“Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.” Galatians 5:1 NKJV
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1 NIV
God of love and freedom,
We like to think we are being good and try to please You by being good. Then like the Pharisees we begin to think we are good and not so bad as others . . . and worthy of Your love . . .
But we are not worthy. Neither can we earn it by being good all the time. As if we could be! By winning brownie points with You. No, Christ made us worthy by His death. Worthy of Your love for us. We just need to stay honest, humble and accept it. Take it freely, by grace. God’s riches at Christs expense. Thank You for freedom from condemnation and freedom from sin.
Help us to not beat ourselves up about not being good enough. Try harder? That will not make me a saint. Help us to silence the enemy from making us ashamed and feeling guilty by bringing up what You have forgiven us for. In Christ there is nothing we have done that he has not already died for. The enemy is a liar. He would imprison us. But You, God in Christ have set us free. Even if the consequences of past sin have to be dealt with, there is no guilt or shame attached from You, God.
We are divinely loved completely. Forgiven by You, God completely. Help us to stay at the Cross and yet step into the future with You one day at a time.
In Jesus we pray, Amen.
Suggestions for prayer . . .
God of love and freedom,
For family, friends, neighbours, Meet their needs and may they come to know You personally..
For our church family. Bless the lent groups as they study. Send a harvest of new believers.
For the Royal family. Ongoing healing and opportunities for Harry to be reconciled.
For our government. Raise up good men and women to serve and keep them focused on good.
For an end to the war in Ukraine. Send a miracle. End war and reunite families on both sides.
For Gaza. a way to end hostilities and broker peace. Medical and food aid for all who need.
For Haiti, not in the news but in the control of drug and criminal gangs, desperate poverty.
For the judicial system, the crown courts and magistrates courts. Justice to be seen and done.
For the emergency services and the prevention of crime. Fire safety measures and keep the ambulance service safe from attack.
For prison chaplains, prison visitors, teachers and counsellors. Lent groups in prison.
For The Criminal Investigations Department (CID). SOCA the Serious Organised Crime Agency. The Drugs squad. The fraud squad, dog handlers, mounted police. Underwater Search Unit, Specialist Operations covering: Anti-terrorism, covert operations and intelligence,
For a day to count our blessings, consider those whose responsibilities are greater than ours, pray for them and give thanks.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Thursday 14th March 2024
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It was for freedom
That Christ has set us free.
No longer to be subject
To a yoke of slavery.
So we’re rejoicing
In God’s victory,
Our hearts responding to His love.
Jesus, we celebrate Your victory.
Jesus, we revel in Your love.
Jesus, we rejoice You’ve set us free.
Jesus, Your death has brought us life.
His Spirit in us
Releases us from fear
And the way to Him is open.
With boldness we draw near.
And in His presence,
Our problems disappear,
Our hearts responding to His love.
Jesus, we celebrate Your victory.
Jesus, we revel in Your love.
Jesus, we rejoice You’ve set us free.
Jesus, Your death has brought us life.