14th June 2024.
(Matt. 5:21-26).
Because we all mess up from time to time, apologies are frequently needed in our relationships. We need to be reminded that apologizing is a biblical action. Jesus instructed His followers to make things right with those we’ve offended (vv.23-24; 18:15-20). And the apostle Paul said, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Rom12:18). Living at peace may require apologies.
Apologies can be hard to make because it takes a spirit of humility to admit our mistake, and this may not come naturally for us. But taking responsibility for how we were wrong in a situation can bring healing and restoration to a relationship.
Have you messed up lately? Swallow your pride and make the first move…it will be worthwhile for the sake of the strained relationship and bring glory to God. Reflect then on this SLM:-
“The best way to get the last word is to apologise.”
…Pastor Ross.
12th June 2024.
(Matt.6:5-15).
Reflecting back over the years it never ceases to amaze me of how God faithfully cares for us in numerous ways. In the different seasons of life, we find ourselves facing all sorts of challenges–but we do not face them on our own. As Christ said, “Your Father knows what you need before you ask him”(v.8).
In our time of need– whether spiritual, emotional, or physical–we can depend on the faithful care and concern of the Father. He knows us so well that He chooses the perfect time to give us what is best and to send reassurance of His care. “Not one sparrow is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid, you are worth more than many sparrows” (Luke 12:6-7).
We can trust the wisdom of His love. Reflect then on this SLM:-
“God’s timing is always right”
…Pastor Ross.
10th June 2024.
(1Cor 10:1-13).
The apostle Paul saw the value of embracing the lessons of history. He warned of the destructive nature of bad choices by recounting the story of the children of Israel and their wilderness wanderings–a result of their refusal to trust God and enter the Promised Land. See Numbers 14. Then Paul told the believers in Corinth, “These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us on whom the fulfilment of the ages has come.” See 1Cor 10:11.
God has given us the Bible, partly to help us learn from the history of His people. Biblical lessons contain both examples and warnings to guard against our worst inclinations and to lead us into wiser living. The question is whether we will learn from the lessons of the past or repeat the mistakes of those of those who came before us. Reflect then on this SLM:-
“Valuable lessons are learned from examining the lives of God’s people who have gone before us.”
….Pastor Ross.
