Preparing for a New Year

"Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbours, and let each new year find you a better person." - Benjamin Franklin

Start saying goodbye to 2011 and start preparing to seize every moment of 2012!

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Paths

In a surge of adrenaline it is great to blaze new trails and to set new trends. It is exhilarating to go where others haven't gone before and I encourage you to dream outrageous dreams.

However, there are times when it is prudent to walk on ancient paths, to step where others have walked safely for generations. God has laid out guidelines and 'paths' for us to follow - and these will lead us in a Godly direction. Never be too proud to walk these roads.

There will still be plenty of action, excitement and new opportunities along God's Paths, but we need to trust Him along the journey.

Psalm 25:4 - "Show me your ways, LORD, teach me your paths."

Jeremiah 6:16 - "This is what the LORD says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls."

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Tilt

Last week I was driving from Petrol station to Petrol station trying to fill up with petrol. I eventually managed to find one that had unleaded petrol, but I was getting worried for a moment. While I was driving around something made me tilt my head left and look at the petrol gauge from a side view - it definitely looked a lot better. The gauge showed I had a quarter of a tank. However, when I carried on with my experiment and tilted my head 'right' the gauge was in the red. Both were inaccurate - the truth lay somewhere in the middle.

When you are facing a situation, which way are you looking at it? If our perspective is tilted to much to the one side we may panic unnecessarily. However, if our perspective is at the opposite extreme, we may think all is fine, when we need to be preparing for action.

Let's seek the balance.

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Specific Love

In our journey and preparation for Christmas we encounter many aspects of Christ's love. These words inspired me today. May they impact your day too.

"God's love for the world is far more than an indefinable idea or a generalized affection. God's love has become specific. It is directed towards individuals. Stand before the manger, and you will discover that God's love is not just for the world as a mass, but for every individual in the world. FOR ME. FOR YOU." - C. Welton Gaddy

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Christmas Gifts

If you haven't chosen Christmas gift's yet, then perhaps you want to have a read of this inspiring quote:

"Christmas Gift Suggestions:
To your enemy, forgiveness.
To an opponent, tolerance.
To a friend, your heart.
To a customer, service.
To all, charity.
To every child, a good example.
To yourself, respect." - Oren Arnold

I love these sentiments. I would add one more though...
"To Christ, my worship!"

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Ripple Effect

I remember once hearing at an Advent service about the 'ripple effect' Jesus has made in our world. It is hard to fathom that the birth of one child can impact humanity in such a profound way - Jesus' incarnation has rippled throughout our planet and we still feel it today. Are you ready to be touched by the birth of Jesus?

"Christmas has lost its meaning for us because we have lost the spirit of expectancy. We cannot prepare for an observance. We must prepare for an experience." - Handel Brown

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

What Do You Do With Failure?

When Robert Fulton was still a teenager he became fascinated with a remarkable idea. He had seen the impact of the new steam engines and had thought about transferring the same principle onto a paddle boat. His first attempt was a complete flop - the boat sank. This setback didn't stop him from achieving his dream. Today he is accredited as designing and building the first commercial steamboat. In 1800 he was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte to design the Nautilus, which was the first practical submarine in history. Not bad for a young person, hey?

What do you do with failure? Do you allow it to stop you from fulfilling your dreams? Or do you see failure as a way of refining your purpose and destiny?

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Perspiration

Are you willing to do a little 'perspiring' for things you believe strongly in? Justice, equality, peace, freedom, fulfilling a dream, the Gospel?

Most things of great value are not achieved over night. One has to pray for perseverance and strength to hang on.

"Genius is one percent inspiration, ninety-nine percent perspiration." - Thomas Edison

Remember Jesus' prayer in the garden of Gethsemane? He knew the task before him, but he needed to surrender his will to that of his Father. Is there a lesson for us in this? What do you think?

Luke 22:44 - And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Remembering

This week we marked the 1st of December as World Aids Day and I believe that it is extremely important that we do all we can to remove the stigma attached to HIV/Aids. Jesus cares for all people and we need to respond with love and dignity to all people.

However, today is also the day that we remember the life of Edmund Campion. I knew nothing of this godly man until I recently read about his life. At the age of 41 Edmund was hanged, drawn and quartered for leading an underground Catholic ministry in Protestant England of the Sixteenth Century.

The witness of this priest didn't go unnoticed and he impacted many lives, even in his cruel death. Eventually 300 years after his death, he was honoured as a saint. I truly marvel at the commitment of martyrs, especially when they are killed at the hands of other "Christians". It is sad that we find so much hatred in the place we should find the most grace and love - the church.

May God forgive us!
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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

What is Friendship?

We all need friends! I am speaking of friends of the good type. The ones who are there for you and who encourage you. The friends who you can call at all times of the day or night. The friends who you may not see often, but are still committed to the friendship. I am grateful that I have a number of awesome friends. I am also grateful that I view Jesus as my friend too.

Reading in John 1, I encountered the following description of Jesus' mission - he came into the world "full of grace and truth." Jesus came to earth full of grace and truth - it was these 2 qualities that revolutionised our world.

I want my friendships to be laced with these 2 qualities - GRACE and TRUTH. Grace to deal with my inadequacies and imperfections, but Truth to speak into my life and to hold me accountable to my callings to be a husband, father, child, brother, friend, pastor and leader.

"Don't walk behind me; I may not lead. Don't walk in front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend."  - Albert Camus.
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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Bold Prayers

Do you ever feel that your prayers are weak and lack any meaning? I sometimes do! Perhaps it is because we sell God short and we don't have the faith to pray bold prayers. David was always willing to be bold in his prayers, as well as deeply honest. Here is an example of part of one of his prayers:

Psalm 139:23-24:

"Search me, God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting."

May your prayers be bold and honest today.
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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Your Most Important Move

We all disappoint God at times! We all sin and fall short of God's glory (Romans 3:23), but when we remain defeated and feel unworthy of God's love that's when our problem's really multiply. The most crucial move we make will be the move after we have realised our sin. If we move towards the grace of God, we can experience forgiveness and redemption. If we move away from God, we will feel guilt, alienation and dis-ease.

"The Most important move you will ever make in your life is the move you make right after you fail God. Will you believe the accuser's lies and give up in despair, or will you allow yourself to receive the forgiving flow of God's love?" - David Wilkerson

It's your move!
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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

What is in Your Heart?

Pastor and author, Andy Stanley reflects on what is in our hearts.

“It is when our hearts are stirred that we become most aware of what they contain.”

“In the shadow of my hurt, forgiveness feel like a decision to reward my enemy. But in the shadow of the cross, forgiveness is merely a gift from one undeserving soul to another.”

As you end this week may God stir your heart and may you remember that God loves you.
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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Asking the Wrong Question

In his inaugural address American President John F. Kennedy said these famous words:

"Ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country."

I feel that we should change this statement rather to read as follows:

"Ask not what God can do for you, but rather what you can do for God!"

This is the question we should be asking.

If we dare ...
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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Too Much on Your Plate

The other morning one of my sons made himself some breakfast and when I looked at his bowl of cereal I knew he was never going to finish it - he had put way to much Pronutro into the bowl. When he was about half way through the breakfast he said to me "I can't finish it - there is too much on the plate!" I thought to myself, "No kidding, boy! Even Jonah Lomu wouldn't have finished that bowl of cereal."

In truth, how often do we do the same thing, but particularly in the things we take on. We can find ourselves getting to a place we were throw our hands up and say, "I have taken on too much! I can't finish all of this."

Can you relate to this?

May God grant us wisdom to do the important tasks and not to fill our lives with other 'stuff.' Saying NO is not a crime.
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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Greater Heights

During the recent Willow Creek leaders summit, one of the speakers asked us to raise our hands. Every hand in the auditorium was raised. He then asked us to raise our hands 3 inches higher - which everyone managed to do. His point was this: "When asked to do something, why is it that most people just do the bare minimum? Why was it that no one raised their hands to their capacity the first time?"

He makes an interesting point, don't you think?

When we ask God to be our Saviour he invites us to go to great heights with him.

"The love of Christ compels us to do what we never thought we could do and go to heights we never thought we could reach. Precious is the name of Jesus!" - Max Lucado

May Jesus help you to reach heights for his sake.
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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Longing to be Gracious

God longs to be gracious to us. God looks for opportunities to bless us. This is what Isaiah says:

"Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you;
he rises to show you compassion.
For the Lord is a God of justice.
Blessed are all who wait for him!" - Isaiah 30:18

This is a far cry from the picture of God people try to paint - God is only out to get us. Or God is looking for ways to punish us. I think I prefer Isaiah's picture of God.

What about you?
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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Courage

Muhammed Ali once remarked that "The person who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life."

For me, God took the ultimate risk in becoming a human, in the person of Jesus Christ. There is no greater risk than giving up your power! Perhaps this is why Jesus is revered and honoured above anyone else on this planet.

Risk is worth it!

Combine love with risk and you have enough power to change the world!
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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Good Advice

More wisdom from Solomon to start your week...

"Dear friend, take my advice;
it will add years to your life.
I'm writing out clear directions to Wisdom Way,
I'm drawing a map to Righteous Road.
I don't want you ending up in blind alleys,
or wasting time making wrong turns.
Hold tight to good advice; don't relax your grip.
Guard it well—your life is at stake!
Don't take Wicked Bypass;
don't so much as set foot on that road.
Stay clear of it; give it a wide berth.
Make a detour and be on your way" - Proverbs 4:10-15
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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Thank God Today!

When last did you say, "Thanks Lord!" I am not talking about how many people use the
term in a derogatory way - I mean in a genuine attitude of thanks!

Psalm 136:1 - "Thank God! He deserves your thanks. His love never quits." (MSG)

So, what are able to thank God for today?
I thank God for my family, my friends, my church, my health and all other blessings.
I thank God for the opportunity to do some writing this week.
I thank God for some struggles that make me rely fully on Jesus.

Thank God today!

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Press On

We don't always reach our goals quickly. When it comes to our faith, it will take a lifetime. May you have the strength and grace to carry on. May God grant you perseverance and stamina for the journey.

"One thing I do, forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 3:13-14

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

God is Near

In case you had forgotten - God is near to us. Spend a moment in quiet and ask the Spirit to help you sense God's presence. God has not gone anywhere - God is with you right now. Believe it...

"What other nation is so great as to have their gods near them the way the LORD our God is near us whenever we pray to him?" - Deuteronomy 4:7

“The kingdom of God is near." - Mark 1:15
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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Changing Ourselves

"Everybody thinks of changing humanity and nobody thinks of changing himself." - Leo Tolstoy

Matthew 7:3-5 - “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye."

Let's change the world, by changing ourselves first!

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Love Seeks to Communicate

What do you think of God? Is our picture of God damaged by disappointments and other people?

I want to echo these words - this is what I believe...

"Christians believe in a God who speaks. Ours is not a silent God, a God who sits,
Sphinx-like, looking out unblinking on a world in agony...
He speaks because he loves. Love always seeks to communicate."

- Donald Coggan

What do you believe?

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Needing Wisdom?

If you are seeking wisdom, ask God for it! God has promised to give us wisdom - just read James 1 if you don't believe me.

Abraham Lincoln - "I have been driven many times to my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go. My own wisdom and that of those about me seemed insufficient for the day."

I have found the following 3 steps helpful in my life:

ASK God.
PRAY through your decision.
ACT in faith.

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Spiritual Heroes

Most young boys go through a superhero phase. My son Josh has recently gone through the Batman phase, where all he ever wants to do is wear his Batman outfit - it is hard to convince a 3 year old that these clothes need to be washed sometimes!

Dallas Willard is convinced that our world needs spiritual superheroes. This is what he had to say:

“The world can no longer be left to mere diplomats, politicians, and business leaders. They have done the best they could, no doubt. But this is an age for spiritual heroes- a time for men and women to be heroic in their faith and in spiritual character and power. The greatest danger to the Christian church today is that of pitching its message too low.”

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

What I Want

We often get so caught up in 'what we want' that we forget to discern what God wants or needs from us. We live in a world that encourages us to take what we want, or to expect things to go our way, that when things don't, then we get upset with God.

"The world with all its wanting, wanting, wanting, is on the way out - but whoever does what God wants is set for eternity." - 1 John 2:17

May the Spirit of God teach us to discern what the heart of God wants.

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Teresa of Avila

I never quote people because I want to glorify them, but I recognise that often God has given them a deeply profound insight that blesses me. Teresa of Avila is one of the Christian Mystics who has inspired millions of people. Her 'success' is only founded in her love of Jesus. Read some of her insights that I have quoted below:

“To have courage for whatever comes in life - everything lies in that.”

“There are more tears shed over answered prayers than over unanswered prayers.”

“Let nothing disturb thee; Let nothing dismay thee; All thing pass; God never changes. Patience attains All that it strives for. He who has God Finds he lacks nothing: God alone suffices.”

“It is love alone that gives worth to all things.”

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

You Call Out the Stars

I had the privilege of sharing in the confirmation service at a local school last week. During our time of worship we sang a wonderful song called 'You call out the stars' - these are some of the words of the song:

"When I think the closest star is more than a million miles away
I can't even dream, how great you are
When I think that all I have is what you've given me
I'm so thankful Lord, so thankful Lord.

When I think you walked on water and calmed the raging seas
I am overwhelmed, how great you are
Amidst the storms and troubles, Lord beckon me
To walk on water, I'll walk on water.

To whom can I compare you, Holy One
Who is your equal, Lord there is none
There is none besides you, how great you are
There is none so worthy, how great you are
How great you are, Lord, how great you are."

Prayer and Hypocrites

Prayer can be tricky sometimes! We don't seem to be inspired or we wonder if we are doing it right. We question whether God is listening or even concerned about our needs. When Jesus gave some advice on prayer, his opening words were: "and when you pray, you are not to be as the hypocrites" (Matthew 6:5).

A hypocrite is someone who 'lives behind a mask' - so the key ingredient in prayer has to be honesty. We can't fool God with our stiff upper lip faith - God wants our prayers to be real, honest, and sincere.

May you feel a new freedom as you pray to God today.

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Sand Dunes in the Sky

Driving along a quiet country road this weekend, we witnessed the most amazing display of God's creation. The clouds looked like sand dunes in the sky - well, that's what my sons thought. Eventually when the sun disappeared behind the mountains the 'dunes' changed colour many times...white, yellow, gold, red, orange and finally grey. It was a fitting reminder that our God is awesome.

May you be reminded of God's incredible love this week.

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Encouragement

Encouragement in our faith is so vital. It surprises me that Christians neglect this simple task. The early church needed it - we need it.

"Get along among yourselves, each of you doing your part. Our counsel is that you warn the freeloaders to get a move on. Gently encourage the stragglers, and reach out for the exhausted, pulling them to their feet. Be patient with each person, attentive to individual needs. And be careful that when you get on each other's nerves you don't snap at each other. Look for the best in each other, and always do your best to bring it out." - 1 Thessalonians 5:13

Look for an opportunity to encourage someone today.
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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

A Glimpse of a Cross

If we look carefully we will see 'crosses' everywhere. Obviously, I am not referring to actual wooden crosses, but the shape of a cross in a window frame, a building, a design, a calendar, or even in a picture. These images of the cross give us a daily reminder of God's love for us.

"Every now and then, I would catch a glimpse of a cross - not necessarily a crucifix; maybe two pieces of wood accidentally nailed together, on a telegraph pole for instance - and suddenly my heart would stand still. In an instinctive, intuitive way I understood that something more important, more tumultuous, more passionate, was at issue than our good causes, however admirable they might be." - Malcolm Muggeridge

Look out for signs of the cross.

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Listen Carefully

"Listen carefully, my child, to the master's instruction... and faithfully put it into practice...every time you begin a good work you must pray to him most earnestly to bring it to perfection... In this way everything must be arranged so that the strong have something to yearn for and the weak nothing to run from." - St Benedict

May the peace of God be upon you.

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

The Capstone

When Peter refers to Jesus as a capstone, in his letter to the early church, he brings to mind a powerful image...

“The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone" - 1 Peter 2:7

When builders constructed an arch they always carefully placed the last stone (capstone) into it's place. The whole arch could collapse if the capstone wasn't the right size or if it simply didn't fit.

When we put things together in our lives where does Jesus fit in? Is he the capstone - the all important piece keeping us together, or have we forgotten to include him in our lives?

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Change

Things can change! Once upon a time I had hair - now I have very little! People move home, change careers, suffer loss, get married, buy new cars, change service providers, eat more, eat less, exercise mor ... basically we live through change. This next verse reminds me that even in our relationship with God, things can change for the better:

"Once you were not a people,
Now you are the people of God.
Once you received none of God's mercy;
Now you have received his mercy." - 1 Peter 2:10

God can change our lives!

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

The Rose

The words of the following song, The Rose, have spoken into the hearts of millions of people. What do they say to you today?

Some say love, it is a river

That drowns the tender reed

Some say love, it is a razor

That leaves your soul to bleed

Some say love, it is a hunger

An endless aching need

I say love, it is a flower

And you, its only seed



It's the heart, afraid of breaking

That never learns to dance

It's the dream, afraid of waking

That never takes the chance

It's the one who won't be taken

Who cannot seem to give

And the soul, afraid of dying

That never learns to live



When the night has been too lonely

And the road has been too long

And you think that love is only

for the lucky and the strong

Just remember in the winter

Far beneath the bitter snow

Lies the seed

That with the sun's love, in the spring

Becomes the rose.

It speaks to me of Resurrection, of Hope, of Renewal.

Let me know your thoughts ...

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Which Way?

"Teach me your way, O Lord;
Lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors." - Psalm 27:11

How do you know if the decision you are about to make is the right one? And whether it is part of God's will? Well, there are many books written on this subject, but let me offer a few thoughts:

1. Scripture - is the decision you are about to make contrary to what the Bible teaches? It the answer is 'Yes', then don't go there!
2. Spirit - what do you sense the Holy Spirit is saying to you about this? Are you at peace?
3. Spiritual friends - it is wise to consult a few trusted Christian friends. If they are confirming your decision then trust their advice.
4. Situations - are there certain 'doors' opening for you, which previously were closed shut! Perhaps God could be paving the way for your decision.

Of course, life is not as clear cut as this, but I hope that this helps a little. Trust in God to lead you into 'paths of righteousness'. God is big enough to guide you through these adventurous days.

Live in Grace!


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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Safe in God's Hands

We are safe in God's hands. That's what the Scriptures promise us.

John 10:28-29: “I give them eternal life, and they shall never snatch them out of my hand. My father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of the Father’s hand.”

We must not mis-read this to mean 'we will not go through difficult times' or even face suffering. The verse tells us that 'come what may', nothing and no one, will be able to remove us from the embrace of our Loving God.
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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

What do you make of this?

"In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7 These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed." - 1 Peter 1:6-7

I don't naturally feel like rejoicing when I go through difficult times - do you? Yet, this scripture seems to suggest we should. Perhaps Peter writes these words with the benefit of years of hindsight. He had previously faced many moments of suffering and so maybe he is challenging us to see that God is still with us in these times - and that he is working on something amazing with us.

Any thoughts?
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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Preaching To Yourself

They say that preachers often preach their messages first to themselves and then to others. As we reflected on the story of Esther in our church last week, I was deeply challenged by Esther's account in the Scriptures. Not only was she a beautiful woman, but she was godly, courageous and compassionate. She came to understand that God had raised her up for a particular purpose in a specific time. When the crunch came, she never backed down from her call to speak out for truth and justice. Wow, we can learn a lot from her!

"For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” - Esther 4:14

May we choose to live in the Grace of Jesus.

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Blink

Last week went by in a flash. It is almost as if in the blink of an eye 7 days passed by. I feel that we have these periods in our lives from time to time - we don't seem to be able to make time slow down - things just blur from one day into another. It's alright to have weeks like this, but my worry is that when our lives become like this permanently, we begin to lose a sense of control. Others control our time and decisions and over a long period of time, this can be dangerous.

We need to be avoiding the 'blink week' becoming the 'blink life' by putting a few measures in place:
1. Planned rest
2. Planned refueling - filling our spirits with the Word of God and by prayer.
3. Planned time with family and friends
4. Planned review - take 4 hours a month to reflect on everything that you are doing and evaluated whether you need to 'do' all of these things.

Just a few thoughts - what do you feel?

Please don't let your life just rush by in the 'blink of an eye!'

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Back to the Grindstone

It has been mentioned a number of times since we got back, that we will now be getting 'back to the grindstone!' I'm not sure if you know where the term originates from, but it has it's origin from centuries back, when people used to do a lot of their daily work on grindstones (A grindstone is a rotating solid stone wheel used for grinding, shaping, sharpening, or polishing).

It often has negative connotations, almost implying that one's work is back-breaking and unpleasant. This is where my 'ministry life' deviates from this definition - Yes, there are moments when ministry is draining and exhausting, but I love what I do! Getting back into routine is always hard, but I feel blessed to be in ministry and so 'getting back to the grindstone' is not an unpleasant task for me.

What are some of the unpleasant tasks in your line of work? Do they feel like 'grindstones' or not?

"The Israelites completed all the work, just as God had commanded. Moses saw that they had done all the work and done it exactly as God had commanded. Moses blessed them." - Exodus 39:42

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Tilt

Last week I was driving from Petrol station to Petrol station trying to fill up with petrol. I eventually managed to find one that had unleaded petrol, but I was getting worried for a moment. While I was driving around something made me tilt my head left and look at the petrol gauge from a side view - it definitely looked a lot better. The gauge showed I had a quarter of a tank. However, when I carried on with my experiment and tilted my head 'right' the gauge was in the red. Both were inaccurate - the truth lay somewhere in the middle.

When you are facing a situation, which way are you looking at it? If our perspective is tilted to much to the one side we may panic unnecessarily. However, if our perspective is at the opposite extreme, we may think all is fine, when we need to be preparing for action.

Let's seek the balance.

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

We All Need Help

This is a picture of a boat station at Lizard, the Southern most point in England. It was from this point that many passengers and sailors were saved when their boats/ships sunk of this treacherous coastline.

It seems a little 'worse for wear' nowadays, but it still stands to remind all of us that people need help sometimes. In the midst of unexpected storms we may need someone to reach out and help us.

Thank God that He has given us his son Jesus, as the perfect Saviour.

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Comfort Zone

In 'God is closer than you think' John Ortberg shares about a principal called 'Habituation'. It sounds awfully confusing, but it is actually very simple to understand.

Habituation refers to how something that is new and exciting eventually becomes ordinary and loses it's 'new appeal.' This happens in relationships, it can happen with new cell-phones or gadgets, it also happens with work. The initial 'wow' factor vanishes and we move into a kind of comfort zone.

The real danger comes into play when our faith develops 'habituation.' This results in a sense of 'spiritual comfort.' We lose the passion we once had for the Good News and the things of God.

Revelation 2:4 - "You have lost your first love."

Has this happened to you?

If it has, then ask God to make your faith 'fresh' again. Ask the Spirit to breathe newness into your soul.

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Pause

When you are watching a DVD and there is an interruption, who pushes pause on the remote?

When life is hectic and you feel as if you are juggling too many things, who gets to push pause?

In the first instance, it doesn't matter who pushes pause, as long as you don't miss the important part of the movie and to be honest, time doesn't matter.

In the second instance, we are the only people who can push pause, but we seldom do! We don't push pause because we are worried we will miss something or we say we 'can't afford to stop' or who will do my work for me?

But, here's the thing - if you burn yourself out, because you don't want to push pause, someone else will end up having to do your job, look after your kids, step in for you at Church, finish that task etc.

PUSH PAUSE! You have the remote in your hand!

"Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." - Mark 6:31

May we live in grace!

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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

Tomorrow is Today

I have been reminded again of the urgency of 'the moment.' It came via a blogpost from Seth Godin. In his post he quotes these monumental words from Martin Luther King Jnr.

"We are now faced with the fact, my friends, that tomorrow is today. We are confronted with the fierce urgency of now. In this unfolding conundrum of life and history, there is such a thing as being too late. Procrastination is still the thief of time. Life often leaves us standing bare, naked, and dejected with a lost opportunity. The tide in the affairs of men does not remain at flood -- it ebbs. We may cry out desperately for time to pause in her passage, but time is adamant to every plea and rushes on. Over the bleached bones and jumbled residues of numerous civilizations are written the pathetic words, "Too late."

Wow, wow, wow!

The Scriptures say this in a similar way:

Hebrews 4:7 - "God again set a certain day, calling it “Today.” This he did when a long time later he spoke through David, as in the passage already quoted: “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.”

Do it NOW!
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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N

We heard a catchy song the other day by Noah and the Whale called L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N - It's a really great song, but it has a sad story behind it. Some of the lyrics go as follows ...

"L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N.
What you don't have now will come back again
You've got heart and you're going your own way."

Whenever you are feeling down, remember that with God on your side. Life does go on. The Lord gives us hope even in the darkest of times. Keep going and have faith.
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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart,’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za

The God of Surprises

My family live in a beautiful part of England! The city of Bath is truly amazing and well worth a visit if you ever pop over to the UK. It is filled with so much history, going back even to the time of Christ. One of the things that made Bath world famous was the warm water that bubbled up from under the city, first discovered 2000 years ago by the Romans. Almost all roads led to Bath in those days and there are traces of the Romans all over the place. The water was thought to have healing powers and so it attracted rich and poor, who were all keen to live longer and to be healed from their ailments. You can still taste some of this water today if you like, as the Bath Spa continues to tap the same water source that drew the Romans to the city, all those years ago... however, it does not taste great! Why is it that all medicine tastes disgusting?!

There is another person who has added to the historical story of Bath and that is none other than Jane Austen. The picture in the blog is from one of her residences, when she lived in the city. I am sure that you all know who Jane Austen is, but in case you don't have a clue Jane is the English novelist who wrote Sense and Sensibility, Persuasion, Emma, Pride and Prejudice and many more. She lived in the city in the early 1800's.

One of the awesome things I like about Bath is that no matter how many times you walk in the city you keep stumbling upon surprises. It happened to us today - we walked past the magnificent Abbey and came upon an ancient fountain that we had missed every time previously... except today, that is. It was brilliant - I love surprises.

Anyway, remember that no matter how familiar things may be in our homes, places of work, worship and even in our communities, that God is the God of surprises. God wants to bless us with new discoveries every day. Look out for them and let me know when you find one!
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Living in Grace is written by Delme Linscott, a minister and author. Delme's first book was 'Living Oceans Apart,’ and he has just completed his second which is called 'Now: Refuse to let the moment pass.' You can find out more on www.livingingrace.co.za