Dear Friends,

As I write this letter we are in the middle of all the latest turmoil over Brexit. The Prime Minister has been defeated in four parliamentary votes; people are calling for delays in leaving Europe, but no one seems to have a clear answer. It seems to be a time of utter confusion and virtually no leadership. It sounds very familiar to the scene described by the Psalmist in Psalm 2 “The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord and against his Anointed, saying, “Let us burst their bonds apart and cast away their cords from us.””

Western culture and particularly our nation seems to think that it can live without the One True Living God, who is clearly described in these verses. It seems that we want to throw off all restraint,
particularly that which is found in the Bible. Yet people do not understand the essence and the sweetness of God’s Word. Psalm 19 describes it in this way, “27. The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple” and then “10. More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover, by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward.”

God has given us His Word, both the written Word (The Bible) and the Living Word (The Lord Jesus Christ) with one intention, to show His love and care for us.When God’sWord and will are central to our lives then we know a measure of peace that is unparalleled in this world. It is not a peace without problems, but a peace in problems. We may reject the plans and purposes of God, but we make no jot of difference. Psalm 2 goes on to say, “24. He who sits in the heavens laughs; the Lord holds them in derision.” God’s position and attitude are unchanged. Isaiah speaking of God’s unchanging position writes,

It is he who sits above the circle of the earth, and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers; who stretches out the heavens like a curtain, and spreads them like a tent to dwell in. Isaiah 40:22

There is confusion in the world and sadly on so many occasions in the church, but the Creator, Saviour and Sustainer of this world reminds us that no one has dethroned Him yet. He is still enthroned on the circle of the earth and He will work His purposes out. Satan and society felt that they had completely re-written history when Jesus was nailed to the cross and laid in the grave, but God maintained His plans and His purposes raising Him from the dead. The God who knows the end from the beginning is unhindered and working His purposes out. At this time of confusion and uncertainty, it is vital that we remain focussed on His Power and purposes, living in obedience to HisWord, believing that He will fulfil His purposes for this earth that He has created; and will keep each of the people He has redeemed.

Confident in Him,

Bernard Lewis