"I am a woman who is deeply troubled". Hannah was disturbed in spirit because God had shut her womb and prayer did not seem to be having any effect. So she sets us the good example of continuing more fervently in prayer rather than giving up praying. Furthermore, her fervent prayer was misunderstood by the ... Read more

"I want to encourage you". What a lovely expression! How we should all be seeking to do this, one to the other! Here are some ways in which we may encourage our brothers and sisters: take a genuine interest in their situation tell them you appreciate what they are doing assure them you're praying for ... Read more

"you have put all my sins behind your back". Hezekiah had just been granted an extension to his life after God had told him to put his house in order because he was about to die. He had been very distressed about this and pleaded his case before the Lord. And the Lord confirmed by ... Read more

"The Lord has done great things for us". Often at the time, God's plan and purpose was obscure - you did not recognise just what He was doing. But now you can see things in better perspective. You are enjoying today the fruit of God's blessing upon your life in days past. The way He ... Read more

"He touched her hand and the fever left her". Fever rages in many today. The fever of frustration - trying so hard yet never seeming to get there. The fever of human effort - demanding we put all we have into it yet gaining nothing of eternal value. The fever of passion and of evil ... Read more

"women who work hard in the Lord". This is not about whether you go out to work or not. It's not about getting status from a job title or how much you earn. This is work that is done 'in the Lord' - based on a relationship with Christ. Hard work involves effort, sacrifice, even ... Read more

"set your affection on things above". There is so much to attract below that it needs a conscious effort to do this! Our world is so full of fascinating things which, while not evil in themselves, detract from the things of God. Fascinations, obsessions and desires that are not of the Lord need pulling out ... Read more

"the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man". Where can greater love be found than in God so loving the world that He gave His Only Son? The object of that loving kindness was rebellious and unlovely. Even now most of those on whom this love was expended are disinterested in what God ... Read more

"and great will be your children's peace". This chapter in the prophecy of Isaiah describes the future glory of Zion, the city of God. Those journeying there should not be afraid - they will not suffer shame. They should not fear disgrace and will not be humiliated. It is the Holy One of Israel who ... Read more

"children of the promise". This is what we have become through faith in Jesus Christ. God promised Abraham that "through your offspring all the nations of the earth will be blessed." In and through the work of Christ, the blessing is now available to all. In Christ we have become children of God and now ... Read more