Captivating thoughts...

On a personal note, I am very aware that I go into the New Year a different guy to the one going into 2009, and it has nothing to do with New Year resolutions!
Of course, as Christians we would all want to say that it is our intention and desire to become more Christ-like each day as a result of our living in a dynamic union with Christ enjoying his indwelling presence, but our progress can be imperceptibly slow - at least to ourselves! That should not however deter us from actively seeking to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 3:18. It’s not a pretty or glorifying sight to see believers growing old missing the grace of God and remaining self-centered and tetchy.

Changes in me came about quite unintentionally on my part. It was back in July when I was diagnosed as having prostate cancer, and that kind of discovery affects you, believe me! Suddenly I became aware just how much I needed God’s help and grace on a daily basis. Devotional times were no longer an option; now they were vital as I became keenly aware that my joy, my peace, my hope, my help and a lot more were to be found in Christ and nowhere else.

Let me just tell you of one very special moment for me these last months. When first faced with that kind of news your mind goes into overdrive as you begin to explore all the “What if..?” scenarios. Well that’s what I was busy doing last July (and satan was doing a good job offering suggestions) when the word of God literally fell into my lap. I had just inherited my grandfather’s preaching notes and was fingering through them, when a small card with the words ‘Sermon index’ scribbled on it, fell out. Turning it over, I discovered that it was one of my grandfather’s visiting cards, dated 1954, with these words on it: Whatsoever things are true, honourable – just – pure – lovely – of good report – any virtue – any praise, think on these things. Phil 4:8. Bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. 2Cor 10:5. Then it said this: ‘That the Lord may enable you in all things for His glory is my sincere prayer.’
Well, I grasped those words with both hands, and I can honestly tell you that it has been life-changing.

As we go into a New Year, I would encourage you to take hold of those same ‘God words’ for yourself and your situation, whatever it is, or whatever you may face in the year ahead. Don’t be ‘loose’ in your thinking! Don’t allow those ‘fear’ thoughts run their depressing course but instead, actively & prayerfully take them captive to Christ, and I assure you that peace and joy will follow!

Be blessed!

Goff