” a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away,” NIV
“A time to gain, And a time to lose; A time to keep, And a time to throw away;” NKJV
God of time and purpose,
A time to keep. I can’t think this is about keeping possessions or wealth. Remembering what You said warning the man in the parable wanting to building bigger barns! (Luke 12:18-20). I cannot think it means keeping things just as they are, or we would still be washing everything by hand! You constantly tell us we are on a journey whether resting, walking or running! (Proverbs 3:6, Hebrews 12:1).
What are the things I treasure and keep? I do have items of no value which remind me of good times. I treasure my friends. Do I treasure my relationship with You in Jesus Christ more than all? The pearl of great price (Matthew 1345,46). Do I really treasure You! Not always perfectly – but then I remember You treasure me always. This is what the enemy would love to steal (1 Peter 5:8). Our peace from sin forgiven, our trust in the cross, our hope of our wonderful future with You.
Now is the time to recognise, reject and throw away his doubts, contradictions half lies and lies. Especially when he comes when we are vulnerable and weak. Hebrews 12:2 also reminds us to keep our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. He endured the cross, scorning its shame. The enemy can make us doubt. But he cannot separate us from You (Romans 8:38,39). We are made new (2 Corinthians 5:17) and we are loved eternally (John 15:9).Help us keep and treasure Your truth in our hearts.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
God our Father,
For our family, friends, neighbours. Their needs for today and blessings to show You love them.
For our Ministers, lay leaders, church members. Encouragement and guidance of Your Spirit.
For the neighbourhood where we live and those who live around us, run the shops, doctors, school teachers, dustbin men.
For the Royal family. Strength for today and a successful end to treatment for Charles and Kate.
For our nation and our future representatives in Government.
For Gaza, and the Middle East. Move those with power to make a way to peace. Talk before war.
For Ukraine, continued support from other nations and a move of Your Spirit to end war, soon.
For those who are struggling to keep the faith and are hurt, disappointed or in pain.
For our local councillors, local magistrates and neighbourhood police.
For us a day to remember and treasure all the times You have been faithful and blessed us.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Thursday 20th June 2024
The second verse came to mind today and I had to search to hum and sing till I remembered how it started!
Before the throne of God above
I have a strong and perfect plea;
a great High Priest whose name is Love,
who ever lives and pleads for me.
My name is graven on his hands,
my name is written on his heart.
I know that while in heav’n he stands
no tongue can bid me thence depart,
no tongue can bid me thence depart.
When Satan tempts me to despair
and tells me of the guilt within,
upward I look and see him there
who made an end of all my sin.
Because the sinless Savior died,
my sinful soul is counted free;
for God the just is satisfied
to look on him and pardon me,
to look on him and pardon me.
Behold him there, the risen Lamb,
my perfect, spotless righteousness,
the great unchangeable I AM,
the King of glory and of grace.
At one with him, I cannot die;
my soul is purchased by his blood.
My life is hid with Christ on high,
with Christ my Savior and my God,
with Christ my Savior and my God.
Lyrics: Charitie Lees Bancroft