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What are the practical steps that we can take to begin to see people through God's eyes and love them like God does? A. We Must First Experience God’s Love Personally Ephesians 3:17–19 (KJV) “That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith… And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge…” We cannot give what we do not possess. Many believers intellectually know God loves them, yet do not deeply live in the reality of that love. Paul prayed: “That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith… that ye… may be able to comprehend… what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge.” — Ephesians 3:17–19 (KJV) When believers truly understand: • Their own forgiveness • Their own unworthiness • Their own adoption in Christ They become more merciful toward others. People who know grace deeply usually show grace freely. ________________________________________ B. We Must Die to Self-Centredness Luke 9:23 (KJV) “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” One of the greatest barriers to loving others is self. The self-life asks: • “How am I treated?” • “Am I appreciated?” • “What about my rights?” • “How do people make me feel?” But Christ calls believers to crucify self. “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” — Luke 9:23 (KJV) The more self rules us, the less we can love others purely. The love of Christ grows in yielded hearts. ________________________________________ C. Ask God to Let You See Souls Eternally Matthew 9:36 (KJV) “But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them…” Jesus saw beyond the surface. When He looked at people, He saw: • Sheep without a shepherd • Souls needing salvation • Broken hearts • Spiritual bondage • Eternal destinies “But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them.” — Matthew 9:36 (KJV) Compassion begins with spiritual sight. Often, we see: • Irritating behaviour • Personality flaws • Political opinions • Social differences • Personal offences God sees: • Woundedness • Bondage • Fear • Sin’s destruction • Eternal souls needing redemption Pray: “Lord, help me to see people the way You see them.” ________________________________________ D. Remember How Patient God Has Been With You Luke 7:47 (KJV) “He that is forgiven little, loveth little.” One of the greatest motivations for loving others is remembering God’s mercy toward us. Jesus said: “He that is forgiven little, loveth little.” — Luke 7:47 (KJV) When we remember: • Our failures • Our pride • Our rebellion • God’s patience with us We become slower to condemn others. Merciful people are usually those who know they have received mercy. ________________________________________ E. Depend Upon the Holy Spirit Galatians 5:22 (KJV) “But the fruit of the Spirit is love…” Divine love cannot be produced merely by human effort. It is the fruit of the Holy Spirit. “The fruit of the Spirit is love…” — Galatians 5:22 (KJV) The Holy Spirit enables believers to: • Forgive enemies • Love difficult people • Serve sacrificially • Bless those who wound them • Show kindness under pressure This kind of love is supernatural. It is Christ loving through yielded vessels. ________________________________________ F. Practical Ways to Love Like God Loves 1. Listen to People Many people are starving for genuine attention. Jesus often stopped to listen. ________________________________________ 2. Refuse Bitterness Bitterness destroys spiritual vision. “Be ye kind one to another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” — Ephesians 4:32 (KJV) ________________________________________ 3. Pray for People Instead of Judging Them Intercession changes the heart. It is difficult to hate those you sincerely pray for. ________________________________________ 4. Look Beyond Outward Appearances Some of the most broken people hide behind anger, pride, or indifference. Christ looked deeper. ________________________________________ 5. Serve Quietly and Sacrificially True love is often demonstrated in unseen acts. Jesus washed His disciples’ feet. Love serves. ________________________________________ CONCLUSIONS The world desperately needs to see genuine Christian love. Not sentimental love. Not shallow tolerance. Not selective kindness. But the love of Christ. Human love, though often beautiful, remains incomplete without God. Only divine love: • Seeks the undeserving • Forgives enemies • Sacrifices self • Values every soul • Endures rejection • Loves faithfully • Transforms lives God sees human beings as eternal souls made in His image and worthy of redemption through Christ. The cross proves the value God places upon humanity. As believers grow closer to Christ: • Their hearts soften • Their compassion deepens • Their pride decreases • Their love becomes more sacrificial The ultimate goal of the Christian life is not merely knowledge, activity, or even ministry success. It is Christlikeness. And Christ is love. 1 John 4:11 (KJV) “Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” May God teach us to: • See people through His eyes • Value souls as He values them • Die to selfish love • Walk in divine love • Reflect Christ to a wounded world Amen. Personal Prayer

What value does God place on each human life? The LORD looks at the heart We now consider what value the Lord places on each human life both according to Scripture and also in C. S. Lewis’ 'The Four Loves' A. Humanity Bears the Image of God Genesis 1:26 (KJV) “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness…” The value of humanity begins in creation. “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.” — Genesis 1:26 (KJV) Every human being possesses dignity because mankind was created in the image of God. This applies to: • The rich and poor • The weak and strong • The elderly and the unborn • The righteous and the sinner • Every race and nation People are not accidents of biology. They are eternal souls. The world measures value by: • Wealth • Beauty • Intelligence • Achievement • Power • Social status But God measures value by eternal reality. Jesus asked: “For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” — Matthew 16:26 (KJV) One soul is worth more than the entire world! ________________________________________ B. The Cross Reveals Human Worth 1 Peter 1:18–19 (KJV) “Ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold… But with the precious blood of Christ…” The value of something is shown by the price paid for it. God valued humanity so greatly that Christ shed His blood for sinners. “Ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold… But with the precious blood of Christ.” — 1 Peter 1:18–19 (KJV) The cross reveals both: • The seriousness of sin • The immeasurable value God places upon souls No one is insignificant to God. Jesus sought: • The leper • The outcast • The tax collector • The Samaritan woman • The thief on the cross He saw eternal value where others saw rejection. ________________________________________ C. S. Lewis, author of ''The Four Loves” identified four categories of love from the Greek that help explain both the beauty and limitations of human affection. Lewis describes four categories of love as follows: 1. Storge — Affection This is natural affection: • Family love • Familiarity • Tenderness • Everyday care This love can be beautiful, but also possessive or controlling when corrupted by selfishness. ________________________________________ 2. Philia — Friendship Friendship is companionship built around shared vision, interest, or purpose. Lewis considered friendship one of life’s great gifts because it unites people around truth and common pursuit. Biblically, David and Jonathan illustrate deep covenant friendship. ________________________________________ 3. Eros — Romantic Love This refers to romantic and marital love. God created marriage as sacred and good. Yet Lewis warns that romantic love becomes destructive when idolised or detached from God. Human love was never designed to replace God. ________________________________________ 4. Agape — Divine Love Agape is the highest form of love. It is: • Self-giving • Sacrificial • Unconditional • Rooted in God Himself This is the love demonstrated by Jesus Christ. Lewis emphasised that natural loves become dangerous when they become gods. Only divine love can purify and rightly order human loves. Without God: • Affection can become manipulation • Friendship can become exclusion • Romance can become idolatry But when surrendered to God, human loves become expressions of grace. ________________________________________ D. Additional Insight From C. S. Lewis on Human Worth C. S. Lewis also made a profound observation about the eternal value of human beings in his sermon, The Weight of Glory. He wrote that if we were to see the glory of an ordinary believer as they will one day appear in eternity, we would be strongly tempted to worship them. Lewis was not encouraging the worship of people, but emphasising the breathtaking eternal destiny prepared for redeemed humanity. He reminded believers that we never meet a “mere mortal.” Every person we encounter is an eternal being who will exist forever either in the glory of God’s presence or separated from Him. This radically changes how Christians should treat people. Lewis wrote: “There are no ordinary people. You have never talked to a mere mortal.” From God’s perspective, every soul carries eternal significance. The stranger, the weak, the difficult person, the unnoticed individual, and the broken sinner are all beings of immense eternal value. This understanding should produce humility, compassion, reverence, and deep care in how we view, speak to and treat other people. ________________________________________ E. God Sees What Humans Cannot See 1 Samuel 16:7 (KJV) “For the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.” Human beings often judge outward appearance. God looks deeper. “For the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.” — 1 Samuel 16:7 (KJV) When Samuel saw David, he overlooked him, but God saw a king. Others saw: • Moses as a fugitive • Gideon as weak • Rahab as immoral • Peter as unstable • Matthew as corrupt God saw redeemed potential. This is how divine love sees people and is also the way we ought to see people too! Amen Personal Prayer In our final Part (3) we will consider the practical steps necessary to begin to see people as God sees them.

1.The difference between human love and God’s love. : 1 John 4:7-8 Key Text: 1 John 4:7–11 “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and everyone that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love… Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” This three part sermon will examine: 1. The difference between human love and God’s love. 2. How God values human beings according to Scripture and insights from C. S. Lewis’ The Four Loves. 3. How believers can begin to see people through God’s eyes and love them as Christ does. A. Human Love Often Begins With Self Jeremiah 17:9 (KJV) “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” Much human love is sincere but fallen. Because mankind is affected by sin, even our love is often mixed with selfish motives. Human love can be: · Conditional · Possessive · Easily wounded · Dependent on feelings · Based on personal benefit · Changeable · Limited by offence or disappointment People often love others because: · They are lovable · They make them feel good · They provide companionship · They meet emotional needs · They share common interests Human love frequently asks: “What can I receive?” Even good natural affection can become distorted through pride, insecurity, jealousy, fear, or selfish ambition. The Bible says: “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked.” — Jeremiah 17:9 (KJV) Without God’s transforming grace, human love remains limited. B. God’s Love Flows From His Nature 1 John 4:8 (KJV) “He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.” The Bible does not merely say that God possesses love. It says: “God is love.” — 1 John 4:8 (KJV) Love is part of His very nature. God’s love is: · Holy · Self-giving · Sacrificial · Faithful · Unchanging · Patient · Merciful · Redemptive · Unconditional in its offer Human love says: “I love you because you are valuable to me.” God’s love says: “I love you, therefore you become valuable.” Romans 5:8 (KJV) declares: “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” — Romans 5:8 (KJV) God loved us when we were: · Rebels · Enemies · Sinners · Spiritually dead · Unworthy The cross of Jesus Christ proves that divine love is not based upon human merit. C. Human Love Seeks Its Own; God’s Love Sacrifices Itself John 15:13 (KJV) “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” The clearest picture of God’s love is Calvary. Jesus did not merely feel compassion — He gave Himself. “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” — John 15:13 At the cross: · Love suffered · Love forgave · Love endured rejection · Love carried shame · Love bore sin · Love interceded for enemies Jesus prayed: “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” — Luke 23:34 (KJV) This is entirely different from natural human love. Human love often weakens when mistreated. God’s love reaches toward the undeserving. D. Human Love Is Limited; God’s Love Is Transforming Human love can comfort people. God’s love can transform people. For example; Peter denied Christ three times, yet Jesus restored him. Saul persecuted Christians, yet God transformed him into Paul the apostle. The woman caught in adultery found mercy instead of condemnation. The demoniac of Gadara was restored to sanity, dignity, and purpose. God’s love does not merely tolerate sinners. It redeems them. Amen Personal Prayer In Part 2 we discover how God values each human life both from the scriptures and from the writings of C.S. Lewis.

When I first dove into the book of Psalms, Psalm 1 stood out like a beacon. It’s a beautiful gateway into the entire Psalter, offering wisdom that feels both ancient and incredibly relevant today. Have you ever wondered why this particular psalm is often the foundation for sermons and spiritual reflections? It’s because Psalm 1 captures the essence of a life rooted in God’s word, contrasting the paths of the righteous and the wicked in a way that invites us to reflect deeply on our own journey. Let’s explore together how Psalm 1 spiritual reflections can enrich your understanding and inspire your walk with God. Whether you’re new to Bible study or looking to deepen your faith, there’s something here for you. The Heart of Psalm 1 Spiritual Reflections Psalm 1 is a short but powerful poem that sets the tone for the entire book of Psalms. It begins by describing the blessed person who does not follow the advice of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of mockers. Instead, this person delights in the law of the Lord and meditates on it day and night. What does this mean for us today? It’s an invitation to choose our influences carefully. The psalm paints a vivid picture of two paths: one leading to life and flourishing, the other to destruction. The righteous person is like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. This metaphor speaks volumes about spiritual vitality and stability. When I reflect on this, I see a call to nurture my spiritual roots deeply. Just as a tree needs water to thrive, we need God’s word to sustain us. It’s not just about reading the Bible but meditating on it, letting it soak into every part of our being. How Psalm 1 Guides Our Daily Walk One of the most practical aspects of Psalm 1 is how it encourages us to live intentionally. The psalmist contrasts the righteous with the wicked, showing that their choices lead to very different outcomes. This contrast isn’t just black and white; it’s a gentle nudge to examine where we place our trust and what shapes our character. Here are some ways Psalm 1 can guide your daily walk: Choose your company wisely: The psalm warns against following the advice of the wicked or joining in with mockers. This reminds me to surround myself with people who encourage my faith and values. Delight in God’s word: Instead of seeing Bible reading as a chore, Psalm 1 invites us to find joy in it. When we delight in scripture, it becomes a source of strength and peace. Meditate regularly: Meditation here means more than just quiet reflection. It’s about actively pondering God’s word, letting it shape our thoughts and actions throughout the day. Stay rooted in God’s promises: Like the tree by the water, staying connected to God’s promises helps us endure life’s challenges without losing hope. By applying these principles, I’ve found that my spiritual life feels more grounded and resilient. It’s like having a steady anchor in the midst of life’s storms. Exploring Psalm One Sermons Online In today’s digital age, accessing spiritual teachings has never been easier. One resource I’ve found incredibly helpful is psalm one sermons online. These sermons offer fresh insights and practical applications of Psalm 1, helping to bring the ancient text to life in a modern context. What I appreciate about these online sermons is their accessibility. Whether you’re at home, commuting, or taking a quiet moment in the park, you can listen or watch teachings that deepen your understanding. The variety of voices and perspectives also enriches the experience, showing how Psalm 1 speaks uniquely to each person’s journey. If you’re looking to grow spiritually, I encourage you to explore these sermons. They often include: Clear explanations of the text: Breaking down the psalm verse by verse to uncover its meaning. Real-life applications: Practical advice on how to live out the principles of Psalm 1. Encouragement and hope: Messages that uplift and inspire, reminding us of God’s faithfulness. By engaging with these sermons, you can build a stronger foundation for your faith and find encouragement to stay rooted in God’s word. The Transformative Power of Meditation on Scripture Meditation is a word that sometimes feels mysterious or intimidating. But in the context of Psalm 1, it’s simply about focusing our minds and hearts on God’s word in a way that transforms us. This isn’t passive reading; it’s active engagement. When I meditate on scripture, I like to: Read slowly and thoughtfully: Taking time to absorb each phrase. Ask questions: What is God saying to me here? How does this apply to my life? Visualise the imagery: Like the tree planted by streams of water, imagining what that looks and feels like. Pray through the passage: Turning the words into a conversation with God. This practice has helped me experience scripture as a living word, not just ancient text. It nourishes my soul and gives me clarity when I face difficult decisions or moments of doubt. If you’re new to meditation, start small. Even a few minutes a day can make a difference. Over time, you’ll notice your thoughts and attitudes shifting as God’s word takes root in your heart. Living Out the Blessing of Psalm 1 Psalm 1 ends with a powerful promise: the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. This reminds me that the choices we make have eternal significance. But more than that, it’s an encouragement to live in the blessing of God’s favour. How can we live out this blessing daily? Stay connected to God: Through prayer, worship, and scripture. Make wise choices: Avoiding influences that pull us away from God’s path. Bear fruit in our actions: Showing kindness, patience, and love to others. Trust in God’s justice: Knowing that He sees and rewards faithfulness. Psalm 1 invites us to be like that flourishing tree, deeply rooted and fruitful. It’s a beautiful image of a life lived in harmony with God’s will. I hope these reflections encourage you to dive deeper into Psalm 1 and discover the richness it offers. Remember, spiritual growth is a journey, and every step rooted in God’s word brings us closer to the abundant life He promises. May your journey with Psalm 1 be one of growth, peace, and joy as you meditate on its truths and live out its blessings.

What does the Aaronic blessing mean? Numbers 6:22-26 By Batnabas aka Linda Morris The Aaronic Blessing is a very special blessing. It was sung over me by the congregation in my church when I was christened as a baby. I in turn would have sung it over other babies when they were christened, over the years. It was a custom in many Scottish churches at the time. It may still be in some churches, I don’t know. I also asked for it to be spoken over me on my 50 th (Jubilee) birthday, in Hebrew, as I regarded it as a re-commitment of my faith. Michael Cohen, the Rector of Christ Church, Jerusalem very kindly did this for me. It was very special. So what is the origin of this Blessing? Let’s look at the source, in the Bible. Numbers 6:22-26 God spoke to Moses saying: “Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying ‘This is how you shall bless the children of Israel (the people). Say to them: “The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you. The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace.” I need to make it clear that ‘The Lord’ here, is Yehoveh (יהוה) or God, as we call Him. The word countenance in Hebrew is ‘face’. This blessing is said every day in the synagogue. Twice a year, at Pesach (Passover) and Sukkot (the Feast of Tabernacles) huge crowds gather at the Kotel (the Western Wall) in Jerusalem to hear this. All those who are descendants of the priestly line are invited to recite the blessing over the others. It’s a very powerful thing to observe. Numbers 6:27 (God) says “So they shall put My name on the children of Israel, and I will bless them.” The priests extend their hands towards the people as they recite the blessing, in a special way. They hold their hands out with the thumb separated, the index finger and middle finger together, another separation then the ring finger and pinkie together. This forms the Hebrew letter ‘shin’ which represents the name of God (El Shaddai). Both hands are held up in the same way, with the thumbs almost touching each other. In this way, they put the name of God on the people. As I was reminded recently, this means that we carry the name of God on us. It made me think – what impact does that have on my life? My witness? My walk? You may remember the way that Mr Spock (Leonard Nimoy), in Star Trek, greeted people. He was Jewish, and he used that same hand sign that he knew from the Aaronic Blessing. My friend Moshe Kempinski from Jerusalem wrote in his Jerusalem Insights Journal this week “A Blessing is not about changing reality but it is about unleashing it. The Hebrew for blessing is berachah, and it shares its root with the Hebrew word l’havrich, an agricultural term that describes the re-rooting of a vine into the ground. In working in a vineyard, havracha, ‘or kneeling’, involves taking a rooted plant and ‘kneeling’ it down into the ground and then this replanted vine eventually takes root as well. So blessing is re-rooting. When a blessing is bestowed, what is accomplished is the joining of the spark of blessing in the person’s soul with the source of blessing above. In effect, nothing new happens. The blessing merely activates the existing source of the blessing above and reveals it below. The blessing suggests a certain measure of guarantee in that it unveils that which is already there, albeit in concealed potential.” God also said that He would put His name in Jerusalem forever (2 Chronicles 33:7) and He did! One of my favourite places to go is just a ten minute walk from where I lived. In Hebrew it’s known at ‘the Tayelet’, the promenade. It’s also known as the Hass promenade. It’s a beautiful place, with shrubs and trees, and paths winding down the hill. The view from the top of the promenade is absolutely stunning. You look down into the City of David. On the right, you look at the Mount of Olives and on the left what’s often termed nowadays Mount Zion although the Biblical Mount Zion (theTemple Mount) is straight ahead, rising up from the City of David. The three hills have valleys between them, being the Kidron Valley, the Tyropean Valley and the Hinnom Valley. When you look down, you can see that these valleys together form the letter ‘shin’. God did indeed put His name in Jerusalem. And it’s still there. Amen Linda Morris May 2026

Key Stages in How Rees Howells' "Self-Life" Was Dealt with by the Cross In this post, I want to explore the key stages in the life of Rees Howells, an intercessor who profoundly understood the application of the cross to his self-life. For a more detailed biography of Rees Howells, please refer to the first part of this teaching. A) Surrender of Personal Ambition Early in his life, Howells had many aspirations. He had business prospects and personal plans. However, God required him to relinquish total control over his future. This was a significant turning point for him. Cross Dynamic: It was about letting go of self-determination. Howells learned to accept God’s direction, even without guarantees. This was not easy, but it was essential for his spiritual growth. B) The Crisis of Full Surrender A defining moment in Howells' journey was when he yielded his will, his rights, and his entire life to God’s control. This moment is often described as a decisive “death to self.” But importantly, it was not the end of his journey; it was just the beginning. C) Repeated “Tests” of Obedience After his initial surrender, God continued to work on deeper layers of self through specific, sometimes uncomfortable commands. For instance, Howells was asked to give away money when it felt unreasonable. He had to obey promptings that risked his reputation and accept situations that exposed his pride or independence. Pattern: God would ask, resistance would be exposed, and surrender would be required. This aligns closely with the progressive application of the cross in our lives. D) Identification with Others Through Intercession One of the most distinctive aspects of Howells' life was his belief that God called him to identify with people or situations in prayer. This often meant bearing burdens that were not naturally his own. He understood that intercession required a kind of “death to self-interest” so that God’s purposes could flow through him. E) Breaking of Self-Reliance Throughout his life, God dealt with Howells' independence, natural strength, and personal reasoning. As a result, his reliance shifted fully onto God. This echoes Paul the Apostle’s principle: 'strength perfected in weakness.' The Theological Framework The book reflects a particular stream of teaching that emphasises union with Christ in death and resurrection. It presents the “crucified life” as an experiential reality. Obedience becomes the pathway to deeper spiritual authority. In simplified terms, the more we yield our self-life, the more God can act through us. Important Clarification While the book Rees Howells: Intercessor by Norman Grubb is powerful, it should be read with discernment. Strengths: Seriousness about obedience Recognition of the real cost of discipleship Consistency with the call to “take up your cross daily.” Potential Risks if Misapplied: Over-subjectivising guidance (“God told me…”) Confusing personal impressions with divine command Placing all believers under identical patterns of experience It’s crucial to remember that not every believer will be led in the same way or intensity. How It Connects to “Taking Up Your Cross” in Luke 9:23 In Howells’ life, cross-bearing looked like: Surrender of will → “deny yourself.” Obedience at cost → “take up your cross.” Ongoing responsiveness → “daily.” But crucially, it was not a single event; it was a lifestyle of repeated surrender. Final Conclusions The biography portrays the “self-life” being dealt with in two layers: Decisive Surrender: A clear yielding of the whole life to God. Progressive Outworking: Repeated situations exposing deeper self-will and ongoing obedience shaping character. Bottom Line According to Rees Howells: Intercessor, God deals with the self-life not only through a one-time surrender but through a lifelong process of testing, obedience, and deeper yielding. This process allows the believer to become increasingly aligned with His will. Remember how Jesus viewed the cross. Hebrews 12:2 (NKJV) reminds us: “Looking unto Jesus... who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross…” Fix your eyes on Jesus and follow Him in cross-shaped living. What cross is the Lord asking you to take up today? Personal Prayer and Waiting on the Lord Amen.

Psalm One is a beautiful gateway into the wisdom and encouragement found throughout the Psalms. It sets the tone for the entire book by contrasting the way of the righteous with the way of the wicked. When I first dove into this psalm, I found it both comforting and challenging. It invites us to reflect on our choices, our influences, and the roots of our spiritual lives. Let’s explore Psalm One together, unpacking its meaning and discovering practical ways to apply it in our daily walk. Why Study Psalm One? Have you ever wondered why the very first psalm focuses so much on the choices we make? Psalm One acts like a spiritual compass. It points us toward a life that flourishes and away from paths that lead to destruction. The psalm opens with a clear contrast: the blessed person who avoids the counsel of the wicked, the path of sinners, and the seat of mockers. It’s a vivid picture of how our company and habits shape our hearts. When I reflect on this, I see how important it is to be intentional about what we allow into our minds and hearts. The psalmist uses the metaphor of a tree planted by streams of water to describe the person who delights in God’s law. This image is so powerful - it reminds me of how a tree with deep roots and constant nourishment can withstand storms and droughts. Similarly, when we root ourselves in God’s word, we gain strength and stability. Practical takeaway: Take time each day to read and meditate on Scripture. Evaluate your friendships and influences. Are they encouraging your spiritual growth? Reflect on your daily habits. What “counsels” are you listening to? Close-up view of a tree with deep roots by a flowing stream How to Study Psalm One Effectively Studying Psalm One can be a deeply enriching experience if approached thoughtfully. Here’s a simple method I use that might help you too: Read the Psalm Slowly Don’t rush. Read it several times, aloud if possible. Let the words sink in. Identify Key Themes Notice the contrasts: blessed vs. wicked, delight in the law vs. mockery, stability vs. destruction. Ask Reflective Questions What does it mean to “delight in the law of the Lord”? How do I avoid the counsel of the wicked in my life? What does being “like a tree planted by streams of water” look like practically? Journal Your Thoughts Writing helps clarify what God might be saying to you personally. Pray for Insight Ask God to open your heart and mind to His truth. By following these steps, Psalm One becomes more than just words on a page. It becomes a living guide for your spiritual journey. The Blessing of Delight and Meditation One phrase that stands out in Psalm One is the blessed person who “delights in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.” This isn’t about legalism or obligation. It’s about joy and deep connection. Imagine someone who finds their greatest pleasure in God’s word, turning it over in their mind constantly, like a treasured melody. This kind of delight transforms us. It shapes our thoughts, decisions, and attitudes. Meditation here means more than just reading; it means pondering, reflecting, and letting God’s word shape our worldview. How can we cultivate this delight? Choose a verse or passage each day to memorise and meditate on. Use a journal to write down what the passage means to you. Share insights with a friend or study group to deepen understanding. When we delight in God’s word, we become like that tree—steady, fruitful, and resilient. Eye-level view of an open Bible with highlighted verses and a pen Living the Psalm One Life Psalm One doesn’t just describe a blessed life; it invites us to live it. The psalmist contrasts the righteous with the wicked, saying the wicked are like chaff blown away by the wind. It’s a stark image that reminds me how fleeting and unstable a life without God’s guidance can be. Living the Psalm One life means making daily choices that align with God’s truth. It means surrounding ourselves with positive influences and avoiding things that pull us away from God. It also means trusting in God’s justice and timing, knowing that those who follow Him will ultimately stand firm. Here are some practical ways to live out Psalm One: Start your day with a short prayer asking God to guide your thoughts and actions. Limit exposure to negative or harmful media that contradicts God’s values. Engage regularly in community worship and Bible study to stay rooted. Reflect weekly on your spiritual growth and areas needing change. If you want to explore this further, you might find psalm one sermons bible study a helpful resource for inspiring teachings and practical insights. Embracing the Journey of Growth Studying Psalm One is not a one-time event but a journey. It’s about growing deeper in your relationship with God and becoming more like the tree planted by streams of water. Sometimes the path feels easy and fruitful; other times, it’s challenging and requires perseverance. Remember, spiritual growth is a process. It’s okay to have questions, doubts, and moments of struggle. What matters is that you keep coming back to God’s word, letting it shape and renew you. I encourage you to keep Psalm One close to your heart. Let it remind you daily of the blessings that come from delighting in God’s law and living a life rooted in Him. As you do, you’ll find strength, peace, and joy that no storm can shake. May this study inspire you to embrace the richness of Psalm One and deepen your walk with God. Keep nurturing your roots, and watch how your life flourishes in His grace. Amen Personal Prayer

The ongoing remedy for our sin: 1 John 1:9 explained 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us. All Christians have an ‘old sin nature’ inside us. See Paul’s comments in Romans about his 'old man'. v9, we need to name our sins before the Lord and somehow God is able to cleanse us from them all –perhaps even the ones we did not remember! This verse is constantly available to all true believers. The verb 'confess' is in the continual tense meaning ongoing. Yes it is available every time as often as we need need it. We receive our forgiveness instantly by faith. This allows us to pick up on our walk with the Lord. Unconfessed sin festers inside us and makes us unable to conduct the Lord’s work. When we confess our sin then we agree with God that it is a sin and are instantly brought back into fellowship. PTL The ongoing remedy for our sin- Keywords ¨ Repent-metanoeo (Greek) means to change your mind. ¨ Confess- homologeo (Greek) means to say the same thing (used in a court of law). Meta =change noeo = mind So what this word Repentance means is to ‘change your mind.’ This means that we have changed our minds about the sinful things we have previously done and then we agree with God's view of the sin . We then confess (say) to the Lord the particular sin, which means we now are taking the same view as the Lord. Paul called the Jews to repentance (change their minds about Messiah on a big white horse defeating the Roman invaders etc.) Paul called the Gentiles to believe (did not know anything about the Messiah). 2 Cor 7:10 Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians had produced godly sorrow leading them to repentance and life in contrast the world’s sorrow can only produce death. Amen Personal Prayer In Part 4 We consider the three parables in Luke 15 in the context of both salvation and fellowship.

The 3 parables of Luke 15: the lost sheep , the lost coin, and the lost son. Part 4 The three parables in Luke 15 Definition: A parable means something to ‘lay alongside’ something else. The story in the parable lays it against a truth to make it easier to understand. These three parables are usually thought to be about salvation but let us consider them in the context of fellowship. The parable of the lost sheep Luke 15:1 Then all the tax collectors and the sinners drew near to Him to hear Him. 2 And the Pharisees and scribes complained, saying, “This Man receives sinners and eats with them.” 3 So He spoke this parable to them, saying: 4 “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? 5 And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6 And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbours, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!’ 7 I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance. Lost in this passage does not mean dead, the sheep always refers to believers e.g. not 99 sheep and 1 goat! The 100 sheep belong to the shepherd, but one wanders off out of the shepherd's sight c.f like a Christian getting out of fellowship. The shepherd goes after the lost sheep finds it and put it on his shoulders. That is how the Lord feels when out of fellowship believers are found by him, there is great rejoicing in the same way we rejoice over sinners who come to repentance and faith in Christ. The parable of the lost coin Luke 15:8 “Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it? 9 And when she has found it, she calls her friends and neighbours together, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the piece which I lost!’ 10 Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” The woman owned the silver coins. Of course, this parable can be applied to the ‘salvation’ situation but does need a bit of tweaking as to who was the owner of the lost coin. Again, there is great rejoicing over a sinner come to repentance i.e. changed their mind. The joy is from God in the presence of the angels. The parable of the lost son 11 Then He said: “A certain man had two sons. 12 And the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the portion of goods that falls to me.’ So he divided to them his livelihood. 13 And not many days after, the younger son gathered all together, journeyed to a far country, and there wasted his possessions with prodigal living. 14 But when he had spent all, there arose a severe famine in that land, and he began to be in want. 15 Then he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country, and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. 16 And he would gladly have filled his stomach with the pods that the swine ate, and no one gave him anything. 17 “But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! This parable is the best example of how God feels about sinners returning to him. By faith we are all children of God (Galatians). This is a believing family. No matter what we change we remain our father’s son. Life lived out of fellowship does not produce fruit for God. Both sons got their inheritance (v12). God gifts and talents are to be used in his service. The younger son wasted all his inheritance and got out of fellowship with his father. v15 younger son comes into discipline by looking after pigs (no self-respecting Jew would do this). No-one would help him. He was in a bad place with no friends. v17 Comes to his senses, he repents (changes his mind), and he comes to terms with his lifestyle. 18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you, 19 and I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired servants.”’ 20 “And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. 21 And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ v20 and the father ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. That is what the Father God did with you and me when we first repented and believed. How might the Father react to our repentance today? v21 Confesses his sins as in 1 John 1:9. Luke 15:22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring out the best robe and put it on him and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. 23 And bring the fatted calf here and kill it and let us eat and be merry. 24 for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And they began to be merry. v22 His privileges are fully restored as a son, as are ours when we repent. v23 A feast of celebration is organised, repentance is a time to be celebrated. v24 This father’s love for his lost son reminds us of the fervent love of our heavenly father who embraces us when we confess our sins in repentance. When we do sin, we must keep short accounts with the Lord and come into repentance ASAP. Conclusion Confessing your sins is agreeing with God that it was wrong and inappropriate for us as God’s family, then we can immediately receive our forgiveness by faith and come straight back into fellowship with the Lord. Amen Personal Prayer For an in depth study of this topic please refer to Roger Price audios BBS 012 and BBS 021.

The chastening of the Lord Hebrews 12:5 How does God deal with Christians who are out of fellowship?: Hebrews 12: 5 And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: “My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; 6 For whom the Lord loves He chastens, And scourges every son whom He receives.” 7 If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? 8 But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons. 9 Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live? 10 For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but He for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness. 11 Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. v5 Chastening= humbled by defeat or wrongdoing with a view to doing better rebuke=express sharp disapproval or criticism of (someone) because of their behaviour or actions: scourges= whips v6 When the Lord brings us correction (chastening which may involve grief and pain), we need to be willing to accept it (or even welcome) since we are true sons and daughters of God. We ought to be pleased that the Lord loves us enough to chasten and rebuke us. v7-8 We need to come under his discipline of our Father (discipline is a family matter-see Zechariah 3:3) v10 God only chastens (trains) his children for their benefit which should lead us into holiness. v11 The Lord’s chastening is painful for a season but later brings peace and a more holy lifestyle. Carnal vs Spiritual Christians ¨ Carnal = a Christian who is out of fellowship with Lord ¨ Spiritual = a Christian who is in fellowship with the Lord 1 Corinthians 3:1 And I, brethren, could not speak to you as to spiritual people but as to carnal, as to babes in Christ. 2 I fed you with milk and not with solid food; for until now you were not able to receive it, and even now you are still not able; 3 for you are still carnal. For where there are envy, strife, and divisions among you, are you not carnal and behaving like mere men? 4 For when one says, “I am of Paul,” and another, “I am of Apollos,” are you not carnal? A carnal Christian can behave just as badly as an unbeliever. An unbeliever cannot receive the things of God see 1 Corinthians 3:1-3 A spiritual believer can operate through the Spirit, 1 Cor 3v3 mere men= unbelievers Amen In Part 3 we consider what confession and repentance means.

1 John 1:9 The ongoing remedy for our sin In some ways when we get saved or born again the Lord could say ‘I have cleansed every sin from your life so go and sin no more.’ However, we know that we often slip and fall into sin (due to the old sin nature), and we would be stuck in sin if the Lord had not provided an ongoing way to get us back into fellowship with him. That is what we are going to study today ‘how do we keep in continual fellowship with the Lord. We can only bear fruit when we are in fellowship with the Lord and when are in sin we can bear no good fruit. This is like playing badminton say 20 years ago or more, you could only score when serving. The suggestion is that we can bear fruit only when we are in fellowship with God. Relationship versus Fellowship ¨ Relationship is permanent. ¨ Fellowship is conditional. Amos 3:3 Can two walk together, except they be agreed? Salvation has two parts to it: kindred relationship and fellowship. If like me, you agree that once saved always saved then our kindred relationship is permanent (eternal). If you disagree then you must consider just how permanent our relationship with Father God is, and what could break it. However, hopefully we can agree that our relationship is stronger than our fellowship. We are born again into the family of God and are secure in it. Fellowship (koinonia) is our ongoing interaction with God and can be broken quite easily. Amos 3:3 can be understood as ‘how can we walk in agreement with a Holy God’? When we are out of fellowship with him through sin. Fellowship in this context is our old friend koinonia which means an intimate sharing of our life with God and with our fellow believers. Fellowship with Him and One Another 1 John 1:5 This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. 8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us. As always when we want to correctly interpret scripture, we need to put in in context. v5-7 God has no darkness or sin in his being whatever and has no truck with sin. If we live in sin our fellowship (koinonia) with God is broken and we are kidding ourselves on (self-deception). If we walk in the Spirit, we are agreed with the Lord, this brings us into fellowship with each other and the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us from all sin. v8 If Christians say that they do not sin then John says that they are lying indicating an aversion to the truth. v9-10 We will return to these verses further into the sermon. Amen Personal Prayer In Part 2 we will consider 'the chastening of the Lord'.

When I first opened Psalm 1, I was struck by its simplicity and depth. It’s like a gentle invitation to a life rooted in wisdom and joy. Have you ever felt that pull to understand scripture more deeply, to let it shape your daily walk? That’s exactly what studying Psalm 1 through inspiring sermons can do. It’s not just about reading words on a page; it’s about letting those words transform your heart and mind. Psalm 1 sets the stage for the entire Book of Psalms. It contrasts two ways of living - one that leads to blessing and one that leads to destruction. But how do we truly grasp this contrast? How do sermons help us unlock the richness of this passage? Let’s explore this together. The Heart of Bible Study Psalm 1: Delight in God’s Word Psalm 1 begins with a powerful statement: “Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers.” This verse paints a vivid picture of choices. It’s about the company we keep and the paths we follow. When I listen to sermons on Psalm 1, I find that preachers often highlight the importance of delighting in God’s law. It’s not about legalism or obligation. It’s about joyfully meditating on God’s word day and night. Imagine a tree planted by streams of water, flourishing and bearing fruit in season. That’s the promise for those who immerse themselves in scripture. Here are some practical ways to embrace this delight: Set aside a specific time each day for Bible reading and reflection. Use a journal to write down insights and prayers inspired by Psalm 1. Memorise key verses to carry God’s word with you throughout the day. This kind of engagement turns Bible study into a living, breathing experience. It’s like watering the roots of your spiritual life so you can grow strong and steady. How Inspiring Sermons Illuminate Psalm 1 Sermons have a unique way of bringing scripture to life. They connect ancient words to our modern struggles and hopes. When I hear a sermon on Psalm 1, I’m often reminded that this psalm is not just about avoiding sin but about choosing a flourishing life. One sermon I listened to recently described the two paths in Psalm 1 as a fork in the road. On one side, there’s the path of the wicked - unstable, barren, and ultimately leading to destruction. On the other, the path of the righteous - rooted, fruitful, and secure. This metaphor helped me see my own decisions more clearly. Sermons also unpack the meaning of “meditating on the law day and night.” It’s not about endless study but about internalising God’s truth so it shapes our thoughts and actions. This meditation becomes a source of strength when challenges come. If you want to deepen your understanding, I recommend exploring psalm one sermons bible study resources. They offer a variety of messages that speak to different life situations, helping you apply Psalm 1 in practical ways. The Blessing of Avoiding Negative Influences One of the most striking parts of Psalm 1 is the warning against walking, standing, or sitting with the wicked, sinners, and mockers. This progression shows how easy it is to slip into harmful patterns if we’re not careful. Through sermons, I’ve learned that this is not about judging others but about protecting our hearts. Negative influences can drain our spiritual vitality and lead us away from God’s path. It’s like a plant trying to grow in poor soil - it struggles to thrive. Here are some actionable steps to guard your spiritual environment: Evaluate your friendships and the media you consume. Seek out uplifting and encouraging company. Pray for discernment to recognise harmful influences. By making these choices, you create space for God’s word to take root and flourish in your life. Living the Psalm 1 Life: Practical Applications Studying Psalm 1 through inspiring sermons is not just an intellectual exercise. It’s a call to live differently. Here are some ways I’ve found to put this psalm into practice: Daily meditation: Spend a few minutes each morning reflecting on a verse from Psalm 1. Let it set the tone for your day. Mindful choices: Be intentional about the influences you allow in your life. Choose relationships and activities that nurture your faith. Fruitful living: Look for opportunities to serve others and share the blessings you’ve received. Like a tree bearing fruit, your life can be a source of nourishment to those around you. These steps help transform the wisdom of Psalm 1 into a vibrant, lived reality. Embracing the Journey of Growth and Blessing As I continue to study Psalm 1, I’m reminded that spiritual growth is a journey, not a destination. Each sermon I listen to adds a new layer of understanding and encouragement. It’s like walking alongside a wise guide who points out the landmarks and pitfalls along the way. Psalm 1 invites us to choose life - a life rooted in God’s word, nourished by His presence, and blossoming in His blessing. It’s a beautiful promise that speaks to the deepest longings of our hearts. If you’re ready to dive deeper, I encourage you to explore psalm one sermons bible study for inspiring messages that will enrich your journey. Let these sermons be a lamp to your feet and a light to your path as you grow in faith and understanding. May your study of Psalm 1 be a source of joy, strength, and transformation. Remember, like the tree planted by streams of water, you are invited to flourish in every season of life.