Heavenly Help for a Busy Time

Tuesday 4th April 2023

Officers and parents alike may well feel stretched at this time of year, marked by a flurry of activity in the Boys’ Brigade calendar. Battalion parades, competitions and preparation for company displays can all occur in quick succession, making it easy for us to lose sight of our spiritual objectives, because our eyes are so set on our life on earth below. Dates and deadlines can dominate our minds and to-do lists can hold sway, causing us to lose focus on God, no matter how honourable and necessary the work might be.

It is good for us to turn to God’s Word for encouragement and to be reminded of our heavenly mission.

Following the account of the “Hall of Faith” we read at the beginning of Hebrews 12: 

“… let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or faint-hearted.”

The Gospel gives us the reason and the goal of our work, calling us to contribute towards His harvest by working for His Kingdom. Be comforted that the God who has called you to be faithful to the young people in your church and Company, will work through your witness to bring more souls to faith in Him. Focus your eyes on Him and on His great love for us; a love that is not based on our efforts but on His unchanging character.

When we are weary and our love does not rise to Him as it used to, know that God’s love for you hasn’t waned in the same way. It is still as strong as when Christ set His love upon you at the cross, because God does not change.

When we are overwhelmed or discouraged by responsibilities or opposition, know that our Lord defeated death and has all power and authority in creation. The same God that can roll creation up like a garment, can surely strengthen us when we are tired and dismayed.

Please pray that God would strengthen each officer, helper, parent, guardian and child; that we may run with endurance the race that is set before us by looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith and lead souls to Him.

David Small, BBNI Trustee