Me, coffee and theology

James 5 - The Prayer of Faith

2011-03-16T13:58:00.000+11:00

Greek Text:
13 Κακοπαθεῖ τις ἐν ὑμῖν, προσευχέσθω· εὐθυμεῖ τις, ψαλλέτω·14 ἀσθενεῖ τις ἐν ὑμῖν, προσκαλεσάσθω τοὺς πρεσβυτέρους τῆς ἐκκλησίας καὶ προσευξάσθωσαν ἐπ᾽ αὐτὸν ἀλείψαντες [αὐτὸν] ἐλαίῳ ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι τοῦ κυρίου. 15 καὶ ἡ εὐχὴ τῆς πίστεως σώσει τὸν κάμνοντα καὶ ἐγερεῖ αὐτὸν ὁ κύριος· κἂν ἁμαρτίας ᾖ πεποιηκώς, ἀφεθήσεται αὐτῷ.16 ἐξομολογεῖσθε οὖν ἀλλήλοις τὰς ἁμαρτίας καὶ εὔχεσθε ὑπὲρ ἀλλήλων ὅπως ἰαθῆτε. πολὺ ἰσχύει δέησις δικαίου ἐνεργουμένη.

17 Ἠλίας ἄνθρωπος ἦν ὁμοιοπαθὴς ἡμῖν, καὶ προσευχῇ προσηύξατο τοῦ μὴ βρέξαι, καὶ οὐκ ἔβρεξεν ἐπὶ τῆς γῆς ἐνιαυτοὺς τρεῖς καὶ μῆνας ἕξ·18 καὶ πάλιν προσηύξατο, καὶ ὁ οὐρανὸς ὑετὸν ἔδωκεν καὶ ἡ γῆ ἐβλάστησεν τὸν καρπὸν αὐτῆς.

Holman Christian Standard Bible:

13 Is anyone among you suffering? He should pray. Is anyone cheerful? He should sing praises. 14 Is anyone among you sick? He should call for the elders of the church, and they should pray over him after anointing him with olive oil in the name of the Lord. 15 The prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will restore him to health; if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. 16 Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The urgent request of a righteous person is very powerful in its effect.

17 Elijah was a man with a nature like ours; yet he prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the land. 18 Then he prayed again, and the sky gave rain and the land produced its fruit.

The above passage is what my research project for college. It has a whole heap of exegetical issues, and I think pastoral issues. I'm currently in the process of writing an exegetical paper on the passage to begin my thinking . God willing I can come up with some helpful solutions

The Atonement: By Leon Morris

2010-12-01T12:14:00.000+11:00

I'm starting to read this book by Leon Morris on the atonement. It's one of the classic studies on the atonement from a leading Evangelical Scholar. After a quick flick through, it looks like it will be a cracker! I hope to post up over the coming weeks some reflections on what I've been reading.

What is Christian Ethics?

2010-11-02T22:16:00.001+11:00

I've been reading for a little while now this great book by Michael Hill, "The How and Why of Love - An introduction into Evangelical Ethics."

And I have to say, it has been really enjoyable. It's nice to read something at college that is very clear, well argued and a delight to read. I have been challenged in my thinking about how I go about developing and sustaining what Hill calls 'Mutual Love Relationships" (MLR's). Another thing that this book does really well, is it grounds ethical deliberations within the story of redemption, from creation to new creation (that is, within Biblical Theology.) Hill takes you through this schema, showing his working if you like, and so develops his theological ethic based on a reading of scripture. He then moves on to some moral issues, and so applies his ethical theory to these very important issues, thus giving a module of how Christian ethics is done.

I've also noticed that the publisher has produced a great downloadable study guide. Find it here.

Gospel Song Animation

2010-09-02T17:40:00.008+10:00

One of the songs that I often sing to my daughter, especially when we are trying to settle her down (but on other occasions as well) is a song call 'The Gospel Song'. It is a very simple song that has a very profound message. In fact I believe it to be one of the most profound messages that human beings can hear. It is a message of the Love that the God of the universe has lavished on the word. It is the message of why it is possible for sinful creatures (that is those who say to God, 'I'm doing it my way, but I'll take all your blessings, but basically you can go jump!), can be brought into a loving relationship with the one who made them. This is the ultimate Love song in my book. It's the message I constantly pray that my daughter will know and believe. And it's my prayer that others I don't know this message, will come to cherish.

Have a look at this very powerful animation, accompanied by 'the Gospel Song'. It gets to the heart of what the Christian message is all about. The Holy God who in love became the perfect man to bare my blame; the blame that is mine for rejecting the God of the Universe, the one who created all things, and who is only revealed in the person of Jesus. It is very powerful.

If you want to find out about who Jesus is, check out here . I'm happy to chat as well.

Thinking about the Holy Spirit

2010-08-21T09:19:00.002+10:00

We are currently teaching a series at Kids church on the person and work of the Holy Spirit. I've been trying to trying to think through some of the issues on the Holy Spirit's ministry of assurance. Big topic! As I've been working through Romans 8, I guess this is what I've come up with.

How can I know (be confident) that God loves me?

The gift of the person of the Holy Spirit helps me by:
1. Pointing me to Jesus, as the only one who could deal with my sin (8:1-4).
2. Units me to Jesus as an adopted Son, by which I cry Abba, Father. Through this cry the Holy Spirit bears witness to the fact that I'm a child of God (8: 12-17)
3. Helps me Pray, when I don't know what to say (8:26-27).

That's my thinking, I'm going to let that mull lfor a bit.

Meditations on Mission (Part V)

2010-07-17T14:13:00.000+10:00

Reflection 5: Do you have beautiful feet?

¹Brothers, my heart's desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved. ²For I can testify about them that they are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge. ³Since they did not know the righteousness that comes from God and sought to establish their own, they did not submit to God's righteousness. ⁴Christ is the end of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.

⁵Moses describes in this way the righteousness that is by the law: "The man who does these things will live by them." ⁶But the righteousness that is by faith says: "Do not say in your heart, 'Who will ascend into heaven?'" (that is, to bring Christ down) ⁷"or 'Who will descend into the deep?'" (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). ⁸But what does it say? "The word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart," that is, the word of faith we are proclaiming: ⁹That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. ¹⁰For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. ¹¹As the Scripture says, "Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame." ¹²For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, ¹³for, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."

¹⁴How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? ¹⁵And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" (Romans 10:1-15 NIV, emphesis mine)

Meditations on Mission (Part IV)

2010-07-16T12:44:00.000+10:00

Reflection 4: What is Mission? Mission is the activity of God's beloved people, declaring the praises of Him who has brought us out of the kingdom of darkness into his marvelous light!

⁹But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. ¹⁰Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. (1 Peter 2:9-10 NIV)

Meditations on Mission (Part III)

2010-07-15T08:30:00.000+10:00

Reflection 3: Why do we do Mission? Because God has many people in this city!

⁹One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. ¹⁰For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city." ¹¹So Paul stayed for a year and a half, teaching them the word of God. (Acts 18: 9-11 NIV) [emphasis mine]

Meditations on Mission (Part II)

2010-07-14T08:01:00.006+10:00

Reflection 2: How do we do mission? Knowing that our confidence is not in our own ability, but in God who works through us by His Spirit to bring life.

4 Such confidence as this is ours through Christ before God. 5 Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God. 6 He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant-- not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. (2Cor 3:4-6 NIV)

Meditations on Mission (Part I)

2010-07-13T10:40:00.000+10:00

Why do we do mission as the People of God? Last week we had a mission at church. Here are some meditations which I shared with my primary programme team at the start of each day.

Reflection 1: Why do mission? Because Salvation is found in JESUS alone.

'Salvation is found in no-one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.' Acts 4:12

A new look for Robyn's blog

2010-06-30T17:27:00.002+10:00

I'm not the only one who has changed the look and feel of his blog. My Wife gave her's a makeover. It looks completely different. And I have to say, that it looks great!!! But its not all about the look, the content is terrific as well. She even has April's Baby book. It's an encouragement to read. Find it here.

A new look...

2010-06-30T14:05:00.000+10:00

Hi there, I haven't written in this thing for a while, and I decided to change it up, and give it a new look. I know it is simple, but the new templetes on blogger are looking nice. So here is the new look. Hopefully I'll get back to blogging soon with some more thoughts.

1 Peter 1:1

2010-01-30T16:12:00.002+11:00

Today Robyn and I started our scheme of trying to remember a whole book, 1 verse at a time. We decided to start with 1 Peter.

Here is the first verse. I plan on adding each verse that we plan to memorise...

^1:1Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ,

To God's elect, strangers in the world, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia,

Livinging in God's world

2009-12-31T16:35:00.005+11:00

I came across this article in the SMH and it makes me think upon just how far our world has gone away from God's intended purposes. To actually have someone say that infidelity is a good thing for marriages, boils my blood. How many marriages have broken down because of the hurt as a result of infidelity? How deep are the scars of both men and women who are the "cheated on" party? What about the affect on children?

God's intended purposes for marriage are for unity and single minded devotion to our spouses. As a male I don't need this kind talk, as portrayed by this article. I need to be reminded of God's purposes. I know my own heart! This to me is an example of lies being put forwards as truth.

May God be gracious and give our world an appreciation of the goodness of marriage, and why we have to fight so hard to protect it!

A helpful article - "Imagine no religion"

2009-12-24T08:56:00.004+11:00

Here is a helpful article by Micheal Jensen on religion. He is a lecturer at the college I attend. It's also interesting to read the comments in response to this. I'm always astounded by the way people argue their case. Find it here...

Remembering God's Word

2009-12-19T11:24:00.003+11:00

I've been thinking about how to get scripture into my soul, much to the encouragement of Dave Miers, and it is something that Robyn and I seek to try to do together. So I've also been thinking about posting my verses in this blog...

But if this is something you'd be keen to have a go at, check out the follow for some good resources to get you thinking about it. Find it here

Thinking about Church Part 2

2009-12-04T22:37:00.003+11:00

After I got the ball started with my last post, I started reading through some scriptures, jotting down some notes in my journal, and well, started to think this is harder than I thought. It's such a huge topic! But an importance nonetheless.

Anyway what are my thoughts? As I was thinking, I should work out what the Old Testament background to the church is, so I picked up the New Dictionary of Biblical Theology -- by IVP (Great resource by the way!), and read this really helpful little article by D. Tidball. He had this line: the church is the 'consequence of the character and purposes of a trinitarian God.' (p407).

Now as you look at the narrative of the Old Testament you see how this works out. God calls Abram, promises him that he'll be a great nation, and the nations will be blessed through him (Gen 12:1-3). In redeeming Israel (Abraham's descendants) from the oppression in Egypt, Yahweh remembers his covenant with Abraham and Israel's forefathers (Exodus 2:23). They were to be His people and he their God. They were called out to worship Yahweh and serve him (Exodus), in being Yahweh's 'treasured possession' and 'kingdom of priests' (Ex. 19:4-6). The reason for this choosing of Israel was not that they were impressive but because of Yahweh's love (Deuteronomy 7). What was required, was spelled out in the covenant, it was love and loyalty.

However, this is not the picture of the Old Testament people of God. They constantly fall into worship of other gods, and forsake Yahweh. So they get punished for this rebellion with the exile (cf. Deuteronomy 28 for the curses). But the prophets looked forward to the time when God would 'gather' his 'scattered people' to himself. And these people would not just come from the remnant of Israel, but from the nations (cf. Isaiah 2, Micah 4). God's purposes have been to call a people to himself. The Old testament has this huge expectation of an in-gathering of many people to God, to be in relationship with Him under blessing, in fulfillment to the promises made to Abraham way back in Genesis.

Now there is much in the Old Testament that gets picked up in the New Testament, in terms of language used to describe the people of God. it adds depth to our understanding of the church, when see it in this light. The ideas are transformed into a greater reality when seen in light of the person and work of Jesus. But we need the background of the OT. This has been very brief. Next time I'll turn to ponder what the New Testament says in terms of 'what is church?'.

Thinking about Church

2009-11-29T16:25:00.005+11:00

Robyn and I are currently on holidays from College, and also after exams, our church (Denham Court Anglican). Last week we decided to go to another church to meet with God's people. As we had another week of Church holidays this week, we decided to go to another church again. It was interesting, and not what we were used to. And so, it got me thinking about church....

What is church? What is important for church? What does the Bible say about how God's people are to gather? And what things should be part of the 'time together'? How much of our culture and the media has influneneced the way we go about 'doing church'? Is that all together bad?

In the next couple of entries, I'll spend some time thinking 'out loud' so to speak, reflecting on church and the things associated with it. I know that greater minds than mine have already written plenty on this, but I guess want to delve into the Scriptures to see if I can start to come up with some answers to these questions... hopefully its a journey that is helpful.

Some thoughts on Suffering and 2 Corinthians

2009-11-28T13:03:00.003+11:00

Here is a paper that I wrote up for church. It's a paper that reflects on our personal experience, and the parts of 2 Corinthians that have become precious to us in being comforted by our gracious God...Tell me what you think, find it here.

You Know me Lord...

2009-08-23T23:07:00.003+10:00

Psalm 139

1 For the music director, a psalm of David. O LORD, you examine me and know.

2 You know when I sit down and when I get up; even from far away you understand my motives.

3 You carefully observe me when I travel or when I lie down to rest; you are aware of everything I do.

4 Certainly my tongue does not frame a word without you, O LORD, being thoroughly aware of it.

5 You squeeze me in from behind and in front; you place your hand on me.

6 Your knowledge is beyond my comprehension; it is so far beyond me, I am unable to fathom it.

7 Where can I go to escape your spirit? Where can I flee to escape your presence?

8 If I were to ascend to heaven, you would be there. If I were to sprawl out in Sheol, there you would be.

9 If I were to fly away on the wings of the dawn, and settle down on the other side of the sea,

10 even there your hand would guide me, your right hand would grab hold of me.

11 If I were to say, "Certainly the darkness will cover me, and the light will turn to night all around me,"

12 even the darkness is not too dark for you to see, and the night is as bright as day; darkness and light are the same to you.

13 Certainly you made my mind and heart; you wove me together in my mother's womb.

14 I will give you thanks because your deeds are awesome and amazing. You knew me thoroughly;

15 my bones were not hidden from you, when I was made in secret and sewed together in the depths of the earth.

16 Your eyes saw me when I was inside the womb. All the days ordained for me were recorded in your scroll before one of them came into existence.

17 How difficult it is for me to fathom your thoughts about me, O God! How vast is their sum total!

18 If I tried to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand. Even if I finished counting them, I would still have to contend with you.

19 If only you would kill the wicked, O God! Get away from me, you violent men!

20 They rebel against you and act deceitfully; your enemies lie.

21 O LORD, do I not hate those who hate you, and despise those who oppose you?

22 I absolutely hate them, they have become my enemies!

23 Examine me, and probe my thoughts! Test me, and know my concerns!

24 See if there is any idolatrous tendency in me, and lead me in the reliable ancient path!

(NET Bible)

Indeed Praise be to...

2009-08-20T19:30:00.003+10:00

3 Blessed is the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles so that we may be able to comfort those experiencing any trouble with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.5 For just as the sufferings of Christ overflow toward us, so also our comfort through Christ overflows to you. (2 Corinthians 1:3-5 NET)

The Holy Spirit in John's Gospel

2009-06-30T10:52:00.002+10:00

Trying to get my head around the Holy Spirit in John Gospel (for NT2 essay). As a result I've been reading the work of Carson and Kostenberger (Baker Exegetical) in their Commentaries (Carson generally is better, better at answering my questions I think), as well as a new book by Kostenberger and Swain in the NSBT series (Father, Son and Holy Spirit in John)...Basically really helpful stuff, but there is one point where I think I disagree with Carson and Kostenberger though (but not sure if my argument is sound). This is on the reference in John 3:5-8. Is it a reference to the person of the Holy spirit (ie born of water and the Spirit, so NIV, TNIV, ESV and other trans), or is it just a reference to spiritual renewal? While I get the fact that grammatically v5 'water and Spirit' are governed by the preposition ek, I think the reference is a reference to the person of the Holy Spirit because of the strong allusion to Ezekiel 36:26-27 where Yahweh promises cleansing and renewal by water (yes), and promises to place HIS SPIRIT in Israel. Also v 8 does appear to be a reference to the person of the Spirit (by analogy with wind). With that background is it not possible to John 3:5-8 as a reference to the person of the Spirit? Just getting my thoughts down.

Why did Jesus come?

2009-06-22T09:11:00.002+10:00

I've been studying for my new testament exam which is tomorrow, and I guess I was hit again as to why Jesus came into this world. He, the one that was from eternity past, came into our world for a purpose:

9 The true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and the world was created through Him, yet the world did not recognize Him.11 He came to His own, and His own people did not receive Him.12 But to all who did receive Him, He gave them the right to be children of God, to those who believe in His name,13 who were born, not of blood, or of the will of the flesh, or of the will of man, but of God.
(John 1:9-13 HCSB).

That's just excellent. He came so we can become children of God. Where do you stand with this Jesus?

A great quote!

2009-06-12T11:00:00.001+10:00

Just after community chapel today (By the way, a really encouraging sermon by Phillip Jensen on Hosea 11), at morning tea, some friends and I were chatting (As you do), and we got talking about the current term, which some have affectionately called "the new term of death". At this point my friend Stephen McGuiness came out with this great line:

"I didn't realized it was the term of death, until I died!"

It has us in stitches...thanks Stephen.

P.S. While this term has been hard, I have to say the work is so worth it!

'Come to me all who are weary' Matthew 11:28-30

2009-05-23T19:13:00.001+10:00

It's funny how more and more reflection and mediation on a passage of the Bible, makes me more excited about preaching a passage at church. I'm working on a sermon in Matthew' gospel which i have been really struggling to think through for church (maybe a symptom of continuing illness, or I may be just slow! – Oh, and by the way, I'm feeling much better now!!). As I've continues to pray about and meditate upon this portion of Scripture, I'm becoming more and more pumped about this passage. In my preparation I found a really helpful quote from J.C. Ryle (a former Bishop of Liverpool who has been with Jesus for some time now). This part of scripture is really a gracious invitation from King Jesus.

²⁸ "Come to Me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. ²⁹ All of you, take up My yoke and learn from Me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for yourselves. ³⁰ For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30 HCSB)

And Ryle comments:

"We should mark, lastly, the encouraging account that Jesus gives of His service. He says, "My yoke is easy, and my burden is light." No doubt there is a cross to be carried, if we follow Christ; no doubt there are trials to be endured, and battles to be fought: but the comforts of the Gospel far outweigh the cross. Compared to the service of the world and sin, compared to the yoke of Jewish ceremonies, and the bondage of human superstition, Christ's service is in the highest sense easy and light. His yoke is no more a burden than the feathers are to a bird; His commandments are not grievous; His ways are ways of pleasantness, and all His paths are peace. (1John 5:3; Proverbs 3:17.)" – J.C. Ryle, Expository thoughts on the Gospel of Matthew .

All I wanted to say at this point was, 'AMEN Brother!'

Oh, how glorious in this grand invitation of Jesus! Oh, how excellent is the one who calls us, we who are weighed down by the troubles of this life, we who are burdened with guilt, we who suffer, to find our rest in HIM! Finding our rest in Jesus, finding our satisfaction in HIS call to follow him definitely surpasses all that this world can throw up. What an encouragement this has been to me!

some random thoughts

2009-05-13T12:37:00.001+10:00

I'm doing a series of short kids talks at church on doctrine. I've been thinking about it, and the 4 doctrines that i'm going to teach are:

Salvation
propitiation
justification
resurrection

If you had to teach 4 doctrines to kids what would they be?

Coffee doesn't help my fuzzy head!

2009-05-13T11:48:00.004+10:00

I have to say this,I hate being sick. It just means that I have the fuzzy head thing non stop! And no, coffee doesn't help at all, although I wish it did.

I'm now on my sixth week of being sick with some viral thing. And I can tell you that it is no fun at all, especially when college just keeps on going. I have a church history assignment that i really haven't been able to get my head around because I'm constantly fuzzy... I don't take in information, and I'm constantly coughing (I won't share the colour of the Flem, 'cause that would be just gross!)

I've been so out of it, that the question of my last entry (Christians and the Law sermon prep), resulted in me preaching while sitting down, due to the fact that if I stood for 20 mins, I would have collapsed...

I'll be glad to be rid of this thing. I might even celebrate with a celebratory dark brew of my own making!

How do Christians fulfill the law?

2009-04-14T16:49:00.004+10:00

I'm in the midst of preparing to preach this Sunday at DCAC (my current church). The passage is Exodus 20:12-17. Its all about the way God's redeemed people Israel were to relate to each other as a people. This was how God's treasured possession were to mediate the knowledge of God to the nations around them (Exodus 19:4-6).

But it raises some big questions. How does this apply to the Christian? Jesus says he has fulfilled the law (cf Matt 5:17-21), and It seems that Paul says, the law tells us we are sinful (Romans 3, and 7), and the way we love we fulfills the law (Romans 13).

But the issues I'm currently thinking through are: what does it mean for elderly people who have lost parents to 'honour their parents'. Or what about the issue of murder; how does this command relate with the current controversy of abortion in this country? Can we expect others who are not redeemed to follow these laws?

Just some of the thoughts going on in my head. (And this is not the only thing I'm trying to get my head around - I have a paper on Deuteronomy 30:11-20 due on the Tuesday after I preach!)

Here is My Crazy Dance off!

2009-03-26T22:37:00.003+11:00

It's become known at Moore college (amongst 2nd year anyway) that I won a dance off competition at an NBL game last year. Some guy in the crowd caught the whole thing on his video phone. Now it's on Y-tube for all to see.

Something like this video was shown at the recent second year weekend away (thanks Stan), and I've also been encouraged to make a link possible. I've gone on better and added this vid to my blog. Have fun at my expense, and enjoy laugh!

What are we to think about inerrancy?

2009-03-26T22:05:00.003+11:00

I'm trying to get my head around the doctrine of inerrancy, and so I've just picked up a book by G.K Beale, called "the erosion of inerrancy in evangelicalism." (Amazing how you can read things other than what you are supposed to read at college!)

I've read a chapter so far, and it seems to a fair treatment and interaction with one evangelical scholar's attempts to view the Old testament as not inerrant, and not actually history (parts of it anyway).

These kinds of comments make me nervous. At the moment I think I'm an inerrantist in my view of th doctrine of scripture. And I'm trying to come to terms with those in evangelical circles who are not. I desire to love my brothers and sisters in Christ in this regard, but also come to some conclusion on the issue.

I guess the big thing for me in this regard is that God is a God of truth and doesn't lie (Titus 1:2), so what am I to think?

trying to struggle with th issue...

Hello stranger.

2009-03-24T11:50:00.003+11:00

After much encouragement from my wife Robyn, and also others (like Micheal Jensen), I'm back on board. This has been the first post in long time. A very long time.

I hope to use this to put out there a lot more reflections while I'm at college. And my thinking on different issues.

And hey, there will be the random post on the wonderful world of guinea pigs, life, and of course coffee! (Although as I thought about that last one what can really be said?)

Peace out

Woooo Hooooo

2007-08-27T00:01:00.000+10:00

Well I'm officially on holidays for two weeks. I'm really pumped. This will be the first time that I have gone to Adelaide. Really looking forward to this thing man.

Robyn is really pumped as well. She was counting down the days.

"2 more days till I have Ben all to myself!"

Well I'll hope to post some photo's of Adelaide on this when I get back, maybe.

Words, Words, Words!

2007-07-18T11:12:00.000+10:00

I haven't written in this for a while. So I thought that I'd post a short note on where things are up to.

Robyn is still awaiting the operation. We've had the date moved 3 times now. Frustrating but this is life. We've been comforted by the Scriptures more and more. It's amazing how that happens!

Not that we are Ok all the time. Don't get me wrong we often feel down. But we are reminded of how great a slavation we have in Christ. Even as I type this post, I have a song from Sovereign Grace Music playing - "Let you Kingdom Come"...It's a great song!!! In spite of what we are going through focused on God's kingdom. These are words that I love to have in my head!

A quote from John Owen

2007-06-16T17:25:00.001+10:00

I reading this book from John Owen at the moment, and I came across this quote (below). John Owen was a puritan preacher in England in the 1700's .

It was something that really hit home to me. And upon reflecting on it more, I longed for heaven all the more. I longed for the time when I can using the lanuage of John Owen, behold the glory of Christ by sight, and not just by faith. In other words, I long for the day when I get to see Jesus, my great God and Saviour, him who poured out his blood, dying and taking the punishment for me, that I may have life eternal!

"This vision is not in the least liable unto any weakening from internal
defects, nor any assaults from temptations, as is the sight of faith in this
life. No doubts or fears, no disturbing darts or injections, shall there have
any place. There shall no habit, no quality, no inclination or disposition
remain in our souls, but what shall eternally lead us unto the contemplation
of the glory of Christ with delight and complacency. Nor will there be any
defect in the gracious powers of our souls, as unto a perpetual exercise of
them; and as to all other opposing enemies, we shall be in a perpetual
triumph over them, 1 Corinthians 15:55-57. The mouth of iniquity shall
be stopped for ever, and the voice of the self-avenger shall be heard no
more.
Wherefore, the vision which we shall have in heaven of the glory of Christ
is serene, — always the same, always new and indeficient, wherein nothing
can disturb the mind in the most perfect operations of a blessed life. And
when all the faculties of the soul can, without any internal weakness or
external hindrances, exercise their most perfect operations on the most
perfect object, — therein lies all the blessedness which our nature is
capable of.
Wherefore, whenever in this life we attain any comfortable, refreshing view
of the glory of Christ by the exercise of faith on the revelation of it, with a
sense of our interest therein, we cannot but long after, and desire to come
unto, this more perfect, abiding, invariable aspect of it."

Works of John Owen, Volume 1 - Meditations and Discourses: Concerning the Glory of Christ page 164

What a week!

2007-06-16T17:08:00.000+10:00

This week has been a weird one. For one, the part of the coast we live in had a huge storm. And it resulted in our place loosing power from mid Friday - late Wednesday night. We totally survived on canned food (which incidentally had a rather negative affect on my bowls...I couldn't stop letting off!) candles, and torches.

People at church were extremely generous, lending us camping equipment, and also allowing us to go to there houses and use their showers... after a couple of days a hot shower was such a blessing.

I felt like one of my hero's of old, working by candle light! It was fun for about 1 day, then it just got depressing. So on Sunday we decided to go and do the "pop in" on some friends. They were excellent about it.

But on top of that, we also got bad news again. Robyn's surgery was delayed again. We weren't as bummed this time, but it still sucked! We consciously prepared ourselves this time for a let down. This time however, the hospital didn't give us a date at all. Which is a bit of a worry.

For those that do know us personally, please continue to pray for us. Thanks for those who do!

Oh the Glories of the Cross!

2007-06-04T19:19:00.000+10:00

I can't help but sing those fantastic words of that song from Sovereign Grace. Especially in light of the weekend we have just had.

This weekend our church went away to a site for our "church weekend away." It was a fantastic time of really, (I mean really) delving into the word of God, to see what he has to say about the Cross of Christ. It was intense! Oh, but worth it. People in our church were really lapping up the teaching, and relishing the opportunity to meditate, and think upon this central Christian truth.

It continues to blow my mind, how much the Cross achieved. That God would love me so much that he would send his son to die, to take the punishment I deserve for saying to God "Hey I wanna be God, I wanna make to rules, not you..." For this I deserve death, punishment, and hell. But Christ, bore that for me in my place. Not as some third party - no because He is God! He is the one I have rebelled against. Oh, what love is this!

How great in the one that would die, for me (and for you!!), that we could be declared to be right with God.

It was a real joy. it excellent to get away for the weekend, and continue to foster and build relationships with people at church.

The only down side, was that Robyn had a fair bit of pain on the Saturday night. And this really knocked her around. She had to sleep on Sunday morning. She wanted to push through, so that she could continue to build relationships with people at church. But that was hard.

How central the cross is again hit home to Robyn and I. But I'll let God's word say it.

"But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it-- the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. "(Romans 3:21-26 ESV)

"In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. " 1 John 4:10 ESV

And how good is this quote from John Stott!

"The Cross which appeared to be the defeat of goodness by evil, was in fact the defeat of evil by goodness."

Oh, the glories of the Cross. For those of us who know the salvation of the cross, how could we not but sing?

I'm Gutted!

2007-05-22T12:39:00.000+10:00

Hey.

As many of you know Robyn my wife is chronically ill, with a back lower back pain. We saw the surgeon recently and had a date confirmed for an operation. It was to be the 24th May 2007.

We went to the pre-admission clinic yesterday. It was a long process, but helpful. Robyn mentioned to me that it had finally sunk in, the operation was going to happen. It was also a long day. Nepean Hospital is quite a distance from the Central Coast.

However, today we got some news we didn't expect. I just returned from a positive meeting from Gorokan High School about the possibility of starting a lunchtime Christian Group. It was great! Praise God! But I returned to find a message on the answering machine. I had to call the surgeon's office. Robyn's op had been moved as of this morning to occur on the 14th of June. That's another 3 weeks away.

We'd got everything sorted. I worked out where I was going to stay, what I was going to do for work during that time. It was all planned. But that's all had to change.

Both of us are pretty gutted. Pretty down, because this has been a hard year for Robyn especially. And I hate seeing my wife, whom I love suffer like this. As her husband I wish I could just take it all away. I hate the fact that I can't fix this. It pains my heart to know that I can't do a thing, except continue to support and care for my wife.

I also struggle Christianly. And in these times, I need the constant reminder of God's goodness and love for me and Robyn. I need to know the peace God gives in knowing he is in control of all things. But it's hard. I mean, I cried today. I sat back and let the tears flow. It's hard.

So I need the truth of the word of God. I need to be reminded, so I'll continue to trust, even in the hard times. I need to continually cry out to God to help us, to strengthen us in Him, and to help us persevere, because I know that I can't do this on my own.

May God give us his peace. May he equip us to keep going, that we might be to the praise of his glory. May we always be growing in our trust and love of him, who has given us every spiritual blessing in Christ. Even in this hard time may he be our source of joy! Amen

My earnest heart's desire

2007-05-06T18:35:00.000+10:00

My earnest heart's desire
is to ponder only him;
to pant, thirst and hunger,
for the only King.

Jesus is this one
who my body longs for,
whose glory I will gaze at
for all eternities draw.

By faith I see him only
in my present body state.
A glimpse of his glory,
is all I am able to take.

But I know this not
will always be the case.
For the promise of Heaven,
is that I'll see his face.

My body transformed
from a corrupted being.
It will be glorious
to look upon the one true King.

No longer groaning,
will my body be.
But seeing, savouring, delighting
in only He.

By Ben Waters April 2007

Oh what a feeling!

2007-04-28T15:53:00.000+10:00

Tomorrow I'm preaching in my church - Northern Lakes Evangelical Church. I'm really looking forward to it, but at the same time I'm daunted as well!

What a privilege I have in being able to expound the word of God, to those at my church. But it is God's word that I'm expounding.

I've been feeling sometimes overwhelmed with inadequacy for the task, but them I remember who is? My words alone can't do anything! It is God's living active word which brings people from death to life. It's God's living and active word that builds Christ's Church! It's God's living and active word that cuts to the very heart and soul, exposing our sin!

Oh some friends have just arrived.

Going for a walk to the beach.

Bye!

Thinking on the Cross.

2007-04-22T15:41:00.000+10:00

When I think upon the cross,
on which the king of glory died,
I weep the tears of sadness,
for all my selfish pride.

I, in my human nature,
rose up against the King,
I rebelled and rejected
the only blessed Him.

The meek and humble Christ,
upon himself did carry,
all my guilt and shame,
to make me part of his glorious Bride,
that to which he'll marry.

Others who may look
on this cross of Christ,
might think it as folly.
How can it indeed be right?

But through this glorious cross,
in the shedding of his blood,
did the great king of all,
indeed purchase us.

At great cost to himself,
was his will to save,
us mere human creatures,
we who are depraved.

He is our substitute,
this great and glorious king.
He is our propitiation,
turning wrath from me.

But now in this saving death,
is the victory given.
I'm taken from the grasp of Satan
and all his dodgy minions.

I fear no longer the fires of hell,
No eternal punishment for me.
I'm free to declare His praises,
and sing only of J. C.

I'm heaven bound,
that is for sure,
purchased by pure blood.
I'll sing his praise,
as one redeemed,
and tell of what He's done.

Think on the cross,
my fellow saints.
Think of the glories given.
Meditate on the crucified Christ,
and shriek not from Christian living.

Ben Waters April 2007

Introducing Mr Moo!

2007-04-18T21:24:00.000+10:00

I just have to post this picture. This is Weaselby (otherwise known as Mister Moo!). He's alot of fun. As you may be able to tell.

We've had him for a while now, and he is currently recovering from a chest infection. Not nice for a wee little pig!

Absolutely hates the vet...Hmmm...don't blame him with those big needles!

This made me laugh.

2007-04-11T22:58:00.000+10:00

Just on the updated news on Robyn, where better to go than her Blog! But I have to place this quote from her blog. It made me laugh when I read it.

"I'm off my Morphine Patches, daily doing physio exercises, trying to go for longish walks 3 times a week, aiming to swim twice weekly, trying to sit up in church, wearing a pedometer daily, and keeping a record of my activity (including how long I sit for) in an exercise journal......Does this mean I'm getting better?......Does it mean I'm on "The Biggest Loser"?.......No to both, although I would have a fair chance of winning the show at 53kg being approx 175cm....hmmm I need to get back the weight I lost huh? "

Read the rest of it at www.shadowgrace.blogspot.com

Bye for now.

Tomorrow is the big day.

2007-04-03T23:02:00.000+10:00

Well here it comes tomorrow. The big day. It's the day that Robyn and I have been waiting for for months now. The day we go to work out if Robyn will have surgery again. (Not what you expected huh?)

We've been waiting for what seems like a life time for this next appointment, and yet it's here. So Robyn and I will be going to Nepean Hospital in Penrith (a bit of a hike), to wait for a while in a outpatients clinic for the big call.

This has been consuming my prayer life recently, and even as I type this post, I'm praying that the surgeon would have wisdom, and if Robyn is to have surgery again (this will be the third time on her back since she was 16) that it would happen relatively soon. I pray that she doesn't have to wait long. But I'm also praying that it would indeed work out. For all we know, things could go horribly wrong. Yet I know that we are in the hands of the Sovereign Ruler of the Universe, God. We know that he loves us, and no matter what we go through nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:31-39). I also know that this sovereign Lord of all, is working out all things for our good (Romans 8:28-29). It's hard to see that sometimes. And that is why I continually need the reminders of these great truths as I search and meditate on the Scriptures.

I don't know how Robyn and I would cope with all that we've gone through and continue to go through if we were not Christians? It is only by His grace, that we continue to move forward. By His grace to we depend on Him. His grace is indeed sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9).

May God continue to sustain us by his grace, knowing that his is working all things for our good, so that in everything He might receive the Glory.

Where is my treasure?

2007-04-01T12:57:00.000+10:00

In whom is my treasure
the things I delight,
the things that I think of
both day and night?

Is it vain things,
whose glory will fail?
Things that won't last
or ever prevail.

Things such as money,
my master its often,
or the lies of beauty and youth
as we grow old they don't soften.

Is it I'd climb
the ladders that be,
to the top of my company,
in intellect you see?

Oh, that Id' realise,
what foolishness is said,
to follow things things
and treasure instead,
the things that are futile,
and never prevail,
and in giving true satisfaction,
will always fail.

Oh, that I'd realise,
and flee from my friend,
that which would and should not
be my treasure instead.

Oh, that I'd ponder forever,
the wonders of him,
the one that was beaten and crushed
to show grace that would never dim.

He is the one
who dies in my stead.
May thoughts of him
never leave my head.

He is the mediator
between God and man,
the one that died,
nails driven in his hands.

He did not stay dead,
this mediator Christ,
He has indeed risen
and gives us new life.

We who love him,
have had our eyes open you see,
to behold his glory,
both you and me.

To us has been given,
the hope of eternal blessedness,
purchased through
the blood of righteousness.

Thus, flee from the things
that take you away.
Care not for things
that lead you astray.

Cling to Christ,
the crucified lamb.
For there's none that can satisfy
except the great I AM.

Delight in him only,
the Saviour who won
To have joy eternally,
in the mighty one.

Treasure this Christ,
who poured out His blood.
Treasure him only,
for he is our one,
our treasure only,
our delight you see,
He is our treasure, and only He.

The question I started,
to wonder with thee,
was where is my treasure
and where should it be?
The answer my friend,
I pray you will see,
is only in Christ,
and naught in me.

By Ben Waters March 2007.

I'm Back!

2007-04-01T12:00:00.000+10:00

Well, I'm back. Robyn and I have just a great, actually fantastic 2 weeks away on holidays. We are really thankful to God for the refreshment we have received.

Our holiday was at Avoca beach. We learned from last holidays, that a trip tot eh south coast just wasn't practical for my dear wife. This trip was only 45 minutes, not 8+hours!!!! So off the bat, we started well. It was so nice when we finally arrived to our destination, that, thanks be to God, I was able to switch off almost instantly. It was also a great blessing to be able to take our pets to the place we were staying. That was huge for Robyn.

So what did we get up to on our holidays? Not much. That was the whole idea! We slept, read, ate great healthy food (which for us take out kings was excellent!), and did i mention sleep? Robyn still had to sleep a fair bit, but this time is was OK for me. We were still able to hang out and reconnect in such a positive way. It's always refreshing for me to be able to hang out with my dear wife. I love her some much, she brings me such great joy.

It was also great for Robyn and I to get into the bible together. Not that we don't do that when we are not on holidays, but it was just good. We are going through the letter of James at the moment, using the book "Vital signs" by John Dickson and Simon Smart. Gold!

I was also able to finish some books that I wanted to read. I was able to finish Mortification of Sin, by John Owen, which was a good reminder to keep battling sin, to put it to death. Also John Piper's book, "God is the Gospel". This was fantastic. I love the passion for God that comes out in his meditations on such a great theme. His central point was,
that the ultimate good of the gospel, what makes it good news, is not the gifts of God that come through the gospel, salvation, sanctification, justification, even to be in Glory, but that he Himself is what makes the gospel good. It is the gift of Himself for our delight and joy that makes the gospel good news. It was very compelling, and a pleasure to read. I'm a big fan of Piper. He is one of my theological hero's.

I also picked up another John Owen book, "The Glory of Christ". There is something in the way the Puritans wrote that seems to evoke my affections for God. I long to delight in Him, for him to be my satisfaction and treasure. This book is being a great help to me, in meditating on Christ, to think often of him, and to treasure only him. Actually after reading many parts of this book, it created in me a desire to express those thoughts in the writing of poems. Now, this not usually my thing, but it seemed to come quite easily. In fact, I couldn't sleep, as my mind was bombarded with thoughts and ideas to the point that Robyn fell asleep before I did. I plan to post these on this blog.

Not that I only read, Robyn and I had some great small day trips, (something you're thankful for when your wife isn't always able to get out). We went to church together at CCEC, which was a tremendous blessing for both of us. It was great to be again reminded of the sure hope we have as Christians, and to live with the long view in mind (A sermon on Revelation 21 by Rhett Harris). It again put our present sufferings in perspective. How excellent is our God!

And of Course, what Waters' holiday would be complete without drinking coffee. It was just bliss. But with all that said, I'm glad to be home. It just sucks that whenever I really relax, and come down, so to speak, I get sick!

The Spectacular vs the Mundane. Which is God in?

2007-03-11T17:39:00.000+11:00

I haven't written in this thing for a while. So sorry. Although I have to admit that I'm not sure how many people are reading this thing? I've heard a few comments which have been great BUT none on the Blog! oh well...I'm off topic already. One of those things I guess.

what I wanted to write about. Yes get to that Ben! Anywho...I was totally hit today about the way that our society is really obsessed with the Spectacular, and they assume that GOD is involved with it.

We've been looking at church at 2 Corinthians and our pastor was explaining how this view of the "God is in the spectacular and NOT the mundane", is really unhelpful. This was the mistake of the Corinthians. But God is involved in the mundane. He uses the mundane to show His power. Take for example words. The speaking of the Gospel, looks like an unimpressive activity, in the worlds eyes, but Paul says the words of the Gospel, have the power to break down strongholds, and take captive every thought for Christ (see 2 Cor 10: 3-6). The gospel is God's power to destroy any argument which sets itself up against God, to reject God. As I reflect on that, that just encourages me. I sometimes feel so weak, and down. I can fell so overwhelmed with doing ministry. And yet, all I need to be doing is telling the gospel, because God is the one who works powerfully taking my unimpressive words, and doing a mighty work of drawing someone to himself. How good is the living God!

I was also encouraged by the way our pastor gently critiqued something which may be popular, and people think that God is in ... a ministry on TV (in the wee early hours). It was a helpful critic based on corrected how we as the church have bought into the notion that the spectacular things show the power of God. The spectacular wasn't discounted, but put into the context of God's power is in the gospel, and God is in the mundane things, the unimpressive things. Any way...should go.

Too much coffee and my head hurts!

2007-02-22T21:57:00.000+11:00

I'm so bushed! I can't believe how tired I am. Today has just been one of those days. And I've had so much coffee I'm surprised that I'm not bouncing off the walls! I'm almost there, but not quite.

It started with a visit, and I had a fantastic opportunity to explain the gospel to people. I spent like an hour a bit talking about Jesus with these people in their home. They were really listening, and I think they got it. It was a real learning experience for me, as these people were from a different culture to me, and so I had to really think about how to keep it simple. So praise God. I felt that I was fumbling through a bit. But I pray that they take it in. I'm organising some books for them to read as follow up (and I had a cup of coffee with them).

Then I got home, made some calls and went on another visit. This was to welcome some new people to our church. A great thing to be doing, and God willing some these people will feel more connected into NLEC.

But the absolute killer was meeting with the guy who heads up the Youth Ministry at CCEC - Dave Miers . I'm so thankful to God for godly people like Dave, who are extremely gifted by God, and passionate about ministry. My head hurt after chatting with him, (I think it was accumulative today, the constant chatting). The reason for getting together was NLEC (my Church) is at the stage of thinking through starting a ministry for youth (God willing). Dave is experienced in this area, and his enthusiasm is infectious! It was a good time catching up and chatting about youth ministry. I'm really pumped...May God grow his kingdom through this endeavour! We chatted non stop for 2 1/2 hours. And I had more coffee (Thanks Dave!). In fact I've found it really hard not to switch off tonight, that's how wired I am.

Then Robyn and I went out for dinner. It was good to Robyn to get out of the house, and see some different scenery (even if it was westfield at Tuggarah). The meal was good too - (Coffee club is awesome, great food and I have to say excellent coffee...yeah, I had another one there too!)

Coffee is sooooo good! But I bet I pay for it tonight.

A what kind of sorrow?

2007-02-07T15:51:00.000+11:00

Last night was a real joy for me. It was our second week in growth groups (that's what we call our bible study groups at NLEC), and we were looking at 2 Corinthians 7:2-16. The Big Idea was ... godly sorrow leads to repentance.

It was a positive night as people were grappling with the word of God, in order to change. And it was a passage about change! Godly sorrow is a good thing, as it leads us to repentance - A U turn in the direction we are living our lives, to turn from living our own way, to live God's way. Sorrow and grief, can have a positive result. It's not like worldly sorrow, that just leaves you feeling sorry for yourself, with no change at all, or sorry because you got caught out! But it leads to real change. I was encourage to see how the Corinthians responded to the rebuke from Paul. They repented. They changed.

And our group really wanted to come to terms with this. It was a great gift of God, to see people longing to understand the Scriptures, and work out how it applies. I came home buzzing. I'm usually down on myself for how I lead the study. But this time was different. And I was in pain was well with an infected gum, around a wisdom tooth.

Now, I've been thinking about this concept of godly sorrow this week in my own life. I though what area's of my life have I been sorry (in the worldly sense), or has my sorrow been a godly sorrow? The real test of what kind of sorrow I have, is "Has it brought about change?", " Have I repented?"

May God continue to rebuke me through his Word. May I always have ears to hear, and be prepared to have godly sorrow in my life because it leads me to repentance.

Oh, not to just read - but meditate.

2007-01-22T19:56:00.000+11:00

I've been thinking about the 'art of meditation' a bit lately. I came across the word in Psalm 1:1-2

"1:1 Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; 2 but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night." Psalm 1:1-2 ESV.

And I was thinking what exactly does it mean to meditate? Is it being in a trance, off the planet, not really thinking? Then I kept on reading. Its mulling over the 'law of God' day and night, not letting it go. To reflect continuously on the Scriptures, and letting it change you.

J.I. Packer, the author of 'Knowing God' says it like this:
"It [that is, meditation] is the activity of holy thought, consciously performed in the presence of God, under the eye of God, by the Help of God, as a means of communion with God." p22 Knowing God.

But it doesn't stop there. There is an expressed purpose in this meditation on the scriptures. - this meditation humbles oneself, expands the mind, and gives consolidation to the downcast. This is where real comfort and calming of sorrow and grief is found. In the knowledge of God. So its not about head knowledge. It's heart knowledge!

As I reflected on this today, I've been challenged to think about the way I study the Scriptures (again). Why do I study the Scriptures? Is it for personal advantage, to be someone who seems to have the answers?(I like knowing a bit about the word of God) Or is it so that I'd grow deeper in relationship with the One who has spoken in His word.

I love what C. H. Spurgeon says on this word meditate. Commenting on verse 2 in Psalm 1 he writes:-
"And now mark his positive character. “His delight is in the law of the Lord.” He is not under the law as a curse and condemnation, but he is in it, and he delights to be in it as his rule of life; he delights, moreover, to meditate in it, to read it by day, and think upon it by night. He takes a text and carries it with him all day long; and in the night-watches, when sleep forsakes his eyelids, he museth upon the Word of God. In the day of his prosperity he sings psalms out of the Word of God, and in the night of his affliction he comforts himself with promises out of the same book. “The law of the Lord” is the daily bread of the true believer. And yet, in David's day, how small was the volume of inspiration, for they had scarcely anything save the first five books of Moses! How much more, then, should we prize the whole written Word which it is our privilege to have in all our houses! But, alas, what ill-treatment is given to this angel from heaven! We are not all Berean searchers of the Scriptures. How few among us can lay claim to the benediction of the text! Perhaps some of you can claim a sort of negative purity, because you do not walk in the way of the ungodly; but let me ask you - Is your delight in the law of God? Do you study God's Word? Do you make it the man of your right hand - your best companion and hourly guide? If not, this blessing belongeth not to you." Treasury of David (e-sword edition).

It is my prayer that I'll truly meditate on the great themes of the Scriptures, that I may be humbled, that my mind would be expanded, and I might be consoled in times of trouble. I pray that I may grow deeper in knowledge of the one who has created me, that I may know him more, love him more, and obey him in everything.

Another blow - but oh, there is hope!

2007-01-20T22:02:00.000+11:00

Well, if any of you are readers of Robyn's blog, you'd know by now that Padfoot died on Friday morning. It was a totally bad experience! I don't recommend it at all. It was really sad to see our little bundle of joy die. It was also really hard seeing my wife so heart broken. She really loved Padfoot. I mean, she really loved her. We spent most of the morning crying and mopping around the house. Padfoot was such a positive thing for Robyn, in the midst of her pain. But, such is life in this broken world.

It just makes me think, how I long for heaven. I long so much to be away from this body that is decaying, and suffering (nothing compared to Robyn). I hate tears! I don't like being down. But with all that said, I have great comfort in knowing that God is in Control. He is working toward his goal of bringing all things under the head of Christ (Ephesians 1). The problems of suffering are not inconsequential to God. No, he has actually done something about it in Jesus! That is a comfort. So the cross of Christ is the thing I look to most, when I go through suffering. I cling to the cross. Because there, and only there is there comfort for the wounded soul.

May God help Robyn and I to endure suffering, to persevere through it, knowing that we have one who has suffered much that we might have life eternal. We have the certain hope of heaven - to be with our Creator and Redeemer forever, in prefect relationship, with no more pain and suffering. No more tears.

May God speed up the coming of the Lord Jesus! Come Lord Jesus, Come!

My Rock, Refuge and Saviour.

2007-01-18T10:59:00.000+11:00

It strikes me how many times in the Bible God is pictured as a rock, refuge and saviour for those who love him. Then you find he is a terrible enemy of those who reject him at the same time. I was reading 2 Samuel 22-24 this morning. And it just hit me again. David continually praises God, acknowledging that He alone is a rock, the deliverer, the place to find refuge. Again, and again he is called "my rock", "my refuge", "my saviour". The language is very reminiscent of many of the Psalms.

"The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God is my rock in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn my salvation. He is my stronghold, my refuge and my saviour... I call to the LORD, who is worthy of praise, and I am saved from my enemies." 2 Samuel 22:1-4 NIV.

I constantly need to remember that God is my rock. In him I can take refuge, for he is my saviour. And I see this again supremely in the Lord Jesus. My lord who suffered that I may have life. The One who delivered me from coping the wages of my sin (Romans 6:23), and I'm blown away! Sometimes I a bit slow in getting this into my head. I need the continual reminder.

It worked!

2007-01-17T18:59:00.000+11:00

Hi. Here is that photo. Didn't work last time. Dag nam it! You get that.

I'm on the web!

2007-01-17T16:23:00.000+11:00

Well, I'm on the web. And this is my blog.

I was inspired by my wife Robyn, who has a blog - see http://shadowgrace.blogspot.com - which has been really encouraging to me.

And I thought, well, what the hey, have a go. See what happens! I'm not sure if anyone will read this, but if someone does, my prayer is that you'll be encourage to think through the bigger questions of life, and look the the Creator and Sustainer of the Universe as a result! That's the kind of thing I'll be posting, and occasionally some random verbal diarrhea to boot.

Oh, here's my picture. Just in case you wanted to know "who is this guy?". And of course there's a cup of coffee in my hands. Very rarely is that NOT the case. Robyn took this photo when we were on holidays down the south coast, in October last year.