THE FEAR OF FALLING

It is impossible to please God without faith. Hebrews 11:6

The year was 1899 when a couple of young adventurous American’s began experimenting with their quest of flying. They fanatically studied birds in flight… captivated by the way they manoeuvred though air by changing the shape of their wing, how they gained lift when facing a head wind. Years of research, experiments, failures, risk and countless destroyed craft and kites eventually saw the Wright Brothers take flight in a piloted craft on December 17th, 1903. This was the first successful, powered, piloted flight in history.

By 1912 the now famous brothers had flown across America. That was just 100 years ago!!!

The truth is it is safer to stay on the ground and convince yourself that it can never be done. If you try you will fail. If you attempt the impossible you will fall. Many of us Christians today, and many churches spend all their efforts maintaining rather than expecting miracles… we choose “the way it has always been’ … rather than get out there and attempt to make history by faith. Most of us will not dare to move until the money is in the bank. We want everything insured with minimal risk.

But I am convinced that “if it doesn’t kill you it will make you stronger”. God does not mind us failing and falling short in our attempts at life. He loves faith and He forgives our failures. He rewards those who step out and try.

And Yes!! I am preaching to myself here… Our ministry bank account is at an all time low and we are about to embark on some major projects and tours. So logic says cancel while faith says keep believing and go! Time to find a good head wind and launch out!!

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. 2 This is what the ancients were commended for. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. Hebrews 11:1-2

God’s word is faithful to the end and His promises are sure.

Thanks for your prayers and friendship.

Godspeed,

Pictured: Circa 1911, The Wright Brothers on one of their many flights into the history books.

NEVER GET WEARY OF DOING GOOD

TIME BRINGS CHANGE

So we may boldly say: “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me? Remember those who rule over you, who have spoken the word of God to you, whose faith follow, considering the outcome of their conduct. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13: 6-8

In its former days this jetty, circa 1880′s, would have been the pride and joy of the entire town. In those pioneering days along the coastal regions of Victoria, before roads had been established the only way in and out would have been by sea. So the significance of a jetty meant that produce could be bought and sold, supplies and people have a link to the rest of the world. Trading ships and fishing boats would all benefit from a timber construction of hardwood logs and rough sawn planks that provided a life line to the world beyond the horizon.

But one big storm and everything can change. Eventually the efforts to repair and maintain the old jetty were abandoned as road and air transport routes opened up. Time brings change. Nothing stays the same forever except for one thing… That’s Jesus.

No matter what challenges you may be facing this year remember.. don’t get caught just doing things the way you have always done them. Be open to change and expectant that God has more out there for you. There is no room for fear when we are living our lives by faith!! Times change but the love of God for us will never waiver or be hindered by the storms of life.

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.” Psalm 91: 1-2

Thanks for checking out the weekly Prayer Points.

Godspeed,

Pictured: The decaying piers of an old jetty near the town of Lorne, Victoria