Reason no. 102...

This most certainly has got to be a reason! It's a quote taken from Matt Redman's book: 'Facedown'.

 

'The God we worship is clothed in mystery. He reveals and He conceals. He invites and He hides. He confounds and He confides. The God who rests but never sleeps. Who thunders and whispers, terrifies and befriends. Whose anger lasts only a moment, but whose favor lasts a lifetime. Who is all-consuming yet kind, all-knowing yet capable of forgetting the sins He forgives. The God who wounds and binds ...up, who injures and who heals. The King whose footstool is the Earth, yet humbly washed the earth from the feet of those He discipled. Who reigns in righteousness yet carried our shamefulness. Who walked in the Garden of Eden in the cool of the day, yet sweated drops of blood in the Garden of Gethsemane one agonizing night.'

 

Reason no. 102 :)

Reason no. 101...

I love testimonies. I love reading and hearing about God working in the lives of people like you and me. He's the same God that we read in the bible. Yesterday I read this story by a friend called James Birchenough. It's an incredible story and beautifully written. So definitely have a read!

 

Turning back the clock

 

Have you ever looked down at your hand and noticed the end of your finger missing? No? Well I have.

 

It was a Wednesday night when it happened. Band practice at church had just finished and I was leaving to meet my Mum, who was waiting in the car outside. However, the big heavy door at the back of church had other ideas. Somehow one of my fingers got caught in the hinge of the door, which swung shut and chopped off the end of it. For a couple of seconds I didn’t notice, but once I saw the tip of my finger on the floor and the splattering of blood around me I became a bit more aware of what was going on and it started to hurt a LOT more.

 

The next bit’s a bit of a blur. I ran back into church and tried to explain what had happened, and once the others had deciphered my confused ramblings they tried their best to help and pointed out that a trip to the hospital would be needed. Thankfully Mum was still outside (probably wondering what on earth was going on!) so I ran out to her and tried to explain what had happened. As we drove to the hospital the severity of the situation began to sink in, particularly for Mum, and we started to pray, declaring that God would turn it around and heal me: if he could knit me together in my mother’s womb (see Psalm 139:13) then surely He could do it again! Looking back it’s a miracle Mum didn’t faint while she was driving, but thankfully the prayers and the adrenaline kicked in and she – and He! - got me there safely.

 

When we got to the hospital, the car park was full, so I had to go into A&E by myself while Mum drove around trying to find a parking spot, which, on top of everything else, was quite a daunting and unusual experience, especially for a relatively shy thirteen year-old! I began to feel really queasy in the waiting room, and the enormity of what had happened began to sink in even more. It wasn’t just the fact that I’d look a bit weird with part of my finger missing; I’d literally just started playing keyboard in our church band and I would have hated for that opportunity to have been snatched away before it had really begun. I’d recently had a prophesy from my Pastor saying that God would use me like He used David in Saul’s courts in back in Bible times (1 Samuel 16:14-23) and that when I played keys I would create an atmosphere that would draw heaven down, something that Mum and I were really clinging on to during this ordeal.

 

So at A&E I saw a few different consultants. The first was the nurse practicioner, who had quite a matter-of-fact, utilitarian approach (not that that’s a bad thing in A&E!) and she assessed the damage, put the end back on my finger and bandaged it up. (That’s another thing: in all that panic at church I’m so glad someone reminded me to pick up the end of my finger, otherwise there would have been quite an awkward moment at this point…) The next guy did something quite strange: he took the bandage off reaaallllyyyy slowly, looked at my finger (without letting me see, which wasn’t exactly reassuring!) and then wrapped the bandage round again equally slowly. He then told me that the end of my finger might not attach back on at all, something I definitely didn’t want to hear! This brought home the reality of the situation: that it might not go back to how it was after all, which, to be honest, really shook me. BUT we knew that whatever the doctor said ultimately meant nothing because our God was in control: I knew he had (and still has!) an amazing plan and a purpose for my life, and if He can create the universe, defeat sin and death, and make a donkey talk (yes, that’s in the Bible too! See Numbers 22:28) then I figured he could cope with healing one dodgy finger.

 

Next was the X-ray man – a really friendly Irish guy who lifted my spirits by chatting to me a bit and telling me that my piano-playing days weren’t over yet (yesss!), and then I saw a really cool doctor who properly bandaged me up and sorted out what would happen next. I can’t speak highly enough of people who work in A&E; they were amazing that night, and to work in such a pressurised, unpredictable environment doing such a vital job deserves a lot more recognition than they get.

 

Over the next couple of months life was a bit different. I had to do everything left-handed for a bit, which was, er, interesting to say the least. Even relatively simple day-to-day activities like writing and brushing my teeth were much more difficult, and I wasn’t allowed to play the piano with both hands for ages either. I also had my work experience placement during this time, and again really mundane things were made much harder by having my right arm/hand in a sling. To some this precaution might have seemed a bit over the top, but it really wasn’t because if it got badly knocked the end of my finger might just come off again! I had to go for regular appointments at the hospital during this time, where they’d take the bandage off my finger, check how it was doing, then put a fresh dressing on. The strange thing was, a black scab was forming over the end of my finger, which was quite scary as I couldn’t help wondering what was going on underneath it; even though it seemed to be healing up, I couldn’t know for sure, and part of me was worried that it’d stay black and drop off as the consultant had warned.

 

After what seemed like an age – a short but momentous chapter of my life filled with uncertainty and discomfort, but, more positively, lots of prayer, help and support from those around me - the scab came off, revealing a beautiful pink finger underneath. Amazing! But there was one final twist: my nail on this one finger had grown really long, and an extra little bit of finger had grown to the same length as the nail. The consultant said it may need to be surgically removed, but – guess what? – it just went away. Coincidence? I think not!

 

Since then things have got even better. I’ve got pretty much complete feeling in that finger now, and even the fingerprint, which wasn’t there at first, has come back, as if to underline the fact that God really has knitted it back together and restored it to the way it was before. I’m still playing keys in my church band – I love how I can offer the gift He’s given to me back to Him in worship! – and God’s continuing to use me more than ever: in many aspects of my life, but through playing in church in particular.

 

I often take my finger for granted, but every now and then I look down at my hand and remember what an awesome miracle God’s done. I know of more dramatic, life-threatening situations my family and friends have gone through where God’s intervened, and you may well think ‘oh it’s only one or two centimetres of a finger, what does that matter?’, but this is my testimony and I think it’s amazing! So once again thank You God for healing me! Thank You that You love each and every one of us so much that You answer our prayers, change lives and transform situations, and thank You that You’ve given me an amazing testimony that no-one can ever take away. All the glory goes to You Lord, You’re awesome!

 

 

(http://jamesbirchenough.wordpress.com/2012/02/09/turning-back-the-clock/)

 

Reason no. 101 :)

 

Reason no. 100...

Wow, 100 reasons to praise God and that's only just the beginning. One of the lines of the song this blog is based on goes: 'Bless the Lord, oh my soul.' Sometimes we have to wake our soul up and remind ourselves of who God is and what He's actually done for us. Sometimes it's a real struggle and not what I want to be doing. But, the reality is God is SO worthy of my praise and He's worthy of my time. As we tell ourselves truth of who God is and remind ourselves of what God has done before - praise begins to overflow! I love the fact that the Bible is so real, in the Psalms that's exactly what David does - He's activating his soul into praise!! 'Praise the Lord, O my soul.' Reason no. 100 :)

Reason no. 99...

God's creation! Yesterday I was reminded by the fact of just how amazing we live on a planet with so much green stuff - ie. plants. Imagine if plants did not take in carbon dioxide (a gas which is harmful to us) and produce oxygen (something essential for our survival) - we would be poisoned to death!! Not only do they allow us to live, but they look awesome too! How clever is God's design for the world we live! Reason no. 99 :)

Reason no. 98...

Today I ventured over to see the Moore family...that meant a 45 minute journey in the car over to Hastings. One thing I appreciate about long journeys and playing worship music in the car is just having the opportunity to be reminded of little truths about God. The music is on in the background, but every now and again one line will jump out: 'Your love never fails, it never gives up on me...', 'You are the well that overflows with  rivers of joy...', 'You're the Sun of Righteousness with healing in your wings...' Reason no. 98 :)

Reason no. 97...

Christmas is such a lovely time to spend with the family. Sitting together eating an awesome Christmas dinner, playing games, going for a little Christmas walk and watching Christmas TV - what could be better?! I'm definitely blessed to have the family that I have and having been away from home for 3 months I most certainly appreciate them even more! Reason no. 97 :)

Reason no. 96...

Christmas is here!!! I do enjoy receiving presents and this year I got some pretty awesome ones. I got some DVDs, a game, earrings etc.! Plus, I got a communication cookbook - so I now feel well and truly like a speech and language therapist in the making! Happy Christmas everyone! Reason no. 96 :)

Reason no. 95...

Chinese takeaways - I absolutely love them! The food is great and it's now become a bit of a Christmas eve tradition. We join with my grandparents each year, sharing presents and ordering in a Chinese takeaway. Yum!! :) They've now moved nearer to us - meaning that we no longer spend an hour and a half travelling to them, rather less than half an hour! Their new house is so nice too and it's in a lovely little village :) I love Christmas eve and now just one day to go! Reason no. 95 :)

Reason no. 94...

I think it's amazing having people around you sharing their wisdom into your life. Last year on Impact training I had loads of people around me who did just that. One little thing that sticks with me is the idea that the worship music and theology are so closely linked. In church, the songs the worship band choose massively influence the theology of a church - more so than the talk itself. Why? Because songs stick in your head, they are what you end up singing week in and week out - unlike sermons! I'm grateful for song writers who write the wonderful biblical truths about God and the impact of that too! Reason no. 94 :)

Reason no. 93...

The weather outside is cold, dark and slightly miserable! I'm grateful for having a warm home, hot food and nice bed to relax in. It's so easy to take it for granted and have the view of it as our entitlement - I know as I'm well and truly guilty of it! Yet, the reality is that it is an extension of God's grace to us. Reason no. 93 :)

Reason no. 92...

So the Christmas build-up is growing in momentum! Just 2 days to go :) The nearer we get, the more facebook gets filled with Christmas-y stuff! One thing I like, is all the little videos people decide to post - one for this year is: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=NmS_s23TL1k&desktop_uri=%2Fwatch%3Ffeature%3Dplayer_embedded%26v%3DNmS_s23TL1k&app=desktop : Santa vs Jesus! It's really clever and where I like poetry it's even better! Reason no. 92 :)

Reason no. 91...

Last week was lovely! I spent the week catching up with friends from back home and taking a day trip over to Horsham. It was great to share and find out what's been happening over the past 3 months! So blessed to have friends to come back home to! Reason no. 91 :) 

Reason no. 90...

Because I like quotes...

 

"True praise is choosing to step out of your circumstance and into a place of truth.” 

 

 Brian & Jenn Johnson

 

It's so easy to let our circumstances dictate our perception of God and our worship to Him. If we are in a season where everything in life is really good, it can be so easy to praise God. Yet, if we're put in a more challenging setting, it can be more of a struggle to come before God and praise Him. But the reality is that who God is has not changed. He remains the good, faithful and loving God. There's something powerful in praising God through the storm. When we declare truth of who God is over situations, strongholds are broken. It also takes us to a place where we praise God for who He is, rather than just what He's done. Reason no. 90 :)

Reason no. 89...

Being reminded of the BIGNESS of the universe and what that means for its Creator - it goes beyond understanding. He's far greater than what we will ever be able to comprehend. To think that God cares about me, a tiny dot on the planet, let alone within the galaxy and the universe - wow! To think that God hears our prayers and responds, when He's sustaining the entire universe - this is incredible! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LpChZxPfa-c Reason no. 89 :)

Reason no. 88...

Yesterday was lovely! Being back in Ashford, with my family and my old church was so nice :) Being welcomed back and being surrounded by familiar faces is so refreshing. I joined my old youth group for their Christmas party in the evening. It's amazing to see how it's grown not only in size, but also how the people have changed too. One good day: Reason no. 88 :)

Reason no. 87...

This little 15 minute video is so worth a watch! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pRi4VwcrYmA  So find a block of time, get rid of any distractions and just watch! Reason no. 87 :)

Reason no. 86...

God's been so good with my student finances! He's supplied all that I've needed this semester and I have not been in lack. Reason no.86 :)

Reason no. 85...

It's amazing that God uses us just as we are. He doesn't wait for us to be perfect or to have what we consider necessary for the role. He takes us with our weaknesses and He supplies what we lack. Reason no. 85 :)

Reason no. 84...

And, I'm home!!!! Yes! It's so nice to be back with my family, having my meals cooked for me and being able to do my washing without having to cross the halls of residence! I survived the journey and ended up having a friend on the same train all the way back to London. Reason no. 84 :)

Reason no. 83...

God is good. This semester I've been reminded of how God is able to do what I deem to be impossible. For me confidence has been a huge issue for years, especially whilst I was in sixth form. I'd be worried by what others thought of me - especially when I would speak. I'd be so scared a teacher would ask me a question in class that it would completely put me off from going. But this year and during my Impact year God has been reminding me of where my identity truly lies. He's reminded me of the secure position I hold as His daughter. Nothing that I do or say will change the way He thinks of me. God's been building my confidence up and reminding me of the amazing truth. Reason no. 83 :) 

Reason no. 82...

One afternoon this week I was so stressed and tired - just the little things about next year. Instead of bringing it straight to God I tried to 'sort' it by myself. Hours later I finally invited God into the situation. He shifted my perspective and peace came. God is faithful yet again! Reason no. 82 :)

Reason no. 81...

This week I've had a really chilled week as I decided to leave work until I get home and just go to my remaining lectures. That's meant that I've been able to enjoy my last week! I met up with a friend for a lovely hot chocolate and just spent a couple of hours chatting - so lovely :) I was able to spend an hour with the Christian Union and we gave out lots of Christmas cards to the people on the streets, which was fun! This week at Lifegroup we had a games and pudding evening too! Then yesterday evening it was 2 friends' birthdays and they organised a cocktail evening - such a good idea! I've definitely had a great week. Reason no. 81 :)

Reason no. 80...

I just found this quote I wrote a few weeks ago and thought it's packed with a lot of wisdom, so here it is:

 'Let my mind be so shifted, my heart so changed, that my default response when presented with a problem is: 

"Let's see what the Father will do." '

This is so challenging, but actually incredible. It can be so easy to try and fix problems in our own strength, but when we let God in - God gets the glory and something amazing happens! Reason no. 80 :)

Reason no. 79...

I found this poem I wrote last year: Thankfulness!

Open your eyes, look around!

Blessing upon blessing

abound in your life!

You're created, you're designed,

you're made with a purpose.

The King looks at you

and sees His perfect son.

You're forgiven, you're accepted,

you're adopted as His child.

He has made you His heir,

what a glorious inheritance awaits!

Your identity is in Him,

your old-self has been put to death.

Your sin is forgotten -

it is remembered no more.

 He has placed you here -

for such a time as this.

The Spirit lives in you -

what incredible power it has!

The King speaks hope and destiny -

directly into your life.

Promises spoken years ago

are now coming into fulfilment.

The King has not forgotten you,

He is ever so faithful to you.

He listens to every prayer

and answers it in His perfect way.

When you wake up in the morning -

let thankfulness arise!

He's sustains your every breath,

there's a roof over your head,

He provides food for your stomach,

there's clean water for use after use.

As you look in the mirror,

remind yourself of all that you are!

You are beautifully designed,

You are gifted and talented -

in your own unique way,

when He looks at you, He smiles!

As you look back through time -

count blessing after blessing.

He is so good, let thankfulness arise!

This is amazing as it reminds me of the journey God's taken me on from this poem to this blog! Reason no. 79 :)

Reason no. 78...

How amazing it is to be able to say: 'it is well with my soul'! It's such an incredible truth that I really should have no right to claim it. The fact that I now stand justified because of Jesus. The fact that He dealt with ALL my sin. The fact that I can now come into His presence. The fact that Jesus dealt with all my sin: past, present and future. The fact that that line stands true regardless of how I feel about my position before God. It's absolutely AMAZING!!! Reason no. 78 :)

Reason no. 77...

I love kids worship songs! They put a massive smile on my face and they put truth really simply. Today as I was walking down the road this song popped into my head: 'Follow You'. I discovered it as part of my Impact year, when I went on a kids weekend away. The lyrics are:

Hello, hello it’s me again

It’s me again

I know, I know when I call

You hear me

You hear me 

I love, I love to pray

‘Cause you hear what I’ve got to say 

But I never want to be someone that just talks and never listens to you

I want be the one that says that I’ll follow

Whoo- hoo- hoo!! I’m gonna follow you!

Every day, God 

Nothing, no nothing will ever separate me 

From your love today, God

Nothing no nothing will ever stop me from living for you.

I think this song is great! It reminds me that I can come before God just as I am. My prayers don't need to be eloquent or anything special, they can just be what's on my heart and what I want to talk to God about. God actually hears my prayers. He hears what I've got to say. The fact that God wants to talk to me is incredible! Plus, absolutely nothing can separate me from God's love. Truth after truth after truth: I love this song!! You definitely should give it a listen....hopefully this is a good version of it (sadly I haven't got any headphones with me and I'm sitting in a computer cluster, so can't actually listen to it!)!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKzy7SoXCL0

Reason no. 76...

This afternoon I bumped into several people from church, which was so lovely! For me, it was a little reminder that I've been so blessed to settle so well into Manchester and have been blessed with meeting some really lovely people since being here! Reason no. 76 :) 

Reason no. 75...

Yesterday was the Reach Christmas meeting, which was great. One thing we did was gather in little groups and reflect on God's faithfulness over the year. It's so powerful to hear story after story of all that God's done and it definitely stirs faith for what is yet to come! The fact that God is the same God yesterday, today and tomorrow is incredible. It means that we can come with confidence that what God has done before, He'll not stop doing tomorrow. Reason no. 75 :)

Reason no. 74...

Today's tutorial was brilliant! We had to record our voice and see how it varied in pitch and frequency. At first it was really embarrassing, but by the end it was so funny! This was yet again a perfect little reminder that I'm on the right course :) It's also fascinating to think and actually see how unique each voice and how we speak differs from each person. Reason no. 74 :)

Reason no. 73...

One thing I enjoy about living close to the city centre is seeing it in the dark. I love the contrast of the lights shining into the darkness. It shatters it away and looks absolutely beautiful.  It acts as a little reminder of Light triumphing over darkness! Reason no. 73 :)

Reason no. 72...

I've managed to submit my final assignment  for semester 1...that means that I can now have a rather chilled out week and get ready for returning home on Saturday! Reason no. 72 :)

Reason no. 71...

Yesterday evening was great! The Christian Unions in Manchester had their Carol Concert, which was  so lovely :) Then it was the SLT Christmas party, which was definitely a lot of fun! It's now definitely starting to feel a lot more Christmas-y!! Reason no. 71 :)

Reason no. 70...

God's mercies are new EVERY morning!

 

Today is a new day and God's goodness, His grace, His favour, His love, His protection and His faithfulness have most certainly not run dry from yesterday. He's the God of abundance and today He's going to reveal it afresh yet again! Reason no. 70 :)

Reason no. 69...

http://www.kingsarms.org/resources/article/growth/96-our-culture-the-practice-of-honour.html 

 

This article is definitely worth a read. It's all about honour and what that actually looks like in our lives. It's about honouring ourselves and those around us, which ultimately brings honour to God. These truths are so good to remember, yet can be so easy to forget.

 

'When we are living out of our redeemed identities, we naturally honour God.'

 

'We embody God's infinite, wondrous creativity, a breathtaking exhibition of His wisdom and goodness....When we put ourselves down, we tell a lie which dishonours the One who made us.'

 

'...all people are made in the image of God, however distorted that image might appear; that we are each unique, irreplaceable and therefore inordinately valuable; and that, above all, we are wholly and dearly loved by God Himself – every one of us.'

 

What really challenged me though was that when we compare ourselves to other people 'we are actually responding disrespectfully to God and His passion for the people He created'. It's exciting to think that this culture of honour is the culture God designed for us to live in and how beautiful it will look when we begin to live in the fullness of it. Reason no. 69 :)

Reason no. 68...

This afternoon I went round my halls of residence with a few others advertising the Christian Union Carol Service. This was great! We gave out a few Christmas-y treats too! People's responses were so good and quite a few showed an interest too. Others simply appreciated the food, which was equally nice! One fun hour. Reason no. 68 :)

Reason no. 67...

I love having Wednesday's off! To be able to manage my own time across work and other bits and pieces has got to be one huge advantage of uni life. I'm so grateful! Reason no. 67 :)

Reason no. 66...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-ZtKzw-ipo

 

Absolutely love this version of 'How Great is Our God'! To see the nations coming together and united under the One God is exciting! Plus, I love languages! The lyrics of the song are so good too! These couple of lines are great: 'He wraps Himself in Light and darkness tries to hide, And trembles at His voice...' The power of God goes beyond understanding. The fact that darkness submits to Him and cannot hide is such an incredible joy! That means that fear, sin and shame crumble down when met with the King! Reason no. 66 :)

Reason no. 65...

Testimonies are soooo powerful! Yesterday, I heard a few incredible stories of what God did in someone's life and in their street. To see situations completely transformed - points to God again and again and again! From salvation, to healing, to seeing peace come in all as a result of love - it's amazing! And by the sounds of the story only God was the solution. The story I heard was huge, but ultimately the power of whatever testimony is exciting! If it points to God and demonstrates something of His goodness, His love or His grace, then surely we should get excited and praise God! Reason no. 65 :)

Reason no. 64...

This morning was great! I had a 3 hour session of audiology, but it was so helpful and actually kinda fun!! To be able to practice some of the hearing tests we'd learnt about and see how they worked in real life was really beneficial. The 4th year audiologists talked us through it all and were able to answer loads of questions. Having nearly forgot all about the session and thinking it was on an entirely different day - I'm so grateful I remembered and checked in time! Reason no. 64 :)

Reason no. 63...

Under 2 weeks until I head home for Christmas! Yippeeeeeee :) It's been a while, but I can't wait to go back and see my family and catch up with some friends. 1 semester is nearly out the way and looking back it's been a very very good start to the 4 years! The one thing I doubted the most was whether I was on the right course and now I've started it - I'm enjoying it! Reason no. 63 :)

Reason no. 62...

I think this might actually be the first poem I've written since being in Manchester! Reason no. 62 :)

 



Seasons come and seasons go,

But You never change.

The same God of all my yesterdays,

You remain the same today.

Your faithfulness and love,

cover over all my circumstances.

The struggles and frustrations,

they're completely known to You.

You care about the details,

You're the One who will break in.

My soul will choose today,

to praise You for who you are.

Regardless of what surrounds me,

who You are has not changed.

You are the firm foundation,

The One who's never shaken.

You are the faithful Father,

The One who never fails.

You are the Sovereign God,

nothing escapes your attention.

Let my heart choose today -

You the King of Kings.

Reason no. 61...

Yesterday evening was lovely! I went for a curry with a few friends down Curry Mile, followed by some form of pudding (or rather dessert!) in another food place! Being so close to the Curry Mile, the people I spent my evening with and just having a great time - I am blessed! Reason no. 61 :)

Reason no. 60...

Love love love this book by Stef Liston: Just Like Us. I read it for the first time this year and it definitely challenged my perspective of what prayer is. He takes different people in the bible and draws out what we can take from their lives. There's a chapter all about Gideon. He writes:

'To have high expectations of God is to have a high opinion of God, and to have low expectations of God is to have a low opinion of God. God doesn't need people to make excuses for what He's not doing. He's looking for people who won't listen to excuses. He's looking for a church that will dare to ask Him questions and enquire why His glory isn't being made known as it has in the times gone by...'

Gideon asked God questions. He's totally honest with how he's feeling. He looks at his current situation and compares it to what God's done in the past. He's the same God, with the same power, so we can have confidence when coming before God. That should mean that our expectations rise. With increased expectation all the more God loves to totally exceed them, just read Ephesians 3:20:

'Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine...'

 

Reason no. 60 :)

Reason no. 59...

Having a lecture which talked about what happens to your voice when you breathe in helium - funny, yet really interesting! I love that I'm on a course that I find so interesting, even if I don't understand it all the time. This week I also found out about whether it's better for parents who don't speak English as a first English to speak English or their mother tongue to their child - for me this is really really really interesting! Learning little facts and gathering information is exciting! I love how God's led me onto this course! Reason no. 59 :)

Reason no. 58...

I love authenticity! This week God's reminded me of the community culture He is creating. A culture where people are totally open and not holding back. A culture where struggles are shared. As people step out and become vulnerable with one another, barriers are broken and relationships are strengthened. This enables people to come alongside and encourage. This culture makes it permissible for others to do the same. It's not easy, in fact in can be tough! But glimpsing at it within the church community - it creates the opportunity for God to step in and do something amazing! Reason no. 58 :)

Reason no. 57...

Yesterday, I had an incredibly creative day. I made a communication passport as part of my course. A communication passport is essentially a book all about me and if I could not communicate would assist or prompt a conversation. To have a task that is so creative is such a blessing, especially where I'd been struggling to motivate myself to do work for the past few days. I love being creative and essentially I spent the day cutting and sticking! Reason no. 57 :)

Reason no. 56...

This afternoon was great! I finished my lecture half an early. This meant that I had time to join my hall group (linked with the Christian Union) and help them with the mission event for half an hour. We gave out mini chocolate bars with bible passages on. It was great to see people surprised when we said it was free and seeing them wonder off reading the passage. To think that over 100 people potentially read something about the true God is exciting and have found out that the Christian Union exists! Reason no. 56 :) 

Reason no. 55...

'He does not treat us as our sins deserve.'

 

What amazing truth! This weekend God reminded me just how blessed and  how much of God's goodness I have in my life! It can be so easy to think that I'm entitled to everything in my life being absolutely perfect and nothing short of that. Yet, the reality is, I don't deserve the goodness and I don't deserve the blessings. My default position should be far from what I'm describing. The fact that God delights in me and loves letting His goodness into my life - has got to put a smile on my face! Reason no. 55 :)

Reason no. 54...

Beautiful reminder this weekend...

 

I've done absolutely nothing to win God's approval, to be loved by Him, to be adopted into His family...but He has done it all! It's not about me, but it's all about Him. My salvation is totally dependant on Him. That's so releasing...it means that any attempt I make - be it good behaviour, spending time reading the bible - whatever I may try to do to be 'right' before God is pointless! It doesn't make God love me, why because He already loves me. This truth is awesome! Reason no. 54 :)

Reason no. 53...

The fact that God is Sustainer, is another reason! He's the One who supplies my every breath. He enables me to get up each morning. He gives me the food and drink I need. He's put a roof over my head. He's supplied running water...And, the list goes on! Without Him, where would I be? He's so gracious in providing all that I need to keep on living and to live the life I'm living. Reason no. 53 :)

Reason no. 52...

These past couple of days God's been reminding me of where I was and where I am now. The journey He's taken me on has been soooo exciting! And more is yet to come!! God's brought breakthrough - wooohooo! One thing I really wanted God to break in with was all to do with praying out loud...I absolutely hated it, in fact I'd dread it. I'd be embarrassed and I'd be more concerned with how the prayer sounded than what the prayer was actually about. But, over this past year God's been dealing with it. He's shown me the value of praying in groups and the breakthrough that accompanies. He's taught me to not pray because I have to, but rather to pray out of what God has put on my heart and He'll provide the words. Reason no. 52 :)

Reason no. 51...

Absolutely awesome weekend away with the CU. He most certainly blessed me with a weekend that far exceeded my expectations. The company was so good -just spending time with a lovely bunch of people. The timing was great - to have  a weekend off and not have to constantly think about deadlines or the workload being too much. But ultimately being reminded of the awesomeness of the Gospel - who God is and all that He did! It may have been a tiring weekend, but it most certainly was so refreshing! Reason no. 51 :)

Reason no. 50...

The joy of the Lord is my strength! I love how God is the source of joy and in Him joy abounds! Simple - Reason no. 50 :)

Reason no. 49...

I love how there are endless reasons to praise God! This week someone worked out how long it would take me to reach 10,000 reasons - on an estimate of 300 reasons a year it will take over 30 years!! I'll be 50!!!!! :O But, as I was thinking about it today, there are soooo many reasons and it's actually something so good to do! To reflect on the goodness of God, to have stories build up of what God's done - it's going to shift my perspective and give God the glory! Reason no. 49 :)

Reason no. 48...

I love how my course is so much less intense and busy than what I was originally expecting! To have the course spread over 4 years rather than 3 is showing itself to be such a blessing. It means that I have time to invest with other people and do things outside of study - something I rarely did throughout sixth form! Reason no. 48 :)

Reason no. 47...

Recently I found this poem I wrote a few months ago. Being reminded of what God has done in me and what He's doing in me each day is incredible. God's so good! Reason no. 47 :)

 

My story, what's yours?

I'll tell you a story,

just sit back and read.

Where I'm at right now

is by no means a mistake.

My life speaks of adventure,

and I've survived every storm!

If I'd faced them alone -

where would I be?

To help set the context -

let me start at the beginning!

Just take one step at a time

and I'll unveil the story!

If I said the word 'rescue',

what would you say?

Salvation, delivery, disentanglement -

they're all one and the same.

Everyone needs to be saved -

but, saved from what?

Emptiness, meaningless,

lies, ruin, destruction,

loneliness, death and sin -

it's only the beginning,

but the list could go on.

What could be huge for me,

could be less for you,

what could be huge for you,

could be less for me.

To some degree,

every word on that list

is relevant to you and me.

The problem is there,

but how can it be countered?

Money? Friends? Sex?

It may counter for a moment,

but how long will it last?

If I told you there's a solution,

what would you say?

But before I give it away,

let me tell you the outcome!

Love: undeserved but unconditional,

Joy even through the storms,

Peace that transcends understanding,

Friendship when all others fail,

Family: become an adopted child,

Strength when drowning in weakness,

Freedom: unlimited and without end,

Hope: even in hopeless situations,

Grace: no striving required,

Acceptance for just being yourself,

Meaning - your life has purpose!

That's what's on offer -

would you dare turn it down?!

If 'yes' is the answer,

I hope that you're sure!

If your answer is 'no',

then what an adventure awaits!

How do I access the outcome above?

There's only one way

and that I'll now share!

It's all to do with one man: Jesus.

You may have heard of him?

He lived 2000 years ago,

yet has a HUGE impact on you and me.

He's made a way for you to be rescued.

No other could do it - only him,

why? Because of who he is!

He was not just a man,

but fully God too!

He lived a perfect life -

without wrong and blemish.

He was sentenced to death -

death on a cross!

His sentencing was unjust,

he had done no wrong!

When put to death,

he paid a great price!

A price that you and me

ought to have paid,

yet the price is so high -

it is far out of reach,

unless you are Jesus,

the son of the living God.

What debt has to be paid?

Every wrong-doing: sin.

Sin cannot be left unpunished,

the penalty is death.

It leads to separation from God

and all you need rescuing from.

Every person alive today

is guilty and deserves the penalty.

That's a fact: but there is a way out!

Believe in Jesus - the Son of God,

lay down your sin before him

and he'll take your place.

Through Jesus' death -

you can now be free!

The barrier of sin

has now been demolished!

It has no hold,

you are no longer entangled!

What once separated you and God,

has been silenced once and for all!

With the barrier gone,

you can now be with God

and enjoy the life

he has planned for you!

Although Jesus died,

death could not hold him -

he conquered it and is living!

This is a story that's true of me,

but it only speaks of the beginning!

From that day of Jesus paying my price,

I decided to live for him!

What a joy that has been!

I've joined his adventure

and he's given me a unique role.

He's taken me out of my comfort zone,

he's led me to Poland and Berlin,

he's taken hold of my weaknesses

and using them for his glory,

he's opening up doors

which I'm surprised should be open,

he's investing in me,

in ways unimaginable,

seeing as I deserved the penalty of death,

he's given me life -

that's one big adventure!

That's what He's doing in me,

but what could He do in you?

My life may not be perfect,

ups and downs still come my way,

but through it all

I have now got access to Him,

who promises to never leave me,

but help me through it all!

You've heard my story,

but what will God do in you?

Reason no. 46...

I love little quotes, especially ones that are just a few words but speak out truth till it's overflowing! This is one is soooo good - just have a read!

'Jesus loves you right where you are, but loves you too much to leave you there.'

 

 

So, if  I was to expand it just a bit, what does it look like? The place, the situation, the way I act, the way I speak, the way I behave, the way I feel, the way I look - God loves me just as I am right now. He doesn't love me any less than He did yesterday and He definitely doesn't love me any more - why because His love for me has already reached the highest peaks! In fact, His love for me happened before I was even born. His love for me goes on and on and on. If God loved me whilst I was a sinner and was prepared to die for me, give up everything for me - that love is surely something that I should take note of?! But the next part of the sentence says He loves me too much to leave me where I am...that simply means that God has something far better in store for me! Now that's exciting! Reason no. 46 :)

Reason no. 45...

I love how some people are just really helpful! Today as I was collecting my laptop I got really disorientated. I decided to ask a lady - who was rather rude when I said 'Excuse me...' along one of the roads. I was slightly offended and probably showed it on my face as she walked off. However a few moments later a couple of people walk over and ask if I needed any help. They were so helpful and pointed me in the right direction. These kind of situations definitely teach you a lot - to be faced with 2 situations side by side, I can definitely say which one I'd like to be like! Reason no. 45 :)

Reason no. 44...

Sitting on the bus today was soooo lovely I ended up sitting opposite a little girl and her mum. Their conversation was absolutely brilliant, along with all the girl's expressions. I couldn't help but smile - especially when the girl notices a mirror behind her and starts waving at me through the mirror and giving me a really big smile! Reason no. 44 :)

Reason no. 43...

Yesterday a letter came through saying that I was able to claim money back from the dentist and that £18 had been put in my bank account! What a lovely surprise, especially with the build-up to Christmas!! The government/NHS are definitely rather generous, especially where they're paying my uni tuition fees too! Reason no. 43 :)

Reason no. 42...

Having spent ages being quite clueless in a lot of my audiology lectures, this week I've finally started to understand it a bit better! Having gone to the library I've managed to find a book on audiology, which was especially written for speech and language therapists! The book I'd been using before had gone straight over my head. I love learning and  actually being able to understand new things. Reason no. 42 :)

Reason no. 41...

I've survived over a week without a laptop and have actually enjoyed having a break from it! This afternoon I'm able to collect it, which is great news. The timing of not having the convenience of a laptop has been so good too. Most of my work this week has been on paper, note taking or reading. By not having a laptop in my room I've realised just how much time I actually go on it. So instead I've invested time in reading 'Sustainable Power' which has definitely been more beneficial than going on Facebook! Reason no. 41 :)

Reason no. 40...

One reason has definitely got to be my lifegroup (church small/connect/cell group!)...as I was walking back with my friend we were just saying how great it was to be able to spend the evening with such a lovely bunch of people on a week-to-week basis. Yesterday was a social and we cooked and ate together, which was so nice! Often we do high-lights and low-lights from our week, which is such a great way of not only finding out more about each person, but also what God's been doing in each of their lives or what needs prayer! My life group has to be a reason to praise God...reason no. 40 :)

Reason no. 39...

Travelling has got to be another reason! I love the fact that in the space of a few hours you can be outside England and surrounded by a new culture and by a bunch of new people all speaking a completely different language. Last year I started to write down a few dreams, hopes and visions. Why? Because God cares about them and He loves giving good gifts to His children. One of mine was to visit at least 25 countries over my life, which to be able to do such a thing will be amazing!! Reason no. 39 :)

Reason no. 38...

I love autumn: the colours, the fireworks and the anticipation that Christmas is coming! As I look out the window each day the leaves are slowly falling to the ground, it's so beautiful: the red-y, orange-y, golden colours. As the leaves lie on the ground children start crunching they're way through. It also means the conkers are out and the hunt begins! Firework night lies in the midst of autumn and the lights light up the night sky. The Christmas countdown has already begun, the songs are already being played and the shops are full of the Christmas food, presents and cards. Not long to go! Reason no. 38 :)

Reason no. 37...

I love testimonies! Hearing and reading stories of the goodness of God is soooo faith-building. Last week I heard an incredible story of God breaking into a Muslim girl's life and totally transforming her. I've read stories of God breaking away years of accumulated debt and God healing the sick. What's amazing is that this is the same God TODAY! God's heart for these situations is exactly the same today and it's exactly the same for each person. Why? Because God loves and He cares for each of them. Reason no. 37 :)

Reason no. 36...

Last Friday I had to do my first university presentation. Every time I've had to do anything similar before I've been totally gripped by fear - even to the point of being in floods of tears the night before! However on this occasion that was not the case. Praise God! He totally reminded me of my position and how my identity is not dependent on my course (and therefore not the presentation!) but He's also blessed me with some lovely people on my course, which really does make a difference! Reason no. 36 :)

Reason no. 35...

I love how even when I'm stressed, annoyed or simply feeling down in the dumps, God is so so sooooo good! His love, His peace, His grace, His favour and His joy goes on and on and on! God's been reminding me of these verses in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. They say:

'Rejoice always,  pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.'

This weekend God highlighted all the little thing in my life that I have to be grateful of. My default position can so easily be to moan and to worry etc. - in fact, most of the time it quite possibly is!! But just as I was going through a list in my head of everything that was not going as I had hoped, God stepped in and reminded me of who He was and how blessed I really am. God used a little child dancing in the rain to remind me how God has that joy, that peace, that freedom in store for me too! So that's yet another reason! Reason no. 35 :)

Reason no. 34...

This week my new book arrived! It's called: 'Sustainable Power' by Simon Holley. Since last summer this was a book that was highly recommended, so I thought it was about time I had a read of it! It's a book which is full of stories about God's Kingdom breaking out and people being healed. To read about a church's journey of moving into all that God has for them is exciting. One thing that really excited me was just being reminded of a story in the bible (Mark 7:31-37). This story is all about Jesus healing a man who had difficulty speaking and was deaf. Jesus healed a man with a speech impediment! Being reminded that Jesus heals these things too is incredible, especially where this will most likely be something I encounter on a day-to-day basis several years down the line. Reason no. 34 :)

Reason no. 33...

I love games! This weekend me and a group of friends spent the evening playing games. If you've ever heard of tension, jungle speed, jenga and the slightly messy flour game - that's how our Saturday evening was spent. It was absolutely lovely and a nice way to end a slightly stressful day! I'm so grateful for the people God has put around me this year...reason no. 33 :) 

Reason no. 32...

 I'm so grateful that my home for the year is just 5 mins away from the library! This week my laptop had to be passed over to PC World for over a week, due to the fan breaking. So, I'm now laptop-less and internet-less for the next few days. Although at the time I was reaaaaally annoyed, it's meant that I've had to spend the day at the library in order to have access to a computer.This has meant that I've ended up having one of my most productive days yet! Plus, it means that I'm not constantly glued to a screen whilst sitting in my room! So despite it being a negative at the time - I'm now definitely seeing the benefits! Reason no. 32 :)

Reason no. 31...

Today's lecture was brilliant! I've just got a new lecturer for the next 5 weeks and she's absolutely hilarious :) The whole way through, her comments and little gestures most certainly made my last lecture of the week a real enjoyment. The added bonus is the fact that she finished an hour early! Reason no. 31 :)

Reason no. 30...

This week I got my first library fine! BUT, the amazing thing was when I went to pay it - they couldn't see why I'd got it in the first place and wiped away my debt away - how amazing! I couldn't help but smile! Through that incident God totally reminded me how Jesus' death totally cancelled out my every sin...Reason no. 30 :)

Reason no. 29...

This week I had a lovely evening with loads of the SLTs. We had some pizza and headed out to watch the fireworks. They're such a great bunch of people and I'm excited to think they're the people I get to spend the next 4 years with! Reason no. 29 :)

Reason no. 28...

God has the best plans for my life! I may 'know' it, but whether I live in the fullness of it day in and day out is an entirely different story...it can be so easy to lean on my own understanding and my way of looking at situations, that I can end up giving God a look in only after a few attempts by me! But, God's so good and so gracious - even in these situations God doesn't stop caring or loving me! I love that God has such amazing plans for every area of my life. Reason no. 28 :)

Reason no. 27...

I'm grateful to God giving me strength each day! Since being at uni my body clock has had to shift - much later nights and not always gaining many hours of sleep at other times. The fact, that I'm able to keep going and fit in all that I'm doing each week is definitely a testimony to God's goodness! Reason no. 27 :)

Reason no. 26...

Yesterday, I watched an episode of 'Educating Yorkshire'. It was all about a year 11 boy with a stammer and the effects it had on his life. Watching it reminded me exactly why I want to become a Speech and Language Therapist. Seeing the boy do a talk in front of his entire year, pass his English GCSE (which involves a 20% oral contribution) and leave his time at school smiling! Little reminders of the end goal is definitely encouraging and motivating when there seems to be endless tasks to get through! Reason no. 26 :)

Reason no. 25...

Today I've been trying to get through some of my Psychology notes...it's been slow, but some of it has been interesting! Part of my reading was all about memories! As I read about it - it's truly amazing to think that our brains have such an incredible ability to remember sooooo much. From objects, to words, to people, to experiences - the list is endless. To think that so much is stored with our tiny little brains that could be held in our hands - how fascinating! What an awesome design feature for God's creation! Reason no. 25 :)

Reason. no. 24...

I wrote this poem last year: http://beautywordsgod.blogspot.co.uk/2013_02_01_archive.html Buuuut, the amazing thing is: it still remains true today!

 

Victory!

Victorious. Triumphant. Conquering.

You have defeated darkness, sin and death.

In You, I am raised up and strengthened,

I am equipped against the enemy.

The armour of God is mine for the taking:

truth, righteousness, faith,

the gospel of peace and salvation.

 

On the side of the undefeated Champion,

How could I ever lose?

You are greater. You are stronger.

No-one compares to You.

Even in the depths of the valleys,

Never have I been abandoned,

Every step taken, You are by my side.

 

Struggles, disappointments, hard times,

Through it all, I'll cling to You,

For You are faithful and the rock unshakeable,

You are a solid foundation,

Whom I can trust at all times,

You are the God who never changes,

Who sees me through all circumstances.

Because of You, I'll claim the victory!

 

Reason no. 24 :)

 

 

 

Reason no. 23...

The bible most certainly has to be a reason! In Hebrews 4:12, it says:

'For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.'

The bible has power! It's the Word of God and that means it's not merely words on a page, but the very words spoken by God that are still relevant today! This past week I've started looking at the book of 1 Samuel again and just reading about the ark of God is fascinating! To think that the presence of God dwelled in there and the incredible power that it contained is mind blowing. When people touched the ark they died. Yet, now, I can now draw near to God and the Spirit of God now lives in me. When Jesus died a shifting took place! My access to God has been totally transformed. I no longer stand as someone condemned and unclean, rather someone 'IN CHRIST' meaning I'm righteous and justified and pure! Reason no. 23 :)

Reason no. 22...

One awesome day with my family! I finally made it to London. I was meant to head over there on Monday, but due to the storm my trains got suspended/ cancelled etc. It was the first time since moving to Manchester that I saw them, plus it was just after my birthday - so that meant PRESENTS! We went out for a meal, headed over to Covent Gardens and wondered around Hyde Park - it was lovely! And, the weather stayed dry too - added bonus! One of the funniest things to watch today was: a squirrel sneaking up behind a girl and climbing up her leg...it didn't just happen to one girl, but another girl too! So, if you're going to Hyde Park: beware of the squirrels!! One lovely day = reason no. 22 :)

Reason no. 21...

God's timing is great! Just as I begin thinking about whether or not it's a good idea to go out with a few friends on Halloween - I read the article below. In my uncertainty God speaks and provides the perfect peace. It's so interesting being surrounded by an entirely new bunch of people as it definitely makes you think about why you do, or rather in this case, don't do certain things! Being challenged about beliefs is a good thing...even if at the time we really dislike it! Reason no. 21 :)

http://godandpoliticsuk.org/2013/10/09/halloween-harmless-or-harmful/

Reason no. 20...

The lyrics of this song, sum it up pretty well! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38EVco7eba0

 

This most certainly is another reason! To stand forgiven, debt free with not a single accusation stand against me is overwhelmingly amazing!!! The extent that God went to so that I could stand justified before Him is beyond understanding. The fact that He valued me enough to allow His son take a punishment that He did not deserve - I will never grasp.  As I think about the position I stood in before and compare it to where I now stand...the what-would-have-been-deemed-impossible happened! Not because of anything I did, but all because of JESUS!! Reason no. 20 :)

Reason no.19...

'God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.'

John piper

 

 

I love this! This is one of the key things I'll take away from my Impact year. The way God is most glorified, or most worshiped in my life, is ultimately by me enjoying and being happy in God. It is not through me seeing worship to God as a duty or something I strive to do...no, no, no!!! The example Andrew Wilson gave in a talk was about going on a date with his wife. Does he glorify her  more by saying: 'I want to, there's nothing I'd rather do' or 'it's my duty, so don't mention it!'? It can be so easy to allow worship to become part of a routine or part of another meeting. But, that's not what God wants from us. God would much rather we truly know what it means to find our joy and our satisfaction in Him! I love that, that's what God wants from me...Reason no. 19 :)

Reason no. 18...

At the moment I'm learning all about speech - not surprising, since I'm doing a degree in Speech and Language Therapy!! It's so fascinating, just thinking about how we're able to produce so many sounds through changing the shape of our mouth, the position of our lips and tongue etc. The fact that we've joint these sounds together to produce meaningful sounds - meaning words, is incredible! The amount of words we can produce is indefinite. Reason no. 18 :)

Reason no. 17...

Being surrounded by so many cultures and people from different countries is such an amazing experience! After listening to people talk about mission on Sunday, I started thinking about this year and how amazing it was to have the opportunity to go to Bulgaria and Romania - with 2 awesome groups of people. It can be so easy to forget all that happened, all that I saw and all that God spoke to me about. Anyway, as I look back I'm so grateful for all the amazing experiences I had and the people I got to share them with.

Here's a video from my time in Romania, produced by Eddie:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dvNFy6sdzw&feature=player_embedded

Reason no. 17 :)

Reason no.16...

I've made it through to Reading Week and am still smiling! These past few weeks have been great! It's been awesome seeing God be faithful in sooooo many ways. Embarking on so many new things in one go has definitely been an adventure: new course, new city, new people and new church!! I can definitely say it is most certainly where God's called me to be! It's been a season where God's taught me what it means to lean on Him and not depend on my own strength. Assignments have been set and the work seems to be never ending! If I went back 2 or 3 years I would have probably responded entirely different to the situation I'm in now. Before, I would have been totally consumed and overwhelmed by the quantity - I would have been stressed and possibly depressed! Over the last year God's built the foundations for this year. He's constantly reminding me each day that my time in Manchester is so much more than the course I'm on - but it extends to everything else, including investing time with different people. Thank you God! Reason no. 16 :)

Reason no. 15...

My Impact year definitely is a reason! I love how God opened up the opportunity and provided amazingly throughout - from week to week, but for 2 mission trips too! God led me to Horsham and taught me so much. He laid a foundation, which I know most certainly has helped me being in Manchester. I met some awesome people, who were soooo passionate about God. I love how this weekend their God inspired vision for 2 meetings has now happened and just seeing the church keep moving with all that God has for them. Reason no. 15 :)

Reason no. 14...

I have finally decided on a new church: Vinelife!! The community and the vision are awesome! From my first week of being there, they have been incredible at being so hospitable and welcoming. Through the student lunches they've provided each week - it's been great for meeting new people. I love how they're passionate about us knowing our identity in Christ and seeing God's Kingdom break out! Reason no. 14 :)

Reason no. 13...

Creativity is something I absolutely love! I love seeing other people express it in their own unique way too. It's conveyed in soooo many ways - through music, dance, drama, cooking, writing, art etc. For me, I love words, I love experimenting with colour and beauty and just seeing things come together. It's the overflow of the heart and it is something God has gifted EVERYONE with - not just some! The bible talks about us being made in the image of God and as you flick through the pages of the bible, time after time God displays creativity!! Reason no. 13 :)

Reason no. 12...

Time after time I mess up - things slip out of my mouth that I wish I could take back, I'll do something or think something and as I look back I wonder what I was doing! But, God's sooooo good! He's faithful, so loving and forgiving! In 1 John 1:9, it says:

" If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."

 

What an amazing truth! The fact that God who sets the perfect standard chooses to forgive me for every wrong thing I've done is simply incredible! The fact that this stands true about me is so exciting:

 

 "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."

 

Romans 8:1

 

 

This most certainly is another reason to praise God! Reason no. 12 :)

Reason no.11...

"He is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us..."

 

Ephesians 3:20

 

 

God is good! He continually amazes me with who He is and all that He does. He's an expectation exceeding God, who loves going beyond my needs, desires and dreams. When I eventually decide to lay down the things weighing me down - God steps in and brings a breakthrough. He's the God who loves giving good gifts to His children and He's the one who has the ability to do endless possibilities - for nothing is impossible for Him!  Reason no. 11 :)

Reason no. 10...

3 prayers answered today...but I'll just blog the one! From what has been quite a stressful and tiring day, God has been so good to me! From a tutorial I was dreading, God turned it around and it ended up being really encouraging. The past couple of weeks had been challenging in this specific tutorial and topics that were not so straight forward. But this week the topic was something I'm good at! This made it a pleasant hour to break up my not so pleasant day! Plus, from having recently been bombarded with so much new information, something familiar once in a while is such a relief!! (The 2 other answers to prayer are awesome too!!) God broke through - yet again!!

The lyrics of these songs are fantastic!

http://www.freedomsounds.net/audio/breakthrough/  

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-SKmlQdA2Q

Reason no. 10 :)

Reason no. 9...

Words have so much power. They shape the environment we live in. Yesterday I was with a group of people where the evening was spent writing encouraging things to one another. We had a sheet of A4 paper stuck on our backs and by the end of the evening it was full of encouragements. It was great - even if I had only just met most of the group! Encouraging words build a person up and shape them into the person God's called them to be. As I look back on the words written, it reminds me that who I am is just as God created me to be! Reason no. 9 :)

Reason no. 8...

Just because of who God is...! Last year I wrote this A-Z poem of God http://beautywordsgod.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/this-is-god-z.html:

Words: too few to describe, express and convey

The Awesome, Almighty, Able God.

He’s Alive, He’s Awake, He’s Above everything.

Because of Jesus my sins are Atoned for.

Abba. It’s just one word, but we learn so much

The father’s heart and holiness in one.

How huge are our expectations in God?

He is Big, yet so much bigger than Big!

He blesses bountifully beyond measure,

He has broken and smashed down every boundary,

Limitations are no more under His Banner!

Why? For one reason alone: He is God.
 

When we look to our Saviour what do we see?

Just a meek and mild, comforting friend?

Or rather, the undefeated Champion,

Who’s fully conquered darkness, sin and death?

His compassion, His care - they never cease,

They are everlasting – that’s who He is. 
 

We can trust that He’ll never fail us,

He’ll deliver us through all circumstances,

He’ll defend us in our weaknesses,

We can depend on Him – He’ll not let us down,

Through His death: my debt is cancelled,

What an awesome, perfect God we have!

 

One word is insufficient to describe Him,

For He, the King of Kings, is everlasting.

Eternity is all within His hands –

The beginning, the middle and the end!

Extravagance is an understatement,

His love, joy and grace are all overflowing.
 

The King’s abundance is mine to access,

I am adopted into His family.

I can call Him friend, I can call Him father.

He’s forever faithful and forever good,

He fully rejoices over me,

This is God: what an incredible privilege! 
 

As I look to Him what do I see?

Goodness:  unlimited and unmerited,

Grace: so extravagant and undeserved,

Generosity: He gives abundantly,

Glory: He’s the source of honour and praise.

What a joy to be chosen by Him.

My awesome God, where do I continue?

He is so Holy and so perfect,

He is never-ending Hope to the hopeless,

Healer: He can heal all sickness and disease,

His name is higher than any other,

Yet Jesus befriended the sinners like me.

 

What do we discover as we look at Him?

Immeasurable kindness, goodness, love,

He is interceding for you and me,

His imagination is limitless,

Incomparable – no other like Him!

Hearing all this, what will your response be?

 

No act, no song will ever be sufficient!

He is the God of perfect justice.

He is the Judge who will pass the sentence.

Justification is mine for the taking,

Because of my Sin-offering: Jesus.

He deserves more than I could ever give.

When you hear the word ‘God’, what do you think?

Open the bible and see the King of Kings.

He’s the reigning, ruling, conquering King.

He’s the King Eternal, the King of Glory.

He’s the King of you and the King of me.

If that’s who He is, what will your response be?
 

As we press into Him, ever deeper we’ll go,

Look at His limitless love – how far, how wide?

In His light all darkness disappears.

As we trust in Him, He’ll lead us on.

He is the Lord, the Lion and the Lamb,

Every step we take is planned out by Him.
 

For who He is goes on and on and on,

The mighty, merciful, Master God

He is Maker throughout all of history,

Jesus the Messiah, son of the Most-High,

who mediates between us and our God.

Because of Him we stand justified.
 

 Eternity is held in His hands,

He has the name above all other names,

God: never- changing, never-failing,

He’s never-sleeping, never-ending,

Nothing comes as a surprise to Him.

Forever He will be the God all-knowing.
 

At the beginning of time he was the First,

Fast forward in time and He’s the Omega,

Jesus: One with the Father and Spirit –

There’s unity in the One and only God,

There is no-other who can be compared.

He stands alone above everything else. 
 

Through the stresses, trials, conflicts and wars,

He remains the ruling Prince of peace.

His Peace transcends all understanding.

We can depend on Him to provide,

And we know that He is the Great High Priest,

Who has made the greatest sacrifice.

Words are insufficient – God is so big!

The Sun of Righteousness rules, reigns and redeems,

He is a Refuge in times of trouble,

The Rock unshakeable – never changing,

He is the Resurrection and the Life.

This is our God who’s fully conquered death.
 

Through history Jesus was rejected by men,

despite being the Saviour who sanctifies.

He’s the Son of man who has suffered,

The stone the builders tossed to the side.

Yet, He remains the Shepherd, Shield and Strength.

Just look at all God has on offer for us!
 

Because of Him prophecies are fulfilled,

We see that He’s a first-class teacher,

He is the Truth as is every word He speaks,

When tested and trialled He remained true,

This is Jesus – part of the Trinity,

Father, Spirit, Son – yet all make up one. 
 

Our God lacks absolutely nothing,

His understanding no one can fathom,

Undeserving is exactly what I am,

Yet I stand secure under His banner.

The everlasting King remains unchanging,

What was true yesterday is still true today!

We can rejoice because of all He’s done,

In Him we stand alive and victorious,

Because of the victory he has won.

How vast the triumph? How vast the defeat?

Very unimaginably huge!

He is the Champion of all time!

 

 Incredible: this God is on our side!

He is wonderful, so worthy of our praise,

For He is the Way, the Truth and the Life,

With God what an adventure lies ahead!

He has wisdom indescribable -

He has the solution to every problem!
 

As we worship where do we begin?

‘Who You are is huge, extreme, outrageous,

Not just You but everything You do -

Your love, Your grace, Your goodness and faithfulness,

You do all things in limitless abundance!’

So worthy, is our indescribable God!

 

Reason no. 8 :)