Welcome to this Christian Web Site

It is my pleasure to welcome you to this Christian Web Site and trust you will enjoy the experience of looking over it and find some real, spiritual benefit.

Quite a number of subjects and themes are dealt with that may prove interesting and helpful to all who view. There is a daily prophetic word which is a simple exhortative message that I present which I believe the Lord would have me pass on to the viewers which will prove encouraging. Also on a daily regular basis is the devotional reading from the Scriptures with a simple exposition employed to help understand the passage.

There are, of course other presentations such as Prayer Dynamics, Sermon and Sermon Outlines, with Messages for the Moment from other contributors, illustrations, Christian Testimonies, Powerful Quotes etc., etc.

Please note on the side a list of items and log into them and discover quite a vast material that may be of an aid to you.

Your comments are valued, especially encouraging words.

The site so far has been successful and I am grateful to the Lord and others for their assistance and blessing.

Every blessing to you all,

Rev. E. Anderson

Rev. E. Anderson

This is a daily prophetic word which is purposed to encourage you as you face this day with the Lord. He, above all loves to communicate with His people and servants and all must learn to hear His voice and take note of what He has to say. Christ said: ‘my sheep know my voice’ – John 10: 4. He speaks through His written word the Bible, God’s Holy Word, and you must read it often to hear and know what God has to declare. By His Holy Spirit He also brings a personal prophetic and inspired word to the mind and heart which confirms the written Word. Know that He is with you to bring to pass His perfect plan for your life. Listen to what He has to say and fulfill all His will and you will both know and grow in the things of God.

Friday – July 25^th

You have and are being divinely blessed in order to be a blessing. The promise given to Abraham also holds good for you, too – ‘you shall be a blessing’ – Genesis 12: 4. He was not to stagnate or dry up and rot, no, he was to be a stream of goodness not only to his generation but those to come. He was to leave an abiding legacy of blessing so that others would be enlarged and enriched and also cause the inheritance to be added to. The curse of sin has been removed from you and all that is associated with it, and you are to experience both the inflow and outflow of my favour. Today you need to pass on to others all around you my grace and goodness and see the consequences of such in them. Do not languish in fear, doubt, and negativism but receive at my hand those choice divine bounties so that they can be forwarded on to the people within your contact and communion. Your family, friends and neighbours, yes, even your enemies, can be the recipients of favours that will wholly transform their thinking about life, me and you. Let today mark a turning point not only for you but countless others who will be significantly invaded and touched by my blessing.

July 25^th

STUBBORNNESS – Isaiah 48

This is the charge that the Lord brings against His own people. He calls on them to listen to what He has to say about their nature and it is not very complimentary. In all His dealings with them over a long stretch of time He had observed this streak within their beings. Throughout the centuries He had spoken and encouraged them to hearken to His directions but they had continually wanted to do their own thing. He says in v4 “I know how stubborn and obstinate you are. Your necks are as unbending as iron. You are as hardheaded as bronze.” There was a spiritual resistance in them that rebelled against His desires and will for their highest good.

The reason why He speaks plainly and bluntly is to show them what they really are so that they will repent and amend their ways. It was now time to face up to themselves and see how guilty they were of this charge and to be completely altered in their relationship with Him. The time for refinement had come where this inbred and consistent evil is dealt with once and for all. No longer should they go making promises and oaths they had no intention of keeping. If they got rid of this malignant and cancerous evil then the future would be full of great prospects.

Examination of the spiritual life reveals that this is a wickedness that still seeks to gain room and advantage. Samuel the prophet shows how serious this sin is when confronting king Saul. He proclaimed: “For rebellion is the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry” – 1 Samuel 15: 23. It can put on a mere show of obedience but in point of fact is classified as obstinacy of an awful kind. Every child of God must seek to develop a submissive and responsive spirit and action to the Lord in everything.  In your loving obedience lies your divine happiness.

Rev. E. Anderson

Presented to you is a Christian Leadership Course that is purposed to provoke many to embrace the call of Christ to leadership within His Church. The series will come in the form of a study each week, which will be in two parts thus covering two weeks over the site. My prayer and desire is that such will help many in the summons of Christ to serve Him in these tremendous days.

CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP COURSE

Study 10    THE PRIORITIES OF CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP      (Part 1)

Reading     Matthew 6

·       Throughout this chapter on the Sermon on Mount, Jesus Christ affirms a lot of distinct priorities that should characterize Christian life and especially Christian leadership. A priority is that which is given specified and precedent attention above others and assumes first consideration on the agenda of life and work. As can be seen from the passage, there are a number of things that should have uppermost place in thought, consideration and action. For example, Christ certainly gives a priority in v33 – “Seek first the kingdom of God . . . .” In Christian leadership there has to be a learning how to put things in their proper order and an honest and earnest endeavour to see them direct one’s being, belief and conduct. There are factors that must head the list in service and ministry that if adhered to assure success and lasting approval from Christ see also –Psalm 90:12

·       It does not mean that others things are not attended to. We have to discover and discern what is major and minor and keep them in perspective and give the right and appropriate time to all so that there is no unbalance in any area. It is imperative to know the things that differ and to learn to concentrate on the essentials in daily life and work so that the most may be achieved.  This is what prioritizing enabled to effect: the maximizing and production of the greater factors that enrich the person and the Christian community besides the society around.

·       Christ seeks to teach and inspire on this point. Peter was to learn a lesson very early on this matter from Christ – Mark1: 32—39. The Lord had the previous evening been giving out in ministry to countless people and they had made great demands on Him and His time and energies. Early the next morning, before sun was up, Christ was in communion with His Father. Peter is in quest for Him and mentions that everybody is in search of Christ – v37.  Christ did not respond to this because He had His priorities and Peter was to learn this. One, that it was important to receive daily direction from God as to His will, where he should go and what He should do. Two, that the pressure of human demand elsewhere was not the main consideration. It has its place, time and schedule but it is not the directing factor. His commission was elsewhere v38.

The following are priorities to be given utmost thought and commitment: God, family, people, work and service, leisure, gifts and their developments etc. There is much to invest time and labour in and all must have their place and yield their profit and pleasure. Here are some helpful points and tips to aid on this issue.

DETERMINE WHAT IS ESSENTIAL FROM THE NON-ESSENTIAL

·    Things to be done immediately because they are really urgent and pressing – John 4: 4 “He must needs go through Samaria.” This was a pressing meeting and interview with a Samaritan woman. It was not only what was to be wrought in her but in others in the city and the recorded divine teaching that would be available for posterity. It would be seed that would be sown that would be productive throughout the forthcoming centuries.

·    Note those matters and factors that can be postponed and left in abeyance because they can be fulfilled satisfactorily at a later date/day – John 11: 6. Christ postponed going to the immediate relief of Lazarus and the family because other factors had to develop. Even Christ had to be prepared to misunderstood as He seem to linger around and delay to go out to assist in at an hour of major crisis with people He affectionately regarded. A discernment was prevalent in Him that put the whole thing in correct perspective and saved Him from moving in ahead of divine schedule. On this occasion the ‘time factor’ was important. When things should be attended to requires the wisdom of foresight.

·    Seeing what can be rightly delegated to others who can perform the service more satisfactorily and successfully – Exodus 18: 1-27. Moses listened to the wise counsel of his father-in-law and so advanced the peoples and his own standing and situation. He appeared to be one of those indispensable individuals especially in terms of leadership. The people could trust His integrity and judgment and this posed problems because his time and energy was exceptionally loaded. The problem could have a debilitating effect and impact his greater usefulness on the larger front and so the need to have and train others in responsible roles. It would enable him to be most effective where it mattered.

·    Realizing that there are certain issues that do not warrant any thought or attention and can be utterly sidelined or rejected completely – John 21: 22 Christ straightened Peter out here – “what is that to you? You follow Me.”  Whilst it is right to have a genuine interest in another’s calling and vocation, the priority is we should make doubly certain of our own. There are matters that should not claim our thought, attention and involvement because they are truly none of our business. Some people spend much time trying to sort others out and yet their own lives and service requires personal attention.

AIDS IN ASCERTAINING AND ESTABLISHING THE ESSENTIALS

·    Procure and possess the long term vision and goal on matters. The eternity focus always needs to be present to sort out and sanctify – Philippians 3:12-15. It is quite easy to become bogged down by only observing the immediacy of things and what it occurring. Whilst it is imperative to have real insight into what is taking place, an awareness should be present as to where things are to ultimately end. If the focus is wrong then it will dramatically affect judgement.

·    Consider the right amount of hours, thought and energy to be given on a daily basis to what is to be done and achieved – to prayer, study, visitation and contacts, family, leisure etc. An ordered life and work brings all these things into play and fulfilment. There is always the grave danger of extremism in one direction or another, therefore, everything needs to be addressed and attended to so that good balance obtains in all. This involves matters both spiritual and natural and they need to be integrated.

Oswald Chambers spoke of “being naturally spiritual and spiritually natural.”

·     Knowing when to say ‘NO’. John 4:46-54 Jesus did not need to go to the home of the nobleman to heal his son when requested.  There are those who find it difficult and an embarrassment to say no and so put themselves under unnecessary pressure. One has the perfect and legitimate right to say no under certain circumstances and one must not entertain guilt feelings as a result. It is a sign of wisdom and sound learning and sense when certain restraints are adopted for greater effectiveness.

·   Being sympathetic to godly counsellors and counselling. Even this outstanding monarch needed people at times to come alongside in order to help make the right decisions and to keep a sense of priority. He was about to a minister what he considered justice to Nabal because of his evil behaviour but was wisely restrained by a woman, Abigail. She gave him a due sense of priority in a difficult situation and was grateful to her for a quick intervention - 1 Samuel 25:33. Other people, at times, are given to us so that can get a better perspective so that we can assess what should take precedence in situations and it is sensible to listen and know.

·       Knowing the difference between the good and the best – Ecclesiastes 7; 1-8. It has been said ‘that the good can be the enemy of the best’. This is certainly true at times and it is important to view things completely so that there can be a clear distinguishing in order that the best is chosen. One is assisted greatly in the programming of life and work when this principle is in action. It makes for greater progress and results.

·       Possessing divine insight into what is occurring and should be. Christ always seemed to be in control and ever making the right choices and He knew when challenged and somewhat chastened by His mother, Mary, where His priority lay - Luke 2:49. He was by no means being her offensive to her in His remarks but was highlight what took ascendancy and held worthy significance. He was ever aware in His consciousness of what the Father required of Him and His disposition was set in this direction - John 9:4. He knew what was on from a heavenly standpoint and had no difficulty of lining up with it. Spiritual insight is a tremendous aid in sorting out those things that should hold priority.

·       Having God’s inward peace that serves as an inward umpire and director – Colossians 3: 15. It is remarkable how that a divine peace settles in mind and heart when there is ascertaining of what should engage the attention and action. The thing that is to be priority may be most challenging and demanding and could be off-putting, but composure of a spiritual nature assists in assuring this is what should be done.

·       Assurance of resources to meet the current demand of the program – Haggai 2:8; Matt. 6:33. When called to tackle a thing of major significance which in point of fact is a priority, one can be aided in commitment and action in the knowledge of the provisions accorded and afforded to bring to fruition and achievement. Nehemiah was called to a task of priority but there came a divine adequacy to meet the whole affair.

Rev. E. Anderson

COMMITMENT

There were two men shipwrecked on this island. The minute they got on to the island one of them started screaming and yelling, “We’re going to die! We’re going to die!  There’s no food!  No water!  We’re going to die!”

The second man was propped up against a palm tree and acting so calmly it drove the first man crazy. “Don’t you understand?!? We’re going to die!!”

The second man replied, “You don’t understand, I make $100,000 a week.”

The first man looked at him quite dumbfounded and asked, “What difference does that make?!?  We’re on an island with no food and no water! We’re going to DIE!!!”

The second man answered, “You just don’t get it. I make $100,000 a week and I tithe ten percent on that $100,000 a week. My pastor will find me!”

TODAY’S THOUGHT

Did you hear about the Broadway actor who broke through the floor boards? He was just going through a stage.

OPEN WINDOWS

There are three engineers in a car: an electrical engineer, a chemical engineer and a Microsoft engineer. Suddenly the car engine shuts off, leaving the three engineers stranded by the side of the road.

All three engineers look at each other wondering what could be wrong. The electrical engineer suggests stripping down the electronics of the car and trying to trace where a fault might have occurred. The chemical engineer, not knowing much about cars, suggests that maybe the fuel is becoming emulsified and getting blocked somewhere.

Then the Microsoft engineer, not knowing much about anything, comes up with a suggestion, “Why don’t we close all the windows, get out, get back in, open the windows again, and maybe it’ll work?”

A STRANGE ORDER

A guest at a hotel restaurant called over the head waiter one morning and said, “I want two boiled eggs, one of them so undercooked that it’s runny, the other so overcooked that it’s about as easy to eat as rubber. Also grilled bacon that has been left on the plate to get cold, burnt toast that crumbles away as soon as you touch it with a knife, butter straight from the deep freeze that’s impossible to spread, and a pot of very weak coffee, lukewarm.”

“That’s a complicated order, sir,” said the bewildered waiter. “It might be a bit difficult.”

“But that’s exactly what you gave me yesterday.”

Rev. E. Anderson

The story is taken from a book compiled by the late Rev. Gerald Chamberlain, a great children’s story teller and a person who inspired and influenced many young people. With kind permission from his son, Paul.

WHO FLIES THE KITE?

Text:       “For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building” - 1. Corinthians. 3. 9.

What a wonderful sight it is to see on a clear, windy day, a boy with a Kite in full flight.   How it rises, controlled as if by magic, and then suddenly it dips almost to the ground only to leap and leap and leap back toward the clouds.

But who really flies the Kite?????

Who gets the credit for such an exhilarating experience???

By the way, I’m always a great admirer of a Gcod, Kite Flier, because when I was a lad, my Kites never seemed to go very high and when they did, (being a City boy) they got caught in the telephone wires or dived to destruction, to be annihilated by a passing lorry….   so three cheers, for Good Kite Fliers, I say, but get out into the Park, or wait until you go into the country or sea-side, its very dangerous in the streets!!!!

Well really KITE FLYING IS A TEAM EVENT . . . .  You see there’s the BOY WHO FLIES THE KITE…………..

Then there’s the KITE ITSELF, the main body……

Then there’s the TAIL, which is vitally important, for balance. . . . . .  . . . .

Then there’s the CORD, that controls and empowers the Kite……..

Then there1s the WIND, whose power is vital. . . . . . . .

They are all really vital to Good Kite Flying.   Which one can you do without??

Not a single one.

Christianity is rather like that. While we come to the Lord as individuals and He saves us as individual characters, we become part of a great team.  We’ are co-workers together.   

God is calling together a great company of people to do a job for Him throughout ETERNITY…….

                                                    E   T   E   R   N   I   T   Y

And that is going to be a very important and a very, very long job.

At the moment He is calling us, training us, and equipping us for that big job……………..Now you may feel that you are like the Tail, always the one that is coming in behind the others.  Rather a bit of a no-body. ….But you will know if you’ve ever tried Kite Flying, that TAILS HAVE TO BE JUST RIGHT.   Not too long, not too short, Not too heavy not too light……Just right.

In contrast you may feel you’re like the string.   Just a long, monotonous business is life to you.   Christmas comes so slowly and then its a long wait until next Christmas.   Don’t worry,  wont seem like that in 30 years time. Don’t worry, when you get older they will fly by like Telegraph Poles, when you’re in a car going at 60.m.p.h. But you are very vital to the Lord.   Your   plodding, (the Bible calls it faithfulness) your stability (the Bible calls that enduring) is noted by the Lord and He will make something very important out of you.

Or perhaps you’re like the Boy, who just holds on…He is right at ground level.   No Cloud Skimming for him.  Right down to earth sort of character.   But the Lord wants this sort as well.  Joseph was a dreamer and got places…He stacked up the wheat into the Storehouses of Egypt, but someone had to grow the stuff and someone had to Harvest it.  If you feel left on the ground.  You’re one of team, mate, and the L0rd has a good place in Heaven for you.

Or perhaps you’re a bit of a Wind-bag.   Always wanting to talk. Beware, when you get older you may become a Preacher…………… But, of course, God wants talkers as well.   Jesus was a Wonderful Talker and He used His ability to talk a lot of people right into the Kingdom.   Yes, there’s a place for the windy ones.

Or you may feel like the Kite itself.   Always being blown around. Someone always putting the brake on you.  Tugging you this way and that.    Why doesn’t God leave me alone…you’ve often felt like this.   It’s a good job He doesn’t else maybe you’d beat the Americans to Mars!!!   But that restriction in your life is really your place of power.   When you feel the tug on you,     you know someone has got a vital interest in your progress.

I say, this is supposed to be a story book and here I am preaching at you.  Sorry about that, but then this is another of my “stories” and people know if there’s anything that fits the ediitor its Wind. But I hope a little of the Wind of the Holy Ghost as well.

Rev. E. Anderson

ADVANCEMENT THRO’ OBEDIENCE TO GOD’S LAWS

Leviticus 16-20

Definite divine directions are embodies in these sections that declare, affirm and emphasize, what in the main, has been recorded afore. Because much is repeated it is for a purpose, that of underscoring so that God’s people know what has previously been stated holds good and is not to be amended. These things must register so that they may be fully and truly wrought out in conduct. The point is made that the Canaanites were being judged and evicted out of the land because of their evil practices. The Lord said He would vomit out His own elect people if they decided to go down the same road. They would leave Him no alternative if they failed on this front. Disobedience is sin and such will be accounted for. Look at seven major laws:

1/. THE LAW REGARDING SEXUAL RELATIONSHIPS – LEVITICUS 18

Much is stated very clearly reveals God’s mind on marriage relationships and who may marry who and with whom intercourse can be shared with. There is a definite declaration against homosexuality and of people seeking any kind of union with an animal. Christ endorsed the matter of marriage to one partner in His ministry thus showing there is no change here – Matthew 19.

2/. THE LAW REGARDING THE MATTER OF BLOOD – LEVITICUS 17

No one was permitted to eat or drink the blood of animals because, as stated, the life is in the blood and life is sacred; it is a God-given gift. We are informed, too, that ‘it is the blood that makes atonement for the soul.’  v11..

3/. THE LAW REGARDING THE HONOURING OF PARENTS – LEVITICUS 19:3, 32; 20:9

Respect for parents and the elderly was incumbent upon them and was esteemed by God as being vital to their blessedness. The commandment held great divine promise. Note that Christ took the Scribes and Pharisees to task because they lessened the worth and impact of this command. They sought to introduce amendment to it and place their own interpretation on it. God’s Word spoke plainly on it.

4/. THE LAW REGARDING GENEROSITY AND BENEVOLENCE – LEVITICUS 19: 9, 10

God wanted to produce a very loving, goiod and generous people that were prepared to give and not simply get. There had to be a disposition prevailing where they really cared for the poor and this would be noted in the provision of leaving some of the harvest of their crops and fruit for the less fortunate. All meanness had to go.

5/. THE LAW REGARDING STEALING, CHEATING AND LYING – LEVITICUS 19: 11-13

These evils must not exist in their relationships with each other. There must be no taking of one another’s goods and properties, no dishonest standards in their trading and no deception in their words etc. Certainly, they must use God’s Name in avowal in a false manner – v12. Honesty had to dominate at every level so that they could not only trust God but each other.

6/. THE LAW REGARDING THE USE OF THE TONGUE – LEVITICUS 19:16-18

The little member of the body must be kept in perfect and absolute control so that it did not spread evil because it would poison and sour relationships. A loving and jealous regard had to be entertained for all so that hatred would not exist and that the tongue would be employed to bless. As each was held in esteem there would be profit and benefit all round.

7/. THE LAW REGARDING CONSULTING MEDIUMS – LEVITICUS 19: 31; 20:6, 27

No association was to be formed with mediums or spirits because they were an offence to God and they were not to be the means of guidance. He was their Counsellor and Guide His Word was adequate to provide all the information and instruction required for life, faith and practice.

CONCLUSION

The standard is ever being presented and requires no alterations in any generation. Because of the proneness to forget and the ever present paten and potent evil that is in the human heart there is a demand to keep repeating the laws of God. Apt reminders are always needed. The divine statutes are the foundation of life and character. The divine statutes produce divine structure that forms life and character. The end result of the divine structuring is the production of a divine stature – man has become in the image of God and is capable of ruling and reigning.

Rev. E. Anderson

NEWS OF THE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY SCHOOLS

PROVIDED BY Ernest Bridgewood

Trinity has reached the end of its 3rd year and there is much to praise God for.
Trinity has been recognised as the most improved Academy in the country and it was also among the most improved schools in the country. (Note however, that the school was starting from a low base) Ian Brew was invited down to London to receive the 2 awards. Later on Trinity was specifically mentioned by the Prime Minister in his speech at the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust special lecture on 23 June.

Thorne has suffered much deprivation in recent years leading to low expectations and consequently low achievement – a vicious circle! In fact many thought… Can any good thing come out of    Nazareth        Thorne ?

Trinity is helping to transform the whole area and though we cannot actually measure it, we can see the difference that the Academy is making. Pupils are being encouraged to reach their true potential regardless of their economic or social background. I believe God is blessing the people of Thorne through the school! Last week the school play “Blood brothers” was fantastic! It displayed humour, emotion and it was well produced and acted, and a credit to all concerned –it was a joy to be there!

The intense media opposition has tended to fade given the good things that are coming out of the Academy. Academic results aren’t everything but it has tended to silence some of the critics.

The school roll continues to grow, parents like what is on offer and wants it for their children. Currently there are 1218 on roll.

Attendance has continued to improve due to the, many strategies the school has put in place.

36 students are hoping to go to University – compared to 11 in Trinity’s first year.

One student is hoping to do Maths at Cambridge! Quite a significant step in the Academy’s history, i.e. the first in 29 years!

The new year Trinity has reached the end of its 3rd year and there is much to praise God for.
 Trinity has been recognised as the most improved Academy in the country and it was also among the most improved schools in the country. (Note however, that the school was starting from a low base) Ian Brew was invited down to London to receive the 2 awards. Later on Trinity was specifically mentioned by the Prime Minister in his speech at the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust special lecture on 23 June.

Thorne has suffered much deprivation in recent years leading to low expectations and consequently low achievement – a vicious circle! In fact many thought…

Can any good thing come out of    Nazareth        Thorne ?

Trinity is helping to transform the whole area and though we cannot actually measure it, we can see the difference that the Academy is making. Pupils are being encouraged to reach their true potential regardless of their economic or social background. I believe God is blessing the people of Thorne through the school! Last week the school play “Blood brothers” was fantastic! It displayed humour, emotion and it was well produced and acted, and a credit to all concerned –it was a joy to be there!

Rev. E. Anderson

HUMILITY

I READ ABOUT a Britisher named Thomas Hardy, who around the turn of the century became so famous that as a novelist and a poet he could have com­manded whatever figure any newspaper would have been willing to pay if he would just submit anything for them to print. But every time he submitted a poem or some literary piece he always included a self-addressed, stamped enve­lope for the return of his manuscript should it be rejected. He remained humble enough to think that his work could be turned down by an editor who would never be as famous as he.

William Barclay, The Gospel of Luke

THE HUMILITY OF Principal Cairns was phenomenal, so well-known in the educational world. He would never enter a room first. He would always step back and say, “No, here, you go and I’ll follow” though he was so well known and respected by the public.

On one occasion, as he stepped up to climb the steps to go to one of the seats on the platform, the public noticed who he was and immediately burst into applause. Shocked, he turned and looked and stepped back and had the man behind him go ahead. And he applauded the man who had walked up behind him, thinking the applause was for him. That isn’t phony humility; that’s true humility. It never dawned on him that the public would applaud for him.

William Barclay, The Gospel of Luke

I BELIEVE that the first test of a truly great man is his humility. I do not mean by humility, doubt of his own power. But really great people have a curious feeling that the greatness is not in them, but through them. And they see some­thing divine in others and are endlessly, foolishly, incredibly merciful.

John Ruskin, quoted in Lloyd Cory, Quote Unquote

Rev. E. Anderson

PRAYER AND PASSION FOR THE PRESENT

Reading     Psalm 71

Text           vv17, 18

Introduction

It is good to be filled with prayer and passion at a late stage in life and it is something that God is interested in. Whilst recognizing all God’s input and goodness in the past and all that He has wrought in and through us, it sets the platform for the ultimate period.

GRATEFULNESS FOR THE PAST: Reviewing the days and years that have gone, most, if not all, have every reason to be thankful for the tremendous amount of grace and input from God into life and ministry at every level and in all kinds of circumstances. Life and service has been of a checkered order, for all, none have trod the same pathway or been called to do the same thing, but all have tasted and experienced the amazing goodness of God in large degree. But for Him, and His sovereign workings, presence and assistance nothing really worthwhile would have been accomplished. Many can say as David: ‘O God, you have taught me from my youth’ – v17. It has lasted for quite a few decades!

RECOGNITION OF THE PRESENT: One has to take hold of the immediacy of the now, this present time and get some real sense and understanding into it. Whilst it is vitally linked to what has been, somehow a new threshold is in view and has to be appreciated. There is a need to be fully awake and alert and ready for what God desires to reveal and see realized, no matter how much time is left.

PROSPECTS FOR THE FUTURE: Although one may not see right to the end of the corridor, nevertheless, some things will start coming into view and perspective not seen before that beckon for action and application. It will be not a state of darkness and ignorance but newness of inspiration and possibility as to the profitability of the time to be spent. David was invigorated with a real passion and mission – ‘forsake me not; until I have shewed the strength unto this generation, and your power to every one to come’ – v18. What a truth to be galvanized and driven with! Somehow he wanted to contribute to history yet to be!

1/. THAT LIFE AND SERVICE IS NOT OVER IN THE LATTER STAGE AND CHAPTER OF EXISTENCE

Many may regard and accept life as a battery almost run down with all of its cells more or less defunct and on its way out. The result of this kind of thinking and believing creates a mind-set of negativity and also to a pessimistic way of thinking and living. It is easy to drift into this condition of mentality in the later years through others and our own attitude and by circumstances that are not altogether easy to contend with. This is an issue that has to be seriously addressed when coming to and in this period. It is a time when control has to be taken in a definite fashion.

·          A dynamic relationship with God must be enjoyed at this particular stage with a sense of holy and heavenly calling. What really matters at this time is the strengthening and building up of the union that one has known with God. It is the opportune moment to take advantage of the period to get to know Him in a greater and more meaningful manner, to get to understand Him in more depth and detail, to discover His ways more thoroughly so that from it what He desires will be known and be entered into. It can be something of an Enoch situation and experience – Genesis 5: 24. In a dramatic manner life takes a turn in another divine direction with a fresh impetus.

·          A real appreciation of one’s worth is essential at this point in time.  It is not the time to excuse or demean oneself and write oneself out of the equation. It is not to be the occasion that one sinks into a shell and into a state of oblivion; rather it is opportune for fresh assessment and appreciation.

·          A spiritual consciousness must prevail that there is surely something yet to be produced of immense value not only are we of value but exist to produce something of value. It is purposed to be a turning point in one’s life and career with the idea and assurance that what has been established and built upon is to be furthered in a significant and successful manner.

·          Realization must prevail that renewal of a divine order can occur of a rich and powerful order – Isaiah 40 One has learned a few vital secrets in the passage of time – one ‘it is not by might’ – Zech 4: 6.  It is absolutely imperative that we have learned how to wait on and for the Lord over the past so that there is further engagement in this spiritual exercise. One of the things to be understood is that it is not enough to be able to quote these high sounding verses but to make sure they are implemented

2/. THAT GOD IS VITALLY INTERESTED IN THE FINAL RUN IN TERMS OF OUR BEING AND MINISTRY

It cannot be that God is no longer interested at this particular point of the journey or ministry. This is totally out of accord with His nature and purposes and ability. He does not in any way cast off any of those who have shown utmost devotion to Him and He has no intention of seeing them abused or neglected in any shape or form. It is possible to receive encouragement from those who did have some generative effect upon the future in the final run in.

·          Joshua must have been mighty glad that Moses had been around in his 120^th year. Israel knew generally but Joshua knew particularly the amazing spiritual stature of this great leader and prophet of God’s people being an intimate. It was in that final stage that the aged patriarch made a major contribution to the future for Joshua and Israel. Joshua would never forget the moment when Moses laid his hands on him – v9; Numbers 27: 15-23. Who does the Lord want us to lay hands on with inspiration and revelation?

·          Elisha was certainly delighted that he had been under the latter influence and tutelage of an inspirational and powerful prophet, Elijah, and that this divine servant could leave such a special mantle behind – 2 Kings 2. For at least 12 years this young man had been associated with this great seer as his attendant. He had not missed the opportunity of being alongside this amazing individual and this patriarch-prophet must have been glad he was there to be tutored. What are we leaving behind for our spiritual posterity?

·          Timothy rejoiced that he had been able to be alongside Paul in the early part of his ministry and was the recipient of his letters – 1 & 2 Timothy.  This young fellow had linked up with the apostle Paul at a vital stage in his missionary career and benefited enormously from the apostle’s example and instruction. Paul had seen the potential in him and had aided in bringing it out and seeing him fulfill precious, needful ministry with him so often. What a tremendous body of truth the apostle bequeathed to him and the Christian Church in his personal writings! What about us?

3/. THAT A WORTHY CONTRIBUTION CAN BE MADE THAT CAN EXCEED ANYTHING THAT HAS PRECEDED

Instead of a winding down process taking place there can be a gentle winding up so that one is better placed to work and serve in a profitable fashion. In fact, one can be taken by surprise as to what is to be entered into and exploited in a way that is quite delightful. What is to be somehow is to surpass anything than has gone before.

·          The element of surprise ever needs to be entertained at this point because the unique and unusual can suddenly occur. There are particular points when the Lord can take over when certain moves are adopted that lead to some astonishing experiences and events. It may look as if is one is entering into an uncertain and negative state but in a remarkable way God’s providences work and changes everything as in the case of Naomi and Ruth.

·          The impossible can still take place as long as there is the possession of a mind and will in that direction and a looking to the Lord. When this man, Caleb, entered the Promised Land he could have thought,’ that’s it! I have done my stint. Now and can relax and let others get on with the job.’ But he was not content to accept such a philosophy and ideology; rather he believed he had still a valid contribution to make – Joshua 14: 6-12. He was not going to settle down and become ‘an has been.’ He even sought to stir and stimulate the next generation – Othniel – Judges 1; 13; 15: 17.

·          God can step in and take over even when things have denuded to the utmost degree. It could well have been that the patriarch Job was assaulted by Satan and evil at a late stage in his life having enjoyed so much. The future looked utterly black and bleak as he had been robbed of everything. His chances of any rise to something surpassing what had been looked remote but other things were envisaged by God – see Job 42: Instead of going to the grave in defeat and dismay, He is visited and overwhelmed by a fresh invasion of the favour of God and all see things from a different perspective.

·          The influence of such can go on from generation to generation as in the case of Abraham – how many have moved on and been expanded by his inspired example. Little did this man know how he was to write history and touch unborn generations in a dynamic way?  As he sets out on a new phase of life he is to leave behind a witness that would touch nations and greatly affect many lives at the personal level. There are positions and ministries to be fulfilled at the end that can be quite influential.

4/. THAT THOSE WITHIN THIS GENERATION WILL BE MADE TO SIT UP AND TAKE NOTICE – BE GRATEFUL TOO!

One of the inestimable pleasures must surely be to see the up and coming generation being visibly touched and inspired by your example and input. When those round about sit up, take notice and imbibe something spiritual and significant from you and you can see it taking effect, this is reward enough.

·          The Lord certainly witnessed the fact that His efforts with His disciples had not been a waste of time.  The Lord believed that His commitment and ministry to the chosen future leaders of His Church had not been a flop but that there would be much to follow following His ascension and bestowment of the Holy Spirit. He knew He had succeeded because it is born out in His High Priestly prayer – John 17: 6,811-12. He foresaw what hey would be and do after His ascent and knew they would break free from their fears and limitations – ‘and you shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem…’ – Acts 1: 8. The people of His day had been made to consider Him but then they would be made to see the impact He had made upon His leaders and followers – Acts 4: 13.

·          Even Barnabas who worked with a failure seemingly saw it completely turned around – Acts 15: 36-39 is not the end of the story – see 2 Timothy 4: 11.  John Mark’s uncle, Barnabas, being the older guy was not prepared to surrender his nephew or this young man so easily and believed he could make a valid and relevant involvement into his life that would change him and his whole future.

·          Those who are somewhat laid hold can make a much bigger contribution and others can add their inspiration. One life can be invaded in such a manner that in turn they outshine what the one who has done for them. In serving and giving of themselves but to one, such can turn out to be of an incredible nature.

5/. THAT IT IS POSSIBLE TO GO OUT IN A BLAZE OF DIVINE GLORY SEALING ALL THAT HAS GONE BEFORE

If such comes to pass, as David believed it would, he anticipated that all would end on the finest note. There would be no regrets or big sense of disappointment, only sheer thrill and joy at seeing how things had all turned out. There would be no fading away or retreat into a shell only the extreme rapture of having achieved heaven’s expectations. It was Balaam that made this statement with regard to God’s people ‘and let my end be like his!’ Number 23: 10. The indication is that the Lord desires that we finish strong and well. The end of the story should be the most exciting part.

·          In the case of Elijah he did not terminate his days under a broom tree but was transported home to glory in glory in a divine chariot – 2 Kings 2: 11. The Lord was not willing or prepared to allow this choice servant to end his life wallowing in despair and defeat. It was not a fit time or place for him to end up his days. Elijah must have rued the fact many times afterwards and must have overwhelmed at what the Lord had lined up for him as he made his exodus. It was superior to the royal carriage her majesty has for renowned occasions!

·          For Christ, the Cross was not the conclusion to matters because something big was envisaged for His departure – Acts 1; In the plans of the Father there was to be a remarkable exit for His Son that would leave His intimate followers aware of the glory of their Head. The angels had seen Him go but now they were to witness His glorious return having achieved the divine objective.

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