TEXT: ‘But those who wait upon God get fresh strength. They spread their wings and soar like eagles, they run and don’t get tired, they walk and don’t lag behind’ (Isaiah 40:31 MSG). What a wonderful promise! How many Christians have taken encouragement from this verse to keep going when they feel bodily weak. God promises to renew our strength when we wait on Him. So, the secret to the receiving is in the waiting. In the garden of Gethsemane, the disciples were too tired and discouraged to stay awake, wait and pray, but Jesus did and experienced angels appearing to Him and strengthening Him (See Luke 22:43). In Psalm 71 there are three references to God’s strength, and these form the basis for Today’s Teaching. 1. Facing the reality of failing strength – ‘And now, in my old age, don’t set me aside. Don’t forsake me now when my strength is failing’ (Psalm 71:9 TLB). Failing strength is not just limited to old age, for the Bible says, ‘Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion’ (Isaiah 40:30 NLT). When I worked in healthcare sales, a common complaint from those I visited, was the lack of energy and the inability to do what they...
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TEXT: ‘He brought this Good News of peace to you Gentiles who were far away from him, and peace to the Jews who were near’ (Ephesians 2:17 NLT). Our text says Jesus came and preached peace to both Jews & Gentiles. The angels announcing Christ’s (who is the Prince of Peace) birth said, ‘Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, goodwill toward men’ (Luke 2:14). Not only do we have, ‘Peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ’ (Romans 5:1) but we also have the peace of God for everyday living. ‘He Himself (Jesus) is our peace’ (Ephesians 2:14). He has broken down the barrier between us and God and helps us to break down barriers between us and other people, so that if it is possible on our side, we can live in peace with fellow man (See Romans 12:18). How conflicts around the world would quickly disappear if everyone was willing to do just that! It’s the same for the church. ‘Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification’ (Romans 14:19 NIV). If I am concentrating on how to build someone up, it’s unlikely I would want to act in a way that pulls them down!...
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