“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16 NKJV
“For God so [greatly] loved and dearly prized the world, that He [even] gave His [One and] only begotten Son, so that whoever believes and trusts in Him [as Savior] shall not perish, but have eternal life.” John 3:16 Amplified Bible
God who loves,
In days like these when we so vividly see and can know what is going on around the world on TV we need some positive certainties. The surety of Sunday, for many of us a worship day, a gathering together for communion day. To study and listen to teachings of truth from Your word day. To ensure we have built on the rock, like the wise man, day (Matthew 7:25). To know You are still on the throne and have the final say.
Perish not a word used much today. Not an entertaining word! All the translations use the word perish. Perish: to die in a sudden way or to rot or decay more slowly. Not nice to think about. But we will not perish. Hallelujah for that one absolute certainly. We will be raised to life just as Jesus was. So we worship You as countless generations have done. We trust You as countless generations have done. We do not always understand all that is happening around us as countless generations before have not either. But we know that You God, You finally will put an end to evil and man’s rebellion. And we will dwell with You forever in a new heaven and a new earth. Help us know that truth.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Suggestions for prayer . . .
God who loves,
For our family, friends and neighbours. For their needs and hopes and to catch a glimpse of heaven this Easter.
For those we have not seen for a while or are worried about we ask Your healing and loving care.
For our church family, Ministers and church leadership. Life and health. Draw back the lost and inspire the weary and draw in those who need to find You.
For our young people to make good decisions for their future, open possibilities for them.
For the Royal family and the Government and all in responsibility for our nation.
For an end to the war in Ukraine. Deal with Putin as with Pharaoh so he will let the people go.
For a solution for Gaza and peace and healing and a way to rebuild relationships and homes.
For countries where there is conflict, oppression or famine – provision, safety and support.
For those who have been bereaved, comfort and Your presence to cheer and to guide.
For Your help to look for the good, chase away the negative and appreciate the ordinary.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Sunday 24th March 2024
Benton Brown woke up feeling strange one morning. Came home from a worship event and rested. The week turned into 6 months. Doctor’s diagnosed chronic fatigue syndrome. Girlfriend Jude (now wife) also suffered from the same even though it is not contagious. They returned to S Africa to Brenton’s parents. Their Lives came to a stop. In their 20’s but not able to pursue their dreams. They sought the Lord and came across the verse in Isaiah 40, “The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary . . . but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.” A promise to them. It has still been a struggle, still hard but they are back serving God. Brenton wrote this song with Ken as a result as a life prayer for a faithful God.
Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord
Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord
Our God, You reign forever
Our hope, our strong deliverer
You are the everlasting God
The everlasting God
You do not faint
You won’t grow weary
Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord
Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord
Our God, You reign forever
Our hope, our strong deliverer
You are the everlasting God
The everlasting God
You do not faint
You won’t grow weary
You’re the defender of the weak
You comfort those in need
You lift us up on wings like eagles
Our God, You reign forever
Our hope, our strong deliverer
‘Cause You are the everlasting God
The everlasting God
You do not faint
You won’t grow weary
You’re the defender of the weak
You comfort those in need
You lift us up on wings like eagles
From everlasting
To everlasting
God, you are everlasting
Lyrics: Brenton Brown and Ken Riley