“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all people. It trains us to reject godless ways and worldly desires and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, as we wait for the happy fulfilment of our hope in the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.” Titus 2:11-13
“My brothers and sisters, consider it nothing but joy when you fall into all sorts of trials, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect effect, so that you will be perfect and complete, not deficient in anything.” James 1:2-4
New English Translation.
Lord God Almighty,
Good morning and thank you. Thank you for all for all your blessings to us. Forgiveness, mercy through Jesus, the indwelling and companionship of Your Holy Spirit. Your almighty power which keeps the universe in place and our tiny little world safely turning.
When we are young we long to leave school. To grow up and then we realise life is one long learning curve. The longer I live the more I realise I hardly know anything at all! I make mistakes and I do not always know best. Help me to be teachable. To keep my account with you short and bring anything to mind I need to repent of. And have it washed away. Thank You that You do not keep reminding us of past mistakes, help us silence the enemies condemnation.
How often we learn most in the hard, difficult and challenging times. We don’t always like or want these lessons on growing because we have to change. Then you remind us you are God, your patience is unending and you want and know what is best for us.
Today Father we give you permission to work in our lives for good. The cross shows us how much you love us. So we open ourselves to you to learn and grow. Come Holy Spirit and reveal what we need to learn today.
In Jesus beautiful name we pray, Amen.
Father,
For our family, friends, neighbours. Guide them in paths of righteousness even if they do not acknowledge You.
For our Ministers, lay leaders, church members. A rich relationship with You and inspiration.
For our king and all those in authority (1 Timothy 2:2). Our new and returning MP’s..
For all those preparing for the Paris Olympics. Behand the scenes and those who will take part.
For Gaza, Middle East, continuing peace talks. Talk and not war. Protect the relief agencies.
Ukraine. Send a miracle, soften Putin’s hard heart and his officials and generals and advisors.
For those young people who have sat exams and are awaiting results next month.
For those starting and learning new jobs and employment.
For those starting rehabilitation learning a new way to live with disability or free of addiction.
For schools in the last weeks of term and teachers coping with all the end of term business.
For us to want to grow more like Christ, not holier than thou, but more compassionate and kind.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Friday 12th July 2024
More a prayer than a song. I am so grateful God does not leave me as I am but loves me and wants to help me grow to be more like His Son.
I’m growing, I don’t like it
I’m growing and it hurts
I love You, but I’m tired
I guess I’ve got a lot to learn
Yeah, guess I’ve got a lot to learn
Don’t leave me here
You said You would not forsake me
But You never said that You wouldn’t break me
To make me over in the image of You
In the dark night of the soul
When there’s no comfort in praying
Not a moment’s pleasure in straying
You’re the only shelter I know
I’m growing, I don’t like it
I’m growing and it hurts
I love You, but, God, I’m tired
I guess I’ve got a lot to learn
Yes, I’ve got a lot to learn
When feelings fail
When “close enough” isn’t good enough
When “full enough” just isn’t full enough
Your grace will be sufficient for me
No wind to sail
No rain to water the flower
In my most desperate hour
Oh, You will be the strength that I need
Wayne Watson
CD: The Way home, Wayne Watson, Word Records