Briton Becomes First to Walk Amazon River

Forget I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here, read the story of a true adventurer…

What a great achievement from Ed Stafford, the ex British Soldier. 4000 miles in 2 years amongst the dangers of the Amazon!! An outstanding and brilliant story which serves as a powerful reminder to me; the qualities of true grit, determination and a never-say-die married with a spirit of adventure are necessary attributes to be a passionate and devoted follower of the Lord Jesus Christ who will make a difference in the world! (Take a look at Arena heartbeat / battleplan).

I am sure Ed Stafford will look forward to a few creature comforts until… the next time!!!!!

40 Billionaires Pledge Half their Wealth

Some of the richest of the world are demonstrating remarkable generosity! Read the full report here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-10870361

An incredible story, I’m sure you will all agree.  You may not be a fan of Microsoft or perhaps, like me, completely despair at financiers, investors and bankers, but in this situation you have to admire Bill Gates and Warren Buffett!

This is not just ‘tipping’ this is tithing at it’s best, and shows an attitude we can all learn from – however large or small our own bank balance.  99% of us will never have wealth like these families yet whatever we have whether much or little it’s our responsibility to be generous with what we have!

May this story serve as a challenge; let’s be generous all the time!  What happens when we put a greater good before our own personal wants and desires?  Matthew 6v33 tells us ‘Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well’.

For further details – go to www.thegivingpledge.org

Consider others

Have you ever thought the difference that you would make in the world if you considered others and showed kindness?

Some ideas:

- Let someone out of a busy road junction

- Give up your seat on the packed bus, tram or tube to a lady, an elderly person or just someone that looks weary!!

- Let someone go in front of you in a supermarket with a basket because you have a trolley full!!

- Open the door for the harassed mum with a pushchair and 3 kids in tow.

- Be patient with the “slow” trainee sales person in the department store on their first day.

- Smile kindly to the bank clerk who has evidently had a heavy day.

- Instead of slamming the door in the door to door sales person’s face – politely and kindly say ‘No, thank you’.

Jesus said that your kindness and good deeds would be seen by men and they would praise God because of them. In other words, people would see Christians considering others and being kind, and it would point them to Jesus!

Your decisions of kindness and consideration will go a long way to make this world a better place!

The right direction

philpringle: RT @arbernard: If God’s Word holds the universe together, surely He can keep your life from falling apart!

This is a powerful thought sent via Twitter from 2 great pastors A R Bernard and Phil Pringle.

The more I meet people the more I realise people are often barely holding things together. Relationships , finances, families, marriages with dents and fractures!

But …If we learn to trust God with our lives then we know he can be trusted to keep our lives together and going in the right direction!

He holds the Universe!!

Keep hope in your heart

I was reminded again by my great friend Phil Pye; in the midst of danger, confusion, disaster and frustration – keep hope in your heart! (more…)