In the fire

I sit looking into the fire a lot. There’s something about natural elements that are soothing and relaxing to gaze at. Fire has the power to kill and destroy, but contained and managed it provides warmth and comfort.

Sometimes if I’ve put a heat log on and it’s really got going, the heat when I open the door of the wood burner can be fierce. It’s cosy but it’s dangerous.

I reflected recently on the 3 incredible men which you may have read about in the Bible: Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. Daniel had appointed them as administrators over the province of Babylon. They were senior figures and entrusted with great responsibilities. They knew the laws and would have upheld them.

If you read the historical account in the book of Daniel chapter 3 you'll see it was a huge affair. King Nebuchadnezzar invited all officials throughout the province of Babylon to the dedication of his image in statue form. Heralds loudly proclaimed that at the sound of music everyone was to bow and worship the image. The consequence for disobedience to this order was also loudly heralded ... it was to be carried out immediately the disobedience was noted. A blazing furnace had been prepared and the perpetrators of this crime were to be thrown in.

When the astrologers came forward to inform on Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego the King himself chose to double check and gave them a chance to clear their names by asking if they would in fact bow down and worship his image. He even reiterated the consequence of choosing not to. He finished with "then what god will be able to rescue you from my hand?" Indeed ... could any 'god' rescue men from being thrown into blazing flames?

These men had faith beyond my comprehension. They knew their God was the one who created all things ... fire was nothing when faced with the power of their God. The reality of their personal knowledge of God along with their dependence, trust and faith on and in Him, meant that they did not hesitate or waver in their response to an unregenerate earthly king: 

“King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.”

I wish I had faith and courage like that!! It's just brilliant isn't it?

They hadn't received a note from God telling them that he would most definitely protect and deliver them ... they had no knowledge of the outcome. All they had was their resolute faith in their God. There's a sniff of definite defiance and repulsion from them that this King (as much as they were up to this point, loyal and obedient to him and do still show him respect in their response), could dare question the existence of the one true God, defy his power and mock their faith. They had no doubt that God was fully aware of what was happening and that no matter what response and intervention he chose, they would not waver. They simply reported to a much higher authority than Nebuchadnezzar.

These men had their perspective and vision 100% accurate. It enabled them to face what all of us would consider a hugely frightening choice with unflinching surety. Can you imagine seeing the furnace and then being walked toward it after it had been stoked up 7 times hotter than it already was. The soldiers escorting you being caught alight and burnt up beside you as they throw you toward the flames ... you're tied up and have no way of escape  Agonising death awaits because you refused to compromise your faith.

I want to know my God like that. I want to know Him so that whatever I face, which may never be a literal fiery furnace, I have no doubt whatsoever that God is with me and His power within me has overcome the world. No matter the outcome, I can simply trust God throughout.

I love what happens next and Nebuchadnezzar's amazement! You can see him rubbing his eyes and straining against the heat to check what he thinks he's seeing. He asks his advisors to confirm that only 3 men were thrown in and they affirm that this was the case. The 3 men have been joined by another man who looks like a son of god ... they have been unbound and are taking a walk round the furnace! I wonder what they were talking about ... I'm pretty sure it would have been along the lines of worshipping God, thankfulness and encouragement. I like to imagine God choosing the specific angel for the task ... ‘it's fire this time, who will go for me to rescue 3 righteous men? This earthly king has overstepped the mark and must learn that the the God of these men is the one and only true God … and that it is Him who should be bowed down to’.

Sure enough the ‘fire angel’ came and the message was clear to Nebuchadnezzar. He shouted to them "Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!" An immediate acknowledgment from him that these men served the Most High God ... what a testimony. I suppose they could have continued to wander round the furnace with the angel for a bit longer, but they obeyed their earthly monarch when it did not contravene their faith, so they came out. Not even the smell of fire was on their clothing and how those leaders of the realm crowded round them to check out this miracle.  

Nebuchadnezzar exclaims "Praise be to the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who has sent his angel and rescued his servants! They trusted in him and defied the king’s command and were willing to give up their lives rather than serve or worship any god except their own God”. Remarkable. He didn't seem to learn much about the extremity of punishment, decreeing that anyone disobeying his new law would be cut into pieces and their houses be turned into piles of rubble, however he had humbled himself in acknowledgement of a greater power than he ... God Almighty and that was all down to the firm faith of 3 men in the face of and in contrast to the whole kingdom.

May we hold fast onto our faith and realise that not matter how small we may be against the backdrop of this dark and present age, we serve a living, mighty God who has the power to save, to redeem and to change the course of history if only we maintain our trust in and dependence on him in good times and bad. Through all my life (and yours), God is faithful and good … he is the God of Hope.

I love this song 'Fires' ~ Jordan St. Cyr. The lyrics remind me that I too can walk through fires because God is with me; with Him by my side I need not be afraid.

https://youtu.be/H-ggZd-SmSs

Ingrid x

25th November

Today is Thanksgiving Day ... it may be an American tradition but a good reminder to us all that in everything, we should give thanks.

However, today is also the 'International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women'. This UN appointed day launches the initiative of 16 days of activism, concluding on the day that commemorates the International Human Rights Day (10th December). The campaign, led by the UN Secretary General and UN Women since 2008, aims to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls around the world, calling for global action to increase awareness, promote advocacy and create opportunities for discussion on challenges and solutions.

I attended an on-line conference event today, hosted by 'Restored', calling for us to change the story, especially within churches ... for beacon churches to light the way for greater awareness and greater support for survivors.

The statistics are shocking and unfortunately seem to be on the rise rather than the reverse. John Sutherland referred to Domestic Abuse as "terrorism on an epic level" and the "single greatest cause of harm in society" ...

• At least 1 in 4 women will suffer abuse at some point in their lives.
• 2 women every week are killed by a partner or ex-partner.
• 3 women every week will take their own lives following on from an abusive relationship.
• More than 1 in 10 of all offences recorded by the Police are domestic abuse related.

Nicole Jacobs who is the Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales, spoke about the role she is currently undertaking ... government are aware and the laws are changing with the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 being a great acknowledgement of the need. However every day that passes, victims and survivors are often isolated and living in fear with little awareness or support as to how they should move forward. The more sad reality is that places and people who should be trusted can add to the perpetration and fear.

• 1 in 4 churchgoers have experienced abuse in a current relationship ... this is based on research and is a shocking fact.

It is time for church leaders and all christians to become more aware rather than assume it doesn't happen in 'our church', or prefer to brush it under the carpet because of a vulnerability around how to 'handle' it or know how to support a victim. We need men, good men, to take a stand against this trend of violence and control which is predominantly male against female. We are all accountable for our attitudes and actions, or lack of them. Be aware, be wise and be kind ... it goes a long way. Listen and believe what someone may be telling you or indicating by their behaviour or lack of appearance; excuses or change in conduct. Be brave.

'Restored' have updated their guide for churches pack which you can find on their website (go to 'shop') and further information on their calling for churches to become beacons can be found at: 

https://www.restored-uk.org/what-we-do/restored-beacons/

Can I also recommend again the book by Helen Paynter called 'The Bible Doesn't Tell Me So'.

God calls us all to love and fight for the oppressed just as He does. He has no part in harm. "Do good, seek justice, help the oppressed" (Isaiah 1v17).

Ingrid x

Getting dressed

So when was the last time you carefully calculated and decided to get thoroughly dressed spiritually before you did physically in the morning? I get it ... I haven't done it either, not in a very specific way!

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armour of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities,against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armour of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people". (Eph 6v10-18)

Think about the actual act of getting dressed ... you have to find each item of clothing and then take ahold of them and put them on one by one, completing your attire suitable for the day ahead. Once downstairs and before you leave the house, you'll put suitable footwear and outerwear on too. Each piece is needed and appropriate (usually!).

Can you imagine what sort of days we'd have, if we did the same spiritually, putting on the armour of God? Visualise actually taking each item and putting it on you, fully clothing yourself with the power and protection God has readily given for us to use.

I quite often don't stand firm ... I falter, faff about, fail and almost deliberately want to give into temptation or complacency. Surely if I had gotten myself dressed properly first thing, I wouldn't even have to think about whether or not I could stand firm; it would be a given that I would! With that list of armour and the application given, I honestly feel as though I could conquer any challenge a day may bring. I would have courage and commitment; clarity of thought and motive; I would soar above the pettiness; I would deflect the arrows of self-doubt and false accusation; falsehoods would not deter me from pursuing the truth and standing my ground. What mighty power there is in this passage and I would venture to say for the most part, untapped by the majority. 

I've a good mind to stencil the exhortation in these verses on my bedroom wall, or maybe on my wardrobe, so that I consider getting dressed for the day's battles, before I get dressed in my physical clothes. 

The passage starts with BE STRONG and ends with BE ALERT ... in the middle STAND FIRM ... and always pray.

Let us try, from this day forward, to prioritise our spiritual attire over our physical dressage.

Ingrid x

Self-belief

I often find it hard to gauge inner confidence and to know I am truly secure in my self-worth. To accept who I am with all my limitations whilst having the strength of character to make decisions, trust my motives and stand my ground. 

I guess it can often depend or circumstances. We can all too easily become confident and comfortable with what we know and are familiar with, but put into a new situation or made to face a challenge previously unknown to us, of course our self confidence and assurance will waver. Yet that doesn’t mean we are any different to who we were the moment before … we are still just as worth while and valuable.

Confusing both experience and expertise with inner self assurance as to our core identity, worth and purpose will create instability, wavering and doubt … not good!

Let’s face it, everyone could continue to learn something new until they die. We’ll all face dilemmas and feel like a ‘duck out of water’ at some point, but that shouldn’t equate to an inner turmoil of self doubt. Someone who has their ‘core’ right and secure can face a curveball with stability and a calm assurance. They will learn what to do or find out what’s needed; ask for help or wait patiently for further information … it’s a chosen response governed by inner acceptance and peace. To be tossed around and agitated only feeds anxiety, fear and doubt, it’s not helpful at all! It can most certainly affect our health and our demeanor … a ‘fallen’ expression or furrowed brow can turn to harsher persona … not something that’s attractive when compared with the look of serenity!

So, I am saying to myself really, not to allow confusion over a circumstance to waver my known assurance of what is right and also that my motive is ok … don’t give in to doubt or fear … be strong and courageous; stand for justice and faith; persevere and endure … and when all else fails, stand … it is in the toughest of battles that the evidence of God’s presence is not necessarily greater, because he is with us all the time, but it is more relied upon and asked for … when I am weak then I am strong but only because of his strength in me, for greater is he who is in me than he who is in the world. Now that is something to provide great stability, assurance and confidence.

For me, my current battle may involve a court room and difficulties that I hope none of you will ever face, however yours may involve concerns over your health that you hope I will never face, or maybe financial worries … a business venture or having to sell up; a challenging relationship or a grief. We will all have something at some point, but the key is to know with full assurance of faith that we are loved, secure, are of great value and have all the resources our Heavenly Father ready to help and aid us.

I need to doubt myself less and trust my God more.

Ingrid x

Just a couple of sisterhood shares, both from my youngest sister this time; a screenshot and a song.

Over the past 2-3 days I’ve been pondering a little about my own testimony and how my faith would stand up if really tested … not through persecution like some in the world suffer, but more akin to my own vulnerabilities. 

For example, if in certain company, would I be as likely to stand up for what I believe and withdraw from the conversation should it head toward things I would be much better off having no part in; or would I want to be accepted and seen as one of the group. May sound silly but we all want to be accepted and liked, therefore we are quite likely to brush aside grey areas and go with the flow rather than be seen as different.

If someone asked me outright if I was a Christian I’d have no problem saying yes … but what if my life depended on the answer and like some have had to face, I would be shot if I said yes? What about other questions from friends or acquaintances which prove hard subjects and ones which are current hot topics? Would I speak the truth with love as I see it in God’s word or fumble about and avoid any awkwardness or reprisal?

There’s a lot of soul searching to do and I think a big part of the bottom line is to know God … to really know him would mean that I would have no fear, but hope … and be more than happy to stand up for and share that hope, despite any adverse consequences. He would also provide the grace and right words with which to do it. 

The attractiveness to the alternative of holding my ground for God, in a moment or situation, is a fleeting and empty satisfactory temptation fulfilled; whereas to maintain God’s statutes for my life results in eternal blessings and rewards. There is no real comparison. 

May God protect us and give us strength in every moment we face against our weaknesses and trials, that we may come forth as victors, pleasing to him who made us and redeemed us through the precious sacrifice of his own son.

City Alight ~ Christ is Mine Forevermore:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=roQovDZeAWE&feature=share

Ingrid x

Midweek Thought ~ The Goodness of God

“The goodness of God is infinitely more wonderful than we will ever be able to comprehend” (AW Tozer).

My oldest sister sent me this song to listen to first thing in the morning. The lyrics are so true and remind me that despite who I am, the ups and downs; the struggles and triumphs; my vulnerabilities, weaknesses and strengths… He is faithful and His goodness is actually running after me (even if I’m heading in the opposite direction). No matter how I feel or whether I praise God in the morning, He wants me and more than that, wants to bless me and pour His goodness into my life. How humbling and marvellous. It reminds me of another song “in the morning when I rise … give me Jesus” (Jeremy Camp). 

This one is by Rhett Walker ~ Goodness of God:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=CHG6Ak5Jqkc&feature=share

As much as God’s goodness is “running after me”, let my life and lips continually praise His name and honour Him …. his goodness in me should be returned by me giving him all the glory.

Psalm 145v9 “The Lord is good to all, and his mercy is over all that he has made”.

The Austrian born composer Joseph Haydn once said: “Whenever I think of God I can only conceive of him as a Being infinitely great and infinitely good. This last quality of the divine nature inspires me with such confidence and joy that I could have written even a miserere in tempo allegro”.

I fear that we don’t really grasp what goodness means in the biblical sense, and therefore we miss out on what God’s goodness really is. We use the word ‘good’ so easily that it barely resembles a quality at all. Yet in the Bible, good means holy, pure and righteousness … it is one of the fruits of the spirit. Goodness is essentially Godliness. A rather higher state of being than just our every day ‘oh that’s good’ type usage!

It is about being holy (that’s a subject for another day) and having excellence of character. It would be futile to attempt to gain these heady heights of godliness and Christ likeness in our own strength or on our own merit … it requires God’s mercy and grace. 

By absorbing God’s word in our hearts every day, we will nourish and feed the soil of our hearts so that His goodness, pure and holy, will take root and grow within us, flourishing into fruit for Him and as evidence of His love, to others. 

“Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the LORD forever” (Psalm 23v6)

Ingrid x

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

Just thinking about this evenings football Euro 2020 final, England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 vs Italy 🇮🇹 and this quote came to mind. Seeing as this is a blog about my faith, I’d better relate it to that too! 

We’re encouraged in Hebrews 12 to persevere ... “let us run with endurance the race God has set before us”. It’s a long haul with challenges along the way which is why we must endure and persevere ... not naturally easy things at all. We may have successes and we may experience failure but as long as we keep our eyes focused on the eternal prize and our daily perspective trained through the lens of faith in Christ, we will continue ... we will prevail and we will not surrender or give up!

Every breath we take is a new opportunity for good ... so have courage my dear friend, in the face of any opposition, to stand for what is honourable, just and right.

Ingrid x