Mark Carey writes

God guides us. He’s more than really good at this – he is the best. Do you need some help to find direction, to make a decision? God can help. The Bible is one of the main areas that helps us find the way forward – we often describe the Bible as ‘God’s Word’ - the separate books that make up the whole Bible are God-breathed and inspired by Him. Also, of course, God reveals his word in other ways by the power of the Holy Spirit - for instance we often get an sense of an ‘impression’ that then, as we pray, listen and look at the Bible gives us guidance for the way ahead or for a particular situation. I do want to encourage you to be especially aware of God’s word - and to trust in Him - you can take him at his word. 

As Anne Graham-Lotz said:

It is His Word that gives me;

Encouragement in my despair

   Comfort in my isolation 

       Strength in my weakness 

           Light in my darkness

               Dignity in my humiliation 

            Joy in my tears

         Peace in my turmoil

      Purpose in my struggles

    Protection in my battles

  Wisdom in my decisions

Other news

Plans are developing for what the Autumn patterns of worship will look like. We remain cautiously hopeful that restrictions will be lifted significantly however, our experience over the last 16 months tell us that we have to remain adaptable and alert. Over the summer we will keeping the current patterns of gathering with some adjustments such as the United Breaks Out weekend at the beginning of August and then near the end of August gathering in the Christ Church gardens for celebration, baptisms, games & food.

Some changes are coming for Martongate Community Church as Ken & Maureen step down from leadership and a leadership team begins to explore ‘what next’ - please pray.

Also do pray for Angie & Andy Watts and the wider family as they mourn the loss of Doug Williamson. Many of you will have known Doug - we are thankful that he is with the Lord forever.