No.20 - God is in control

God's love, grace and good plans for his people.

Verse of the Week

'This took place to fulfil what Jesus had said about the kind of death he was going to die.'

John 18:32

Jesus was being passed back and forth between the Jewish leaders and the Roman leader. It looks like they have all the power, it looks like they are in control of Jesus' life and death. But v32 shows us that, actually, God was in charge. He was using those who looked like they were in charge to carry out his will, and fulfil what Christ said would happen. How encouraging it is that when we feel completely out of control we don't need to worry because God is in control and it is his words that have the power.

Encouragements

I had a wonderfully encouraging time this week meeting up with a few friends to chat about our Sunday sermon. It was such a joy to hear about how God has been working in the lives of my friends. Specifically, it was great to hear about how God had helped them to worry less about the future and trust in his good plans more.

I also had the privilege of meeting up with some friends to chat about a Christian book and I was amazed at the love God shows towards his church. I particularly loved thinking about the fact that, because of the cross, God isn't angry at his people.

Near the start of the week, I got to spend a bit of time with Luci's side of the family. I found it encouraging to see how they have kept trusting in God and his plans through the highs and the lows of life. They were a real encouragement to keep putting Christ at the centre of our lives.

A Little Update

Here are a few of the things we've been up to and some of what we've got coming up.

The Past Week

The Next Few Weeks

Prayer Requests

We would love prayer that:

God would help us to keep trusting that he is in control and that he loves us, so that we can trust that whatever happens, is part of God's good plan and rejoice.

Sending many thanks for all your support and prayers. May the God of all blessings help you to fix your eyes on him.

Love and prayers to you all,

Joshua & Luci :)

P.S. - Here's another video I've made where I share some of the ways I have been delighted by Christ over the last week or two. I found it really encouraging thinking back over the week and delighting in all the different things I've learned about God. So I thought I'd share my reflections here with you :)