We live in an information age. We hear about events

all over the world as soon as they happen. We are

regulated by hundreds of laws; we are subjected to

immense pressure to do what others are doing, to

buy what others are buying, and to think what those

in power tell us to think.  This would be wonderful in

a perfect society - but ours is not. People in Britain

are generally more isolated today, more selfish and

less trusting.

And much of blame for this unhealthy lifestyle lies

firmly in the unhealthy diet that we are fed by the media and others in power. This is no great surprise - it has always been true - although mass communication is now more effective than it has ever been. But it doesn’t have to affect us. We are still free to choose - what we read; what we see; what we hear - and what we believe.

Thankfully God’s word still rings as true as ever. His love and care have not changed and He still speaks to His children through His words in the Bible, encouraging us to walk in the ways of truth. It has never been easy. We may not face torture or death for standing up for Jesus Christ as people in many countries do, but the Devil is very clever and uses other means:  fear of being different; making us want more than we need; putting self first; or opting out. Jesus calls us to be salt and light - to remain in the world but different - adding savour to life - being beacons of hope and trust in a dark and dismal world. And more - He is willing to be the power in us to do it - if only we would invite Him in - every moment of every day.

Lord, there will be many voices speaking to me today, including my own. Help me to be quiet enough in my soul to be able to hear Your voice amongst the many, and give me the will and the strength to obey when every other voice around me screams a different story.

May I find in the daily reading of Your word, the light to guide my footsteps through the world, and may Your light within me help to guide others who seek a path through the maze of life. Amen.

Advertising

We all influenced by advertising in some way. It is true that God wants us to enjoy life, but responsibly, as stewards of His creation: to have a concern for the poor (look out for Fair Trade symbols) and by thinking before we buy.

Lord, help me to shop as if You were by my side. Help me to understand what really matters for my family and for other families in need. Help me to use Your money wisely - always.

News Media

It is sad that our thinking is so often manipulated by the news media. We may know  that half of what we read or see or hear is untrue or deliberately distorted - but which half? There is more good than we think and more distress than we know. The Christian magazines tell a wonderful and true story. Lord, help me not to believe all I am told, but to seek the truth from You and those I trust. Amen.

Fashion

God doesn’t want his people to go around in rags, but neither is He pleased with the excessive amounts that are spent on clothes, jewellery, cars and houses. Like silly sheep we run after things which don’t satisfy for long, while others are homeless and naked.

Lord, give me a sense of proportion and show me how to find real joy and peace in less and to share the contentment of knowing Your care.

The law

The number of laws grows every year and people are ever more isolated. It is impossible to legislate to create goodness. Only a change of heart when  we turn to God can do that.  

Lord give me the power to live in Your love so that Your Holy Spirit may change the hearts of those I meet, where the law cannot reach. May I always listen to Your voice first, whatever the circumstances so that Your will is done. Amen

Work

How often we hear of petty theft, bigotry, unfairness, and wrong doing in the workplace - and it is easy to get drawn in without realising. We are called to be shining examples of how things could be. Lord, when things get tough, help me to remember that You are with me. Help me to stand firm and true whatever happens and give me the courage to stand up for the truth, because Lord, I would rather be on Your side! Amen.

Entertainment

Jesus entertained the crowds with stories - but his words were uplifting, humorous and full of promise. Now, we are subjected to everything nasty in the name of entertainment because, we are told, ‘that’s life’. But Lord, it doesn’t have to be. You have shown us what life can be. Give me the courage to live and be to others what You are to me - and give me words to use that encourage, build up, excite, and are full of joy.

Remember those areas where  prayers are needed:

- my home

- my town

- my workplace

- shops & market

- pubs, B&B

- others who use     The Link

Remember those for whom special prayers are needed today:

 - my family

- among friends

- the homeless

- my Church

- the government

- others who use

     The Link