Back in February I wrote a post called ‘What’s your fill today?’ One of the videos towards the end of the post was encouraging believers to intentionally engage with the Word of God at least 4 times a week. A ‘Centre for Bible Engagement’ research found the key discovery that the life of someone who engages with scripture 4 or more times a week looks radically different from the life of someone who does not. In fact, the lives of Christians who do not engage with the Bible most days of the week are statistically the same as the lives of non-believers. You can read more from the research here – https://www.centerforbibleengagement.org/research.
With this in mind throughout this year I have been intentionally ensuring that my daily Bible reading stays on track and have complemented this by listening to scripture as well. I have been so greatly blessed by the ministry of the Daily Audio Bible (DAB) as I have listened to Brian Hardin (founder) read through the Bible and share some provocative, insightful, challenging commentary, day by day.
What I like about Brian is that he keeps focused on the word and in the last 10 years that I have been listened to DAB, only twice have I heard him comment on world events. Both of those rare events of diversion (following the usual reading) were this year, of which one was regarding the Coronavirus Pandemic (17th March 2020 edition) and the other following the death of George Floyd (2nd June 2020 edition) – you can hit the links and listen to these balanced contemplations from a Christian perspective.
This post isn’t a plug for DAB, but as I listened to Fridays (31st August 2020) readings and commentary on Romans 14, I just felt led to share it.
As we all do from time to time, I often have wondered why there are fractions within the body of Christ and have been guilty myself of holding a fixed view on how I sometimes think things should be – according to all my limited knowledge as a Christian.
Come on now, don’t do me like that!!!
Surely, I’m not the only one who has thought at some time or other, that that new acquired, discovered revelation has added two new steps to our heavenly ladder 😊
Seriously though, I have found that the more I read and grow in my faith, the more I see what a Pharisee I have and still can be – if care is not taken. One of my sobering ‘go to’ scriptures is:
12 Therefore let the one who thinks he stands firm [immune to temptation, being overconfident and self-righteous], take care that he does not fall [into sin and condemnation]. (1 Cor 10:12 Amp)
Yesterday’s reading from Romans and the commentary really resonated with me, as I hope it does you. It really helped me to ponder on the dangers of criticism and the damage it can do/has done to the body of Christ. However, if we come together in prayer, take our authority, pray against division and practice living in unity, we can see the Kingdom of God be realised here on earth.
You can hear the reading below:
God bless you all,
‘But test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good.’
1 Thessalonians 5:21 (New Living Translation)
May God bless you all,
‘But test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good.’
1 Thessalonians 5:21 (NLT)
Note from Brother Don — click to open
I would love for this space to become more interactive as we walk together in faith. If there are subjects you’d like to explore from a Christian perspective, or if you have prayer needs for yourself, your family, or your friends, please feel free to reach out.
You can send a private message through the site — these are confidential and not visible to anyone else. The only exception would be if a safeguarding concern were raised; in that case, it may need to be passed on to the appropriate agency or person, as you would expect.
Above all, I want to ensure that what is shared here reflects what the Lord desires to say. Sometimes the “signal” of life can get in the way, and your feedback helps me stay prayerful, discerning, and aligned with His heart. Whether you simply read along or choose to share, I’m grateful you’re here.
Beginning a Journey With Jesus — click to open
If you’re exploring the Christian faith or wondering what it means to follow Jesus, you’re in the right place. Beginning a journey with Him is the most life‑changing decision a person can make — and it’s open to everyone.
Below is a simple explanation of the gospel message, followed by a prayer you can use if you feel ready to invite Jesus into your life.
A Brief Summary of the Gospel Message:
- God created you for relationship with Him.
- Sin — the things we do wrong — separates us from God.
- We cannot fix this separation by our own efforts.
- Jesus, God’s Son, came to earth, lived without sin, and died on the cross to take our place.
- He rose again, defeating sin and death.
- Through Jesus, we can be forgiven, restored, and made new.
- Salvation is a gift — received by faith, not earned by good works.
- When we accept Jesus, the Holy Spirit comes to live within us and begins transforming our lives.
- We become children of God, with a new identity and a new future.
A Simple Prayer to Begin Your Journey:
“Lord Jesus, I come to You today because I want to know You. I admit that I have sinned and fallen short, and I ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that You died for me and rose again so that I could be made new. Today, I choose to turn away from my old life and follow You. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Holy Spirit, and help me to live for You from this day forward. Thank You for loving me, forgiving me, and making me Your child. Amen.”
What to Do Next:
1. Find a Local Church
Look for a Bible‑believing church in your area. Speak to the pastor or leadership team
and let them know about the commitment you’ve made. They will be able to support you,
pray with you, and help you grow.
2. Consider the Alpha Course
I strongly recommend the Alpha Course, which runs worldwide. It’s a safe, friendly place
to explore questions about life, the Christian faith, and God — whether you’re brand new
or simply curious.
Visit the Alpha Course website
3. Reach Out if You’d Like Support
If you’d like prayer, have questions, or want to talk privately, you can send a confidential
message through the site. Nothing you share will be visible to others. The only exception is
if a safeguarding concern is raised — in that case, it may need to be passed on to the
appropriate agency or person, as you would expect.
Well said. I enjoy reading your posts