Category: Reflections

I Trust in Your Unfailing Love

Yesterday was the 100th day of lockdown and during the last three months we have all had to get used to various changes to our usual normal way of life.

This weekend sees the easing of some of the lockdown measures in England with bars and restaurants being allowed to open again. Also, social distancing rules are being changed from 2 metres to what is described as “1 metre plus”.

On a personal note, whilst it’s good to see some of the lockdown eased, I am disappointed that there are still restrictions on churches meeting. Churches are allowed to open for private prayer and services. It is possible to hold weddings with up to 30 guests. However, singing is not permitted! Although I understand the reasons why, it is sad that we still do not know when we will be able to gather together for worship in the normal way again. (UPDATE – Since I posted this I have come across further information on the current rules regarding worship including this from the BBC website).

I think the online services have worked very well at my church, but it is not the same as worshipping together in the normal way. I had been a bit discouraged recently, as the end of the church restrictions still seems to be in the distance with no end date in sight. However I was looking at Psalm 13 and found encouragement in the final 2 verses.

“But I trust in your unfailing love.
I will rejoice because you have rescued me.
I will sing to the Lord
because he is good to me.” (v5-6, NLT)

As we move into the second half of 2020 let us keep our eyes on the Lord. Events in the world may discourage us but if we focus on God and trust in his unfailing live, then we will find encouragement and hope. Although circumstances may change in this world the Lord does not.

Who do we put our confidence in?

In these unusual times in which we currently live, one of the questions that we need to consider is: Who do we put our confidence in?

Last Monday whilst reading Psalm 146 I came across the following verses:

‘Don’t put your confidence in powerful people;
there is no help for you there.
When they breathe their last, they return to the earth,
and all their plans die with them.
But joyful are those who have the God of Israel as their helper,
whose hope is in the Lord their God.
He made heaven and earth,
the sea, and everything in them.
He keeps every promise forever.’ (Psalm 146:3-6 NLT)

It is very tempting during these times to place our confidence in political leaders. However, whilst we should pray for our leaders we have to remember that they are just humans like you and I. They fail and make mistakes.

Some might place their confidence in business leaders instead. Just like politicians though they are humans too and therefore not infallible.

One of the temptations for Christians is to place our confidence in our church leaders. Please don’t misunderstand what I’m saying here. We should respect and honour our church leaders, not forgetting to pray for them too. However, again they are humans like you and I.

Who then should we put our confidence in if it is not to be political leaders, business leaders or church leaders? The Psalmist gives us the answer in verse 5:

‘But joyful are those who have the God of Israel as their helper,
whose hope is in the Lord their God.’

Our confidence should be placed in the Lord. He is the one in whom we can fully trust. He is the one who made heaven and earth. The one who always keeps his promises. Humans make promises, which sometimes they keep them, but other times they do not. God, unlike humans, is reliable and keeps his promises.

And as Paul reminds the church in Corinth:

‘For all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding “Yes!” And through Christ, our “Amen” (which means “Yes”) ascends to God for his glory.’ (2 Corinthians 1:20 NLT)

Giving Thanks

It’s not unusual for Christians to wonder what God’s will is for their life. Normally when pondering God’s will we would be thinking of the big decisions in life for example: whether to marry a particular person, take a specific job, buy a house, become a missionary etc. However, if we search the scriptures for God’s will for us we will see that it covers far more than the big life choices previously mentioned.

In the final chapter of his first letter to the Thessalonians Paul says:

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thess 5:16-18 NIV)

As we can see from these verses, God’s will is that we give thanks in all circumstances. I wonder, when we ponder seeking the will of God for our life, whether we spend time thinking on this verse?

The will of God is very practical and simple here: give thanks. Whatever our circumstances we are instructed to give thanks.

There are obvious occasions in life when we might be feeling down and find being thankful hard. During these current unusual times in which we are living that would not be unexpected. Perhaps we are finding it difficult to know where to start. If you are unsure of what to give thanks for hopefully the following might help:

  • Give thanks that Jesus has forgiven your sins and given you new life.
  • Give thanks that Jesus has given you a new family of brothers and sisters to worship with.
  • Give thanks that you have food to eat today.
  • Give thanks that you have somewhere to live.
  • Give thanks for your health.
  • Give thanks for friends and family.
  • Give thanks for your job.

I recently read an interesting testimony from a young girl who had grown up in a Muslim country. She said that she happened to see a Christian woman thanking God in prayer on television. This caught her attention because in her experience of Islam they always asked God for something, but had never thought of thanking Him for something.

As Christians and disciples of Jesus let us be known as people who give thanks to God in all circumstances.

Future Plans

In my job our holiday year runs between September to August. I decided last summer that I was going to be super organised and apply for all my leave for the 2019-20 holiday year early, as I already knew which weeks I wanted. Therefore come September 2019, my leave had all been approved and I knew exactly which weeks I would be on holiday. Additionally I also knew what I had planned for those weeks too. Yes there were one or two things that I still needed to do, but most importantly I had got the exact weeks I wanted. Privately I was impressed with my forward thinking and efficiency in organising everything early! What could possibly go wrong and hinder my plans?

The simple answer is a word I had never heard of until recently: coronavirus. All my carefully arranged plans were suddenly shattered. Instead of visiting lovely coastal towns, I’m faced with the prospect of holidaying in my back garden, if the lockdown restrictions remain in place. Now I realise that I’m fortunate to have a back garden. At least I can sit out in my garden. For those people who do not have a garden it must be very difficult at the moment.

During the last 3 years or so some of my family members and friends have had serious illnesses. One of my friends had a major stroke and is now confined to a wheelchair. Future dreams and plans that had been discussed are suddenly shattered. Life looks very different for them now. Obviously my holiday frustrations are small fry compared with life changing illnesses.

In the light of the uncertainties of life we might well ask ourselves whether it is wise making plans for the future. Some might argue no, whilst others would still feel it is appropriate to make plans. I think we should hold any future personal plans we have made lightly in our hands and submit them to God. We should avoid holding on too tightly to these plans, but rather instead pray: “Not my will but yours be done”.

 

The Importance of Daily Exercise

We are now in the second week of lockdown in the UK and during this time I have realised afresh the importance of daily exercise. In fact daily exercise is one of only four reasons that we are supposed to leave our homes, the others are: to go to work, to buy food and medication. I’m currently working from home so I have only three reasons myself!

I have always enjoyed sport and leisure activities over the years, whether that be running, walking, football, tennis, squash or cricket. Although in recent years my exercise has been limited to walking at weekends and also when on holiday. However since the lockdown started I have ensured that I been out for a walk every evening.

Physical exercise is important. It helps keep us fit and in good shape. It’s also good for us mentally too especially if have had a stressful day at work. In the current unusual situation we are all facing I believe that we should take opportunities to exercise daily.

In his first letter to Timothy Paul wrote the following words, which are really relevant at this time:

“Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.” (1 Timothy 4:8)

Paul reminds us here that whilst physical exercise is good spiritual exercise is more important. Perhaps now more than ever, especially as we are not able to meet for worship, we need to ensure that we do not neglect spiritual exercise. I know that churches are streaming services, which is great, but as a friend said to me: “it’s not the same as meeting for worship”. And he is right.

It’s very important that we make time for God during this period of lockdown. We must not neglect personal bible study and prayer. It is essential that we do practice these spiritual disciplines. If you are anything like me you probably find yourself watching more TV or spending additional time on-line. Although that is not wrong as such, we really need to make good use of this time and not neglect spending time with God.

No-one knows how long the lockdown will last. Let us use the time wisely. Keep doing your daily physical exercise but please also ensure you exercise spiritually too.

Praying for our Leaders

We are currently living in very unusual times at the moment. It must be a challenging time to be a world leader as they are having to make very difficult and tough decisions. I would really not want to be a member of government, as they try to tackle the coronavirus outbreak and limit it’s effect on people. They have a huge responsibility on their shoulders. They need certainly need wisdom!

In that in mind I’m reminded of Paul’s instructions to Timothy:

“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Saviour” (1 Tim 2:1-3)

We must not forget to pray for them. It’s easy to criticise our governments. When thinking of the UK government, some will say that they have been slow in introducing the measures that were announced last Monday. However, others will say that they have overreacted and gone too far with the restrictions! Whether they have gone too far or not gone far enough we should pray for them. They need our prayers!

Don’t forget though that whilst it is right to pray for leaders our ultimate faith and trust must be in God and not humans.

“It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man.” (Psalm 118:8)

Overwhelming Situations

Sometimes when I watch the news I listen to a story that I find difficult to comprehend. I feel that although I hear the words they do not sink in and I cannot really grasp what I am hearing. This could be when the reporter speaks of a horrific murder or perhaps about some awful war crimes that have been committed. I have also experienced this too when I have received some sudden unexpected bad news. Not surprisingly this is how I am feeling about coronavirus.

I find myself regularly checking the BBC website to discover the latest news. I read about many people catching coronavirus and some sadly dying from it. Numerous countries around the world are moving into lockdown banning various normal activities such as going out socially. I’m struggling to comprehend all that is happening and I suspect others are too.

Last Sunday the following happened at my church:

• We had to wash our hands as soon as we arrived at the building.

• We were not allowed to shake hands or hug anyone. Therefore when we shared the peace we had to stay in our seats and just nod at the other people in the congregation!

• No bibles were allowed to be given out (these are normally handed out when we arrive at church).

• Our kitchen was closed so we were unable to have any drinks after the service.

• We were not allowed to receive the wine during communion. It was just the bread. Our vicar was the only one allowed to drink the wine.

The above practices were as per instructions issued by the Church of England so if you worship in an Anglican church you too would have experienced this.

It looks increasingly likely that we will soon not be meeting for Sunday worship or even midweek housegroups, especially after the Prime Minister announced last Monday that “everyone should avoid social contact with others”.

What do we do when we face such overwhelming situations such as coronavirus? Psalm 61:2 tells us:

“From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” (KJV)

I cannot think of anything else to suggest. The only hope we have in these strange and troubling times is to cry out to God: “Lord have mercy on us!”

Wash Your Hands!

Wash your hands! This is the advice that the NHS and the government are giving us as the best methods of not catching coronavirus. They recommend that we frequently wash our hands, ideally for about 20 seconds per wash. Additionally, we should use a tissue or our sleeve to catch a cough or sneeze, and avoid touching our eyes, nose and mouth if our hands are not clean.

When I was a child my parents taught me to wash my hands before I had a meal. If I’m being honest that is a habit that I had neglected somewhat, but I have now reintroduced it. Another important thing they installed in me was washing my hands after I had used the toilet. That is one habit I have never stopped doing. And it does irritate me whenever I use a public toilet, if I see anyone leave without washing their hands!

In recent days I am trying to be more conscious of following the NHS advice and doing what I can to maintain a good level of hygiene. One thing I have realised is that during the day, whether consciously or subconsciously, I found myself touching my face. I have suddenly become very aware of this and am trying to exercise self-disciple and avoid doing this. It’s so easy just to rub your eyes or scratch your ear without realising what you are doing. However, we have been told not to do this.

The advice that the NHS have issued about washing our hands may sound like something that you would tell a child. It’s really basic and simple advice. Surely as adults we do not need to be told this? Yet as I think about this I believe that we do. Although we cannot see germs they are real and we need to keep clean.

Although the advice about washing your hands is being spoken of here in relation to coronavirus, it is also a lesson that can be applied spiritually too. Just as we need to clean ourselves from dirt and germs physically we also need to do the same spiritually. If we do not then we find ourselves contaminated with the effect of our sin. What is the solution? The first letter that John wrote contains the words:

“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:7-9)

This is the advice that we need to follow if we wish to be clean before God.

 

The 50th Day of 2020

Today is the 50th day of 2020. It seemed a good time therefore to review the year so far.

Many of us no doubt start each new year with optimistic ideas and intentions. We may make new year resolutions. These might include: reading through the bible in a year, doing more exercise, losing weight, getting a new job, learning a new hobby, catching up with old friends etc. I think when we make these resolutions we are sincere about them. However, for most of us we are struggling to keep them by the end of the first week of January! This can result in us wrestling with disappointment and feelings of failure.

If you look back over the 50 days of 2020 how do you feel when you review the year so far? Do you feel despondent or are you happy with it so far? If you made any resolutions have you been able to keep them? For those who have struggled to keep your resolutions is there any particular reason why you have not kept them? Perhaps the ones you set were unrealistic. For example, if you decided you wanted to run 5 miles every night and had not exercised for several years then that was in all honesty an unrealistic target. Instead going on a 3 mile walk twice per week would have been a more realistic but still challenging one. Alternatively, did you just give up trying to keep your resolutions through a lack of self discipline?

At this stage there are two choices we can make:

1) Give up and wait until 1 January 2021 before we try again or
2) Resolve to start again

The simple truth is we cannot change what has happened during the first 50 days of 2020. Some opportunities that we had may now be lost for ever. However, what is past is now past. The only thing we can do is to leave the past in God’s hands. Let it rest with Him. Then we can resolve, by the grace of God, to press on and start again. The wonderful truth is that God’s mercies are new every morning. We do not need to wait until the beginning of next year to try again.

If you have made some resolutions then it is probably worth reviewing them and seeing if they might need amending if on reflection they were unrealistic. There are occasions, especially when we are back at work and facing stressful situations, when resolutions can be forgotten and we need space to revisit them again. Pray about them. Ask God for wisdom in your decision making.

Once you are happy with them it’s time to seek to work these out in our lives. To see real change often requires us to co-operate with God. Frequently these changes requires us to exercise self discipline. For example we might pray: “Lord help me to get up early each morning to read your word and pray.” It could be that if we listen carefully God’s reply to our prayer is: “Then go to bed earlier!”

This is the 50th day of 2020. There are still 316 days left in 2020. Do not give up but “fix your eyes on Jesus” (Hebrews 12:2) and remember Paul’s words to the church in Philippi:

“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. 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 3:12-14)

The Honesty of Psalm 13

Psalm 13 is a short passage of scripture consisting of just six verses. However, within these few verses David is not afraid to be very honest with God.

He starts the psalm by saying:

“O Lord, how long will you forget me? For ever? How long will you look the other way? How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul, with sorrow in my heart every day? How long will my enemy have the upper hand?” (v1-2)

David is in a desperate situation in this psalm. This leads him to question for how long God will forget him. When will this feeling go? Is there a possibility that it will never go and he will be forgotten for ever?

The man who has enjoyed deep fellowship with God feels that the Lord is now looking the other way. There is an anguish within his soul and his heart is sorrowful. This is not just an occasional feeling but one he is experiencing every day. Imagine having to face this day after day. David wants to know when this will stop.

His enemy has the upper hand over him and he wants to know when this will change. How much longer must he endure the oppression he is currently suffering?

In the middle two verses of the psalm he prays:

“Turn and answer me, O Lord my God! Restore the sparkle to my eyes or I will die. Don’t let my enemies gloat, saying, ‘We have defeated him!’ Don’t let them rejoice at my downfall.” (v3-4)

In his anguish though David does not give up on God. He continues to call out to God. Even though he has previously questioned for how long he will be forgotten, David still cries out to God . He knows that God is his only hope in his current situation. If God does not restore him then he will die. He is literally in a life or death situation. It’s as simple as that! Only God can rescue him.

David does not want his enemies to gloat over his defeat and rejoice over his downfall. He is fully aware that the stakes are high.

He concludes the psalm with the words:

“But I trust in your unfailing love. I will rejoice because you have rescued me. I will sing to the Lord because he is good to me.” (v5-6)

The mood of the last two verses is in complete contrast to the rest of the psalm. We are not told why there is a sudden change in David’s outlook. Did God dramatically intervene between verses 4 and 5 in a miraculous way to rescue him? Perhaps David took a step back and looked at his situation again but this time through the eyes of God? Or maybe he remembered his past deliverance and trusted God afresh?

Whatever the answer to that question is David is able to declare that he trusts in God’s unfailing love. He has complete confidence in this love. The love that is trustworthy. The love that is reliable. The love that will not let him go. The love that is sufficient for him in this situation.

Furthermore, he is able to rejoice that God has rescued him. His victory is entirely down to God. This leads to him singing to God. David sings because he knows that God is good to him.