Tag: peace

“Trusting in Providence: A Reflection on Matthew 6:25”

Rev. Cecil Thorn

Matthew 6:25 (KJV) in the King James Version reads:

“Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?”

In this version, Jesus is urging his followers not to be anxious about their basic needs, such as food, drink, and clothing, but to trust in God’s provision and prioritize spiritual matters over material concerns.

Matthew 6:25 (NIV) is part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, where he addresses the crowd, urging them not to worry about their lives, particularly regarding food and clothing. In this verse, Jesus tells his followers, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?” Here, Jesus emphasizes the importance of trusting in God’s provision and care, highlighting the fleeting nature of material possessions compared to the eternal value of life itself. He encourages a shift in focus from temporal concerns to spiritual priorities, reminding his audience of the greater purpose and meaning found in a life lived in alignment with God’s will.

Commentaries:

  1. Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible:
    Matthew Henry emphasizes the teaching of Jesus to trust in God’s providence. He suggests that Jesus is not forbidding prudent forethought or diligence in providing for our needs but rather discouraging anxious, distracting cares that interfere with our duty to God and our enjoyment of His blessings. Henry stresses that God, who provides life itself, will surely provide what is necessary to sustain it, and thus, worrying about material things is unnecessary and futile.
  2. Barnes’ Notes on the Bible:
    Barnes highlights the word “take no thought” and explains that it implies anxious care or distracting anxiety. He points out that Jesus is not forbidding prudent concern or industry in providing for our needs but is cautioning against excessive worry that detracts from our spiritual focus and trust in God. Barnes also notes the rhetorical question Jesus poses, emphasizing that life is far more valuable than mere sustenance, and if God provides life, He will surely provide what is needed to sustain it.

In conclusion, Matthew 6:25 (KJV) in the King James Version presents a powerful message from Jesus, urging his followers to prioritize spiritual matters over material concerns and to trust in God’s provision. Jesus emphasizes that life is more valuable than food and clothing, highlighting the fleeting nature of material possessions compared to the eternal significance of life itself. Commentaries such as Matthew Henry’s and Barnes’ Notes further elaborate on the importance of trusting in God’s providence and avoiding excessive worry, while also acknowledging the need for prudent concern and diligence in providing for our needs. Ultimately, Jesus’ words serve as a reminder to redirect our focus from temporal worries to spiritual priorities, finding peace and fulfillment in living in alignment with God’s will.

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Praying for God, Country and Individuals

Rev. Cecil Thorn

Praying for God, country, and individuals serves various purposes and is motivated by different aspects of faith and moral responsibility. Here are some reasons why people may choose to pray for these entities:

1. Connection with God:

   – Communion: Prayer is a means of communing with God, expressing gratitude, seeking guidance, and deepening one’s relationship with the divine.

  • “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” – Matthew 6:6 (NIV)
  • “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)

2. For the Country:

   – Peace and Well-being: Praying for the country often includes asking for peace, stability, and prosperity. Individuals may pray for their nation’s leaders, citizens, and overall welfare.

  • “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” – 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)
  • “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: ‘May those who love you be secure.'” – Psalm 122:6 (NIV)

   – Righteous Governance: People might pray for leaders to make just and wise decisions, following principles that align with ethical and moral values.

  • “When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan.” – Proverbs 29:2 (NIV)
  • “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” – 1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV)

3. For Individuals:

   – Healing and Comfort: Prayers for individuals often involve seeking healing, comfort, and strength during times of illness, distress, or sorrow.

  • “Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.” – James 5:14 (NIV)
  • “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3 (NIV)

   – Guidance and Wisdom: Individuals may pray for themselves and others to receive guidance, wisdom, and discernment in making important life decisions.

  • “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5 (NIV)
  • “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” – Psalm 32:8 (NIV)

4. Altruism and Compassion:

   – Empathy: Praying for others reflects a sense of empathy and compassion, recognizing the interconnectedness of all people and expressing a desire for their well-being.

  • “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2 (NIV)
  • “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” – Romans 12:15 (NIV)

   – Love and Care: Praying for individuals, including those we may not know personally, demonstrates a commitment to love, care, and support one another.

  • “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” – John 13:34 (NIV)
  • “And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” – Colossians 3:14 (NIV)

5. Aligning with Spiritual Values:

   – Seeking God’s Will: Praying for God involves aligning oneself with God’s will and seeking to be instruments of divine purpose in the world.

  • “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.” – 1 John 5:14 (NIV)
  • “Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.” – Psalm 143:10 (NIV)

   – Reflecting Virtues: Praying for the well-being of others reflects virtues such as kindness, humility, and selflessness, which are often central to various religious teachings.

  • “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” – Colossians 3:12 (NIV)
  • “Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” – Philippians 4:5 (NIV)

6. Promoting Unity and Harmony:

   – Unity in Diversity: Praying for a country and its people can promote a sense of unity and harmony, encouraging individuals to focus on shared values and common goals.

  • “So in Christ Jesus, you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” – Galatians 3:26-28 (NIV)
  • “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” – Ephesians 4:3 (NIV)

   – Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Prayers may include requests for forgiveness, reconciliation, and the healing of divisions within communities and nations.

  • “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” – Matthew 6:14 (NIV)
  • “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13 (NIV)

It’s important to note that the reasons for prayer is often seen as a way to express one’s faith, seek divine intervention, and contribute to the well-being of the broader community.

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Advent Season is just about upon us

Rev. Cecil Thorn

Now is the time to start preparing for this year advent season. We will be posting all the scripture reading, stories and crafts. So get out your advent wreath, dust it off and prepare for the Joy of this Advent season with your family.

Remember that Advent starts the day after Thanksgiving – Christmas

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Finding Peace in Times of Turmoil

Rev. Cecil Thorn

Introduction:
In times of turmoil, finding inner peace can be challenging. Let’s explore some scriptures that remind us of God’s presence and promise of peace.

Scripture 1: Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Reflection:
When we bring our worries to God in prayer, He promises to give us a peace that surpasses human comprehension. Take a moment to reflect on a situation causing you anxiety and offer it up to God in prayer.

Scripture 2: Isaiah 26:3
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you.”

Reflection:
Trusting in God and keeping our minds focused on Him brings about perfect peace. Consider areas in your life where you can redirect your thoughts to God’s faithfulness.

Scripture 3: John 14:27
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

Reflection:
Jesus offers us a unique kind of peace that the world cannot provide. Meditate on the idea of receiving Jesus’ peace and allowing it to calm your fears.

Conclusion:
In the midst of life’s chaos, remember that God’s peace is available to us through prayer, trust, and reliance on Him. As you go about your day, hold onto these verses and allow them to guide you to a place of tranquility.

Closing Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for your promise of peace in the midst of turmoil. Help us to trust in you and bring our worries to you in prayer. May your peace guard our hearts and minds as we navigate life’s challenges. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May this devotional bring you comfort and encouragement as you seek God’s peace.

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JOY

What do the scriptures tell us about Joy?

Wayne Thorn

Rev. Cecil W Thorn

In the New Testament letters, joy is a desired attribute of Christians. Paul expressed frequently the joy he had regarding the salvation of those he was writing to and prayed that they might be full of joy

JOY (שִׂמְחָה, simchah; χαρά, chara). Closely related to gladness and happiness, although joy is more a state of being than an emotion; a result of choice. One of the fruits of the spirit (Galatians 5:22–23(KJV)). Having joy is part of the experience of being a Christian.

Galatians 5:22–23 (ESV): 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

Romans 15:13 (MESSAGE): Oh! May the God of great hope fill you up with joy, fill you up with peace, so that your believing lives, filled with the life-giving energy of the Holy Spirit, will brim over with hope!

Hope=Joy+Peace

The fruit of the Spirit is … joy: One of the greatest marketing strategies ever employed was to position the kingdom of Satan as the place where the fun is and the kingdom of God as the place of gloom and misery. But the fruit of the Spirit is joy.

i. We could say that this is the joy of the Spirit because it is a higher joy than just the thrill of an exciting experience or a wonderful set of circumstances. It is a joy that can abide and remain, even when circumstances seem terrible. Paul knew this joy personally; he could sing when manacled in a dark prison dungeon (Acts 16:25).

Acts 16:25 (KJV): 25 And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.

ii. Barclay on chara, the ancient Greek word used here for joy: “It is not the joy that comes from earthly things, still less from triumphing over someone else in the competition. It is a joy whose foundation is God.”

iii. “Believers are not dependent upon circumstances. Their joy comes not from what they have, but from what they are; not from where they are, but from whose they are; not from what they enjoy, but from that which was suffered for them by their Lord.” (Spurgeon)

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