When the children of Israel came out of Egypt and settled in the promised land of Canaan, GOD gave them judges to rule over the land for a period of about 150 yrs., until the arrival of Samuel the prophet. The people asked the LORD for a king, to be like the nations that surrounded them. First, He appointed Saul, the son of Kish, as King over Israel. Yet, his heart was prone to follow after the wishes of the people more than after GOD's will. In the end he was deposed because of disobedience. Samuel says to Saul:
"But now your kingdom shall not continue. The LORD has sought for Himself a man after His own heart, and the LORD has commanded him to be commander over his people, because you have not kept what the LORD commanded you." 1 Samuel 13:14
When God sent the prophet Samuel to anoint the new King of Israel, the prophet found several of David's brothers who were stronger, taller, more handsome and more regal in physical appearance. Yet the LORD instructed Samuel, saying:
"Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart," 1 Samuel 16:7. Of David, son of Jesse, tribe of Judah, God says, "I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My will" Acts 13:22.
Whenever you read though the book of Kings and Chronicles in the Bible, you will find a common description preceding the various kings, 'And he did what was right in the sight of the LORD, and walked in the ways of his father David' (i.e. 2 Kings 22:2) or 'And he did not do what was right in the sight of the LORD, as his father David had done' (i.e. 2 Chronicles 28:1).
King David was not a perfect, sinless man. Yet he was a man after God's own heart. I love the LORD. When I think of all the things He has done for Andrew and me, tears of gratitude often spill down my cheeks. David says, "When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars which You have set in place, what is man that You are mindful of them, human beings that You care for them?' Psalm 8:3-4. I know many of us can attest to the goodness and faithfulness of the LORD-unmerited love, mercy and grace. In honour of all that He is, why not live in pursuit of His heart? What a great honour to hear it said that we were a people after God's own heart!
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Monday, October 15, 2012
Talk Tuesday-God Is Not A Man That He Should Lie
"God is not man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind. Does He speak and then not act? Does He promise and not fulfill?" Numbers 23:19
This morning I was reminded of this truth in such a profound way, as I looked back at the most difficult moments of my life and reflected on the promises of God. I began to weep as I realized that God kept each and every single promise He made to me. Each one seemed impossible at the time, and my situation seemed immovable. Yet, by His grace and mercy, I chose to believe and each time, the victory He promised came to pass. In some cases it took years, in others months. I have come to the realization that if you do not persevere through the valley, you will not be able to climb unto the mountaintop. The view from up there is quite stunning. You gain such an appreciation for the wisdom, faithfulness, love and mercy of God.
In Exodus 3, God met with Moses at the burning bush on Mount Horeb and told him that not only would He deliver the Israelites out of Egypt, but that He would take them to 'a land flowing with milk and honey'. During their journey, they stumbled, fell, experienced opposition and became captives of their own doubt...yet God's promises remained true.
Right before crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land, they faced Balak King of Moab, who feared them greatly for they had just defeated Og King of Bashan and Sihon King of the Amorites. Balak commissioned Balaam son of Beor to curse the Israelites (Numbers 22). God appeared to Balaam on behalf of the children of Israel and forbade him to do anything but pronounce blessings upon His people. When King Balak became frustrated, Balaam could only reply, "God is not man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind. Does He speak and then not act? Does He promise and not fulfill? I have received a command to bless; He has blessed, and I cannot change it," Numbers 23:20.
God kept His promise to Israel. They entered the Promised Land. He kept His promise to me. He will keep His promise to you. We have to continue to trust Him. Do I still struggle with doubt? Yes. Do I still struggle with fear? Yes. Do I often feel discouraged when I can't see the promise on the horizon? Yes. Yet, God IS NOT a man, that HE should lie. Hold on to Him, cling to the promises in His Word, wait patiently for Him, and remember He has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." Hebrews 13:5
This morning I was reminded of this truth in such a profound way, as I looked back at the most difficult moments of my life and reflected on the promises of God. I began to weep as I realized that God kept each and every single promise He made to me. Each one seemed impossible at the time, and my situation seemed immovable. Yet, by His grace and mercy, I chose to believe and each time, the victory He promised came to pass. In some cases it took years, in others months. I have come to the realization that if you do not persevere through the valley, you will not be able to climb unto the mountaintop. The view from up there is quite stunning. You gain such an appreciation for the wisdom, faithfulness, love and mercy of God.
In Exodus 3, God met with Moses at the burning bush on Mount Horeb and told him that not only would He deliver the Israelites out of Egypt, but that He would take them to 'a land flowing with milk and honey'. During their journey, they stumbled, fell, experienced opposition and became captives of their own doubt...yet God's promises remained true.
Right before crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land, they faced Balak King of Moab, who feared them greatly for they had just defeated Og King of Bashan and Sihon King of the Amorites. Balak commissioned Balaam son of Beor to curse the Israelites (Numbers 22). God appeared to Balaam on behalf of the children of Israel and forbade him to do anything but pronounce blessings upon His people. When King Balak became frustrated, Balaam could only reply, "God is not man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind. Does He speak and then not act? Does He promise and not fulfill? I have received a command to bless; He has blessed, and I cannot change it," Numbers 23:20.
God kept His promise to Israel. They entered the Promised Land. He kept His promise to me. He will keep His promise to you. We have to continue to trust Him. Do I still struggle with doubt? Yes. Do I still struggle with fear? Yes. Do I often feel discouraged when I can't see the promise on the horizon? Yes. Yet, God IS NOT a man, that HE should lie. Hold on to Him, cling to the promises in His Word, wait patiently for Him, and remember He has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." Hebrews 13:5
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Prayer Wall - October
Please post to the Prayer Wall your prayer request. Our focus this month is prayer. There is power in prayer. Let us pray for you.
If you are not sure how to make a comment please see our YouTube video.
Monday, September 24, 2012
Talk Tuesday-The Power of Prayer
For many years we, along with many other believers, have been praying for the release of Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani in Iran who was imprisoned and convicted of apostasy for his faith in Jesus Christ. His punishment? Death, unless he agreed to renounce his faith. His decision? Jesus.
On September 8th 2012, after 3 years in prison, he was released with time served credited as punishment for his 'crime'. As I read the news, I rejoiced in the power of prayer and the freedom of our brother in Christ. I was reminded of a similar story in Acts 12:
Now about that time Herod the king stretched out his hand to harass some from the church. Then he killed James the brother of John with the sword. And because he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to seize Peter also. Now it was during the Days of Unleavened Bread. So when he had arrested him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four squads of soldiers to keep him, intending to bring him before the people after Passover. Peter was therefore kept in prison, but constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church. Acts 12:1-5
Now behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the prison; and he struck Peter on the side and raised him up, saying, “Arise quickly!” And his chains fell off his hands. Then the angel said to him, “Gird yourself and tie on your sandals”; and so he did. And he said to him, “Put on your garment and follow me.” So he went out and followed him, and did not know that what was done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision. When they were past the first and the second guard posts, they came to the iron gate that leads to the city, which opened to them of its own accord; and they went out and went down one street, and immediately the angel departed from him. And when Peter had come to himself, he said, “Now I know for certain that the Lord has sent His angel, and has delivered me from the hand of Herod and from all the expectation of the Jewish people.” So, when he had considered this, he came to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose surname was Mark, where many were gathered together praying. Acts 12:7-12
The Bible exhorts us to "Pray without ceasing," 1 Thessalonians 5:17. My mother always reminds me that 'more things are wrought by prayer than this world could ever imagine.' Let us never grow weary of praying, knowing that God is faithful. Remember, prayer undergirded by faith can move mountains. It did in Iran!
http://www.foxnews.com/world/2012/09/21/pastor-youcef-nadarkhani-writes-letter-thanks-to-supporters/
On September 8th 2012, after 3 years in prison, he was released with time served credited as punishment for his 'crime'. As I read the news, I rejoiced in the power of prayer and the freedom of our brother in Christ. I was reminded of a similar story in Acts 12:
Now about that time Herod the king stretched out his hand to harass some from the church. Then he killed James the brother of John with the sword. And because he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to seize Peter also. Now it was during the Days of Unleavened Bread. So when he had arrested him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four squads of soldiers to keep him, intending to bring him before the people after Passover. Peter was therefore kept in prison, but constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church. Acts 12:1-5
Now behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the prison; and he struck Peter on the side and raised him up, saying, “Arise quickly!” And his chains fell off his hands. Then the angel said to him, “Gird yourself and tie on your sandals”; and so he did. And he said to him, “Put on your garment and follow me.” So he went out and followed him, and did not know that what was done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision. When they were past the first and the second guard posts, they came to the iron gate that leads to the city, which opened to them of its own accord; and they went out and went down one street, and immediately the angel departed from him. And when Peter had come to himself, he said, “Now I know for certain that the Lord has sent His angel, and has delivered me from the hand of Herod and from all the expectation of the Jewish people.” So, when he had considered this, he came to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose surname was Mark, where many were gathered together praying. Acts 12:7-12
The Bible exhorts us to "Pray without ceasing," 1 Thessalonians 5:17. My mother always reminds me that 'more things are wrought by prayer than this world could ever imagine.' Let us never grow weary of praying, knowing that God is faithful. Remember, prayer undergirded by faith can move mountains. It did in Iran!
http://www.foxnews.com/world/2012/09/21/pastor-youcef-nadarkhani-writes-letter-thanks-to-supporters/
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Talk Tuesday-What Do You Have To Offer?
One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer—at three in the afternoon. Now a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!” So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them.
Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God. When all the people saw him walking and praising God, they recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him. Acts 3:1-9
In 2008 and 2009 I journeyed through the life changing experience of going from an extremely active person to one who was 'shut in'. As many of you know, I had two spinal surgeries to remove a tumour that begin to impinge upon my ability to walk, and could have potentially left me with a permanent disability. It was during this time of convalescing that I despondently began to wonder, 'What do I have to offer?'
Each morning I would wake up to the sound of my parents singing praises to God and offering up intercessory prayers-for the young, old, single, married, sick, and well. The Holy Spirit began to use their example to engage me in the ministry of intercessory prayer. I, who had always been too lazy, undisciplined or self-absorbed, to devote the time needed for such prayer. However, as I had suffered, it made me more sensitive to the suffering of others. As many prayed for me, it made me want to pray for others. God began to create in me the heart of an intercessor, by showing me how the intercessory prayers of others were so effective...and necessary. He slowly began to help me build a list, and gently trained me in the discipline I so lacked, enabling me to be diligent in my new calling. I confess that at times I would become frustrated, wondering if my prayers were having any impact at all, or why my list was so long!
Fast forward to 2012. I have seen many prayers answered-prayers for people whom I only casually knew, those who didn't really know me, those who never knew I was praying for them, those whom I would never personally know, and those whom I did know. I give God praise and thanks for He is the Potter- He forms the clay, and has a purpose for each one of us, regardless of our circumstances.
"For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10
So, if you ever wonder, 'What do I have to offer?', find yourself rooted in Christ, and like the branch that abides in the True Vine (John 15), you will bear much fruit, to the benefit and salvation of others. Peter confessed his lack of material wealth to the lame beggar at the temple gate, but He had the priceless gift and power of knowing Christ, which he freely shared. What about you?
Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God. When all the people saw him walking and praising God, they recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him. Acts 3:1-9
In 2008 and 2009 I journeyed through the life changing experience of going from an extremely active person to one who was 'shut in'. As many of you know, I had two spinal surgeries to remove a tumour that begin to impinge upon my ability to walk, and could have potentially left me with a permanent disability. It was during this time of convalescing that I despondently began to wonder, 'What do I have to offer?'
Each morning I would wake up to the sound of my parents singing praises to God and offering up intercessory prayers-for the young, old, single, married, sick, and well. The Holy Spirit began to use their example to engage me in the ministry of intercessory prayer. I, who had always been too lazy, undisciplined or self-absorbed, to devote the time needed for such prayer. However, as I had suffered, it made me more sensitive to the suffering of others. As many prayed for me, it made me want to pray for others. God began to create in me the heart of an intercessor, by showing me how the intercessory prayers of others were so effective...and necessary. He slowly began to help me build a list, and gently trained me in the discipline I so lacked, enabling me to be diligent in my new calling. I confess that at times I would become frustrated, wondering if my prayers were having any impact at all, or why my list was so long!
Fast forward to 2012. I have seen many prayers answered-prayers for people whom I only casually knew, those who didn't really know me, those who never knew I was praying for them, those whom I would never personally know, and those whom I did know. I give God praise and thanks for He is the Potter- He forms the clay, and has a purpose for each one of us, regardless of our circumstances.
"For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10
So, if you ever wonder, 'What do I have to offer?', find yourself rooted in Christ, and like the branch that abides in the True Vine (John 15), you will bear much fruit, to the benefit and salvation of others. Peter confessed his lack of material wealth to the lame beggar at the temple gate, but He had the priceless gift and power of knowing Christ, which he freely shared. What about you?
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Talk Tuesday-Beyond the Gold Medal
Okay, today I'm going to share something very personal, and somewhat embarrassing. I cried, and cried and still continue to cry each time I read about the story of Keshorn Walcott, the 19 yr old Javelin thrower from Trinidad and Tobago, who won the first gold medal in a sport that has been dominated by the Europeans since American Cy Young won in 1952. Keshorn is from Toco, a fishing and farming community located in the North of Trinidad. He is the country's first Olympic gold medal winner in the 'field' component of 'Track and Field'; the second gold medal winner since Hasley Crawford in 1976. Keshorn projects a very humble demeanour and seems stunned at his own win, as well as the attention it has generated. Yesterday he was greeted by thousands of fans wanting to express their gratitude for putting Trinidad and Tobago on the 'International Sporting Map'. He was rewarded with great material wealth by a government pleased with his accomplishment. I began weep as I thought of a young man who lived in humble obscurity- one who the Mighty God decided to exalt among the people. I thought of God, His Word, His power and His wisdom. Several scriptures popped into my head:
Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand. Isaiah 64:8
For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. Matthew 23:12
He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. Daniel 2:21
It is God who judges: He brings one down, he exalts another. Psalm 75:7
My family is from Trinidad and Tobago. My father's family is from Toco. We have many happy childhood memories of vacations there. I always remember the humility of the people, their readiness to greet you on the streets, to gladly share the produce from their lands-I remember the friendly smiles and warm welcome upon their faces.
You see, we are all God's people-all the work of His hands. God is impartial. He is Sovereign. He is LORD. My tears express my rejoicing- that God would allow us to live, celebrate, work hard, and reap the rewards of our labour. Keshorn persevered, worked hard, and competed without the assurance that the Gold Medal would be his. We know that if we persevere, stay the course and follow Jesus to the end, the prize WILL BE OURS! So, we let the Word of God coach us:
Similarly, anyone who competes as an athlete does not receive the victor’s crown except by competing according to the rules. 2 Timothy 2:5
Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 1 Corinthians 9:24-25
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3
Onwards and upwards beyond the Gold Medal to the crown of eternal life in Christ Jesus!
Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand. Isaiah 64:8
For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. Matthew 23:12
He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. Daniel 2:21
It is God who judges: He brings one down, he exalts another. Psalm 75:7
My family is from Trinidad and Tobago. My father's family is from Toco. We have many happy childhood memories of vacations there. I always remember the humility of the people, their readiness to greet you on the streets, to gladly share the produce from their lands-I remember the friendly smiles and warm welcome upon their faces.
You see, we are all God's people-all the work of His hands. God is impartial. He is Sovereign. He is LORD. My tears express my rejoicing- that God would allow us to live, celebrate, work hard, and reap the rewards of our labour. Keshorn persevered, worked hard, and competed without the assurance that the Gold Medal would be his. We know that if we persevere, stay the course and follow Jesus to the end, the prize WILL BE OURS! So, we let the Word of God coach us:
Similarly, anyone who competes as an athlete does not receive the victor’s crown except by competing according to the rules. 2 Timothy 2:5
Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 1 Corinthians 9:24-25
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3
Onwards and upwards beyond the Gold Medal to the crown of eternal life in Christ Jesus!
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Talk Tuesday - Caribana and Christ
Can you be 100% Trini (Caribbean) and christian at the same time? I was born in Trinidad and grew up all my life around Carnival and calypso. My identity was about being a 'real Trini', which meant partying, drinking and participating in Carnival. I loved my island and my culture but when I became a christian all that changed. When I made that choice to live for Jesus I gave up my old life for an new one.
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
2 Corinthians 5:17
It was not easy leaving the old life...I lived in a constant 'party' mode. When I became a christian I went to a young adults meeting and the preacher said we should not go to Caribana because it was bad. The first thing I thought was, "This is my culture! How could he say that?!" Then I looked at how we used to behave and dance at fetes (parties) and at Carnival...I was ashamed.
When God saves you and changes you, you really become a new creation. I was talking to my wife the other night and I said,"I can't believe that we used to behave like that!" There is no party, no sex, no drug, no liquor that can give you the joy that Jesus gives you. God is not trying to stop you from having fun, God knows what's best for you. I am more satisfied serving the Lord than jumping up in some party. As the young adults pastor said,"there is no party like a Holy Ghost party". This weekend try Jesus.
Blessings
Andrew
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
2 Corinthians 5:17
It was not easy leaving the old life...I lived in a constant 'party' mode. When I became a christian I went to a young adults meeting and the preacher said we should not go to Caribana because it was bad. The first thing I thought was, "This is my culture! How could he say that?!" Then I looked at how we used to behave and dance at fetes (parties) and at Carnival...I was ashamed.
When God saves you and changes you, you really become a new creation. I was talking to my wife the other night and I said,"I can't believe that we used to behave like that!" There is no party, no sex, no drug, no liquor that can give you the joy that Jesus gives you. God is not trying to stop you from having fun, God knows what's best for you. I am more satisfied serving the Lord than jumping up in some party. As the young adults pastor said,"there is no party like a Holy Ghost party". This weekend try Jesus.
Blessings
Andrew
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