Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another” (1 Peter 5:5); “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honour one another above yourselves” (Romans 12:10); “Stop passing judgment on one another” (Romans 14:13); “Do not slander one another” (James 4:11); “Be patient, bearing with one another in love” (Ephesians 4:2); “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32); “Encourage one another daily” (Hebrews 3:13). If you asked ChatGPT “If you were the devil what would you do to keep people away from Church?” it says:  - Encourage a constant “too busy” culture — work, kids' activities, side-projects — so skipping worship is normalised and feels responsible.  - Emphasise “I can pray/read at home — I don't need church” until community atrophy is normal.  - Amplify stories of hypocrisy, hurt, or abuse so people assume church always harms.  - Allow services to become routine, bland, or like an obligation—no discipleship, no engagement, just “attendance.”  - Promote entertainment, friendship networks, or causes that substitute for church belonging.  - Spread half-truths or relativism that dilute core gospel truths so church seems unnecessary or irrelevant.  - Make faith seem like a rules game — either you're perfect or you don't belong — causing people to avoid church rather than confess.  - Encourage small compromises that add up — one missed Sunday, then two, then a season — until leaving is easy So, then we all need to obey the many commands of Scripture about being part of the church.  2. Being committed to being part the church shows that there is power in unity. The Holy Spirit was poured out with great power on the Day of Pentecost when the disciples were all in one place (Acts 2:1; Acts 4:32). All this was an answer to the prayer of Jesus (John 17:20-23). We all have our part to play in keeping unity in the church at all levels and between all individuals and groups (1 Corinthians 1:10). When we each take responsibility to be part of the answer and not a creator of divisions, we will discover the power of unity (Psalm 133:1). 3. Being committed to the church will help you grow in your faith. We need to be built up in our faith and developed to be a fruitful disciple. The apostle Paul makes clear the work of God-called leaders (Ephesians 4:12-13). There are so many benefits of belonging to a church family as it helps you to: focus on God; face life problems with support; strength your faith; find your place to make a difference; fulfil your life mission; build the church. Every Christian has something to give to the church to help others (1 Corinthians 12:27; Romans 12:4-8). Each believer has unique gifts that build up the rest. When you separate from the body, you lose both the strength of others and the opportunity to strengthen them.  4. Being committed to the church will bring great conquest. What we can achieve together is far more powerful than what we can achieve on our own (Ephesians 3:10-11). The Kingdom of darkness will be brought down when the church of Christ stands up in unity and Christ given authority. Being a committed part of the church is one of the greatest opportunities for us to live purpose driven lives together in local church families and to be part of a vast company of fellow followers of Christ around the world in each nation and locality. Together we can model and advance the Kingdom of God on earth. We can be confident that God is at work (Ephesians 5:27). One day Jesus is coming back for such a beautiful church. One day we will see in heaven what God has accomplished (Revelation 7:9). What a privilege it will be, to be with the church from all nations and generations in heaven. But equally it is a privilege, and a responsibility, to be part of the greatest society on earth (Ephesians 3:20-21).  

Encouragement is one the greatest needs of the world. Encouragement has been described as ‘oxygen to the soul.' Encouragement will lift you up when you are down. Encouragement will give you the strength to go on when you feel like quitting. Today in countless schools, colleges, homes, families and workplaces so many people are having to cope with discouraging words and discouraging circumstances. In such an aggressive and increasingly polarised world, Christians and local church communities need to be counter cultural people who build others up rather than pull others down (1 Thessalonians 5:11).   One of the greatest churches in the New Testament was the church at Antioch and it grew rapidly because of the power of encouragement (Acts 11:23). Antioch was the third biggest city in the Roman Empire with a population of around half a million people. It was a melting pot of Western and Eastern cultures, and a centre of the arts, superstition and immorality. Yet it was here that a few Christians started a very large church that was to become a new base for the rapid, global expansion of Christianity. This was a church that experienced great growth. They had exceptional leaders and really knew how to pray and fast. Yet it was the ministry of encouragement and the experience of encouragement that helped this great church to get established. In this story we can learn what it means to encourage people. 1. Encourage people by making the effort to connect with people (Acts 11:19-24; 4:36) 2. Encourage people by recognising what God is already doing (Acts 11:23; Galatians 5:6) 3. Encourage people by ministering to their hearts (Acts 11:23) 4. Encourage people by helping them look to beyond their past and release them into their future (Acts 9:27; Acts 11:25-26) 5. Encourage people by continually sharing God's word with them (Acts 11:26) Apply  1. Encourage people by making the effort to connect with people (Acts 11:19-24). In a very bad time of persecution, some very good things were happening, which put great responsibility on the leaders of the Jerusalem church to respond well. The leaders were very wise. They knew that the new believers in Christ would have much to learn, but that what they needed above all was to be encouraged in their faith. They needed established Christians who would lead them forward with kindness and love. This is a significant issue for every church today. Many people who decided to attend church for the first time never returned because of the lack of warmth shown to them. Yet the love and acceptance shown in a church to a group of hippies in the 1960s started the Jesus Movement impacting America and beyond. That kind of character was needed in Antioch, and the apostles knew Barnabas was the right man to send to represent them. Barnabas was well named (Acts 4:36) as Barnabas means “son of encouragement.” Although Jerusalem was 300 miles away from Antioch, the church leaders knew they needed to send an ambassador of encouragement to establish personal contact. If we also want to encourage people, we must draw close to them, visit them at home or in the hospital, or go for a coffee. In an age where we can text, make phone calls and Zoom, there's nothing more encouraging than making direct contact with people and giving them the gift of your presence. 2. Encourage people by recognising what God is already doing (Acts 11:23). God's grace had been seen in the numbers of people who had truly received the good news of Jesus as Saviour and Messiah. They had much to learn but they had already discovered a lot about God's mercy and love. When Barnabas first arrived, he focussed on what God had already done, not on what was yet to be done. That's a very big lesson to learn if you want to encourage people. Don't focus on how far you still must go in your development as a Christian; recognise how far you have already come. Legalistic people always focus on what you still must achieve; you must pray more, do more, give more, always more…But grace people focus on what has already been done through Jesus at the Cross and in His dealings with you to date. New Christians especially need to hear this message. It's so easy to be discouraged by failure and feelings of inadequacy. In the early church there were false teachers who said that to be a true Christian you had to keep all the Old Testament rules which were very heavy. But as Paul later wrote to, it's all about relationship with God and one another, about real godly love and grace (Galatians 5:6). People were encouraged by Barnabas because he focussed on the positive not the negative.  3. Encourage people by ministering to their hearts (Acts 11:23). We must reach people's hearts not just their heads. What's the point in just knowing truths about God's love and mercy, if you have never personally experienced this? John Wesley was an Oxford University don and a preacher, but it was only when ‘his heart was strangely moved' within him that change came to his life. It's only when our hearts have been touched that we can truly minister to the hearts of others and encourage them. Barnabas emphasised to these new Christians that Christianity is all about knowing more of the love of God in their hearts and to stay true to that love. Let's be more concerned to touch the hearts of people rather than winning arguments with people.  4. Encourage people by helping them look to beyond their past and release them into their future (Acts 9:27; Acts 11:25-26). Barnabas played a major role in the development of the man who was to become the outstanding leader of the early church, the apostle Paul. As Saul he had led the persecution of the first Christians. He was a nasty man with a violent past and plenty to feel guilty about. He even described himself as the chief of sinners. No wonder that some Christians felt suspicious about him. But Barnabas was the man who believed that Saul had really changed. He saw great potential in him. Not only did he introduce him to the apostles, but he went looking for him to bring him as a main speaker to this big new church in Antioch. We too need to receive new Christians and encourage them that their past will not determine their future. No matter what mistakes you have made, no matter how colourful your past, God has a plan to bless you and to bless many people through you. God specialises in taking great opponents of the gospel and making them great ambassadors of the gospel. 5. Encourage people by continually sharing God's word with them (Acts 11:26). Barnabas and Saul both knew the Scriptures and they spent a whole year making sure that the new Christians understood them too. If you also want to stand strong in life, you must become strong through daily reading and focus on the Word of God. We should give much more attention to God's words than people's words. There's nothing more powerful to challenge your lifestyle and a contemporary, pride-centred worldview. There's nothing like God's word direct you, protect you, build you and comfort you. Encouragement can take many forms. Today you can be encouraged to know that God loves you and wants to bless you. And in turn you can become a blessing to many by becoming a great encourager like Barnabas. 

Encouragement is one the greatest needs of the world. Encouragement has been described as ‘oxygen to the soul.' Encouragement will lift you up when you are down. Encouragement will give you the strength to go on when you feel like quitting. Today in countless schools, colleges, homes, families and workplaces so many people are having to cope with discouraging words and discouraging circumstances. In such an aggressive and increasingly polarised world, Christians and local church communities need to be counter cultural people who build others up rather than pull others down (1 Thessalonians 5:11).   One of the greatest churches in the New Testament was the church at Antioch and it grew rapidly because of the power of encouragement (Acts 11:23). Antioch was the third biggest city in the Roman Empire with a population of around half a million people. It was a melting pot of Western and Eastern cultures, and a centre of the arts, superstition and immorality. Yet it was here that a few Christians started a very large church that was to become a new base for the rapid, global expansion of Christianity. This was a church that experienced great growth. They had exceptional leaders and really knew how to pray and fast. Yet it was the ministry of encouragement and the experience of encouragement that helped this great church to get established. In this story we can learn what it means to encourage people. 1. Encourage people by making the effort to connect with people (Acts 11:19-24; 4:36) 2. Encourage people by recognising what God is already doing (Acts 11:23; Galatians 5:6) 3. Encourage people by ministering to their hearts (Acts 11:23) 4. Encourage people by helping them look to beyond their past and release them into their future (Acts 9:27; Acts 11:25-26) 5. Encourage people by continually sharing God's word with them (Acts 11:26) Apply  1. Encourage people by making the effort to connect with people (Acts 11:19-24). In a very bad time of persecution, some very good things were happening, which put great responsibility on the leaders of the Jerusalem church to respond well. The leaders were very wise. They knew that the new believers in Christ would have much to learn, but that what they needed above all was to be encouraged in their faith. They needed established Christians who would lead them forward with kindness and love. This is a significant issue for every church today. Many people who decided to attend church for the first time never returned because of the lack of warmth shown to them. Yet the love and acceptance shown in a church to a group of hippies in the 1960s started the Jesus Movement impacting America and beyond. That kind of character was needed in Antioch, and the apostles knew Barnabas was the right man to send to represent them. Barnabas was well named (Acts 4:36) as Barnabas means “son of encouragement.” Although Jerusalem was 300 miles away from Antioch, the church leaders knew they needed to send an ambassador of encouragement to establish personal contact. If we also want to encourage people, we must draw close to them, visit them at home or in the hospital, or go for a coffee. In an age where we can text, make phone calls and Zoom, there's nothing more encouraging than making direct contact with people and giving them the gift of your presence. 2. Encourage people by recognising what God is already doing (Acts 11:23). God's grace had been seen in the numbers of people who had truly received the good news of Jesus as Saviour and Messiah. They had much to learn but they had already discovered a lot about God's mercy and love. When Barnabas first arrived, he focussed on what God had already done, not on what was yet to be done. That's a very big lesson to learn if you want to encourage people. Don't focus on how far you still must go in your development as a Christian; recognise how far you have already come. Legalistic people always focus on what you still must achieve; you must pray more, do more, give more, always more…But grace people focus on what has already been done through Jesus at the Cross and in His dealings with you to date. New Christians especially need to hear this message. It's so easy to be discouraged by failure and feelings of inadequacy. In the early church there were false teachers who said that to be a true Christian you had to keep all the Old Testament rules which were very heavy. But as Paul later wrote to, it's all about relationship with God and one another, about real godly love and grace (Galatians 5:6). People were encouraged by Barnabas because he focussed on the positive not the negative.  3. Encourage people by ministering to their hearts (Acts 11:23). We must reach people's hearts not just their heads. What's the point in just knowing truths about God's love and mercy, if you have never personally experienced this? John Wesley was an Oxford University don and a preacher, but it was only when ‘his heart was strangely moved' within him that change came to his life. It's only when our hearts have been touched that we can truly minister to the hearts of others and encourage them. Barnabas emphasised to these new Christians that Christianity is all about knowing more of the love of God in their hearts and to stay true to that love. Let's be more concerned to touch the hearts of people rather than winning arguments with people.  4. Encourage people by helping them look to beyond their past and release them into their future (Acts 9:27; Acts 11:25-26). Barnabas played a major role in the development of the man who was to become the outstanding leader of the early church, the apostle Paul. As Saul he had led the persecution of the first Christians. He was a nasty man with a violent past and plenty to feel guilty about. He even described himself as the chief of sinners. No wonder that some Christians felt suspicious about him. But Barnabas was the man who believed that Saul had really changed. He saw great potential in him. Not only did he introduce him to the apostles, but he went looking for him to bring him as a main speaker to this big new church in Antioch. We too need to receive new Christians and encourage them that their past will not determine their future. No matter what mistakes you have made, no matter how colourful your past, God has a plan to bless you and to bless many people through you. God specialises in taking great opponents of the gospel and making them great ambassadors of the gospel. 5. Encourage people by continually sharing God's word with them (Acts 11:26). Barnabas and Saul both knew the Scriptures and they spent a whole year making sure that the new Christians understood them too. If you also want to stand strong in life, you must become strong through daily reading and focus on the Word of God. We should give much more attention to God's words than people's words. There's nothing more powerful to challenge your lifestyle and a contemporary, pride-centred worldview. There's nothing like God's word direct you, protect you, build you and comfort you. Encouragement can take many forms. Today you can be encouraged to know that God loves you and wants to bless you. And in turn you can become a blessing to many by becoming a great encourager like Barnabas. 

Today sharing the good news of Jesus can cause many bad reactions including brutal deaths in places like Nigeria, Yemen and Somalia. In Britain there is a sharp rise in the incidents of police harassing street preachers and even intimidating people in their homes for their Christian beliefs. Yet in the face of anti-Christian hostility, Christians need to follow the example of the first century church that faced great persecution yet who spread the gospel of Jesus throughout the Roman Empire in one generation.     Jesus commanded His disciples to be His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria and to the ends of the earth. And He promised them that the Holy Spirit would give them the power to fulfil this great task. The Holy Spirit was given not just for personal fellowship but for the purpose of helping the disciples be effective witnesses for Christ (Luke 4:18-19).   Today, with an estimated 2.3 billion Christians around the globe, the world can be changed if each believer speaks up and refused to be silenced like the first century disciples would not stop talking about Jesus despite being arrested and threatened (Acts 4:13). We see:  1. Christians who share their faith effectively are bold in their witness (Acts 4:9-12; John 14:6) 2. Christians who share their faith effectively are ordinary people (Acts 4:13 MSG) 3. Christians who share their faith effectively are people who have experienced Jesus   Apply  1. Christians who share their faith effectively are bold in their witness. J.A. Alexander in his commentary on the Acts writes: ‘the word translated boldness…signifies not merely…bravery or courage, but freedom and readiness of speech, as opposed to hesitation and reserve.' The disciples weren't tongue tied, embarrassed or shy. They were free of fear and inhibitions to speak what was in their heart. They were bold in the face of opposition: They were speaking to the religious rulers of their nation who, only weeks before, had conspired together to have Jesus arrested and crucified. Now they had the disciples in their sights. Yet the disciples refused to be intimidated by them: When they asked by what power or name they had healed the man and thereby caused many to be interested in the gospel, Peter answered them straight (Acts 4:10). Today Christians face hostility, ridicule, peer pressure and bullying and it can cause a defensive reaction. How reluctant are we to say we are Christians or speak about our faith? To see change in our nation we are all going to have to step out of our fears and face down the intimidation through bold and clear witness. The disciples refused to be manipulated by them: What had happened through Peter and John was good, but the rulers were ‘greatly disturbed' by the effective witness of the apostles and tried to infer that something wrong was taking place. This healing was politically incorrect. But Peter cut through the manipulation and turned it back on them (Acts 4:9). People today would like to manipulate the church into silence by suggesting that Christianity is backward and negative rather than recognising all the good that is being done by countless Christians, Christian communities, and Christian agencies. They were bold in the declaration of their message (Acts 4:12): In a society that promotes multi-culturalism there is great temptation to play down the core truth of Christianity that only through Jesus can people be saved. Christians must not back off from repeating the claim of Jesus that ‘I am the Way, the Truth and the Life; no one comes to the Father but through me' (John 14:6). If this claim is true and Christians believe it is, then we must lift Jesus up if people are to be drawn to Him. We owe it to people to declare the message that the apostles declared.  2. Christians who share their faith effectively are ordinary people. In the New Testament the growth of the early church was rapid because the Christians spread the good news as a normal part of their life. They did not keep quiet about their faith. They shared the good news of the gospel at any and every opportunity (Acts 4:13 MSG). Peter and John were uneducated in the schools of the day. They were not elite theological scholars nor professionals with official knowledge. They were just a couple of down to earth, ordinary guys and they were speaking with great authority. The early church was known for gossiping the gospel everywhere they went. The spread of Christianity through so called ordinary believers is also what happened with the 18th Century Methodists, the 19th Century Salvation Army, and the 20th Century Pentecostals. When all church gets involved in talking about Jesus to all they meet then all the world feels the impact.   3. Christians who share their faith effectively are people who have experienced Jesus. Peter and John had not been trained in the schools and colleges of the day, but they had been trained as disciples of Jesus. They were practicing what they had first seen. They had seen how Jesus spoke and acted which was always with authority - whether with religious rulers, demons, or in calming a storm. They had learned that when Jesus is with you, there is no need to fear anything or anyone. They knew Jesus personally and they knew that He had given them authority to carry on the work He had started to preach the good news of the kingdom and heal the sick and release those oppressed by the devil. The best and only way to learn is always from people who have modelled what they are teaching. Also, they had been in the presence of Jesus. So, we too must spend time with Christ. We need to fellowship with Him through prayer. We need to let His Word - the Bible - saturate our spirits. We need to live in daily partnership with the Holy Spirit who makes Christ real to us. We will see people and situations differently when we have seen Jesus. We will not look at how people appear outwardly even if they are aggressive. We will have a Christ-like love for all people. Today our world, with all its hatreds and divisions, can change not from the top down but from the bottom up, when each ordinary Christian is filled with the Holy Spirit and accepts the challenge to share the good news of Jesus, as wisely and courageously as possible, to everyone that we can influence. 

Today sharing the good news of Jesus can cause many bad reactions including brutal deaths in places like Nigeria, Yemen and Somalia. In Britain there is a sharp rise in the incidents of police harassing street preachers and even intimidating people in their homes for their Christian beliefs. Yet in the face of anti-Christian hostility, Christians need to follow the example of the first century church that faced great persecution yet who spread the gospel of Jesus throughout the Roman Empire in one generation.     Jesus commanded His disciples to be His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria and to the ends of the earth. And He promised them that the Holy Spirit would give them the power to fulfil this great task. The Holy Spirit was given not just for personal fellowship but for the purpose of helping the disciples be effective witnesses for Christ (Luke 4:18-19).   Today, with an estimated 2.3 billion Christians around the globe, the world can be changed if each believer speaks up and refused to be silenced like the first century disciples would not stop talking about Jesus despite being arrested and threatened (Acts 4:13). We see:  1. Christians who share their faith effectively are bold in their witness (Acts 4:9-12; John 14:6) 2. Christians who share their faith effectively are ordinary people (Acts 4:13 MSG) 3. Christians who share their faith effectively are people who have experienced Jesus   Apply  1. Christians who share their faith effectively are bold in their witness. J.A. Alexander in his commentary on the Acts writes: ‘the word translated boldness…signifies not merely…bravery or courage, but freedom and readiness of speech, as opposed to hesitation and reserve.' The disciples weren't tongue tied, embarrassed or shy. They were free of fear and inhibitions to speak what was in their heart. They were bold in the face of opposition: They were speaking to the religious rulers of their nation who, only weeks before, had conspired together to have Jesus arrested and crucified. Now they had the disciples in their sights. Yet the disciples refused to be intimidated by them: When they asked by what power or name they had healed the man and thereby caused many to be interested in the gospel, Peter answered them straight (Acts 4:10). Today Christians face hostility, ridicule, peer pressure and bullying and it can cause a defensive reaction. How reluctant are we to say we are Christians or speak about our faith? To see change in our nation we are all going to have to step out of our fears and face down the intimidation through bold and clear witness. The disciples refused to be manipulated by them: What had happened through Peter and John was good, but the rulers were ‘greatly disturbed' by the effective witness of the apostles and tried to infer that something wrong was taking place. This healing was politically incorrect. But Peter cut through the manipulation and turned it back on them (Acts 4:9). People today would like to manipulate the church into silence by suggesting that Christianity is backward and negative rather than recognising all the good that is being done by countless Christians, Christian communities, and Christian agencies. They were bold in the declaration of their message (Acts 4:12): In a society that promotes multi-culturalism there is great temptation to play down the core truth of Christianity that only through Jesus can people be saved. Christians must not back off from repeating the claim of Jesus that ‘I am the Way, the Truth and the Life; no one comes to the Father but through me' (John 14:6). If this claim is true and Christians believe it is, then we must lift Jesus up if people are to be drawn to Him. We owe it to people to declare the message that the apostles declared.  2. Christians who share their faith effectively are ordinary people. In the New Testament the growth of the early church was rapid because the Christians spread the good news as a normal part of their life. They did not keep quiet about their faith. They shared the good news of the gospel at any and every opportunity (Acts 4:13 MSG). Peter and John were uneducated in the schools of the day. They were not elite theological scholars nor professionals with official knowledge. They were just a couple of down to earth, ordinary guys and they were speaking with great authority. The early church was known for gossiping the gospel everywhere they went. The spread of Christianity through so called ordinary believers is also what happened with the 18th Century Methodists, the 19th Century Salvation Army, and the 20th Century Pentecostals. When all church gets involved in talking about Jesus to all they meet then all the world feels the impact.   3. Christians who share their faith effectively are people who have experienced Jesus. Peter and John had not been trained in the schools and colleges of the day, but they had been trained as disciples of Jesus. They were practicing what they had first seen. They had seen how Jesus spoke and acted which was always with authority - whether with religious rulers, demons, or in calming a storm. They had learned that when Jesus is with you, there is no need to fear anything or anyone. They knew Jesus personally and they knew that He had given them authority to carry on the work He had started to preach the good news of the kingdom and heal the sick and release those oppressed by the devil. The best and only way to learn is always from people who have modelled what they are teaching. Also, they had been in the presence of Jesus. So, we too must spend time with Christ. We need to fellowship with Him through prayer. We need to let His Word - the Bible - saturate our spirits. We need to live in daily partnership with the Holy Spirit who makes Christ real to us. We will see people and situations differently when we have seen Jesus. We will not look at how people appear outwardly even if they are aggressive. We will have a Christ-like love for all people. Today our world, with all its hatreds and divisions, can change not from the top down but from the bottom up, when each ordinary Christian is filled with the Holy Spirit and accepts the challenge to share the good news of Jesus, as wisely and courageously as possible, to everyone that we can influence. 

Forgiveness is a powerful message and is not new. In fact, it was spoken more than 2000 years ago by Jesus on the Cross (Luke 23:34). This is the heart of Christianity. Let's look at what the gospel message is all about:  1. Christianity is about recognising our condition (Romans 3:23; Isaiah 59:2; Proverbs 30:12) 2. Christianity is about recognising The Good News (Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Ephesians 2:8-9; 2 Corinthians 6:2; John 15:13–15) 3. Christianity is recognising the need for repentance (Luke 3:8a; John 8:31-32; Acts 3:19) 4. Christianity is about receiving a new life (John 14:6; Romans: 6:23; Galatians 2:20) Apply  1. Christianity is about recognising our condition. We can't talk about forgiveness and reconciliation if we don't see that something wrong was done that needs forgiveness or punishment (Romans 3:23). Sin separates us from God. We have all made mistakes and deserve God's justice. Our moral standards are so far from God's: we indulge in and accept sin, we stop looking to the Word of God to set the standard for our lives, and even classify sin into categories of scandalous (e.g. sexual immorality, robbery, idolatry, drunkenness, greed, lust etc) and others which we see as not so harmful (e.g. gossip, envy, ego, hatred, arrogance or disobedience). But the Bible doesn't classify sins; it tells us that all our sins have separated us from God. What is separating you from God (Isaiah 59:2)? What have you accepted in your life that is not according to God's word? Many people call themselves a Christian but don't act like a real, New Testament Christian (Proverbs 30:12). Today come before Christ and lay the secrets of your heart before Him. Once we understand our condition, we can discover what Christianity is about.  2. Christianity is about recognising The Good News. Our God is amazing: He is not only just, but He also provided the sacrifice to cover our debt. There are no human efforts, no good thoughts or deeds, good enough to reach heaven. Nothing is enough except the Good News of Jesus' sacrifice. Jesus took our place of condemnation, guilt and shame, and exchanged it for His freedom (Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Ephesians 2:8-9). The good news is that there is a way to enjoy eternal life, there is hope. The Gospel never says tomorrow is the day of salvation, it says it is today (2 Corinthians 6:2)! Today, there is hope for you, for your family, and for whatever your current situation is. This hope is found at the Cross of Jesus. Christianity isn't about rules, rituals, or trying harder to be perfect. It's about relationship, knowing Jesus for yourself, walking with Him, and hearing His voice. Today you can one step to get to know Jesus, then take another to develop friendship with Him, and you will be on the road to the greatest decision of your life: to walk with Him for the rest of your life (John 15:13–15). Jesus calls you friend, and Jesus laid down His life for you. It means that He became the bridge between you and God the Father. A real friend is honest with you and confronts you in love. Someone who lifts you up in difficult moments and someone who challenges you to be better person. That real friend is Jesus.  3. Christianity is recognising the need for repentance. This is when the Gospel comes to life. We can see that we haven't done good, and that there is Good News, but this is still not discovering real Christianity unless you accept, embrace and believe this good news - and it starts with your repentance. To repent means “To change one's mind”, which means: taking personal responsibility for your sins; acknowledging that sin is first and foremost against God; realising that sin is at the core of who we are as humans; and knowing that we offer nothing that can excuse or offset our sin. Repentance is a turning point. If you repent of your sins, it means that from today you will bear different fruit, change your habits, decide to stop living a certain way and to turn back to God (Luke 3:8a). When you understand Jesus' teaching and hold onto it, you will be set free (John 8:31-32). Repentance is taking the step to recognise and seek God, like the prodigal Son, who we read in the Bible decided to repent and turn back to the father when he was living a life of sin (Acts 3:19).  4. Christianity is about receiving a new life. If you have recognised your sins, you recognise the good news, and repent, you are ready to start a new life. Jesus is the only one who was born without sin. When you come to Him you are clothed in righteousness, He cleanses your sins, and He changes your life (John 14:6; Romans: 6:23). There is the power in encountering Jesus. You can be free from the burden of sin and receive eternal life in Jesus. When we receive this new life, it transforms us, changing us from the inside, and it will allow us to love others, including our enemies. It gives us hope for the future, and means we can change the course of history (Galatians 2:20). Enjoy this new opportunity and share the good news with others, including you family, colleagues, and neighbours. 

Forgiveness is a powerful message and is not new. In fact, it was spoken more than 2000 years ago by Jesus on the Cross (Luke 23:34). This is the heart of Christianity. Let's look at what the gospel message is all about:  1. Christianity is about recognising our condition (Romans 3:23; Isaiah 59:2; Proverbs 30:12) 2. Christianity is about recognising The Good News (Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Ephesians 2:8-9; 2 Corinthians 6:2; John 15:13–15) 3. Christianity is recognising the need for repentance (Luke 3:8a; John 8:31-32; Acts 3:19) 4. Christianity is about receiving a new life (John 14:6; Romans: 6:23; Galatians 2:20) Apply  1. Christianity is about recognising our condition. We can't talk about forgiveness and reconciliation if we don't see that something wrong was done that needs forgiveness or punishment (Romans 3:23). Sin separates us from God. We have all made mistakes and deserve God's justice. Our moral standards are so far from God's: we indulge in and accept sin, we stop looking to the Word of God to set the standard for our lives, and even classify sin into categories of scandalous (e.g. sexual immorality, robbery, idolatry, drunkenness, greed, lust etc) and others which we see as not so harmful (e.g. gossip, envy, ego, hatred, arrogance or disobedience). But the Bible doesn't classify sins; it tells us that all our sins have separated us from God. What is separating you from God (Isaiah 59:2)? What have you accepted in your life that is not according to God's word? Many people call themselves a Christian but don't act like a real, New Testament Christian (Proverbs 30:12). Today come before Christ and lay the secrets of your heart before Him. Once we understand our condition, we can discover what Christianity is about.  2. Christianity is about recognising The Good News. Our God is amazing: He is not only just, but He also provided the sacrifice to cover our debt. There are no human efforts, no good thoughts or deeds, good enough to reach heaven. Nothing is enough except the Good News of Jesus' sacrifice. Jesus took our place of condemnation, guilt and shame, and exchanged it for His freedom (Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Ephesians 2:8-9). The good news is that there is a way to enjoy eternal life, there is hope. The Gospel never says tomorrow is the day of salvation, it says it is today (2 Corinthians 6:2)! Today, there is hope for you, for your family, and for whatever your current situation is. This hope is found at the Cross of Jesus. Christianity isn't about rules, rituals, or trying harder to be perfect. It's about relationship, knowing Jesus for yourself, walking with Him, and hearing His voice. Today you can one step to get to know Jesus, then take another to develop friendship with Him, and you will be on the road to the greatest decision of your life: to walk with Him for the rest of your life (John 15:13–15). Jesus calls you friend, and Jesus laid down His life for you. It means that He became the bridge between you and God the Father. A real friend is honest with you and confronts you in love. Someone who lifts you up in difficult moments and someone who challenges you to be better person. That real friend is Jesus.  3. Christianity is recognising the need for repentance. This is when the Gospel comes to life. We can see that we haven't done good, and that there is Good News, but this is still not discovering real Christianity unless you accept, embrace and believe this good news - and it starts with your repentance. To repent means “To change one's mind”, which means: taking personal responsibility for your sins; acknowledging that sin is first and foremost against God; realising that sin is at the core of who we are as humans; and knowing that we offer nothing that can excuse or offset our sin. Repentance is a turning point. If you repent of your sins, it means that from today you will bear different fruit, change your habits, decide to stop living a certain way and to turn back to God (Luke 3:8a). When you understand Jesus' teaching and hold onto it, you will be set free (John 8:31-32). Repentance is taking the step to recognise and seek God, like the prodigal Son, who we read in the Bible decided to repent and turn back to the father when he was living a life of sin (Acts 3:19).  4. Christianity is about receiving a new life. If you have recognised your sins, you recognise the good news, and repent, you are ready to start a new life. Jesus is the only one who was born without sin. When you come to Him you are clothed in righteousness, He cleanses your sins, and He changes your life (John 14:6; Romans: 6:23). There is the power in encountering Jesus. You can be free from the burden of sin and receive eternal life in Jesus. When we receive this new life, it transforms us, changing us from the inside, and it will allow us to love others, including our enemies. It gives us hope for the future, and means we can change the course of history (Galatians 2:20). Enjoy this new opportunity and share the good news with others, including you family, colleagues, and neighbours. 

The Bible is the greatest book for all times and all seasons. It is justifiably called the Book of Books for there is no other book in the world like it. The Bible is the very foundation of Judeo/Christian civilisation. It has shaped the identity of Britain, the USA and many other nations.    At this current moment in history where so many seek to destroy those foundations, it is the unchanging truths of the Bible that hold the keys to our future destiny. The Bible declares itself to be the very Word of God which can rescue and restore us as individuals, as families and whole societies.    In the coming weeks we will be looking afresh at some parts of scripture that provide great light and hope when we face darkness and uncertainty from the second part of the book of Isaiah. Isaiah is one of the greatest prophets in the Bible if not the greatest, well known to both Jews and Christians. His name means ‘God is salvation' and he lived in the 8th Century BC. The traditional view is that all 66 chapters of the book of Isaiah were written by one man, Isaiah, possibly in two periods around 700 BC and around 681 BC.    The book of Isaiah has been described as the Bible in miniature. There are 66 books of the Bible and 66 chapters in Isaiah. As the Bible is divided into two Testaments, so Isaiah may be divided in two parts. The first 39 chapters correspond to the Old Testament's 39 books and cover similar themes. The last 27 chapters correspond to the New Testament's 27 books and also contain material crucial to our understanding of the life and ministry of Jesus.      The first part of Isaiah, in 39 mainly depressing chapters, deals with God's judgement of persistent sin and rebellion against God and prophesies the destruction of Jerusalem and the exile of the Jews into captivity in Babylon. In Babylon the people of God would be depressed, dispirited and despairing of anything ever going right again. They would seem to have lost everything: their culture, their temple, their spiritual focus, their national identity, their hope. Hostile foreign forces had conquered.    But all was not lost…just as all is not lost for you, for your family, for the Christian church and for this nation and the nations of the world. For in Isaiah chapters 40-66 there is a dramatic change. Against all expectations, the prophet begins to speak words of hope that promised a great reversal of fortunes. The exile would end. The Persians would overthrow the Babylonians. Cyrus, the Persian leader of a world power, would look favourably on them. He would help the Jews return to their homeland and assist in the re-building of the Temple…a temple that would, in fact see greater glory than the previous one.    So, despite their bleak past and uncertain present, their future was bright. They would know recovery and restoration. God had not abandoned them. He was for them, and though it seemed hard to believe, He would work an amazing turnaround for them.    These chapters then in this second part of Isaiah point forward not only to a new hope for the Jews, but to the future hope for the whole world through the coming of the Messiah, Jesus, and ultimately an eternal new Messianic age of righteousness and peace. For us living in the times that we do the powerful prophecies of Messiah could not be more relevant or applicable. We see from Isaiah 40:1-5 that: 1. God is a God of consolation (Isaiah 40:1-2; Lamentations 1:2,16; John 14:16-18,26-27; John 15:26) 2. God calls us to preparation (Isaiah 40:3-4; Luke 3:2-3) 3. God will give great revelation (Isaiah 40:5; Isaiah 60:1-3)  Apply  1. God is a God of consolation (Isaiah 40:1-2). Both God and His prophet knew that the people were shaken by their tough experiences. They were carrying great pain and hurt. They were anxious and uncertain (Lamentations 1:2,16). They couldn't have taken any more hits. It would have finished them off. They needed comfort and help. That is like so many people today. Millions of people are hurting. Life has been hard and harsh. Today, behind many a composed outward appearance, are people who feel inwardly ripped apart, whose smiles and varied attempts to find some happiness disguise an aching heart. Maybe you identify with this. Life has not been easy. Your family has all kinds of problems and complications. Your marriage has not worked out. You have been bereaved of loved ones. You have been badly treated by others. You have been let down and you have let yourself down. Maybe you have made some big mistakes, and you have taken wrong turns that have been very painful. Maybe you acutely feel a sense of guilt for sins you have committed. God's attitude here is that He wants to comfort you. He wants to speak tenderly not harshly to you. He wants to declare forgiveness to you. The comfort we can receive stems from the message that “her sin has been paid for.” This is the heart of the gospel. God loves you so much He didn't just feel something for you, He did something for you. Jesus Christ died on the Cross to pay the price of your sin, to bring you out of exile and free you from whatever has held you captive. The comfort we can receive stems from the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Jesus knew his followers would face a hostile world, but He promised them He would not leave them as orphans (John 14:16-18,26-27; John 15:26). Today if you need to be comforted, you can be comforted by the presence of the Holy Spirit. You can feel the love of Jesus that drives out fear. You can know an inner peace because you know that God is with you.  2. God calls us to preparation (Isaiah 40:3-4). In the harshest of circumstances when even whole nations can think that they are in a barren wilderness, God prepares a way for people to receive Him, just as John the Baptist ministered in the wilderness to prepare the way for the ministry of Jesus (Luke 3:2-3). So often God prepares individuals and even nations to know Him through wilderness times of great difficulty and even tragedy. He wants to prepare us for what He plans to do to restore us. In some cases, preparation means being lifted up. You may be down in life, but you are not out. God wants you to stop seeing yourself as a victim, a nobody, a failure. He wants to show you how much you are loved and valued and how much you can accomplish in life with His help. He wants to raise you up to be blessed and a blessing in your generation. In some cases, preparation means being brought low. The Bible says God resists the proud. To be truly blessed and used by God you need to stop being so independent and self-sufficient and learn to submit to and rely on the Lord. Since every mountain and hill needs to be made low without exception, everyone needs to take care to humble yourself rather than having to be brought low by God. In some cases preparation means being healed and made whole. When you allow the Holy Spirit to work in your life, you will be amazed how much He can heal your heart and smooth out your circumstances. Whatever you and your family, or even whole nations, are going through, be sure that God is at work preparing the way of the Lord.  3. God will give great revelation (Isaiah 40:5). God's glory and manifest presence have been experienced in many revivals. But the greatest displays of His glory are ahead for the church and the world. It will happen and it will affect everyone. His supernatural glory will totally surpass any human glory. And it can happen in a moment as the shepherds in Bethlehem's fields discovered when the ‘glory of the Lord' so suddenly shone around them. God's glory will be seen in our very dark world and we must arise and shine that light for all to see (Isaiah 60:1-3). You may have been in captivity, but you don't have to stay there. God has a destiny for you, to rescue you and restore you. You may feel very bruised and tender, but His love is toward you. You may need to be built up in your self-esteem or brought down in your pride or healed in your heart, but God wants to prepare you to know His glory, goodness and grace. Today, open your life fully to the Lord. Ask for and receive His forgiveness. Seek and receive comfort through the presence of The Comforter, the Holy Spirit. 

The Bible is the greatest book for all times and all seasons. It is justifiably called the Book of Books for there is no other book in the world like it. The Bible is the very foundation of Judeo/Christian civilisation. It has shaped the identity of Britain, the USA and many other nations.    At this current moment in history where so many seek to destroy those foundations, it is the unchanging truths of the Bible that hold the keys to our future destiny. The Bible declares itself to be the very Word of God which can rescue and restore us as individuals, as families and whole societies.    In the coming weeks we will be looking afresh at some parts of scripture that provide great light and hope when we face darkness and uncertainty from the second part of the book of Isaiah. Isaiah is one of the greatest prophets in the Bible if not the greatest, well known to both Jews and Christians. His name means ‘God is salvation' and he lived in the 8th Century BC. The traditional view is that all 66 chapters of the book of Isaiah were written by one man, Isaiah, possibly in two periods around 700 BC and around 681 BC.    The book of Isaiah has been described as the Bible in miniature. There are 66 books of the Bible and 66 chapters in Isaiah. As the Bible is divided into two Testaments, so Isaiah may be divided in two parts. The first 39 chapters correspond to the Old Testament's 39 books and cover similar themes. The last 27 chapters correspond to the New Testament's 27 books and also contain material crucial to our understanding of the life and ministry of Jesus.      The first part of Isaiah, in 39 mainly depressing chapters, deals with God's judgement of persistent sin and rebellion against God and prophesies the destruction of Jerusalem and the exile of the Jews into captivity in Babylon. In Babylon the people of God would be depressed, dispirited and despairing of anything ever going right again. They would seem to have lost everything: their culture, their temple, their spiritual focus, their national identity, their hope. Hostile foreign forces had conquered.    But all was not lost…just as all is not lost for you, for your family, for the Christian church and for this nation and the nations of the world. For in Isaiah chapters 40-66 there is a dramatic change. Against all expectations, the prophet begins to speak words of hope that promised a great reversal of fortunes. The exile would end. The Persians would overthrow the Babylonians. Cyrus, the Persian leader of a world power, would look favourably on them. He would help the Jews return to their homeland and assist in the re-building of the Temple…a temple that would, in fact see greater glory than the previous one.    So, despite their bleak past and uncertain present, their future was bright. They would know recovery and restoration. God had not abandoned them. He was for them, and though it seemed hard to believe, He would work an amazing turnaround for them.    These chapters then in this second part of Isaiah point forward not only to a new hope for the Jews, but to the future hope for the whole world through the coming of the Messiah, Jesus, and ultimately an eternal new Messianic age of righteousness and peace. For us living in the times that we do the powerful prophecies of Messiah could not be more relevant or applicable. We see from Isaiah 40:1-5 that: 1. God is a God of consolation (Isaiah 40:1-2; Lamentations 1:2,16; John 14:16-18,26-27; John 15:26) 2. God calls us to preparation (Isaiah 40:3-4; Luke 3:2-3) 3. God will give great revelation (Isaiah 40:5; Isaiah 60:1-3)  Apply  1. God is a God of consolation (Isaiah 40:1-2). Both God and His prophet knew that the people were shaken by their tough experiences. They were carrying great pain and hurt. They were anxious and uncertain (Lamentations 1:2,16). They couldn't have taken any more hits. It would have finished them off. They needed comfort and help. That is like so many people today. Millions of people are hurting. Life has been hard and harsh. Today, behind many a composed outward appearance, are people who feel inwardly ripped apart, whose smiles and varied attempts to find some happiness disguise an aching heart. Maybe you identify with this. Life has not been easy. Your family has all kinds of problems and complications. Your marriage has not worked out. You have been bereaved of loved ones. You have been badly treated by others. You have been let down and you have let yourself down. Maybe you have made some big mistakes, and you have taken wrong turns that have been very painful. Maybe you acutely feel a sense of guilt for sins you have committed. God's attitude here is that He wants to comfort you. He wants to speak tenderly not harshly to you. He wants to declare forgiveness to you. The comfort we can receive stems from the message that “her sin has been paid for.” This is the heart of the gospel. God loves you so much He didn't just feel something for you, He did something for you. Jesus Christ died on the Cross to pay the price of your sin, to bring you out of exile and free you from whatever has held you captive. The comfort we can receive stems from the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Jesus knew his followers would face a hostile world, but He promised them He would not leave them as orphans (John 14:16-18,26-27; John 15:26). Today if you need to be comforted, you can be comforted by the presence of the Holy Spirit. You can feel the love of Jesus that drives out fear. You can know an inner peace because you know that God is with you.  2. God calls us to preparation (Isaiah 40:3-4). In the harshest of circumstances when even whole nations can think that they are in a barren wilderness, God prepares a way for people to receive Him, just as John the Baptist ministered in the wilderness to prepare the way for the ministry of Jesus (Luke 3:2-3). So often God prepares individuals and even nations to know Him through wilderness times of great difficulty and even tragedy. He wants to prepare us for what He plans to do to restore us. In some cases, preparation means being lifted up. You may be down in life, but you are not out. God wants you to stop seeing yourself as a victim, a nobody, a failure. He wants to show you how much you are loved and valued and how much you can accomplish in life with His help. He wants to raise you up to be blessed and a blessing in your generation. In some cases, preparation means being brought low. The Bible says God resists the proud. To be truly blessed and used by God you need to stop being so independent and self-sufficient and learn to submit to and rely on the Lord. Since every mountain and hill needs to be made low without exception, everyone needs to take care to humble yourself rather than having to be brought low by God. In some cases preparation means being healed and made whole. When you allow the Holy Spirit to work in your life, you will be amazed how much He can heal your heart and smooth out your circumstances. Whatever you and your family, or even whole nations, are going through, be sure that God is at work preparing the way of the Lord.  3. God will give great revelation (Isaiah 40:5). God's glory and manifest presence have been experienced in many revivals. But the greatest displays of His glory are ahead for the church and the world. It will happen and it will affect everyone. His supernatural glory will totally surpass any human glory. And it can happen in a moment as the shepherds in Bethlehem's fields discovered when the ‘glory of the Lord' so suddenly shone around them. God's glory will be seen in our very dark world and we must arise and shine that light for all to see (Isaiah 60:1-3). You may have been in captivity, but you don't have to stay there. God has a destiny for you, to rescue you and restore you. You may feel very bruised and tender, but His love is toward you. You may need to be built up in your self-esteem or brought down in your pride or healed in your heart, but God wants to prepare you to know His glory, goodness and grace. Today, open your life fully to the Lord. Ask for and receive His forgiveness. Seek and receive comfort through the presence of The Comforter, the Holy Spirit. 

We live in a time of significant change. Every one of us is aware of this with the events of this week - the marches in London, and the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk, one of the world's most influential Christian voices, especially among young people. It has shaken the world. He was one of the loudest Christian voices of our time. He wasn't afraid to speak the truth boldly or to stand for the Gospel unashamedly. He stepped into hard conversations, challenged controversial issues, and showed young people what it looks like to live with courage and conviction. His reach was vast with millions of social media followers and YouTube subscribers. Through campus tours and viral videos, at just 31 years of age, his message touched millions of young lives worldwide. But his sudden death shocked the world. And what was even more shocking was the response of some: people laughing, mocking, even celebrating.   That reaction exposed the clear divide between the kingdom of light and the kingdom of darkness. And this is significant. The enemy would love to silence that kind of passion, to dim the light of courage. But we mustn't let that happen. This is our moment, let this be a wake-up call. We cannot stay silent nor comfortable. When darkness gets louder, the light must shine brighter. If the enemy is bold, then God's people must be bolder. We are called to rise up, to speak truth without fear, to love without compromise, and to carry the Gospel with urgency like never before. This is not a time to shrink back, this is a time to stand up.    Last week, we honoured the life of Pastor Terry, and Pastor Wes referenced from Isaiah 6, that “In the year King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord.” When one generation had passed it was time for another generation to come through. As the long-time King had finished his reign, it was the moment for Isaiah to start his ministry.   This theme was very much on the mind of the apostle Paul when he was coming to the end of his life. Paul had had an amazing ministry spreading the gospel in a hostile culture and establishing great churches all over the Roman empire. The Roman Empire was powerful, brutal, sensual, and antichrist to its core. And yet the Christianity spread like wildfire across the world, with passion and in the power of the Holy Spirit. Paul, once a great enemy of the church until he had a life-changing encounter, was at the heart of it. But he realised his time was coming to an end. 2 Timothy 4:6-7: ‘the time for my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.'    Now his big focus was to see that his spiritual descendants, like Timothy who was a true spiritual son, would take up the baton and pass the faith onto many others. And so he laid out instructions of what Timothy would have to now focus on (2 Timothy 4:1-6). Paul's words are not just historical, they are a challenge to us today and to everyone, especially younger people, who are called to step up in our generation. But how do we do it? How do we pick up the baton and carry the Gospel forward with courage and conviction? 1. We need to preach boldly (2 Timothy 4:2; Mark 16:15; 1 Timothy 4:13,16) 2. We need to always be ready (2 Timothy 4:2; 1 Peter 3:15; Colossians 4:5-6) 3. We need to train up disciples (2 Timothy 4:2; 2 Timothy 3:16; Matthew 28:20) 4. We need to teach patiently (2 Timothy 4:2; Acts 11; 2 Timothy 2:24-25; Proverbs 22:6) 5. We need to keep calm in all circumstances (2 Timothy 4:5; 2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV) 6. We need to endure (2 Timothy 4:5; Philippians 1:21) 7. We need to complete the work we are given (2 Timothy 4:5; 1 Corinthians 15:58) Apply  1. We need to preach boldly (2 Timothy 4:2). This was Jesus' call to His disciples as He sent them out (Mark 16:15). It's the same instruction Paul gave to Timothy, and it is the same call for every believer, to go far and wide and share the good news: that through Jesus, the Son of God, we can be forgiven of our sin and that there is eternal life for those to choose to believe in Him. The world doesn't need us to teach opinions; people not only need our testimony of what God has done in our life, but they need The Word of God too. This is what Charlie Kirk did so boldly going to campuses to share the gospel, to debate issues, to challenge ungodly indoctrination and to answer questions. Firstly we must focus on the Bible ourselves (1 Timothy 4:13,16). Each one of us must know the word at a new level, we must go deeper. We must go deeper. We must hunger to learn more in our devotional time with God every day so that we can teach the word effectively to those in our community. Then don't just store up knowledge for ourselves, rather we are called to preach to gospel and give witness.   2. We need to always be ready (2 Timothy 4:2). Whatever the weather Timothy had to be ready to share the word of God: in the highs, lows, moments of convenience and inconvenience. Sharing the word isn't just for a Sunday or a Life Group meeting. Opportunities to speak life come at unexpected times: lunch breaks, coffee shops, even on social media. At late night and early morning people are crying out for help. We are in a world where so many people are plagued by depression and under the hold of darkness, and Jesus is the answer. The enemy is trying everything he can to spread lies. We need to stand up and speak the truth (1 Peter 3:15; Colossians 4:5-6). Christians in our nation have been silent for too long, living in the comfort of their own beliefs, but it is time to break out from our comfort zones where the enemy wants to keep us, and go out boldly with God's word in our mouths to make the most of every opportunity.   3. We need to train up disciples (2 Timothy 4:2). Few like correction but it is necessary for growth. Timothy had to learn to disciple others through the word of God, and true discipleship includes correction and rebuke, but always with love (2 Timothy 3:16). Jesus commissioned His disciples to go out and make disciples of all nations, and that people needed to be trained to obey Him (Matthew 28:20). We have to disciple people lovingly, training them in the word and helping them to develop a strong, enduring faith so they will have the character of Jesus, be sensitive to the Holy Spirit, have conviction of right from wrong, confess their sins, and live in humility under God's authority.   4. We need to teach patiently (2 Timothy 4:2). Paul knew a lot about patience. When the first Christians were won in Antioch, in Acts 11 we read he spent a year there with Barnabas teaching a great number of people. They invested a whole year training the people in the word and about the principles of the God. Paul showed patience with Timothy, mentoring him over time, encouraging him despite his youth and his fears. He gave Timothy careful instructions and reminders, trusting him with responsibility and strengthening his confidence in ministry. We must be like the farmer, sowing the seed of the truth of God and patiently tending the soil so that in time our hearers blossom and become mature in their understanding. Jesus showed patience with His disciples by teaching and correcting them even when they doubted or failed. He used their mistakes as lessons and continued to guide them with love, preparing them to carry His message. And they were prepared (2 Timothy 2:24-25; Proverbs 22:6). In the same way, we must be patient to train new baby Christians so that through every situation they shall have steadfast faith in God.   5. We need to keep calm in all circumstances (2 Timothy 4:5). Paul was urging Timothy to stay calm and steady in his faith, even when challenges came. Opposition, lies, and challenges will come - but stay steady. Keep your eyes on Jesus and your mission (2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV). We need the wisdom and council of the Holy Spirit to keep us on track and sweet. To see beneath the depths of others resistance to the root at the heart.   6. We need to endure (2 Timothy 4:5). Paul's life was a living example to Timothy of keeping going in all circumstances. He stayed steady in faith through shipwrecks, beatings, and prison, never letting hardship stop him. He devoted himself to spreading the gospel everywhere he went, and he faithfully carried out the mission God gave him right to the end of his life. Paul was totally sold out to being a faithful witness for Christ whatever the troubles and pressures (Philippians 1:21). Have you given yourself fully to God?  7. We need to complete the work we are given (2 Timothy 4:5). We need to complete the work God has called us to do. We need to evangelise, to disciple new believers, and serve His ministry. This nation will change when we let our light shine. It is time to take the lamp out from under a bowl and tell this nation what Jesus has done for us (1 Corinthians 15:58). God is calling us to a new level of commitment. Go deeper in the Word, win souls, train disciples, endure hardships, and fully commit to the mission. Every believer has a role. So let us rise, shine, and proclaim Jesus boldly to a world in desperate need. Now is the time to pick up the baton.

We live in a time of significant change. Every one of us is aware of this with the events of this week - the marches in London, and the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk, one of the world's most influential Christian voices, especially among young people. It has shaken the world. He was one of the loudest Christian voices of our time. He wasn't afraid to speak the truth boldly or to stand for the Gospel unashamedly. He stepped into hard conversations, challenged controversial issues, and showed young people what it looks like to live with courage and conviction. His reach was vast with millions of social media followers and YouTube subscribers. Through campus tours and viral videos, at just 31 years of age, his message touched millions of young lives worldwide. But his sudden death shocked the world. And what was even more shocking was the response of some: people laughing, mocking, even celebrating.   That reaction exposed the clear divide between the kingdom of light and the kingdom of darkness. And this is significant. The enemy would love to silence that kind of passion, to dim the light of courage. But we mustn't let that happen. This is our moment, let this be a wake-up call. We cannot stay silent nor comfortable. When darkness gets louder, the light must shine brighter. If the enemy is bold, then God's people must be bolder. We are called to rise up, to speak truth without fear, to love without compromise, and to carry the Gospel with urgency like never before. This is not a time to shrink back, this is a time to stand up.    Last week, we honoured the life of Pastor Terry, and Pastor Wes referenced from Isaiah 6, that “In the year King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord.” When one generation had passed it was time for another generation to come through. As the long-time King had finished his reign, it was the moment for Isaiah to start his ministry.   This theme was very much on the mind of the apostle Paul when he was coming to the end of his life. Paul had had an amazing ministry spreading the gospel in a hostile culture and establishing great churches all over the Roman empire. The Roman Empire was powerful, brutal, sensual, and antichrist to its core. And yet the Christianity spread like wildfire across the world, with passion and in the power of the Holy Spirit. Paul, once a great enemy of the church until he had a life-changing encounter, was at the heart of it. But he realised his time was coming to an end. 2 Timothy 4:6-7: ‘the time for my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.'    Now his big focus was to see that his spiritual descendants, like Timothy who was a true spiritual son, would take up the baton and pass the faith onto many others. And so he laid out instructions of what Timothy would have to now focus on (2 Timothy 4:1-6). Paul's words are not just historical, they are a challenge to us today and to everyone, especially younger people, who are called to step up in our generation. But how do we do it? How do we pick up the baton and carry the Gospel forward with courage and conviction? 1. We need to preach boldly (2 Timothy 4:2; Mark 16:15; 1 Timothy 4:13,16) 2. We need to always be ready (2 Timothy 4:2; 1 Peter 3:15; Colossians 4:5-6) 3. We need to train up disciples (2 Timothy 4:2; 2 Timothy 3:16; Matthew 28:20) 4. We need to teach patiently (2 Timothy 4:2; Acts 11; 2 Timothy 2:24-25; Proverbs 22:6) 5. We need to keep calm in all circumstances (2 Timothy 4:5; 2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV) 6. We need to endure (2 Timothy 4:5; Philippians 1:21) 7. We need to complete the work we are given (2 Timothy 4:5; 1 Corinthians 15:58) Apply  1. We need to preach boldly (2 Timothy 4:2). This was Jesus' call to His disciples as He sent them out (Mark 16:15). It's the same instruction Paul gave to Timothy, and it is the same call for every believer, to go far and wide and share the good news: that through Jesus, the Son of God, we can be forgiven of our sin and that there is eternal life for those to choose to believe in Him. The world doesn't need us to teach opinions; people not only need our testimony of what God has done in our life, but they need The Word of God too. This is what Charlie Kirk did so boldly going to campuses to share the gospel, to debate issues, to challenge ungodly indoctrination and to answer questions. Firstly we must focus on the Bible ourselves (1 Timothy 4:13,16). Each one of us must know the word at a new level, we must go deeper. We must go deeper. We must hunger to learn more in our devotional time with God every day so that we can teach the word effectively to those in our community. Then don't just store up knowledge for ourselves, rather we are called to preach to gospel and give witness.   2. We need to always be ready (2 Timothy 4:2). Whatever the weather Timothy had to be ready to share the word of God: in the highs, lows, moments of convenience and inconvenience. Sharing the word isn't just for a Sunday or a Life Group meeting. Opportunities to speak life come at unexpected times: lunch breaks, coffee shops, even on social media. At late night and early morning people are crying out for help. We are in a world where so many people are plagued by depression and under the hold of darkness, and Jesus is the answer. The enemy is trying everything he can to spread lies. We need to stand up and speak the truth (1 Peter 3:15; Colossians 4:5-6). Christians in our nation have been silent for too long, living in the comfort of their own beliefs, but it is time to break out from our comfort zones where the enemy wants to keep us, and go out boldly with God's word in our mouths to make the most of every opportunity.   3. We need to train up disciples (2 Timothy 4:2). Few like correction but it is necessary for growth. Timothy had to learn to disciple others through the word of God, and true discipleship includes correction and rebuke, but always with love (2 Timothy 3:16). Jesus commissioned His disciples to go out and make disciples of all nations, and that people needed to be trained to obey Him (Matthew 28:20). We have to disciple people lovingly, training them in the word and helping them to develop a strong, enduring faith so they will have the character of Jesus, be sensitive to the Holy Spirit, have conviction of right from wrong, confess their sins, and live in humility under God's authority.   4. We need to teach patiently (2 Timothy 4:2). Paul knew a lot about patience. When the first Christians were won in Antioch, in Acts 11 we read he spent a year there with Barnabas teaching a great number of people. They invested a whole year training the people in the word and about the principles of the God. Paul showed patience with Timothy, mentoring him over time, encouraging him despite his youth and his fears. He gave Timothy careful instructions and reminders, trusting him with responsibility and strengthening his confidence in ministry. We must be like the farmer, sowing the seed of the truth of God and patiently tending the soil so that in time our hearers blossom and become mature in their understanding. Jesus showed patience with His disciples by teaching and correcting them even when they doubted or failed. He used their mistakes as lessons and continued to guide them with love, preparing them to carry His message. And they were prepared (2 Timothy 2:24-25; Proverbs 22:6). In the same way, we must be patient to train new baby Christians so that through every situation they shall have steadfast faith in God.   5. We need to keep calm in all circumstances (2 Timothy 4:5). Paul was urging Timothy to stay calm and steady in his faith, even when challenges came. Opposition, lies, and challenges will come - but stay steady. Keep your eyes on Jesus and your mission (2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV). We need the wisdom and council of the Holy Spirit to keep us on track and sweet. To see beneath the depths of others resistance to the root at the heart.   6. We need to endure (2 Timothy 4:5). Paul's life was a living example to Timothy of keeping going in all circumstances. He stayed steady in faith through shipwrecks, beatings, and prison, never letting hardship stop him. He devoted himself to spreading the gospel everywhere he went, and he faithfully carried out the mission God gave him right to the end of his life. Paul was totally sold out to being a faithful witness for Christ whatever the troubles and pressures (Philippians 1:21). Have you given yourself fully to God?  7. We need to complete the work we are given (2 Timothy 4:5). We need to complete the work God has called us to do. We need to evangelise, to disciple new believers, and serve His ministry. This nation will change when we let our light shine. It is time to take the lamp out from under a bowl and tell this nation what Jesus has done for us (1 Corinthians 15:58). God is calling us to a new level of commitment. Go deeper in the Word, win souls, train disciples, endure hardships, and fully commit to the mission. Every believer has a role. So let us rise, shine, and proclaim Jesus boldly to a world in desperate need. Now is the time to pick up the baton.

Our world today is in a time of great upheaval. From Russia and the Ukraine, Israel and the Middle East, Iran and North Korea, China and Taiwan, there is intensifying political, military, economic and social instability, as well as in South Africa and the U.K. So where is God when it seems the very foundations of whole nations are shaking? Is there any hope when everything seems hopeless? And how do we cope in times of great change in our personal lives especially when people we knew and loved are no longer with us?   Only this week we in King's Church International have faced a moment of irreversible transition with the passing of one of our well-loved and most faithful pastors. A former atheist, Pastor Terry Beasley served in countless roles for over six decades since becoming a Christian at the age of 16 until his death this week at the age of 79. For so many people, both locally and in other nations, he was part of the ever-dependable fabric of our lives, always willing to help people spiritually, practically and emotionally. He was a wonderful husband to his equally faithful wife Margaret for almost 57 years. He was a devoted father and grandfather, a wise community and church leader and not least he was our Senior Pastor's closest friend since school days and an ever-dependable supporter who helped him through many seasons of life and ministry.    When we lose such sincere, life enhancing people like this, when we see the state of the world around us, it's like experiencing an earthquake when the very ground we have stood on is being shaken. And yet it is at such times that we can find a sure foundation and hope for the future by discovering God and His unshakable kingdom.   Isaiah 6:1-8 begins ‘In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord.' Uzziah, also known as Azariah, was one of Judah's greatest Kings who reigned for 52 years. In the earlier part of his kingship, under the influence of his godly advisor Zechariah, Uzziah was faithful to God and did right in the Lord's eyes. However, Uzziah's success made him proud leading to his downfall and death around 740 BC.   `Pastor Terry in contrast remained faithful to the Lord all his life but now he too has suddenly gone. Yet we, like Isaiah in the time of the removal of someone who had always been part of his life, can also experience what happened to Isaiah. For it was in the very season that the old had ended, something new was happening. In a season of death, new life was emerging. In the time of great darkness, there came new light. What Isaiah experienced in a year of major change gave him a whole new perception of the condition of his own life and about the future direction of his life.  1. He had a new vision of God (Isaiah 6:1; Job 26:9; Psalm 9:4-7; Lamentations 5:19; Ezekiel 1:26; Daniel 7:9; Revelation 4:1-11; Isaiah 6:2-4) 2. He had a life changing encounter with God (Isaiah 6:5-7; John 16:8; 1 John 1:9) 3. He received and obeyed a strong call from God (Isaiah 6:8-9) Apply  1. He had a new vision of God. He had a vision of God who is high above everything (Isaiah 6:1). The God of the Bible is far above every other power and ruler. He is God Almighty, the ‘great God' that Handel said he glimpsed as he wrote The Messiah. This awesome God is the ultimate and eternal authority over all creation: the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Like Isaiah, many people in the Bible who had a vision of God in heaven spoke of God's throne (Job 26:9; David in Psalm 9:4-7; Jeremiah in Lamentations 5:19; Ezekiel 1:26; Daniel 7:9; & the Apostle John in Revelation 4:1-11). Isaiah may have been depressed or discouraged because a great leader of Judah was no longer on the throne. But then Isaiah had a vision of God in heaven. Despite Uzziah no longer being on his throne, God was still on His. And that remains true today in every changing circumstance of life. For always the Lord reigns over all. He also had a vision of a Holy God (Isaiah 6:2-4). Isaiah had a revelation of heavenly beings who constantly spoke of the holiness and glory of God. The name seraphim means “burning ones.” Holiness means that God is set apart from any other being by His perfection and purity. Holiness in the Bible refers to a majestic God whose character is without any flaw and whose awesome presence changes everything and everyone who experiences it. Just one experience, even one glimpse of a holy God, will change your whole life and perspective, just as it changed Isaiah's.  2. He had a life changing encounter with God. He saw what a sinner he was (Isaiah 6:5-7). When Isaiah saw the intense brightness of a holy God, he suddenly felt very dirty. Any self-righteousness he may have had was immediately stripped away. He felt that he was ruined because he was so unclean and living among people who were so unclean. This awareness and confession of sin is essential if we are to find God, and is one of the roles of the Holy Spirit (John 16:8). You cannot find God when you try to make out how good you are, but only when you recognise how bad you are and how great is your need of God to make you clean. In the same moment Isaiah admitted how sinful he was, he discovered how God could remove his sin, and experienced great forgiveness and cleansing (Isaiah 6:6-7). Isaiah had a powerful experience of being forgiven and freed from guilt. He discovered what the Bible calls grace. That's why Jesus, God in human form, came to shed His pure blood so that we could all be cleaned up on the inside and come to know friendship and fellowship with a holy God (1 John 1:9). Not only can we be washed clean by the blood of Jesus, we can also be touched in our lives and the words of our lips by the fire of the Holy Spirit just as the first disciples experienced on the Day of Pentecost. William Booth, founder of the Salvation Army, prayed ‘God of burning cleansing fire' give us ‘strength to ever do the right and power to walk the world in white.' The Salvation Army logo has long been Blood and Fire. Every one of us needs a pivotal encounter with God that William Booth and Isaiah experienced.  3. He received and obeyed a strong call from God. He heard God calling for people to represent Him (Isaiah 6:8). God was looking to recruit Isaiah to represent Him and to go and speak to his generation for Him. Isaiah was given the clear and tough task of proclaiming coming judgement to a rebellious and God-rejecting nation. It was a far from popular message, but God wanted to give every opportunity to those who would listen and repent. Isaiah's response to this great challenge was positive, deciding to obey the call of God on his life (Isaiah 6:8-9). Isaiah made himself totally available to God, committing to be sent, to go, do and say what God wanted. Today in this turbulent moment of history in our nation and in the nations, God is calling to every one of His followers to be fully dedicated to Him. Will you be a man or woman to answer the call of God? Will you as young people become unashamed ambassadors to your generation? Will you stand in the gap to carry the gospel torch that Pastor Terry has now laid down? Will you faithfully tell the good news of Jesus? Will you be a preacher, teacher, pastor or evangelist? Will you be His representative in your home, neighbourhood, workplace and society? Will you say ‘Lord here I am, send me'? 

Our world today is in a time of great upheaval. From Russia and the Ukraine, Israel and the Middle East, Iran and North Korea, China and Taiwan, there is intensifying political, military, economic and social instability, as well as in South Africa and the U.K. So where is God when it seems the very foundations of whole nations are shaking? Is there any hope when everything seems hopeless? And how do we cope in times of great change in our personal lives especially when people we knew and loved are no longer with us?   Only this week we in King's Church International have faced a moment of irreversible transition with the passing of one of our well-loved and most faithful pastors. A former atheist, Pastor Terry Beasley served in countless roles for over six decades since becoming a Christian at the age of 16 until his death this week at the age of 79. For so many people, both locally and in other nations, he was part of the ever-dependable fabric of our lives, always willing to help people spiritually, practically and emotionally. He was a wonderful husband to his equally faithful wife Margaret for almost 57 years. He was a devoted father and grandfather, a wise community and church leader and not least he was our Senior Pastor's closest friend since school days and an ever-dependable supporter who helped him through many seasons of life and ministry.    When we lose such sincere, life enhancing people like this, when we see the state of the world around us, it's like experiencing an earthquake when the very ground we have stood on is being shaken. And yet it is at such times that we can find a sure foundation and hope for the future by discovering God and His unshakable kingdom.   Isaiah 6:1-8 begins ‘In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord.' Uzziah, also known as Azariah, was one of Judah's greatest Kings who reigned for 52 years. In the earlier part of his kingship, under the influence of his godly advisor Zechariah, Uzziah was faithful to God and did right in the Lord's eyes. However, Uzziah's success made him proud leading to his downfall and death around 740 BC.   `Pastor Terry in contrast remained faithful to the Lord all his life but now he too has suddenly gone. Yet we, like Isaiah in the time of the removal of someone who had always been part of his life, can also experience what happened to Isaiah. For it was in the very season that the old had ended, something new was happening. In a season of death, new life was emerging. In the time of great darkness, there came new light. What Isaiah experienced in a year of major change gave him a whole new perception of the condition of his own life and about the future direction of his life.  1. He had a new vision of God (Isaiah 6:1; Job 26:9; Psalm 9:4-7; Lamentations 5:19; Ezekiel 1:26; Daniel 7:9; Revelation 4:1-11; Isaiah 6:2-4) 2. He had a life changing encounter with God (Isaiah 6:5-7; John 16:8; 1 John 1:9) 3. He received and obeyed a strong call from God (Isaiah 6:8-9) Apply  1. He had a new vision of God. He had a vision of God who is high above everything (Isaiah 6:1). The God of the Bible is far above every other power and ruler. He is God Almighty, the ‘great God' that Handel said he glimpsed as he wrote The Messiah. This awesome God is the ultimate and eternal authority over all creation: the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Like Isaiah, many people in the Bible who had a vision of God in heaven spoke of God's throne (Job 26:9; David in Psalm 9:4-7; Jeremiah in Lamentations 5:19; Ezekiel 1:26; Daniel 7:9; & the Apostle John in Revelation 4:1-11). Isaiah may have been depressed or discouraged because a great leader of Judah was no longer on the throne. But then Isaiah had a vision of God in heaven. Despite Uzziah no longer being on his throne, God was still on His. And that remains true today in every changing circumstance of life. For always the Lord reigns over all. He also had a vision of a Holy God (Isaiah 6:2-4). Isaiah had a revelation of heavenly beings who constantly spoke of the holiness and glory of God. The name seraphim means “burning ones.” Holiness means that God is set apart from any other being by His perfection and purity. Holiness in the Bible refers to a majestic God whose character is without any flaw and whose awesome presence changes everything and everyone who experiences it. Just one experience, even one glimpse of a holy God, will change your whole life and perspective, just as it changed Isaiah's.  2. He had a life changing encounter with God. He saw what a sinner he was (Isaiah 6:5-7). When Isaiah saw the intense brightness of a holy God, he suddenly felt very dirty. Any self-righteousness he may have had was immediately stripped away. He felt that he was ruined because he was so unclean and living among people who were so unclean. This awareness and confession of sin is essential if we are to find God, and is one of the roles of the Holy Spirit (John 16:8). You cannot find God when you try to make out how good you are, but only when you recognise how bad you are and how great is your need of God to make you clean. In the same moment Isaiah admitted how sinful he was, he discovered how God could remove his sin, and experienced great forgiveness and cleansing (Isaiah 6:6-7). Isaiah had a powerful experience of being forgiven and freed from guilt. He discovered what the Bible calls grace. That's why Jesus, God in human form, came to shed His pure blood so that we could all be cleaned up on the inside and come to know friendship and fellowship with a holy God (1 John 1:9). Not only can we be washed clean by the blood of Jesus, we can also be touched in our lives and the words of our lips by the fire of the Holy Spirit just as the first disciples experienced on the Day of Pentecost. William Booth, founder of the Salvation Army, prayed ‘God of burning cleansing fire' give us ‘strength to ever do the right and power to walk the world in white.' The Salvation Army logo has long been Blood and Fire. Every one of us needs a pivotal encounter with God that William Booth and Isaiah experienced.  3. He received and obeyed a strong call from God. He heard God calling for people to represent Him (Isaiah 6:8). God was looking to recruit Isaiah to represent Him and to go and speak to his generation for Him. Isaiah was given the clear and tough task of proclaiming coming judgement to a rebellious and God-rejecting nation. It was a far from popular message, but God wanted to give every opportunity to those who would listen and repent. Isaiah's response to this great challenge was positive, deciding to obey the call of God on his life (Isaiah 6:8-9). Isaiah made himself totally available to God, committing to be sent, to go, do and say what God wanted. Today in this turbulent moment of history in our nation and in the nations, God is calling to every one of His followers to be fully dedicated to Him. Will you be a man or woman to answer the call of God? Will you as young people become unashamed ambassadors to your generation? Will you stand in the gap to carry the gospel torch that Pastor Terry has now laid down? Will you faithfully tell the good news of Jesus? Will you be a preacher, teacher, pastor or evangelist? Will you be His representative in your home, neighbourhood, workplace and society? Will you say ‘Lord here I am, send me'? 

As we have seen in our current series, many Christians may fail to grow up in their lives and in their faith. One of the root problems of modern Christianity is what Juan Carlos Ortiz has described as ‘The permanent childhood of the believer'. The apostle Paul understood that the various leadership roles in the church were to equip and mature the church (Ephesians 4:11-13).   Over the past weeks we have looked at different areas where we need to grow up. Now we conclude this series focusing on some more key ways in which we all need to grow up. These final 3 points bring us to a total of 18 areas of maturity which we will have covered in this series, in keeping with 18 being the age when you are considered an adult in the eyes of the law. Whether you or your parents like it or whether you feel ready for it, there very quickly comes a point when you can be entrusted with many opportunities and responsibilities, so you had better grow up. So, let's see these further points on what it means to be a mature Christian.  1. A mature Christian will serve others (Mark 10:43-45; Philippians 2:3) 2. A mature Christian takes responsibility for his decisions (Romans 14:12) 3. A mature Christian understands the role of parents (3 John 4:4; Colossians 1:9-10; 1 Corinthians 13: 11) Apply  1. A mature Christian will serve others (Mark 10:43-45). Jesus taught in contradiction to the teaching of this world which says that you live to satisfy your desires and dreams. When we come to Jesus, we find we are to focus on how we can serve and help others. Immaturity - self-serving and self-indulgent: The "gimme, gimme, gimme" philosophy is more prevalent in the Western community than we would care to imagine. We pray "God bless me, my family, bless my church, my group, my leaders, my job. God help me through this problem, this crisis, God use me.” It's all me, me, me…Many Christians approach God like a genie who will fulfil your wishes. However, Jesus was very specific in saying that the ways of the Kingdom of God are different. He taught His disciples to be servants, to help others first, support those in need, and to build God's house first. Maturity - serves others: In contrast to this, a mature Christian does “...nothing out of selfish ambition, vain conceit, but in humility considers others to be better than themselves” (Philippians 2:3). A mature Christian prays for and thinks about others first and tries to bless other people's families and groups. You look not only to your own interests, but to the interests of others. We shouldn't be waiting for the other person to act first: mature Christians don't wait to be served but look for the opportunity to serve others. When was the last time you served someone close to you, like your family, your leader or your neighbour? You can make the way in the busyness of home life to surprise someone with an act of service: don't wait until Christmas to help in the house with the big clean up or to prepare a nice meal for your family, or until your leader's birthday to say some words of appreciation. Don't wait until you've been asked to do something: excel with your attitude of service and your desire to help. Take time to pray for others, to share a word of encouragement with others. Charles Spurgeon said: “Hard work will do almost everything; but in God's service it must not only be hard work, but hot work. The heart must be on fire" To serve as Jesus did, our hearts must be in fire for Him.  2. A mature Christian takes responsibility for his decisions. Immaturity - someone else makes the big decisions: A baby, infant, or even an adolescent will not make major decisions on housing, finance or holidays. Those decisions are made by others. Someone else pays the rent or the mortgage, someone else decides where to go on holiday, where to stay. They simply go along for the ride. Someone else pays for the ticket. Some people's idea of discipleship would lead to the same situation. Many Christians make their decisions, but come to the pastor when the consequences hit, saying “pray for me, help me.” We need to know that we can chose our own decisions and must accept the consequences of our decisions (Romans 14:12). E.g. Lot in the Bible chose to leave his uncle Abram, a man of God, to pursue worldly wealth by moving his tents to the well-watered plain near the city of Sodom. But in the end, he got into big trouble and very bad company and had to be rescued by Abram. Maturity - you make the big decisions: Maturity means that as you grow up you take responsibility. You make decisions, you take risks, you face challenges, you launch out into the deep. You pioneer new ventures, not just looking to others to do so. You believe God for finance, not believing that others will supply it for you. You launch out in praying for the sick, praying for miracles, starting to use the gifts of the spirit that God has given you, and discover the ways the Lord wants to use you. Sometimes we haven't unlocked the next level in our spiritual life because of the fear of making mistakes. Start to trust God and get launched today. You can get your answers from God on the major issues in your life. There is safety and wisdom in counsel, but you yourself must hear from God.   3. A mature Christian understands the role of parents Immaturity - limited understanding of parent's role: A child can know the love of their parents, but know very little about them as people: their hurts, hopes, motivations, battles and victories. Dad and Mum are simply just there as dad and mum, or not there as the case may be, but parents are people too. Children think of parents as bosses, annoying people, useful sometimes (for car rides and as a piggy bank). Sometimes children think of them as enemies, or people who don't understand them nor see the world as they do. Something similar often happens with Pastors and leaders. But no good parents wish for their children to do badly or to make big mistakes. Every parent's desire for their children is to do good and to prosper, to see fruit in every area of their lives. Good Pastors and leaders only want to see every disciple prosper (3 John 4:4; Colossians 1:9-10). Maturity - close relationship with parents: As children grow up, they should grow to appreciate how much the parents have loved and sacrificed for them. They will discover that their parents don't just want to rule them, but to have a relationship with them, not just to feed them but to have fellowship with them. When children grow out of adolescence, a healthy parent relationship will mean that you see your parents clearly for who they are and you can get to know them as people. A mature person would understand that what we are made for is not just to function for God, but to be friends with God. Man's chief aim is to know God and glorify Him forever. More than that, God wants to know us and have fellowship with us. A mature Christian's life is therefore not characterised by rules, but relationship. We will reflect a heart of our father. A mature Christian will reflect his father in heaven, and his life will be lived to the father's pleasure and glory.   So here we come then after all these weeks to reflect on how mature we really are. It's time as put childish ways behind us (1 Corinthians 13: 11). So, stop acting like a version of Peter Pan. Grow up! God does not want us individually or collectively to be insecure, divided, competitive, disobedient or unruly. God wants a fully grown up, matured family. People who have come to wholeness in their relationship with God and one another. Where there was weakness there will now be strength. Where there were temperamental tantrums, there will be self-control and kindness and gentleness. Where we were exclusive, we can become inclusive. Where we were gullible, we will become wise. Jesus showed He can take hold of a bunch of immature young disciples and make them into a powerful apostolic company. So too God is raising up a church family in every locality and nation which He intends to be fully matured. And you can play your part in building and in being an ever-increasing blessing.  

As we have seen in our current series, many Christians may fail to grow up in their lives and in their faith. One of the root problems of modern Christianity is what Juan Carlos Ortiz has described as ‘The permanent childhood of the believer'. The apostle Paul understood that the various leadership roles in the church were to equip and mature the church (Ephesians 4:11-13).   Over the past weeks we have looked at different areas where we need to grow up. Now we conclude this series focusing on some more key ways in which we all need to grow up. These final 3 points bring us to a total of 18 areas of maturity which we will have covered in this series, in keeping with 18 being the age when you are considered an adult in the eyes of the law. Whether you or your parents like it or whether you feel ready for it, there very quickly comes a point when you can be entrusted with many opportunities and responsibilities, so you had better grow up. So, let's see these further points on what it means to be a mature Christian.  1. A mature Christian will serve others (Mark 10:43-45; Philippians 2:3) 2. A mature Christian takes responsibility for his decisions (Romans 14:12) 3. A mature Christian understands the role of parents (3 John 4:4; Colossians 1:9-10; 1 Corinthians 13: 11) Apply  1. A mature Christian will serve others (Mark 10:43-45). Jesus taught in contradiction to the teaching of this world which says that you live to satisfy your desires and dreams. When we come to Jesus, we find we are to focus on how we can serve and help others. Immaturity - self-serving and self-indulgent: The "gimme, gimme, gimme" philosophy is more prevalent in the Western community than we would care to imagine. We pray "God bless me, my family, bless my church, my group, my leaders, my job. God help me through this problem, this crisis, God use me.” It's all me, me, me…Many Christians approach God like a genie who will fulfil your wishes. However, Jesus was very specific in saying that the ways of the Kingdom of God are different. He taught His disciples to be servants, to help others first, support those in need, and to build God's house first. Maturity - serves others: In contrast to this, a mature Christian does “...nothing out of selfish ambition, vain conceit, but in humility considers others to be better than themselves” (Philippians 2:3). A mature Christian prays for and thinks about others first and tries to bless other people's families and groups. You look not only to your own interests, but to the interests of others. We shouldn't be waiting for the other person to act first: mature Christians don't wait to be served but look for the opportunity to serve others. When was the last time you served someone close to you, like your family, your leader or your neighbour? You can make the way in the busyness of home life to surprise someone with an act of service: don't wait until Christmas to help in the house with the big clean up or to prepare a nice meal for your family, or until your leader's birthday to say some words of appreciation. Don't wait until you've been asked to do something: excel with your attitude of service and your desire to help. Take time to pray for others, to share a word of encouragement with others. Charles Spurgeon said: “Hard work will do almost everything; but in God's service it must not only be hard work, but hot work. The heart must be on fire" To serve as Jesus did, our hearts must be in fire for Him.  2. A mature Christian takes responsibility for his decisions. Immaturity - someone else makes the big decisions: A baby, infant, or even an adolescent will not make major decisions on housing, finance or holidays. Those decisions are made by others. Someone else pays the rent or the mortgage, someone else decides where to go on holiday, where to stay. They simply go along for the ride. Someone else pays for the ticket. Some people's idea of discipleship would lead to the same situation. Many Christians make their decisions, but come to the pastor when the consequences hit, saying “pray for me, help me.” We need to know that we can chose our own decisions and must accept the consequences of our decisions (Romans 14:12). E.g. Lot in the Bible chose to leave his uncle Abram, a man of God, to pursue worldly wealth by moving his tents to the well-watered plain near the city of Sodom. But in the end, he got into big trouble and very bad company and had to be rescued by Abram. Maturity - you make the big decisions: Maturity means that as you grow up you take responsibility. You make decisions, you take risks, you face challenges, you launch out into the deep. You pioneer new ventures, not just looking to others to do so. You believe God for finance, not believing that others will supply it for you. You launch out in praying for the sick, praying for miracles, starting to use the gifts of the spirit that God has given you, and discover the ways the Lord wants to use you. Sometimes we haven't unlocked the next level in our spiritual life because of the fear of making mistakes. Start to trust God and get launched today. You can get your answers from God on the major issues in your life. There is safety and wisdom in counsel, but you yourself must hear from God.   3. A mature Christian understands the role of parents Immaturity - limited understanding of parent's role: A child can know the love of their parents, but know very little about them as people: their hurts, hopes, motivations, battles and victories. Dad and Mum are simply just there as dad and mum, or not there as the case may be, but parents are people too. Children think of parents as bosses, annoying people, useful sometimes (for car rides and as a piggy bank). Sometimes children think of them as enemies, or people who don't understand them nor see the world as they do. Something similar often happens with Pastors and leaders. But no good parents wish for their children to do badly or to make big mistakes. Every parent's desire for their children is to do good and to prosper, to see fruit in every area of their lives. Good Pastors and leaders only want to see every disciple prosper (3 John 4:4; Colossians 1:9-10). Maturity - close relationship with parents: As children grow up, they should grow to appreciate how much the parents have loved and sacrificed for them. They will discover that their parents don't just want to rule them, but to have a relationship with them, not just to feed them but to have fellowship with them. When children grow out of adolescence, a healthy parent relationship will mean that you see your parents clearly for who they are and you can get to know them as people. A mature person would understand that what we are made for is not just to function for God, but to be friends with God. Man's chief aim is to know God and glorify Him forever. More than that, God wants to know us and have fellowship with us. A mature Christian's life is therefore not characterised by rules, but relationship. We will reflect a heart of our father. A mature Christian will reflect his father in heaven, and his life will be lived to the father's pleasure and glory.   So here we come then after all these weeks to reflect on how mature we really are. It's time as put childish ways behind us (1 Corinthians 13: 11). So, stop acting like a version of Peter Pan. Grow up! God does not want us individually or collectively to be insecure, divided, competitive, disobedient or unruly. God wants a fully grown up, matured family. People who have come to wholeness in their relationship with God and one another. Where there was weakness there will now be strength. Where there were temperamental tantrums, there will be self-control and kindness and gentleness. Where we were exclusive, we can become inclusive. Where we were gullible, we will become wise. Jesus showed He can take hold of a bunch of immature young disciples and make them into a powerful apostolic company. So too God is raising up a church family in every locality and nation which He intends to be fully matured. And you can play your part in building and in being an ever-increasing blessing.  

People can lose their temper when things don't go their way, or don't happen in the time they want. That is when character testing starts. Many times, trials reveal the heart. As the saying goes: “the heart of the matter is the matter of the heart”   Over the past few weeks we have been learning about how to be a grown-up Christian, how to mature in our faith, and move to a new level of understanding (James 1:2-5). Through the Bible we find many characters that experienced this theme of patience in their lives, like Abraham, Moses, Joseph, David, and of course Jesus.   1. A grown-up Christian will learn to be patient (Galatians 6:9; Hebrews 6:12; James 1:3; Hebrews 12:1-2; Romans 12:12) 2. A grown-up Christian will practice discernment (Ephesians 4:14 NLV; Acts 17:11) 3. A grown-up Christian will persist (Philippians 2:12; Colossians 1:23; Acts 13:43, 28:14) Apply  1. A grown-up Christian will learn to be patient Immaturity – impatient: An immature Christian will be impatient, they like instant answers to their prayers. Everything must be done immediately. Many people say: "God, you told me you are going to bless me, I want everything you have shown me to happen today.” Charles Spurgeon said: “The waiting itself is beneficial to us: it tries faith, exercises patience, trains submission, and endears the blessing when it comes.” When we look at the Bible, the translation of the word Patience from the original Hebrew means: slow to anger. So, patience is not only waiting, it is waiting with a good attitude (Galatians 6:9). Can you imagine a farmer sowing seeds and then checking the ground that same hour for the fruit? It's not logical. In the same way, we need to develop patience. We need to be slow to anger and to practice self-control. Patience is trusting God's timing, enduring trials without bitterness, and responding to others with grace (Hebrews 6:12). Maturity – patient: What are the testings in your life producing today (James 1:3)? It may be anger, frustration, sadness, hopelessness, disappointment, indifference, or even a sense of “I deserve this” which is condemnation. However, a Mature Christian will say “God, this is temporary, my eyes are fixed on you” (Hebrews 12:1-2). A mature Christian will see that patience is not just passive waiting, it is active endurance (Romans 12:12). Jesus was patient with His disciples when they didn't get it. Also, He was patient with sinners when they were lost and broken. The disciples were told to wait for the Holy Spirit. There were many questions, but as they waited and prayed, the Holy Spirit came.  2. A grown-up Christian will practice discernment Immaturity - easily influenced and a sucker for the spectacular: Immature Christians can be like children who are open to strangers, especially strangers who smile and gave sweets. That is why we tell our children "Don't talk to strangers". Why? Because they can easily be led astray. This is not new; this was a constant problem in the New Testament. False teachers arose who led the spiritually immature away. Today we see many people following the same pattern, looking for the next big trend, the next big event, the excitement. Children like noise and bright colours. Some Christians only really come alive when the circus comes to town. The bigger the build ups, the greater the hype, the more outrageous the claims, the happier some people are. All that glitters, however, is not necessary gold. Maturity - can discern between good and evil: Discernment is not human cleverness, it is Holy Spirit-given. It is distinguishing the voice of Christ from the voices of culture. When we become a mature Christian “Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth” (Ephesians 4:14 NLV). With countless YouTube sermons, TikTok reels, and Spotify podcasts, it's easy to believe whatever sounds inspiring. But be watchful of what you feed your mind with, be careful of what you see, hear and believe. This is very important. We read that the Bereans were eager to learn and were discerning so they opened the scrolls, compared the apostle Paul's teaching with the Old Testament, and checked carefully (Acts 17:11). Not to contradict what Paul was teaching, but they did this because of their desire to grow in faith and to be rooted in the Word of God. Discernment is not about being clever; it's about being close to Christ, the Good Shepherd, whose sheep know His voice. When you spend time in His Word, you learn to recognise His voice above the noise. 3. A grown-up Christian will persist Immaturity - easily discouraged and put down: Sometimes we can be discouraged when we don't see the fruit we dream of. Perseverance is not a virtue always seen in young children.  Maturity - not just consistent but persistent: One of the big words to the early church was 'continue' (Philippians 2:12; Colossians 1:23; Acts 13:43; Acts 28:14). Sometimes growth feels slow, but in Christ, every step of endurance is moving us toward maturity and victory (see William Wilberforce, John Wycliffe, William Tyndale). As mature Christians, we need the determination and to make the decision to not turn back, but to persist, insist and resist for the cause of Christ.  

People can lose their temper when things don't go their way, or don't happen in the time they want. That is when character testing starts. Many times, trials reveal the heart. As the saying goes: “the heart of the matter is the matter of the heart”   Over the past few weeks we have been learning about how to be a grown-up Christian, how to mature in our faith, and move to a new level of understanding (James 1:2-5). Through the Bible we find many characters that experienced this theme of patience in their lives, like Abraham, Moses, Joseph, David, and of course Jesus.   1. A grown-up Christian will learn to be patient (Galatians 6:9; Hebrews 6:12; James 1:3; Hebrews 12:1-2; Romans 12:12) 2. A grown-up Christian will practice discernment (Ephesians 4:14 NLV; Acts 17:11) 3. A grown-up Christian will persist (Philippians 2:12; Colossians 1:23; Acts 13:43, 28:14) Apply  1. A grown-up Christian will learn to be patient Immaturity – impatient: An immature Christian will be impatient, they like instant answers to their prayers. Everything must be done immediately. Many people say: "God, you told me you are going to bless me, I want everything you have shown me to happen today.” Charles Spurgeon said: “The waiting itself is beneficial to us: it tries faith, exercises patience, trains submission, and endears the blessing when it comes.” When we look at the Bible, the translation of the word Patience from the original Hebrew means: slow to anger. So, patience is not only waiting, it is waiting with a good attitude (Galatians 6:9). Can you imagine a farmer sowing seeds and then checking the ground that same hour for the fruit? It's not logical. In the same way, we need to develop patience. We need to be slow to anger and to practice self-control. Patience is trusting God's timing, enduring trials without bitterness, and responding to others with grace (Hebrews 6:12). Maturity – patient: What are the testings in your life producing today (James 1:3)? It may be anger, frustration, sadness, hopelessness, disappointment, indifference, or even a sense of “I deserve this” which is condemnation. However, a Mature Christian will say “God, this is temporary, my eyes are fixed on you” (Hebrews 12:1-2). A mature Christian will see that patience is not just passive waiting, it is active endurance (Romans 12:12). Jesus was patient with His disciples when they didn't get it. Also, He was patient with sinners when they were lost and broken. The disciples were told to wait for the Holy Spirit. There were many questions, but as they waited and prayed, the Holy Spirit came.  2. A grown-up Christian will practice discernment Immaturity - easily influenced and a sucker for the spectacular: Immature Christians can be like children who are open to strangers, especially strangers who smile and gave sweets. That is why we tell our children "Don't talk to strangers". Why? Because they can easily be led astray. This is not new; this was a constant problem in the New Testament. False teachers arose who led the spiritually immature away. Today we see many people following the same pattern, looking for the next big trend, the next big event, the excitement. Children like noise and bright colours. Some Christians only really come alive when the circus comes to town. The bigger the build ups, the greater the hype, the more outrageous the claims, the happier some people are. All that glitters, however, is not necessary gold. Maturity - can discern between good and evil: Discernment is not human cleverness, it is Holy Spirit-given. It is distinguishing the voice of Christ from the voices of culture. When we become a mature Christian “Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth” (Ephesians 4:14 NLV). With countless YouTube sermons, TikTok reels, and Spotify podcasts, it's easy to believe whatever sounds inspiring. But be watchful of what you feed your mind with, be careful of what you see, hear and believe. This is very important. We read that the Bereans were eager to learn and were discerning so they opened the scrolls, compared the apostle Paul's teaching with the Old Testament, and checked carefully (Acts 17:11). Not to contradict what Paul was teaching, but they did this because of their desire to grow in faith and to be rooted in the Word of God. Discernment is not about being clever; it's about being close to Christ, the Good Shepherd, whose sheep know His voice. When you spend time in His Word, you learn to recognise His voice above the noise. 3. A grown-up Christian will persist Immaturity - easily discouraged and put down: Sometimes we can be discouraged when we don't see the fruit we dream of. Perseverance is not a virtue always seen in young children.  Maturity - not just consistent but persistent: One of the big words to the early church was 'continue' (Philippians 2:12; Colossians 1:23; Acts 13:43; Acts 28:14). Sometimes growth feels slow, but in Christ, every step of endurance is moving us toward maturity and victory (see William Wilberforce, John Wycliffe, William Tyndale). As mature Christians, we need the determination and to make the decision to not turn back, but to persist, insist and resist for the cause of Christ.  

For all the days we are alive should see ourselves as being ‘under construction' - daily being formed and matured in the Lord. Just as the apostle Paul taught (Ephesians 4:11-13), as Christians, our spiritual lives are not to stay the same, but rather to be constantly rooted and built up in the Lord, growing in our faith and increasing in maturity. We see some further areas to help us:  1. We need to grow up in our relationships (Proverbs 12:26, 17:17, 19:11; Colossians 3:13-14; 1 Corinthians 15:58 AMP). 2. We need to grow up in our responsiveness (Ecclesiastes 1:14; Proverbs 26:12, 3:7; Matthew 11:29;1 Peter 5:5; Matthew 7:24) 3. We need to grow in our reaction to discipline (Proverbs 12:1, 15:5, 3:11-12, 13:24, Proverbs 10:17; Hebrews 12:6) Apply  1. We need to grow up in our relationships  Immaturity – temperamental: Children are often very quick to both make and break friendships. They can go from having a best friend one day to not being friends with them the next. For a while, a friend is new and exciting, the 'flavour of the month' then they disappear. They can both make and drop friends easily, and be enticed by wealth, charisma and charm – how a person appears, rather than who they really are (Proverbs 12:26). For the immature Christian, there is no emotional balance or stability in relationships. They go all into the friendship, spending lots of time together and sometimes becoming inseparable, and then the total opposite happens when offence and unforgiveness enters and the friendship suddenly ends. Being temperamental isn't good for the person nor the people around them. Maturity – faithful: A mature Christian is faithful and consistent. They don't fly off the handle or cut off a relationship when someone says or does something they don't like or agree with. It's not that there are never any issues in their friendships, but rather that they know and put the word of God into practice on how to be a faithful person in their relationships (Proverbs 17:17; Proverbs 19:11). A mature Christian stays together in covenant relationship, even if disappointed by friends. They would rather overlook an offense than forsake the friendship (Colossians 3:13-14). Mature Christians are quick to forgive, valuing covenant friendship over any temporary grievance. They want to keep unity in the church family and enjoy the blessing of real, stable friendships, which is so different to how friendships often operate in the world. Covenant friendship is steadfast and enduring. You can count on a mature person to be faithful in a relationship and also to be faithful in whatever they put their hand to do – not just doing the minimum, but going above and beyond because it's the mature attitude of the heart (1 Corinthians 15:58 AMP). Are you consistent and faithful, or temperamental, being quick to make and break off friendships? Do you give your best to people, or try to get away with the minimum?  2. We need to grow up in our responsiveness Immaturity - needs repeated telling: Repeatedly having to tell a child reveals something deeper going on in the attitude of that child. Essentially they are not valuing the instruction of the parent and sees that what they're doing is more important. Often, immature Christians can be like the children in these scenarios being “wise in our own eyes”. We think of ourselves as being very busy, filling our lives with many activities but neither feel we have time to nor really value following the instructions God gives us. At the end of King Solomon's life, he recognised the fruitlessness of doing things other than God's will or direction (Ecclesiastes 1:14). Many times people want the overall direction of God for their life and future, but do not choose to follow the instructions in the Bible that God gives for how to we are to live every day. Even though we may have heard and read the 10 commandments so many times, do we ever lie, or want what others have, or put something or someone in first place of our lives instead of God? For the immature Christian, just because they know something doesn't mean they are actually putting it into practice – they'd rather do what they want (Proverbs 26:12). Immature Christians look around judgmentally at others without recognising their need to grow in obeying the word of God. There is a blindness to hard heartedness, which often makes them harder to work with than anyone else, yet they are more in need than anyone else (Proverbs 3:7).Maturity - eager to learn: In stark contrast to the immature Christian who needs repeated telling because “they are wise in their own eyes” The mature Christian recognises that Jesus said we are to learn from Him (Matthew 11:29). They don't need constant persuading but are ready to learn from the Lord, from their pastors, their spiritual leaders, and from anywhere and everywhere that builds them up in their faith and in spiritual maturity. A mature person can say, without choking, "I was wrong, please show me, please help me". They don't need repeated telling before they listen and obey. And they also don't pick and choose the scriptures they want to obey, rather they take the all the instruction of the Bible, not only the promises of blessing and help. They know that following God's instruction leads to life (1 Peter 5:5; Matthew 7:24) It's not that this always come naturally. It's a decision to be humble and not just dismiss things that might be challenging or uncomfortable but will grow us in our faith merely as ‘suggestions' or ‘opinions' - but to listen attentively and be responsive, to take it on board and be quick to apply it. So how eager to learn are you? Do you listen to the word of God quickly put it into practice?   3. We need to grow in our reaction to discipline Immaturity - fights shy of discipline: An infant or adolescent will often push to find their limits, seeing how far they can risk their way to prove themselves right or reassure themselves that “everything will still work out ok” to minimise any bad outcomes. An immature Christian knows there must be an oversight in their life, but wants to keep it to minimum – which can lead them even to present half truths or to conceal things. They want to get away with minimum accountability and maximum independence in case they are told something they don't want to hear. Immaturity means that if they can get away with something, they will, and if called to account, they will resent it (Proverbs 12:1; Proverbs 15:5). Rather than proactively seeking out spiritual cover themselves, for fear of being corrected or challenged, they will wait to be sought out by their leader. Even if a good and Godly leader gets too close for comfort, they are often quick to shout that it's "heavy shepherding" or the leader is being controlling, in order to take the pressure off themselves.  Maturity - loves discipline: A mature Christian loves discipline because they understand that Discipline is for our good and is a way of God showing His love for us as His children. They don't skim over the scriptures that teach us on how important discipline is for our lives, nor do they get offended when they are corrected because they know it's essential for them to be able to grow in maturity and Godly character (Proverbs 3:11-12; Proverbs 13:24; Hebrews 12:6). A mature Christian wants to build safeguards into their life. Contrary to what the world teaches, they seek out accountability from pastors, leaders and fellow Christians, and see correction as positive and not negative.   Would you say you are a faithful person or temperamental? Do you need repeated telling or are you eager to learn? Do you fight against discipline or do you love being corrected? These are not all easy things to hear, and our flesh doesn't love being challenged in this way, but understanding and applying this will not only help us to grow up, but will be a blessing to many others (Proverbs 10:17). As we grow up in the Lord, we will help many others encounter the love, life and liberty of Jesus as well. 

For all the days we are alive should see ourselves as being ‘under construction' - daily being formed and matured in the Lord. Just as the apostle Paul taught (Ephesians 4:11-13), as Christians, our spiritual lives are not to stay the same, but rather to be constantly rooted and built up in the Lord, growing in our faith and increasing in maturity. We see some further areas to help us:  1. We need to grow up in our relationships (Proverbs 12:26, 17:17, 19:11; Colossians 3:13-14; 1 Corinthians 15:58 AMP). 2. We need to grow up in our responsiveness (Ecclesiastes 1:14; Proverbs 26:12, 3:7; Matthew 11:29;1 Peter 5:5; Matthew 7:24) 3. We need to grow in our reaction to discipline (Proverbs 12:1, 15:5, 3:11-12, 13:24, Proverbs 10:17; Hebrews 12:6) Apply  1. We need to grow up in our relationships  Immaturity – temperamental: Children are often very quick to both make and break friendships. They can go from having a best friend one day to not being friends with them the next. For a while, a friend is new and exciting, the 'flavour of the month' then they disappear. They can both make and drop friends easily, and be enticed by wealth, charisma and charm – how a person appears, rather than who they really are (Proverbs 12:26). For the immature Christian, there is no emotional balance or stability in relationships. They go all into the friendship, spending lots of time together and sometimes becoming inseparable, and then the total opposite happens when offence and unforgiveness enters and the friendship suddenly ends. Being temperamental isn't good for the person nor the people around them. Maturity – faithful: A mature Christian is faithful and consistent. They don't fly off the handle or cut off a relationship when someone says or does something they don't like or agree with. It's not that there are never any issues in their friendships, but rather that they know and put the word of God into practice on how to be a faithful person in their relationships (Proverbs 17:17; Proverbs 19:11). A mature Christian stays together in covenant relationship, even if disappointed by friends. They would rather overlook an offense than forsake the friendship (Colossians 3:13-14). Mature Christians are quick to forgive, valuing covenant friendship over any temporary grievance. They want to keep unity in the church family and enjoy the blessing of real, stable friendships, which is so different to how friendships often operate in the world. Covenant friendship is steadfast and enduring. You can count on a mature person to be faithful in a relationship and also to be faithful in whatever they put their hand to do – not just doing the minimum, but going above and beyond because it's the mature attitude of the heart (1 Corinthians 15:58 AMP). Are you consistent and faithful, or temperamental, being quick to make and break off friendships? Do you give your best to people, or try to get away with the minimum?  2. We need to grow up in our responsiveness Immaturity - needs repeated telling: Repeatedly having to tell a child reveals something deeper going on in the attitude of that child. Essentially they are not valuing the instruction of the parent and sees that what they're doing is more important. Often, immature Christians can be like the children in these scenarios being “wise in our own eyes”. We think of ourselves as being very busy, filling our lives with many activities but neither feel we have time to nor really value following the instructions God gives us. At the end of King Solomon's life, he recognised the fruitlessness of doing things other than God's will or direction (Ecclesiastes 1:14). Many times people want the overall direction of God for their life and future, but do not choose to follow the instructions in the Bible that God gives for how to we are to live every day. Even though we may have heard and read the 10 commandments so many times, do we ever lie, or want what others have, or put something or someone in first place of our lives instead of God? For the immature Christian, just because they know something doesn't mean they are actually putting it into practice – they'd rather do what they want (Proverbs 26:12). Immature Christians look around judgmentally at others without recognising their need to grow in obeying the word of God. There is a blindness to hard heartedness, which often makes them harder to work with than anyone else, yet they are more in need than anyone else (Proverbs 3:7).Maturity - eager to learn: In stark contrast to the immature Christian who needs repeated telling because “they are wise in their own eyes” The mature Christian recognises that Jesus said we are to learn from Him (Matthew 11:29). They don't need constant persuading but are ready to learn from the Lord, from their pastors, their spiritual leaders, and from anywhere and everywhere that builds them up in their faith and in spiritual maturity. A mature person can say, without choking, "I was wrong, please show me, please help me". They don't need repeated telling before they listen and obey. And they also don't pick and choose the scriptures they want to obey, rather they take the all the instruction of the Bible, not only the promises of blessing and help. They know that following God's instruction leads to life (1 Peter 5:5; Matthew 7:24) It's not that this always come naturally. It's a decision to be humble and not just dismiss things that might be challenging or uncomfortable but will grow us in our faith merely as ‘suggestions' or ‘opinions' - but to listen attentively and be responsive, to take it on board and be quick to apply it. So how eager to learn are you? Do you listen to the word of God quickly put it into practice?   3. We need to grow in our reaction to discipline Immaturity - fights shy of discipline: An infant or adolescent will often push to find their limits, seeing how far they can risk their way to prove themselves right or reassure themselves that “everything will still work out ok” to minimise any bad outcomes. An immature Christian knows there must be an oversight in their life, but wants to keep it to minimum – which can lead them even to present half truths or to conceal things. They want to get away with minimum accountability and maximum independence in case they are told something they don't want to hear. Immaturity means that if they can get away with something, they will, and if called to account, they will resent it (Proverbs 12:1; Proverbs 15:5). Rather than proactively seeking out spiritual cover themselves, for fear of being corrected or challenged, they will wait to be sought out by their leader. Even if a good and Godly leader gets too close for comfort, they are often quick to shout that it's "heavy shepherding" or the leader is being controlling, in order to take the pressure off themselves.  Maturity - loves discipline: A mature Christian loves discipline because they understand that Discipline is for our good and is a way of God showing His love for us as His children. They don't skim over the scriptures that teach us on how important discipline is for our lives, nor do they get offended when they are corrected because they know it's essential for them to be able to grow in maturity and Godly character (Proverbs 3:11-12; Proverbs 13:24; Hebrews 12:6). A mature Christian wants to build safeguards into their life. Contrary to what the world teaches, they seek out accountability from pastors, leaders and fellow Christians, and see correction as positive and not negative.   Would you say you are a faithful person or temperamental? Do you need repeated telling or are you eager to learn? Do you fight against discipline or do you love being corrected? These are not all easy things to hear, and our flesh doesn't love being challenged in this way, but understanding and applying this will not only help us to grow up, but will be a blessing to many others (Proverbs 10:17). As we grow up in the Lord, we will help many others encounter the love, life and liberty of Jesus as well. 

In this series, the Lord is preparing each one of us to mature so that we will be more like Christ and be mature enough to model the right character to new Christians. People need looking after, they need feeding, they need support. And they cannot gain that from us if we cannot even do these things ourselves.     You can be a Christian for decades and still be immature, still battling with unrepentance, insecurity, comparison, or pride. But God's desire is for you to grow, to become steady, humble, wise, and fruitful. If we stay spiritually immature, we miss out. But even more than that, the world around us misses out too. So how do we actually grow up in our faith? How do we leave behind childish ways and become the mature Christians God is calling us to be?  1. A grown-up Christian moves from competing with one another to working together (Genesis 4:5; Luke 22:24; Mark 9:33–34; Romans 12:10,12:15; James 1:2-4) 2. A grown-up Christian moves from living as if they know it all to receiving wisdom and instruction (Matthew 11:29; 1 Corinthians 12:21; 2 Timothy 3:16; Psalm 1:1-3; Proverbs 12:15) 3. A grown up Christian goes from building cliques to opening their hearts to the whole body of Christ (1 Corinthians 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 4:9–10; Ephesians 4:14-15) Apply  1. A grown-up Christian moves from competing with one another to working together.Immaturity - constantly compares themselves to others and competes: You see this behaviour clearly in young children, especially siblings arguing and fighting. When one succeeds, the other might feel pressure to catch up or sulk because they feel they don't measure up. These dynamics are often quiet, but they can run deep. We read about this spirit of competitiveness when Cain compared his offering to Abel's (Genesis 4:5). Rather than learning from his brother, he let jealousy consume him. Even Jesus' disciples weren't immune (Luke 22:24; Mark 9:33–34). Just like siblings, they were still caught up in status. This same immature spirit can creep into the church, e.g. “My church / denomination / life group / family is better / bigger / more committed…” An immature Christian is threatened by the success of others, feeling insecure when others are celebrated. They sulk when others receive what they've been praying for. They care too much about how they're perceived in comparison to others. If you're single and someone else enters a relationship, if someone else gets promoted while you're still applying, or waiting for fruit in your ministry while others seem to be thriving, do you celebrate them, silently compare, or does envy creep in? The enemy wants to sow bitterness, insecurity, and division, and to crush your faith by preying on the seed of competitiveness. Maturity - moves beyond comparison and competition: They value the work of others, don't get insecure when someone else succeeds, and are not ruled by emotion, but instead learn from others, and rejoice with them. They don't see their brothers and sisters as rivals, they see them as partners (Romans 12:10). Stop trying to outdo each other, and start trying to outlove one another. This is maturity: Choosing faith and joy over jealousy and despair (Romans 12:15; James 1:2-4). A mature Christian is secure in their calling. They are not driven by comparison or public approval, they are driven by God's purpose.  2. A grown-up Christian moves from living as if they know it all to receiving wisdom and instruction.  Immaturity - acts like they know it all, they've done it all, they've got it all: They know the Bible better than anyone else, they understand praise and worship more than anyone else, they've seen more miracles, and they think they have more insight into what's going on than anyone else. They love to talk, but don't love to listen. Before you even finish speaking, they've cut you off! When Jesus invites us to learn from Him, He is calling us to a lifetime of humility and growth (Matthew 11:29). True maturity means remaining a learner for life. We can never take the ‘L plates' off as Christians. Yet many live contrary to this. They prefer to rely on their own knowledge, taking matters into their own hands and convincing themselves they've got it all figured out. Many Christians are building their lives ignoring instruction, ignoring the word of God, ignoring spiritual wisdom, confident they know better. Immature Christians have read the Bible, heard the sermons, attended the conferences, and now they believe no one can teach them anything new. They become uncorrectable, unteachable, the “spiritual expert” in every room they walk into. This attitude is deadly to growth. Many Christians live as if they are the only part of the body that matters (1 Corinthians 12:21). Maturity – gets wisdom and instruction to learn how to build the best life: A mature Christian hungers to spend time studying the Bible, applying its truths to their life (2 Timothy 3:16). You may read the Word, but do you know the Word? You may have read or heard it before, but is it inscribed on your heart? We must desire to unlock more knowledge from His Word, which is alive and active (Psalm 1:1-3). A mature Christian is eager to learn. They stay teachable. They receive correction from the Word and from spiritual authorities. They do not choke on the words, “I was wrong” or “Please show/help me.” They don't rely on old stories or past experiences to validate their present faith. They walk in humility and stay open to growth (Proverbs 12:15). We need to humble ourselves to be trained and to ask for advice. Remain teachable, living as a lifelong learner of Christ.  3. A grown up Christian goes from building cliques to opening their hearts to the whole body of Christ.  Immaturity - builds cliques: This is the type of thing you see in playgrounds and in schools, but it is even more damaging when it shows up in the church. It makes the church smaller and colder. It creates walls instead of bridges. Paul confronted the Corinthians for this and rebuked them strongly, saying they were acting like infants in the faith (1 Corinthians 3:4). We must not attach ourselves to one personality or one group and quietly shut out others. Immature Christians become so focused on their own ideologies and traditions and rules that it divides them from others. They say, “These are my people,” and close the door behind them. But in doing so, they divide the body that God has made one. An immature Christian cares more about who they are socially compatible with, who they can invite round, and who they can do different social events with, rather than reaching out to all types of people, supporting and loving them just as Christ loved us. Maturity - opens their hearts to the whole body of Christ: A grown-up Christian not only loves those who are easy to love, they value unity across differences and celebrate what God is doing in other groups, streams, and networks. Juan Carlos Ortiz, in his book Disciple, says, “God has only two groups, those who love one another and those who don't.” This is the heart of maturity: loving widely, well, and beyond preference or comfort (1 Thessalonians 4:9–10). We need to open our hearts to those we've kept at a distance. We must tear down the walls of cliques, favouritism, and exclusivity. We are called to love the whole church just as Christ loved us. We must not be the blockage when there are so many people who need to be part of the family.  Now is the time to put away childish things. Now is the time to grow up in love, in humility, in unity (Ephesians 4:14-15). No more competing. No more pretending. No more excluding. Stop trying to win every argument. Stop trying to prove yourself. You don't need to compare yourself to others, God has His own plan for your life. He wants you to live in harmony with your brothers and sisters. Learn to work together. Be humble and teachable: If we are to be fully mature in Christ, we must be open to training and correction, eager to learn from the word of God and our pastors, with humility, taking off the pride that resists God. Pray for a teachable spirit. That you will be a new vessel. That you will walk with the Lord, not dependent on logic or past experiences, but following his voice as he leads you. And be inclusive, breaking down exclusive groups that exclude others from joining in. Be open-hearted, living in brotherhood and partnership with those who are also in Christ. How much more can God do through us when we are more warm-hearted to others 

In this series, the Lord is preparing each one of us to mature so that we will be more like Christ and be mature enough to model the right character to new Christians. People need looking after, they need feeding, they need support. And they cannot gain that from us if we cannot even do these things ourselves.     You can be a Christian for decades and still be immature, still battling with unrepentance, insecurity, comparison, or pride. But God's desire is for you to grow, to become steady, humble, wise, and fruitful. If we stay spiritually immature, we miss out. But even more than that, the world around us misses out too. So how do we actually grow up in our faith? How do we leave behind childish ways and become the mature Christians God is calling us to be?  1. A grown-up Christian moves from competing with one another to working together (Genesis 4:5; Luke 22:24; Mark 9:33–34; Romans 12:10,12:15; James 1:2-4) 2. A grown-up Christian moves from living as if they know it all to receiving wisdom and instruction (Matthew 11:29; 1 Corinthians 12:21; 2 Timothy 3:16; Psalm 1:1-3; Proverbs 12:15) 3. A grown up Christian goes from building cliques to opening their hearts to the whole body of Christ (1 Corinthians 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 4:9–10; Ephesians 4:14-15) Apply  1. A grown-up Christian moves from competing with one another to working together.Immaturity - constantly compares themselves to others and competes: You see this behaviour clearly in young children, especially siblings arguing and fighting. When one succeeds, the other might feel pressure to catch up or sulk because they feel they don't measure up. These dynamics are often quiet, but they can run deep. We read about this spirit of competitiveness when Cain compared his offering to Abel's (Genesis 4:5). Rather than learning from his brother, he let jealousy consume him. Even Jesus' disciples weren't immune (Luke 22:24; Mark 9:33–34). Just like siblings, they were still caught up in status. This same immature spirit can creep into the church, e.g. “My church / denomination / life group / family is better / bigger / more committed…” An immature Christian is threatened by the success of others, feeling insecure when others are celebrated. They sulk when others receive what they've been praying for. They care too much about how they're perceived in comparison to others. If you're single and someone else enters a relationship, if someone else gets promoted while you're still applying, or waiting for fruit in your ministry while others seem to be thriving, do you celebrate them, silently compare, or does envy creep in? The enemy wants to sow bitterness, insecurity, and division, and to crush your faith by preying on the seed of competitiveness. Maturity - moves beyond comparison and competition: They value the work of others, don't get insecure when someone else succeeds, and are not ruled by emotion, but instead learn from others, and rejoice with them. They don't see their brothers and sisters as rivals, they see them as partners (Romans 12:10). Stop trying to outdo each other, and start trying to outlove one another. This is maturity: Choosing faith and joy over jealousy and despair (Romans 12:15; James 1:2-4). A mature Christian is secure in their calling. They are not driven by comparison or public approval, they are driven by God's purpose.  2. A grown-up Christian moves from living as if they know it all to receiving wisdom and instruction.  Immaturity - acts like they know it all, they've done it all, they've got it all: They know the Bible better than anyone else, they understand praise and worship more than anyone else, they've seen more miracles, and they think they have more insight into what's going on than anyone else. They love to talk, but don't love to listen. Before you even finish speaking, they've cut you off! When Jesus invites us to learn from Him, He is calling us to a lifetime of humility and growth (Matthew 11:29). True maturity means remaining a learner for life. We can never take the ‘L plates' off as Christians. Yet many live contrary to this. They prefer to rely on their own knowledge, taking matters into their own hands and convincing themselves they've got it all figured out. Many Christians are building their lives ignoring instruction, ignoring the word of God, ignoring spiritual wisdom, confident they know better. Immature Christians have read the Bible, heard the sermons, attended the conferences, and now they believe no one can teach them anything new. They become uncorrectable, unteachable, the “spiritual expert” in every room they walk into. This attitude is deadly to growth. Many Christians live as if they are the only part of the body that matters (1 Corinthians 12:21). Maturity – gets wisdom and instruction to learn how to build the best life: A mature Christian hungers to spend time studying the Bible, applying its truths to their life (2 Timothy 3:16). You may read the Word, but do you know the Word? You may have read or heard it before, but is it inscribed on your heart? We must desire to unlock more knowledge from His Word, which is alive and active (Psalm 1:1-3). A mature Christian is eager to learn. They stay teachable. They receive correction from the Word and from spiritual authorities. They do not choke on the words, “I was wrong” or “Please show/help me.” They don't rely on old stories or past experiences to validate their present faith. They walk in humility and stay open to growth (Proverbs 12:15). We need to humble ourselves to be trained and to ask for advice. Remain teachable, living as a lifelong learner of Christ.  3. A grown up Christian goes from building cliques to opening their hearts to the whole body of Christ.  Immaturity - builds cliques: This is the type of thing you see in playgrounds and in schools, but it is even more damaging when it shows up in the church. It makes the church smaller and colder. It creates walls instead of bridges. Paul confronted the Corinthians for this and rebuked them strongly, saying they were acting like infants in the faith (1 Corinthians 3:4). We must not attach ourselves to one personality or one group and quietly shut out others. Immature Christians become so focused on their own ideologies and traditions and rules that it divides them from others. They say, “These are my people,” and close the door behind them. But in doing so, they divide the body that God has made one. An immature Christian cares more about who they are socially compatible with, who they can invite round, and who they can do different social events with, rather than reaching out to all types of people, supporting and loving them just as Christ loved us. Maturity - opens their hearts to the whole body of Christ: A grown-up Christian not only loves those who are easy to love, they value unity across differences and celebrate what God is doing in other groups, streams, and networks. Juan Carlos Ortiz, in his book Disciple, says, “God has only two groups, those who love one another and those who don't.” This is the heart of maturity: loving widely, well, and beyond preference or comfort (1 Thessalonians 4:9–10). We need to open our hearts to those we've kept at a distance. We must tear down the walls of cliques, favouritism, and exclusivity. We are called to love the whole church just as Christ loved us. We must not be the blockage when there are so many people who need to be part of the family.  Now is the time to put away childish things. Now is the time to grow up in love, in humility, in unity (Ephesians 4:14-15). No more competing. No more pretending. No more excluding. Stop trying to win every argument. Stop trying to prove yourself. You don't need to compare yourself to others, God has His own plan for your life. He wants you to live in harmony with your brothers and sisters. Learn to work together. Be humble and teachable: If we are to be fully mature in Christ, we must be open to training and correction, eager to learn from the word of God and our pastors, with humility, taking off the pride that resists God. Pray for a teachable spirit. That you will be a new vessel. That you will walk with the Lord, not dependent on logic or past experiences, but following his voice as he leads you. And be inclusive, breaking down exclusive groups that exclude others from joining in. Be open-hearted, living in brotherhood and partnership with those who are also in Christ. How much more can God do through us when we are more warm-hearted to others 

As a church, as individuals, and as families we need to learn how to grow up in our faith, moving from spiritual infancy to spiritual maturity. As we have already seen in this series, the New Testament gives very practical teaching to help us grow up in Christ (Ephesians 4:12-14; 1 Corinthians 13:11). We see some more areas where we need to develop ourselves into mature leaders who can in turn develop other mature leaders.  1. We need to grow up in our behaviour (Philippians 4:5; Hebrews 12:14; Numbers 12:3; Matthew 18:15-17, 5:23-24) 2. We need to grow up in the way we speak (Psalm 19:14; 141:3; Ephesians 4:15; 1 Peter 3:15) 3. We need to grow in our humility (3 John 9; Matthew 23:5-7; 2 Samuel 15:1-6; Philippians 4:11-12; Matthrew 20:28) Apply  1. We need to grow up in our behaviour. Whilst it is normal for children to have tantrums, we do not expect them from adults. Yet, although they may look different to childhood tantrums, we can have tantrums as adults in different forms. Immaturity - throws tantrums if can't have own way: Every child can throw tantrums including shouting, throwing, stamping, sulking, withdrawing etc. In church life tantrums may also take the same forms and also include quitting a position of responsibility in protest at a perceived wrong or slight, refusing to go to meeting, or withdrawing tithes and offerings. We see this behaviour in the Bible: Cain was “very angry” and sulked rather than address his emotions, ultimately murdering his brother Abel. King Saul regularly threw spears at David out of jealousy. The Israelites in the wilderness demanded food and water, blaming Moses for all their problems and hardship. The prophet Jonah became angry and resentful, wishing to die because God showed mercy on Nineveh. So how do we receive correction from God and even from our spiritual leaders? Do we have a teachable heart that wants to learn and grow, or is there an independent or argumentative attitude? Has this changed over the years or are we still the same? Have we matured and learnt over time? You can easily recognise if you or others have conquered tantrums. A tantrum thrower gives off a disgruntled air and makes sure that you understand that they are like a simmering pot ready to boil over thinking you may give into their demands. When a parent holds the line, it is because they want to teach, correct and train the child. It can be the same when God allows us to go through a particular circumstance. Do we have spiritual maturity to see and learn from it, secure in our faith that God turns everything to good for those who love Him? Maturity - retains a gentle and quiet spirit: The contrast is seen when you have a gentle and submissive spirit, displaying the character of Jesus and showing mature trust in God (Philippians 4:5; Hebrews 12:14). Moses was known for his strong leadership, but was also described as being very meek (Numbers 12:3). Maturity means you can entrust your case to God and rest secure in His plans. If necessary, you will get others to help sort an issue out (Matthew 18:15-17). But a mature person will not be robbed of tranquillity just because everything is not going their way, rather they will seek the Lord for guidance and His wisdom to deal with conflict or difficult situations to ensure resolution and reconciliation is achieved (Matthew 5:23-24). Spiritual maturity means that we trust our leaders because we know their heart. We may not always understand every decision, but we know that they are for us not against us, and that our development is their priority.  2. We need to grow up in the way we speak. Whilst we know and expect limited vocabulary from children, we need to mature in how we use our words and speech.  Immaturity - limited vocabulary: For babies, it's saying ‘mama, dada'. In church life, it takes the form of the same prayers, the same basic words in evangelism, the same arguments about why you can't do something or move on. It can be self-centred rather than focussing on God's will for your life. The same prophecies, the same preaching year after year.  Maturity - developed speech: Mature Christians can be specific about what you are thanking the Lord for. We all have so much to be grateful for and the Lord loves to see us be thankful in all circumstances. The Psalms are a great example of this, and Paul's letters often overflow with expressions of gratitude to God for the churches and individuals serving the Lord. And our prophecy will develop into something more specific and well rounded. It is a great privilege to speak into people's lives, and we need to grow in faith and prayer to ensure we are speaking God's word and not words based on our own knowledge or opinion. When you speak in tongues, it is important to move beyond the repetitive or familiar patterns. Let there be variety and depth in your speaking, preaching, praying, and communicating. As you grow, move beyond the basic utterances and early beginnings, progressing into deeper and more mature expressions led by the Holy Spirit. Maturity of speech means that we think before we speak. We don't rush in but open our mouths with wisdom; this is pleasing to the Lord (Psalm 19:14; 141:3). How and what we speak is so important not only to our loved ones but to everyone (Ephesians 4:15). Mature speech means that we can more clearly communicate why you are a Christian, developing how best to share our testimony (1 Peter 3:15). 3. We need to grow in our humility. That means that we move on from being so self-centred and focussed on our own ego. Immaturity - attention seeking: An immature person always needs to be the centre of attention, where significance and security comes from your position. An immature person is only happy when all eyes are on them or will think up some stunt or tantrum to get attention focused on them (3 John 9; Matthew 23:5-7; 2 Samuel 15:1-6). Attention seeking can also manifest in being disruptive, bursting into tears, storming out, or always arriving late. Attention seekers place too much importance on being popular, fitting in with others, and having their ego stroked.  Maturity - able to be content in obscurity: We may not always understand the situation or circumstance we find ourselves in but we can always trust the Lord (Philippians 4:11-12). To trust is a decision and one that demonstrates our maturity in faith where you can work away from the limelight and your security does not depend on what profile you have. You can take your place in the body, however insignificant that place may seem. You do not feel the need to dominate nor to have the final word; your security is in God and His plan and protection. You truly follow the Lord's example. He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, yet he came to serve not to be served (Matthrew 20:28). You do not expect special privilege because of who you or your family are, but you have a humble attitude. Jesus was the awaited Messiah, yet he rode on a donkey, ate with sinners, and loved to be with ordinary people. Jesus didn't hang out with just the wealthy, rather He loved each person the same and showed no favouritism. And we must always give God the Glory. Even when we have played our part, it is only because the Lord has given gifts and talents that we can do anything. Whatever role you have as part of the body of Christ, work hard at it and follow Jesus' example. We all need to come to this new level of maturity in our faith to move forward as individuals, as families and as a church. Not to look at the past, not to carry the arguments, disappointments or the same old ways of doing and dealing with things. To do God's will and walk in His ways, we need this renewing of our minds, to surrender our will and become obedient to Him in everything. To move from immaturity to maturity is not only a learning and a development but a decision. 

As a church, as individuals, and as families we need to learn how to grow up in our faith, moving from spiritual infancy to spiritual maturity. As we have already seen in this series, the New Testament gives very practical teaching to help us grow up in Christ (Ephesians 4:12-14; 1 Corinthians 13:11). We see some more areas where we need to develop ourselves into mature leaders who can in turn develop other mature leaders.  1. We need to grow up in our behaviour (Philippians 4:5; Hebrews 12:14; Numbers 12:3; Matthew 18:15-17, 5:23-24) 2. We need to grow up in the way we speak (Psalm 19:14; 141:3; Ephesians 4:15; 1 Peter 3:15) 3. We need to grow in our humility (3 John 9; Matthew 23:5-7; 2 Samuel 15:1-6; Philippians 4:11-12; Matthrew 20:28) Apply  1. We need to grow up in our behaviour. Whilst it is normal for children to have tantrums, we do not expect them from adults. Yet, although they may look different to childhood tantrums, we can have tantrums as adults in different forms. Immaturity - throws tantrums if can't have own way: Every child can throw tantrums including shouting, throwing, stamping, sulking, withdrawing etc. In church life tantrums may also take the same forms and also include quitting a position of responsibility in protest at a perceived wrong or slight, refusing to go to meeting, or withdrawing tithes and offerings. We see this behaviour in the Bible: Cain was “very angry” and sulked rather than address his emotions, ultimately murdering his brother Abel. King Saul regularly threw spears at David out of jealousy. The Israelites in the wilderness demanded food and water, blaming Moses for all their problems and hardship. The prophet Jonah became angry and resentful, wishing to die because God showed mercy on Nineveh. So how do we receive correction from God and even from our spiritual leaders? Do we have a teachable heart that wants to learn and grow, or is there an independent or argumentative attitude? Has this changed over the years or are we still the same? Have we matured and learnt over time? You can easily recognise if you or others have conquered tantrums. A tantrum thrower gives off a disgruntled air and makes sure that you understand that they are like a simmering pot ready to boil over thinking you may give into their demands. When a parent holds the line, it is because they want to teach, correct and train the child. It can be the same when God allows us to go through a particular circumstance. Do we have spiritual maturity to see and learn from it, secure in our faith that God turns everything to good for those who love Him? Maturity - retains a gentle and quiet spirit: The contrast is seen when you have a gentle and submissive spirit, displaying the character of Jesus and showing mature trust in God (Philippians 4:5; Hebrews 12:14). Moses was known for his strong leadership, but was also described as being very meek (Numbers 12:3). Maturity means you can entrust your case to God and rest secure in His plans. If necessary, you will get others to help sort an issue out (Matthew 18:15-17). But a mature person will not be robbed of tranquillity just because everything is not going their way, rather they will seek the Lord for guidance and His wisdom to deal with conflict or difficult situations to ensure resolution and reconciliation is achieved (Matthew 5:23-24). Spiritual maturity means that we trust our leaders because we know their heart. We may not always understand every decision, but we know that they are for us not against us, and that our development is their priority.  2. We need to grow up in the way we speak. Whilst we know and expect limited vocabulary from children, we need to mature in how we use our words and speech.  Immaturity - limited vocabulary: For babies, it's saying ‘mama, dada'. In church life, it takes the form of the same prayers, the same basic words in evangelism, the same arguments about why you can't do something or move on. It can be self-centred rather than focussing on God's will for your life. The same prophecies, the same preaching year after year.  Maturity - developed speech: Mature Christians can be specific about what you are thanking the Lord for. We all have so much to be grateful for and the Lord loves to see us be thankful in all circumstances. The Psalms are a great example of this, and Paul's letters often overflow with expressions of gratitude to God for the churches and individuals serving the Lord. And our prophecy will develop into something more specific and well rounded. It is a great privilege to speak into people's lives, and we need to grow in faith and prayer to ensure we are speaking God's word and not words based on our own knowledge or opinion. When you speak in tongues, it is important to move beyond the repetitive or familiar patterns. Let there be variety and depth in your speaking, preaching, praying, and communicating. As you grow, move beyond the basic utterances and early beginnings, progressing into deeper and more mature expressions led by the Holy Spirit. Maturity of speech means that we think before we speak. We don't rush in but open our mouths with wisdom; this is pleasing to the Lord (Psalm 19:14; 141:3). How and what we speak is so important not only to our loved ones but to everyone (Ephesians 4:15). Mature speech means that we can more clearly communicate why you are a Christian, developing how best to share our testimony (1 Peter 3:15). 3. We need to grow in our humility. That means that we move on from being so self-centred and focussed on our own ego. Immaturity - attention seeking: An immature person always needs to be the centre of attention, where significance and security comes from your position. An immature person is only happy when all eyes are on them or will think up some stunt or tantrum to get attention focused on them (3 John 9; Matthew 23:5-7; 2 Samuel 15:1-6). Attention seeking can also manifest in being disruptive, bursting into tears, storming out, or always arriving late. Attention seekers place too much importance on being popular, fitting in with others, and having their ego stroked.  Maturity - able to be content in obscurity: We may not always understand the situation or circumstance we find ourselves in but we can always trust the Lord (Philippians 4:11-12). To trust is a decision and one that demonstrates our maturity in faith where you can work away from the limelight and your security does not depend on what profile you have. You can take your place in the body, however insignificant that place may seem. You do not feel the need to dominate nor to have the final word; your security is in God and His plan and protection. You truly follow the Lord's example. He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, yet he came to serve not to be served (Matthrew 20:28). You do not expect special privilege because of who you or your family are, but you have a humble attitude. Jesus was the awaited Messiah, yet he rode on a donkey, ate with sinners, and loved to be with ordinary people. Jesus didn't hang out with just the wealthy, rather He loved each person the same and showed no favouritism. And we must always give God the Glory. Even when we have played our part, it is only because the Lord has given gifts and talents that we can do anything. Whatever role you have as part of the body of Christ, work hard at it and follow Jesus' example. We all need to come to this new level of maturity in our faith to move forward as individuals, as families and as a church. Not to look at the past, not to carry the arguments, disappointments or the same old ways of doing and dealing with things. To do God's will and walk in His ways, we need this renewing of our minds, to surrender our will and become obedient to Him in everything. To move from immaturity to maturity is not only a learning and a development but a decision. 

Everyone needs to grow up in life and as a Christian. Babies, both natural and newborn Christians, should be a great blessing. But it's not a blessing if they stay babies. They need to grow up strong and healthy. One of the root problems of modern Christianity is what Juan Carlos Ortiz has described as ‘The permanent childhood of the believer.'  The New Testament Epistles are full of exhortations to help us grow up in Christ, and the apostle Paul described this as the whole purpose of his ministry (Colossians 1:28). He understood that the various leadership roles in the church were to equip and mature the church (Ephesians 4:12-14; 1 Corinthians 13:11). Every Christian needs to grow up in our knowledge of God, in love, in the anointing of the Holy Spirit, in perseverance and in becoming more like Jesus. Of course, newly born-again Christians need a lot of care, attention, encouragement, protection, and direction. That's why we need mature disciples, both older and younger, to act like a spiritual mum and dad to help those new to faith. New believers often have a lot of questions as so much is so different to anything they have known before. They need established Christians to accept them, be patient with them and give all the answers that they can. We should never put heavy burdens and unrealistic expectations and goals on new Christians. But we can and should expect every true Christian to grow up from spiritual infancy. We see three practical areas where every Christian needs to move from immaturity to maturity:   1. We need to grow up from being unable to walk to be being able to stand strong (Ephesians 4:14; James 4:7; Ephesians 6:12-13; 1 John 2:14).  2. We need to grow up from being fed milk to be able to receive meat (1 Corinthians 3:1-2; Hebrews 5:12-14,6:1-3) 3. We need to grow up from being out of control to becoming self-controlled (Galatians 5:23; Titus 2:11-12; Psalm 34:12-13; James 3:5, James 1:26) Apply  1. We need to grow up from being unable to walk to be being able to stand strong. Immaturity - unable to walk: A baby can't hold themselves up. A toddler keeps falling over. Baby Christians too stumble over the same problems and temptations (Ephesians 4:14). Immature Christians are unstable and prone to falling over. A new immature Christian can be easily confused and disorientated. So we must train each Christian to know how to stand. Maturity - able to stand: It's amazing how quickly a baby learns to stand. It's equally wonderful to see new Christians rapidly becoming secure in their faith in Jesus. A mature Christian trusts in Christ not in themselves, is one who can resist the Devil and see him flee from you (James 4:7). A mature Christian has learned to stand their ground during trials and temptations (Ephesians 6:12-13). You know you are growing in your faith when you are no longer ruled by your feelings and circumstances. You no longer worry when people criticise you since they only have power over you if you accept their negativity. You don't panic when Satan sends noisy thunder and dramatic lightning your way. Why? Because You know how to find your refuge, your safe place, in the promises of God's word that He will never leave you or forsake you, and that the Lord will always hear your cry. You don't have to be old or a long-time Christian to develop an ability to stand strong in your confidence in Jesus who has conquered sin, Satan, death, and hell at the Cross (1 John 2:14).   2. We need to grow up from being fed milk to be able to receive meat Immaturity - must be fed milk: (1 Corinthians 3:1-2). Spiritual babies only want what they can easily digest. They only eat small portions of the word of God, only texts that make them feel good. Baby Christians want to be comforted not challenged, entertained rather than enlightened. They want only to receive the good promises of prosperity and good life without much of God's life and the challenges of denial, discipline, and discipleship. They don't want in depth Bible teaching (Hebrews 5:12,6:1-3). One of the key signs of an immature Christian is incomplete repentance. A Christian may keep getting into trouble because they have never truly, totally, and thoroughly repented with tears and a conviction that only Jesus can give the cleansing and forgiveness that they need. Maturity - able to nourish self on meat: (Hebrews 5:13-14). Being mature is understanding that God is righteous, and that we need to be made righteous through the blood of His son Jesus Christ and our faith in Christ alone. By ourselves we cannot live right as we should (Romans 3:10). A mature Christian, however, can discern the difference between good and evil. A mature Christian has a keen sense of what is right and wrong, not simply saying ‘well everyone has their own opinion'. A mature Christian is upright in their business dealings and in the way they treat others and is someone who seeks first Christ's kingdom and His righteousness. If you are living right, doing right, and are not living self-righteously but righteously through Christ, then you are for sure maturing in your faith.   3. We need to grow up from being out of control to becoming self-controlled Immaturity - little self-control: In real life babies are not noted for their self-control, especially regarding the bladder! They don't care. They are babies. And if they feel sick then they just go and throw up. Such behaviour, although clearly objectionable and messy, is considered permissible simply because babies do what babies do. But these are not endearing traits when babies grow older. Yet in the church, many Christians have never been potty trained. They just do what they want, say what they want to whom they want, when they want, and are not much bothered what mess they cause. There is little evidence of restraint in their lives. Lack of self-control may be seen in that they do not control their tongue, their temper, their passions, or their spending. This is nothing but immaturity. Maturity - modelling self-control: Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23). A Spirit filled mature Christian is someone who has learnt to control his passions (Titus 2:11-12). To be a grown-up Christian you can't sleep around but must control your sexual appetites. To be a grown-up Christian you must rule your money, not spend it just by impulse. To be a grown-up Christian you can't lose your temper because someone or something displeases you. You must rule your actions and reactions. And not least to be a grown-up Christian you must control your mouth (Psalm 34:12-13). An uncontrolled tongue can cause great damage (James 3:5, James 1:26).   So having considered three practical areas where we need to grow up, we need to stand strong, learn to receive meat, and live self-controlled lives. So how are you doing and what do you need to change to become a grown-up Christian? Pray asking for the Lord's forgiveness and the help of the Holy Spirit. 

Everyone needs to grow up in life and as a Christian. Babies, both natural and newborn Christians, should be a great blessing. But it's not a blessing if they stay babies. They need to grow up strong and healthy. One of the root problems of modern Christianity is what Juan Carlos Ortiz has described as ‘The permanent childhood of the believer.'  The New Testament Epistles are full of exhortations to help us grow up in Christ, and the apostle Paul described this as the whole purpose of his ministry (Colossians 1:28). He understood that the various leadership roles in the church were to equip and mature the church (Ephesians 4:12-14; 1 Corinthians 13:11). Every Christian needs to grow up in our knowledge of God, in love, in the anointing of the Holy Spirit, in perseverance and in becoming more like Jesus. Of course, newly born-again Christians need a lot of care, attention, encouragement, protection, and direction. That's why we need mature disciples, both older and younger, to act like a spiritual mum and dad to help those new to faith. New believers often have a lot of questions as so much is so different to anything they have known before. They need established Christians to accept them, be patient with them and give all the answers that they can. We should never put heavy burdens and unrealistic expectations and goals on new Christians. But we can and should expect every true Christian to grow up from spiritual infancy. We see three practical areas where every Christian needs to move from immaturity to maturity:   1. We need to grow up from being unable to walk to be being able to stand strong (Ephesians 4:14; James 4:7; Ephesians 6:12-13; 1 John 2:14).  2. We need to grow up from being fed milk to be able to receive meat (1 Corinthians 3:1-2; Hebrews 5:12-14,6:1-3) 3. We need to grow up from being out of control to becoming self-controlled (Galatians 5:23; Titus 2:11-12; Psalm 34:12-13; James 3:5, James 1:26) Apply  1. We need to grow up from being unable to walk to be being able to stand strong. Immaturity - unable to walk: A baby can't hold themselves up. A toddler keeps falling over. Baby Christians too stumble over the same problems and temptations (Ephesians 4:14). Immature Christians are unstable and prone to falling over. A new immature Christian can be easily confused and disorientated. So we must train each Christian to know how to stand. Maturity - able to stand: It's amazing how quickly a baby learns to stand. It's equally wonderful to see new Christians rapidly becoming secure in their faith in Jesus. A mature Christian trusts in Christ not in themselves, is one who can resist the Devil and see him flee from you (James 4:7). A mature Christian has learned to stand their ground during trials and temptations (Ephesians 6:12-13). You know you are growing in your faith when you are no longer ruled by your feelings and circumstances. You no longer worry when people criticise you since they only have power over you if you accept their negativity. You don't panic when Satan sends noisy thunder and dramatic lightning your way. Why? Because You know how to find your refuge, your safe place, in the promises of God's word that He will never leave you or forsake you, and that the Lord will always hear your cry. You don't have to be old or a long-time Christian to develop an ability to stand strong in your confidence in Jesus who has conquered sin, Satan, death, and hell at the Cross (1 John 2:14).   2. We need to grow up from being fed milk to be able to receive meat Immaturity - must be fed milk: (1 Corinthians 3:1-2). Spiritual babies only want what they can easily digest. They only eat small portions of the word of God, only texts that make them feel good. Baby Christians want to be comforted not challenged, entertained rather than enlightened. They want only to receive the good promises of prosperity and good life without much of God's life and the challenges of denial, discipline, and discipleship. They don't want in depth Bible teaching (Hebrews 5:12,6:1-3). One of the key signs of an immature Christian is incomplete repentance. A Christian may keep getting into trouble because they have never truly, totally, and thoroughly repented with tears and a conviction that only Jesus can give the cleansing and forgiveness that they need. Maturity - able to nourish self on meat: (Hebrews 5:13-14). Being mature is understanding that God is righteous, and that we need to be made righteous through the blood of His son Jesus Christ and our faith in Christ alone. By ourselves we cannot live right as we should (Romans 3:10). A mature Christian, however, can discern the difference between good and evil. A mature Christian has a keen sense of what is right and wrong, not simply saying ‘well everyone has their own opinion'. A mature Christian is upright in their business dealings and in the way they treat others and is someone who seeks first Christ's kingdom and His righteousness. If you are living right, doing right, and are not living self-righteously but righteously through Christ, then you are for sure maturing in your faith.   3. We need to grow up from being out of control to becoming self-controlled Immaturity - little self-control: In real life babies are not noted for their self-control, especially regarding the bladder! They don't care. They are babies. And if they feel sick then they just go and throw up. Such behaviour, although clearly objectionable and messy, is considered permissible simply because babies do what babies do. But these are not endearing traits when babies grow older. Yet in the church, many Christians have never been potty trained. They just do what they want, say what they want to whom they want, when they want, and are not much bothered what mess they cause. There is little evidence of restraint in their lives. Lack of self-control may be seen in that they do not control their tongue, their temper, their passions, or their spending. This is nothing but immaturity. Maturity - modelling self-control: Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23). A Spirit filled mature Christian is someone who has learnt to control his passions (Titus 2:11-12). To be a grown-up Christian you can't sleep around but must control your sexual appetites. To be a grown-up Christian you must rule your money, not spend it just by impulse. To be a grown-up Christian you can't lose your temper because someone or something displeases you. You must rule your actions and reactions. And not least to be a grown-up Christian you must control your mouth (Psalm 34:12-13). An uncontrolled tongue can cause great damage (James 3:5, James 1:26).   So having considered three practical areas where we need to grow up, we need to stand strong, learn to receive meat, and live self-controlled lives. So how are you doing and what do you need to change to become a grown-up Christian? Pray asking for the Lord's forgiveness and the help of the Holy Spirit. 

Everyone needs to grow up in life and as a Christian. Babies, both natural and newborn Christians, should be a great blessing. But it's not a blessing if they stay babies. They need to grow up strong and healthy. As Christians we rejoice that God's son humbly came to earth as a vulnerable baby, but it was only when Jesus grew up that He could fulfil the great purpose of His life. Even at an early age the Bible records the growth of Jesus (Luke 2:52). God is the God of growth (Isaiah 9:7; Genesis 1:27-28). The parable of the mustard seed shared by Jesus speaks of exponential growth in the Kingdom of God (Matthew 13:31-32).  In the Christian church both, locally and universally, God wants the church to multiply numerically, but He also wants every Christian to grow up in their faith, in their character, in their ministry and in every stage of life (Psalm 92:12-14). Our new series focusses on how we can develop from spiritual infancy into mature and fruitful disciples of Jesus and how in turn we can train others also to become grown up disciples.   One of the root problems of modern Christianity is what Juan Carlos Ortiz in his classic book “Disciple” (see also Warren Wiersbe "Be Mature" and Arthur Wallis "On To Maturity"). Sadly, today there are Christians who seem to have stopped growing in their Christian lives. Despite years of teaching, fellowship, prayer, conferences and meetings, they remain childish in the way they talk, think, act and react. What they want is to be constantly pampered, spoon fed, consoled, cosseted, and cleaned up when they have made a mess. What they need however, as opposed to what they want, is not prayer or deliverance or counselling but simply this: they need to grow up!   This issue of spiritual maturity is nothing new. The Epistles are full of exhortations to help us grow up in Christ (Colossians 1:28). Paul aimed for more than the maturity of individual believers: He wanted to see the entire church mature. He understood that the various leadership roles in the church were to equip and mature the church (Ephesians 4:12-14). Over the coming weeks we will be looking at some of the practical ways that God intends for us to mature both individually and collectively, but first we see some major areas we need to grow in:   1. Grow in our understanding of God (Colossians 1:9-10; 2 Peter 3:18) 2. Grow in love (John 13:35; 1 Corinthians 13:4-7; Ephesians 4:15-16; Ephesians 4:2,31-32; 1 Thessalonians 3:12) 3. Grow in the anointing of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:25; Ephesians 5:18 4. Grow in perseverance (James 1:2-4; 2 Peter 1:5-8) 5. Grow in Christ likeness (Exodus 34:29; 2 Corinthians 3:18) Apply  1. Grow in our understanding of God (Colossians 1:9-10; 2 Peter 3:18). As new Christians we may know very little about God. But as we read His Word and experience His grace, we learn so much more about God. We grow in our understanding of the righteous and loving character of God; we discover that God is for us and not against us; we learn that we don't have to be shaped by the storms and circumstances of life but that we can rest secure that God is faithful to all His promises and that He works everything for the good of those who love Him; and we become more aware that Jesus is not just a figure of history but a living reality who we can know as our saviour from sin, our best friend, our greatest guardian and guide. And as we grow in our knowledge of God, we lose our fear and grow in faith. That's what God wants for every Christian. We are not to stay as infants with little understanding but to continually grow in our knowledge of our good and great God.  2. Grow in love. Love is the central message of Christianity. God is love and He so loved the world that He gave His only son Jesus to save us from sin and destruction. Today He wants to show His love through His body on earth. The church is called to model love in a world of hate. Sadly, many times people have been turned off church because they have encountered nastiness, judgmentalism and harshness in the church. However, Jesus told His disciples that they needed to work through their differences and work at loving one another (John 13:35). Love is not just an emotion (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). Paul certainly believed in the importance of spiritual gifts like prophecies and the necessity of helping the poor, but he said that without love, he would gain nothing. As Christians we all have a responsibility to speak with love and build the church up with love (Ephesians 4:15-16). What does this mean in practice? See Ephesians 4:2,31-32. We each have to move on from being a me centred baby to being a grown-up carer for others (1 Thessalonians 3:12).  3. Grow in the anointing of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit makes Jesus real to us and equips us to serve God. On the Day of Pentecost, the apostles received the powerful anointing of the Holy spirit but that was just a beginning. The book of Acts of the Apostles shows how they grew in their anointing of the Holy spirit as they boldly preached the gospel and saw miracles of healing and deliverance. It is not sufficient just to start out in Christian life and ministry with the anointing of the Holy Spirit, being continually filled (Galatians 5:25; Ephesians 5:18). The Greek verb tense used indicates a present continuous action, rather than a one-time event. So are we growing in our fellowship with the Holy Spirit? Are we exercising spiritual gifts with more authority? Is there a noticeable increase of the anointing of the Holy spirit in our lives and on our ministries? Every day we must value the anointing of the Holy Spirit, not grieving the Spirit by our words and actions so that God can increasingly move in power through us.   4. Grow in perseverance (James 1:2-4). Few people like to go through tough times, yet it is in such seasons that we are forced to choose whether to grow up in our faith or give up. Trials, where we learn to depend on God and not on ourselves or our emotions, help us to develop in our spiritual maturity. When we persevere and remain steadfast in the face of strong winds we learn, as an old hymn says, to ‘trust in Jesus and to take Him at His word.' We develop an inner spiritual and emotional toughness and an ability to endure in all situations. Instead of crying like babies in distress, we become confident that the Lord will give us peace and grace for every situation (2 Peter 1:5-8).  5. Grow in Christ likeness (Exodus 34:29). The more we spent time developing our relationship with the Lord through worship, prayer, knowing God's word and seeking to live holy lives, the more we will become like the Lord. There will come a greater transparency, a greater serenity, a greater beauty. People will literally be able to see and sense more of Jesus in us (2 Corinthians 3:18). So how are you doing in your Christian development? How much are you growing in your knowledge of God, in love, in the anointing of the Holy Spirit, in perseverance and in becoming more like Jesus? Well don't be worried or discouraged. God who has begun a good work in you plans to bring it to completion. You too can become a far more mature and fruitful Christian than you may have ever imagined.