Well, living in Manchester it's been a bit hit and miss but not going to moan... after all, who likes a moaner???
I decided to spend these past few weeks in and around this area and have enjoyed the rythmn of being part of the Ivy Manchester community... not just on Sundays, in our meetings, but during the week.
There is a real buzz in Ivy Manchester at the moment, and a passion to really live out our life slogan of " Knowing, Growing and Going" - there is a world that so needs LIFE and in abundance...that we are not just limping through our existence but embracing all God has for us and being contagious to the people we rub shoulders with...the bank teller, the checkout person in the supermarket, our neighbours and... the list goes on!
So what's the key? - VISION
To see with the eyes of God and see life as He does. I read this amazing challenge in a book written by Douglas J Rumford called Soul Shaping and have found this an incredible help in determining to live life and life it in abundance
Picture a life in which
Joy carries you through the day,
and laughter comes as naturally as breathing
You are not lured by that which destroys
But are drawn to that which builds you up
You can trust yourself
Having control over your thoughts and words
Over your responses and reactions
You live above the distractions and deceptions of the world
Being a non- anxious, very real presence to others around you
You have no need to hide
You can look others in the eye, valuing them for themselves alone
Not for what they can give you
You find courage to face every conflict honourably
And strength to fulfil every responsibity faithfully
You endure suffering with courage
Able to live with questions
You can admit when you are wrong
You can say "I'm sorry" and begin again
You are gentle on yourself
Renouncing the chains of shame and self-condemnation
You are connected to God, who created you
and increasinglybecoming all that God created you to be
Knowing your roles and responsibilities are God given
Uniquely expressing God in ways that nurture and inspire those around you
You are at peace in all circumstances
Celebrating God's faithful provision in times of abundance
Trusting in quiet contentment in times of want
You are free to serve others willingly
without thought of or need of thanks
You have freedom to live for an audience of ONE
Picture such a life...
For it is meant to be yours!
Jude 1:2 Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance
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