Thought for the Week - 13th February 2022

 

Dear Friends, 

I spent a few days away last week at the London Baptists Ministers’ Conference at High Leigh in Hertfordshire. It’s the first time we’ve been able to meet in person for a couple of years and it was good to catch up with ministerial colleagues and friends and find out how everyone has been navigating the challenging times we’ve all been living through. And whilst there have undoubtedly been many obstacles to face, some of which we continue to live with, there was a sense of a ‘newness’ in the air, a sense of looking forward – maybe tentatively for sure – but a real sense of encouragement at what God is going to do as we move forward. As I wandered the grounds early one morning, I was thrilled to see snowdrops covering some of the grassed land, signs of new life and Springtime and it reminded me of Jesus’ words to his disciples warning them against worrying about life and food and clothing. He says, ‘Consider how the wildflowers grow. They do not labour or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendour was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you – you of little faith! And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well’ (Luke 12:27-31). Jesus tells us not to worry, but how can we avoid it? It is only by seeking the kingdom of God in our lives, meaning that Jesus is Lord and King of our lives, that we can address the worries of life. Only faith can free us from the desire for wealth and possessions which can lead to anxiety because of greed. But if Jesus has control of our lives – every aspect of our lives, work, rest and play – then we will trust in the Lord for all our real needs. Our Father God knows what we need and promises to meet our needs, helping us to use what he provides to bring glory and honour to his name.

Grace and peace,

Neil

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