When we are in a season of prosperity, happiness, and wellbeing, it can be easy to feel invincible, like nothing can touch us. But what happens when that season suddenly comes to a halt and we find ourselves blindsided by life?

Recently, I experienced this through an unexpected health diagnosis. It came out of the blue and sent me spiralling, searching for answers and reassurance in all the wrong places. Instead of resting, I found myself turning to Google rather than leaning into God’s presence.

How often do we do this? We believe we can figure things out on our own instead of turning first to the One who holds all wisdom. Scripture reminds us: “Lean not on your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge Him.”

My prayer for us as a church community is that when life shifts us out of the season we’re in—when uncertainty, fear, or hardship appears—we would run to Jesus first. Before leaning on man, before trusting our limited understanding, may we rest in God, who already knows the way forward.

The first Sunday of the year Jez spoke to us about what God had placed on our hearts for this year. I felt hopeful and positive. Within three days I'd received news of an issue against me and the rug was pulled from under my feet. I was thoroughly shaken up. It took me a day or so to process. I had to make a choice. I chose to stand still and trust God.

There is nothing I can do in this particular situation. God's word says "The Lord gives strength to His people and the Lord blesses His people with peace". Psalm 29 v 11. I chose to believe that I can stand in God's strength and receive peace. It also says in Exodus 14 v 14 "The Lord will fight for you, you need only to be still". I chose to believe that God will fight this situation and bring about the best outcome and I do not need to fight myself.

The situation still hasn't changed. But neither has God. His promises are true for me and for you. We can hand over our battles to Him.

Matthew 12:21 NIV

In his name the nations will put their hope.

His name ...

I love to worship and when I think of this verse I think of the song 'Build My Life' by Patt Barrett.

Jesus the name above every other name. Jesus the only one who can ever save ...

Jesus is the name above all names. His name carries authority. When we speak the name of Jesus the enemy has to flee. Miracles happen when we speak his name.

Hope ...

Sharing stories of God's goodness brings hope. Sharing about how he has changed a life around brings hope. Sharing of a miracle brings hope.

Let us be active in sharing testimonies this year in church and to those around us.

His fame must spread. We mustn't hide it.

Jesus is truly amazing and has been there for me time and time again. When I’m in despair or unsure of what to pray, I find deep comfort in simply speaking to Him.

He has turned my life around—restored my marriage, surrounded me with meaningful friendships, and blessed me in countless other ways.

My life is a living testimony that the name of Jesus stands above every name.

“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory,the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14

This passage is well known and is pretty short and not complicated, but is so full of mystery, wonder and hope!

I am currently drawn to the last 5 words, “full of grace and truth.” How amazing that God came to us in this manor! How amazing that God embodies grace and truth in his relationship with us!

In Jesus ministry he so clearly demonstrated grace and truth in action. He would always speak truth; about himself, about people, about God, about the devil, about the times they were living in and what the future would hold. And at the same time as sharing, often difficult truths with people, he would show such grace!

I am challenged in 2 ways:

1. To seek God & listen to the truth he wants to speak over me, about me and about the situations I’m in, knowing that however hard the truth may be to hear, he is full of grace towards me.

2. To speak the truth to and about others, in an appropriate and grace-filled manor.

God of grace and truth, lead us into all truth and empower us to be truth speakers, always speaking with grace. Amen.