Unashamed

I have not much

To offer you

Not near what You deserve

But still I come

Because Your cross

Has placed in me my worth

And I know I'm weak

I know I'm unworthy

To call upon Your name

But because of Your grace

Because of Your mercy

I stand here unashamed

Oh Christ my king

Of sympathy

Whose wounds secure my peace

Your grace extends

To call me friend

Your mercy sets me free

I can't explain

This kind of love

I'm humbled and amazed

That You'd come down

From heavens heights

And greet me face to face

Here I am at Your feet

In my brokeness complete

X

Christmas

I'm leading the service on Christmas morning and Andy is speaking.
He has asked me to play a song on the guitar as part of his message.
The song is by Relient K, and it's called I celebrate the day.

Although I had already heard Relient K, I'd never heard that song before.

It's amazing!

It really captures the true meaning of Christmas and asks some very good questions.

The chorus goes . . . .

And the first time

That you opened your eyes

Did you realize that you would be my saviour

And the first breath

That left your lips

Did you know that it would change the world forever

This christmas think about this chorus.

And join with me by celebrating the day that He was born to die so we could one day pray for Him to save our lives.

Amen x

Sorry

And I've tried to heal the wounds

Make it as if it never was

And I know I've done my best

But I can never heal the scars

I wanna say I'm sorry but I know I'll do it again

I'll do it again

I know what I did but I still don't know the reason

I wanna say I'm sorry but I know I'll do it again

I'll do it again

I'll do it to you

I don't wanna hurt you anymore

Order in the court !

Micah 6: 1-3

Here we see Micah conjuring images of a courtroom. Obviously, God as the judge. Telling His people how they have wronged Him and each other and reciting what He asks of them.

Within Micah, chapters 4 and 5 bring messages of hope and 6 and 7 proclaim judgement and require repentance from His people.

Here we see that the mountains themselves are the jury, where God calls to confirm the peoples guilt.

These mountains would serve as excellent witnesses, due to the fact that it would have been up in those high places that God's people would have built there pagan alters and sacrifices to their false gods ( 1 Kings 14:23 / Jeremiah 17: 2-3 / Ezekiel 20: 27-28 )

This question asked from God, is unanswerable. Simply because He has done nothing wrong. In fact, He had been over generous and very patient with them. Always showing them love, guidance and giving them every opportunity to repent and return to Him.

If God asked you this question, what would be your reply ?

Love you x

Oooh! Oooh!

You should all check out

www.nobodyswatching.tv

Those guys are funny!

Deliverance and Destruction

Micah 5:7-15

Within these few verses there are many descriptions of just how the all powerful God is gonna open a can of whoop-ass on these suckas! . . . Seriously, this is a mega warning to the peoples. God's patience has well and truely been s t r e t c h e d.

In my bible this section of verse 5 is entitled Deliverance and Destruction. On first glance it is easy to see the destruction part of this, but on closer inspection the deliverance part becomes clear also.

Destruction;

Like a lion among beasts of the forest,

Like a young lion among flocks of sheep,

which mauls and mangles as it goes,

and no-one can rescue. (verse 8)

I will destroy your horses from among you,

and demolish your chariots. (verse 10)

I will destroy the cities of your land,

and tear down all your strongholds. (verse 11)

Here are just three obvious example of where God is quite clear in His intentions.

However, this is all just relative. And His overal goal is for the benefit of His people.

Later in the chapter it continues to explain how God will rid the land of witchcraft, false idols and false gods/goddess (Asherah, verse 14). Surely this destruction is for the ultimate deliverance. Think back to Noah, the world had got SO bad that God's only option was to completely wipe out life on the planet (sparing Noah and co.). If that was the state of the Earth in such a short period of time from perfection (Eden), then just imagine what God sees when He looks at the Earth today!

We must remember that all these words we read are prophetic, and did in this case take place within history as we know it. However, I believe that some of these words of warning could be meant for modern day Isreal. In particular the conflict going on at this very time in Jerusalem.

Try reading these verses again with the world as we know it in your mind, any of it sound familiar?

Love you x

Deliverance and Destruction

Micah 5:7-15

Within these few verses there are many descriptions of just how the all powerful God is gonna open a can of whoop-ass on these suckas! . . . Seriously, this is a mega warning to the peoples. God's patience has well and truely been s t r e t c h e d.

In my bible this section of verse 5 is entitled Deliverance and Destruction. On first glance it is easy to see the destruction part of this, but on closer inspection the deliverance part becomes clear also.

Destruction;

Like a lion among beasts of the forest,

Like a young lion among flocks of sheep,

which mauls and mangles as it goes,

and no-one can rescue. (verse 8)

I will destroy your horses from among you,

and demolish your chariots. (verse 10)

I will destroy the cities of your land,

and tear down all your strongholds. (verse 11)

Here are just three obvious example of where God is quite clear in His intentions.

However, this is all just relative. And His overal goal is for the benefit of His people.

Later in the chapter it continues to explain how God will rid the land of witchcraft, false idols and false gods/goddess (Asherah, verse 14). Surely this destruction is for the ultimate deliverance. Think back to Noah, the world had got SO bad that God's only option was to completely wipe out life on the planet (sparing Noah and co.). If that was the state of the Earth in such a short period of time from perfection (Eden), then just imagine what God sees when He looks at the Earth today!

We must remember that all these words we read are prophetic, and did in this case take place within history as we know it. However, I believe that some of these words of warning could be meant for modern day Isreal. In particular the conflict going on at this very time in Jerusalem.

Try reading these verses again with the world as we know it in your mind, any of it sound familiar?

Love you x

The Land of Nimrod

Micah 5:5&6

Way back in chapter 3 we read about the corrupt leaders of Judah, now here in chapter 5 verse 5 we hear Micah talk of seven shepherds and eight princes. This is a reference to the exact opposite of the leaders of that time. Micah speaks of many good leaders that will be raised up when the messiah returns to reign.

When Assyria is mentioned by Micah it is not just about that land at that time. It is symbolic of all nations throughout history that oppose God's people.

This chapter is one of the clearest prophecies of Christ's coming in the Old Testament. The key phrase within this text is "He will be our Peace".

In one of the last meetings between JC and his 12 he said, "I am leaving you with a gift - peace of mind and heart! And the peace I give isn't fragile like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid" (John 14:27).

With the first coming of JC we are given the oppurtunity of peace with God. No fear of judgement. His peace gives us assurance in this dark world full of war.

With the second coming of JC all wars and weapons will be destroyed.

Amen!

Love you x

Eternal King (not Elvis!)

Micah 5:2

This king that Micah is going on about is . . . . (you've guessed it!) . . . . Jesus!!! (the Messiah)

Micah actually predicted Christ's birthplace hundreds of years before it took place. The promised eternal king from the line of David, who would come to Earth and live as a man, had been alive forever_ "from everlasting ages past."

Although eternal, he entered human history as a man, Jesus of Nazareth.

Many people during the time of Jesus would refuse to believe that He was the son of God (the messiah) because of his lowley and humble upbringing.

"A carpenter from bethlehem?!"

Their messiah would have royal blood and be rich and powerful (in the eyes of humans) and deffinately would NOT ride into the city He was supposed to be king of on a donkey!

So many times our preconceived ideas of what God is going to do in our lives gets in the way of what God actually wants to do with us.

Lord, help me to not get caught up on what I am expecting from You, and help me to concerntrate on listening to what You have to say.

Love you x

Strike my face!

Micah 5:1

Jerusalem was very wealthy and powerful, and VERY stubborn! They deemed it ludicrous and impossible the idea that their mighty nation could be destroyed. No matter how big or powerful their king, even he couldn't stop what God had in store for them.

Its kinda ironic that this big wealthy powerful nation couldnt be saved by its big wealthy powerful king, but in Bethlehem (a tiny poor town) would be born a king who could save these people (and the rest!).

The judge mentioned in this verse was probably King Zedekiah who reigned in Jerusalem when Nebuchanezzar conquered the city (2 Kings 25:1). Zedekiah was the last king of David's line to sit on the throne in Jerusalem. Micah prophesied that the next king in David's line would be the Messiah, who would start a kingdom that would last forever.

How cool is it that our God is the King, as well as our father?

We are all Princes and Princesses.

The same royal blood that ran down the cross at calvary runs through mine and your veins.

This isnt just a nice idea. This is real.

Love you x

Horns of Iron and Hoofs of brass?

Micah 4; 9-13

Here we see Micah predicting the end of kings - a very drastic statement to the people of Judah, who thought their kingdom would last forever. He also mentions the little fact that Babylon would destroy Judah (as already mentioned) and carry away their king, but after a while God would help them to take back their land.

This ALL happened exactly as Micah said it would. You can read evidence of this in 2 Chronicles 36: 9-23 and Ezra 1,2.

This prophecy would seem (to the jews) very unfair. When this event took place they would be asking "where is the Lord?" within all this. They were God's chosen people and THIS is how He treats them?! Even after having recieved this prophecy from Micah they were still shocked when it eventually came true.

Also it is interesting to see that they forgot the second half of the prophecy. The promise that God would bring them out of this nastiness and restore them. They got so caught up in the 'now' that they forgot about what was just around the corner.

I can draw some similarities between the Judeans and us christians now. When God reveals his plan for our future his intentions become clear to us. We should not be surprised or (like Judah) get caught up on the present situation. He wants to change our present because of what we know about the future.

Because He lives I can face tomorrow

Because He lives all fear is gone

Because I know He holds the future

And life is worth the living just because He lives.

A sneaky-peek at what God's plan is for us should motivate us to serve Him in a better and more real way today.

Forever begins now!

Love you x

The Lord will be king

Micah 4

Within the first sentance of this capter the phrase 'in the last days' is used. This describes the days when God will reign over this world and there will be peace and love, no more hate or wars. Obviously Micah doesnt tell us the exact time or date of this (if we all new that people would become christians the day before. There would be a mass revival [which sounds cool!] but it wouldnt be for the right reasons!).

Even though we dont know when it will happen, God has promised it will happen.

For more evidence of this see.... Isiah 2:2; Jeremiah 16:14&15; Daniel 8:19; Joel 3:1; Zechariah 14:9-11; Malachi 3:17&18; Revelation 19-22.

I know there seems like a lot of verses there, but I encourage you to check them out.

Verses 9-13 speak of Micah's prophecy of the nations captivity by Babylonia in 586 BC (this prophecy was given before Babylon was a powerful empire!)

Just as God promises a time of love and peace and good times, He also promises judgement and punishment and smiting for those who choose not to follow Him.

As christians these are two things we know for certain.

Love you x

Micah 4

In the very first sentance the phrase "in the last days" is used. This describes the days when God will reign over His kingdom (see 4:1-8). This will be a land of peace and love. A land where there is no war or famine.

Obviously Micah does not pinpoint the exact time of this.

If that was common knowledge you would have millions of people becoming christians the day before!

Even though we dont know when it will happen, God has promised that it will happen (see Isiah 2:2; Jeremiah 16:14; Daniel 8:19; Joel 3:1; Zechariah 14:9-11; Malachi 3:17&18; Revelation 19-22. I know there are a lot of bible verses here but I encourage you to take the time to look them up)

In verses 9-13, Micah speaks of the Babylonian captivity in 586 BC, even before Babylon had become a powerful empire.

Just as God promised a time of peace and much fun, He also promised a time of punishment and judgement (probably not in that order!) for all who refuse to follow Him.

As christians, we know that these two facts are for certain.

This last bit has got me thinking about life (woah!Thats pretty heavy stuff!) although God has heaps of cool stuff in store for us, we must also endure some not-so-nice stuff aswell. It aint all plain sailing. But no-one ever promised an easy life!

Love you x

Micah 3:11&12

Micah was giving the religious leaders a right good telling off, cuz they were only preaching and teaching if they got paid.

Jesus came to this earth to teach us how to love and serve one another.

Servanthood is lost the minute we "minister" for personal gain.

Preaching and teaching shouldnt be done with the idea of mega bucks in the back of your mind.

When God calls you and asks you to do something. . . . do it! even if there is nothing (obvious to you) in it for you.

Micah also warns people to avoid bribes. Even in modern times we see examples of the church (or other religions) taking bribes. Middle eastern countries governments pay their places of worship to promote their ideas.

We must remember that Judah was destroyed primarily because of the behaviour of their leaders. However, the people were far from innocent. At no point during the corruption of their country did they turn to God or call for justice.

Love you x

F.R.O.G

Micah 3: 5-8

Micah (unlike Jonah!) stayed true to his calling and continued to do and say exactly what God wanted him to. Also, in contrast, the false prophets of the time were in for some trouble!

We must still be aware of false-prophets today, not all those who claim to have messages from God really do. In verses 5-7 we get a taster of what God has in store for these false teachers.

In verse 8 Micah acknowledges that it is God who is to be praised for the works that Micah is doing. He recognises that the power within his ministry is from God.

Our strength and power comes from the same source today!

Jesus told His followers that they would recieve the power and ability to witness about Him when the Holy Spirit came to them (Acts 1:8).

You can't rely on your own strength to witness, because the devil will use fear to stop you in your tracks.

Fear of humility. Fear of rejection.

It is only when we fully rely on God and the power of the Holy Spirit can we live and witness for Him.

Next time you're in the church, take a look at the back wall . . . .

Love you x

One rule for one . . .

Micah 3:3&4

In these next two verses we see more of the same from Micah. He is still banging on about the leaders and teachers. They are using their positions of power for selfish gains.

They had no respect or compassion for those they should really have been serving.

They mistreated people in order to satisfy their own desires and then had the cheek to turn around and ask God for help when they found themselves in trouble.

This "one rule for one, one rule for another" attitude reminds me of the story in the bible of the guy who owes a king crap-loads of money (and has no way of paying him back!), but the king has pity on him and cancels the debt. Then that same guy goes up to one of his mates and threatens him for a couple of quid!

We can also fall into the trap of only calling on God when we need something.

It seems that only in times of trouble do people turn towards prayer.

This is wrong. God shouldnt be treated like a lightswitch, only being turned on when we need Him, we should always rely on Him.

Love you x

Should've known better

Micah 3:1&2

At the start of this chapter we read that Micah is letting the leaders know that God aint too pleased with them!

Isreals leaders, preists and prophets (who were responsable for showing the people the right way to live and teaching them right from wrong) had been abusing their power. The elders who should have known the law and taught it, had considered themselves above the law and became the worst kind of sinners.

All sin is bad,

but the sin that leads others astray is the worst of all.

The divide between right and wrong can sometimes appear blurred or indistiguishable, it is at these times that we need the help and advice of our leaders.

The bible is printed in black and white, and that helps me remember that when it comes to God's laws and teachings there is no grey areas.

Things are either right or wrong.

Love you x

A new hope . . .

Micah 2: 12&13

I love the fact that God is not only All-Powerful, but so gentle and kind at the same time.

These two nations have let God down time and time again, doing really nasty unmetionable things. And yes, God does punish them, but after we see in these two verses that He planned to gather the ones left up like sheep in a fold.

After nearly two whole chapters of punishment, wrath and smiting, we are reassured and comforted in two little verses.

Micah's prophesy highlights two major events in Judah's history.

He speaks of Judah's liberation from Babylon AND the coming of the Messiah!

God gave His prophets the ability to see what the future will hold, but not when these events would take place. For example, Micah could clearly see these two events taking place, but with no idea of the length of time between them. As far as Micah was concerned, the Messiah could come the same day as being freed from Babylon. (this of course didnt happen!)

The whole reason for this prophecy (as with most prophetic visions) was not to predict when or how it would happen, but the fact that it will happen.

This gave the people of Judah a new hope and the extra push in the right direction that they needed to turn from sin.

Prophecies/Promises still serve this purpose today.

If you feel like you need a hope-boost or a helping hand in shaking off some pesky sin, check out some of the prophecies/promises that still stand today.

Love you x

Drunken Prophet

Micah 2:11

Sounds a bit like it should be the name of a punk band!

This verse is just stating the fact that the people of Judah and Isreal liked hearing the words of prophets, but only when their message was one of good news and joy. This is a warning against false prophets (who would tell people exactly what they wanted to hear).

Micah spoke out against prophets who made people feel comfortable in their sin-full lifestyles.

Some modern-day teachers and preachers can be guilty of this. They are SO concerned with what people want to hear or are pre-occupied with not upsetting anyone, that they can fall into the trap of speaking false-teachings.

A true teacher of God's word speaks of what is real and right, regardless of whether or not it upsets the listeners.

Love you x

This will hurt me more than it will hurt you!

Micah 2:6-7

The whole reason behind this book can be summed up in the last line in 2:7 ....

'His threats are for your own good, to get you on the path again.'

If we feel that the message in this book seems a little harsh, we must remember that God didnt want to take revenge on Isreal (they left Him with no choice, but to punish them!)

Like I have mentioned before, the two cities were like naughty children. They had disobeyed their Father, rejected what was true and right, and needed disciplining.

As a kid, I always thought that I was being picked on or treated unfairly, when my mom would punish me (and Judah and Isreal probably felt the same). However, as I look back on things now, I can see that my mom had my own best interests at heart.

If we only listen out for God's words of comfort, we risk missing many important lessons within our lives. We must listen whenever God speaks to us, even when the message is hard to take.

I was thinking (yes! I do sometimes!) earlier in the week about how most of the prophets usually only had words of 'Doom and Gloom', and that most prophets had to let people know that they were in the wrong.

I wonder what you must have thought, if you saw a known-prophet heading towards your town? . . . . "oh no!, look whose on his way to tell us how crap we are !" (its no wonder that Jonah was reluctant to take his message to the Ninevites!)

Maybe its because we are more than willing to hear God's words of "well done!", but suddenly become deaf when He wants to warn us or tell us off.

Love you x

Dirge of despair

Micah 2:3-5

After revealing that all this nasty stuff is going on in both cities (2:1-2), Micah now informs us of what is going to happen to the guilty parties of these accusations.

This passage sounds a little bit like what hell will be like.

Evil will be rewarded with evil.

Never again will they be proud after God has finished with them!

These are God's chosen people and the land they are living in was given to them by God, but now God has promised to take away that land and give it to others.

God never goes back on a promise.

Love you x

Let sleeping dogs lie

Micah 2:1-2

"Yo! Listen up!" _ Micah is warning those people in positions of power. They are taking advantage of the "little people", the folk they consider below them and God aint too happy (again!).

Back-stabbing and jealousy were happening left, right and center. Check out 1Kings 21:1-15 for an example. Isreal's very own King Ahab was sulking cuz he couldnt have what he wanted, Naboth's vinyard. So, his wife (Jezebel) arranged for Naboth to be killed, in order to gain posession of the vinyard for Ahab.

It was countless unnecessary acts of

violence and greed that got God so angry.

Micah also speaks against people who planned evil deeds at night and got up mega early to do them.

I think we need to be careful that when we lie down to sleep at night that we aint stewing over things that have happend in the daytime. It cant be healthy to keep all these feelings inside.

Evil thoughts are surely followed by evil deeds as reliably as night follows day.

Love you x

A cautionary tale (again!)

Micah 2

As a continuation of the first chapter, Micah underlines the importance of the fact that these guys have really peed God off!

The saying "The truth hurts" can be used to sum up these first two chapters.

As a human (as I hope all reading this are?), we know that it aint easy to hear critism (however constructive). People giving us some home truths can be tough to hear. They usually push you one way (acknowledging your faults) or the other (ignoring the comments and moving further away).

Towards the end of this chapter we start to see some of what God has in store for the two cities.

I hope (as it has with me) doing this bible study will help you to evaluate the way you lead your life and help you to pinpoint the key problem areas.

None of us are perfect (and never will be), but it doesnt hurt to continue to try and better yourselves.

Many blessings

Love you x

Hebrew word play

Micah 1:10-16

There is some clever puns and word play in Hebrew within this passage (if you like that sort of thing!). Micah's choice of descriptive words really make a mockery of the cities mentioned.

Saphir sounds like the hebrew word for "beauty"; Zaanan sounds like the hebrew verb meaning "to go forth"; and Beth-ezel sounds like a hebrew word for "foundation". Try re-reading 1:11 again but swapping the city names in the verse for the meanings I have given you, and you will see the effect of Micah's word choice.

'Follow the leader' was the motto for Lachish. We often do the same ourselves, when we sin. Whether or not you consider yourself a leader, people are always watching you and how you react to situations. Not only fellow church-goers, but non-christians who will see your behaviour and may choose to follow your example. (1:13)

'Hometown blues' is what Micah might have been feeling as he wrote this verse. He had to finally admit the town he was from would also be judged by God. (1:14)

'Parents sorrow' is what this verse is all about. Micah tells of how parents would have to witness their children being taken away to be slaves in a distant land. This was another peice of prophecy, as this happend on many occasions in both Isreal and Judah. Notably the worst example of this is when each nation was completely conquered - Isreal in 722 BC and Judah in 586 BC. (1:16)

Next blog we will see how God planned to remove the injustice from both these nations.

Love you x

Beyond Naughty!

Micah 1:8-9

Samaria had well and truely blown it in the eyes of God.Their sins were beyond healing OR forgivness. They'd had their three strikes and now they were out!

God's judgement upon Samaria had already begun.

The sins comitted didnt just scratch the surface of 'naughtiness', they had inflicted a stab wound into several vital organs!

They were beyond naughty.

Sin had caused an injury that would soon prove fatal (Samaria was, in fact, destroyed early in Micah's mission). Sadly, Samaria's sin had already spread to Jerusalem, and judgement would soon be upon them also. This probably referes to Sennacherib's siege in 701 BC (2 kings 18, 19)

Oppression;

Micah predicted judgement upon the nations and all leaders who oppressed others. The upper classes and people of influence exploited the poor. No one spoke up for these poor people or did anything to stop this. God will not put up with this injustice.

We shouldnt expect God to help us out in situations while we ignore those who are oppressed or needy.

Love you x

Reign in Vain

Micah 1:7

Within this passage Micah identifies two sins commited by Jerusalem and Samaria, the first of which can be found in this early part of the chapter (1:3-7).

Perversion of worship;

Here we see God's chosen people breaking commandment number one!

"You may worship no other gods but Me" (Exodus 20:3)

This was underlined thousands of years later by JC

"Worship only the Lord God. Obey only Him" (Matt 4:10)

Throughout the old testament we see the Isrealites falling at this first hurdle time and time again.

This idolatry was rampant throughout both capital cities, spreading like a disease. A lot of it was down to the geezers in charge; the cheif preists and so called "prophets" (of the false variety!).

The king was the worst of all (as already mentioned in a previous post), he set up pagan idols inside God's temple and then finally nailed the temple door shut to stop 'true worshipers'.

This judgement on Judah probably would have happend earlier, were it not fot king Hezekiah. Hezekiah heeded to much of what Micah had to say and was begining to turn the nation back to God. However, when king Ahaz took over, Hezekiah's rein was in vain.

Things went from bad to worse.

A lot of what was going on in Judah and Isreal back then can be seen in the world today. You only have to turn on the T.V or pick up a newspaper. This makes me think about what hell must be like. The things that we will read that happend to Judah was from God, judgement but through love . Like a father disciplining a child. However, hell is a place where even God wants nothing to do with the people. The guy dishing out the punishment down there deffinately don't love them!

Chosing to live a life apart from God is commiting to sin.

Sin only leads to judgement, pain and death.

It's through God alone that we can gain eternal peace.

His discipline keeps us on the right path.

Love you x

Micah 1:1-6

Micah and Isaiah lived at around the same time (approx 750-680 BC) and probably knew each other. As I have already said, this book was aimed mainly at Judah, but also Isreal. At this time Judah was a very wealthy nation.

Of the 3 kings mentioned (1:1), Jotham (750-735) and Hezekiah (715-686) tried to follow God (2 Kings 15:32-38; 18-20), but Ahaz was one of the most evil kings ever to reign in Judah (2 Kings 16)

"Yo! Judah! . . . . Isreal! . . . . You guys had better watch out! God's on His way, and He aint a happy chappy! He's seen how you have turned away from Him and He is about to go medievil on yo asses!" (1:3-6)

In this begining passage, Micah descibes (quite visually) what is gonna happen to these two cities. The destruction of Samaria was actually fulfilled during Micah's lifetime, in 722 BC (2 Kings 17:1-18), just as he had predicted.

After my last study (on Jonah), I am able to compare these two prophets. It is interesting to see how they dealt with God's commands differently.

Jonah heard God's wishes and then did the exact opposite and ran and hid (granted, he eventually did what he was supposed to!)

Micah heard God's wishes and went straight to it, at full throttle.

Which of the two are you more like?

Love you x

Pick 'n' Mix Christianity

Micah 1

Chapter one; An overview

Micah pointed out the need for justice and peace.

He was kinda like God's lawyer, sent to proclaim God's disappointment with Isreal and Judah, their leaders, and their people.

In chapter one we see and introduction into the life and times of Micah and he begins to reveal what God has in store for Jerusalem and Samaria (Judah and Isreals capital cities).

Micah makes it clear that God hates unkindliness, idolatry, injustice, and empty ritual - and still does today. But God is very willing to forgive the sins of any who repent.

There are a few major themes within this book, one of them is in this first chapter.

Perverting Faith;

Explanation

God IS going to judge the greedy preists, leaders and false prophets. While they may seem (from the outside) to be carrying out religious ceremonies and behaving in a 'prim and proper' way, the fact is they were making their own gains through very 'unreligious' activities. Through their selfish wants of money and influencial power they not only neglected God, but they were perverting their faith.

Importance

Don't try and blend your faith (and relationship with God) with your own needs. Selfishness is hated by God. Judgement and punishment will be on there way. A 'pick and mix' approach to your faith is a prime example of perverting faith.

Love you x

"I HATE YOU"

Micah

The book of Micah was written surprisingly by Micah! He was a native of Moresheth (which is near Gath [Goliath's home town]), which is approx 20 miles southwest of Jerusalem.

It was written around 742 - 687 BC, during the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah.

It was written to the people of Isreal (northern kingdom) and Judah (southern kingdom)

The purpose of this book was to warn God's people (Jews) that judgement is coming and to offer pardon to all who repent.

How often is the word "hate" tossed around in todays conversations?

"I hate that song" "I hate that jumper" "I hate shatake mushrooms"

The same can be said about the word's opposite . . . . Love.

"I love McFly" "I love converse" "I love your nan's breadandbutter pudding"

The casual use of words such as "love" and "hate" has removed all their meaning. We can no longer grasp the concepts of statements in the bible about God.

He is a loving God God IS love God HATES sin

Our misconceptions have clouded our ability to understand the true meanings of those texts.

"God HATES sin" doesn't mean He dislikes it in the same way we "hate" shatake mushrooms!

So as we begin this journey through Micah (and eventually other minor prophets), try to remember the true meaning of such words.

Along with His love, God's hatred is also very powerful AND very real.

He HATES sin. And we will see our loving God take on a new role as a righteous judge, ready to deal out punishment (and yes! . . . . smiting!)

Much of this book is devoted to describing God's judgement on Isereal, Judah and on all the Earth. Although this may be a different image of God, it it still a true representation of Him.

Evevn though this book was written over 2'700 years ago its subject matter is still just as relevant today.

It touches on the types of sin being commited by Gods chosen people. Sin such as . . . .

Fraud (2:2), Theft (2:8), Greed (2:9), Debauchery (2:11), Oppression (3:3), Hypocrisy (3:4), Heresy (3:5), Injustice (3:9), Extortio and Lying (6:12), and Murder (7:2).

Within all this 'doom and gloom', Micah gives hope and consolation by also desribing God's love.

The truth is judgement from God only comes after numerous opportunities to repent.

I'm gonna do this study in the same way I did my Jonah one.

I will give a breif overview of a chapter and then follow it with a more detailed (verse by verse) sudy.

Let me know thru my comments on what you think of this study and if there are any ways I can do it better.

Ta!

Coffee and Cuddles

Last night was the coffee bar at church and also the last time we will see some of our OM freinds again.

In the short amount of time we have spent together I have really enjoyed our fellowship.

So, now we wont see Chris and the other Germans, the two nice quiet Finish girls, and the guy from Singapore. (and maybe some other, I aint sure!)

I have been both encouraged and blessed by them.

The way that they are always singing Gods praises has really challenged me and made me think about how I conduct myself from day-to-day.

It was alittle bit sad to say goodbye to that many people, but like Chris said

"we will meet again in Heaven"

Love you x

Knowledge is power

The standings for NFL season 06 has been released today!

Patriots preseason games . . . .

August 11 - @ ATLANTA

August 19 - ARIZONA

August 25 - WASHINGTON

September 1 - @ NY GIANTS

Check out all the latest news and standings for your NFL team online.

It's time to get exicited......ALREADY!!!

good little boy

Hey guys.

I'm leading this sunday!

So can you please pray that I do well and the songs i've picked will reflect the feeling and the mood of church on sunday night.
Plus i've only picked 6 songs, so I'm counting on lots of sharing.

I'm counting on you!

Anyway, I best finish my rice crispie multi-grain (the ones with trees and people!) and go to work like a good little boy.

love you x

"It's important that a show-dog has his testicles"

Hi.
Sorry (once again!) for the lack of postage on this hunk of junk I call a blog!

Its my day off, so I thought I'd better write something.

Anyhoo, J9 had her scan yesterday and got the 'all clear', which I'm told is good.
I does mean she doesnt have to have an operation, and also she should start feeling better now.
Thanks to you for all your kind words and prayers.

Ive kind of been dealing with it in a very inwardly 'zen master' style, which has been working well. But (thers always a "but"!), last week I felt i needed to get some stuff off my chest, so I wrote a song. I'm not sure if you'll ever hear it performed (cuz I physically cant get thru all of it without chocking up!), but I felt I should post it on here for you guys to read, then it wouldnt be a total waste.

Here goes . . . .

Someday

I saw your picture for the first time,

And the last time, well what am I to do?

Everytime I see that look in her eye,

or her smile, it reminds me of you.

We made plans for moving house,

a dream nursery, that you will never see.

She was gonna make a wonderful mom,

but now somethings gone, I feel so incomplete.

I pray to God and ask Him "why us?",

"why me?", "why'd He take you away from me?".

The shadow proves the sunshine,

thats what He said, what He said to me.

Its in these times that I need Christ,

His sacrifice, I fall down at His feet.

And now there's one more angel in heaven,

and I can't wait, 'till we finally meet.

Even though I never got to hear you speak

And even though I never got to hold your hand

Somehow I know, somehow I understand

That I will, someday.

Love you x

Distant much?!

Hey sorry I aint blogged for a while.

AND sorry I aint really bin around at church recentley. Ive been kinda distant.

Youve all probably heard our bad news.

Ive found myself doing a "Job" on it. I guess its a human reaction to ask "why me?".

Anyway, Im sure God has a way to bless Janine and I thru this situation.
Plus someone said on sunday morning that the hardships we endure on earth are converted into rewards in heaven.

Although I think just seeing our unborn child one day in heaven will be reward enough.

God IS good.

Love you x

Crazy Cradley

Hey Hey Hey !!!

I was gonna share this last night, but there was no oppurtunity.
Anyhoo, just wanna say how much of a blessing last friday night was. It was really cool to see their youth "letting go" and getting up and dancing, singing and clapping.
This was deffinately aided by the persuassion of our youth. THANX GUYS! YOU ROCK!!!
It was encouraging to see that kids (not our own) were enjoying what we do. AND praising God!
I also wanna say a big THANK YOU to all the guys that stayed at Oakham and continued the work there. This IS just as important.
Plus there is new photos and a video to have a butchers at it.

Love you x

calling the you't....

Hey. Dunno if you've heard but the naz are doing a gig at Cradley Baptist. Theyve only got a small youth group but are interested to see how to make music for God and how to freshen it up to be more attractive (dunno why they asked us!).
Anyhoo, weve spoken to James and he said he was happy for us to poach you 'friday night podders' for this gig (if you wanna come?)... I think hes just happy to get out of doing a meeting!
Anyways well have more info for thursday night at the pod. If you is under 16 theres a form we gotsta get you to fill in. (crappy paperwork!)
I think it would be really encouraging for them to see you guys rockin out!
love you x

Please pray

Hi.
Please pray for AND attend the pod bible study on the thursday night.
Reason, Im doing it again.
Ive tried to make it like a part 2 for the one I did the other week on the Apostles.
Please remember me in your prayer times, as this sort of thing dont come easy/naturally to me.
(Im a bit fick!)
Anyway, see yous later!
Love you x

Anyone excited?

It's JC's 1st birthday party tonight! woop woop!
And I'm really looking forward to it.
It'll be good to let my hair down (what little ive got left!) and have a boogie and kick ass on stage with the rest of nazmatazz. Also I will be celebrating some other news. Me and Janine are gonna have a baby! How cool is that?!
Well, I should see you all there later (if not, then I want to know why!)
Love you x

POD

Flip me!

I just got back from the usual thursday pod bible study. Except it werent no ordinary pod bible study..... I did it!

I'm not sure how it went. A couple of people seemed quite happy with my avenue of thought, but I dunno.

I felt as if that was what God wanted me to talk on.

Guy send some encouraging comments about my podding!

love you x

Liberators

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.

Your playing small doesn't serve the world.

There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people will not feel insecure around you.

We are all meant to shine as children do.
It is not just in some of us, but in everyone and as we let our own light shine we unconciously give other people permission to do the same.

As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.

Love you x

God is everywhere . . . even Rock Bottom!

Hey guys!

This week I've been really concerntrating on being church-ste even at work.

"Why live two lives?"

Anyhoo, I shared this on sunday morning (so sorry if you've already heard this!), but I was thinking in the week about how cool it would be to work within a christian based job. How much easier it would be to just be who I am (with no come backs).
As I work in a 'secular' job, I sometimes feel a bit alone (cuz of my faith), but after reading my bible I realized how stupid I must sound!

God goes everywhere with me.

So how can my job be secular if God is in it? . . . It can't!

love you x

Ugh!

I feel crappy!

I got some kind of stomache bug/infection thing.

It sux!

I aint blogged for a bit (not my fault!) the computers been all outta whack!

I'm lookin at samuel at the moment in my bible study.

The main aspect of christian life I need to work on is listening to God.

I have no trouble in talking to God, but patiently waiting for and recognizing when He answers is my stumbling block.

How do I know when it's God talking and not just my over-exaggerated imagination?

I think I need to spend some more time in silence with God and give Him the opportunity to speak.

Love you x

Distractions

How come you always start the day with good intentions and then it all goes very very wrong.

Things happen throughout the day and for some reason or another I let God (and/or myself) down.

Even whilst I'm typing this I'm . . .

Thinking about what to have for my tea, wondering if the Pats are gonna beat the Broncos, watching the tv AND talking to Emily on msn!

I'm gonna try and be more focused.

Its like Rob (in tha pod) said the other week, "its time to get serious with God"

love you x

God Glasses

Jonah 4:10-11

In the last post we looked at the importance of staying humble and remembering that we are not gods.

It's ok that we don't always understand why things happen.

It's ok that things don't always look clear to us.

It's ok that we are sometimes unsure of ourselves (and others)

Through Jonah's eyes all that could be seen were the hideous war crimes being commited by those pagan warriors (the Ninevites), but God saw 120, 000 weak human beings in need of help.

From Gods perfect vantage point, things look very different.

Thats it! The end of Jonah.

We don't find out if he finally humbles himself to God.

I hope its helped you half as much as its helped me.

Pete has given us a book on interpreting the bible, so there maybe more studies in the future.

Feel free to let me know what you thought of this whole blog/bible study thing.

Love you X

Leave being God to God

Jonah 4:9

We need to remember our place in the grand scheme of things.

God is God.

God is our Father, not our mate and deffinately not our servant.

God does what God does.

Let Him (He's good at it!)

God confronts Jonah with the question . . . .

"Do you have a right to be angry about the plant?"

God quizzes him with a type of question that all of us could do with hearing from time to time.

"What right do we have to suggest how God works?"

"Who do you think you are?"

When we have question for God, He may be gracious enough to answer - but when we hear no reply, we should still honour God in the same way as if we had heard the answer we were hoping for.

We laid down our rights at the cross.

Don't pick them up again.

Love you X

That's grace for you!

Jonah 4:5-8

Picture the scene;

Sunday morning, 9:45, church.

You sit in a low blue chair with arms, in walks auntie May "thats MY chair, shift!"

You move.

An old brown leather chair at the back of the church, in walks Trevor "You're in MY seat!"

If you did this enough you'd come across some very unhappy people.

In the last post we saw that anger can sometimes be reasonable. But sometimes we get moved or made to feel uncomfortable and this triggers unreasonable rage.

We are all selfish.

It's in human nature (sin)

At first glance it may seem that God is "messing" with Jonah. He gives him the lovely shade of the plant only to take it away again in the form of a worm.

Jonahs joy disappears with the plant.

God's not "messing" with Jonah, He's teaching him a valuable lesson.

There is adouble meaning within this text;

Shade:- relieves Jonahs 'trouble' - which is the same as He did for the city of Nineveh.

However, while Jonah was delighted that his God would do that for him, he was furious that something similar should happen for others, especialy these pagans!

We would all like God to be the instant judge of everyone elses sins but to be gracious and patient with us.

Maybe scorching wind and blazing sun is a reminder to Jonah.

Perhaps this was a taste of the nastiness he had in mind for the Ninevites.

This was so horrific that he (once again) wished for death.

Next time we speak of judgement, lets remember that none of us got what we deserved - that's grace for you!

Love you X