There is always a challenge!

I would like to pose a question - How is it possible for people to be content in every situation they find themselves, and yet at the same time pursue God for more?

Phil 4 : 12   I have experienced times of need and times of abundance. In any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of contentment,  whether I go satisfied or hungry, have plenty or nothing.

It seems to me that when we are content with what we have, and the situation we find ourselves in, it is only then that we can truly say what it is like to "move on in God!". Too many good meaning people, who have a heart to see God move in powerful ways, are not truly ready for such a powerful move because they haven't really come to know what it is to be content with what they already have. Is that a paradox?

I have seen this happen before. Congregations pray for, cry out to God, believe and even fast to see God move in revival power - yet, when He does, they announce that  "this really wasn't what they expected, and God should know what they like and don't like! Really! After all the hours of pray, tears and feeling hungry...."

We stayed in this beautiful house when taking time out in the Highlands of Scotland. It's called the "Old Rectory" and was a heaven sent B&B which we found as darkness fell when we headed North to the mountains. The phrase "Location, Location, Location....." springs to mind. This would be the place of "contentment" for many people. What more could you ask for? But for some, the peace and quiet would be "too much". The lack of entertainment, the sleepy village, the slower pace of life might be considered "Boring" to those seeking "the buzz".  When will we ever learn to be content? The view from the breakfast room was indeed spectacular..... the loch, with cotton wool clouds clinging to the mountain side of Ben Nevis. Ah! That's it..... there is more! Mountains to be climbed and conquered. Magnificent vistas that leave you speechless, and mountain walks that leave you breathless - literally! What more do you want?

Interesting isn't it? Why are we so fickle? To expect God to move mountains, but forget that may well mean some disruption to our particular way of doing life, and our routines. Don't get me wrong, routines can be good to establish; with good habits and practices in daily life is a very positive thing to do. Such quality decisions will help to keep you active, healthy and physically fit. If the same principles are applied to our spiritual lives, then we will be far more attentive to the voice of the Spirit, recognise God's leading and guiding, and be far less likely to make stupid mistakes. But for me today, such disciplines will help me to be content in God. He's in control, He is at work, and as I rest in His abundance and grace - then He will lead me to know more, see more, and want more of Him. Then the move is on!

It is then that mountains of unbelief, obstruction and despair begin to move. Yes old routines have to go, and new ways of loving, working and resting become established. Friendships are strengthened, families brought back to right relationships and even businesses flourish again because the workforce are content, fulfilled and ready to face new challenges.

I have a few challenges ahead. God never makes mistakes, and I rest in His unchanging grace today. The time is now, and living in the abundance of what He has in store can only be exciting and full of promise. After all, He is a faithful God, who makes and keeps Covenant with His people. What more can I ask? All I need to do, is listen more carefully, follow Him for closely and love Him more dearly. Then, on a daily basis I will be content in all things, and pray more fervently for the more!

Phil 4 : 13    I am able to do all things  through the one  who strengthens me.

A new day dawning!

There is a fresh wind blowing! Things are changing. There is a shifting in the Spirit. We can virtually taste it! Over the last 5 weeks, the sense of God's presence in the services at Sure Hope Church, Old Colwyn has been quite startling. We praise God for all that He has done, but look forward now to a "new day" which has dawned, and we must be prepared to live in it's full glory and blessing.

This is one of the photo's that I took from Pensarn beach at Sunrise during August 2012. I have printed several copies of this photograph, and included the caption: "This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it."

Today, I am reminded once again that the day we live in, is the day we must rejoice and be glad. Sometimes it might seem difficult and challenging, but whenever we feel that it is too much of a strain, or that the pain is too hurtful - we must realise that we have at least had the privilege of seeing another sunrise! A day full of opportunity and blessing. Don't focus on the challenges and despair - focus on what God is doing, and what He wants to do for and through you. The moment we take our eyes of "me" the sooner we see that God has a work for us to do for others. Their situation will no doubt be difficult, challenging and even demanding at times - but how much a blessing that will be for everyone, when we rejoice and be glad in it all.....

These are challenging times, and my determination will be to focus on what God wants us to do. We mustn't run ahead, but neither, must we lag behind. The moving of the Holy Spirit is so evident, we sense that we are not just on the brink but have actually crossed over! The tipping point was reached some 4-5 weeks ago, and now the tide has indeed turned.  The Son has come, displayed His glory and we are to be His witnesses, reflecting His glory and presence where ever we go.