Podcast appearances and mentions of graham barker

In this episode Martin Nathan and Tabitha Potts interview Lead Curator Dr Eleanor Jackson and Julian Harrison, about the British Library's latest blockbuster exhibition, Medieval Women: In Their Own Words, where visitors will discover how the voices of medieval women still resonate across the centuries and speak powerfully to our world today.We discuss famous historical figures such as Joan of Arc and Julian of Norwich as well as discovering forgotten women such as the the rebel Margaret Starr who joined in the Peasant's Revolt, Maria Moriana, a woman who argued that slavery was illegal in order to prevent herself being sold, and the mediaeval Welsh poet Gwerful Mechain who wrote a poem praising the vagina. Medieval Women: In Their Own Words runs at the British Library from 25 October 2024 – 2 March 2025. The exhibition is supported by Joanna and Graham Barker and Unwin Charitable Trust. Reading: Hafsa bint al-Hajj, translated by Yasmine Seale.Music: Early Music New York, Frederick Renz, Director, which comes from "Music for Medieval Love; Early Music New York, Frederick Renz, Director; exCathedra Records, USA." This episode was produced by Tabitha PottsTabitha Potts is a short story writer and novelist, recognised with an Honourable Mention in the Alpine Fellowship Writing Prize. Her debut novel will be published by Rowan Prose Publishing in 2026.

Mitten in den malerischen grünen Hügeln des pazifischen Taschenlandes feierte Sir Patrick Stewart, eine handgroße Maus, seinen neunten Geburtstag. Seine Höhle war gefüllt mit Freunden wie Sir Paul McCartney, Lady Helen Mirren und Lord Anthony Hopkins – und viele weitere Mäuse mit klangvollen Namen. Sir Patrick schlug ans Glas und wollte gerade seine Festrede beginnen, da drückte sich ein geheimnisvoller Zauberer durch den Höhleneingang. Sein Name sei Guiness, sagte er. Er prophezeite, dass Sir Patrick die Geschichte des Taschenlandes verändern würde. Dazu müsse er ihn allerdings mitnehmen. Doch bevor Sir Patrick etwas sagen konnte, verschwand er in einem hellen Lichtstrahl. Verwirrung breitete sich aus. Die Mäuse schrien auf und suchten nach Sir Patrick. Sie fanden ihn aber nicht, auch nach vielen Tagen nicht, bis sie schließlich aufgaben. Seine Geschichte wurde zur Legende, und die Taschenlandmäuse hoffen seitdem auf seine Rückkehr. Der neunte Geburtstag von Sir Patrick Stewart bleibt unvergessen. Alle Links zur Episode: Schnellstes Bobbycar https://www.focus.de/panorama/welt/ein-geiles-gefuehl-mit-bobby-car-ins-guinness-buch-der-rekorde-hesse-faehrt-hoechstgeschwindigkeit_id_106927517.html Der größte Ball aus Hundehaar https://www.guinnessworldrecords.de/world-records/99859-heaviest-ball-of-dog-hair Ältetser Hund aller Zeiten https://www.sueddeutsche.de/panorama/guinnessbuch-hund-tiere-bobi-aeltester-hund-der-welt-1.6296129#:~:text=Ein%20Lebenswandel%2C%20der%20dem%20Haustier,der%20%C3%A4lteste%20Hund%20der%20Welt. Textilreste aus seinem Bauchnabel https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1323477/Record-breaking-belly-fluff-collection-Graham-Barker-collected-22-1g-26-years.html Die meisten Gummientchen https://www.guinnessworldrecords.de/world-records/largest-collection-of-rubber-ducks Älteste lebende Maus https://apnews.com/article/oddities-mice-and-rats-patrick-stewart-los-angeles-north-america-a18dd33116b9c7fa51e15e7536e7d0c6#:~:text=A%20Pacific%20pocket%20mouse%20named%20Pat%20%E2%80%94%20after%20%E2%80%9CStar%20Trek%E2%80%9D,announced%20after%20a%20certification%20ceremony. Meisten Knochenrüche https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evel_Knievel Kleinste Straße der Welt https://www.reutlingen.de/de/Leben/Unsere-Stadt/Sehenswertes/Engste-Strasse-der-Welt Die größte Ziegen-Yoga-Klasse https://www.guinnessworldrecords.de/world-records/494448-largest-goat-yoga-class Der schnellste Halbmarathon als Lebkuchenfrau https://www.guinnessworldrecords.de/world-records/481882-fastest-half-marathon-dressed-as-a-gingerbread-man-female Welchen Rekord sollen wir versuchen? Vorschläge bitte hier in die Kommentare oder auf allen anderen Plattformen.

In the continuing fight for women's rights, who is responsible for change, and who should stand up and make a difference today? Amika George is the Founder of #FreePeriods, a global campaign to end period poverty, which she started at the age of 17. Her campaign successfully persuaded the UK government to pledge funds to provide free menstrual products in all English schools and colleges in 2017. More recently she wrote her first book, Make it Happen: How to Be an Activist. In the final episode of this series, Amika joins British Library Curator Polly Russell to discuss the anatomy of activism – explaining her journey, and giving thoughts on how women can continue to organise and made their voices heard. They hear from key campaigners including Rachel Grocott from Bloody Good Period, LGBTIQA+ activist Prishita Maheshwari-Aplin from Voices 4 London, Natasha Walter from Women for Refugee Women, and Isabel Cortes from United Voices of the World. Unfinished Business podcast series is generously supported by Joanna and Graham Barker and The Eccles Centre for American Studies.

Too often, men design the technology that shapes our world but in this episode we’re getting excited about the feminist possibilities of tech. British Library Curator Polly Russell is joined by Alice Wroe, an Augmented and Virtual Realities Lead at the Atlantic Institute. Together, they’re exploring the diversity issues in the industry and hearing from women who’re working to disrupt the scene. Judy Wajcman, a Fellow at The Alan Turing Institute, looks backwards to explain why from the 80s onwards women in the UK became less involved in this field. Looking to the future, we’re donning Virtual Reality headsets as artist and VR creator Deepa Mann-Kler takes us through some of her alternative projects. Co-Founder of non-profit organisation Feminist Internet Dr Charlotte Webb explores how feminist chatbots can change the ways tech can converse with us. And the self-proclaimed ‘accidental technologist’ Stephanie Dinkins will be questioning how technology can care for us in the future… Unfinished Business podcast series is generously supported by Joanna and Graham Barker and The Eccles Centre for American Studies. A Pixiu Production.

Having fun is a serious business. In this episode British Library curator Polly Russell joins forces with illustrator and club-night founder Flo Perry to explore how lesbians and queer women have partied, socialised and come together since the 70s. Because it’s in these moments and places that communities thrive and identities are confirmed. And these spaces are under threat. Polly and Flo are heading back to the 80s to get a sense of lesbian nightlife then, with club promoter Yvonne Taylor. They’re exploring the power of punk with Chardine Taylor Stone - LGBT+ activist and drummer of black feminist punk band Big Joanie. And they’re meeting British Library Research Fellow Eleanor Careless to learn how lesbians found each other in the past using feminist magazine Spare Rib. There’ll also be lots of metaphorically partying in some of the hottest queer nights happening pre pandemic- Tabitha Benjamin’s Butch, Please and Xandice Armah’s Gal Pals. Get your glad rags on, it’s going to be a wild one. Unfinished Business podcast series is generously supported by Joanna and Graham Barker and The Eccles Centre for American Studies. A Pixiu Production.

Throughout history attempts have been made to silence and ignore women. They’ve had to fight for a place in politics, had to use male pseudonyms to get published and often find themselves subjected to trolling and abuse when they speak out. So in this episode, curator Polly Russell and co-host comedian and writer Sara Pascoe are hearing from some women who stand on stage and command attention. They’re having a laugh with broadcaster and writer Sandi Toksvig and stand-up comedian Shazia Mirza as they explore how the comedy scene has changed over time and what still needs to be done. Strap yourselves in for some very funny conversations and unexpected revelations… Unfinished Business podcast series is generously supported by Joanna and Graham Barker and The Eccles Centre for American Studies. A Pixiu Production.

We’re living in what some have called an epidemic of domestic abuse in the UK. It’s sadly a large part of the ongoing struggle for women’s rights, justice and the ability to live a life free of the threat of violence. In this episode, British Library curator Polly Russell is joined by bestselling author and Women’s Aid Ambassador Holly Bourne to explore why it happens, how it can affect anyone, what is being done to improve the situation, and what still needs to change. They’re hearing from survivors as well as Pragna Patel, a woman who’s worked to change the landscape over the last 40 years. Pragna is the Director of Southall Black Sisters, an organisation which has been highlighting and challenging all forms of gender-related violence against women since 1979. If you’d like any support or advice on anything in this episode visit womensaid.org.uk or southallblacksistsers.org.uk Unfinished Business podcast series is generously supported by Joanna and Graham Barker and The Eccles Centre for American Studies.

Today, we’re going cycling! When you see a bicycle 'revolutionary' and 'radical' probably aren't the first thoughts which spring to mind but for women in the late 19th century hopping on a bike was transformative. They could travel where they wanted and when they wanted at speed. In this episode, curator Polly Russell is joined by cyclist, writer and blogger Jools Walker (AKA ‘Lady Velo’) as they pedal through the epic history of women on bike and explore the politics of cycling today and why the sport is still so important for women. They get a pep talk from daredevil Olympian Victoria Pendleton, take a ride with Velociposse, an all-women’s bike club and hear from cycling sociologist Kat Jungnickel about the pioneering Victorian women who designed new forms of cycle wear. Unfinished Business podcast series is generously supported by Joanna and Graham Barker and The Eccles Centre for American Studies. A Pixiu Production

Actor and activist Jameela Jamil has unfinished business. She joins British Library curator Polly Russell to explore the intersecting realms of mental health and body image. Polly introduces Jameela to Susie Orbach who created the very first Women’s Therapy Centre in the UK. What follows is a fascinating conversation between a frontline feminist waging war against the patriarchy since the 1970s and a woman working against body shaming, oppression and injustice today. How have things changed? What’s still the same? And why is women’s mental health still an urgent conversation we should be having? Unfinished Business podcast series is generously supported by Joanna and Graham Barker and The Eccles Centre for American Studies. A Pixiu Production.

Does pleasure exist outside of politics? Can we have feminist sex? And how has the online realm affected young people’s views on the subject? Professor Amia Srinivasan, a philosopher at The University of Oxford, is delving into these thorny questions with British Library curator Polly Russell. They’re laying things bare with Laurie Nunn, the creator of TV drama Sex Education, examining some unusual objects from the past with historian Zoe Strimpel and heading to a school to hear from a group of 16 year old students. Unfinished Business podcast series is generously supported by Joanna and Graham Barker and The Eccles Centre for American Studies. A Pixiu Production.

For generations women of colour were unable to buy nude lingerie to suit their skin tone. In 2014 entrepreneur Ade Hassan decided to fix this by setting up Nubian Skin, an underwear company catering to people of colour. Three years on Nubian Skin is going strong but Ade still has unfinished business. In this episode she’s joining British Library curator Polly Russell to explore the relationship between race, beauty and feminism with Jennifer Hosten, the first black winner of Miss World and academic Dr Rochelle Rowe. Unfinished Business podcast series is generously supported by Joanna and Graham Barker and The Eccles Centre for American Studies. A Pixiu Production.

In this episode of Cloud Management Monthly, Dan and Matt ask the question, How do companies get started with cloud management? Join us with our special guest Graham Barker to discuss considerations companies need to think about to determine what goes into selecting the right cloud management platform. We also talk to Graham about his Tesla and what to expect in this new era of virtual technology conferences.

  LEARN ABOUT GRACKLE DOCS ...CREATING  ACCESSIBLE DOCUMENTS FOR SCHOOL DISTRICTS : Communications to all matters right now. Grackle Docs ' Jeff Mills and Graham Barker will be joined by Valerie Hull of Barbers Hill ISD near Houston

  LEARN ABOUT GRACKLE DOCS ...CREATING  ACCESSIBLE DOCUMENTS FOR SCHOOL DISTRICTS : Communications to all matters right now. Grackle Docs ' Jeff Mills and Graham Barker will be joined by Valerie Hull of Barbers Hill ISD near Houston

Today I bring you a reflection on renewing our inner world based on chapter 9 of the book “Unloading the Overload: Stress management for Christians” by Chris Powell and Graham Barker. Do you ever feel overloaded? Are you feeling it right now? Is it having a positive or negative effect on your times of quiet with God? Let's look today at how renewing our inner world can make all the difference. Perhaps the key Scripture for this principle is found in Romans chapter 12: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2 NIV11) In the context he is stressing that we not be conformed to "the pattern of this world”, and this cannot simply mean our mind needs to be changed. It’s about transforming the whole way we view the world from the inside out. The inner world must be changed if we are going to cope well with the challenges of the outer world. Let’s see how Paul himself dealt with this challenge by looking at what he wrote in the Epistle to the Philippians. I have three “P’s” for us today. Perspective Paul has many problems. He is under house arrest in Rome and could well be facing the death penalty. Not only that, but there are power struggles amongst Christian leaders in Rome (Philippians 1:15). What is his attitude? “But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.” (Philippians 1:18 NIV11) When I see Paul say, “what does it matter?” I find it hard to square that with Paul as someone with deep convictions. Why isn’t he anxious about his future and the future of the Roman church? To quote from the book: “We need to see what Paul is doing here. He is putting a different perspective on his situation. He is viewing it through the lens of the truth that God is in control and his purposes are being worked out. In that light, why does Paul need to get his toga in a knot? He is adjusting his attitude to things so that they do not overwhelm him.” Page 107 We can get bent out of shape by the smallest things. People have been killed over disputes regarding a neighbour's fence, or noisy neighbours. Of course, in life there are some things which are not small. However, almost all of them, from the perspective of eternity, or even a week later, will not matter nearly as much as we imagined. On to Paul’s next thought: 2. Past “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13–14 NIV11) Paul knew how to let go of the past. And what a past he had! “How come he is not overloaded with guilt for everything he has done to wreck the lives of other Christians?” p109   Despite the fact that Paul had a tragic and malevolent past towards Christians, he learned how to experience forgiveness. Not only the intellectual part of it, but the experiential part.  Whilst it is true that we cannot manufacture the feeling of forgiveness, by faith we can claim it as ours because of what Jesus has done. “Perhaps we honour God even more when we trust him even though we have not seen or felt it!” p112 3. Progress Just before the verses with looked at, he also wrote this,  “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.” (Philippians 3:12 NIV11) Paul is all about progress, not perfection. He knows he hasn’t “made it”. But is not overwhelmed with guilt about his imperfection. He is pressing on, not passive, but progress will do for him.  Perfectionism and Christianity do not work. Do you berate yourself, feeling guilty and angry or depressed if you don’t match up to being Jesus? This is not a problem with Jesus, the Bible nor the Holy Spirit. Nor is it really a problem with you. But it is evidence that the inner world needs to change.  If you have an irrational belief in the demand for perfectionism you will need to take it to God in prayer to argue it through with him. He will reassure you that your progress is what he is after, not your perfection. Sure, we’d all prefer to be more Christ-like than we are, and, God willing, we will be more like him in time, but our lack of current perfection is not a problem. When next you feel overwhelmed, take some time to examine whether you are seeing things from God’s perspective, whether you are holding on to guilt from the past, or whether you are trapped by perfectionism. I hope not all three! Wherever you are with the overload, our Father God is right there with us ready to offer us the peace and comfort only he can. Question for the day: “When you are overloaded, what is your go-to option to unload it with God’s help?" Retreat update There are just five places left for the spiritual disciplines retreat, “Wait for the LORD”.  You can find details on the dedicated page of my website (https://www.malcolmcox.org/wait-for-the-lord-retreat-march-2019/) .  If you have any questions, please drop me a line: malcolm@malcolmcox.org (mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org) .  I’m working on the booklet which I will send out in advance. This will contain information about the area, the details of the schedule, some tips on how to make the most of the retreat and an exposition of Psalm 130. Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org (mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org) . If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://www.malcolmcox.org (http://www.malcolmcox.org/) . Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review. God bless, Malcolm PS: You might also be interested in my book: "An elephant's swimming pool" (https://dqzrr9k4bjpzk.cloudfront.net/images/9167082/379662794.jpg) , a devotional look at the Gospel of John mccx, Malcolm Cox, Watford, Croxley Green, teaching, preaching, spiritual disciplines, public speaking, corporate worship, Sunday Sample, Corporate Worship Matters, Tuesday Teaching Tips, Quiet Time Coaching, Coach.me, coaching,  coach me, coaching near me, coach, online coaching, savior, quiet time, devotion, God, Jesus, Pray, prayer, malcolm’s, cox, 

I’m diving deep into Matthew 5-7.  it’s all in preparation for a teaching and preaching series for the Thames Valley churches of Christ (http://www.tvcoc.org/) , and a teaching day for the Watford Church of Christ (http://www.watfordchurchofchrist.org/) based on the sermon on the mount.  Today I want to bring you an overview of the Beatitudes based on chapter 8 of the book “Unloading the Overload: Stress management for Christians (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unloading-Overload-Christian-Managing-Stress/dp/189974617X/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?keywords=%E2%80%9CUnloading+the+Overload%3A+Stress+management+for+Christians%E2%80%9D+by+Chris+Powell+and+Graham+Barker.&qid=1557228534&s=gateway&sr=8-1-fkmr0) ” by Chris Powell and Graham Barker.  The podcast contains the full commentary on my thoughts of their approach to the Beatitudes. For these show notes, I’ll content myself with inserting the text of Matthew 5:3-12, and a few choice quotes from the book.  ““Blessed are the poor in spirit,           for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek,           for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,           for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful,           for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart,           for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers,           for they will be called children of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,           for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.     “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:3–12 NIV11)  These beatitudes are effectively priorities for a follower of Jesus. Three stand out:  Our relationship with the Creator-father.  Our relationship with other people.  Our relationship with our own self and our circumstances.  Quotes from the book Blessed (makarios) “carries a sense of unassailable wholeness.”  “meekness Is a kind of compound quality which includes moderation, self-control and self-awareness."  “We need to offload the pressures we put on ourselves by simplifying our lives and wholeheartedly pursuing the just, the good and the healthy."  “We will not have makarios if we simply use people and love things, rather than use things and love people."  “If we live expecting to receive from others, we will always be disappointed, but if instead we live giving to others a “womb experience” of deep emotional connectedness, we cannot be disappointed even if they do not respond."  “Peacemakers seek resolutions, not the attribution of blame."  "Jesus did not advocate social rebellion. He began an inner revolution that promotes a love of others and a gentleness of spirit, while giving all the glory to the father."  Let me know what stands out to you from these thoughts today. How might digging into the Beatitudes help you unload the overload? In the weeks ahead I shall be posting more about each of the Beatitudes as I wrestle with them both in understanding, but also with application in my own life. Retreat Report I have found a terrific place for a group retreat.  last Friday I went to have a look at St Michael’s convent (https://stmichaelsconvent.sistersofthechurch.org.uk/home) in Gerrards Cross.  It’s secluded, quiet and has a pervading sense of peace.  A pencil booking has been made for the final weekend of March 2020. That's the 27th-29th March.  Schedule: Friday night to Sunday lunchtime.  Maximum capacity is 17 people, which, if we took all those places, would mean we were the only guests at the convent.    Accommodation: Bedrooms (3 Double, 2 Twin and 8 Single) are simply and comfortably furnished. Each room has a hand basin and three/four bedrooms have ensuite WC/shower rooms. Additional showers are mostly shared between just two guests. A bath is available on the second floor for those who prefer.  The extensive gardens would give people opportunities for a stroll, prayer walk or simply to sit and read or meditate on God’s word. The house is very quiet, and includes a beautiful intimate chapel which we would be able to use as well as a meeting room.   The location is easily accessible by many routes. Not far off the M25 and M40 and only a few miles from the M4. By Train: Marylebone to Gerrards Cross about 20 minutes. Also good service from Aylesbury, Oxford, Stratford upon Avon, Birmingham and Kidderminster via Chiltern Railways. Walking distance from the Gerrards Cross train station is about 10-15 minutes.  The cost is £120 per person which includes full board for 48 hours, use of the meeting room and other facilities. The chef can make allowances for a wide variety of dietary needs.   Next steps:  receive feedback and comments from you, my lovely audience, then make adjustments and set up a registration page.  Watch this space.  Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org (mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org) . If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://www.malcolmcox.org (http://www.malcolmcox.org/) . Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review. God bless, Malcolm PS: You might also be interested in my book: "An elephant's swimming pool" (https://dqzrr9k4bjpzk.cloudfront.net/images/9167082/379662794.jpg) , a devotional look at the Gospel of John mccx, Malcolm Cox, Watford, Croxley Green, teaching, preaching, spiritual disciplines, public speaking, corporate worship, Sunday Sample, Corporate Worship Matters, Tuesday Teaching Tips, Quiet Time Coaching, coaching, coaching near me, coach, online coaching, savior, quiet time, devotion, God, Jesus, Pray, prayer, malcolm’s, cox, 

These podcasts are my attempts to think through how to have a deeper walk with God. To enjoy more satisfying and meaningful times of quiet with him. As I explore topics on these recordings I hope they help you, and that you can reflect back what you are learning so that we can all grow and learn together. We continue our series today based on the book, “Unloading the Overload: Stress management for Christians” (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unloading-Overload-Christian-Managing-Stress/dp/189974617X/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?keywords=%E2%80%9CUnloading+the+Overload%3A+Stress+management+for+Christians%E2%80%9D+by+Chris+Powell+and+Graham+Barker.&qid=1557228534&s=gateway&sr=8-1-fkmr0) by Chris Powell and Graham Barker. Today we explore the issue of learning to relax. The Bible does not teach directly about “relaxing”. But, we are urged to “Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7). Easier to say than to do. The key phrase is, “because he cares for you”. It requires some deliberate focus to be reminded of this and convinced of it.  If we can learn how to do this (to relax), it will have a profound impact on at times of quiet with God. Here are some Scriptures which, if meditated upon, will help us to “relax”: “Who will separate us from the love of Christ?” Romans 8:35. “Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10. “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30. Consider the example of Eliza’s servants (2 Kings 6:8-23). He needed to “relax” to be able to see the reality that was otherwise hidden from him, that God’s army was greater than that of the enemy.  Certainly Jesus seemed to be able to relax -  consider his attitude asleep in the boat whilst the storm raged (Luke 8.23). Sure, the Christian life is not easy. We carry a cross (Luke 9:23). And Paul spoke of struggling for people on God’s behalf (Colossians 1:29). The key is that it is God’s energy which empowers us. How do we access this power? How do we become aware of it and our need for it? It’s got something to do with relaxing. Spiritual relaxing is a skill which can be learned. I have grown in this area by utilising the resources mentioned below. I won’t go into them in detail now, but bear in mind that awareness can be cultivated and learned. I would encourage you to have a look at the apps and resources below and to experiment with them to see what might help you. To quote from the book: “While the Bible does not directly say anything about relaxation, it does encourage us, at a number of points, to learn to “let go”. We are to let go of anxieties; we are to let go of activity and noise, in order to know that God is present; and we are to let go of the sense of carrying the Holyoke ourselves, and take on the yoga that is shared with Jesus-a yoke that is easy, involving a burden that is light. All of these injunctions have a relationship with the concept of relaxing and trusting in God’s faithful presence in our lives.” p86 What have you done which helps you to 'spiritually relax’?  Please report back if you try any of the resources mentioned below.  Resources mentioned in the podcast: Christian Mindfulness (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJHetD22H1cAEO5Dzn5sDug) ; Mind and Soul (https://www.mindandsoulfoundation.org/) ; Shaun Lambert (https://shaunlambert.co.uk/) ; Headspace (https://www.headspace.com/) ; Feeling Good (https://www.nhs.uk/apps-library/feeling-good-positive-mindset/) . Scriptures referred to, or that you might find useful: Luke 8.23; 1 Peter 5.7; Romans 8.35;Matthew 11.28-30; 2 Kings 6.8-23; Luke 9.23; Colossians 1.29. Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org (mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org) . If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://www.malcolmcox.org (http://www.malcolmcox.org/) . Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review. God bless, Malcolm PS: You might also be interested in my book: "An elephant's swimming pool" (https://dqzrr9k4bjpzk.cloudfront.net/images/9167082/379662794.jpg) , a devotional look at the Gospel of John mccx, Malcolm Cox, Watford, Croxley Green, teaching, preaching, spiritual disciplines, public speaking, corporate worship, Sunday Sample, Corporate Worship Matters, Tuesday Teaching Tips, Quiet Time Coaching, Coach.me, coaching,  coach me, coaching near me, coach, online coaching, savior, quiet time, devotion, God, Jesus, Pray, prayer, malcolm’s, cox,

We continue our series today based on the book, “Unloading the Overload: Stress management for Christians” (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unloading-Overload-Christian-Managing-Stress/dp/189974617X/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?keywords=%E2%80%9CUnloading+the+Overload%3A+Stress+management+for+Christians%E2%80%9D+by+Chris+Powell+and+Graham+Barker.&qid=1557228534&s=gateway&sr=8-1-fkmr0) by Chris Powell and Graham Barker. Today we explore the issue of redefining ourselves. How does our view of ourselves and the ways others think of us effect our times of quiet with God? We will never grow to maturity in Christ unless we deal with the inner life. Our times of quiet with God are our primary opportunity to help us become develop the inner life and become more like Jesus. At times we have to deal with external barriers to this development, but a more common and pervasive challenge is what is going on internally.  In other words, we can be our own worst enemy. However, it doesn’t have to be this way. Our times of quiet help us to develop emotional maturity. This maturity is not a position, but a process. As we go through life we develop healthily as we better understand and experience the ability to form our own independent convictions, whilst still remaining connected to community. Jesus was at a key development point in his life when he made a decision of independence to stay behind and engage with the teachers in the temple, whilst still understanding his need to be obedient to his parents (Luke 2:41-52). This emotional maturity is dependent on us developing a healthy self-image. An image of ourselves as God sees us. Most clearly articulated in Genesis 1:27: “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” (Genesis 1:27 NIV11) As the writers of the book put it:  “This is really the only solid basis for a good self-image. Other options are poor. Public adulation, financial success, sexual conquests, material acquisitions, you name it - all give temporary satisfaction but have long-term negative impacts on life. They never suffice, and chasing more simply creates more overload.” (p71) What to do?  Some time spent reading, meditating and praying through Philippians 2:1-8 could well help:     “Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” (Philippians 2:1–8 NIV11) We see in this passage that Jesus sets us the example of someone who considered the needs of others more important than his own. But, this did not mean he did what people wanted him to do or asked him to do. He did what they needed him to do. What a helpful distinction! It means I don’t have to live to please people. I don’t have to live to make people feel good. I don’t have to prove myself by how much I do for other people. I only have to connect with what God reveals as to how to help people according to what he has called me to do. Jesus poured himself out for people, but he still had boundaries. There were many he did not heal and countless numbers to whom he did not preach.  He gave his whole heart to the few so that in the end the many could be blessed. Is this a message you need to hear? I think I do. At times I do things for others that they could and should do for themselves. On other occasions I’m not quite sure about my motives. Do I teach and preach, arrange services, meet with people and lead worship because it is what people need, or do I do it to make me feel good? This, of course, is not always an easy question to answer. Again, this is why we need our times of quiet with God. Let’s finish with three suggestions which can help us with these challenges. Spend some time connecting with God’s love and reminding yourself, and allowing God to remind you, that his love for you is enough. You do not have to prove yourself to him or other people. Pray for wisdom that God would reveal to you when you are acting to meet the needs of others that God has called you to, or whether you’re acting to bolster your self-image in the eyes of God, yourself or others. Ask God to reveal your motives. Read, meditate over and pray about the themes of Philippians 2:1-8. What helps you to redefine yourself? To strip away whatever is from an unhealthy and inaccurate perspective, and replace it with the only view that truly matters - that of our maker and Father God. Do you have any tips you could share that might help us ? Scriptures referred to or you might find useful: Genesis 1.27; 1 Corinthians 2.15-16; 12.1ff; Philippians 2.1-8.  Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org (mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org) . If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://www.malcolmcox.org (http://www.malcolmcox.org/) . Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review. God bless, Malcolm PS: You might also be interested in my book: "An elephant's swimming pool" (https://dqzrr9k4bjpzk.cloudfront.net/images/9167082/379662794.jpg) , a devotional look at the Gospel of John mccx, Malcolm Cox, Watford, Croxley Green, teaching, preaching, spiritual disciplines, public speaking, corporate worship, Sunday Sample, Corporate Worship Matters, Tuesday Teaching Tips, Quiet Time Coaching, Coach.me, coaching,  coach me, coaching near me, coach, online coaching, savior, quiet time, devotion, God, Jesus, Pray, prayer, malcolm’s, cox,

We continue our series today based on the book, “Unloading the Overload: Stress management for Christians” (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unloading-Overload-Christian-Managing-Stress/dp/189974617X/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?keywords=%E2%80%9CUnloading+the+Overload%3A+Stress+management+for+Christians%E2%80%9D+by+Chris+Powell+and+Graham+Barker.&qid=1557228534&s=gateway&sr=8-1-fkmr0) by Chris Powell and Graham Barker. Today we explore the issue of exercise and diet. How do our nutrition and fitness effect our times of quiet with God - or not. I should begin by stressing that none of the advice here is given by a medical professional. I’m simply speaking from my own experience and reading. That having been said, let’s explore this topic. Does what we consume and how we look after our bodies make a difference to the quality of our connection with God? I’ll lay my cards on the table. I believe the answer is, “yes”. It is insofar as it is within our control to choose what we eat and drink and how often, and have any significant influence over the health of our bodies. I believe the care and nurturing of a physical state has an impact on the spiritual. It is not correct to see the spiritual and the physical as being of completely different domains and having no impact on one another. We are not simply souls which temporarily inhabit a broken and corrupted flesh. It should be borne in mind that we will have a body in the next life.  The apostle Paul puts it well: “Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.” (2 Corinthians 7:1 NIV11) Our bodies were made for physical action. God intended us to look after what he had created (Gen 2.15). This involved and still involves hard work. Our bodies react positively to physical exercise helping us to produce chemicals which provide natural feelings of well-being.  God made us this way. When we denigrate our bodies, or minimise the significance of a reasonable level of physical fitness, we deny ourselves gifts that God is offering. To do such a thing must have a deleterious effect on our connection with the father. Let me share some personal experiences.  Exercise I find prayer walks very significant in my relationship with God. On occasion I enjoy sitting still and meditating in prayer, but prayer walking is a staple for my quiet times. However, I have dodgy knees. So far I’ve had six operations on my two knees. They creak, and, if I don’t take care of them, cause significant pain. Not too long ago I was in severe pain and could not walk much at all. It had a very negative effect on my connection with God. I decided to take things more seriously. I did further research and discovered that it might be helpful to take glucosamine regularly and drink pomegranate juice. The frequency of walking also makes a big difference. Therefore, I take those glucosamine supplements three times a day, drink pomegranate juice daily and walk every day. No matter what. I’ve also taken up cycling. First on a stationary trainer in my garage until I was more confident (and the weather improved!), and now cycling the local lanes and canal tow paths. There are multiple benefits to this, of course. But primary amongst them is that, at least at this point, my knees are in good enough shape to allow me to take as many prayer walks as I desire. On another note, I have significant neck pain as a result of a disc problem. It interferes with my sleep, which make being alert and fresh for my morning time with God a challenge. I decided to attempt some action on this protracted problem. My wife suggested contacting a friend, Debbie Bishop, who is an expert personal trainer. She came over and designed a pilates-style strength-training plan which helps my entire body, but especially my knees and neck. After two sessions I was in less neck pain and sleeping better. Sleep is a key component in being prepared for a time of quiet in the morning. Of course, we cannot control everything to do with our sleep (I was woken this week by a dog barking at 4.41am), but what we can influence we surely should. A couple of thoughts about exercise. There are many theories about what is most helpful, and your doctor is probably your best source of advice here, but, the key is to find a mode of exercise which you find reasonably enjoyable, which you can maintain regularly and helps you to be ready for God in the mornings. 2. Nutrition  I don’t believe in diets - at least not diets in the sense of the multi-billion industry encouraging us to part with huge amounts of cash for dubious weight loss goals. However, it is clear that what we put into our bodies has an enormous impact on our well-being physically and, it seems to me, spiritually. In the last few years I’ve taken my nutritional more seriously. It all began with a trip to Ghana (which was a tremendously positive spiritual experience), and picking up a rather nasty stomach bug. Having lost a little over a stone I felt much better, and decided to maintain this new weight. Of course, being closer to my ideal weight also blessed my knees. Since then I’ve hovered around 13 stone (182 pounds for my American cousins, or, 82 Kilos) which is about right for me.  More recently I’ve taken to eating a more plant-based diet. By far the most significant issue is becoming self aware of what helps and what hinders. Let me give you an example.  I travel to the Thames Valley churches of Christ (http://www.tvcoc.org/) on Friday nights. By the time I get back it’s typically anywhere between 11 PM and 11:30 PM. Frequently, I’ve been leading worship or teaching, or in significant conversations and training opportunities. My mind is buzzing when I get home. As you can imagine it is a little difficult to switch off. What I did for quite some time was watch some television and drink a glass of red wine until I felt more ready to sleep. The upshot was rotten Saturday morning quiet times!  I was lethargic, and often had a headache.  Is watching television an evil thing? Is drinking a glass of red wine sinful? Of course not. But these “solutions” were hindering not helping. I have since developed a new strategy which involves drinking more non-caffeinated fluids on the way home as well as a healthy snack (often dates or a banana). When I get home I tidy away the equipment I have brought back from the meeting, tick off the completed items from my list for the day, and write down the priorities for Saturday. Then I listen to a podcast which has nothing to do with church stuff. It's usually a Goon show from the 1950s which I know almost word for word by heart. Occasionally I use an app called “Feeling Good” (https://www.nhs.uk/apps-library/feeling-good-positive-mindset/#) and a recording on that app called “Yes you can… Sleep soundly”. Listening to the Goons or the app I drift off to sleep earlier than I otherwise would do, and wake up more refreshed than in the past. None of this guarantees a good quiet time on Saturday!  But I do know I’m in a better place with a better chance to enjoy that time of quiet with God. A few caveats.  First of all, I understand that some of us may not be in a position to exercise in the traditional sense. It doesn’t mean, that if you are confined to your bed with illness that you cannot have a good time of quiet with God. God is able to help us to triumph through all circumstances. I’m only talking about what is within our control. It’s also not the case that I’m suggesting a particular exercise regime or set of nutritional choices as being more godly than another. This is much more about being conscious of the choices we're making and aware of whether they are helping or hindering our relationship with God. Do you agree with me that the way we treat our bodies has a significant impact on our relationship with God? In what way do you feel your choices in these areas are having an impact on your times of quiet with God?  Do you have any tips you could share that might help us develop better thinking and decisions regarding exercise and nutrition? Scriptures referred to or you might find useful: 2 Cor 7.1; 1 Tim 6.17; Luke 12.23; Matt 4.4; 1 Tim 5.23. Recent resources I have found helpful include:  "Younger Next Year” (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0316731501/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_kYWiDbHY2SHVF) (thanks for the recommendation, Adrian Hill)  “How not to die” (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1509852506/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_rZWiDbE35ZCC1) (and associated website & podcasts) “Glittering Vices” (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1587432323/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_L8WiDbEK4MRCV) (see the chapter on gluttony) “Feeling Good” (https://www.nhs.uk/apps-library/feeling-good-positive-mindset/#)   app Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community. Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org (mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org) . If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://www.malcolmcox.org (http://www.malcolmcox.org/) . Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review. God bless, Malcolm PS: You might also be interested in my book: "An elephant's swimming pool" (https://dqzrr9k4bjpzk.cloudfront.net/images/9167082/379662794.jpg) , a devotional look at the Gospel of John mccx, Malcolm Cox, Watford, Croxley Green, teaching, preaching, spiritual disciplines, public speaking, corporate worship, Sunday Sample, Corporate Worship Matters, Tuesday Teaching Tips, Quiet Time Coaching, Coach.me, coaching,  coach me, coaching near me, coach, online coaching, savior, quiet time, devotion, God, Jesus, Pray, prayer, malcolm’s, cox,

We continue our series today based on the book, “Unloading the Overload: Stress management for Christians” (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unloading-Overload-Christian-Managing-Stress/dp/189974617X/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?keywords=%E2%80%9CUnloading+the+Overload%3A+Stress+management+for+Christians%E2%80%9D+by+Chris+Powell+and+Graham+Barker.&qid=1557228534&s=gateway&sr=8-1-fkmr0) by Chris Powell and Graham Barker.  Today we explore the issue of friends. What can we learn from Jesus? How does friendship effect our relationship with God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit?  Humankind is not designed to be alone, Genesis 2:18. Indeed, a problem shared is a problem halved. We need friends and we know it. However, for some of us developing deep friendships can be tricky. Early formative experiences and family background play a part in us developing healthy soil in which to form friendships or creating barriers to mature adult friendships, and a friendship with God.  Fortunately, we have Jesus as our model. When he appointed the 12 (Mark 3:14-15) he not only commissioned them for a mission, but to “be with him”. To quote from the book,   “His calling of them to 'be with him' was not just to have their man-power, but also their friend-power! His call to them so that they could 'be with him' was a separate, distinct and primary purpose. He recognised the need for a network of emotional support for himself as he confronted the opposition and challenges ahead. There would be times when their human presence would make the emotional difference he needed.”  It’s a wonderful thing to contemplate the fact that Jesus’s underlying desire for his followers was that they would become his friends (John 15:12-15). Indeed, his relationship with us is so intimate as to actually live within us (John 14:24; Romans 8:9). The Holy Spirit operates like a friend. He advises, supports, is a constant companion, with us through ups and downs, reassuring us of God’s unconditional love when we doubt it, is our defender and tells us the truth. Fundamentally, our relationship with God is one characterised by friendship.  When we are feeling the overload, what will help us to develop our friendship with Jesus? At least three things are suggested in the book.  Honesty.  “We cannot expect friendships to grow if we cannot be open with the other person.” Be honest with God in prayer.  Flexibility.  We change and thus our relationship with God must change. Don’t hang on to an outdated immature version of a relationship with God.  Empathy.  Developing friendship with God means developing understanding of how he feels about you, other people and the state of the world. His Word helps us greatly with this.  My friends keep me focused, help me not to overreact, clarify my thinking, give me strength, and share my joy. Doesn’t God do all the same things?  In what ways do friends help you to unload the overload? What does your friendship with the Spirit do for your challenges when overloaded? Scriptures referred to or you might find useful: Genesis 2.18, John 14.23; 15.12-15, Romans 8.9. Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org (mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org) . If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://www.malcolmcox.org (http://www.malcolmcox.org/) . Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review. God bless, Malcolm PS: You might also be interested in my book: "An elephant's swimming pool" (https://dqzrr9k4bjpzk.cloudfront.net/images/9167082/379662794.jpg) , a devotional look at the Gospel of John mccx, Malcolm Cox, Watford, Croxley Green, teaching, preaching, spiritual disciplines, public speaking, corporate worship, Sunday Sample, Corporate Worship Matters, Tuesday Teaching Tips, Quiet Time Coaching, Coach.me, coaching,  coach me, coaching near me, coach, online coaching, savior, quiet time, devotion, God, Jesus, Pray, prayer, malcolm’s, cox,

We continue our series today based on the book, “Unloading the Overload: Stress management for Christians” (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unloading-Overload-Christian-Managing-Stress/dp/189974617X/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?keywords=%E2%80%9CUnloading+the+Overload%3A+Stress+management+for+Christians%E2%80%9D+by+Chris+Powell+and+Graham+Barker.&qid=1557228534&s=gateway&sr=8-1-fkmr0) by Chris Powell and Graham Barker.  Today we explore the issue of sharing the load. What can we learn from Moses, Nehemiah and Elijah? How does delegation effect our relationship with God?  To quote from the book: “Somehow on the solitary path that he has followed, Elijah has come to believe that everything depends on him. He has been living as though he is the Managing Director of the universe. He should have known that there were others still faithful to Yahweh, because he had met one loyal follower, Obadiah, just prior to the contest on Mount Carmel. But no, he carries the weight of, “I’m the only one left”. There’s a fair bit of “poor me” in Elijah at this point!” What stops you from sharing the load? Do you overrate your importance? Do you believe you are the only one who can do the job well?  “All these are simply ego-driven enticements to overload, even though we often try to justify them to ourselves. At our worst, we even affirm that we are sure God wants it this way.” What do you do to unload the overload? What helps you to delegate? Scriptures referred to or you might find useful: Numbers 11.1-25; Exodus 18.13-27; Deuteronomy 1.9-18; Nehemiah 3.1-12; 1 Kings 18; 1 Kings 19.9-10. Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community. Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org (mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org) . If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://www.malcolmcox.org (http://www.malcolmcox.org/) . Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review. God bless, Malcolm PS: You might also be interested in my book: "An elephant's swimming pool" (https://dqzrr9k4bjpzk.cloudfront.net/images/9167082/379662794.jpg) , a devotional look at the Gospel of John mccx, Malcolm Cox, Watford, Croxley Green, teaching, preaching, spiritual disciplines, public speaking, corporate worship, Sunday Sample, Corporate Worship Matters, Tuesday Teaching Tips, Quiet Time Coaching, Coach.me, coaching,  coach me, coaching near me, coach, online coaching, savior, quiet time, devotion, God, Jesus, Pray, prayer, malcolm’s, cox,

We continue our series today based on the book, “Unloading the Overload: Stress management for Christians” (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unloading-Overload-Christian-Managing-Stress/dp/189974617X/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?keywords=%E2%80%9CUnloading+the+Overload%3A+Stress+management+for+Christians%E2%80%9D+by+Chris+Powell+and+Graham+Barker.&qid=1557228534&s=gateway&sr=8-1-fkmr0) by Chris Powell and Graham Barker.  Today we explore the issue of setting Did Jesus set limits? What is the place for prayer in this challenge?  Is it more virtuous to work ourselves into the ground? Was Jesus a workaholic? He does not appear to carry any neurotic guilt about his limitations. Did Jesus ever say no? I think we know the answer to that, but how did he handle it? There is something in his relationship with the Father which gives him discernment about healthy limits whilst avoiding self-indulgence. To quote from the book: “For Jesus, central weight is given to the question: “What does my Father want to do here? That’s what I want to be obedient to.” Perhaps too often, in our need to meet others' needs, we say yes to what the Father is not calling us to. And so we pay a price, breaking down under the overload. There is truth in the statement “God will not bless what he does not initiate!”. Sometimes Jesus said “wait”. Are we comfortable with waiting? What does this mean for you and I? It means we have to learn how to say “no”. Yes, we must avoid laziness, but we must work at a pace which we can sustain for a lifetime. A helpful question posed in the book is this: “Ask: Is God the one who calls me to this, or is it my own ego or the pressure of other people’s demands?" Scriptures referred to or you might find useful: Mark 1:14-15; Luke 5:15-16; Mark 3:20; 6:31; 7:24; Matthew 8:18; John 5; Acts 3; 4:22; Matthew 9:36; 15:23; 9:27-31; John 13:12-17; Galatians 5:1. Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org (mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org) . If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://www.malcolmcox.org (http://www.malcolmcox.org/) . Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review. God bless, Malcolm PS: You might also be interested in my book: "An elephant's swimming pool" (https://dqzrr9k4bjpzk.cloudfront.net/images/9167082/379662794.jpg) , a devotional look at the Gospel of John mccx, Malcolm Cox, Watford, Croxley Green, teaching, preaching, spiritual disciplines, public speaking, corporate worship, Sunday Sample, Corporate Worship Matters, Tuesday Teaching Tips, Quiet Time Coaching, Coach.me, coaching,  coach me, coaching near me, coach, online coaching, savior, quiet time, devotion, God, Jesus, Pray, prayer, malcolm’s, cox,

We continue a new series today based on the book, “Unloading the Overload: Stress management for Christians” by Chris Powell and Graham Barker.  Today’s episode is not based on material in the book, but inspired by its theme. Let's explore the issue of praying for things we don’t really want. What is the place for prayer in this challenge? Jesus spent time praying for God’s will to be done in his life, even when it was tough to do so. We see him doing so in Gethsemane. If he wrestled in praying for the strength to do the will of his Father, then so might we. Can we learn from his example? I share my own realisation of ceasing to pray about assertiveness and diligence and why this is the case - that I don’t really want to grow in them! At least, not in my flesh. What part does vision play in this dynamic? Are you praying for things you don’t really want? If so, or not, how do you resolve the matter? Scriptures referred to in this episode: Matthew 26.36ff; Hebrews 5.7; Galatians 5.22-23. Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org). If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: [http://www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org). Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review. God bless, Malcolm PS: You might also be interested in my book: "An elephant's swimming pool", a devotional look at the Gospel of John mccx, Malcolm Cox, Watford, Croxley Green, teaching, preaching, spiritual disciplines, public speaking, corporate worship, Sunday Sample, Corporate Worship Matters, Tuesday Teaching Tips, Quiet Time Coaching, Coach.me, coaching, coach me, coaching near me, coach, online coaching, savior, quiet time, devotion, God, Jesus, Pray, prayer, malcolm’s, cox, time, energy, faith, Benjamin Franklin,

We continue a new series today based on the book, “Unloading the Overload: Stress management for Christians” by Chris Powell and Graham Barker.  Today’s episode is not based on material in the book, but inspired by its theme. Let's explore the issue of time and the need for energy, faith and the character of Christ in making the best use of the time God has given us. What is the place for prayer in this challenge? Jesus seemed to have enough time for the purposes of God in his life. His energy, faith and character were adequate to the tasks laid before him. Can we learn from his example? Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org). If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: [http://www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org). Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review. God bless, Malcolm PS: You might also be interested in my book: "An elephant's swimming pool", a devotional look at the Gospel of John mccx, Malcolm Cox, Watford, Croxley Green, teaching, preaching, spiritual disciplines, public speaking, corporate worship, Sunday Sample, Corporate Worship Matters, Tuesday Teaching Tips, Quiet Time Coaching, Coach.me, coaching, coach me, coaching near me, coach, online coaching, savior, quiet time, devotion, God, Jesus, Pray, prayer, malcolm’s, cox, time, energy, faith, Benjamin Franklin,

We start a new series today based on the book, [“Unloading the Overload: Stress management for Christians” by Chris Powell and Graham Barker.](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unloading-Overload-Christian-Managing-Stress/dp/189974617X/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?keywords=%E2%80%9CUnloading+the+Overload%3A+Stress+management+for+Christians%E2%80%9D+by+Chris+Powell+and+Graham+Barker.&qid=1557228534&s=gateway&sr=8-1-fkmr0) Today we explore the issue of prioritising. How did Jesus decide wat to do with his time and energy? What is the place for prayer in this challenge? Jesus had clarity about his long-range goals, day-to-day priorities and yet had the heart to be flexible. Scriptures referred to: Matt 4; John 11.50; Mark 10.45; Mark 5.21-34; John 11.6; Mark 6.45; Mark 5.24; Mark 9.30-31; John 5.30; Mark 6.31-46; 2 Timothy 1.7. Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org). If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: [http://www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org). Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review. God bless, Malcolm PS: You might also be interested in my book: "An elephant's swimming pool", a devotional look at the Gospel of John mccx, Malcolm Cox, Watford, Croxley Green, teaching, preaching, spiritual disciplines, public speaking, corporate worship, Sunday Sample, Corporate Worship Matters, Tuesday Teaching Tips, Quiet Time Coaching, Coach.me, coaching, coach me, coaching near me, coach, online coaching, savior, quiet time, devotion, God, Jesus, Pray, prayer, malcolm’s, cox,

Ethan Millard is joined this episode by Rebecca Cressman of FM100 KSFI in Salt Lake City. Have you ever poked your finger in there?  Really crammed it down? Feels weird, right? There's a reason for that. All placental mammals have navels. It's the point of contact for the umbilical cord which handles all nutrient and waste issues for a developing fetus. The navel is essentially a scar. When you poke your finger in there really deep, you stimulate some nerves that your brain interprets as being somewhere around your bladder. Do you have an innie or an outie? Most people have innies.  That's also what people prefer aesthetically. Whether you get one or the other has to do with the way the scar tissue forms. It's not determined by the way doctors cut or clamp the umbilical cord. Graham Barker has been collecting his navel lint (also called navel fluff) since 1984. He stores it in little jars and in 2000 the Guinness Book of World Records declared his collection to be the largest of all the navel fluff collection. If you have hair on your abdomen you will collect much more navel lint than others. The hair helps guide the lint to the navel. The lint itself is made of clothing fiber, skin, and hair. Neat! Stuff Your Dad Knows is hosted by Ethan Millard. What do you do when your children hit you up with crazy questions? Do you know the answer? Do you just pretend? Kids are smart, so this podcast empowers parents to answer those tough questions and stay at the top of the family food chain. If you want to be more efficient, just listen to the podcast with your children present. Then you don't have to be the information middle man. Family harmony is our goal! If you want to ask a question, use #stuffyourdadknows and Ethan will answer it for you! Follow him @EthanMillardKSL on Twitter.

Even though Emily and James can't seem to keep a collection of wine before drinking it all, they decided to talk about people who can collect things! Plus, we hear about some of our listeners' collections! This episode's wine: Root:1 Heritage RedThis episode's cheese: Sharp white cheddar  Even though it seems everyone has a collection of something, James tells us how collecting came from the rich. And how they kept their collections in these things called "cabinets," in case you were unfamiliar with the word ... Got some old toys or Hot Wheels laying around? They may be worth money! But, your Beanie Babies ... um, not so much. Emily also calls out her middle school crush who dropped her original Quackers in a mud puddle. While talking about some of the theories why we collect things, Emily gets on a tangent about state quarters and how they're like Pokemon. And, we find another reason Freud makes Emily roll her eyes. We also talk about collectors vs. hoarders, and Emily gives you some warning signs to look out for. And we talk about our personal collections we've had, and how Emily came to appreciate Al Gore's lock box idea. Thanks to Shane from Now That I'm Older, Ro from The World of Ro, and Jen from Rebeat Magazine (and our Cheers to Glam Rock episode), who sent in their collections for us to talk about!  Want to test your Greek, Latin, Harry Potter and made-up words trivia? James puts Emily on the spot with these terms, but, luckily, you won't be quizzed. Whoever came up with these names really should have consulted us. Emily talks about some unusual collections, including the collections of Graham Barker, who has collected his belly button lint since 1984. And James tells us about celebrity collectors -- no, not the people who collect celebrities. Also, we discuss our plan to entice Tom Hanks to come on our show. (Crowdfunding campaign coming soon!) Highlights 22:50 - Emily gives her tip for avoiding piles of tissues! 37:57 - James says those three magic words: "You're pretty smart." 44:11:49 - The best way to play Six Degrees to Kevin Bacon. Featured promos: The Something Something Cast Debt Shepherd Find more great podcasts on Twitter by searching the hashtag #PodernFamily on Twitter! Special thanks to our classy sponsors on Patreon: Debt Shepherd & PodUnderground Special thanks to Adam Centamore for his book, "Tasting Wine & Cheese: An Insider's Guide to Mastering the Principles of Pairing," which inspires us to try new wine and cheese pairings in every episode! Cheers! Visit our website for more: classylittlepodcast.com