Thought for the Month - July 2016

"Leave EU, forsake EU" by Barry Adair
(I will never leave you nor forsake you)

I woke up this morning to the news that the United Kingdom had voted in the Referendum to leave the European Union (EU). Those in the "Leave EU" camp, known as 'Beleavers', had triumphed over the 'Remainers'. In my work earlier today, many had expressed their shock at the outcome and there was an overall anxiety for the future. Checking social media later confirmed that this worry and deep concern was being expressed all across the globe, by ordinary people, world leaders and celebrities alike. In the space of a few hours there has been financial crises, resignations and chaos at the heart of British and European governments. As I thought about this momentous decision a few things entered my head, some of which I would like to share with you this month.

The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland entered the European Union (known as the EEC) back in 1973. Our time together with the other European countries has had its good times and its bad times, just like in a marriage. The UK vote to leave the EU effectively has started the long route to a final "divorce".

As I thought about this "Brexit" (British exit from the EU) and the anxiety shown by many, my mind immediately turned to a verse in the Bible (below)…

It is the LORD who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed. (Deut. 31:8)

If you remember, it was Moses who spoke these words to the Israelis who were about to venture into unknown territory (across the Jordan). And God was true to His Word too. What the Israelis accomplished across the Jordan could only have happened with supernatural assistance. Whether this Thought is being read by concerned Remainers or elated Beleavers or indifferent CouldntCareLessers, can I remind you that our unchangeable God is always there for His own…

I do not know what lies ahead,
The way I cannot see;
Yet One stands near to be my guide,
He'll show the way to me:

Can I suggest that many of those who are so anxious for the future are putting too much trust in man-made institutions, world leaders or governments, or indeed in their own finances? Remember that those in power are only in power at the behest of our Creator…

There is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. (Romans 13:1b)

Institutions will come and go, governments will come and go, treaties will come and go and world leaders will come and go, sometimes with great speed. But God is in control and if we submit to His will, we can even be a part of His plan, for His glory. God would want us to put our trust in Him and in His will. I don't know what the future holds - but I know who holds the future…

I know who holds the future,
And He'll guide me with His hand;
With God things don't just happen,
Everything by Him is planned.

I'm not advocating that you all would become 'Beleavers' but I wish that all would become Believers, believers in the God who created and upholds the world we live in…

…if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; (Romans 10:9)

All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out. (John 6:37)

Moving into unknown territory?
Go with Someone who has planned everything in advance!

So as I face tomorrow,
With its problems large and small,
I'll trust the God of miracles,
Give to Him my all.

Until next month (DV)…

Are you SURE that you have your place booked in Heaven? Read this if you're not!