News

Homeowners affected by a cheap version of concrete have held a protest outside Holyrood calling for compensation.

The aurora borealis was visible around the world on Friday night, stunning photographers everywhere.

Watch the moment the "commentators curse" strikes as England's Heather Knight falls for 49 in the first T20 International against Pakistan at Edgbaston.

Teenage boy dies in hospital after River Nene rescue.

Fort McMurray residents in neighbouring Alberta, Canada are also under an evacuation alert due to a blaze.

The Israeli military tells thousands of Palestinians to leave the city as it expands its military operation.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been welcomed by a charity which helps service personnel in Nigeria.

Missed the Northern lights last night? Don't worry, there will be another opportunity to see them tonight. Here's how.

The singer, Joost Klein, had been among the favourites to win the contest in Malmö, Sweden.

The tennis player was accidentally struck in the head with a hard bottle that fell from a fan's backpack.

An officer is shot with a crossbow and a man is stabbed in a "serious assault and weapons incident".

A parental advocacy group has unveiled documents relating to a "Gender Support Process and Plan" being implemented by an Illinois boarding school that encourages staff to keep a student's social gender transition a secret from parents or guardians.  #Illinois #parentalrights #education #genderidentity #LGBT #IllinoisMathandScienceAcademy

A private Evangelical college in Indiana has dismissed a professor following opposition from critics upset with his past social media posts, which voiced support for same-sex marriage and declared that his pronouns were "he/they." #GraceCollege #Indiana #woke #Warner #Christianschool #cancelculture

Four consecutive verses in the Book of Revelation describe unbelievers on Earth having the mark of the beast on their right hand or forehead, and believers in Heaven having God's name tattooed on their forehead. So, are these verses to be interpreted literally or symbolically? #MarkoftheBeast #tattoo #symbolism #bornagain #redemption #HolyTrinity #millennium #apocalypse

Columbia University caved to the mob and let the unruly anti-Israel radicals on campus win. #ColumbiaUniversity #Israel #Hamas #Palestine #NYPD #graduation #BlackLivesMatter #JoeBiden #antisemitism

No, with the deepest respect, I cannot agree with Pastor Livingston’s view. It reflects a limited understanding of the mission of God’s Kingdom and the expansive nature of our Lord’s redemption message. #LoranLivingston #DonaldTrump #Bible #politics #GodblesstheUSABible #GodsKingdom #churchandpolitics #trumpBible

What out-of-touch faith leaders, like MacArthur, fail to understand is that resiliency to overcome the symptoms of combat trauma is more than spiritual. #JohnMacArthur #PTSD #mentalhealth

And though its leaders and band of followers would deny it, a close examination shows that this Christian Nationalism is not a biblical movement at all. It is the flip side of the woke left. #ChristianNationalism #woke #Kinism #racism #AndrewTorba #antisemitism #oppressedvsoppressor #DEI #LGBTQ

A United Nations watchdog organization published a series of chat room posts by Palestinians purportedly accusing U.N. Relief and Works Agency staff members of stealing humanitarian aid intended for civilians and selling it or hoarding it in their homes. #UNRWA #Israel #Gaza #UnitedNations #Palestine

Rapid-fire releases and fast pace of modern life elevate diss war to levels unparalleled in hip-hop history.

Police said two protesters hit the glass around the historic document with a hammer and chisel.

Two men have been arrested on suspicion of murder, West Midlands Police say.

England bowler James Anderson, one of the greatest bowlers of all time, confirms he will retire this summer.

England bowler James Anderson, one of the greatest bowlers of all time, confirms he will retire this summer.

Labour's leadership is bouncing - but there are plenty of potential pitfalls between Starmer and No 10.

A network led by seven humanitarian organizations is working to convince American faith-based donors to shift their support away from funding for orphanages to focus on family-strengthening initiatives.

Newton's words, and the classical Christian theology underlying them thus provide us with a great promise. However, they also provide a great challenge to us and to other people known to us. The challenge is whether we really are members of the city of God.

K.P. Yohannan, the founder and director of Gospel for Asia and the metropolitan of the Believers Eastern Church, has died of a cardiac arrest at the age of 74.

Singer and TV host Dannii Minogue on how Kylie convinced her to do The X Factor, her battles with the press and her new show I Kissed a Girl.

Muslim worshippers at the mosque on Friday said they viewed Chora Church's rededication as an Islamic site to be a national win for Turkey.

Many Christians celebrated when two Onlyfans girls turned from porn to Christ recently, but why have they been met with a barrage of criticism online?

Actor Brian Cox is up for a Bafta TV Award alongside several fellow Scots.

Heavy rains wreak havoc in southern Brazil, leaving many homeless and raising fears of further chaos.

Report says it is "reasonable to assess" there have been breaches in Gaza, but admits it does not have "complete information".

Report says it is "reasonable to assess" there have been breaches in Gaza, but admits it does not have "complete information".

Kaylan Hippsley's family call his killer's less than seven-year sentence "disgusting".

Analysis from the Department of Education suggests there are not enough places at integrated post-primary schools to meet demand in Northern Ireland.

BBC Analysis editor Ros Atkins looks at what what is being done to prevent minors seeing harmful content.

As the nation reels from the Bondi Junction stabbings, what can be done to shift behaviour?

When you find yourself wanting to crumble in the mess rather than praise, remember this: God has called you and equipped you for this season.

A power firm says it is not aware of any safety incidents involving people hanging items on lampposts.

A selection of striking images from around the world, taken over the past seven days.

Former, current and would-be foreign secretaries set out their pitch for Britain and the world.

A conservationist is on a mission to keep a Welsh island a sanctuary for native red squirrels.

He was convicted in 2022 for not co-operating with a congressional committee probing the capitol riot.

Steve Bannon, the right-wing media personality-turned-Trump adviser, may be heading to prison.

Hundreds of young people in the UK take their first puff each day. Is that why a ban is planned?

A look at some of the most eye-catching performers, ahead of the grand final on Saturday night.

Advocates of physician-assisted suicide lobbied lawmakers in New York Tuesday to pass legislation that would make it legal for terminally ill patients to request and use medication to end their lives but many local leaders in the Catholic Church and health experts oppose the idea. #Physicianassistedsuicide #NewYork #Church

Rare solar storm could trigger phenomenon as far south as Alabama, experts say.

In the country's most secular state, tiny congregations have made a big impact by their disaster response. For weeks, Tárik Rodriguez had been working on bringing a guest preacher and worship leader from across the country to help his church celebrate its third anniversary. In 2021, Rodriguez and a small team launched Viela da Graça Igreja in Novo Hamburgo, a small city in Brazil’s most southern province, Rio Grande do Sul. Then, it started raining. The floods have done more than interrupt the small Reformed congregation’s celebratory plans. They’ve devastated the community. The storms that began at the end of April struck Rio Grande do Sul’s most densely populated areas and have killed at least 116 people. Around 130 people are still missing. The high water has closed roads and even the airport, which has grounded flights until May 30. As of Friday, May 10, nearly 400,000 people have been displaced from their homes and 70,772 are in public shelters. Some of those have found their way to Viela da Graça, which is located on higher ground and has been largely protected from a water breach. Since May 4, Rodriguez and members of the 75-person congregation have been hosting around 50 people in a two-bathroom, 3,500-square-foot building. “As Christians, we needed to open our doors,” Rodriguez says. “And that’s what we did.” Beyond the bathroom constraints, the situation has been less than ideal. There are frequent power cuts (1.2 million people have been affected by outages) and the building has lost access to both running and potable water because the sanitation company cannot treat the dirty floodwaters. A nearby residential condominium, which gets its water from a well, has provided drinking water and showers.Continue reading...

The former US president's youngest child, 18, has "prior commitments", according to his mother.

Joshua Sutcliffe, who has been banned from his profession in the U.K. for allegedly misgendering a trans-identifying student, said that God has sustained him through his ordeal and that he remains hopeful. #JoshuaSutcliffe #UnitedKingdom #England #transgender

Patients say the device allows them to reduce the number of hospital visits involved in cancer care.

More couples are choosing to get married on a weekday in order to save money.

Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently seemed to suggest he supports allowing abortion up until the moment of birth, prompting outrage from pro-life groups and concerns of insincerity among progressives in light of his previous moderate rhetoric on the issue.  #Abortion #2024presidentialelection #RobertFKennedy #Jr #SusanBAnthonyProLifeAmerica #SageSteele

The controversial iPad ad proves that technology can indeed flatten—or crush—what is real. A recent advertisement from Apple for the new iPad Pro has somehow managed to existentially disturb me. Titled “Crush!” it shows an ominous hydraulic press above a platform filled with symbols of humanity, creativity, and joy: a metronome, guitar, classical statue, piano, analog cameras, books, paint, and more. The metronome starts, and the press descends to Sonny & Cher’s “All I Need Is You,” slowly obliterating everything in high-def slow motion, before rising again to reveal only a “thinner than ever” iPad Pro. “Just imagine all the things it’ll be used to create,” Apple CEO Tim Cook posted on the social platform X. I am not alone in my revulsion. Actors Hugh Grant and Justine Bateman join me, as do apparently thousands of vocal people on the Internet and what appears to be the entire nation of Japan. The backlash, particularly from the “creatives” that Apple was courting for their product, was so pronounced that the company issued a rare apology, saying they had “missed the mark.” But what mark did they miss? More than missing just the tastes of their buyers, they missed the mark of reality—both of the creative process and of the goodness of the embodied nature that is essential to our humanity. I see why Apple produced the ad. There is tremendous economic incentive for tech corporations to replace previous, more embodied experiences and tools. Apple Music will never scratch like the fragile grooves of a vinyl record (also, it contains most of the recorded music in the world). GarageBand can’t go out of tune (and its digital “instruments” can mimic the entire orchestra). One can “paint” all day on ...Continue reading...

Watch live coverage and follow text and radio commentary from the opening T20 between England and Pakistan at Edgbaston.

President Joe Biden has faced criticism from Republicans and Democrats after he promised to withhold an arms shipment to Israel if the U.S. ally invaded Rafah in Gaza to launch an assault against a Hamas military stronghold. #Israel #JoeBiden #Bidenadministration #Rafah #Hamas #Gaza #Israel #Fetterman #LindseyGraham #MikeJohnson

Over 1,600 individuals publicly declare their faith at The Church of Eleven22's record-breaking beach baptism.

And what’s happening at Eurovision?

If he had known that the crying he heard at Lumber River State Park on April 27 was that of a woman who was about to take her life, Johnnie Jacobs believes he would have tried to help. Jacobs now regrets not checking to see what was going on before he heard a gunshot when Pastor John-Paul Miller’s late wife, Mica Miller, decided to kill herself. #MicaMiller #JohnPaulMiller #Suicide

K.P. Yohannan, who founded Gospel for Asia with the goal of evangelizing the continent through native missionaries, died May 8, one day after being struck by an automobile on his morning walk.

The same studio that released the 2023 box office hit Sound of Freedom and the 2024 critically acclaimed film Cabrini unveiled a new slate of projects Thursday and pledged to continue to transform how movies and television series are made.

For many Christians who struggle with clinical depression and anxiety, the pressure to always appear joyful can exacerbate anxious feelings and despair, according to Jason Jimenez, founder of Stand Strong Ministries.  #JoAnnaDias #Depression #Anxiety #Christians #Hope #Faith #Church #MentalIllness #MentalHealthCrisis

Assisting Russell Brand's baptism was a "privilege", survival TV star Bear Grylls has said.

Until recently Eurovision was a jolly and undemanding evening, showcasing European solidarity. Good fun, all round! Fast forward to 2024, and a rather different picture emerges.

Matthew Warner, who had tweeted about gay marriage, is the latest in a string of Christian college faculty who have lost their jobs after being accused of theological misalignment. With glowing performance reviews and above-average student evaluations, by most measures Matthew Warner’s first year as a communications professor at Grace College was a triumph. But he spent most of that first year knowing it could be his last. After four months on the job, Warner was informed by the school’s president, Drew Flamm, that the board had “come to the conclusion that we don’t think it works out to move forward,” according to a recording obtained by Religion News Service. Warner’s termination is the latest in a string of professor terminations at Christian colleges seemingly tied to clashes over narrowing and often unspoken political and theological criteria. While Flamm didn’t specify the reasons for Warner’s dismissal, it was preceded by an online termination campaign clear about its goals. Launched by conservative influencers and Grace College stakeholders, the campaign demanded Warner’s removal due to his social media posts about LGBTQ rights, Black Lives Matter, and critiques of the GOP. Almost all the posts predated Warner’s employment at the college. Grace College declined to answer questions about Warner, saying it was a personnel matter. “Dr. Matt Warner fulfilled his agreement for the year. Grace College wishes Dr. Warner well in his future endeavors,” Norm Bakhit, Grace College’s chief officer of human resources, told RNS in a statement. Flamm did not offer further comment. Warner and his wife said they both left behind jobs and sold their home in metro Detroit to move with their three kids to Warsaw, Indiana, for Warner’s job at Grace. It was his dream position, they said, and noted that they gave up 60 percent of their ...Continue reading...

Aaron Renn outlines individual, institutional, and missional strategies for adapting to a hostile culture. Rarely does an essay cause such a stir as Aaron Renn’s “The Three Worlds of Evangelicalism.” Published in First Things in 2022, Renn’s framework for describing Christianity’s fall into cultural disfavor since the 1960s elicited a wide range of responses, from wholehearted agreement to sympathetic skepticism to vociferous disagreement, and seemingly everything in between. Renn’s essay categorizes the recent history of evangelicalism in the United States into three periods, or worlds. In the positive world, Christianity was in a position of cultural dominance; most Americans, even those who were not particularly religious, recognized the importance of Christianity to the country’s collective moral fabric. In the neutral world, the broader culture came to see Christianity not as uniquely good, but still as a belief system and worldview doing more good than harm. Since the early 2010s—the dates themselves, Renn admits, are not binding—evangelicalism has been in the negative world. Here, culture and its elites are inherently suspicious of evangelical Christianity, especially when it challenges or conflicts with emerging, more attractive ideologies. Christians in the negative world, according to Renn, will encounter resistance to previously acceptable beliefs and behaviors. This resistance could take many forms, from simple yet pronounced disagreement all the way to the dreaded C-word: cancellation. Less than two years after his essay, Renn’s book, Life in the Negative World: Confronting Challenges in an Anti-Christian Culture, updates and elaborates on his framework and provides tangible resources for Christians concerned about this cultural transformation. Renn’s ...Continue reading...

Parents in England can now access 15 hours of free weekly childcare for their two-year-olds.

It will be the league's first team outside of the US, according to Canadian media reports.

Robertson said his father’s conversion to Christianity decades ago forever changed the trajectory of his family, positing what would have happened had it never unfolded.

John Sanqiang Cao shares how hand-copied Bible verses, prayers, and a mother’s love buoyed him during his imprisonment. When pastor John Sanqiang Cao, 64, crossed the border back into China from Myanmar’s Wa State on March 5, 2017, Chinese officials were waiting to arrest him. For years, he had traveled across the porous border from Yunnan Province to the impoverished Wa State, where he founded more than 20 schools, established drug rehabilitation centers, and provided medicine, books, school supplies, and Bibles to locals. Wa State is part of the notorious “Golden Triangle,” one of the world’s largest producers of methamphetamine. Yet the courts in Yunnan sentenced Cao to seven years in prison for allegedly “organizing illegal border crossings,” a crime usually applied to human traffickers. His case garnered widespread attention as Cao’s wife and two sons are US citizens, and Cao has permanent residency in the US. While he could have applied for US citizenship, Cao decided to keep his Chinese passport so that he could return to China for ministry work. He split his time between pastoring a Chinese church in North Carolina and training Chinese house church leaders and mobilizing them to do missions. Various international religious freedom groups and US lawmakers have long advocated for his release. In 2019, the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention concluded that Cao was targeted due to his Christian faith. Chinese authorities released Cao on March 5 after he finished serving his sentence. Four police officers escorted him to his hometown of Changsha, where he is now subjected to supervision and “thought reform” by the local government for five years. CT spoke with Cao about his time in prison, the Bible verses that sustained him, his views on persecution, how it feels to be released to ...Continue reading...

K.P. Yohannan, the founder and director of Gospel for Asia and the Metropolitan of the Believers Eastern Church, has died of a cardiac arrest at the age of 74. #KPYohannan #GospelforAsia #Metropolitan #BelieversEasternChurch #obituary #India #Texas #Evangelical #Missions

Piper pointed out that Satan’s influence is evident from Genesis to Revelation, adding that the Bible is clear concerning the nature of the devil and how he is a hindrance to humanity’s spiritual journey.

The statue was cut off at the ankles and hauled away from a park in Wichita in January.

Missouri has passed a law stopping public funds like Medicaid from going to Planned Parenthood and other abortion providers operating in the state. The nation's largest abortion provider pushed back on the new law, saying it serves "nearly half of all patients who rely on family planning safety-net providers in the state." #PlannedParenthood #Missouri #defund #abortion #reproductivehealthcare #prolife

Drake and Kendrick Lamar’s rivalry reveals our craving for controversy—and what’s lost when community is based on shared hatred, not love. This piece was adapted from Russell Moore’s newsletter. Subscribe here. Not since Tupac died have we seen the country quite as fixated on a feud between rappers. Over the past several weeks, artists Drake and Kendrick Lamar kept the news cycle abuzz with their dueling diss tracks—ridiculing each other in trivial matters of height and weight and popularity before getting nastier with implications of secret love children and the possible grooming of minors. As the lyrics amped up, police even investigated whether the argument was related to a shooting of a security guard outside Drake’s home in Toronto. For most people, though, the feud didn’t seem dangerous; it just seemed fun. And that’s what worries me. I am far from qualified to judge who the better artist is between Drake and Lamar. My dogs were named Waylon and Willie, but, come to think of it, the Outlaws wrote a diss track or two themselves. Even so, if this were just a story about musicians’ egos battling, it could be quickly forgotten. The greater concern is not that these two artists have diss tracks, but that we are all living in one ourselves. Drake and Lamar obviously do have some genuine dislike of each other. I share sarcastic barbs with a good friend sometimes, but I’ve never accused him of being a pedophile or of neglecting his child support. And yet, it also seems that much of this feud is theatrical—meant to mutually benefit them both. After all, the question in the music industry press right now is not whether restraining orders will be sought but whose tracks are beating whose on the charts. The truth is, no matter who is “winning” or “losing” in that competition, both are winning. People ...Continue reading...

Two young women were slightly wounded when a mob of Muslims on Sunday assaulted a group of 15 students engaged in a Catholic ritual prayer at a rented house in Banten Province, on the Indonesian island of Java, sources said. #Indonesia #Muslimmob #Java #catholicstudentsattacked

Female student-athletes who protested a court decision invalidating a law requiring athletes to compete on sports teams that match their biological sex can continue to participate in track meets, a judge has ruled. #LGBT #Transgender #WestVirginia #WomensSports

Five babies have died from the infection amid a rise in cases in the UK.

The effort to place a proposed constitutional amendment on the ballot in New York that would establish a right to abortion has been put on hold following a judge's ruling. #Abortion #NewYork #EqualRightsAmendment #2024election

As Christians, we should draw encouragement, however, from the fact that we face a situation remarkably analogous to the one that confronted our first-century spiritual ancestors. #God #Christian #sin

Therefore, says the rabbi, the very safety of Jews (and others) is put at risk when the Christian faith is undermined in America. #Palestine #antiIsrael #antisemitism #Israel #Hamas #JudeoChristian #revival

Someone I care about routinely overspends with the justification it will help “grow his business.” The effort to give an impression of success is causing him significant financial stress: a new car, a Swiss watch, expensive clothes, etc. How would you address the situation? #Overspending #financialstress #luxury #affluence #middleincome #Heaven

Why did God choose the people of Israel to be a “royal priesthood” and a “holy nation” (Exodus 19:5)? #SovereigntyofGod #Israel #election #salvation #Jews #gentiles #promise

Whether linguistically, culturally or medically, motherhood is being attacked. #Motherhood #genders #male #biology #pregnancy #abortion #PlannedParenthood #feminism #prolife

Around 100 people professed faith in Jesus at worship services held in wildfire-ravaged Hawaii last week, the culmination of Harvest Christian Fellowship's "Hope for Lahaina" outreach efforts to share the hope of Christ with a community devastated by the deadliest wildfire in the United States in over a century.  #GregLaurie #HarvestChristianFellowship #Hawaii #Wildfires #Lahaina #MauiCountry #Evangelical #Evangelism #Megachurch

How the health of the economy is measured, and why the GDP calculation matters.

Controversial televangelist Benny Hinn said his two "biggest regrets" in his decades-long ministry include promoting prophesies he now admits "were not accurate or from the Lord" and pushing "prosperity theology".

A recession means the UK economy has shrunk for two three-month periods - or quarters - in a row.

In a first for the US, two Virginia schools will have their original Confederate names reinstated.

Israeli leader says his country will "stand alone" and "fight with fingernails" if shipments are halted.

BBC Wales' Lucy Owen on her mum's regrets at taking no notice of bowel cancer test offers.

Rescuers unable to recover bodies immediately due to harsh conditions in "very serious terrain".

The star kicks off the latest leg of her tour in Paris, adding new songs and cutting some favourites.

Roger Fortson - who was armed - was fatally shot by officers responding to a disturbance call at his home.

Experts say the star witness's answers were sometimes useful - and other times completely irrelevant.

Lawyers tell the BBC people infected after September 1991 should be allowed to claim compensation.

Tanya Shepherd has received pioneering blood treatment to prevent her body rejecting her new hands.

The champion of “native missions” trained more than 100,000 evangelists but got in trouble for financial mismanagement. Athanasius Yohannan, who built one of the world’s largest mission organizations on the idea that Western Christians should support “native missionaries” but got in trouble for financial irregularities and dishonest fundraising, died on May 8. He was 74 and got hit by a car while walking along the road near his ministry headquarters in Texas. Born Kadapilaril Punnoose Yohannan and known for most of his ministry as K. P., Yohannan founded Gospel for Asia in 1979. Over the next 45 years, the organization trained more than 100,000 people to preach the gospel and plant and pastor churches in India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and other places in Southeast Asia, according to a recent ministry report. Gospel for Asia raised as much as $93 million in a year and in 2005 reported it was supporting about 14,500 indigenous evangelists and pastors in same-culture and near-culture ministry. Christians in the US were asked to give $30 per month to support them. “If we evangelize the world’s lost billions … it will be through native missions,” Yohannan wrote for CT. “The native missionary is far more effective than the expatriate. The national already knows the language and is already part of the culture. In many instances, he or she can go places where outsiders cannot go.” Yohannan’s death was mourned by Gospel for Asia, the church that he started and served as metropolitan bishop, and prominent political leaders in India. “He will be remembered for his service to society and emphasis on improving the quality of life of the downtrodden,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on social media. “May his soul rest in peace.” Both the governor of Kerala and the ...Continue reading...

A new exhibit at the American Museum of Natural History features jewellery from some of the genre's biggest names

Dennis Quaid didn’t need to be coaxed into portraying Ronald Reagan as part of a biopic film scheduled for an August release.

The California Coastal Commission says a longboarding contest must allow a transgender surfer to participate in the women's division.

Robert F Kennedy Jr could steal votes from main parties.

Fear is a powerful force that can paralyze even the most gifted individuals. In the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30), we see how the first two servants multiplied the talents that God entrusted to them, but fear prevented the third servant from multiplying his talents. How often do we, like him, allow fear to stifle our potential? It's heartbreaking to think about how fear can shut down the genuine gifts that God has given us. Yet, many of us can relate to this feeling of being held back by fear, whether it's fear of failure, rejection, or the unknown. We've all had moments where fear has ruled our thoughts, keeping us from stepping into our calling. Here's the beautiful truth: we are not alone in our struggle against fear. We can support one another through our fears and uncertainties as a community. That's why reaching out for help is crucial when fear threatens to hold us back. Resources are available to help us break free from the grip of fear. The consequences of succumbing to fear are severe. The parable’s third servant was labeled wicked and lazy because he allowed fear to prevent him from multiplying his talents. In this context, laziness isn't just about physical inactivity but also includes procrastination, hesitancy, and a lack of ambition. So, how do we combat this spirit of laziness and fear? It starts with recognizing the signs—lethargy, apathy, hesitation, among others—and taking proactive steps to overcome them. Have you ever hesitated to act on an idea only to watch someone else seize the opportunity? This is what happens when we allow fear to hold us back. Here's the good news: we no longer have to live in fear anymore. By the grace of God and the strength of the Holy Spirit, we can push past our fears and fulfill our calling. We're not meant to rely on our own strength but on the power of God working through us. As we lean into faith and trust in God's grace, we unlock our potential to multiply our gifts for His glory. We can do this together, supporting each other, and being fearless when our calling seems greater than our natural ability. Our natural abilities pale in comparison to the power of God working within us. Thank God! When we align our desires with God's purpose for our lives, we become vessels for His glory, capable of achieving far beyond what we could ever imagine. Again - thank you, God!!!  So, let's cast off the chains of fear and embrace the freedom that comes from trusting in God's plan for our lives.    Click Here To Get Your Free Key to Hope on Overcoming Fear

Controversial televangelist Benny Hinn said his two “biggest regrets” in his decades-long ministry include promoting prophecies he now admits “were not accurate or from the Lord” and pushing “prosperity theology." #BennyHinn #prophecy #prosperitygospel

The war of words between the rappers include serious allegations - here's what you need to know.

Six years after the famous evangelist’s passing, a statue of Billy Graham will be unveiled in the U.S. Capitol next week as part of a ceremony and honor bestowed upon few Americans.

The Robeson County Sheriff's Office in North Carolina confirmed that Mica Miller committed suicide after she called and told authorities that she would do so after purchasing a handgun.

I’m learning that motherhood is less about technique and more about wisdom and formation. Almost six months ago, I had my first baby. Ever since, I’ve been thinking about sleep: how long; how deep; whether it’s happening in a car, on a walk, in a lap. And I’ve been thinking about how to achieve that sleep faithfully, honoring both the dignity of my baby and my duty as a mom. For many new parents, sleep is a controversy, a series of choices that open you up to criticism. Some parents put their baby in bed with them. (Dangerous!) Others opt for a bassinet. (Cold-hearted!) Some use a pacifier. (Problematic.) Others don’t. (Equally problematic.) In the newborn months, night feedings are necessary. The controversial faith-based program Baby Wise, promising full nights of sleep at only seven weeks, has therefore been condemned by pediatricians. But even as their babies grow, some parents continue to respond to every whimper. Loving, they proclaim. Unrealistic, say their opponents. And ultimately, not good for the baby! Others choose to “sleep train,” putting their baby down awake so that they’ll learn to fall asleep on their own. This often involves crying. Worth it, parents insist. Selfish, say their critics. And ultimately, not good for the baby! If you’ve cared for an infant in 2024 and successfully avoided sleep debates, I commend you. I have not. In part, because of Instagram. Also, because I needed information. My baby seemed tired all the time, and yet his eyes simply would not close. How could I help him rest? I read some curriculum; I watched some videos; I browsed blogs; I talked to friends. Over time, I learned some strategies. We sang lullabies. We purchased blackout curtains and overnight diapers. We used a swaddle, then a “sleep suit,” then a “sleep ...Continue reading...

Long-shot campaign needs 15,000 signatures for the chance to get on the ballot. Eye-catching election placards are popping up across the European Union. They appear overnight in public squares and in front of train stations, along the Autobahn and the Champs-Élysées and many lesser-known rues, strassen, and calles. With bright colors and bold slogans, each promises to make a difference in the European Parliament, if only passersby will vote for their party in the upcoming election. “Make Europe strong,” says one. “Make it happen,” urges another. And there’s a new slogan for a new party in Spain: “United in values, guided by faith.” The sign asks people to vote for Fe, Infancia, Educación, y Libertad (Faith, Childhood, Education, and Liberty) or FIEL, a new, explicitly evangelical Christian party. The party’s candidate for the European Parliament may not actually appear on ballots in June, though. Before Juan José Cortés can stand for election, FIEL needs 15,000 signatures by May 12. “We are at a crucial moment,” party president Salvador Martí wrote in a recent campaign letter. “Your signature is essential so that we can continue in the battle, and so that together we can work for a better future for all.” Martí acknowledges this is an uphill battle. Many experts say it’s basically impossible to build a new party from scratch out of a tiny religious minority. Evangelicals make up about 2 percent of the Spanish population. There are fewer than 5,000 evangelical congregations in the whole country, even with the recent increase in evangelical immigrants. “We do not want to settle for the obstacles that say that it is not possible to build a party built by citizens like you and me ...Continue reading...

The rate at which prices are rising has dropped from record highs, but remains above the 2% target.

America has forgotten that core truth and we wonder at the raging lawlessness swamping civilized order. #Arizona #abortion #Dobbs #prolife #KatieHobbs #pregnancy #civilrights #Biden

Christian parents should be determined to help their children fulfill their God-given destiny on earth by teaching and directing them early enough to become instruments in the hands of God. #Thedevil #transgender #kids #GreatCommission #zeal #children #missionaries #evangelism

With recent shootings in public places and in churches, the question of self-defense has been coming up lately. #Selfdefense #vengeance #violence #gunviolence #pacifism #aggression #guns

Do not let the siren song of utopian ideals lure you into a system that has caused so much pain and suffering — no matter how cool the confused world manages to make it look. #Communism #suffering #Marxism #equality #capitalism #TheColdWar #SovietUnion #KarlMarx

There was a study done with 10,000 churches where they studied the characteristics of a disciple and the number one characteristic was... #Quiettime #prayer #devotion #fellowship #discipleship #planning #challenges #disciple #God

Christian urban designers and developers explain how their faith affects their work—and how their work affects your faith. The design of our communities shapes how we interact with one another, love one another, and grow with one another. But who shapes those communities? In a broad sense, we all do. Our choices of where and how to live, learn, work, and worship collectively influence the market, ministry decisions, and what feels “right” and “normal.” But some professions—city planners, urban designers, architects, and real estate developers—take a larger and more direct role in creating our cities and neighborhoods. And for many Christians in these industries, faith guides their construction of spaces for community flourishing. Where we live can echo both the creation and redemption yet to come (Rom. 8:18–25). These places can foster deep, lasting community in a fragmented world, four Christians in these industries told me, and the local church can be a model of inviting, appealing design. The pillars of good urban design—beauty, function, community building, accessibility—are more than fads or human preferences. They’re a foretaste of the redeemed earth, a signpost pointing us toward a better way of living. And it shouldn’t be lost on us, said Chris Elisara, chair of the Congress for New Urbanism Members Christian Caucus, that the world to come isn’t described as a garden or a quaint village but as a city (Rev. 22:3). “As we participate in kingdom building,” he told me, “it culminates with [that] city description in Revelation. And that’s where God dwells with his people again.” Accordingly, more mundane “kingdom building” through city planning and urban design shouldn’t be thoughtless, out of touch, ...Continue reading...

Thursday 9th May is Ascension Day, which is a public holiday in many countries. This is the story.

Opal, 18 months, can now hear - even a whisper - after becoming the first person to try a new treatment.

Rev. Glenn Germany of the Jesus' Dwelling Place Church in North Braddock, Pa., just outside of Pittsburgh, was preaching Sunday when a man walked into the center aisle and pointed a gun at Germany, who was standing only a few feet away. Although the man tried to fire the weapon, it did not discharge.

A leading NHS boss says firms are deliberately targeting areas where nurses are in short supply.

Tornadoes were first reported after Tuesday night in parts of Michigan, Indiana and Ohio, while portions of Illinois, Kentucky and Missouri were also under a tornado watch, per the National Weather Service. The storms arrived a day after one severe twister ripped through an Oklahoma town.

More than 16,000 military personnel took part in the practice drills in the Philippines and South China Sea.

Severe storms damaged multiple buildings and trapped dozens in a Michigan FedEx facility.

Unperturbed by debates over the book’s relationship to modern thought, she helps us appreciate its marriage of literary structure and theological claims. In her latest book, Reading Genesis, Marilynne Robinson insists that modern readers have largely misunderstood the literary and theological significance of the Bible. Among the most salient causes of this misunderstanding, she argues, is our tendency to read ancient texts through modern categories—history, myth, fiction, nonfiction—that do not map neatly onto ancient literature. The result is a never-ending and mostly unnecessary debate between those who approach Genesis as a catalog of events and those who read it as mythic pastiche, pieced together from various ancient sources. We get a feel for Robinson’s impatience with this debate in her characterization of the factions warring over Noah’s flood: “One side in the controversy is rebuilding the ark to demonstrate its seaworthiness, or tramping up Ararat looking for its wreckage. The other sees the story as cribbed and fraudulent.” Both sides, Robinson concludes, are led astray by the same impulse to judge the veracity of Genesis on the basis of how closely it conforms to historical events. In fact, as she argues at the outset, “the Bible is a work of theology, not simply a primary text upon which theology is based.” The implication for modern readers of Genesis is that when we focus primarily on the historicity of the Flood account, for example, we tend to ignore the arrangement of Genesis as a work of literature designed to grapple with theological questions. Arranged with artistry This is not to say that Robinson doubts whether all the events represented in Genesis took place or that she fails to consider its compositional history. The goal of Genesis, in her estimation, is not to offer a play-by-play of primeval events but ...Continue reading...

The firm said the decision was taken because of a decline in demand for the vaccine.

What defines us is not our position, placement or any other label. It goes deeper than that. #Sports #performance #prophecy #KingdomofGod #election #priesthood #goodworks

While membership in the US' largest Protestant denomination is down, participation in worship and baptisms went up in 2023. But a new statistical report found that many Southern Baptist Convention churches do little to address sexual abuse.

In a cultural revival that delves into the heart of Welsh heritage, folk singer Lleuwen Steffan has unearthed a trove of hymns that were once shunned by all-male committees, reportedly due to their candid exploration of issues such as mental health and addiction.

After commemorating 100 years of religious broadcasting, the BBC has reaffirmed its commitment to continue faith programming on both television and radio, emphasising the enduring relevance of religious content in today's media landscape.

Resiliency is overcoming difficulty, but not at the cost of ignoring or downplaying it. #Resilience #emotionalintelligence #fear #failure #redemption #mentalhealth #relianceonGod #emotions

Investing in the people around us during times of stability can make the difference between flourishing or floundering when circumstances shift. #Relationships #friendship #change #trust #stability #uncertainty #belonging

Our goal as followers of Christ should be to resist the effects of the curse of the fall by encouraging harmony, safety and understanding between men and women both within families and in culture. #ManvsBear #masculinity #bears #women #men #violence #crime #strength #power #sexualabuse

Our own apologetic in our own voice for our own times: If Lewis could have imagined in his life that almost a century later, he would still be helping us with that, he would have been astonished. #Apologetics #CSLewis #reason #arguments #Aslan #Narnia #conviction #faith #belief

To be a candidate is to make yourself really vulnerable, to expose yourself to scrutiny, maybe to ridicule and hostility, but certainly to the possibility that you will be rejected by your community. We should thank God for those who have put themselves forward and pray that He will give wisdom and humility to those who won, and comfort and strength to those who lost.

Fulani herdsmen on Sunday raided a village in southern Kaduna state, Nigeria, killing six Christians, area residents said.

A Jewish doctor speaks of being abused by a colleague, as reports to the GMC of antisemitism surge.

If you don't know how to serve a special single mom in your life this Mother's Day, here are 25 ideas!

Mother’s Day is right around the corner, and as we considered how to honor the holiday beyond the flowers and card-worthy sentiments, we saw an opportunity to highlight the spiritual mothers in our lives. #MothersDay #love #support #missions #discipleship #youthgroup #kindness #Proverbs31

Being born again involves more than simply swimming in Christian waters. #Christianity #TomHolland #secularism #civilization #raisingkids #Gospel #humanism #bornagain

Americans today are lonelier than ever. #Marriage #friendship #loneliness #happiness #connection #singleness

Jewish academic and Hebrew scholar Irene Lancaster reflects on what familial love means within Jewish thought.

Mental health is a topic that affects individuals from all walks of life, including Christians. #Anxiety #depression #hope #mentalhealth #despair #comfort #support

It’s imperative to be vigilant of their influence. Beware their leaven, for it will drag this nation straight into Hell. #Progressiveclergy #religiousnationalism #NAACP #ChristianNationalism #socialjustice #inerrancy #redemption #LGBTQ

Justice Juan Merchan on Friday warned prosecutors to tell Cohen to stop commenting on the case.

Zendaya, Sabrina Carpenter and Gigi Hadid were among the stars walking the red carpet in New York.

The president of a nonprofit Christian persecution watchdog that monitors hostility to faith and freedom abroad warned that too few Christians in America and the West seem aware of how such trends are manifesting at home.

People often ask if Christians should take the Bible literally. Some people complain that Christians take the Bible too literally, others complain that Christians don't take the Bible literally enough. What should we do?

Richard Dawkins meanwhile said he considers himself "Team Christianity".

As legal assisted dying receives more support, the actress expresses deep concern for disability rights.

Hundreds of people were rescued in Texas after deadly flooding and severe storms hit the US state.

Apart from the votes on the UMC rules on sexuality and ordination, there were other happenings during the General Conference that could be described by critics to be “woke" in nature, from pronouns to diversity monitors. #woke #UnitedMethodistChurch #GeneralConference #lovetrain #LGBT #pronouns #UMC

Pro-Palestinian protesters interrupted ceremonies using chants and flags in Massachusetts and Michigan.

Prayer is good and needful, but there are times when intercession is required. This is such a time. #Prayer #intercession #LGBTQ #drugaddiction #HolySpirit #Godsplan

Hopefully, the events in Gaza will have a resolution that will surprise us all — a lasting peace for all and a time to rebuild. #Israel #Hamas #Gaza #genocide #Palestine #Intifada #terrorism #peace

If you’re the type of professing Christian who uses the precious cross of Christ to attack Jews, you don’t understand the weight of your sin.  #Antisemitism #Jews #Jesus #Palestine #Israel #Hamas #antiJewish #crucifixion #Romans

According to a major study by the Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, “bisexual women die, on average, nearly 40% younger than heterosexual women, while lesbian women die 20% sooner.” #Lesbianism #feminism #LGBTQ #bisexual #lifeexpectancy #healthcare #AIDS #STDs

What does one make of a Christian who has committed suicide? #Suicide #physicianassistedsuicide #euthanasia #despair #Judas #depression #nationalsuicidehotline

Abi Vance, who cared for a friend with terminal cancer, said "normalising" death might help people.

New research in the Holy Land into the growth and construction of Jerusalem is lending further credence to recordings contained within the ancient texts of the Bible.

A string of shorter tenures is usually not healthy for churches. But it is possible to stay too long. What are some of the signs? #Pastors #leading #criticism #accountability #communication #innovation #pride #discernment #Godswill

This year in 2024, across most of the Orthodox world, many millions of people are celebrating Easter on Sunday 5 May. This is the story ...

The NHS needs more doctors so why have some medical students been left in limbo waiting for a job?

As graduations begin, three students reflect on a college experience bookended by Covid and now campus protests.

A small plane's engine lost power mid-flight, forcing the pilot to land on a New York beach.

Here's five tips for better eating from BBC Ideas

Flash bangs made a thunderous noise as police attempted to dismantle the pro-Palestinian protester's camp.

Thousands were infected with HIV and hepatitis C, in the worst treatment disaster in NHS history.

We all need companions who uplift us, who walk alongside us through both the peaks and valleys. True friends possess a remarkable gift: the ability to encourage. Their words and actions breathe life into our souls, inspiring us to press on, to reach higher, and to believe in ourselves. In this devotional, we'll explore the profound impact of encouragement through the lens of Scripture, reflecting on its significance in our lives and considering how we can embody it for others. Biblical Foundation: "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing." - 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (ESV) "Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." - Hebrews 10:23-25 (ESV) "Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad." - Proverbs 12:25 (ESV) Reflection Questions: Think of a time when someone's encouragement significantly impacted your life. How did their words or actions affect you? Do you find it easy or challenging to encourage others? Why? Consider the people in your life. Who could benefit from a word of encouragement today? Life Application Action Steps: Speak Life: Purposefully look for opportunities to speak words of encouragement to those around you. Whether it's a coworker, a friend, or a family member, a simple compliment or affirmation can brighten someone's day. Prayerful Support: Commit to praying for your friends regularly. Ask God to show you specific ways you can encourage them and lift them up in prayer. Let them know you're praying for them; it can be a powerful source of comfort and encouragement. Active Listening: Sometimes, the most encouraging thing we can do is to listen attentively. Be present for your friends, offering a compassionate ear without judgment. Validate their feelings and experiences, and offer support and encouragement as needed. Celebrate Successes: Make a conscious effort to celebrate the achievements, no matter how small, of those around you. Whether it's a promotion, a personal goal reached, or a milestone achieved, rejoicing with others strengthens bonds and fosters a culture of encouragement. In a world often marked by criticism and negativity, let us strive to be beacons of light, spreading encouragement wherever we go. As we reflect on the true heart of a friend, may we embody the love and encouragement that Christ Himself modeled for us, lifting others up and pointing them toward the hope found in Him. Let's Pray: Heavenly Father, We come before you with grateful hearts, acknowledging the power of your love and the strength found in your presence. Thank you for the gift of community and the blessing of true friendship. Today, we lift up our hearts in prayer, seeking your guidance and grace as we strive to embody the spirit of encouragement in our relationships. Lord, grant us the wisdom to recognize the needs of those around us, and the compassion to respond with words and actions that uplift and inspire. May our lives be a reflection of your love, shining brightly in a world in need of hope and encouragement. Help us, O God, to speak life into the lives of others, to offer a listening ear, and to celebrate the successes and victories of those we hold dear. May our words be seasoned with grace and kindness, drawing others closer to you and strengthening the bonds of friendship. Lord Jesus, you are the ultimate source of encouragement, the one who offers comfort to the weary and hope to the discouraged. In your name, we ask for the courage to step out in faith, trusting in your promises and believing in the power of your presence to transform lives. As we go forth from this time of prayer, may we be instruments of your peace, spreading encouragement and joy wherever we go. May your Holy Spirit guide our words and actions, leading us ever closer to you and to one another. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

A final compensation scheme could be running by the year's end after ministers agree to a Labour-led demand.

Have you ever paused to ponder the profound truth that Jesus Himself is praying for you? It's a concept that can transform our perspective on life and infuse our days with hope, strength, and purpose. The Bible reveals Jesus not only as our Savior and Redeemer but also as our High Priest who continually intercedes on behalf of His people. Let's explore how this truth can shape our daily lives and draw us closer to the heart of Jesus. The Hebrew word for "interceding" or "intercession" is "פּוּצֵל" (pronounced as "poo-tzayl") or "הִתְפַּלֵּל" (pronounced as "hit-pa-layl"). These words convey the idea of pleading, mediating, or intervening on behalf of someone else. In the context of Jesus' intercession for us as our High Priest, these Hebrew terms emphasize His role in advocating for us before God. In the book of Hebrews, we find a beautiful depiction of Jesus as our High Priest. Hebrews 7:25 declares, "Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them." This verse assures us that Jesus' intercession is not a past event but an ongoing reality. For those who are fully surrendered to Jesus as Lord and Savior, He lives to intercede for us, ensuring our salvation and standing before God. Reflecting on this truth, how would you approach your day differently if you knew that Jesus Himself is praying for you? Would it fill you with confidence, knowing that the one who conquered sin and death is advocating for you before the Father? Take a moment to let this sink in, allowing it to permeate your thoughts and actions. Consider also Romans 8:34, which asks, "Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us." This verse assures us that not only did Jesus sacrifice Himself for our sins, but He continues to intercede on our behalf, silencing any accusation against us. How does this truth shape your understanding of your identity and worth in Christ? Now, let's delve into practical ways we can respond to the reality of Jesus' intercession in our daily lives: Prayerful Awareness: Start each day with the awareness that Jesus is praying for you. Invite Him into your thoughts, decisions, and interactions throughout the day, knowing that He is intimately involved in every aspect of your life. Scripture Meditation: Spend time meditating on verses that speak of Jesus' intercession. Allow these truths to sink deep into your soul, anchoring you in the assurance of His love and care. Gratitude and Surrender: Cultivate a heart of gratitude for Jesus' ongoing intercession. Surrender your worries, fears, and burdens to Him, trusting that He is actively working on your behalf. Intercession for Others: Just as Jesus intercedes for us, we are called to intercede for others. Take time to lift up friends, family, and even strangers in prayer, knowing that your prayers are heard and valued by the One who intercedes for us all. As you embark on this journey of understanding and embracing Jesus' intercession, may you experience the peace, joy, and strength that come from knowing you are continually held in His loving embrace. Allow His prayers to be the guiding force in your life, leading you ever closer to the heart of Jesus. Reflection Questions: How does the knowledge of Jesus' intercession impact your perspective on daily challenges and struggles? In what areas of your life do you need to surrender more fully to Jesus' intercession? How can you incorporate a deeper awareness of Jesus' prayers into your daily prayer life? Life Application Action Steps: Set aside dedicated time each day for prayer and meditation on Jesus' intercession. Reach out to someone in need and offer to pray for them, embodying the spirit of Jesus' intercession. Keep a journal of answered prayers and moments where you sense Jesus' presence and intercession in your life.   Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, I come before you with a humble heart, acknowledging my need for salvation and surrender. I recognize that I am a sinner in need of Your grace and mercy. Today, I choose to receive Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. I believe that He died on the cross for my sins and rose again, conquering death so that I may have eternal life. Lord Jesus, I surrender every area of my life to You—my thoughts, my desires, my dreams, and my fears. I lay them all at Your feet, knowing that You are the only one who can truly satisfy and fulfill me. Take control, Lord, and lead me in Your ways. I surrender my past, with all its mistakes and regrets. I trust in Your forgiveness and cleansing power to make me new. I surrender my present, with all its challenges and uncertainties. Help me to walk in faith and obedience, knowing that You are with me every step of the way. I surrender my future, with all its hopes and dreams. May Your will be done in my life, and may Your plans prevail over my own. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, Lord, and empower me to live a life that honors and glorifies You. Guide me, teach me, and mold me into the person You created me to be. Thank you, Jesus, for your love, your grace, and your sacrifice. I place my trust in You alone, and I declare that You are my Lord and Savior, now and forever. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

The King's medical team are "sufficiently pleased" with his progress after he was diagnosed with cancer in February.

Steve Young is part of the tests to see if an mRNA jab can stop the deadliest skin cancer returning.

Looking back on life, sometimes I wonder how I have made it this far. Through the trials of life, sometimes it felt as though there was no way to move forward. Then, I am reminded of who guides me each and every day. I have only made it this far in life because of The Way Maker. Thank you, God! Remind yourself today of this promise: God will never leave you. No matter what you are facing. NEVER is a very powerful word. There are no ifs, ands, or buts about the word NEVER. God will NEVER abandon you. This doesn't mean you won't endure trials. However, He promises to ALWAYS be with you. We can't run. We can't hide. He is ALWAYS with us. May everyone who knows Your mercy keep putting their trust in you, for they can count on You for help no matter what. O LORD, you will never, no never, neglect those who come to you. Psalm 9:10 TPT So, let’s hold on to God's promise of joy! Sometimes, we struggle to believe this or wrap our minds around it. It's hard to see past our suffering when we're in the midst of it; even when we do, it's impossible to fully grasp how much joy, peace, and fulfillment we will have one day in heaven. When we look toward better days here on earth, our expectations are low because we know we can't have perfect joy or complete contentment on this side of heaven. We can take heart and hold on to the promise God has for us as His people that we will one day soon have perfect joy that infinitely overcomes any suffering we once endured. 

GET TICKETS NOW! When David Smallbone's successful music company collapses, he moves his family from Australia to the United States in search of a brighter future. With nothing more than their six children, their suitcases, and their love of music, David (for KING + COUNTRY's Joel Smallbone) and his pregnant wife Helen (Daisy Betts) set out to rebuild their lives from the ground up. Based on a remarkable true story, a mum's faith stands against all odds; and inspires her husband and children to hold onto theirs. GET TICKETS NOW! GET TICKETS NOW!

I have been the parent that expected everything to be perfect. Let me tell you what I have learned...

An online friendship between two mums led to a new kidney for five-year-old Destiny-Rae.

The number of under 65s struggling with poor health is rising - and it's a threat to the economy.

Have you ever felt like you were not gifted in certain areas, but struggled to identify your strengths? In a recent Women of Faith group coaching session led by Alita Reynolds, the topic of discovering and activating the charisma or giftings that God has placed in our lives was discussed. Alita emphasized the importance of recognizing and utilizing the unique gifts that God has given each of us. Reflection Questions: Have you ever felt inadequate or lacking in certain areas of your life? What are some things you have felt called to do but have not pursued due to self-doubt or fear? How can you shift your perspective to see your weaknesses as opportunities for God's strength to be displayed? In 2 Corinthians 12:9, we are reminded that God's grace empowers us in our weaknesses. His empowerment is optimized in situations beyond our natural ability. This means that we are called to rely on God's grace to accomplish the mission He has given us. Life Application Action Steps: Take a moment to reflect on the areas where you feel inadequate or lacking in giftings. Write them down and surrender them to God, asking for His grace to empower you. Make a list of things you feel called to do but have not pursued due to fear or self-doubt. Pray for courage and faith to step out in obedience. Identify at least one area where you feel God has gifted you and commit to using that gift for His glory. In Proverbs 9:11-12, we are reminded that wisdom will multiply our days and add years to our life. When we operate in God's wisdom and utilize the giftings He has given us, we experience increased effectiveness and fruitfulness in our lives. Let's Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for the unique giftings and charisma you have placed in each of our lives. Help us to recognize and activate these gifts for Your glory. Grant us the courage to step out in faith and obedience, trusting in Your grace to empower us. May we use our strengths to build Your kingdom and bring honor to Your name. In Jesus' name, Amen.

How often do we find ourselves caught up in rushing from one task to the next without pausing to rest and recharge? In our fast-paced society, the concept of Sabbath rest can easily get overlooked or dismissed as impractical. But what if prioritizing rest is not only practical but essential for our spiritual and emotional well-being? Biblical Foundation:  "Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work..." - Exodus 20:9-10a (NIV) The practice of Sabbath rest is deeply rooted in Scripture, dating back to the creation story when God Himself rested on the seventh day after completing His work. Throughout the Old and New Testaments, we see God's command to observe the Sabbath as a day of rest, reflection, and worship. In our modern world, where productivity is often valued above all else, taking a Sabbath rest may seem counterintuitive. However, God's design for Sabbath rest is not just about physical recuperation but also about spiritual renewal and intimacy with Him. Consider the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 19. After a great victory over the prophets of Baal, Elijah found himself exhausted and discouraged, fleeing into the wilderness. But in his moment of weakness, God provided for him, sending angels to minister to his needs and speaking to him in a gentle whisper. Elijah's experience reminds us that even in our lowest moments, God is present, offering us rest and renewal. Similarly, in Mark 6:31, Jesus invites His disciples to come away to a quiet place and rest awhile after a busy season of ministry. He understood the importance of rest in sustaining their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Sabbath rest offers a profound opportunity for believers to experience the benefits of trusting in God's provision and sovereignty. In the rhythm of weekly Sabbath observance, we are invited to release our grip on productivity and control, acknowledging our dependence on God as the ultimate provider and sustainer of our lives. By setting aside time to rest and recharge, we relinquish our striving and striving, choosing instead to trust in God's promise to meet our needs and grant us the rest we so desperately need. Moreover, Sabbath rest fosters a deeper sense of intimacy with God as we intentionally carve out space in our busy lives to commune with Him. In the stillness of Sabbath, away from the distractions and demands of the world, we are invited to draw near to God in worship, prayer, and reflection. As we rest in His presence, we are reminded of His faithfulness throughout history and His unwavering commitment to care for His children. This intimate encounter with God cultivates a sense of peace and security, strengthening our trust in His goodness and provision even in the midst of life's uncertainties. Ultimately, Sabbath rest becomes a tangible expression of our trust in God's sovereignty, as we surrender our worries and burdens at His feet, confident that He will sustain us and lead us in paths of righteousness. Life Application Action Steps: Set Aside Time: Choose a day each week to intentionally rest and recharge. Create space for activities that bring you joy, whether it's spending time in nature, reading Scripture, or enjoying fellowship with loved ones. Unplug and Disconnect: In a world filled with constant distractions, make an effort to unplug from technology and social media during your Sabbath rest. Use this time to reconnect with God and those around you on a deeper level. Prioritize Worship: Make worship and reflection a central part of your Sabbath observance. Attend church services, engage in personal prayer and meditation, and express gratitude for God's blessings in your life. Reflection Questions: How can I incorporate Sabbath rest into my weekly routine, prioritizing both physical and spiritual renewal? What activities bring me true rest and rejuvenation, and how can I incorporate them into my Sabbath observance? How can I honor God's command to rest while still being mindful of the needs of others and opportunities for service? Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Sabbath rest, a time to pause and reflect on Your goodness and grace. Help us to prioritize rest in our busy lives, trusting in Your provision and guidance. Renew our spirits as we draw near to You in worship and reflection. May our Sabbath observance deepen our intimacy with You and strengthen our faith. In Jesus' name, Amen.

They were given infected blood products in trials without their knowledge, the BBC has found.

In Theaters NationwideApril 26, 2024 GET TICKETS NOW! Some prayers are "Please?" Some prayers are "Thank you!" In UNSUNG HERO, the Smallbone family comes together and learns to pray for what they need and give thanks for what they receive—now you can try this with your family, too. It's mom and dad's story of coming from Australia, to America. But the movie really tells the story of that knife's edge moment of everything can fall apart, or you can overcome.  Within the journey, there's redemption, there's hope and there's love. Just a really compelling story about a family that unites together the deepens in their faith. It's so powerful it needed to be seen in a movie. I think because mom and dad posed it to us as an adventure. It was that and they didn't seem scared. And so we weren't scared.  Migrating around the world and taking leaps of faith and taking risks, fighting for each other instead of against each other in these really dire desperate moments. And hopefully just give one small example of what it looks like to rise above together. Whatever your dream is. GET TICKETS NOW!

More than 10m people out of work in the UK, so if you're searching for a job you're not alone. Here are some tips on how to get started.

Have you ever found yourself sizing up someone else's journey, comparing it to your own, and feeling either superior or inferior as a result? It's a common struggle, but one that calls us to reflect on the grace we've received and extend it to others. Let's delve into how we can walk in grace towards those around us. Walking in grace offers a multitude of benefits that not only enrich our own lives but also positively impact the lives of those around us. When we choose to extend grace to others, we cultivate an atmosphere of acceptance and understanding, fostering deeper connections and relationships. Instead of dwelling on faults or shortcomings, grace allows us to see the inherent worth and dignity in each individual, regardless of their past or present circumstances. Moreover, embracing grace liberates us from the burden of judgment and resentment. As we release the need to compare our journeys with those of others, we experience a newfound sense of freedom and peace. Rather than being consumed by envy or superiority, we can appreciate the beauty of diversity and celebrate each person's unique path. In essence, walking in grace opens the door to compassion, humility, and reconciliation, transforming not only how we relate to others but also how we view ourselves. By embodying grace in our daily lives, we mirror the unconditional love and forgiveness that God extends to us. As we strive to emulate Christ's example, we become agents of healing and reconciliation in a world often plagued by division and discord. Moreover, as we sow seeds of grace, we reap a harvest of joy, fulfillment, and spiritual growth. Truly, there is immeasurable beauty and power in walking in grace, both for ourselves and for those whom we encounter along the way.   Bible Verses about Giving and Receiving Grace: Ephesians 4:32 (NIV) - "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Colossians 3:13 (NIV) - "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." Matthew 7:1-2 (NIV) - "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."   Life Application Action Steps: Reflect on a recent moment when you found yourself judging someone else's journey. What triggered this judgment, and how can you respond with grace instead? Practice empathy by intentionally seeking to understand the experiences and challenges of others without passing judgment. Make a commitment to extend grace freely, just as you have received it from God.   Reflection Questions: How does the concept of grace challenge your tendency to judge others? In what areas of your life do you need to extend more grace to those around you? How can embracing grace transform your relationships and interactions with others?   Let's Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for the immeasurable grace you have bestowed upon us through your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to walk in that same grace towards others, recognizing that we are all on unique journeys. Teach us to love without judgment, to forgive as we have been forgiven, and to extend grace freely and generously. May our lives be a reflection of your love and mercy. In Jesus' name, Amen.

I believe we could all agree on this: When you became a follower of Jesus, it wasn't so that you could kick back and relax. Actually, becoming a follower is just the beginning for us!  You are part of God’s plan, and God wants to show His goodness through you. Here’s the thing: you didn’t have to work for your salvation.  It was a free gift from God. But now that you’ve got it, it’s time to share it enthusiastically with others.  And life events are going to require your effort, too; God’s not going to shield you from tough stuff because He wants to see you grow. So, when life gets rough, don’t be surprised! In fact, He wants you to step up every time life throws something your way, bringing all you’ve got to the task. Even so, you will triumph not by your own strength but by God working through you. Rise to the challenge! It’s an opportunity for God to shine through you! When times get tough, are your actions, thoughts, and feelings reflecting the change God continues to make in you? If you’re still reacting to adversity the way “the old you” would, then you probably aren’t living out the full life that God offers you. Let’s ditch the sin of complaining and embrace a spirit of strength and willingness to face whatever challenges come our way. I love how Psalm 18:29 says, “By my God I can leap over a wall.”  Because of God, we have the strength to get through any wall in our path.  In fact, we can view the wall as an opportunity. Our main goal? To let Jesus shine through us! That can only happen when our desires take a back seat, we quit complaining, and we become all about letting God work through us however He wants. Jesus never demanded anything of His Father, and we are not to make demands either.   Instead, we can be like broken bread and poured-out wine, nourishing others with God’s love and grace as it shines through us.   I am Wildly Cheering You!  🤍 Alita 🤍 

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