[God] has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, and the forgiveness of sins.
Colossians 1:13-14
It was not going well.
She was a professional, and liked to tie everything down. Her team knew what was expected of them, and had worked enough big events not to get in a panic when something went wrong.
She'd handled drunks and accidents, and the time when the chicken turned out to be decidedly "off". She'd even stepped in and rescued the situation when a fight broke out between the two families.
Who'd be a wedding planner?... continue reading
Stuck on the sofa over the past week with a horrible bug, I've been able to indulge in a few TV favourites. One blast from the past that never fails to please is an episode or two of Frasier: a sitcom about about radio psychiatrist whose life is gloriously ridiculous. His catchphrase is well-known to fans across the globe: "I'm listening" starts every one of his radio shows, uttered in the silky smooth tones that only talented actors can muster. It's a phrase that is, at times, spoken insincerely but he tries... when on air, he wants to be there for his listeners.
The way we listen to someone shows a lot about our relationship with them:
You can always spot a young couple in the first flush of love. They hang on each other's words with eyes wide open. Even the most mundane of communications is met with delight because the mere sound of the other person's voice brings warmth to the heart.... continue reading
A look back at the On to a Good Thing highlights in 2013.
1. LivingOut
From the end of last year, a brand new website full of stories, answers to questions, and recommended resources from a group of Christians who experience same-sex attraction
2. A Passion For Life
In July last year we highlighted the A Passion For Life website ready for March and April this year.
3. TGC Worship
In June we shared a new blog from The Gospel Coalition, and in May, we shared the media from The Gospel Coalition's 2013 National Conference.
4. St. Helen's Training and Preaching Matters
Throughout 2013 we posted a number of resources from St. Helen's Training and Preaching Matters from St. Helen's Bishopsgate.
5. The Good Book Company Infographics
In March we put all our infographics in one place.
6. OnetoOne Bible Reading
In the first On to a Good Thing of 2013 in January we highlighted a great website from our friends at Matthias Media.
7. And finally...
Our video of 2013, and this week's video of the week, 'An interview with Sam Allberry':
Found something that you think should make it on to the On to a Good Thing round-up? Send it to: ontoagoodthing@thegoodbook.co.uk
If you live in North America or Europe, chances are that your life is difficult right now.
Bitter cold and deep snow mean that life is grinding to a halt in many places. The same storms then cross the Atlantic and dump vast quantities of water on the already drenched UK and Europe. The gales whip the sea into a frenzy, and everyone hunkers down and tries to keep warm and dry. I am keeping a daily watch on flood warnings – my aged Dad lives right next to the River Severn in Worcester (UK) and may have to move out at any time.... continue reading
Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!
How unsearchable his judgments,
and his paths beyond tracing out!
"Who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has been his counselor?"
"Who has ever given to God,
that God should repay him?"
For from him and through him and to him are all things.
To him be the glory forever! Amen.
Romans 11:33-36
This time last year, I mentioned six ways to look godly while not growing in your faith — and then spent 2013 battling them, falling for them, and finding several other ways, too. So here, for 2014, are six more ways to look great while doing little…
1. Multitask your Quiet Time
Every day, head off to a quiet place in your house with a Bible for half an hour. It will really encourage anyone you live with, and set a great example. And half an hour is a very long time. A brief read of the Bible, a quick Lord’s Prayer, and you’ve got about 28 minutes left for thinking through some work issues, or writing a mental shopping list, or considering where to go on your next vacation, or even doing some serious meditation with your eyes closed.... continue reading
Christians persecuted by Islamists, says Prince Charles
It’s the Gospel truth - so take it or leave it
Christians targeted in Christmas Day bombing at Baghdad church
Churches take to YouTube, Instagram to spread holiday gospel
David Cameron says Britain should be 'grateful' to Christians
Disclaimer: The Good Book Company is not responsible for the content of external sites and does not necessarily agree with the content of articles listed.
If you’re anything like me, the new year brings a time of reflection. Whether you’re in to new year resolutions or not, it’s good to look back and see what has gone well in the past year and look forward, thinking about what could do with changing in the coming twelve months.
One area of my life that constantly disappoints is my prayer life. I’m acutely conscious that my prayers all too often tend to be vague, human-centred, irregular and offered on the assumption that I know what’s best for me and everyone around me. And I know I’m not the only one who struggles in areas like these!
So, in 2014 I’m not so much going to plan to pray as itch to pray. It’s a mnemonic – one you might like to use too. It goes like this. Let’s pray:... continue reading
