Arise

The first time I preached at Church in the Peak I focussed in on the words of 2 Timothy that say “God has not given us a Spirit of fear, but of Power and love and self-control. Therefore, let us not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord”. We are indeed in uncharted territory. Yet, I cannot help but have a deep sense of expectancy with this current season. Yes, it is different, difficult and hard. Many of us need all of the power, love and self-control that the Spirit can give us. But I really want to encourage us not to be afraid, but to press on. This is a perfect opportunity to grow in prayer and in the word. You can grow prophetically by simply sending texts to people. You can grow in evangelism via Facebook, text or letter writing. As I was praying for us as a church this morning the word “arise” kept coming to mind. I believe this is a time for us as a Church, both together and as individuals, to “arise”. Isaiah says “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.” I just want to encourage us all to press on with Jesus, and also with our fellowship with one another. Bless you all. Tom