Satan

Welcome to Christian Charity World as we look at Satan and how he can work in our lives if we aren't careful.

"James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."

Do you have trouble understanding Satan?

For some people they struggle to visualise what or who the Devil really is. The characterisation of the Devil as a little fellow dressed in red, with small horns on his head and spouting a tail is a bit hard to swallow. This wouldn't be an accurate depiction of The Devil usually portrayed in cartoons or comic strips.

The words "Devil" and "Satan" amount to the same thing scriptually though "Devil" is likely to have derived from the Greek language and "Satan" from Hebrew.

The Devil works hard to tempt us into being disobedient to God. He plies us with evil and corrupt thoughts, confuses us with ideas that differ to what we can read in the bible, and bombard our minds with negative thoughts in times of trouble, when our faith is put to the test. Satan searches out our weaknesses and plays on them, telling us lies, trying to grind us down into submission. He is the spirit of evil.

God however provides us with a righteous spirit, the Holy Spirit. When we have the Holy Spirit dwelling inside us we have pure thoughts, positive thoughts, a desire to do what is right in God's eyes because we know that it is good for mankind. We are not doubtful because we know the word of God is the truth and we can trust His word.

Following The Devil's work, whether it be in thought, word or deed, will make us feel guilty and sorrowful. A Christian will hate the sin, and although none of us are likely to be able to claim that we a perfect Christians, we will despise any sin we commit and will seek forgiveness from God. Living a life filled with the Holy Spirit will leave us feeling joyous, content and peaceful having lived upto the truth.

Our saviour Jesus Christ was the embodiment of a life filled with the Holy Spirit. When spending forty days in the wilderness the Devil continuously tested Him but Jesus was always able to counter him with Gods words as written in scripture. This is really a master plan in fending off evil thoughts. When negativity abounds in the mind and confusion reigns it is really helpful to try and still the mind and then focus on Gods words. If a bible is at hand and the right passage can be found it will surely drive away Satan from the mind.

It's almost like our minds are the battle ground between the Devil and the Holy Spirit; each one trying to wrestle control of our intellect and our body. So does that mean that we have no control over who wins? Are we just the territory of which the two are fighting over?

We do have the ultimate say in whether evil controls our thoughts or the power of righteousness. Although it takes alot of consciousness to catch negative thinking when it creeps in, once we catch it we can push it aside and focus on more righteous thoughts. And when we do, we can feel the Holy Spirit entering our hearts. We don't have to sit on the fence. It is possible to decide between right or wrong, good or evil. God is the creator of all we see so that means he has ultimate control over Satan. We know through The Book of Revelations that one day Jesus will return and Satan will be defeated. So why not back the winner?

How fantastic is that?

Terry Norrington

http://www.christian-charity-world.com/

http://www.cryinthedark.org/

Stillness

Welcome to Christian Charity World as we contemplate stillness.

"Psalm 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."

Last year I was in Romania with a group of volunteers as we helped the Christian charity Cry in the Dark with renovations to their orphanage Casa Lumina. It's always rewarding when doing such work particularly when we had all the young people around us inspecting our work and with some of them wanting to get involved as well. It gives a personal feel to the work knowing that these are the people that we are doing it for. Which made it very emotional as news unfolded during the week.

There are 22 orphans at Casa Lumina with varying degrees of life limiting illnesses or disabilities. Each one has a personal assistant and these personal assistants are not funded by the charity but by the government. During our trip it was announced that the government was pulling out of all funding of personal assistants. The economic crisis had hit Romania as hard if not harder than many countries in the Eurpean Union and this was one of the measures the powers that be had, in their wisdom, decided would claw some money back. This was devastating news with possibly devastating consequences. Without personal assistants, some, if not all of these young people could end up back in state run institutions; the places from which Cry in the Dark had strived so hard for so long to take them away from. But the consequences could be worse than that. It could feasibly take upto a year to get the orphans back into one of these institutions and if Casa Lumina had to close because of lack of finances they could end up on the streets.

One evening an emergency prayer meeting was called. We were invited to offer our prayers in an open session so all those who felt the need to openly say a prayer to God could do so. Many words were offered to The Lord in a desperate plea to help in this time of need, all being heartfelt as our emotions ran high. There were prayers for the leaders of the government, prayers for the trustees of the charity and prayers for the security of the orphans and staff alike. Then a simple prayer was offered.

"Be still and know that I am God"

The mood dramatically changed. When we realised that we needed to be in touch with God first and then he would answer our prayers, the sense of desperation and frustration evaporated. God is in control of everything for our good and yet in amongst all our emotions that obvious fact had been fundamentally overlooked. We had been looking at human ways of finding answers to the situation rather than just relying on God. Now in our stillness we could contemplate God's greatness and feel comforted that God would do right for Cry in the Dark and Casa Lumina.

Life has its ups and downs and when we seem to be on that downward slope we can feel angry, desperate, helpless. The tunnel can seem pitch black with not even a glimmer of light at the end of it and our despair and confusion can force a barrier between us and God. This is the time that we need to be still, and in that stillness focus on God. For God does things for our good.

As I write Casa Lumina is still providing amazing love and care for 22 young people. Cry in the Dark was founded on faith in God and has continued for over 13 years to support those in need in the impoverished areas around Bacau in North East Romania. In our stillness pray that this may long continue.

How fantastic is that?

Terry Norrington

http://www.cryinthedark.org/

http://www.christian-charity-world.com/

Christians Today in Nigeria

Welcome to Christian Charity World as we look at Christians Today in Nigeria.

"2 Timothy 3:12

Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,"

　

Sometimes life may seem difficult with our financial difficulties, family issues and perhaps many people not understanding our Christian values and ways of thinking. Yet in the western world, in the United Kingdom, United States and Western Europe we have it really easy compared to many Christians in other parts of the world.

　

In 2003 I spent some time working in Nigeria, particularly in the city of Ibadan. Despite some rather hairy moments I've developed a fondness for the country and indeed many of my Facebook friends are Nigerian. So it deeply saddens me to see the current unrest that has hit the nation particularly in Central and North East Nigeria.

　

President Goodluck Jonathan has declared a state of emergency in parts of the north eastern states of Yobe and Borno and the central states of Plateau and Niger. This follows Christmas Day attacks on churches in Yobe, Plateau, Niger and Nigeria's capital Abuja. Indeed the bombing of St. Theresa's Catholic Church in Abuja left 37 people killed.

　

A radical Muslim group called Boko Haram has claimed responsibility for all these attacks. Boko Haram seemed to have been virtually extinct in 2009 and were even using primitive weapons such as poisoned darts for their attacks. Yet over the course of 2 years they have risen strongly and now reportedly have affiliations with other Islamic Fundamentalist Groups such as al-Quaida in the Islamic Maghreb and the Taliban. As I write, a deadline set by Boko Haram for all Christians today in Nigeria to move out of the North of Nigeria has past. They have also urged Muslims in the south to head Northwards as they believe their safety is under threat from the predominantly Christian population of the southern states. It doesn't bode well for immediate peace as it appears that they are set on creating two seperate states with the North being governed by Shari'a Law as currently happens in 12 states. We can perhaps gain more insight into their motives when we translate the name Boko Haram; "Western Education is sinful".

　

In 2011 it is estimated that Boko Haram had killed upto 600 people in their attacks on churches. Jos, the capital of Plateau State has seen many deadly clashes as it lies on the divide between Christians and Muslims. President Goodluck Jonathan has ordered the temporary closure of Nigeria's borders with Niger, Chad and Cameroon to prevent terrorists fleeing to the safety of their neighbours. The mood of Christians across Nigeria is understandably one of concern and anxiety. The National Youth Wing of the Christian Associate of Nigeria have been quoted as saying that they will not tolerate any further attacks on churches.

　

I hope and pray that Christians do not try to retaliate though there are many who can understand the desire to exact justice. I'm sure it is easy to say, coming from one who is an outsider, but justice is not ours to meter out but God's. God is the ultimate judge and in his wisdom he will punish. For Christians today in Nigeria they must try and find it in their hearts to love all, including those that persecute and attack them. Love is their greatest weapon.

　

I have to point out that I am no great scholar on Islam but it is my understanding that it is a peaceful religion at heart, which makes it difficult to comprehend why Islamic Fundamentalists want to perpetrate such acts of violence including suicide bombings like that at the offices of the United Nations in Abuja. Why anybody would want to resort to violence of any kind to enforce their will is beyond me.

　

President Goodluck Jonathan has an unenviable task ahead of him in trying to find a formula for peace. Indeed as a committed Christian himself he must feel that his life is in danger as well. It is my wish for the nation and friends that have found a place in my heart that they can live peacefully together with the love of God at their core. For the sake of all Christians today in Nigeria and their Muslim neighbours.

　

How fantastic is that?

Terry Norrington

www.christian-charity-world.com/shopwindow.html

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http://www.cryinthedark.org/

Positive Faith

Welcome Christian Charity World and our look at Positive Faith.

"Philippians 4:6 ESV

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God."

For many people 2012 is going to be a testing year. So many people are struggling financially and it isn't just individuals and their families. The financial crisis translates over to companies, local authorities, governments and nations. The Euro Zone is barely holding together as countries such as Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal all wrestle with a mountain of debt. As the forecast appears to be that Europe could see another period of recession, it seems that 2012 could be a really tough year.

On a personal front the finances are low as well and as I look to juggle the bills around to make ends meet I have to admit to having to force myself sometimes to be positive; having positive faith. So if we are fighting the evils of negative thinking how do we turn that around? How can we be positive when all seems lost?

Well the first thing to do is pray. Many people use prayer as the last resort, as a tool to use when all else fails. Turning to God should be our first port of call in all situations, good or bad. I know it is extremely hard to surrender control when times are hard particularly when there seems no end in sight. For people trying to create solutions in times of trouble, they develop the nasty habit of making rash decisions, decisions formed out of desperation. Two of the qualities of the fruits of the spirit are "patience" and "self control" and yet these can fly straight out of the window if we don't allow God to take control of our problems. Jesus was the finest example of having the virtues of the fruits of the spirit and He was also the greatest example of faith in His Father; positive faith.

I have over the past three years taken a great interest in a charity called Cry in the Dark. They have two projects working in Romania, their first and founding project was the creation of an orphange for children with life limiting illnesses and disabilities who were, at the time, homed in attrocious conditions at a state run institution. They started in 1998 with no money and virtually no resources and yet just two years later Cry in the Dark had created Casa Lumina, a home for 24 orphans in the town of Comanesti.

How did they do it? By prayer and an absolute faith in God through His son Jesus Christ.

Recently I was talking to the charity's financial adminstrator and he told me that he could never do a financial forecast for the charity. If he did then month on month they would appear to be in the red. Yet month on month they've been in the black. Although many times the going has been tough, God's hand in their work means they continue their amazing charitable work in Romania 13 years on.

At times it may feel like God isn't answering our prayers. Because our prayers aren't answered when we would like them to be it gives the impression that He isn't listening. But God does answer our prayers. He has our good at heart at all times and His timing is always perfect.

　

By having positive faith, knowing that God will answer our prayers, we can look forward to an abundant future provided by God, and we can then develop another of those qualities from the fruits of the spirit; Hope.

How fantastic is that?

Terry Norrington

http://www.cryinthedark.org/

http://www.christian-charity-world.com/

False Idols

Welcome to Christian Charity World as we look at the subject of False Idols.

"2 Kings 17:33

So they feared the Lord but also served their own gods, after the manner of the nations from among whom they had been carried away."

　

A good friend recently bought tickets for him, me and my son to go and watch my favourite football team play. Since boyhood I've proclaimed that I'm an avid supporter of Gillingham FC but in recent years my actual attendance has been extremely limited due both to a lack of finances and little time. Until recently I'd felt guilty that I could pledge allegiance to the team and yet not back them with my presence. After all wouldn't a true supporter be there for his team come what may; through thick and thin?

　

The fact that I was feeling bad about it perhaps meant that I was giving too much adoration to my chosen team. I was making Gillingham Football Club a False Idol. I remember as a boy attending my confirmation classes; the vicar accused me of treating football as my God because I'd missed one lesson to play for the school team. I couldn't see it at the time particularly as I felt commited to my team mates.

　

Ultimately our awe, adulation and devotion should be aimed in one direction only; at God through his son Jesus Christ. And if I feel bad about anything it should be the fact that I have offended him through my sins. I've heard it said that I shouldn't "beat myself up" if I sin as God forgives us as long as we repent. I'm speaking purely for myself here when I say that I feel that I do need to beat myself up when I sin. I need to know how God feels when I sin so that I can try and learn my lesson. Yes I sin daily particularly through thought, but I must recognise this so that I can attempt to lead a more righteous life.

　

I've also read that you know when you are a Christian when you hate the sin. Yes we continually sin but because we know it is wrong we detest that sin. When God is placed in such high regard that we care so desperately about the actions that offend him we have made him our idol. Not a false idol but our one and only God deserving of our worship.

　

By the way Gillingham beat Bristol Rovers 4 - 1.

　

How fantastic is that?

Terry Norrington

http://www.cryinthedark.org/

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Cheerful Giving

Welcome to Christian Charity World as we look at Cheerful Giving.

2 Corinthians 9 — “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

I was very proud of my wife the other day. Seeing a "Big Issue" seller in the street she went and bought a cup of coffee and gave it to her. She gave it willingly and it gave her a warm glow in her heart for the rest of the day.

A very simple act you may think but it was a spontaneous gesture; an act of cheerful giving.

How many times have we passed beggars in the street? Do we look at them and begrudge giving them anything because we question as to whether the money we give will be spent wisely?

Very often homeless people have other issues. They can have drug problems, alcohol addiction, perhaps gambling issues. We refrain from giving because we doubt that our hard earned money will go towards food, a cup of tea or other things we consider necessities. Our giving then becomes subject to conditions. Is that the cheerful giving?

God calls us to give and give with a cheerful heart. It is not for us to judge a situation. If we give and give willingly, gladly, then we have fulfilled God's wish. If the receiver then chooses to spend the money on the wrong things then he (or she) has to answer to God. It can't be for us to make judgement on whether the person in need is justly deserving because we will never know all the circumstances that has drawn that person to that position. But God does. He knows that individuals full life history and He knows what is in their heart.

Cheerful giving doesn't have to be about sharing financially. It is also about sharing time, giving hospitality, listneing to somebody's woes, helping somebody in need. We may never know what effect our charity has on somebody but we can be content knowing that we have done The Lord's work. When we do see the difference that our act of kindness has on somebody we then feel truly rewarded.

How fantastic is that?

http://www.cryinthedark.org/

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Christian Charity World - The Prodigal Son

Welcome to Christian Charity World as we look at the story of the prodigal son.

Luke 15:11-32. The Prodigal Son

A couple of years ago I was with my wife and two boys at Camber Sands. We had pitched ourselves in the dunes on a hot, sunny, Sunday afternoon. As we were enjoying our relaxation we became aware of some children searching for something. They had lost their five year old brother. These children were obviously extremely concerned and worried and the parents were frantic. The police had been called to help find the missing boy and we joined in the hunt as well. I could only imagine the despair of the mother and father as I thought of how I'd be feeling if it was one of my two boys that had disappeared. Fortunately the story had a happy ending as one of the lifeguards on the beach spotted him.

As parents we know that we would do anything to protect our loved ones and if one of them strayed from the fold we would not rest until that child had been found. This is motherly and fatherly love; the bond that forms between parent and child. The very thought that our son or daughter is lost and they would be suffering either emotionally, physically or both, meters out such anguish and pain to a parent.

In The Story of The Prodigal Son the father despairs as his younger son takes off with his inheritance and squanders it on wild living. His son has lost his way and followed the wrong path in life. Eventually he sees the errors of his ways when all had run out. He seeks the forgiveness of his father and is truly repentant; to the point of being prepared to be one of his fathers slaves. The younger son had been humbled. Yet when his father saw his son he was overcome with joy and great celebrations took place. At first the older son could not understand his father's joy and celebration. The senior son had worked hard for his father and had never strayed. Why had a fattened calf been killed in his brother's honour?

The father explained. His son was lost and now he is found. I'm sure that every parent who reads this could understand that. We all can see how feelings of both relief and jubilation would fill our hearts if one of our own was lost and then was found.

The purpose of this parable is to make us understand how God feels when we have been treading along the wrong path and are lost. We are his children and when we are lost He is desperate for us to be found again. When we realise that the road we are on is using up all our inheritance and we humbly seek God's forgiveness, He is as jubilant as any parent who has lost a child and found them again. By turning back and following Our Father makes Him extremely happy; just like the father with the return of his prodigal son. And when we decide to follow His way we can rejoice in the security that comes from knowing Him through Christ and we can rest in His shadow.

How fantastic is that?