A Calling Rekindled
When I began rewriting these blog posts (these short messages and longer reflections) I knew God was calling me to pick up the gift He gave me. The gift to encourage, to speak life, to be like Barnabas, the encourager of the brethren.
But I also knew that stepping into that calling would mean stepping into opposition. Satan and his cronies don’t want people encouraged. They want people pressed down, worn out, and ready to give up.
A Day That Felt Like Job
Yesterday was one of those days that tested every fibre of my faith.
I had to intervene in a mental‑health breakdown involving someone very near, dear, and close to me. I listened as they spoke to a counsellor about substance‑misuse issues and as a parent, that is incredibly hard to hear. Yes, it was one of my children. And yet, I was proud of how bravely they engaged. Still, the breakdowns are tough. The weight is tough. And when it all happens in the middle of a busy working day, it can feel overwhelming.
Alongside that, I was still processing the very recent news of the sudden death of a colleague, someone deeply loved. And then came another heartbreaking story of a woman I know facing a horrendous situation, losing custody of her five young children, even if only temporarily (please God). I’m praying for her.
And then, as a knock‑on effect, a significant financial impact landed on my doorstep. And there were other things too, on top of what I’ve already shared and been carrying.
Why I’m Sharing This
Not for pity.
Pray for me – yes, please – but I’m not looking for pity.
I’m sharing this because sometimes people read these posts and possibly think, “Well, that’s easy for you to say. You don’t know what I’m going through.”
But I do. I’m walking through my own storms too. I’m carrying my own cross (Matthew 16:24-26). I’m fighting my own battles.
And I want you to know: I’m walking with you. I’ve got your hand. Come on – let’s do this.
Intentional Faith in the Middle of Mayhem
All of this has made me even more determined to practise what I’ve been sharing about intentional faith. It has pushed me to turn my face like flint to the Lord, in spite of all the mayhem around me.
“For the Lord God will help me; therefore shall I set my face like flint…” (Isaiah 50:7)
So I did what I usually do; what I do nearly every morning.
I went to my list of God’s promises and declared them over my life, over my wife, and over my family.
I’m mindful that:
“faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not yet seen” (Hebrews 11:1).
Which means I believe God’s promises. I believe His Word. And even though I may not see the outcome straight away, I know it shall come, because God’s Word does not fail. His answer comes exactly at the right time.
Stirring Up My Faith
So this morning, with all these things trying to crowd my mind, I took those thoughts captive and brought them into submission to God. I read my devotions. I stirred up my faith — just as Paul told young Timothy to do:
“Stir up the gift of God which is in you…” (2 Timothy 1:6).
I was intentional.
And what did the Holy Spirit drop into my spirit?
A song, a reminder that Jesus is greater than it all.
I’ll put the link below so you can listen too.
Because He truly is greater than it all.
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.
