20th June 2025

Mercy for You and for Me

He will not always strive with us,

Nor will He keep His anger forever.

    Psalm 103:9

Today's Bible Reading:  Psalm 103:8–12.

One unexpected side effect of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 was the grounding of cruise ships and the quarantine of their passengers. In one article, a passenger humorously reflected on the extra time for conversation, noting that his wife—blessed with an impeccable memory—used the downtime to recall every mistake he had ever made in their marriage. And, he added with a smile, she seemed far from finished!

Stories like this give us a chuckle, reveal our shared humanity, and gently remind us of the importance of letting go of what we should release. But what truly helps us to extend kindness and forgiveness to those who have hurt us? The answer lies in catching a glimpse of the heart of God, as beautifully revealed in Psalm 103:8-12.

One paraphrase of verses 8-10 says: “The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy. He will not always accuse us, nor stay angry forever. He has not dealt with us as our sins deserve, or repaid us according to our wrongs.”

As we prayerfully engage with Scripture, God can soften our hearts, prompting us to reconsider thoughts of revenge or withholding grace. Instead, He invites us to pray—for ourselves and for those we may struggle to forgive—and to reflect His mercy in how we respond.

Prayer: God of mercy, kindness and forgiveness, please help me to extend grace and mercy to those who have caused me pain. In Jesus name, I ask. Amen.

19th June 2025

Power to Love

Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God . . .

   1 John 4:7

Today's Bible Reading:  1 John 4:7-10.

If every individual on earth would only learn to love others instead of hating and fighting them, then the world would certainly be a much better place. 

But why does it happen? For centuries, preachers, poets, writers, politicians, musicians and a host of others have urged people to love each other (and I’m sure their exhortations have had some effect). But in spite of this, the 20th century was the bloodiest in history, with two world wars and a long list of other purges and conflicts. What reason do we have to think this century will be any better?

Sadly, simply telling people to love each other is not enough, because we do not have the power to love others the way we should. Our basic problem, the Bible says, is within us—within our own hearts and minds. The Lord Jesus said, “For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander” (Matthew 15:19). Something has gone seriously wrong with us, and that “something” is what the Bible calls sin. 

This is why we need God, for only He can change our hearts and give us the power to love others as we should. And this is what He wants to do! He loves us, and He does not want our lives to be ruined by selfishness and greed; and when we turn to Christ, He forgives the past and gives us hope for the future. I invite you to open your heart to Christ’s transforming love today. 

Prayer: Great God of Love, thank You, that You have clanged my life through Your transforming love. Help to show that love to others. In Jesus name. Amen.

18th June 2025

Purpose in Life

The word of the Lord came to me.

   Jeremiah 1:4

Today's Bible Reading:  Jeremiah 1:4-10.

Many people wonder about their purpose in life. The Bible gives us the answer. In Jeremiah 1:4-10, we see that God not only gives us purpose—He also equips us to fulfil it.

Created for a Purpose (v 4-5):

God tells Jeremiah, “I formed you… I knew you… I set you apart.” Our purpose begins with God and is rooted in His Word. If you are searching for meaning, start by listening to Him.

No More Excuses (v 6): Like Jeremiah, we often feel inadequate—too young, too old, not skilled enough. But God does not call us based on our abilities; He calls us to trust Him. Finding purpose means stepping out in faith and obedience.

Equipped by God (v 7-10): God tells Jeremiah, “I am with you” and “I will put My words in your mouth.” When God calls, He also equips. We are not left on our own.

If you feel lost or unsure of your purpose, turn to God. Seek Him in prayer and through His Word. Trust in Jesus Christ and let Him guide you into the life you were created to live.

Prayer: Father God, I thank You, in Jesus name, that You give meaning and purpose to life. Amen.