Fearfully and wonderfully prayed

A brief reflection for a shortened service this Remembrance Sunday. Mike challenges us to think about remembering God’s goodness while we can. Remembering that God always takes us as we are. Actively focusing on the goodness of God, seeking His presence in all we do. We need to know that He is God and commit our ways to Him. Remember! Remembrance SundayEcclesiastes 12:1Mike SladenSunday 8th November Find out more about our church community at www.bbchurch.org.uk

In the latest of our explorations of Habakkuk, he reacts in prayer to the challenging message of God. Habakkuk doesn’t panic or despair – his terror is matched by his faith in the power and holiness of God. He looks back at what God has done in the past. For his people down the ages. He prays that God will bring change but do so while showing mercy to those he changes. Today we too need to get serious about prayer – for His Kingdom to come and for His light to shine in our lives and communities - and coming together to pray for revival. Lord do what you did then with us! Habakkuk #6Habakkuk 3:1-2Martin CeaserSunday 1st November Find out more about our church community at www.bbchurch.org.uk

As we continue our series on Habakkuk, Martin explores the warnings and reassurances that God gives his people. The prophet shares the woes of God for those that refuse to live by faith – in this context it was the Babylonians but it also applies to anyone who doesn’t live by faith in Christ. Evil, idolatry and oppression are among the subject of these woes but we know that God is in control. These words are warning for those who choose to ignore God, encouragement for those who are suffering and a demonstration of God’s amazing love in Jesus. Habakkuk #5Habakkuk 2:6-20Martin CeaserSunday 25th October Find out more about our church community at ⁠www.bbchurch.org.uk

In the latest of this short series on Habakkuk, we reflect together on God’s second response to his people. Habakkuk is challenged to wait on God and listen for his word. God tells him to write it down, which is unusual given the oral culture of the day, and share it widely. In our instant culture, we’re not good at waiting. But it’s only through the (spiritual) discipline of waiting that we can truly grow in our faith. Like Habakkuk we are challenged to wait for his promise, write it down and share it far and wide! Are you ready to grow in faith and to be his herald this week? Habakkuk #4Habakkuk 2:2-5Martin CeaserSunday 18th October Find out more about our church community at www.bbchurch.org.uk

This week Cliff helps us return to the story of Habakkuk – the prophet who spoke to the Lord on behalf of the people of Judah in challenging and uncertain times. Habakkuk demonstrates both his knowledge of God and his trust in God too, approaching him with earnest humility. Why would God allow the treacherous Babylonians to prosper at the expense of his beloved people? Like Habakkuk we must remember who God is, even when he seems silent and absent. Take a step back. Look for the Lord’s answer. If we can’t understand God’s actions, we can always remember his good and loving character. Habakkuk #3Habakkuk 1:12-17Cliff AndrewsSunday 11th October Find out more about our church community at www.bbchurch.org.uk

Many will ask questions such as ‘Where is God in this situation?’ and ‘Why isn’t God doing something about that?’ but as Martin reflects in this week’s sermon, all that is good comes from him. Our role as Christians is demonstrate what God is really like and point to all the good things he has done. We need to be intentional in how we express our gratitude and appreciation – our praise and worship. It is important to God that we are a thankful people. Demonstrating an attitude of joy that reflects the character of God. How can we all this week ensure we give thanks in all circumstances – both good and bad? Psalm 107Martin CeaserSunday 4th October Find out more about our church community at www.bbchurch.org.uk

The second in our series on Habakkuk takes a turn for the worse. How can a good God actively encourage such suffering? A last resort after God’s repeated warnings. But we have to see things from God’s perspective. There is nothing so bad that God can’t use for our own good – if we let him. God is still in control, even when we don’t like what’s going on. We only see a small part of the picture and we are blind to the bigger picture elsewhere. When things appear to get worse, it requires a deeper level of trust that God knows best and is working for our best. Habukkuk #2Habukkuk 1:5-11Martin CeaserSunday 27th September Find out more about our church community at www.bbchurch.org.uk

Starting a new mini series, Martin introduces us to the story of Habukkuk. In a time of political unrest and turmoil, the prophet cries out to God in longing and frustration. Was God even listening – why wouldn’t He intervene? Habukkuk’s attitude was actually a gift from God – He wants us to ask questions and bring complaints against evil and injustice. Questions help us explore and grow our faith in the midst of difficulty and suffering. They remind us of God’s greatness, even amidst the silence, and stir us into action. Trust is not being afraid to ask questions. Let’s not just accept what is happening – engage with God and the world. Habukkuk #1Habukkuk 1:1-4Martin CeaserSunday 20th September Find out more about our church community at www.bbchurch.org.uk

In the light of hearing updates on an exciting summer for our young people, Martin reflects on the prophecies of Joel – as spoken in the book of Acts. Do we see God pouring his Spirit out on us? In the last days, the world will and is getting worse. These are the signs of the coming of the return of Jesus. But there’s a spiritual awakening too, with the promise of prophecy and visions. It’s not just for the grown-ups either. So let’s set an example to our kids and encourage them to encounter God in the everyday. The next time you pray will you also listen out for a word from God rather than just a tidy solution? The last daysActs 2:14-21Martin CeaserSunday 13th September Find out more about our church community at www.bbchurch.org.uk

This week we are celebrating Naomi’s baptism – turning from her old life and stepping into new life in Christ. Martin shares some reflections on the importance of baptism and the difference it makes in our lives. We’re naturally inclined to rebel – against authority and God – that’s what sin. Nothing we can do can rescue us from that sin, we need someone to come alongside us and free us from the slavery of sin. Someone who can pay the price for us. To restore us to the Father – to God in heaven. Baptism2 Corinthians 5:11-21Martin CeaserSunday 6th September Find out more about our church community at www.bbchurch.org.uk