29 December 2008

How will it be in 2009?

During the 28 years of my Christian life, I have had various seasons of success and failure when it comes to the vital discipline of a daily quiet time. My constant new years resolutions and then subsequent feelings of guilt and failure became a common pattern.
I also found it extremely unhelpful when those in positions of spiritual leadership sought to encourage us by saying that "it's not so important to have a QT every day". Surely the Biblical ignorance that prevails in our churches and youth groups today can be attributed to the lack of time spent reading the most important book of all "God's Word"!
Over the years I have tried many different reading systems; daily Bibles, reading plans, reading notes, devotional books, Bible in a Year, etc. (Some of the most popular notes used today are giving people a 'Happy Meal' when what they really need is a Christmas Dinner...)
This past six months I have been using 'Explore' Bible reading notes and they have blessed me more than anything I have ever used before. Here's why:
  • they are meaty and theologically reformed
  • applications are often for those in Christian leadership
  • there are no unhelpful anecdotes - just precious Bible
  • verse by verse exposition and application
  • they are written in a contemporary but reverent style
  • readings are based on the beautiful ESV text (the perfect companion to an ESV study Bible :) )
  • the 'Bible in a Year' chapters are listed below each page
  • the back flap can be filled in as a weekly prayer guide
  • a year's subscription costs only UK £12 / Overseas £15 (I have it sent to me in Germany, it always comes in good time and I find it great value!)
Several friends and colleagues have also started to use 'Explore' and have testified to it's helpfulness. Try it for yourself and let me know about your experience.

19 December 2008

Christmas Greetings

Gary, Claudia, Joel and David would like to thank you for all your prayers and practical support during 2008. Thank you to many of you who sent us Christmas cards and personal greetings.
We trust you will have a Happy Christmas and a blessed New Year.

For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given;
and the government shall be upon his shoulder,
and his name shall be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6


Clip recommendation for leaders