Nicky Gumbel | Alpha International Overwhelmed at the thought of reading the Bible? New to the idea? Or looking to get more out of it? Spend time each day hearing from Nicky and Pippa Gumbel as they take you through the whole Bible in 365 days and help you to understand it better. Drawing out a theme for each day from the designated Bible readings, Nicky and Pippa’s thoughts on the Proverbs, Psalms and New and Old Testament excerpts are full of insight, wisdom and application. en Sun, 12 Apr 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/ https://bibleinoneyear.org/assets/img/BiOY_classic.jpg https://bibleinoneyear.org/ https://content.bioy.app/rss/podcast Bible in One Year Classic Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Nicky Gumbel | Alpha International Overwhelmed at the thought of reading the Bible? New to the idea? Or looking to get more out of it? Spend time each day hearing from Nicky and Pippa Gumbel as they take you through the whole Bible in 365 days and help you to understand it better. Drawing out a theme for each day from the designated Bible readings, Nicky and Pippa’s thoughts on the Proverbs, Psalms and New and Old Testament excerpts are full of insight, wisdom and application. Alpha, Bible, Church, Bible in one year false no Alpha International bibleservices@alpha.org no Nicky and Pippa Gumbel https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/#today © Alpha International 2026 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/102 Psalm 44:13-26, Deuteronomy 16:21-18:22, Luke 14:15-35. Jesus likens the kingdom of God to a great party with the King, one to which we are all invited It is an even greater privilege than lunch with the Queen, and it is extraordinary that anyone would refuse this invitation Sun, 12 Apr 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/102/ 21:36 enclassic12042026-102 1296.4 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 102: Your Invitation Psalm 44:13-26, Deuteronomy 16:21-18:22, Luke 14:15-35. Jesus likens the kingdom of God to a great party with the King, one to which we are all invited It is an even greater privilege than lunch with the Queen, and it is extraordinary that anyone would refuse this invitation One day, I received a message that Queen Elizabeth II (1926–2022), who was then Queen of the United Kingdom and 14 Commonwealth Realms, had invited me to lunch! At first, I thought it was a practical joke. But it wasn’t. I turned up at Buckingham Palace on my bicycle, which an amused policeman looked after for me. I sat next to the Queen as we ate some amazing food. Then she turned and began to talk to me as the ‘Parfait de Rhubarbe et Chocolat Blanc’ arrived. It looked delicious. But I did not want to talk with my mouth full – nor did I want to seem rude by cutting into it while the Queen was speaking to me. Eventually she asked me whether I did not like the food. ‘No, no, no,’ I said, ‘I love it’ (as I quickly began to eat). I did not say it to her, but the real reason I had not eaten was that I was overwhelmed by the privilege of being invited to lunch with the Queen. Jesus likens the kingdom of God to a great party with the King, one to which we are all invited. It is an even greater privilege than lunch with the Queen, and it is extraordinary that anyone would refuse this invitation. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 467 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/101 Psalm 44:1-12, Deuteronomy 15:1-16:20, Luke 13:31-14:14. My father may have been a little extreme, but my sister and I were in no doubt about what mattered to him: honesty In our passages today, we see some of the things that *really matter to God* Sat, 11 Apr 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/101/ 22:19 enclassic11042026-101 1339.85 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 101: Eight Things That Really Matter to God Psalm 44:1-12, Deuteronomy 15:1-16:20, Luke 13:31-14:14. My father may have been a little extreme, but my sister and I were in no doubt about what mattered to him: honesty In our passages today, we see some of the things that *really matter to God* My mother and father were great parents. They had strong values. My sister and I were left in no doubt about what mattered to them. What mattered most to my father was honesty. I remember how my father used to say, ‘I expect to be believed.’ He regarded honesty as the highest possible value and sometimes went to absurd lengths to retain that standard. On one occasion, when they were engaged, but not yet married, he and my mother got on the wrong bus. The bus conductor refused to accept any money as they had only travelled a few yards. My father was unhappy to have been unable to pay what he felt he owed. He sent the money for the fare to the bus company. They sent it back. This resulted in a long correspondence, which my mother found very hard to understand (she joked that she almost broke off the engagement). I remember, in my childhood, many similar incidents. My father may have been a little extreme, but my sister and I were in no doubt about what mattered to him: honesty. In our passages today, we see some of the things that really matter to God. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 466 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/100 Proverbs 9:1-12, Deuteronomy 13:1-14:29, Luke 13:1-30. In the book of Proverbs, the teaching of Jesus and the Bible in general, we find many ways to acquire and grow in wisdom Seven of these can be seen in today’s passages Fri, 10 Apr 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/100/ 23:22 enclassic10042026-100 1402.72 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 100: Seven Ways to Grow in Wisdom Proverbs 9:1-12, Deuteronomy 13:1-14:29, Luke 13:1-30. In the book of Proverbs, the teaching of Jesus and the Bible in general, we find many ways to acquire and grow in wisdom Seven of these can be seen in today’s passages Lawrence of Arabia is one of the most successful films of all time. Much of the film is drawn from T.E. Lawrence’s own account of his time in Arabia. He was a British archaeological scholar, military strategist (colonel by the age of thirty), best known for his activities in the Middle East during World War I. Lawrence explores the theme of wisdom in his memoirs, written in 1926, with the title, Seven Pillars of Wisdom. Presumably, Lawrence had in mind today’s passage, ‘Wisdom has built her house; she has hewn out its seven pillars’ (Proverbs 9:1). In Scripture, the number seven is often used to represent completion or perfection. In the book of Proverbs, the teaching of Jesus and the Bible in general, we find many ways to acquire and grow in wisdom. Seven of these can be seen in today’s passages. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 465 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/99 Psalm 43:1-5, Deuteronomy 11:1-12:32, Luke 12:35-59. The warnings of Jesus about the coming judgment and how to be ready for it come out of his love for you In all the passages for today we see that obedience is the way to experience his goodness and be a magnet for his blessing Thu, 09 Apr 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/99/ 25:43 enclassic09042026-99 1543.39 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 99: See His Goodness Psalm 43:1-5, Deuteronomy 11:1-12:32, Luke 12:35-59. The warnings of Jesus about the coming judgment and how to be ready for it come out of his love for you In all the passages for today we see that obedience is the way to experience his goodness and be a magnet for his blessing When we were children, my sister and I went on a picnic with our parents. The two of us were playing on what we all assumed was a disused railway track. Suddenly my mother shouted, ‘Jump! Get off the track!’ She had seen an express train coming down the track. Thankfully, we didn’t shout back, ‘Don’t threaten us. You can’t scare us.’ If we had done, I would not be in a position to write this now. We both jumped off the track. The command arose out of a mother’s love for her children. God’s commands arise out of his goodness and his love for you. They are given for ‘your own good’ (Deuteronomy 10:13). See his goodness. The warnings of Jesus about the coming judgment and how to be ready for it come out of his love for you. In all the passages for today we see that obedience is the way to experience his goodness and be a magnet for his blessing. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 464 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/98 Psalm 42:6-11, Deuteronomy 9:1-10:22, Luke 12:1-34. We see in the passages for today that they are the answer to trials, temptation, worry, anxiety, fear, failure and all the other struggles of life In particular, Jesus shows us how to stop worrying and start living Wed, 08 Apr 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/98/ 25:05 enclassic08042026-98 1505.28 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 98: How to Stop Worrying Psalm 42:6-11, Deuteronomy 9:1-10:22, Luke 12:1-34. We see in the passages for today that they are the answer to trials, temptation, worry, anxiety, fear, failure and all the other struggles of life In particular, Jesus shows us how to stop worrying and start living I can’t even remember his name and I didn’t think much of his talk. We were both eighteen years of age. He had just joined the army. As he stood up to give the talk he produced his army boots as a visual aid. He called one of the boots ‘trust’ and the other one ‘obey’. He described them as the left and right boot of the Christian life. He only spoke for seven minutes, but his illustration hit home and I have never forgotten it. ‘Trust’ and ‘obey’ are, as he said, a very good summary of the Christian life. We see in the passages for today that they are the answer to trials, temptation, worry, anxiety, fear, failure and all the other struggles of life. In particular, Jesus shows us how to stop worrying and start living. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 463 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/97 Psalm 42:1-5, Deuteronomy 6:1-8:20, Luke 11:33-54. org/)… It’s gone, I have totally forgiven that person and love them too!’She says that she is now ‘passionately in love with Christ!’ Her inner thirst is being satisfied She has a new inner light and a new inner love Tue, 07 Apr 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/97/ 27:00 enclassic07042026-97 1620.82 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 97: Love from the Inside Out Psalm 42:1-5, Deuteronomy 6:1-8:20, Luke 11:33-54. org/)… It’s gone, I have totally forgiven that person and love them too!’She says that she is now ‘passionately in love with Christ!’ Her inner thirst is being satisfied She has a new inner light and a new inner love Celine, a young woman who came on Alpha because of what she described as her ‘spiritual search’, wrote, ‘I am not entirely sure what happened! Over the course I have grown more and more thirsty for God’s presence like when on a hot, dry summer’s day one gets a sip of cold fresh water, just the right temperature, one wants to drink and drink, and one can never get enough. ‘I am now constantly skipping and laughing and wanting to tell everyone how amazing God is… plus I seem to love everybody! I was seeking to forgive someone, but just seemed to grow more and more bitter and resentful, until I came on Alpha… It’s gone, I have totally forgiven that person and love them too!’ She says that she is now ‘passionately in love with Christ!’ Her inner thirst is being satisfied. She has a new inner light and a new inner love. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 462 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/96 Proverbs 8:32-36, Deuteronomy 4:15-5:33, Luke 11:5-32. God loves you He does not force himself upon you, but he promises to reveal himself to you if you persistently *seek* him Mon, 06 Apr 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/96/ 27:11 enclassic06042026-96 1631.71 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 96: Press Through Proverbs 8:32-36, Deuteronomy 4:15-5:33, Luke 11:5-32. God loves you He does not force himself upon you, but he promises to reveal himself to you if you persistently *seek* him ‘Can you see anything?’ his assistant asked as Carter’s eyes adjusted to the semi-darkness. Carter could see well enough, but he had difficulty speaking because of the dazzling array of treasure spread out before him. For more than two thousand years, tourists, grave robbers and archaeologists had searched for the burial places of Egypt’s Pharaohs. Armed with only a few scraps of evidence, British archaeologist Howard Carter’s search, after many years, seemed doomed to failure. But Carter pressed through and finally unlocked an ancient Egyptian tomb. No one in the modern world had ever seen anything like it. The king’s embalmed body lay within a nest of three coffins, the inner one of solid gold. On the king’s head was a magnificent golden portrait mask and numerous pieces of jewellery lay on the body and in its wrappings. Other rooms were crammed with statues, a chariot, weapons, chests, vases, daggers, jewels and a throne. It was the priceless tomb and treasure of King Tutankhamun, who reigned from 1352 to 1343 BC. It was 3265 years later, on 26 November 1922, that Carter made this discovery. Howard Carter made the world’s most exciting archaeological find because he did not give up seeking. He pressed through. He persevered. A river cuts through rock not because of its power but because of its persistence. God loves you. He does not force himself upon you, but he promises to reveal himself to you if you persistently seek him. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 461 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/95 Psalm 41:7-13, Deuteronomy 2:24-4:14, Luke 10:25-11:4. 42) It was Mary who had her priorities right Sun, 05 Apr 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/95/ 25:14 enclassic05042026-95 1514.27 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 95: One Thing is Needed Psalm 41:7-13, Deuteronomy 2:24-4:14, Luke 10:25-11:4. 42) It was Mary who had her priorities right I first encountered Jesus in a personal way in 1974. Soon afterwards I heard a talk and, all these years later, I still remember it. It was given by an eighty-year-old man. The title was, ‘The Five “One Things”’. His talk highlighted five significant occurrences of the expression ‘one thing’ in the Bible (Psalm 27:4; Mark 10:21; Luke 10:42; John 9:25; Philippians 3:13). Each one speaks about our priorities. One of those five occurrences is in our New Testament passage for today (Luke 10:42). I have great empathy with Martha. Jesus said to her, ‘You are worried and upset about many things’ (v.41). There are so many things in life, but Jesus says, ‘only one thing is needed’ (v.42). It was Mary who had her priorities right. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 460 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/94 Psalm 41:1-6, Deuteronomy 1:1-2:23, Luke 9:57-10:24. In the passages for today we read about the promise, the extent and the privilege of God’s blessing However, it was true of the people of God in the Old Testament and of the disciples of Jesus, and it will also be true in your life that ‘*No blessing goes uncontested* Sat, 04 Apr 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/94/ 26:03 enclassic04042026-94 1563.87 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 94: No Blessing Goes Uncontested Psalm 41:1-6, Deuteronomy 1:1-2:23, Luke 9:57-10:24. In the passages for today we read about the promise, the extent and the privilege of God’s blessing However, it was true of the people of God in the Old Testament and of the disciples of Jesus, and it will also be true in your life that ‘*No blessing goes uncontested* ‘No blessing goes uncontested’ is one of Bishop Sandy Millar’s many original aphorisms, with which he would encourage us all. During his time as vicar of HTB he taught us not to be discouraged by the difficulties we faced because, as he liked to reassure us, ‘No blessing goes uncontested.’ God will bless you in amazing and wonderful ways. In the passages for today we read about the promise, the extent and the privilege of God’s blessing. However, it was true of the people of God in the Old Testament and of the disciples of Jesus, and it will also be true in your life that ‘No blessing goes uncontested.’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 459 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/93 Psalm 40:9-17, Numbers 35:1-36:13, Luke 9:28-56. God’s love and mercy is even more extraordinary because ‘At the cross of Jesus, pardon is complete *Love* and *justice* mingle, *truth* and *mercy* meet Fri, 03 Apr 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/93/ 23:44 enclassic03042026-93 1424.98 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 93: How to Love Psalm 40:9-17, Numbers 35:1-36:13, Luke 9:28-56. God’s love and mercy is even more extraordinary because ‘At the cross of Jesus, pardon is complete *Love* and *justice* mingle, *truth* and *mercy* meet Four bullets hit Pope John Paul II – two of them lodging in his lower intestine, the others hitting his left hand and right arm. This assassination attempt on the Pope in May 1981 left him severely wounded and with considerable blood loss – his health was never the same again. In July 1981, the perpetrator, Ali Ağca, was sentenced to life imprisonment. Pope John Paul II asked people to pray ‘for my brother Ağca, whom I have sincerely forgiven’. Two years later, he was to take the hand of Ali Ağca, then in prison, and quietly tell him that he had forgiven him for what he had done (even though his would-be killer had not asked for forgiveness). He developed a friendship over the years, meeting Ağca’s mother in 1987 and his brother a decade later. In June 2000 Ağca was pardoned by the Italian President at the Pope’s request. In February 2005 Ağca sent a letter to the Pope wishing him well. When the Pope died on 2 April 2005, Ağca’s brother, Adrian, gave an interview saying that Ağca and his entire family were grieving and that the Pope had been a great friend to them. Pope John Paul II’s response of love and mercy is exemplary. God’s love and mercy is even more extraordinary because ‘At the cross of Jesus, pardon is complete. Love and justice mingle, truth and mercy meet.’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 458 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/92 Proverbs 8:22-31, Numbers 33:1-34:29, Luke 9:10-27. God gave to his people in the Old Testament a wonderful vision of their potential *inheritance* It is all yours in Christ Jesus Thu, 02 Apr 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/92/ 23:08 enclassic02042026-92 1388.51 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 92: It is All Yours Proverbs 8:22-31, Numbers 33:1-34:29, Luke 9:10-27. God gave to his people in the Old Testament a wonderful vision of their potential *inheritance* It is all yours in Christ Jesus The Chelsea Flower Show may well be the most famous flower show in the world. It attracts visitors from all continents. There are four grades of award presented, Gold, Silver-Gilt, Silver and Bronze. As well as awards for gardens and flowers, the Knightian award is for exhibits of vegetables. I once heard a man being interviewed about the fact that he was retiring after winning the gold medal for his vegetables for ten years in a row. Asked for the secret of his success, he said, ‘I aim for perfection. But I settle for excellence.’ ‘Aim for perfection’ (2 Corinthians 13:11), writes the apostle Paul. This is very different from ‘perfectionism’. Perfectionism is a personality trait characterised by striving for flawlessness. It leads to setting excessively high performance standards. Perfectionists are overly critical of themselves and constantly concerned about what others think of them. It leads to a fear of failure and making mistakes. It can lead to depression, anxiety and missed opportunities. God’s people have always been called to aim high (while avoiding the dangers of perfectionism). God gave to his people in the Old Testament a wonderful vision of their potential inheritance. It is all yours in Christ Jesus. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 457 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/91 Psalm 40:1-8, Numbers 31:25-32:42, Luke 8:40-9:9. Jesus’ followers are called ‘disciples’ They want to be with him, to know him, to be like him and to do everything that Jesus asks them to do Wed, 01 Apr 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/91/ 24:54 enclassic01042026-91 1494.54 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 91: Follow Jesus Psalm 40:1-8, Numbers 31:25-32:42, Luke 8:40-9:9. Jesus’ followers are called ‘disciples’ They want to be with him, to know him, to be like him and to do everything that Jesus asks them to do Curious to know what all the fuss was about Pippa and I eventually entered the world of Twitter and now Instagram. It is a world where you ‘follow’ other people and are yourselves ‘followed’. Many celebrities have huge followings. People become avid spectators of their lives, relationships and lifestyle, diets and fashion choices. They want to know all about them, interact with them and be like them. There is nothing inherently wrong with this. It is natural to want to follow those we admire. Following celebrities on social media can be fun and even enlightening. However, following people on Instagram or Twitter is one thing; being a true follower of someone is quite another. It means fully devoting yourself to their cause, living by their example and even doing what they tell you to do. Choose the right people to follow. It really does matter who you follow. Millions, for example, followed Hitler, Stalin and Pol Pot. Still today, millions follow evil dictators, terrorists and gang leaders. Some people are sceptical about tradition and institutions and do not know whom to follow. The traditional models, which often came from or were championed by our families, institutions and political leaders, have, to some extent, broken down. This leaves many people unsure of who to follow. Jesus said many times, ‘Follow me.’ Of all the people who have ever lived, Jesus has the largest number of followers. Over 2.4 billion people in the world today profess to follow Jesus. Jesus’ followers are called ‘disciples’. They want to be with him, to know him, to be like him and to do everything that Jesus asks them to do. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 456 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/90 Psalm 39:1-13, Numbers 29:12-31:24, Luke 8:19-39. Many people today live with the opposite They do not fear God but their lives are full of the wrong kinds of fear Tue, 31 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/90/ 26:54 enclassic31032026-90 1614.84 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 90: How to Overcome Your Fears Psalm 39:1-13, Numbers 29:12-31:24, Luke 8:19-39. Many people today live with the opposite They do not fear God but their lives are full of the wrong kinds of fear Millennials (those born between 1981 and 2000) are sometimes known as ‘generation fear’. In one of her most popular songs, Lily Allen sings about ‘being taken over by the fear’. ‘Fear’ carries two meanings in the Bible – one healthy, one unhealthy. In the good sense of the word, it is usually used in the context of respect for God and sometimes of respect for people (especially those in authority). In the bad sense, it means to be frightened. We are supposed to fear God (in the good sense) and not be frightened of anyone or anything else. Many people today live with the opposite. They do not fear God but their lives are full of the wrong kinds of fear. How can you overcome your fears? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 455 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/89 Psalm 38:13-22, Numbers 27:12-29:11, Luke 8:1-18. He heard the word, retained it and by persevering has produced a crop hundreds of times more than was sown (Luke 8:8,15) He encountered Jesus as his Saviour, Sower and Shepherd Mon, 30 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/89/ 23:07 enclassic30032026-89 1387.81 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 89: A Hundredfold Return Psalm 38:13-22, Numbers 27:12-29:11, Luke 8:1-18. He heard the word, retained it and by persevering has produced a crop hundreds of times more than was sown (Luke 8:8,15) He encountered Jesus as his Saviour, Sower and Shepherd He was brought up on one of the roughest estates in Manchester. His father was an alcoholic. He left school at fifteen. He ran away from home. He lived on the streets. He joined a gang. He got involved in crime and ended up in prison. When he came out, he joined the army. He went through two divorces. In 1994, he walked into our church and did Alpha. He encountered Jesus and was filled with the Holy Spirit. He started visiting prisoners. He joined the HTB staff team to head up the work in prisons. He started an organisation to care for prison leavers. He set up a homeless project. He started a course to help those with addictions and courses to help those struggling with depression and debt. Under his leadership, Alpha for Prisons has spread through the prisons in the UK and seventy-six countries around the world. Thousands have come to faith in Jesus Christ. Hundreds of men and women have been placed in churches through the ministry of Caring for Prison Leavers. Paul Cowley, author of Thief, Prisoner, Soldier, Priest, is an example of someone who was the good soil on which the seed fell. He has a noble and good heart. He heard the word, retained it and by persevering has produced a crop hundreds of times more than was sown (Luke 8:8,15). He encountered Jesus as his Saviour, Sower and Shepherd. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 454 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/88 Proverbs 8:12-21, Numbers 26:12-27:11, Luke 7:36-50. It is the sort of legacy good parents want to hand on to their children Ultimately, wisdom is found in Jesus Christ, who is the ‘wisdom of God’ (1 Corinthians 1:24) Sun, 29 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/88/ 23:38 enclassic29032026-88 1418.92 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 88: How to Become Wise Proverbs 8:12-21, Numbers 26:12-27:11, Luke 7:36-50. It is the sort of legacy good parents want to hand on to their children Ultimately, wisdom is found in Jesus Christ, who is the ‘wisdom of God’ (1 Corinthians 1:24) Oprah Winfrey says, ‘Follow your instincts. That’s where true wisdom manifests itself.’ In other words, wisdom comes from within and is a kind of intuition. Since you are created in the image of God, there is truth in this. However, as we see in today’s passages, true wisdom comes from God and it is supremely acquired through your relationship with him. As we have seen, knowledge is horizontal. But wisdom is vertical. It comes down from above. You will grow in wisdom as you learn, reflect and live in relationship with God. We all desperately need wisdom. In the Old Testament there are several books of ‘Wisdom’: Proverbs, Job, Ecclesiastes and Song of Songs. In addition, sprinkled throughout the Bible are various writings which might loosely be described as ‘Wisdom Literature’, dealing with such diverse areas as the power of the tongue, the blessings of faithfulness, the dangers of adultery, the hazards of strong drink, the inequalities of life, the sufferings of the righteous, the skill of leadership and the art of parenting. This wisdom is a kind of sanctified common sense. It leads to greater self-understanding. It gives you the ability to cope in life and to steer through and master its challenges. It is the sort of legacy good parents want to hand on to their children. Ultimately, wisdom is found in Jesus Christ, who is the ‘wisdom of God’ (1 Corinthians 1:24). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 453 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/87 Psalm 38:1-12, Numbers 23:27-26:11, Luke 7:11-35. Whatever you are facing today, God is able to rescue you In the passages for today we see examples of troubles – traps, tests and temptations – and how to handle them Sat, 28 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/87/ 24:22 enclassic28032026-87 1462.86 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 87: In the Day of Trouble Psalm 38:1-12, Numbers 23:27-26:11, Luke 7:11-35. Whatever you are facing today, God is able to rescue you In the passages for today we see examples of troubles – traps, tests and temptations – and how to handle them Ajay Gohil was brought up as a Hindu and worked for the family business in a newsagent in North London. At the age of twenty-one he contracted erythrodermic psoriasis, a chronic skin disease. His weight dropped from 11.5 stone (73kg) to 7.5 stone (47.6kg). The disease was all over his body from head to toe. He lost all his friends. His wife and son left him. He wanted to die. As Ajay lay dying in hospital he cried out to God. He looked in his locker and found a Bible there. He opened it at Psalm 38 – the psalm for today. Each and every verse seemed relevant to him. He prayed for God to heal him. He fell into a deep sleep. By the next morning he was totally healed. His skin was new like a baby’s and his life was turned around. He was reunited with his son. I interviewed him in one of the services at HTB. He said, ‘Every day I live for Jesus.’ Life is not all plain sailing. We will all face troubles. Whatever you are facing today, God is able to rescue you. In the passages for today we see examples of troubles – traps, tests and temptations – and how to handle them. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 452 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/86 Psalm 37:32-40, Numbers 22:21-23:26, Luke 6:37-7:10. In the New Testament, ‘*the message*’ is a synonym for ‘*the gospel*’ (see Acts 2:41; 4:4; 10:44 and so on) Our task is both *to hear* this message and *to declare* it to others (1 John 1:5) Fri, 27 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/86/ 22:53 enclassic27032026-86 1373.02 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 86: Ten Top Tips for God’s Messengers Psalm 37:32-40, Numbers 22:21-23:26, Luke 6:37-7:10. In the New Testament, ‘*the message*’ is a synonym for ‘*the gospel*’ (see Acts 2:41; 4:4; 10:44 and so on) Our task is both *to hear* this message and *to declare* it to others (1 John 1:5) Billy Graham died on 21 February 2018 at the age of ninety-nine. As a messenger of God, he had planned his own funeral very carefully to be a call for people to put their faith in Jesus. He had said beforehand, ‘Someday you will read or hear that Billy Graham is dead. Don’t believe a word of it. I shall be more alive than I am now. I will just have changed my address. I will have gone into the presence of God.’ In 1934, at the age of sixteen, he’d heard God’s call and became a faithful messenger of the gospel. He spoke about Jesus to over 210 million people in person and to almost half the population of the world on TV or radio. He was determined to make the most of every opportunity, including his own funeral, to pass on God’s message to the world. ‘My messenger’ is the way John the Baptist is described by God (Luke 7:27). You too can be God’s messenger. Jesus speaks of ‘the message about the kingdom’ (Matthew 13:19). In the New Testament, ‘the message’ is a synonym for ‘the gospel’ (see Acts 2:41; 4:4; 10:44 and so on). Our task is both to hear this message and to declare it to others (1 John 1:5). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 451 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/85 Psalm 37:21-31, Numbers 21:4-22:20, Luke 6:12-36. Each of the passages today is about blessings and curses The key to the fullness of the blessing is generosity – ‘the righteous give generously’ (Psalm 37:21) Thu, 26 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/85/ 23:40 enclassic26032026-85 1420.02 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 85: The Fullness of the Blessing Psalm 37:21-31, Numbers 21:4-22:20, Luke 6:12-36. Each of the passages today is about blessings and curses The key to the fullness of the blessing is generosity – ‘the righteous give generously’ (Psalm 37:21) Mother Teresa once gave an interview to Hello! magazine. She was asked the question, ‘Is it only the affluent who give?’ She replied, ‘No, even the poorest of the poor give. The other day a very poor beggar came up to me and said, “Everyone gives to you and I also want to give you twenty paisa” – which is about two pence. I thought to myself, what do I do? If I take it he won’t have anything to eat, but if I don’t take it I would hurt him so much. So I took, and he was so happy because he had given to Mother Teresa of Calcutta to help the poor. Giving cleans the heart and helps you get closer to God. You get so much back in return.’ Generosity is not just a nice character trait that people have. It is right at the heart of what our faith is all about. C.S. Lewis defined Christianity as ‘a kind of giving’. God has poured out his generosity to you in Jesus (John 3:16), and you are called to respond in faith and generosity to others. Each of the passages today is about blessings and curses. The key to the fullness of the blessing is generosity – ‘the righteous give generously’ (Psalm 37:21). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 450 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/84 Proverbs 8:1-11, Numbers 19:1-21:3, Luke 5:33-6:11. Seven titles of Jesus emerge from the passages for today and each reveal something distinct about Jesus They help you to see what it means to put Jesus in the centre of your life Wed, 25 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/84/ 24:18 enclassic25032026-84 1458.05 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 84: Seven Titles of Jesus Proverbs 8:1-11, Numbers 19:1-21:3, Luke 5:33-6:11. Seven titles of Jesus emerge from the passages for today and each reveal something distinct about Jesus They help you to see what it means to put Jesus in the centre of your life As his father, King Charles, did before him, Prince William now has many titles. He is the Heir Apparent to the Crown, His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales, Knight of the Garter, Earl of Strathearn, Baron Carrickfergus, Duke of Cornwall and Cambridge, Duke of Rothesay, Knight of the Thistle, Rear Admiral, Grand Master of the Order of Bath, Earl of Chester, Earl of Carrick, Baron of Renfrew, Lord of the Isles and Prince and Great Steward of Scotland. Titles are attached to people by virtue of rank, office or attainment. In the Bible, Jesus is given far more titles than a royal prince. In fact, there are well over a hundred titles ascribed to Jesus. The whole Bible revolves around Jesus (John 5:39). Seven titles of Jesus emerge from the passages for today and each reveal something distinct about Jesus. They help you to see what it means to put Jesus in the centre of your life. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 449 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/83 Psalm 37:10-20, Numbers 16:36-18:32, Luke 5:17-32. James Irwin, another astronaut who walked on the moon, said, ‘Jesus walking on the earth is *more important* than man walking on the moon ’ When people saw what Jesus did, their response was awe and amazement: ‘Everyone was *amazed*… They were filled with *awe*’ (Luke 5:26) Tue, 24 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/83/ 24:59 enclassic24032026-83 1499.72 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 83: God Wants to Amaze You Psalm 37:10-20, Numbers 16:36-18:32, Luke 5:17-32. James Irwin, another astronaut who walked on the moon, said, ‘Jesus walking on the earth is *more important* than man walking on the moon ’ When people saw what Jesus did, their response was awe and amazement: ‘Everyone was *amazed*… They were filled with *awe*’ (Luke 5:26) ‘The Eagle has landed,’ said Neil Armstrong. President Nixon, watching the events on television, described it as ‘one of the greatest moments of our time’. The Pope greeted the news by exclaiming, ‘Glory to God in the highest and peace on earth to men of good will!’ At 3:56 am on 20 July 1969, Neil Armstrong stepped off the ladder from the Eagle and onto the moon’s surface. ‘That’s one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind,’ he said, as he became the first man to walk on the moon. Due to the recent invention of television, this remarkable event was the first of such historic significance to be seen so widely and known so immediately. The whole world watched with awe and amazement. James Irwin, another astronaut who walked on the moon, said, ‘Jesus walking on the earth is more important than man walking on the moon.’ When people saw what Jesus did, their response was awe and amazement: ‘Everyone was amazed… They were filled with awe’ (Luke 5:26). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 448 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/82 Psalm 37:1-9, Numbers 15:1-16:35, Luke 4:38-5:16. Setting aside time to build and nurture communication is essential Jesus has given you a ‘hotline’ to God, but it is not just for emergency use – it is to be used all the time Mon, 23 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/82/ 27:00 enclassic23032026-82 1620.79 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 82: Your Hotline to God Psalm 37:1-9, Numbers 15:1-16:35, Luke 4:38-5:16. Setting aside time to build and nurture communication is essential Jesus has given you a ‘hotline’ to God, but it is not just for emergency use – it is to be used all the time The invasion of Ukraine by Russia led to one of the biggest crises our world has ever faced. Up until that moment, the Cuban Missile Crisis was probably the closest we have come, until recent events, to World War III. In October 1962, there was a standoff between President Kennedy of the United States and Premier Khrushchev of the Soviet Union over planting missiles in Cuba. The crisis was averted because communication was established. It was decided to put one red telephone on the desk of the President of the United States, and another on the desk of the Premier of Soviet Russia. The communication link was called, as it still is, the ‘hotline’. Communication is vital to all relationships. Setting aside time to build and nurture communication is essential. Jesus has given you a ‘hotline’ to God, but it is not just for emergency use – it is to be used all the time. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 447 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/81 Psalm 36:1-12, Numbers 13:26-14:45, Luke 4:14-37. He ‘gives generously to all’ (James 1:5) If God is so generous to us, we also should ‘always be generous’ Sun, 22 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/81/ 23:22 enclassic22032026-81 1402.72 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 81: Always Be Generous Psalm 36:1-12, Numbers 13:26-14:45, Luke 4:14-37. He ‘gives generously to all’ (James 1:5) If God is so generous to us, we also should ‘always be generous’ Generosity is a beautiful characteristic in people. We love and admire generosity. My mother used to urge us as children, ‘Always be generous.’ How do you think of God? Do you think of him as a little bit mean or tight-fisted? Or do you think of him as extraordinarily generous? God’s generosity is seen in the natural world. For example, there are over 25,000 varieties of orchids. The orchid is just one of 270,000 species of flowers. God does not do things by halves. In our galaxy there are over 100 billion stars like our sun. Our galaxy is one of over 100 billion galaxies. It is thought that for every grain of sand there are a million stars. In a throwaway line in Genesis, the writer tells us, ‘He also made the stars’ (Genesis 1:16). God is extraordinarily, extravagantly generous. David speaks of God’s ‘… river of delights’ (Psalm 36:8b). He ‘gives generously to all’ (James 1:5). If God is so generous to us, we also should ‘always be generous’. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 446 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/80 Proverbs 7:21-27, Numbers 11:4-13:25, Luke 3:23-4:13. No one can go through life without being tempted Temptation is not sin; Jesus was ‘without sin’, yet even he was ‘tempted in every way, just as we are’ (Hebrews 4:15) Sat, 21 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/80/ 25:41 enclassic21032026-80 1541.41 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 80: How to Resist Temptation Proverbs 7:21-27, Numbers 11:4-13:25, Luke 3:23-4:13. No one can go through life without being tempted Temptation is not sin; Jesus was ‘without sin’, yet even he was ‘tempted in every way, just as we are’ (Hebrews 4:15) The Sirens were three mysterious women who, according to Homer’s Odyssey, lived on an island. Whenever a ship passed by, they would stand on the cliffs and sing. Their beautiful song would tempt sailors closer and closer, until eventually they were shipwrecked on the rocks below. Odysseus was curious to hear the Sirens’ song, but was well aware of the dangers. He ordered his men to tie him to the mast as they approached the island and then to plug their own ears with beeswax. When Odysseus heard the Siren call he demanded to be untied, but his shipmates bound him tighter, releasing him only when then the danger had passed. The story explores the powerful pull we all feel at times to flirt with choices that we know are bad, and even destructive. No one can go through life without being tempted. Temptation is not sin; Jesus was ‘without sin’, yet even he was ‘tempted in every way, just as we are’ (Hebrews 4:15). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 445 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/79 Psalm 35:19-28, Numbers 9:15-11:3, Luke 3:1-22. As a result, even though he found himself in the appalling conditions of this prison, he followed Jesus’ example and ‘went around *doing good’* (Acts 10:38) As John Wesley said, ‘*Do all the good you can*, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can Fri, 20 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/79/ 22:11 enclassic20032026-79 1331.59 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 79: God is Good - All the Time Psalm 35:19-28, Numbers 9:15-11:3, Luke 3:1-22. As a result, even though he found himself in the appalling conditions of this prison, he followed Jesus’ example and ‘went around *doing good’* (Acts 10:38) As John Wesley said, ‘*Do all the good you can*, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can Of all the prisons Pippa and I have visited around the world, this was the worst. It is in Lusaka, Zambia. The prison was built in 1950 for 250 men. Today it holds over 1,300. The cells, which were built to hold 50, are now home to over 150 men. They are locked in these cells from eight o’clock at night until eight o’clock in the morning. There isn’t enough room for all of them to lie down at the same time. They have to take it in turns. The stench and the heat in those cells must be almost unbearable. If the prisoners do not have AIDS or tuberculosis when they enter the prison, they are likely to become infected soon after. The cells surround a courtyard, which is at the centre of the prison. We held a service there. Maybe because there was nothing else to do, virtually every one of the inmates attended. The service was led by a man who had been awaiting trial for four years. He was a Christian pastor who was accused of some minor offence (for which the penalty in England would probably have been a small fine, had he been convicted). Though he may well have been innocent, this man had been languishing in a prison for four years, unconvicted, without trial, not knowing when he would be released – if ever. I will never forget his opening words as he began to lead the service: ‘God is good – all the time.’ Here was a man who had absolute confidence in the goodness of God, not because of his circumstances but in spite of them. He knew and had experienced the goodness of God in the midst of great suffering. As a result, even though he found himself in the appalling conditions of this prison, he followed Jesus’ example and ‘went around doing good’ (Acts 10:38). As John Wesley said, ‘Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 444 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/78 Psalm 35:11-18, Numbers 7:66-9:14, Luke 2:41-52. This is an extraordinary honour and privilege Moses, David and, of course, Jesus had an intimate relationship with God Thu, 19 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/78/ 22:58 enclassic19032026-78 1378.06 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 78: How to Develop Intimacy with God Psalm 35:11-18, Numbers 7:66-9:14, Luke 2:41-52. This is an extraordinary honour and privilege Moses, David and, of course, Jesus had an intimate relationship with God The life and ministry of the American pastor, John Wimber, has had a great influence on my own life, our church and many other churches around the world. He said, ‘The ability to hear what God is saying, to see what God is doing, and to move in the realm of the miraculous comes as an individual develops the same intimacy with and dependence upon the Father [as Jesus did].’ How did Jesus do what he did? The answer is found in his relationship with the Father. How will we do the ‘greater things than these’ which Jesus promised (John 14:12)? By discovering the same relationship of intimacy, simplicity and obedience. God loves you with an intimacy that surpasses all your dreams. He wants you to have a close, personal relationship with him of intimacy, simplicity and obedience. This is an extraordinary honour and privilege. Moses, David and, of course, Jesus had an intimate relationship with God. But how do you develop intimacy with God? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 443 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/77 Psalm 35:1-10, Numbers 7:1-65, Luke 2:21-40. I’m a Christian because I’m weak and admit *I need a saviour* ’The amazing truth of Christianity is that in Jesus *you* *do have a saviour* Wed, 18 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/77/ 23:16 enclassic18032026-77 1396.27 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 77: Saviour Psalm 35:1-10, Numbers 7:1-65, Luke 2:21-40. I’m a Christian because I’m weak and admit *I need a saviour* ’The amazing truth of Christianity is that in Jesus *you* *do have a saviour* The world is looking for a saviour. The Canadian musician, Lights, expresses this in the lyrics of her song, ‘Saviour’: ‘The night is deafening, When the silence is listening, And I’m down on my knees, And I know that something is missing… Sooner than later, I’ll need a saviour, I’ll need a saviour... ‘Lecrae’ (Moore), is a rapper, entrepreneur, record-producer and actor. He speaks for many of us when he says, ‘I’m not a Christian because I’m strong and have it all together. I’m a Christian because I’m weak and admit I need a saviour.’ The amazing truth of Christianity is that in Jesus you do have a saviour. How should you respond to this extraordinary good news? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 442 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/76 Proverbs 7:6-20, Numbers 5:11-6:27, Luke 2:1-20. ’God’s faithfulness towards us gives us an example to follow in our own relationships Faithfulness is something we should strive for in marriage, friendships and in our relationship with God Tue, 17 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/76/ 22:55 enclassic17032026-76 1375.56 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 76: If the Grass Looks Greener, It Is Probably AstroTurf Proverbs 7:6-20, Numbers 5:11-6:27, Luke 2:1-20. ’God’s faithfulness towards us gives us an example to follow in our own relationships Faithfulness is something we should strive for in marriage, friendships and in our relationship with God A campaign by one online agency offered a dating service for married men and women who wanted to have an affair. The agency is by no means alone in this market. What was different was that they executed an extensive advertising campaign specifically on massive billboards next to motorways with the slogan, ‘The grass is always greener.’ Essentially, they were making money feeding on people’s weaknesses and helping them to be unfaithful. This may seem attractive, but the reality is that it can ruin the lives of the individuals involved, as well as the lives of their partners, their families and their children. Jesus puts faithfulness alongside justice and mercy (Matthew 23:23). Faithfulness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Mother Teresa said, ‘I am not called to be successful but to be faithful.’ God’s faithfulness towards us gives us an example to follow in our own relationships. Faithfulness is something we should strive for in marriage, friendships and in our relationship with God. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 441 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/75 Psalm 34:11-22, Numbers 4:1-5:10, Luke 1:57-80. ’ Salvation means freedom Sam had an experience of how Jesus Christ sets us free Mon, 16 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/75/ 22:37 enclassic16032026-75 1357.27 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 75: What God Has in Store for You Psalm 34:11-22, Numbers 4:1-5:10, Luke 1:57-80. ’ Salvation means freedom Sam had an experience of how Jesus Christ sets us free Sam, aged twenty-three, was a militant atheist. He associated himself with the teachings of fervent opponents of faith and religion. One evening, he went online and discovered that Alpha was about to start within easy access of his home. He turned up to our church thinking, ‘I’m going to take down a few irrational Christians here.’ But his encounter with the teachings and person of Jesus Christ was not what he expected. On his questionnaire at the end of the course, he wrote, ‘I found the draw of Jesus irresistible and have gone from [being] someone with no faith to someone with an immense hope. To live in a state of non-truth to living in truth is, to me, the difference between being bound to complete freedom.’ Three months later, he was baptised. He told me, ‘I’m free of my previous life. I was a slave to a lot of things. I was a slave to society, a slave to my peers... But now I’m free to live my life. I’m excited to see what God’s got in store for me.’ Salvation means freedom. Sam had an experience of how Jesus Christ sets us free. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 440 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/74 Psalm 34:1-10, Numbers 2:10-3:51, Luke 1:39-56. It means to be the privileged recipient of *God’s favour*, and to be fortunate and happy because of it The Amplified Bible describes it as being ‘happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous – with life-joy and satisfaction in *God’s favour* and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions’ (Matthew 5:3, AMP) Sun, 15 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/74/ 23:22 enclassic15032026-74 1402.07 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 74: You Have the Favour of God Psalm 34:1-10, Numbers 2:10-3:51, Luke 1:39-56. It means to be the privileged recipient of *God’s favour*, and to be fortunate and happy because of it The Amplified Bible describes it as being ‘happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous – with life-joy and satisfaction in *God’s favour* and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions’ (Matthew 5:3, AMP) In my first year at university, aged eighteen, I read the entire New Testament in a week – from Matthew to Revelation – and became convinced, ‘it is true’. But I was reluctant to follow Jesus, as I thought my life would be very dull and that I would have to give up all enjoyment. In fact, it was the exact opposite. I found something even better than happiness. We all want to live happy lives. ‘Happiness,’ wrote Aristotle, ‘is the meaning and purpose of life, the whole aim and end of human existence.’ But there is something even better, greater and deeper than happiness. Happiness is dependent on what happens – our circumstances. Joy is far deeper and is not so dependent on our outward circumstances. It is a blessing from God. Joy is the characteristic of an encounter with Jesus even in his mother’s womb (Luke 1:44). Today’s New Testament passage uses a Greek word that we translate ‘blessed’. It means to be the privileged recipient of God’s favour, and to be fortunate and happy because of it. The Amplified Bible describes it as being ‘happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous – with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favour and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions’ (Matthew 5:3, AMP). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 439 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/73 Psalm 33:12-22, Numbers 1:1-2:9, Luke 1:26-38. There have been periods of great opposition and criticism Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa, preacher to the Papal household, speaks of our battle being against a triple alliance: the world (‘the enemy around us’), the flesh (‘the enemy within us’), and the devil (‘the enemy above us’) Sat, 14 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/73/ 22:10 enclassic14032026-73 1330.76 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 73: The Battles of Life Psalm 33:12-22, Numbers 1:1-2:9, Luke 1:26-38. There have been periods of great opposition and criticism Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa, preacher to the Papal household, speaks of our battle being against a triple alliance: the world (‘the enemy around us’), the flesh (‘the enemy within us’), and the devil (‘the enemy above us’) The Christian life is a battle. I have been following Jesus over four decades. As I look back at these years, they have been years of great blessing – more than I could have asked or even imagined. At the same time, there have been many challenges and obstacles. There have been very few periods when I have not been facing some kind of battle. The nature of these battles has varied enormously. There have been internal battles – times of intense temptation, doubt, fear and anxiety. There have been times of deep sadness, great loss and bereavement. There have been battles over health, sleep, finances, work and relationships. There have been periods of great opposition and criticism. Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa, preacher to the Papal household, speaks of our battle being against a triple alliance: the world (‘the enemy around us’), the flesh (‘the enemy within us’), and the devil (‘the enemy above us’). How can you navigate these spiritual battles of life? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 438 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/72 Proverbs 7:1-5, Leviticus 26:14-27:34, Luke 1:1-25. Like the rules of football, they do not stop the enjoyment of the game Rather, they enable the game of life to be enjoyed to the full Fri, 13 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/72/ 25:16 enclassic13032026-72 1516.9 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 72: Love Boundaries Proverbs 7:1-5, Leviticus 26:14-27:34, Luke 1:1-25. Like the rules of football, they do not stop the enjoyment of the game Rather, they enable the game of life to be enjoyed to the full I remember, years ago, a football match that had been arranged involving twenty-two young boys (including one of my sons, aged eight at the time). A friend of mine, Andy, was going to referee. Unfortunately, by 2.30 pm he had not turned up. The boys could wait no longer. I was press-ganged into being the substitute referee. But, I had no whistle, there were no markings for the boundaries of the pitch and I did not know the rules nearly as well as some of the boys. The game soon descended into complete chaos. Some shouted that the ball was in. Others said that it was out. I wasn’t at all sure, so I let things run. Then the fouls started. Some cried, ‘Foul.’ Others said, ‘No foul.’ I didn’t know who was right. So I let them play on. Then people began to get hurt. By the time Andy arrived, there were three boys lying ‘injured’ on the ground and all the rest were shouting, mainly at me! But the moment Andy arrived, he blew his whistle, arranged the teams, told them where the boundaries were and had them under complete control. The boys then enjoyed a great game of football. Were the boys freer without the rules, or were they in fact less free? Without any effective authority, they could do exactly what they wanted. But people were confused and hurt. They much preferred it when the game was played according to the rules. Then they were free to enjoy the game. The rules of football are not designed to take away the fun of the game. They are designed to enable the game to be enjoyed to the full. God’s ‘rules’ are his boundaries for life, given out of his love for us. His boundaries are not designed to restrict our freedom but rather to give us freedom. Like the rules of football, they do not stop the enjoyment of the game. Rather, they enable the game of life to be enjoyed to the full. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 437 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/71 Psalm 33:1-11, Leviticus 25:1-26:13, Mark 16:1-20. However, there are other things that *you can know* about the future and that makes a real difference to your life now Today we see three reasons why, if you put your trust in the Lord, *you can be confident about your future* Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/71/ 24:43 enclassic12032026-71 1483.94 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 71: Be Confident About Your Future Psalm 33:1-11, Leviticus 25:1-26:13, Mark 16:1-20. However, there are other things that *you can know* about the future and that makes a real difference to your life now Today we see three reasons why, if you put your trust in the Lord, *you can be confident about your future* What does the future hold in store for you? Futurologists predict what will happen in the future. For example, it has been predicted that some babies born today will live to the age of 150. Some of their predictions may come true. Others may not. In 1962 Decca Recording Company rejected the Beatles. They said, ‘We don’t like their sound, and guitar music is on the way out.’ In 1977 Ken Olson, Chairman of Digital Equipment Co., said, ‘There is no reason anyone would want a computer in their home.’ There are certain things about the future that we don’t know and that we are not supposed to know. However, there are other things that you can know about the future and that makes a real difference to your life now. Today we see three reasons why, if you put your trust in the Lord, you can be confident about your future. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 436 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/70 Psalm 32:1-11, Leviticus 23:1-24:23, Mark 15:33-47. Forsyth (1848–1921) pointed out, first, you have to know the ‘despair of guilt’ Then you can appreciate ‘the breathless wonder of forgiveness’ Wed, 11 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/70/ 25:57 enclassic11032026-70 1557.03 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 70: Total Forgiveness Psalm 32:1-11, Leviticus 23:1-24:23, Mark 15:33-47. Forsyth (1848–1921) pointed out, first, you have to know the ‘despair of guilt’ Then you can appreciate ‘the breathless wonder of forgiveness’ Bishop Sandy Millar speaks of a time when he was walking along the beach and he noticed how the sand had been churned up by the footprints of those who had gone before him. The next morning the footprints were all wiped away by the sea. He sensed Jesus saying to him, ‘That is a picture of forgiveness.’ Or to use another analogy, forgiveness from Jesus Christ is like deleting the file of all the bad stuff in our lives. Forgiveness is never easy. We all know how hard it is to forgive others. However, we often assume that forgiveness from God is almost automatic. On her deathbed, the Empress Catherine the Great of Russia (1729–1796), said, ‘I shall be an autocrat: that’s my trade. The good Lord will forgive me: that’s his.’ In the passages for today we see the very high cost and huge blessing of God’s forgiveness. As P.T. Forsyth (1848–1921) pointed out, first, you have to know the ‘despair of guilt’. Then you can appreciate ‘the breathless wonder of forgiveness’. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 435 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/69 Psalm 31:19-24, Leviticus 21:1-22:33, Mark 15:1-32. In the Greek translation of the Old Testament, the Septuagint, this sacred name (YHWH) is translated *Kyrios* (Lord) It really is quite extraordinary, therefore, that the New Testament writers (who were Jewish monotheists) made this fundamental Christian affirmation that ‘*Jesus is Lord’* (*Kyrios*) (Romans 10:9; 2 Corinthians 4:5; Acts 2:36) and that *our Lord* has been *crucified for us* Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/69/ 24:14 enclassic10032026-69 1454.94 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 69: Crucified Psalm 31:19-24, Leviticus 21:1-22:33, Mark 15:1-32. In the Greek translation of the Old Testament, the Septuagint, this sacred name (YHWH) is translated *Kyrios* (Lord) It really is quite extraordinary, therefore, that the New Testament writers (who were Jewish monotheists) made this fundamental Christian affirmation that ‘*Jesus is Lord’* (*Kyrios*) (Romans 10:9; 2 Corinthians 4:5; Acts 2:36) and that *our Lord* has been *crucified for us* In the days of slavery in the United States, southern slaves were living under brutal conditions. They composed some deeply moving songs with haunting melodies, rich with emotion. These ‘spirituals’ were songs of hope and anticipation. They were the soul-cry of the slave longing for freedom. They embraced Jesus as their Saviour and Lord and, in the midst of almost unbearable suffering, they experienced his grace, peace and hope for the future. From this relationship they were able to sing: Were you there when they crucified my Lord? In the New Testament passage for today, we see the background to the extraordinary claim of the New Testament that the one ‘they crucified’ is in fact my Lord. God is described in the Old Testament as ‘The Lord’. The original Hebrew word for ‘Lord’ (YHWH) had no vowels and was not vocalised. It was considered too sacred to pronounce. For that reason, when vowels were added to the original Hebrew texts they weren’t added to ‘the name’ (YHWH). There has been much debate in modern times as to what vowels should be used – it used to be thought it should be ‘Jehovah’, but most scholars now think ‘Yahweh’ is more accurate. In the Greek translation of the Old Testament, the Septuagint, this sacred name (YHWH) is translated Kyrios (Lord). It really is quite extraordinary, therefore, that the New Testament writers (who were Jewish monotheists) made this fundamental Christian affirmation that ‘Jesus is Lord’ (Kyrios) (Romans 10:9; 2 Corinthians 4:5; Acts 2:36) and that our Lord has been crucified for us. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 434 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/68 Proverbs 6:30-35, Leviticus 19:1-20:27, Mark 14:43-72. Human beings are capable of acts of great love, courage and heroism Yet, not one of us (apart from Jesus) is without sin Mon, 09 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/68/ 25:31 enclassic09032026-68 1531.09 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 68: What's in Your Heart? Proverbs 6:30-35, Leviticus 19:1-20:27, Mark 14:43-72. Human beings are capable of acts of great love, courage and heroism Yet, not one of us (apart from Jesus) is without sin The Nobel Prize winner and most important Russian literary artist of the second half of the twentieth century, Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn (1918–2008), who was imprisoned for eight years for criticising Stalin, wrote, ‘The line separating good and evil passes, not through states, nor through classes, nor through political parties... but right through every human heart – and through all human hearts.’ We are all created in the image of God. Human beings are capable of acts of great love, courage and heroism. Yet, not one of us (apart from Jesus) is without sin. Do you know what’s in your heart? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 433 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/67 Psalm 31:9-18, Leviticus 17:1-18:30, Mark 14:17-42. Their hearts must have leapt with joy when they saw the word ‘*but*’ ‘*But*’ is a powerful word when facing trouble, tests and temptations Sun, 08 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/67/ 22:56 enclassic08032026-67 1376.52 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 67: '... BUT' Psalm 31:9-18, Leviticus 17:1-18:30, Mark 14:17-42. Their hearts must have leapt with joy when they saw the word ‘*but*’ ‘*But*’ is a powerful word when facing trouble, tests and temptations During one of the severe potato famines in Ireland, a number of families wrote letters to their landlord saying they had absolutely no money at all to pay their rent and begged to be let off all their debts. The Irish landlord was Canon Andrew Robert Fausset, born near Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, Ireland, in 1821. Canon Fausset wrote back to his tenants. He said it was quite impossible to let them off their debts. It would set a bad precedent. They had to pay every single penny. ‘But,’ he wrote, ‘I enclose something that might help you.’ In contrast to so many of the other landlords at the time, he sent a cheque for a very large sum of money – which far more than covered all their debts. Their hearts must have leapt with joy when they saw the word ‘but’. ‘But’ is a powerful word when facing trouble, tests and temptations. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 432 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/66 Psalm 31:1-8, Leviticus 15:1-16:34, Mark 13:32-14:16. As I look back on my life, I can see many occasions when God has rescued me As you face difficult situations you can trust that God will rescue you Sat, 07 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/66/ 26:52 enclassic07032026-66 1612.09 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 66: God Has Rescued Me Psalm 31:1-8, Leviticus 15:1-16:34, Mark 13:32-14:16. As I look back on my life, I can see many occasions when God has rescued me As you face difficult situations you can trust that God will rescue you Tony Bullimore, aged fifty-six, was one of Britain’s most experienced transatlantic yachtsmen. He was feared dead after his sixty-foot yacht, Exide Challenger, capsized amid the icy vastness of the Southern Ocean, two months into the Vendée Globe round-the-world race. The keel came off in fifty-foot waves. The boat went over. In his book, Saved, Bullimore described it as being like the Niagara Falls upside down. For four days he was entombed in a dark, noisy, wet and cold upside-down world with fifty-foot swells and a temperature hovering around freezing. He suffered the discomfort of seasickness and drawing breath from a few feet of air between the water level and what was once the bottom of the boat. He was more than a thousand miles from the nearest land. As the air supply diminished he prayed that he would be rescued. It was the Royal Australian Navy that came to the rescue. With modern satellite and surveillance technology the Australian government had pinpointed the progress of all the yachts and sent out a rescue team. After four days, Bullimore heard banging on the side of his yacht. He said afterwards, ‘I can never thank the Australian Navy enough for what they have done because they have genuinely saved my life, there is no question.’ The first words when he emerged were, ‘Thank God, it is a miracle.’ He said, ‘I felt like I had been born all over again. I felt like a new man. I felt I had been brought to life again.’ As one journalist put it at the time, ‘A rescue that succeeds against all odds and every expectation is the best of all stories. It is pure and spontaneous joy.’ Supremely Jesus ‘gave himself for our sins to rescue us’ (Galatians 1:4a). As I look back on my life, I can see many occasions when God has rescued me. As you face difficult situations you can trust that God will rescue you. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 431 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/65 Psalm 30:8-12, Leviticus 14:1-57, Mark 13:1-31. He constantly turns people’s lives around He turns despair into joy (Psalm 30:11) Fri, 06 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/65/ 23:28 enclassic06032026-65 1408.65 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 65: Turn Your Life Around Psalm 30:8-12, Leviticus 14:1-57, Mark 13:1-31. He constantly turns people’s lives around He turns despair into joy (Psalm 30:11) ‘Big John’ had been living on the streets of London for almost ten years. Before that he had spent over nine years in prison. Most of his teeth were missing. He was addicted to methadone. His nickname on the streets of London was ‘Big John’ because he was a big guy who had once boxed for the Army. ‘Big John’ walked into our night shelter for the homeless at HTB. He came with his friend ‘Little John’. ‘Big John’ loved it and appreciated all the young people who cared for him. He started coming to church. He came on Alpha. He encountered Jesus. He was filled with the Holy Spirit on the Alpha Weekend. He came off the drugs. God turned his life right around – from despair to joy. He started telling his friends on the streets about Jesus. Each week he would turn up at church with more friends. His nickname, on the streets, changed from ‘Big John’ to ‘John the Baptist’! One of the guys he had met on the Alpha weekend was in the property business and found him accommodation. A dentist in our congregation volunteered to replace all his missing teeth. He reconciled with his mother and his daughter and built a relationship with his grandchildren, whom he had never met before. Following Jesus is life-changing. He constantly turns people’s lives around. He turns despair into joy (Psalm 30:11). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 430 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/64 Proverbs 6:20-29, Leviticus 13:1-59, Mark 12:28-44. Even more important than a healthy physical heart is the condition of your spiritual heart In the passages for today we see five key ways to keep your spiritual heart healthy Thu, 05 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/64/ 23:26 enclassic05032026-64 1406.88 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 64: How to Keep Healthy Proverbs 6:20-29, Leviticus 13:1-59, Mark 12:28-44. Even more important than a healthy physical heart is the condition of your spiritual heart In the passages for today we see five key ways to keep your spiritual heart healthy Avoid smoking and using tobacco products Be physically active every day Eat a heart-healthy diet Maintain a healthy weight Manage your blood pressure Control your total cholesterol Keep your blood sugar healthy According to the American Heart Association, these are the seven things that you should do to keep your physical heart healthy. The human heart weighs less than a pound (450g). It beats 100,000 times a day and over 2.5 billion times in the average lifetime. Your system of blood vessels – arteries, veins and capillaries – is over 60,000 miles long – enough to go around the world more than twice. This is not just an amazing spectacle; it is the ‘heart’ of human life. Without your heart your body would quickly cease to work. Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the Western world. Jesus spoke a great deal about the heart. The heart is a metaphor for the inner life. The word Jesus used means the seat of the physical, spiritual and mental life. The heart is the centre and the source of the whole inner being – thinking, feeling, and willing. God is concerned, primarily, about your heart. He wants you to have a healthy heart. He said to Samuel, ‘The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart’ (1 Samuel 16:7). Even more important than a healthy physical heart is the condition of your spiritual heart. In the passages for today we see five key ways to keep your spiritual heart healthy. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 429 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/63 Psalm 30:1-7, Leviticus 11:1-12:8, Mark 12:13-27. The passages for today remind us that God is the ‘everlasting God’ (Isaiah 40:28) God views things through a wide-angled lens: he takes a long view and he wants you to enjoy a lifetime of his favour (Psalm 30:5) Wed, 04 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/63/ 21:48 enclassic04032026-63 1308.53 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 63: How to Enjoy a Lifetime of Favour Psalm 30:1-7, Leviticus 11:1-12:8, Mark 12:13-27. The passages for today remind us that God is the ‘everlasting God’ (Isaiah 40:28) God views things through a wide-angled lens: he takes a long view and he wants you to enjoy a lifetime of his favour (Psalm 30:5) When I was at university I was taken to hear a talk entitled, ‘Where will you be in ten years’ time?’ It was intended to be an encouragement to us to persevere in our faith in spite of all the challenges that life would hold after university. All that I can remember is thinking at the time, ‘Ten years! That is a lifetime away.’ I could not even begin to imagine that far ahead. Now, by contrast, I look back at my life and ten years ago seems like yesterday. Life has flown past. It seems to be accelerating at an alarming rate. I now understand the wisdom of those who encouraged us early on to take a long view. We live in a society of instant gratification. Instant meals. Instant messaging. Instant cash. Instant loans. Instant fake tans. Instant fortunes won. There is a great danger of short-termism. The passages for today remind us that God is the ‘everlasting God’ (Isaiah 40:28). God views things through a wide-angled lens: he takes a long view and he wants you to enjoy a lifetime of his favour (Psalm 30:5). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 428 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/62 Psalm 29:1-11, Leviticus 9:1-10:20, Mark 11:27-12:12. Of course, it can be abused However, godly, spiritual authority is a source of great blessing Tue, 03 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/62/ 21:27 enclassic03032026-62 1287.76 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 62: How to Exercise Spiritual Authority Psalm 29:1-11, Leviticus 9:1-10:20, Mark 11:27-12:12. Of course, it can be abused However, godly, spiritual authority is a source of great blessing I first met him when he came to speak at a student weekend while I was studying at Cambridge University. Although he was the guest speaker, he was very gracious and I sensed a deep humility. When he spoke, he did so with real authority. His message was simple and focused on telling people about Jesus. A few years later he came to be the vicar of Holy Trinity Brompton. This modest and deeply spiritual man not only led our church (and others) at a key moment in its growth, but also trained some of the most influential Christian leaders in the UK over the last 40 years. David Watson, David MacInnes, Sandy Millar and John Irvine were all curates to John Collins (1925-2022), a clergyman who never sought prominence or platform, but who invested his whole life in serving others. His authority did not come from his position in life or from worldly power. Rather, his authority came from his relationship with Jesus Christ. It was self-authenticating. Today people are very wary of authority. Of course, it can be abused. However, godly, spiritual authority is a source of great blessing. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 427 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/61 Psalm 28:1-9, Leviticus 7:11-8:36, Mark 11:1-25. Without that relationship there will always be a deep sense of aloneness and a lack of ultimate meaning and purpose At the heart of the Christian faith is this relationship with God where we find what we are living for Mon, 02 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/61/ 25:10 enclassic02032026-61 1510.19 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 61: A Loving, Ongoing Relationship Psalm 28:1-9, Leviticus 7:11-8:36, Mark 11:1-25. Without that relationship there will always be a deep sense of aloneness and a lack of ultimate meaning and purpose At the heart of the Christian faith is this relationship with God where we find what we are living for In one of his last songs, Freddie Mercury, the lead singer of the rock group Queen, asked the question: ‘Does anybody know what we are living for?’ In spite of the fact that he had amassed a huge fortune and had attracted thousands of fans, Freddie Mercury admitted in an interview shortly before his death in 1991 that he was desperately lonely. He said, ‘You can have everything in the world and still be the loneliest man, and that is the most bitter type of loneliness. Success has brought me world idolisation and millions of pounds, but it’s prevented me from having the one thing we all need – a loving, ongoing relationship.’ There is only one relationship that is completely loving and ongoing, and for which we were created. Without that relationship there will always be a deep sense of aloneness and a lack of ultimate meaning and purpose. At the heart of the Christian faith is this relationship with God where we find what we are living for. How can you and I have a relationship with the Creator of the universe? How in practice can we begin to communicate with God? What is the basis of this relationship? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 426 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/60 Proverbs 6:12-19, Leviticus 5:14-7:10, Mark 10:32-52. The word used for *healed* is the same Greek word as *saved* (*sozo*) Do you see it? The passages for today help us to see the significance of Jesus’ death Sun, 01 Mar 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/60/ 21:57 enclassic01032026-60 1317.28 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 60: My Eyes Were Opened Proverbs 6:12-19, Leviticus 5:14-7:10, Mark 10:32-52. The word used for *healed* is the same Greek word as *saved* (*sozo*) Do you see it? The passages for today help us to see the significance of Jesus’ death It was as if I was blind. I must have heard many times that Jesus died for our sins. But I simply did not see it. I was spiritually blind. But when I understood the cross, my eyes were opened. Since then, I have noticed that as I have attempted to pass on the message of ‘Christ crucified’, there are different responses. Sometimes very intelligent people simply cannot see it (see 1 Corinthians 1:23–25). On the other hand, I am often amazed at the understanding of others, including very young children. For all who see it, it is life changing: ‘to us who are being saved it is the power of God’ (1 Corinthians 1:18). I think it is fascinating that in today’s New Testament passage, after Jesus has explained his death, we have the story of blind Bartimaeus having his eyes opened (Mark 10:46–52). He says to Jesus, ‘I want to see’ (v.51). Jesus replies, ‘“Go… your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus’ (v.52). The word used for healed is the same Greek word as saved (sozo). Do you see it? The passages for today help us to see the significance of Jesus’ death. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 425 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/59 Psalm 27:7-14, Leviticus 4:1-5:13, Mark 10:13-31. The *mercy* of God is available for you In our passages for today we see some examples of people who are recipients of God’s mercy Sat, 28 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/59/ 22:43 enclassic28022026-59 1363.7 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 59: Rich in Mercy Psalm 27:7-14, Leviticus 4:1-5:13, Mark 10:13-31. The *mercy* of God is available for you In our passages for today we see some examples of people who are recipients of God’s mercy A man was having his portrait painted by a successful artist. When the portrait was finished it was unveiled. The man was most unhappy with the result. When asked whether he liked it, he replied, ‘I don’t think it does me justice.’ To which the artist replied, ‘Sir, it is not justice you need, but mercy!’ At the end of the day, we all need mercy even more than justice. God is ‘rich in mercy’ (Ephesians 2:4). The theme of the ‘mercy of God’ runs throughout the Bible. In the original Greek, ‘eleos’ (mercy) also means compassion, pity, clemency. The mercy of God is available for you. In our passages for today we see some examples of people who are recipients of God’s mercy. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 424 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/58 Psalm 27:1-6, Leviticus 1:1-3:17, Mark 9:33-10:12. You are holy to the extent that your life is devoted to him and your actions reflect his character Holiness and *wholeness* are closely related, and God wants the *whole* of your life Fri, 27 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/58/ 23:00 enclassic27022026-58 1380.7 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 58: Six Characteristics of a Holy Life Psalm 27:1-6, Leviticus 1:1-3:17, Mark 9:33-10:12. You are holy to the extent that your life is devoted to him and your actions reflect his character Holiness and *wholeness* are closely related, and God wants the *whole* of your life Do you try to fit Jesus into your schedule? Or do you work your schedule around Jesus? ‘God cannot fit into our plans, we must fit into his,’ writes Eugene Peterson. ‘We can’t use God – God is not a tool or appliance or credit card. Holy is the word that sets God apart and above our attempts to enlist him in our wish-fulfilment fantasies or our utopian schemes for making our mark in the world. Holy means that God is alive on God’s terms, alive in a way that exceeds our experience and imagination. Holy refers to life burning with an intense purity that transforms everything it touches into itself.’ The Hebrew word ‘holy’ (qadosh) probably originally meant ‘separate’ or ‘set apart’. It came to be used to describe the ‘otherness’ of God, and how his character and nature are so much greater and more wonderful than any other person or thing. For something else to be ‘holy’ simply means for it to be dedicated to God. You are holy to the extent that your life is devoted to him and your actions reflect his character. Holiness and wholeness are closely related, and God wants the whole of your life. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 423 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/57 Psalm 26:1-12, Exodus 39:1-40:38, Mark 9:2-32. Perhaps it is not surprising that as society moves away from worshipping *the glory of God*, it turns towards the worship of the ‘glory’ of celebrity and fame We are called to worship God’s glory and reflect it, however imperfectly, in our lives Thu, 26 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/57/ 27:00 enclassic26022026-57 1620.14 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 57: Better Than Fame and Celebrity Psalm 26:1-12, Exodus 39:1-40:38, Mark 9:2-32. Perhaps it is not surprising that as society moves away from worshipping *the glory of God*, it turns towards the worship of the ‘glory’ of celebrity and fame We are called to worship God’s glory and reflect it, however imperfectly, in our lives In a survey of millennials, 50% of young adults said that a major life goal was to become famous. In the past people wanted to be famous for doing something. Now, celebrity has become an end in itself. It has attained god-like characteristics. Not only do people want to be famous, they idolise those who have achieved celebrity status. This widespread interest in famous individuals has been described as ‘the cult of celebrity’. Fame to the ambitious is like salt water to the thirsty. The more you get, the more you want. Madonna, who at one stage was probably the most famous woman on the planet, said, ‘I won’t be happy until I am as famous as God.’ Celebrity and fame are only a pale reflection of true glory. ‘Glory’ is used in the Bible to denote the manifestation of God’s presence. Glory is one of the most common words in the Bible. God’s glory means his importance, reputation, majesty and honour. Perhaps it is not surprising that as society moves away from worshipping the glory of God, it turns towards the worship of the ‘glory’ of celebrity and fame. We are called to worship God’s glory and reflect it, however imperfectly, in our lives. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 422 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/56 Proverbs 6:1-11, Exodus 37:1-38:31, Mark 8:14-9:1. Life is an extraordinary and wonderful gift In the Bible we are constantly urged not to waste this gift, but instead to make the most of our lives Wed, 25 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/56/ 23:50 enclassic25022026-56 1430.36 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 56: How to Make the Most of Your Life Proverbs 6:1-11, Exodus 37:1-38:31, Mark 8:14-9:1. Life is an extraordinary and wonderful gift In the Bible we are constantly urged not to waste this gift, but instead to make the most of our lives ‘People often ask me what Mother Teresa was like,’ writes Shane Claiborne in his book The Irresistible Revolution. ‘Sometimes it’s like they wonder if she glowed in the dark or had a halo. She was short, wrinkled, and precious, maybe even a little ornery, like a beautiful, wise old granny. But there is one thing I will never forget – her feet. Her feet were deformed. Each morning I would stare at them. I wondered if she had contracted leprosy. One day a Sister explained, “Her feet are deformed because we get just enough donated shoes for everyone, and Mother does not want anyone to get stuck with the worst pair, so she digs through and finds them. And years of doing that have deformed her feet.” Years of loving her neighbour as herself deformed her feet.’ When people are asked about the person whose life they most admire, so often the answer is ‘Mother Teresa’. She made the most of her life. It is a paradox, because her life was a life of self-denial, taking up her cross and following Jesus. Life is an extraordinary and wonderful gift. In the Bible we are constantly urged not to waste this gift, but instead to make the most of our lives. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 421 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/55 Psalm 25:16-22, Exodus 35:1-36:38, Mark 7:31-8:13. You reap what you sow, only many times more What you give to the Lord, he multiplies Tue, 24 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/55/ 23:45 enclassic24022026-55 1425.82 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 55: What You Give to God, He Multiplies Psalm 25:16-22, Exodus 35:1-36:38, Mark 7:31-8:13. You reap what you sow, only many times more What you give to the Lord, he multiplies Hattie May Wiatt, a six-year-old girl, lived near Grace Baptist Church in Philadelphia, USA. The Sunday school was very crowded. Russell H. Conwell, the minister, told her that one day they would have buildings big enough to allow everyone to attend. She said, ‘I hope you will. It is so crowded I am afraid to go there alone.’ He replied, ‘When we get the money we will construct one large enough to get all the children in.’ Two years later, in 1886, Hattie May died. After the funeral Hattie’s mother gave the minister a little bag they had found under their daughter’s pillow containing 57 cents in change that she had saved up. Alongside it was a note in her handwriting: ‘To help build bigger so that more children can go to Sunday school.’ The minister changed all the money into pennies and offered each one for sale. He received $250 – and 54 of the cents were given back. The $250 was itself changed into pennies and sold by the newly formed ‘Wiatt Mite Society’. In this way, her 57 cents kept on multiplying. Twenty-six years later, in a talk entitled, ‘The history of the 57 cents’, the minister explained the results of her 57-cent donation: a church with a membership of over 5,600 people, a hospital where tens of thousands of people had been treated, 80,000 young people going through university, 2,000 people going out to preach the gospel – all this happened ‘because Hattie May Wiatt invested her 57 cents’. The theme of multiplication runs throughout the Bible. What cannot be achieved by addition, God does by multiplication. You reap what you sow, only many times more. What you give to the Lord, he multiplies. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 420 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/54 Psalm 25:8-15, Exodus 33:7-34:35, Mark 7:1-30. Just as we need physical food, so we also need spiritual food Spiritual food comes from *hearing the words of God* Mon, 23 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/54/ 23:56 enclassic23022026-54 1436.68 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 54: How to Hear God Psalm 25:8-15, Exodus 33:7-34:35, Mark 7:1-30. Just as we need physical food, so we also need spiritual food Spiritual food comes from *hearing the words of God* When I saw him coming down the street, I would cross the road in order to avoid him. I had met him in my first week at university. He had a shiny, smiley face. I had also met one or two others like him who had that same look on their face. It made me very suspicious! A few months later, I encountered Jesus and realised that these people’s faces were shining because they had been spending time with Jesus, hearing God speak. Like Moses, when he came down from the mountain after hearing God speak to him, their faces were ‘radiant’ (Exodus 34:29,35). Jesus said that ‘people do not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God’ (Matthew 4:4). Just as we need physical food, so we also need spiritual food. Spiritual food comes from hearing the words of God. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 419 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/53 Psalm 25:1-7, Exodus 31:1-33:6, Mark 6:30-56. Nearly always, I start by reading the Bible, as I believe it’s more important that Jesus speaks to me than I speak to him My thoughts from each day are now the basis of these notes that accompany the *Bible in One Year* Sun, 22 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/53/ 24:01 enclassic22022026-53 1441.31 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 53: How to Spend Time with Jesus Psalm 25:1-7, Exodus 31:1-33:6, Mark 6:30-56. Nearly always, I start by reading the Bible, as I believe it’s more important that Jesus speaks to me than I speak to him My thoughts from each day are now the basis of these notes that accompany the *Bible in One Year* I first encountered Jesus in February 1974. I am so grateful to those who taught me, right from the start, the importance of what they called ‘the quiet time’. The old-fashioned expression ‘the quiet time’ (meaning time set aside to read the Bible and pray) probably has its origin in the words of Jesus in today’s New Testament passage, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place’ (Mark 6:31). Practically every morning since I was eighteen years of age, I have begun the day in this way. I try to spend time with Jesus, by myself, in a quiet place. Sometimes it is very brief, sometimes it is longer. But just as I do not like beginning the day without breakfast, I cannot imagine beginning the day without spiritual food. Nearly always, I start by reading the Bible, as I believe it’s more important that Jesus speaks to me than I speak to him. My thoughts from each day are now the basis of these notes that accompany the Bible in One Year. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 418 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/52 Proverbs 5:15-23, Exodus 29:1-30:38, Mark 6:6-29. (I did try to use this illustration once but, for reasons I cannot remember, it went horribly wrong!)The point that he makes so well, and that comes out of the passage in Ecclesiastes, is that while friendships and marriages are wonderful gifts, having God at the centre of a friendship or marriage provides an invisible thread of enormous strength In today’s passages, we see how two are stronger than one in marriage, mission and ministry Sat, 21 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/52/ 28:07 enclassic21022026-52 1687.35 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 52: Better Together Proverbs 5:15-23, Exodus 29:1-30:38, Mark 6:6-29. (I did try to use this illustration once but, for reasons I cannot remember, it went horribly wrong!)The point that he makes so well, and that comes out of the passage in Ecclesiastes, is that while friendships and marriages are wonderful gifts, having God at the centre of a friendship or marriage provides an invisible thread of enormous strength In today’s passages, we see how two are stronger than one in marriage, mission and ministry I have never been very good at using visual aids. I am not a very practical person. On the other hand, my great friend, Nicky Lee (who, together with his wife Sila, has pioneered The Marriage Course and other courses for couples and parents), is extremely practical and often uses visual aids. When he is speaking at weddings he sometimes uses a visual aid to illustrate the passage in Ecclesiastes 4, where the writer says, ‘Two are better than one… A cord of three strands is not quickly broken’ (vv.9,12). As a picture of marriage, Nicky takes two strands of different coloured wool and weaves them together. Together they are stronger and yet they can quite easily be broken. Then he takes a third strand of nearly invisible fishing line. With this third strand, it is almost impossible to break the two pieces of wool. (I did try to use this illustration once but, for reasons I cannot remember, it went horribly wrong!) The point that he makes so well, and that comes out of the passage in Ecclesiastes, is that while friendships and marriages are wonderful gifts, having God at the centre of a friendship or marriage provides an invisible thread of enormous strength. In today’s passages, we see how two are stronger than one in marriage, mission and ministry. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 417 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/51 Psalm 24:1-10, Exodus 27:1-28:43, Mark 5:21-6:6. There was such a sense of the presence of God on the island that a businessman visiting said, ‘The moment I stepped ashore I was suddenly conscious of the presence of God ’ God was *meeting* with his people Fri, 20 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/51/ 24:59 enclassic20022026-51 1499.32 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 51: How to Meet with God Psalm 24:1-10, Exodus 27:1-28:43, Mark 5:21-6:6. There was such a sense of the presence of God on the island that a businessman visiting said, ‘The moment I stepped ashore I was suddenly conscious of the presence of God ’ God was *meeting* with his people In 1949, one of the greatest revivals in the history of the United Kingdom took place in the Hebrides. Duncan Campbell, the preacher at the centre of the revival, later described how it began. Seven men and two women had decided to pray earnestly for revival. One night, at a prayer meeting held in a barn, a young man took his Bible and read from Psalm 24 (the psalm for today): ‘Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? The one who has clean hands and a pure heart’ (vv.3–4a). He shut his Bible and said, ‘It seems to me just so much sentimental humbug to be praying as we are praying, to be waiting as we are waiting here, if we ourselves are not rightly related to God.’ He asked God to reveal if his own hands were clean and his own heart was pure. That night God met with them in a powerful way. As they waited on God ‘his awesome presence swept the barn’. They came to understand that revival is always related to holiness. A power was let loose that shook the parish from centre to circumference. ‘Three men were lying on the straw having fallen under the power of God. They were lifted out of the ordinary into the extraordinary. They knew that God had visited them and neither they nor their parish could ever be the same again.’ Four miles away, two sisters aged eighty-two and eighty-four had a vision of God. They saw the churches crowded and the youth and the community flocking into the churches. They had ‘a glorious assurance that God was coming in revival power’. Duncan Campbell was invited to come and speak to them. When he arrived in the parish church, it was packed out with hundreds waiting outside. No one could explain where they had come from. Within ten minutes of the service starting, men and woman were crying out to God. They were meeting with God in all his holiness. There was such a sense of the presence of God on the island that a businessman visiting said, ‘The moment I stepped ashore I was suddenly conscious of the presence of God.’ God was meeting with his people. How do you and I meet with God? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 416 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/50 Psalm 23:1-6, Exodus 25:1-26:37, Mark 4:30-5:20. He is ‘*My* God’ (Philippians 4:19) God loves *me* Thu, 19 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/50/ 25:32 enclassic19022026-50 1532.47 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 50: God Loves Me Psalm 23:1-6, Exodus 25:1-26:37, Mark 4:30-5:20. He is ‘*My* God’ (Philippians 4:19) God loves *me* High on the moors in the Welsh highlands, two ministers met a young shepherd boy who had impaired hearing and was illiterate. They explained that Jesus wanted to be his shepherd, who would always look after him as he, the boy, looked after his sheep. They taught him to repeat the words, ‘The Lord is my shepherd’ (Psalm 23:1), using the fingers and thumb of his right hand to help him remember, starting with his thumb and then a finger for each word. They told him to pause at the fourth word ‘my’, and remember, ‘this psalm was meant for me’. Some years later, one of them was passing through that same village and asked after the shepherd boy. The previous winter there had been terrible storms and the boy had died on the hills, buried in a snowdrift. The villager who was telling the story said, ‘There was one thing, however, that we didn’t understand. When his body was discovered he was holding the fourth finger of his right hand.’ The ‘parable’ illustrates the nature of God’s personal love for each one of us. Many people today think of God as some great impersonal force. However, the God of the Bible is very different. His relationship with us is personal. St Paul wrote, ‘The Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me’ (Galatians 2:20). He is ‘My God’ (Philippians 4:19). God loves me. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 415 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/49 Psalm 22:22-31, Exodus 23:1-24:18, Mark 3:31-4:29. The New Testament is obviously about Jesus However, Jesus said of the Scriptures that were available in his lifetime (that is, the Old Testament): ‘These are the very Scriptures that testify *about me’* (John 5:39) Wed, 18 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/49/ 23:56 enclassic18022026-49 1436.71 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 49: Your Love Letter Psalm 22:22-31, Exodus 23:1-24:18, Mark 3:31-4:29. The New Testament is obviously about Jesus However, Jesus said of the Scriptures that were available in his lifetime (that is, the Old Testament): ‘These are the very Scriptures that testify *about me’* (John 5:39) Thankfully, there have been very few times since our relationship began that I have been apart from my wife Pippa. However, before we were married, there was a period of three weeks when I was away. In those days, without email or mobile phones, our only way of communication was by letter. I wrote every day. She wrote every day. I remember so well the feeling of intense excitement and joy when I saw the handwriting on the envelope and knew that a letter from Pippa was inside. I would quickly take the letter and go off to a quiet place by myself to study it! The actual letter wasn’t valuable, but the fact that it was written by the person I love made it so precious to me. The Bible is a love letter from God to you. What makes the Bible so exciting is not the book itself, but the fact that through it we encounter the person we love. The whole Bible is about Jesus. The New Testament is obviously about Jesus. However, Jesus said of the Scriptures that were available in his lifetime (that is, the Old Testament): ‘These are the very Scriptures that testify about me’ (John 5:39). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 414 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/48 Proverbs 5:1-14, Exodus 21:1-22:31, Mark 2:18-3:30. God has given us *a conscience* so that we know that some things are ‘good’ and others are ‘evil’ But our consciences can be dulled and they need to be sharpened by objective truth Tue, 17 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/48/ 26:53 enclassic17022026-48 1613.79 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 48: Sharpen Your Conscience Proverbs 5:1-14, Exodus 21:1-22:31, Mark 2:18-3:30. God has given us *a conscience* so that we know that some things are ‘good’ and others are ‘evil’ But our consciences can be dulled and they need to be sharpened by objective truth Jesus asks the question in today’s passage, ‘Which is lawful… to do good or to do evil...?’ (Mark 3:4). I used to be an atheist. I believed that our bodies and minds and the circumstances into which we were born determined all our actions. Logically, it seemed to me, if there is no God there is no absolute basis for morality. Therefore, following this logic, there is no absolute ‘good’ or ‘evil’. Yet, deep down, I knew that there was such a thing as ‘good’ and ‘evil’. Even though I did not believe in God, I used those words. However, it was not until I encountered Jesus that I understood that there is a God who has created a moral universe. In the Scriptures, and in particular in the person of Jesus Christ, the nature of good and evil are revealed. God has given us a conscience so that we know that some things are ‘good’ and others are ‘evil’. But our consciences can be dulled and they need to be sharpened by objective truth. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 413 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/47 Psalm 22:12-21, Exodus 19:1-20:26, Mark 1:29-2:17. '*Put first things first* The things which matter most to God should take first place in our lives Mon, 16 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/47/ 24:17 enclassic16022026-47 1457.79 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 47: Put First Things First Psalm 22:12-21, Exodus 19:1-20:26, Mark 1:29-2:17. '*Put first things first* The things which matter most to God should take first place in our lives Shortly after we were married, Pippa and I went to a conference about marriage. One of the sessions I will never forget was about priorities. We were given five cards – each with a word on it: 'work', 'God', 'ministry', 'husband/wife' and 'children'. We were asked to rank these in order of priority. With hindsight, I can see I got them in completely the wrong order. I put 'God' first (at least I got that one right – but it was fairly obvious!), followed by ministry, wife, work, and, finally, children (we didn't have any children at that stage so they didn't seem very important!). As the leaders of the conference took us through these priorities, it became clear to me that my order should be: first of all God, then my wife (my primary calling), our children, my job (my primary ministry), and finally my ministry – which, though obviously very important, should not be allowed to displace the primary responsibilities of my life. As the philosopher Goethe put it, 'Things which matter most must never be at the mercy of things which matter least.' Put first things first. The things which matter most to God should take first place in our lives. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 412 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/46 Psalm 22:1-11, Exodus 17:1-18:27, Mark 1:1-28. On the other hand, there have also been spiritual lows – desert experiences, bereavements, disappointments, failures, temptations, opposition, health issues and exhaustion In the passages for today we see how spiritual highs and lows are closely connected Sun, 15 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/46/ 22:43 enclassic15022026-46 1363.07 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 46: The Highs and Lows of Life Psalm 22:1-11, Exodus 17:1-18:27, Mark 1:1-28. On the other hand, there have also been spiritual lows – desert experiences, bereavements, disappointments, failures, temptations, opposition, health issues and exhaustion In the passages for today we see how spiritual highs and lows are closely connected As I look back on my almost fifty years as a Christian, there have been times of great spiritual highs – experiences of the Holy Spirit, God’s love, the joy of seeing people encounter Jesus for the first time, amazing answers to prayer and seeing the kingdom of God advancing. On the other hand, there have also been spiritual lows – desert experiences, bereavements, disappointments, failures, temptations, opposition, health issues and exhaustion. In the passages for today we see how spiritual highs and lows are closely connected. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 411 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/45 Psalm 21:8-13, Exodus 15:1-16:36, Matthew 28:1-20. 20) The result of the resurrection is not only his power and his presence but also his provision Sat, 14 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/45/ 24:00 enclassic14022026-45 1440.73 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 45: The Most Important Question in the World Psalm 21:8-13, Exodus 15:1-16:36, Matthew 28:1-20. 20) The result of the resurrection is not only his power and his presence but also his provision The brilliant professor of philosophy at London University, C.E.M. Joad, was not a Christian. He was asked on a radio programme, ‘If you could meet any person from the past and ask them just one question, whom would you meet and what question would you ask?’ Professor Joad answered without hesitation: ‘I would meet Jesus Christ and ask him the most important question in the world – “Did you or did you not rise from the dead?”’ There came a day in Professor Joad’s life when he assessed the evidence, encountered Jesus himself and wrote a book called, Recovery of Belief. If Jesus Christ is risen from the dead, this changes everything. When the New Testament writers speak of God’s love they point to the cross. When they speak of God’s power they point to the resurrection. God’s ‘incomparably great power’ was ‘exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead’ (Ephesians 1:19–20). The risen Jesus says to his disciples, ‘All authority (all power to rule) in heaven and on earth has been given to me’ (Matthew 28:18, AMP). The resurrection means that the risen Jesus is present with you now. Jesus continues, ‘I am with you always’ (v.20). The result of the resurrection is not only his power and his presence but also his provision. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 410 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/44 Proverbs 4:20-27, Exodus 13:1-14:31, Matthew 27:45-66. ’ and makes something beautiful out of our lives Fri, 13 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/44/ 23:20 enclassic13022026-44 1400.45 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 44: God Works for Your Good Proverbs 4:20-27, Exodus 13:1-14:31, Matthew 27:45-66. ’ and makes something beautiful out of our lives Lord Radstock was staying in a hotel in Norway in the mid-nineteenth century. He heard a little child playing the piano downstairs in the hallway. She was making a terrible noise: ‘Plink... plonk... plink...’. It was driving him mad! A man came and sat beside her and began playing alongside her, filling in the gaps. The result was the most beautiful music. He later discovered that the man playing alongside was the girl’s father, Alexander Borodin, composer of the opera Prince Igor. God calls you into a relationship that involves cooperation with him. The Christian faith is primarily about what has been done for you by God in Christ. However, we are not mere spectators. You are called to respond. God involves you in his plans. God comes and sits alongside you and ‘in all things... works for the good’ (Romans 8:28). He takes our ‘plink… plonk... plink...’ and makes something beautiful out of our lives. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 409 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/43 Psalm 21:1-7, Exodus 11:1-12:51, Matthew 27:11-44. In an even more amazing way, Jesus did not save himself because he was out to save you and me Today, focus your thoughts on Jesus, the Saviour of the world, and meditate on how he saved you Thu, 12 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/43/ 25:59 enclassic12022026-43 1559.46 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 43: He Saved You Psalm 21:1-7, Exodus 11:1-12:51, Matthew 27:11-44. In an even more amazing way, Jesus did not save himself because he was out to save you and me Today, focus your thoughts on Jesus, the Saviour of the world, and meditate on how he saved you On 13 January 1982, Air Florida Flight 90 taking off from Washington, DC, crashed into the Potomac River. It was winter and the river was full of ice. The crash happened near a bridge going over the river. The TV cameras could see everything. Millions of viewers, sitting in their living rooms, watched as a helicopter overhead let down a life-belt on a line to a man struggling in the water. He grabbed the line, swam to another survivor just by him, clipped the woman in and they hoisted her up to safety. The helicopter let down the line again, and again the man did the same thing. He swam to someone else, and rescued them. He saved others, before finally, exhausted, he himself drowned. Why did this man not save himself? The answer is that he was out to save others. In an even more amazing way, Jesus did not save himself because he was out to save you and me. Today, focus your thoughts on Jesus, the Saviour of the world, and meditate on how he saved you. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 408 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/42 Psalm 20:1-9, Exodus 9:1-10:29, Matthew 26:69-27:10. It is the story of God’s desire and purpose to free his people You are set free Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/42/ 25:29 enclassic11022026-42 1529.81 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 42: Freedom Psalm 20:1-9, Exodus 9:1-10:29, Matthew 26:69-27:10. It is the story of God’s desire and purpose to free his people You are set free Steve McQueen’s film Twelve Years a Slave is based on the memoirs of Solomon Northup, born free in New York state but kidnapped in Washington DC in 1841, sold into slavery and kept in bondage for twelve years in Louisiana. He describes at length the horrors of slavery on the cotton and sugar plantations. Eventually, in 1853, he was rescued from slavery and reunited with his family. He wrote, ‘They embraced me, and with tears flowing down their cheeks, hung upon my neck. But I draw a veil over a scene that can better be imagined than described... I have been restored to happiness and liberty.’ Slavery, in any form, is a horrific evil. Freedom is a wonderful blessing. Moses is the liberator of God’s people in the Old Testament. He foreshadows Jesus – the supreme liberator. As Moses set God’s people free from slavery, so Jesus sets you free from slavery to sin. ‘Freedom’ is probably the best contemporary word to define what the Bible means by ‘salvation’. The whole Bible could be summed up as the ‘history of salvation’. It is the story of God’s desire and purpose to free his people. You are set free. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 407 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/41 Psalm 19:7-14, Exodus 6:13-8:32, Matthew 26:47-68. God is continually communicating with us He does so, primarily, through the life-changing words of the Bible Tue, 10 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/41/ 27:35 enclassic10022026-41 1655.85 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 41: Life-Changing Words Psalm 19:7-14, Exodus 6:13-8:32, Matthew 26:47-68. God is continually communicating with us He does so, primarily, through the life-changing words of the Bible My father wanted to go to Russia before he died. We went there on holiday as a family. At that time Bibles were strictly illegal in the Soviet Union. I took with me some Russian Bibles. While I was there I went to churches and looked for people who seemed to be genuine Christians. (Church meetings were often infiltrated by the KGB.) On one occasion, I followed a man down the street after a service. I went up to him and tapped him on the shoulder. There was nobody about. I took out one of my Bibles and handed it to him. For a moment, he had an expression of utmost disbelief. Then he took from his pocket a New Testament, which was probably 100 years old. The pages were so threadbare they were virtually transparent. When he realised that he had received a whole Bible, he was elated. He didn’t speak any English and I didn’t speak any Russian. But we hugged each other and he started to run up and down the street jumping for joy. The words of God are ‘more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb’ (Psalm 19:10). Why are the words of God so precious? Jesus said: ‘People do not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God’ (Matthew 4:4). The original expression means ‘is continually coming out of the mouth of God’; it is like a stream pouring forth and, like the stream of a fountain, it is never static. God is continually communicating with us. He does so, primarily, through the life-changing words of the Bible. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 406 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/40 Proverbs 4:10-19, Exodus 4:1-6:12, Matthew 26:31-46. Jesus did it God’s way Moses, on the other hand, as we will see today, made five excuses before eventually agreeing to follow God’s way Mon, 09 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/40/ 24:16 enclassic09022026-40 1456.98 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 40: Five Excuses Proverbs 4:10-19, Exodus 4:1-6:12, Matthew 26:31-46. Jesus did it God’s way Moses, on the other hand, as we will see today, made five excuses before eventually agreeing to follow God’s way It is the song most frequently played at British funeral services. It is the most remade song in history. It was popularised by Frank Sinatra on his 1969 album, My Way. In the Philippines, ‘My Way’ is so popular in karaoke bars that it has been declared responsible for a number of deaths where arguments over performance degenerated into violence! ‘And did it my way! Yes, it was my way!’ ‘I did it my way’ is the way of the world. It is not the way of Jesus. Jesus said, ‘Yet not as I will, but as you will’ (Matthew 26:39). He prays, ‘May your will be done’ (v.42). He made no excuses. Jesus did it God’s way. Moses, on the other hand, as we will see today, made five excuses before eventually agreeing to follow God’s way. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 405 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/39 Psalm 19:1-6, Exodus 1:1-3:22, Matthew 26:1-30. Perhaps you are facing hostility in your workplace or even in your family because of your faith The passages today not only highlight the reality of living in a hostile environment, but they also point out how you can survive and thrive in the midst of such hostility Sun, 08 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/39/ 27:01 enclassic08022026-39 1621.71 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 39: How to Live in a Hostile Environment Psalm 19:1-6, Exodus 1:1-3:22, Matthew 26:1-30. Perhaps you are facing hostility in your workplace or even in your family because of your faith The passages today not only highlight the reality of living in a hostile environment, but they also point out how you can survive and thrive in the midst of such hostility Hundreds of thousands of Christians are among those who have fled Iraq and Syria in the midst of Islamic extremism and conflict. Christians face the threat of systematic torture and mass executions. Isis has declared Christianity as the number one enemy. Millions of Christians live in countries where they are persecuted for their faith. Many governments try to control the growth of the church. Even in traditionally Christian countries, sometimes there is hostility towards vibrant Christianity. Hostility to the people of God is not something new. People are often threatened by success, growth and large numbers. Perhaps you are facing hostility in your workplace or even in your family because of your faith. The passages today not only highlight the reality of living in a hostile environment, but they also point out how you can survive and thrive in the midst of such hostility. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 404 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/38 Psalm 18:43-50, Job 40:3-42:17, Matthew 25:14-46. Use them or lose them He is faithful to us and he expects us to be faithful to him Sat, 07 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/38/ 24:49 enclassic07022026-38 1489.5 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 38: Use It or Lose It Psalm 18:43-50, Job 40:3-42:17, Matthew 25:14-46. Use them or lose them He is faithful to us and he expects us to be faithful to him Myra Hindley was one of the most notorious murderers of the twentieth century. Her crimes were almost unbelievably horrific. Yet, one person took it upon himself to visit her regularly while she was in prison. Lord Longford (1905–2001) was a controversial figure who spent much of his life visiting prisoners, including Myra Hindley. Yet, no one can doubt his compassion and his faithfulness, both to God and to those he visited. When he died, former prisoners joined hundreds of mourners to say farewell to the man who had spent his life faithfully fighting for society’s outcasts. He found inspiration in the words of Jesus from today’s passage. On his deathbed he asked his wife, ‘You know what the most important quotation from the Bible is?’ He spoke his last words by answering his own question, quoting the words of Jesus: ‘I was in prison and you came to visit me’ (Matthew 25:36). Life is not a competition that you have to win. It is not supposed to be a rat race. Life is a huge privilege and an opportunity. God has trusted you with gifts and abilities, which he wants you to use. Use them or lose them. He is faithful to us and he expects us to be faithful to him. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 403 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/37 Psalm 18:37-42, Job 38:1-40:2, Matthew 24:32-25:13. In today’s passages, we see three examples of big questions that are frequently asked In answer to each of these questions there are some things we know (‘the things revealed’) and some things we don’t know (‘the secret things’) Fri, 06 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/37/ 22:49 enclassic06022026-37 1369.29 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 37: The Secret Things Psalm 18:37-42, Job 38:1-40:2, Matthew 24:32-25:13. In today’s passages, we see three examples of big questions that are frequently asked In answer to each of these questions there are some things we know (‘the things revealed’) and some things we don’t know (‘the secret things’) When I first encountered Jesus, I thought I had to know the answer to every question about faith. However, the more I have studied the Bible, the more I have realised that we do not need to know the answer to everything. There is such a thing as healthy agnosticism, or what might be described as biblical agnosticism. There are some questions to which we do know the answer. But there are other questions to which the best answer we can give is, ‘I don’t know.’ ‘The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us’ (Deuteronomy 29:29a). We need to be clear about what the Bible is clear about. Don’t be agnostic about what you can know. Equally, don’t be dogmatic about the things that the Bible is agnostic about. In today’s passages, we see three examples of big questions that are frequently asked. In answer to each of these questions there are some things we know (‘the things revealed’) and some things we don’t know (‘the secret things’). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 402 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/36 Proverbs 4:1-9, Job 35:1-37:24, Matthew 24:1-31. Each day you have great potential: either to destroy or to build In our passages for today we see *six keys* to using your words for good Thu, 05 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/36/ 22:28 enclassic05022026-36 1348.75 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 36: How to Use Your Words for Good Proverbs 4:1-9, Job 35:1-37:24, Matthew 24:1-31. Each day you have great potential: either to destroy or to build In our passages for today we see *six keys* to using your words for good If you include scientific words, there are over 1,000,000 words in the English language. The average person knows about 20,000 words, uses 2,000 different words a week and speaks about 16,000 words a day. Your words matter. However, what matters most is not the number of words you speak but the kind of words you choose and the purpose for which you use them. The apostle James tells us that although ‘the tongue is a small part of the body’ it is extremely powerful (James 3:5). In the passages for today, we see how your words can be used, just as the apostle James describes, for good or evil. Each day you have great potential: either to destroy or to build. In our passages for today we see six keys to using your words for good. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 401 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/35 Psalm 18:25-36, Job 33:1-34:37, Matthew 23:1-39. You have *influence* over others in different ways To be called by God to influence others is an enormous privilege, but it comes with great responsibility Wed, 04 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/35/ 25:21 enclassic04022026-35 1521.84 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 35: Seven Characteristics of a Good Leader Psalm 18:25-36, Job 33:1-34:37, Matthew 23:1-39. You have *influence* over others in different ways To be called by God to influence others is an enormous privilege, but it comes with great responsibility ‘Leadership is influence,’ writes John C. Maxwell, whose organisations have trained more than 1 million leaders worldwide. He points out that, according to sociologists, even the most isolated individual will influence 10,000 other people during his or her lifetime! In one sense there is only one leader. In our New Testament reading today, Jesus says, ‘There is only one Life-Leader for you... Christ’ (Matthew 23:10, MSG). On the other hand, every Christian is called to be a leader in the sense that other people will look to you as an example. You have influence over others in different ways. To be called by God to influence others is an enormous privilege, but it comes with great responsibility. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 400 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/34 Psalm 18:16-24, Job 30:1-32:22, Matthew 22:15-46. But there are also *times of victory* In the passages for today we see three different types of victory Tue, 03 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/34/ 25:22 enclassic03022026-34 1522.18 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 34: Three Types of Victory in Your Life Psalm 18:16-24, Job 30:1-32:22, Matthew 22:15-46. But there are also *times of victory* In the passages for today we see three different types of victory José Henriquez was one of the thirty-three miners trapped 2,300 feet underground when a section of the San José copper mine in Northern Chile collapsed. It was 5 August 2010. For seventeen days all rescue attempts failed. There was no sign of life in the copper mine. The trapped miners had enough food for three days and a little drinking water. They faced the prospect of an agonising death through starvation. I interviewed José Henriquez and his wife Bianca at HTB. He told how they had prayed to God for a miracle. He described the moment, on 22 August, when a drill broke through into the tunnel where the men were trapped. They hammered the drill with iron rods. They sprayed paint on it. They sent up many messages on it. Only one stayed on the drill as it went back up to the surface. The message read, ‘We’re fine. The 33 in the shelter.’ In total, the men survived a record sixty-nine days underground before they were brought to the surface. More than a billion people watched the rescue live on television. There were extraordinary scenes as everyone celebrated a wonderful victory. The life of faith is full of challenges, difficulties and trials. But there are also times of victory. In the passages for today we see three different types of victory. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 399 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/33 Psalm 18:7-15, Job 25:1-29:25, Matthew 21:33-22:14. In our Old Testament passage for today, Job speaks of ‘God’s *intimate friendship*’ (Job 29:4) It is only when you understand the transcendence of God that you see how amazing his immanence is, and what a huge privilege it is to be able to enjoy intimate friendship with God Mon, 02 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/33/ 25:24 enclassic02022026-33 1524.69 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 33: Intimate Friendship Psalm 18:7-15, Job 25:1-29:25, Matthew 21:33-22:14. In our Old Testament passage for today, Job speaks of ‘God’s *intimate friendship*’ (Job 29:4) It is only when you understand the transcendence of God that you see how amazing his immanence is, and what a huge privilege it is to be able to enjoy intimate friendship with God Nick Hills is one of the cleverest people I have ever met. He is a scholar and an intellectual. He has a brilliant mind. We were at school and university together. About three months after my first encounter with Jesus Christ (as a first-year student), he too had an experience of Jesus. (In fact, he went on to help Justin Welby, who is now Archbishop of Canterbury, find faith in Jesus). Immediately, Nick started reading massive theological books. I remember asking him what he was reading about. He replied that he was reading about the ‘transcendence and immanence’ of God. I had no idea what he meant. I had to look up both words in the dictionary. ‘Transcendence’ and ‘immanence’ describe the almost paradoxical nature of our relationship with God. The ‘transcendence’ of God means that God exists apart from, and is not subject to the limitations of, the material universe. He is above and beyond, surpassing and excelling, greatly superior to us. On the other hand, the ‘immanence’ of God means that it is possible to experience his immediate friendship. In our Old Testament passage for today, Job speaks of ‘God’s intimate friendship’ (Job 29:4). It is only when you understand the transcendence of God that you see how amazing his immanence is, and what a huge privilege it is to be able to enjoy intimate friendship with God. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 398 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/32 Proverbs 3:21-35, Job 22:1-24:25, Matthew 21:18-32. All loving relationships involve some element of trust Faith is trust in God that transforms all your other relationships Sun, 01 Feb 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/32/ 22:45 enclassic01022026-32 1365.94 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 32: You Can Trust God Proverbs 3:21-35, Job 22:1-24:25, Matthew 21:18-32. All loving relationships involve some element of trust Faith is trust in God that transforms all your other relationships During World War II, in the terrible days of the Blitz, a father, holding his small son by the hand, ran from a building that had been struck by a bomb. In the front yard was a shell hole. Seeking shelter as quickly as possible, the father jumped into the hole and held up his arms for his son to follow. Terrified, yet hearing his father’s voice telling him to jump, the boy replied, ‘I can’t see you!’ The father called to the silhouette of his son, ‘But I can see you. Jump!’ The boy jumped, because he trusted his father. In other words, he loved him, he believed in him, he trusted him and he had confidence in him. ‘Faith’, in the Bible, is primarily about putting our trust in a person. In that sense it is more akin to love. All loving relationships involve some element of trust. Faith is trust in God that transforms all your other relationships. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 397 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/31 Psalm 18:1-6, Job 19:1-21:34, Matthew 21:1-17. Jesus is the greatest leader of all time In the passages for today, we see some of the characteristics of Jesus’ leadership together with those of two other great influencers in the Bible – David and Job Sat, 31 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/31/ 22:49 enclassic31012026-31 1369.78 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 31: How to Lead Like Jesus Psalm 18:1-6, Job 19:1-21:34, Matthew 21:1-17. Jesus is the greatest leader of all time In the passages for today, we see some of the characteristics of Jesus’ leadership together with those of two other great influencers in the Bible – David and Job Few people have shaped the day-to-day management of people and companies more than Ken Blanchard, author of The One Minute Manager, which has sold more than 13 million copies. The book was so successful that he had trouble taking credit for its success. He began to think about God. He started to read the Bible. He went straight to the Gospels. He wanted to know what Jesus did. He became fascinated with how Jesus transformed twelve ordinary, and unlikely, people into the first generation of leaders of a movement that continues to affect the course of world history 2,000 years later. He became aware that everything he had ever taught or written about effective leadership, Jesus had done to perfection way beyond Ken’s ability to portray or describe. Jesus is more than just a spiritual leader. He gives a practical and effective leadership model for all organisations, for all people, for all situations. You may not think of yourself as a leader, but leadership is about influence. You do have influence, therefore, in a sense, all of us are leaders. Jesus is the greatest leader of all time. In the passages for today, we see some of the characteristics of Jesus’ leadership together with those of two other great influencers in the Bible – David and Job. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 396 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/30 Psalm 17:13-15, Job 15:1-18:21, Matthew 20:20-34. We need to remember that God sees things from an eternal perspective and that there are some things we may never understand in this life In the passages for today we see examples of all three types of response from God Fri, 30 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/30/ 22:09 enclassic30012026-30 1329.37 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 30: Does God Answer All Your Prayers? Psalm 17:13-15, Job 15:1-18:21, Matthew 20:20-34. We need to remember that God sees things from an eternal perspective and that there are some things we may never understand in this life In the passages for today we see examples of all three types of response from God I love cricket. At least, I love watching it; I was never any good at playing it. But I know many people don’t like cricket and don’t even understand the rules of it (especially if they come from a country where it isn’t a popular sport). So I hope you will forgive me for using a cricketing analogy. When two batsmen are running between the wickets on a cricket pitch, they need to co-ordinate the decision about whether to run or not. One will shout to the other ‘Yes’ (that is, ‘Let’s run’), or ‘No’ (that is, ‘Stay where you are’), or ‘Wait’ (that is, ‘Let’s see what happens before we decide whether to run’). God hears all your prayers (Psalm 139:4, 1 John 5:14–15, 1 Peter 3:12) and, in one sense, he answers all your prayers. But we do not always receive what we ask for. When we ask God for something, the response will be ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ or ‘Wait’. John Stott wrote that God will answer ‘No’ if the things we ask for ‘are either not good in themselves, or not good for us or for others, directly or indirectly, immediately or ultimately’. We don’t always get to know the reason why the answer is ‘No’. We need to remember that God sees things from an eternal perspective and that there are some things we may never understand in this life. In the passages for today we see examples of all three types of response from God. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 395 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/29 Psalm 17:6-12, Job 11:1-14:22, Matthew 20:1-19. He has forgiven me for what I have done He has turned my life around Thu, 29 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/29/ 23:22 enclassic29012026-29 1402.64 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 29: You Are Loved Psalm 17:6-12, Job 11:1-14:22, Matthew 20:1-19. He has forgiven me for what I have done He has turned my life around Shane Taylor was considered one of the most dangerous men in the UK prison system. Originally jailed for attempted murder, he had his sentence extended by four years when he attacked a prison officer with a broken glass, setting off a riot. He was put in a segregation unit inside a maximum-security prison. He was given his food through a hatch. His door was not opened unless there were six officers armed with riot shields waiting outside. Later, he was transferred to Long Lartin maximum-security prison where he was invited on Alpha. During the course he prayed, ‘Jesus Christ, I know you died on a cross for me. I hate who I am; who I’ve become. Please forgive me and come into my life.’ At that moment he was filled with the Holy Spirit. He went running out onto the wing, telling everyone he could find, ‘Jesus is real!’ His behaviour changed so much that he went from living in total segregation to getting a trusted job in the prison chaplaincy. He prayed for the prison officers and for his enemies and, when he came out of prison, he got involved in a church. He met a young woman called Sam, who had also had a tough life and had been involved with drugs and criminal activity. She also came to faith in Jesus. Now, they are married and have five children. Talking to Shane now, it is hard to imagine that he is the same person who terrified so many people in the past. He has experienced ‘the wonder of [God’s] great love’ (Psalm 17:7). He says, ‘Jesus has shown me how to love and how to forgive. He has saved me. He has forgiven me for what I have done. He has turned my life around.’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 394 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/28 Proverbs 3:11-20, Job 8:1-10:22, Matthew 19:16-30. It is *the power of God* that makes what seems impossible possible Nothing is impossible with God (Luke 1:37) Wed, 28 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/28/ 21:39 enclassic28012026-28 1299.25 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 28: With God, All Things Are Possible Proverbs 3:11-20, Job 8:1-10:22, Matthew 19:16-30. It is *the power of God* that makes what seems impossible possible Nothing is impossible with God (Luke 1:37) ‘When life hands you a lemon, make lemonade,’ wrote Norman Vincent Peale, who published his best-known book, The Power of Positive Thinking, in 1952. It stayed in The New York Times bestseller list for 186 consecutive weeks. Much of what he had to say was extremely good and helpful. But, the words of Jesus go way beyond the power of positive thinking. Norman Vincent Peale said, ‘A positive mental attitude is a belief that things are going to turn out well, and that you can overcome any kind of trouble or difficulty.’ Jesus said, ‘With God all things are possible’ (Matthew 19:26). This is far more than the power of positive thinking. It is the power of God that makes what seems impossible possible. Nothing is impossible with God (Luke 1:37). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 393 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/27 Psalm 17:1-5, Job 4:1-7:21, Matthew 19:1-15. For future walks we decided we would definitely take a map and stick to the route Staying on the track proves much better for being able to relax, talk together and for our relationship generally!In the Bible, the image of God’s tracks is frequently used: tracks that lead to life Tue, 27 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/27/ 23:13 enclassic27012026-27 1393.55 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 27: How to Stay on Track Psalm 17:1-5, Job 4:1-7:21, Matthew 19:1-15. For future walks we decided we would definitely take a map and stick to the route Staying on the track proves much better for being able to relax, talk together and for our relationship generally!In the Bible, the image of God’s tracks is frequently used: tracks that lead to life Pippa and I love to go for walks. Not so long ago, we went for quite a long walk on the South Downs. Neither of us has a very good sense of direction and we had forgotten to take the map. Somehow, we managed to wander off the track and we ended up on someone’s farm. It was one of the shortest days of the year and soon the light started to fade. It seemed that the only way to get back to where we had parked the car was to cross a field occupied by a large herd of cows. As we approached them, some surrounded us in an overly friendly fashion, blocking our way, while others took off in fright and started charging around the field. Fearing that we were going to be mown down into the mud by terrified cows charging at us, we decided to make a rather speedy exit up a very steep and slippery bank. Pippa had exceeded her desired length of walk, darkness was falling and we seemed to be nowhere near a track. Things were not looking good. Thankfully, we managed to find a path leading us back. It was such a relief. For future walks we decided we would definitely take a map and stick to the route. Staying on the track proves much better for being able to relax, talk together and for our relationship generally! In the Bible, the image of God’s tracks is frequently used: tracks that lead to life. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 392 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/26 Psalm 16:1-11, Job 1:1-3:26, Matthew 18:10-35. Suffering is, therefore, an alien intrusion into God's world This, of course, is not a complete answer to the question 'Why does God allow suffering?¹' As we saw yesterday there is no simple or complete solution, but each of today's passages gives us some further insight Mon, 26 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/26/ 24:36 enclassic26012026-26 1476.39 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 26: Why Does God Allow Suffering? Psalm 16:1-11, Job 1:1-3:26, Matthew 18:10-35. Suffering is, therefore, an alien intrusion into God's world This, of course, is not a complete answer to the question 'Why does God allow suffering?¹' As we saw yesterday there is no simple or complete solution, but each of today's passages gives us some further insight A one-year-old boy shattered his back falling down a flight of stairs. He spent his childhood and youth in and out of hospital. Gavin Reid, the former Bishop of Maidstone, interviewed him in church. The boy remarked, 'God is fair.' Gavin asked, 'How old are you?' 'Seventeen,' the boy replied. 'How many years have you spent in hospital?' The boy answered, 'Thirteen years.' Gavin asked, 'Do you think that is fair?' He replied, 'God has got all of eternity to make it up to me.' We live in a world of instant gratification that has almost entirely lost its eternal perspective. The New Testament is full of wonderful promises about the future: all creation will be restored. Jesus will return to establish 'a new heaven and a new earth' (Revelation 21:1). There will be no more crying, for there will be no more pain and suffering. Our frail, decaying mortal bodies will be changed for a body like that of Jesus' glorious resurrected body. Suffering is not part of God's original created order (see Genesis 1–2). There was no suffering in the world before rebellion against God. There will be no suffering when God creates a new heaven and a new earth (Revelation 21:3–4). Suffering is, therefore, an alien intrusion into God's world. This, of course, is not a complete answer to the question 'Why does God allow suffering?¹' As we saw yesterday there is no simple or complete solution, but each of today's passages gives us some further insight. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 391 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/25 Psalm 15:1-5, Genesis 49:1-50:26, Matthew 17:14-18:9. He suffers alongside you Yet he does not always simply remove suffering from your life; he sometimes uses the bad things that happen to bring about his good purposes Sun, 25 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/25/ 24:21 enclassic25012026-25 1461.37 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 25: 'God Intended It for Good' Psalm 15:1-5, Genesis 49:1-50:26, Matthew 17:14-18:9. He suffers alongside you Yet he does not always simply remove suffering from your life; he sometimes uses the bad things that happen to bring about his good purposes In 1947, a young New Yorker named Glenn Chambers had a lifelong dream to work for God in Ecuador. At the airport on the day of departure, he wanted to send a note to his mother but he didn’t have time to buy a card. He noticed a piece of paper on the terminal floor and picked it up. It turned out to be an advertisement with ‘Why?’ spread across it. He scribbled his note around the word ‘Why?’ and put it in the post box. That night his aeroplane exploded as it hit the 14,000-foot Colombian peak El Tablazo. When his mother received the note after the news of his death the question burned up at her from the page… ‘Why?’ Why does God allow such suffering?¹ This question is the single greatest challenge to the Christian faith. The amount of suffering and its distribution seem to be random and unfair. It outrages and bewilders us. Theologians and philosophers have wrestled for centuries with the mystery of undeserved suffering, and no one has ever come up with a simple and complete solution. Today and tomorrow’s passages are only part of the answer, but each of them gives us some insight. We see that although suffering is never good in itself, God is able to use it for good in a number of ways. God loves you. Your suffering is also God’s suffering. He suffers alongside you. Yet he does not always simply remove suffering from your life; he sometimes uses the bad things that happen to bring about his good purposes. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 390 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/24 Proverbs 3:1-10, Genesis 47:13-48:22, Matthew 16:21-17:13. We have the voices of family, friends and colleagues And sometimes we have the voice of Satan tempting us to disbelieve God’s word and to doubt that God has our best interests at heart Sat, 24 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/24/ 22:33 enclassic24012026-24 1353.48 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 24: How to Listen to God Proverbs 3:1-10, Genesis 47:13-48:22, Matthew 16:21-17:13. We have the voices of family, friends and colleagues And sometimes we have the voice of Satan tempting us to disbelieve God’s word and to doubt that God has our best interests at heart Suppose I go to the doctor and say, ‘Doctor, I have a lot of problems: I twisted my knee... my eyes itch... my finger is swollen... I have backache...’ Then, having got through my list of complaints, I look at my watch and say, ‘Goodness me, time is getting on. I must be off.’ The doctor might say, ‘Hang on, do you not want to hear what I have to say?’ If we only speak to God and never take time to listen, we make the same mistake. We do all the talking and we don’t actually listen to him. But our relationship with God is meant to be a two-way conversation. When I’m praying, I find it helpful to write down thoughts that come into my mind that may come from the Spirit of God. In a media-saturated age we have many voices that come to us on TV, radio, the Internet, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, email and text message. We have the voices of family, friends and colleagues. And sometimes we have the voice of Satan tempting us to disbelieve God’s word and to doubt that God has our best interests at heart. How do you hear the voice of God in the midst of the noise and distractions of life? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 389 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/23 Psalm 14:1-7, Genesis 45:1-47:12, Matthew 16:1-20. You are not powerless You have the immense privilege of having been given ‘the keys of the kingdom’ Fri, 23 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/23/ 25:58 enclassic23012026-23 1558.94 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 23: You Have the Keys Psalm 14:1-7, Genesis 45:1-47:12, Matthew 16:1-20. You are not powerless You have the immense privilege of having been given ‘the keys of the kingdom’ On 15 January 2009, US Airways flight 1549 hit a flock of geese. Both engines failed. The plane was flying over New York. Potential disaster loomed. Not only were the 155 occupants on board in danger, but thousands more could have been killed had the plane hit one of New York’s skyscrapers. Captain Chesley Burnett ‘Sully’ Sullenberger III guided the crippled US Airways plane with immense skill and courage. He performed a successful emergency landing on the Hudson River. Not a single passenger died, nor were there any serious injuries. The Mayor of New York City gave to the heroic pilot, who had saved them, the keys to the city. To give someone the keys to a city is an immense privilege. They symbolise access and authority. Keys are usually given in recognition of some great service to the city. In the New Testament, we see that Jesus is the key holder. The risen Christ says, ‘I hold the keys of death and Hades’ (Revelation 1:18). Jesus has brought about a far greater salvation than any other person could achieve. The authority he holds is also the greatest there could ever be – he holds the keys of life and death. Amazingly, Jesus gives to Peter and the church (that is, to us) ‘the keys of the kingdom’ (Matthew 16:19). Many Christians feel powerless, lacking in any kind of spiritual authority. They do not seem to realise what Jesus has given to them. You are not powerless. You have the immense privilege of having been given ‘the keys of the kingdom’. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 388 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/22 Psalm 13:1-6, Genesis 43:1-44:34, Matthew 15:10-39. We seem to be losing the battle and the enemy seems to be *triumphing over us* (v 2c) Thu, 22 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/22/ 26:12 enclassic22012026-22 1572.73 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 22: How Long, O Lord? Psalm 13:1-6, Genesis 43:1-44:34, Matthew 15:10-39. We seem to be losing the battle and the enemy seems to be *triumphing over us* (v 2c) Have there ever been times in your life when you have found yourself wondering, ‘How long, O Lord?’ How long will these struggles and disappointments last? How long will we have these financial difficulties? How long will these health issues persist? How long will the difficulties in this relationship last? How long will I struggle with this addiction? How long will these intense temptations last? How long will it take me to get over this loss? Pippa and I sometimes visit St Peter’s Brighton, one of our church plants. At the end of one service, a woman came up to us and told us that for thirty-seven years she had been praying for her husband to find faith in Christ. For all those thirty-seven long years, she had cried out, ‘How long, O Lord, how long?’ (Psalm 13:1). When St Peter’s reopened in 2009, her husband decided he would like to start coming to church with her. The moment he walked into St Peter’s, he felt he had come home and had been ‘reborn’. Now he loves the church and comes every week. Throughout our conversation she kept repeating, with a huge expression of joy on her face: ‘How long, O Lord, how long?’ God had heard. At last, her prayers were answered. Four times in quick succession David cries out, ‘How long…?’ (vv.1–2). There are periods when it appears that God has forgotten us (v.1a). It seems that he has hidden his face (v.1b). For some inexplicable reason, we don’t sense his presence with us. Every day seems to be a struggle – wrestling with our thoughts (v.2a). Every day brings sorrow (v.2b). We seem to be losing the battle and the enemy seems to be triumphing over us (v.2c). How should you respond in times like these? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 387 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/21 Psalm 12:1-8, Genesis 41:41-42:38, Matthew 14:22-15:9. He likes candour He wants to hear what is on your heart today Wed, 21 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/21/ 22:52 enclassic21012026-21 1372.68 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 21: Be Honest with God Psalm 12:1-8, Genesis 41:41-42:38, Matthew 14:22-15:9. He likes candour He wants to hear what is on your heart today We are living in a ‘post-truth’ era. The term increased 2000% in prevalence during the Brexit and U.S presidential debates. In a ‘post-truth’ era, objective facts appear less influential than appeals to emotion. There is a tolerance for dishonest, inaccurate allegations and outright denial of facts. Political half-truths and blatant lies become routine. But if you buy a car, you want to know the truth about that car. In a relationship, you want to know the truth. We hunger for honesty and truth. The new generation (following the millennials) Gen Z – people born between 1995 to 2010 – have been called ‘True Gen’ because of their search for truth. We see in our passages for today that God hates lies and deception. David says, ‘People all lie to their neighbours; their flattering lips speak with deception’ (Psalm 12:2). Jesus quoted Isaiah, ‘These people honour me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me’ (Matthew 15:8). Although Joseph’s brothers had deceived their father about the fate of Joseph (Genesis 37:31–35), they knew in their hearts that they could not deceive God: ‘Surely we are being punished because of our brother’ (42:21). God wants you to be honest with him. He likes candour. He wants to hear what is on your heart today. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 386 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/20 Proverbs 2:12-22, Genesis 40:1-41:40, Matthew 14:1-21. Wisdom has been defined as ‘*the art of steering*’ As you go through life, you will need to navigate many tight situations that require great wisdom in order to avoid damaging yourself or others Tue, 20 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/20/ 23:15 enclassic20012026-20 1395.59 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 20: How to Navigate Life Proverbs 2:12-22, Genesis 40:1-41:40, Matthew 14:1-21. Wisdom has been defined as ‘*the art of steering*’ As you go through life, you will need to navigate many tight situations that require great wisdom in order to avoid damaging yourself or others Our last car had many scratches on both sides. I suspect (although my memory is conveniently vague about this) that I was responsible for most of them. They came as a result of the difficulty of steering through the very narrow entrance on one side of the grounds of our church. Wisdom has been defined as ‘the art of steering’. As you go through life, you will need to navigate many tight situations that require great wisdom in order to avoid damaging yourself or others. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 385 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/19 Psalm 11:1-7, Genesis 38:1-39:23, Matthew 13:36-58. This is the most valuable pearl of all It is worth selling ‘everything’ in order to get hold of it Mon, 19 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/19/ 22:40 enclassic19012026-19 1360.2 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 19: The Most Valuable Thing in the World Psalm 11:1-7, Genesis 38:1-39:23, Matthew 13:36-58. This is the most valuable pearl of all It is worth selling ‘everything’ in order to get hold of it Raj was one of six children born into a wealthy Brahmin family - the highest caste in the Indian caste system. At the age of twenty-three, Raj encountered Jesus. His family disinherited him. They cut him off. As far as they were concerned he was dead. They even held a funeral service for him. Neither his parents, nor his brothers and sisters have ever spoken to him again. For several weeks he wandered around the streets of Bangalore. He had virtually no food to eat. He walked all day and slept in the park at night. He started a new life. He began to speak about his new-found faith. Through him, many other people encountered Jesus. For several years he was the National Director of Alpha in India. He says that he has had a blessed life and that God has more than compensated for his losses. Although he left ‘everything’, in Jesus Christ he found the ‘pearl… of great value’ (Matthew 13:45–46). Relationships are our most valuable possession. But there is one special relationship for which you were created. This is the most valuable pearl of all. It is worth selling ‘everything’ in order to get hold of it. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 384 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/18 Psalm 10:12-18, Genesis 36:1-37:36, Matthew 13:18-35. Jesus taught us to pray, 'Your *kingdom* come' (Matthew 6:10) The kingdom of God is the rule and reign of God Sun, 18 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/18/ 25:14 enclassic18012026-18 1514.66 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 18: Your Kingdom Come Psalm 10:12-18, Genesis 36:1-37:36, Matthew 13:18-35. Jesus taught us to pray, 'Your *kingdom* come' (Matthew 6:10) The kingdom of God is the rule and reign of God Queen Elizabeth II (1926-2022) ruled the United Kingdom for seventy years. She was by far the longest reigning British monarch. Each year, on Christmas Day, she gave a message to the nation. In her final Christmas message, on 25 December, 2021 she said, ‘The birth of Jesus marked a new dawn with endless potential. His teachings have been handed down from generation to generation and have been the bedrock of my faith.’ In another recent message she said, 'Only a few acknowledged Jesus when he was born. Now billions follow him. The message of Jesus is never out of date and is needed as much as ever.' In a previous year, she said of Jesus, 'Billions of people now follow his teaching and find in him the guiding light for their lives. I am one of them.' The Queen of the United Kingdom was pointing to another kingdom, a kingdom that Jesus came to establish, and which he will come again to rule. Jesus taught us to pray, 'Your kingdom come' (Matthew 6:10). The kingdom of God is the rule and reign of God. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 383 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/17 Psalm 10:1-11, Genesis 34:1-35:29, Matthew 12:46-13:17. For I tell you the truth, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it’ (Matthew 13:16–17) Jesus warns that although there is great *potential* in each of us, there are *pitfalls* ahead Sat, 17 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/17/ 23:51 enclassic17012026-17 1431.12 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 17: Five Ways to Fulfil Your Potential Psalm 10:1-11, Genesis 34:1-35:29, Matthew 12:46-13:17. For I tell you the truth, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it’ (Matthew 13:16–17) Jesus warns that although there is great *potential* in each of us, there are *pitfalls* ahead In life, many people do not reach their full potential. We can become so caught up in the everyday that it is easier to continue in old patterns rather than change. Yet, we all have a God-given desire to live to our full potential. Perhaps you remember this celebrated biography: 'Solomon Grundy... Born on Monday... Christened on Tuesday… Married on Wednesday… Took ill on Thursday… Grew worse on Friday… Died on Saturday… Buried on Sunday… And that was the end of Solomon Grundy.’ For some people, that just about sums up their life. And yet, all of us feel deep down ‘There must be more to life than that’. Jesus says, in effect, ‘Yes, there is!’. The potential for every human being is great. Jesus wants you to live a highly productive life. He wants you to produce ‘a crop – a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown’ (Matthew 13:8). The minimum is a thirty-times multiplication. The key to that potential lies in your relationship with Jesus – a relationship that can be as close as that of a brother or sister or mother (12:50). You can live a life of real purpose that will make a difference to the world, because of what you receive from him (13:11,12,16). Your potential is not about being driven by ambition or success; it is about recognising who you are in God. As you seek him and live your life according to his purposes, you will bear much fruit. The more you begin to fulfil your God-given potential, the more he entrusts to you. He wants you to live a life of abundance (v.12). The potential for Israel was very great (Genesis 35:11). God intended that Israel would not only be blessed, but also be a blessing to other nations. You have the potential to live a life of even greater blessing than those you read about in the Old Testament. Jesus says, ‘Blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. For I tell you the truth, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it’ (Matthew 13:16–17). Jesus warns that although there is great potential in each of us, there are pitfalls ahead. How can you avoid the pitfalls and fulfil your potential? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 382 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/16 Proverbs 2:1-11, Genesis 32:1-33:20, Matthew 12:22-45. He would prepare enough material for five talks so that he could speak ‘*out of the overflow*’ According to Jesus, the heart really matters: ‘*… out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks*’ (Matthew 12:34) Fri, 16 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/16/ 24:07 enclassic16012026-16 1447.44 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 16: The Overflow of the Heart Proverbs 2:1-11, Genesis 32:1-33:20, Matthew 12:22-45. He would prepare enough material for five talks so that he could speak ‘*out of the overflow*’ According to Jesus, the heart really matters: ‘*… out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks*’ (Matthew 12:34) For many years I wanted to meet the great evangelist Billy Graham (1918–2018). I felt deeply honoured when I discovered he was following me on Twitter! Of course, I followed back! He is one of my heroes of the faith. He spoke to more people about Jesus than anyone else in human history. I heard Billy Graham speak many, many times. Every single time I listened to him, I felt inspired. He said that before he spoke he liked to fill his heart. He would prepare enough material for five talks so that he could speak ‘out of the overflow’. According to Jesus, the heart really matters: ‘… out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks’ (Matthew 12:34). How do you store up good things in your heart? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 381 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/15 Psalm 9:13-20, Genesis 31:1-55, Matthew 12:1-21. Then in his *mercy* and love he comes down in the person of his Son, Jesus Christ, and pays the penalty for us Through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, God is both just and merciful Thu, 15 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/15/ 22:35 enclassic15012026-15 1355.02 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 15: God is Just and God is Merciful Psalm 9:13-20, Genesis 31:1-55, Matthew 12:1-21. Then in his *mercy* and love he comes down in the person of his Son, Jesus Christ, and pays the penalty for us Through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, God is both just and merciful Media headlines frequently express outrage at judges who are ‘soft on crime’ and fail to impose the appropriate penalty for the offence committed. When I worked as a barrister, I noticed that the legal profession did not respect judges who were regarded as too lenient. We expect judges to execute justice. We do not expect them simply to be merciful. On the other hand, we do expect mercy in our personal relationships. A loving parent will be merciful to their child. We expect friends to be merciful to one another. Justice and mercy do not normally go together. We tend to see them as alternatives. We expect either justice or mercy, but not both at the same time. Yet God is both a God who judges with justice, and also a God of mercy. How can he combine these two apparently contradictory characteristics? The answer is that the sacrifice of Jesus has made it possible for God to combine both justice and mercy. When I first encountered Jesus, the following illustration helped me to understand what Jesus achieved for you and me on the cross: Two people went through school and university together and developed a close friendship. Life went on and they went their separate ways and lost contact. One went on to become a judge, while the other’s life spiralled downwards and he ended up as a criminal. One day the criminal appeared before the judge. He had committed a crime to which he pleaded guilty. The judge recognised his old friend and faced the dilemma, which, in effect, God faces. He was a judge so he had to be just; he couldn’t simply let the man off. On the other hand, he wanted to be merciful, because he loved his friend. So he fined him the correct penalty for the offence. That was justice. Then he came down from his position as judge and wrote a cheque for the amount of the fine. He gave it to his friend, saying that he would pay the penalty for him. That was an act of mercy, love and sacrifice. The illustration is not an exact one. Our plight is worse – the penalty we face is death. The relationship is closer – your Father in heaven loves you more than any earthly parent loves their child. And the cost is greater. It cost God far more than money – he came himself, in the person of Jesus, and paid the penalty of sin. God is not soft on crime. In his justice, God judges us because we are guilty. Then in his mercy and love he comes down in the person of his Son, Jesus Christ, and pays the penalty for us. Through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, God is both just and merciful. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 380 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/14 Psalm 9:7-12, Genesis 29:1-30:43, Matthew 11:16-30. Both Joyce Meyer and Sandy Millar are expressing, in different ways, absolute confidence in the sovereignty of God If God is sovereign and ultimately in control, does that mean that you are absolved of responsibility for your actions? Does it mean that you do not have ‘free will’? The Bible teaches both – the ultimate sovereignty of God at the same time as human responsibility and free will Wed, 14 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/14/ 24:50 enclassic14012026-14 1490.1 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 14: Just Relax and Let God Be God Psalm 9:7-12, Genesis 29:1-30:43, Matthew 11:16-30. Both Joyce Meyer and Sandy Millar are expressing, in different ways, absolute confidence in the sovereignty of God If God is sovereign and ultimately in control, does that mean that you are absolved of responsibility for your actions? Does it mean that you do not have ‘free will’? The Bible teaches both – the ultimate sovereignty of God at the same time as human responsibility and free will Joyce Meyer tweeted, ‘Just relax and let God be God.’ It is a great comfort to know that a loving God is ultimately in control of everything that happens. Bishop Sandy Millar often says in the face of some tragedy or when things have gone badly wrong: ‘The Lord reigns.’ Many times throughout the Bible, God is referred to as the Sovereign Lord. Both Joyce Meyer and Sandy Millar are expressing, in different ways, absolute confidence in the sovereignty of God. If God is sovereign and ultimately in control, does that mean that you are absolved of responsibility for your actions? Does it mean that you do not have ‘free will’? The Bible teaches both – the ultimate sovereignty of God at the same time as human responsibility and free will. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 379 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/13 Psalm 9:1-6, Genesis 27:1-28:22, Matthew 10:32-11:15. God is the God of acceleration He is able to speed things up at a much faster rate than is humanly possible Tue, 13 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/13/ 25:33 enclassic13012026-13 1533.47 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 13: Divine Acceleration Psalm 9:1-6, Genesis 27:1-28:22, Matthew 10:32-11:15. God is the God of acceleration He is able to speed things up at a much faster rate than is humanly possible A few years ago, Pippa and I were asked to speak at a conference in Somerset, southwest England. The journey from London should have taken about three hours. However, it was a really hot day and ahead of us a hay wagon had caught fire and spilled its load across the motorway, which had melted as a result. We were stuck, almost stationary, for five hours. It was such a relief when, finally, it was time to accelerate. There are times in our own personal lives, church life and ministry when it feels like we are stuck and unable to move at any pace. At other times, openings begin to appear and it is ‘time to accelerate’. God is the God of acceleration. He is able to speed things up at a much faster rate than is humanly possible. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 378 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/12 Proverbs 1:20-33, Genesis 25:1-26:35, Matthew 10:1-31. The expression ‘*do not be afraid*’ is one of the most frequent commands in the Bible Four of the occurrences are in our passages for today Mon, 12 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/12/ 25:16 enclassic12012026-12 1516.88 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 12: No Fear Proverbs 1:20-33, Genesis 25:1-26:35, Matthew 10:1-31. The expression ‘*do not be afraid*’ is one of the most frequent commands in the Bible Four of the occurrences are in our passages for today At one level, fear is healthy. ‘Fear’ is an emotion induced by a perceived threat. It is a natural human emotion. It is God-given. It is a basic survival mechanism. It keeps us alive. It protects us from danger. However, there is also such a thing as unhealthy fear. The Greek word commonly used in the New Testament is phobos – from which we get the word ‘phobia’. This is unhealthy fear. It is disproportionate to the danger posed. It is ‘False Evidence Appearing Real’. It is when I catastrophise – overestimating the danger and underestimating my ability to cope. Common phobias include fears in relation to health, finances, failure, growing old, death, loneliness, rejection, messing up, public speaking, flying, heights, snakes and spiders. They also include things such as, what is now called, FOMO – the Fear Of Missing Out, the fear of not being special. In my own life, I have experienced many fears – from a fear of heights to panic attacks and other irrational fears, fears about preaching and a fear of doing anything that might bring dishonour to the name of Jesus. Whereas the Spirit of God does not produce negative fear, there is a kind of healthy fear – the fear of God. This does not mean being frightened of God. In fact, it means the opposite. It is an understanding of who God is in relation to us. It means respect, reverence, awe, honour, adoration and worship; it could even be translated as love for God. It recognises the power, majesty and holiness of God Almighty. It leads to a healthy respect of God and is the antidote to all other fears and phobias we experience in life. Fear God and you need not fear anything else or anyone else. It is no coincidence that as the fear of God has decreased in our society, all the other fears have increased. We need to return to a right relationship with God. The expression ‘do not be afraid’ is one of the most frequent commands in the Bible. Four of the occurrences are in our passages for today. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 377 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/11 Psalm 8:1-9, Genesis 24:1-67, Matthew 9:14-38. Success is a good thing However, the ministry of Jesus and the message of the Bible *redefine success* Sun, 11 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/11/ 25:17 enclassic11012026-11 1517.04 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 11: 'Lord... Give Me Success Today' Psalm 8:1-9, Genesis 24:1-67, Matthew 9:14-38. Success is a good thing However, the ministry of Jesus and the message of the Bible *redefine success* How to Be a Huge Success is a little book of quotations and tips from a variety of well-known ‘successful’ people. The back cover asks, ‘Are you on a collision course with fame, fortune or greatness?’ This is so often how ‘success’ is perceived in our society. Perhaps because of some of its negative connotations, sometimes in the church we are a little wary of the word ‘success’. However, ‘success’ is not a dirty word in the Bible. It occurs at least five times in our Old Testament passage for today (Genesis 24:12,21,40,42,56) – each time in a very positive light. Success is a blessing from the Lord (vv.31,50). Success is a good thing. However, the ministry of Jesus and the message of the Bible redefine success. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 376 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/10 Psalm 7:10-17, Genesis 21:1-23:20, Matthew 8:23-9:13. These storms are many and varied Abraham, David and Jesus’ disciples all faced storms in their lives Sat, 10 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/10/ 27:00 enclassic10012026-10 1620.64 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 10: Facing the Storms of Life Psalm 7:10-17, Genesis 21:1-23:20, Matthew 8:23-9:13. These storms are many and varied Abraham, David and Jesus’ disciples all faced storms in their lives On 31 July 2003, the adventurer Bear Grylls led a team of five across the North Atlantic Ocean in an inflatable rigid dinghy. They set out from Halifax, Nova Scotia, heading for John o’ Groats, Scotland. On 5 August, a great storm arose. There were 20-foot waves. They lost satellite contact. They (and we) feared for their lives. Thankfully they survived to tell the tale (see Facing the Frozen Ocean by Bear Grylls). Not all of us will have to face physical storms of this kind. But Jesus said that we would all face the storms of life (Matthew 7:25–27). Life is not easy. These storms are many and varied. Abraham, David and Jesus’ disciples all faced storms in their lives. What can we learn from their example? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 375 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/9 Psalm 7:1-9, Genesis 19:1-20:18, Matthew 7:24-8:22. One thing that you can be sure about is that on the last day, when all is revealed, you will see God’s perfect judgment – and everyone will say, ‘That is absolutely right ’ Each of today’s passages tells us something about the fact that, in the end, *God will put things right* Fri, 09 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/9/ 25:18 enclassic09012026-9 1518.37 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 9: Trust God to Put Things Right Psalm 7:1-9, Genesis 19:1-20:18, Matthew 7:24-8:22. One thing that you can be sure about is that on the last day, when all is revealed, you will see God’s perfect judgment – and everyone will say, ‘That is absolutely right ’ Each of today’s passages tells us something about the fact that, in the end, *God will put things right* Pippa and I enjoy doing crosswords together. When we are stuck on one clue we don’t give up, we move on to the next clue. Every time we find an answer it helps us in resolving some of the other clues. In the end, we are sometimes able to solve most of the puzzle. In a way, reading some of the difficult parts of the Bible is like trying to solve a crossword puzzle. Rather than getting bogged down in a tricky section, you can use the passages you do understand to help you resolve some of the more difficult ones. Often I find it hard not only to understand some of the difficult passages in the Bible, but also to understand why certain things are happening in our world. There seems to be so much injustice. There are no easy answers. I love the second great rhetorical question from yesterday’s passage, ‘Will not the Judge of all the earth do right?’ (Genesis 18:25). One thing that you can be sure about is that on the last day, when all is revealed, you will see God’s perfect judgment – and everyone will say, ‘That is absolutely right.’ Each of today’s passages tells us something about the fact that, in the end, God will put things right. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 374 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/8 Proverbs 1:8-19, Genesis 17:1-18:33, Matthew 6:25-7:23. 11), then *nothing is too hard for the Lord* In each of the three great challenges we see in today’s passages we need to remember that *nothing is too hard for the Lord* Thu, 08 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/8/ 26:46 enclassic08012026-8 1606.3 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 8: Nothing is Too Hard for the Lord Proverbs 1:8-19, Genesis 17:1-18:33, Matthew 6:25-7:23. 11), then *nothing is too hard for the Lord* In each of the three great challenges we see in today’s passages we need to remember that *nothing is too hard for the Lord* Are you facing a seemingly impossible situation in your life? Is there an apparently irretrievable breakdown in a relationship? A serious health issue? An almost impossible challenge in your job? Is there a habit or an addiction that you are finding hard to break? Whatever challenges you may face in the year ahead, nothing is too hard for the Lord. Abraham was a hundred years old. His wife Sarah was ninety. God promised them a son. They said, in effect, ‘That is impossible.’ This is the context of the great rhetorical question: ‘Is anything too hard for the Lord?’ (Genesis 18:14). The answer is ‘No’. If Sarah could conceive when ‘already very old, and… past the age of childbearing’ (v.11), then nothing is too hard for the Lord. In each of the three great challenges we see in today’s passages we need to remember that nothing is too hard for the Lord. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 373 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/7 Psalm 6:1-10, Genesis 14:1-16:16, Matthew 5:43-6:24. William Shakespeare captured something of the wonder of mercy in Portia’s speech in *The Merchant of Venice*:‘The quality of mercy is not strain’d,It droppeth as the gentle rain from heavenUpon the place beneath: it is *twice blest*;It blesseth him that gives and him that takes '**Act IV Scene I**You are blessed when you receive mercy and you are blessed when you are merciful to others Wed, 07 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/7/ 25:47 enclassic07012026-7 1547.76 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 7: Your Double Blessing Psalm 6:1-10, Genesis 14:1-16:16, Matthew 5:43-6:24. William Shakespeare captured something of the wonder of mercy in Portia’s speech in *The Merchant of Venice*:‘The quality of mercy is not strain’d,It droppeth as the gentle rain from heavenUpon the place beneath: it is *twice blest*;It blesseth him that gives and him that takes '**Act IV Scene I**You are blessed when you receive mercy and you are blessed when you are merciful to others I love the word ‘mercy’. I am so thankful that God is a God of mercy. William Shakespeare captured something of the wonder of mercy in Portia’s speech in The Merchant of Venice: ‘The quality of mercy is not strain’d, It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven Upon the place beneath: it is twice blest; It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.' Act IV Scene I You are blessed when you receive mercy and you are blessed when you are merciful to others. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 372 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/6 Psalm 5:1-12, Genesis 11:10-13:18, Matthew 5:21-42. We don’t realise the importance of getting good directions for life If you follow God’s directions for life, you will enjoy his blessing and bring blessing to others Tue, 06 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/6/ 23:49 enclassic06012026-6 1429.45 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 6: Directions for Life Psalm 5:1-12, Genesis 11:10-13:18, Matthew 5:21-42. We don’t realise the importance of getting good directions for life If you follow God’s directions for life, you will enjoy his blessing and bring blessing to others Pippa and I are often in a hurry. We are not good at planning our car journeys. We often set off in the wrong direction and frequently get lost (even with Google Maps!). I don’t know why it has taken me so long to learn the importance of getting good directions and following them. Many of us are like this in life. We charge off in a hurry. We don’t realise the importance of getting good directions for life. If you follow God’s directions for life, you will enjoy his blessing and bring blessing to others. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 371 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/5 Psalm 4:1-8, Genesis 9:18-11:9, Matthew 4:23-5:20. you have made us for yourself and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in you ’ God is the source of *all good things* Mon, 05 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/5/ 21:32 enclassic05012026-5 1292.62 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 5: God Will Give You Good Things Psalm 4:1-8, Genesis 9:18-11:9, Matthew 4:23-5:20. you have made us for yourself and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in you ’ God is the source of *all good things* We all seek happiness. We are all searching for love. We are all desperate for peace. But so often, we look in the wrong places. St Augustine prayed, ‘Lord... you have made us for yourself and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in you.’ God is the source of all good things. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 370 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/4 Proverbs 1:1-7, Genesis 7:1-9:17, Matthew 4:1-22. But at the same time he found out that his wife, Kay, had cancer On one track of his life there was great blessing; on the other track there was a massive battle to face Sun, 04 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/4/ 23:42 enclassic04012026-4 1422.05 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 4: Battles and Blessings Proverbs 1:1-7, Genesis 7:1-9:17, Matthew 4:1-22. But at the same time he found out that his wife, Kay, had cancer On one track of his life there was great blessing; on the other track there was a massive battle to face I have never forgotten a talk I heard over thirty years ago. The speaker started by saying that the Christian life is ‘battle and blessing, battle and blessing, battle and blessing, battle and blessing, battle and blessing... battle and blessing…’ At the time I thought, ‘Why is he going on like this? Will it never end?’ But he was making a memorable and profound point. When we are in the battle it is hard to believe that it will ever come to an end. When we are in a period of blessing we sometimes expect it will go on forever. But life is not like that. There are battles and blessings. Pastor Rick Warren says that he used to think that the Christian life was a succession of battles and blessings, whereas now he thinks of life as being on two tracks. At any given moment in life there are usually blessings, but also battles to face. He gives the example of the huge blessing that came to him through the publication of The Purpose Driven Life, which became the fastest-selling Christian book of all time. It gave him enormous influence. But at the same time he found out that his wife, Kay, had cancer. On one track of his life there was great blessing; on the other track there was a massive battle to face. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 369 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/3 Psalm 3:1-8, Genesis 4:17-6:22, Matthew 2:19-3:17. This is what Jesus has made possible – for you to *walk as Jesus did* (1 John 2:6) You may stumble from time to time, but one day you will *walk with him* ‘dressed in white’ (Revelation 3:4) Sat, 03 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/3/ 22:50 enclassic03012026-3 1370.7 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 3: Talk as You Walk Psalm 3:1-8, Genesis 4:17-6:22, Matthew 2:19-3:17. This is what Jesus has made possible – for you to *walk as Jesus did* (1 John 2:6) You may stumble from time to time, but one day you will *walk with him* ‘dressed in white’ (Revelation 3:4) I love walking. Apparently, it is one of the best forms of physical exercise. Of course, walking is also a means, and for some people their only means, of transport. Walking for whatever reason is more enjoyable with someone else. Walking and talking is a great way to communicate with family, friends, and also with God. The point is that we are doing two things at the same time. We are not just taking exercise or travelling. As we walk together we are in communion with one another. Both Enoch and Noah ‘walked with God’ (Genesis 5:24; 6:9). They didn’t just sit, kneel or stand with God (the kind of actions we would often associate with spending time with God), but they were also in communion with God when doing something else. While you are doing other things – working, eating, exercising or relaxing – you can be in communion with God at the same time. Personally, I also find it the best way to pray. This has been my pattern for the last few years. After reading the Bible each day, I go out and walk around our local park – which is almost deserted early in the morning. I note down anything I sense the Holy Spirit saying as I pray. You can pray as you walk to the bus stop or walk from one activity to the next. Talk as you walk. The Bible has a great deal to say about walking with God. It is how you were intended to live. God’s desire for you is that you walk humbly in a relationship with him (Micah 6:8). This is what Jesus has made possible – for you to walk as Jesus did (1 John 2:6). You may stumble from time to time, but one day you will walk with him ‘dressed in white’ (Revelation 3:4). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 368 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/2 Psalm 2:1-12, Genesis 2:18-4:16, Matthew 2:1-18. A senior and experienced lawyer was helping me prepare He showed me the significance of a first question Fri, 02 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/2/ 22:24 enclassic02012026-2 1344.31 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 2: Your First Question Psalm 2:1-12, Genesis 2:18-4:16, Matthew 2:1-18. A senior and experienced lawyer was helping me prepare He showed me the significance of a first question ‘What is your first question going to be?’ I was preparing my cross-examination for one of the first criminal trials in which I was involved when I worked as a barrister. A senior and experienced lawyer was helping me prepare. He showed me the significance of a first question. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 367 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/1 Psalm 1:1-6, Genesis 1:1-2:17, Matthew 1:1-25. The first three words in the Bible are, ‘In *the beginning*…’ (Genesis 1:1) Each of the passages for today tells us something about new beginnings and new opportunities, and suggests some possible New Year’s resolutions Thu, 01 Jan 2026 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/1/ 23:35 enclassic01012026-1 1415.13 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 1: New Year's Resolutions Psalm 1:1-6, Genesis 1:1-2:17, Matthew 1:1-25. The first three words in the Bible are, ‘In *the beginning*…’ (Genesis 1:1) Each of the passages for today tells us something about new beginnings and new opportunities, and suggests some possible New Year’s resolutions I belong to a squash club that is also a gym. Each year on 1 January they bring in extra gym equipment. The place is packed out. By about 7 January, they move out all the extra equipment, as most people have given up their New Year’s resolutions, and the club returns to normal! Get fit Lose weight Reduce drinking Stop smoking Get out of debt There is nothing wrong with making these common New Year’s resolutions. Of course, all of us make resolutions that we fail to keep. The good news is that each year is an opportunity for a fresh start. But then so is each week. Every Sunday is the first day of the week – a new beginning. Actually, every day is an opportunity for a new beginning. The first three words in the Bible are, ‘In the beginning…’ (Genesis 1:1). Each of the passages for today tells us something about new beginnings and new opportunities, and suggests some possible New Year’s resolutions. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 366 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/365 Psalm 150:1-6, Nehemiah 13:1-31, Revelation 22:1-21. Of course, ‘the End’ and ‘the Beginning’ appear very different However, there can be significant similarities to both the beginning and the end Wed, 31 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/365/?ignore 21:59 enclassic31122025-365 1319.99 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 365: How to Begin and End Psalm 150:1-6, Nehemiah 13:1-31, Revelation 22:1-21. Of course, ‘the End’ and ‘the Beginning’ appear very different However, there can be significant similarities to both the beginning and the end One young woman asked me the following questions: ‘What will it be like in heaven? What will our heavenly bodies look like? Will we be able to fly? Will we be sexless? Will we be able to see the Garden of Eden? Will we recognise family and friends? What sort of friendships will we have? What will we do? Will there be Bible studies and Alpha? Who is the congregation?’ The Bible does not give the answers to all our questions. I have a book on my bookshelf entitled, 50 Remarkable events pointing to THE END. Written in 1997, it predicted that ‘Jesus could return by AD 2000'. This is one of many attempts to predict the timing of ‘the End’ that have turned out to be false. That is why Tony Campolo wisely says he wants to be ‘on the welcoming committee’ rather than the ‘planning committee’! We are not told when the end will come, but we are told about the how and the who. The key is the who. Jesus says, ‘I am… the Beginning and the End’ (Revelation 22:13). Of course, ‘the End’ and ‘the Beginning’ appear very different. However, there can be significant similarities to both the beginning and the end. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 365 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/364 Proverbs 31:21-31, Nehemiah 11:22-12:47, Revelation 21:1-27. It is used in today’s New Testament passage of the church of the future, which comes down out of heaven from God, ‘prepared as *a bride* beautifully dressed for her husband’ (Revelation 21:2) This picture of the bride, the new Jerusalem, is prefigured in different ways in both our Old and New Testament passages Tue, 30 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/364/?ignore 25:05 enclassic30122025-364 1505.04 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 364: The Bride Proverbs 31:21-31, Nehemiah 11:22-12:47, Revelation 21:1-27. It is used in today’s New Testament passage of the church of the future, which comes down out of heaven from God, ‘prepared as *a bride* beautifully dressed for her husband’ (Revelation 21:2) This picture of the bride, the new Jerusalem, is prefigured in different ways in both our Old and New Testament passages I often get very emotional at weddings. When I was conducting the marriage of my goddaughter, as the vicar, tears were pouring down my face. My great friend, her father, said in his speech afterwards that when you are taking your daughter down the aisle, you expect the vicar to be ‘a rock’, but instead he found that I was ‘a wreck’! When it came to my own daughter’s wedding, I was determined to hold it together. I was doing well until half-an-hour before the wedding! Then I went upstairs and saw her in her wedding dress. At that point, I lost it. This powerful and beautiful metaphor of ‘the bride’ is one that is used to describe the church in the New Testament (Ephesians 5:22–32). It is used in today’s New Testament passage of the church of the future, which comes down out of heaven from God, ‘prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband’ (Revelation 21:2). This picture of the bride, the new Jerusalem, is prefigured in different ways in both our Old and New Testament passages. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 364 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/363 Psalm 149:1-9, Nehemiah 9:38-11:21, Revelation 20:1-15. According to the New Testament, every Christian will be crowned and will reign even longer and there will be an even bigger cause for celebration and rejoicing than that of any earthly ruler You will reign *with Christ* (Revelation 20:4,6) Mon, 29 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/363/?ignore 24:33 enclassic29122025-363 1473.83 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 363: Your Crown is Coming Psalm 149:1-9, Nehemiah 9:38-11:21, Revelation 20:1-15. According to the New Testament, every Christian will be crowned and will reign even longer and there will be an even bigger cause for celebration and rejoicing than that of any earthly ruler You will reign *with Christ* (Revelation 20:4,6) Queen Elizabeth II acceded to the throne in 1952. At her coronation in Westminster Abbey, she was handed a Bible, anointed and then crowned by the Archbishop of Canterbury. On 6 February 2022, she became the first British monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee, commemorating seventy years on the throne. It was a multinational celebration. The climax was a weekend in June 2022 filled with street parties, concerts and a special service of thanksgiving. The whole country came together to celebrate. On 6 May 2023, at Westminster Abbey, we will see the coronation of the new King, Charles III, who, after being the longest-serving heir apparent in British history, has now succeeded her to the throne. According to the New Testament, every Christian will be crowned and will reign even longer and there will be an even bigger cause for celebration and rejoicing than that of any earthly ruler. You will reign with Christ (Revelation 20:4,6). What does this mean? Who reigns with him? When does this reign begin? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 363 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/362 Psalm 148:7-14, Nehemiah 9:1-37, Revelation 19:11-21. The idea of covenant is so important in the Christian Bible that the two parts came to be called the Old and the New *Testaments* (‘*Testamentum’* being the Latin word for *covenant*) Although the new covenant was different from the old one, both covenants come from God’s abounding love for you Sun, 28 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/362/?ignore 22:02 enclassic28122025-362 1322.32 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 362: Covenant of Love Psalm 148:7-14, Nehemiah 9:1-37, Revelation 19:11-21. The idea of covenant is so important in the Christian Bible that the two parts came to be called the Old and the New *Testaments* (‘*Testamentum’* being the Latin word for *covenant*) Although the new covenant was different from the old one, both covenants come from God’s abounding love for you When our daughter got married, I walked her down the aisle. At the front of the church, before all their family and friends, in their overflowing love for each other, she and her husband promised exclusive loyalty. They made a covenant of love. It was a love-filled occasion. A covenant is two people, or two parties, entering into a formal agreement. The making of covenants was a common feature in the ancient world. A covenant would often be made with a solemn action, such as a blood sacrifice. The idea of covenant is so important in the Christian Bible that the two parts came to be called the Old and the New Testaments (‘Testamentum’ being the Latin word for covenant). Although the new covenant was different from the old one, both covenants come from God’s abounding love for you. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 362 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/361 Psalm 148:1-6, Nehemiah 7:4-8:18, Revelation 18:17-19:10. The word ‘Hallelujah’ is an invitation to worship – it literally means ‘Praise (Hallal) the Lord’ (Yahweh) It occurs twenty-four times in the Old Testament (mainly in the Psalms) and it occurs four times in the New Testament – each of them in our passage for today Sat, 27 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/361/?ignore 27:22 enclassic27122025-361 1642.48 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 361: Hallelujah Psalm 148:1-6, Nehemiah 7:4-8:18, Revelation 18:17-19:10. The word ‘Hallelujah’ is an invitation to worship – it literally means ‘Praise (Hallal) the Lord’ (Yahweh) It occurs twenty-four times in the Old Testament (mainly in the Psalms) and it occurs four times in the New Testament – each of them in our passage for today Over 55 million people have now watched a youtube clip of unsuspecting shoppers who get a surprise while eating lunch. A young woman, seemingly enjoying her lunch in a food court, stands up. She appears to be on her mobile phone. She begins singing the ‘Hallelujah’ chorus. All around her, over 100 (clearly prearranged) opera singers stand up one by one and join in. Messiah is George Frederick Handel’s most famous work. It tells the story of Jesus – the Messiah. Part Two is about his death on the cross, his resurrection and his ascension into heaven. It ends with the ‘Hallelujah’ chorus. In the spring of 1742, King George II rose to his feet as the first notes of the triumphant ‘Hallelujah’ chorus rang out. Royal protocol has always demanded that, whenever the monarch stands, so too does everyone in the monarch’s presence. Thus, the entire audience and orchestra stood. King George II had accepted that he too was subject to the Lord of lords and King of kings. The word ‘Hallelujah’ is an invitation to worship – it literally means ‘Praise (Hallal) the Lord’ (Yahweh). It occurs twenty-four times in the Old Testament (mainly in the Psalms) and it occurs four times in the New Testament – each of them in our passage for today. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 361 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/360 Proverbs 31:10-20, Nehemiah 5:1-7:3, Revelation 18:1-17. Money matters It matters to us and it matters to God Fri, 26 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/360/?ignore 23:39 enclassic26122025-360 1419.96 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 360: How to Handle Money Proverbs 31:10-20, Nehemiah 5:1-7:3, Revelation 18:1-17. Money matters It matters to us and it matters to God The day after Christmas, many of us may feel rather out of pocket. But this issue does not only arise around Christmas time. Most of us have to deal with money in some way every day of our lives. But we prefer not to talk about it in church. However, Jesus talked about money a great deal. The Bible has a lot to say about it. Money matters. It matters to us and it matters to God. How should you handle money? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 360 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/359 Psalm 147:12–20, Nehemiah 3:1–4:23, Revelation 17:1–18. |||Veiled in flesh the Godhead see;|||hail the incarnate Deity,|||pleased as man with man to dwell,|||Jesus, our Emmanuel |||Hark! The herald angels sing,|||‘Glory to the new born King!’In each of today’s passages we see the blessings of following this ‘new born King’ Thu, 25 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/359/?ignore 25:18 enclassic25122025-359 1518.97 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 359: Why Christmas? Psalm 147:12–20, Nehemiah 3:1–4:23, Revelation 17:1–18. |||Veiled in flesh the Godhead see;|||hail the incarnate Deity,|||pleased as man with man to dwell,|||Jesus, our Emmanuel |||Hark! The herald angels sing,|||‘Glory to the new born King!’In each of today’s passages we see the blessings of following this ‘new born King’ Today we celebrate the ‘central event in the history of the earth, the very thing the whole story has been about’ (C.S. Lewis). We celebrate the birth of Jesus. It is a day of great joy and celebration around the world. And yet, in the midst of all the trappings and celebrations of Christmas, it can be easy to miss why Jesus’ birth is so significant. The key to Christmas lies, not in the details of the shepherds’ visit or the wise men’s journey, but in the identity of the one whom they came to worship. In Jesus, God became ‘flesh’ and ‘made his dwelling among us’ (John 1:14). Christmas is about Jesus! Our New Testament passage for today helps us to grasp something of the magnitude of what that means. In it we are reminded that ‘baby Jesus’ is also the ‘Lord of lords and King of kings’ (Revelation 17:14b). We are given a glimpse of the cosmic struggle between good and evil, as a vast array of powers and authorities line up against God. Yet we are reminded that, in the end, it is through the humility and self-sacrifice of ‘the Lamb’ that they are overcome. Jesus puts aside the glories of heaven for a humble stall. As the carol, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, puts it:    Christ, by highest heaven adored;    Christ, the everlasting Lord;    late in time behold him come,    offspring of a virgin's womb.    Veiled in flesh the Godhead see;    hail the incarnate Deity,    pleased as man with man to dwell,    Jesus, our Emmanuel.    Hark! The herald angels sing,    ‘Glory to the new born King!’ In each of today’s passages we see the blessings of following this ‘new born King’. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 359 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/358 Psalm 147:1–11, Nehemiah 1:1–2:20, Revelation 16:1–21. It is not just a case of looking back, but also looking up Faith looks up Wed, 24 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/358/?ignore 22:13 enclassic24122025-358 1333.68 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 358: Faith Looks Up Psalm 147:1–11, Nehemiah 1:1–2:20, Revelation 16:1–21. It is not just a case of looking back, but also looking up Faith looks up In A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens, the central character, Ebenezer Scrooge, was a miserable, mean, miserly old businessman who is shown his past, present and future. He eventually repents and starts to give generously. Dickens captures the transformation in his character: ‘He went to church, and walked about the streets… and found that everything could yield him pleasure. He had never dreamed that any walk – that any thing – could give him so much happiness.’ ‘Repentance’ is a very positive word in the Bible. The Greek word ‘metanoia’ means ‘change of mind’. That means, first, turning away from the bad stuff. This is the stuff that spoils your life and breaks your relationship with God. Repentance means to be sorry enough to quit. Getting rid of the bad stuff only enhances your life. But, that is only the first part. The change of heart and mind means not only turning away from the bad things, but also turning towards God and good. The word ‘repent’ rarely appears on its own in the Bible. Genuine repentance is shown by its fruit. Remorse is not enough. A change of mind, heart and life is required. It is nearly always, ‘repent and…’. Repent and believe. Repent and put your faith in Jesus Christ. It is not just a case of looking back, but also looking up. Faith looks up. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 358 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/357 Psalm 146:1–10, Ezra 10:1–44, Revelation 14:14–15:8. I doubt we really ever will One day we’ll know… These are the foundational principles of living in hope Tue, 23 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/357/?ignore 21:53 enclassic23122025-357 1313.1 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 357: How to Live in Hope Psalm 146:1–10, Ezra 10:1–44, Revelation 14:14–15:8. I doubt we really ever will One day we’ll know… These are the foundational principles of living in hope In July 1999, Ralph Craythorne spoke at our church about the recent death of his eight-year-old daughter, Sasha, from a brain tumour. I remember so well going to visit Sasha in hospital. On the way, in the taxi, I was desperately trying to think and pray about what God would want me to say. Only one word came into my mind: hope. In his talk Ralph said, ‘That one word exploded in my spirit. It was as though I suddenly saw the fullness of what God has meant us to understand about “living in hope”. It’s not the kind of wishy-washy, “I hope this will happen, but it probably won’t happen.” It’s the sure, confident, positive hope – the way God designed us to live. ‘Our hope was placed not in an outcome but in the Lord. ‘Sasha, too, held onto hope – not necessarily to be healed, although that was included, but a deeper hope, the hope that comes from the certainty of being in the palm of the hand of an all-loving God.’ In the final two weeks of her life, she went blind. Ralph said, ‘I remember lying in the bed saying to her, “Sasha do you ever see angels?” ‘She didn’t have much energy to speak. She said, “No dad.” ‘I was a bit disappointed. So, I thought, we’ll go for the big one. “Do you ever see Jesus?” I asked. ‘“Of course, I do. He holds my hand.” ‘The dream that she would be healed was shattered, but we’re not disappointed with God. He hasn’t changed. He still pours his love into our hearts. We don’t understand her death. I doubt we really ever will. One day we’ll know… These are the foundational principles of living in hope.' Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 357 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/356 Proverbs 31:1–9, Ezra 8:15–9:15, Revelation 14:1–13. The two are connected As Pastor Rick Warren has tweeted, ‘In ministry, *private purity* is the source of *public power* Mon, 22 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/356/?ignore 22:08 enclassic22122025-356 1328.95 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 356: Purity and Power Proverbs 31:1–9, Ezra 8:15–9:15, Revelation 14:1–13. The two are connected As Pastor Rick Warren has tweeted, ‘In ministry, *private purity* is the source of *public power* Christmas at HTB is usually one of the biggest events in the church calendar. There are usually around fifty musicians in the orchestra and ninety in the choir – all members of the congregation volunteering their time and gifts. I’m not at all musical. In fact, I’m virtually tone deaf. However, I am always stunned by the beauty of the marvellous music and singing. It is a foretaste of heaven. The apostle John writes, ‘And I heard a sound from heaven like the roar of rushing waters and like a loud peal of thunder. The sound I heard was like that of harpists playing their harps. And they sang a new song before the throne’ (Revelation 14:2–3). The heavenly orchestra and choir will sing a new song before a heavenly audience. John goes on to describe the completed church in heaven – their purity and their power. The two are connected. As Pastor Rick Warren has tweeted, ‘In ministry, private purity is the source of public power.’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 356 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/355 Psalm 145:13–21, Ezra 7:11–8:14, Revelation 13:1–18. Ezra said, ‘Because *the hand of the Lord my God was on me*, I took courage…’ (Ezra 7:28) God’s invisible and intangible hand is also on you: leading, guiding, encouraging, protecting, strengthening you and giving you courage Sun, 21 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/355/?ignore 20:35 enclassic21122025-355 1235.49 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 355: God's Hand is On You Psalm 145:13–21, Ezra 7:11–8:14, Revelation 13:1–18. Ezra said, ‘Because *the hand of the Lord my God was on me*, I took courage…’ (Ezra 7:28) God’s invisible and intangible hand is also on you: leading, guiding, encouraging, protecting, strengthening you and giving you courage Hands are very important. On her wedding day, I took hold of our daughter’s hand and passed it over to the minister (who happened to be our son). His hand (for these purposes) represented God’s hand. He, in turn, joined her hand to that of her husband. Symbolically, I gave her to God and God gave her to her husband. A key part of the marriage ceremony is the joining of hands. At one level, your hand is simply your palm, fingers and thumb. But when we use the word ‘hand’ we often mean it in more than just a physical sense. The ‘hand’ can be used as a metaphor for action, care and possession. God uses hands. We read of Jesus healing through laying his hands on sick people, or even just touching them with his hands (for example, Mark 6:5; 8:23). At other times, he put his hands on people to bless them (10:16). He told his disciples that their hands would be used to heal the sick (16:18). Indeed, people were healed through the laying on of their hands (for example, Acts 8:17–18). Others were filled with the Holy Spirit (9:17; 19:6), or received gifts through the laying on of hands (2 Timothy 1:6). What about ‘the hand of God’? What does that mean? In the Bible, ‘the hand of God’ means something very profound. Ezra said, ‘Because the hand of the Lord my God was on me, I took courage…’ (Ezra 7:28). God’s invisible and intangible hand is also on you: leading, guiding, encouraging, protecting, strengthening you and giving you courage. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 355 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/354 Psalm 145:8–13, Ezra 6:1–7:10, Revelation 12:1–13:1. Life involves many struggles, trials, tests, temptations, difficulties and battles Yet, in Christ you can be an *overcomer* Sat, 20 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/354/?ignore 20:40 enclassic20122025-354 1240.71 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 354: Three Ways to Overcome Evil Psalm 145:8–13, Ezra 6:1–7:10, Revelation 12:1–13:1. Life involves many struggles, trials, tests, temptations, difficulties and battles Yet, in Christ you can be an *overcomer* In the last speech he ever made, on 31 March 1968, Martin Luther King repeated the phrase ‘we shall overcome’ over and over again. He was echoing the words of folksinger Joan Baez, who in 1963 led a crowd of 300,000 people in singing ‘We shall overcome’. The song speaks of overcoming and of discovering hope and a future amid adversity. Throughout this year, as we have studied the entire Bible, we have seen that we should not expect an easy life. The Bible is true to real life. Life involves many struggles, trials, tests, temptations, difficulties and battles. Yet, in Christ you can be an overcomer. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 354 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/353 Psalm 145:1–7, Ezra 4:6–5:17, Revelation 11:1–19. It not only refers to kingdom in a political or geographical sense, but it also conveys the notion of activity – the activity of ruling and reigning The *kingdom of God* means ‘*the rule and reign of God*’ Fri, 19 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/353/?ignore 21:56 enclassic19122025-353 1316.78 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 353: Your King Psalm 145:1–7, Ezra 4:6–5:17, Revelation 11:1–19. It not only refers to kingdom in a political or geographical sense, but it also conveys the notion of activity – the activity of ruling and reigning The *kingdom of God* means ‘*the rule and reign of God*’ The birth of Prince George of Cambridge in July 2013 brought great joy and celebration. He is the son of a future king of England and is himself second in line of succession to the British throne. The United Kingdom has been ruled by kings and queens for centuries, and our royal family are an important part of our national life. However, most modern monarchs only have limited power. By contrast, in the ancient world, kingship was much more all-encompassing, and the king was the final authority in all aspects of national affairs. In our Old Testament passage, we read of the reigns of the kings of Persia and Israel. But alongside this, each of our passages also points us to an even greater King – God. The central theme in the teaching of Jesus was the kingdom of God. It not only refers to kingdom in a political or geographical sense, but it also conveys the notion of activity – the activity of ruling and reigning. The kingdom of God means ‘the rule and reign of God’. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 353 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/352 Proverbs 30:24–33, Ezra 2:68–4:5, Revelation 9:13–10:11. My greatest fear is that I might do or say something that will bring dishonour to his name My deepest longing is to see the name of the Lord honoured again in our society Thu, 18 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/352/?ignore 21:06 enclassic18122025-352 1266.47 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 352: How to Honour the Lord Proverbs 30:24–33, Ezra 2:68–4:5, Revelation 9:13–10:11. My greatest fear is that I might do or say something that will bring dishonour to his name My deepest longing is to see the name of the Lord honoured again in our society One billion people watched the rescue. On 13 October 2010 at 10pm (GMT) Jose Henriquez Gonzalez emerged from 2,300 feet underground after being trapped for sixty-nine days when the San Jose mine collapsed in northern Chile. It was originally thought that no one had survived the collapse, or that the thirty-three trapped underground would starve to death before they were found. Many of them had been atheists, agnostics, un-believers or semi-believers. Jose Henriquez Gonzalez was known as the ‘evangelist’ because he led so many of the others to faith in Jesus Christ. He formed and led a prayer group. With thirty-three tiny Bibles sent down by friends, he led devotions twice a day. They testified to the presence of a thirty-fourth person. Nineteen-year-old miner, Jimmy Sanchez, said, ‘There are actually thirty-four of us, because God has never left us down here.’ Jesus was there with them. When they emerged out of the mine the rescued men were all wearing similar t-shirts. The shirts said on the front, ‘Thank you, Lord’, and on the back it said, ‘To him be the glory and honour’. I had the privilege of interviewing Jose Henriquez at HTB. ‘The true hero is Jesus Christ,’ he said. ‘He is the only hero that should be mentioned. Apart from what man may have done both inside and outside that mine, he is the one who deserves the honour and the glory.’ Jesus taught us to pray that God’s name should be honoured (Matthew 6:9). My greatest fear is that I might do or say something that will bring dishonour to his name. My deepest longing is to see the name of the Lord honoured again in our society. How should you act in order to see his name honoured? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 352 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/351 Psalm 144:9–15, Ezra 1:1–2:67, Revelation 8:1–9:12. 3 ***How does this apply to my life*?**To avoid it becoming a mere intellectual exercise, you must think through how it applies to your daily living Wed, 17 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/351/?ignore 24:35 enclassic17122025-351 1475.13 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 351: How to Read and Understand the Bible Psalm 144:9–15, Ezra 1:1–2:67, Revelation 8:1–9:12. 3 ***How does this apply to my life*?**To avoid it becoming a mere intellectual exercise, you must think through how it applies to your daily living When reading and trying to understand the Bible, you have three helpers. First, you have the Holy Spirit living in you (1 Corinthians 2:2–16). Second, you have the help of the church. It would be arrogant to think that the Holy Spirit only speaks to me. He has spoken to others in history and he continues to speak to his people. Paul prays that ‘you may have power to comprehend, with all the saints’ (Ephesians 3:18, NRSV). Third, you have the benefit of reason – your mind. Paul encourages each person to be ‘fully convinced in their own minds’ (Romans 14:5). In interpreting the Bible, there are three main questions you need to ask: What does it actually say? The Old Testament is written in Hebrew (and Aramaic), and the New Testament in Greek. But you can be confident that most modern translations are trustworthy and accurate. What does it mean? In order to answer this question, you have to ask: What sort of literature is it? Is it historical writing? Poetry? Prophecy? Apocalyptic? Law? Wisdom? Gospel? The passages for today are each different types of literature (poetry, apocalyptic and history), and therefore we read them in different ways. Next, ask what it meant to the person who first wrote it, and to those who first read or heard it. Then ask, ‘Has anything happened subsequently to alter our understanding?’ For example, what difference does the coming of Jesus make to our understanding of Old Testament passages? Ultimately the Bible is all about Jesus (see John 5:39–40). How does this apply to my life? To avoid it becoming a mere intellectual exercise, you must think through how it applies to your daily living. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 351 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/350 Psalm 144:1–8, Malachi 2:17–4:6, Revelation 7:1–17. ’ Steadfast in his stand for Christ, Polycarp refused to compromise his beliefs and was burnt alive at the stake on 22 February AD156 God is described in the Old Testament as ‘the Lord’ Tue, 16 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/350/?ignore 20:23 enclassic16122025-350 1223.97 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 350: Who is Lord of Your Life? Psalm 144:1–8, Malachi 2:17–4:6, Revelation 7:1–17. ’ Steadfast in his stand for Christ, Polycarp refused to compromise his beliefs and was burnt alive at the stake on 22 February AD156 God is described in the Old Testament as ‘the Lord’ Polycarp (AD70–156) was a bishop during a time of bitter attack against the Christians. At the age of eighty-six, he was arrested for no other crime than being a Christian. All he had to do to avoid torture and death was to proclaim, ‘Caesar is Lord.’ Polycarp responded, ‘Eighty-six years I have served Christ, and he never did me any wrong. How can I blaspheme my King who saved me?’ For Polycarp, the fact that ‘Jesus is Lord’ meant that he could not say, ‘Caesar is Lord.’ Steadfast in his stand for Christ, Polycarp refused to compromise his beliefs and was burnt alive at the stake on 22 February AD156. God is described in the Old Testament as ‘the Lord’. In the New Testament passage for today, we see the background to the extraordinary claim that ‘Jesus is Lord!’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 350 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/349 Psalm 143:1–12, Malachi 1:1–2:16, Revelation 6:1–17. God involves you in his plans God works out his purposes in co-operation with his people Mon, 15 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/349/?ignore 22:56 enclassic15122025-349 1376.71 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 349: What is Going on Behind the Scenes of History? Psalm 143:1–12, Malachi 1:1–2:16, Revelation 6:1–17. God involves you in his plans God works out his purposes in co-operation with his people In the West, many people assume history is aimless: ‘Full of sound and fury, signifying nothing’ (as Shakespeare put it in Macbeth). Many Eastern religions tend to regard history as either circular or illusory, while Marxists understand history in terms of class struggle. In contrast to all these views, the New Testament sees history as moving towards a climax. The ultimate struggle is between good and evil – ending with the triumph of good and God. The kingdom of God will not fail. God is working his purposes out in history. Jesus is the centrepiece. All lines in history converge on him. As someone has said: ‘The hinge of history is on the door of a Bethlehem stable.’ History is ‘His story’. As you hear the news and read history books you get some of the details. As you read the Bible you get the big picture. In particular, the book of Revelation unveils what is going on behind the scenes of history. God is the Sovereign Lord of history. But we are not mere robots. You are not being moved around like a piece on a chessboard. Rather, you have a part to play. God involves you in his plans. God works out his purposes in co-operation with his people. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 349 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/348 Proverbs 30:11–23, Esther 9:1–10:3, Revelation 5:1–14. Lewis shows how Jesus can be both ‘the *Lion* of the tribe of Judah’ (Revelation 5:5) and ‘a *Lamb \[that\] had been slain*’ (v 6) Sun, 14 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/348/?ignore 21:39 enclassic14122025-348 1299.62 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 348: Doing Hard Things the Right Way Proverbs 30:11–23, Esther 9:1–10:3, Revelation 5:1–14. Lewis shows how Jesus can be both ‘the *Lion* of the tribe of Judah’ (Revelation 5:5) and ‘a *Lamb \[that\] had been slain*’ (v 6) Doing hard things requires us to be lion-like – bold, steely and courageous. Doing things the right way means being like a lamb – gentle, meek and submissive. We are supposed to be a godly mixture of the qualities of both the lion and the lamb. But how can one person be both ‘the Lion’ and ‘the Lamb’? In C.S. Lewis’s Narnia books, the lion, Aslan, represents Jesus. In the most famous of these books, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Aslan is slain: ‘“Bind him, I say!” repeated the White Witch... “Let him first be shaved” … the shorn face of Aslan looked… braver, and more beautiful, and more patient than ever. “Muzzle him!” said the Witch… the whole crowd of creatures kicking him, hitting him, spitting on him, jeering at him… They began to drag the bound and muzzled Lion to the Stone Table.’ Later, ‘they heard from behind them a loud noise – a great cracking, deafening noise… The Stone Table was broken into two pieces by a great crack that ran down it from end to end… There, shining in the sunrise, larger than they had seen him before, shaking his mane (for it had apparently grown again) stood Aslan himself.’ Aslan tells them that ‘when a willing victim who had committed no treachery was killed in a traitor’s stead, the Table would crack and Death itself would start working backwards.’ In the book of Revelation, we see Jesus is standing at the centre of the throne of heaven. He is the Lion and the Lamb. He is both triumphant (‘has triumphed’, 5:5) and slain (‘you were slain’, v.9). In an imaginative and powerful way, C.S. Lewis shows how Jesus can be both ‘the Lion of the tribe of Judah’ (Revelation 5:5) and ‘a Lamb [that] had been slain’ (v.6). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 348 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/347 Psalm 142:1–7, Esther 6:1–8:17, Revelation 4:1–11. When the prodigal son returned to the father, the father said, ‘Let’s have a feast and *celebrate*’ (Luke 15:23) In our Old Testament passage for today, we read that ‘the city of Susa held a joyous *celebration*’ (Esther 8:15) ‘it…exploded with joy’ (MSG) Sat, 13 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/347/?ignore 23:46 enclassic13122025-347 1426.68 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 347: How to Celebrate Psalm 142:1–7, Esther 6:1–8:17, Revelation 4:1–11. When the prodigal son returned to the father, the father said, ‘Let’s have a feast and *celebrate*’ (Luke 15:23) In our Old Testament passage for today, we read that ‘the city of Susa held a joyous *celebration*’ (Esther 8:15) ‘it…exploded with joy’ (MSG) It will be a ‘joyous celebration’ – a time of ‘happiness and joy, gladness and honour’ (see Esther 8:16–17). Pippa and I love our annual Leadership Conference held at the Royal Albert Hall (which was built in central London to display ‘the greatness and power and glory and victory and the majesty of God’). Thousands of people gather together. There are times of great celebration with ‘heavenly’ worship and powerful life-changing teaching. People are inspired, refreshed and equipped to make a difference to the world around them. The Bible has much to say about celebration. There is a celebration in heaven every time one person turns to Christ. When the prodigal son returned to the father, the father said, ‘Let’s have a feast and celebrate’ (Luke 15:23). In our Old Testament passage for today, we read that ‘the city of Susa held a joyous celebration’ (Esther 8:15) ‘it…exploded with joy’ (MSG). What were they celebrating? What should you celebrate now? How should you celebrate? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 347 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/346 Psalm 141:1–10, Esther 2:19–5:14, Revelation 3:7–22. I never enjoy being rebuked by someone else, but over time I have come to see the faithful rebuke of a friend as something of great value The Scriptures tell us that the right kind of rebuke is an important way in which God cares for us, and in which we can care for each other Fri, 12 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/346/?ignore 25:48 enclassic12122025-346 1548.07 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 346: The Benefits of Being Rebuked Psalm 141:1–10, Esther 2:19–5:14, Revelation 3:7–22. I never enjoy being rebuked by someone else, but over time I have come to see the faithful rebuke of a friend as something of great value The Scriptures tell us that the right kind of rebuke is an important way in which God cares for us, and in which we can care for each other I never enjoy being rebuked by someone else, but over time I have come to see the faithful rebuke of a friend as something of great value. The Scriptures tell us that the right kind of rebuke is an important way in which God cares for us, and in which we can care for each other. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 346 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/345 Psalm 140:6–13, Esther 1:1–2:18, Revelation 2:18–3:6. At the end of the day, good wins Furthermore, in this struggle between good and evil, you *can* make a difference Thu, 11 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/345/?ignore 23:26 enclassic11122025-345 1406.56 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 345: How You Can Make a Difference Psalm 140:6–13, Esther 1:1–2:18, Revelation 2:18–3:6. At the end of the day, good wins Furthermore, in this struggle between good and evil, you *can* make a difference In an interview in Time Magazine, the great Swiss theologian Karl Barth recounted that he advised young theologians to ‘take your Bible and take your newspaper and read both. But interpret newspapers from your Bible.’ When we read, watch or listen to the news it could be easy to get depressed. It sometimes seems that evil is triumphing over good. The plans of ‘the wicked’ seem to succeed, while others are subject to the ravages of terrorism, war, poverty and injustice. This is why we desperately need to hear the voice of the Holy Spirit and listen to the word of God. As we study the Scriptures, we see the triumph of good over evil. In each of the passages for today we see that evil will not ultimately triumph. At the end of the day, good wins. Furthermore, in this struggle between good and evil, you can make a difference. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 345 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/344 Proverbs 30:1–10, Zechariah 12:1–14:21, Revelation 2:1–17. Don’t inspect the cot and forget to worship the baby In today’s passages, we see how Jesus Christ is revealed not only in the New Testament, in the book of Revelation, but also in the Old Testament – in Proverbs and Zechariah Wed, 10 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/344/?ignore 24:13 enclassic10122025-344 1453.77 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 344: How to Find Jesus Proverbs 30:1–10, Zechariah 12:1–14:21, Revelation 2:1–17. Don’t inspect the cot and forget to worship the baby In today’s passages, we see how Jesus Christ is revealed not only in the New Testament, in the book of Revelation, but also in the Old Testament – in Proverbs and Zechariah The whole of the Bible is about Jesus. Martin Luther said, ‘Scripture is the manger in which the Christ lies.’ As a parent goes to a cot to find their baby, so the Christian goes to the Bible to find Jesus. Don’t inspect the cot and forget to worship the baby. In today’s passages, we see how Jesus Christ is revealed not only in the New Testament, in the book of Revelation, but also in the Old Testament – in Proverbs and Zechariah. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 344 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/343 Psalm 140:1–5, Zechariah 9:1–11:17, Revelation 1:1–20. In the book of Revelation, Jesus is further unveiled We get a clearer disclosure of his great love for us, and his victory over evil Tue, 09 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/343/?ignore 24:27 enclassic09122025-343 1467.59 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 343: Unlocking Revelation Psalm 140:1–5, Zechariah 9:1–11:17, Revelation 1:1–20. In the book of Revelation, Jesus is further unveiled We get a clearer disclosure of his great love for us, and his victory over evil It stars Martin Sheen and Marlon Brando. Set in the Vietnam War, Apocalypse Now is a 1979 epic war film. The use of the word ‘apocalypse’ is based on the popular misunderstanding of the word as ‘destruction’. The Greek word apokalupsis, translated ‘revelation’ (Revelation 1:1), is made up of two Greek words – apo (out of) and kalupsis (‘hiding’). The word actually means ‘disclosure’. In the book of Revelation, the veil is taken off. The mystery is unlocked. ‘The revelation of Jesus Christ’ (v.1) has a double meaning. First, it is the revelation that is given by Jesus. Second, it is the revealing of Jesus, who lies hidden in the Old Testament and is revealed in the New Testament. In the book of Revelation, Jesus is further unveiled. We get a clearer disclosure of his great love for us, and his victory over evil. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 343 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/342 Psalm 139:17–24, Zechariah 5:1-8:23, Jude 1:1–25. At other times, I am absolutely desperate for God’s presence, his mercy and grace When we find ourselves in this place of desperation, nothing but the presence of God will satisfy Mon, 08 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/342/?ignore 26:22 enclassic08122025-342 1582.29 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 342: Desperate Psalm 139:17–24, Zechariah 5:1-8:23, Jude 1:1–25. At other times, I am absolutely desperate for God’s presence, his mercy and grace When we find ourselves in this place of desperation, nothing but the presence of God will satisfy You were created for an intimate relationship with God. Jesus came to make that possible. Sometimes I find I get distracted, caught up with other things – even my work for God can distract me from my relationship with him. At other times, I am absolutely desperate for God’s presence, his mercy and grace. When we find ourselves in this place of desperation, nothing but the presence of God will satisfy. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 342 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/341 Psalm 139:11–16, Zechariah 1:1–4:14, 3 John 1:1–14. Tozer wrote, ‘God is love and God is sovereign His love disposes Him to desire our everlasting welfare, and His sovereignty enables Him to secure it Sun, 07 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/341/?ignore 23:04 enclassic07122025-341 1384.54 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 341: Is God Really in Control? Psalm 139:11–16, Zechariah 1:1–4:14, 3 John 1:1–14. Tozer wrote, ‘God is love and God is sovereign His love disposes Him to desire our everlasting welfare, and His sovereignty enables Him to secure it Do you sometimes wonder whether God is really in control? Maybe something has gone wrong with your health, relationships, job or some other situation in your life, and you wonder: Does God know? Does God care? Is there anything he can do about it anyway? One of the things that I remember so well about Bishop Sandy Millar’s time as vicar of HTB is that whenever things seemed to have gone wrong, or we were facing some kind of crisis, he would always remind us: ‘The Lord reigns.’ God not only loves you, but he is also the sovereign Lord who is ultimately in control of your life. He is also in control of events and history. As A.W. Tozer wrote, ‘God is love and God is sovereign. His love disposes Him to desire our everlasting welfare, and His sovereignty enables Him to secure it.’ The Lord reigns! Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 341 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/340 Proverbs 29:19–27, Haggai 1:1–2:23, 2 John 1:1–13. However, spiritual fitness is far more important than physical fitness It also involves balancing a number of areas of your life Sat, 06 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/340/?ignore 21:32 enclassic06122025-340 1292.93 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 340: Find Your Balance Proverbs 29:19–27, Haggai 1:1–2:23, 2 John 1:1–13. However, spiritual fitness is far more important than physical fitness It also involves balancing a number of areas of your life My body is so inflexible. I was told once by a professional fitness trainer, who happened to notice the way I was walking, that I was one of the worst cases of stiffness he had ever come across. I am now trying to do more stretching! I had considered myself reasonably fit (for my age!), as a result of still playing squash and biking everywhere. But in other ways, I realised I am not. Physical fitness is a balance of strength, flexibility, aerobic and anaerobic fitness. Some people are exceptionally strong but cannot even run to catch a bus. Others are aerobically fit (they could run a marathon), but they are not very strong. However, spiritual fitness is far more important than physical fitness. It also involves balancing a number of areas of your life. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 340 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/339 Psalm 139:1–10, Daniel 11:36–12:13, 1 John 5:1–21. In addition, God’s *general will* for all of us is revealed in the Bible In the passages for today we see what God wants for you and for everyone Fri, 05 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/339/?ignore 19:42 enclassic05122025-339 1182.46 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 339: God's Purpose for You Psalm 139:1–10, Daniel 11:36–12:13, 1 John 5:1–21. In addition, God’s *general will* for all of us is revealed in the Bible In the passages for today we see what God wants for you and for everyone Purpose in life is far more important than property or possessions. Having more to live with is no substitute for having more to live for. ‘The two greatest days of your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why’.¹ God has a specific purpose for you. In addition, God’s general will for all of us is revealed in the Bible. In the passages for today we see what God wants for you and for everyone. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 339 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/338 Psalm 138:1–8, Daniel 11:2–35, 1 John 4:7–21. But perfect love drives out fear’ (v 18) Thu, 04 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/338/?ignore 21:24 enclassic04122025-338 1284.91 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 338: Four Keys to Overcoming Fear Psalm 138:1–8, Daniel 11:2–35, 1 John 4:7–21. But perfect love drives out fear’ (v 18) Alex Buchanan was well known as a ‘pastor to the pastors’. He was profoundly deaf in one ear, with only 5% hearing in the other, and one side of his face was paralysed after he suffered nerve damage during major surgery. I remember hearing him speak about God’s love and he kept repeating the words, ‘God loves you unconditionally, wholeheartedly and continually.’ After he finished his talk he came up to me and said, ‘Do you believe that God approves of you?’ I said, ‘Actually, I really struggle with that because I know things about myself that mean I find it difficult to believe that God approves of me.’ He replied, ‘We all struggle with that. God wants you to know that he approves of you. He wants you to know he loves you unconditionally, wholeheartedly and continually.’ If I were to summarise what I thought the Bible was all about in one word – apart from the word ‘Jesus’ – I would choose the word ‘love’. Twice in today's New Testament passage John writes, ‘God is love’ (1 John 4:8,16). The word ‘love’ is used widely in our society. Nowhere in the Bible does it say, ‘Love is God’. In other words, it is God who defines what love is rather than the other way around. God is love. This is the message you need to understand yourself, meditate on constantly and speak about to the world: ‘God is love’. Here is the answer to the greatest longing of the world today. People are looking for love. Their hearts are searching. When you really know God’s love for you, your life is transformed. As we will see in the New Testament passage for today, God’s love is at the heart of each of the four keys to overcoming unhealthy fear in your life: ‘There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear’ (v.18). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 338 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/337 Psalm 137:1–9, Daniel 9:20–11:1, 1 John 3:11–4:6. In the spiritual world, it is God-reliance’ Supremely, it involves confidence in the presence of God Wed, 03 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/337/?ignore 21:36 enclassic03122025-337 1296.69 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 337: How to Be Confident Psalm 137:1–9, Daniel 9:20–11:1, 1 John 3:11–4:6. In the spiritual world, it is God-reliance’ Supremely, it involves confidence in the presence of God To describe someone as ‘confident’ is usually meant as a compliment. But, there is a right and wrong form of confidence. The wrong form of confidence involves valuing yourself over and against God. This is arrogance. The right form of confidence involves valuing yourself in and through Christ. ‘Confidence in the natural world is self-reliance. In the spiritual world, it is God-reliance’. Supremely, it involves confidence in the presence of God. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 337 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/336 Proverbs 29:10-18, Daniel 8:15-9:19, 1 John 2:28-3:10. Vision without action is merely a dream Action without vision is a nightmare! But *vision combined with action* can change the world Tue, 02 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/336/?ignore 20:49 enclassic02122025-336 1249.46 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 336: From Vision to Action* Proverbs 29:10-18, Daniel 8:15-9:19, 1 John 2:28-3:10. Vision without action is merely a dream Action without vision is a nightmare! But *vision combined with action* can change the world Jackie Pullinger has spent her life working with the poor and destitute, triad gang members, heroin and opium addicts. She has helped thousands to come off drugs through the power of the Holy Spirit. She has seen transformation in numerous lives and has made a huge impact on the city of Hong Kong. Jackie wrote, ‘I have spent over half my life in a dark, foul smelling place because I had a “vision” of another city ablaze with light, it was my dream. There was no more crying, no more death or pain. The sick were healed, addicts set free, the hungry filled. There were families for orphans, homes for the homeless, and new dignity for those who lived in shame. I had no idea how to bring this about but with “visionary zeal” imagined introducing the Walled City people to the one who could change it all: Jesus.’ Vision is a ‘holy discontent’ – a deep dissatisfaction with what is, combined with a clear grasp of what could be. It is a picture – ‘a mental sight’ – of the future that inspires hope. Vision without action is merely a dream. Action without vision is a nightmare! But vision combined with action can change the world. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 336 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/335 Psalm 136:13-26, Daniel 7:1-8:14, 1 John 2:12-27. Yet you have the powerful spiritual ‘antiseptic’ to use against these destructive forces It is vital that you learn to do so Mon, 01 Dec 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/335/?ignore 23:46 enclassic01122025-335 1426.16 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 335: How to Avoid Spiritual Infections Psalm 136:13-26, Daniel 7:1-8:14, 1 John 2:12-27. Yet you have the powerful spiritual ‘antiseptic’ to use against these destructive forces It is vital that you learn to do so Joseph Lister, the nineteenth-century medic, is known as ‘the father of antiseptic surgery’. Lister was disturbed by the high proportion of patients who died from post-operative infections. He became convinced that infinitesimal microbes, invisible to the naked eye, were causing the infections. He began to develop a number of antiseptic solutions with which to treat the wounds. Sure enough, the proportion of patients dying from infections decreased. In a similar way, there are evil spiritual forces at work in our world today. They cannot be seen, but they wreak havoc in people’s lives, causing them to fall into temptation, moving evil people into positions of national power, manipulating people’s emotions, tearing them apart and destroying them. But just as Lister’s contemporaries dismissed his theory of destructive microbes, many people today are ignorant or dismissive of spiritual realities. Yet you have the powerful spiritual ‘antiseptic’ to use against these destructive forces. It is vital that you learn to do so. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 335 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/334 Psalm 136:1-12, Daniel 5:17-6:28, 1 John 1:1-2:11. You can be real before God and before others The result is a level of authenticity, vulnerability and intimate connection with one another that is best summed up in this beautiful word, ‘fellowship’ Sun, 30 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/334/?ignore 23:43 enclassic30112025-334 1423.67 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 334: Intimate Connection Psalm 136:1-12, Daniel 5:17-6:28, 1 John 1:1-2:11. You can be real before God and before others The result is a level of authenticity, vulnerability and intimate connection with one another that is best summed up in this beautiful word, ‘fellowship’ Fellowship – it’s a wonderful word. It’s what you were made for. It satisfies the deepest longings of your heart. It is the answer to loneliness. Nothing in this life compares with it. It starts now and goes on for ever. There is no greater joy in life than fellowship. John wants his readers to enjoy the same fellowship he has: ‘We want you to enjoy this, too. Your joy will double our joy!’ (1 John 1:3, MSG). Koinonia, the Greek word used for fellowship, is almost untranslatable. It expresses ‘a relationship of great intimacy and depth… it even became the favourite expression for the marital relationship – the most intimate between human beings’. It is a rich word that describes a life together in which everything is shared. This is the word that John uses of our intimate relationship with God (v.3). It also describes our relationship with one another. You can have deep genuine friendships and honest communication. There is no need for masks or ‘spin’ or ‘image’. You can be real before God and before others. The result is a level of authenticity, vulnerability and intimate connection with one another that is best summed up in this beautiful word, ‘fellowship’. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 334 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/333 Psalm 135:13-21, Daniel 4:19-5:16, 2 Peter 3:1-18. ‘We are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth’ (2 Peter 3:13) God is going to vindicate his people (Psalm 135:14) Sat, 29 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/333/?ignore 23:48 enclassic29112025-333 1428.74 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 333: God's Perfect Timing Psalm 135:13-21, Daniel 4:19-5:16, 2 Peter 3:1-18. ‘We are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth’ (2 Peter 3:13) God is going to vindicate his people (Psalm 135:14) God has his own sense of timing: ‘With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day’ (2 Peter 3:8). He has perfect timing: never early, never late. God is never in a hurry, but he is always on time. We see in today’s passages that the Lord is sovereign over the future (Daniel 4:32). ‘We are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth’ (2 Peter 3:13). God is going to vindicate his people (Psalm 135:14). But what do you do while you are waiting for God to do what he has promised to do? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 333 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/332 Proverbs 29:1-9, Daniel 3:13-4:18, 2 Peter 2:1-22. Yet in the face of extreme suffering he refused to deny his faith The lives of men and women like this are hugely inspiring, challenging and motivational Fri, 28 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/332/?ignore 22:18 enclassic28112025-332 1338.44 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 332: How to Be Inspired Proverbs 29:1-9, Daniel 3:13-4:18, 2 Peter 2:1-22. Yet in the face of extreme suffering he refused to deny his faith The lives of men and women like this are hugely inspiring, challenging and motivational In successive weeks at HTB, I interviewed two people of courage and faith. One, Ben Freeth, inspired by his faith in Jesus Christ, had taken a courageous stance against the unjust regime in Zimbabwe. As a result, he was beaten, tortured and forced to watch his elderly mother-in-law and father-in-law undergo torture, from which the latter eventually died. Yet in the midst of his suffering, he chose to love and bless the torturers. The second was a pastor from one of the sixty countries around the world where physical persecution of Christians still takes place. He had been imprisoned and, at one stage, sentenced to death for no other reason than his faith in Jesus Christ. Yet in the face of extreme suffering he refused to deny his faith. The lives of men and women like this are hugely inspiring, challenging and motivational. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 332 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/331 Psalm 135:1-12, Daniel 2:24-3:12, 2 Peter 1:1-21. There is good reason to put your trust in God You will grow in faith as you study the truth of God’s word and boldly proclaim that ‘there is a God’ and ‘he is great’ Thu, 27 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/331/?ignore 22:38 enclassic27112025-331 1358.97 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 331: There Is a God and He Is Great Psalm 135:1-12, Daniel 2:24-3:12, 2 Peter 1:1-21. There is good reason to put your trust in God You will grow in faith as you study the truth of God’s word and boldly proclaim that ‘there is a God’ and ‘he is great’ I studied and practised law for nearly ten years. In every legal case, evidence is vital. Evidence matters to me. I could not be a Christian if I did not believe that our faith is based on compelling evidence. There is good evidence for the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Over the years, there have been a spate of books by the ‘new atheists’ suggesting that there is no evidence for God; that God is a ‘delusion’ (‘The God Delusion’) and that ‘God is Not Great’ (the title of another of these books). While of course, the Bible does not try to provide a scientific proof for the existence of God, it does point to the evidence of ‘eye-witnesses’ (2 Peter 1:16) and proclaims that ‘there is a God in heaven’ (Daniel 2:28) and that ‘the Lord is great’ (Psalm 135:5). There is good reason to put your trust in God. You will grow in faith as you study the truth of God’s word and boldly proclaim that ‘there is a God’ and ‘he is great’. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 331 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/330 Psalm 134:1-3, Daniel 1:1-2:23, 1 Peter 5:1-14. He declared: ‘I am a great sinner but Christ is a great Saviour ’In today’s New Testament passage, Peter speaks of ‘*the God of all grace*’ (1 Peter 5:10) Wed, 26 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/330/?ignore 20:49 enclassic26112025-330 1249.38 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 330: God's Great Grace Psalm 134:1-3, Daniel 1:1-2:23, 1 Peter 5:1-14. He declared: ‘I am a great sinner but Christ is a great Saviour ’In today’s New Testament passage, Peter speaks of ‘*the God of all grace*’ (1 Peter 5:10) Seeing a crowd of condemned criminals being led up to execution, John Bradford (c.1510–1555), the English reformer, is said to have remarked: ‘There, but for the grace of God, goes John Bradford.’ In 1807, John Newton, best known as composer of the hymn ‘Amazing Grace’, encapsulated the amazing grace of God in some of his last words as he lay dying. He declared: ‘I am a great sinner but Christ is a great Saviour.’ In today’s New Testament passage, Peter speaks of ‘the God of all grace’ (1 Peter 5:10). How should you respond to God’s great grace? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 330 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/329 Psalm 133:1-3, Ezekiel 47:1-48:35, 1 Peter 4:1-19. Three themes dominate his remarkable ministry: unity, love and the Holy Spirit They are distinct, but closely linked Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/329/?ignore 25:45 enclassic25112025-329 1545.93 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 329: Know When to Kneel Psalm 133:1-3, Ezekiel 47:1-48:35, 1 Peter 4:1-19. Three themes dominate his remarkable ministry: unity, love and the Holy Spirit They are distinct, but closely linked Raniero Cantalamessa is a Capuchin monk. In 1977, he was sent by the Vatican to be an observer at a conference in Kansas City, USA where there were 20,000 Catholics and 20,000 other Christians. On the last day of the conference, after someone had spoken about the tragedy of all the divisions in the body of Christ (the church), 40,000 people knelt in repentance. As Father Raniero looked out, he saw the words ‘JESUS IS LORD’ on a big neon sign over the conference venue. He described how, at that moment, he caught a glimpse of what Christian unity is all about – 40,000 people kneeling in repentance under the Lordship of Jesus. He asked ‘a lay Protestant’ to pray for him to experience more of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit filled him. He experienced God’s love for him in a new way. He found himself speaking ‘in a manner like speaking in tongues’. The Bible came alive in a new way. He received a new ministry. In 1980, he was invited by Pope John Paul II to be the preacher to the Papal Household. This is what he has been ever since. In 2020, he was made a cardinal by Pope Francis. Three themes dominate his remarkable ministry: unity, love and the Holy Spirit. They are distinct, but closely linked. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 329 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/328 Proverbs 28:18-28, Ezekiel 45:1-46:24, 1 Peter 3:1-22. What they see they believe!’*As we read yesterday, you are called to follow Jesus’ example in your life (1 Peter 2:21) Today we see some of the implications of this Mon, 24 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/328/?ignore 26:32 enclassic24112025-328 1592.58 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 328: Your Example Proverbs 28:18-28, Ezekiel 45:1-46:24, 1 Peter 3:1-22. What they see they believe!’*As we read yesterday, you are called to follow Jesus’ example in your life (1 Peter 2:21) Today we see some of the implications of this Pope Francis paused for a moment after one of his general audiences to pray, embrace and lay hands on a man with neurofibromatosis, a severely disfiguring disease. The man’s face was covered in tumours. The image of the Pope’s embrace in St Peter’s Square went viral on social media, inspiring millions by his poignant example of the love of Christ. There is great power in example. It is hard to improve if we have no other model than ourselves to follow. A good example is not only inspirational, it also gives us a pattern to copy and learn from. Not only do you benefit most from following the example of others, but your example is vital if you are to have any influence on other people. Albert Schweitzer, the French theologian, philosopher and physician said, ‘Example is not the main thing in influencing others – it is the only thing.’ More depends on your walk than on your talk, what you practice than what you preach, what you do than what you say. What people see is far more important than what they hear. People do what people see. As John Maxwell writes, ‘Eighty-nine per cent of what people learn comes through visual stimulation; ten per cent through audible stimulation and one per cent through other senses... What they hear they understand. What they see they believe!’ As we read yesterday, you are called to follow Jesus’ example in your life (1 Peter 2:21). Today we see some of the implications of this. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 328 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/327 Psalm 132:1-18, Ezekiel 43:1-44:31, 1 Peter 2:4-25. The holy temple in the New Testament is one made of ‘living stones’ (1 Peter 2:5) – in other words, people like you and me This is God’s new home Sun, 23 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/327/?ignore 28:11 enclassic23112025-327 1691.85 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 327: Where is God? Psalm 132:1-18, Ezekiel 43:1-44:31, 1 Peter 2:4-25. The holy temple in the New Testament is one made of ‘living stones’ (1 Peter 2:5) – in other words, people like you and me This is God’s new home Elie Wiesel was born into a Jewish family in Romania. He was only a teenager when he and his family were rounded up by the Nazis and taken to Auschwitz, and then to Buchenwald. In his book, Night, he gives a terrifying and intimate account of the increasing horrors he endured – the death of his parents and eight-year-old sister, and the loss of his innocence by barbaric hands. In the foreword to the book, François Mauriac writes of his encounter with Elie Wiesel: ‘On that most horrible day, even among all those other bad days, when the child witnessed the hanging (yes!) of another child who, he tells us, had the face of a sad angel, he heard someone behind him groan: “For God’s sake, where is God?” And from within me, I heard a voice answer: “Where He is? This is where – hanging here from this gallows.”’ François Mauriac goes on, ‘And I, who believe that God is love, what answer was there to give my young interlocutor... What did I say to him? Did I speak to him of that other Jew, this crucified brother who perhaps resembled him and whose cross conquered the world? ‘Did I explain to him that what had been a stumbling block for his faith had become a cornerstone for mine? And that the connection between the cross and human suffering remains, in my view, the key to the unfathomable mystery in which the faith of his childhood was lost... That is what I should have said to the Jewish child. But all I could do was embrace him and weep.’ His words point to the most profound answer to the question, ‘Where is God?’ God is in Christ. He was on the cross bearing our sins in his body. Now the crucified is among his people. Not only has he suffered for you, but he now suffers with you. In the Old Testament, the tabernacle (and later the temple) was the place where people went to meet with God. This was God’s home as we see in our Old Testament passage for today (Ezekiel 43:5). The message of our New Testament passage though is that the glory and presence of God is to be found supremely in Jesus. It is at the very moment that Jesus is rejected and crucified that God’s presence among people is finally and fully realised. From that point on there is no need for a physical temple. The only church building the New Testament speaks about is a building made of people (Ephesians 2:20–22), founded and built upon Jesus, the chief cornerstone. The holy temple in the New Testament is one made of ‘living stones’ (1 Peter 2:5) – in other words, people like you and me. This is God’s new home. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 327 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/326 Psalm 131:1-3, Ezekiel 41:1-42:20, 1 Peter 1:1-2:3. 23–25, MSG) In today’s passages, we see the implications of this new birth, the various stages of spiritual growth as a son or daughter of God and how ‘you may grow up in your salvation’ (2:2) Sat, 22 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/326/?ignore 24:00 enclassic22112025-326 1440.13 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 326: How to Grow Up Spiritually Psalm 131:1-3, Ezekiel 41:1-42:20, 1 Peter 1:1-2:3. 23–25, MSG) In today’s passages, we see the implications of this new birth, the various stages of spiritual growth as a son or daughter of God and how ‘you may grow up in your salvation’ (2:2) I remember that first night so well. Every time we heard the slightest sound, we leapt out of bed and picked him up. He was so tiny – not that much bigger than a hand. This was a new life. Our first child had been born. We were so proud. Three or four times a night, he would wake craving milk. Pippa would feed him regularly. Of course, he grew up. Now as I look at him, almost twice the size of Pippa, it is hard to believe that he was once so small. New birth is an exciting moment. So is new spiritual birth. Jesus said, ‘No one can see the kingdom of God without being born again’ (John 3:3). In our passage for today, Peter writes about ‘a new birth’ (1 Peter 1:3). ‘Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we’ve been given a brand-new life and have everything to live for’ (v.3, MSG). This spiritual birth is contrasted with natural birth, which led only to a ‘dead-end, empty-headed life you grew up in’ (v.18, MSG). New birth means you can now call God your Father (v.17). In fact, the whole Trinity is involved: ‘God the Father has his eye on each of you, and has determined by the work of the Spirit to keep you obedient through the sacrifice of Jesus’ (v.2, MSG). Physical birth will one day end with physical death. But spiritual birth leads to eternal life – ‘a future in heaven – and the future starts now!’ (v.3, MSG). Physical life is like grass that withers. But this brand new life is conceived by God himself and goes on and on for ever (vv.23–25, MSG). In today’s passages, we see the implications of this new birth, the various stages of spiritual growth as a son or daughter of God and how ‘you may grow up in your salvation’ (2:2). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 326 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/325 Psalm 130:1-8, Ezekiel 40:1-49, James 5:1-20. Watchman Nee wrote, ‘Our prayers lay the track down which God’s power can come Like a mighty locomotive, his power is irresistible, but it cannot reach us without rails Fri, 21 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/325/?ignore 23:11 enclassic21112025-325 1391.1 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 325: How to Pray with Power Psalm 130:1-8, Ezekiel 40:1-49, James 5:1-20. Watchman Nee wrote, ‘Our prayers lay the track down which God’s power can come Like a mighty locomotive, his power is irresistible, but it cannot reach us without rails I received a call from someone in our church. He wanted me to go and pray for his wife who had suddenly been admitted to hospital for an operation. As it happened, I myself had an appointment nearby to have an injection in my shoulder. I’d had a ‘frozen shoulder’ for almost two years. However, in the previous couple of days, it had suddenly got better. I explained what had happened to the consultant. He looked at me and said, ‘It’s a miracle!’ I said, ‘Don’t frozen shoulders suddenly get better?’ Over and over again, he repeated, ‘No, it is a miracle.’ Here was a secular doctor trying to persuade a rather faithless pastor that what had happened could only be explained by the supernatural power of God! I thanked him very much for raising my faith, as I was about to go and pray in the hospital. As I walked through the corridors, I passed a hospital porter who was singing (quite loudly!), ‘Lay your hands on the sick and they will be healed.’ I said, ‘That is exactly what I am about to go and do.’ He looked deeply shocked and surprised. He obviously didn’t think I looked like the sort of person who could possibly believe that! I went upstairs to pray for the woman and explained why my faith was riding high. She then said she had been reading James 5 (our passage for today), which says, ‘Is any one of you sick? Call the elders of the church to pray over you… And the prayer offered in faith will make you well’ (James 5:14–15). By now the Lord had given (even me!) enough signs to pray in faith. The Holy Spirit came upon her with great power. She was not immediately healed (although she is better now), but it gave me a greater understanding of ‘the prayer of faith’. Watchman Nee wrote, ‘Our prayers lay the track down which God’s power can come. Like a mighty locomotive, his power is irresistible, but it cannot reach us without rails.’ How then can you pray with power? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 325 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/324 Proverbs 28:7-17, Ezekiel 38:1-39:29, James 4:1-17. ’ As Albert Einstein said, ‘I do not fear the explosive power of the atom bomb What I fear is the explosive power of *evil* in the human heart Thu, 20 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/324/?ignore 24:52 enclassic20112025-324 1492.17 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 324: You Can Resist Evil Proverbs 28:7-17, Ezekiel 38:1-39:29, James 4:1-17. ’ As Albert Einstein said, ‘I do not fear the explosive power of the atom bomb What I fear is the explosive power of *evil* in the human heart With the rise of global terrorism, world leaders have spoken a great deal about vanquishing evil. But, as one writer in the Guardian pointed out, ‘Their rhetoric reveals a failure to accept that cruelty and conflict are basic human traits.’ As Albert Einstein said, ‘I do not fear the explosive power of the atom bomb. What I fear is the explosive power of evil in the human heart.' Why is there so much evil in the world? Why is there such a battle with evil in our own lives? How can you resist the devil? What will happen to the devil at the end of time? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 324 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/323 Psalm 129:1-8, Ezekiel 36:1-37:28, James 3:1-18. 3) The answer is yes, yes, yes Wed, 19 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/323/?ignore 27:32 enclassic19112025-323 1652.48 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 323: Divine Connections Psalm 129:1-8, Ezekiel 36:1-37:28, James 3:1-18. 3) The answer is yes, yes, yes God has divine connections lined up for your life. There is power in connection. Connections lead to life. When a husband and a wife come together, babies are born. When the spirit of a person and the Spirit of God come together, new birth takes place. When brothers and sisters come together in unity, God commands his blessing (Psalm 133). When the disciples came together on the day of Pentecost, there was an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The devil fears connection. His ultimate aim is to cut you off from God and each other. He tries to split marriages, to split friendships, to divide churches, to divide denominations and to isolate people. Although our culture is more connected than ever before through the internet, phones and social media, people are more isolated and lonely than ever. In 586 BC, Ezekiel had a vision of a battle scene; he saw Death Valley. The valley was full of bones; bones that were very dry because they had separated. They were scattered, fragmented, divided, cut-off, ‘abandoned’ and therefore dried up. The people of God were in exile and had been scattered by the enemy. They were saying, ‘Our bones are dried up and our hope is gone; we are cut off’ (Ezekiel 37:11). God asks Ezekiel, ‘Can these bones live?’ (v.3). The answer is yes, yes, yes. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 323 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/322 Psalm 128:1-6, Ezekiel 33:21-35:15, James 2:1-26. Centuries ago, when the people of God were in exile and despair, they cried out to God, “*How should we then live?*” (Ezekiel 33:10, KJV) The same question rings down through the ages Tue, 18 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/322/?ignore 25:28 enclassic18112025-322 1528.82 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 322: How Now Shall We Live? Psalm 128:1-6, Ezekiel 33:21-35:15, James 2:1-26. Centuries ago, when the people of God were in exile and despair, they cried out to God, “*How should we then live?*” (Ezekiel 33:10, KJV) The same question rings down through the ages How Now Shall We Live? is the title of a book by Chuck Colson, former ‘hatchet-man’ of President Nixon, founder of Prison Fellowship, whose life was completely changed as a result of an encounter with Jesus Christ. Centuries ago, when the people of God were in exile and despair, they cried out to God, “How should we then live?” (Ezekiel 33:10, KJV). The same question rings down through the ages. As ‘believers in our Lord Jesus Christ’ (James 2:1), how now shall we live? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 322 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/321 Psalm 127:1-5, Ezekiel 32:1-33:20, James 1:1-27. At any given moment, I find there are a number of different things going on at the same time In the passages for today we see five of these aspects, which all begin with the letter T Mon, 17 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/321/?ignore 26:24 enclassic17112025-321 1584.54 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 321: Five Ts of the Christian Life Psalm 127:1-5, Ezekiel 32:1-33:20, James 1:1-27. At any given moment, I find there are a number of different things going on at the same time In the passages for today we see five of these aspects, which all begin with the letter T The Christian life is multi-faceted. At any given moment, I find there are a number of different things going on at the same time. In the passages for today we see five of these aspects, which all begin with the letter T. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 321 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/320 Proverbs 27:23-28:6, Ezekiel 30:1-31:18, Hebrews 13:1-25. The Christian community, the church, is the community of our Lord Jesus, the ‘great Shepherd of the sheep’ (Hebrews 13:20) Each local church is called to be a community of the great Shepherd Sun, 16 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/320/?ignore 24:13 enclassic16112025-320 1453.06 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 320: Eight Characteristics of Christian Community Proverbs 27:23-28:6, Ezekiel 30:1-31:18, Hebrews 13:1-25. The Christian community, the church, is the community of our Lord Jesus, the ‘great Shepherd of the sheep’ (Hebrews 13:20) Each local church is called to be a community of the great Shepherd Former England football captain David Beckham recounts being sent off in the 1998 World Cup Finals: ‘It was probably the longest walk in my life… looking back I’m not sure what thoughts were going through my mind: it was a swirl of fear, guilt, anger, worry and confusion. My head was spinning… I walked into the dressing room. The rules stated that I had to stay in there for the remainder of the match.’ England lost. We were out of the World Cup. ‘When the England players came back into the dressing room, no one breathed a word to me. There was almost complete silence. I could feel my stomach tightening even more. I gulped, breathed in, and gulped again. I was in a packed changing room but I had never felt so lonely in my life. I was isolated and afraid... I was trapped in my own sense of guilt and anxiety.’ God does not intend for you to be lonely and isolated. God created you for community – calling you into relationship with him and with other human beings. The Christian community, the church, is the community of our Lord Jesus, the ‘great Shepherd of the sheep’ (Hebrews 13:20). Each local church is called to be a community of the great Shepherd. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 320 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/319 Psalm 126:1-6, Ezekiel 28:1-29:21, Hebrews 12:14-29. H Spurgeon pointed out, ‘three results of nearness to Jesus’ – happiness, holiness and humility Sat, 15 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/319/?ignore 23:23 enclassic15112025-319 1403.04 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 319: Why and How to Worship Psalm 126:1-6, Ezekiel 28:1-29:21, Hebrews 12:14-29. H Spurgeon pointed out, ‘three results of nearness to Jesus’ – happiness, holiness and humility Why is worship important? What are you doing when you worship God? The writer of Hebrews urges us to ‘worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for your “God is a consuming fire”’ (Hebrews 12:28–29). The common theme in all three passages for today is Mount Zion (Psalm 126:1), ‘the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God’ (Hebrews 12:22), ‘the holy mount of God’ (Ezekiel 28:14,16). This is the place of the presence of God, where God is worshipped both in the old and new covenant. However, there is a difference between the two. You no longer have to go to a specific physical place to experience the presence of God. Because of Jesus, the ‘mediator of a new covenant’ (Hebrews 12:24a), you can worship anywhere. Jesus is the one who has made this new relationship with God possible through his death on the cross for you and me. Your ‘holy mountain’, where you can worship Jesus, is the whole earth, and this anticipates the ‘heavenly Jerusalem’ we read about in our passage from Hebrews, and which is described in Revelation 21 – the new heaven and new earth. As you draw close to Jesus in worship there are, as C.H. Spurgeon pointed out, ‘three results of nearness to Jesus’ – happiness, holiness and humility. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 319 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/318 Psalm 125:1-5, Ezekiel 26:1-27:36, Hebrews 12:1-13. In each of the passages for today, you see what you need to do in order to run ‘the race marked out for \[you\]’ (v 1), as well as some of the results of doing so Fri, 14 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/318/?ignore 23:38 enclassic14112025-318 1418.16 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 318: The Race Marked Out for You Psalm 125:1-5, Ezekiel 26:1-27:36, Hebrews 12:1-13. In each of the passages for today, you see what you need to do in order to run ‘the race marked out for \[you\]’ (v 1), as well as some of the results of doing so When I was nineteen I took part, on a whim, without any training, in ‘The Boundary Run’. It was slightly longer than a marathon and involved running around the boundary of the city of Cambridge, with much of it across ploughed fields. For the first 14 miles, I was fine. After that, various bits of my body started to seize up. Although I completed the race in a reasonable time, it took me weeks to recover. Running a marathon without training is not a wise thing to do. The writer of Hebrews says that the Christian life is like running a race. It is more like a marathon than a sprint. We are ‘long-distance runners’ (Hebrews 12:13, MSG). It requires training, endurance and discipline ‘if we are not to grow weary and lose heart’ (v.3). In each of the passages for today, you see what you need to do in order to run ‘the race marked out for [you]’ (v.1), as well as some of the results of doing so. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 318 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/317 Psalm 124:1-8, Ezekiel 24:1-25:17, Hebrews 11:17-40. This became the expression that Paton used Faith is *leaning your whole weight upon Jesus* Thu, 13 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/317/?ignore 23:17 enclassic13112025-317 1397.21 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 317: Three Ways You Can Exercise Faith Psalm 124:1-8, Ezekiel 24:1-25:17, Hebrews 11:17-40. This became the expression that Paton used Faith is *leaning your whole weight upon Jesus* The islanders were cannibals. Nobody trusted anybody else. His life was in constant danger. He had come to tell them the good news about Jesus. He wanted to translate John’s Gospel into their language, but he discovered that there was no word in their language for ‘trust’, ‘belief’ or ‘faith’. John Paton (1824–1907), a Scot, had travelled to the New Hebrides (a group of islands in the south-west Pacific) determined to tell the tribal people about Jesus, but he struggled to find the right word for ‘faith’. One day, when his indigenous servant came in, Paton raised both feet off the floor, sat back in his chair and asked, ‘What am I doing now?’ In reply, the servant used a word that means, ‘to lean your whole weight upon’. This became the expression that Paton used. Faith is leaning your whole weight upon Jesus. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 317 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/316 Proverbs 27:15-22, Ezekiel 22:23-23:49, Hebrews 11:1-16. The writer of Hebrews says, ‘Now *faith* is *being* *sure* of what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see’ (Hebrews 11:1) St Augustine wrote, ‘God does not expect us to submit our faith to him without reason, but the very limits of our reason make faith a necessity Wed, 12 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/316/?ignore 24:57 enclassic12112025-316 1497.1 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 316: What is Faith? Proverbs 27:15-22, Ezekiel 22:23-23:49, Hebrews 11:1-16. The writer of Hebrews says, ‘Now *faith* is *being* *sure* of what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see’ (Hebrews 11:1) St Augustine wrote, ‘God does not expect us to submit our faith to him without reason, but the very limits of our reason make faith a necessity I studied law at university and practised as a barrister for a number of years. I was involved in many criminal trials where the judge told the jury that they had to reach a verdict – but they could not find the defendant guilty unless they were ‘satisfied so that they felt sure’. Every such verdict was an act of faith. The jury was not there at the time the crime was committed. They had to believe the evidence. Faith and ‘being sure’ are not opposed. The writer of Hebrews says, ‘Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see’ (Hebrews 11:1). St Augustine wrote, ‘God does not expect us to submit our faith to him without reason, but the very limits of our reason make faith a necessity.’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 316 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/315 Psalm 123:1-4, Ezekiel 20:45-22:22, Hebrews 10:19-39. The writer of Hebrews encourages his readers not to be ‘quitters’ but ‘to stick it out’ (vv 34–39, MSG) Tue, 11 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/315/?ignore 26:11 enclassic11112025-315 1571.03 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 315: Stick At It Psalm 123:1-4, Ezekiel 20:45-22:22, Hebrews 10:19-39. The writer of Hebrews encourages his readers not to be ‘quitters’ but ‘to stick it out’ (vv 34–39, MSG) Maryam and Marziyeh were arrested in Iran in 2009. Their crime: being Christians. They were blindfolded, interrogated and became ill during their time in prison. They were taken to court. Mr Haddad, the prosecuting lawyer, asked the two women if they were Christians. ‘We love Jesus,’ they replied. He repeated his question and they responded, ‘Yes, we are Christians.’ Mr Haddad asked whether they regretted becoming Christians, to which they replied, ‘We have no regrets.’ Then he stated emphatically, ‘You should renounce your faith verbally and in written form.’ They stood firm and replied, ‘We will not deny our faith.’ When Mr Haddad told the women to return to prison to think about their options and come back to him when they were ready (to comply), Maryam and Marziyeh responded, ‘We have already done our thinking.’ The author of Hebrews writes to Christians who are the subject of persecution: ‘You stood your ground in a great contest in the face of suffering’ (Hebrews 10:32) – as Maryam and Marziyeh did before their prosecutors. (Thank God they have been released – we interviewed them as part of the Alpha Film Series: https://alpha.org/watch/alpha-film-series/) The will to persevere is often the difference between success and failure. This is true of learning a new skill or sport or achieving success at school or work. It's been said, ‘Observe the postage stamp; its usefulness depends on the ability to stick to one thing till it gets there.’ ‘Stickability’ is also a key to the Christian life. If you want to learn to read the Bible, pray, resist evil or whatever else, learn to persevere. The writer of Hebrews encourages his readers not to be ‘quitters’ but ‘to stick it out’ (vv.34–39, MSG). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 315 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/314 Psalm 122:1-9, Ezekiel 19:1-20:44, Hebrews 10:1-18. it is *irresistible* Mon, 10 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/314/?ignore 25:29 enclassic10112025-314 1529.03 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 314: Beauty Psalm 122:1-9, Ezekiel 19:1-20:44, Hebrews 10:1-18. it is *irresistible* ‘The serene beauty of a holy life is the most powerful influence in the world next to the power of God,’ according to Blaise Pascal. Holiness is beautiful and it has nothing to do with outward beauty. It is a beauty that radiates from within. This is the way the world will be changed. It starts with you and me. St Francis of Assisi said, ‘Sanctify yourself and you will sanctify society.’ Holiness is not an optional extra. It is not just for saints and special Christians. It should be something we all aspire to in this life. Holiness is not the same thing as intensity. Intensity is not a fruit of the Holy Spirit! The ability to laugh at yourself is key to holiness. Take Jesus seriously but don’t take yourself too seriously. A sense of humour is the link between holiness and humility. Holiness is not boring. As C.S. Lewis wrote, ‘How little people know who think that holiness is dull. When one meets the real thing... it is irresistible.’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 314 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/313 Psalm 121:1-8, Ezekiel 17:1-18:32, Hebrews 9:16-28. ‘We have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ *once for all*’ (10:10) This ‘*once*’ event stemmed from God’s great love for us and has huge implications for your life and mine Sun, 09 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/313/?ignore 25:07 enclassic09112025-313 1507.4 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 313: Once For All Psalm 121:1-8, Ezekiel 17:1-18:32, Hebrews 9:16-28. ‘We have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ *once for all*’ (10:10) This ‘*once*’ event stemmed from God’s great love for us and has huge implications for your life and mine Once, on 7 January 1978, I stood as the bridegroom at the front of Holy Trinity Brompton (HTB) Church in London. The bride, Pippa Hislop, walked down the aisle with her father and joined me at the front of the church. We made our vows to each other before God and we were united in marriage. We left the church as ‘Mr and Mrs Gumbel’. It was a ‘once’ event, but it has had huge implications for our lives. It stemmed from our love for each other and we committed ourselves to love one another until the end of our lives. Almost four years before that, on 16 February 1974, I had encountered Jesus Christ for the first time. A love relationship began, which has utterly transformed my life. It was another ‘once’ event, but the implications and effect of that ‘once’ event are ongoing and all-encompassing. I experienced God’s love for me and committed myself to love him for ever. In today’s New Testament passage, the writer of Hebrews speaks of the greatest ‘once’ event of all time. It changed the course of history and has the potential to change all of our lives. Jesus has appeared ‘once for all’ (Hebrews 9:26). ‘Christ was sacrificed once’ (v.28). Jesus entered the Most Holy Place ‘once for all by his own blood’ (v.12). ‘We have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all’ (10:10). This ‘once’ event stemmed from God’s great love for us and has huge implications for your life and mine. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 313 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/312 Proverbs 27:5-14, Ezekiel 16:1-63, Hebrews 9:1-15. The ‘*precious blood of Christ*’ (1 Peter 1:19) is stressed throughout the whole New Testament:- It makes *forgiveness* possible (Colossians 1:14)- It *purifies* you from every sin (1 John 1:7)- Through it, you *draw near to God* (Ephesians 2:13)- It brings *peace and reconciliation* (Colossians 1:20)- It *gives life* (John 6:53)- It enables you to *overcome Satan* (Revelation 12:11) In today’s passages, we see different aspects of what all of this means Sat, 08 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/312/?ignore 27:39 enclassic08112025-312 1659.25 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 312: Meet Your Blood Donor Proverbs 27:5-14, Ezekiel 16:1-63, Hebrews 9:1-15. The ‘*precious blood of Christ*’ (1 Peter 1:19) is stressed throughout the whole New Testament:- It makes *forgiveness* possible (Colossians 1:14)- It *purifies* you from every sin (1 John 1:7)- Through it, you *draw near to God* (Ephesians 2:13)- It brings *peace and reconciliation* (Colossians 1:20)- It *gives life* (John 6:53)- It enables you to *overcome Satan* (Revelation 12:11) In today’s passages, we see different aspects of what all of this means Our god-daughter’s second child, Hazy, was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2015. Medically, her only hope was a matching donor. A young German man, who has to remain anonymous, sacrificially gave his bone marrow. Wonderfully, his donation saved Hazy’s life. Can you imagine what it would be like for Hazy to meet her donor? (Read more of Hazy’s story here.) In an even more remarkable way, you can meet your blood donor. Jesus came ‘to give his life as a ransom for many’ (Mark 10:45). At the last supper, when Jesus took the cup, he said: ‘This is my blood of the covenant’ (Matthew 26:28; Mark 14:24). The ‘precious blood of Christ’ (1 Peter 1:19) is stressed throughout the whole New Testament: It makes forgiveness possible (Colossians 1:14) It purifies you from every sin (1 John 1:7) Through it, you draw near to God (Ephesians 2:13) It brings peace and reconciliation (Colossians 1:20) It gives life (John 6:53) It enables you to overcome Satan (Revelation 12:11). In today’s passages, we see different aspects of what all of this means. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 312 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/311 Psalm 120:1-7, Ezekiel 13:1-15:8, Hebrews 8:1-13. Loneliness has been described as ‘a homesickness for God’ God created you for community – calling you into a loving relationship with him and with other human beings Fri, 07 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/311/?ignore 24:01 enclassic07112025-311 1441.04 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 311: The Answer to Loneliness Psalm 120:1-7, Ezekiel 13:1-15:8, Hebrews 8:1-13. Loneliness has been described as ‘a homesickness for God’ God created you for community – calling you into a loving relationship with him and with other human beings I remember reading an article in The Big Issue (the magazine sold by, and in aid of, the homeless) called ‘Single Lives’. It pointed out that most people’s image of loneliness in London is of a frail old lady stuck on the twenty-fourth floor of a block of flats. In reality, it could equally be a young, fashionably dressed guy trying desperately to make conversation with a girl standing next to him in a crowded bar. Being surrounded by so many people only compounds the feeling of isolation. Mother Teresa said, ‘Loneliness and the feeling of being uncared for and unwanted are the greatest poverty.’ Loneliness is one of the greatest problems facing humanity today. ‘The solitary human being is a contradiction in terms,’ writes Desmond Tutu. He continues, ‘We are made for complementarity. We are created for a delicate network of relationships, of interdependence with our fellow human beings... We belong in one family – God’s family, the human family... the greatest good is communal harmony.’ God does not intend for you to be lonely and isolated. Loneliness has been described as ‘a homesickness for God’. God created you for community – calling you into a loving relationship with him and with other human beings. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 311 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/310 Psalm 119:169-176, Ezekiel 10:1-12:28, Hebrews 7:11-28. You come to him *through* *Jesus*, the man who is God, our Lord, brother and friend Your prayers are inspired by *the Holy Spirit of God,* who lives within your heart Thu, 06 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/310/?ignore 27:29 enclassic06112025-310 1649.11 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 310: It’s Who You Know Psalm 119:169-176, Ezekiel 10:1-12:28, Hebrews 7:11-28. You come to him *through* *Jesus*, the man who is God, our Lord, brother and friend Your prayers are inspired by *the Holy Spirit of God,* who lives within your heart During the American Civil War, as a result of a family tragedy, a soldier was granted permission to seek a hearing from the President. He wanted to request exemption from military service. However, when he arrived at the White House, he was refused entry and sent away. He went and sat in a nearby park. A young boy came across him and remarked how unhappy he looked. The soldier found himself telling the young boy everything. Eventually the boy said, ‘Come with me.’ He led the dejected soldier back to the White House. They went around the back, none of the guards stopped them. Even the generals and high-ranking government officials stood to attention and let them pass through. The soldier was amazed. Finally, they came to the presidential office. Without knocking, the young boy opened the door and walked straight in. Abraham Lincoln, standing there, turned from his conversation with the Secretary of State and said, ‘What can I do for you, Tad?’ Tad said, ‘Dad, this soldier needs to talk to you.’ In this possibly fictional story, the soldier had access to the President ‘through the son’. According to the New Testament, in an even more amazing way, in truth, you, certainly, have access to God ‘through the son’ – Jesus. Many people pray, but not all prayer is Christian. Christian prayer is distinctive – it is Trinitarian. St Paul writes, ‘Through him [Jesus] we have access to the Father by one Spirit’ (Ephesians 2:18). This is why prayer is such an immense privilege. You are able to speak to God, the creator of the universe, as your Father. You come to him through Jesus, the man who is God, our Lord, brother and friend. Your prayers are inspired by the Holy Spirit of God, who lives within your heart. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 310 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/309 Psalm 119:161-168, Ezekiel 7:1-9:11, Hebrews 6:13-7:10. Faith involves trusting the promises of God God makes a promise; faith believes it, hope anticipates it, patience quietly waits for it Wed, 05 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/309/?ignore 26:28 enclassic05112025-309 1588.43 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 309: The Promises of God Psalm 119:161-168, Ezekiel 7:1-9:11, Hebrews 6:13-7:10. Faith involves trusting the promises of God God makes a promise; faith believes it, hope anticipates it, patience quietly waits for it Billy Bray, born in 1794, was a miner from Cornwall. He was an alcoholic. He was always getting involved with fights and arguments at home. At the age of twenty-nine he encountered Jesus. He went home and told his wife, ‘You will never see me drunk again, by the help of the Lord.’ She never did. His words, his tone of voice and his looks all had magnetic power. It was as if he was charged with divine electricity. Crowds of miners would come and hear him preach. Many were converted and there were some remarkable healings. He loved the Bible and said, ‘The promises of God are just as good as ready money any day.’ God is the God of promise. Faith involves trusting the promises of God. God makes a promise; faith believes it, hope anticipates it, patience quietly waits for it. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 309 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/308 Proverbs 26:23-27:4, Ezekiel 4:1-6:14, Hebrews 5:11-6:12. He does not want you to get hurt There are many warnings in the Bible and they all stem from God’s love for you Tue, 04 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/308/?ignore 24:42 enclassic04112025-308 1482.63 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 308: Loving Warnings Proverbs 26:23-27:4, Ezekiel 4:1-6:14, Hebrews 5:11-6:12. He does not want you to get hurt There are many warnings in the Bible and they all stem from God’s love for you These days, practically everything you buy seems to carry some kind of warning on it. Some of these warnings can seem a little ridiculous. For example: Sainsbury’s peanuts: ‘Warning – Contains nuts’ Nytol Nighttime Sleep-Aid: ‘Warning – May cause drowsiness’ On a household DIY drill: ‘Not intended for use as dentist drill’ Because so many warnings seem almost absurd, the danger is that we ignore them. But not all warnings are so ridiculous. A foggy day, on 13 March 1991, led to one of Britain’s worst road accidents. Ten people died and twenty-five people were injured in a disaster on the M4 motorway. In the midst of the accident one man was hailed as a hero. Alan Bateman climbed out of his damaged car and ran along the central reservation to try to warn oncoming vehicles of the wreckage ahead. Not all appreciated the warnings. Some drivers sounded their horns at him and drove on towards the crash. Alan’s warnings to the other drivers were not only heroic; they were an act of love. Jesus himself often warned of dangers ahead (see for example Matthew 7:13,19,26–27). Jesus knew that in the long run it is more loving to warn people by telling them the truth. God loves you. He does not want you to get hurt. There are many warnings in the Bible and they all stem from God’s love for you. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 308 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/307 Psalm 119:153-160, Ezekiel 1:1-3:27, Hebrews 4:14-5:10. The priestly work of Jesus is hinted at elsewhere, for example, the ‘high priestly’ prayer of Jesus in John’s Gospel (John 17) and the ‘beloved disciple’s’ description of Jesus as ‘advocate with the Father’ (1 John 2:1) But it is here in the book of Hebrews that the theme is taken up and expounded Mon, 03 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/307/?ignore 25:16 enclassic03112025-307 1516.75 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 307: How Can You Approach God? Psalm 119:153-160, Ezekiel 1:1-3:27, Hebrews 4:14-5:10. The priestly work of Jesus is hinted at elsewhere, for example, the ‘high priestly’ prayer of Jesus in John’s Gospel (John 17) and the ‘beloved disciple’s’ description of Jesus as ‘advocate with the Father’ (1 John 2:1) But it is here in the book of Hebrews that the theme is taken up and expounded The more I study it, the more I love it. The Book of Hebrews appears to be addressed to Jewish Christians. It is written in a way that seems strange to our modern ears – the language is steeped in the Old Testament. It deals with this vital question: How can you approach God? The author’s answer is: through Jesus, our Great High Priest. The high priesthood of Jesus is the pinnacle of the letter. It is the only New Testament document that expressly calls Jesus a Priest. The priestly work of Jesus is hinted at elsewhere, for example, the ‘high priestly’ prayer of Jesus in John’s Gospel (John 17) and the ‘beloved disciple’s’ description of Jesus as ‘advocate with the Father’ (1 John 2:1). But it is here in the book of Hebrews that the theme is taken up and expounded. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 307 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/306 Psalm 119:145-152, Joel 2:18-3:21, Hebrews 4:1-13. In the book of Joel, there is a division of destiny between those who call on the name of the Lord and those who do not (Joel 2:32) Joel goes on to say, ‘Multitudes, multitudes in the *valley of decision*! For the day of the Lord is near in the *valley of decision*’ (3:14) Sun, 02 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/306/?ignore 19:17 enclassic02112025-306 1157.02 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 306: Destiny Defining Decisions Psalm 119:145-152, Joel 2:18-3:21, Hebrews 4:1-13. In the book of Joel, there is a division of destiny between those who call on the name of the Lord and those who do not (Joel 2:32) Joel goes on to say, ‘Multitudes, multitudes in the *valley of decision*! For the day of the Lord is near in the *valley of decision*’ (3:14) Every day we make decisions – what to wear, what to eat and what to do. There are little decisions and big decisions. Perhaps, for most people, the biggest decisions in life are about relationships, marriage (whether to marry and whom to marry) and work. But these decisions pale into insignificance beside the great decision. The great decision is how you respond to God. Bernard Levin, perhaps the most influential Times columnist of the twentieth century, described his experience of trying to decide about the Christian faith in these terms: ‘People such as me who hover on the edge of the swimming pool, simultaneously longing and fearing to jump…’ All the way through the Bible, the importance of this destiny defining decision is stressed. We can see it in all of today’s passages. There is a division of destiny between those who are far and those who are near (Psalm 119). There is a division of destiny between those who hear the gospel and respond with faith, and those who do not combine it with faith (Hebrews 4:2). In the book of Joel, there is a division of destiny between those who call on the name of the Lord and those who do not (Joel 2:32). Joel goes on to say, ‘Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision! For the day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision’ (3:14). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 306 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/305 Psalm 119:137-144, Joel 1:1-2:17, Hebrews 3:1-19. However, you can see in these same scriptures that the secret to dealing with these is to ‘*fix your thoughts* on Jesus’ (v 1) Sat, 01 Nov 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/305/?ignore 20:33 enclassic01112025-305 1233.27 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 305: Fix Your Thoughts Psalm 119:137-144, Joel 1:1-2:17, Hebrews 3:1-19. However, you can see in these same scriptures that the secret to dealing with these is to ‘*fix your thoughts* on Jesus’ (v 1) When the British people are asked who the greatest Briton of all time was, Sir Winston Churchill usually tops the poll. If you were to ask an American who the greatest American was, they might reply George Washington or Abraham Lincoln. If you asked a Jew at the start of the first century AD who the greatest Jew was, without a doubt they would have said ‘Moses’. Moses was the supreme figure of their history. He had rescued them from slavery and given them the Law. The writer of Hebrews describes to Jewish Christians how Jesus is greater than Moses. His argument is that, in spite of the greatness of Moses, Jesus is in a completely different league. Jesus is the ‘centrepiece of everything we believe’ (Hebrews 3:1, MSG); ‘he has been found worthy of honour greater than Moses, just as the builder of a house has greater honour than the house itself’ (v.3). ‘Moses was faithful as a servant’ (v.5); ‘Christ is faithful as a Son over God’s house’ (v.6). The themes for today’s passages are trouble and distress, testing times, and trials and tribulations. However, you can see in these same scriptures that the secret to dealing with these is to ‘fix your thoughts on Jesus’ (v.1). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 305 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/304 Proverbs 26:13-22, Obadiah 1-21, Hebrews 2:1-18. He is both the *author* of our faith and the *author* of our salvation (2:10), described earlier as such a ‘*great salvation*’ (v 3) Fri, 31 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/304/?ignore 18:17 enclassic31102025-304 1097.04 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 304: The Surprising Secret of Freedom Proverbs 26:13-22, Obadiah 1-21, Hebrews 2:1-18. He is both the *author* of our faith and the *author* of our salvation (2:10), described earlier as such a ‘*great salvation*’ (v 3) ‘I have on my table a violin string,’ wrote Rabindranath Tagore. ‘It is free to move in any direction I like. If I twist one end it responds; it is free. But it is not free to sing. So I take it and fix it into my violin. I bind it and when it is bound, it is free for the first time to sing.’ True freedom comes when we bind ourselves to Jesus and fix our eyes on him. As the violin string comes alive when bound into the violin, so we come alive in Christ. Jesus is the great liberator. He sets us free. At the heart of Christianity is a relationship with Jesus. Jesus died for you. He was raised to life and he is alive today. You cannot see him physically, but you can see him with the eyes of faith. In today’s passage, the writer of Hebrews says, ‘we see Jesus’ (Hebrews 2:9). Later, he writes, ‘let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith’ (12:2). He is both the author of our faith and the author of our salvation (2:10), described earlier as such a ‘great salvation’ (v.3). What does this salvation involve? What are we freed from? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 304 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/303 Psalm 119:129-136, Lamentations 3:40-5:22, Hebrews 1:1-14. Your key to understanding God’s character is Jesus Your key to life is Jesus Thu, 30 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/303/?ignore 22:38 enclassic30102025-303 1358.5 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 303: Your Key to Life Psalm 119:129-136, Lamentations 3:40-5:22, Hebrews 1:1-14. Your key to understanding God’s character is Jesus Your key to life is Jesus Madonna said, ‘When I was growing up... Jesus Christ was like a movie star, my favourite idol of all.’ Napoleon Bonaparte said, ‘I know men and I tell you that Jesus Christ is no mere man.’ Novelist H.G. Wells said, ‘I am an historian, I am not a believer. But this penniless preacher from Galilee is irresistibly the centre of history.’ Even people who would not describe themselves as followers of the ‘penniless preacher’ recognise that there is something extraordinary about Jesus. No one, not even angels, can compare to Jesus (Hebrews 1:1–14). If you want to know what God is like, look at Jesus. He said, ‘Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father’ (John 14:9). Everything you read and understand about God through the Bible needs to be read through the lens of Jesus. He is the ultimate revelation of God. Your key to getting your life sorted out is Jesus. Your key to understanding the Bible is Jesus. Your key to understanding God’s character is Jesus. Your key to life is Jesus. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 303 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/302 Psalm 119:121-128, Lamentations 2:7-3:39, Philemon 1-25. Later on in the letter, Paul asks him to ‘*refresh my heart* in Christ’ (v 20) Wed, 29 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/302/?ignore 22:54 enclassic29102025-302 1374.77 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 302: How to Refresh Your Mind, Heart and Soul Psalm 119:121-128, Lamentations 2:7-3:39, Philemon 1-25. Later on in the letter, Paul asks him to ‘*refresh my heart* in Christ’ (v 20) The former televangelist, Jim Bakker, in his autobiography I Was Wrong, tells of his descent into ignominy, impoverishment and imprisonment for accounting fraud. He lost his freedom, his sanity, his dignity, his confidence in his faith and, eventually, even his wife. Inmate 07407-058, one-time friend and advisor of presidents, had hit rock bottom. At his very lowest point, a prison official told him, ‘Billy Graham is here to see you!’ He thought, ‘Billy Graham has come here... to this place... to see me.’ When he walked into the room, Billy Graham turned towards him and opened his arms wide. At that moment, Jim Bakker felt total acceptance and love: ‘I will never forget that the man who had just been voted one of the most influential men in the world and who has ministered to millions of people took time out of his busy schedule to come minister to one prisoner.’ He describes how in the midst of his depression, flu, filth and hopelessness, Billy Graham’s visit refreshed his heart and boosted his spirit. ‘I felt as though Jesus Himself had come to visit me.’ Refreshment means restoring strength, energy and vigour. A light snack is sometimes referred to as a ‘refreshment’. Physical refreshment can also come, for example, from sleep, rest, or exercise. Paul tells Philemon that he has ‘refreshed the hearts of the saints’ (Philemon 7). Later on in the letter, Paul asks him to ‘refresh my heart in Christ’ (v.20). But how do you refresh your mind, heart and soul? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 302 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/301 Psalm 119:113-120, Lamentations 1:1-2:6, Titus 3:1-15. 8,14) To quote John Wesley, ‘Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can Tue, 28 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/301/?ignore 20:13 enclassic28102025-301 1213.44 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 301: Do Good Psalm 119:113-120, Lamentations 1:1-2:6, Titus 3:1-15. 8,14) To quote John Wesley, ‘Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can There are some people in our church community who never seem to stop doing good. Whenever I see them, they are serving or washing up, praying for someone, encouraging others, offering to take food to the sick, or doing some other kind act. They give generously to the work of the church. They do all these things with such grace and enthusiasm. I am always encouraged and challenged by their example. They never seem to tire of doing good. In our society, the term ‘do-gooder’ has become pejorative; it is used as an insult. But doing good should not be seen in this way. Jesus, ‘went around doing good’ (Acts 10:38). St Paul writes to Titus, ‘Remind the people… to be ready to do whatever is good’ (Titus 3:1). His desire is that those who have trusted in God ‘devote themselves to doing what is good’ (vv.8,14). To quote John Wesley, ‘Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 301 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/300 Proverbs 26:3-12, Habakkuk 1:1-3:19, Titus 2:1-15. I have often heard it said that ‘the Bible is full of contradictions’ It is certainly true that there are many *apparent* contradictions Mon, 27 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/300/?ignore 23:26 enclassic27102025-300 1406.48 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 300: Challenging Contradictions Proverbs 26:3-12, Habakkuk 1:1-3:19, Titus 2:1-15. I have often heard it said that ‘the Bible is full of contradictions’ It is certainly true that there are many *apparent* contradictions I have often heard it said that ‘the Bible is full of contradictions’. It is certainly true that there are many apparent contradictions. When faced with challenging contradictions: seek to harmonise the apparent contradictions within the message of the Bible as a whole avoid artificial means of harmonisation be patient – be prepared to wait and live with unresolved questions Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 300 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/299 Psalm 119:105-112, Jeremiah 52:1-34, Titus 1:1-16. There is a line in the film *The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel*: ‘Everything will be all right in the end… If it’s not all right, then it is not the end ’ Way beyond its context in the film, these words convey a profound theological truth Sun, 26 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/299/?ignore 19:43 enclassic26102025-299 1183.11 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 299: If It’s Not All Right, Then It’s Not the End Psalm 119:105-112, Jeremiah 52:1-34, Titus 1:1-16. There is a line in the film *The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel*: ‘Everything will be all right in the end… If it’s not all right, then it is not the end ’ Way beyond its context in the film, these words convey a profound theological truth There is a line in the film The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel: ‘Everything will be all right in the end… If it’s not all right, then it is not the end.’ Way beyond its context in the film, these words convey a profound theological truth. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 299 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/298 Psalm 119:97-104, Jeremiah 51:15-64, 2 Timothy 4:1-22. His whole life has been about telling others the good news of Jesus His last words urge Timothy to do the same Sat, 25 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/298/?ignore 24:19 enclassic25102025-298 1459.54 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 298: Your Most Valuable Possession Psalm 119:97-104, Jeremiah 51:15-64, 2 Timothy 4:1-22. His whole life has been about telling others the good news of Jesus His last words urge Timothy to do the same As the novelist, historian and poet, Sir Walter Scott (1771–1832), lay dying, he turned to his great friend and son-in-law, J.G. Lockhart – the man who was later to write his life story – and said, ‘Will you read to me from the Book?’ Lockhart wondered which of his many books he meant – for he knew he was a great writer. So he asked, ‘Which book?’ ‘Which book?’ replied Scott, ‘There is but one book; bring the Bible.’ In his last moments on earth, he was comforted and encouraged by what God had to say to him. His last words were about his most valuable possession. In the case of the apostle Paul, we don’t exactly know what his last words were. However, we do have his last recorded words; they are in our passage for today. As he comes to the end of this letter he writes, ‘The time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith’ (2 Timothy 4:7). We see his passion for Jesus Christ and his word. His whole life has been about telling others the good news of Jesus. His last words urge Timothy to do the same. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 298 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/297 Psalm 119:89-96, Jeremiah 50:11-51:14, 2 Timothy 3:1-17. It actually has God’s breath, his Spirit, in it Through the Bible, God speaks to you Fri, 24 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/297/?ignore 23:21 enclassic24102025-297 1401.47 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 297: How God Speaks to You Psalm 119:89-96, Jeremiah 50:11-51:14, 2 Timothy 3:1-17. It actually has God’s breath, his Spirit, in it Through the Bible, God speaks to you Fyodor was a wild young man. His life revolved around eating, drinking, talking, music, theatre and the company of women. He dreamt of fame. He was caught up in a movement for political and social reform in Russia during the repressive reign of Tsar Nicholas I. He was arrested, tried and condemned to be executed. On a bitterly cold morning, the prisoners were taken out to be shot. The prison guards raised their muskets to their shoulders and took aim. At the last moment, a white flag was raised to announce that the Tsar had commuted their sentence to life imprisonment in Siberia. On his arrival in Siberia on Christmas Eve 1849, at the age of twenty-eight, two women slipped him a New Testament. When the guard turned away momentarily, they suggested he should search the pages thoroughly. He did. While in prison, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, the great Russian novelist, read the New Testament from cover to cover and learnt much of it by heart. He wrote, ‘I believe that there is no one lovelier, deeper, more sympathetic and more perfect than Jesus. I say to myself with jealous love not only is there no one else like him, but there never could be anyone like him.’ It was through the Bible that he had encountered Jesus Christ. The apostle Paul describes all Scripture as ‘God-breathed’ (2 Timothy 3:16). The Bible is not just inspired in the way that artists, poets, composers and musical performers can be said to be inspired. It actually has God’s breath, his Spirit, in it. Through the Bible, God speaks to you. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 297 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/296 Proverbs 25:21-26:2, Jeremiah 49:7-50:10, 2 Timothy 2:1-26. 21) starts with dedicating your life to him and re-dedicating it regularly to his service St Paul encourages us, ‘Become the kind of container God can use to present any and every kind of gift to his guests for their blessing’ (2 Timothy 2:20–21, MSG) Thu, 23 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/296/?ignore 24:39 enclassic23102025-296 1479.24 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 296: Twenty-Five Ways to Be Useful to God Proverbs 25:21-26:2, Jeremiah 49:7-50:10, 2 Timothy 2:1-26. 21) starts with dedicating your life to him and re-dedicating it regularly to his service St Paul encourages us, ‘Become the kind of container God can use to present any and every kind of gift to his guests for their blessing’ (2 Timothy 2:20–21, MSG) Queen Elizabeth II declared on her twenty-first birthday broadcast, ‘My whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service…’ As the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, said in his address at her funeral on 19 September 2022, ‘Rarely has such a promise been so well kept... Her example was not set through her position or her ambition, but through whom she followed. In silent prayer… her allegiance to God was given before any person gave allegiance to her. Her service to so many people in this nation, the Commonwealth and the world, had its foundation in her following Christ.’ In the seventy years of her reign, Queen Elizabeth has set an example of a leader who dedicated her life to the service of Christ and of others. As John Stott wrote: ‘No higher honour could be imagined than to be an instrument in the hand of Jesus Christ, to be at his disposal for the furtherance of his purposes, to be available whenever wanted for his service.’ Being ‘useful to the Master’ and ‘instruments for noble purposes’ (v.21) starts with dedicating your life to him and re-dedicating it regularly to his service. St Paul encourages us, ‘Become the kind of container God can use to present any and every kind of gift to his guests for their blessing’ (2 Timothy 2:20–21, MSG). How can you be useful to God? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 296 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/295 Psalm 119:81-88, Jeremiah 48:1-49:6, 2 Timothy 1:1-18. As Paul became aware that he was handing on the gospel to the next generation, his greatest concern was that Timothy should guard it (1:11–14) The older I get, the more I appreciate the wisdom of the generations before me and the more I realise the responsibility we *all* have to pass the baton on to the next generation Wed, 22 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/295/?ignore 23:12 enclassic22102025-295 1392.3 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 295: Your Most Important Task Psalm 119:81-88, Jeremiah 48:1-49:6, 2 Timothy 1:1-18. As Paul became aware that he was handing on the gospel to the next generation, his greatest concern was that Timothy should guard it (1:11–14) The older I get, the more I appreciate the wisdom of the generations before me and the more I realise the responsibility we *all* have to pass the baton on to the next generation ‘Great leaders all have one thing in common. They know that acquiring and keeping good people is a leader’s most important task,’ writes John Maxwell in his book, Developing the Leaders Around You. He urges his readers, ‘Find the best people you can, then develop them into the best leaders they can be.’ The apostle Paul was condemned and in a dark, dank dungeon with just a hole in the ceiling for light and air. He was in ‘chains’ (2 Timothy 1:16), ‘like a criminal’ (2:9). He was lonely, bored and cold (4:9–13). Death was inevitable. According to tradition, he was condemned to die by beheading under Nero’s persecution. This (2 Timothy) is probably his last letter. Paul chose to write to an individual rather than to a church. Timothy was a leader whom Paul had found, trained and developed. Paul was probably in his sixties and Timothy in his early thirties. As Paul became aware that he was handing on the gospel to the next generation, his greatest concern was that Timothy should guard it (1:11–14). The older I get, the more I appreciate the wisdom of the generations before me and the more I realise the responsibility we all have to pass the baton on to the next generation. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 295 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/294 Psalm 119:73-80, Jeremiah 46:1-47:7, 1 Timothy 6:3-21. 17) find ‘a firm foundation’ and ‘take hold of the life that is truly life’ (v 19) Tue, 21 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/294/?ignore 21:33 enclassic21102025-294 1293.71 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 294: Living Content Psalm 119:73-80, Jeremiah 46:1-47:7, 1 Timothy 6:3-21. 17) find ‘a firm foundation’ and ‘take hold of the life that is truly life’ (v 19) Her hands were full of rings, bracelets, necklaces, chains and other treasures. Torrents of lava were erupting and pouring down from Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. As she fled, this woman was not prepared to leave behind her valuable jewels. Encumbered by her treasures, she was overwhelmed by the rain of ashes from the volcano and was buried under it. During the course of modern building operations, her petrified body was found outside the area of the buried city of Pompeii, an ancient Roman port. Her body was unearthed in a sea of jewels. She lost her life in an attempt to save her treasures. Jesus warned us that ultimately you have to choose between money and God (Matthew 6:24). In the New Testament, there is no ban on private property or making money, or even enjoying the good things in life. The command to the rich, however, is that they do not ‘put their hope in wealth’ (1 Timothy 6:17). A selfish accumulation of wealth and an unhealthy obsession with material things will never bring contentment. What promises security leads to perpetual insecurity. Ultimately, contentment only comes from putting your hope in God: ‘godliness with contentment is great gain’ (v.6). The promise of God’s word is that those who ‘put their hope in God’ (v.17) find ‘a firm foundation’ and ‘take hold of the life that is truly life’ (v.19). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 294 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/293 Psalm 119:65-72, Jeremiah 43:1-45:5, 1 Timothy 5:1-6:2. We live in a fallen world Everyone goes through hard times and some people find themselves in circumstances that make life hard all of the time Mon, 20 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/293/?ignore 25:51 enclassic20102025-293 1551.86 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 293: Hard Times Psalm 119:65-72, Jeremiah 43:1-45:5, 1 Timothy 5:1-6:2. We live in a fallen world Everyone goes through hard times and some people find themselves in circumstances that make life hard all of the time Smith Wigglesworth was born on 8 June 1859 to an impoverished family in Yorkshire. As a small child he worked in the fields pulling turnips alongside his mother. He was illiterate until, at the age of twenty-three, he married Polly, who taught him to read. He often said that the Bible was the only book he ever read. He was a plumber by trade but had to abandon it after he became too busy with an amazing ministry of preaching and healing. There are even accounts of people being raised from the dead through his ministry. Yet, he said on one occasion that he would rather see one person saved through his preaching than 10,000 healed. Life was not always easy for Smith Wigglesworth. He went through some very hard times. He wrote, ‘Great faith is a product of great fights. Great testimonies are the outcome of great tests. Great triumphs can only come out of great trials.’ The Bible is very realistic. We live in a fallen world. Everyone goes through hard times and some people find themselves in circumstances that make life hard all of the time. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 293 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/292 Proverbs 25:11-20, Jeremiah 40:7–42:22, 1 Timothy 4:1-16. God continues to speak to the church through prophetic messages (1 Timothy 4:14) Of course, we need to distinguish the Old Testament prophets, whose ‘words’ were definitely ‘the word of the Lord’ and are now part of Scripture, from prophetic ‘words’ today, which need to be tested against Scripture Sun, 19 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/292/?ignore 22:34 enclassic19102025-292 1354.27 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 292: Words, the Word of God and 'words' Proverbs 25:11-20, Jeremiah 40:7–42:22, 1 Timothy 4:1-16. God continues to speak to the church through prophetic messages (1 Timothy 4:14) Of course, we need to distinguish the Old Testament prophets, whose ‘words’ were definitely ‘the word of the Lord’ and are now part of Scripture, from prophetic ‘words’ today, which need to be tested against Scripture Actor David Suchet, well known for his title role in Poirot, tells how a few years ago he was lying in his bath in a hotel in America, when he had a sudden and impulsive desire to read the Bible. He managed to find a Gideon Bible and started to read the New Testament. As he read, he encountered Jesus Christ. He said: ‘From somewhere I got this desire to read the Bible again. That’s the most important part of my conversion. I started with the Acts of the Apostles and then moved to Paul’s Letters – Romans and Corinthians. And it was only after that I came to the Gospels. In the New Testament I suddenly discovered the way that life should be followed.’ The most powerful words ever written are in the Bible. Words are an important theme in it, and the use of the word ‘word’ is used in different senses in today’s passages. First, it is used in the sense of our words. The things we say can be good or bad (Proverbs 25:11–20). Second, it is also used in the sense of the Word of God. This is supremely Jesus Christ (John 1:1; Hebrews 1:2), but also refers to the Word of God in the Scriptures and in preaching and teaching (1 Timothy 4:1–16). Third, the Bible also uses the phrase ‘the word of the LORD’ in the sense of prophecy (Jeremiah 42:7). God continues to speak to the church through prophetic messages (1 Timothy 4:14). Of course, we need to distinguish the Old Testament prophets, whose ‘words’ were definitely ‘the word of the Lord’ and are now part of Scripture, from prophetic ‘words’ today, which need to be tested against Scripture. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 292 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/291 Psalm 119:57-64, Jeremiah 38:1-40:6, 1 Timothy 3:1-16. You do not have to be perfect to be an example However, we try to ensure that the lifestyle and character of our leaders is in line with the New Testament Sat, 18 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/291/?ignore 22:57 enclassic18102025-291 1377.57 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 291: The Life of a Leader Psalm 119:57-64, Jeremiah 38:1-40:6, 1 Timothy 3:1-16. You do not have to be perfect to be an example However, we try to ensure that the lifestyle and character of our leaders is in line with the New Testament Good leadership is vital at all times, in all places and in all areas of life. But what is good leadership? ‘Leadership is a potent combination of strategy and character. But if you must be without one, be without the strategy.’ These are the words of General Norman Schwarzkopf, commander of the coalition forces in the Gulf War of 1991. Character is what really matters. It is the only thing that counts in the end. We make a distinction in our church between those in positions of leadership and those ‘on their way in’. We welcome everyone regardless of their lifestyle. We have a big front door. Everyone is welcome. The church is not a museum displaying perfect people. It is a hospital in the traditional sense of the word – a place of hospitality and restoration. It is a place where the wounded, hurt, broken and injured find healing. It is a community of sinners. On the other hand, we do not put people in positions of leadership if their lifestyle is in direct contrast to the New Testament. Leadership is not only functional, but also involves a responsibility to live as an example to others. Leaders are models for the rest of the congregation. Of course, no one is perfect. You do not have to be perfect to be an example. However, we try to ensure that the lifestyle and character of our leaders is in line with the New Testament. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 291 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/290 Psalm 119:49-56, Jeremiah 35:1-37:21, 1 Timothy 2:1-15. ’There is no limit to the times, places and different ways in which you can pray Fri, 17 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/290/?ignore 25:43 enclassic17102025-290 1543.68 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 290: How to Pray Psalm 119:49-56, Jeremiah 35:1-37:21, 1 Timothy 2:1-15. ’There is no limit to the times, places and different ways in which you can pray Prayer is the most important activity of your life. It is the main way in which you develop a relationship with your Father in heaven. If you love someone, naturally you will want to spend time in their presence communicating with them. Like any relationship, communication can take many different forms. Lancelot Andrewes (1555–1626), was one of the great theologians and preachers of his day. After he died, his private notebook on prayer was discovered and published. In it he had written two lists: First, he wrote a list of times of prayer in the Bible: ‘Always... Without ceasing... At all times... Three times a day... Evening, and morning, and at noon... Seven times a day... In the morning, a great while before day... At daybreak... The third hour of the day... About the sixth hour... The hour of prayer, the ninth... The evening... By night... At midnight...’ Next, he wrote a list of places of prayer in the Bible: ‘In the assembly... and in the congregation... Your closet... An upper room... A housetop... The temple... On the shore... A garden... On their beds... A desert place... In every place...’ There is no limit to the times, places and different ways in which you can pray. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 290 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/289 Psalm 119:41-48, Jeremiah 32:26-34:22, 1 Timothy 1:1-20. In fact, over the last nearly half a century, I have discovered that faith *leads to* true freedom and love Love, faith and freedom are inextricably entwined Thu, 16 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/289/?ignore 27:15 enclassic16102025-289 1635.81 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 289: The Biggest Decision of My Life Psalm 119:41-48, Jeremiah 32:26-34:22, 1 Timothy 1:1-20. In fact, over the last nearly half a century, I have discovered that faith *leads to* true freedom and love Love, faith and freedom are inextricably entwined In early February 1974, I was facing the biggest decision of my life. I was convinced through reading the New Testament that Jesus really is the Son of God. But I did not want to be a Christian as I feared that I would lose my freedom. The last things that I associated with faith were love and freedom. I associated faith with losing my freedom. I thought that God would want me to stop doing all the things that were fun and that I enjoyed. In fact, over the last nearly half a century, I have discovered that faith leads to true freedom and love. Love, faith and freedom are inextricably entwined. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 289 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/288 Proverbs 25:1-10, Jeremiah 31:15-32:25, 2 Thessalonians 3:1-18. Jesus did not go for the easy or popular solution, but he always did the right thing This is an important principle that runs throughout the entire Bible Wed, 15 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/288/?ignore 23:11 enclassic15102025-288 1391.28 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 288: Never Tire of Doing What Is Right Proverbs 25:1-10, Jeremiah 31:15-32:25, 2 Thessalonians 3:1-18. Jesus did not go for the easy or popular solution, but he always did the right thing This is an important principle that runs throughout the entire Bible Martin Luther King said, ‘On some positions, Cowardice asks the question, “Is it safe?” Expediency asks the question, “Is it politic?” And Vanity comes along and asks the question, “Is it popular?” But Conscience asks the question, “Is it right?” ‘The ultimate measure of a person is not where they stand in moments of convenience, but where they stand in moments of challenge, moments of great crisis and controversy.’ Doing what is right in difficult situations in the workplace is a huge challenge. In his book*, God at Work,* Ken Costa writes, ‘There are right and wrong choices… all the invented terms such as “inappropriate” and “counterproductive” are efforts to avoid the simple ethical fact that there is a right and wrong course of action.’ When facing a difficult pastoral situation those of us in the leadership of the church need to remind ourselves that the first question we have to ask is, ‘What is the right thing to do?’ And only then move to the second question, ‘What is the most pastoral way to do it?’ Of course, none of us gets it right all the time. We all make mistakes. As Ken Costa writes, ‘We only grow in wisdom if we learn from our mistakes. Siegmund Warburg (Ken’s first boss) said on this subject: “Some name it disappointment and become poorer, others name it experience and become richer.”’ In today’s New Testament passage, Paul writes to the Thessalonians, ‘Never tire of doing what is right’ (2 Thessalonians 3:13). Jesus did not go for the easy or popular solution, but he always did the right thing. This is an important principle that runs throughout the entire Bible. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 288 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/287 Psalm 119:33-40, Jeremiah 29:24-31:14, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17. In today’s New Testament passage, Paul invokes the image of the *phalanx* Shoulder to shoulder, the church can stand firm This is one of many occasions that Paul exhorts the church to ‘stand firm’ (2 Thessalonians 2:15) Tue, 14 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/287/?ignore 22:57 enclassic14102025-287 1377.18 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 287: How to Avoid Backsliding Psalm 119:33-40, Jeremiah 29:24-31:14, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17. In today’s New Testament passage, Paul invokes the image of the *phalanx* Shoulder to shoulder, the church can stand firm This is one of many occasions that Paul exhorts the church to ‘stand firm’ (2 Thessalonians 2:15) As a young man, Philip was kidnapped and held hostage in Greece. There he remained for several years. During this time he received a military education. Then he returned to his homeland, which had conceded many defeats and had lost much land. Within five years he had become king. Philip II of Macedon desperately needed his army to stand firm. He is remembered for two major innovations. First is the sarissa, a very long spear. Second is the re-development of a rectangular military formation used by ancient armies (known as a phalanx). A core of highly-trained infantrymen, armed with Philip’s longer spears, stood shoulder to shoulder in files normally eight men deep. As long as they stood firm and did not break rank they were virtually invincible and struck fear into the hearts of their enemies. Using this tactic, Philip united the city-states of Greece and conquered the city of Philippi (that is named after him) in 356 BC (see Philippians 1:27). Sometimes, it seems that the Christian life is like facing a powerful enemy. It feels like an intense struggle in which another army is attempting to push us back and break down our ranks. If we don’t stand firm, we fall on our backs and slide in the mud in the wrong direction. We have seen how Jeremiah warned the people many times against backsliding (Jeremiah 2:19; 3:22; 5:6; 14:7; 15:6). It is not a matter of us standing firm on our own. We are part of a community. In today’s New Testament passage, Paul invokes the image of the phalanx Shoulder to shoulder, the church can stand firm. This is one of many occasions that Paul exhorts the church to ‘stand firm’ (2 Thessalonians 2:15). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 287 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/286 Psalm 119:25-32, Jeremiah 27:1-29:23, 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12. Much of it is hidden from us However, there are certain things about your future that God tells you Mon, 13 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/286/?ignore 24:27 enclassic13102025-286 1467.51 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 286: God's Good Plans for Your Future Psalm 119:25-32, Jeremiah 27:1-29:23, 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12. Much of it is hidden from us However, there are certain things about your future that God tells you Futurologists make predictions about the future. One prediction is that some babies born now are likely to live to the ripe old age of 150. Wired magazine not long ago predicted that meal replacement patches (taking nicotine replacement patches a step further) would be in existence by 2018, and that by 2020 there would be a new financial currency introduced for purchases in space! Some look to futurologists to know what is coming. Others go further. Some people read their horoscopes because they want to know what their future holds. However, Jeremiah warns in the passage for today, ‘Don’t for a minute listen to… spiritualists and fortunetellers, who claim to know the future’ (Jeremiah 27:9, MSG). The study of history helps us to predict the future. As Winston Churchill once said, ‘To understand the future we need to understand the past.’ But as the one who holds the past, present and future in his hands, only God truly knows the future. Much of it is hidden from us. However, there are certain things about your future that God tells you. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 286 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/285 Psalm 119:17-24, Jeremiah 25:15-26:24, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-28. Dare to be different, by being like him Don’t follow what the world tells you is desirable, but follow God by becoming more Christ-like Sun, 12 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/285/?ignore 22:07 enclassic12102025-285 1327.26 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 285: Dare to Be Different Psalm 119:17-24, Jeremiah 25:15-26:24, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-28. Dare to be different, by being like him Don’t follow what the world tells you is desirable, but follow God by becoming more Christ-like I once had the privilege of meeting and interviewing Pastor Nadarkhani. Youcef Nadarkhani encountered Jesus Christ at the age of nineteen. He went on to become an ordained pastor and lead a church in Iran. In 2010, aged thirty-two, married with two young children, he was arrested and sentenced to death for ‘apostasy’ (converting to Christianity from Islam). Thankfully, two years later, after sustained international pressure, the decision was reversed. During his trial, Pastor Nadarkhani refused to recant his belief despite facing a death sentence. He told the judge, ‘I am resolute in my faith and Christianity and have no wish to recant.’ The then UK Foreign Secretary, William Hague, paid tribute to his courage. The Guardian newspaper described him as ‘an inspiringly brave Christian’. Pastor Nadarkhani, like many Christians around the world today, still faces persecution for his faith.* Jesus gives us a picture of true humanity. Dare to be different, by being like him. Don’t follow what the world tells you is desirable, but follow God by becoming more Christ-like. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 285 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/284 Proverbs 24:23-34, Jeremiah 23:9-25:14, 1 Thessalonians 4:1-18. Paul highlights two things in particular: living to ‘please God more and more’ (1 Thessalonians 4:1), and ‘loving each other… more and more’ (vv 9–10) Sat, 11 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/284/?ignore 24:47 enclassic11102025-284 1487.28 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 284: More Proverbs 24:23-34, Jeremiah 23:9-25:14, 1 Thessalonians 4:1-18. Paul highlights two things in particular: living to ‘please God more and more’ (1 Thessalonians 4:1), and ‘loving each other… more and more’ (vv 9–10) More Please is the title of the autobiography of comedian and actor Barry Humphries (best known for playing his alter ego Dame Edna Everage). He writes that these two words, ‘More please’, were his first coherent utterance. He went on to say, ‘I have always wanted more. I never had enough milk or money or socks or sex or holidays or first editions or solitude or gramophone records or free meals or real friends or guiltless pleasure or neckties or applause or unquestioning love or persimmons. Of course, I have always had more than my share of most of these commodities but it always left me with a vague feeling of unfulfillment: where was the rest?’ Seeking pleasure for ourselves will always leave us with ‘a vague feeling of unfulfillment’. In the passages for today, you can see what really will satisfy your spiritual hunger and thirst, and the things that you should seek more and more. Paul highlights two things in particular: living to ‘please God more and more’ (1 Thessalonians 4:1), and ‘loving each other… more and more’ (vv.9–10). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 284 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/283 Psalm 119:9-16, Jeremiah 21:1-23:8, 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13. It is not a fleeting emotion, but a deep way of being – a state of mind that is available to everybody It is not found in things, but in a Person Fri, 10 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/283/?ignore 23:33 enclassic10102025-283 1413.3 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 283: Surprised by Joy Psalm 119:9-16, Jeremiah 21:1-23:8, 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13. It is not a fleeting emotion, but a deep way of being – a state of mind that is available to everybody It is not found in things, but in a Person ‘Surprised by joy’ is how C.S. Lewis described his conversion from atheism to faith in Jesus Christ. He had never expected that there was any connection between God and joy. If anything, he had thought it would be the opposite: ‘For all I knew, the total rejection of what I called Joy might be one of the demands.’ Convinced that it was true, Lewis ‘admitted that God was God’. At that moment, he was ‘the most dejected and reluctant convert in all England’. To his great surprise he found that following Jesus was the very opposite to what he expected. He experienced great joy through his new-found faith. He discovered that ‘the heart of reality’ is to be found in a Person. He was surprised by joy. Many people confuse pleasure, contentment and joy. ‘Pleasure’ can come from a good holiday, a pay rise or a bar of chocolate. People can become pleasure addicts – always seeking the next fix. But these experiences of pleasure come and go. ‘Contentment’ is longer term – being satisfied with your life, your home, your job and your relationships. But there is another kind of happiness that we call ‘joy’. It is not a fleeting emotion, but a deep way of being – a state of mind that is available to everybody. It is not found in things, but in a Person. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 283 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/282 Psalm 119:1-8, Jeremiah 18:1-20:18, 1 Thessalonians 1:1-2:16. Earl and his wife, Thommy, were great friends of ours at theological college in Oxford His life had been radically changed by the words of God in the Bible Thu, 09 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/282/?ignore 25:51 enclassic09102025-282 1551.99 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 282: Life-changing Words Psalm 119:1-8, Jeremiah 18:1-20:18, 1 Thessalonians 1:1-2:16. Earl and his wife, Thommy, were great friends of ours at theological college in Oxford His life had been radically changed by the words of God in the Bible Earl had far too much money. He did not need to work. He took all kinds of drugs, including heroin. At the age of thirty he ended up in hospital. Someone came to visit him in hospital and gave him a New Testament. He was thrilled. The paper was very thin and was ideal for rolling joints. He rolled his way through Matthew, Mark and Luke. When he came to John’s Gospel, he started reading. As a result of reading the words of John’s Gospel, he encountered Jesus. He was filled with joy. The psychologist in charge of his case was a very beautiful young woman, who had been a model. One day she said to Earl, ‘Look, I have it all – success, beauty and endless qualifications – yet I am not fulfilled. Your life is a mess yet you seem to have something – a peace and a joy. What is it?’ Then he led her to faith in Jesus Christ. Later they were married. Earl and his wife, Thommy, were great friends of ours at theological college in Oxford. His life had been radically changed by the words of God in the Bible. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 282 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/281 Psalm 118:17-29, Jeremiah 16:1-17:27, Colossians 4:2-18. It was said of his followers that they were ‘turning the world upside down’ (Acts 17:6, NRSV) In each of today’s passages we see how this works, and how the Lord can be glorified in defeat Wed, 08 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/281/?ignore 23:27 enclassic08102025-281 1407.9 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 281: Glorified in Defeat Psalm 118:17-29, Jeremiah 16:1-17:27, Colossians 4:2-18. It was said of his followers that they were ‘turning the world upside down’ (Acts 17:6, NRSV) In each of today’s passages we see how this works, and how the Lord can be glorified in defeat I will never forget a conversation I had with Father Raniero Cantalamessa, Franciscan monk, now a cardinal and preacher to the Papal Household since 1980. He was about to be involved in a public debate with one of the ‘New Atheists’ in Italy. I asked him whether he thought he would win the debate. He replied that he did not know. He said he might lose. ‘But,’ he added, ‘the Lord can be glorified in defeat.’ Jesus turned the world upside down. He reversed the values of the world. Supremely on the cross, Jesus turned the world upside down. In an act of ultimate humiliation and apparent defeat he brought the greatest victory the world has ever known. It was said of his followers that they were ‘turning the world upside down’ (Acts 17:6, NRSV). In each of today’s passages we see how this works, and how the Lord can be glorified in defeat. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 281 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/280 Proverbs 24:15-22, Jeremiah 14:1-15:21, Colossians 3:1-4:1. As well as the outer clothing, our hearts and minds have an inner clothing When you come into a relationship with God through Jesus, the old clothes have to go and you need a new set of clothes for your heart and mind Tue, 07 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/280/?ignore 23:51 enclassic07102025-280 1431.77 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 280: New Clothes Proverbs 24:15-22, Jeremiah 14:1-15:21, Colossians 3:1-4:1. As well as the outer clothing, our hearts and minds have an inner clothing When you come into a relationship with God through Jesus, the old clothes have to go and you need a new set of clothes for your heart and mind I tend to wear very similar clothes every day. I cannot claim to have much ‘dress sense’. Yet, believe it or not, before Pippa and I got married it was even worse. When I got married, my flared trousers, misshapen sweaters with holes, string vests, ties (inherited from an uncle) and dilapidated trousers had to go. I hate getting rid of things – especially clothes to which I am attached. They feel like old friends. But alas, the time had come to be re-clothed. As well as the outer clothing, our hearts and minds have an inner clothing. When you come into a relationship with God through Jesus, the old clothes have to go and you need a new set of clothes for your heart and mind. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 280 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/279 Psalm 118:1-16, Jeremiah 11:18-13:27, Colossians 2:6-23. Is it possible for you too to change? One of the most difficult things in the world is to break a bad habit or to give up sin In one of today’s passages Jeremiah asks, ‘*Can a leopard change its spots*?’ (Jeremiah 13:23) Mon, 06 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/279/?ignore 24:27 enclassic06102025-279 1467.19 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 279: Can a Leopard Change its Spots? Psalm 118:1-16, Jeremiah 11:18-13:27, Colossians 2:6-23. Is it possible for you too to change? One of the most difficult things in the world is to break a bad habit or to give up sin In one of today’s passages Jeremiah asks, ‘*Can a leopard change its spots*?’ (Jeremiah 13:23) Brian Emmett was a career criminal in south London – a drug smuggler and gangster and contemporary of the notorious Kray twins, who he knew well. Brian had a son called Michael, who joined ‘the family business’ at a young age. Father and son worked together as international drug smugglers. Their activities were very successful until, one night, they were arrested as part of a massive police operation involving twelve armed officers and sixty regulars in a small Devon fishing port, where a hoard of four metric tonnes of cannabis with a street value of £13 million was being landed. At the time, it was the largest ever known importation of cannabis to the UK and they were each sentenced to twelve and a half years in prison. In 1994, Brian and Michael heard about Alpha while in Exeter Prison and decided to give it a try. They were filled with the Holy Spirit and their lives were completely transformed. As father and son continued to serve their sentences, they were regularly transferred from prison to prison throughout England as is the normal practice. On arrival in each one, they introduced Alpha and more and more prisoners experienced the love of God for the first time. From those beginnings, Alpha in Prison has grown. Last year, over 50,000 men and women did Alpha in prisons in dozens of countries around the world. When I interviewed Michael, I asked him what difference Jesus has made. He replied, ‘I was a drug addict for years, entrenched with crime. I looked the part but inside I was very broken. There was a hole inside of me that I tried to fill with things that didn’t work. Jesus is real. He did an inside job on me. The change is dramatic – healing and changing, transforming my mind and heart. The curse has been broken over my family.’ Brian and Michael’s lives were changed because Jesus set them free from their addictions and the sin that was destroying their lives. After lives of crime and lawlessness, they never went to prison again. Is it possible for you too to change? One of the most difficult things in the world is to break a bad habit or to give up sin. In one of today’s passages Jeremiah asks, ‘Can a leopard change its spots?’ (Jeremiah 13:23). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 279 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/278 Psalm 117:1-2, Jeremiah 9:17-11:17, Colossians 1:24-2:5. Not only Mother Teresa and Billy Graham, but actors, scientists and the then Lord Chancellor The Chief Cashier of the Bank of England, Graham Kentfield (whose signature was on every banknote at the time) said, ‘I am clear that the meaning of life can only be properly understood in the context of our *relationship with God* Sun, 05 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/278/?ignore 22:17 enclassic05102025-278 1337.52 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 278: What Is the Meaning of Life? Psalm 117:1-2, Jeremiah 9:17-11:17, Colossians 1:24-2:5. Not only Mother Teresa and Billy Graham, but actors, scientists and the then Lord Chancellor The Chief Cashier of the Bank of England, Graham Kentfield (whose signature was on every banknote at the time) said, ‘I am clear that the meaning of life can only be properly understood in the context of our *relationship with God* Jonathan Gabay, a thirty-one-year-old professional writer, was facing employment challenges and stress when he hit rock bottom. He began to ask questions about the meaning of life. He wrote to people in all walks of life: world leaders, the homeless, Oscar-winning actors, philosophers, comedians, taxi-drivers, teachers, explorers and prisoners on death row. He even wrote to me! To each one he asked, ‘What is the meaning of life?’ Gabay compiled a book of our responses, together with others who had attempted, over time, to answer this question. They include the following: Richard Nixon: ‘Life is one crisis after another.’ John Lennon: ‘Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.’ Dennis the Menace: ‘Life is what you make it – and I can make it UNBEARABLE!’ Albert Einstein: ‘The man who regards his life and that of his fellow creatures as meaningless is not merely unhappy but hardly fit for life.’ Numerous people replied that the meaning and purpose of life was to be found in Jesus Christ. Not only Mother Teresa and Billy Graham, but actors, scientists and the then Lord Chancellor. The Chief Cashier of the Bank of England, Graham Kentfield (whose signature was on every banknote at the time) said, ‘I am clear that the meaning of life can only be properly understood in the context of our relationship with God.’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 278 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/277 Psalm 116:12-19, Jeremiah 7:30-9:16, Colossians 1:1-23. It is the lens through which to view our entire life Ultimately, as we see in today’s passages, the world can be divided into two categories: those who acknowledge God and give thanks to him, and those who don’t Sat, 04 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/277/?ignore 23:46 enclassic04102025-277 1426.1 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 277: Attitude of Gratitude Psalm 116:12-19, Jeremiah 7:30-9:16, Colossians 1:1-23. It is the lens through which to view our entire life Ultimately, as we see in today’s passages, the world can be divided into two categories: those who acknowledge God and give thanks to him, and those who don’t Jean Smith told me her story. She was in her mid-sixties. She came from Cwmbran in Wales. She had been blind for sixteen years. She had a white stick, and a guide dog named Tina. An infection had eaten away at the retinas and mirrors behind her eyes – they could not be replaced. She was in constant pain. Jean went on a local Alpha course. They had a day away to focus on the work of the Holy Spirit. During this time, the pain left. She went to church the following Sunday to thank God. The minister anointed her with oil. As she wiped the oil away she could see the communion table. God had miraculously healed Jean. She had not seen her husband for sixteen years. She was surprised at how white his beard was! Jean had never even seen her daughter-in-law before. Her six-and-a-half-year-old grandson used to guide her around the puddles to avoid her getting her feet wet. He said to her, ‘Who done that Gran?’ She replied, ‘Jesus made me better.’ ‘I hope you said thank you, Gran.’ ‘I will never stop saying thank you,’ she answered. Yesterday we read Paul’s encouragement: ‘In everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God’ (Philippians 4:6). Today we see him putting his own instructions into practice. Like Jean, Paul was also constantly giving thanks to God. He had an attitude of gratitude. Praise is giving glory to God for who he is. Thanksgiving is giving glory to God for what he has done for us. It is the lens through which to view our entire life. Ultimately, as we see in today’s passages, the world can be divided into two categories: those who acknowledge God and give thanks to him, and those who don’t. How do you cultivate an attitude of gratitude? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 277 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/276 Proverbs 24:5-14, Jeremiah 6:1-7:29, Philippians 4:2-23. The apostle Paul found the key to a life of peace and contentment in times of trouble He tells the Philippians how to find peace and shares *the secret of being content* (Philippians 4:12) Fri, 03 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/276/?ignore 25:59 enclassic03102025-276 1559.61 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 276: The Key to Contentment Proverbs 24:5-14, Jeremiah 6:1-7:29, Philippians 4:2-23. The apostle Paul found the key to a life of peace and contentment in times of trouble He tells the Philippians how to find peace and shares *the secret of being content* (Philippians 4:12) I was speaking with a friend who is not a Christian. He is a charming and delightful person. He is a successful businessman and has made a great deal of money. He has a wonderful wife, a good marriage and a great family. Yet he spoke to me of the deep emptiness in his life, and the lack of peace and contentment he experiences. ‘Content makes poor men rich; discontent makes rich men poor,’ said the American Statesman, Benjamin Franklin. Few people seem to be genuinely content. As Martin Luther once said, ‘Contentment is a rare bird, but it sings sweetly in the breast.’ The Bible never promises that we will not face hard times or difficult situations. But it does promise us God’s strength and grace in these times. The apostle Paul found the key to a life of peace and contentment in times of trouble. He tells the Philippians how to find peace and shares the secret of being content (Philippians 4:12). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 276 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/275 Psalm 116:1-11, Jeremiah 4:10-5:31, Philippians 3:1-4:1. ’Ambition has been defined as the ‘desire to succeed’ There are ultimately only two controlling ambitions to which all others may be reduced: one is our own glory and the other is God’s glory Thu, 02 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/275/?ignore 24:46 enclassic02102025-275 1486.89 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 275: Godly Ambition Psalm 116:1-11, Jeremiah 4:10-5:31, Philippians 3:1-4:1. ’Ambition has been defined as the ‘desire to succeed’ There are ultimately only two controlling ambitions to which all others may be reduced: one is our own glory and the other is God’s glory Chuck Colson was a self-made man. As a student, he arrogantly turned down a scholarship to Harvard. He joined the Marines, he set up his own law firm and entered politics. By the age of forty he had become one of President Nixon’s closest advisers. Later, he described himself as ‘a young ambitious political kingmaker’. He was known as Nixon’s ‘hatchet-man’. He pleaded guilty to his part in the Watergate cover-up scandal and was sent to prison. By then he had encountered Jesus. When he left the court after hearing the sentence, he said, ‘What happened in court today... was the court’s will and the Lord’s will – I have committed my life to Jesus Christ and I can work for him in prison as well as out.’ Colson did just that. After his release, he set up Prison Fellowship and became directly or indirectly responsible for leading thousands to Christ. I once heard him say, ‘I was ambitious, and I am ambitious today, but I hope it is not for Chuck Colson (although I struggle with that quite a lot as a matter of fact). But I am ambitious for Christ.’ Ambition has been defined as the ‘desire to succeed’. There are ultimately only two controlling ambitions to which all others may be reduced: one is our own glory and the other is God’s glory. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 275 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/274 Psalm 115:12-18, Jeremiah 2:31-4:9, Philippians 2:12-30. That is exactly what we as Christians are called to be, as the church and as individuals You really can be a blessing machine Wed, 01 Oct 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/274/?ignore 21:52 enclassic01102025-274 1312.13 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 274: How to Be a Blessing Machine Psalm 115:12-18, Jeremiah 2:31-4:9, Philippians 2:12-30. That is exactly what we as Christians are called to be, as the church and as individuals You really can be a blessing machine Do you ever wonder whether you can make a difference to the lives of those around you? I once watched an episode of the reality TV Show, The Secret Millionaire. Kevin Green – a covert multi-millionaire – searched for people and causes that would benefit from his financial support. He gave about $100,000 to a range of people working with the homeless, teenage addicts and disabled children. The response of all these people was deeply moving. They were so grateful, and the causes that they work for benefited greatly. They were blessed and enabled to bring greater blessing to others. However, the most interesting aspect of the programme was the change in Kevin Green. He had experienced in a new way the joy of blessing others. His life was changed as a result. The words of Jesus are true: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’ (Acts 20:35). Archie Coates, vicar of Holy Trinity Brompton, speaks of the church as a ‘blessing machine’. That is exactly what we as Christians are called to be, as the church and as individuals. You really can be a blessing machine. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 274 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/273 Psalm 115:1-11, Jeremiah 1:1-2:30, Philippians 1:27-2:11. The theme of ‘*glory*’ runs through each of today’s readings (Psalm 115:1; Philippians 2:11; Jeremiah 2:11) We see why, how and when to *bounce the glory back up to God* Tue, 30 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/273/?ignore 23:32 enclassic30092025-273 1412.81 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 273: Bounce it Back Up Psalm 115:1-11, Jeremiah 1:1-2:30, Philippians 1:27-2:11. The theme of ‘*glory*’ runs through each of today’s readings (Psalm 115:1; Philippians 2:11; Jeremiah 2:11) We see why, how and when to *bounce the glory back up to God* It was one of the most moving and powerful testimonies I have ever encountered. A former sex worker, drug addict and dealer described how she had reached a point at which, in her own words, she was ‘dead’. She said her ‘blood was black’ and her ‘heart was black’. She described how she came on Alpha and heard that Jesus loved her so much that he died for her. She described how this had broken ‘the concrete’ of her heart. She experienced God’s love for her for the first time. She is now filled with love for everyone, forgiving those who abused her, and radiating the love of Christ. After she had given her testimony to a stunned congregation, I went up to thank her and said how extraordinarily powerful it had been. She replied, ‘I need to bounce it back up!’ I didn’t understand what she meant. I asked her to explain. She said, ‘It’s all his grace. I need to bounce the glory back to him.’ She has a profound understanding of grace, glory and what it means to be Christ-like. The theme of ‘glory’ runs through each of today’s readings (Psalm 115:1; Philippians 2:11; Jeremiah 2:11). We see why, how and when to bounce the glory back up to God. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 273 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/272 Proverbs 23:29-24:4, Zephaniah 1:1-3:20, Philippians 1:1-26. Indeed, he regarded death as something of even greater worth Yet for him, Jesus had made his life profoundly worth living Mon, 29 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/272/?ignore 26:36 enclassic29092025-272 1596.55 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 272: A Life Worth Living Proverbs 23:29-24:4, Zephaniah 1:1-3:20, Philippians 1:1-26. Indeed, he regarded death as something of even greater worth Yet for him, Jesus had made his life profoundly worth living ‘In the future, scientists may be able to prolong life, but will it be worth living?’ wrote Nigel Hawkes in The Times. Apparently, one Oxford professor claims it may soon be possible to prolong many people’s lives until the age of 115. But Hawkes rightly asks, ‘Will it be worth living?’ An increased lifespan is of little value unless it is for a life worth living. The apostle Paul did not see the prolonging of life as a major objective: ‘For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain’ (Philippians 1:21). Indeed, he regarded death as something of even greater worth. Yet for him, Jesus had made his life profoundly worth living. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 272 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/271 Psalm 114:1-8, Nahum 1:1-3:19, Ephesians 6:1-24. As St Paul puts it, ‘Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the *spiritual forces of evil* in the heavenly realms’ (Ephesians 6:12) Today’s passages show us that the battle is won through the victorious power of the Lord Sun, 28 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/271/?ignore 22:37 enclassic28092025-271 1357.51 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 271: Seven Life-Changing Habits Psalm 114:1-8, Nahum 1:1-3:19, Ephesians 6:1-24. As St Paul puts it, ‘Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the *spiritual forces of evil* in the heavenly realms’ (Ephesians 6:12) Today’s passages show us that the battle is won through the victorious power of the Lord For many years, Bruce Streather, a successful lawyer, was an atheist. He never went to church, even though his family did. Most weekends he played golf. Eventually, as a result of considerable persuasion from his wife and three teenage daughters, he came on Alpha. He was extremely argumentative and hostile. None of the sessions had any impact on him until, towards the end of the course, he heard the talk ‘How Can I Resist Evil?’ Afterwards he came up to me and said, ‘In my work as a lawyer, I have seen so much evil. I have always believed in the power of evil. Tonight, it struck me that if there is a power of evil, it makes sense to believe that there is also a power of good.’ That night Bruce became a Christian. Ever since, he has been a committed member of the church with a very powerful and effective ministry affecting the lives of hundreds of people. We struggle against the global evils of terrorism, racial injustice, human trafficking, the tragic plight of refugees, deadly viruses (such as COVID-19), starvation, poverty, the destruction of the environment, corrupt governments and countless other domestic, local and international issues. We also face struggles against evil in our own lives – temptation, sin and addiction. The Bible is realistic about this struggle. In the Old Testament, we read about physical battles against the forces of evil. In the New Testament, the struggle is more often described as a spiritual battle. As St Paul puts it, ‘Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms’ (Ephesians 6:12). Today’s passages show us that the battle is won through the victorious power of the Lord. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 271 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/270 Psalm 113:1-9, Isaiah 65:17-66:24, Ephesians 5:8-33. It is also possible to ‘displease’ the Lord (Isaiah 66:4c) The apostle Paul wrote, ‘Find out what *pleases the Lord*’ (Ephesians 5:10), or as *The Message* translation puts it, ‘Figure out what will please Christ, and then do it Sat, 27 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/270/?ignore 22:23 enclassic27092025-270 1343.84 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 270: Seven Ways You Please the Lord Psalm 113:1-9, Isaiah 65:17-66:24, Ephesians 5:8-33. It is also possible to ‘displease’ the Lord (Isaiah 66:4c) The apostle Paul wrote, ‘Find out what *pleases the Lord*’ (Ephesians 5:10), or as *The Message* translation puts it, ‘Figure out what will please Christ, and then do it You can please God. It is amazing when you really think about it: human beings – seemingly so insignificant when we look at the size and scale of the universe that God has created – have the ability to please the Lord. It is also possible to ‘displease’ the Lord (Isaiah 66:4c). The apostle Paul wrote, ‘Find out what pleases the Lord’ (Ephesians 5:10), or as The Message translation puts it, ‘Figure out what will please Christ, and then do it.’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 270 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/269 Psalm 112:1-10, Isaiah 63:1-65:16, Ephesians 4:17-5:7. Love is practical Chiara said, ‘Love the other person as yourself… Imagine how the world would be if the golden rule were put into practice not only between individuals, but also between ethnic groups, peoples and nations, if everyone *loved* the other country as their own Fri, 26 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/269/?ignore 25:24 enclassic26092025-269 1524.22 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 269: Six Keys to Good Relationships Psalm 112:1-10, Isaiah 63:1-65:16, Ephesians 4:17-5:7. Love is practical Chiara said, ‘Love the other person as yourself… Imagine how the world would be if the golden rule were put into practice not only between individuals, but also between ethnic groups, peoples and nations, if everyone *loved* the other country as their own When she was nineteen years of age, Chiara Lubich gathered with a few friends in northern Italy. It was 1939 and, as bombs fell, they asked this question: ‘Was there an ideal that bombs could not destroy?’ Their answer was, ‘Yes, the love of God’. They had experienced God’s overwhelming love and they wanted to share it with others. They imitated God by living a life of love (Ephesians 5:1–2). They helped those in need. They shared what little food they had. They found clothing for those who had none. They comforted the bereaved. Such a warmth emanated from Chiara and her friends that people gave them the name ‘Focolare’, which means ‘hearth’ or ‘fireplace’. Focolare now has 2 million members in 182 countries. Members of the Focolare community make it their rule of life, 24 hours a day, to live by the golden rule of Jesus: ‘Do to others what you would have them do to you’ (Matthew 7:12). Love is practical. Chiara said, ‘Love the other person as yourself… Imagine how the world would be if the golden rule were put into practice not only between individuals, but also between ethnic groups, peoples and nations, if everyone loved the other country as their own.’ How can we imitate God and live a life of love? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 269 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/268 Proverbs 23:19-28, Isaiah 60:1-62:12, Ephesians 4:1-16. The book of Proverbs anticipates what Spirit-powered living should look like Then, in the New Testament, we see the fulfilment of Spirit-powered living Thu, 25 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/268/?ignore 24:03 enclassic25092025-268 1443.63 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 268: Spirit-Powered Living Proverbs 23:19-28, Isaiah 60:1-62:12, Ephesians 4:1-16. The book of Proverbs anticipates what Spirit-powered living should look like Then, in the New Testament, we see the fulfilment of Spirit-powered living ‘I felt ablaze with a desire to go through the length and breadth of Wales to tell of the Saviour: and had it been possible, I was willing to pay God for doing so,’ wrote Evan Roberts, the man at the centre of the Welsh revival of 1904–1905. He spoke about how the Spirit of God gave him an overwhelming experience of God’s love. He was filled with compassion and a desire to tell others about Jesus. We live in the age of the Spirit. In the Old Testament, the Holy Spirit came on particular people at particular times for particular purposes. We see an example of this in today’s reading, when the Holy Spirit came on Isaiah (Isaiah 61). This event was a foretaste of the Holy Spirit coming upon Jesus (Luke 4:14–18), as well as of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on all Christians, from the day of Pentecost onwards. The book of Proverbs anticipates what Spirit-powered living should look like. Then, in the New Testament, we see the fulfilment of Spirit-powered living. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 268 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/267 Psalm 111:1-10, Isaiah 57:14-59:21, Ephesians 3:1-21. In the Old Testament, we see only hints of this – it was concealed to some extent Now, however, the mystery has been revealed in Christ Wed, 24 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/267/?ignore 25:08 enclassic24092025-267 1508.62 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 267: Mystery Psalm 111:1-10, Isaiah 57:14-59:21, Ephesians 3:1-21. In the Old Testament, we see only hints of this – it was concealed to some extent Now, however, the mystery has been revealed in Christ The best novelists are able to write in such a way that as you read through a story, the ending is a mystery but, when you look back from the end, the clues were there all along. In today’s New Testament passage, the apostle Paul tells us that God has revealed the mystery of Christ. He writes about ‘the mystery made known to me by revelation... the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to people in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit’ (Ephesians 3:3–5). Reading the Old Testament is like going into a dark room full of furniture. We get a sense of what is inside the room by feeling the sofas, chairs and pictures. But, as we read the New Testament, it is as if a light is switched on and we see the room clearly. Jesus places the Old Testament in new light. To paraphrase St Augustine, ‘In the Old the New is concealed, in the New the Old is revealed.’ Jesus is the climax of God’s great plan for the world. Thus, Paul writes, ‘My task is to bring out in the open and make plain what God, who created all this in the first place, has been doing in secret and behind the scenes all along’ (vv.8–9, MSG). The word that Paul uses (photisai) means ‘to turn the light on so that people can see’. The secret God reveals in Jesus is reconciliation not only with God but also with one another. Paul tells us, ‘This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus’ (v.6). Both Jews and Gentiles can now approach God on equal terms. If we are in Christ, we are all reconciled to God and to one another – regardless of race or social and cultural background. It must also apply to the church: Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant, Pentecostal, and so on. In the Old Testament, we see only hints of this – it was concealed to some extent. Now, however, the mystery has been revealed in Christ. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 267 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/266 Psalm 110:1-7, Isaiah 55:1-57:13, Ephesians 2:1-22. ’- ‘I feel like I have found love and conquered death in one day ’The difference Jesus makes is massive, eternal, and impossible to fully comprehend Tue, 23 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/266/?ignore 23:01 enclassic23092025-266 1381.64 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 266: What Difference Does Jesus Make? Psalm 110:1-7, Isaiah 55:1-57:13, Ephesians 2:1-22. ’- ‘I feel like I have found love and conquered death in one day ’The difference Jesus makes is massive, eternal, and impossible to fully comprehend I have interviewed hundreds of people around the world who have come to faith in Jesus. The question I ask over and over again is, ‘What difference has Jesus made?’ and the genuine answers given by the people I have quoted are typical. ‘My life has completely changed. I now look at the world through different eyes... I feel love for everyone and an inner peace that I never imagined could exist.’ ‘I had been living my life in a dark hole, I was carrying a great weight on my shoulders... that burden has gone... and I am filled with great hope, joy, excitement and love, and all I want to do is to serve Christ in whatever form he chooses.’ ‘I feel like I have found love and conquered death in one day.’ The difference Jesus makes is massive, eternal, and impossible to fully comprehend. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 266 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/265 Psalm 109:21-31, Isaiah 51:17-54:17, Ephesians 1:1-23. In Christ, you have received ‘*every spiritual blessing*’ (Ephesians 1:3) All of the blessings, including those that the Old Testament speaks about, are yours in Christ Mon, 22 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/265/?ignore 26:22 enclassic22092025-265 1582.55 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 265: Understand Your Identity Psalm 109:21-31, Isaiah 51:17-54:17, Ephesians 1:1-23. In Christ, you have received ‘*every spiritual blessing*’ (Ephesians 1:3) All of the blessings, including those that the Old Testament speaks about, are yours in Christ Have you ever felt like a failure, or of no use to God, or thought that God wouldn’t want to answer your prayers? Until I first read Colin Urquhart’s book, In Christ Jesus, I had never realised how significant that little word ‘in’ is in the New Testament. Understanding that, as a Christian, you are ‘in’ Christ Jesus revolutionises how you see yourself, your self-image, your identity and how you understand your value to God. Write your name on a piece of paper. Take hold of your Bible to represent Christ. Place the paper in the book and close it. You are in Christ. Where the book goes you go. Where the paper goes he goes. You are not part of the book, but you are now identified totally with the book. Paul uses this expression, ‘in Christ Jesus’, over and over again. God has taken hold of you and placed you in Christ. In Christ, you have received ‘every spiritual blessing’ (Ephesians 1:3). All of the blessings, including those that the Old Testament speaks about, are yours in Christ. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 265 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/264 Proverbs 23:10-18, Isaiah 49:8-51:16, Galatians 6:1-18. We require instant returns and instant results But sometimes the biggest pay-offs are a long time coming Sun, 21 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/264/?ignore 25:09 enclassic21092025-264 1509.2 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 264: Never Give Up Proverbs 23:10-18, Isaiah 49:8-51:16, Galatians 6:1-18. We require instant returns and instant results But sometimes the biggest pay-offs are a long time coming Sir Winston Churchill has been described as Britain’s greatest ever leader. He lived a long, heroic life and he rallied a nation with his inspiring rhetoric. One of the most striking parts of his biography is that he had to resign from the Admiralty during WWI over the failed Dardanelles campaign. He had failed spectacularly, yet he was to learn not to give up. I was told that once, when he returned to his old school, Harrow, to address the boys, the whole school assembled to listen to his words of wisdom. The great man arose to speak: ‘Young men; never give up, never give up, never give up.’ The entire speech lasted only a few seconds. Then he sat down. No one present ever forgot his words. That is, at least, the popular version of the story. Churchill did indeed say words to that effect, but as part of a longer speech. Towards the end he said, ‘Never give in. Never give in. Never, never, never, never – in nothing, great or small, large or petty – never give in, except to convictions of honour and good sense. Never yield to force. Never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy.’ In today’s generation, our lives have become so instantaneous that anything requiring patient perseverance can appear unattractive. We require instant returns and instant results. But sometimes the biggest pay-offs are a long time coming. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 264 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/263 Psalm 109:1-20, Isaiah 47:1-49:7, Galatians 5:7-26. We may also experience conflict when we stand up for the truth within the church, or when we engage with the prevailing culture Even in the UK, a country that has traditionally been seen as ‘Christian’, the culture is becoming increasingly hostile towards the Christian faith Sat, 20 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/263/?ignore 25:18 enclassic20092025-263 1518.13 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 263: How to Deal with Conflict Psalm 109:1-20, Isaiah 47:1-49:7, Galatians 5:7-26. We may also experience conflict when we stand up for the truth within the church, or when we engage with the prevailing culture Even in the UK, a country that has traditionally been seen as ‘Christian’, the culture is becoming increasingly hostile towards the Christian faith ‘The Bible tells us to love our neighbours, and also to love our enemies; probably because they are generally the same people!’ wrote G.K. Chesterton. Conflict is inescapable. Even for those of us who shy away from confrontation, it is impossible to avoid. As we go through life, we will inevitably encounter people with whom we will have conflict. Additionally, for a Christian, an internal conflict exists between the desires of our sinful nature and the Holy Spirit. We may also experience conflict when we stand up for the truth within the church, or when we engage with the prevailing culture. Even in the UK, a country that has traditionally been seen as ‘Christian’, the culture is becoming increasingly hostile towards the Christian faith. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 263 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/262 Psalm 108:6-13, Isaiah 44:24-46:13, Galatians 4:21-5:6. You, too, are free Therefore, refuse to be trapped by your past Fri, 19 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/262/?ignore 24:34 enclassic19092025-262 1474.06 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 262: Refuse to Be Trapped by Your Past Psalm 108:6-13, Isaiah 44:24-46:13, Galatians 4:21-5:6. You, too, are free Therefore, refuse to be trapped by your past He had no one to help him become a lawyer or a politician. He was not interested in the army. He had no desire to be a doctor. Therefore, the only obvious career move in those days for a man of his background was to become a clergyman in the Church of England. He tried to make himself acceptable to God by keeping the whole law, inwardly and outwardly. He got up early. He prayed. He denied himself. He tried to earn forgiveness and peace by increased effort. But he ‘groaned under a heavy yoke’. On 24 May 1738 at 8.45 pm, he heard someone reading a book by the great reformer, Martin Luther. He later recalled, ‘While he was describing the change which God works in the heart through faith in Christ, I felt my heart strangely warmed. I felt I did trust in Christ, Christ alone for salvation; and an assurance was given [to] me that He had taken away my sins, even mine, and saved me from the law of sin and death.’ John Wesley became one of the greatest preachers ever, preaching over 40,000 sermons centred on freedom through faith in Jesus Christ. He had, as he put it, ‘exchanged the faith of a servant for the faith of a son’. He was free at last. ‘Freedom’ is the word that best sums up the Christian life. You, too, are free. Therefore, refuse to be trapped by your past. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 262 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/261 Psalm 108:1-5, Isaiah 43:1-44:23, Galatians 3:26-4:20. In the passages for today, we see how much more than just ‘nice’ God is – his goodness, amazing love and faithfulness We also see that not only does he ‘like’ you, he loves you – you are his ‘precious and honoured’ child (Isaiah 43:4) Thu, 18 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/261/?ignore 24:35 enclassic18092025-261 1475.92 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 261: God is Nice and He Likes You Psalm 108:1-5, Isaiah 43:1-44:23, Galatians 3:26-4:20. In the passages for today, we see how much more than just ‘nice’ God is – his goodness, amazing love and faithfulness We also see that not only does he ‘like’ you, he loves you – you are his ‘precious and honoured’ child (Isaiah 43:4) ‘This seemingly insubstantial fact revolutionised my life,’ wrote Adrian Plass, author of The Sacred Diary of Adrian Plass Aged 37¾. He continued, ‘I became a Christian when I was sixteen years old, but it wasn’t until I was thirty-seven that I absorbed an essential truth. God is nice and he likes me.’ Sadly, deep down many people think that God is not that nice, he does not like us very much and he spends most of his time being cross with us. This could not be further from the truth. In the passages for today, we see how much more than just ‘nice’ God is – his goodness, amazing love and faithfulness. We also see that not only does he ‘like’ you, he loves you – you are his ‘precious and honoured’ child (Isaiah 43:4). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 261 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/260 Proverbs 22:28–23:9, Isaiah 41:1–42:25, Galatians 3:10-25. Furthermore, it is God’s plan that the church, through the victory of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit, can and will succeed So, the St Andrew’s cross broadens out again as the members of the church of Jesus Christ become the servants of God with a mission to call all humanity back to their original creation purpose Wed, 17 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/260/?ignore 26:27 enclassic17092025-260 1587.85 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 260: The Best Way to Lead Proverbs 22:28–23:9, Isaiah 41:1–42:25, Galatians 3:10-25. Furthermore, it is God’s plan that the church, through the victory of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit, can and will succeed So, the St Andrew’s cross broadens out again as the members of the church of Jesus Christ become the servants of God with a mission to call all humanity back to their original creation purpose ‘Who is the servant of the Lord?’ This was the question that the Chief Financial Officer of Ethiopia asked the evangelist Philip: ‘Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?’ (Acts 8:34). The title ‘servant of the Lord’ is one of great dignity, reserved for leaders such as Abraham, Moses and David. But in the four ‘servant songs’ (Isaiah 42:1–4; 49:1–7; 50:4–9; 52:13 – 53:12) a distinct concept of ‘servanthood’ comes into sharper focus. The role of this ‘servant’ can be illustrated with the St Andrew’s cross. (St Andrew, brother of Peter, is believed to have died on a diagonally traversed cross, which the Romans sometimes used for execution. It therefore came to be called the St Andrew’s cross, and is the flag of Scotland.) Originally, God intended that all humankind should be his servant. Then, after the fall, God chose the whole nation of Israel to serve him. But even his chosen race was not faithful to him. So the focus, continuing to narrow, became a mere ‘faithful remnant’. Ultimately, only one individual was completely faithful (shown by the central intersection of the cross). This was Jesus. Jesus revealed what Israel (and indeed humankind) should have been. He was an Israelite sent to Israel, totally identifying with his nation and yet remaining distinct from it. No earthly king or prophet meets the description used in all the servant passages in Isaiah. Yet, Jesus does – perfectly. Where Israel failed, Jesus succeeded. Furthermore, it is God’s plan that the church, through the victory of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit, can and will succeed. So, the St Andrew’s cross broadens out again as the members of the church of Jesus Christ become the servants of God with a mission to call all humanity back to their original creation purpose. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 260 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/259 Psalm 107:33-43, Isaiah 38:1-40:31, Galatians 2:11-3:9. But we love imperfect people If we love imperfect people perhaps it shouldn’t surprise us that God loves imperfect people even more Tue, 16 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/259/?ignore 26:28 enclassic16092025-259 1588.24 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 259: God Loves Imperfect People Psalm 107:33-43, Isaiah 38:1-40:31, Galatians 2:11-3:9. But we love imperfect people If we love imperfect people perhaps it shouldn’t surprise us that God loves imperfect people even more I am far from perfect. I sometimes find it hard to believe that God really loves me – especially when I mess up, fail or make bad decisions. Actually, no one is perfect – apart from Jesus. But God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son to die for us (John 3:16). Therefore, God must love imperfect people. In fact, ‘While we were still sinners, Christ died for us’ (Romans 5:8). God knows that perfect people do not exist. We all fail. God’s love for you is bigger than your mistakes. God loves imperfect people. Everyone knows that their marriage partner is not perfect, their children are not perfect, their parents are not perfect, and their friends are not perfect. But we love imperfect people. If we love imperfect people perhaps it shouldn’t surprise us that God loves imperfect people even more. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 259 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/258 Psalm 107:23-32, Isaiah 36:1-37:38, Galatians 2:1-10. What do we do when the ‘*truth of the gospel*’ is at stake? (Galatians 2:5) How do we respond to ‘*a day of crisis*’ in our lives? (Isaiah 37:3, MSG) Mon, 15 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/258/?ignore 24:51 enclassic15092025-258 1491.1 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 258: Every Crisis is an Opportunity Psalm 107:23-32, Isaiah 36:1-37:38, Galatians 2:1-10. What do we do when the ‘*truth of the gospel*’ is at stake? (Galatians 2:5) How do we respond to ‘*a day of crisis*’ in our lives? (Isaiah 37:3, MSG) President John F. Kennedy once remarked that ‘when written in Chinese, the word “crisis” is composed of two characters. One represents danger, and the other represents opportunity.’ Every crisis is, at the same time, an opportunity. Crises are often caused by unexpected difficulties. All of us have problems. Many of us will face crises. How do you respond to a time of trouble, danger or unexpected difficulties in your personal life? How do we respond to unexpected difficulties in the church or in our nation? What do we do when we are ‘at [our] wits’ end’? (Psalm 107:27). What do we do when the ‘truth of the gospel’ is at stake? (Galatians 2:5). How do we respond to ‘a day of crisis’ in our lives? (Isaiah 37:3, MSG). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 258 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/257 Psalm 107:10-22, Isaiah 33:1-35:10, Galatians 1:1-24. It means ‘freedom’ As the Bishop pointed out, there are three tenses of salvation: you *have been* set free from the *penalty* of sin, you *are being* set free from the *power* of sin and you *will be* set free from the *presence* of sin Sun, 14 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/257/?ignore 25:31 enclassic14092025-257 1531.38 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 257: 'Are You Saved?' Psalm 107:10-22, Isaiah 33:1-35:10, Galatians 1:1-24. It means ‘freedom’ As the Bishop pointed out, there are three tenses of salvation: you *have been* set free from the *penalty* of sin, you *are being* set free from the *power* of sin and you *will be* set free from the *presence* of sin I have a picture, sitting on the windowsill in my study, of Bishop Westcott. It was given to me by his great-grandson. The nineteenth-century English scholar, Bishop B.F. Westcott, was Regius Professor of Divinity at Cambridge University. On one occasion he was approached by a zealous undergraduate who asked him, ‘Are you saved?’ ‘Ah,’ said the Bishop, ‘a very good question. But tell me: do you mean…?’ And then he mentioned three passive participles of the Greek verb ‘to save’, indicating that his answer would depend on which of the three the student had in mind (the English translation is given here in italics). ‘I know I have been saved,’ he said; ‘I believe I am being saved; and I hope by the grace of God that I shall be saved.’ ‘Salvation’ is a huge and comprehensive word. It means ‘freedom’. As the Bishop pointed out, there are three tenses of salvation: you have been set free from the penalty of sin, you are being set free from the power of sin and you will be set free from the presence of sin. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 257 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/256 Proverbs 22:17-27, Isaiah 30:19-32:20, 2 Corinthians 13:1-14. If you ‘realise’ (v 5) this, it will transform the way you live your life Sat, 13 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/256/?ignore 22:09 enclassic13092025-256 1329.55 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 256: Jesus Christ Lives in You Proverbs 22:17-27, Isaiah 30:19-32:20, 2 Corinthians 13:1-14. If you ‘realise’ (v 5) this, it will transform the way you live your life I brought in a boxing glove as a visual aid. I dangled the glove and showed how ineffective it was without a hand in it. Then I put my hand in the glove, made a fist and punched the air so that everyone could see the difference it made to the power of the glove. I was speaking at a prison for teenagers in Oxford. I was a theological student at the time and was given the opportunity to speak in a chapel service. The prison chaplain at the detention centre, who was helping with my training, pointed out that it was an inappropriate illustration for a prison, since it might suggest that Jesus and violence were closely associated! Apart from that, he agreed that it was a good analogy. What I was trying to illustrate was the difference it makes when Jesus Christ comes to live in you by his Spirit. Without him we are weak (2 Corinthians 13:4), like the glove without the hand in it. But when Jesus Christ comes to live within you, you have God’s power in your life (vv.4–5). If you ‘realise’ (v.5) this, it will transform the way you live your life. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 256 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/255 Psalm 107:1-9, Isaiah 29:1-30:18, 2 Corinthians 12:11-21. The signs on the Italian Riviera were erected to keep people safe The words of Jesus, the New Testament and the Bible as a whole, are designed to keep us on the path that leads to life Fri, 12 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/255/?ignore 22:04 enclassic12092025-255 1324.98 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 255: How to Stay on God's Paths Psalm 107:1-9, Isaiah 29:1-30:18, 2 Corinthians 12:11-21. The signs on the Italian Riviera were erected to keep people safe The words of Jesus, the New Testament and the Bible as a whole, are designed to keep us on the path that leads to life I remember reading, years ago, about an incident that occurred on the Italian Riviera. A young man was driving his sports car along a road near the sea. It was a beautiful and scenic route. But the road was not what it seemed. All along the way were warning signs. Yet, to the young man, the road seemed perfectly good. Disaster awaited him. A landslide had recently created a precipice. No one should have been on that road. He continued at great speed. He ignored all the warning signs. He went straight over the cliff. Sometimes we are not sure where a path will lead. At other times, we are well aware of where it leads but choose to follow it nevertheless. Jesus said that there is a path that leads to life. There is also a path that leads to destruction (Matthew 7:13–14). Warning signs are not put up as a threat, but out of love. The signs on the Italian Riviera were erected to keep people safe. The words of Jesus, the New Testament and the Bible as a whole, are designed to keep us on the path that leads to life. How do you make sure that you are on the right path? Once you are on that path, how do you stay on it? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 255 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/254 Psalm 106:40-48, Isaiah 27:1-28:29, 2 Corinthians 12:1-10. This is one of my favourite verses in the entire Bible I often quote this verse to God and remind him of his promise that his power is made perfect in my weakness Thu, 11 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/254/?ignore 22:25 enclassic11092025-254 1345.33 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 254: His Grace is Enough for You Psalm 106:40-48, Isaiah 27:1-28:29, 2 Corinthians 12:1-10. This is one of my favourite verses in the entire Bible I often quote this verse to God and remind him of his promise that his power is made perfect in my weakness I first met Nick Vujicic when he came to speak at Focus, our church holiday. Nick is a remarkable man. I think that all of us who met him were inspired and challenged by his life. Nick was born without arms or legs, yet he can say, ‘I am truly blessed. I am ridiculously happy.’ Many times as a child he prayed for arms and legs. He would have settled for getting one arm or leg. God did not answer his prayer in the way that he had hoped. Yet he writes, ‘God used me to reach people in countless schools, churches, prisons, orphanages, hospitals, stadiums and meeting halls. Even better, I’ve hugged thousands of people in face-to-face encounters that allow me to tell them how very precious they are... God took my unusual body and invested me with the ability to uplift hearts and encourage spirits.’ The people of God depend on the grace of God. Mother Teresa wrote, ‘I don’t think there is anyone who needs God’s help and grace as much as I do. Sometimes I feel so helpless and weak. I think that is why God uses me. Because I cannot depend on my own strength, I rely on Him twenty-four hours a day. If the day had even more hours, then I would need His help and grace during those as well.’ Paul expresses this dependence when he writes about the ‘thorn in his flesh’. Three times he pleaded with the Lord to take it away. But God said to him, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness’ (2 Corinthians 12:9). His grace is not only amazing; it is ‘sufficient’. It is enough. This is one of my favourite verses in the entire Bible. I often quote this verse to God and remind him of his promise that his power is made perfect in my weakness. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 254 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/253 Psalm 106:32-39, Isaiah 24:1-26:21, 2 Corinthians 11:16-33. Yet as we read the Bible, it is clear that this promise of ‘perfect peace’ is not dependent on circumstances God’s peace comes to you even in the dark places – in the midst of your most difficult struggles and challenges Wed, 10 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/253/?ignore 24:19 enclassic10092025-253 1459.04 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 253: Peace in the Dark Places Psalm 106:32-39, Isaiah 24:1-26:21, 2 Corinthians 11:16-33. Yet as we read the Bible, it is clear that this promise of ‘perfect peace’ is not dependent on circumstances God’s peace comes to you even in the dark places – in the midst of your most difficult struggles and challenges ‘Men don’t come much tougher than daredevil climber and adventurer, Bear Grylls,’ writes the Sun newspaper. A former member of the UK Special Forces, his TV adventure series Man vs. Wild has reached an estimated 1.2 billion viewers in over 180 countries. Not being remotely adventurous or daring myself, as I read his autobiography, Mud, Sweat and Tears, I was spellbound, gripped and horrified by his sheer physical and mental endurance. He has survived the SAS, a broken back from a parachute jump, climbing Mount Everest, the French Foreign Legion and a variety of other extraordinary challenges. One of the things I appreciated about reading Bear’s autobiography was his refreshing openness about his struggles, both inward and outward. With admirable vulnerability, he reveals his anxieties, fear of heights and sense of weakness. Through it all his strong Christian faith shines through. He writes, ‘Faith in Christ has been the great empowering presence in my life, helping me walk strong when so often I feel so weak.’ In the midst of life’s difficulties and extraordinary challenges, Christ is the empowering presence who brings us peace. ‘Perfect peace’ (Isaiah 26:3) makes me think of a beautiful, calm summer’s day, sitting by a deserted lake with not a care in the world and no temptations, no problems and no difficulties to cope with. ‘Perfect peace’ in such circumstances would not be at all surprising or extraordinary. Yet as we read the Bible, it is clear that this promise of ‘perfect peace’ is not dependent on circumstances. God’s peace comes to you even in the dark places – in the midst of your most difficult struggles and challenges. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 253 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/252 Proverbs 22:7-16, Isaiah 20:1-23:18, 2 Corinthians 11:1-15. But Paul goes even further in terms of intimacy: he refers to Christ as our husband and the church as his bride (2 Corinthians 11:2; see also Ephesians 5:22–33) This is the closest, most important and most intimate relationship of all Tue, 09 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/252/?ignore 25:25 enclassic09092025-252 1525.84 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 252: How to Know and Love Jesus Proverbs 22:7-16, Isaiah 20:1-23:18, 2 Corinthians 11:1-15. But Paul goes even further in terms of intimacy: he refers to Christ as our husband and the church as his bride (2 Corinthians 11:2; see also Ephesians 5:22–33) This is the closest, most important and most intimate relationship of all Sophie is an only child. Her mother had fourteen miscarriages before she was born. Her parents adore her. She adores her parents. Sophie is now an adult, and still loves to spend as much time as possible with her parents. She told me that when she was at school she and her fellow pupils were asked whether they thought their parents loved them more than they loved each other. Most of them replied that they thought that was the case. However, Sophie replied that she thought her parents loved each other far more, but that it was this very bond of love that made her feel so secure and so loved. At the heart of the Christian faith is a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. To be a Christian is to know and love Christ. What is this relationship like? The Bible describes it using human language, and human analogies. It is a relationship of the closest possible intimacy. It is like that of a parent and child (Luke 1; Romans 8). But Paul goes even further in terms of intimacy: he refers to Christ as our husband and the church as his bride (2 Corinthians 11:2; see also Ephesians 5:22–33). This is the closest, most important and most intimate relationship of all. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 252 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/251 Psalm 106:16-31, Isaiah 17:1-19:25, 2 Corinthians 10:1-18. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds’ (2 Corinthians 10:3b–4) Mon, 08 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/251/?ignore 24:11 enclassic08092025-251 1451.81 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 251: Winning the Spiritual Battle Psalm 106:16-31, Isaiah 17:1-19:25, 2 Corinthians 10:1-18. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds’ (2 Corinthians 10:3b–4) The tragic image is unforgettable. Like so many people, I wept as I saw the picture of 3-year-old Alan Kurdi’s little body washed up on the shoreline in Turkey. He had drowned, together with his brother and mother, as his family fled the war in Syria. One of the biggest causes of the current European refugee crisis is warfare. Over 500,000 people have been killed in the civil war in Syria in recent years. In Iraq, Isis have murdered thousands of innocent people (many of them Christians) and displaced tens of thousands of people (again, many of them Christians). Appalling terrorist attacks around the world now occur with alarming regularity. These atrocities are extreme and horrific instances of a violence that has always taken place at every level of society. ‘Brother fight brother, neighbour fight neighbour, city fight city, kingdom fight kingdom – anarchy and chaos and killing!’ (Isaiah 19:2, MSG). Virtually every day in the media we see the horrors of warfare. We live in a world that is constantly developing even more terrible weapons of physical warfare. These weapons have the power to maim, kill and destroy. But this warfare is not purely physical. The issues that give rise to it, as many in both politics and the media acknowledge, are profoundly moral and spiritual. Just as physical warfare is a serious global issue, so, according to the apostle Paul, is spiritual warfare (see Ephesians 6:10–20). This is unseen, but it is just as real. The great Welsh preacher, Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones, once said, ‘There is no grosser or greater misrepresentation of the Christian message than that which depicts it as offering a life of ease with no battle and struggle at all... sooner or later every believer discovers that the Christian life is a battleground, not a playground.’ In this battle, you are called not to be overcome by evil but to overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21). You are given the weapons with which to win the battle. Paul writes, ‘We do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds’ (2 Corinthians 10:3b–4). What are these weapons? How do you use them? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 251 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/250 Psalm 106:1-15, Isaiah 14:1-16:14, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15. I want to be like Mick I long for the church of Jesus Christ to be full of people like him because, as we see in today’s passage, grace, thanksgiving and generosity are very closely connected Sun, 07 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/250/?ignore 25:15 enclassic07092025-250 1515.05 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 250: Ten Reasons to Give Generously Psalm 106:1-15, Isaiah 14:1-16:14, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15. I want to be like Mick I long for the church of Jesus Christ to be full of people like him because, as we see in today’s passage, grace, thanksgiving and generosity are very closely connected Mick Hawkins was the most generous person I have ever met. He was always giving and always offering to pay for everything. We thought he must be very rich. Actually, he wasn’t. He was just very generous. His life overflowed with thankfulness for God’s grace. This opened his heart and his wallet in a way that inspired all who knew him. I want to be like Mick. I long for the church of Jesus Christ to be full of people like him because, as we see in today’s passage, grace, thanksgiving and generosity are very closely connected. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 250 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/249 Psalm 105:37-45, Isaiah 10:20-13:22, 2 Corinthians 8:16-9:5. The New Testament understanding of the Lord helps us interpret the Old Testament use of ‘The LORD’ The Old Testament enriches our understanding of what the New Testament means when it speaks of ‘The LORD’ Sat, 06 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/249/?ignore 23:09 enclassic06092025-249 1389.3 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 249: How to Love Your Lord Psalm 105:37-45, Isaiah 10:20-13:22, 2 Corinthians 8:16-9:5. The New Testament understanding of the Lord helps us interpret the Old Testament use of ‘The LORD’ The Old Testament enriches our understanding of what the New Testament means when it speaks of ‘The LORD’ What was wrong with these people? Were they weird? Was it a cult? What was this strange expression they seemed to use? Of course, I knew that God or even Jesus could be called ‘Lord’, but never before had I heard God referred to so often by a group of people as ‘The Lord’. In the years since then, as I have studied the Bible, I have begun to understand why these Christians, whom I first met at university, used this expression so often: they loved their Lord! Now he is my Lord. I, too, love the Lord. ‘The LORD’ is the most common way of referring to God in the Old Testament. When written in capitals, this word translates the Jewish covenant name for God, YHWH. Out of respect for God, Jews do not use the word. Historically, we have often pronounced the word as ‘Jehovah’, when in fact it sounds more like ‘Yahweh’. When the Old Testament was first translated into Greek (c.250 BC) the name YHWH was translated as Kurios (the Lord). This translation is then reflected in the New Testament. The New Testament gives us a more Trinitarian understanding of ‘The LORD’. It makes the remarkable claim that Jesus is the Lord. In fact, whether someone can say ‘Jesus is Lord’ becomes the test of Christian authenticity (1 Corinthians 12:3). It also makes the claim that the Holy Spirit is Lord: ‘Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom’ (2 Corinthians 3:17). God the Father is Lord. God the Son is Lord. God the Holy Spirit is Lord. But there is only one Lord: ‘One Lord… one God’ (Ephesians 4:5–6). The one Trinitarian God is Lord. The New Testament understanding of the Lord helps us interpret the Old Testament use of ‘The LORD’. The Old Testament enriches our understanding of what the New Testament means when it speaks of ‘The LORD’. How can you love your Lord? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 249 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/248 Proverbs 21:27-22:6, Isaiah 8:11-10:19, 2 Corinthians 8:1-15. 9) However, the passages for today totally redefine this world’s understanding of the word ‘rich’ Fri, 05 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/248/?ignore 24:29 enclassic05092025-248 1469.07 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 248: Godly Wisdom for Your Finances Proverbs 21:27-22:6, Isaiah 8:11-10:19, 2 Corinthians 8:1-15. 9) However, the passages for today totally redefine this world’s understanding of the word ‘rich’ ‘I am so happy I could cry! I am so excited that we might have the chance to go to Focus [our church holiday]! I can’t wait to see my children’s faces when I tell them!’ This was the reaction of a mother with two young children in our congregation when she heard she would be given a bursary (a discounted rate) to come to Focus. At the end of the week she wrote, ‘It is the best holiday we have ever had as a family. I am so happy.’ I love the fact that hundreds of people come to Focus on bursaries, or even for nothing. Others give generously to make this possible. A few months later the mother who had written to me unexpectedly inherited some money from a distant relative. She gave extraordinarily generously. The amount far more than covered the bursary she and her family had received. This is a practical outworking of the New Testament principle that those who can afford give to help those who cannot afford – so that there might be equality: ‘At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need’ (2 Corinthians 8:14). So much of our world is taken up with thinking, writing and talking about money, wealth and riches. The Bible has a great deal to say about these subjects. However, the biblical position is in contrast to that of today’s culture. In today’s New Testament passage, Paul tells us that the whole point of the incarnation of Jesus was that you might ‘become rich’ (v.9). However, the passages for today totally redefine this world’s understanding of the word ‘rich’. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 248 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/247 Psalm 105:23-36, Isaiah 5:8-8:10, 2 Corinthians 7:2-16. 7, AMP) However bleak things may appear, God always seems to raise up people who are instruments ‘for noble purposes… *useful* to the Master and prepared to do any good work’ (2 Timothy 2:21) Thu, 04 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/247/?ignore 27:21 enclassic04092025-247 1641.2 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 247: How Can You Be Useful to God? Psalm 105:23-36, Isaiah 5:8-8:10, 2 Corinthians 7:2-16. 7, AMP) However bleak things may appear, God always seems to raise up people who are instruments ‘for noble purposes… *useful* to the Master and prepared to do any good work’ (2 Timothy 2:21) Pippa and I had just returned home from the hospital. Earlier that day, my mother had died of a heart attack while at her desk at work. She was sixty-nine. I was in a state of shock and turmoil within. I wandered out of our home for a breath of fresh air and was thinking that the one person I really wanted to see was Sandy Millar – our pastor and friend. At that moment, I looked up and recognised his car approaching. He had just heard our news and had driven straight round to see us. God used Sandy’s arrival that day to bring us great comfort and encouragement. In today’s New Testament passage, we read that Titus’ arrival was used by God to bring Paul great comfort and encouragement when Paul was in a state of turmoil, exhaustion, oppression, affliction, dread and fear: ‘But God, who comforts and encourages and refreshes and cheers the depressed and the sinking, comforted and encouraged and refreshed and cheered us by the arrival of Titus’ (2 Corinthians 7:6, AMP). Titus’ arrival brought even further encouragement because he carried news of how the Corinthians were being useful to God. As a result, Paul ‘rejoiced still more’ (v.7, AMP). However bleak things may appear, God always seems to raise up people who are instruments ‘for noble purposes… useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work’ (2 Timothy 2:21). How can you and I be useful to God? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 247 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/246 Psalm 105:12-22, Isaiah 3:1-5:7, 2 Corinthians 6:3-7:1. He gave the equivalent of US $250 million to fund such prizes Alfred Nobel had the rare opportunity to evaluate his life near its end and live long enough to change that assessment Wed, 03 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/246/?ignore 20:13 enclassic03092025-246 1213.2 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 246: How Your Life Can Make a Difference Psalm 105:12-22, Isaiah 3:1-5:7, 2 Corinthians 6:3-7:1. He gave the equivalent of US $250 million to fund such prizes Alfred Nobel had the rare opportunity to evaluate his life near its end and live long enough to change that assessment Alfred Nobel (1833–1896) is best known for the Nobel Peace Prize. Less well known is the fact that Alfred Nobel also invented dynamite. As well as a chemist, engineer and innovator, he was a weapons’ manufacturer. In 1888, Alfred’s brother Ludvig died. A French newspaper erroneously published Alfred’s obituary. It condemned him for his invention of dynamite, stating: ‘The merchant of death is dead… Dr Alfred Nobel, who became rich by finding ways to kill more people faster than ever before, died yesterday.’ Alfred Nobel was devastated by the foretaste of how he would be remembered. His last will and testament set aside the bulk of his estate to establish the Nobel prizes. He gave the equivalent of US $250 million to fund such prizes. Alfred Nobel had the rare opportunity to evaluate his life near its end and live long enough to change that assessment. Have you ever wondered what difference your life might make? How can your life bring blessing to other people? How can you change the world for the better? How can your life be of ultimate lasting value? How can we lead fruitful lives? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 246 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/245 Psalm 105:1-11, Isaiah 1:1-2:22, 2 Corinthians 5:11-6:2. Appeal to them to become friends of God and ambassadors themselves As royal ambassadors, act with diplomacy and skill because you are representing Christ on earth Tue, 02 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/245/?ignore 23:15 enclassic02092025-245 1395.3 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 245: Recognise Who You Are Psalm 105:1-11, Isaiah 1:1-2:22, 2 Corinthians 5:11-6:2. Appeal to them to become friends of God and ambassadors themselves As royal ambassadors, act with diplomacy and skill because you are representing Christ on earth The ambassadors I have met have always impressed me enormously. They have clearly been chosen very carefully. They have all been trained in the art of diplomacy. They are skilled at representing their country by both how they act and what they say. To be an ambassador is an immense privilege. An ambassador is ‘a minister of the highest rank sent to a foreign court to represent the… sovereign or country’. A British Ambassador is a minister who represents King and country wherever they are sent. Paul writes that we are ‘Christ’s ambassadors’ (2 Corinthians 5:20). The Greek word translated as ‘ambassador’ shares the same root as ‘presbyter’, which is one of the words used to describe church leaders. Whether you are in a recognised leadership role in the church or not, you are an ambassador of Christ, with the extraordinary privilege and responsibility of representing Jesus in this world. You are God’s representative on earth. Through you, God makes his appeal for others to be reconciled to God; to receive his forgiveness, love and grace. Appeal to them to become friends of God and ambassadors themselves. As royal ambassadors, act with diplomacy and skill because you are representing Christ on earth. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 245 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/244 Proverbs 21:17-26, Micah 5:1-7:20, 2 Corinthians 5:1-10. *It has been said that ‘the two greatest days of your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why’ God created you with a purpose in mind (2 Corinthians 5:5) Mon, 01 Sep 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/244/?ignore 22:07 enclassic01092025-244 1327.6 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 244: Find Your Purpose in Life Proverbs 21:17-26, Micah 5:1-7:20, 2 Corinthians 5:1-10. *It has been said that ‘the two greatest days of your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why’ God created you with a purpose in mind (2 Corinthians 5:5) ‘What a waste!’ said a woman to my friend. This woman was talking about Bishop Sandy Millar, who had practised very successfully as a lawyer for ten years, before leaving it all behind to become an ordained minister in the church. ‘A waste?’ exclaimed my outraged friend. ‘Yes,’ said the woman, ‘Such a waste! He could have made a fortune and been at the very top of the legal profession. Think of what he could have achieved!’ ‘Think of what he has achieved!’ replied my friend – who was thinking of the impact of Sandy’s ministry on thousands of people around the world whose lives had been changed, marriages enriched and churches renewed; those who found faith, love, hope and peace through encountering Jesus Christ as a result of Sandy’s ministry. Many have given up a successful career, a high salary and – in the eyes of the world – all their prospects, in order to serve God in ‘full-time ministry’ with little or no pay. They know that theirs is a high calling and purpose that far exceeds what the world can promise them. Of course, those called to serve God in their secular places of work have an equally high purpose and calling, if they are doing what they are doing in order to please God and for the sake of his kingdom. The key is not the job or career – but the goal you pursue. So many people waste their lives. They have no purpose, meaning or goal. Other people do have a goal, but it is the wrong one. They end up chasing something that is ultimately meaningless. Many reach the top of the ladder of success only to find that it is leaning against the wrong wall. Purpose in life is far more important than property or possessions. Having more to live with is no substitute for having more to live for. It has been said that ‘the two greatest days of your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why’. God created you with a purpose in mind (2 Corinthians 5:5). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 244 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/243 Psalm 104:31-35, Micah 1:1-4:13, 2 Corinthians 4:1-18. 18) The invisible is eternal Sun, 31 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/243/?ignore 23:50 enclassic31082025-243 1430.39 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 243: Fix Your Eyes on the Invisible Psalm 104:31-35, Micah 1:1-4:13, 2 Corinthians 4:1-18. 18) The invisible is eternal Do you ever get discouraged? Are you ever tempted to ‘lose heart’? If you are, you are not alone. Paul was almost certainly tempted himself to lose heart, and he wrote to other Christians who were also tempted to do so. Yet Paul wrote, ‘We do not lose heart’ (2 Corinthians 4:1,16). ‘We do not throw up our hands and walk off the job’ (v.1, MSG). Why not? Paul explains that it is because in Jesus we have received a ‘treasure’ (v.7). The treasure is the message of Jesus. It is because the message that Paul has to proclaim is so amazing that he starts and ends by saying, ‘Therefore… we do not lose heart’ (vv.1,16). Yet the treasure is inward and unseen. Paul describes it as being in ‘jars of clay’ (v.7). Our culture emphasises the outward and the seen. The media is dominated by physical beauty and outward success. The Bible stresses the importance of the inward and unseen: the beliefs, thoughts and attitudes that determine our outward behaviour. ‘For what is seen is temporary but what is unseen is eternal’ (v.18). The invisible is eternal. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 243 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/242 Psalm 104:19-30, 2 Chronicles 35:20-36:23, 2 Corinthians 3:7-18. ’ When we really want someone to listen to and believe us, we say to that person, ‘*Look into my eyes* ’The Bible says a lot about faces and eyes Sat, 30 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/242/?ignore 19:06 enclassic30082025-242 1146.8 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 242: How to Have a Spiritual Facelift Psalm 104:19-30, 2 Chronicles 35:20-36:23, 2 Corinthians 3:7-18. ’ When we really want someone to listen to and believe us, we say to that person, ‘*Look into my eyes* ’The Bible says a lot about faces and eyes Father Raniero Cantalamessa, a Capuchin monk, preacher to the papal household, aged eighty-one, kindly came and spoke at our Leadership Conference at the Royal Albert Hall. Many people comment on how his face and eyes shine with the radiance of God’s presence. He was on a train one time in Italy when a woman, who was a total non-believer, approached him and said, ‘Your face compels me to believe.’ It has been said, ‘We cannot control the beauty of our face, but we can control the expression on it.’ As this story illustrates, you can tell a lot by looking at people’s eyes and faces. We say, ‘You should have seen the look on their face.’ As the old Latin proverb says, ‘The face is the index of the mind.’ It is also true that ‘The eyes are the windows to the soul.’ When we really want someone to listen to and believe us, we say to that person, ‘Look into my eyes.’ The Bible says a lot about faces and eyes. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 242 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/241 Psalm 104:1-18, 2 Chronicles 33:21-35:19, 2 Corinthians 2:12-3:6. John Wimber defined this kind of ministry as ‘meeting the needs of others with the resources of God’ Wonderfully, this type of ministry is now available to you and me Fri, 29 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/241/?ignore 25:15 enclassic29082025-241 1515.68 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 241: When the Holy Spirit Comes Psalm 104:1-18, 2 Chronicles 33:21-35:19, 2 Corinthians 2:12-3:6. John Wimber defined this kind of ministry as ‘meeting the needs of others with the resources of God’ Wonderfully, this type of ministry is now available to you and me I remember the first time I prayed ‘Come, Holy Spirit’ on an Alpha Weekend. I knew that the Holy Spirit had ‘come’ every time those who had led the Alpha Weekends before me had asked him to come. Even so, I did not think he would come in answer to my prayers – as I prayed ‘Come, Holy Spirit’ I shut my eyes, because I did not want to see the Holy Spirit ‘not coming’! When I opened my eyes, there was an amazing sight. The Holy Spirit had come in a powerful way – people were being filled. He was changing people’s lives. This was the ministry of the Holy Spirit. That is why at some point in virtually every one of our services we pray ‘Come, Holy Spirit.’ We always try to leave time for ‘ministry’ – for the Holy Spirit to minister to us. We often associate the word ‘minister’ with leadership, whether by government ministers or by church ministers. In fact, the word really means ‘to serve’. Politicians are called to serve their countries. Pastors are called to serve the church. Doctors, who administer treatment to their patients, are called to serve the sick and the dying. The Holy Spirit ministers to you. He brings authority greater than any politician, comfort deeper than any pastor, and healing more wonderful than any doctor. God ministers to you in the deepest part of your life by the Holy Spirit. The apostle Paul speaks of ‘the ministry of the Spirit’ (2 Corinthians 3:8). John Wimber defined this kind of ministry as ‘meeting the needs of others with the resources of God’. Wonderfully, this type of ministry is now available to you and me. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 241 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/240 Proverbs 21:5-16, 2 Chronicles 31:2-33:20, 2 Corinthians 1:23-2:11. He is also just In his book *Justice in Love*, Nicholas Wolterstorff points out that justice is a necessary constituent part of any properly formed conception of love Thu, 28 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/240/?ignore 27:30 enclassic28082025-240 1650.96 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 240: Just Love Proverbs 21:5-16, 2 Chronicles 31:2-33:20, 2 Corinthians 1:23-2:11. He is also just In his book *Justice in Love*, Nicholas Wolterstorff points out that justice is a necessary constituent part of any properly formed conception of love The prison governor was an immensely impressive, dynamic, eloquent and young African-American woman known as ‘Chief Jennifer’. Our team assembled at the start of the visit, together with those who ran the prison. Chief Jennifer welcomed us with these words: ‘Greetings in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.’ She told us that there were 2.5 million people in prison in the USA, each costing the taxpayer $24,000 a year. Only 3% will stay in prison for the rest of their lives. 97% of those presently incarcerated will, at some point, be released back into society. For that reason, she continued, there was good secular motivation for wanting to see change in their lives, besides her own desire, as a Christian, for them to experience redemption. The prison was run not only with justice, but also with love. All wrong attitudes and actions were lovingly confronted. There was no bad language, no graffiti and a learned respectful behaviour. We spent some time with a group of men who had recently completed Alpha there and heard their testimonies of changed lives. God is love. He is also just. In his book Justice in Love, Nicholas Wolterstorff points out that justice is a necessary constituent part of any properly formed conception of love. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 240 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/239 Psalm 103:13-22, 2 Chronicles 29:1-31:1, 2 Corinthians 1:12-22. 21, MSG) By giving you the Holy Spirit, God has already given you this deposit in advance of what one day you will receive in full Wed, 27 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/239/?ignore 26:08 enclassic27082025-239 1568.91 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 239: Anointed by God Psalm 103:13-22, 2 Chronicles 29:1-31:1, 2 Corinthians 1:12-22. 21, MSG) By giving you the Holy Spirit, God has already given you this deposit in advance of what one day you will receive in full Do you realise that right now you are ‘anointed’ by God? ‘Anointing’ is not just for special Christian leaders or speakers. It is for all of us. Do you know that this anointing gives you power over sin, temptation and evil? Do you know that this anointing gives you access to God in prayer and worship? Do you know that this anointing enables you to proclaim God’s message to other people? All of this is possible because God has given you the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit not only guarantees your future; he is the down payment in advance. ‘He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit guaranteeing what is to come’ (2 Corinthians 1:21–22). When you exchange contracts on a house it is usually accompanied by a deposit, which not only guarantees what is to come but is also a part payment in advance. God ‘by his Spirit has stamped us with an eternal pledge – a sure beginning of what he is destined to complete’ (v.21, MSG). By giving you the Holy Spirit, God has already given you this deposit in advance of what one day you will receive in full. What does this anointing of the Holy Spirit mean in practice? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 239 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/238 Psalm 103:1-12, 2 Chronicles 26:1-28:27, 2 Corinthians 1:1-11. David reminds himself in the psalm for today *not to forget* ‘*all his benefits*’ (Psalm 103:2) Many are conscious of the ‘benefits’ they receive associated with their employment, or from the state Tue, 26 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/238/?ignore 24:45 enclassic26082025-238 1485.01 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 238: God's Benefit Package Psalm 103:1-12, 2 Chronicles 26:1-28:27, 2 Corinthians 1:1-11. David reminds himself in the psalm for today *not to forget* ‘*all his benefits*’ (Psalm 103:2) Many are conscious of the ‘benefits’ they receive associated with their employment, or from the state I rediscovered one of my prayer diaries in which I recorded some of my early experiences of answered prayer. On 26 September 1976, I wrote about a prayer for my mother: ‘Prayed for the Lord to heal her insomnia.’ (I did not tell her I was praying for her.) Exactly three months later, on 26 December 1976, I wrote that my mother ‘says she has slept better in the last few weeks than for four years and it is no longer a problem’. Of course, it is not possible to prove Christianity on the basis of answers to prayer, because cynics can always explain them away as coincidence. But as former Archbishop of Canterbury William Temple said, ‘When I pray, coincidences happen; when I don’t, they don’t.’ The cumulative effect of answered prayer is to reinforce our faith in God. Over the last thirty years, I have written by the New Testament passage for today some of my prayers for the year ahead. It is amazing to think back and remember the ways in which God has answered so many of these prayers. I find it very easy to forget all the answers to prayer. It is so easy to forget blessings. David reminds himself in the psalm for today not to forget ‘all his benefits’ (Psalm 103:2). Many are conscious of the ‘benefits’ they receive associated with their employment, or from the state. But what about the ‘benefits’ that we receive from our loving heavenly Father? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 238 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/237 Psalm 102:18-28, 2 Chronicles 24:1-25:28, 1 Corinthians 16:5-24. ’The Bible has a great deal to say about family life Not only do we have a natural family but, as Christians, we are part of the church, which the New Testament sees as ‘the family of God’ Mon, 25 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/237/?ignore 24:58 enclassic25082025-237 1498.64 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 237: Strong Families Psalm 102:18-28, 2 Chronicles 24:1-25:28, 1 Corinthians 16:5-24. ’The Bible has a great deal to say about family life Not only do we have a natural family but, as Christians, we are part of the church, which the New Testament sees as ‘the family of God’ A busy father was looking for a way to entertain his young daughter. He found a map of the world in a magazine and cut it into pieces. He gave the pieces to his child and suggested she try to piece the map back together. After a very short time, she said she had finished. He was very surprised by how quickly she had done it. He asked her how she had managed to do it so fast. She replied, ‘I noticed when you took the page out of the magazine that on the back of the map of the world there was a picture of a man and a woman. I thought that if I could put the man and the woman back together, I could put the world back together.’ Marriage and family life are hugely important. They are part of God’s natural order, and are a vital part of the fabric of society. Pope John Paul II once wrote that family is the ‘foundation’ of society and ‘nourishes’ society continually. Nicky and Sila Lee have invested their lives in strengthening marriages and family life. Their courses and books such as The Marriage Book and The Parenting Book have had a profound impact on thousands of people in our own local church and now in many countries around the world. Recently a government official in one country said to Nicky and Sila, ‘A strong society depends on strong families and strong families depend on strong marriages. That’s why we are interested in your work.’ The Bible has a great deal to say about family life. Not only do we have a natural family but, as Christians, we are part of the church, which the New Testament sees as ‘the family of God’. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 237 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/236 Proverbs 20:25-21:4, 2 Chronicles 21:4-23:21, 1 Corinthians 15:50-16:4. The key to a right understanding of ‘*victory’* is to see it as *a gift* made possible ‘*through our Lord Jesus Christ*’ (1 Corinthians 15:57) This means that the appropriate response is not pride, but thankfulness Sun, 24 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/236/?ignore 24:08 enclassic24082025-236 1448.57 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 236: Winning the Battle Proverbs 20:25-21:4, 2 Chronicles 21:4-23:21, 1 Corinthians 15:50-16:4. The key to a right understanding of ‘*victory’* is to see it as *a gift* made possible ‘*through our Lord Jesus Christ*’ (1 Corinthians 15:57) This means that the appropriate response is not pride, but thankfulness Of course, he did not know where it was. He was eighty-five years of age and had written dozens of books. I was asking him if he could tell me exactly where in his books I could find the quote I was looking for. He told me that he had absolutely no idea, but gave me permission to quote it anyway. Since then I have used his quote over and over again because it seemed to me that Bishop Lesslie Newbigin had summarised a crucial insight for our understanding of Jesus and the New Testament. ‘The resurrection was not the reversal of a defeat but the manifestation of a victory.’ The cross was not a defeat. Rather, taken together, the cross and resurrection are the greatest victory to have taken place in the history of the world. It is a victory that has huge implications for our own lives, our society and the future of this world. The idea of ‘victory’ can smack of imperialism and pride. Of course, triumphalism is to be avoided. However, ‘victory’ is not a negative word in the Bible, even in the New Testament. The key to a right understanding of ‘victory’ is to see it as a gift made possible ‘through our Lord Jesus Christ’ (1 Corinthians 15:57). This means that the appropriate response is not pride, but thankfulness. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 236 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/235 Psalm 102:12-17, 2 Chronicles 18:28-21:3, 1 Corinthians 15:35-49. In fact, God is all-powerful; he is ‘omnipotent’ You can trust him Sat, 23 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/235/?ignore 23:09 enclassic23082025-235 1389.51 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 235: Trust God to Do it His Way Psalm 102:12-17, 2 Chronicles 18:28-21:3, 1 Corinthians 15:35-49. In fact, God is all-powerful; he is ‘omnipotent’ You can trust him I sometimes wish I kept more of a diary. I am glad that, at least, I have recorded some of my prayers. Alongside the words of today’s passage, ‘We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you’ (2 Chronicles 20:12), I have jotted down some of the seemingly insurmountable problems and situations we have faced over the years. It is amazing and wonderful to see and have a record of how God has delivered us from so many of them, in his own time and in his own way. Being reminded of God’s ability to deliver us increases our faith that he can do it again. God really is powerful. In fact, God is all-powerful; he is ‘omnipotent’. You can trust him. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 235 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/234 Psalm 102:1-11, 2 Chronicles 16:1-18:27, 1 Corinthians 15:1-34. It’s a life of love, trust, gratitude, joy and meaningful work In the passages for today we see why and how we should live *wholeheartedly* Fri, 22 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/234/?ignore 26:00 enclassic22082025-234 1560.69 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 234: Wholehearted Living Psalm 102:1-11, 2 Chronicles 16:1-18:27, 1 Corinthians 15:1-34. It’s a life of love, trust, gratitude, joy and meaningful work In the passages for today we see why and how we should live *wholeheartedly* I remember it as if it were yesterday. I got up out of my seat and went forward. I had only been a Christian for a few months. The message I responded to was to be fully, wholeheartedly committed to the Lord and to follow him with all my heart – wherever that might take me. Of course, I have had my ups and downs since then, and my fair share of failures. All of us are far from perfect. I still do things that I wish I did not do. But I have been determined to try and follow the Lord with all my heart and be fully committed to him. To be ‘fully committed’ with ‘all your heart’ means 100% commitment. It means seeking to do what the Lord calls you to do. It means rooting out anything that is bad – ruthlessly tearing down the high places and getting rid of the other gods in the midst of life. The Lord is looking for those whose ‘hearts are fully committed’ to him (2 Chronicles 16:9). The psalmist prayed, ‘Give me an undivided heart’ (Psalm 86:11). The expression ‘all your heart’ appears many times throughout the Bible. For example, you are to do the following things ‘with all your heart’: Love the Lord (Deuteronomy 6:4–5; Matthew 22:36–38) Trust in the Lord (Proverbs 3:5) Obey the Lord (Psalm 119:34,69; 1 Chronicles 29:19) Praise the Lord (Psalm 111:1; 138:1) Work for the Lord (Nehemiah 4:6; Colossians 3:23). This is how to enjoy life and life in all its fullness (John 10:10). It’s a life of love, trust, gratitude, joy and meaningful work. In the passages for today we see why and how we should live wholeheartedly. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 234 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/233 Psalm 101:1-8, 2 Chronicles 13:1-15:19, 1 Corinthians 14:20-40. It means wholeness, soundness, well-being, oneness with God – every kind of blessing and good In order to bring peace to others, we first need to find and hold on to peace within ourselves Thu, 21 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/233/?ignore 24:48 enclassic21082025-233 1488.77 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 233: How to Find and Keep Peace Psalm 101:1-8, 2 Chronicles 13:1-15:19, 1 Corinthians 14:20-40. It means wholeness, soundness, well-being, oneness with God – every kind of blessing and good In order to bring peace to others, we first need to find and hold on to peace within ourselves In 1555, Nicholas Ridley, a former Bishop of London, was burned at the stake in Oxford because of his beliefs. On the night before Ridley's execution, his brother offered to remain with him in the prison chamber to be of assistance and comfort. Nicholas declined the offer and replied that he meant to go to bed and sleep as quietly as ever he did in his life. Because he knew the peace of God, he could rest in the strength of the everlasting arms of his Lord to meet his need. Peace is a great blessing. ‘Peace’ is a word of huge significance in the Bible. The Hebrew word for peace, Shalom, translated by the Greek word eirene, means far more than the absence of war or hostility. It is not just an absence of certain circumstances but the presence of God and his reign. It means wholeness, soundness, well-being, oneness with God – every kind of blessing and good. In order to bring peace to others, we first need to find and hold on to peace within ourselves. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 233 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/232 Proverbs 20:15-24, 2 Chronicles 10:1-12:16, 1 Corinthians 14:1-19. He loves me and he is with me ’Many of us live in a busy and noisy world Wed, 20 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/232/?ignore 22:43 enclassic20082025-232 1363.51 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 232: How to Listen to the Holy Spirit Proverbs 20:15-24, 2 Chronicles 10:1-12:16, 1 Corinthians 14:1-19. He loves me and he is with me ’Many of us live in a busy and noisy world Will Wisbey was a successful, young estate agent. He was fiercely sceptical of Christianity. One Sunday, a friend invited him to HTB. During that service, someone had a ‘word of knowledge’ that went like this: ‘There is a man here who is expecting a soft-top sports car to be delivered in the next two days. He has worked all his life so hard to achieve success. Work has been his life. He’s got the car, the house, the lifestyle, and he‘s not happy. And God wants him to know that there’s something more important for him to focus on.’ Subsequently Will wrote, ‘I couldn’t believe it. My new car was the nicest I’d bought. It was arriving in literally two days and I hadn’t told anyone. I was earning £100k a year. My work was my life. That night, for the first time in my life, I really prayed.’ Will encountered Jesus Christ and was filled with the Holy Spirit. He says, ‘Now I know Jesus does exist. He loves me and he is with me.’ Many of us live in a busy and noisy world. In the midst of all the noise, talk and distractions, how do you hear the voice of the Holy Spirit? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 232 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/231 Psalm 100:1-5, Song of Songs 5:1-8:14, 1 Corinthians 12:27-13:13. It should be the main thing in your life It is, in the words of St Paul, ‘the most excellent way’ (1 Corinthians 12:31) Tue, 19 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/231/?ignore 24:32 enclassic19082025-231 1472.44 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 231: Sixteen Characteristics of Love Psalm 100:1-5, Song of Songs 5:1-8:14, 1 Corinthians 12:27-13:13. It should be the main thing in your life It is, in the words of St Paul, ‘the most excellent way’ (1 Corinthians 12:31) I tried following the example of a missionary I once heard about who, each day, would read the four verses from today’s New Testament passage, which lists sixteen characteristics of love. For the word ‘love’ she would substitute her own name. When she reached a characteristic that she knew was not true of her, she had to stop. Her aim was, one day, to get through the whole list. The four verses (1 Corinthians 13:4–7) start with ‘love is patient’. So I substituted my own name and started with ‘Nicky is patient’. I do not think it will come as any surprise to those who know me well that I had to stop there! The great evangelist D.L. Moody was once staying with friends in England. One evening they asked Henry Drummond to expound on a portion of Scripture. After some urging, Henry drew a small New Testament from his pocket, opened it at 1 Corinthians 13 and began to speak on the subject of love. D.L. Moody wrote in response: ‘It seemed to me that I had never heard anything so beautiful. The one great need in our Christian life is love, more love to God and to each other. Would that we could all move into that love chapter and live there.’ We get an idea of what Drummond must have said that evening in his book, The Greatest Thing in the World. He writes: ‘What is... the supreme good? You have life before you. Once only you can live it. What is the noblest object of desire, the supreme gift to covet?’ In 1 Corinthians 13 ‘Paul takes us to Christianity at its source; and there we see, “The greatest of these is love.”’ God is love. We deceive ourselves if we think we can love God and hate other people (1 John 4:20). Love should be number one on your spiritual priority list. It should be the main thing in your life. It is, in the words of St Paul, ‘the most excellent way’ (1 Corinthians 12:31). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 231 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/230 Psalm 99:1-9, Song of Songs 1:1-4:16, 1 Corinthians 12:1-26. But after a bit I stopped because what I really meant was “intimacy” and I think that’s what the Bible means for our relationship with God too ’There is a hunger deep in our souls for an intimate relationship with God and with other human beings Mon, 18 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/230/?ignore 24:33 enclassic18082025-230 1473.33 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 230: Intimate Relationships Psalm 99:1-9, Song of Songs 1:1-4:16, 1 Corinthians 12:1-26. But after a bit I stopped because what I really meant was “intimacy” and I think that’s what the Bible means for our relationship with God too ’There is a hunger deep in our souls for an intimate relationship with God and with other human beings In his book All I Want is You, Bishop Sandy Millar writes, ‘When I first visited the Vineyard Church in California I discovered that one of their principal values was “intimacy with God”. So when I came back I started to talk about that as being one of our values too.’ He continues, ‘One of the very nice members of our congregation at that time took me to one side and said, “Please don’t use the word ‘intimacy’ because we don’t use that word in that context.” So I started talking about “the closest possible relationship with God” which is quite a mouthful. But after a bit I stopped because what I really meant was “intimacy” and I think that’s what the Bible means for our relationship with God too.’ There is a hunger deep in our souls for an intimate relationship with God and with other human beings. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 230 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/229 Psalm 98:1-9, 2 Chronicles 7:11-9:31, 1 Corinthians 11:2-34. It is out of his love for you that God created you to worship According to the *Westminster Shorter Catechism*, humankind’s ‘chief end is to glorify God and to *enjoy* him for ever’ Sun, 17 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/229/?ignore 26:18 enclassic17082025-229 1578.06 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 229: How to Enjoy God Psalm 98:1-9, 2 Chronicles 7:11-9:31, 1 Corinthians 11:2-34. It is out of his love for you that God created you to worship According to the *Westminster Shorter Catechism*, humankind’s ‘chief end is to glorify God and to *enjoy* him for ever’ You and I are created to worship God. But why would God create human beings in order to receive their worship? Is this not, as some suggest, pure vanity? Many years ago, I was helped in my understanding of worship through C.S. Lewis’s explanation in his Reflections on the Psalms. He wrote: ‘The most obvious fact about praise… strangely escaped me… I had never noticed that all enjoyment spontaneously overflows into praise… the world rings with praise... walkers praising the countryside, players praising their favourite game – praise of weather, wines, dishes, actors, horses, colleges, countries, historical personages, children, flowers, mountains, rare stamps, rare books, even sometimes politicians and scholars… ‘I think we delight to praise what we enjoy because the praise not merely expresses but completes the enjoyment; it is its appointed consummation. It’s not out of compliment that lovers keep on telling one another how beautiful they are; the delight is incomplete till it is expressed.’ In other words, worship is the consummation of joy. Our joy is not complete until it is expressed in worship. It is out of his love for you that God created you to worship. According to the Westminster Shorter Catechism, humankind’s ‘chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy him for ever’. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 229 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/228 Proverbs 20:5-14, 2 Chronicles 5:2-7:10, 1 Corinthians 10:14-11:1. There is no greater example in human history than the example of Christ Paul writes, ‘Follow *my* example, as *I follow the example of Christ*’ (1 Corinthians 11:1) Sat, 16 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/228/?ignore 25:39 enclassic16082025-228 1539.6 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 228: How to Raise Your Game Proverbs 20:5-14, 2 Chronicles 5:2-7:10, 1 Corinthians 10:14-11:1. There is no greater example in human history than the example of Christ Paul writes, ‘Follow *my* example, as *I follow the example of Christ*’ (1 Corinthians 11:1) Some of the world’s top squash players used to practise at the club where I played. I remember well the first time I saw at close hand a high-level game. It was the son of one of our regular group of players. At the time, he was ranked number 11 in the world. He came to practise at our club with the world number 2. We all watched in amazement. We had never seen anything like it. In fact, if that was ‘squash’, what we played should be called something else! Watching them always raised our game. Suddenly we realised that it was possible to return practically any shot your opponent could serve you, however good they were. We saw how important it was to get back to the middle of the court after each shot. We watched how deep they hit the ball. We noticed the shots that they avoided playing. When we went on court after that, we astonished ourselves by how well we played. Of course, we did not play anywhere near as well as them. But, inspired by their example, we played a whole lot better than usual. During my Christian life, I have found the same pattern. For example, I had the privilege of working for Sandy Millar for nineteen years. Through watching his life and hearing him preach, I was always inspired by his example. Even though reaching the level of those who are examples to us might not be possible, hopefully it inspires us to raise our game. A Christian is someone who believes in Jesus, puts their faith in him, knows him and lives ‘in Christ’. It is also someone who follows his example. There is no greater example in human history than the example of Christ. Paul writes, ‘Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ’ (1 Corinthians 11:1). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 228 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/227 Psalm 97:1-12, 2 Chronicles 2:1-5:1, 1 Corinthians 9:19-10:13. All human beings are servants – to God, to yourself or to someone or something else In the passages for today, we see the importance of worshipping and serving the one true God with all of our hearts and beings – giving everything we have got – no sloppy living Fri, 15 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/227/?ignore 24:45 enclassic15082025-227 1485.37 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 227: No Sloppy Living Psalm 97:1-12, 2 Chronicles 2:1-5:1, 1 Corinthians 9:19-10:13. All human beings are servants – to God, to yourself or to someone or something else In the passages for today, we see the importance of worshipping and serving the one true God with all of our hearts and beings – giving everything we have got – no sloppy living I love to play sport. I have never been particularly good at it, but I enjoy it enormously. Not many of the guys I played squash with played at a very high standard; it was all very friendly and relaxed and yet we were very competitive! Even the level we played at required ‘strict training’. I had to train and play regularly. It is one of the reasons I try to be careful about what I eat and how much sleep I get. The apostle Paul writes, ‘You’ve all been to the stadium and seen the athletes race. Everyone runs; one wins. Run to win. All good athletes train hard. They do it for a gold medal that tarnishes and fades. You’re after one that’s gold eternally’ (1 Corinthians 9:24–25, MSG). If those who compete at sport go into strict training in order to achieve something that ‘will not last’, how much more should we go into ‘strict training’ in our moral and spiritual life in order to ‘get a crown that will last for ever’ (v.25). Paul writes, ‘I don’t know about you, but I’m running hard for the finish line. I’m giving it everything I’ve got. No sloppy living for me! I’m staying alert and in top condition’ (v.26, MSG). Worshipping and serving God is Paul’s aim and ambition in life. He wants to do it to the very best of his ability. He wants to give it everything he’s got. He is going for gold. Worship and service are very closely connected (the same Greek word latreuo is used for both). All human beings are worshippers. You either worship the one true God, or someone or something else. All human beings are servants – to God, to yourself or to someone or something else. In the passages for today, we see the importance of worshipping and serving the one true God with all of our hearts and beings – giving everything we have got – no sloppy living. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 227 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/226 Psalm 96:1-13, Ecclesiastes 9:13-12:14, 1 Corinthians 9:1-18. One person’s kindness can save a life Each person matters Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/226/?ignore 21:55 enclassic14082025-226 1315.76 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 226: The Night with a Mosquito Psalm 96:1-13, Ecclesiastes 9:13-12:14, 1 Corinthians 9:1-18. One person’s kindness can save a life Each person matters History is in many ways a story of influence. Leadership is about influence. Everyone influences someone. Therefore, in a sense, everyone is a leader. Sociologists tell us that even the most introverted individual will influence 10,000 other people during his or her lifetime. We all influence one another in all sorts of ways – from what to have for lunch and what films to watch, to more important matters of truth and ethics. My life has been influenced by so many people – my parents, teachers, friends and family. Just as I have been influenced by others, inevitably what I do and say will influence others for good or ill. As the African proverb puts it, ‘If you think you’re too small to make a difference, you haven’t spent the night with a mosquito.’ The mosquito makes a difference in an annoying way, but the principle is the same. One person can stop a great injustice. One person can be a voice for truth. One person’s kindness can save a life. Each person matters. How can you maximise your influence and use that influence for good? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 226 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/225 Psalm 95:1-11, Ecclesiastes 7:1-9:12, 1 Corinthians 7:36-8:13. Even this is not the end though It is never enough simply to have knowledge – you must also have love Wed, 13 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/225/?ignore 23:40 enclassic13082025-225 1420.36 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 225: Who You Need to Know Psalm 95:1-11, Ecclesiastes 7:1-9:12, 1 Corinthians 7:36-8:13. Even this is not the end though It is never enough simply to have knowledge – you must also have love We lived in Oxford for three years. I was training for ordination in the Church of England and studying for a degree in Theology at Oxford University. One of the things we noticed while we were there was that, compared to London, Oxford seemed to be relatively non-materialistic. People, on the whole, were not impressed by wealth. Success was measured differently. The people in Oxford tended to be more impressed by brains than by money or beauty. Success was measured in starred firsts, distinctions, PhDs, professorships and published works. It made me wonder whether intelligence and ‘knowledge’ could be as much a false god as money and wealth. Knowledge is, on the whole, good. The facts are your friends. Education is good – reading, learning and discovering are all good activities. However, as Lord Byron wrote, ‘The Tree of Knowledge is not that of Life.’ We need to see ‘knowledge’ in perspective. Our knowledge is very limited. The more we know, the more we realise how little we know. God is our creator and he alone knows everything. There are also different types of knowledge, and they are not all equally valuable. In French, there are two different words for ‘to know’. One (savoir) means to know a fact, the other (connaître) means to know a person. God is more interested in us knowing people than facts. The most important knowledge of all is knowing God and being known by him. Even this is not the end though. It is never enough simply to have knowledge – you must also have love. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 225 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/224 Proverbs 19:23-20:4, Ecclesiastes 4:1-6:12, 1 Corinthians 7:17-35. Learn to enjoy this wonderful gift of life in the present If you do not, life will pass you by and you will never enjoy where you are right now Tue, 12 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/224/?ignore 21:30 enclassic12082025-224 1290.74 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 224: Enjoy Life in the Present Proverbs 19:23-20:4, Ecclesiastes 4:1-6:12, 1 Corinthians 7:17-35. Learn to enjoy this wonderful gift of life in the present If you do not, life will pass you by and you will never enjoy where you are right now Some people see life today as the Three Witches in Shakespeare’s Macbeth put it, ‘Double, double toil and trouble.’ My own perspective on life changed when a friend wisely pointed out to me that, in a sense, this life is a series of problem-solving exercises. We will never be without problems in this life. If, in the midst of all the challenges, you cannot learn to thrive in the situation in which you find yourself, you will never find contentment. The writer of Ecclesiastes says, ‘We should make the most of what God gives, both the bounty and the capacity to enjoy it, accepting what’s given and delighting in the work. It’s God’s gift! God deals out joy in the present, the now’ (Ecclesiastes 5:19, MSG). Learn to enjoy this wonderful gift of life in the present. If you do not, life will pass you by and you will never enjoy where you are right now. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 224 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/223 Psalm 94:12-23, Ecclesiastes 1:1-3:22, 1 Corinthians 7:1-16. This could be described as the anxiety of meaninglessness In the midst of all this, you are called ‘to live in peace’ (1 Corinthians 7:15) Mon, 11 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/223/?ignore 23:58 enclassic11082025-223 1438.51 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 223: Anxiety and Peace Psalm 94:12-23, Ecclesiastes 1:1-3:22, 1 Corinthians 7:1-16. This could be described as the anxiety of meaninglessness In the midst of all this, you are called ‘to live in peace’ (1 Corinthians 7:15) Anxiety can rob you of the enjoyment of life. The causes of anxiety are numerous: health issues, work (or lack of it), finances (debt, unpaid bills and so on) and much else besides. The global pandemic has greatly increased levels of anxiety. Sometimes we may need professional support or medical help. Some of the biggest causes of anxiety are those dealt with in today’s New Testament passage: relationships, marriage (or lack of it), sex (or lack of it), singleness and divorce. In our Old Testament passage, the book of Ecclesiastes suggests that much of the anxiety we experience is caused by something deeper. This could be described as the anxiety of meaninglessness. In the midst of all this, you are called ‘to live in peace’ (1 Corinthians 7:15). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 223 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/222 Psalm 94:1-11, 2 Chronicles 1:1-17, 1 Corinthians 6:1-20. The result is terrible injustice The poor, in particular, tend to be the victims Sun, 10 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/222/?ignore 16:42 enclassic10082025-222 1002.76 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 222: Good Judgment Psalm 94:1-11, 2 Chronicles 1:1-17, 1 Corinthians 6:1-20. The result is terrible injustice The poor, in particular, tend to be the victims When I practised as a barrister most of the judges I appeared before were extremely good. However, I remember one occasion when I appeared before a judge who was not good. It was a terrible experience. I was representing the defendant in a criminal case. It was only the second case I had ever done in front of a jury. I was young and inexperienced. Nevertheless, it seemed to me that there was something very wrong with the way in which the judge was conducting the case. She kept interrupting me whenever I was speaking. She intervened over and over again with her own questions. I ended up having what the court usher described as a ‘stand up row with the judge’. The judge’s summing up was more like a second prosecution speech; my client was duly convicted and sent to prison. We appealed, on the basis that the defendant was entitled to a fair trial and he had not been given one. When I appeared before three very senior judges in the Court of Appeal, I was extremely nervous that they might not approve of my part in the ‘stand up row with the judge’! To my relief they were as appalled as I had been by her conduct of the trial. They overturned the original decision and my confidence in the British legal system was restored. Good judges are scarce. In many parts of the world, judges are subject to bribery and corruption. There is no rule of law. The result is terrible injustice. The poor, in particular, tend to be the victims. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 222 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/221 Psalm 93:1-5, 1 Chronicles 28:1-29:30, 1 Corinthians 5:1-13. Seek to live out a holy life in grateful response to God’s gift, through the imitation of Jesus in the power of the Holy Spirit Ultimately, only holiness leads to happiness Sat, 09 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/221/?ignore 24:00 enclassic09082025-221 1440.94 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 221: Only Holiness Leads to Happiness Psalm 93:1-5, 1 Chronicles 28:1-29:30, 1 Corinthians 5:1-13. Seek to live out a holy life in grateful response to God’s gift, through the imitation of Jesus in the power of the Holy Spirit Ultimately, only holiness leads to happiness The media is filled with stories of the rich, the beautiful and the strong. Our culture places these things on a pedestal and many of us aspire to achieve them. There is nothing wrong with these things – but they certainly don’t always lead to happiness. The French philosopher, Blaise Pascal, spoke of three orders of greatness. Riches, beauty and strength fall into his first category of superficial ‘physical greatness’. Above this is a higher, second level of greatness. It is the greatness of genius, science and art. The greatness of the art of Michelangelo or the music of Bach or the brilliance of Albert Einstein – these stand way above superficial physical greatness. However, according to Pascal there is a third kind of greatness – the order of holiness. (And there is an almost infinite qualitative difference between the second and the third categories.) The fact that a holy person is strong or weak, rich or poor, highly intelligent or illiterate, does not add or subtract anything because that person’s greatness is on a different and almost infinitely superior plane. It is open to every one of us to achieve true greatness in the order of holiness. The word ‘holy’ (hallowed, holiest, holiness) appears over 500 times in the Bible. God is holy. He gives you his Holy Spirit to sanctify you, and you are called to share in his holiness. The word ‘saints’ means ‘holy ones’. In the New Testament it is applied to all Christians. You are ‘called to be holy’ (1 Corinthians 1:2). Holiness is a gift you receive when you put your trust in Jesus, receive his righteousness and the gift of the Holy Spirit. Seek to live out a holy life in grateful response to God’s gift, through the imitation of Jesus in the power of the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, only holiness leads to happiness. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 221 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/220 Proverbs 19:13-22, 1 Chronicles 26:20-27:34, 1 Corinthians 4:1-21. St Laurence had a profound understanding of the message of Jesus He understood that the poor are the true *treasures of the church* Fri, 08 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/220/?ignore 22:01 enclassic08082025-220 1321.12 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 220: Money: A Blessing or a Curse? Proverbs 19:13-22, 1 Chronicles 26:20-27:34, 1 Corinthians 4:1-21. St Laurence had a profound understanding of the message of Jesus He understood that the poor are the true *treasures of the church* Laurence was in charge of the finances of the church. He was also a deacon. There was a great revival taking place all around him. It was said that, ‘All of Rome were becoming Christians.’ As a result, persecution broke out under the Emperor Valerian in around the year AD 250. Christians who owned property distributed all the church’s money and treasures to the city’s poor. Valerian ordered all bishops, priests and deacons to be arrested and executed. He offered Laurence a way out if he would show where all the church’s treasures were located. Laurence asked for three days to gather it into one central place. He brought together the blind, poor, disabled, sick, elderly, widows and orphans. When Valerian arrived, Laurence flung open the doors and said, ‘These are the treasures of the church!’ Valerian was so angry that he decided beheading was not terrifying enough for Laurence. He ordered that this courageous man be roasted on a gridiron. That is how Laurence died on 10 August AD 258. Apparently, he even joked with his executioners, ‘You may turn me over. I’m done on this side.’ His courage made such an impression that the revival in Rome only increased, with many people becoming Christians including several senators who witnessed his execution. St Laurence had a profound understanding of the message of Jesus. He understood that the poor are the true treasures of the church. What should our attitude be to the poor? What about the rich? Is poverty a blessing or a curse? Are riches a blessing or a curse? Does the gospel promise prosperity? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 220 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/219 Psalm 92:1-15, 1 Chronicles 24:1-26:19, 1 Corinthians 3:1-23. This kind of division is one we must do our very best to avoid It is this kind of division that the apostle Paul speaks against in the New Testament passage for today Thu, 07 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/219/?ignore 24:53 enclassic07082025-219 1493.47 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 219: Three Bad Attitudes That Cause Division Psalm 92:1-15, 1 Chronicles 24:1-26:19, 1 Corinthians 3:1-23. This kind of division is one we must do our very best to avoid It is this kind of division that the apostle Paul speaks against in the New Testament passage for today During my time at university, I shared rooms together with my great friend Nicky Lee who became one of the associate vicars of HTB. We did all our own catering; I did the cooking and Nicky Lee did the dividing. He was an expert at dividing whatever was cooked into exactly equal portions! This is but one instance where division is used in a good sense rather than a bad one. Divisions are a fact of life. They need not necessarily be a bad thing. Indeed, they may even be necessary. For example, placing people in different divisions in an organisation may be helpful and important. We see this kind of division in the Old Testament passage for today. Then, there is the division that will take place on the day of judgment. This is a necessary division between good and evil. This kind of division can be seen in the psalm for today. There is also a third kind of division, which is not good, helpful or necessary. Disunity and division in the church is a tragedy. This kind of division is one we must do our very best to avoid. It is this kind of division that the apostle Paul speaks against in the New Testament passage for today. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 219 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/218 Psalm 91:9-16, 1 Chronicles 22:2-23:32, 1 Corinthians 2:6-16. It is an extraordinary and wonderful promise To experience God with you by his Spirit is life changing Wed, 06 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/218/?ignore 20:58 enclassic06082025-218 1258.95 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 218: God is With You Psalm 91:9-16, 1 Chronicles 22:2-23:32, 1 Corinthians 2:6-16. It is an extraordinary and wonderful promise To experience God with you by his Spirit is life changing I wonder whether you have ever had this experience: you are talking to a friend about your faith and they are looking back at you with a blank stare. They have no idea what you are talking about. When you talk about a relationship with Jesus, to them it is like you are speaking about an ‘imaginary friend’. It makes no sense to them at all. The apostle Paul makes the point that you can only understand spiritual truths with the help of the Holy Spirit. The person ‘without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are spiritually discerned’ (1 Corinthians 2:14). When God is with us by his Holy Spirit he gives us understanding, ‘that we may understand what God has freely given us’ (v.12). ‘God with us’ (Immanuel) is one of the titles the New Testament uses for Jesus (Matthew 1:23). He is always with you. That the God who created the universe should be with you is not something to be taken lightly. It is an extraordinary and wonderful promise. To experience God with you by his Spirit is life changing. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 218 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/217 Psalm 91:1-8, 1 Chronicles 19:1-22:1, 1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5. There is also a bad side In the passages for today we see both the good and the bad sides of weakness, fear and trembling Tue, 05 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/217/?ignore 23:23 enclassic05082025-217 1403.4 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 217: Perfected in Weakness Psalm 91:1-8, 1 Chronicles 19:1-22:1, 1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5. There is also a bad side In the passages for today we see both the good and the bad sides of weakness, fear and trembling I kept getting these phone calls. They came mostly from church leaders. They were from many different parts of the church. They were always long telephone conversations. They all wanted to know: ‘How come you get so many people from outside of the church on the course?’ ‘What exactly is Alpha?’ ‘How do you run it?’ I thought perhaps the best solution was to get them together in one place and tell them all at the same time. As a result, we put on our first Alpha Conference in May 1993. To our astonishment a thousand church leaders turned up. I was relatively new to Christian ministry and was extremely daunted at the thought of a thousand church leaders, most of whom were far more experienced in ministry than I was. The words of the apostle Paul, in today’s New Testament passage, seemed to sum up exactly how I felt. I read them to the delegates at the start of the conference: When I came to you, brothers and sisters, I did not come with eloquence or superior wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. I came to you in weakness and fear, and with much trembling. My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power. (1 Corinthians 2:1–5) I thought once I had explained what Alpha was to this group of church leaders, I would never have to explain it to anyone again. But in fact, by the end of the conference we had been invited to do many more conferences. Over the years we have done hundreds of conferences. At every Alpha Conference I start by reading 1 Corinthians 2:1–5. It is always what I feel; I always feel nervous. There is always an element of ‘weakness and fear, and... much trembling’. But I thank God that it does not depend on wise and persuasive words but on a demonstration of the Spirit’s power. And God’s power is perfected in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). There is a good side to ‘weakness’, ‘fear’ and ‘trembling’. There is also a bad side. In the passages for today we see both the good and the bad sides of weakness, fear and trembling. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 217 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/216 Proverbs 19:3-12, 1 Chronicles 16:37-18:17, 1 Corinthians 1:1-17. Jesus died to bring reconciliation and unity Thank God that today, all around the world, we are seeing a lowering of denominational barriers and a greater unity in the church Mon, 04 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/216/?ignore 21:33 enclassic04082025-216 1293.17 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 216: Unity Proverbs 19:3-12, 1 Chronicles 16:37-18:17, 1 Corinthians 1:1-17. Jesus died to bring reconciliation and unity Thank God that today, all around the world, we are seeing a lowering of denominational barriers and a greater unity in the church Years ago, I was speaking to a friend of mine who is not a Christian. He said this to me: ‘I don’t understand. You Protestants and you Catholics, you look exactly the same to me. You both have church buildings that look the same. You both say the Lord’s Prayer and do stuff with bread and wine. Whatever it is you disagree about (and I have no idea what it is) has absolutely nothing to do with my life. However, whilst you are fighting each other I am not interested.’ It struck me then how damaging disunity is to the church and our witness to the world. No wonder Jesus prayed for ‘complete unity’ (John 17:23) and the apostle Paul was passionate that we should be ‘perfectly united’ (1 Corinthians 1:10). Unity is at the core of our faith. We believe in one God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. There is unity in the Trinity. Disunity, on the other hand, has been the curse of humankind ever since Adam and Eve fell into sin. Jesus died to bring reconciliation and unity. Thank God that today, all around the world, we are seeing a lowering of denominational barriers and a greater unity in the church. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 216 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/215 Psalm 90:11-17, 1 Chronicles 15:1-16:36, Romans 16:1-27. Work has an intrinsic value The Bible has a lot to say on the subject of our work Sun, 03 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/215/?ignore 23:22 enclassic03082025-215 1402.51 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 215: Working Without Wilting Psalm 90:11-17, 1 Chronicles 15:1-16:36, Romans 16:1-27. Work has an intrinsic value The Bible has a lot to say on the subject of our work The average person will spend approximately 150,000 hours at work in their lifetime – that is to say, about 40% of our waking lives are spent at work, whether it be paid or voluntary employment, or as a carer or full-time parent. ‘Is God interested in our work? Many people do not see God as a 24/7 God, but as a withdrawn actor confined to a Sunday show with a declining audience. There is a widespread view that God and work simply don’t mix: the competitive, cut-throat demands of the working world are seen as the obvious enemy of Christian compassion and love. But the God who created and sustains the world is also the God of the workplace. If the Christian faith is not relevant in the workplace, it is not relevant at all,' writes Ken Costa, in his book God at Work (see also godatwork.org.uk). For over forty years, Ken has been living out his faith on the frontline of Christian ministry – in the ‘secular’ workplace in the City of London. And he sees that as his primary calling as a Christian. Whatever kind of work you are called to, it will probably occupy a large proportion of your life. Work is an important part of God’s ‘economy’. It is part of what you were created to do, and will be part of what you do in heaven. Work has an intrinsic value. The Bible has a lot to say on the subject of our work. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 215 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/214 Psalm 90:1-10, 1 Chronicles 12:23-14:17, Romans 15:14-33. It is only through the cross and resurrection of Jesus that a way into his presence and the gift of the Holy Spirit living within you is made possible Now you can know the power of his presence Sat, 02 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/214/?ignore 21:30 enclassic02082025-214 1290.68 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 214: The Power of His Presence Psalm 90:1-10, 1 Chronicles 12:23-14:17, Romans 15:14-33. It is only through the cross and resurrection of Jesus that a way into his presence and the gift of the Holy Spirit living within you is made possible Now you can know the power of his presence The Duke of Wellington once remarked about Napoleon, ‘I used to say of him that his presence on the field made the difference of forty thousand men.’ The presence of a strong leader has a powerful effect. How much greater is the impact of the awesome power of the presence of God! There is a deep spiritual hunger in all of our hearts that can only be satisfied by the presence of God himself. Adam and Eve lost this sense of his presence through their sin. Thereafter, the presence of God was not known as it was before. God is holy. We cannot take his presence for granted. It is only through the cross and resurrection of Jesus that a way into his presence and the gift of the Holy Spirit living within you is made possible. Now you can know the power of his presence. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 214 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/213 Psalm 89:46-52, 1 Chronicles 11:1-12:22, Romans 14:19-15:13. It is hope that pulls faith and love Without hope everything would stop Fri, 01 Aug 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/213/?ignore 22:43 enclassic01082025-213 1363.91 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 213: Bring People Hope Psalm 89:46-52, 1 Chronicles 11:1-12:22, Romans 14:19-15:13. It is hope that pulls faith and love Without hope everything would stop Twenty-one-year-old Matthew had been homeless for three years. Mark Russell (who was appointed head of the Church Army aged only thirty-one) met him on the streets of Charing Cross in London, bought him some food and led him to Christ. As he was getting up to leave he said, ‘Matthew, over the next month I am going to be on platforms speaking to thousands of people. What piece of advice do you want me to give to the Church of England today?’ Matthew replied, ‘The church’s job is to stop arguing and to bring people hope.’ Mark Russell commented, ‘I have never heard a better definition of what we should be about: Don’t we have a gospel of hope? A gospel that brings hope? A gospel of life, a gospel of transformation and above all a hope of eternal life, the hope of Jesus.’ Many people see only a hopeless end; but with Jesus you can enjoy an endless hope. Hope is one of the three great theological virtues – the others being love and faith. As Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa writes, ‘They are like three sisters. Two of them are grown and the other is a small child. They go forward together hand in hand with the child hope in the middle. Looking at them it would seem that the bigger ones are pulling the child, but it is the other way around; it is the little girl who is pulling the two bigger ones. It is hope that pulls faith and love. Without hope everything would stop.’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 213 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/212 Proverbs 18:17-19:2, 1 Chronicles 9:1b-10:14, Romans 14:1-18. Sadly, the church is not immune Right from the start there have been arguments, disputes and in-fighting Thu, 31 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/212/?ignore 22:27 enclassic31072025-212 1347.42 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 212: How to Avoid Arguments, Deal with Disputes and Stop Fighting Proverbs 18:17-19:2, 1 Chronicles 9:1b-10:14, Romans 14:1-18. Sadly, the church is not immune Right from the start there have been arguments, disputes and in-fighting On 23 June 2016, the referendum on Britain’s membership of the EU resulted in a 52:48 split in favour of leaving. The campaign was hostile, the nation was divided, and the main political parties soon descended into infighting and division. This is one example of what we see across the globe. Every news update seems to include stories of arguments, disputes and fighting. When sin entered the world, arguments, disputes and fighting began. Adam blamed Eve. Cain murdered his brother. The history of the world ever since has been one of conflict of all kinds. When people turn away from God, they start fighting one another. We see the breakdown of relationships wherever we look: broken marriages, broken homes, broken relationships at work, civil wars and wars between nations. Sadly, the church is not immune. Right from the start there have been arguments, disputes and in-fighting. How should we handle conflict? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 212 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/211 Psalm 89:38-45, 1 Chronicles 7:1-9:1, Romans 13:1-14. There is a good side to human government but there can also be an evil side As Oscar Cullmann remarks, according to whether ‘the state remains within its *limits* or transgresses them, the Christian will describe it as the servant of God or as the instrument of the Devil’ Wed, 30 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/211/?ignore 23:06 enclassic30072025-211 1386.27 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 211: How to Be a Good Citizen Psalm 89:38-45, 1 Chronicles 7:1-9:1, Romans 13:1-14. There is a good side to human government but there can also be an evil side As Oscar Cullmann remarks, according to whether ‘the state remains within its *limits* or transgresses them, the Christian will describe it as the servant of God or as the instrument of the Devil’ Politicians: how do we treat them? Governments and local councils: how do we view them? Taxes: do we really need to pay them? What about evil regimes? If you live under a Hitler or Stalin are you supposed to obey them? ‘Be a good citizen,’ writes the apostle Paul. ‘All governments are under God. Insofar as there is peace and order, it’s God's order. So live responsibly as a citizen. If you’re irresponsible to the state, then you’re irresponsible with God, and God will hold you responsible. Duly constituted authorities are only a threat if you’re trying to get by with something. Decent citizens should have nothing to fear’ (Romans 13:1–3, MSG). This would have been a radical idea to Paul’s original readers. In the ancient world most people saw religion and government as intertwined. The early church was still adjusting to the idea that the Messiah was not going to rule over his people in an earthly government. Those around them would have worshipped Rome and the Emperor as god. Yet here Paul tells them to follow Jesus as their King and still submit to Roman authority. Paul’s teaching in Romans 13 needs to be balanced by Revelation 13. Revelation 13 was written at the time of the persecution of Christians under the Emperor Domitian. The state is seen as the ally of the devil (pictured as a red dragon) who has given his authority to the persecuting state (pictured as a monster emerging out of the sea). At worst, government can be demonic. Both Romans 13 and Revelation 13 are true. There is good government and there is bad government. There is a good side to human government but there can also be an evil side. As Oscar Cullmann remarks, according to whether ‘the state remains within its limits or transgresses them, the Christian will describe it as the servant of God or as the instrument of the Devil’. How then can you live as a good citizen? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 211 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/210 Psalm 89:30-37, 1 Chronicles 6:1-81, Romans 11:33-12:21. We do not need to make any sacrifices for our sins Yet the New Testament tells us that there are four sacrifices you can make that *please God* Tue, 29 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/210/?ignore 23:39 enclassic29072025-210 1419.62 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 210: Four Sacrifices That Please God Psalm 89:30-37, 1 Chronicles 6:1-81, Romans 11:33-12:21. We do not need to make any sacrifices for our sins Yet the New Testament tells us that there are four sacrifices you can make that *please God* Looking back at my life, I now realise how many sacrifices my parents made out of love for my sister and me. I wish I had appreciated that more at the time. My parents came from a generation that was very familiar with the idea of sacrifice. They both fought in World War Two. Many of their contemporaries had sacrificed their lives for their fellow human beings and for their country. The whole idea of making sacrifices, great or small, seems more alien to our generation. The vast majority of biblical references to ‘sacrifice’ are in the Old Testament. These passages prefigure Jesus’ sacrificial death for us on the cross. In the New Testament, almost all the references are about Jesus’ sacrifice – the death of Jesus as the one perfect and complete sacrifice fulfilling all the Old Testament preparation and prediction. We do not need to make any sacrifices for our sins. Yet the New Testament tells us that there are four sacrifices you can make that please God. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 210 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/209 Psalm 89:19-29, 1 Chronicles 4:9-5:26, Romans 11:11-32. What does the future hold for the ‘insiders’?The key to Paul’s understanding lies in Romans 11:29: ‘For God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable ’ This is a theme that runs throughout the Bible as we see in today’s passages Mon, 28 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/209/?ignore 24:29 enclassic28072025-209 1469.57 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 209: Your Calling Is Irrevocable Psalm 89:19-29, 1 Chronicles 4:9-5:26, Romans 11:11-32. What does the future hold for the ‘insiders’?The key to Paul’s understanding lies in Romans 11:29: ‘For God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable ’ This is a theme that runs throughout the Bible as we see in today’s passages My father, like many Jews, never lived in Israel. The Jewish people are scattered all over the world. In 1948 the state of Israel was re-established. Around 9.5 million people live in Israel today, of whom approximately 7 million are Jews. There are many other Jews still scattered around the world today. I like how Eugene Peterson translates the New Testament passage for today using the term ‘insiders’ for the Jewish people and ‘outsiders’ for the non-Jewish people. Many individual Jews over the years have become Christians. In fact, all the very earliest Christians were Jewish ‘insiders’. But now the vast majority of Christians are non-Jewish ‘outsiders’. What does the future hold for the ‘insiders’? The key to Paul’s understanding lies in Romans 11:29: ‘For God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable.’ This is a theme that runs throughout the Bible as we see in today’s passages. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 209 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/208 Proverbs 18:7-16, 1 Chronicles 2:18-4:8, Romans 10:5-11:10. ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved’ (v 13) Sun, 27 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/208/?ignore 23:41 enclassic27072025-208 1421.4 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 208: Beautiful Feet Proverbs 18:7-16, 1 Chronicles 2:18-4:8, Romans 10:5-11:10. ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved’ (v 13) Friends of ours had been waiting for ten years for a baby. They had been told it was impossible. One day there was a ring on our doorbell. There she was. It was written all over her face. As soon as she was in the house she started jumping up and down, stamping her feet with joy and delight, announcing the good news. She had conceived. Their wait was over. She was carrying the good news in her own body. There is nothing more exciting than being the bearer of good news. You too are the bearer of good news. The message of Jesus is in you. That is why, according to the apostle Paul, you have beautiful feet (Romans 10:15). As his followers, we are all called to share the good news of Jesus. Some of us have the immense privilege of being called to do it as a full-time job. Way back in January 1978, when I was practising law, I wrote in my prayer diary: ‘I long to spend my whole time preaching the gospel – telling people about the love of Jesus. But Romans 10:15 warns, “How can [people] preach unless they are sent?” I cannot and will not be able to preach the gospel unless I am sent by God to do so – it is a wonderful calling. “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”’ The heart of the good news is a righteousness that comes by faith (v.6). ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved’ (v.13). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 208 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/207 Psalm 89:14-18, 1 Chronicles 1:1-2:17, Romans 9:22-10:4. We share a common history and family tree We worship the same God and, the apostle Paul tells us, the way of salvation is the same for us all Sat, 26 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/207/?ignore 20:39 enclassic26072025-207 1239.72 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 207: Your Family Tree Psalm 89:14-18, 1 Chronicles 1:1-2:17, Romans 9:22-10:4. We share a common history and family tree We worship the same God and, the apostle Paul tells us, the way of salvation is the same for us all My father never spoke to me about his life before he had come to England and married my mother. I knew virtually nothing about his background. A few years ago, I was contacted by The Judaica Museum in Berlin. They were doing some research into the Gumbel family. They sent me a copy of my family tree. I discovered that my great-great-grandfather was called Abraham Gumbel. My great-grandfather was called Isaac and his brother, Moses! My father was Jewish. He qualified as a barrister and became a Doctor of Law at the University of Tübingen in 1927. Later he read Adolf Hitler’s Mein Kampf and knew what was likely to happen to someone like him who was known as ‘Israelitisch’. He came to England and qualified as an English barrister as well. His sister and parents eventually came too. Many of the rest of my family, on my father’s side, were murdered in Dachau, Riga and other Nazi concentration camps. The treatment of the Jewish people through the centuries has been complex, and at times tragic. Sometimes even passages in the Bible have been misinterpreted and misapplied as a weapon of abuse against the Jewish people. The people of God in the Old Testament were the nation of Israel. The people of God in the New Testament are all those who put their faith in Jesus Christ. We share a common history and family tree. We worship the same God and, the apostle Paul tells us, the way of salvation is the same for us all. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 207 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/206 Psalm 89:9-13, Hosea 11:12-14:9, Romans 9:1-21. God is sovereign He rules and reigns in his universe Fri, 25 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/206/?ignore 20:36 enclassic25072025-206 1236.79 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 206: What About Those Who Do Not Believe? Psalm 89:9-13, Hosea 11:12-14:9, Romans 9:1-21. God is sovereign He rules and reigns in his universe In February 1974, I had an encounter with Jesus Christ that totally changed my life. I understood he had died for me. I experienced his love. I knew God was real. I knew the extraordinary blessings of a relationship with Jesus. But almost immediately afterwards I experienced what Paul speaks about in this passage: ‘A huge sorrow... an enormous pain deep within me’ (Romans 9:2, MSG). I longed for everyone to experience and know what I had only so recently experienced. I longed for my family and friends who were not yet Christians to know Christ. The apostle Paul cared so passionately about his own people that he was willing to be cut off from God and the people whom he loved, if they would be saved. He writes, ‘I could wish that I myself were cursed and cut off from Christ [a definition of hell] for the sake of my people, those of my own race, the people of Israel’ (vv.3–4a). Yet at the same time Paul trusted that God had the whole situation under control. God is sovereign. He rules and reigns in his universe. How do we balance this anguish and passion for those we love, with a trust in God’s ultimate sovereignty? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 206 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/205 Psalm 89:1-8, Hosea 10:1-11:11, Romans 8:18-39. And if it is true of you, it is also true of me God loves me and you Thu, 24 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/205/?ignore 20:20 enclassic24072025-205 1220.44 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 205: A Pillow on Which to Rest Our Weary Heads Psalm 89:1-8, Hosea 10:1-11:11, Romans 8:18-39. And if it is true of you, it is also true of me God loves me and you I sometimes struggle to believe that God really loves me. I can be tempted to feel a sense of failure and self-condemnation. It is relatively easy to believe that God loves everybody else, but it is much harder to believe that God loves me. The love of God, Paul explains in Romans 8, starts with ‘no condemnation’ (v.1) and ends with no separation: nothing ‘will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord’ (v.39). John Stott describes the truth of this passage as ‘a pillow on which to rest our weary heads’. ‘God loves each one of us as if there was only one of us to love,’ wrote St Augustine. If you were the only person who had ever lived, Jesus would have died for you. And if it is true of you, it is also true of me. God loves me and you. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 205 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/204 Proverbs 17:25-18:6, Hosea 8:1-9:17, Romans 8:1-17. Know that you are a deeply loved child of God This should be the basis of your confidence, security and hope Wed, 23 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/204/?ignore 19:37 enclassic23072025-204 1177.68 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 204: Know You Are Loved Proverbs 17:25-18:6, Hosea 8:1-9:17, Romans 8:1-17. Know that you are a deeply loved child of God This should be the basis of your confidence, security and hope Until it actually happened to me, I would not have believed it was possible. But the moment I saw him, I experienced an overwhelming love. This tiny baby, who to others must have looked like any other baby, was my son. The moment a parent first sees their own child is unforgettable. The love a parent feels for a child is almost indescribable. Yet this is the analogy God uses of his love for you. You are a child of God. The love he has for you is even greater than that which parents feel for their own children. Knowing who you are will have a big impact on your life. Know that you are a deeply loved child of God. This should be the basis of your confidence, security and hope. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 204 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/203 Psalm 88:9-18, Hosea 6:1-7:16, Romans 7:7-25. You can cry out to the Lord for help God’s desire is for you to have a relationship with him that is real and from the heart Tue, 22 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/203/?ignore 17:54 enclassic22072025-203 1074.83 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 203: Help, Lord! Psalm 88:9-18, Hosea 6:1-7:16, Romans 7:7-25. You can cry out to the Lord for help God’s desire is for you to have a relationship with him that is real and from the heart One of my most frequent prayers is ‘Help!’ It is also one of the most common prayers in the Bible. It is a prayer you can pray every day, in any and every situation. You can cry out to the Lord for help. God’s desire is for you to have a relationship with him that is real and from the heart. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 203 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/202 Psalm 88:1-9, Hosea 3:1-5:15, Romans 6:15-7:6. Living for ourselves is, in fact, a form of slavery Serving God ‘in the new way of the Spirit’ (Romans 7:6) is the way to find perfect freedom – free to have a relationship with him and to be the kind of person that deep down you long to be Mon, 21 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/202/?ignore 20:41 enclassic21072025-202 1241 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 202: The Way Out of the Maze Psalm 88:1-9, Hosea 3:1-5:15, Romans 6:15-7:6. Living for ourselves is, in fact, a form of slavery Serving God ‘in the new way of the Spirit’ (Romans 7:6) is the way to find perfect freedom – free to have a relationship with him and to be the kind of person that deep down you long to be At the age of eighteen, Billy Nolan ran away from the merchant navy. He was an alcoholic for thirty-five years. For twenty years he sat outside HTB drinking alcohol and begging for money. On 13 May 1990, he looked in the mirror and said, ‘You’re not the Billy Nolan I once knew.’ To use his own expression, he asked the Lord Jesus Christ into his life and made a covenant with him that he would never drink alcohol again. From that day on, he didn’t touch a drop. His life was transformed; he radiated the love and joy of Christ. I once said to him, ‘Billy, you look happy.’ He replied, ‘I am happy because I am free. Life is like a maze and at last I have found the way out through Jesus Christ.’ St Augustine wrote that God was the master ‘whom to serve is perfect freedom’. This is a great paradox. Many people think that if they serve God they will lose their freedom. In fact, it is the very opposite. Living for ourselves is, in fact, a form of slavery. Serving God ‘in the new way of the Spirit’ (Romans 7:6) is the way to find perfect freedom – free to have a relationship with him and to be the kind of person that deep down you long to be. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 202 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/201 Psalm 87:1-7, Hosea 1:1-2:23, Romans 6:1-14. ’Through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, you are able to live and enjoy ‘*a new life* ’ In the passages for today, we see how this was anticipated in the Old Testament and fulfilled in the New Testament Sun, 20 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/201/?ignore 20:50 enclassic20072025-201 1250.85 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 201: Enjoy Your New Life Psalm 87:1-7, Hosea 1:1-2:23, Romans 6:1-14. ’Through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, you are able to live and enjoy ‘*a new life* ’ In the passages for today, we see how this was anticipated in the Old Testament and fulfilled in the New Testament Bishop Taylor Smith, former Chaplain General to the Forces, once had a conversation with a young man that went like this: Bishop: ‘When you think about the cross of Christ, what do you see?’ Young man: ‘I see Christ and two thieves crucified either side of him…’ Bishop: ‘What else do you see?’ Young man: ‘I see the soldiers gambling…’ Bishop: ‘If that is all you see, I think you will have trouble with the Christian life. When I see the cross – with all that – I see old Bishop Taylor Smith. I was crucified with Christ.’ In the New Testament passage for today, the apostle Paul expounds and explains what it means to have been ‘crucified with Christ’. We are ‘in Christ Jesus’. ‘We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life’ (Romans 6:4). ‘We entered into the new country of grace – a new life in a new land!’ (Romans 6:3, MSG). Soon after encountering Jesus I wrote, ‘I died in February 1974. My old life was buried. From then onwards I have walked in newness of life. It really does seem like that. Life before was so absolutely and completely different.’ Through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, you are able to live and enjoy ‘a new life.’ In the passages for today, we see how this was anticipated in the Old Testament and fulfilled in the New Testament. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 201 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/200 Proverbs 17:15-24, Amos 8:1-9:15, Romans 5:12-21. There is a mnemonic used to explain grace: **G**od’s **R**iches **A**t **C**hrist’s **E**xpense We see today how Jesus Christ makes *just grace* available for you and me Sat, 19 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/200/?ignore 20:50 enclassic19072025-200 1250.06 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 200: Just Grace Proverbs 17:15-24, Amos 8:1-9:15, Romans 5:12-21. There is a mnemonic used to explain grace: **G**od’s **R**iches **A**t **C**hrist’s **E**xpense We see today how Jesus Christ makes *just grace* available for you and me It has been said that the biggest problem on earth is not too little democracy, or too much poverty, or too few anti-viral vaccines, but the fact that two-thirds of the world’s population live outside the protection of the law. A lack of justice has a terrible effect on many of the world’s poor. The themes of justice and grace flow through the Bible. We cannot fully understand grace without understanding justice. One definition of grace is ‘undeserved love’. There is a mnemonic used to explain grace: God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. We see today how Jesus Christ makes just grace available for you and me. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 200 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/199 Psalm 86:11-17, Amos 6:1-7:17, Romans 4:16-5:11. If the written word of the Bible could be changed into a spoken word and become one single voice, this voice, more powerful than the roaring of the sea would cry out: “the Father loves you!” (John 16:27) Everything that God does and says in the Bible is love, even God’s anger is nothing but love Fri, 18 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/199/?ignore 20:19 enclassic18072025-199 1219.53 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 199: How to Feel God's Love for You Psalm 86:11-17, Amos 6:1-7:17, Romans 4:16-5:11. If the written word of the Bible could be changed into a spoken word and become one single voice, this voice, more powerful than the roaring of the sea would cry out: “the Father loves you!” (John 16:27) Everything that God does and says in the Bible is love, even God’s anger is nothing but love Robbie Williams’ evocative lyric in the song ‘Feel’ echoes the deep longing of the human heart: ‘I just wanna feel real love’. God wants you to feel his love for you. He wants you to accept his love in your heart. You can receive his love in a new way today. I remember an occasion when our grandson, aged two, wanted to feel his father’s love. He raised both hands in the air and said, ‘Hugga Dadda’. My son picked up his son, lifted him into his arms, embraced him, kissed him and hugged him. It is a wonderful thing to hold a parent’s hand but an incomparably greater thing to have their arms wrapped around you. This is an illustration of the experience of God’s love. You know that God loves you through the cross: ‘God demonstrated his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us’ (Romans 5:8). You experience God’s love through the Holy Spirit: ‘God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us’ (5:5). ‘The whole Bible,’ St Augustine observes, ‘does nothing but tell of God’s love.’ Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa writes: ‘This is the message that supports and explains all the other messages. The love of God is the answer to all the “whys” in the Bible: the why of creation, the why of the incarnation, the why of redemption. If the written word of the Bible could be changed into a spoken word and become one single voice, this voice, more powerful than the roaring of the sea would cry out: “the Father loves you!” (John 16:27). Everything that God does and says in the Bible is love, even God’s anger is nothing but love. God “is” love!’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 199 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/198 Psalm 86:1-10, Amos 5:1-27, Romans 4:1-15. You can live in a right relationship with him and with others This is ‘*justification’* Thu, 17 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/198/?ignore 18:25 enclassic17072025-198 1105.58 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 198: As If You Had Never Sinned Psalm 86:1-10, Amos 5:1-27, Romans 4:1-15. You can live in a right relationship with him and with others This is ‘*justification’* In the years that I practised as a barrister I noticed that, for many people, appearing in a court of law is a terrifying experience – even if they are only appearing as a witness. Being a litigant, a person involved in the lawsuit, or a defendant in a criminal trial is an even more nerve-racking event. I saw the relief when a defendant was acquitted or a litigant was declared by a judge to be ‘in the right’. In the legal system of Ancient Israel, a dispute put both parties at risk of the judgment of the court. The court’s process had a redemptive role; the judge was meant to help the party in the right to correct the wrong. At the end of the case, one party would be declared righteous and the other in the wrong. Successful performance of this function meant ‘justice’ had been done. The Hebrew word for righteous is tsaddiq, which some versions of the Bible translate as ‘innocent’ or ‘just’ – one whose status is right. This is the Old Testament background to being ‘justified’. The child’s definition of justified is ‘just as if I’d’ never sinned. Jesus died for our sins. When you put your faith in him you were justified. You were freed. You are declared righteous in his sight. Sin no longer separates you from God. You can live in a right relationship with him and with others. This is ‘justification’. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 198 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/197 Psalm 85:8-13, Amos 3:1-4:13, Romans 3:9-31. The moment anyone comes to understand this expression, it changes your life It certainly changed mine Wed, 16 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/197/?ignore 19:40 enclassic16072025-197 1180.6 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 197: God's Game-Changing Answer Psalm 85:8-13, Amos 3:1-4:13, Romans 3:9-31. The moment anyone comes to understand this expression, it changes your life It certainly changed mine ‘We sometimes fall into the trap of thinking we are the worst people on the face of the earth and that nobody does as many wrong things as we do. But Romans 3:23 says that all have sinned and fall short of the glory (excellence) of God. Every man, woman, or child who was ever born, or ever will be, has a problem with sin. But the good news is that God has provided an answer to our dilemma,’ writes Joyce Meyer. When Saint Augustine found the answer in 386, ‘a clear light flooded [his] heart’. Martin Luther found the answer and a few years later the Reformation began, in 1517. When John Wesley understood the answer in 1738, his heart was ‘strangely warmed’ and the seeds of a revival began. In each case, their lives were radically changed through understanding ‘the righteousness of God’. It’s a game changer. The moment anyone comes to understand this expression, it changes your life. It certainly changed mine. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 197 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/196 Proverbs 17:5-14, Amos 1:1-2:16, Romans 2:17-3:8. God wants us to have soft hearts – hearts of love and compassion But if we are to make any difference to the world, this will lead to hard feet as we travel along tough paths and face challenges Tue, 15 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/196/?ignore 19:50 enclassic15072025-196 1190.48 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 196: Soften Your Heart and Harden Your Feet Proverbs 17:5-14, Amos 1:1-2:16, Romans 2:17-3:8. God wants us to have soft hearts – hearts of love and compassion But if we are to make any difference to the world, this will lead to hard feet as we travel along tough paths and face challenges A twenty-one-year-old music college student took the cheapest ship she could find, calling at the greatest number of countries, and prayed to know where to disembark. She arrived in Hong Kong in 1966 and came to a place called the Walled City. It was a small, densely populated, lawless area controlled neither by China nor Hong Kong. It was a high-rise slum for drug addicts, gangs and sex-workers. She wrote: I loved this dark place. I hated what was happening in it but I wanted to be nowhere else. It was almost as if I could already see another city in its place and that city was ablaze with light. It was my dream. There was no more crying, no more death or pain. The sick were healed, addicts set free, the hungry filled. There were families for orphans, homes for the homeless, and new dignity for those who had lived in shame. I had no idea of how to bring this about but with ‘visionary zeal’ imagined introducing the Walled City people to the one who could change it all: Jesus. Jackie Pullinger has spent over half a century working with heroin addicts, gang members and sex-workers. I remember so well a talk she gave some years ago. She began by saying, ‘God wants us to have soft hearts and hard feet. The trouble with so many of us is that we have hard hearts and soft feet.’ Jackie is a glowing example of this; going without sleep, food and comfort to serve others. God wants us to have soft hearts – hearts of love and compassion. But if we are to make any difference to the world, this will lead to hard feet as we travel along tough paths and face challenges. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 196 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/195 Psalm 85:1-7, Jonah 1:1-4:11, Romans 2:1-16. He gives us *countless* chances to turn back to him and enjoy his love again God doesn’t just give us a ‘second life’ – he comes to us and transforms our *real* life Mon, 14 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/195/?ignore 20:54 enclassic14072025-195 1254.82 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 195: The God of the Second Chance Psalm 85:1-7, Jonah 1:1-4:11, Romans 2:1-16. He gives us *countless* chances to turn back to him and enjoy his love again God doesn’t just give us a ‘second life’ – he comes to us and transforms our *real* life You never get a second chance at a first impression,’ goes the saying. But social media profiles, online communities and virtual gaming provide, for some, an opportunity to seek a second chance in life. ‘Second Life’ is a virtual world. Over fifty million people have created a Second Life character, through which they can live in this new world. They are looking for another chance in life. ‘Second Life’ describes itself as a place ‘to connect… to change yourself, to change your mind, change your look… to be different’. This virtual world is clear evidence of the longing of so many for a fresh start. Yet, in reality, God is the God of the second chance and third and many, many more. He gives us countless chances to turn back to him and enjoy his love again. God doesn’t just give us a ‘second life’ – he comes to us and transforms our real life. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 195 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/194 Psalm 84:8-12, 2 Kings 24:8-25:30, Romans 1:18-32. The painting only came alive to those on their knees in prayer The right perspective is the position of worship Sun, 13 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/194/?ignore 21:13 enclassic13072025-194 1273.81 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 194: How to Worship God Psalm 84:8-12, 2 Kings 24:8-25:30, Romans 1:18-32. The painting only came alive to those on their knees in prayer The right perspective is the position of worship In his book, The Vision and The Vow, Pete Greig tells of how a distinguished art critic was studying an exquisite painting by the Italian Renaissance master Filippino Lippi. He stood in London’s National Gallery gazing at the fifteenth-century depiction of Mary holding the infant Jesus on her lap, with saints Dominic and Jerome kneeling nearby. But the painting troubled him. There could be no doubting Lippi’s skill, his use of colour or composition. But the proportions of the picture seemed slightly wrong. The hills in the background seemed exaggerated, as if they might topple out of the frame at any minute onto the gallery’s polished floor. The two kneeling saints looked awkward and uncomfortable. Art critic Robert Cumming was not the first to criticise Lippi’s work for its poor perspective, but he may well be the last to do so, because at that moment he had a revelation. It suddenly occurred to him that the problem might be his. The painting had never been intended to come anywhere near a gallery. Lippi’s painting had been commissioned to hang in a place of prayer. The dignified critic dropped to his knees in the public gallery before the painting. He suddenly saw what generations of art critics had missed. From his new vantage point, Robert Cumming found himself gazing up at a perfectly proportioned piece. The foreground had moved naturally to the background, while the saints seemed settled – their awkwardness, like the painting itself, having turned to grace. Mary now looked intently and kindly directly at him as he knelt at her feet between saints Dominic and Jerome. It was not the perspective of the painting that had been wrong all these years, it was the perspective of the people looking at it. Robert Cumming, on bended knee, found a beauty that Robert Cumming the proud art critic could not. The painting only came alive to those on their knees in prayer. The right perspective is the position of worship. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 194 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/193 Psalm 84:1-7, 2 Kings 23:1-24:7, Romans 1:1-17. * It is a gift made possible through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Here lies the secret of restored relationships – first of restored relationship with God and then all other relationships Sat, 12 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/193/?ignore 23:28 enclassic12072025-193 1408.99 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 193: How to Restore Your Relationships Psalm 84:1-7, 2 Kings 23:1-24:7, Romans 1:1-17. * It is a gift made possible through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Here lies the secret of restored relationships – first of restored relationship with God and then all other relationships Hans worked his way up from being a miner to owning a number of mines. His eldest son, Martin, was very intelligent and went to university at the age of seventeen. A respectable career as a lawyer lay ahead of him. Suddenly, to his father’s dismay, he cancelled his registration for the law course and became a monk and then a priest. Martin wanted to live a righteous life. He fasted for days and spent sleepless nights in prayer, but he was still plagued by his own unrighteousness before a righteous God. Around the age of thirty, as he was studying Romans 1:17, the penny dropped. He later wrote: ‘I began to understand that in this verse the righteousness of God is that by which the righteous man lives by the gift of God, in other words by faith; and that this sentence, “the righteousness of God is revealed”, refers to a passive righteousness, ie, that by which the merciful God justifies us by faith, as it is written, “The righteous person lives by faith.” This immediately made me feel as if I had been born again and entered through open gates to paradise itself.’ This experience occurred 500 years ago. It not only changed his life, it altered the course of human history. He became one of the pivotal figures of western civilisation, the founder of the Reformation – the seedbed for social, economic and political thought. His name, of course, was Martin Luther. In essence, righteousness means a right relationship with God, which leads to right relationships with others. It is a gift made possible through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. Here lies the secret of restored relationships – first of restored relationship with God and then all other relationships. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 193 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/192 Proverbs 16:28-17:4, 2 Kings 21:1-22:20, Acts 28:17-31. It can cause great damage but it can also bring extraordinary blessings Your tongue is a powerful instrument Fri, 11 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/192/?ignore 22:02 enclassic11072025-192 1322.37 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 192: Your Words Are Powerful Proverbs 16:28-17:4, 2 Kings 21:1-22:20, Acts 28:17-31. It can cause great damage but it can also bring extraordinary blessings Your tongue is a powerful instrument ‘The Battle of Britain is about to begin. Upon this battle depends the survival of Christian civilisation.’ These words were in a speech given by Sir Winston Churchill to the House of Commons in 1940. Facing defeat, he inspired the nation to fight from the corner, urging them to brace themselves to do their duty and carry themselves in such a way that even a thousand years on people would still say, ‘This was their finest hour.’ The speech was powerful, the nation responded and ultimately a lasting peace was achieved. It is one of the speeches that shaped the modern world, displaying the power of words. Speeches have affected the outcome of war, women suffrage, human rights and many other issues. The apostle James writes that although ‘the tongue is a small part of the body… it makes great boasts’ (James 3:5). This small instrument has enormous power. It can cause great damage but it can also bring extraordinary blessings. Your tongue is a powerful instrument. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 192 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/191 Psalm 83:1-18, 2 Kings 19:14-20:21, Acts 28:1-16. Intercession was also made by kings, for example, David, Solomon, and Hezekiah You, too, are called to this invisible but invaluable ministry Thu, 10 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/191/?ignore 22:14 enclassic10072025-191 1334.62 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 191: Invisible but Invaluable Psalm 83:1-18, 2 Kings 19:14-20:21, Acts 28:1-16. Intercession was also made by kings, for example, David, Solomon, and Hezekiah You, too, are called to this invisible but invaluable ministry Every Monday morning, he phones our offices. He asks about the events and services taking place during the week, and the people involved in them. For decades, Charles and his prayer group have faithfully supported the church in prayer. They are examples of many in our church who intercede for us. Their prayers may be invisible but they are also invaluable. The word ‘intercession’ generally means praying for someone else (although, it can also be used of praying for oneself). We are all called to intercession. The apostle Paul writes to Timothy, ‘I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone – for kings and all those in authority’ (1 Timothy 2:1–2). Jesus is the great intercessor. He ‘made intercession for the transgressors’ (Isaiah 53:12). He ‘is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us’ (Romans 8:34; see also Hebrews 7:25). The Holy Spirit also intercedes for us and through us: ‘The Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express… the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God’s will’ (Romans 8:26–27). In the Old Testament passage for today, we see Isaiah’s role as an intercessor. Interceding for others is part of the role of a prophet. Intercession was also made by kings, for example, David, Solomon, and Hezekiah. You, too, are called to this invisible but invaluable ministry. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 191 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/190 Psalm 82:1-8, 2 Kings 18:1-19:13, Acts 27:13-44. The people of God in the Bible looked out on a world of suffering But they trusted in the Lord despite what they saw Wed, 09 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/190/?ignore 24:32 enclassic09072025-190 1472.24 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 190: Trust in the Lord Psalm 82:1-8, 2 Kings 18:1-19:13, Acts 27:13-44. The people of God in the Bible looked out on a world of suffering But they trusted in the Lord despite what they saw One of the biggest obstacles to faith is the suffering of the innocent. It is usually one of the first questions raised in an Alpha small group: ‘If there is a God who loves us, how come there is so much suffering in the world? How come there is such injustice and oppression? These are very important and necessary questions but there are no easy answers. Yet God is able to meet us in the midst of suffering and struggles. Extraordinarily, it is often the people who have gone through the greatest suffering who have the strongest faith. They testify to the presence of God with them, strengthening and comforting them in the midst of their pain. Betsie ten Boom, as she lay dying in Ravensbrück concentration camp, turned to her sister Corrie and said, ‘We must tell them that there is no pit so deep that He is not deeper still. They will listen to us, Corrie, because we have been here.’ Faith involves trusting in the Lord. The people of God in the Bible looked out on a world of suffering. But they trusted in the Lord despite what they saw. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 190 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/189 Psalm 81:8-16, 2 Kings 16:1-17:41, Acts 26:24-27:12. ‘To listen’, means to hear attentively, ‘to pay attention to’ Prayer means giving God your *full attention* Tue, 08 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/189/?ignore 25:09 enclassic08072025-189 1509.17 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 189: Listen to God Psalm 81:8-16, 2 Kings 16:1-17:41, Acts 26:24-27:12. ‘To listen’, means to hear attentively, ‘to pay attention to’ Prayer means giving God your *full attention* In all our relationships, listening is very important. As the philosopher and theologian, Paul Tillich put it, ‘The first duty of love is to listen’. Some people are very good at listening. General George Marshall said, ‘Formula for handling people: Listen to the other person’s story. Listen to the other person’s full story. Listen to the other person’s full story first.’ Listening to God is one of the keys to your relationship with him. ‘To listen’, means to hear attentively, ‘to pay attention to’. Prayer means giving God your full attention. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 189 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/188 Proverbs 16:18-27, 2 Kings 14:23-15:38, Acts 25:23-26:23. It is the independent spirit that says, ‘I have no need of God ’ Arguably, therefore, it is at the root of all sin Mon, 07 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/188/?ignore 24:04 enclassic07072025-188 1444.02 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 188: The Dangers of Pride Proverbs 16:18-27, 2 Kings 14:23-15:38, Acts 25:23-26:23. It is the independent spirit that says, ‘I have no need of God ’ Arguably, therefore, it is at the root of all sin Back when I was working as a lawyer, I remember a very straightforward case that I thought I was bound to win. I was so confident I decided that it was not worth even bothering to pray about it or commit it to the Lord. When I stood up to speak, the judge asked me whether I was aware of a case that had changed the law in the last few days. I was not. The result was a very humiliating defeat. As the passage in Proverbs today warns (Proverbs 16:18), pride had come before a fall. In my humiliation, I cried out to God for help. I read the recent case. Then, I wrote an opinion saying I thought the decision was wrong and would be reversed on appeal. Thankfully, it was. We were able to go back to court and win the case. The solicitor, rather than judging me for my mistake, was kind enough to be impressed by the opinion I had written and sent me many more cases. So it became a double lesson; not just about the dangers of pride but also about the extraordinary grace of God and how ‘things work out when you trust in God’ (Proverbs 16:20, MSG). I try not to forget the lesson I learnt about the dangers of pride and self-reliance whenever I stand up to speak. I would like to say that I have never made the same mistake again but it is a lesson that I have had to re-learn several times. In English, the word ‘pride’ can have a good sense. For example, we would not say it is wrong for a person to be proud of their children, or to take pride in their work. However, when the Bible talks about pride it means something different from this and has very negative connotations. It means to have an excessively high opinion of one’s own worth or importance; it suggests arrogant or overbearing conduct. It is the independent spirit that says, ‘I have no need of God.’ Arguably, therefore, it is at the root of all sin. How should we respond to the temptation and dangers of pride? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 188 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/187 Psalm 81:1-7, 2 Kings 12:1-14:22, Acts 25:1-22. Our world is facing major challenges with the scourge of racism, modern slavery, climate change, mass starvation, wars and terrorism As I read the passages for today, I am reminded that the relatively minor challenges, problems and hassles that I face are nothing compared to what the people of God have faced in the past, and still face around the world today Sun, 06 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/187/?ignore 26:37 enclassic06072025-187 1597.7 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 187: How to Cope with the Challenges of Life Psalm 81:1-7, 2 Kings 12:1-14:22, Acts 25:1-22. Our world is facing major challenges with the scourge of racism, modern slavery, climate change, mass starvation, wars and terrorism As I read the passages for today, I am reminded that the relatively minor challenges, problems and hassles that I face are nothing compared to what the people of God have faced in the past, and still face around the world today President John F. Kennedy said, ‘We stand today on the edge of a new frontier… but the new frontier of which I speak is not a set of promises – it is a set of challenges. It sums up not what I intend to offer the American people, but what I intend to ask of them.’ Life is a set of challenges, problems and hassles. We sometimes imagine that if we could just deal with the immediate challenge that we are facing, all our problems would be over. But life is not like that. If we resolve one problem, others are just around the corner. The temptation is to see these challenges as preventing us from carrying out the ministry God has given us. In actual fact, dealing with the problems is the ministry. As one former Bishop of Kensington put it: ‘These are not the problems associated with the ministry, they are the ministry.’ The Bible is true to life. The psalmist faced pain and distress. Paul faced false accusation and the frustration of being kept in prison on trumped up charges. The kings in the Old Testament faced battles and a massive building project challenge. Our world is facing major challenges with the scourge of racism, modern slavery, climate change, mass starvation, wars and terrorism. As I read the passages for today, I am reminded that the relatively minor challenges, problems and hassles that I face are nothing compared to what the people of God have faced in the past, and still face around the world today. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 187 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/186 Psalm 80:8-19, 2 Kings 10:1-11:21, Acts 24:1-27. The light of Jesus will always outshine the darkness around (John 1:5) You have that light within you by the Holy Spirit and wherever you go you bring a light greater than the darkness around you Sat, 05 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/186/?ignore 26:28 enclassic05072025-186 1588.01 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 186: The Light of God's Smile of Blessing Is On You Psalm 80:8-19, 2 Kings 10:1-11:21, Acts 24:1-27. The light of Jesus will always outshine the darkness around (John 1:5) You have that light within you by the Holy Spirit and wherever you go you bring a light greater than the darkness around you After the terrifying, appalling and deadly terrorist attack during her concert in 2017, Ariana Grande returned to the Manchester Arena for the ‘One Love Manchester’ concert. Marcus Mumford, lead singer of the band Mumford and Sons, opened the concert by proclaiming that ‘love casts out fear’. In the middle of the concert, Justin Bieber declared, ‘I’m not going to let go of love, not going to let go of God. God is good in the midst of darkness. God is in the midst. And he loves you. And he is here for you.’ It was like a bright light in the midst of the darkness. St John of the Cross spoke of the ‘dark night of the soul’. I have gone through dark times in my life. There were dark times for the people of God both in the Old and New Testament times. There have been dark periods in the history of the church. But the light of the gospel has never gone out. The light of Jesus will always outshine the darkness around (John 1:5). You have that light within you by the Holy Spirit and wherever you go you bring a light greater than the darkness around you. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 186 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/185 Psalm 80:1-7, 2 Kings 8:16-9:37, Acts 23:12-35. Stephen Lungu was captivated by the preacher In each of the passages for today we see attacks of various kinds and how God turns opposition into opportunity Fri, 04 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/185/?ignore 25:03 enclassic04072025-185 1503.29 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 185: Opposition Turned into Opportunity Psalm 80:1-7, 2 Kings 8:16-9:37, Acts 23:12-35. Stephen Lungu was captivated by the preacher In each of the passages for today we see attacks of various kinds and how God turns opposition into opportunity Stephen Lungu came to our home and told me his story. He was the oldest son of a teenage mother from a township in Zimbabwe. She was trapped in a difficult marriage to a man more than twenty years her senior. She dealt with her struggles by drinking heavily. One day, when Stephen was three years old, his mother took him, his brother and baby sister into town. Saying she needed to go to the toilet, Stephen’s mother left him holding his sister in the busy town square, while his brother John played on the ground. Two hours later she had not returned. Their mother had run away, leaving the three children in the reluctant care of an aunt. By the age of eleven, Stephen too had run away – preferring to live on the streets. Growing up, Stephen developed a strong bitterness against God. As a teenager he was recruited into one of the urban gangs, called the Black Shadows, which carried out violence, theft and destruction on the streets of Zimbabwe. When a travelling evangelist came to town to speak to thousands of people about Jesus in a large tent, Stephen went to firebomb the event. He carried a bag full of bombs. He wanted to attack the event because he wanted to attack God. As Stephen awaited the moment for his attack, Shadrach Maloka, a South African evangelist, took to the stage and announced that the Holy Spirit had warned him that many in the audience may die soon without Christ. Astonished, the Black Shadows thought someone had figured out their plan. Stephen Lungu was captivated by the preacher. In each of the passages for today we see attacks of various kinds and how God turns opposition into opportunity. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 185 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/184 Proverbs 16:8-17, 2 Kings 6:24-8:15, Acts 22:22-23:11. Nothing happens without God’s permission God is in control and *in everything* he is working for good (8:28) Thu, 03 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/184/?ignore 25:10 enclassic03072025-184 1510.71 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 184: God's Purposes for You Proverbs 16:8-17, 2 Kings 6:24-8:15, Acts 22:22-23:11. Nothing happens without God’s permission God is in control and *in everything* he is working for good (8:28) I trained as a lawyer and worked as a barrister. Then, back in 1981, Pippa and I felt that God was calling us to full-time ministry in the Church of England and for me to become an ordained minister. We also felt that we should do our training in Durham, starting in September 1982. I was at the top of the waiting list for the theological college at Durham University. I was told it was almost certain someone would drop out and I was virtually guaranteed a place. Based on this I announced our plans widely, including telling all my colleagues at work that I was leaving. Just before I was due to start we received news that, exceptionally, no one had dropped out that year and it would not be possible for us to go. We tried everything to persuade them to change their minds. We desperately tried to find another theological college that would accept us. We prayed and pushed as hard as we could but to no avail. The door was firmly shut. The following year was extremely difficult. I was given very little work by my workplace as people knew I was leaving and so had no incentive to build my career. It was a huge disappointment and mystifying at the time. In the end, Pippa and I went to Oxford to study the following year and I eventually started as an assistant pastor at HTB in 1986. With hindsight, had we got the place at Durham, the timing would have meant that a job at HTB would have been out of the question and we would not be doing what we are doing today. I am so thankful to God that he blocked our plans and strategically ordered our steps. If you are going through a setback or disappointment, remember that his purposes for you are ‘good, pleasing and perfect’ (Romans 12:2). Nothing happens without God’s permission. God is in control and in everything he is working for good (8:28). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 184 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/183 Psalm 79:1-13, 2 Kings 4:38-6:23, Acts 21:27-22:21. I have changed from a violent, loveless drug addict to a man who is happily married and full of love I’m now running Alphas for all types of people, from gangs to grannies, and I’m seeing their lives changed Wed, 02 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/183/?ignore 28:46 enclassic02072025-183 1726.69 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 183: Transform Your World Psalm 79:1-13, 2 Kings 4:38-6:23, Acts 21:27-22:21. I have changed from a violent, loveless drug addict to a man who is happily married and full of love I’m now running Alphas for all types of people, from gangs to grannies, and I’m seeing their lives changed Our friend from Scotland, Dez, told me, ‘I was a doorman; a bouncer. I was quite a violent guy. I took a lot of drugs. I was a cocaine addict. My life revolved around fighting, taking drugs, partying and living in that cycle.’ He said, ‘One night I had taken a massive overdose. I felt like I was having a heart attack. My heart was jumping out of my chest. And I cried out in what I didn’t know then was a prayer: to live. And I woke up the next day and I never touched coke again.’ After that, Dez kept meeting Christians. One in particular was Fiona, who really lived out her faith. He asked her out a few times, but she said ‘No’. Mainly because he wasn’t a Christian. She gave him a Bible and he started reading: ‘I started tearing through it trying to find something and I ended up finding Jesus. Suddenly, my whole life made sense.’ He called Fiona and asked her to take him to church. There he heard about Alpha. ‘On Alpha, I met Jesus and it changed my life. I was this drug-fuelled, violent person and now I love people and love God. I just want to share my story.’ Dez studied Theology and is now works for Alpha Scotland. And, he married Fiona. He is now a happy husband and a loving father. Dez sums up his complete transformation: ‘Jesus turned the questions I had about whether God exists into a belief that God cares about me. I have changed from a violent, loveless drug addict to a man who is happily married and full of love. I’m now running Alphas for all types of people, from gangs to grannies, and I’m seeing their lives changed.’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 183 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/182 Psalm 78:56-72, 2 Kings 3:1-4:37, Acts 21:1-26. The task of an overseer is to pastor God’s flock, following the example of Jesus who said, ‘I am *the good shepherd*’ (John 10:11) In the passages for today we see seven characteristics of good shepherds which are seen in all great Christian leaders Tue, 01 Jul 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/182/?ignore 27:16 enclassic01072025-182 1636.1 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 182: Seven Characteristics of Great Leaders Psalm 78:56-72, 2 Kings 3:1-4:37, Acts 21:1-26. The task of an overseer is to pastor God’s flock, following the example of Jesus who said, ‘I am *the good shepherd*’ (John 10:11) In the passages for today we see seven characteristics of good shepherds which are seen in all great Christian leaders An online survey listed all the qualities that people expect from ‘perfect’ pastors: They preach for exactly twelve minutes. They are twenty-eight years of age, but have been preaching for thirty years. They work from 8 am until midnight every day, but are also the caretaker. They frequently condemn sin, but never upset anyone. They wear good clothes, buy good books, drive a good car, give generously to the poor and have a low salary. They make fifteen daily calls to parish families, visit the housebound and the hospitalised, spend all their time evangelising the un-churched and are always in the office when they are needed. They are also very good-looking! Of course, we all know that there is no such thing as a ‘perfect pastor’. Nevertheless, daunted by the high expectations that people have of their church leaders, on 1 July 2004 (when I had been asked to take on the role of Vicar at HTB in London), I felt both excited and a little overwhelmed by the responsibility. That day, I wrote my prayer in the margin of my Bible in One Year: that I, like David, would shepherd the people with integrity of heart and lead them with skilful hands (Psalm 78:72). This is still my prayer today. In yesterday’s passage we saw how Paul said to the Ephesian elders, ‘Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood’ (Acts 20:28). Pope Francis urged the spiritual leaders of the church to ‘be shepherds living with the smell of sheep’. The task of an overseer is to pastor God’s flock, following the example of Jesus who said, ‘I am the good shepherd’ (John 10:11). In the passages for today we see seven characteristics of good shepherds which are seen in all great Christian leaders. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 182 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/181 Psalm 78:40-55, 2 Kings 1:1-2:25, Acts 20:1-38. Yet it is also a message that provokes opposition God equips you to pass on this message by giving you the Holy Spirit Mon, 30 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/181/?ignore 26:21 enclassic30062025-181 1581.24 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 181: The Most Powerful Message in the World Psalm 78:40-55, 2 Kings 1:1-2:25, Acts 20:1-38. Yet it is also a message that provokes opposition God equips you to pass on this message by giving you the Holy Spirit Recently I had the privilege of interviewing Mojtaba Hosseini. He is a young pastor who was imprisoned, aged 20, for running house churches in Iran. He was imprisoned alongside murderers and drug dealers. He spent long periods in solitary confinement, not knowing if or when he would be released. Mojtaba felt prompted by the Holy Spirit to share the good news of Jesus. So when the opportunity arose, he began sharing his testimony and the gospel with the other prisoners, proclaiming, ‘Jesus is alive.’ He said, ‘It doesn’t matter what situation I’m in. I can work in God’s kingdom wherever he places me. And at that time God placed me among the prisoners.’ Of one fellow prisoners that he helped lead to Christ, Mojtaba said: ‘I heard this message from God: “Mojtaba, whatever you have been through, being away from your family, all the humiliation, all the suffering, all the pain and solitary confinement and everything you will still go through… It’s worth it for this man who came to Christ.”’ The message of Jesus is the most powerful message in the world. It is good news. It changes lives. It changes cities and cultures. Yet it is also a message that provokes opposition. God equips you to pass on this message by giving you the Holy Spirit. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 181 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/180 Proverbs 15:31-16:7, 1 Kings 22:1-53, Acts 19:14-41. I find it so encouraging and faith building to look back at how much the Lord has done for us over the years It is so easy to forget his kindness and faithfulness Sun, 29 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/180/?ignore 24:07 enclassic29062025-180 1447.86 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 180: How to Plan Your Life Proverbs 15:31-16:7, 1 Kings 22:1-53, Acts 19:14-41. I find it so encouraging and faith building to look back at how much the Lord has done for us over the years It is so easy to forget his kindness and faithfulness Almost everyone makes plans. We make plans about how to spend our evenings, our weekends or our holidays. Some people plan how many children they are going to have; they make plans for their education. We need to plan our finances and our giving. Individuals have plans. Businesses have plans. Churches should have plans. I love these pages in my own Bible in One Year. In June 1992, alongside the verse, ‘Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed’ (Proverbs 16:3), I wrote the plans we had for ’92/’93. God blessed these plans more than we could ever have asked or even imagined. Every year thereafter, I have written down the plans for the year ahead. I find it so encouraging and faith building to look back at how much the Lord has done for us over the years. It is so easy to forget his kindness and faithfulness. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 180 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/179 Psalm 78:32-39, 1 Kings 20:1-21:29, Acts 18:9-19:13. The apostle Paul writes, ‘Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but… against the spiritual forces of evil’ (Ephesians 6:12) God’s power in you is so much greater than the power of evil Sat, 28 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/179/?ignore 29:17 enclassic28062025-179 1757.88 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 179: Power Encounters Psalm 78:32-39, 1 Kings 20:1-21:29, Acts 18:9-19:13. The apostle Paul writes, ‘Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but… against the spiritual forces of evil’ (Ephesians 6:12) God’s power in you is so much greater than the power of evil A few years ago, David (not his real name), a young lawyer, was in our small group on Alpha. On the first night, he told us that he was an atheist and had come with a sole purpose of disrupting the small group, which he attempted to do every time he came. Unlike many who come with this attitude, he did not change at all throughout the course. After the talk on ‘How Can I Resist Evil?’, one young woman, Sarah (not her real name), who was not a Christian, said that she definitely did not believe in the power of evil. This was a major stumbling-block to her becoming a Christian. But later that evening David became extremely angry for no apparent reason and, as if he were taken over by a demonic power, he physically threatened one of the helpers in our group in a terrifying way. Sarah happened to witness the incident. She saw God’s power at work in the gentle, restrained reaction of the helper. Her eyes were opened to the whole spiritual world. She put her faith in Jesus that night. John Wimber defined ‘power encounters’ as the clashing of the kingdom of God and the kingdom of Satan. The apostle Paul writes, ‘Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but… against the spiritual forces of evil’ (Ephesians 6:12). God’s power in you is so much greater than the power of evil. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 179 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/178 Psalm 78:17-31, 1 Kings 18:16-19:21, Acts 17:22-18:8. God is real ’ The email was headed ‘Brand New Knee!!’God is a God of miracles Fri, 27 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/178/?ignore 26:26 enclassic27062025-178 1586.76 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 178: The God of Miracles Psalm 78:17-31, 1 Kings 18:16-19:21, Acts 17:22-18:8. God is real ’ The email was headed ‘Brand New Knee!!’God is a God of miracles After an Alpha Weekend, a soldier called Quincy Bellot wrote to me: ‘This pain started twelve years ago. After joining the Royal Marines, it became extremely bad. The cartilage below the kneecap was completely gone. Last year was the worst when the ligaments and the tendons were torn and the kneecap went in a forty-five-degree angle. It has been a long and painful journey. I could not sit or stand for too long. ‘Cut a long story short, I decided to try God and try Alpha. I got back from the Alpha Weekend and agreed to come to HTB after much hesitation. I heard people testifying and I was thinking, “yeah, yeah, yeah”. When someone said [a word of knowledge] about the cartilage issue, I took the sharpest breath I ever took. I agreed to be prayed for. I felt God moving in my knee. I dropped on my knees to test it and remarkably no pain. It’s just miraculous. I went for a run last night… it was the first time after a very long time I haven’t had any pain. God is real.’ The email was headed ‘Brand New Knee!!’ God is a God of miracles. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 178 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/177 Psalm 78:9-16, 1 Kings 16:8-18:15, Acts 17:1-21. Our Father in heaven knows when you will need the strength to be a martyr for Jesus Christ He will supply all you need just in time Thu, 26 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/177/?ignore 24:54 enclassic26062025-177 1494.13 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 177: Three Things God Wants to Give You Psalm 78:9-16, 1 Kings 16:8-18:15, Acts 17:1-21. Our Father in heaven knows when you will need the strength to be a martyr for Jesus Christ He will supply all you need just in time Corrie ten Boom and her sister Betsie were middle-aged Christian women in Holland when World War II erupted. They resolved to conceal fleeing Jews from the Nazis. They rescued many. But they were eventually arrested and taken to Ravensbrück concentration camp. Betsie died there. Corrie miraculously survived to bear witness to the way in which God can save, heal and forgive. When asked how to prepare for persecution, she used to tell this story about her childhood: ‘When I was a little girl, I went to my father and said, “Daddy, I was afraid that I will never be strong enough to be a martyr for Jesus Christ.” “Tell me,” said father, “When you take a train trip to Amsterdam, when do I give you the money for the ticket? Three weeks before?” “No, Daddy, you give me the money for the ticket just before we get on the train.” “That is right,” my father said, “And so it is with God’s strength. Our Father in heaven knows when you will need the strength to be a martyr for Jesus Christ. He will supply all you need just in time.”’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 177 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/176 Proverbs 15:21-30, 1 Kings 14:21-16:7, Acts 16:16-40. It is, as Charles Haddon Spurgeon put it, ‘the slender nerve that moves the muscles of omnipotence ’ Prayer has the power to change circumstances, other people and even the course of history Wed, 25 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/176/?ignore 23:52 enclassic25062025-176 1432.97 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 176: The Power of Prayer Proverbs 15:21-30, 1 Kings 14:21-16:7, Acts 16:16-40. It is, as Charles Haddon Spurgeon put it, ‘the slender nerve that moves the muscles of omnipotence ’ Prayer has the power to change circumstances, other people and even the course of history A few years ago, The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby and Pete Greig (founder of 24-7 Prayer) launched an initiative calling hundreds of thousands of Christians, of many churches and denominations to a great wave of prayer for the evangelisation of the nations during the week before Pentecost Sunday. The week culminated in beacon events in packed cathedrals and churches around the world over the Pentecost weekend. Justin Welby, asked people to pray for three things: ‘That all Christians find new life in Jesus Christ… That all those you meet… might see something of Jesus… For the church to overflow with the reality of the presence of Jesus.’ Pete Greig has described it as ‘a groundswell; a movement from the grassroots up’. He said he had been very moved to hear of one boy who’d prayed for five friends, three of whom had since become Christians! Prayer is spiritual nutrition. Just as the body needs physical food, so the soul needs spiritual food. Prayer changes us. However, the Bible goes much further than this. Prayer is powerful. It is, as Charles Haddon Spurgeon put it, ‘the slender nerve that moves the muscles of omnipotence.’ Prayer has the power to change circumstances, other people and even the course of history. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 176 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/175 Psalm 78:1-8, 1 Kings 12:25-14:20, Acts 16:1-15. There have always been people in my life from whom I am learning and others to whom I am trying to pass it on Like runners in a relay race, we all have a responsibility to pass on the baton Tue, 24 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/175/?ignore 24:28 enclassic24062025-175 1468.89 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 175: Pass on the Baton Psalm 78:1-8, 1 Kings 12:25-14:20, Acts 16:1-15. There have always been people in my life from whom I am learning and others to whom I am trying to pass it on Like runners in a relay race, we all have a responsibility to pass on the baton When I left university at the age of twenty-one, I moved to London and was looking for a church to join. I visited HTB and heard Sandy Millar speak. Afterwards, I asked if I could meet with him. Soon after, I joined the church and began to learn from this extraordinary leader, friend and role model. After several years as a member of the congregation, I went on to train for ordination in the Church of England and ten years after our first meeting I returned to HTB as Sandy Millar’s assistant minister. I continued in that role for nineteen years until 2005 when he passed on the baton to me, and I succeeded him as vicar of HTB. To this day, Sandy continues to be my role model, friend and inspiration. There have always been people in my life from whom I am learning and others to whom I am trying to pass it on. Like runners in a relay race, we all have a responsibility to pass on the baton. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 175 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/174 Psalm 77:10-20, 1 Kings 11:14-12:24, Acts 15:22-41. We see examples of relationships at their very best, but we also see examples of their frailty and failure Through these examples and the teaching of the Bible we see three keys Mon, 23 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/174/?ignore 24:13 enclassic23062025-174 1453.04 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 174: Three Keys to Great Friendships Psalm 77:10-20, 1 Kings 11:14-12:24, Acts 15:22-41. We see examples of relationships at their very best, but we also see examples of their frailty and failure Through these examples and the teaching of the Bible we see three keys A leading UK retail chain commissioned a survey by a team of psychologists into their key customer demographic: Millennials (those born between 1981 and the early 2000s, and also known as Generation Y). They interviewed 800 people. The results were so startling that they did not believe them. They interviewed another 800 and got the same results. The results portrayed an alarming picture of an increasingly lonely and lost generation. More people live alone than at any other point in our recorded social history. On average, Millennials spend six-and-a-half hours a day on social media. Many who were interviewed considered work to be something they fitted in between social media and lunch! They found people had a very large number of ‘friends’ but an increasing sense of loneliness. A more recent study revealed 73% of Generation Z feel alone, now making them the loneliest generation. It's been said that we’ve become a culture more focused on strengthening our Wi-Fi connections than strengthening our personal connections. There is nothing wrong with social media, but it is no substitute for real, face-to-face friendships. We were created for friendship with God (Genesis 3:8) and with one another (2:18). Marriage is part of the solution to aloneness. Friendship, vital also in marriage, is a crucial part of the solution too. Jesus set an example of close friendship with men and women. He demonstrated that marriage is not the only solution to aloneness. In one respect, friendship is even more important than marriage. Marriage is for this life only; friendship is eternal. ‘Friendship’, as C.S. Lewis writes, is the ‘crown of life and school of virtue’. Friendship multiplies joy and divides sorrow. The Bible is very realistic. We see examples of relationships at their very best, but we also see examples of their frailty and failure. Through these examples and the teaching of the Bible we see three keys. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 174 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/173 Psalm 77:1-9, 1 Kings 9:10-11:13, Acts 15:1-21. But these need not derail you In fact, as you go through difficult times staying close to Jesus, you will emerge stronger, wiser and more Christ-like Sun, 22 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/173/?ignore 24:07 enclassic22062025-173 1447.94 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 173: When Life is Difficult Psalm 77:1-9, 1 Kings 9:10-11:13, Acts 15:1-21. But these need not derail you In fact, as you go through difficult times staying close to Jesus, you will emerge stronger, wiser and more Christ-like He was arrested for preaching the gospel. His wife died leaving him with four children, one of whom was blind. Yet he refused to give up telling people the good news about Jesus. John Bunyan wrote his greatest work in a prison cell. It has been a source of spiritual inspiration and help to countless readers. Translated into over 200 languages, it has never been out of print since the day it was first published in 1678. Pilgrim’s Progress is an allegory which tells the story of a person called ‘Christian’ on a journey from his hometown to the Celestial City. On the way he faces many difficulties, challenges and obstacles, yet he perseveres faithfully to the end. A Christian life is not easy. You will face many difficulties along the way. But these need not derail you. In fact, as you go through difficult times staying close to Jesus, you will emerge stronger, wiser and more Christ-like. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 173 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/172 Proverbs 15:11-20, 1 Kings 8:22-9:9, Acts 14:8-28. Your heart lies ‘open before the Lord’ (Proverbs 15:11) Only God sees and knows the heart of every human being (1 Kings 8:39) Sat, 21 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/172/?ignore 25:34 enclassic21062025-172 1534.41 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 172: It's the Heart that Matters Proverbs 15:11-20, 1 Kings 8:22-9:9, Acts 14:8-28. Your heart lies ‘open before the Lord’ (Proverbs 15:11) Only God sees and knows the heart of every human being (1 Kings 8:39) Paul Swala was in prison in Zambia. He was charged with treason. He was accused of being involved in a coup to overthrow the government. While in prison, he did Alpha. He encountered Jesus and cried out for God to save him. He said, ‘The smile came on my face and my heart was filled with peace.’ Extraordinarily, he was the only one of the group of sixty-nine accused who was acquitted. He told his story, at our Leadership Conference at the Royal Albert Hall. His face radiated the joy of the Lord. He has now been into every prison in Zambia sharing the good news about Jesus Christ and how, even in the direst of situations, Jesus can bring hope and change hearts. He said, ‘I’ve never seen a friend like Jesus.’ God really has filled his heart with joy. The word ‘heart’ appears at least seventeen times in the passages for today. The Hebrew understanding of ‘the heart’ included the emotions, but it also involved the mind, the conscience and the will. It means everything that is going on inside of you. All the men and women whom God chose to use greatly had weaknesses and made mistakes. But God saw that their hearts were turned towards him. It is your heart that matters. Your heart lies ‘open before the Lord’ (Proverbs 15:11). Only God sees and knows the heart of every human being (1 Kings 8:39). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 172 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/171 Psalm 76:1-12, 1 Kings 7:23-8:21, Acts 13:42-14:7. In the Old Testament passage for today we read how ‘the glory of the Lord filled his temple’ (1 Kings 8:11) Each of the passages for today tells us something about how to enjoy God’s empowering presence that comes through the Holy Spirit Fri, 20 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/171/?ignore 23:00 enclassic20062025-171 1380.86 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 171: Come, Holy Spirit Psalm 76:1-12, 1 Kings 7:23-8:21, Acts 13:42-14:7. In the Old Testament passage for today we read how ‘the glory of the Lord filled his temple’ (1 Kings 8:11) Each of the passages for today tells us something about how to enjoy God’s empowering presence that comes through the Holy Spirit Spending time in the presence of God is the most important activity of your life. You need God’s presence in your life more than you need anything else. But where do you find the presence of God? I remember so well the first time I heard someone pray one of the most ancient prayers of the church, ‘Come, Holy Spirit’, with a real expectation that the Holy Spirit would come! It was on a Sunday night in 1982. We had a meeting in the crypt after our evening service at HTB. As we prayed, ‘Come, Holy Spirit’ we saw remarkable events occur. We saw people being filled with the Holy Spirit with physical manifestations similar to those described in the book of Acts on the day of Pentecost. We saw extraordinary physical healings take place the following day when again someone prayed, ‘Come, Holy Spirit’. God is always present with his people today by his Holy Spirit. When you pray, ‘Come, Holy Spirit,’ you are asking for an increased sense of the presence of God. There are times in the New Testament when the Holy Spirit filled a gathering of people sovereignly and spontaneously (Acts 2:2; 10:44). There are other times when the disciples prayed for the Holy Spirit: ‘After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit’ (4:31). In the Old Testament passage for today we read how ‘the glory of the Lord filled his temple’ (1 Kings 8:11). Each of the passages for today tells us something about how to enjoy God’s empowering presence that comes through the Holy Spirit. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 171 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/170 Psalm 75:1-10, 1 Kings 6:1-7:22, Acts 13:13-41. Yet, it is not always an easy book to understand One key ingredient to understanding the Bible better is to recognise the language and genre that the writer is using – the type of literature and therefore what the writer intended Thu, 19 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/170/?ignore 25:18 enclassic19062025-170 1518.58 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 170: How to Find Treasures in the Bible Psalm 75:1-10, 1 Kings 6:1-7:22, Acts 13:13-41. Yet, it is not always an easy book to understand One key ingredient to understanding the Bible better is to recognise the language and genre that the writer is using – the type of literature and therefore what the writer intended I first encountered Jesus through reading the Bible. Ever since, I have read it practically every day of my life. Yet, I am constantly seeing and discovering new things. St Gregory the Great said that Scripture ‘grows with its readers’. As Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa explains, ‘It reveals new meanings according to the questions people have in their hearts as they read it.’ The Bible is full of inexhaustible treasure for you to read and digest, and through which you can encounter God. Yet, it is not always an easy book to understand. One key ingredient to understanding the Bible better is to recognise the language and genre that the writer is using – the type of literature and therefore what the writer intended. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 170 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/169 Psalm 74:18-23, 1 Kings 3:16-5:18, Acts 12:19b-13:12. She is having a huge impact on people – evangelising to anyone that will stand still long enough to listen!’John Wimber often used to say that we all need three conversions: to be converted to Christ, converted to his church and converted to his cause Sue was obviously not only converted to Christ, but also instantly converted to his church and to his cause! Today’s passages focus especially on this third conversion Wed, 18 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/169/?ignore 24:26 enclassic18062025-169 1466.91 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 169: Three Conversions Everyone Needs Psalm 74:18-23, 1 Kings 3:16-5:18, Acts 12:19b-13:12. She is having a huge impact on people – evangelising to anyone that will stand still long enough to listen!’John Wimber often used to say that we all need three conversions: to be converted to Christ, converted to his church and converted to his cause Sue was obviously not only converted to Christ, but also instantly converted to his church and to his cause! Today’s passages focus especially on this third conversion At an Alpha Conference, someone handed me a scrap of paper with a note describing what had happened to her friend. This is what she wrote: ‘Sue (who was not a Christian) was attending a rehab clinic for people with severe respiratory problems. She had a chronic condition (COPD: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) that was getting progressively worse. The clinic meets at our church building. She arrived for her clinic, but there was no one there. (She had got the wrong date!) She waited around and had a look through flyers about our next Alpha. ‘Sue turned up for our course on Wednesday evening. She soaked it all up and was full of excitement and interest. She came to church on the Sunday and was back again on the Wednesday. It suddenly clicked for Sue that Jesus is God! A huge piece of the jigsaw for her. She gave her life to the Lord – dramatic. She called her sister to tell her she had become a Christian and her sister was in the middle of a meeting with a friend to pray for Sue! She had been praying for her for twenty-five years! ‘The following Sunday – Sue came to church, came forward for prayer for healing and was remarkably healed of her COPD. [She has been] running up and down stairs at home, off her medications, etc! She met with her physio at the medical clinic who was astonished at what had happened to her – remarkable difference. She has been healed and has since prayed for and seen others healed, including one of cancer! ‘On 30 April Sue was baptised and brought over 150 friends and family to celebrate with her. She is having a huge impact on people – evangelising to anyone that will stand still long enough to listen!’ John Wimber often used to say that we all need three conversions: to be converted to Christ, converted to his church and converted to his cause. Sue was obviously not only converted to Christ, but also instantly converted to his church and to his cause! Today’s passages focus especially on this third conversion. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 169 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/168 Proverbs 15:1-10, 1 Kings 2:13-3:15, Acts 11:19-12:19a. org/) It is such an encouragement to know that every hour, day and night, there is someone praying in that room Tue, 17 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/168/?ignore 26:05 enclassic17062025-168 1565.15 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 168: Your Prayers Make a Difference Proverbs 15:1-10, 1 Kings 2:13-3:15, Acts 11:19-12:19a. org/) It is such an encouragement to know that every hour, day and night, there is someone praying in that room Saint John Chrysostom (349–407) wrote, ‘Prayer… is the root, the fountain, the mother of a thousand blessings… The potency of prayer has subdued the strength of fire, it has bridled the rage of lions… extinguished wars, appeased the elements, expelled demons, burst the chains of death, expanded the gates of heaven, assuaged diseases… rescued cities from destruction… and arrested the progress of the thunderbolt.’ We have a 24-7 Prayer Room on our church site at HTB. It was one of the highlights of my week to go into the room and spend time alone with God. Prayer really is the root and fountain of all that we do at HTB. It is such an encouragement to know that every hour, day and night, there is someone praying in that room. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 168 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/167 Psalm 74:10-17, 1 Kings 1-2:12, Acts 10:23b-11:18. Jesus was opposed: ‘They killed him by hanging him on a tree, but God raised him from the dead on the third day and caused him to be seen’ (10:39–40) Contrastingly, the most wonderful privilege any human being can have is to be a follower of Jesus of Nazareth whom ‘God anointed… with the Holy Spirit and power’ (10:38) Mon, 16 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/167/?ignore 28:23 enclassic16062025-167 1703.58 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 167: Following and Not Opposing God Psalm 74:10-17, 1 Kings 1-2:12, Acts 10:23b-11:18. Jesus was opposed: ‘They killed him by hanging him on a tree, but God raised him from the dead on the third day and caused him to be seen’ (10:39–40) Contrastingly, the most wonderful privilege any human being can have is to be a follower of Jesus of Nazareth whom ‘God anointed… with the Holy Spirit and power’ (10:38) I remember so well the time when Alpha started in the Catholic Church. Bishop Ambrose of Newcastle and Hexham heard what was happening with Alpha in some of the Anglican churches. He became interested and wanted to find out more. However, he did not want to let us know he was interested. So, he sent two Catholic priests to a London Alpha Conference in disguise! They went back to their parishes and started running Alpha, to great success. As a result of that, Cardinal Hume invited us to hold a conference for Catholics at Westminster Cathedral. The place was packed out with 450 Catholic priests and laity. A few people were very critical of us doing a conference for Catholics. One or two churches even threatened to stop running Alpha if we went ahead with the conference. With hindsight it seems quite extraordinary that anybody could object, but at the time it was of some concern. On the first night of the conference there was a great outpouring of the Holy Spirit and singing in tongues like we had never heard before. I went home that night and read the passage for today: ‘If God gave them the same gift as he gave us... who was I to think that I could oppose God?’ (Acts 11:17). It was the same Holy Spirit who was poured out on them as on us. I realised that if we did not continue to work together, I would be opposing God. The most foolish thing that any human being can do is to oppose God. Jesus was opposed: ‘They killed him by hanging him on a tree, but God raised him from the dead on the third day and caused him to be seen’ (10:39–40). Contrastingly, the most wonderful privilege any human being can have is to be a follower of Jesus of Nazareth whom ‘God anointed… with the Holy Spirit and power’ (10:38). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 167 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/166 Psalm 74:1-9, 2 Samuel 23:8-24:25, Acts 9:32-10:23a. Sometimes that understanding may come in our lifetime Some things we will only understand when we meet the Lord Sun, 15 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/166/?ignore 25:32 enclassic15062025-166 1532 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 166: When You Don't Understand God Psalm 74:1-9, 2 Samuel 23:8-24:25, Acts 9:32-10:23a. Sometimes that understanding may come in our lifetime Some things we will only understand when we meet the Lord John Newton, whose life we looked at yesterday, mentored a man called William Cowper (1731–1800). Cowper had experienced tragedy. His mother died when he was six. His father died while he was still young. He qualified as a barrister. Outwardly he was successful. However, he suffered from serious depression. When applying for an administrative post in the House of Lords that entailed a formal examination, he was so disturbed by the prospect of the exam that he attempted to take his own life. For the rest of his life he suffered from mental illness. When he was in his thirties, John Newton encouraged Cowper to begin composing hymns. He wrote powerfully of the joys and sorrows of everyday life. In 1774, he suffered such a severe episode of mental illness that he was prevented from entering into his intended marriage to Mary Unwin. He was crestfallen. Shortly afterwards, in perhaps his most famous hymn, he wrote: God moves in a mysterious way His wonders to perform God is good. God is love. God loves you. God has revealed himself supremely in Jesus. All this we know. Then you read passages in the Bible that don’t seem to fit with your understanding of God. You may also have experiences in life that don’t seem to fit either. You cannot put God in a box. He is far greater than you could ever conceive. Some passages in the Bible are mysterious. Jesus said on one occasion, ‘You do not realise now what I am doing, but later you will understand’ (John 13:7). Sometimes that understanding may come in our lifetime. Some things we will only understand when we meet the Lord. How should you respond when you don’t understand God? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 166 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/165 Psalm 73:15-28, 2 Samuel 22:1-23:7, Acts 9:1-31. *To be *rescued* is to be *saved*, set free, delivered from danger, attack or harm Jesus is the one who rescues you and brings you into ‘a spacious place’ (2 Samuel 22:20) Sat, 14 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/165/?ignore 23:28 enclassic14062025-165 1408.31 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 165: A Spacious Place Psalm 73:15-28, 2 Samuel 22:1-23:7, Acts 9:1-31. *To be *rescued* is to be *saved*, set free, delivered from danger, attack or harm Jesus is the one who rescues you and brings you into ‘a spacious place’ (2 Samuel 22:20) John Newton (1725–1801) was a militant atheist, bully and blasphemer. He was a wild and angry young man. He was press-ganged into the Navy at the age of eighteen where he broke the rules so recklessly that he was publicly flogged for desertion. He was hated and feared by his crewmates and himself became a slave trader. At the age of twenty-three, Newton’s ship encountered a severe storm off the coast of Donegal and almost sank. He called out to God as the ship filled with water and on that day, 10 March 1748, God rescued him. He began a new life. He started to pray and read the Bible. Eventually he joined William Wilberforce in the campaign to abolish the slave trade and became a leading light in that campaign. Newton is best known as the author of the hymn ‘Amazing Grace’: Amazing grace! How sweet the sound That saved a wretch like me! I once was lost but now I’m found, Was blind, but now I see. To be rescued is to be saved, set free, delivered from danger, attack or harm. Jesus is the one who rescues you and brings you into ‘a spacious place’ (2 Samuel 22:20). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 165 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/164 Proverbs 14:25-35, 2 Samuel 20:1-21:22, Acts 8:4-40. In the last twenty-five years, there has been huge change – politically, economically and technologically Massive change is taking place in many countries around the world Fri, 13 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/164/?ignore 26:15 enclassic13062025-164 1575.55 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 164: Your Nation Can Be Changed Proverbs 14:25-35, 2 Samuel 20:1-21:22, Acts 8:4-40. In the last twenty-five years, there has been huge change – politically, economically and technologically Massive change is taking place in many countries around the world There were 10,000 sex-workers plying their trade on the streets of London. Binge drinking and gambling were widespread. The UK had descended into decadence and immorality. This was the eighteenth century. Church congregations had declined sharply (just as they have in recent decades). Parts of the church had virtually descended into paganism. Yet, the nation was changed. The preaching of John Wesley and George Whitefield began to take effect. Thousands of people responded to their message and encountered Jesus. Robert Raikes started his first Sunday school in 1780. The growth from this one idea reached 300,000 unchurched children within five years. By 1910, there were well over 5 million children in Sunday school. God raised up William Wilberforce, Lord Shaftesbury and others. Not only were individual hearts changed – but the nation was also transformed. As we look at our world today, we see it is changing faster than ever before. In the last twenty-five years, there has been huge change – politically, economically and technologically. Massive change is taking place in many countries around the world. How can the spiritual climate of your nation be changed? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 164 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/163 Psalm 73:1-14, 2 Samuel 18:19-19:43, Acts 7:44-8:3. This change is key to spiritual life, growth and transformation It is not just about changing our actions or appearance; we need to change on the inside – we need a change of *heart* Thu, 12 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/163/?ignore 26:08 enclassic12062025-163 1568.08 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 163: You Can Change Psalm 73:1-14, 2 Samuel 18:19-19:43, Acts 7:44-8:3. This change is key to spiritual life, growth and transformation It is not just about changing our actions or appearance; we need to change on the inside – we need a change of *heart* There was a woman who lived on the streets near our church. She would ask for money and react aggressively to those who refused. When she died, I took the funeral. I discovered afterwards that this woman had inherited a large fortune. She had acquired a luxurious flat and many valuable paintings, but she chose to live on the streets with her plastic bags full of rubbish. She could not bring herself to leave behind the life she knew and she never enjoyed her inheritance. Some people are afraid of change, while others believe change is not possible. Yet the wonderful news is that with God’s help you can change. This change is key to spiritual life, growth and transformation. It is not just about changing our actions or appearance; we need to change on the inside – we need a change of heart. How can this happen? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 163 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/162 Psalm 72:1-20, 2 Samuel 16:15-18:18, Acts 7:20-43. *Even your mistakes* he uses for good In all the circumstances of your life and the events going on around you, you can trust in the providence of God Wed, 11 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/162/?ignore 26:48 enclassic11062025-162 1608.33 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 162: God Even Uses Your Mistakes Psalm 72:1-20, 2 Samuel 16:15-18:18, Acts 7:20-43. *Even your mistakes* he uses for good In all the circumstances of your life and the events going on around you, you can trust in the providence of God Handley Moule, when he was Bishop of Durham, had the task of visiting the relatives of 170 miners who had been killed in a mining accident. While he was wondering what to say to them, he picked up a little bookmark his mother had given him. As he held it up, on the reverse side of the handwoven bookmark there was a tangled web. There was no rhyme, no reason, no pattern, nothing. But on the other side it said, ‘God is love’. The world sometimes seems to us like a tangled web. Often we cannot work out what is going on or why we are suffering in the way we are. But the claim of Jesus and the Scriptures is that behind it all is the love of God. Even though things may seem very difficult for us to understand now, God is working out his loving purposes in the world. God can weave a pattern from the threads of our lives – including the suffering, heartaches and even our mistakes and make something beautiful. The apostle Paul tells us that ‘in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose’ (Romans 8:28). Reflect today on the fact that, even though your situation may be challenging, God is weaving his purpose for your life. Job said, ‘You gave me life and showed me kindness, and in your providence watched over my spirit’ (Job 10:12). Everything that happens in this world is within the sphere of God’s working. ‘Providence’ means God’s foresight: the way he anticipates and prepares for the future. ‘Providence’ is the way God guides and steers human history – he is present and active in the world – sustaining it and ruling it. It is also the way he guides and steers your life personally and individually. God has a specific, unique destiny for you. Sometimes this thought worries people: that they might somehow mess things up and miss out on God’s purpose. But that isn’t the case. Even your mistakes he uses for good. In all the circumstances of your life and the events going on around you, you can trust in the providence of God. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 162 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/161 Psalm 71:19-24, 2 Samuel 15:13-16:14, Acts 6:1-7:19. Jesus faced trouble and so did the apostles, David and all the people of God However, as Matheson’s hymn beautifully articulates, *troubles do not have the last word* Tue, 10 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/161/?ignore 23:51 enclassic10062025-161 1431.85 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 161: Troubles Do Not Have the Last Word Psalm 71:19-24, 2 Samuel 15:13-16:14, Acts 6:1-7:19. Jesus faced trouble and so did the apostles, David and all the people of God However, as Matheson’s hymn beautifully articulates, *troubles do not have the last word* George Matheson was born in Glasgow, the eldest of eight children. He had only partial vision as a boy. By the age of twenty he was completely blind. When his fiancée learnt he was going blind and that there was nothing the doctors could do, she told him she could not go through life with a blind man. He never married. He was helped by a devoted sister throughout his ministry. She learnt Greek, Latin and Hebrew in order to aid him in his studies. Despite his blindness, Matheson had a brilliant career at the Glasgow Academy, University of Glasgow and the Church of Scotland Seminary. When he was forty years old, something bittersweet happened. His sister married. Not only did this mean that he lost her companionship, it also brought a fresh reminder of his own heartbreak. In the midst of this intense sadness, on the eve of his sister’s marriage, he wrote one of the most popular and best loved hymns of the Christian church – ‘O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go’. He completed the whole work in five minutes and never edited, corrected or retouched it. ‘This came,’ he wrote, ‘like a dayspring from on high.’ O Joy that seekest me through pain, I cannot close my heart to thee; I trace the rainbow through the rain, And feel the promise is not vain, That morn shall tearless be. Troubles are part of life. Jesus faced trouble and so did the apostles, David and all the people of God. However, as Matheson’s hymn beautifully articulates, troubles do not have the last word. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 161 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/160 Proverbs 14:15-24, 2 Samuel 14:1-15:12, Acts 5:12-42. It is a quality often lacking in our society today Disloyalty destroys families, churches, businesses, political parties and even nations Mon, 09 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/160/?ignore 24:56 enclassic09062025-160 1496.16 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 160: Stay Loyal Proverbs 14:15-24, 2 Samuel 14:1-15:12, Acts 5:12-42. It is a quality often lacking in our society today Disloyalty destroys families, churches, businesses, political parties and even nations In 2007, a group of twenty-three South Korean missionaries were captured by the Taliban in Afghanistan. They were terrified. The Taliban separated the group, isolated them and confiscated their possessions. One of the Korean women managed to hold on to her Bible. She ripped it into twenty-three pieces and secretly gave each of them a portion so that wherever they were, each person could read a part of Scripture when no one was watching. The group knew that the Taliban had decided to kill them, one at a time. One by one the missionaries surrendered their lives again to Jesus saying, ‘Lord, if you want me to die for your sake I’ll do it.’ Then the pastor said, ‘I’ve talked to [the Taliban] because they are going to start killing us and I’ve told their leaders that if anyone dies, I die first because I am your pastor.’ Another said, ‘No, because I also am a pastor and I am your elder. I die first.’ Then the pastor came back and said, ‘You are not ordained, I have been ordained, I die first.’ And sure enough, he died first. Two were killed before the rest were eventually rescued. They had demonstrated extraordinary loyalty to God and to each other. Loyalty is a combination of love and faithfulness. It is a quality often lacking in our society today. Disloyalty destroys families, churches, businesses, political parties and even nations. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 160 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/159 Psalm 71:9-18, 2 Samuel 13:1-39, Acts 4:23-5:11. We must be open to the prophetic voice of Scripture, which often traces stark contrasts, urgent ethical choices and diverging paths in the midst of complex problems and situations The reality of right and wrong are very clear in today’s passages and there are stark contrasts between the two Sun, 08 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/159/?ignore 22:40 enclassic08062025-159 1360.54 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 159: No Shades of Grey Psalm 71:9-18, 2 Samuel 13:1-39, Acts 4:23-5:11. We must be open to the prophetic voice of Scripture, which often traces stark contrasts, urgent ethical choices and diverging paths in the midst of complex problems and situations The reality of right and wrong are very clear in today’s passages and there are stark contrasts between the two Back in the 1960s, the band The Monkees sang about how no one seemed to believe in absolute morals anymore. In Shades of Gray they sang:    When the world and I were young,    Just yesterday.    Life was such a simple game…    It was easy then to tell right from wrong…    Today there is no black or white,    Only shades of gray. Now the expression ‘shades of grey’ has come to be associated with the notorious and controversial books and films with that name. Many today no longer believe there is such a thing as absolute right or absolute wrong. Stark contrasts and black-and-white distinctions are not always easy to swallow in a society in which relativism is the order of the day. Everything is relative – a matter of degrees. As followers of Jesus we cannot give in to these relativistic ideas. We must be open to the prophetic voice of Scripture, which often traces stark contrasts, urgent ethical choices and diverging paths in the midst of complex problems and situations. The reality of right and wrong are very clear in today’s passages and there are stark contrasts between the two. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 159 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/158 Psalm 71:1-8, 2 Samuel 11:1-12:31, Acts 4:1-22. Usually, as we emerge from one battle, there is another one around the corner This is the challenge of life Sat, 07 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/158/?ignore 24:24 enclassic07062025-158 1464.22 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 158: Trials and Temptations Psalm 71:1-8, 2 Samuel 11:1-12:31, Acts 4:1-22. Usually, as we emerge from one battle, there is another one around the corner This is the challenge of life John Wimber, the US pastor and pioneer of the Vineyard movement, had a huge influence on the church around the world. He died at the age of sixty-three. Life had often been extremely difficult for him. He had been subject to an outrageous amount of criticism. I remember him once saying to me, ‘Notoriety is fun for a short time, but after that it is just hassle.’ But perhaps what broke his heart more than anything was the fact that three of the men who were closest to him, whom he loved and treated as his sons, all fell into temptation and moral failure. God used John Wimber in extraordinary ways, but he and his team faced many trials and temptations. This is how life is, and the Bible is not at all naïve about it. Usually, as we emerge from one battle, there is another one around the corner. This is the challenge of life. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 158 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/157 Psalm 70:1-5, 2 Samuel 9:1-10:19, Acts 3:1-26. Unexpected kindness is the most powerful, least costly and most underrated agent of human change When kindness is expressed, healthy relationships are created, community connections are nourished and people are inspired to pass on kindness Fri, 06 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/157/?ignore 20:19 enclassic06062025-157 1219.84 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 157: Kindness Psalm 70:1-5, 2 Samuel 9:1-10:19, Acts 3:1-26. Unexpected kindness is the most powerful, least costly and most underrated agent of human change When kindness is expressed, healthy relationships are created, community connections are nourished and people are inspired to pass on kindness Steve Sjogren wrote a book called Conspiracy of Kindness. He started a church in Cincinnati, Ohio, that grew to an average attendance of over 7,000. Their motto is, ‘Small things done with great love are changing the world.’ They carry out random acts of kindness like paying for a stranger’s coffee or writing a ‘thank you’ note to a shop assistant. Kindness is love in work clothes. Showing God’s love in practical ways, they have discovered the power of kindness to effect positive change, both in their lives and in the lives of people around them. Unexpected kindness is the most powerful, least costly and most underrated agent of human change. When kindness is expressed, healthy relationships are created, community connections are nourished and people are inspired to pass on kindness. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 157 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/156 Proverbs 14:5-14, 2 Samuel 7:1-8:18, Acts 2:22-47. The great victory of God that we read about in the New Testament is foreshadowed in the Old Testament The ultimate victory of God came with the life, death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus and the outpouring of his Spirit who gives you power to live a life of victory Thu, 05 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/156/?ignore 23:43 enclassic05062025-156 1423.18 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 156: He Gives You Power Proverbs 14:5-14, 2 Samuel 7:1-8:18, Acts 2:22-47. The great victory of God that we read about in the New Testament is foreshadowed in the Old Testament The ultimate victory of God came with the life, death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus and the outpouring of his Spirit who gives you power to live a life of victory I played squash regularly with a group of friends. We were all about the same standard. We almost took it in turns to win or lose. Nevertheless, winning feels good. The feelings of pleasure and satisfaction that accompany victory are quite natural. This is, of course, a trivial example. The victory that is at the centre of today’s passages is of a totally different order and significance. But even the tiniest and most insignificant victory gives us a taste of its meaning and joy. The great victory of God that we read about in the New Testament is foreshadowed in the Old Testament. The ultimate victory of God came with the life, death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus and the outpouring of his Spirit who gives you power to live a life of victory. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 156 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/155 Psalm 69:29-36, 2 Samuel 5:6-6:23, Acts 1:23-2:21. On the day of Pentecost they heard ‘a *sound* like the blowing of a violent wind’ that ‘came from *heaven*’ (Acts 2:2) In today’s passages we hear other sounds going to and from heaven Wed, 04 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/155/?ignore 21:37 enclassic04062025-155 1297.11 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 155: Sounds of Heaven Psalm 69:29-36, 2 Samuel 5:6-6:23, Acts 1:23-2:21. On the day of Pentecost they heard ‘a *sound* like the blowing of a violent wind’ that ‘came from *heaven*’ (Acts 2:2) In today’s passages we hear other sounds going to and from heaven Have you ever noticed that the Bible is a very noisy book? Wisdom cries out (Proverbs 8); loud singing is encouraged (Psalm 66:8); cymbals clash in praise (Psalm 150); God shouts aloud (Isaiah 42); his voice is like the sound of many waters (Ezekiel 43); Jesus prays with loud cries and tears (Hebrews 5) and even creation groans (Romans 8). On the day of Pentecost they heard ‘a sound like the blowing of a violent wind’ that ‘came from heaven’ (Acts 2:2). In today’s passages we hear other sounds going to and from heaven. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 155 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/154 Psalm 69:13-28, 2 Samuel 3:22-5:5, Acts 1:1-22. However weak and inadequate you may feel, God can use you, like David, in extraordinary ways Even your weakness is anointed Tue, 03 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/154/?ignore 22:22 enclassic03062025-154 1342.38 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 154: Even Your Weakness is Anointed Psalm 69:13-28, 2 Samuel 3:22-5:5, Acts 1:1-22. However weak and inadequate you may feel, God can use you, like David, in extraordinary ways Even your weakness is anointed Do you ever feel too weak or inadequate to be useful to God? A teenager from Cumbria in Northern England felt God calling him. Patrick was poorly educated, ineloquent and faced significant opposition throughout his ministry from those who felt that he wasn’t up to the task. Even as an old man he still admitted, ‘Today I still blush and fear more than anything to have my lack of learning brought out into the open.’ Yet despite all his disadvantages Patrick remained convinced that God had called and anointed him as an evangelist. He wrote, ‘We are a letter of Christ for salvation even to the back of beyond – and what does it matter if it is not a learned letter? For it is still to be found valid and plain for all to read, written in your very hearts, not in ink but by the Spirit of the living God!’ Today his more eloquent contemporaries have long been forgotten, but the impact of St Patrick’s ministry and mission to Ireland 1500 years ago is still recognised around the world. Even his weakness was anointed. As David takes up the throne of Israel he says, ‘… though I am the anointed king, I am weak’ (2 Samuel 3:39). The moment you put your faith in Jesus, God anoints you with the Holy Spirit. However weak and inadequate you may feel, God can use you, like David, in extraordinary ways. Even your weakness is anointed. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 154 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/153 Psalm 69:1-12, 2 Samuel 2:8-3:21, John 21:1-25. Elsewhere he says, ‘Never be lacking in zeal’ (Romans 12:11) Perhaps a good modern translation of the word ‘zeal’ is ‘crazy love’ Mon, 02 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/153/?ignore 24:50 enclassic02062025-153 1490 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 153: 'Crazy Love' Psalm 69:1-12, 2 Samuel 2:8-3:21, John 21:1-25. Elsewhere he says, ‘Never be lacking in zeal’ (Romans 12:11) Perhaps a good modern translation of the word ‘zeal’ is ‘crazy love’ Francis Chan’s mother died giving birth to him. The only affection he can remember receiving from his father lasted about thirty seconds when he was on the way to his stepmother’s funeral aged nine. When he was twelve, his father also died. Francis cried, but also felt relieved. Francis is now a pastor. He and his wife, Lisa, have seven children. When his children were born, his own love for his children and his desire for their love was so strong that it opened his eyes to how much God desires and loves us. He said, ‘Through this experience, I came to understand that my desire for my children is only a faint echo of God’s great love for me and for every person he made… I love my kids so much it hurts.’ Calling his first book Crazy Love, he wrote, ‘The idea of Crazy Love has to do with our relationship with God. All my life I’ve heard people say, “God loves you.” It’s probably the most insane statement you could make to say that the eternal Creator of this universe is in love with me. There is a response that ought to take place in believers, a crazy reaction to that love. Do you really understand what God has done for you? If so, why is your response so lukewarm?’ The word ‘zeal’ implies an intense or passionate desire. It can be misdirected, but as Paul writes, it is right to be zealous provided that the purpose is good (Galatians 4:18). Elsewhere he says, ‘Never be lacking in zeal’ (Romans 12:11). Perhaps a good modern translation of the word ‘zeal’ is ‘crazy love’. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 153 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/152 Proverbs 13:20-14:4, 2 Samuel 1:1-2:7, John 20:11-31. There are many blessings to living in Western Europe in the twenty-first century However, we live in a society in which respect, awe and reverence do not seem to be as valued as they once were Sun, 01 Jun 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/152/?ignore 20:41 enclassic01062025-152 1241.31 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 152: Wow! Proverbs 13:20-14:4, 2 Samuel 1:1-2:7, John 20:11-31. There are many blessings to living in Western Europe in the twenty-first century However, we live in a society in which respect, awe and reverence do not seem to be as valued as they once were Judah Smith is a delightful, young Pentecostal pastor from Seattle, Washington. He is one of the best communicators that I have ever heard – especially to young people. When listening to others, his favourite expression is ‘Wow!’ For him it is an expression of respect, awe and reverence. There are many blessings to living in Western Europe in the twenty-first century. However, we live in a society in which respect, awe and reverence do not seem to be as valued as they once were. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 152 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/151 Psalm 68:28-35, 1 Samuel 29:1-31:13, John 19:28-20:10. You stand before a choice: do you look for the energy you need in yourself and the resources of your intelligence and your entrepreneurial spirit, or do you look for it ‘*from above’*, from the risen Christ, the Sun of Righteousness?In the passages for today we see something about the extent of God’s energy, power and strength Whereas on a physical level we struggle to harness even a fraction of the power of the sun, God has given you full access to his *endless* *energy* through Jesus’ resurrection and the gift of the Holy Spirit Sat, 31 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/151/?ignore 24:32 enclassic31052025-151 1472.89 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 151: You Have the Energy of God Psalm 68:28-35, 1 Samuel 29:1-31:13, John 19:28-20:10. You stand before a choice: do you look for the energy you need in yourself and the resources of your intelligence and your entrepreneurial spirit, or do you look for it ‘*from above’*, from the risen Christ, the Sun of Righteousness?In the passages for today we see something about the extent of God’s energy, power and strength Whereas on a physical level we struggle to harness even a fraction of the power of the sun, God has given you full access to his *endless* *energy* through Jesus’ resurrection and the gift of the Holy Spirit The world is running out of energy – oil, coal, gas and so on. How do we ensure sufficient energy supplies to sustain life? Where will we find this energy? Now, we are searching anxiously for power ‘from above’ – trying to harness the almost limitless power of the sun. All of us face the same problem as the physical environment, but on a spiritual level. You stand before a choice: do you look for the energy you need in yourself and the resources of your intelligence and your entrepreneurial spirit, or do you look for it ‘from above’, from the risen Christ, the Sun of Righteousness? In the passages for today we see something about the extent of God’s energy, power and strength. Whereas on a physical level we struggle to harness even a fraction of the power of the sun, God has given you full access to his endless energy through Jesus’ resurrection and the gift of the Holy Spirit. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 151 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/150 Psalm 68:21-27, 1 Samuel 26:1-28:25, John 19:1-27. The supreme example of triumph coming out of apparent catastrophe is the cross What seemed to the world to be the ultimate defeat was in fact the ultimate triumph Fri, 30 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/150/?ignore 28:01 enclassic30052025-150 1681.55 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 150: Your Trial Will Become Your Triumph Psalm 68:21-27, 1 Samuel 26:1-28:25, John 19:1-27. The supreme example of triumph coming out of apparent catastrophe is the cross What seemed to the world to be the ultimate defeat was in fact the ultimate triumph ‘Houston, we’ve had a problem,’ were the words of Jim Lovell on the evening of 13 April 1970. Nearly fifty-six hours into the mission to the moon, an explosion aboard the spacecraft plunged the crew into a fight for their survival. Within less than a minute there was a cascade of systems failures throughout the spacecraft. ‘It was all at one time – a monstrous failure,’ said NASA’s flight controller. The spacecraft looped around the moon, using its gravity to return to earth. Millions of people followed the drama on television. Eventually, the capsule splashed down in the Pacific Ocean near Tonga. In an article headed ‘Apollo 13: From Disaster to Triumph’ the BBC science reporter wrote, ‘Although the mission was not a success from a conventional perspective, it was a triumph of ingenuity and determination.’ Jim Lovell said it showed the people of the world that even if there was a great catastrophe, it could be turned into a success. The supreme example of triumph coming out of apparent catastrophe is the cross. What seemed to the world to be the ultimate defeat was in fact the ultimate triumph. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 150 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/149 Psalm 68:15-20, 1 Samuel 24:1-25:44, John 18:25-40. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly’ (vv 28–30) Thu, 29 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/149/?ignore 25:10 enclassic29052025-149 1510.45 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 149: Five Burdens You Need Not Carry Psalm 68:15-20, 1 Samuel 24:1-25:44, John 18:25-40. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly’ (vv 28–30) At the end of his life, Sir Winston Churchill said, ‘When I look back on all these worries, I remember the story of the old man who said on his deathbed that he had had a lot of trouble in his life, most of which had never happened!’ Churchill was speaking about the burden of worries that never materialise. However, there are many different types of ‘burdens’ in life, and some of them are very real. Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you… and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light’ (Matthew 11:28–30). A yoke is something Jesus would have made in a carpenter’s shop. It is a wooden frame joining two animals (usually oxen) at the neck, enabling them to pull a plough or wagon together. The function of the yoke is to make the burden easier to carry. I love the way Eugene Peterson translates this passage in The Message: ‘Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I will show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me – watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly’ (vv.28–30). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 149 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/148 Proverbs 13:10-19, 1 Samuel 21:1-23:29, John 18:1-24. However, there are times when these intensify and we seem to be coming under attack Martin Luther King said that the ultimate measure of a person is not where they stand in ‘moments of convenience’, but where they stand in ‘moments of challenge, moments of great crisis and controversy’ Wed, 28 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/148/?ignore 26:56 enclassic28052025-148 1616.22 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 148: How to Respond to Conflict Proverbs 13:10-19, 1 Samuel 21:1-23:29, John 18:1-24. However, there are times when these intensify and we seem to be coming under attack Martin Luther King said that the ultimate measure of a person is not where they stand in ‘moments of convenience’, but where they stand in ‘moments of challenge, moments of great crisis and controversy’ A springbok is a gazelle-like antelope. Normally they are very alert to predators. However, I remember watching a BBC wildlife programme that filmed two springboks fighting each other in the Kalahari Desert. As they became absorbed in the fight, they did not notice the lion prowling around them, waiting for his opportunity to attack. As I watched, it struck me as a warning especially for the church. When, in the church, we fight one another, we become very vulnerable to attack. ‘The devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour’ (1 Peter 5:8). When God calls you to follow him, he does not call you to a life of ease. Life on earth involves many battles, in all of which God promises you victory through Jesus Christ. There is never going to be a moment in your earthly life when everything is perfect. There are always going to be challenges, difficulties and problems to solve. However, there are times when these intensify and we seem to be coming under attack. Martin Luther King said that the ultimate measure of a person is not where they stand in ‘moments of convenience’, but where they stand in ‘moments of challenge, moments of great crisis and controversy’. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 148 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/147 Psalm 68:7-14, 1 Samuel 19:1-20:42, John 17:6-26. In unity, these two men, one a Catholic and the other a Protestant, bore witness together to their common Lord – Jesus Christ Unity is so powerful Tue, 27 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/147/?ignore 26:22 enclassic27052025-147 1582.11 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 147: The Power of Unity Psalm 68:7-14, 1 Samuel 19:1-20:42, John 17:6-26. In unity, these two men, one a Catholic and the other a Protestant, bore witness together to their common Lord – Jesus Christ Unity is so powerful In Buchenwald concentration camp, 56,000 people were put to death by a totalitarian regime that saw the Christian faith as a threat to its ideology. One block of cells in the camp was reserved for prisoners who were deemed especially dangerous or notable. Paul Schneider, a Lutheran pastor who was called ‘the preacher of Buchenwald’, was placed in this special block because even from the small window in his cell he loudly proclaimed the gospel of Jesus Christ – in defiance of the orders of the Gestapo guards. Otto Neururer, a Catholic priest whose work on behalf of the Jews and other so called ‘undesirables’ had made him a threat to the Nazi warlords, was also put in this block. He too ministered in Jesus’ name to his fellow inmates in the concentration camp until he was crucified upside down. In unity, these two men, one a Catholic and the other a Protestant, bore witness together to their common Lord – Jesus Christ. Unity is so powerful. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 147 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/146 Psalm 68:1-6, 1 Samuel 17:38-18:30, John 16:5-17:5. A Hebrew name is no mere label *The name of the Lord* reveals who he is Mon, 26 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/146/?ignore 25:39 enclassic26052025-146 1539.6 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 146: His Name Has Power Psalm 68:1-6, 1 Samuel 17:38-18:30, John 16:5-17:5. A Hebrew name is no mere label *The name of the Lord* reveals who he is Aged thirty-three, Barbara Clapham came to live in London. She decided she was going to look for a church. One Sunday morning, she arrived at HTB. The young woman who was welcoming people at the door smiled at her and asked her name. Because of that smile, Barbara came back the following week. When she walked in the next Sunday the same person said, ‘Hello Barbara.’ Because the person on the door remembered her name, she decided that she was going to come back every Sunday. That was in 1947. From then on Barbara came almost every Sunday until she died, soon after celebrating her 100th birthday. She made a huge impact on the life of HTB (including running the finances of the church for many years). I wonder whether the young woman on the door had any idea of the difference she made by remembering Barbara’s name. There is great power in a name. Names are significant. This is true today, but it was even more so in the Hebrew culture we read about in the Bible. A Hebrew name is no mere label. The name of the Lord reveals who he is. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 146 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/145 Psalm 67:1-7, 1 Samuel 16:1-17:37, John 15:1-16:4. There are two possible attitudes when facing a giant One is to say, ‘It’s so big, there’s nothing I can do Sun, 25 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/145/?ignore 26:21 enclassic25052025-145 1581.48 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 145: How to Face Giant Problems Psalm 67:1-7, 1 Samuel 16:1-17:37, John 15:1-16:4. There are two possible attitudes when facing a giant One is to say, ‘It’s so big, there’s nothing I can do Goliath was a giant. He was 9 feet tall, a champion, wearing heavy armour, standing and shouting, defying the people of God (1 Samuel 17:1–11). As well as physical giants, there are metaphorical ones. A ‘giant’ is a big, seemingly insurmountable problem or issue. ‘Personal giants’ could include giant personal challenges in relation to your health, marriage, family, relationships or lack of relationships, job or lack of job, or some sin, temptation, addiction, fear, loneliness, discouragement or debt. ‘National giants’ in the UK include terrorism, racism, gang violence, homelessness, the breakdown of marriage, family life and community. There is therefore the giant task of evangelising the country, revitalising the church and transforming our society. ‘Global giants’ include war, climate change, pandemics, extreme poverty (as a result of which thousands of children die each day), preventable disease (millions dying of diseases for which we have a relatively easy cure), the need for universal primary education (almost one billion people unable to read) and the need for worldwide water sanitation (which could be funded by the amount of money that Europeans spend on ice-cream every year). There are two possible attitudes when facing a giant. One is to say, ‘It’s so big, there’s nothing I can do.’ The other is to say, ‘It’s so big, I can’t miss!’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 145 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/144 Proverbs 12:28-13:9, 1 Samuel 14:24-15:35, John 14:1-31. This is my ambition in life I want to complete the work God has given me to do Sat, 24 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/144/?ignore 29:07 enclassic24052025-144 1747.49 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 144: How to Finish Well Proverbs 12:28-13:9, 1 Samuel 14:24-15:35, John 14:1-31. This is my ambition in life I want to complete the work God has given me to do You can finish well. You may have had a bad start in life. You may have messed up along the way. You may have made mistakes. You may have regrets. But you can finish well and that is what matters most. Some start well but fall. In the recession, many of the companies, that business consultant Jim Collins had profiled in his international bestseller Good to Great, fell. Even the ‘mightiest’ of companies can fall. In his most recent book, How the Mighty Fall, he examines the path towards doom. The first stage of the process begins with ‘hubris born of success’. As with Saul in the Old Testament passage for today, it is pride and arrogance (1 Samuel 15:23) that begins the process by which the mighty fall. Saul started well but did not finish well. It is more important to finish well than to start well. In the New Testament, Saul (of Tarsus) started off very badly (as a persecutor of Jesus) but he finished well (as the great apostle, Paul). Jesus, as always, shows us the way. His life was relatively short. He died in his early thirties, yet he finished well. He completed the work the Father gave him to do (John 17:4). This is my ambition in life. I want to complete the work God has given me to do. How can you make sure you finish well? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 144 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/143 Psalm 66:13-20, 1 Samuel 13:1-14:23, John 13:18-38. He tells us to love God, to love one another (John 13:34–35), to love our neighbour as ourselves and even to love our enemies He demonstrates all this in his own life through loving everyone (even Judas who betrayed him as we see in today’s passage), and laying down his life for us all in love Fri, 23 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/143/?ignore 22:15 enclassic23052025-143 1335.46 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 143: The Love of Your Life Psalm 66:13-20, 1 Samuel 13:1-14:23, John 13:18-38. He tells us to love God, to love one another (John 13:34–35), to love our neighbour as ourselves and even to love our enemies He demonstrates all this in his own life through loving everyone (even Judas who betrayed him as we see in today’s passage), and laying down his life for us all in love In February 1977, Bishop Festo Kivengere was part of a group of church leaders who delivered a letter of protest to the dictator, Idi Amin, speaking out against the beatings, arbitrary killings and unexplained disappearances taking place across Uganda at that time. The next day, Festo Kivengere’s friend and leader, Archbishop Janani Luwum was murdered by Idi Amin and Bishop Festo was driven into hiding and then exile. Soon afterwards, Festo Kivengere published a book entitled I Love Idi Amin. In the book he explained the extraordinary title: ‘The Holy Spirit showed me that I was getting hard in my spirit… so I had to ask for forgiveness from the Lord, and for grace to love President Amin more… this was fresh air for my tired soul. I knew I had seen the Lord and been released: love filled my heart.’ Love is more than a feeling or an emotion. It is a decision about how we treat one another. Jesus was the supreme example of love in the history of the world. He tells us to love God, to love one another (John 13:34–35), to love our neighbour as ourselves and even to love our enemies. He demonstrates all this in his own life through loving everyone (even Judas who betrayed him as we see in today’s passage), and laying down his life for us all in love. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 143 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/142 Psalm 66:1-12, 1 Samuel 10:9-12:25, John 12:37-13:17. It really is ‘a glimpse of heaven’ It takes time but celebration is an important part of life Thu, 22 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/142/?ignore 26:43 enclassic22052025-142 1603.58 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 142: Take Time to Celebrate Psalm 66:1-12, 1 Samuel 10:9-12:25, John 12:37-13:17. It really is ‘a glimpse of heaven’ It takes time but celebration is an important part of life ‘A glimpse of heaven’ is how one twenty-seven-year-old woman described her experience of our annual church holiday (Focus). She also spoke about the year she missed it in order to go on an exotic holiday: each day she could only think of how she longed to be at Focus. Focus is the time when the whole community comes together in a festival of celebration, worship, thanksgiving and praise. We often experience a great outpouring of the Holy Spirit. It is a time of spiritual growth when we listen to visionary and practical teaching from the Bible on how to live our lives. It is a time of laughter and fun as we meet together for a week-long party: playing, picnicking, singing and dancing. We make new friends as well as having a great holiday. It really is ‘a glimpse of heaven’. It takes time but celebration is an important part of life. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 142 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/141 Psalm 65:1-13, 1 Samuel 8:1-10:8, John 12:12-36. Governments reflect the mix that is in us all of what is good and true alongside what is sinful and flawed However, be assured that one day there will be a new type of government – the kingship of Jesus (John 12:12–36) Wed, 21 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/141/?ignore 26:04 enclassic21052025-141 1564.84 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 141: Good Government? Psalm 65:1-13, 1 Samuel 8:1-10:8, John 12:12-36. Governments reflect the mix that is in us all of what is good and true alongside what is sinful and flawed However, be assured that one day there will be a new type of government – the kingship of Jesus (John 12:12–36) Government is the system or group of people governing an organised community, often a state. It usually consists of legislative, executive and judiciary. Government is the mechanism for deciding state policies and the means by which those policies are enforced. Historically, forms of government have included theocracy, autocracy (such as monarchy), oligarchy, aristocracy and democracy. Sir Winston Churchill once said that ‘Democracy is the worst form of government except for all those other forms that have been tried from time to time.’ Governments have their ups and downs. Our politicians are human beings with human weaknesses like our own. There is a certain ambivalence about all human government in the Bible. There are parts where human government is affirmed as God-given (for instance, in Romans 13), and others where it is pictured as being under demonic control (for instance, in Revelation 13). Together they represent the reality of human government. Governments reflect the mix that is in us all of what is good and true alongside what is sinful and flawed. However, be assured that one day there will be a new type of government – the kingship of Jesus (John 12:12–36). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 141 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/140 Proverbs 12:18-27, 1 Samuel 5:1-7:17, John 11:45-12:11. Those who desire ‘to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted’ (2 Timothy 3:12) Opposition comes both from those far away from us (the Philistines in the Old Testament passage for today) and also, sadly, sometimes from those closer to home (the Pharisees in the New Testament passage) Tue, 20 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/140/?ignore 24:33 enclassic20052025-140 1473.28 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 140: How to Find Peace in Adversity Proverbs 12:18-27, 1 Samuel 5:1-7:17, John 11:45-12:11. Those who desire ‘to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted’ (2 Timothy 3:12) Opposition comes both from those far away from us (the Philistines in the Old Testament passage for today) and also, sadly, sometimes from those closer to home (the Pharisees in the New Testament passage) For 2,000 years, followers of Jesus have faced adversity, opposition and persecution. In many places Pippa and I have visited over the years, Christians face physical persecution. In fact, persecution of Christians around the world today is probably worse than at any time in history. We do not, at this time, face physical persecution in the West. However, as we see some of the messages that are emerging from those with their stated intention of ‘eradicating faith’, it is clear that the aggression and vehemence of the attacks may increase. Opposition is bound to come. Those who desire ‘to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted’ (2 Timothy 3:12). Opposition comes both from those far away from us (the Philistines in the Old Testament passage for today) and also, sadly, sometimes from those closer to home (the Pharisees in the New Testament passage). How do you find peace in adversity? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 140 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/139 Psalm 64:1-10, 1 Samuel 2:27-4:22, John 11:1-44. As well as on a national level, all of us are likely at some point to face times of trouble in our own individual lives ‘Trouble’ can take many forms Mon, 19 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/139/?ignore 27:21 enclassic19052025-139 1641.87 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 139: Your Hope in Times of Trouble Psalm 64:1-10, 1 Samuel 2:27-4:22, John 11:1-44. As well as on a national level, all of us are likely at some point to face times of trouble in our own individual lives ‘Trouble’ can take many forms In recent times, our world has been shaken in ways that are unprecedented, for many of us, in our lifetime. The COVID-19 pandemic, wars, terrorism, and global financial crises. Almost everyone, each in our own way, have been dealing with fear, grief and trauma. However difficult your situation may be – however much ‘trouble’ you are facing in your life, you can have hope. Hope is the confident expectation of God’s ultimate blessing in this life and the life to come, based upon the goodness and promises of God. With Jesus, there is always hope. Like Lazarus in our New Testament passage for today, some parts of the church have been prematurely declared dead. In his book, The Death of Christian Britain, Callum Brown writes, ‘This book is about the demise of the nation’s core religious moral identity. As historical changes go, this has been no lingering and drawn-out affair. It took several centuries (in what historians used to call the Dark Ages) to convert Britain to Christianity, but it has taken less than forty years for the country to forsake it.’ We often read headlines such as, ‘Crisis in the Church’, ‘Dramatic decline in attendance’ and ‘Church attendance figures fall again’. At the same time, today, we are seeing the results of a society that is attempting to shut God out. Every day, in Britain, around 300 couples are divorced. Somebody calls the Samaritans every fourteen seconds. The pornographic industry is worth billions of pounds. There are 30,000 Christian clergy of all types, and more than 80,000 registered witches and fortune tellers. Britain is not the only nation in trouble. Many other nations are going through difficult times. As well as on a national level, all of us are likely at some point to face times of trouble in our own individual lives. ‘Trouble’ can take many forms. What is your hope in times of trouble? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 139 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/138 Psalm 63:1-11, 1 Samuel 1:1-2:26, John 10:22-42. You are not simply body and mind You are a soul created for relationship with God Sun, 18 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/138/?ignore 23:57 enclassic18052025-138 1437.83 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 138: How to Satisfy Your Soul Psalm 63:1-11, 1 Samuel 1:1-2:26, John 10:22-42. You are not simply body and mind You are a soul created for relationship with God Bernhard Langer was one of the best golfers of his generation, twice winning the US Masters and at one time topping the world golf rankings. He said, ‘I had… won seven events in five different continents; I was number one in the world and I had a beautiful young wife. Yet there was something missing. ‘The lifestyle we all (especially us sportsmen) are leading – it is all about money and who you are and who you know and what you have and these things aren’t really the most important things. I think people who have these things, they realise that… there is still something missing in their life and I believe that is Jesus Christ.’ The spiritual emptiness that Bernhard Langer is describing is common to all humanity. One young woman said to me that she felt there was ‘a chunk missing in her soul’. You are not simply body and mind. You are a soul created for relationship with God. How then do you satisfy your soul? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 138 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/137 Psalm 62:1-12, Ruth 3:1-4:22, John 9:35-10:21. Packer raises at the start of his influential book, *Knowing God* Jesus said, ‘I am the good shepherd; I *know* my sheep and my sheep *know* me – just as the Father *knows* me and I *know* *the Father*’ (John 10:14) Sat, 17 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/137/?ignore 22:29 enclassic17052025-137 1349.41 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 137: Knowing God as a Father Psalm 62:1-12, Ruth 3:1-4:22, John 9:35-10:21. Packer raises at the start of his influential book, *Knowing God* Jesus said, ‘I am the good shepherd; I *know* my sheep and my sheep *know* me – just as the Father *knows* me and I *know* *the Father*’ (John 10:14) What is the best thing in life, bringing more joy, delight, and contentment, than anything else? Knowledge of God… What were you made for? To know God. What aim should you set yourself in life? To know God. These are the questions J. I. Packer raises at the start of his influential book, Knowing God. Jesus said, ‘I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me – just as the Father knows me and I know the Father’ (John 10:14). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 137 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/136 Proverbs 12:8-17, Ruth 1:1-2:23, John 9:1-34. Your story may not be as dramatic as Mark’s, but *everyone* has a story Whether you were brought up as a Christian or whether you have only been a Christian for a few hours, your story has power Fri, 16 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/136/?ignore 23:36 enclassic16052025-136 1416.23 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 136: Your Story Has Power Proverbs 12:8-17, Ruth 1:1-2:23, John 9:1-34. Your story may not be as dramatic as Mark’s, but *everyone* has a story Whether you were brought up as a Christian or whether you have only been a Christian for a few hours, your story has power Mark Heather’s parents split up when he was a child and he was brought up by his alcoholic mother who beat him. When he was fourteen years old, he stood up to her and said he would not accept the beatings any more. The next day she took her own life. From that moment, he was placed in care and became, in his words, ‘pretty nutty really’ – getting into trouble with the police, involved in drugs, and spiralling into an increasingly self-destructive lifestyle. Mark (now in his 30s) was invited by his girlfriend to Alpha at HTB. On the weekend away, he had a powerful encounter with God. He said, ‘My group leader, Toby, prayed for me, for the Holy Spirit to come – and I knew that it was happening. The experience resulted in me crying uncontrollably. ‘I ran to the pub down the road, grabbed a beer, wandered back and sat in the darkest corner outside that I could find. After sitting quietly, a total comfort enveloped me. I felt total love. I felt part of a family, which is something that I had no way of knowing until then. ‘Crying, I prayed for one more sign. I asked for Toby to come out the door. As I asked, Toby walked through that very door to look for me. ‘God is real and he loves me unconditionally and he is gentle. The Holy Spirit saved me. The Alpha Weekend helped me find him. He knew where I was so when I got to the right place, he was waiting.’ Mark’s personal story has had a powerful impact on many people’s lives. Your story may not be as dramatic as Mark’s, but everyone has a story. Whether you were brought up as a Christian or whether you have only been a Christian for a few hours, your story has power. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 136 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/135 Psalm 61:1-8, Judges 20:1-21:25, John 8:31-59. ”’Sandy continues, ‘I can honestly claim to have only heard the Lord speak about three times in this way, but as clearly as I have ever heard him speak, he said, “All I want is you”… It was the most humbling thing… He can do anything he likes But all he wants is you Thu, 15 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/135/?ignore 27:04 enclassic15052025-135 1624.63 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 135: All He Wants Is You Psalm 61:1-8, Judges 20:1-21:25, John 8:31-59. ”’Sandy continues, ‘I can honestly claim to have only heard the Lord speak about three times in this way, but as clearly as I have ever heard him speak, he said, “All I want is you”… It was the most humbling thing… He can do anything he likes But all he wants is you In his book, All I Want Is You, Bishop Sandy Millar describes attending a conference in California some years ago at which he saw the Spirit of God working in powerful ways. When it was over, he went for a long walk along the coast. He writes, ‘As I was walking I was caught up with the excitement of all that lay ahead and the thrill of the Spirit of God. I was saying, “Lord, I will give you anything you want… I will do anything you want me to do.”’ Sandy continues, ‘I can honestly claim to have only heard the Lord speak about three times in this way, but as clearly as I have ever heard him speak, he said, “All I want is you”… It was the most humbling thing… He can do anything he likes. But all he wants is you.’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 135 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/134 Psalm 60:5-12, Judges 18:1-19:30, John 8:12-30. Being *with* God is even more important than what you do *for* God With God, everything is possible Wed, 14 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/134/?ignore 25:07 enclassic14052025-134 1507.66 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 134: It's Possible with God Psalm 60:5-12, Judges 18:1-19:30, John 8:12-30. Being *with* God is even more important than what you do *for* God With God, everything is possible I was eighteen years old when I first encountered Jesus. I remember distinctly a conversation I had with a Christian leader shortly afterwards. I said how glad I was that I had not become a Christian earlier, since I had been able to experience the difference between life without God and life with God. He pointed out the fallacy of this way of thinking and suggested that the sooner we experience life with God, the better. Looking back on my life now, I see the wisdom of his words. I am so grateful to God that our children can look back on their own lives and say that there has never been a time in their life when they were ‘without God’. Over the years, I have interviewed hundreds of people who have encountered Jesus on Alpha. They contrast their life without God and their life with God. There is a sense of great joy and relief, and often regret that they did not begin their life with God earlier. You are created to live in a relationship with God. Without that, life will never really make sense. Being with God is even more important than what you do for God. With God, everything is possible. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 134 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/133 Psalm 60:1-4, Judges 16:1-17:13, John 7:45-8:11. Maybe even now you are facing a desperate situation – perhaps with your health, a bereavement, the breakdown of a relationship, work problems, family difficulties, financial trouble or a combination of these Even in desperate times, you can find the three great virtues of faith, hope and love Tue, 13 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/133/?ignore 23:04 enclassic13052025-133 1384.93 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 133: How to Deal with Desperate Times Psalm 60:1-4, Judges 16:1-17:13, John 7:45-8:11. Maybe even now you are facing a desperate situation – perhaps with your health, a bereavement, the breakdown of a relationship, work problems, family difficulties, financial trouble or a combination of these Even in desperate times, you can find the three great virtues of faith, hope and love I remember so well interviewing Rick and Kay Warren at our Leadership Conference at the Royal Albert Hall in London. A year had passed since the devastating death of their son by suicide, aged twenty seven. They spoke of how God can work even in the ruins of our lives. Kay said, ‘We definitely felt our lives had been ruined when our son died. But one of the things that kept me tethered to life and to hope was believing that God was not helpless in those ruins. God was still working his plan of love in those circumstances that were so devastating. ‘I might be on my face in agony and tears, and not know what to do, but I believe that with God’s help I can rise again. There is hope. There is a new dawn. There are new beginnings. God does bring beauty out of ashes. He does bring good out of evil. He does triumph over death. I will cling to God with all that I have. I will put my trust in his goodness.’ David, in the Psalms, speaks of ‘desperate times’ (Psalm 60:3). There are times in life when everything seems to go wrong. Maybe even now you are facing a desperate situation – perhaps with your health, a bereavement, the breakdown of a relationship, work problems, family difficulties, financial trouble or a combination of these. Even in desperate times, you can find the three great virtues of faith, hope and love. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 133 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/132 Proverbs 11:29-12:7, Judges 14:1-15:20, John 7:14-44. It is a God-shaped hole It is a spiritual hunger and thirst for God which Jesus told us could only be filled by his wonderful Holy Spirit (John 7:37) Mon, 12 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/132/?ignore 23:21 enclassic12052025-132 1401.65 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 132: The Wonderful Holy Spirit Proverbs 11:29-12:7, Judges 14:1-15:20, John 7:14-44. It is a God-shaped hole It is a spiritual hunger and thirst for God which Jesus told us could only be filled by his wonderful Holy Spirit (John 7:37) Robbie Williams once went on a shopping spree in Los Angeles. He bought five cars, including a brand new Ferrari, a brand new Porsche and a brand new Mercedes. Within a week he wished he had not bought any of them (as he didn’t even have a driving license!). I admire Robbie Williams’ openness about himself. He is ruthlessly honest about his self-obsession and addictions. In his song, Feel, he sings:    I just want to feel real love…    There’s a hole in my soul    You can see it in my face    It’s a real big place. God implants this desire ‘to feel real love’ in humanity. This ‘hole in my soul’ is common to all human beings. It cannot be filled by cars, wealth, success or drugs. It is a God-shaped hole. It is a spiritual hunger and thirst for God which Jesus told us could only be filled by his wonderful Holy Spirit (John 7:37). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 132 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/131 Psalm 59:9-17, Judges 12:1-13:25, John 6:60-7:13. That same strength now lives in *you* and ‘will give life to your mortal body through his Spirit, *who lives in you*’ (v 11b) Sun, 11 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/131/?ignore 20:54 enclassic11052025-131 1254.48 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 131: Endless Energy, Boundless Strength Psalm 59:9-17, Judges 12:1-13:25, John 6:60-7:13. That same strength now lives in *you* and ‘will give life to your mortal body through his Spirit, *who lives in you*’ (v 11b) We often tell the story of when John Wimber first visited our church. We saw a remarkable outpouring of the Holy Spirit and several healings. One incident, which occurred on the second night, is indelibly printed in my memory. One of our closest friends was eight months pregnant at the time. The Holy Spirit came upon her with great power. She started to whirl around at high speed. As she did so, she exclaimed over and over again, ‘I feel so strong!’ A few weeks later she gave birth to a son who, from his earliest days, showed not only spiritual and emotional strength but also extraordinary physical strength. He became an outstanding rugby player, a superb athlete and is now a successful model. To some (like Samson, who we read about in today’s Old Testament passage), the Holy Spirit gives extraordinary physical strength. To all of us, the Holy Spirit gives spiritual strength. The apostle Paul describes God’s ‘incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead’ (Ephesians 1:19–20). It was the Holy Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead (Romans 8:11a). The Holy Spirit is ‘his mighty strength’. That same strength now lives in you and ‘will give life to your mortal body through his Spirit, who lives in you’ (v.11b). I love Eugene Peterson’s translation (of the Ephesians passage) where he speaks of God giving ‘endless energy, boundless strength’! Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 131 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/130 Psalm 59:1-8, Judges 10:1-11:40, John 6:25-59. ’As someone who is very aware of my own weaknesses, I find it encouraging that when I feel weak, I am not alone As you put your *faith* in God he turns your weakness into strength Sat, 10 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/130/?ignore 24:58 enclassic10052025-130 1498.91 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 130: God Turns Your Weakness into Strength Psalm 59:1-8, Judges 10:1-11:40, John 6:25-59. ’As someone who is very aware of my own weaknesses, I find it encouraging that when I feel weak, I am not alone As you put your *faith* in God he turns your weakness into strength The great Christian leader, John Stott, was speaking on one occasion at a university mission in Sydney, Australia. On the last night of the mission, as a result of an infection, he had virtually lost his voice. Nevertheless, he was persuaded to speak. Waiting in the side room beforehand, he whispered a request that the words of the ‘thorn in the flesh’ verses from 2 Corinthians 12 be read to him. The conversation between Jesus and the apostle Paul came alive. Stott (Paul): ‘I beg you to take it away from me.’ Jesus: ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Stott (Paul): ‘I will all the more gladly boast of my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me… for when I am weak, then I am strong.’ When the time came to speak he croaked the gospel through the microphone in a monotone, utterly unable to modulate his voice or exert his personality in any way. But all the time he was crying to the Lord to perfect Christ’s power through his weakness. He went back to Australia many times after that, and on every occasion somebody came up to him and said, ‘Do you remember that final service in the University Great Hall, when you had lost your voice? I came to Christ that night.’ As someone who is very aware of my own weaknesses, I find it encouraging that when I feel weak, I am not alone. As you put your faith in God he turns your weakness into strength. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 130 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/129 Psalm 58:1-11, Judges 9:1-57, John 6:1-24. ‘For years, we have this friendship in which he comes to lunch and I do my best to make him very happy, and he is always good to me in return So of course I say, “Don't worry – I can give you a kidney Fri, 09 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/129/?ignore 24:08 enclassic09052025-129 1448.8 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 129: How to Reap Far More Than You Sow Psalm 58:1-11, Judges 9:1-57, John 6:1-24. ‘For years, we have this friendship in which he comes to lunch and I do my best to make him very happy, and he is always good to me in return So of course I say, “Don't worry – I can give you a kidney Walter Nishioka knew that the service was good at the Hawaiian hotel where he ate brunch on Wednesdays. But he found out just how good it was when he was offered something that was definitely not on the menu – one of the waiter’s own kidneys. Mr Nishioka, aged seventy, was a local businessman. He was seriously ill with kidney disease and had been told by doctors that he needed a transplant urgently. He had almost given up hope of finding a matching donor until the waiter, Jose Rocasa, fifty-two, volunteered one of his own. Nishioka said, ‘I didn't have long to survive and the doctors said that it was unlikely that they could find a match in time. But with this good man here and a lot of help from above, now I am alive and well.’ In the twenty-two years that Mr Nishioka had frequented the hotel, Jose Rocasa had been his waiter, and recalled that he had always been kind and affable – and had tipped generously. ‘I just wanted to help him,’ he said. ‘For years, we have this friendship in which he comes to lunch and I do my best to make him very happy, and he is always good to me in return. So of course I say, “Don't worry – I can give you a kidney.”’ Mr Nishioka sowed generosity and he reaped generosity! Today, we see that: You reap what you sow You reap later than you sow You reap more than you sow Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 129 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/128 Proverbs 11:19-28, Judges 7:8b-8:35, John 5:31-47. The other word ‘zoe’ means the full, abundant, spacious, open-hearted, richness of life that Jesus speaks about – a life of fulfilment and purpose This is life in high definition Thu, 08 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/128/?ignore 22:47 enclassic08052025-128 1367.25 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 128: How to Live in High Definition Proverbs 11:19-28, Judges 7:8b-8:35, John 5:31-47. The other word ‘zoe’ means the full, abundant, spacious, open-hearted, richness of life that Jesus speaks about – a life of fulfilment and purpose This is life in high definition It was back in 1966 when England last won the football World Cup, yet I can still remember the moment. As children, we were watching the match on a black and white television set. We could never get a very good picture; it was always fuzzy and going into lines. We were quite happy with it since we did not know anything different. One day, we discovered all it needed was an aerial! Suddenly, we found that we could get clear and distinct pictures. Our enjoyment was transformed. Now, not only do we have colour television, we can get high definition (HD). There are no fuzzy lines or distortions, and it produces a richer, bolder and more vibrant picture than ever before. Rather than black and white, or even colour, Jesus offers you high-definition life. There are two Greek words for ‘life’. The word ‘bios’, from which we get the word ‘biological’ means the condition of being alive rather than dead – mere existence. The other word ‘zoe’ means the full, abundant, spacious, open-hearted, richness of life that Jesus speaks about – a life of fulfilment and purpose. This is life in high definition. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 128 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/127 Psalm 57:7-11, Judges 6:1-7:8a, John 5:16-30. ’Thankfully, God uses cracked pots! You do not need to be perfect for God to use you We want our lives to count for something Wed, 07 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/127/?ignore 21:18 enclassic07052025-127 1278.43 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 127: Twelve Ways to Be Useful to God Psalm 57:7-11, Judges 6:1-7:8a, John 5:16-30. ’Thankfully, God uses cracked pots! You do not need to be perfect for God to use you We want our lives to count for something A water-bearer in India had two large pots, both hung on the ends of a pole, which he carried across his neck. One of the pots had a crack in it while the other pot was perfect and always delivered a full portion of water. At the end of the long walk from the stream to the house, the cracked pot always arrived half full. The poor cracked pot was ashamed of its own imperfection, and miserable that it was able to accomplish only half of what it had been made to do. After two years of what it perceived to be a bitter failure, it spoke to the water-bearer one day by the stream: ‘I am ashamed of myself, and I want to apologise to you. I have been able to deliver only half my load because this crack in my side causes water to leak out all the way back to your house. Because of my flaws, you have to do all of this work, and you don’t get full value from your efforts.’ The bearer said to the pot, ‘Did you notice that there were flowers only on your side of the path, but not on the other pot’s side? That’s because I have always known about your flaw, and I planted flower seeds on your side of the path, and every day while we walk back, you’ve watered them. For two years I have been able to pick these beautiful flowers to decorate the table. Without you being just the way you are, there would not be this beauty to grace the house.’ Thankfully, God uses cracked pots! You do not need to be perfect for God to use you. We want our lives to count for something. If you want to be useful to God, here are twelve keys: Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 127 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/126 Psalm 57:1-6, Judges 4:1-5:31, John 4:43-5:15. It was not the placebo effect It was a God-sized answer to a God-sized prayer Tue, 06 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/126/?ignore 23:20 enclassic06052025-126 1400.24 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 126: Pray God-Sized Prayers Psalm 57:1-6, Judges 4:1-5:31, John 4:43-5:15. It was not the placebo effect It was a God-sized answer to a God-sized prayer I remember so well praying for a baby called Craig. I had been asked to visit a woman in the Brompton Hospital. Vivienne had three children and was pregnant with a fourth. Her third child, who was eighteen months old, had a hole in his heart that had been operated on. The operation had not been a success and, not unnaturally, the medical staff wanted to turn the machines off. Many times they asked Vivienne if they could turn the machines off and let the baby die. She said no, as she wanted to try one last thing. She wanted someone to pray for him. So I went. Craig had tubes all over him. His body was bruised and swollen. She said that the doctors had indicated that even if he recovered he would have brain damage because his heart had stopped for such a long time. She told me she didn’t believe in God but she said, ‘Will you pray?’ I prayed in the name of Jesus for God to heal him. Then I explained to her how she could give her life to Jesus Christ and she did. I left, but returned two days later. Vivienne came running out the moment she saw me. She said, ‘I’ve been trying to get hold of you; something amazing has happened. The night after you prayed he completely turned the corner. He has recovered.’ Within a few days Craig had gone home. Vivienne went around all her relatives and friends saying, ‘I didn’t believe, but now I do believe.’ A remarkable healing had occured. This was over thirty years ago. I have kept in touch with the family. This healing was not autosuggestion; he was a baby at the time. It was not positive thinking. It was not the placebo effect. It was a God-sized answer to a God-sized prayer. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 126 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/125 Psalm 56:1-13, Judges 2:6-3:31, John 4:27-42. He is one example of the millions of people whom Jesus has delivered from addiction and set free Ah Yin has spent the rest of his life testifying about the saviour who always delivers Mon, 05 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/125/?ignore 22:16 enclassic05052025-125 1336.29 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 125: Jesus Always Delivers Psalm 56:1-13, Judges 2:6-3:31, John 4:27-42. He is one example of the millions of people whom Jesus has delivered from addiction and set free Ah Yin has spent the rest of his life testifying about the saviour who always delivers Pippa and I met Ah Yin when we visited Jackie Pullinger in Hong Kong. He had become a drug addict as a teenager. His father was an addict. He was brought up in the notorious Walled City. He joined a gang at the age of eleven. They ate, stole, fought and took heroin together. At the age of fourteen, he got caught doing a robbery and spent his first time in detention. Over the years he tried everything to get off drugs. Nothing worked. Then he met Jackie and, through the power of Jesus, came off drugs with no pain at all. Since then he has become one of the leaders of Jackie’s work in Hong Kong. He has trained many people to pray for the sick and to work with the poor. He is one example of the millions of people whom Jesus has delivered from addiction and set free. Ah Yin has spent the rest of his life testifying about the saviour who always delivers. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 125 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/124 Proverbs 11:9-18, Judges 1:1-2:5, John 4:1-26. His agenda was the kingdom of God The kingdom of God is not just about the conversion of individuals – important though that is – but about the transformation of society Sun, 04 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/124/?ignore 21:35 enclassic04052025-124 1295.41 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 124: Three Ways to Transform Your World Proverbs 11:9-18, Judges 1:1-2:5, John 4:1-26. His agenda was the kingdom of God The kingdom of God is not just about the conversion of individuals – important though that is – but about the transformation of society Martin Luther King Jr (1929–1968) lived and died to see society transformed. In 1964, he became the youngest person ever to receive the Nobel Peace Prize – for his work to end social segregation and racial discrimination. He spoke powerfully and memorably of his dream that, one day, he would live in a nation where his children would ‘not be judged by the colour of their skin but by the content of their character’. He dreamt of a transformed world where everyone would be able to join hands and say, ‘Free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!’ Martin Luther King Jr was a follower of Jesus. His agenda was the kingdom of God. The kingdom of God is not just about the conversion of individuals – important though that is – but about the transformation of society. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 124 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/123 Psalm 55:12-23, Joshua 23:1-24:33, John 3:22-36. Your choices matter Some choices have life-changing consequences Sat, 03 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/123/?ignore 24:00 enclassic03052025-123 1440 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 123: How to Make Good Choices Psalm 55:12-23, Joshua 23:1-24:33, John 3:22-36. Your choices matter Some choices have life-changing consequences Charles Finney, lawyer and evangelist, was speaking in a New York church in the 1830s. At the end of each evening, he gave people the opportunity to come to the front of the room and commit their life to Jesus. A great many lawyers came to hear him. One night, the Chief Justice of New York was sitting way up in the gallery. As he listened to Finney proclaiming the gospel he became convinced it was true. Then this question came into his mind: ‘Will you go forward like the other ordinary people?’ Something within him made him think that it would be inappropriate to do so, because of his prestigious social position (at the top of the legal hierarchy of New York State). He sat there pondering the choice he had to make. Then he thought, ‘Why not? I am convinced of the truth... why should I not do it like any other person?’ He got up from his seat in the gallery, went down the staircase and came up the stairs at the back to where Finney was preaching. Finney, in the middle of his sermon, felt someone tugging at his jacket. He turned around. The Chief Justice said, ‘Mr Finney, if you will call people forward I will come.’ Finney stopped his talk and said, ‘The Chief Justice says that if I call people forward he will come. I ask you to come forward now.’ The Chief Justice went forward. Almost every lawyer in Rochester, New York, followed him! It is said that 100,000 people were converted in the next twelve months in that area. One person’s choice affected the lives of numerous others. Life is full of choices. We make choices every day of our lives. You can make bad choices or you can make good choices. Your choices matter. Some choices have life-changing consequences. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 123 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/122 Psalm 55:1-11, Joshua 21:20-22:34, John 3:1-21. I greatly admire the skill of those who know when to confront and are good at confronting in a loving way They have learnt how to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) Fri, 02 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/122/?ignore 24:03 enclassic02052025-122 1443.58 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 122: How to Handle Confrontation Psalm 55:1-11, Joshua 21:20-22:34, John 3:1-21. I greatly admire the skill of those who know when to confront and are good at confronting in a loving way They have learnt how to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) Confrontation is not something that I find easy. It is a delicate operation. It is crucial to find the right approach, the right words for the job. Or, to use a golfing analogy, it is like the skill of knowing which club to use. Those who are skilled at confrontation have a great variety of approaches and words, and know when and how to use the appropriate one. Confrontation is not always the right course. Not every critic has to be confronted. Not every wrong statement needs to be refuted. I greatly admire the skill of those who know when to confront and are good at confronting in a loving way. They have learnt how to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). When confrontation is necessary, how should you go about it? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 122 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/121 Psalm 54:1-7, Joshua 19:1-21:19, John 2:1-25. God is the God of surprises Jesus constantly surprised his followers and he wants to continue to surprise you Thu, 01 May 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/121/?ignore 24:40 enclassic01052025-121 1480.31 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 121: God Wants to Surprise You Psalm 54:1-7, Joshua 19:1-21:19, John 2:1-25. God is the God of surprises Jesus constantly surprised his followers and he wants to continue to surprise you At the age of eighteen I set out to read the entire New Testament in order to disprove Christianity. As I read, I was surprised to find that I became convinced that it was true. The last thing that I wanted to do was to ‘become a Christian’. I thought that would ruin my life and make it boring by stopping me having any fun. Yet, knowing in my heart that it was true, I felt I had no option but to say ‘yes’ to Jesus. The moment I did so– to use the words that C.S. Lewis chose to describe his own experience of encountering Jesus – I was ‘surprised by joy’. Ever since, Jesus has never ceased to surprise me. God is the God of surprises. Jesus constantly surprised his followers and he wants to continue to surprise you. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 121 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/120 Proverbs 10:31-11:8, Joshua 17:1-18:28, John 1:29-51. The New Testament presents the ‘land’ as a picture of the Christian life (Hebrews 4) Realise what is already yours in Christ Jesus and then take possession of it Wed, 30 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/120/?ignore 23:21 enclassic30042025-120 1401.42 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 120: It's Already Yours Proverbs 10:31-11:8, Joshua 17:1-18:28, John 1:29-51. The New Testament presents the ‘land’ as a picture of the Christian life (Hebrews 4) Realise what is already yours in Christ Jesus and then take possession of it My maternal grandparents lived in the small fishing village of Pittenweem near Edinburgh in Scotland. They owned a house there. In 1939, at the start of World War II, they let their home to tenants. When the war ended, they wanted to return to their home but they were unable to. The law at the time allowed the tenants to remain in the house for as long as they lived, at approximately the same rent (with no adjustment for inflation!). For fifty years my grandparents were unable to get possession of the house they owned. My uncle inherited the house from my grandparents. By the time he got possession, the condition of the house had deteriorated greatly. He sold it for a very small sum. Although my family owned this house in Pittenweem, they never took possession of it. There is a big difference between ownership and possession. The people of Israel had been given ownership of Canaan, the promised land. Now Joshua says to the Israelites, ‘How long will you wait before you begin to take possession of the land…?’ (Joshua 18:3). The New Testament presents the ‘land’ as a picture of the Christian life (Hebrews 4). Realise what is already yours in Christ Jesus and then take possession of it. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 120 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/119 Psalm 53:1-6, Joshua 15:1-16:10, John 1:1-28. Jesus is unique He is the *universal Saviour* Tue, 29 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/119/?ignore 23:48 enclassic29042025-119 1428.56 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 119: The Battle Today Is Around Jesus Psalm 53:1-6, Joshua 15:1-16:10, John 1:1-28. Jesus is unique He is the *universal Saviour* I have been involved in hosting or helping a small group on Alpha for over thirty years. During this time, I have noticed a shift in our culture. There is a change in the attitude towards Jesus, especially among young people. Many will say that they believe in God and are even open to the idea of the Holy Spirit. But increasingly, Jesus has become the stumbling-block. Some youth and young people say things like, ‘I don’t get the reason for Jesus.’ As Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa has often said, ‘The battle today is around Jesus.’ Is Jesus the universal Saviour? This is the same battle as the first century. People today are happy to accept Jesus as ‘one of many’. It is the uniqueness of Jesus that causes offence. In the passages for today we see that while we meet some exceptional people throughout the Bible, like Moses, Joshua, Elijah and John the Baptist, there was no one like Jesus. Jesus is unique. He is the universal Saviour. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 119 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/118 Psalm 52:1-9, Joshua 13:1-14:15, Luke 24:36-53. He entitled his autobiography *Unfinished Agenda* For him, there was always still so much to hope for and so much more to be done Mon, 28 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/118/?ignore 22:01 enclassic28042025-118 1321.38 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 118: It's Not Over Psalm 52:1-9, Joshua 13:1-14:15, Luke 24:36-53. He entitled his autobiography *Unfinished Agenda* For him, there was always still so much to hope for and so much more to be done You could have heard a pin drop. It was mesmerising. We were spellbound. An eighty-five-year-old man, almost totally blind, got up to speak to 1,500 people of all ages on our church holiday. He had no notes, of course, because he could no longer read. He gave two talks, each of them an hour long. In the first talk, he gave a breathtaking summary of the entire Old Testament. In the second, which was equally brilliant, he gave a summary of the whole of the New Testament. There was no hesitation, no stumbling and not a word was out of place. It was the distilled wisdom of a man who had followed the Lord wholeheartedly all his life. Bishop Lesslie Newbigin had one of the most remarkable ministries of the twentieth century. At the age of thirty-six he was elected as one of the first bishops of the new Church of South India. When he returned from India, later on in life, he wrote several books that aimed to help the church in the West fulfil its mission in a world that was rapidly changing and felt no need for God. His writing and speaking influenced thousands of Christian leaders around the world. Yet for this astonishing man, who had achieved so much in his life, it was not over. He entitled his autobiography Unfinished Agenda. For him, there was always still so much to hope for and so much more to be done. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 118 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/117 Psalm 51:10-19, Joshua 11:1-12:24, Luke 24:1-35. ’ The cross was *not* a defeat On the cross, Jesus won a great victory for us over sin, death and the powers of evil Sun, 27 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/117/?ignore 23:10 enclassic27042025-117 1390.29 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 117: How to Live a Life of Victory Psalm 51:10-19, Joshua 11:1-12:24, Luke 24:1-35. ’ The cross was *not* a defeat On the cross, Jesus won a great victory for us over sin, death and the powers of evil Years ago, a young member of our congregation at HTB had a job working in the library of a major national newspaper. This newspaper kept files of old cuttings about every well-known person. The files were kept in rows of long shelves and were separated into ‘living people’ and ‘dead people’. One day, the young man was looking through the files of dead people and came across a large file marked ‘Jesus Christ’. He glanced over his shoulder to check that no one was looking and quickly moved the file from the ‘dead people’ section to the ‘living people’ section. Jesus Christ is alive. He is risen from the dead. To anyone looking for him among files of dead people, the angels would say, ‘Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!’ (Luke 24:5–6). Victory is not a dirty word. Jesus is the great victor. As Bishop Lesslie Newbigin often said, ‘The resurrection is not the reversal of a defeat but the manifestation of a victory.’ The cross was not a defeat. On the cross, Jesus won a great victory for us over sin, death and the powers of evil. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 117 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/116 Proverbs 10:21-30, Joshua 9:16-10:43, Luke 23:26-56. ‘Righteousness’ is ultimately about *right relationships* – a right relationship with God and right relationships with others In the New Testament, we come to understand that this righteousness is only possible through faith in Jesus Christ (see Romans 3:21 – 4:25) Sat, 26 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/116/?ignore 24:46 enclassic26042025-116 1486.03 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 116: Right Relationships Proverbs 10:21-30, Joshua 9:16-10:43, Luke 23:26-56. ‘Righteousness’ is ultimately about *right relationships* – a right relationship with God and right relationships with others In the New Testament, we come to understand that this righteousness is only possible through faith in Jesus Christ (see Romans 3:21 – 4:25) At an Alpha Conference we held in East Malaysia, there were people from all over Asia. Many had been persecuted because of their faith. One man told me that his father had been imprisoned for six years for the simple fact that he was a Christian pastor. He himself was imprisoned for a year, aged nineteen, for speaking out on behalf of his father. It is a terrible injustice when the innocent are convicted and imprisoned – even worse when they are executed. In the New Testament passage for today we read of one of the greatest injustices in human history. Jesus was totally innocent. He was ‘a righteous man’ (Luke 23:47). Yet he was executed by crucifixion. The apostle Peter explains it like this: ‘For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God’ (1 Peter 3:18). The word ‘righteous’ is often associated with the ‘self-righteous’, and has almost become a term of abuse. However, ‘righteous’ in the Bible is a wonderful word. It is also extremely important for our understanding of the whole Bible. ‘Righteousness’ is ultimately about right relationships – a right relationship with God and right relationships with others. In the New Testament, we come to understand that this righteousness is only possible through faith in Jesus Christ (see Romans 3:21 – 4:25). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 116 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/115 Psalm 51:1-9, Joshua 8:1-9:15, Luke 22:63-23:25. Jesus died to remove all the bad stuff He died instead of you and me (Mark 10:45) Fri, 25 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/115/?ignore 25:03 enclassic25042025-115 1503.53 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 115: Your Loving Substitute Psalm 51:1-9, Joshua 8:1-9:15, Luke 22:63-23:25. Jesus died to remove all the bad stuff He died instead of you and me (Mark 10:45) A little girl named Liz was suffering from a rare and serious disease. Her only chance of recovery appeared to be a blood transfusion from her five-year-old brother, who had miraculously survived the same disease and had developed the antibodies needed. The doctor explained the situation and asked the little boy if he would be willing to give his blood to his sister. He hesitated for only a moment before taking a deep breath and saying, ‘Yes, I’ll do it if it will save her.’ As the transfusion progressed, he lay in bed next to his sister, and smiled, as they all did, seeing the colour returning to her cheeks. Then his face grew pale and his smile faded. He looked up at the doctor and asked with a trembling voice, ‘Will I start to die right away?’ The little boy had misunderstood the doctor. He thought he was going to have to give his sister all of his blood in order to save her. This boy loved his sister so much that he was willing to die instead of her – as her substitute. This is an illustration of what loving substitution means. God loves you. The amazing and wonderful message of the Bible is that God came to this earth in the person of his Son, Jesus Christ, and died in your place. Words, images, metaphors, pictures and illustrations (such as the, possibly fictional, story of the five-year-old boy) can help our understanding, but they can never perfectly describe the indescribable love of God. Jesus died to remove all the bad stuff. He died instead of you and me (Mark 10:45). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 115 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/114 Psalm 50:16-23, Joshua 5:13-7:26, Luke 22:39-62. ’Jesus himself said that – ultimately – there are only two ways to live: there are two paths; there are two gates; there are two destinations and there are two groups of people (see Matthew 7:13–14) In the passages for today we see starkly contrasting ways of life Thu, 24 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/114/?ignore 26:49 enclassic24042025-114 1609.93 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 114: Two Ways to Live Psalm 50:16-23, Joshua 5:13-7:26, Luke 22:39-62. ’Jesus himself said that – ultimately – there are only two ways to live: there are two paths; there are two gates; there are two destinations and there are two groups of people (see Matthew 7:13–14) In the passages for today we see starkly contrasting ways of life Albert Einstein said, ‘There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.’ Jesus himself said that – ultimately – there are only two ways to live: there are two paths; there are two gates; there are two destinations and there are two groups of people (see Matthew 7:13–14). In the passages for today we see starkly contrasting ways of life. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 114 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/113 Psalm 50:1-15, Joshua 3:1-5:12, Luke 22:1-38. Of course, he could do it all on his own, but he chooses to involve you He gives you freedom, yet he remains in control Wed, 23 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/113/?ignore 27:05 enclassic23042025-113 1625.23 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 113: The Gracious Hand of God Psalm 50:1-15, Joshua 3:1-5:12, Luke 22:1-38. Of course, he could do it all on his own, but he chooses to involve you He gives you freedom, yet he remains in control Things happen to us. So much of life is simply the set of circumstances we find ourselves in. For example, our parents, our genetic design, the weather, much of our education and our government are all things that we experience as ‘happening to us’. In Greek grammar, these things are expressed in what we call the ‘passive voice’. However, we also make things happen. When I initiate an action and do something, this is expressed in the ‘active voice’. But Greek grammar also has a third voice – the ‘middle voice’. This is neither wholly active nor wholly passive. When I use the middle voice, I am participating in the results of an action. Christian prayer is spoken in the middle voice. It cannot be in the active voice because it is not an action I control, as in the ritualistic pagan prayers where the gods do our bidding. Prayer is not in the passive voice either, in which I’m at the mercy of the will of gods and goddesses. In Christian prayer, as Eugene Peterson puts it, ‘I enter into an action begun by another, my creating and saving Lord, and find myself participating in the results of his [gracious] action.’ In one sense, the whole of the Christian life is prayer. We welcome God’s gracious hand in our lives, and we participate in what he is doing in the world. God involves you in his plans. Of course, he could do it all on his own, but he chooses to involve you. He gives you freedom, yet he remains in control. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 113 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/112 Proverbs 10:11-20, Joshua 1:1-2:24, Luke 21:5-38. *Your* words are powerful With kind and encouraging words, you can change a person’s day – or even their entire life Tue, 22 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/112/?ignore 23:45 enclassic22042025-112 1425.21 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 112: Your Words Are Powerful Proverbs 10:11-20, Joshua 1:1-2:24, Luke 21:5-38. *Your* words are powerful With kind and encouraging words, you can change a person’s day – or even their entire life In 1940, with the British nation facing the threat of imminent invasion, Winston Churchill became prime minister and delivered a series of rousing speeches by radio which rallied the spirits of the people. His words have become legendary: ‘We shall defend our island whatever the cost may be… We shall never surrender,’ he said. And, ‘Let us therefore brace ourselves to our duties, and so bear ourselves that, if the British Empire and its Commonwealth last for a thousand years, men will still say, “This was their finest hour.”’ Churchill’s words sing in a way that English-language leaders and politicians have tried unsuccessfully to match ever since. Nevertheless, for all of us, words are powerful. Your words are powerful. With kind and encouraging words, you can change a person’s day – or even their entire life. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 112 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/111 Psalm 49:1-20, Deuteronomy 33:1-34:12, Luke 20:27-21:4. Her certainty about the resurrection was based on the cornerstone of Christianity: the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the first Easter day The same power that raised Jesus from the dead now lives in you through the Holy Spirit (see Ephesians 1:18–23) Mon, 21 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/111/?ignore 23:30 enclassic21042025-111 1410.01 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 111: Hello God! Psalm 49:1-20, Deuteronomy 33:1-34:12, Luke 20:27-21:4. Her certainty about the resurrection was based on the cornerstone of Christianity: the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the first Easter day The same power that raised Jesus from the dead now lives in you through the Holy Spirit (see Ephesians 1:18–23) The Vicar of Dibley, a UK TV sitcom featuring a woman vicar played by Dawn French, is based on the life of one of the first women vicars – Joy Carroll Wallis. A few years ago, Pippa and I met Joy. She told us a story about when she was an Anglican priest in London. One of the congregation members was a very godly eighty-seven-year-old woman, called Flory Shore, who underwent serious surgery. Flory had been told that her prospects of recovery were very slim. Thankfully, she survived the surgery. As she opened her eyes, one of the first things she saw was the blurred image of her doctor, dressed in his white jacket. She smiled and said, ‘Hello God! I’m Flory Shore.’ Joy commented that this demonstrated two things. First, it showed Flory’s humility. She did not expect God to know who she was. Second, it showed her absolute certainty about the resurrection and where she was going. Her certainty about the resurrection was based on the cornerstone of Christianity: the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the first Easter day. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead now lives in you through the Holy Spirit (see Ephesians 1:18–23). One day, you too will be raised and be able to say, ‘Hello God!’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 111 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/110 Psalm 48:9-14, Deuteronomy 31:30-32:52, Luke 19:45-20:26. There are five main ways in which God guides us (the five CSs):- **C**ommanding **S**cripture (the Bible)- **C**ompelling **S**pirit (the Holy Spirit)- **C**ounsel of the **S**aints (the church)- **C**ommon **S**ense (reason)- **C**ircumstantial **S**igns (providence) In each of today’s passages, we see first something general about the way in which God guides us, and then specific examples of each of these ‘five CSs’ Sun, 20 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/110/?ignore 25:04 enclassic20042025-110 1504.1 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 110: Five Ways God Guides You Psalm 48:9-14, Deuteronomy 31:30-32:52, Luke 19:45-20:26. There are five main ways in which God guides us (the five CSs):- **C**ommanding **S**cripture (the Bible)- **C**ompelling **S**pirit (the Holy Spirit)- **C**ounsel of the **S**aints (the church)- **C**ommon **S**ense (reason)- **C**ircumstantial **S**igns (providence) In each of today’s passages, we see first something general about the way in which God guides us, and then specific examples of each of these ‘five CSs’ God designed you with a purpose in mind. God loves you. He has a specific, unique and glorious destiny for you. He promises to guide you. God’s purpose for you is bigger than your mistakes. I have made many mistakes in my life, but God has not stopped guiding me. When we go on a journey by car we use a GPS. When we take a wrong turn, it reroutes us. But it never gives up until we reach our destination. You can ignore it or switch it off but if you follow it, it makes your journey more enjoyable and peaceful. Eventually, it will say ‘You have reached your destination.’ Of course, this is not a perfect analogy. God is not a machine but a person who is with us on the journey. God wants to communicate with you and has promised to guide you. There are five main ways in which God guides us (the five CSs): Commanding Scripture (the Bible) Compelling Spirit (the Holy Spirit) Counsel of the Saints (the church) Common Sense (reason) Circumstantial Signs (providence). In each of today’s passages, we see first something general about the way in which God guides us, and then specific examples of each of these ‘five CSs’. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 110 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/109 Psalm 48:1-8, Deuteronomy 30:11-31:29, Luke 19:11-44. It is not surprising, therefore, that cities have always had an important role in the purposes of God In particular, one city has been at the heart of God’s strategy for the world Sat, 19 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/109/?ignore 23:00 enclassic19042025-109 1380.73 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 109: God's Strategic Plan Psalm 48:1-8, Deuteronomy 30:11-31:29, Luke 19:11-44. It is not surprising, therefore, that cities have always had an important role in the purposes of God In particular, one city has been at the heart of God’s strategy for the world I live in London. With a population of over 8 million, it is one of the largest cities in the world. It usually receives over 18 million visitors a year. It is a city where over 300 languages are spoken. Cities are strategic places for the spread of the gospel. They always have been. The apostle Paul took the gospel from city to city. As early as AD 100, more than 40 Christian communities existed in cities across the Mediterranean world, including North Africa and parts of Italy. By AD 300 half the citizens of that region were Christian while 90% of the countryside was still pagan. Most of Paul’s letters were written to cities. Cities tend to be places where culture is formed. Many of the spheres of influence emanate from the city, including government, politicians and law-makers; arts and entertainment; business and the marketplace; universities and other places of education; media and communication centres. The river of influence tends to flow from the city to the suburbs and rural areas. The way to transform a culture is to transform the city. It is not surprising, therefore, that cities have always had an important role in the purposes of God. In particular, one city has been at the heart of God’s strategy for the world. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 109 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/108 Proverbs 10:1-10, Deuteronomy 29:1-30:10, Luke 18:31-19:10. No matter how long you have travelled in the wrong direction, you can always turn around With Jesus it’s never too late to make a new start and ensure that your life is set in the right direction Fri, 18 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/108/?ignore 21:33 enclassic18042025-108 1293.61 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 108: It's Never Too Late Proverbs 10:1-10, Deuteronomy 29:1-30:10, Luke 18:31-19:10. No matter how long you have travelled in the wrong direction, you can always turn around With Jesus it’s never too late to make a new start and ensure that your life is set in the right direction I like to think of myself as young. Recently, I heard that middle age runs from thirty-five to fifty-eight years of age. On that basis, not only am I not young, I am well past even middle-aged! People often speak of being middle-aged as a time of ‘midlife crisis’. A midlife crisis can be caused by ageing itself, or ageing in combination with changes, problems, or regrets over work, career, relationships, children and physical changes associated with ageing. Individuals experiencing a midlife crisis are often searching for an undefined dream or goal. We may have a deep sense of remorse for goals not yet accomplished. We may fear humiliation among more successful colleagues. We often desire to achieve a feeling of youthfulness. At the root of all these things is a sense of something being missing. There is often a tragic wisdom in mid-life crises as we realise the emptiness of much of what we used to strive for (even if what we replace it with is not always particularly wise). I have often wondered whether Zacchaeus, whom we read about in today’s New Testament passage, was going through a midlife crisis. Whether he was or not, he found the answer that so many people are searching for in his encounter with Jesus. No matter how long you have travelled in the wrong direction, you can always turn around. With Jesus it’s never too late to make a new start and ensure that your life is set in the right direction. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 108 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/107 Psalm 47:1-9, Deuteronomy 28:15-68, Luke 18:1-30. If you put God first in your life all kinds of blessings follow Because God loves you he warns you of the dangers of disregarding the design for your life Thu, 17 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/107/?ignore 24:02 enclassic17042025-107 1442.4 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 107: Six Steps to a God-Centred Life Psalm 47:1-9, Deuteronomy 28:15-68, Luke 18:1-30. If you put God first in your life all kinds of blessings follow Because God loves you he warns you of the dangers of disregarding the design for your life William Temple, like his father before him, was Archbishop of Canterbury (1942–1944). Among his many remarkable achievements, he wrote a superb commentary on the Gospel of John. He wrote the entire commentary, entitled Readings in St John’s Gospel, while praying on his knees before God. About worship, he wrote: ‘Worship is a submission of all our nature to God. It is the quickening of conscience by his holiness; the nourishment of mind with his truth; the purifying of imagination by his beauty; the opening of the heart to his love; the surrender of will to his purpose – and all this gathered up in adoration.’ Worship saves us from being self-centred and makes us God-centred. You were created to live in a relationship with God. That should be your number one priority. If you put God first in your life all kinds of blessings follow. Because God loves you he warns you of the dangers of disregarding the design for your life. But what does it mean to lead a God-centred life and what steps do you need to take in order to get there? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 107 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/106 Psalm 46:1-11, Deuteronomy 26:1-28:14, Luke 17:11-37. This promise was fulfilled with the coming of Jesus and the Holy Spirit He promises to be with you Wed, 16 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/106/?ignore 24:55 enclassic16042025-106 1495.98 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 106: His Presence Psalm 46:1-11, Deuteronomy 26:1-28:14, Luke 17:11-37. This promise was fulfilled with the coming of Jesus and the Holy Spirit He promises to be with you If you love somebody, what you long for more than anything else is that person’s presence with you. Photos are a comfort. Telephone calls, emails and texts are nice. Letters are good. Zoom and FaceTime are great ways to communicate. Yet, as has been brought home to us acutely as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, nothing can compare to actually spending time with them in person. What Adam and Eve lost in the Garden of Eden when they sinned was the presence of God. Even more than possessing the law, the distinguishing feature of Israel was God’s presence with them. The temple was not primarily a place of sacrifice but a place of God’s presence. The exile was such a disaster for the people of God because they were away from God’s presence. God promised to be in the midst of his people again. This promise was fulfilled with the coming of Jesus and the Holy Spirit. He promises to be with you. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 106 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/105 Psalm 45:10-17, Deuteronomy 23:1-25:19, Luke 16:19-17:10. It is important to look back at your own life as well as the history of the church, both local and global, to remember all that God has done At the Last Supper, Jesus instituted the service of communion so that we would not forget the central events of world history – the death and resurrection of Jesus Tue, 15 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/105/?ignore 24:17 enclassic15042025-105 1457.37 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 105: Choose What You Remember Psalm 45:10-17, Deuteronomy 23:1-25:19, Luke 16:19-17:10. It is important to look back at your own life as well as the history of the church, both local and global, to remember all that God has done At the Last Supper, Jesus instituted the service of communion so that we would not forget the central events of world history – the death and resurrection of Jesus Memory is strange. There are some things I would prefer not to remember but find difficult to forget. There are other things that I would love to remember that are all too easily forgotten. There are some things that are important for societies as a whole not to forget. All over the world, we see war memorials with the names of those who have died for their country. Often in Britain these memorials feature the words ‘Lest We Forget’. A plaque at Auschwitz Concentration Camp reads, ‘The one who does not remember history is bound to live through it again’ (George Santayana). We do have some control over our memory. There are some things we are told in the Bible to ‘forget’. There are other things we are repeatedly called to ‘remember’. You can make choices about what you choose to ‘forget’ and what you choose to ‘remember’. The word ‘remember’ in its various Hebrew and Greek forms occurs over 250 times in the Bible. It is so easy to forget all that God has done for you. It is important to look back at your own life as well as the history of the church, both local and global, to remember all that God has done. At the Last Supper, Jesus instituted the service of communion so that we would not forget the central events of world history – the death and resurrection of Jesus. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 105 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/104 Proverbs 9:13-18, Deuteronomy 21:1-22:30, Luke 16:1-18. He led the people with ‘*integrity of heart*’ (78:72) Supremely, Jesus was a ‘*man of integrity*’ (Matthew 22:16; Mark 12:14) Mon, 14 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/104/?ignore 21:56 enclassic14042025-104 1316 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 104: How to Avoid the Titanic Mistake Proverbs 9:13-18, Deuteronomy 21:1-22:30, Luke 16:1-18. He led the people with ‘*integrity of heart*’ (78:72) Supremely, Jesus was a ‘*man of integrity*’ (Matthew 22:16; Mark 12:14) James Cameron, director of the movie Titanic, describes the Titanic as a ‘metaphor’ of life: ‘We are all living on… [the] Titanic.’ When the Titanic set sail in 1912, it was declared to be ‘unsinkable’ because it was constructed using a new technology. The ship’s hull was divided into sixteen watertight compartments. Up to four of these compartments could be damaged or even flooded, and still the ship would float. Tragically, the Titanic sank on 15 April 1912 at 2.20 am. 1,513 people lost their lives. At the time, it was thought that five of its watertight compartments had been ruptured in a collision with an iceberg. However, on 1 September 1985, when the wreck of the Titanic was found lying upright on the ocean floor, there was no sign of the long gash previously thought to have been ripped in the ship’s hull. What they discovered was that damage to one compartment affected all the rest. Many people make the Titanic mistake. They think they can divide their lives into different ‘compartments’ and that what they do in one will not affect the rest. However, as Rick Warren (from whom I have taken this illustration) says, ‘A life of integrity is one that is not divided into compartments.’ David prayed for ‘an undivided heart’ (Psalm 86:11). He led the people with ‘integrity of heart’ (78:72). Supremely, Jesus was a ‘man of integrity’ (Matthew 22:16; Mark 12:14). How can you and I avoid the Titanic mistake and live lives of integrity? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 104 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/103 Psalm 45:1-9, Deuteronomy 19:1-20:20, Luke 15:1-32. ’ The teacher was surprised and said, ‘But nobody knows what God looks like!’ The little girl carried on drawing and replied, ‘They will in a minute ’One of the advantages of reading through the Bible in a year is that we get a rounded picture of the nature and character of God, and a greater understanding of what God is like Sun, 13 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/103/?ignore 22:37 enclassic13042025-103 1357.98 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 103: What is God Like? Psalm 45:1-9, Deuteronomy 19:1-20:20, Luke 15:1-32. ’ The teacher was surprised and said, ‘But nobody knows what God looks like!’ The little girl carried on drawing and replied, ‘They will in a minute ’One of the advantages of reading through the Bible in a year is that we get a rounded picture of the nature and character of God, and a greater understanding of what God is like A six-year-old girl was drawing a picture one day. Her teacher said, ‘What are you drawing?’ The little girl answered, ‘I am drawing a picture of God.’ The teacher was surprised and said, ‘But nobody knows what God looks like!’ The little girl carried on drawing and replied, ‘They will in a minute.’ One of the advantages of reading through the Bible in a year is that we get a rounded picture of the nature and character of God, and a greater understanding of what God is like. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 103 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/102 Psalm 44:13-26, Deuteronomy 16:21-18:22, Luke 14:15-35. Jesus likens the kingdom of God to a great party with the King, one to which we are all invited It is an even greater privilege than lunch with the Queen, and it is extraordinary that anyone would refuse this invitation Sat, 12 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/102/?ignore 21:36 enclassic12042025-102 1296.4 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 102: Your Invitation Psalm 44:13-26, Deuteronomy 16:21-18:22, Luke 14:15-35. Jesus likens the kingdom of God to a great party with the King, one to which we are all invited It is an even greater privilege than lunch with the Queen, and it is extraordinary that anyone would refuse this invitation One day, I received a message that Queen Elizabeth II (1926–2022), who was then Queen of the United Kingdom and 14 Commonwealth Realms, had invited me to lunch! At first, I thought it was a practical joke. But it wasn’t. I turned up at Buckingham Palace on my bicycle, which an amused policeman looked after for me. I sat next to the Queen as we ate some amazing food. Then she turned and began to talk to me as the ‘Parfait de Rhubarbe et Chocolat Blanc’ arrived. It looked delicious. But I did not want to talk with my mouth full – nor did I want to seem rude by cutting into it while the Queen was speaking to me. Eventually she asked me whether I did not like the food. ‘No, no, no,’ I said, ‘I love it’ (as I quickly began to eat). I did not say it to her, but the real reason I had not eaten was that I was overwhelmed by the privilege of being invited to lunch with the Queen. Jesus likens the kingdom of God to a great party with the King, one to which we are all invited. It is an even greater privilege than lunch with the Queen, and it is extraordinary that anyone would refuse this invitation. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 102 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/101 Psalm 44:1-12, Deuteronomy 15:1-16:20, Luke 13:31-14:14. My father may have been a little extreme, but my sister and I were in no doubt about what mattered to him: honesty In our passages today, we see some of the things that *really matter to God* Fri, 11 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/101/?ignore 22:19 enclassic11042025-101 1339.85 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 101: Eight Things That Really Matter to God Psalm 44:1-12, Deuteronomy 15:1-16:20, Luke 13:31-14:14. My father may have been a little extreme, but my sister and I were in no doubt about what mattered to him: honesty In our passages today, we see some of the things that *really matter to God* My mother and father were great parents. They had strong values. My sister and I were left in no doubt about what mattered to them. What mattered most to my father was honesty. I remember how my father used to say, ‘I expect to be believed.’ He regarded honesty as the highest possible value and sometimes went to absurd lengths to retain that standard. On one occasion, when they were engaged, but not yet married, he and my mother got on the wrong bus. The bus conductor refused to accept any money as they had only travelled a few yards. My father was unhappy to have been unable to pay what he felt he owed. He sent the money for the fare to the bus company. They sent it back. This resulted in a long correspondence, which my mother found very hard to understand (she joked that she almost broke off the engagement). I remember, in my childhood, many similar incidents. My father may have been a little extreme, but my sister and I were in no doubt about what mattered to him: honesty. In our passages today, we see some of the things that really matter to God. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 101 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/100 Proverbs 9:1-12, Deuteronomy 13:1-14:29, Luke 13:1-30. In the book of Proverbs, the teaching of Jesus and the Bible in general, we find many ways to acquire and grow in wisdom Seven of these can be seen in today’s passages Thu, 10 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/100/?ignore 23:22 enclassic10042025-100 1402.72 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 100: Seven Ways to Grow in Wisdom Proverbs 9:1-12, Deuteronomy 13:1-14:29, Luke 13:1-30. In the book of Proverbs, the teaching of Jesus and the Bible in general, we find many ways to acquire and grow in wisdom Seven of these can be seen in today’s passages Lawrence of Arabia is one of the most successful films of all time. Much of the film is drawn from T.E. Lawrence’s own account of his time in Arabia. He was a British archaeological scholar, military strategist (colonel by the age of thirty), best known for his activities in the Middle East during World War I. Lawrence explores the theme of wisdom in his memoirs, written in 1926, with the title, Seven Pillars of Wisdom. Presumably, Lawrence had in mind today’s passage, ‘Wisdom has built her house; she has hewn out its seven pillars’ (Proverbs 9:1). In Scripture, the number seven is often used to represent completion or perfection. In the book of Proverbs, the teaching of Jesus and the Bible in general, we find many ways to acquire and grow in wisdom. Seven of these can be seen in today’s passages. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 100 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/99 Psalm 43:1-5, Deuteronomy 11:1-12:32, Luke 12:35-59. The warnings of Jesus about the coming judgment and how to be ready for it come out of his love for you In all the passages for today we see that obedience is the way to experience his goodness and be a magnet for his blessing Wed, 09 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/99/?ignore 25:43 enclassic09042025-99 1543.39 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 99: See His Goodness Psalm 43:1-5, Deuteronomy 11:1-12:32, Luke 12:35-59. The warnings of Jesus about the coming judgment and how to be ready for it come out of his love for you In all the passages for today we see that obedience is the way to experience his goodness and be a magnet for his blessing When we were children, my sister and I went on a picnic with our parents. The two of us were playing on what we all assumed was a disused railway track. Suddenly my mother shouted, ‘Jump! Get off the track!’ She had seen an express train coming down the track. Thankfully, we didn’t shout back, ‘Don’t threaten us. You can’t scare us.’ If we had done, I would not be in a position to write this now. We both jumped off the track. The command arose out of a mother’s love for her children. God’s commands arise out of his goodness and his love for you. They are given for ‘your own good’ (Deuteronomy 10:13). See his goodness. The warnings of Jesus about the coming judgment and how to be ready for it come out of his love for you. In all the passages for today we see that obedience is the way to experience his goodness and be a magnet for his blessing. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 99 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/98 Psalm 42:6-11, Deuteronomy 9:1-10:22, Luke 12:1-34. We see in the passages for today that they are the answer to trials, temptation, worry, anxiety, fear, failure and all the other struggles of life In particular, Jesus shows us how to stop worrying and start living Tue, 08 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/98/?ignore 25:05 enclassic08042025-98 1505.28 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 98: How to Stop Worrying Psalm 42:6-11, Deuteronomy 9:1-10:22, Luke 12:1-34. We see in the passages for today that they are the answer to trials, temptation, worry, anxiety, fear, failure and all the other struggles of life In particular, Jesus shows us how to stop worrying and start living I can’t even remember his name and I didn’t think much of his talk. We were both eighteen years of age. He had just joined the army. As he stood up to give the talk he produced his army boots as a visual aid. He called one of the boots ‘trust’ and the other one ‘obey’. He described them as the left and right boot of the Christian life. He only spoke for seven minutes, but his illustration hit home and I have never forgotten it. ‘Trust’ and ‘obey’ are, as he said, a very good summary of the Christian life. We see in the passages for today that they are the answer to trials, temptation, worry, anxiety, fear, failure and all the other struggles of life. In particular, Jesus shows us how to stop worrying and start living. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 98 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/97 Psalm 42:1-5, Deuteronomy 6:1-8:20, Luke 11:33-54. org/)… It’s gone, I have totally forgiven that person and love them too!’She says that she is now ‘passionately in love with Christ!’ Her inner thirst is being satisfied She has a new inner light and a new inner love Mon, 07 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/97/?ignore 27:00 enclassic07042025-97 1620.82 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 97: Love from the Inside Out Psalm 42:1-5, Deuteronomy 6:1-8:20, Luke 11:33-54. org/)… It’s gone, I have totally forgiven that person and love them too!’She says that she is now ‘passionately in love with Christ!’ Her inner thirst is being satisfied She has a new inner light and a new inner love Celine, a young woman who came on Alpha because of what she described as her ‘spiritual search’, wrote, ‘I am not entirely sure what happened! Over the course I have grown more and more thirsty for God’s presence like when on a hot, dry summer’s day one gets a sip of cold fresh water, just the right temperature, one wants to drink and drink, and one can never get enough. ‘I am now constantly skipping and laughing and wanting to tell everyone how amazing God is… plus I seem to love everybody! I was seeking to forgive someone, but just seemed to grow more and more bitter and resentful, until I came on Alpha… It’s gone, I have totally forgiven that person and love them too!’ She says that she is now ‘passionately in love with Christ!’ Her inner thirst is being satisfied. She has a new inner light and a new inner love. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 97 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/96 Proverbs 8:32-36, Deuteronomy 4:15-5:33, Luke 11:5-32. God loves you He does not force himself upon you, but he promises to reveal himself to you if you persistently *seek* him Sun, 06 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/96/?ignore 27:11 enclassic06042025-96 1631.71 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 96: Press Through Proverbs 8:32-36, Deuteronomy 4:15-5:33, Luke 11:5-32. God loves you He does not force himself upon you, but he promises to reveal himself to you if you persistently *seek* him ‘Can you see anything?’ his assistant asked as Carter’s eyes adjusted to the semi-darkness. Carter could see well enough, but he had difficulty speaking because of the dazzling array of treasure spread out before him. For more than two thousand years, tourists, grave robbers and archaeologists had searched for the burial places of Egypt’s Pharaohs. Armed with only a few scraps of evidence, British archaeologist Howard Carter’s search, after many years, seemed doomed to failure. But Carter pressed through and finally unlocked an ancient Egyptian tomb. No one in the modern world had ever seen anything like it. The king’s embalmed body lay within a nest of three coffins, the inner one of solid gold. On the king’s head was a magnificent golden portrait mask and numerous pieces of jewellery lay on the body and in its wrappings. Other rooms were crammed with statues, a chariot, weapons, chests, vases, daggers, jewels and a throne. It was the priceless tomb and treasure of King Tutankhamun, who reigned from 1352 to 1343 BC. It was 3265 years later, on 26 November 1922, that Carter made this discovery. Howard Carter made the world’s most exciting archaeological find because he did not give up seeking. He pressed through. He persevered. A river cuts through rock not because of its power but because of its persistence. God loves you. He does not force himself upon you, but he promises to reveal himself to you if you persistently seek him. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 96 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/95 Psalm 41:7-13, Deuteronomy 2:24-4:14, Luke 10:25-11:4. 42) It was Mary who had her priorities right Sat, 05 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/95/?ignore 25:14 enclassic05042025-95 1514.27 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 95: One Thing is Needed Psalm 41:7-13, Deuteronomy 2:24-4:14, Luke 10:25-11:4. 42) It was Mary who had her priorities right I first encountered Jesus in a personal way in 1974. Soon afterwards I heard a talk and, all these years later, I still remember it. It was given by an eighty-year-old man. The title was, ‘The Five “One Things”’. His talk highlighted five significant occurrences of the expression ‘one thing’ in the Bible (Psalm 27:4; Mark 10:21; Luke 10:42; John 9:25; Philippians 3:13). Each one speaks about our priorities. One of those five occurrences is in our New Testament passage for today (Luke 10:42). I have great empathy with Martha. Jesus said to her, ‘You are worried and upset about many things’ (v.41). There are so many things in life, but Jesus says, ‘only one thing is needed’ (v.42). It was Mary who had her priorities right. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 95 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/94 Psalm 41:1-6, Deuteronomy 1:1-2:23, Luke 9:57-10:24. In the passages for today we read about the promise, the extent and the privilege of God’s blessing However, it was true of the people of God in the Old Testament and of the disciples of Jesus, and it will also be true in your life that ‘*No blessing goes uncontested* Fri, 04 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/94/?ignore 26:03 enclassic04042025-94 1563.87 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 94: No Blessing Goes Uncontested Psalm 41:1-6, Deuteronomy 1:1-2:23, Luke 9:57-10:24. In the passages for today we read about the promise, the extent and the privilege of God’s blessing However, it was true of the people of God in the Old Testament and of the disciples of Jesus, and it will also be true in your life that ‘*No blessing goes uncontested* ‘No blessing goes uncontested’ is one of Bishop Sandy Millar’s many original aphorisms, with which he would encourage us all. During his time as vicar of HTB he taught us not to be discouraged by the difficulties we faced because, as he liked to reassure us, ‘No blessing goes uncontested.’ God will bless you in amazing and wonderful ways. In the passages for today we read about the promise, the extent and the privilege of God’s blessing. However, it was true of the people of God in the Old Testament and of the disciples of Jesus, and it will also be true in your life that ‘No blessing goes uncontested.’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 94 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/93 Psalm 40:9-17, Numbers 35:1-36:13, Luke 9:28-56. God’s love and mercy is even more extraordinary because ‘At the cross of Jesus, pardon is complete *Love* and *justice* mingle, *truth* and *mercy* meet Thu, 03 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/93/?ignore 23:44 enclassic03042025-93 1424.98 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 93: How to Love Psalm 40:9-17, Numbers 35:1-36:13, Luke 9:28-56. God’s love and mercy is even more extraordinary because ‘At the cross of Jesus, pardon is complete *Love* and *justice* mingle, *truth* and *mercy* meet Four bullets hit Pope John Paul II – two of them lodging in his lower intestine, the others hitting his left hand and right arm. This assassination attempt on the Pope in May 1981 left him severely wounded and with considerable blood loss – his health was never the same again. In July 1981, the perpetrator, Ali Ağca, was sentenced to life imprisonment. Pope John Paul II asked people to pray ‘for my brother Ağca, whom I have sincerely forgiven’. Two years later, he was to take the hand of Ali Ağca, then in prison, and quietly tell him that he had forgiven him for what he had done (even though his would-be killer had not asked for forgiveness). He developed a friendship over the years, meeting Ağca’s mother in 1987 and his brother a decade later. In June 2000 Ağca was pardoned by the Italian President at the Pope’s request. In February 2005 Ağca sent a letter to the Pope wishing him well. When the Pope died on 2 April 2005, Ağca’s brother, Adrian, gave an interview saying that Ağca and his entire family were grieving and that the Pope had been a great friend to them. Pope John Paul II’s response of love and mercy is exemplary. God’s love and mercy is even more extraordinary because ‘At the cross of Jesus, pardon is complete. Love and justice mingle, truth and mercy meet.’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 93 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/92 Proverbs 8:22-31, Numbers 33:1-34:29, Luke 9:10-27. God gave to his people in the Old Testament a wonderful vision of their potential *inheritance* It is all yours in Christ Jesus Wed, 02 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/92/?ignore 23:08 enclassic02042025-92 1388.51 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 92: It is All Yours Proverbs 8:22-31, Numbers 33:1-34:29, Luke 9:10-27. God gave to his people in the Old Testament a wonderful vision of their potential *inheritance* It is all yours in Christ Jesus The Chelsea Flower Show may well be the most famous flower show in the world. It attracts visitors from all continents. There are four grades of award presented, Gold, Silver-Gilt, Silver and Bronze. As well as awards for gardens and flowers, the Knightian award is for exhibits of vegetables. I once heard a man being interviewed about the fact that he was retiring after winning the gold medal for his vegetables for ten years in a row. Asked for the secret of his success, he said, ‘I aim for perfection. But I settle for excellence.’ ‘Aim for perfection’ (2 Corinthians 13:11), writes the apostle Paul. This is very different from ‘perfectionism’. Perfectionism is a personality trait characterised by striving for flawlessness. It leads to setting excessively high performance standards. Perfectionists are overly critical of themselves and constantly concerned about what others think of them. It leads to a fear of failure and making mistakes. It can lead to depression, anxiety and missed opportunities. God’s people have always been called to aim high (while avoiding the dangers of perfectionism). God gave to his people in the Old Testament a wonderful vision of their potential inheritance. It is all yours in Christ Jesus. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 92 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/91 Psalm 40:1-8, Numbers 31:25-32:42, Luke 8:40-9:9. Jesus’ followers are called ‘disciples’ They want to be with him, to know him, to be like him and to do everything that Jesus asks them to do Tue, 01 Apr 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/91/?ignore 24:54 enclassic01042025-91 1494.54 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 91: Follow Jesus Psalm 40:1-8, Numbers 31:25-32:42, Luke 8:40-9:9. Jesus’ followers are called ‘disciples’ They want to be with him, to know him, to be like him and to do everything that Jesus asks them to do Curious to know what all the fuss was about Pippa and I eventually entered the world of Twitter and now Instagram. It is a world where you ‘follow’ other people and are yourselves ‘followed’. Many celebrities have huge followings. People become avid spectators of their lives, relationships and lifestyle, diets and fashion choices. They want to know all about them, interact with them and be like them. There is nothing inherently wrong with this. It is natural to want to follow those we admire. Following celebrities on social media can be fun and even enlightening. However, following people on Instagram or Twitter is one thing; being a true follower of someone is quite another. It means fully devoting yourself to their cause, living by their example and even doing what they tell you to do. Choose the right people to follow. It really does matter who you follow. Millions, for example, followed Hitler, Stalin and Pol Pot. Still today, millions follow evil dictators, terrorists and gang leaders. Some people are sceptical about tradition and institutions and do not know whom to follow. The traditional models, which often came from or were championed by our families, institutions and political leaders, have, to some extent, broken down. This leaves many people unsure of who to follow. Jesus said many times, ‘Follow me.’ Of all the people who have ever lived, Jesus has the largest number of followers. Over 2.4 billion people in the world today profess to follow Jesus. Jesus’ followers are called ‘disciples’. They want to be with him, to know him, to be like him and to do everything that Jesus asks them to do. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 91 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/90 Psalm 39:1-13, Numbers 29:12-31:24, Luke 8:19-39. Many people today live with the opposite They do not fear God but their lives are full of the wrong kinds of fear Mon, 31 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/90/?ignore 26:54 enclassic31032025-90 1614.84 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 90: How to Overcome Your Fears Psalm 39:1-13, Numbers 29:12-31:24, Luke 8:19-39. Many people today live with the opposite They do not fear God but their lives are full of the wrong kinds of fear Millennials (those born between 1981 and 2000) are sometimes known as ‘generation fear’. In one of her most popular songs, Lily Allen sings about ‘being taken over by the fear’. ‘Fear’ carries two meanings in the Bible – one healthy, one unhealthy. In the good sense of the word, it is usually used in the context of respect for God and sometimes of respect for people (especially those in authority). In the bad sense, it means to be frightened. We are supposed to fear God (in the good sense) and not be frightened of anyone or anything else. Many people today live with the opposite. They do not fear God but their lives are full of the wrong kinds of fear. How can you overcome your fears? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 90 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/89 Psalm 38:13-22, Numbers 27:12-29:11, Luke 8:1-18. He heard the word, retained it and by persevering has produced a crop hundreds of times more than was sown (Luke 8:8,15) He encountered Jesus as his Saviour, Sower and Shepherd Sun, 30 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/89/?ignore 23:07 enclassic30032025-89 1387.81 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 89: A Hundredfold Return Psalm 38:13-22, Numbers 27:12-29:11, Luke 8:1-18. He heard the word, retained it and by persevering has produced a crop hundreds of times more than was sown (Luke 8:8,15) He encountered Jesus as his Saviour, Sower and Shepherd He was brought up on one of the roughest estates in Manchester. His father was an alcoholic. He left school at fifteen. He ran away from home. He lived on the streets. He joined a gang. He got involved in crime and ended up in prison. When he came out, he joined the army. He went through two divorces. In 1994, he walked into our church and did Alpha. He encountered Jesus and was filled with the Holy Spirit. He started visiting prisoners. He joined the HTB staff team to head up the work in prisons. He started an organisation to care for prison leavers. He set up a homeless project. He started a course to help those with addictions and courses to help those struggling with depression and debt. Under his leadership, Alpha for Prisons has spread through the prisons in the UK and seventy-six countries around the world. Thousands have come to faith in Jesus Christ. Hundreds of men and women have been placed in churches through the ministry of Caring for Prison Leavers. Paul Cowley, author of Thief, Prisoner, Soldier, Priest, is an example of someone who was the good soil on which the seed fell. He has a noble and good heart. He heard the word, retained it and by persevering has produced a crop hundreds of times more than was sown (Luke 8:8,15). He encountered Jesus as his Saviour, Sower and Shepherd. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 89 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/88 Proverbs 8:12-21, Numbers 26:12-27:11, Luke 7:36-50. It is the sort of legacy good parents want to hand on to their children Ultimately, wisdom is found in Jesus Christ, who is the ‘wisdom of God’ (1 Corinthians 1:24) Sat, 29 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/88/?ignore 23:38 enclassic29032025-88 1418.92 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 88: How to Become Wise Proverbs 8:12-21, Numbers 26:12-27:11, Luke 7:36-50. It is the sort of legacy good parents want to hand on to their children Ultimately, wisdom is found in Jesus Christ, who is the ‘wisdom of God’ (1 Corinthians 1:24) Oprah Winfrey says, ‘Follow your instincts. That’s where true wisdom manifests itself.’ In other words, wisdom comes from within and is a kind of intuition. Since you are created in the image of God, there is truth in this. However, as we see in today’s passages, true wisdom comes from God and it is supremely acquired through your relationship with him. As we have seen, knowledge is horizontal. But wisdom is vertical. It comes down from above. You will grow in wisdom as you learn, reflect and live in relationship with God. We all desperately need wisdom. In the Old Testament there are several books of ‘Wisdom’: Proverbs, Job, Ecclesiastes and Song of Songs. In addition, sprinkled throughout the Bible are various writings which might loosely be described as ‘Wisdom Literature’, dealing with such diverse areas as the power of the tongue, the blessings of faithfulness, the dangers of adultery, the hazards of strong drink, the inequalities of life, the sufferings of the righteous, the skill of leadership and the art of parenting. This wisdom is a kind of sanctified common sense. It leads to greater self-understanding. It gives you the ability to cope in life and to steer through and master its challenges. It is the sort of legacy good parents want to hand on to their children. Ultimately, wisdom is found in Jesus Christ, who is the ‘wisdom of God’ (1 Corinthians 1:24). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 88 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/87 Psalm 38:1-12, Numbers 23:27-26:11, Luke 7:11-35. Whatever you are facing today, God is able to rescue you In the passages for today we see examples of troubles – traps, tests and temptations – and how to handle them Fri, 28 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/87/?ignore 24:22 enclassic28032025-87 1462.86 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 87: In the Day of Trouble Psalm 38:1-12, Numbers 23:27-26:11, Luke 7:11-35. Whatever you are facing today, God is able to rescue you In the passages for today we see examples of troubles – traps, tests and temptations – and how to handle them Ajay Gohil was brought up as a Hindu and worked for the family business in a newsagent in North London. At the age of twenty-one he contracted erythrodermic psoriasis, a chronic skin disease. His weight dropped from 11.5 stone (73kg) to 7.5 stone (47.6kg). The disease was all over his body from head to toe. He lost all his friends. His wife and son left him. He wanted to die. As Ajay lay dying in hospital he cried out to God. He looked in his locker and found a Bible there. He opened it at Psalm 38 – the psalm for today. Each and every verse seemed relevant to him. He prayed for God to heal him. He fell into a deep sleep. By the next morning he was totally healed. His skin was new like a baby’s and his life was turned around. He was reunited with his son. I interviewed him in one of the services at HTB. He said, ‘Every day I live for Jesus.’ Life is not all plain sailing. We will all face troubles. Whatever you are facing today, God is able to rescue you. In the passages for today we see examples of troubles – traps, tests and temptations – and how to handle them. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 87 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/86 Psalm 37:32-40, Numbers 22:21-23:26, Luke 6:37-7:10. In the New Testament, ‘*the message*’ is a synonym for ‘*the gospel*’ (see Acts 2:41; 4:4; 10:44 and so on) Our task is both *to hear* this message and *to declare* it to others (1 John 1:5) Thu, 27 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/86/?ignore 22:53 enclassic27032025-86 1373.02 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 86: Ten Top Tips for God’s Messengers Psalm 37:32-40, Numbers 22:21-23:26, Luke 6:37-7:10. In the New Testament, ‘*the message*’ is a synonym for ‘*the gospel*’ (see Acts 2:41; 4:4; 10:44 and so on) Our task is both *to hear* this message and *to declare* it to others (1 John 1:5) Billy Graham died on 21 February 2018 at the age of ninety-nine. As a messenger of God, he had planned his own funeral very carefully to be a call for people to put their faith in Jesus. He had said beforehand, ‘Someday you will read or hear that Billy Graham is dead. Don’t believe a word of it. I shall be more alive than I am now. I will just have changed my address. I will have gone into the presence of God.’ In 1934, at the age of sixteen, he’d heard God’s call and became a faithful messenger of the gospel. He spoke about Jesus to over 210 million people in person and to almost half the population of the world on TV or radio. He was determined to make the most of every opportunity, including his own funeral, to pass on God’s message to the world. ‘My messenger’ is the way John the Baptist is described by God (Luke 7:27). You too can be God’s messenger. Jesus speaks of ‘the message about the kingdom’ (Matthew 13:19). In the New Testament, ‘the message’ is a synonym for ‘the gospel’ (see Acts 2:41; 4:4; 10:44 and so on). Our task is both to hear this message and to declare it to others (1 John 1:5). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 86 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/85 Psalm 37:21-31, Numbers 21:4-22:20, Luke 6:12-36. Each of the passages today is about blessings and curses The key to the fullness of the blessing is generosity – ‘the righteous give generously’ (Psalm 37:21) Wed, 26 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/85/?ignore 23:40 enclassic26032025-85 1420.02 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 85: The Fullness of the Blessing Psalm 37:21-31, Numbers 21:4-22:20, Luke 6:12-36. Each of the passages today is about blessings and curses The key to the fullness of the blessing is generosity – ‘the righteous give generously’ (Psalm 37:21) Mother Teresa once gave an interview to Hello! magazine. She was asked the question, ‘Is it only the affluent who give?’ She replied, ‘No, even the poorest of the poor give. The other day a very poor beggar came up to me and said, “Everyone gives to you and I also want to give you twenty paisa” – which is about two pence. I thought to myself, what do I do? If I take it he won’t have anything to eat, but if I don’t take it I would hurt him so much. So I took, and he was so happy because he had given to Mother Teresa of Calcutta to help the poor. Giving cleans the heart and helps you get closer to God. You get so much back in return.’ Generosity is not just a nice character trait that people have. It is right at the heart of what our faith is all about. C.S. Lewis defined Christianity as ‘a kind of giving’. God has poured out his generosity to you in Jesus (John 3:16), and you are called to respond in faith and generosity to others. Each of the passages today is about blessings and curses. The key to the fullness of the blessing is generosity – ‘the righteous give generously’ (Psalm 37:21). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 85 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/84 Proverbs 8:1-11, Numbers 19:1-21:3, Luke 5:33-6:11. Seven titles of Jesus emerge from the passages for today and each reveal something distinct about Jesus They help you to see what it means to put Jesus in the centre of your life Tue, 25 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/84/?ignore 24:18 enclassic25032025-84 1458.05 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 84: Seven Titles of Jesus Proverbs 8:1-11, Numbers 19:1-21:3, Luke 5:33-6:11. Seven titles of Jesus emerge from the passages for today and each reveal something distinct about Jesus They help you to see what it means to put Jesus in the centre of your life As his father, King Charles, did before him, Prince William now has many titles. He is the Heir Apparent to the Crown, His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales, Knight of the Garter, Earl of Strathearn, Baron Carrickfergus, Duke of Cornwall and Cambridge, Duke of Rothesay, Knight of the Thistle, Rear Admiral, Grand Master of the Order of Bath, Earl of Chester, Earl of Carrick, Baron of Renfrew, Lord of the Isles and Prince and Great Steward of Scotland. Titles are attached to people by virtue of rank, office or attainment. In the Bible, Jesus is given far more titles than a royal prince. In fact, there are well over a hundred titles ascribed to Jesus. The whole Bible revolves around Jesus (John 5:39). Seven titles of Jesus emerge from the passages for today and each reveal something distinct about Jesus. They help you to see what it means to put Jesus in the centre of your life. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 84 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/83 Psalm 37:10-20, Numbers 16:36-18:32, Luke 5:17-32. James Irwin, another astronaut who walked on the moon, said, ‘Jesus walking on the earth is *more important* than man walking on the moon ’ When people saw what Jesus did, their response was awe and amazement: ‘Everyone was *amazed*… They were filled with *awe*’ (Luke 5:26) Mon, 24 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/83/?ignore 24:59 enclassic24032025-83 1499.72 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 83: God Wants to Amaze You Psalm 37:10-20, Numbers 16:36-18:32, Luke 5:17-32. James Irwin, another astronaut who walked on the moon, said, ‘Jesus walking on the earth is *more important* than man walking on the moon ’ When people saw what Jesus did, their response was awe and amazement: ‘Everyone was *amazed*… They were filled with *awe*’ (Luke 5:26) ‘The Eagle has landed,’ said Neil Armstrong. President Nixon, watching the events on television, described it as ‘one of the greatest moments of our time’. The Pope greeted the news by exclaiming, ‘Glory to God in the highest and peace on earth to men of good will!’ At 3:56 am on 20 July 1969, Neil Armstrong stepped off the ladder from the Eagle and onto the moon’s surface. ‘That’s one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind,’ he said, as he became the first man to walk on the moon. Due to the recent invention of television, this remarkable event was the first of such historic significance to be seen so widely and known so immediately. The whole world watched with awe and amazement. James Irwin, another astronaut who walked on the moon, said, ‘Jesus walking on the earth is more important than man walking on the moon.’ When people saw what Jesus did, their response was awe and amazement: ‘Everyone was amazed… They were filled with awe’ (Luke 5:26). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 83 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/82 Psalm 37:1-9, Numbers 15:1-16:35, Luke 4:38-5:16. Setting aside time to build and nurture communication is essential Jesus has given you a ‘hotline’ to God, but it is not just for emergency use – it is to be used all the time Sun, 23 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/82/?ignore 27:00 enclassic23032025-82 1620.79 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 82: Your Hotline to God Psalm 37:1-9, Numbers 15:1-16:35, Luke 4:38-5:16. Setting aside time to build and nurture communication is essential Jesus has given you a ‘hotline’ to God, but it is not just for emergency use – it is to be used all the time The invasion of Ukraine by Russia led to one of the biggest crises our world has ever faced. Up until that moment, the Cuban Missile Crisis was probably the closest we have come, until recent events, to World War III. In October 1962, there was a standoff between President Kennedy of the United States and Premier Khrushchev of the Soviet Union over planting missiles in Cuba. The crisis was averted because communication was established. It was decided to put one red telephone on the desk of the President of the United States, and another on the desk of the Premier of Soviet Russia. The communication link was called, as it still is, the ‘hotline’. Communication is vital to all relationships. Setting aside time to build and nurture communication is essential. Jesus has given you a ‘hotline’ to God, but it is not just for emergency use – it is to be used all the time. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 82 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/81 Psalm 36:1-12, Numbers 13:26-14:45, Luke 4:14-37. He ‘gives generously to all’ (James 1:5) If God is so generous to us, we also should ‘always be generous’ Sat, 22 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/81/?ignore 23:22 enclassic22032025-81 1402.72 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 81: Always Be Generous Psalm 36:1-12, Numbers 13:26-14:45, Luke 4:14-37. He ‘gives generously to all’ (James 1:5) If God is so generous to us, we also should ‘always be generous’ Generosity is a beautiful characteristic in people. We love and admire generosity. My mother used to urge us as children, ‘Always be generous.’ How do you think of God? Do you think of him as a little bit mean or tight-fisted? Or do you think of him as extraordinarily generous? God’s generosity is seen in the natural world. For example, there are over 25,000 varieties of orchids. The orchid is just one of 270,000 species of flowers. God does not do things by halves. In our galaxy there are over 100 billion stars like our sun. Our galaxy is one of over 100 billion galaxies. It is thought that for every grain of sand there are a million stars. In a throwaway line in Genesis, the writer tells us, ‘He also made the stars’ (Genesis 1:16). God is extraordinarily, extravagantly generous. David speaks of God’s ‘… river of delights’ (Psalm 36:8b). He ‘gives generously to all’ (James 1:5). If God is so generous to us, we also should ‘always be generous’. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 81 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/80 Proverbs 7:21-27, Numbers 11:4-13:25, Luke 3:23-4:13. No one can go through life without being tempted Temptation is not sin; Jesus was ‘without sin’, yet even he was ‘tempted in every way, just as we are’ (Hebrews 4:15) Fri, 21 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/80/?ignore 25:41 enclassic21032025-80 1541.41 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 80: How to Resist Temptation Proverbs 7:21-27, Numbers 11:4-13:25, Luke 3:23-4:13. No one can go through life without being tempted Temptation is not sin; Jesus was ‘without sin’, yet even he was ‘tempted in every way, just as we are’ (Hebrews 4:15) The Sirens were three mysterious women who, according to Homer’s Odyssey, lived on an island. Whenever a ship passed by, they would stand on the cliffs and sing. Their beautiful song would tempt sailors closer and closer, until eventually they were shipwrecked on the rocks below. Odysseus was curious to hear the Sirens’ song, but was well aware of the dangers. He ordered his men to tie him to the mast as they approached the island and then to plug their own ears with beeswax. When Odysseus heard the Siren call he demanded to be untied, but his shipmates bound him tighter, releasing him only when then the danger had passed. The story explores the powerful pull we all feel at times to flirt with choices that we know are bad, and even destructive. No one can go through life without being tempted. Temptation is not sin; Jesus was ‘without sin’, yet even he was ‘tempted in every way, just as we are’ (Hebrews 4:15). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 80 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/79 Psalm 35:19-28, Numbers 9:15-11:3, Luke 3:1-22. As a result, even though he found himself in the appalling conditions of this prison, he followed Jesus’ example and ‘went around *doing good’* (Acts 10:38) As John Wesley said, ‘*Do all the good you can*, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can Thu, 20 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/79/?ignore 22:11 enclassic20032025-79 1331.59 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 79: God is Good - All the Time Psalm 35:19-28, Numbers 9:15-11:3, Luke 3:1-22. As a result, even though he found himself in the appalling conditions of this prison, he followed Jesus’ example and ‘went around *doing good’* (Acts 10:38) As John Wesley said, ‘*Do all the good you can*, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can Of all the prisons Pippa and I have visited around the world, this was the worst. It is in Lusaka, Zambia. The prison was built in 1950 for 250 men. Today it holds over 1,300. The cells, which were built to hold 50, are now home to over 150 men. They are locked in these cells from eight o’clock at night until eight o’clock in the morning. There isn’t enough room for all of them to lie down at the same time. They have to take it in turns. The stench and the heat in those cells must be almost unbearable. If the prisoners do not have AIDS or tuberculosis when they enter the prison, they are likely to become infected soon after. The cells surround a courtyard, which is at the centre of the prison. We held a service there. Maybe because there was nothing else to do, virtually every one of the inmates attended. The service was led by a man who had been awaiting trial for four years. He was a Christian pastor who was accused of some minor offence (for which the penalty in England would probably have been a small fine, had he been convicted). Though he may well have been innocent, this man had been languishing in a prison for four years, unconvicted, without trial, not knowing when he would be released – if ever. I will never forget his opening words as he began to lead the service: ‘God is good – all the time.’ Here was a man who had absolute confidence in the goodness of God, not because of his circumstances but in spite of them. He knew and had experienced the goodness of God in the midst of great suffering. As a result, even though he found himself in the appalling conditions of this prison, he followed Jesus’ example and ‘went around doing good’ (Acts 10:38). As John Wesley said, ‘Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 79 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/78 Psalm 35:11-18, Numbers 7:66-9:14, Luke 2:41-52. This is an extraordinary honour and privilege Moses, David and, of course, Jesus had an intimate relationship with God Wed, 19 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/78/?ignore 22:58 enclassic19032025-78 1378.06 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 78: How to Develop Intimacy with God Psalm 35:11-18, Numbers 7:66-9:14, Luke 2:41-52. This is an extraordinary honour and privilege Moses, David and, of course, Jesus had an intimate relationship with God The life and ministry of the American pastor, John Wimber, has had a great influence on my own life, our church and many other churches around the world. He said, ‘The ability to hear what God is saying, to see what God is doing, and to move in the realm of the miraculous comes as an individual develops the same intimacy with and dependence upon the Father [as Jesus did].’ How did Jesus do what he did? The answer is found in his relationship with the Father. How will we do the ‘greater things than these’ which Jesus promised (John 14:12)? By discovering the same relationship of intimacy, simplicity and obedience. God loves you with an intimacy that surpasses all your dreams. He wants you to have a close, personal relationship with him of intimacy, simplicity and obedience. This is an extraordinary honour and privilege. Moses, David and, of course, Jesus had an intimate relationship with God. But how do you develop intimacy with God? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 78 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/77 Psalm 35:1-10, Numbers 7:1-65, Luke 2:21-40. I’m a Christian because I’m weak and admit *I need a saviour* ’The amazing truth of Christianity is that in Jesus *you* *do have a saviour* Tue, 18 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/77/?ignore 23:16 enclassic18032025-77 1396.27 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 77: Saviour Psalm 35:1-10, Numbers 7:1-65, Luke 2:21-40. I’m a Christian because I’m weak and admit *I need a saviour* ’The amazing truth of Christianity is that in Jesus *you* *do have a saviour* The world is looking for a saviour. The Canadian musician, Lights, expresses this in the lyrics of her song, ‘Saviour’: ‘The night is deafening, When the silence is listening, And I’m down on my knees, And I know that something is missing… Sooner than later, I’ll need a saviour, I’ll need a saviour... ‘Lecrae’ (Moore), is a rapper, entrepreneur, record-producer and actor. He speaks for many of us when he says, ‘I’m not a Christian because I’m strong and have it all together. I’m a Christian because I’m weak and admit I need a saviour.’ The amazing truth of Christianity is that in Jesus you do have a saviour. How should you respond to this extraordinary good news? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 77 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/76 Proverbs 7:6-20, Numbers 5:11-6:27, Luke 2:1-20. ’God’s faithfulness towards us gives us an example to follow in our own relationships Faithfulness is something we should strive for in marriage, friendships and in our relationship with God Mon, 17 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/76/?ignore 22:55 enclassic17032025-76 1375.56 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 76: If the Grass Looks Greener, It Is Probably AstroTurf Proverbs 7:6-20, Numbers 5:11-6:27, Luke 2:1-20. ’God’s faithfulness towards us gives us an example to follow in our own relationships Faithfulness is something we should strive for in marriage, friendships and in our relationship with God A campaign by one online agency offered a dating service for married men and women who wanted to have an affair. The agency is by no means alone in this market. What was different was that they executed an extensive advertising campaign specifically on massive billboards next to motorways with the slogan, ‘The grass is always greener.’ Essentially, they were making money feeding on people’s weaknesses and helping them to be unfaithful. This may seem attractive, but the reality is that it can ruin the lives of the individuals involved, as well as the lives of their partners, their families and their children. Jesus puts faithfulness alongside justice and mercy (Matthew 23:23). Faithfulness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Mother Teresa said, ‘I am not called to be successful but to be faithful.’ God’s faithfulness towards us gives us an example to follow in our own relationships. Faithfulness is something we should strive for in marriage, friendships and in our relationship with God. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 76 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/75 Psalm 34:11-22, Numbers 4:1-5:10, Luke 1:57-80. ’ Salvation means freedom Sam had an experience of how Jesus Christ sets us free Sun, 16 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/75/?ignore 22:37 enclassic16032025-75 1357.27 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 75: What God Has in Store for You Psalm 34:11-22, Numbers 4:1-5:10, Luke 1:57-80. ’ Salvation means freedom Sam had an experience of how Jesus Christ sets us free Sam, aged twenty-three, was a militant atheist. He associated himself with the teachings of fervent opponents of faith and religion. One evening, he went online and discovered that Alpha was about to start within easy access of his home. He turned up to our church thinking, ‘I’m going to take down a few irrational Christians here.’ But his encounter with the teachings and person of Jesus Christ was not what he expected. On his questionnaire at the end of the course, he wrote, ‘I found the draw of Jesus irresistible and have gone from [being] someone with no faith to someone with an immense hope. To live in a state of non-truth to living in truth is, to me, the difference between being bound to complete freedom.’ Three months later, he was baptised. He told me, ‘I’m free of my previous life. I was a slave to a lot of things. I was a slave to society, a slave to my peers... But now I’m free to live my life. I’m excited to see what God’s got in store for me.’ Salvation means freedom. Sam had an experience of how Jesus Christ sets us free. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 75 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/74 Psalm 34:1-10, Numbers 2:10-3:51, Luke 1:39-56. It means to be the privileged recipient of *God’s favour*, and to be fortunate and happy because of it The Amplified Bible describes it as being ‘happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous – with life-joy and satisfaction in *God’s favour* and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions’ (Matthew 5:3, AMP) Sat, 15 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/74/?ignore 23:22 enclassic15032025-74 1402.07 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 74: You Have the Favour of God Psalm 34:1-10, Numbers 2:10-3:51, Luke 1:39-56. It means to be the privileged recipient of *God’s favour*, and to be fortunate and happy because of it The Amplified Bible describes it as being ‘happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous – with life-joy and satisfaction in *God’s favour* and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions’ (Matthew 5:3, AMP) In my first year at university, aged eighteen, I read the entire New Testament in a week – from Matthew to Revelation – and became convinced, ‘it is true’. But I was reluctant to follow Jesus, as I thought my life would be very dull and that I would have to give up all enjoyment. In fact, it was the exact opposite. I found something even better than happiness. We all want to live happy lives. ‘Happiness,’ wrote Aristotle, ‘is the meaning and purpose of life, the whole aim and end of human existence.’ But there is something even better, greater and deeper than happiness. Happiness is dependent on what happens – our circumstances. Joy is far deeper and is not so dependent on our outward circumstances. It is a blessing from God. Joy is the characteristic of an encounter with Jesus even in his mother’s womb (Luke 1:44). Today’s New Testament passage uses a Greek word that we translate ‘blessed’. It means to be the privileged recipient of God’s favour, and to be fortunate and happy because of it. The Amplified Bible describes it as being ‘happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous – with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favour and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions’ (Matthew 5:3, AMP). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 74 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/73 Psalm 33:12-22, Numbers 1:1-2:9, Luke 1:26-38. There have been periods of great opposition and criticism Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa, preacher to the Papal household, speaks of our battle being against a triple alliance: the world (‘the enemy around us’), the flesh (‘the enemy within us’), and the devil (‘the enemy above us’) Fri, 14 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/73/?ignore 22:10 enclassic14032025-73 1330.76 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 73: The Battles of Life Psalm 33:12-22, Numbers 1:1-2:9, Luke 1:26-38. There have been periods of great opposition and criticism Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa, preacher to the Papal household, speaks of our battle being against a triple alliance: the world (‘the enemy around us’), the flesh (‘the enemy within us’), and the devil (‘the enemy above us’) The Christian life is a battle. I have been following Jesus over four decades. As I look back at these years, they have been years of great blessing – more than I could have asked or even imagined. At the same time, there have been many challenges and obstacles. There have been very few periods when I have not been facing some kind of battle. The nature of these battles has varied enormously. There have been internal battles – times of intense temptation, doubt, fear and anxiety. There have been times of deep sadness, great loss and bereavement. There have been battles over health, sleep, finances, work and relationships. There have been periods of great opposition and criticism. Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa, preacher to the Papal household, speaks of our battle being against a triple alliance: the world (‘the enemy around us’), the flesh (‘the enemy within us’), and the devil (‘the enemy above us’). How can you navigate these spiritual battles of life? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 73 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/72 Proverbs 7:1-5, Leviticus 26:14-27:34, Luke 1:1-25. Like the rules of football, they do not stop the enjoyment of the game Rather, they enable the game of life to be enjoyed to the full Thu, 13 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/72/?ignore 25:16 enclassic13032025-72 1516.9 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 72: Love Boundaries Proverbs 7:1-5, Leviticus 26:14-27:34, Luke 1:1-25. Like the rules of football, they do not stop the enjoyment of the game Rather, they enable the game of life to be enjoyed to the full I remember, years ago, a football match that had been arranged involving twenty-two young boys (including one of my sons, aged eight at the time). A friend of mine, Andy, was going to referee. Unfortunately, by 2.30 pm he had not turned up. The boys could wait no longer. I was press-ganged into being the substitute referee. But, I had no whistle, there were no markings for the boundaries of the pitch and I did not know the rules nearly as well as some of the boys. The game soon descended into complete chaos. Some shouted that the ball was in. Others said that it was out. I wasn’t at all sure, so I let things run. Then the fouls started. Some cried, ‘Foul.’ Others said, ‘No foul.’ I didn’t know who was right. So I let them play on. Then people began to get hurt. By the time Andy arrived, there were three boys lying ‘injured’ on the ground and all the rest were shouting, mainly at me! But the moment Andy arrived, he blew his whistle, arranged the teams, told them where the boundaries were and had them under complete control. The boys then enjoyed a great game of football. Were the boys freer without the rules, or were they in fact less free? Without any effective authority, they could do exactly what they wanted. But people were confused and hurt. They much preferred it when the game was played according to the rules. Then they were free to enjoy the game. The rules of football are not designed to take away the fun of the game. They are designed to enable the game to be enjoyed to the full. God’s ‘rules’ are his boundaries for life, given out of his love for us. His boundaries are not designed to restrict our freedom but rather to give us freedom. Like the rules of football, they do not stop the enjoyment of the game. Rather, they enable the game of life to be enjoyed to the full. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 72 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/71 Psalm 33:1-11, Leviticus 25:1-26:13, Mark 16:1-20. However, there are other things that *you can know* about the future and that makes a real difference to your life now Today we see three reasons why, if you put your trust in the Lord, *you can be confident about your future* Wed, 12 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/71/?ignore 24:43 enclassic12032025-71 1483.94 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 71: Be Confident About Your Future Psalm 33:1-11, Leviticus 25:1-26:13, Mark 16:1-20. However, there are other things that *you can know* about the future and that makes a real difference to your life now Today we see three reasons why, if you put your trust in the Lord, *you can be confident about your future* What does the future hold in store for you? Futurologists predict what will happen in the future. For example, it has been predicted that some babies born today will live to the age of 150. Some of their predictions may come true. Others may not. In 1962 Decca Recording Company rejected the Beatles. They said, ‘We don’t like their sound, and guitar music is on the way out.’ In 1977 Ken Olson, Chairman of Digital Equipment Co., said, ‘There is no reason anyone would want a computer in their home.’ There are certain things about the future that we don’t know and that we are not supposed to know. However, there are other things that you can know about the future and that makes a real difference to your life now. Today we see three reasons why, if you put your trust in the Lord, you can be confident about your future. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 71 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/70 Psalm 32:1-11, Leviticus 23:1-24:23, Mark 15:33-47. Forsyth (1848–1921) pointed out, first, you have to know the ‘despair of guilt’ Then you can appreciate ‘the breathless wonder of forgiveness’ Tue, 11 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/70/?ignore 25:57 enclassic11032025-70 1557.03 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 70: Total Forgiveness Psalm 32:1-11, Leviticus 23:1-24:23, Mark 15:33-47. Forsyth (1848–1921) pointed out, first, you have to know the ‘despair of guilt’ Then you can appreciate ‘the breathless wonder of forgiveness’ Bishop Sandy Millar speaks of a time when he was walking along the beach and he noticed how the sand had been churned up by the footprints of those who had gone before him. The next morning the footprints were all wiped away by the sea. He sensed Jesus saying to him, ‘That is a picture of forgiveness.’ Or to use another analogy, forgiveness from Jesus Christ is like deleting the file of all the bad stuff in our lives. Forgiveness is never easy. We all know how hard it is to forgive others. However, we often assume that forgiveness from God is almost automatic. On her deathbed, the Empress Catherine the Great of Russia (1729–1796), said, ‘I shall be an autocrat: that’s my trade. The good Lord will forgive me: that’s his.’ In the passages for today we see the very high cost and huge blessing of God’s forgiveness. As P.T. Forsyth (1848–1921) pointed out, first, you have to know the ‘despair of guilt’. Then you can appreciate ‘the breathless wonder of forgiveness’. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 70 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/69 Psalm 31:19-24, Leviticus 21:1-22:33, Mark 15:1-32. In the Greek translation of the Old Testament, the Septuagint, this sacred name (YHWH) is translated *Kyrios* (Lord) It really is quite extraordinary, therefore, that the New Testament writers (who were Jewish monotheists) made this fundamental Christian affirmation that ‘*Jesus is Lord’* (*Kyrios*) (Romans 10:9; 2 Corinthians 4:5; Acts 2:36) and that *our Lord* has been *crucified for us* Mon, 10 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/69/?ignore 24:14 enclassic10032025-69 1454.94 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 69: Crucified Psalm 31:19-24, Leviticus 21:1-22:33, Mark 15:1-32. In the Greek translation of the Old Testament, the Septuagint, this sacred name (YHWH) is translated *Kyrios* (Lord) It really is quite extraordinary, therefore, that the New Testament writers (who were Jewish monotheists) made this fundamental Christian affirmation that ‘*Jesus is Lord’* (*Kyrios*) (Romans 10:9; 2 Corinthians 4:5; Acts 2:36) and that *our Lord* has been *crucified for us* In the days of slavery in the United States, southern slaves were living under brutal conditions. They composed some deeply moving songs with haunting melodies, rich with emotion. These ‘spirituals’ were songs of hope and anticipation. They were the soul-cry of the slave longing for freedom. They embraced Jesus as their Saviour and Lord and, in the midst of almost unbearable suffering, they experienced his grace, peace and hope for the future. From this relationship they were able to sing: Were you there when they crucified my Lord? In the New Testament passage for today, we see the background to the extraordinary claim of the New Testament that the one ‘they crucified’ is in fact my Lord. God is described in the Old Testament as ‘The Lord’. The original Hebrew word for ‘Lord’ (YHWH) had no vowels and was not vocalised. It was considered too sacred to pronounce. For that reason, when vowels were added to the original Hebrew texts they weren’t added to ‘the name’ (YHWH). There has been much debate in modern times as to what vowels should be used – it used to be thought it should be ‘Jehovah’, but most scholars now think ‘Yahweh’ is more accurate. In the Greek translation of the Old Testament, the Septuagint, this sacred name (YHWH) is translated Kyrios (Lord). It really is quite extraordinary, therefore, that the New Testament writers (who were Jewish monotheists) made this fundamental Christian affirmation that ‘Jesus is Lord’ (Kyrios) (Romans 10:9; 2 Corinthians 4:5; Acts 2:36) and that our Lord has been crucified for us. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 69 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/68 Proverbs 6:30-35, Leviticus 19:1-20:27, Mark 14:43-72. Human beings are capable of acts of great love, courage and heroism Yet, not one of us (apart from Jesus) is without sin Sun, 09 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/68/?ignore 25:31 enclassic09032025-68 1531.09 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 68: What's in Your Heart? Proverbs 6:30-35, Leviticus 19:1-20:27, Mark 14:43-72. Human beings are capable of acts of great love, courage and heroism Yet, not one of us (apart from Jesus) is without sin The Nobel Prize winner and most important Russian literary artist of the second half of the twentieth century, Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn (1918–2008), who was imprisoned for eight years for criticising Stalin, wrote, ‘The line separating good and evil passes, not through states, nor through classes, nor through political parties... but right through every human heart – and through all human hearts.’ We are all created in the image of God. Human beings are capable of acts of great love, courage and heroism. Yet, not one of us (apart from Jesus) is without sin. Do you know what’s in your heart? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 68 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/67 Psalm 31:9-18, Leviticus 17:1-18:30, Mark 14:17-42. Their hearts must have leapt with joy when they saw the word ‘*but*’ ‘*But*’ is a powerful word when facing trouble, tests and temptations Sat, 08 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/67/?ignore 22:56 enclassic08032025-67 1376.52 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 67: '... BUT' Psalm 31:9-18, Leviticus 17:1-18:30, Mark 14:17-42. Their hearts must have leapt with joy when they saw the word ‘*but*’ ‘*But*’ is a powerful word when facing trouble, tests and temptations During one of the severe potato famines in Ireland, a number of families wrote letters to their landlord saying they had absolutely no money at all to pay their rent and begged to be let off all their debts. The Irish landlord was Canon Andrew Robert Fausset, born near Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, Ireland, in 1821. Canon Fausset wrote back to his tenants. He said it was quite impossible to let them off their debts. It would set a bad precedent. They had to pay every single penny. ‘But,’ he wrote, ‘I enclose something that might help you.’ In contrast to so many of the other landlords at the time, he sent a cheque for a very large sum of money – which far more than covered all their debts. Their hearts must have leapt with joy when they saw the word ‘but’. ‘But’ is a powerful word when facing trouble, tests and temptations. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 67 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/66 Psalm 31:1-8, Leviticus 15:1-16:34, Mark 13:32-14:16. As I look back on my life, I can see many occasions when God has rescued me As you face difficult situations you can trust that God will rescue you Fri, 07 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/66/?ignore 26:52 enclassic07032025-66 1612.09 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 66: God Has Rescued Me Psalm 31:1-8, Leviticus 15:1-16:34, Mark 13:32-14:16. As I look back on my life, I can see many occasions when God has rescued me As you face difficult situations you can trust that God will rescue you Tony Bullimore, aged fifty-six, was one of Britain’s most experienced transatlantic yachtsmen. He was feared dead after his sixty-foot yacht, Exide Challenger, capsized amid the icy vastness of the Southern Ocean, two months into the Vendée Globe round-the-world race. The keel came off in fifty-foot waves. The boat went over. In his book, Saved, Bullimore described it as being like the Niagara Falls upside down. For four days he was entombed in a dark, noisy, wet and cold upside-down world with fifty-foot swells and a temperature hovering around freezing. He suffered the discomfort of seasickness and drawing breath from a few feet of air between the water level and what was once the bottom of the boat. He was more than a thousand miles from the nearest land. As the air supply diminished he prayed that he would be rescued. It was the Royal Australian Navy that came to the rescue. With modern satellite and surveillance technology the Australian government had pinpointed the progress of all the yachts and sent out a rescue team. After four days, Bullimore heard banging on the side of his yacht. He said afterwards, ‘I can never thank the Australian Navy enough for what they have done because they have genuinely saved my life, there is no question.’ The first words when he emerged were, ‘Thank God, it is a miracle.’ He said, ‘I felt like I had been born all over again. I felt like a new man. I felt I had been brought to life again.’ As one journalist put it at the time, ‘A rescue that succeeds against all odds and every expectation is the best of all stories. It is pure and spontaneous joy.’ Supremely Jesus ‘gave himself for our sins to rescue us’ (Galatians 1:4a). As I look back on my life, I can see many occasions when God has rescued me. As you face difficult situations you can trust that God will rescue you. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 66 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/65 Psalm 30:8-12, Leviticus 14:1-57, Mark 13:1-31. He constantly turns people’s lives around He turns despair into joy (Psalm 30:11) Thu, 06 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/65/?ignore 23:28 enclassic06032025-65 1408.65 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 65: Turn Your Life Around Psalm 30:8-12, Leviticus 14:1-57, Mark 13:1-31. He constantly turns people’s lives around He turns despair into joy (Psalm 30:11) ‘Big John’ had been living on the streets of London for almost ten years. Before that he had spent over nine years in prison. Most of his teeth were missing. He was addicted to methadone. His nickname on the streets of London was ‘Big John’ because he was a big guy who had once boxed for the Army. ‘Big John’ walked into our night shelter for the homeless at HTB. He came with his friend ‘Little John’. ‘Big John’ loved it and appreciated all the young people who cared for him. He started coming to church. He came on Alpha. He encountered Jesus. He was filled with the Holy Spirit on the Alpha Weekend. He came off the drugs. God turned his life right around – from despair to joy. He started telling his friends on the streets about Jesus. Each week he would turn up at church with more friends. His nickname, on the streets, changed from ‘Big John’ to ‘John the Baptist’! One of the guys he had met on the Alpha weekend was in the property business and found him accommodation. A dentist in our congregation volunteered to replace all his missing teeth. He reconciled with his mother and his daughter and built a relationship with his grandchildren, whom he had never met before. Following Jesus is life-changing. He constantly turns people’s lives around. He turns despair into joy (Psalm 30:11). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 65 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/64 Proverbs 6:20-29, Leviticus 13:1-59, Mark 12:28-44. Even more important than a healthy physical heart is the condition of your spiritual heart In the passages for today we see five key ways to keep your spiritual heart healthy Wed, 05 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/64/?ignore 23:26 enclassic05032025-64 1406.88 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 64: How to Keep Healthy Proverbs 6:20-29, Leviticus 13:1-59, Mark 12:28-44. Even more important than a healthy physical heart is the condition of your spiritual heart In the passages for today we see five key ways to keep your spiritual heart healthy Avoid smoking and using tobacco products Be physically active every day Eat a heart-healthy diet Maintain a healthy weight Manage your blood pressure Control your total cholesterol Keep your blood sugar healthy According to the American Heart Association, these are the seven things that you should do to keep your physical heart healthy. The human heart weighs less than a pound (450g). It beats 100,000 times a day and over 2.5 billion times in the average lifetime. Your system of blood vessels – arteries, veins and capillaries – is over 60,000 miles long – enough to go around the world more than twice. This is not just an amazing spectacle; it is the ‘heart’ of human life. Without your heart your body would quickly cease to work. Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the Western world. Jesus spoke a great deal about the heart. The heart is a metaphor for the inner life. The word Jesus used means the seat of the physical, spiritual and mental life. The heart is the centre and the source of the whole inner being – thinking, feeling, and willing. God is concerned, primarily, about your heart. He wants you to have a healthy heart. He said to Samuel, ‘The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart’ (1 Samuel 16:7). Even more important than a healthy physical heart is the condition of your spiritual heart. In the passages for today we see five key ways to keep your spiritual heart healthy. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 64 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/63 Psalm 30:1-7, Leviticus 11:1-12:8, Mark 12:13-27. The passages for today remind us that God is the ‘everlasting God’ (Isaiah 40:28) God views things through a wide-angled lens: he takes a long view and he wants you to enjoy a lifetime of his favour (Psalm 30:5) Tue, 04 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/63/?ignore 21:48 enclassic04032025-63 1308.53 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 63: How to Enjoy a Lifetime of Favour Psalm 30:1-7, Leviticus 11:1-12:8, Mark 12:13-27. The passages for today remind us that God is the ‘everlasting God’ (Isaiah 40:28) God views things through a wide-angled lens: he takes a long view and he wants you to enjoy a lifetime of his favour (Psalm 30:5) When I was at university I was taken to hear a talk entitled, ‘Where will you be in ten years’ time?’ It was intended to be an encouragement to us to persevere in our faith in spite of all the challenges that life would hold after university. All that I can remember is thinking at the time, ‘Ten years! That is a lifetime away.’ I could not even begin to imagine that far ahead. Now, by contrast, I look back at my life and ten years ago seems like yesterday. Life has flown past. It seems to be accelerating at an alarming rate. I now understand the wisdom of those who encouraged us early on to take a long view. We live in a society of instant gratification. Instant meals. Instant messaging. Instant cash. Instant loans. Instant fake tans. Instant fortunes won. There is a great danger of short-termism. The passages for today remind us that God is the ‘everlasting God’ (Isaiah 40:28). God views things through a wide-angled lens: he takes a long view and he wants you to enjoy a lifetime of his favour (Psalm 30:5). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 63 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/62 Psalm 29:1-11, Leviticus 9:1-10:20, Mark 11:27-12:12. Of course, it can be abused However, godly, spiritual authority is a source of great blessing Mon, 03 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/62/?ignore 21:27 enclassic03032025-62 1287.76 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 62: How to Exercise Spiritual Authority Psalm 29:1-11, Leviticus 9:1-10:20, Mark 11:27-12:12. Of course, it can be abused However, godly, spiritual authority is a source of great blessing I first met him when he came to speak at a student weekend while I was studying at Cambridge University. Although he was the guest speaker, he was very gracious and I sensed a deep humility. When he spoke, he did so with real authority. His message was simple and focused on telling people about Jesus. A few years later he came to be the vicar of Holy Trinity Brompton. This modest and deeply spiritual man not only led our church (and others) at a key moment in its growth, but also trained some of the most influential Christian leaders in the UK over the last 40 years. David Watson, David MacInnes, Sandy Millar and John Irvine were all curates to John Collins (1925-2022), a clergyman who never sought prominence or platform, but who invested his whole life in serving others. His authority did not come from his position in life or from worldly power. Rather, his authority came from his relationship with Jesus Christ. It was self-authenticating. Today people are very wary of authority. Of course, it can be abused. However, godly, spiritual authority is a source of great blessing. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 62 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/61 Psalm 28:1-9, Leviticus 7:11-8:36, Mark 11:1-25. Without that relationship there will always be a deep sense of aloneness and a lack of ultimate meaning and purpose At the heart of the Christian faith is this relationship with God where we find what we are living for Sun, 02 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/61/?ignore 25:10 enclassic02032025-61 1510.19 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 61: A Loving, Ongoing Relationship Psalm 28:1-9, Leviticus 7:11-8:36, Mark 11:1-25. Without that relationship there will always be a deep sense of aloneness and a lack of ultimate meaning and purpose At the heart of the Christian faith is this relationship with God where we find what we are living for In one of his last songs, Freddie Mercury, the lead singer of the rock group Queen, asked the question: ‘Does anybody know what we are living for?’ In spite of the fact that he had amassed a huge fortune and had attracted thousands of fans, Freddie Mercury admitted in an interview shortly before his death in 1991 that he was desperately lonely. He said, ‘You can have everything in the world and still be the loneliest man, and that is the most bitter type of loneliness. Success has brought me world idolisation and millions of pounds, but it’s prevented me from having the one thing we all need – a loving, ongoing relationship.’ There is only one relationship that is completely loving and ongoing, and for which we were created. Without that relationship there will always be a deep sense of aloneness and a lack of ultimate meaning and purpose. At the heart of the Christian faith is this relationship with God where we find what we are living for. How can you and I have a relationship with the Creator of the universe? How in practice can we begin to communicate with God? What is the basis of this relationship? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 61 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/60 Proverbs 6:12-19, Leviticus 5:14-7:10, Mark 10:32-52. The word used for *healed* is the same Greek word as *saved* (*sozo*) Do you see it? The passages for today help us to see the significance of Jesus’ death Sat, 01 Mar 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/60/?ignore 21:57 enclassic01032025-60 1317.28 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 60: My Eyes Were Opened Proverbs 6:12-19, Leviticus 5:14-7:10, Mark 10:32-52. The word used for *healed* is the same Greek word as *saved* (*sozo*) Do you see it? The passages for today help us to see the significance of Jesus’ death It was as if I was blind. I must have heard many times that Jesus died for our sins. But I simply did not see it. I was spiritually blind. But when I understood the cross, my eyes were opened. Since then, I have noticed that as I have attempted to pass on the message of ‘Christ crucified’, there are different responses. Sometimes very intelligent people simply cannot see it (see 1 Corinthians 1:23–25). On the other hand, I am often amazed at the understanding of others, including very young children. For all who see it, it is life changing: ‘to us who are being saved it is the power of God’ (1 Corinthians 1:18). I think it is fascinating that in today’s New Testament passage, after Jesus has explained his death, we have the story of blind Bartimaeus having his eyes opened (Mark 10:46–52). He says to Jesus, ‘I want to see’ (v.51). Jesus replies, ‘“Go… your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus’ (v.52). The word used for healed is the same Greek word as saved (sozo). Do you see it? The passages for today help us to see the significance of Jesus’ death. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 60 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/59 Psalm 27:7-14, Leviticus 4:1-5:13, Mark 10:13-31. The *mercy* of God is available for you In our passages for today we see some examples of people who are recipients of God’s mercy Fri, 28 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/59/?ignore 22:43 enclassic28022025-59 1363.7 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 59: Rich in Mercy Psalm 27:7-14, Leviticus 4:1-5:13, Mark 10:13-31. The *mercy* of God is available for you In our passages for today we see some examples of people who are recipients of God’s mercy A man was having his portrait painted by a successful artist. When the portrait was finished it was unveiled. The man was most unhappy with the result. When asked whether he liked it, he replied, ‘I don’t think it does me justice.’ To which the artist replied, ‘Sir, it is not justice you need, but mercy!’ At the end of the day, we all need mercy even more than justice. God is ‘rich in mercy’ (Ephesians 2:4). The theme of the ‘mercy of God’ runs throughout the Bible. In the original Greek, ‘eleos’ (mercy) also means compassion, pity, clemency. The mercy of God is available for you. In our passages for today we see some examples of people who are recipients of God’s mercy. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 59 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/58 Psalm 27:1-6, Leviticus 1:1-3:17, Mark 9:33-10:12. You are holy to the extent that your life is devoted to him and your actions reflect his character Holiness and *wholeness* are closely related, and God wants the *whole* of your life Thu, 27 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/58/?ignore 23:00 enclassic27022025-58 1380.7 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 58: Six Characteristics of a Holy Life Psalm 27:1-6, Leviticus 1:1-3:17, Mark 9:33-10:12. You are holy to the extent that your life is devoted to him and your actions reflect his character Holiness and *wholeness* are closely related, and God wants the *whole* of your life Do you try to fit Jesus into your schedule? Or do you work your schedule around Jesus? ‘God cannot fit into our plans, we must fit into his,’ writes Eugene Peterson. ‘We can’t use God – God is not a tool or appliance or credit card. Holy is the word that sets God apart and above our attempts to enlist him in our wish-fulfilment fantasies or our utopian schemes for making our mark in the world. Holy means that God is alive on God’s terms, alive in a way that exceeds our experience and imagination. Holy refers to life burning with an intense purity that transforms everything it touches into itself.’ The Hebrew word ‘holy’ (qadosh) probably originally meant ‘separate’ or ‘set apart’. It came to be used to describe the ‘otherness’ of God, and how his character and nature are so much greater and more wonderful than any other person or thing. For something else to be ‘holy’ simply means for it to be dedicated to God. You are holy to the extent that your life is devoted to him and your actions reflect his character. Holiness and wholeness are closely related, and God wants the whole of your life. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 58 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/57 Psalm 26:1-12, Exodus 39:1-40:38, Mark 9:2-32. Perhaps it is not surprising that as society moves away from worshipping *the glory of God*, it turns towards the worship of the ‘glory’ of celebrity and fame We are called to worship God’s glory and reflect it, however imperfectly, in our lives Wed, 26 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/57/?ignore 27:00 enclassic26022025-57 1620.14 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 57: Better Than Fame and Celebrity Psalm 26:1-12, Exodus 39:1-40:38, Mark 9:2-32. Perhaps it is not surprising that as society moves away from worshipping *the glory of God*, it turns towards the worship of the ‘glory’ of celebrity and fame We are called to worship God’s glory and reflect it, however imperfectly, in our lives In a survey of millennials, 50% of young adults said that a major life goal was to become famous. In the past people wanted to be famous for doing something. Now, celebrity has become an end in itself. It has attained god-like characteristics. Not only do people want to be famous, they idolise those who have achieved celebrity status. This widespread interest in famous individuals has been described as ‘the cult of celebrity’. Fame to the ambitious is like salt water to the thirsty. The more you get, the more you want. Madonna, who at one stage was probably the most famous woman on the planet, said, ‘I won’t be happy until I am as famous as God.’ Celebrity and fame are only a pale reflection of true glory. ‘Glory’ is used in the Bible to denote the manifestation of God’s presence. Glory is one of the most common words in the Bible. God’s glory means his importance, reputation, majesty and honour. Perhaps it is not surprising that as society moves away from worshipping the glory of God, it turns towards the worship of the ‘glory’ of celebrity and fame. We are called to worship God’s glory and reflect it, however imperfectly, in our lives. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 57 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/56 Proverbs 6:1-11, Exodus 37:1-38:31, Mark 8:14-9:1. Life is an extraordinary and wonderful gift In the Bible we are constantly urged not to waste this gift, but instead to make the most of our lives Tue, 25 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/56/?ignore 23:50 enclassic25022025-56 1430.36 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 56: How to Make the Most of Your Life Proverbs 6:1-11, Exodus 37:1-38:31, Mark 8:14-9:1. Life is an extraordinary and wonderful gift In the Bible we are constantly urged not to waste this gift, but instead to make the most of our lives ‘People often ask me what Mother Teresa was like,’ writes Shane Claiborne in his book The Irresistible Revolution. ‘Sometimes it’s like they wonder if she glowed in the dark or had a halo. She was short, wrinkled, and precious, maybe even a little ornery, like a beautiful, wise old granny. But there is one thing I will never forget – her feet. Her feet were deformed. Each morning I would stare at them. I wondered if she had contracted leprosy. One day a Sister explained, “Her feet are deformed because we get just enough donated shoes for everyone, and Mother does not want anyone to get stuck with the worst pair, so she digs through and finds them. And years of doing that have deformed her feet.” Years of loving her neighbour as herself deformed her feet.’ When people are asked about the person whose life they most admire, so often the answer is ‘Mother Teresa’. She made the most of her life. It is a paradox, because her life was a life of self-denial, taking up her cross and following Jesus. Life is an extraordinary and wonderful gift. In the Bible we are constantly urged not to waste this gift, but instead to make the most of our lives. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 56 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/55 Psalm 25:16-22, Exodus 35:1-36:38, Mark 7:31-8:13. You reap what you sow, only many times more What you give to the Lord, he multiplies Mon, 24 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/55/?ignore 23:45 enclassic24022025-55 1425.82 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 55: What You Give to God, He Multiplies Psalm 25:16-22, Exodus 35:1-36:38, Mark 7:31-8:13. You reap what you sow, only many times more What you give to the Lord, he multiplies Hattie May Wiatt, a six-year-old girl, lived near Grace Baptist Church in Philadelphia, USA. The Sunday school was very crowded. Russell H. Conwell, the minister, told her that one day they would have buildings big enough to allow everyone to attend. She said, ‘I hope you will. It is so crowded I am afraid to go there alone.’ He replied, ‘When we get the money we will construct one large enough to get all the children in.’ Two years later, in 1886, Hattie May died. After the funeral Hattie’s mother gave the minister a little bag they had found under their daughter’s pillow containing 57 cents in change that she had saved up. Alongside it was a note in her handwriting: ‘To help build bigger so that more children can go to Sunday school.’ The minister changed all the money into pennies and offered each one for sale. He received $250 – and 54 of the cents were given back. The $250 was itself changed into pennies and sold by the newly formed ‘Wiatt Mite Society’. In this way, her 57 cents kept on multiplying. Twenty-six years later, in a talk entitled, ‘The history of the 57 cents’, the minister explained the results of her 57-cent donation: a church with a membership of over 5,600 people, a hospital where tens of thousands of people had been treated, 80,000 young people going through university, 2,000 people going out to preach the gospel – all this happened ‘because Hattie May Wiatt invested her 57 cents’. The theme of multiplication runs throughout the Bible. What cannot be achieved by addition, God does by multiplication. You reap what you sow, only many times more. What you give to the Lord, he multiplies. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 55 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/54 Psalm 25:8-15, Exodus 33:7-34:35, Mark 7:1-30. Just as we need physical food, so we also need spiritual food Spiritual food comes from *hearing the words of God* Sun, 23 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/54/?ignore 23:56 enclassic23022025-54 1436.68 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 54: How to Hear God Psalm 25:8-15, Exodus 33:7-34:35, Mark 7:1-30. Just as we need physical food, so we also need spiritual food Spiritual food comes from *hearing the words of God* When I saw him coming down the street, I would cross the road in order to avoid him. I had met him in my first week at university. He had a shiny, smiley face. I had also met one or two others like him who had that same look on their face. It made me very suspicious! A few months later, I encountered Jesus and realised that these people’s faces were shining because they had been spending time with Jesus, hearing God speak. Like Moses, when he came down from the mountain after hearing God speak to him, their faces were ‘radiant’ (Exodus 34:29,35). Jesus said that ‘people do not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God’ (Matthew 4:4). Just as we need physical food, so we also need spiritual food. Spiritual food comes from hearing the words of God. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 54 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/53 Psalm 25:1-7, Exodus 31:1-33:6, Mark 6:30-56. Nearly always, I start by reading the Bible, as I believe it’s more important that Jesus speaks to me than I speak to him My thoughts from each day are now the basis of these notes that accompany the *Bible in One Year* Sat, 22 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/53/?ignore 24:01 enclassic22022025-53 1441.31 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 53: How to Spend Time with Jesus Psalm 25:1-7, Exodus 31:1-33:6, Mark 6:30-56. Nearly always, I start by reading the Bible, as I believe it’s more important that Jesus speaks to me than I speak to him My thoughts from each day are now the basis of these notes that accompany the *Bible in One Year* I first encountered Jesus in February 1974. I am so grateful to those who taught me, right from the start, the importance of what they called ‘the quiet time’. The old-fashioned expression ‘the quiet time’ (meaning time set aside to read the Bible and pray) probably has its origin in the words of Jesus in today’s New Testament passage, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place’ (Mark 6:31). Practically every morning since I was eighteen years of age, I have begun the day in this way. I try to spend time with Jesus, by myself, in a quiet place. Sometimes it is very brief, sometimes it is longer. But just as I do not like beginning the day without breakfast, I cannot imagine beginning the day without spiritual food. Nearly always, I start by reading the Bible, as I believe it’s more important that Jesus speaks to me than I speak to him. My thoughts from each day are now the basis of these notes that accompany the Bible in One Year. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 53 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/52 Proverbs 5:15-23, Exodus 29:1-30:38, Mark 6:6-29. (I did try to use this illustration once but, for reasons I cannot remember, it went horribly wrong!)The point that he makes so well, and that comes out of the passage in Ecclesiastes, is that while friendships and marriages are wonderful gifts, having God at the centre of a friendship or marriage provides an invisible thread of enormous strength In today’s passages, we see how two are stronger than one in marriage, mission and ministry Fri, 21 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/52/?ignore 28:07 enclassic21022025-52 1687.35 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 52: Better Together Proverbs 5:15-23, Exodus 29:1-30:38, Mark 6:6-29. (I did try to use this illustration once but, for reasons I cannot remember, it went horribly wrong!)The point that he makes so well, and that comes out of the passage in Ecclesiastes, is that while friendships and marriages are wonderful gifts, having God at the centre of a friendship or marriage provides an invisible thread of enormous strength In today’s passages, we see how two are stronger than one in marriage, mission and ministry I have never been very good at using visual aids. I am not a very practical person. On the other hand, my great friend, Nicky Lee (who, together with his wife Sila, has pioneered The Marriage Course and other courses for couples and parents), is extremely practical and often uses visual aids. When he is speaking at weddings he sometimes uses a visual aid to illustrate the passage in Ecclesiastes 4, where the writer says, ‘Two are better than one… A cord of three strands is not quickly broken’ (vv.9,12). As a picture of marriage, Nicky takes two strands of different coloured wool and weaves them together. Together they are stronger and yet they can quite easily be broken. Then he takes a third strand of nearly invisible fishing line. With this third strand, it is almost impossible to break the two pieces of wool. (I did try to use this illustration once but, for reasons I cannot remember, it went horribly wrong!) The point that he makes so well, and that comes out of the passage in Ecclesiastes, is that while friendships and marriages are wonderful gifts, having God at the centre of a friendship or marriage provides an invisible thread of enormous strength. In today’s passages, we see how two are stronger than one in marriage, mission and ministry. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 52 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/51 Psalm 24:1-10, Exodus 27:1-28:43, Mark 5:21-6:6. There was such a sense of the presence of God on the island that a businessman visiting said, ‘The moment I stepped ashore I was suddenly conscious of the presence of God ’ God was *meeting* with his people Thu, 20 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/51/?ignore 24:59 enclassic20022025-51 1499.32 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 51: How to Meet with God Psalm 24:1-10, Exodus 27:1-28:43, Mark 5:21-6:6. There was such a sense of the presence of God on the island that a businessman visiting said, ‘The moment I stepped ashore I was suddenly conscious of the presence of God ’ God was *meeting* with his people In 1949, one of the greatest revivals in the history of the United Kingdom took place in the Hebrides. Duncan Campbell, the preacher at the centre of the revival, later described how it began. Seven men and two women had decided to pray earnestly for revival. One night, at a prayer meeting held in a barn, a young man took his Bible and read from Psalm 24 (the psalm for today): ‘Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? The one who has clean hands and a pure heart’ (vv.3–4a). He shut his Bible and said, ‘It seems to me just so much sentimental humbug to be praying as we are praying, to be waiting as we are waiting here, if we ourselves are not rightly related to God.’ He asked God to reveal if his own hands were clean and his own heart was pure. That night God met with them in a powerful way. As they waited on God ‘his awesome presence swept the barn’. They came to understand that revival is always related to holiness. A power was let loose that shook the parish from centre to circumference. ‘Three men were lying on the straw having fallen under the power of God. They were lifted out of the ordinary into the extraordinary. They knew that God had visited them and neither they nor their parish could ever be the same again.’ Four miles away, two sisters aged eighty-two and eighty-four had a vision of God. They saw the churches crowded and the youth and the community flocking into the churches. They had ‘a glorious assurance that God was coming in revival power’. Duncan Campbell was invited to come and speak to them. When he arrived in the parish church, it was packed out with hundreds waiting outside. No one could explain where they had come from. Within ten minutes of the service starting, men and woman were crying out to God. They were meeting with God in all his holiness. There was such a sense of the presence of God on the island that a businessman visiting said, ‘The moment I stepped ashore I was suddenly conscious of the presence of God.’ God was meeting with his people. How do you and I meet with God? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 51 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/50 Psalm 23:1-6, Exodus 25:1-26:37, Mark 4:30-5:20. He is ‘*My* God’ (Philippians 4:19) God loves *me* Wed, 19 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/50/?ignore 25:32 enclassic19022025-50 1532.47 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 50: God Loves Me Psalm 23:1-6, Exodus 25:1-26:37, Mark 4:30-5:20. He is ‘*My* God’ (Philippians 4:19) God loves *me* High on the moors in the Welsh highlands, two ministers met a young shepherd boy who had impaired hearing and was illiterate. They explained that Jesus wanted to be his shepherd, who would always look after him as he, the boy, looked after his sheep. They taught him to repeat the words, ‘The Lord is my shepherd’ (Psalm 23:1), using the fingers and thumb of his right hand to help him remember, starting with his thumb and then a finger for each word. They told him to pause at the fourth word ‘my’, and remember, ‘this psalm was meant for me’. Some years later, one of them was passing through that same village and asked after the shepherd boy. The previous winter there had been terrible storms and the boy had died on the hills, buried in a snowdrift. The villager who was telling the story said, ‘There was one thing, however, that we didn’t understand. When his body was discovered he was holding the fourth finger of his right hand.’ The ‘parable’ illustrates the nature of God’s personal love for each one of us. Many people today think of God as some great impersonal force. However, the God of the Bible is very different. His relationship with us is personal. St Paul wrote, ‘The Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me’ (Galatians 2:20). He is ‘My God’ (Philippians 4:19). God loves me. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 50 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/49 Psalm 22:22-31, Exodus 23:1-24:18, Mark 3:31-4:29. The New Testament is obviously about Jesus However, Jesus said of the Scriptures that were available in his lifetime (that is, the Old Testament): ‘These are the very Scriptures that testify *about me’* (John 5:39) Tue, 18 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/49/?ignore 23:56 enclassic18022025-49 1436.71 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 49: Your Love Letter Psalm 22:22-31, Exodus 23:1-24:18, Mark 3:31-4:29. The New Testament is obviously about Jesus However, Jesus said of the Scriptures that were available in his lifetime (that is, the Old Testament): ‘These are the very Scriptures that testify *about me’* (John 5:39) Thankfully, there have been very few times since our relationship began that I have been apart from my wife Pippa. However, before we were married, there was a period of three weeks when I was away. In those days, without email or mobile phones, our only way of communication was by letter. I wrote every day. She wrote every day. I remember so well the feeling of intense excitement and joy when I saw the handwriting on the envelope and knew that a letter from Pippa was inside. I would quickly take the letter and go off to a quiet place by myself to study it! The actual letter wasn’t valuable, but the fact that it was written by the person I love made it so precious to me. The Bible is a love letter from God to you. What makes the Bible so exciting is not the book itself, but the fact that through it we encounter the person we love. The whole Bible is about Jesus. The New Testament is obviously about Jesus. However, Jesus said of the Scriptures that were available in his lifetime (that is, the Old Testament): ‘These are the very Scriptures that testify about me’ (John 5:39). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 49 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/48 Proverbs 5:1-14, Exodus 21:1-22:31, Mark 2:18-3:30. God has given us *a conscience* so that we know that some things are ‘good’ and others are ‘evil’ But our consciences can be dulled and they need to be sharpened by objective truth Mon, 17 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/48/?ignore 26:53 enclassic17022025-48 1613.79 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 48: Sharpen Your Conscience Proverbs 5:1-14, Exodus 21:1-22:31, Mark 2:18-3:30. God has given us *a conscience* so that we know that some things are ‘good’ and others are ‘evil’ But our consciences can be dulled and they need to be sharpened by objective truth Jesus asks the question in today’s passage, ‘Which is lawful… to do good or to do evil...?’ (Mark 3:4). I used to be an atheist. I believed that our bodies and minds and the circumstances into which we were born determined all our actions. Logically, it seemed to me, if there is no God there is no absolute basis for morality. Therefore, following this logic, there is no absolute ‘good’ or ‘evil’. Yet, deep down, I knew that there was such a thing as ‘good’ and ‘evil’. Even though I did not believe in God, I used those words. However, it was not until I encountered Jesus that I understood that there is a God who has created a moral universe. In the Scriptures, and in particular in the person of Jesus Christ, the nature of good and evil are revealed. God has given us a conscience so that we know that some things are ‘good’ and others are ‘evil’. But our consciences can be dulled and they need to be sharpened by objective truth. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 48 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/47 Psalm 22:12-21, Exodus 19:1-20:26, Mark 1:29-2:17. '*Put first things first* The things which matter most to God should take first place in our lives Sun, 16 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/47/?ignore 24:17 enclassic16022025-47 1457.79 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 47: Put First Things First Psalm 22:12-21, Exodus 19:1-20:26, Mark 1:29-2:17. '*Put first things first* The things which matter most to God should take first place in our lives Shortly after we were married, Pippa and I went to a conference about marriage. One of the sessions I will never forget was about priorities. We were given five cards – each with a word on it: 'work', 'God', 'ministry', 'husband/wife' and 'children'. We were asked to rank these in order of priority. With hindsight, I can see I got them in completely the wrong order. I put 'God' first (at least I got that one right – but it was fairly obvious!), followed by ministry, wife, work, and, finally, children (we didn't have any children at that stage so they didn't seem very important!). As the leaders of the conference took us through these priorities, it became clear to me that my order should be: first of all God, then my wife (my primary calling), our children, my job (my primary ministry), and finally my ministry – which, though obviously very important, should not be allowed to displace the primary responsibilities of my life. As the philosopher Goethe put it, 'Things which matter most must never be at the mercy of things which matter least.' Put first things first. The things which matter most to God should take first place in our lives. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 47 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/46 Psalm 22:1-11, Exodus 17:1-18:27, Mark 1:1-28. On the other hand, there have also been spiritual lows – desert experiences, bereavements, disappointments, failures, temptations, opposition, health issues and exhaustion In the passages for today we see how spiritual highs and lows are closely connected Sat, 15 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/46/?ignore 22:43 enclassic15022025-46 1363.07 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 46: The Highs and Lows of Life Psalm 22:1-11, Exodus 17:1-18:27, Mark 1:1-28. On the other hand, there have also been spiritual lows – desert experiences, bereavements, disappointments, failures, temptations, opposition, health issues and exhaustion In the passages for today we see how spiritual highs and lows are closely connected As I look back on my almost fifty years as a Christian, there have been times of great spiritual highs – experiences of the Holy Spirit, God’s love, the joy of seeing people encounter Jesus for the first time, amazing answers to prayer and seeing the kingdom of God advancing. On the other hand, there have also been spiritual lows – desert experiences, bereavements, disappointments, failures, temptations, opposition, health issues and exhaustion. In the passages for today we see how spiritual highs and lows are closely connected. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 46 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/45 Psalm 21:8-13, Exodus 15:1-16:36, Matthew 28:1-20. 20) The result of the resurrection is not only his power and his presence but also his provision Fri, 14 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/45/?ignore 24:00 enclassic14022025-45 1440.73 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 45: The Most Important Question in the World Psalm 21:8-13, Exodus 15:1-16:36, Matthew 28:1-20. 20) The result of the resurrection is not only his power and his presence but also his provision The brilliant professor of philosophy at London University, C.E.M. Joad, was not a Christian. He was asked on a radio programme, ‘If you could meet any person from the past and ask them just one question, whom would you meet and what question would you ask?’ Professor Joad answered without hesitation: ‘I would meet Jesus Christ and ask him the most important question in the world – “Did you or did you not rise from the dead?”’ There came a day in Professor Joad’s life when he assessed the evidence, encountered Jesus himself and wrote a book called, Recovery of Belief. If Jesus Christ is risen from the dead, this changes everything. When the New Testament writers speak of God’s love they point to the cross. When they speak of God’s power they point to the resurrection. God’s ‘incomparably great power’ was ‘exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead’ (Ephesians 1:19–20). The risen Jesus says to his disciples, ‘All authority (all power to rule) in heaven and on earth has been given to me’ (Matthew 28:18, AMP). The resurrection means that the risen Jesus is present with you now. Jesus continues, ‘I am with you always’ (v.20). The result of the resurrection is not only his power and his presence but also his provision. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 45 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/44 Proverbs 4:20-27, Exodus 13:1-14:31, Matthew 27:45-66. ’ and makes something beautiful out of our lives Thu, 13 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/44/?ignore 23:20 enclassic13022025-44 1400.45 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 44: God Works for Your Good Proverbs 4:20-27, Exodus 13:1-14:31, Matthew 27:45-66. ’ and makes something beautiful out of our lives Lord Radstock was staying in a hotel in Norway in the mid-nineteenth century. He heard a little child playing the piano downstairs in the hallway. She was making a terrible noise: ‘Plink... plonk... plink...’. It was driving him mad! A man came and sat beside her and began playing alongside her, filling in the gaps. The result was the most beautiful music. He later discovered that the man playing alongside was the girl’s father, Alexander Borodin, composer of the opera Prince Igor. God calls you into a relationship that involves cooperation with him. The Christian faith is primarily about what has been done for you by God in Christ. However, we are not mere spectators. You are called to respond. God involves you in his plans. God comes and sits alongside you and ‘in all things... works for the good’ (Romans 8:28). He takes our ‘plink… plonk... plink...’ and makes something beautiful out of our lives. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 44 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/43 Psalm 21:1-7, Exodus 11:1-12:51, Matthew 27:11-44. In an even more amazing way, Jesus did not save himself because he was out to save you and me Today, focus your thoughts on Jesus, the Saviour of the world, and meditate on how he saved you Wed, 12 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/43/?ignore 25:59 enclassic12022025-43 1559.46 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 43: He Saved You Psalm 21:1-7, Exodus 11:1-12:51, Matthew 27:11-44. In an even more amazing way, Jesus did not save himself because he was out to save you and me Today, focus your thoughts on Jesus, the Saviour of the world, and meditate on how he saved you On 13 January 1982, Air Florida Flight 90 taking off from Washington, DC, crashed into the Potomac River. It was winter and the river was full of ice. The crash happened near a bridge going over the river. The TV cameras could see everything. Millions of viewers, sitting in their living rooms, watched as a helicopter overhead let down a life-belt on a line to a man struggling in the water. He grabbed the line, swam to another survivor just by him, clipped the woman in and they hoisted her up to safety. The helicopter let down the line again, and again the man did the same thing. He swam to someone else, and rescued them. He saved others, before finally, exhausted, he himself drowned. Why did this man not save himself? The answer is that he was out to save others. In an even more amazing way, Jesus did not save himself because he was out to save you and me. Today, focus your thoughts on Jesus, the Saviour of the world, and meditate on how he saved you. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 43 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/42 Psalm 20:1-9, Exodus 9:1-10:29, Matthew 26:69-27:10. It is the story of God’s desire and purpose to free his people You are set free Tue, 11 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/42/?ignore 25:29 enclassic11022025-42 1529.81 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 42: Freedom Psalm 20:1-9, Exodus 9:1-10:29, Matthew 26:69-27:10. It is the story of God’s desire and purpose to free his people You are set free Steve McQueen’s film Twelve Years a Slave is based on the memoirs of Solomon Northup, born free in New York state but kidnapped in Washington DC in 1841, sold into slavery and kept in bondage for twelve years in Louisiana. He describes at length the horrors of slavery on the cotton and sugar plantations. Eventually, in 1853, he was rescued from slavery and reunited with his family. He wrote, ‘They embraced me, and with tears flowing down their cheeks, hung upon my neck. But I draw a veil over a scene that can better be imagined than described... I have been restored to happiness and liberty.’ Slavery, in any form, is a horrific evil. Freedom is a wonderful blessing. Moses is the liberator of God’s people in the Old Testament. He foreshadows Jesus – the supreme liberator. As Moses set God’s people free from slavery, so Jesus sets you free from slavery to sin. ‘Freedom’ is probably the best contemporary word to define what the Bible means by ‘salvation’. The whole Bible could be summed up as the ‘history of salvation’. It is the story of God’s desire and purpose to free his people. You are set free. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 42 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/41 Psalm 19:7-14, Exodus 6:13-8:32, Matthew 26:47-68. God is continually communicating with us He does so, primarily, through the life-changing words of the Bible Mon, 10 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/41/?ignore 27:35 enclassic10022025-41 1655.85 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 41: Life-Changing Words Psalm 19:7-14, Exodus 6:13-8:32, Matthew 26:47-68. God is continually communicating with us He does so, primarily, through the life-changing words of the Bible My father wanted to go to Russia before he died. We went there on holiday as a family. At that time Bibles were strictly illegal in the Soviet Union. I took with me some Russian Bibles. While I was there I went to churches and looked for people who seemed to be genuine Christians. (Church meetings were often infiltrated by the KGB.) On one occasion, I followed a man down the street after a service. I went up to him and tapped him on the shoulder. There was nobody about. I took out one of my Bibles and handed it to him. For a moment, he had an expression of utmost disbelief. Then he took from his pocket a New Testament, which was probably 100 years old. The pages were so threadbare they were virtually transparent. When he realised that he had received a whole Bible, he was elated. He didn’t speak any English and I didn’t speak any Russian. But we hugged each other and he started to run up and down the street jumping for joy. The words of God are ‘more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb’ (Psalm 19:10). Why are the words of God so precious? Jesus said: ‘People do not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God’ (Matthew 4:4). The original expression means ‘is continually coming out of the mouth of God’; it is like a stream pouring forth and, like the stream of a fountain, it is never static. God is continually communicating with us. He does so, primarily, through the life-changing words of the Bible. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 41 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/40 Proverbs 4:10-19, Exodus 4:1-6:12, Matthew 26:31-46. Jesus did it God’s way Moses, on the other hand, as we will see today, made five excuses before eventually agreeing to follow God’s way Sun, 09 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/40/?ignore 24:16 enclassic09022025-40 1456.98 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 40: Five Excuses Proverbs 4:10-19, Exodus 4:1-6:12, Matthew 26:31-46. Jesus did it God’s way Moses, on the other hand, as we will see today, made five excuses before eventually agreeing to follow God’s way It is the song most frequently played at British funeral services. It is the most remade song in history. It was popularised by Frank Sinatra on his 1969 album, My Way. In the Philippines, ‘My Way’ is so popular in karaoke bars that it has been declared responsible for a number of deaths where arguments over performance degenerated into violence! ‘And did it my way! Yes, it was my way!’ ‘I did it my way’ is the way of the world. It is not the way of Jesus. Jesus said, ‘Yet not as I will, but as you will’ (Matthew 26:39). He prays, ‘May your will be done’ (v.42). He made no excuses. Jesus did it God’s way. Moses, on the other hand, as we will see today, made five excuses before eventually agreeing to follow God’s way. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 40 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/39 Psalm 19:1-6, Exodus 1:1-3:22, Matthew 26:1-30. Perhaps you are facing hostility in your workplace or even in your family because of your faith The passages today not only highlight the reality of living in a hostile environment, but they also point out how you can survive and thrive in the midst of such hostility Sat, 08 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/39/?ignore 27:01 enclassic08022025-39 1621.71 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 39: How to Live in a Hostile Environment Psalm 19:1-6, Exodus 1:1-3:22, Matthew 26:1-30. Perhaps you are facing hostility in your workplace or even in your family because of your faith The passages today not only highlight the reality of living in a hostile environment, but they also point out how you can survive and thrive in the midst of such hostility Hundreds of thousands of Christians are among those who have fled Iraq and Syria in the midst of Islamic extremism and conflict. Christians face the threat of systematic torture and mass executions. Isis has declared Christianity as the number one enemy. Millions of Christians live in countries where they are persecuted for their faith. Many governments try to control the growth of the church. Even in traditionally Christian countries, sometimes there is hostility towards vibrant Christianity. Hostility to the people of God is not something new. People are often threatened by success, growth and large numbers. Perhaps you are facing hostility in your workplace or even in your family because of your faith. The passages today not only highlight the reality of living in a hostile environment, but they also point out how you can survive and thrive in the midst of such hostility. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 39 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/38 Psalm 18:43-50, Job 40:3-42:17, Matthew 25:14-46. Use them or lose them He is faithful to us and he expects us to be faithful to him Fri, 07 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/38/?ignore 24:49 enclassic07022025-38 1489.5 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 38: Use It or Lose It Psalm 18:43-50, Job 40:3-42:17, Matthew 25:14-46. Use them or lose them He is faithful to us and he expects us to be faithful to him Myra Hindley was one of the most notorious murderers of the twentieth century. Her crimes were almost unbelievably horrific. Yet, one person took it upon himself to visit her regularly while she was in prison. Lord Longford (1905–2001) was a controversial figure who spent much of his life visiting prisoners, including Myra Hindley. Yet, no one can doubt his compassion and his faithfulness, both to God and to those he visited. When he died, former prisoners joined hundreds of mourners to say farewell to the man who had spent his life faithfully fighting for society’s outcasts. He found inspiration in the words of Jesus from today’s passage. On his deathbed he asked his wife, ‘You know what the most important quotation from the Bible is?’ He spoke his last words by answering his own question, quoting the words of Jesus: ‘I was in prison and you came to visit me’ (Matthew 25:36). Life is not a competition that you have to win. It is not supposed to be a rat race. Life is a huge privilege and an opportunity. God has trusted you with gifts and abilities, which he wants you to use. Use them or lose them. He is faithful to us and he expects us to be faithful to him. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 38 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/37 Psalm 18:37-42, Job 38:1-40:2, Matthew 24:32-25:13. In today’s passages, we see three examples of big questions that are frequently asked In answer to each of these questions there are some things we know (‘the things revealed’) and some things we don’t know (‘the secret things’) Thu, 06 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/37/?ignore 22:49 enclassic06022025-37 1369.29 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 37: The Secret Things Psalm 18:37-42, Job 38:1-40:2, Matthew 24:32-25:13. In today’s passages, we see three examples of big questions that are frequently asked In answer to each of these questions there are some things we know (‘the things revealed’) and some things we don’t know (‘the secret things’) When I first encountered Jesus, I thought I had to know the answer to every question about faith. However, the more I have studied the Bible, the more I have realised that we do not need to know the answer to everything. There is such a thing as healthy agnosticism, or what might be described as biblical agnosticism. There are some questions to which we do know the answer. But there are other questions to which the best answer we can give is, ‘I don’t know.’ ‘The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us’ (Deuteronomy 29:29a). We need to be clear about what the Bible is clear about. Don’t be agnostic about what you can know. Equally, don’t be dogmatic about the things that the Bible is agnostic about. In today’s passages, we see three examples of big questions that are frequently asked. In answer to each of these questions there are some things we know (‘the things revealed’) and some things we don’t know (‘the secret things’). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 37 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/36 Proverbs 4:1-9, Job 35:1-37:24, Matthew 24:1-31. Each day you have great potential: either to destroy or to build In our passages for today we see *six keys* to using your words for good Wed, 05 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/36/?ignore 22:28 enclassic05022025-36 1348.75 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 36: How to Use Your Words for Good Proverbs 4:1-9, Job 35:1-37:24, Matthew 24:1-31. Each day you have great potential: either to destroy or to build In our passages for today we see *six keys* to using your words for good If you include scientific words, there are over 1,000,000 words in the English language. The average person knows about 20,000 words, uses 2,000 different words a week and speaks about 16,000 words a day. Your words matter. However, what matters most is not the number of words you speak but the kind of words you choose and the purpose for which you use them. The apostle James tells us that although ‘the tongue is a small part of the body’ it is extremely powerful (James 3:5). In the passages for today, we see how your words can be used, just as the apostle James describes, for good or evil. Each day you have great potential: either to destroy or to build. In our passages for today we see six keys to using your words for good. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 36 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/35 Psalm 18:25-36, Job 33:1-34:37, Matthew 23:1-39. You have *influence* over others in different ways To be called by God to influence others is an enormous privilege, but it comes with great responsibility Tue, 04 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/35/?ignore 25:21 enclassic04022025-35 1521.84 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 35: Seven Characteristics of a Good Leader Psalm 18:25-36, Job 33:1-34:37, Matthew 23:1-39. You have *influence* over others in different ways To be called by God to influence others is an enormous privilege, but it comes with great responsibility ‘Leadership is influence,’ writes John C. Maxwell, whose organisations have trained more than 1 million leaders worldwide. He points out that, according to sociologists, even the most isolated individual will influence 10,000 other people during his or her lifetime! In one sense there is only one leader. In our New Testament reading today, Jesus says, ‘There is only one Life-Leader for you... Christ’ (Matthew 23:10, MSG). On the other hand, every Christian is called to be a leader in the sense that other people will look to you as an example. You have influence over others in different ways. To be called by God to influence others is an enormous privilege, but it comes with great responsibility. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 35 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/34 Psalm 18:16-24, Job 30:1-32:22, Matthew 22:15-46. But there are also *times of victory* In the passages for today we see three different types of victory Mon, 03 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/34/?ignore 25:22 enclassic03022025-34 1522.18 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 34: Three Types of Victory in Your Life Psalm 18:16-24, Job 30:1-32:22, Matthew 22:15-46. But there are also *times of victory* In the passages for today we see three different types of victory José Henriquez was one of the thirty-three miners trapped 2,300 feet underground when a section of the San José copper mine in Northern Chile collapsed. It was 5 August 2010. For seventeen days all rescue attempts failed. There was no sign of life in the copper mine. The trapped miners had enough food for three days and a little drinking water. They faced the prospect of an agonising death through starvation. I interviewed José Henriquez and his wife Bianca at HTB. He told how they had prayed to God for a miracle. He described the moment, on 22 August, when a drill broke through into the tunnel where the men were trapped. They hammered the drill with iron rods. They sprayed paint on it. They sent up many messages on it. Only one stayed on the drill as it went back up to the surface. The message read, ‘We’re fine. The 33 in the shelter.’ In total, the men survived a record sixty-nine days underground before they were brought to the surface. More than a billion people watched the rescue live on television. There were extraordinary scenes as everyone celebrated a wonderful victory. The life of faith is full of challenges, difficulties and trials. But there are also times of victory. In the passages for today we see three different types of victory. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 34 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/33 Psalm 18:7-15, Job 25:1-29:25, Matthew 21:33-22:14. In our Old Testament passage for today, Job speaks of ‘God’s *intimate friendship*’ (Job 29:4) It is only when you understand the transcendence of God that you see how amazing his immanence is, and what a huge privilege it is to be able to enjoy intimate friendship with God Sun, 02 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/33/?ignore 25:24 enclassic02022025-33 1524.69 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 33: Intimate Friendship Psalm 18:7-15, Job 25:1-29:25, Matthew 21:33-22:14. In our Old Testament passage for today, Job speaks of ‘God’s *intimate friendship*’ (Job 29:4) It is only when you understand the transcendence of God that you see how amazing his immanence is, and what a huge privilege it is to be able to enjoy intimate friendship with God Nick Hills is one of the cleverest people I have ever met. He is a scholar and an intellectual. He has a brilliant mind. We were at school and university together. About three months after my first encounter with Jesus Christ (as a first-year student), he too had an experience of Jesus. (In fact, he went on to help Justin Welby, who is now Archbishop of Canterbury, find faith in Jesus). Immediately, Nick started reading massive theological books. I remember asking him what he was reading about. He replied that he was reading about the ‘transcendence and immanence’ of God. I had no idea what he meant. I had to look up both words in the dictionary. ‘Transcendence’ and ‘immanence’ describe the almost paradoxical nature of our relationship with God. The ‘transcendence’ of God means that God exists apart from, and is not subject to the limitations of, the material universe. He is above and beyond, surpassing and excelling, greatly superior to us. On the other hand, the ‘immanence’ of God means that it is possible to experience his immediate friendship. In our Old Testament passage for today, Job speaks of ‘God’s intimate friendship’ (Job 29:4). It is only when you understand the transcendence of God that you see how amazing his immanence is, and what a huge privilege it is to be able to enjoy intimate friendship with God. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 33 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/32 Proverbs 3:21-35, Job 22:1-24:25, Matthew 21:18-32. All loving relationships involve some element of trust Faith is trust in God that transforms all your other relationships Sat, 01 Feb 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/32/?ignore 22:45 enclassic01022025-32 1365.94 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 32: You Can Trust God Proverbs 3:21-35, Job 22:1-24:25, Matthew 21:18-32. All loving relationships involve some element of trust Faith is trust in God that transforms all your other relationships During World War II, in the terrible days of the Blitz, a father, holding his small son by the hand, ran from a building that had been struck by a bomb. In the front yard was a shell hole. Seeking shelter as quickly as possible, the father jumped into the hole and held up his arms for his son to follow. Terrified, yet hearing his father’s voice telling him to jump, the boy replied, ‘I can’t see you!’ The father called to the silhouette of his son, ‘But I can see you. Jump!’ The boy jumped, because he trusted his father. In other words, he loved him, he believed in him, he trusted him and he had confidence in him. ‘Faith’, in the Bible, is primarily about putting our trust in a person. In that sense it is more akin to love. All loving relationships involve some element of trust. Faith is trust in God that transforms all your other relationships. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 32 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/31 Psalm 18:1-6, Job 19:1-21:34, Matthew 21:1-17. Jesus is the greatest leader of all time In the passages for today, we see some of the characteristics of Jesus’ leadership together with those of two other great influencers in the Bible – David and Job Fri, 31 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/31/?ignore 22:49 enclassic31012025-31 1369.78 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 31: How to Lead Like Jesus Psalm 18:1-6, Job 19:1-21:34, Matthew 21:1-17. Jesus is the greatest leader of all time In the passages for today, we see some of the characteristics of Jesus’ leadership together with those of two other great influencers in the Bible – David and Job Few people have shaped the day-to-day management of people and companies more than Ken Blanchard, author of The One Minute Manager, which has sold more than 13 million copies. The book was so successful that he had trouble taking credit for its success. He began to think about God. He started to read the Bible. He went straight to the Gospels. He wanted to know what Jesus did. He became fascinated with how Jesus transformed twelve ordinary, and unlikely, people into the first generation of leaders of a movement that continues to affect the course of world history 2,000 years later. He became aware that everything he had ever taught or written about effective leadership, Jesus had done to perfection way beyond Ken’s ability to portray or describe. Jesus is more than just a spiritual leader. He gives a practical and effective leadership model for all organisations, for all people, for all situations. You may not think of yourself as a leader, but leadership is about influence. You do have influence, therefore, in a sense, all of us are leaders. Jesus is the greatest leader of all time. In the passages for today, we see some of the characteristics of Jesus’ leadership together with those of two other great influencers in the Bible – David and Job. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 31 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/30 Psalm 17:13-15, Job 15:1-18:21, Matthew 20:20-34. We need to remember that God sees things from an eternal perspective and that there are some things we may never understand in this life In the passages for today we see examples of all three types of response from God Thu, 30 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/30/?ignore 22:09 enclassic30012025-30 1329.37 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 30: Does God Answer All Your Prayers? Psalm 17:13-15, Job 15:1-18:21, Matthew 20:20-34. We need to remember that God sees things from an eternal perspective and that there are some things we may never understand in this life In the passages for today we see examples of all three types of response from God I love cricket. At least, I love watching it; I was never any good at playing it. But I know many people don’t like cricket and don’t even understand the rules of it (especially if they come from a country where it isn’t a popular sport). So I hope you will forgive me for using a cricketing analogy. When two batsmen are running between the wickets on a cricket pitch, they need to co-ordinate the decision about whether to run or not. One will shout to the other ‘Yes’ (that is, ‘Let’s run’), or ‘No’ (that is, ‘Stay where you are’), or ‘Wait’ (that is, ‘Let’s see what happens before we decide whether to run’). God hears all your prayers (Psalm 139:4, 1 John 5:14–15, 1 Peter 3:12) and, in one sense, he answers all your prayers. But we do not always receive what we ask for. When we ask God for something, the response will be ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ or ‘Wait’. John Stott wrote that God will answer ‘No’ if the things we ask for ‘are either not good in themselves, or not good for us or for others, directly or indirectly, immediately or ultimately’. We don’t always get to know the reason why the answer is ‘No’. We need to remember that God sees things from an eternal perspective and that there are some things we may never understand in this life. In the passages for today we see examples of all three types of response from God. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 30 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/29 Psalm 17:6-12, Job 11:1-14:22, Matthew 20:1-19. He has forgiven me for what I have done He has turned my life around Wed, 29 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/29/?ignore 23:22 enclassic29012025-29 1402.64 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 29: You Are Loved Psalm 17:6-12, Job 11:1-14:22, Matthew 20:1-19. He has forgiven me for what I have done He has turned my life around Shane Taylor was considered one of the most dangerous men in the UK prison system. Originally jailed for attempted murder, he had his sentence extended by four years when he attacked a prison officer with a broken glass, setting off a riot. He was put in a segregation unit inside a maximum-security prison. He was given his food through a hatch. His door was not opened unless there were six officers armed with riot shields waiting outside. Later, he was transferred to Long Lartin maximum-security prison where he was invited on Alpha. During the course he prayed, ‘Jesus Christ, I know you died on a cross for me. I hate who I am; who I’ve become. Please forgive me and come into my life.’ At that moment he was filled with the Holy Spirit. He went running out onto the wing, telling everyone he could find, ‘Jesus is real!’ His behaviour changed so much that he went from living in total segregation to getting a trusted job in the prison chaplaincy. He prayed for the prison officers and for his enemies and, when he came out of prison, he got involved in a church. He met a young woman called Sam, who had also had a tough life and had been involved with drugs and criminal activity. She also came to faith in Jesus. Now, they are married and have five children. Talking to Shane now, it is hard to imagine that he is the same person who terrified so many people in the past. He has experienced ‘the wonder of [God’s] great love’ (Psalm 17:7). He says, ‘Jesus has shown me how to love and how to forgive. He has saved me. He has forgiven me for what I have done. He has turned my life around.’ Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 29 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/28 Proverbs 3:11-20, Job 8:1-10:22, Matthew 19:16-30. It is *the power of God* that makes what seems impossible possible Nothing is impossible with God (Luke 1:37) Tue, 28 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/28/?ignore 21:39 enclassic28012025-28 1299.25 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 28: With God, All Things Are Possible Proverbs 3:11-20, Job 8:1-10:22, Matthew 19:16-30. It is *the power of God* that makes what seems impossible possible Nothing is impossible with God (Luke 1:37) ‘When life hands you a lemon, make lemonade,’ wrote Norman Vincent Peale, who published his best-known book, The Power of Positive Thinking, in 1952. It stayed in The New York Times bestseller list for 186 consecutive weeks. Much of what he had to say was extremely good and helpful. But, the words of Jesus go way beyond the power of positive thinking. Norman Vincent Peale said, ‘A positive mental attitude is a belief that things are going to turn out well, and that you can overcome any kind of trouble or difficulty.’ Jesus said, ‘With God all things are possible’ (Matthew 19:26). This is far more than the power of positive thinking. It is the power of God that makes what seems impossible possible. Nothing is impossible with God (Luke 1:37). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 28 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/27 Psalm 17:1-5, Job 4:1-7:21, Matthew 19:1-15. For future walks we decided we would definitely take a map and stick to the route Staying on the track proves much better for being able to relax, talk together and for our relationship generally!In the Bible, the image of God’s tracks is frequently used: tracks that lead to life Mon, 27 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/27/?ignore 23:13 enclassic27012025-27 1393.55 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 27: How to Stay on Track Psalm 17:1-5, Job 4:1-7:21, Matthew 19:1-15. For future walks we decided we would definitely take a map and stick to the route Staying on the track proves much better for being able to relax, talk together and for our relationship generally!In the Bible, the image of God’s tracks is frequently used: tracks that lead to life Pippa and I love to go for walks. Not so long ago, we went for quite a long walk on the South Downs. Neither of us has a very good sense of direction and we had forgotten to take the map. Somehow, we managed to wander off the track and we ended up on someone’s farm. It was one of the shortest days of the year and soon the light started to fade. It seemed that the only way to get back to where we had parked the car was to cross a field occupied by a large herd of cows. As we approached them, some surrounded us in an overly friendly fashion, blocking our way, while others took off in fright and started charging around the field. Fearing that we were going to be mown down into the mud by terrified cows charging at us, we decided to make a rather speedy exit up a very steep and slippery bank. Pippa had exceeded her desired length of walk, darkness was falling and we seemed to be nowhere near a track. Things were not looking good. Thankfully, we managed to find a path leading us back. It was such a relief. For future walks we decided we would definitely take a map and stick to the route. Staying on the track proves much better for being able to relax, talk together and for our relationship generally! In the Bible, the image of God’s tracks is frequently used: tracks that lead to life. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 27 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/26 Psalm 16:1-11, Job 1:1-3:26, Matthew 18:10-35. Suffering is, therefore, an alien intrusion into God's world This, of course, is not a complete answer to the question 'Why does God allow suffering?¹' As we saw yesterday there is no simple or complete solution, but each of today's passages gives us some further insight Sun, 26 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/26/?ignore 24:36 enclassic26012025-26 1476.39 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 26: Why Does God Allow Suffering? Psalm 16:1-11, Job 1:1-3:26, Matthew 18:10-35. Suffering is, therefore, an alien intrusion into God's world This, of course, is not a complete answer to the question 'Why does God allow suffering?¹' As we saw yesterday there is no simple or complete solution, but each of today's passages gives us some further insight A one-year-old boy shattered his back falling down a flight of stairs. He spent his childhood and youth in and out of hospital. Gavin Reid, the former Bishop of Maidstone, interviewed him in church. The boy remarked, 'God is fair.' Gavin asked, 'How old are you?' 'Seventeen,' the boy replied. 'How many years have you spent in hospital?' The boy answered, 'Thirteen years.' Gavin asked, 'Do you think that is fair?' He replied, 'God has got all of eternity to make it up to me.' We live in a world of instant gratification that has almost entirely lost its eternal perspective. The New Testament is full of wonderful promises about the future: all creation will be restored. Jesus will return to establish 'a new heaven and a new earth' (Revelation 21:1). There will be no more crying, for there will be no more pain and suffering. Our frail, decaying mortal bodies will be changed for a body like that of Jesus' glorious resurrected body. Suffering is not part of God's original created order (see Genesis 1–2). There was no suffering in the world before rebellion against God. There will be no suffering when God creates a new heaven and a new earth (Revelation 21:3–4). Suffering is, therefore, an alien intrusion into God's world. This, of course, is not a complete answer to the question 'Why does God allow suffering?¹' As we saw yesterday there is no simple or complete solution, but each of today's passages gives us some further insight. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 26 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/25 Psalm 15:1-5, Genesis 49:1-50:26, Matthew 17:14-18:9. He suffers alongside you Yet he does not always simply remove suffering from your life; he sometimes uses the bad things that happen to bring about his good purposes Sat, 25 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/25/?ignore 24:21 enclassic25012025-25 1461.37 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 25: 'God Intended It for Good' Psalm 15:1-5, Genesis 49:1-50:26, Matthew 17:14-18:9. He suffers alongside you Yet he does not always simply remove suffering from your life; he sometimes uses the bad things that happen to bring about his good purposes In 1947, a young New Yorker named Glenn Chambers had a lifelong dream to work for God in Ecuador. At the airport on the day of departure, he wanted to send a note to his mother but he didn’t have time to buy a card. He noticed a piece of paper on the terminal floor and picked it up. It turned out to be an advertisement with ‘Why?’ spread across it. He scribbled his note around the word ‘Why?’ and put it in the post box. That night his aeroplane exploded as it hit the 14,000-foot Colombian peak El Tablazo. When his mother received the note after the news of his death the question burned up at her from the page… ‘Why?’ Why does God allow such suffering?¹ This question is the single greatest challenge to the Christian faith. The amount of suffering and its distribution seem to be random and unfair. It outrages and bewilders us. Theologians and philosophers have wrestled for centuries with the mystery of undeserved suffering, and no one has ever come up with a simple and complete solution. Today and tomorrow’s passages are only part of the answer, but each of them gives us some insight. We see that although suffering is never good in itself, God is able to use it for good in a number of ways. God loves you. Your suffering is also God’s suffering. He suffers alongside you. Yet he does not always simply remove suffering from your life; he sometimes uses the bad things that happen to bring about his good purposes. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 25 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/24 Proverbs 3:1-10, Genesis 47:13-48:22, Matthew 16:21-17:13. We have the voices of family, friends and colleagues And sometimes we have the voice of Satan tempting us to disbelieve God’s word and to doubt that God has our best interests at heart Fri, 24 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/24/?ignore 22:33 enclassic24012025-24 1353.48 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 24: How to Listen to God Proverbs 3:1-10, Genesis 47:13-48:22, Matthew 16:21-17:13. We have the voices of family, friends and colleagues And sometimes we have the voice of Satan tempting us to disbelieve God’s word and to doubt that God has our best interests at heart Suppose I go to the doctor and say, ‘Doctor, I have a lot of problems: I twisted my knee... my eyes itch... my finger is swollen... I have backache...’ Then, having got through my list of complaints, I look at my watch and say, ‘Goodness me, time is getting on. I must be off.’ The doctor might say, ‘Hang on, do you not want to hear what I have to say?’ If we only speak to God and never take time to listen, we make the same mistake. We do all the talking and we don’t actually listen to him. But our relationship with God is meant to be a two-way conversation. When I’m praying, I find it helpful to write down thoughts that come into my mind that may come from the Spirit of God. In a media-saturated age we have many voices that come to us on TV, radio, the Internet, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, email and text message. We have the voices of family, friends and colleagues. And sometimes we have the voice of Satan tempting us to disbelieve God’s word and to doubt that God has our best interests at heart. How do you hear the voice of God in the midst of the noise and distractions of life? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 24 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/23 Psalm 14:1-7, Genesis 45:1-47:12, Matthew 16:1-20. You are not powerless You have the immense privilege of having been given ‘the keys of the kingdom’ Thu, 23 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/23/?ignore 25:58 enclassic23012025-23 1558.94 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 23: You Have the Keys Psalm 14:1-7, Genesis 45:1-47:12, Matthew 16:1-20. You are not powerless You have the immense privilege of having been given ‘the keys of the kingdom’ On 15 January 2009, US Airways flight 1549 hit a flock of geese. Both engines failed. The plane was flying over New York. Potential disaster loomed. Not only were the 155 occupants on board in danger, but thousands more could have been killed had the plane hit one of New York’s skyscrapers. Captain Chesley Burnett ‘Sully’ Sullenberger III guided the crippled US Airways plane with immense skill and courage. He performed a successful emergency landing on the Hudson River. Not a single passenger died, nor were there any serious injuries. The Mayor of New York City gave to the heroic pilot, who had saved them, the keys to the city. To give someone the keys to a city is an immense privilege. They symbolise access and authority. Keys are usually given in recognition of some great service to the city. In the New Testament, we see that Jesus is the key holder. The risen Christ says, ‘I hold the keys of death and Hades’ (Revelation 1:18). Jesus has brought about a far greater salvation than any other person could achieve. The authority he holds is also the greatest there could ever be – he holds the keys of life and death. Amazingly, Jesus gives to Peter and the church (that is, to us) ‘the keys of the kingdom’ (Matthew 16:19). Many Christians feel powerless, lacking in any kind of spiritual authority. They do not seem to realise what Jesus has given to them. You are not powerless. You have the immense privilege of having been given ‘the keys of the kingdom’. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 23 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/22 Psalm 13:1-6, Genesis 43:1-44:34, Matthew 15:10-39. We seem to be losing the battle and the enemy seems to be *triumphing over us* (v 2c) Wed, 22 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/22/?ignore 26:12 enclassic22012025-22 1572.73 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 22: How Long, O Lord? Psalm 13:1-6, Genesis 43:1-44:34, Matthew 15:10-39. We seem to be losing the battle and the enemy seems to be *triumphing over us* (v 2c) Have there ever been times in your life when you have found yourself wondering, ‘How long, O Lord?’ How long will these struggles and disappointments last? How long will we have these financial difficulties? How long will these health issues persist? How long will the difficulties in this relationship last? How long will I struggle with this addiction? How long will these intense temptations last? How long will it take me to get over this loss? Pippa and I sometimes visit St Peter’s Brighton, one of our church plants. At the end of one service, a woman came up to us and told us that for thirty-seven years she had been praying for her husband to find faith in Christ. For all those thirty-seven long years, she had cried out, ‘How long, O Lord, how long?’ (Psalm 13:1). When St Peter’s reopened in 2009, her husband decided he would like to start coming to church with her. The moment he walked into St Peter’s, he felt he had come home and had been ‘reborn’. Now he loves the church and comes every week. Throughout our conversation she kept repeating, with a huge expression of joy on her face: ‘How long, O Lord, how long?’ God had heard. At last, her prayers were answered. Four times in quick succession David cries out, ‘How long…?’ (vv.1–2). There are periods when it appears that God has forgotten us (v.1a). It seems that he has hidden his face (v.1b). For some inexplicable reason, we don’t sense his presence with us. Every day seems to be a struggle – wrestling with our thoughts (v.2a). Every day brings sorrow (v.2b). We seem to be losing the battle and the enemy seems to be triumphing over us (v.2c). How should you respond in times like these? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 22 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/21 Psalm 12:1-8, Genesis 41:41-42:38, Matthew 14:22-15:9. He likes candour He wants to hear what is on your heart today Tue, 21 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/21/?ignore 22:52 enclassic21012025-21 1372.68 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 21: Be Honest with God Psalm 12:1-8, Genesis 41:41-42:38, Matthew 14:22-15:9. He likes candour He wants to hear what is on your heart today We are living in a ‘post-truth’ era. The term increased 2000% in prevalence during the Brexit and U.S presidential debates. In a ‘post-truth’ era, objective facts appear less influential than appeals to emotion. There is a tolerance for dishonest, inaccurate allegations and outright denial of facts. Political half-truths and blatant lies become routine. But if you buy a car, you want to know the truth about that car. In a relationship, you want to know the truth. We hunger for honesty and truth. The new generation (following the millennials) Gen Z – people born between 1995 to 2010 – have been called ‘True Gen’ because of their search for truth. We see in our passages for today that God hates lies and deception. David says, ‘People all lie to their neighbours; their flattering lips speak with deception’ (Psalm 12:2). Jesus quoted Isaiah, ‘These people honour me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me’ (Matthew 15:8). Although Joseph’s brothers had deceived their father about the fate of Joseph (Genesis 37:31–35), they knew in their hearts that they could not deceive God: ‘Surely we are being punished because of our brother’ (42:21). God wants you to be honest with him. He likes candour. He wants to hear what is on your heart today. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 21 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/20 Proverbs 2:12-22, Genesis 40:1-41:40, Matthew 14:1-21. Wisdom has been defined as ‘*the art of steering*’ As you go through life, you will need to navigate many tight situations that require great wisdom in order to avoid damaging yourself or others Mon, 20 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/20/?ignore 23:15 enclassic20012025-20 1395.59 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 20: How to Navigate Life Proverbs 2:12-22, Genesis 40:1-41:40, Matthew 14:1-21. Wisdom has been defined as ‘*the art of steering*’ As you go through life, you will need to navigate many tight situations that require great wisdom in order to avoid damaging yourself or others Our last car had many scratches on both sides. I suspect (although my memory is conveniently vague about this) that I was responsible for most of them. They came as a result of the difficulty of steering through the very narrow entrance on one side of the grounds of our church. Wisdom has been defined as ‘the art of steering’. As you go through life, you will need to navigate many tight situations that require great wisdom in order to avoid damaging yourself or others. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 20 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/19 Psalm 11:1-7, Genesis 38:1-39:23, Matthew 13:36-58. This is the most valuable pearl of all It is worth selling ‘everything’ in order to get hold of it Sun, 19 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/19/?ignore 22:40 enclassic19012025-19 1360.2 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 19: The Most Valuable Thing in the World Psalm 11:1-7, Genesis 38:1-39:23, Matthew 13:36-58. This is the most valuable pearl of all It is worth selling ‘everything’ in order to get hold of it Raj was one of six children born into a wealthy Brahmin family - the highest caste in the Indian caste system. At the age of twenty-three, Raj encountered Jesus. His family disinherited him. They cut him off. As far as they were concerned he was dead. They even held a funeral service for him. Neither his parents, nor his brothers and sisters have ever spoken to him again. For several weeks he wandered around the streets of Bangalore. He had virtually no food to eat. He walked all day and slept in the park at night. He started a new life. He began to speak about his new-found faith. Through him, many other people encountered Jesus. For several years he was the National Director of Alpha in India. He says that he has had a blessed life and that God has more than compensated for his losses. Although he left ‘everything’, in Jesus Christ he found the ‘pearl… of great value’ (Matthew 13:45–46). Relationships are our most valuable possession. But there is one special relationship for which you were created. This is the most valuable pearl of all. It is worth selling ‘everything’ in order to get hold of it. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 19 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/18 Psalm 10:12-18, Genesis 36:1-37:36, Matthew 13:18-35. Jesus taught us to pray, 'Your *kingdom* come' (Matthew 6:10) The kingdom of God is the rule and reign of God Sat, 18 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/18/?ignore 25:14 enclassic18012025-18 1514.66 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 18: Your Kingdom Come Psalm 10:12-18, Genesis 36:1-37:36, Matthew 13:18-35. Jesus taught us to pray, 'Your *kingdom* come' (Matthew 6:10) The kingdom of God is the rule and reign of God Queen Elizabeth II (1926-2022) ruled the United Kingdom for seventy years. She was by far the longest reigning British monarch. Each year, on Christmas Day, she gave a message to the nation. In her final Christmas message, on 25 December, 2021 she said, ‘The birth of Jesus marked a new dawn with endless potential. His teachings have been handed down from generation to generation and have been the bedrock of my faith.’ In another recent message she said, 'Only a few acknowledged Jesus when he was born. Now billions follow him. The message of Jesus is never out of date and is needed as much as ever.' In a previous year, she said of Jesus, 'Billions of people now follow his teaching and find in him the guiding light for their lives. I am one of them.' The Queen of the United Kingdom was pointing to another kingdom, a kingdom that Jesus came to establish, and which he will come again to rule. Jesus taught us to pray, 'Your kingdom come' (Matthew 6:10). The kingdom of God is the rule and reign of God. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 18 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/17 Psalm 10:1-11, Genesis 34:1-35:29, Matthew 12:46-13:17. For I tell you the truth, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it’ (Matthew 13:16–17) Jesus warns that although there is great *potential* in each of us, there are *pitfalls* ahead Fri, 17 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/17/?ignore 23:51 enclassic17012025-17 1431.12 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 17: Five Ways to Fulfil Your Potential Psalm 10:1-11, Genesis 34:1-35:29, Matthew 12:46-13:17. For I tell you the truth, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it’ (Matthew 13:16–17) Jesus warns that although there is great *potential* in each of us, there are *pitfalls* ahead In life, many people do not reach their full potential. We can become so caught up in the everyday that it is easier to continue in old patterns rather than change. Yet, we all have a God-given desire to live to our full potential. Perhaps you remember this celebrated biography: 'Solomon Grundy... Born on Monday... Christened on Tuesday… Married on Wednesday… Took ill on Thursday… Grew worse on Friday… Died on Saturday… Buried on Sunday… And that was the end of Solomon Grundy.’ For some people, that just about sums up their life. And yet, all of us feel deep down ‘There must be more to life than that’. Jesus says, in effect, ‘Yes, there is!’. The potential for every human being is great. Jesus wants you to live a highly productive life. He wants you to produce ‘a crop – a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown’ (Matthew 13:8). The minimum is a thirty-times multiplication. The key to that potential lies in your relationship with Jesus – a relationship that can be as close as that of a brother or sister or mother (12:50). You can live a life of real purpose that will make a difference to the world, because of what you receive from him (13:11,12,16). Your potential is not about being driven by ambition or success; it is about recognising who you are in God. As you seek him and live your life according to his purposes, you will bear much fruit. The more you begin to fulfil your God-given potential, the more he entrusts to you. He wants you to live a life of abundance (v.12). The potential for Israel was very great (Genesis 35:11). God intended that Israel would not only be blessed, but also be a blessing to other nations. You have the potential to live a life of even greater blessing than those you read about in the Old Testament. Jesus says, ‘Blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. For I tell you the truth, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it’ (Matthew 13:16–17). Jesus warns that although there is great potential in each of us, there are pitfalls ahead. How can you avoid the pitfalls and fulfil your potential? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 17 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/16 Proverbs 2:1-11, Genesis 32:1-33:20, Matthew 12:22-45. He would prepare enough material for five talks so that he could speak ‘*out of the overflow*’ According to Jesus, the heart really matters: ‘*… out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks*’ (Matthew 12:34) Thu, 16 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/16/?ignore 24:07 enclassic16012025-16 1447.44 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 16: The Overflow of the Heart Proverbs 2:1-11, Genesis 32:1-33:20, Matthew 12:22-45. He would prepare enough material for five talks so that he could speak ‘*out of the overflow*’ According to Jesus, the heart really matters: ‘*… out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks*’ (Matthew 12:34) For many years I wanted to meet the great evangelist Billy Graham (1918–2018). I felt deeply honoured when I discovered he was following me on Twitter! Of course, I followed back! He is one of my heroes of the faith. He spoke to more people about Jesus than anyone else in human history. I heard Billy Graham speak many, many times. Every single time I listened to him, I felt inspired. He said that before he spoke he liked to fill his heart. He would prepare enough material for five talks so that he could speak ‘out of the overflow’. According to Jesus, the heart really matters: ‘… out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks’ (Matthew 12:34). How do you store up good things in your heart? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 16 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/15 Psalm 9:13-20, Genesis 31:1-55, Matthew 12:1-21. Then in his *mercy* and love he comes down in the person of his Son, Jesus Christ, and pays the penalty for us Through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, God is both just and merciful Wed, 15 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/15/?ignore 22:35 enclassic15012025-15 1355.02 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 15: God is Just and God is Merciful Psalm 9:13-20, Genesis 31:1-55, Matthew 12:1-21. Then in his *mercy* and love he comes down in the person of his Son, Jesus Christ, and pays the penalty for us Through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, God is both just and merciful Media headlines frequently express outrage at judges who are ‘soft on crime’ and fail to impose the appropriate penalty for the offence committed. When I worked as a barrister, I noticed that the legal profession did not respect judges who were regarded as too lenient. We expect judges to execute justice. We do not expect them simply to be merciful. On the other hand, we do expect mercy in our personal relationships. A loving parent will be merciful to their child. We expect friends to be merciful to one another. Justice and mercy do not normally go together. We tend to see them as alternatives. We expect either justice or mercy, but not both at the same time. Yet God is both a God who judges with justice, and also a God of mercy. How can he combine these two apparently contradictory characteristics? The answer is that the sacrifice of Jesus has made it possible for God to combine both justice and mercy. When I first encountered Jesus, the following illustration helped me to understand what Jesus achieved for you and me on the cross: Two people went through school and university together and developed a close friendship. Life went on and they went their separate ways and lost contact. One went on to become a judge, while the other’s life spiralled downwards and he ended up as a criminal. One day the criminal appeared before the judge. He had committed a crime to which he pleaded guilty. The judge recognised his old friend and faced the dilemma, which, in effect, God faces. He was a judge so he had to be just; he couldn’t simply let the man off. On the other hand, he wanted to be merciful, because he loved his friend. So he fined him the correct penalty for the offence. That was justice. Then he came down from his position as judge and wrote a cheque for the amount of the fine. He gave it to his friend, saying that he would pay the penalty for him. That was an act of mercy, love and sacrifice. The illustration is not an exact one. Our plight is worse – the penalty we face is death. The relationship is closer – your Father in heaven loves you more than any earthly parent loves their child. And the cost is greater. It cost God far more than money – he came himself, in the person of Jesus, and paid the penalty of sin. God is not soft on crime. In his justice, God judges us because we are guilty. Then in his mercy and love he comes down in the person of his Son, Jesus Christ, and pays the penalty for us. Through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, God is both just and merciful. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 15 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/14 Psalm 9:7-12, Genesis 29:1-30:43, Matthew 11:16-30. Both Joyce Meyer and Sandy Millar are expressing, in different ways, absolute confidence in the sovereignty of God If God is sovereign and ultimately in control, does that mean that you are absolved of responsibility for your actions? Does it mean that you do not have ‘free will’? The Bible teaches both – the ultimate sovereignty of God at the same time as human responsibility and free will Tue, 14 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/14/?ignore 24:50 enclassic14012025-14 1490.1 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 14: Just Relax and Let God Be God Psalm 9:7-12, Genesis 29:1-30:43, Matthew 11:16-30. Both Joyce Meyer and Sandy Millar are expressing, in different ways, absolute confidence in the sovereignty of God If God is sovereign and ultimately in control, does that mean that you are absolved of responsibility for your actions? Does it mean that you do not have ‘free will’? The Bible teaches both – the ultimate sovereignty of God at the same time as human responsibility and free will Joyce Meyer tweeted, ‘Just relax and let God be God.’ It is a great comfort to know that a loving God is ultimately in control of everything that happens. Bishop Sandy Millar often says in the face of some tragedy or when things have gone badly wrong: ‘The Lord reigns.’ Many times throughout the Bible, God is referred to as the Sovereign Lord. Both Joyce Meyer and Sandy Millar are expressing, in different ways, absolute confidence in the sovereignty of God. If God is sovereign and ultimately in control, does that mean that you are absolved of responsibility for your actions? Does it mean that you do not have ‘free will’? The Bible teaches both – the ultimate sovereignty of God at the same time as human responsibility and free will. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 14 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/13 Psalm 9:1-6, Genesis 27:1-28:22, Matthew 10:32-11:15. God is the God of acceleration He is able to speed things up at a much faster rate than is humanly possible Mon, 13 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/13/?ignore 25:33 enclassic13012025-13 1533.47 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 13: Divine Acceleration Psalm 9:1-6, Genesis 27:1-28:22, Matthew 10:32-11:15. God is the God of acceleration He is able to speed things up at a much faster rate than is humanly possible A few years ago, Pippa and I were asked to speak at a conference in Somerset, southwest England. The journey from London should have taken about three hours. However, it was a really hot day and ahead of us a hay wagon had caught fire and spilled its load across the motorway, which had melted as a result. We were stuck, almost stationary, for five hours. It was such a relief when, finally, it was time to accelerate. There are times in our own personal lives, church life and ministry when it feels like we are stuck and unable to move at any pace. At other times, openings begin to appear and it is ‘time to accelerate’. God is the God of acceleration. He is able to speed things up at a much faster rate than is humanly possible. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 13 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/12 Proverbs 1:20-33, Genesis 25:1-26:35, Matthew 10:1-31. The expression ‘*do not be afraid*’ is one of the most frequent commands in the Bible Four of the occurrences are in our passages for today Sun, 12 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/12/?ignore 25:16 enclassic12012025-12 1516.88 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 12: No Fear Proverbs 1:20-33, Genesis 25:1-26:35, Matthew 10:1-31. The expression ‘*do not be afraid*’ is one of the most frequent commands in the Bible Four of the occurrences are in our passages for today At one level, fear is healthy. ‘Fear’ is an emotion induced by a perceived threat. It is a natural human emotion. It is God-given. It is a basic survival mechanism. It keeps us alive. It protects us from danger. However, there is also such a thing as unhealthy fear. The Greek word commonly used in the New Testament is phobos – from which we get the word ‘phobia’. This is unhealthy fear. It is disproportionate to the danger posed. It is ‘False Evidence Appearing Real’. It is when I catastrophise – overestimating the danger and underestimating my ability to cope. Common phobias include fears in relation to health, finances, failure, growing old, death, loneliness, rejection, messing up, public speaking, flying, heights, snakes and spiders. They also include things such as, what is now called, FOMO – the Fear Of Missing Out, the fear of not being special. In my own life, I have experienced many fears – from a fear of heights to panic attacks and other irrational fears, fears about preaching and a fear of doing anything that might bring dishonour to the name of Jesus. Whereas the Spirit of God does not produce negative fear, there is a kind of healthy fear – the fear of God. This does not mean being frightened of God. In fact, it means the opposite. It is an understanding of who God is in relation to us. It means respect, reverence, awe, honour, adoration and worship; it could even be translated as love for God. It recognises the power, majesty and holiness of God Almighty. It leads to a healthy respect of God and is the antidote to all other fears and phobias we experience in life. Fear God and you need not fear anything else or anyone else. It is no coincidence that as the fear of God has decreased in our society, all the other fears have increased. We need to return to a right relationship with God. The expression ‘do not be afraid’ is one of the most frequent commands in the Bible. Four of the occurrences are in our passages for today. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 12 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/11 Psalm 8:1-9, Genesis 24:1-67, Matthew 9:14-38. Success is a good thing However, the ministry of Jesus and the message of the Bible *redefine success* Sat, 11 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/11/?ignore 25:17 enclassic11012025-11 1517.04 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 11: 'Lord... Give Me Success Today' Psalm 8:1-9, Genesis 24:1-67, Matthew 9:14-38. Success is a good thing However, the ministry of Jesus and the message of the Bible *redefine success* How to Be a Huge Success is a little book of quotations and tips from a variety of well-known ‘successful’ people. The back cover asks, ‘Are you on a collision course with fame, fortune or greatness?’ This is so often how ‘success’ is perceived in our society. Perhaps because of some of its negative connotations, sometimes in the church we are a little wary of the word ‘success’. However, ‘success’ is not a dirty word in the Bible. It occurs at least five times in our Old Testament passage for today (Genesis 24:12,21,40,42,56) – each time in a very positive light. Success is a blessing from the Lord (vv.31,50). Success is a good thing. However, the ministry of Jesus and the message of the Bible redefine success. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 11 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/10 Psalm 7:10-17, Genesis 21:1-23:20, Matthew 8:23-9:13. These storms are many and varied Abraham, David and Jesus’ disciples all faced storms in their lives Fri, 10 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/10/?ignore 27:00 enclassic10012025-10 1620.64 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 10: Facing the Storms of Life Psalm 7:10-17, Genesis 21:1-23:20, Matthew 8:23-9:13. These storms are many and varied Abraham, David and Jesus’ disciples all faced storms in their lives On 31 July 2003, the adventurer Bear Grylls led a team of five across the North Atlantic Ocean in an inflatable rigid dinghy. They set out from Halifax, Nova Scotia, heading for John o’ Groats, Scotland. On 5 August, a great storm arose. There were 20-foot waves. They lost satellite contact. They (and we) feared for their lives. Thankfully they survived to tell the tale (see Facing the Frozen Ocean by Bear Grylls). Not all of us will have to face physical storms of this kind. But Jesus said that we would all face the storms of life (Matthew 7:25–27). Life is not easy. These storms are many and varied. Abraham, David and Jesus’ disciples all faced storms in their lives. What can we learn from their example? Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 10 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/9 Psalm 7:1-9, Genesis 19:1-20:18, Matthew 7:24-8:22. One thing that you can be sure about is that on the last day, when all is revealed, you will see God’s perfect judgment – and everyone will say, ‘That is absolutely right ’ Each of today’s passages tells us something about the fact that, in the end, *God will put things right* Thu, 09 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/9/?ignore 25:18 enclassic09012025-9 1518.37 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 9: Trust God to Put Things Right Psalm 7:1-9, Genesis 19:1-20:18, Matthew 7:24-8:22. One thing that you can be sure about is that on the last day, when all is revealed, you will see God’s perfect judgment – and everyone will say, ‘That is absolutely right ’ Each of today’s passages tells us something about the fact that, in the end, *God will put things right* Pippa and I enjoy doing crosswords together. When we are stuck on one clue we don’t give up, we move on to the next clue. Every time we find an answer it helps us in resolving some of the other clues. In the end, we are sometimes able to solve most of the puzzle. In a way, reading some of the difficult parts of the Bible is like trying to solve a crossword puzzle. Rather than getting bogged down in a tricky section, you can use the passages you do understand to help you resolve some of the more difficult ones. Often I find it hard not only to understand some of the difficult passages in the Bible, but also to understand why certain things are happening in our world. There seems to be so much injustice. There are no easy answers. I love the second great rhetorical question from yesterday’s passage, ‘Will not the Judge of all the earth do right?’ (Genesis 18:25). One thing that you can be sure about is that on the last day, when all is revealed, you will see God’s perfect judgment – and everyone will say, ‘That is absolutely right.’ Each of today’s passages tells us something about the fact that, in the end, God will put things right. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 9 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/8 Proverbs 1:8-19, Genesis 17:1-18:33, Matthew 6:25-7:23. 11), then *nothing is too hard for the Lord* In each of the three great challenges we see in today’s passages we need to remember that *nothing is too hard for the Lord* Wed, 08 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/8/?ignore 26:46 enclassic08012025-8 1606.3 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 8: Nothing is Too Hard for the Lord Proverbs 1:8-19, Genesis 17:1-18:33, Matthew 6:25-7:23. 11), then *nothing is too hard for the Lord* In each of the three great challenges we see in today’s passages we need to remember that *nothing is too hard for the Lord* Are you facing a seemingly impossible situation in your life? Is there an apparently irretrievable breakdown in a relationship? A serious health issue? An almost impossible challenge in your job? Is there a habit or an addiction that you are finding hard to break? Whatever challenges you may face in the year ahead, nothing is too hard for the Lord. Abraham was a hundred years old. His wife Sarah was ninety. God promised them a son. They said, in effect, ‘That is impossible.’ This is the context of the great rhetorical question: ‘Is anything too hard for the Lord?’ (Genesis 18:14). The answer is ‘No’. If Sarah could conceive when ‘already very old, and… past the age of childbearing’ (v.11), then nothing is too hard for the Lord. In each of the three great challenges we see in today’s passages we need to remember that nothing is too hard for the Lord. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 8 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/7 Psalm 6:1-10, Genesis 14:1-16:16, Matthew 5:43-6:24. William Shakespeare captured something of the wonder of mercy in Portia’s speech in *The Merchant of Venice*:‘The quality of mercy is not strain’d,It droppeth as the gentle rain from heavenUpon the place beneath: it is *twice blest*;It blesseth him that gives and him that takes '**Act IV Scene I**You are blessed when you receive mercy and you are blessed when you are merciful to others Tue, 07 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/7/?ignore 25:47 enclassic07012025-7 1547.76 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 7: Your Double Blessing Psalm 6:1-10, Genesis 14:1-16:16, Matthew 5:43-6:24. William Shakespeare captured something of the wonder of mercy in Portia’s speech in *The Merchant of Venice*:‘The quality of mercy is not strain’d,It droppeth as the gentle rain from heavenUpon the place beneath: it is *twice blest*;It blesseth him that gives and him that takes '**Act IV Scene I**You are blessed when you receive mercy and you are blessed when you are merciful to others I love the word ‘mercy’. I am so thankful that God is a God of mercy. William Shakespeare captured something of the wonder of mercy in Portia’s speech in The Merchant of Venice: ‘The quality of mercy is not strain’d, It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven Upon the place beneath: it is twice blest; It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.' Act IV Scene I You are blessed when you receive mercy and you are blessed when you are merciful to others. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 7 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/6 Psalm 5:1-12, Genesis 11:10-13:18, Matthew 5:21-42. We don’t realise the importance of getting good directions for life If you follow God’s directions for life, you will enjoy his blessing and bring blessing to others Mon, 06 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/6/?ignore 23:49 enclassic06012025-6 1429.45 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 6: Directions for Life Psalm 5:1-12, Genesis 11:10-13:18, Matthew 5:21-42. We don’t realise the importance of getting good directions for life If you follow God’s directions for life, you will enjoy his blessing and bring blessing to others Pippa and I are often in a hurry. We are not good at planning our car journeys. We often set off in the wrong direction and frequently get lost (even with Google Maps!). I don’t know why it has taken me so long to learn the importance of getting good directions and following them. Many of us are like this in life. We charge off in a hurry. We don’t realise the importance of getting good directions for life. If you follow God’s directions for life, you will enjoy his blessing and bring blessing to others. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 6 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/5 Psalm 4:1-8, Genesis 9:18-11:9, Matthew 4:23-5:20. you have made us for yourself and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in you ’ God is the source of *all good things* Sun, 05 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/5/?ignore 21:32 enclassic05012025-5 1292.62 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 5: God Will Give You Good Things Psalm 4:1-8, Genesis 9:18-11:9, Matthew 4:23-5:20. you have made us for yourself and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in you ’ God is the source of *all good things* We all seek happiness. We are all searching for love. We are all desperate for peace. But so often, we look in the wrong places. St Augustine prayed, ‘Lord... you have made us for yourself and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in you.’ God is the source of all good things. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 5 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/4 Proverbs 1:1-7, Genesis 7:1-9:17, Matthew 4:1-22. But at the same time he found out that his wife, Kay, had cancer On one track of his life there was great blessing; on the other track there was a massive battle to face Sat, 04 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/4/?ignore 23:42 enclassic04012025-4 1422.05 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 4: Battles and Blessings Proverbs 1:1-7, Genesis 7:1-9:17, Matthew 4:1-22. But at the same time he found out that his wife, Kay, had cancer On one track of his life there was great blessing; on the other track there was a massive battle to face I have never forgotten a talk I heard over thirty years ago. The speaker started by saying that the Christian life is ‘battle and blessing, battle and blessing, battle and blessing, battle and blessing, battle and blessing... battle and blessing…’ At the time I thought, ‘Why is he going on like this? Will it never end?’ But he was making a memorable and profound point. When we are in the battle it is hard to believe that it will ever come to an end. When we are in a period of blessing we sometimes expect it will go on forever. But life is not like that. There are battles and blessings. Pastor Rick Warren says that he used to think that the Christian life was a succession of battles and blessings, whereas now he thinks of life as being on two tracks. At any given moment in life there are usually blessings, but also battles to face. He gives the example of the huge blessing that came to him through the publication of The Purpose Driven Life, which became the fastest-selling Christian book of all time. It gave him enormous influence. But at the same time he found out that his wife, Kay, had cancer. On one track of his life there was great blessing; on the other track there was a massive battle to face. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 4 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/3 Psalm 3:1-8, Genesis 4:17-6:22, Matthew 2:19-3:17. This is what Jesus has made possible – for you to *walk as Jesus did* (1 John 2:6) You may stumble from time to time, but one day you will *walk with him* ‘dressed in white’ (Revelation 3:4) Fri, 03 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/3/?ignore 22:50 enclassic03012025-3 1370.7 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 3: Talk as You Walk Psalm 3:1-8, Genesis 4:17-6:22, Matthew 2:19-3:17. This is what Jesus has made possible – for you to *walk as Jesus did* (1 John 2:6) You may stumble from time to time, but one day you will *walk with him* ‘dressed in white’ (Revelation 3:4) I love walking. Apparently, it is one of the best forms of physical exercise. Of course, walking is also a means, and for some people their only means, of transport. Walking for whatever reason is more enjoyable with someone else. Walking and talking is a great way to communicate with family, friends, and also with God. The point is that we are doing two things at the same time. We are not just taking exercise or travelling. As we walk together we are in communion with one another. Both Enoch and Noah ‘walked with God’ (Genesis 5:24; 6:9). They didn’t just sit, kneel or stand with God (the kind of actions we would often associate with spending time with God), but they were also in communion with God when doing something else. While you are doing other things – working, eating, exercising or relaxing – you can be in communion with God at the same time. Personally, I also find it the best way to pray. This has been my pattern for the last few years. After reading the Bible each day, I go out and walk around our local park – which is almost deserted early in the morning. I note down anything I sense the Holy Spirit saying as I pray. You can pray as you walk to the bus stop or walk from one activity to the next. Talk as you walk. The Bible has a great deal to say about walking with God. It is how you were intended to live. God’s desire for you is that you walk humbly in a relationship with him (Micah 6:8). This is what Jesus has made possible – for you to walk as Jesus did (1 John 2:6). You may stumble from time to time, but one day you will walk with him ‘dressed in white’ (Revelation 3:4). Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 3 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/2 Psalm 2:1-12, Genesis 2:18-4:16, Matthew 2:1-18. A senior and experienced lawyer was helping me prepare He showed me the significance of a first question Thu, 02 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/2/?ignore 22:24 enclassic02012025-2 1344.31 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 2: Your First Question Psalm 2:1-12, Genesis 2:18-4:16, Matthew 2:1-18. A senior and experienced lawyer was helping me prepare He showed me the significance of a first question ‘What is your first question going to be?’ I was preparing my cross-examination for one of the first criminal trials in which I was involved when I worked as a barrister. A senior and experienced lawyer was helping me prepare. He showed me the significance of a first question. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 2 https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/1 Psalm 1:1-6, Genesis 1:1-2:17, Matthew 1:1-25. The first three words in the Bible are, ‘In *the beginning*…’ (Genesis 1:1) Each of the passages for today tells us something about new beginnings and new opportunities, and suggests some possible New Year’s resolutions Wed, 01 Jan 2025 12:00:00 UTC https://bibleinoneyear.org/en/classic/1/?ignore 23:35 enclassic01012025-1 1415.13 Nicky and Pippa Gumbel Day 1: New Year's Resolutions Psalm 1:1-6, Genesis 1:1-2:17, Matthew 1:1-25. The first three words in the Bible are, ‘In *the beginning*…’ (Genesis 1:1) Each of the passages for today tells us something about new beginnings and new opportunities, and suggests some possible New Year’s resolutions I belong to a squash club that is also a gym. Each year on 1 January they bring in extra gym equipment. The place is packed out. By about 7 January, they move out all the extra equipment, as most people have given up their New Year’s resolutions, and the club returns to normal! Get fit Lose weight Reduce drinking Stop smoking Get out of debt There is nothing wrong with making these common New Year’s resolutions. Of course, all of us make resolutions that we fail to keep. The good news is that each year is an opportunity for a fresh start. But then so is each week. Every Sunday is the first day of the week – a new beginning. Actually, every day is an opportunity for a new beginning. The first three words in the Bible are, ‘In the beginning…’ (Genesis 1:1). Each of the passages for today tells us something about new beginnings and new opportunities, and suggests some possible New Year’s resolutions. Nicky and Pippa Gumbel false no 1