Dear friends,

All of us have obstacles in life that from time to time need OVERCOMING! Some happen quickly and are usually sorted out fairly soon, others not so!

Problems come in three forms: a) those that solve themselves , b) those that left unattended stay the same and c) those that need attention to stop them getting worse – these are the ones we have to work at. A tradesman’s real skill is seen when things are going wrong and he is able to fix your faulty car or washing machine - he overcomes your problem for you.

We have a fantastic God who cares for us in many ways, but especially through the example and teaching of Jesus Christ and the early church leaders & missionaries. This hands on help is written down in the Bible for our benefit, we also have the ministry of the Holy Spirit constantly available for every believer in Christ.

Do you know that in the New Testament there are 130+ Biblical references advising us: (DON’T), and 360+ references advising us (DO). We are advised over twice as many times to DO than we are to DON’T! Jesus actually said everything in him is YES and AMEN (2 Cor 1:20).

In times of difficulty we remind ourselves that God will keep us from falling (Jude 1:24) and supply all our needs (Phil 4:19), but need to remember that he who promises to feed the birds – and therefore us (Luke 12:240) does not drop the food in their nests – they have to go and search for it. Likewise, we have to find and apply Biblical principles for our lives to flourish and not be held back by problems and issues that we can resolve with some application on our part!

Our journey of discovery in October and November will help us overcome the obstacles that come our way with the wisdom and guidance the Bible provides for us + the opportunity to talk in confidence with another (a problem shared is a problem halved). We have an excellent speaking team and an equally excellent pastoral ministry team. We have a Quiet Room open all through Sunday morning where you can sit, relect, pray and if appropriate, talk to the caring staff on hand.

So, to overcome with God’s help we need to use the tools he provides in the form of God’s values, principles and guidance which help us to get unstuck and move on as we apply them to our lives. Jesus said ‘the truth will set you free’ (John 8:32), and ‘if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed’ (John 8:36).

If everything is going well in your life and there are no obstacles to overcome, learning these principles can help you to help another.

We look forward to you joining us in October and November 2009.

Please also look for the sermons on the website.

God bless,

Rob Pearson, Pastor