Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.6.2, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # UCB Ireland Serving the Church, Reaching the Nation. ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.ucbireland.ie/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Michael Smith MBE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/michael-smith-mbe/) - Michael Smith MBE InterviewTim interviews Michael Smith MBE about the story behind his debut book, Creating the Foundation. Michael shares his inspiring journey of transformation, faith and perseverance, offering encouragement to aspiring authors, spiritual seekers and anyone hoping to turn years of experience into a meaningful impact. AIRED ON 17 JULY 2026https://www.ucbireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Air-Dates_-2026-07-17th-25th-Life-Today-Tim-Talks-to-Michael-Smith-MBE.mp3 - [Tammy & Jay Daughtry](https://www.ucbireland.ie/coparenting-international/) - Tammy & Jay DaughtryRobbie recently caught up with Tammy and Jay Daughtry from Co-Parenting International to hear how they’re helping parents navigate divorce, remarriage and blended family life—always with the wellbeing of children at heart. Listen to the full interview below. AIRED ON 9 APRIL 2026https://www.ucbireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Air-Dates_-2026-04-09th-18th-Life-Today-Robbie-Talks-to-Jay-and-Tammy-from-Co-Parenting_Apr-26-1.mp3Find out more about CoParenting International - [Mitch from Crown Jesus Ministries](https://www.ucbireland.ie/mitch-crown-jesus/) - Tim is joined by Mitch from Crown Jesus Ministries, they chat about what God is doing across the island and the work of Crown Jesus Ministries. - [Nick Park Interviews](https://www.ucbireland.ie/nick-park-interviews/) - Discover insights from Nick Park, director of the Evangelical Alliance Ireland, as he discusses God's creation and good stewardship in this engaging interview. - [Peter Bradshaw](https://www.ucbireland.ie/peter-bradshaw/) - Peter Bradshaw Tribute HourWe recently aired a special tribute programme celebrating the life and legacy of Peter Bradshaw, former manager of UCB Ireland before Robbie. The tribute includes memories, reflections, and stories from those who knew and worked alongside him over the years. UCBIrelandRadio · Special Tribute for Peter Bradshaw - [Ps. John Ahern](https://www.ucbireland.ie/john-ahern/) - Pastor John AhernPastor John Ahern from All Nation's Church in Dublin brings weekly teaching on his series "Rediscover Life". Jesus said in John 10:10 “ that I have come that you may have life and have it more abundantly.” He was saying that we can rediscover life in Him. Our calling is to connect people - [Logos Ship OM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/logoshope/) - Beverley interviews OM to hear the inspiring story behind the Logos Hope, the world's largest floating book fair. More than just a ship, Logos Hope carries hope, knowledge, and practical help to communities around the world. As the ship prepares to visit Ireland this summer, discover its mission, the lives it has impacted, and how - [Jeanne Whelan](https://www.ucbireland.ie/jeane-whelan/) - 3 Part SeriesJackie chats with Jeanne Whelan from the UCB Ireland team about evangelism, and forgiveness. Jeanne Whelan Evangelism & Rejection Pt2Evangelism & Rejection Pt2Forgiveness Pt3 3 Part Series Jackie chats with Jeanne Whelan from the UCB Ireland team about evangelism, and forgiveness. - [Catherine Carey](https://www.ucbireland.ie/catherinecarey/) - 3 Part SeriesJackie chats with Catherine Carey from The Healing Rooms, about love, disappointments, sin and lots more. Catherine Carey God's Love For UsDisappointments & IdentityMaking Time for God - Quiet Time - [Jeanne Whelan](https://www.ucbireland.ie/jeane-whelan-2/) - 3 Part SeriesJackie chats with Jeanne Whelan from the UCB Ireland team about evangelism, and forgiveness. Jeanne Whelan Evangelism & Rejection Pt2Evangelism & Rejection Pt2Forgiveness Pt3 - [Money Matters with CAP (Christians Against Poverty)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/money-matters/) - Money MattersTim is joined by the Christian organisation CAP (Christians Against Poverty.)CAP Ireland is a Christian charity that believes no Irish person should live in financial distress. They are equipping a movement of churches to walk alongside those in financial distress whilst sharing about the fullness of life in Jesus. Find out more about CAP - [Mind Matters with Brian Kelly](https://www.ucbireland.ie/mind-matters/) - Mind MattersTim is joined by Brian Kelly who is a Husband, a Dad, a Grandad and a qualified reality Therapist, Life and Business Coach, Adult Guidance Counsellor, Founder and CEO of the Hope Centre in Crumlin, Dublin. He is passionate about people having both the opportunity and support to achieve everything that is possible to - [Power For The Weary](https://www.ucbireland.ie/power-for-the-weary/) - How the Resurrection Power of Christ Carries Us Forward. Have you ever felt that you are growing “weary in well doing” (Galatians 6:9)? You know that Jesus is with you. You know that the Bible promises you victory. But you just feel so tired. How can we motivate ourselves to keep on keeping on?This is - [Prayer & Praise](https://www.ucbireland.ie/prayerandpraise/) - Prayer and praise are at the heart of our walk with God, not just as occasional acts, but as daily rhythms that shape our hearts and redirect our focus. In Word For Today, we are reminded that praise isn’t just something we do when life feels easy, it’s something God calls us to do every - [Perseverance Personified](https://www.ucbireland.ie/perseverance/) - I don't know about you but when it comes to perseverance, it's easier to talk about than to walk it out. James 1 tells us that we should see trials as opportunities rather than inconveniences. And who better to teach us about them than Jesus!But if you’re anything like me, the first question you have - [New Year, New Habits](https://www.ucbireland.ie/newyearnewhabits/) - Healthy Habits for 2026 The arrival of the New Year often sparks the motivation to adopt healthier routines for our minds and bodies, yet have we considered the well-being of our souls?Begin Each Day Empowered through Bible Reading! Here are some tips:Morning Routine: Begin your day with a dedicated time for Bible reading and prayer. - [Mission Is Action](https://www.ucbireland.ie/go/) - The Great Commission: Mission Is Action In Matthew 28:16–20, we hear the final words of Jesus before His ascension — words we now know as the Great Commission. But before that charge was given, extraordinary events had already unfolded.The resurrection itself — the greatest event in history — is recorded in verses 1–8. In verses 9–10, - [Agape Ireland Interview](https://www.ucbireland.ie/agape-ireland/) - Beverley chats with Agape Ireland. Agapé is a movement committed to introducing people to Jesus and training Christians to have a public faith. Find out more about Agape on their website: www.agape.ie https://www.ucbireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Air-Date-Oct-26th-2024-Beverley-Chats-with-Agape-Ireland-Interview.mp3 - [Dave Durbin Interview](https://www.ucbireland.ie/davedurbin/) - Dave Durbin InterviewTim is joined by Dave Durbin, one of the newest members of our team and the UCB Ireland United States Manager. Dave serves as the primary contact in the United States and promotes UCB Ireland’s mission awareness and leads our efforts with our annual UCB Ireland Christian Heritage Tour. Find out more about - [Jean Watson](https://www.ucbireland.ie/jean-watson/) - Jean WatsonJean Watson has touched the lives of thousands of listeners through her music and her compelling testimony of God’s healing grace. Based in Michigan, Jean maintains a full-time speaking and performing schedule all over the world. She feels a particular calling to the nation of Ireland where she hosts a radio show here on - [Ps. Breda Hanrahan](https://www.ucbireland.ie/breda-hanrahan/) - 3 Part SeriesJackie chats with Pastor Breda Hanrahan, who together with her husband Tommy, oversee Firebrand Christian Church. Ps. Breda Hanrahan Spiritual GrowthConquering FearConfession - [Nick Park](https://www.ucbireland.ie/nick-park/) - 8 Part SeriesRobbie chats with Nick Park about his book "How On Earth Did We End Up Here?". Nick is senior pastor of Solid Rock Church, a lively multi-cultural congregation in Drogheda and executive director of Evangelical Alliance Ireland. Episode 110 / 3 / 23https://www.ucbireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/How-On-Earth-Ep01_Nick-Park_for-website.mp3 Episode 217 / 3 / 23https://www.ucbireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/How-On-Earth-Ep02_Nick-Park_for-website.mp3 Episode 324 / 3 - [Michelle Bolton](https://www.ucbireland.ie/michelle-bolton/) - 4 Part SeriesJackie chats with Michelle Bolton from the Journey Church in Lisburn. Michelle Bolton Part 1Part 2Part 3Part 4 - [Ps. Elaine Marrett](https://www.ucbireland.ie/elaine-marrett/) - 4 Part SeriesJackie chats with Pastor Elaine Marrett. Pastor Elaine Marrett Part 1Part 2Part 3Part 4 - [Janine Stellatos from Metro World Child](https://www.ucbireland.ie/metroworldchild/) - 4 Part SeriesJackie chats with Janine Stellatos from Metro World Child. Metro World Child is a faith-based humanitarian organization committed to serving the underprivileged inner-city children of the world. Find out more about Metro World Child here: www.metroworldchild.org What is WorshipLoving the UnloveableLoving the Unloveable Part 2What is Sin - [Ann Marie Scully](https://www.ucbireland.ie/annmariescully/) - 4 Part SeriesJackie chats with Ann Marie Scully from Tullamore about broken relationships, overcoming rejection and how to handle stress. Ann Marie Scully Part 1Part 2Part 3Part 4 - [Meet the Team - Tim Shiels](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tim-shiels/) - Meet the Team - Tim ShielsRobbie chats with one of our wonderful team members - Tim Shiels. Tim is on air each weekday between 11am - 2pm. Listen in to Tim's life story. https://www.ucbireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Meet-the-Team-Tim-Shiels-Mixed-with-St.-IDs.mp3 - [Chris & Amy Stroup](https://www.ucbireland.ie/chrisandamystroup/) - Chris & Amy StroupRobbie chats with Chris and Amy Stroup who run 2 international ministries called Joy of the World Foundation www.joyoftheworldfoundation.org and Breannas House of Joy. In this episode of FoF we talk about the prevention of Child Trafficking. 21 / 7 / 23https://www.ucbireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/FOF-Chris-and-Amy-Stroup-Breannas-House-of-Joy-Mixed-with-St.-IDs.mp3 - [Nelly Greisen](https://www.ucbireland.ie/nellygreisen/) - Nelly Greisen InterviewRobbie chats with Nelly Greisen, a Christian musician best known as a former member of the band 2nd Chapter of Acts. https://www.ucbireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Airdate-2024-10-25-2024-11-29-Focus-on-Fridays-Nelly-Grieson_Mixed-Together-with-St.-IDs.mp3 - [Sports Chaplaincy with Liam McGrath & Bridel Bosakani](https://www.ucbireland.ie/sportschaplaincy/) - Sports Chaplaincy IrelandTim is joined by Liam McGrath & Bridel Bosakani from Sports Chaplaincy Ireland. There are hundreds of chaplains in the UK and Ireland, providing pastoral and spiritual care to professional and amateur sport. Sports Chaplaincy UK and Ireland helps train and facilitate the appointment of sports chaplains. Find out more about Sports Chaplaincy - [Focus on Friday - Mark Morgan, Stella's Voice](https://www.ucbireland.ie/stellasvoice/) - Mark Morgan, Stella's VoiceRobbie chats with Mark Morgan, CEO of charity, Stella's Voice. https://www.ucbireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Stellas-voice-focus-on-friday.mp3 - [Ps. Sian Fitzgerald](https://www.ucbireland.ie/sian-fitzgerald/) - 4 Part SeriesJackie chats with Pastor Siân Fitzgerald, who together with her husband Patrick, oversee the Peoples Church in Dublin. Together they have three daughters. Ps. Sian Fitzgerald (2024) Part 1Part 2Part 3Part 4 Ps. Sian Fitzgerald (2023) Part 1Part 2Part 3Part 4 ## Pages - [Home](https://www.ucbireland.ie/) - We are a Christian media ministry with the primary objective of sharing the good news of Jesus Christ to the nation of Ireland. - [Radio Catchup](https://www.ucbireland.ie/radiocatchup/) - UCB IRELAND radioListen Again CATCHUP ON AIRED PROGRAMMES catch up Missed an Episode?We know you might not always get the chance to listen live to UCB Ireland Radio, so we’ve uploaded some of our most popular interviews, teaching and guest conversations for you to enjoy anytime. Catch up on inspiring stories and conversations with special - [Prayer Wall](https://www.ucbireland.ie/prayerwall/) - UCB IRELANDPrayer Wall LET US PRAY FOR YOU A community praying togetherOur Prayer Wall is a space where we can pray for and encourage one another. LET US PRAY FOR YOUHow Does It Work?Share your prayer request and invite others in our community to pray alongside you. You can choose to display your name, share - [Sunday Schedule](https://www.ucbireland.ie/sunday-programmes/) - UCB IRELAND RADIOWhat's Coming Up On Air Brief summary of programmes Sunday Programmes 7AM - 10AM Breakfast with Lloyd Join Lloyd for the Sunday Breakfast show with Church in Chains at 8.30am and Take Five with Nick Park at 9.30am Email: Lloyd@ucbradio.ie 10AM - 11AM Praise & Worship Hour More praise & worship. Join us - [Weekday Schedule](https://www.ucbireland.ie/programme-details/) - UCB IRELAND RADIOWhat's Coming Up On Air Brief summary of programmes Weekday Programmes 6AM - 9AM Breakfast with Robbie Frawley Join Robbie each weekday morning for news, comments, fun and a positive message. Features on the programme include: 'God Encounter' with David Legge at 6.50am. Word for Today at 7.20am and 'The Story Behind the - [Saturday Schedule](https://www.ucbireland.ie/saturday-programmes/) - UCB IRELAND RADIOWhat's Coming Up On Air Brief summary of programmes Saturday Programmes 7AM - 10AM Breakfast with David and Brandi Join David and Brandi as they kick off our weekend with great music and chat Email: dandb@ucbradio.ie 10AM - 11AM Praise & Worship Hour More praise & worship with the UCB Ireland Team. Join - [UCB Ireland Radio](https://www.ucbireland.ie/radio/) - Radio from UCB IrelandChanging lives for good by the power of God’s Word UCB Ireland – UCB I Worship UCB IrelandUCB Ireland playing you great Christian music, interviews, messages of encouragement, and great teaching. UCB Ireland is here 24 hours a day 7 days a week. The station is also available on our Smart Phone - [ Faith in Action Podcast ](https://www.ucbireland.ie/faithinaction/) - UCB IRELAND PODCASTFAITH IN ACTION Faith in Action is a brand new Podcast designed to spotlight real people who are living out their faith in meaningful ways. It focuses on testimonies and stories that show how ordinary lives can make an extraordinary difference. You can find the Faith In Action Podcast on all platforms. Spotify - [app](https://www.ucbireland.ie/app/) - lISTEN ON THE GODownload the UCB Ireland App UCB Ireland for Apple DOWNLOAD UCB Ireland for Android DOWNLOAD - [Our Team](https://www.ucbireland.ie/ourteam/) - staff & volunteersThe UCB Ireland Team meet the faces behind the ministry UCB Ireland is run by a great team of staff and volunteers. Board of Directors get involvedHelp Share God's Word Across Ireland. We are always looking for volunteers to join our team and help spread the gospel across Ireland. FIND OUT MORE - [Prayer & Praise Day 2026](https://www.ucbireland.ie/prayerandpraiseday/) - UCB IRELANDPrayer & Praise Day LET US PRAY FOR YOU 12th March 2026 7am - 7pmJoin us for Prayer & Praise Day! We're lifting up prayers on air for a number of topics such as education, government, and world issues. Plus, we want to pray for YOU! pray with usHourly TopicsWe will be praying over - [News](https://www.ucbireland.ie/news/) - UCB IRELAND blogNews & Updates News Power For The Weary How the Resurrection Power of Christ Carries Us Forward. Have you ever felt that you are growing “weary in well doing” (Galatians 6:9)? You know that Jesus is with you. You know that the Bible promises you victory. But you just feel so tired. How - [Full Access](https://www.ucbireland.ie/fullaccess/) - Ireland’s First Next Gen Christian Radio Station What is Full Access? We are FULL ACCESS: a voice & a home for Ireland’s Youth. FA is Ireland’s first next Gen Christian radio station based in Dublin and part of the UCB Ireland family. First launched in February 2025, our goal is to see every youth and - [Blog Masonry 2 Columns](https://www.ucbireland.ie/newsandblogcolumns/) - [Acknowledgements](https://www.ucbireland.ie/acknowledgements/) - 7 Nov: Meyer, Joyce, Closer To God Each Day (Brentwood, TN: FaithWords, 2015), 182.9 Nov: Merritt, James, 52 Weeks With Jesus (Eugene, OR: Harvest House, 2014), 142.11 Nov: Ortberg, John, All the Places to Go…How Will You Know? Participant’s Guide (Wheaton, IL: Tyndale, 2015), 140-142.12 Nov: Ortberg, All the Places to Go…How Will You Know? - [Prayer](https://www.ucbireland.ie/prayerline/) - UCB IRELAND PRAYERLINEPrayer is all about bringing God into the equation of your life. LET US PRAY FOR YOU Prayerline is a confidential service for everyone.You can call us on 01 4299 930, email prayer@ucbireland.ie or use the form below.Whatever the issues you are facing, trained Christian volunteers are ready to pray for you and with you. PRAYERLINECall - [Sign Up](https://www.ucbireland.ie/sign-up/) - Our Gift To You.The Word For Today is designed to encourage and equip you in your walk with God. Enter your details below and we will post you out a copy of the latest three month devotional. (If you have previously signed up for Word for Today but need to change your address then please - [Get Involved](https://www.ucbireland.ie/get-involved/) - UCB IRELAND Get Involved be part of the mission Help us continue to Serve the Church and Reach the Nation JOB VACANCIES VOLUNTEERING ROLES GIVE US YOUR FEEDBACK FEEDBACK Have your say with our UCB Ireland Survey. UCB Ireland SurveyWe would love to hear your thoughts on what Christian Media means to you. 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Simpson, founder of the Christian and Missionary Alliance, was plagued with poor health. Two mental breakdowns and a heart condition led to a physician telling him – at age thirty-eight – he wouldn’t live to be forty. The diagnosis was no surprise to Simpson. Preaching was agonising for him; even climbing a slight - [Have a cooperative spirit](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/have-a-cooperative-spirit/) - A cooperative spirit will become your norm once you embrace the fact that you plant seeds for your own success when you support others. Take the case of Paul and Apollos. Some of the Christians at Corinth felt they had to choose sides as to which one to follow – despite the fact that they - [Understanding the kingdom of God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/understanding-the-kingdom-of-god/) - In one sense, the kingdom of God is future, eternal, and heavenly. When Christ returns to set up His kingdom on earth, the prophecy will be fulfilled: ‘The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!’ (Revelation 11:15 NKJV). What a - [Money: how you get it, and give it](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/money-how-you-get-it-and-give-it/) - Many of the heroes in the Bible were wealthy individuals. ‘Abram was very rich in livestock, in silver, and in gold’ (Genesis 13:2 NKJV). King David ‘died in a good old age, full of days and riches and honour’ (1 Chronicles 29:28 NKJV). Barnabas, a wealthy landowner, made possible the expansion of the early church - [Let’s tell the whole world about Jesus](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/lets-tell-the-whole-world-about-jesus/) - One of the greatest disasters of history took place in 1271. That year, Niccolo and Matteo Polo, the father and uncle of Marco Polo, visited Kublai Khan, who was considered the world ruler – with authority over all China, India, and the entire East. Kublai Khan was attracted to the story of Christianity as Niccolo - [Evaluate your expectations](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/evaluate-your-expectations/) - We all have expectations of others. Many times, we may not be totally aware of our expectations, or we don’t express them or will not acknowledge that they are unrealistic. Therefore, they can cause us a great deal of frustration. Failed expectations will always create stress if we allow them. Unfortunately, some of the most - [Keys to spiritual growth](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/keys-to-spiritual-growth/) - How can you grow spiritually? By doing these five things: 1) Rediscover the Bible. You will never grow spiritually without soaking your mind in Scripture. When Jesus told the devil, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God’ (Matthew 4:4 NKJV), He was quoting a - [‘Overcome evil with good’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/overcome-evil-with-good/) - During the Korean War, a South Korean civilian was arrested by the communists and ordered to be shot. When the young communist leader learned that the prisoner in his charge was the head of an orphanage caring for young children, he decided to spare him. Instead, he ordered the execution of the man’s son. The - [God has given you seed to sow](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-has-given-you-seed-to-sow/) - Jesus said: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches’ (vv. 31-32 - [Tell the truth](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/tell-the-truth-2/) - Rosalie Elliot made it to the fourth round of a national spelling contest in Washington, DC. The eleven-year-old from South Carolina was asked to spell the word avowal. In her soft southern accent, she spelled the word, but the judges were unable to determine if she had used an a or an e as the - [Have Realistic Expectations (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/have-realistic-expectations-2/) - Here are three areas in which you must learn to have realistic expectations: 1) You must have realistic expectations of yourself. When you do things poorly you usually feel bad. That sets in motion a never-ending cycle of reaching for things that are out of reach, hoping to prove something you don’t have to prove - [Have Realistic Expectations (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/have-realistic-expectations-1/) - Jesus saw the best in people and worked to bring it out. But He wasn’t naïve; He understood human frailty. When people disappointed Him, He didn’t retaliate in anger, or distance from them. What did He do? ‘Many people saw the signs he was performing and believed in his name. But Jesus would not entrust - [The quickening of the Holy Spirit](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-quickening-of-the-holy-spirit/) - The Bible was meant to be prayed through, meditated on, and lived out. The key is the quickening of the Holy Spirit. ‘But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he…shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit’ (Romans 8:11 KJV). In this instance, ‘quickening’ refers - [You’re not alone, God is with you!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/youre-not-alone-god-is-with-you/) - The Bible says: ‘When Joshua was near Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with a drawn sword in his hand. Joshua went up to him and asked, “Are you for us or for our enemies?” “Neither,” he replied, “but as commander of the army of the Lord I - [Learn to be led by God’s Spirit](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/learn-to-be-led-by-gods-spirit/) - If you are a redeemed child of God, then the Holy Spirit lives within you. And He will guide you towards God’s blessings for your own life and towards opportunities to bless others. In some cases, your ability and willingness to overrule reason, tune out the well-meaning advice of others, and be led by God’s - [What you have is good](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/what-you-have-is-good/) - Let’s look at four liberating truths in this Scripture: 1) ‘She perceives that her merchandise is good.’ She is not looking for validation or approval of her merchandise. When you’re insecure and don’t value what you have, others may be able to minimise it and convince you that it’s not worth much. This woman, like - [Experiencing God’s presence each day](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/experiencing-gods-presence-each-day/) - Nicholas Herman was a cook in a monastery. He worried about whether or not he was truly saved. One day while looking at a tree, he realised the truth of the psalmist’s words – that it had to be rooted in something other and deeper than itself (see Psalm 1:1-3). That day, he decided to - [What, whose, why, when?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/what-whose-why-when/) - When it comes to Christ’s return, five questions arise: 1) What is the Lord’s coming? It’s the fulfilment of His promise: ‘In My Father’s house are many mansions…I go to prepare a place for you. And…I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also’ (John 14:2-3 - [Confidence-building Scriptures](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/confidence-building-scriptures/) - Here are some confidence-building Scriptures you should read, memorise, pray, and stand on each day: 1) ‘His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness’ (2 Peter 1:3 NIV). 2) ‘This is the confidence we have in - [Act and react like a Christian](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/act-and-react-like-a-christian/) - Around the turn of the nineteenth century, a Russian physician named Ivan Pavlov won a Nobel Prize for his experiments with dogs. All of them had one thing in common – they salivated around food. But Pavlov wanted to find out if salivation could be caused by another stimulus, so he conditioned the dogs by - [Healing in the New Testament](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/healing-in-the-new-testament/) - Do you find yourself wondering if Jesus is willing to heal you? Let’s look at the ministry of Jesus Christ, whom the Bible says is ‘the same yesterday, today, and forever’ (Hebrews 13:8 NKJV). That means if He did it before, He will do it again. As you read about the many healings and miracles - [You must know who you are](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-must-know-who-you-are/) - A farmer once caught a young eagle in the forest, brought it home, and raised it among his chickens and turkeys. Five years later, a naturalist came to visit him and saw the bird. ‘That’s an eagle, not a chicken!’ he said. ‘Yes,’ said the farmer, ‘but I’ve raised it to be a chicken.’ The - [Be an ‘I can’ person](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-an-i-can-person/) - Consider these examples of resistance to inventions that we now consider commonplace and enjoy every day. In Germany, ‘experts’ said that if trains went as fast as fifteen to twenty miles an hour – considered a frightful speed – blood would spurt from the travellers’ noses and passengers would suffocate when going through tunnels. In - [God has different ways to get you there](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-has-different-ways-to-get-you-there/) - Marian wanted to become a concert singer, a challenge that was doubly difficult because of the colour of her skin. Her mother, however, had a patient trust in God. Marian later said, ‘Mother’s religion made her believe she could receive what was right for her if she was conscientious in her faith. If it did - [You need more of the Holy Spirit (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-need-more-of-the-holy-spirit-2/) - The Holy Spirit gives us wisdom beyond our knowledge, power beyond our strength, and gifting beyond our ability. With His help, we become better than our best effort and better than our best thought. We become the best version of ourselves possible. Of course, this takes a lifetime. Hence, Paul wrote: ‘Let us not become - [You need more of the Holy Spirit (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-need-more-of-the-holy-spirit-1/) - Jesus said: ‘The Helper, the Holy Spirit…will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.’ When you need to make a critical decision, you need ‘the spirit of wisdom and revelation’ (Ephesians 1:17 NKJV). When you’re in a difficult situation and unsure of what to say: ‘Just - [Step out and do it!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/step-out-and-do-it/) - When God told Joshua, ‘Be strong and courageous,’ the word be really means become. It’s not like a computer in which you enter a password and ‘hey, presto!’ you’re courageous. Courage is a quality you grow into. Like filling bigger shoes, the more you walk in them, the more comfortable they become. Joshua had already - [Walk in fear, or walk in love](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/walk-in-fear-or-walk-in-love/) - Research showing that love mindsets are the norm while fear mindsets are learned is revolutionary for scientists. But it’s not new if you look at Scripture: ‘There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear.’ Over the past several decades, scientists have researched the anatomy and physiology of love and fear. These - [Don’t allow yourself to be distracted](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-allow-yourself-to-be-distracted/) - In March 1987, Eamon Coughlan was running in the qualifying heat at the World Indoor Track Championships in Indianapolis. He was the reigning world record holder at 1500 metres and was favoured to win the race. Unfortunately, with two and a half laps left, he tripped and fell hard. But he got up, and with - [Blessings beyond your imagination](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/blessings-beyond-your-imagination/) - Prayer Pastor Heidi Scanlon said: ‘God has blessings for us in categories we don’t even know exist.’ That means God can create something out of nothing. He can seemingly come out of nowhere, and just when you need Him most, give you something you don’t even have a category for. God says: ‘“For my thoughts - [Be steadfast](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-steadfast/) - Back in the days of the great western cattle ranches in America, a little donkey would sometimes be harnessed to a wild horse and then turned loose onto the range. The wild horse would drag the donkey for miles, throwing him around like a bag of feed. In several days, however, they would return. The - [You will conquer your Jericho (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-will-conquer-your-jericho-2/) - In late January 1956, Dr Martin Luther King, Jr received a threatening telephone call at his house. It was not the first foreboding message he’d received. But on this night, as his children and his wife lay sleeping, the weight of the Civil Rights Movement was too heavy. He decided that the risk was too - [You will conquer your Jericho (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-will-conquer-your-jericho-1/) - Here’s what you need to know about the walls of Jericho: they were immense. They wrapped around the city like a suit of armour, forty feet above the ground. They were impenetrable. Here is what you need to know about Joshua: he didn’t bring the walls down – God did. And God will do that - [Acquire a taste for God’s Word](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/acquire-a-taste-for-gods-word/) - In ancient Jewish culture, formal education began at six years of age. Jewish boys enrolled in the local synagogue school called bet sefer, which means ‘house of the book’. By the time they graduated four years later, they had memorised the entire Torah – every jot and tittle of Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy - [Rest in your redemption](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/rest-in-your-redemption/) - As the Jordan River swelled to a mile in width, crossing it was no small task. Especially with millions of people! God said, ‘Go over this Jordan, you and all this people’ (Joshua 1:2 NKJV). Do you think they were scared? Would you have been? ‘The feet of the priests who bore the ark dipped - [The importance of daily prayer](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-importance-of-daily-prayer/) - Dr George Washington Carver overcame racial prejudice and became an educator, scientist, and inventor who was honoured by the U.S. Congress. He was also a follower of Christ. And here’s what he had to say about prayer: ‘My prayers seem to be more of an attitude than anything else. I indulge in very little lip - [Be a team player](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-a-team-player/) - Solomon wrote: ‘One standing alone can be…defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer.’ What Solomon is saying is this: ‘Be a team player.’ Deuteronomy 32 speaks of one person chasing 1,000 and two putting 10,000 to flight (v. 30). The lesson is that two working together will be ten times more effective than one - [Start your day with God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/start-your-day-with-god-2/) - How do you start your day with God? If you’re not a ‘morning person’, don’t put pressure on yourself to have an extended time of reading Scripture and praying first thing in the morning. Frank Laubach, a modern-day master of practising the presence of God, said, ‘If you are weary of some sleepy form of - [Look back and be encouraged](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/look-back-and-be-encouraged/) - James wrote: ‘My brethren, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an example of suffering and patience. Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord – that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful’ (James - [Holy Communion](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/holy-communion/) - Here are three reasons you need to partake of Holy Communion: 1) To make you grace-minded. No one will ever stand in heaven and say, ‘Look what Jesus and I have accomplished.’ If you had to pay one penny of your debt of sin, it would make you a co-redeemer with Christ. What an offence - [Reprogramme and renew your mind](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/reprogramme-and-renew-your-mind/) - Neuroscientists tell us that every sound, every experience, every conscious thought, and every subconscious dream is recorded and literally engraved on our external hard drive, the cerebral cortex. Now juxtapose that with this: ‘Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus’ (Philippians 2:5 NKJV). Simply put: the mind of Christ is - [God loves and accepts you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-loves-and-accepts-you/) - Jimmy Wayne never knew his father, and his mother spent more time in prison than out. When Jimmy was twelve, his mother was released from jail and took up with a troublemaker. They loaded him into the back seat of their car, and for a year that was his home. Then one day, they dumped - [More responsibility calls for more prayer](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/more-responsibility-calls-for-more-prayer/) - In the early days of America, a stranger asked how he might identify George Washington among those present at Congress. He was told, ‘You can easily distinguish him when Congress goes to prayer. Washington is the gentleman who kneels down.’ Washington was known as a man who prayed. When the fate of the new nation - [Have you prayed about it?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/have-you-prayed-about-it/) - From the beginning of the Bible to its conclusion we see absolute evidence that God answers prayer. Things that we think are impossible, God does when people pray! When we pray, we align ourselves with the purposes of God and tap into the power of the Almighty. Because we pray, God works through us in - [How to have a good day](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-have-a-good-day/) - In Western culture, we think of a day beginning when the sun comes up. But the creation account says: ‘The evening and the morning were the first day’ (Genesis 1:5 NKJV). Each day began with evening. Author Eugene Peterson noted that in this way, the biblical writers help us to remember: ‘Everything doesn’t depend on - [Exercise patience](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/exercise-patience/) - Patience, from the biblical perspective, embodies these four things: 1) Confidence in God’s unfailing love and faithfulness to us: ‘His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness’ (Lamentations 3:22-23 NKJV). 2) Confidence that He will keep His promises to us: ‘There has not failed one word…which He promised’ (1 Kings - [Before you get married](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/before-you-get-married/) - Here are three things you should be clear about before you commit to a lifetime relationship in marriage (if you’re not in this situation yourself, perhaps you could use these points to guide your prayers for others): 1) Does your partner have a strong relationship with Christ? ‘Can two people walk together without agreeing on - [With God’s help, you’ll succeed](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/with-gods-help-youll-succeed/) - Some of the world’s greatest achievers went through life with physical disabilities and overcame incredible adversities. Sir Walter Scott was disabled. John Bunyan, author of The Pilgrim’s Progress, was imprisoned. George Washington, America’s first president, almost froze and starved to death in the snows of Valley Forge. Abraham Lincoln played a critical part in ending - [Spiritual pathways (6)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/spiritual-pathways-6/) - The contemplative pathway. If you relate to God best through the contemplative pathway, you love large blocks of quietness and uninterrupted time alone. It is very likely that when you were a child, your parents would tell you to go outside and play with other kids more. Reflection comes naturally to you. You often feel - [Spiritual pathways (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/spiritual-pathways-5/) - The activist pathway. When you’re on this spiritual pathway, you have a high level of energy. This may be one of your favourite Scriptures: ‘Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might.’ But one of the dangers of relating to God best through the activist pathway is that a big chunk of - [Spiritual pathways (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/spiritual-pathways-4/) - The worship pathway. When you’re on the worship pathway, you resonate with the psalmist: ‘I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go into the house of the Lord.”’ Something deep inside you feels released when praise is given. Your heart opens up and you come alive. You find yourself in tears, sometimes - [Spiritual pathways (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/spiritual-pathways-3/) - The serving pathway. On the serving pathway, you find God’s presence seems most tangible when you’re helping others. You identify with the words of Jesus: ‘Inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these…you did it to Me’ (Matthew 25:40 NKJV). And you may find that you are uncomfortable in a setting - [Spiritual pathways (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/spiritual-pathways-2/) - The relational pathway. People who follow the relational pathway find that they have a deep sense of God’s presence when they are involved in significant relationships. Jesus’ words, ‘For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them’ (Matthew 18:20 NKJV), makes perfect sense to the - [Spiritual pathways (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/spiritual-pathways-1/) - A spiritual pathway has to do with the way you most naturally sense God’s presence and experience spiritual growth. We all have at least one pathway that comes most easily to us. And there’s enormous freedom in identifying and embracing your spiritual pathway. It means you can focus on relating to God in that way. - [Permissible or beneficial?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/permissible-or-beneficial/) - God can deliver you from anything in a single day, but you’ve got to back it up with daily discipline. If you don’t practise spiritual discipline day in and day out, your deliverance will be short-lived. You’ll fall back into whatever it was that God delivered you from. Anybody can set a life goal; the - [Rahab: redeemed and redirected](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/rahab-redeemed-and-redirected/) - Much could be said about Rahab without mentioning her profession. She was a Canaanite. She provided cover for the spies of Joshua. She came to believe in the God of Abraham before she ever met the children of Abraham. She was spared in the destruction of her city. She married a contemporary of Joshua’s, bore - [Always acknowledge your dependence on God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/always-acknowledge-your-dependence-on-god/) - In his classic book called Prayer, Dr O. Hallesby wrote: ‘Prayer and helplessness are inseparable. Only those who are helpless can truly pray…Prayer therefore consists simply in telling God day by day in what ways we feel helpless. We are moved to pray every time the Spirit of God…emphasises anew to us our helplessness, and - [Raise the bar](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/raise-the-bar/) - After David killed Goliath, four other men, including his nephew Jonathan, killed giants that rose up against the Israelites. ‘In still another battle, which took place at Gath, there was a huge man with six fingers on each hand and six toes on each foot – twenty-four in all. He was also descended from Rapha. - [Be a father](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-a-father/) - In 1985 Tim Burke saw his boyhood dream come true when the Montreal Expos baseball team took him on as a pitcher, giving him an annual salary of $600,000. (Back then, that was big money for a player.) After four years in the minor leagues, he was finally given a chance to play in the - [Keep running!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/keep-running/) - The Bible likens the Christian life to a marathon. The writer of the book of Hebrews said: ‘Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who - [Resurrect your dream](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/resurrect-your-dream/) - God is the giver of dreams. ‘For God does speak…in a dream, in a vision…when deep sleep falls on people’ (vv. 14-15 NIV). Unless you want to spend the rest of your life being unfulfilled and uninspired, take your dream out of the closet and blow the dust off. It’s easy to get caught up - [Stay positive](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/stay-positive/) - Marcial Losada is an organisational psychologist who studies the power of positivity. He argues that we need a negative feedback loop to survive. Without midcourse corrections, we mindlessly make the same mistakes. But if you want to thrive, you also need a positive feedback loop. His studies have produced what is known as the Losada - [Pray about it](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/pray-about-it/) - Fanny Crosby, the noted hymn writer, said she never attempted to write a hymn without first kneeling in prayer. Given that she wrote about 8,000 songs, she was obviously a woman of prayer! Beloved hymns such as ‘Blessed Assurance’, ‘To God Be The Glory’, and ‘I Am Thine, O Lord’ were born from times of - [You can outgrow the problem!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-can-outgrow-the-problem/) - Before leaving the leaders of the church at Ephesus for the last time, Paul told them: ‘The Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy’ - [God has more in store for you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-has-more-in-store-for-you/) - The Lord charged the church at Ephesus with having ‘left your first love’ (see Revelation 2:4) and the church of Laodicea with being ‘neither hot nor cold, but lukewarm’ (see Revelation 3:15-16). R.T. Kendall said, ‘The greatest opposition to what God wants to do next comes from those who were on the cutting edge of - [You can pull down that stronghold](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-can-pull-down-that-stronghold/) - Just as Jericho was a stronghold in Canaan, we have strongholds in our lives. Paul wrote: ‘The weapons of our warfare are…mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God’ (vv. 4-5 NKJV). A stronghold is an ‘argument’ or a ‘high thing’ - [Don’t give up; keep going!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-give-up-keep-going/) - Someone said: ‘The secret of success is to be like a duck – smooth and unruffled on top, and paddling furiously underneath.’ Niccolò Paganini, the well-known nineteenth-century violinist, illustrated the truth of this. His most memorable concert was marked by ‘furious paddling under the surface’ rather than easy success. The concert was performed with a - [Pray for a revelation of God’s love (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/pray-for-a-revelation-of-gods-love-3/) - Paul asked: ‘Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?’ And the answer is nothing! Then he came up with a laundry list of worst-case scenarios, from trouble to danger and anything in between: ‘Trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword’ (NIV). When Paul wrote ‘hardship’, he was - [Pray for a revelation of God’s love (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/pray-for-a-revelation-of-gods-love-2/) - Thomas Aquinas was one of the most prolific writers and thinkers of the Middle Ages. His Summa Theologica is one of history’s most exhausting and enduring theologies. But Aquinas never finished it because of something that happened on 6th December 1273, that caused him to give up writing. ‘All that I have written seems to - [Pray for a revelation of God’s love (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/pray-for-a-revelation-of-gods-love-1/) - In the realm of general relativity, an event horizon is the point of no return. It’s the point at which gravitational pull becomes so great that it’s impossible to escape. The most obvious example is the black hole – a celestial object so massive that light can only enter but never exit its gravitational field. - [Practise God-confidence rather than self-confidence](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/practise-god-confidence-rather-than-self-confidence/) - Pride promotes self-reliance. It tells us we can indeed do things on our own. In our attempt to walk in self-confidence, we slam the door in God’s face and shut out the work of the Holy Spirit, our Helper. Paul was educated, sophisticated, and consecrated, yet he humbly declared, ‘I am the least of all - [The whole world must hear God’s Word](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-whole-world-must-hear-gods-word/) - In 1993, a group called AD2000 United Prayer Track came up with an innovative idea. To help realise their goal of ‘a church for every people and the gospel for every person by AD2000’, they established a programme called ‘Praying through the Window’. The ‘window’ referred to an area on the globe from ten degrees - [The life-giving Word](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-life-giving-word/) - Jesus was called ‘Rabbi’ eleven times in the Gospels. But He wasn’t like any other rabbi. Rabbis quoted others, but Jesus said, ‘Truly, I say to you…’ In the gospel of John, He said it twice: ‘Truly, truly, I say to you…’ The reason Jesus wasn’t like any other rabbi was because He was God - [Developing a spiritual mindset](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/developing-a-spiritual-mindset/) - Muscle memory isn’t stored in your muscles. It’s a procedural memory that is stored in your brain any time you repeat a muscle movement. Whether it’s putting a golf ball or playing a violin, the muscle memory becomes stronger the more it is repeated. Have you heard about the 10,000-hour rule? Psychologists say that’s the - [How to conquer your Jericho (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-conquer-your-jericho-2/) - Before conquering Jericho, God told Joshua to ‘circumcise the sons of Israel again the second time’. Six hundred years earlier, God had inaugurated the practice of male circumcision. He told Abraham that it would be ‘a sign of the covenant between Me and you’ (Genesis 17:11 NKJV). What was the message here? Remember whose you - [How to conquer your Jericho (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-conquer-your-jericho-1/) - Jericho was the strongest city in the Promised Land and the first Joshua’s army had to conquer. You could say it represents the biggest challenge you’re facing right now. Because the towering walls of Jericho looked impregnable, it would have been intimidating to any would-be invader. So God told His people to remember and record - [Knowing and enjoying your inheritance](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/knowing-and-enjoying-your-inheritance/) - We share the same inheritance as Christ! Whatever He has, we have! ‘Our standing in the world is identical with Christ’s’ (1 John 4:17 MSG). So, if we are co-heirs with Christ, why do we struggle through life? For two reasons: 1) We don’t know about our inheritance – 'The exceeding greatness of His power - [Believe God for abundance](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/believe-god-for-abundance/) - A young artist called her aunt one day to let her know she was leaving on a trip to a fashionable resort to try and sell her wood carvings of seabirds to the owner of a gift shop. She asked her aunt to pray that her venture would be successful. Her aunt assured her that - [P.R.A.Y. (Pause, Reverence, Ask, Yield)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/p-r-a-y-pause-reverence-ask-yield/) - In her book 30 Days to a Stronger, More Confident You, author Deborah Smith Pegues uses the word ‘pray’ as an acronym: ‘Pause. I stop all activity and focus completely on God. Worship is total preoccupation…The greatest honour and respect we can give to anyone is our undivided attention…Reverence. I express my admiration for all - [Today God is ‘with you’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/today-god-is-with-you-2/) - To have a personal relationship with someone, there must be two-way communication. Even the most uncommunicative spouse has to grunt every once in a while, or it isn’t a marriage – it’s a monologue. So, the Lord being with you, and you being with the Lord, takes place primarily in your mind. Two people may - [Ask God for a dream](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/ask-god-for-a-dream/) - Job the patriarch said: ‘For God may speak in one way, or in another, yet man does not perceive it. In a dream, in a vision of the night…while slumbering on their beds, then He opens the ears of men’ (Job 33:14-16 NKJV). A dream can be an important message from God or an answer - [God is working in you, with you, and through you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-is-working-in-you-with-you-and-through-you/) - Just before He was arrested and taken to the cross, Jesus prayed: ‘[Father], I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them.’ When it comes to recognising and responding - [Go on a complaining fast](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/go-on-a-complaining-fast/) - Whatever you keep doing becomes a habit. That’s why James says, ‘do not complain’. Author Jon Gordon says, ‘A complaining fast won’t just make everyone around you happier…you’ll experience more joy, peace, success and positive relationships.’ So instead of complaining when things go wrong: 1) Practise gratitude. Giving thanks for three blessings every day energises - [Christ can satisfy your soul](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/christ-can-satisfy-your-soul/) - She lived in Samaria, had been married five times, and was now living with a man who was not her husband. Maybe gossipers wagged their tongues about her. How else would you explain her midday appearance at the well? Other women fill their buckets at sunrise, but this woman opted for noon, preferring the heat - [The touch of His hand](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-touch-of-his-hand/) - In her book A Slow and Certain Light, Elisabeth Elliott wrote: ‘When I lived in the Forest of Ecuador, I usually travelled on foot…Trails often led through streams and rivers which we had to wade, but sometimes there was a log high above the water which we had to cross. I dreaded those logs and - [Overcoming workaholism](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/overcoming-workaholism/) - One of Satan’s tactics is to take us from one extreme to the other – from laziness to workaholism. Understanding the difference between being a hard worker versus a workaholic is key. Hard workers have the wisdom to set limits on how much they will do in the course of a day. In her book - [God is ‘at work in you’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-is-at-work-in-you/) - God is at work ‘in you’. What is He working on? Your ‘will’. What does He want you to do? ‘Act according to His good purpose.’ How does He accomplish this? Through your mind: ‘Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus’ (Philippians 2:5 NKJV). God can speak to you audibly, - [He’s the God of new beginnings](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/hes-the-god-of-new-beginnings/) - Our God is the God of new beginnings! The Bible says: ‘Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins.’ It is never too late for a new beginning. And what’s even more remarkable is that God uses people like us to - [Know who you are](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/know-who-you-are/) - Who are you? It seems like a simple question but is often one of the most challenging to answer. To know who you are and what you stand for, to be aware of how you’re perceived by others and how you present yourself to the world, is one of the most important aspects of a - [You have full forgiveness](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-have-full-forgiveness/) - How many times must the apostle Paul, who was once known as Saul the persecutor of Christians, have had flashbacks to Stephen’s stoning? Or the countless other Christians he hunted down like animals? Paul was an eyewitness, which means those snapshots were sealed into his visual cortex. When he closed his eyes, those images could - [‘Overnight success’ usually takes many years](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/overnight-success-usually-takes-many-years/) - Country-music star Randy Travis and his manager, Lib, remember the lean days of his career – all 3,650 of them. For ten years, Lib did whatever it took to keep her club open long enough for somebody to discover Travis’s talent. For his part, Randy sang his heart out. And when he wasn’t singing, he - [Are you washing your nets?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/are-you-washing-your-nets/) - Why would fishermen wash nets that hadn’t been used? The answer is they were quitting because of an overnight problem. ‘We have fished all night and caught nothing’ (see v. 5). Their expectations had been destroyed. They believed that the way things were was the way they’d be. They were beaten! That’s when Jesus showed - [The worst failure…is failure to try](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-worst-failureis-failure-to-try/) - It’s impossible to live successfully without taking risks. Leo Buscaglia wrote: ‘To laugh is to risk appearing the fool. To weep is to risk appearing sentimental. To reach out to another is to risk involvement…To place your ideas, your dreams, before the crowd is to risk being called naïve. To love is to risk not - [The way up is down](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-way-up-is-down/) - God will not tolerate pride from anyone. If self-exalted ones refuse to humble themselves, they leave God no other choice than to do it for them. One day, pride got the better of Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon: ‘As he looked out across the city, he said, “Look at this great city of Babylon! By - [Live like you believe it! (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/live-like-you-believe-it-2/) - The Archbishop of Canterbury was acquainted with an actor named Mr Butterton. One day he asked Butterton, ‘What is the reason you actors on stage can affect your congregations with the speaking of things imaginary, as if they were real, while we in church speak of things real, which our congregations only receive as if - [Live like you believe it! (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/live-like-you-believe-it-1/) - A fascinating experiment was conducted a half century ago. Three men tested their strength on a gripping machine, with an average measure of 101 pounds of pressure. Then the participants were hypnotised, and the experimenter told them, ‘You cannot grip because you are weak.’ Under the power of suggestion, their average grip strength fell to - [Will you hear Christ, or the crisis?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/will-you-hear-christ-or-the-crisis/) - Jesus told His disciples: ‘Let us go over to the other side.’ Next, we read: ‘A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat’ (v. 37 NIV). The disciples turned to Jesus and found Him sound asleep! They screamed, ‘Don’t you care if we drown?’ (v. 38 NIV). Jesus woke up, commanded - [God will give you knowledge and understanding](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-will-give-you-knowledge-and-understanding/) - Bill Gates predicted: ‘There will be “two societies” in the future; high-paid knowledge workers and low-paid service workers.’ The saying ‘knowledge is power’ is true. And it’s even more dynamic in the spiritual realm. The more you know about God, the more confident you’ll be. Knowledge of God’s Word can give clarity to the puzzling - [When you long for companionship](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/when-you-long-for-companionship/) - God recognised our need for companionship when He said, ‘“It is not good for the man to be alone”…Then…God made a woman…and he brought her to the man’ (vv. 18, 22 NIV). Most of us are social beings who are at our best around others. We garner energy and support from them. But there are - [Growing through life’s tests](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/growing-through-lifes-tests/) - James writes: ‘Be glad, even if you have a lot of trouble. You know you learn to endure by having your faith tested. But you must learn to endure everything, so you will be completely mature and not lacking in anything. If any of you need wisdom, you should ask God, and it will be - [You are an agent of reconciliation](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-are-an-agent-of-reconciliation/) - Paul wrote: ‘If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. - [Just play your part](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/just-play-your-part/) - If you study famous musicians, you’ll often find that they learned their craft by playing in a band or orchestra. That’s because certain skills – learning to blend with other instruments, keeping tempo, learning to play louder or softer, following the conductor’s lead – can only be learned by playing with others. And what’s true - [Today God is with you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/today-god-is-with-you/) - When you face a crisis it’s easy to lose perspective. It happened to two of Christ’s disciples on the Emmaus Road. Discouraged about His death, they were ‘going over all these things that had happened. In the middle of their…questions, Jesus came up and walked along with them. But they were not able to recognise - [Free from guilt and condemnation](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/free-from-guilt-and-condemnation/) - Satan is called ‘the accuser of our brethren’ because he tries to remind us of everything we’ve done wrong. Why? So that all our emotional energy is spent on the past, and we’ve nothing left over to dream God-sized dreams or fulfil our God-given assignment in life. The irony of his accusations is this: he - [Live for a cause greater than yourself](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/live-for-a-cause-greater-than-yourself/) - When Moses sent Caleb to spy out the Promised Land, Caleb saw something that troubled him: the town of Hebron. Abraham buried his wife there. He was buried there. So were Isaac and Jacob. Hebron was a sacred site. Now it was inhabited by their enemies, and it bothered Caleb. It was more than he - [It came to pass – not stay](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/it-came-to-pass-not-stay/) - There is a little phrase repeated 436 times in the Bible: ‘It came to pass.’ Whatever trial you are going through today, remind yourself, ‘It came to pass – not stay.’ If the fulfilment of the vision God gave you seems to be taking longer than you thought, remind yourself ‘it will come to pass’! - [Confidants, constituents, comrades](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/confidants-constituents-comrades/) - Nearly all key relationships in your life can be broken down into three categories: confidants, constituents, and comrades. Let’s look at each. 1) Confidants. These are the people whose relationships with you are lifelong. They love you unconditionally, stand by you, and have your back in good times and bad. Your best interest is their - [Embrace ‘the whole counsel of God’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/embrace-the-whole-counsel-of-god/) - More than a hundred years ago, William Booth, the founder of the Salvation Army, spoke prophetically when he said, ‘The chief dangers which confront the coming century will be religion without the Holy Ghost, Christianity without Christ, forgiveness without repentance, salvation without regeneration, politics without God, heaven without hell.’ That’s as true now as it - [Having a Spirit-controlled tongue (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/having-a-spirit-controlled-tongue-2/) - The Bible says, ‘A tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And…the tongue is a flame of fire’ (vv. 5-6 NLT). People living in hot climates know the danger of ravaging bushfires driven by desert winds and can readily identify with these words: ‘See how great a forest a little fire kindles!’ (v. - [Having a Spirit-controlled tongue (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/having-a-spirit-controlled-tongue-1/) - The Bible says: ‘If we could control our tongues, we…could also control ourselves in every other way. We can make a large horse go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth’ (vv. 2-3 NLT). If you’ve ever bridled a horse, you know the bridle that slips over the horse’s head - [‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me?’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/lord-how-many-times-shall-i-forgive-my-brother-or-sister-who-sins-against-me/) - Matthew 18:21 NIV There is a saying in baseball: ‘Three strikes and you’re out.’ We tend to play life the same way. We give people two or three chances, but no more. But God never gives up on us. It’s not in His nature. When Peter asked Jesus how many times he should forgive his - [‘As a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/as-a-result-we-stopped-relying-on-ourselves-and-learned-to-rely-only-on-god/) - 2 Corinthians 1:9 NLT Several men went on a mission trip to Haiti where they met a nineteen-year-old young man who loved Christ deeply. So they invited him to visit them in America and paid for his trip. The young Haitian felt as if he were in another world. He’d never slept between sheets, had - [‘Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy?’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/wrath-is-cruel-and-anger-is-outrageous-but-who-is-able-to-stand-before-envy/) - Proverbs 27:4 KJV Unlike jealousy, which is the fear of being displaced, envy is ill-will towards those who possess something you want. Jealousy says, ‘I’m afraid you are going to take what I have.’ Envy says, ‘I want what you have, and I resent you for having it!’ Envy is one of the most frequently - [‘We count as blessed those who have persevered.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/we-count-as-blessed-those-who-have-persevered/) - James 5:11 NIV We often think of great artists and musicians as having ‘bursts’ of genius. But more often, they’re models of painstaking patience and perseverance. Their greatest works tend to have been accomplished over longer periods and through extreme hardships. Beethoven is said to have rewritten each bar of his music at least a - [‘Go after them.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/go-after-them/) - James 5:19 MSG The Bible says, ‘If you know people who have wandered off from God’s truth, don’t write them off. Go after them. Get them back and you will have rescued precious lives from destruction’ (vv. 19-20 MSG). That means it’s possible for a true believer to do this. It also means we must - [‘I have called [you]…and [your] way will prosper.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/i-have-called-youand-your-way-will-prosper/) - Isaiah 48:15 NKJV As a leader, you must understand what you do well and know where you need assistance. Your strengths and weaknesses don’t make you wrong or right; they just make you who you are. If you’ve ever heard the saying, ‘No man is an island,’ it was probably said about a great leader. - [‘Acquaint yourself with Him, and be at peace.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/acquaint-yourself-with-him-and-be-at-peace/) - Job 22:21 NKJV Within a matter of seconds, Vicky’s life was shattered. A trapeze artist, she lost control of the fly bar and landed head-first in the net. She broke her neck between the fifth and sixth cervical vertebrae and became paralysed with quadriplegia. Three years after the accident, she had fallen into deep despair - [‘Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/cast-all-your-anxiety-on-him-because-he-cares-for-you/) - 1 Peter 5:7 NIV Paul wrote: ‘Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand’ (Philippians 4:6-7 NLT). Jesus said: ‘Don’t worry about these things, saying, “What will we eat? What - [‘Cry to God all day and all night for the fulfilment of his promises.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/cry-to-god-all-day-and-all-night-for-the-fulfilment-of-his-promises/) - Isaiah 62:6 TLB The remora fish has an oval sucking disc on the top of its head that allows it to attach itself to the underside of a shark. Once attached, the remora does not have to worry about food, transportation, or safety. It feeds on the food that falls from the shark’s mouth. Of - [‘He delights in mercy.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/he-delights-in-mercy/) - Micah 7:18 NKJV God has a remarkable memory. The Omniscient One doesn’t just know everything; He also remembers everything. In fact, He remembers it before it happens! Every moment of your life was ordained in God’s imagination before it became a memory – every laugh, every dream, and every sacrifice. The psalmist wrote: ‘You saw - [‘His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/his-mercies-never-come-to-an-end-they-are-new-every-morning/) - Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV The English word for new is the Hebrew word hadas. It doesn’t just mean again and again, as amazing as that would be. It’s new, as in different. It means never before experienced. Today’s mercy is different from yesterday’s mercy, or the day before that, or the day before that! Just as - [‘I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/i-will-forgive-their-iniquity-and-their-sin-i-will-remember-no-more/) - Jeremiah 31:34 NKJV The Israelites had celebrated the Passover as a way of commemorating their exodus from Egypt. The evening before the exodus, the Israelites were instructed to sacrifice a lamb without defect and to mark their doorframe with its blood. Then, when the Death Angel passed through Egypt, he would pass over their home. - [‘I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their…deeds I will remember no more.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/i-will-be-merciful-to-their-unrighteousness-and-their-sins-and-theirdeeds-i-will-remember-no-more/) - Hebrews 8:12 NKJV God forgives and forgets. Amazing, isn’t it? He remembers everything you’ve done right while forgetting everything you’ve done wrong. Yet, while God cannot remember our confessed sin, we have a much harder time forgetting it. We tend to remember our mistakes more readily than our successes. That’s why it’s harder to forgive - [‘We have put our trust in his love.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/we-have-put-our-trust-in-his-love/) - 1 John 4:16 NLT When you fail, God’s love for you does not fail. And to enjoy the fullness of what He wants you to have, you must believe that. The knowledge of God’s love will carry you through to victory when the powers of hell are against you. The knowledge of God’s love will - [‘Jealousy [is] as cruel as the grave.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/jealousy-is-as-cruel-as-the-grave/) - Song of Songs 8:6 NKJV If you’re dealing with an insecure partner, you must make every effort to be accountable. It’s important to voluntarily provide adequate details. After all, he or she is looking for assurance. Learn to explain your whereabouts in a casual but thorough manner. Short, one-syllable responses will provide more insecurity and - [‘I will meditate on Your precepts, and contemplate Your ways.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/i-will-meditate-on-your-precepts-and-contemplate-your-ways/) - Psalm 119:15 NKJV Meditation is the most effective way to assimilate God’s Word. David describes the ‘blessed’ man this way: ‘His delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night’ (Psalm 1:2 NKJV). And whatever you meditate on and memorise, the Holy Spirit will help you recall - [‘Bearing with one another, and forgiving one another.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/bearing-with-one-another-and-forgiving-one-another/) - Colossians 3:13 NKJV When you study the lives of those who were greatly used by God in the Bible, you see that they were not spared from hurt, disappointment, or even betrayal. The truth is, if you live long enough, you’ll be wronged by someone. The question is, how will you react? The apostle Paul - [‘I have set the Lord always before me; because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/i-have-set-the-lord-always-before-me-because-he-is-at-my-right-hand-i-shall-not-be-moved/) - Psalm 16:8 NKJV Say these words aloud several times and let them roll around in your mind: ‘I have set the Lord always before me.’ Take some time to imagine how this might actually be experienced in your life. What would it be like to wake up with God on your mind? What would it - [‘Father, I have sinned.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/father-i-have-sinned/) - Luke 15:18 NKJV The story of the prodigal son illustrates the meaning of true repentance. It’s about a young Jewish man who rebelled against all that he’d been taught, turned his back on his father, was lured by the bright lights of the big city, and ended up in a pigpen feeding swine. But he - [‘Submit to one another out of reverence to Christ.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/submit-to-one-another-out-of-reverence-to-christ/) - Ephesians 5:21 NIV Paul wrote: ‘Submit to one another out of reverence to Christ.’ Satan is the enemy of marriage. In order to defeat him, you must first know how to identify where, when, and how he’s at work. As long as you focus on fighting each other or blaming yourself, your marriage will continue - [‘Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-transformed-by-the-renewing-of-your-mind/) - Romans 12:2 NKJV You were created for love, but you have learned to fear! The neurological love pathway in your brain consciously evaluates toxic thoughts, and as you choose to hand the situation over to God, you do not submit to fear. And love is the stronger of the two pathways! ‘There is no fear - [‘These things happened to them as examples for us.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/these-things-happened-to-them-as-examples-for-us/) - 1 Corinthians 10:11 NLT Egypt represents our days in bondage to sin. Then Jesus liberated us and gave us a new life. Our Promised Land isn’t a physical territory; it’s a spiritual reality. It’s not real estate, but a real state of heart and mind. It’s a life in which ‘we are more than conquerors - [‘He [Andrew] first found his own brother Simon [Peter].…And he brought him to Jesus.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/he-andrew-first-found-his-own-brother-simon-peter-and-he-brought-him-to-jesus/) - John 1:41-42 NKJV What do Billy Graham, Campus Crusade for Christ founder Bill Bright, Young Life founder Jim Rayburn, and the Navigators founder Dawson Trotman have in common? The answer is a Sunday school teacher named Henrietta Mears. When Henrietta was thirty-eight years old, she moved from Minnesota to a burgeoning town called Hollywood, California. - [‘If you have been snared with the words of your mouth…Go, humble yourself.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/if-you-have-been-snared-with-the-words-of-your-mouthgo-humble-yourself/) - Proverbs 6:2-3 NASB (1995) In 1755, a twenty-three-year-old army colonel was running for a seat in the Virginia assembly, when he made an insulting remark as part of a campaign speech. It was addressed to a hot-tempered man named Payne, who responded by knocking the colonel down with a hickory stick. Soldiers rushed to the - [‘Be constantly renewed in the spirit of your mind.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-constantly-renewed-in-the-spirit-of-your-mind/) - Ephesians 4:23 AMPC We are three-part beings: spirit, soul, and body. When we make Jesus Lord of our lives, our spirit receives healing from spiritual death. But there are still two areas that need Christ’s healing touch: our souls (mind, emotions, and will) and our physical bodies. God’s Word teaches us that physical health and - [‘He is not here: for he is risen, as he said.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/he-is-not-here-for-he-is-risen-as-he-said/) - Matthew 28:6 KJV One day your heart will give a final pulse, and your lungs empty a final breath. And barring the return of Christ, you will die. The psalmist asked, ‘What man can live and not see death? Can he deliver his life from the power of the grave?’ (Psalm 89:48 NKJV). Young and - [‘He said, “It is finished!”’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/he-said-it-is-finished/) - John 19:30 NKJV In Old Testament times, you received forgiveness from God by bringing a sacrificial lamb to the altar, where a priest would shed its blood and offer it as atonement. The first person in Scripture to do this was Cain’s brother, Abel (see Genesis 4:4). When Solomon dedicated his magnificent temple, he sacrificed - [‘Where sin abounded, grace abounded much more.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/where-sin-abounded-grace-abounded-much-more-2/) - Romans 5:20 NKJV Just minutes before his final breath, Jesus cried out, ‘Tetelestai!’ from the cross. In English, it is translated as ‘It is finished.’ It was the same word that was written on receipts in New Testament times, indicating that a debt had been paid in full. Jesus’ death on the cross was the - [‘Pray the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into His harvest.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/pray-the-lord-of-the-harvest-to-send-out-labourers-into-his-harvest/) - Matthew 9:38 NKJV When Martin Luther began the work that became the Great Reformation, his friend Myconius said, ‘I can best help where I am. I will remain and pray while you toil.’ Then one night, Myconius dreamed that Jesus approached him and showed him His hands and feet, wounded by His crucifixion. He looked - [‘It is the spirit in a person, the breath of the Almighty, that gives them understanding.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/it-is-the-spirit-in-a-person-the-breath-of-the-almighty-that-gives-them-understanding/) - Job 32:8 NIV Elihu suddenly spoke up in Job chapter 32. It’s apparent he had been present all along, but he held his peace because he believed Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar were older and wiser than he was. ‘I am young in years, and you are old; that is why I was fearful, not daring - [‘Your kingdom come.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-kingdom-come/) - Matthew 6:10 NKJV Every time you are in conflict with someone, but you go to them and seek reconciliation and forgiveness – the kingdom is breaking into this world. Every time you have a chunk of money and decide to give significantly to somebody who is hungry or homeless or poor – the kingdom is - [‘All things come from You, and of Your own we have given You.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/all-things-come-from-you-and-of-your-own-we-have-given-you/) - 1 Chronicles 29:14 NKJV When the people of Israel brought offerings to build the temple, David said: ‘For all that is in heaven and in earth is Yours…Both riches and honour come from You…All things come from You, and of Your own we have given You’ (vv. 11-12, 14 NKJV). Imagine for a minute that - [‘Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/keep-your-lives-free-from-the-love-of-money-and-be-content-with-what-you-have/) - Hebrews 13:5 NIV People who were happy when they bought their clothes at charity shops typically remain happy once they can afford designer clothes. Those who weren’t are still the same unhappy people they were when they were poor; they just dress better. Learning how to be satisfied with what you have, and to feel - [‘Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/blessed-are-those-who-are-persecuted-for-righteousness-sake/) - Matthew 5:10 NKJV Jesus said: ‘Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice…for great is your reward in heaven’ (vv. 10-12 NKJV). To be persecuted - [‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/blessed-are-the-peacemakers-for-they-shall-be-called-sons-of-god/) - Matthew 5:9 NKJV The Hebrew word for ‘peace’ is ‘shalom’; it refers to a sense of well-being that produces calmness and confidence, even in a crisis. It’s assurance in the midst of uncertainty and confusion. Those who have an immovable, unshakeable, rock-solid trust in God are those who experience genuine peace of heart. How do - [‘Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/blessed-are-the-pure-in-heart-for-they-shall-see-god/) - Matthew 5:8 NKJV The Greek word for ‘pure’ is ‘katharos’, from which we get our English word ‘catharsis’. Psychiatrists talk about catharsis as the cleansing of a person’s destructive attitudes. The biblical word refers to a cleansing of all impurities from your inner spirit – impurities that include evil tendencies, evil thoughts, evil desires, lust - [‘Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/blessed-are-the-merciful-for-they-shall-obtain-mercy/) - Matthew 5:7 NKJV Mercy is more than forgiveness, less than love, different from grace, and one with justice. Forgiveness becomes operational only when a wrong is committed, but mercy is operational at all times. Mercy leads to and produces forgiveness, but mercy is more than forgiveness. Mercy reaches out to the weak, to the needy, - [‘Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/blessed-are-those-who-hunger-and-thirst-for-righteousness-for-they-shall-be-filled/) - Matthew 5:6 NKJV Righteousness is not an optional spiritual supplement; it’s a necessity for Christian living. It’s something you must desire as much as a starving man desires food and a thirsty man desires water. Are you hungry for more of Jesus? Do you have an appetite for His Word? Do you long to experience - [‘Blessed are the meek [gentle], for they shall inherit the earth.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/blessed-are-the-meek-gentle-for-they-shall-inherit-the-earth/) - Matthew 5:5 NKJV To be ‘meek’ doesn’t mean to be a doormat or to be indecisive, timid, fearful, or spineless. It does not mean to act like a loser or a cowardly wimp. Meekness is ‘power under control’. The Bible says Moses was the meekest man on the face of the earth in his day - [‘Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/blessed-are-those-who-mourn-for-they-shall-be-comforted/) - Matthew 5:4 NKJV Jesus was not necessarily speaking about mourning the loss of a loved one, but that those who mourn over their sins will receive God’s comfort. When you weep over your sins and the trouble they brought to yourself and to others, you put yourself in a position to receive God’s forgiveness. True - [‘Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/blessed-are-the-poor-in-spirit-for-theirs-is-the-kingdom-of-heaven/) - Matthew 5:3 NKJV What does it really mean to be ‘poor in spirit’? This phrase has nothing to do with finances or status. It means that you become conscious of your own spiritual emptiness – that without God, you are nothing, you have nothing, and you can do nothing of consequence or eternal benefit. To - [‘You will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-will-seek-me-and-find-me-when-you-search-for-me-with-all-your-heart/) - Jeremiah 29:13 NKJV In an old book titled Prevailing Prayer, author Eli Wigle described John Wesley’s prayer life this way: ‘As a matter of habit and rule, John Wesley’s ordinary private praying consumed two hours a day. At times he would gather his company and pray all night, or till the power of God came - [‘Where sin abounded, grace abounded much more.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/where-sin-abounded-grace-abounded-much-more/) - Romans 5:20 NKJV The Scarlet Letter is the story of a woman found in adultery and required to wear a scarlet ‘A’ on her dress as a symbol of shame. We do the same thing, don’t we? We label people based on a mistake. Sadly, it’s just as true in some churches as it is - [‘Transformed…from glory to glory…by the Spirit of the Lord.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/transformedfrom-glory-to-gloryby-the-spirit-of-the-lord/) - 2 Corinthians 3:18 NKJV Beginning in 2007, the REVEAL research project surveyed the members of more than a thousand churches. They wanted to determine the percentage of churchgoers who are actually propelled by their faith to love God and love others with their whole hearts. Guess how many met these qualifications? Eleven per cent! Nearly - [‘I sought the Lord, and He…delivered me from all my fears.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/i-sought-the-lord-and-hedelivered-me-from-all-my-fears/) - Psalm 34:4 NKJV Father, I come boldly before Your throne of grace to obtain mercy and find grace for deliverance from emotional insecurity (see Hebrews 4:16). Your Word says You will make all Your grace abound towards me so that I will always have all sufficiency in all things and abound in every good work - [‘Lord…open his eyes that he may see.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/lordopen-his-eyes-that-he-may-see/) - 2 Kings 6:17 NKJV One morning in a city called Dothan, a servant of the prophet Elisha awoke and was terrified because an enemy army surrounded him and his boss. ‘What shall we do?’ he cried. Elisha told him to chill out, for ‘Those who are with us are more than those who are with - [‘Every one of you shall revere his mother…I am the Lord your God.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/every-one-of-you-shall-revere-his-motheri-am-the-lord-your-god/) - Leviticus 19:3 NKJV When your parents grow old and become less capable of taking care of themselves, they need certain things from you, like love, kindness, patience, tenderness, sensitivity, and understanding. When you were a child, perhaps your mother picked you up at school because you didn’t like to take the bus, and now you’re - [‘The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-lord-will-fight-for-you-you-need-only-to-be-still/) - Exodus 14:14 NIV During World War II, the British Department of Information designed three ‘home publicity’ posters. The first said, ‘Your courage, your cheerfulness, your resolution will bring us victory.’ The second said, ‘Freedom is in peril.’ The third and most famous said, ‘Keep calm and carry on.’ The department printed 2.45 million of the - [‘The eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-eyes-of-the-lord-run-to-and-fro-throughout-the-whole-earth-to-show-himself-strong/) - 2 Chronicles 16:9 NKJV God never gives a person responsibility without giving the ability to respond. So you can look in the mirror today and say with confidence, ‘God, You’ve given me this responsibility and the ability to respond to it.’ In the Bible, when God called regular people to do great things, they usually - [‘Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/ye-have-not-chosen-me-but-i-have-chosen-you/) - John 15:16 KJV It doesn’t take many people to bring about change. In fact, too many people can get in the way. Gideon took 32,000 to fight, but God needed only 300. He doesn’t care how many can be counted – He cares only about how many can be counted on. The truth is that - [‘All these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/all-these-blessings-shall-come-upon-you-and-overtake-you/) - Deuteronomy 28:2 NKJV An observant Jew says a minimum of one hundred blessing prayers each day, beginning with the Hebrew formula: Baruch Atah Adonai. Practising Jews bless God when they see or experience something for the first time. They bless God for smells and tastes. And if something is pleasurable, they bless God. If you - [‘They did not ask counsel of the Lord.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/they-did-not-ask-counsel-of-the-lord/) - Joshua 9:14 NKJV Live with one ear towards heaven: ‘Is this opportunity from you, God?’ ‘Are you in this venture, God?’ ‘Should I take this road, God?’ One time Joshua failed to do this and paid for it. Here’s the story. A group of strangers entered the camp of Israel saying, ‘From a very far - [‘“Speak, for Your servant hears.” Then the Lord said to Samuel.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/speak-for-your-servant-hears-then-the-lord-said-to-samuel/) - 1 Samuel 3:10-11 NKJV If you are serious about having a truly interactive relationship with the Lord in which you speak to one another and hear from one another, you will need to spend quality, uninterrupted time opening your heart to Him. When Samuel finally prayed, ‘Speak, for Your servant hears,’ the Bible says, ‘Then - [‘You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-shall-know-the-truth-and-the-truth-shall-make-you-free/) - John 8:32 NKJV If you use a computer, you know what the save button is. To save a created document, you just press the save button. Words on the screen descend into the core of the machine. As long as the words are limited to the screen, they are vulnerable to the irascible cursor. It - [‘Be very careful, then, how you live…making the most of every opportunity.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-very-careful-then-how-you-livemaking-the-most-of-every-opportunity/) - Ephesians 5:15-16 NIV If you make wise decisions now, you’ll have a better future. If you waste your time now, you’ll have regrets. That’s why you need to do the right thing when you have the opportunity to do it. Paul wrote: ‘Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that - [‘Whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/whoever-shall-keep-the-whole-law-and-yet-stumble-in-one-point-he-is-guilty-of-all/) - James 2:10 NKJV Paul writes, ‘By grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God’ (Ephesians 2:8 NKJV). Why did Paul say we are saved through grace alone? Because trying to obtain salvation by keeping the law sets you up for failure. ‘For whoever shall keep - [‘David took the head of the Philistine and brought it to Jerusalem, but he put his armour in his tent.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/david-took-the-head-of-the-philistine-and-brought-it-to-jerusalem-but-he-put-his-armour-in-his-tent/) - 1 Samuel 17:54 NKJV Each time David saw Goliath’s armour hanging in his tent, it was a sacred reminder of God’s faithfulness to him and of God’s power that was available to him. The word remember recurs almost 250 times in Scripture. And there is a reason why. We tend to remember what we should - [‘Saul clothed David with his armour.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/saul-clothed-david-with-his-armour/) - 1 Samuel 17:38 NKJV The Bible says: ‘Saul clothed David with his armour…and David said to Saul, “I cannot walk with these, for I have not tested them.” So David took them off. Then he took his staff in his hand; and he chose for himself five smooth stones from the brook…and his sling was - [‘The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-work-is-too-heavy-for-you-you-cannot-handle-it-alone/) - Exodus 18:18 NIV The Bible says: ‘The people…stood around him from morning till evening…Moses’ father-in-law replied, “What you are doing is not good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone”’ (vv. 13, 17-18 NIV). You may have - [‘Deliver me from all my transgressions: make me not the reproach of the foolish.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/deliver-me-from-all-my-transgressions-make-me-not-the-reproach-of-the-foolish/) - Psalm 39:8 KJV After his violation of Bathsheba, King David finally got honest and confessed his sin to Nathan the prophet. ‘Nathan said to David, “The Lord also has put away your sin; you shall not die. However…by this deed you have given great occasion to the enemies of the Lord to blaspheme”’ (2 Samuel - [‘Pray…for one another, that you may be healed and restored.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/prayfor-one-another-that-you-may-be-healed-and-restored/) - James 5:16 AMPC Because of the connection we have with those we love, when they hurt, we hurt. One of the greatest things we can do is intercede in prayer for those who need healing. God can use us as an agent of healing: ‘Pray [also] for one another, that you may be healed and - [‘The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-rich-rule-over-the-poor-and-the-borrower-is-slave-to-the-lender/) - Proverbs 22:7 NIV Good credit establishes your future buying power. But when you misuse debt, you experience anxiety each month as you pull the envelope from the letterbox with the credit card bill that says you’ve spent more than you can afford. And what about the unexpected challenges of life? Your car needs a new - [‘Whoever trusts in the Lord shall be safe.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/whoever-trusts-in-the-lord-shall-be-safe/) - Proverbs 29:25 NKJV Sometimes we make the mistake of placing our trust in people when we should be placing our trust in the Lord. And since God cannot fail and people can, we end up getting hurt and disappointed. The Bible says that King Asa of Judah had a perfect heart towards God. Yet when - [‘Present your bodies a living sacrifice…to God.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/present-your-bodies-a-living-sacrificeto-god/) - Romans 12:1 NKJV With the national coffers depleted from a series of costly wars, King Frederick William III of Prussia found his nation seriously short of funds as it attempted to rebuild. He refused to capitulate to his enemies and couldn’t face disappointing his people. He asked the women of Prussia to bring their gold - [‘May I never forget the good things he does for me.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/may-i-never-forget-the-good-things-he-does-for-me/) - Psalm 103:2 NLT A newspaper cartoon was drawn of two fields divided by a wire fence. Both were the same size, each with plenty of lush, green grass. Each field had a mule whose head stuck through the wire fence, eating grass from the other’s pasture. Although each mule was surrounded by grass, the neighbouring - [‘Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord..,Jesus Christ.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/grow-in-the-grace-and-knowledge-of-our-lord-jesus-christ/) - 2 Peter 3:18 NKJV The Bible says, ‘In the last days will come…times of great stress and trouble [hard to deal with and hard to bear]’ (2 Timothy 3:1 AMPC). We don’t have to look far to see that Scripture fulfilled. It’s why we need to pray for the physical and spiritual safety of our - [‘First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/first-be-reconciled-to-your-brother-and-then-come-and-offer-your-gift/) - Matthew 5:24 NKJV Here’s something we don’t think about enough – but should! How you treat those you are in relationship with influences the relationship you have with God. Jesus spelled it out clearly: ‘If you bring your gift to the altar [if you serve in the church, pay particular attention here!], and there remember - [‘You have an anointing…and you know all things.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-have-an-anointingand-you-know-all-things/) - 1 John 2:20 NKJV Here are two more things you need to know about your calling. 1) The anointing is for each one of us. In Bible times, anointing oil was poured only on the heads of prophets, priests, and kings, symbolising God’s presence rested on them in a special way. But the anointing is - [‘Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/whatever-you-do-do-it-all-for-the-glory-of-god/) - 1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV When it comes to your calling, observe these two things: 1) God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called. God will call you to do something you’re not smart enough to pull off. A God-ordained dream will always be beyond your ability and resources. Why? So, you have to rely - [‘Today I have rolled away the shame of your slavery.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/today-i-have-rolled-away-the-shame-of-your-slavery/) - Joshua 5:9 NLT God got Israel out of Egypt in one day, but it took forty years to get the shame of Egypt out of Israel. It happened at a place called Gilgal, 381 miles north-east of Egypt. The Israelites thought like slaves and acted like slaves. After all, it’s tough to break the cycle - [‘Your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-body-is-the-temple-of-the-holy-spirit-who-is-in-you/) - 1 Corinthians 6:19 NKJV Set aside the question of to what extent you are capable of experiencing God’s presence in your current spiritual condition. Set aside your past failures and your future worries. If you are a redeemed child of God, His Holy Spirit lives within you. Jesus said, ‘“He who believes in Me…out of - [‘Do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/do-not-forget-to-do-good-and-to-share-for-with-such-sacrifices-god-is-well-pleased/) - Hebrews 13:16 NKJV Hudson Taylor, founder of the China Inland Mission, prepared for missionary service by working among the poor in London. One night, a man asked him to come and pray for his sick wife. The man had already asked a priest but had been told he would have to pay him eighteen pence, - [‘A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/a-heart-at-peace-gives-life-to-the-body-but-envy-rots-the-bones/) - Proverbs 14:30 NIV Some folks are too insecure to applaud the success or achievements of another, be it a co-worker, distant relative, sibling, spouse, or even a child. They feel that they must have comparable success, so they won’t feel inferior. If they can indeed claim a similar personal achievement, then they are quick to - [‘He heals the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/he-heals-the-broken-hearted-and-binds-up-their-wounds/) - Psalm 147:3 NKJV There are times when we all experience rejection, betrayal, and disappointment. But if we hold on to those experiences, we can remain in a state of perpetual hurt. Indeed, when we refuse to forgive and move on, we place a weapon into Satan’s hands that he will use against us at every - [‘Oh, that You would rend the heavens [and] come down!’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/oh-that-you-would-rend-the-heavens-and-come-down/) - Isaiah 64:1 NKJV Jesus told the disciples just before He left this earth to return to heaven: ‘I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high’ (Luke 24:49 KJV). As a redeemed child of God the Holy Spirit - [‘I thank my God every time I remember you.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/i-thank-my-god-every-time-i-remember-you/) - Philippians 1:3 NIV Paul takes one entire chapter in the book of Romans to name the people who helped him and to express his appreciation for them. Showing that you care about people beyond what they can do for you lets them know you truly care about them. Sincere praise can energise others and cause - [‘Be careful to obey all…the Law.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-careful-to-obey-allthe-law/) - Joshua 23:6 NIV Entering the Promised Land, God told Joshua: ‘Be careful to obey all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses.’ You must identify your core values – and live by them. Swiss philosopher Henri-Frederic Amiel said, ‘The man who has no inner life is a slave to his surroundings.’ - [‘Common sense and success belong to me.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/common-sense-and-success-belong-to-me/) - Proverbs 8:14 NLT The fear of success derails many dreams. Sometimes success brings resentment from those closest to you. Being successful can also create its own anxiety; namely, you fear that you are unable to maintain your success. Then there’s the fear of attracting people who want what you’ve got but are not willing to - [‘Joshua built an altar to the Lord…in Mount Ebal.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/joshua-built-an-altar-to-the-lordin-mount-ebal/) - Joshua 8:30 NKJV The Bible says, ‘Joshua built an altar to the Lord…in Mount Ebal…“an altar of whole stones over which no man has wielded an iron tool.” And they offered on it burnt offerings to the Lord…Half of them were in front of Mount Gerizim and half of them in front of Mount Ebal…He - [‘In my desperation I prayed, and the Lord listened; he saved me from all my troubles.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/in-my-desperation-i-prayed-and-the-lord-listened-he-saved-me-from-all-my-troubles/) - Psalm 34:6 NLT It had been twenty-five years since Fontella Bass’s rhythm and blues single ‘Rescue Me’ hit number one in the charts. She had no career to speak of, and she was penniless, tired, and cold. The only heat in her house came from a gas stove in the kitchen. She had strayed from - [‘Why did you make me this way?’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/why-did-you-make-me-this-way/) - Isaiah 45:10 NLT Isaiah said that God ‘formed me in my mother’s womb to be his servant’ (Isaiah 49:5 NLT). God deliberately shaped each of us for His service. How then can we complain that we are too short, too tall, too dark, too fair, or too anything else that is unchangeable? The word ‘too’ - [‘In this world you will have trouble, but be brave! I have defeated the world.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/in-this-world-you-will-have-trouble-but-be-brave-i-have-defeated-the-world/) - John 16:33 NCV Whatever circumstances you find yourself in, they don’t have to define you or defeat you. Even if you cannot change them, you can overcome them. George Bernard Shaw wrote: ‘People are always blaming their circumstances for what they are. I don’t believe in circumstances. The people who get on in this world - [‘God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-saw-everything-that-he-had-made-and-indeed-it-was-very-good/) - Genesis 1:31 NKJV Before the age of two, Helen Keller lost her vision and her hearing. In an instant, her world went dark and silent. Then a godsend named Anne Sullivan broke through Helen’s solitary confinement and touched her soul. As a result, Helen became the first deaf/blind person to earn a bachelor’s degree. She - [‘Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honour giving preference to one another.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-kindly-affectionate-to-one-another-with-brotherly-love-in-honour-giving-preference-to-one-another/) - Romans 12:10 NKJV Have you ever noticed how quick we are to accuse someone else of some of the very things we excuse in ourselves? In so doing, we practise a double standard, requiring more from others than of ourselves. Jesus said, ‘Why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do - [‘Don’t compare yourself with others.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-compare-yourself-with-others/) - Galatians 6:4 MSG Paul wrote: ‘Don’t compare yourself with others. Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life’ (vv. 4-5). Jesus was insistent on this. After the resurrection, He appeared to some of His followers. He gave Peter a specific pastoral assignment that included great sacrifice. - [‘Train up a child in the way he should go.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/train-up-a-child-in-the-way-he-should-go/) - Proverbs 22:6 NKJV Whether you lead at home, in church, or in business, you’ll be called upon to make hard and unpopular decisions for the good of all concerned. This is particularly so for parents. Those who fear rejection or loss of a child’s affection often ‘go along to get along’. That’s a selfish decision, - [Psalm 56:9 NKJV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/psalm-569-nkjv/) - In his bestselling book, The Tipping Point, Malcolm Gladwell defines the tipping point as ‘the moment of critical mass, the threshold, the boiling point’. It’s the moment when an idea, trend, or social behaviour passes the point of no return and gains acceptance. In the realm of physics, a tipping point is when an object - [‘Love makes up for all offences.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/love-makes-up-for-all-offences/) - Proverbs 10:12 NLT Loving relationships are a cornerstone of life. They are the foundation of Christ’s church and evidence that we have the love of God in our hearts. God places a big emphasis on how we relate to others, because our relationships impact every area of our lives: at home, at work, at church, - [‘Teach us to realise the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom.’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/teach-us-to-realise-the-brevity-of-life-so-that-we-may-grow-in-wisdom/) - Psalm 90:12 NLT When he became campaign manager for President George Bush and chairman of the Republican National Committee, Lee Atwater had accomplished the two things he wanted to do by the time he was forty years of age. Then he was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour. Shortly before he died, he wrote these - [Always do your best](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/always-do-your-best/) - A series of illustrations in a popular magazine once depicted the life story of a ‘one-note musician’. From frame to frame, the tale revealed how the woman followed her daily routine of eating and sleeping until the time came for the evening concert. She carefully inspected her violin, took her seat, arranged her music, and - [This experience is preparing you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/this-experience-is-preparing-you/) - Every experience in our past has prepared us for some future opportunity. God doesn’t redeem only our souls; He also redeems our experiences, both good and bad. He does it by refining our character, developing our gifts, and teaching lessons that we can’t learn any other way. We learn the most important lessons in the - [Look for opportunities to ‘do good’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/look-for-opportunities-to-do-good/) - Peter describes the life of Jesus in these words: ‘Who went about doing good’ (Acts 10:38 NKJV). So, becoming more Christlike means looking for opportunities to do good. An anonymous author wrote: ‘When people are unreasonable, illogical, self-centred, and arrogant, love them anyway. When people insist that your goodness contains selfish motives, do good anyway. - [Your words have power](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-words-have-power/) - Here are two stories from history that illustrate how the power of your words can affect others: 1) One day an altar boy was serving the priest at a mass at the country church in his small village. The boy, nervous in his new role, accidentally dropped the cruet of wine. The priest struck him - [Be sure to praise the Lord](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-sure-to-praise-the-lord/) - Of 150 psalms recorded in the Bible, the dominant recurring theme is ‘praise the Lord’! The book is like a memo from psalmists that says, ‘Today be sure to praise the Lord.’ In Psalm 34, David writes: ‘I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul - [The healing ministry of the New Testament church](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-healing-ministry-of-the-new-testament-church/) - Before Jesus left this earth, He told His disciples, ‘The works that I do [you] will do also’ (John 14:12 NKJV). And they did. ‘Through the hands of the apostles many signs and wonders were done… so that they brought the sick out into the streets… that at least the shadow of Peter passing by - [Start small, and keep a winning attitude](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/start-small-and-keep-a-winning-attitude/) - Juan grew up in Puerto Rico, the son of a sugarcane plantation foreman. One of a family of eight, he lived in a three-room shack with a dirt floor and no toilet. His first job, at age six, was driving oxen to plough the cane fields. He worked eight hours a day and earned one - [Love and serve others](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/love-and-serve-others/) - In 1881, shortly after Booker T. Washington became head of the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama that trained schoolteachers, he was walking past the house of a wealthy family. Assuming that Washington was one of the yard workers her husband had hired, the woman of the house asked him if he would chop some wood for - [Where there is a will, there is a way](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/where-there-is-a-will-there-is-a-way/) - In the early 1950s, Irwin W. Rosenberg, a junior US naval officer, was discharged from military service after he was diagnosed with cancer – standard military procedure at the time. The loss of his job was quite a blow, but he was determined to get back both his health and his job. With faith and - [Believe God for greater things](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/believe-god-for-greater-things-2/) - Some people think we’re not supposed to ask God for too much; otherwise, it’s selfish. But God wants you to ask. ‘You do not have because you do not ask.’ If you’re not asking – then you’re not releasing your faith. Jesus said, ‘According to your faith be it unto you’ (Matthew 9:29 KJV). You - [Be an edifier; a people builder](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-an-edifier-a-people-builder/) - The word ‘edify’ means ‘to build up, strengthen, encourage, and motivate’. There are probably people in your life right now who need someone to speak blessing over them. You don’t know how much it will mean when you give them your approval and let them know you are proud of them and that you think - [Your rewards in heaven](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-rewards-in-heaven/) - The historian Edward Gibbon tracked the speedy progress of Christianity in the days of the Roman Empire, and points to five reasons for it: 1) The fervour of the early Christians. 2) The power of miracles. 3) The pure morals of the Christians. 4) The compact church organisation. 5) The belief in future rewards. The - [Salvation is a gift](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/salvation-is-a-gift/) - Jack Welch, who guided the General Electric Company through some of its most profitable years, wrote a book called Winning. Compiling many of the different questions people had asked him along with his answers, he wrote a book of management principles. One question was this: ‘Do you think you will go to heaven when you - [Honesty is the best policy](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/honesty-is-the-best-policy/) - In preparation for a dinner party, a woman stopped by a small butcher’s shop to buy meat for the meal. She had decided to stuff and roast a chicken as the main course. When she asked the man at the counter for the largest chicken he had, he reached into the cold-storage compartment, grabbed the - [A prayer for healing family strife](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/a-prayer-for-healing-family-strife/) - ‘Lord, Your Word says, “A family splintered by feuding will fall apart.” Satan is attacking my family, and I’m turning to You for help. Your Word says, “When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will [be my defence and] lift up a standard against him” (Isaiah 59:19 NKJV). Touch - [How to pray when you’re lonely](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-pray-when-youre-lonely/) - ‘Father, when Adam was lonely, You made Eve and brought her to him. And just as You knew what Adam needed, I’m struggling with loneliness, and You know what I need too. You said in Your Word, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5 NKJV). There is a part of me that - [Set boundaries that matter](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/set-boundaries-that-matter/) - Opposites often attract, marry, and then have to deal with their differences – especially when their children become teens and they run up against boundary issues. Boundary disputes test the parents’ capacity to negotiate differences in deciding what’s right or wrong for their child. You let her do whatever she wants…You’re driving him away with - [Unselfishness; the secret of a happy marriage](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/unselfishness-the-secret-of-a-happy-marriage/) - Let’s begin with three short stories that spell out the challenge of building a strong and happy marriage. First story: A man was observing a couple and said to his wife, ‘Look at them, they look so happy.’ She said, ‘Don’t be so sure, they’re probably saying the same thing about us.’ Second story: A - [Show appreciation for your pastor](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/show-appreciation-for-your-pastor/) - Paul writes to the church at Thessalonica and says, ‘Now, brothers and sisters, we ask you to appreciate those who work hard among you, who lead you in the Lord and teach you. Respect them with a very special love because of the work they do’ (vv. 12-13 NCV). Consider these twenty-first-century statistics: 1) Fifty - [The healing ministry of Jesus](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-healing-ministry-of-jesus/) - Jesus, who was known in the Bible as ‘the Great Physician’, spent much of His ministry healing the sick. Read these four Scriptures: 1) ‘Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching…preaching the gospel… and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people. Then His fame went throughout all Syria; and they - [Believe God for a breakthrough](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/believe-god-for-a-breakthrough/) - The Bible says: ‘The Philistines went and made a raid on the Valley of Rephaim. And David inquired of God, saying, “Shall I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?” The Lord said to him, “Go up, for I will deliver them into your hand.” So they went up to - [Demonstrate your faith](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/demonstrate-your-faith/) - The Bible says: ‘While he was preaching…four men arrived carrying a paralysed man on a mat. They couldn’t bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, so they dug a hole through the roof…Then they lowered the man on his mat, right down in front of Jesus. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralysed - [One day you will understand fully](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/one-day-you-will-understand-fully/) - When Corrie ten Boom travelled the world sharing her experiences, she would often speak with her head down. She appeared to be reading notes, but she was actually stitching a needlepoint design. When she would finish telling her story of the atrocities she suffered from the Nazis, she would reveal the needlepoint she had been - [Each day of your life is a gift](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/each-day-of-your-life-is-a-gift/) - Motivational speaker Denis Waitley describes an experience that marked his life forever. He was trying to catch a flight for a speaking commitment and was running through the airport terminal. He reached the gate just as the agent closed the door. Denis explained his dilemma, but the agent didn’t reopen the door. That’s when his - [Three steps to overcoming depression](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/three-steps-to-overcoming-depression/) - Elijah got so depressed that he wanted to die. Here is the threefold prescription God gave him for climbing out of his depression: 1) Refresh yourself. ‘An angel touched him and said, “Get up and eat.” He looked around, and there by his head was some bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of - [The great exchange](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-great-exchange/) - A saleswoman passed a particular corner each day on her way to work. For more than a week, she observed a little girl trying to sell a flop-eared puppy. The saleswoman finally said to the little girl, ‘Honey, if you want to sell this dog, I suggest you clean him up, brush his coat, raise - [The traits of a champion](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-traits-of-a-champion/) - Sports psychologists have identified six recurring traits that are common to Olympic gold medallist athletes. These traits of a champion apply to both men and women, but they are also dominant factors in the lives of those who succeed in nonathletic vocations as well. Let’s look carefully at each trait and see what we can - [Bible reading; the key to spiritual growth (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/bible-reading-the-key-to-spiritual-growth-3/) - Perhaps you wonder, ‘Is the Bible really inspired by God? Is it true, trustworthy, and infallible?’ The answer is yes, and here are three reasons why: 1) It is remarkable in composition. It was composed over sixteen centuries by forty different authors, including soldiers, shepherds, farmers, and fishermen. Begun by Moses in Arabia and finished - [Bible reading; the key to spiritual growth (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/bible-reading-the-key-to-spiritual-growth-2/) - Don’t chart your life’s course according to the opinions of people or popular culture. If you do, you’ll make the mistake that a farmer’s son made. The father sent the boy to prepare a field, reminding him to till straight lines. ‘Select an object on the far side of the field and plough straight at - [Bible reading; the key to spiritual growth (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/bible-reading-the-key-to-spiritual-growth-1/) - God gave Joshua a big job: conquer the Promised Land and divide it up among the twelve tribes of Israel. He also gave him the key to success: ‘This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according - [Make prayer your first priority](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/make-prayer-your-first-priority/) - Prayer should be your highest priority. Why? Because when you fail to pray, you set yourself up to fail. You’re saying in essence, ‘I don’t need God’s help or input.’ God comes by invitation. Prayer opens the door and welcomes Him into your situation. Jesus said, ‘Until now you have asked nothing in My name. - [Leave the past in the past](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/leave-the-past-in-the-past/) - Studies suggest that just 3 per cent of life events are highly memorable. So, over the course of an average year, approximately seventeen experiences will make it into your long-term memory. The other 97 per cent fades into the black hole called the subconscious. But that remaining 3 per cent can hurt us every day - [How to get off the treadmill](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-get-off-the-treadmill/) - Have you ever watched a hamster running on a wheel? The hamster looks outside his glass cage and sees freedom, so he decides to make a run for it. But after a while, he realises that he is not getting anywhere, so he runs faster. He runs until he is exhausted and can run no - [Quitters never win, winners never quit](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/quitters-never-win-winners-never-quit/) - In some of the world’s greatest success stories, you will find chapters of failure and discouragement. Dr Seuss’s first children’s book was turned down by twenty-seven different publishers. The twenty-eighth publisher sold six hundred million copies, and Dr Seuss’s perseverance resulted in helping millions of children learn to read. In their first year of business, - [Are you confused about your calling? (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/are-you-confused-about-your-calling-2/) - When it comes to your life’s calling, here are two more myths that can sabotage you: 1) Making the wrong choice can somehow thwart God’s will. You don’t have to worry on this score because the Bible tells us that the God ‘Who is calling you…will…[fulfil His call by hallowing and keeping you].’ It’s always - [Are you confused about your calling? (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/are-you-confused-about-your-calling-1/) - If you’re questioning your calling, author Diane Paddison identifies two thought patterns that may be sabotaging your thinking. 1) It’s all about you. Your calling isn’t about self-fulfilment; it’s about submission to God’s will for your life. Many people experience satisfaction from exercising their God-given gifts. But it’s a result of being in God’s will, - [Let your life make a difference](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/let-your-life-make-a-difference/) - Dr Ernest Sachs wanted to make a difference in the world. And he did. Years ago most brain tumours were fatal. Sachs heard a surgeon predict that someday a cure would be discovered that could save all those lives, and he determined to be that surgeon. At the time, the leading expert on the anatomy - [Honouring a Christmas promise](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/honouring-a-christmas-promise/) - Arriving at church one Christmas morning, a pastor paused to admire the nativity scene. The figures, lovingly crafted, sat on a small stage…shepherds…wise men…animals…and in the centre, the Holy Family. Then he noticed the manger was empty; the baby Jesus was missing! After searching the church he called the associate pastor and the elders, but - [This Christmas reach out to someone](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/this-christmas-reach-out-to-someone/) - Here’s a great story from Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church in New York City. It’s about a recovering alcoholic called Jim. It was his first Christmas alone, and when a young family sat down beside him in the pew he couldn’t handle it. As he was leaving the church he met Pastor Thomas Tedwell, who asked - [Sittin’ pretty in Jesus!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/sittin-pretty-in-jesus/) - For many years Dr Donald Grey Barnhouse pastored Philadelphia’s Tenth Presbyterian Church. One Sunday morning a twelve-year-old boy in the balcony was transfixed after hearing him speak about the length and breadth and depth of God’s amazing grace. Barnhouse closed his sermon by summarising many of the great promises from Scripture in one impressive sentence: - [You are loved and highly valued by God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-are-loved-and-highly-valued-by-god/) - Psychologists say our self-worth is based upon what we believe the most important people in our lives think of us. For children, that would likely be their parents. For adults, that could be a spouse, a boss, a friend, or mentor. The problem is that people disappoint us. They can do things that bring us - [God can accelerate His plan for your life](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-can-accelerate-his-plan-for-your-life/) - Jesus’ first miracle was turning water into wine at a wedding reception. There were six water pots, each capable of holding thirty gallons. First, He said, ‘Fill those pots with water.’ Next, He said, ‘Take some out and bring it to the host of the party.’ When the host tasted it, he told the groom, - [Angels watch over you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/angels-watch-over-you/) - A college professor once took a group of students to China for a field trip. Several days into the journey, the professor experienced unimaginable stomach pain and was rushed by ambulance to a local clinic. It was a tiny town and the medical staffer in charge of the clinic observed that the professor’s appendix had - [Your new resurrection body (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-new-resurrection-body-2/) - We could precisely translate the word glory as ‘brilliance’. Our new bodies may have a shiny quality to them. Recorded in Exodus 34:29, Moses spent time with the Lord and something uncommon happened to him – his face became luminous and began to shine. A similar thing happened to Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration - [Your new resurrection body (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-new-resurrection-body-1/) - Benjamin Franklin, who was a printer, wrote an epitaph for his grave. And even though it never ended up on his tombstone, it has been passed down in history for its cleverness and wisdom. ‘The body of Benjamin Franklin, printer; (like the cover of an old book, its contents torn out, and script [stripped] of - [Think about your heavenly home](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/think-about-your-heavenly-home/) - The Bible talks about heaven over five hundred times, with details about our eternal home. Shortly before He returned to heaven, Jesus comforted His disciples by saying, ‘In My Father’s house are many mansions…I go to prepare a place for you. And…I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there - [Pray for God to heal you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/pray-for-god-to-heal-you/) - If you’re wondering, ‘How can I be sure God is willing to heal me?’, read this: ‘And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to him, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and - [Embrace your disadvantages](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/embrace-your-disadvantages/) - A pastor writes: ‘Around the turn of the twentieth century, a pioneering psychologist named Alfred Adler proposed the counterintuitive theory of compensation. Adler believed that perceived disadvantages often prove to be disguised advantages because they force us to develop attitudes and abilities that would have otherwise gone undiscovered. And it’s only as we compensate for - [The ultimate test of your discipleship](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-ultimate-test-of-your-discipleship/) - Designer clothes brands such as Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren are recognised by their designs and by their trademarks. These trademarks make them immensely visible and identifiable. Sometimes workers in certain industries are identified by their attire, such as a surgeon who wears scrubs, or a policeman who wears a uniform, or a judge who - [The roles in marriage](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-roles-in-marriage/) - Here is an illustration of the different roles in marriage: A husband’s job is like that of a thermostat, to set the temperature in the home. The wife’s job is like that of a thermometer, to give a temperature reading. And the reading of the thermometer should indicate the setting of the thermostat. If a - [A prayer for deliverance from guilt](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/a-prayer-for-deliverance-from-guilt/) - ‘Heavenly Father, although I’ve repented and genuinely regret my actions, the guilt of my sin continually torments me. The burden of it is too heavy for me to bear any longer, so I am turning to you for deliverance. Your Word declares that you are ready to forgive me (see Nehemiah 9:17), and that you - [‘Support the weak’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/support-the-weak/) - When British Prime Minister William Gladstone was facing one of the greatest crises of his political life, he sat down one morning at two o’clock to write the speech he hoped would help him win a political victory in Parliament the following day. At that same hour, the mother of a dying child saw the - [Character is what counts](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/character-is-what-counts/) - Here is a description of Saul, Israel’s first king: ‘There was not a more handsome person…among the children of Israel’ (1 Samuel 9:2 NKJV). But his looks couldn’t compensate for his lack of character, and he died prematurely in shame and defeat. When Samuel the prophet went to the house of Jesse to anoint one - [Strengthening your marriage (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/strengthening-your-marriage-2/) - Here are five more relationship lessons by Jon Gordon: 1) The more I love my wife, the more I love my life. It’s not about what she does for me. It’s not about keeping score. It’s about deciding to be selfless, love her, serve her, and be there for her. When I do, we both - [Strengthening your marriage (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/strengthening-your-marriage-1/) - No matter how good your marriage is, you can make it better. Author Jon Gordon writes: ‘My wife and I just celebrated our eighteenth wedding anniversary. We’ve learned and grown a lot…and I want to share some of our relationship lessons: 1) Choose wisely. One of the most important decisions you’ll ever make is the - [You’re walking a ‘prepared’ path](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/youre-walking-a-prepared-path/) - The word ‘prepared’ derives from an ancient custom of sending servants ahead of a king to have things ready for his arrival. But the King of Kings goes in advance of His servants and prepares the road ahead of us. We don’t know this in advance, so we have to overcome our fears, step out - [Be careful what you watch](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-careful-what-you-watch/) - As a teen, Megan arrived home from school just in time to watch an hour of soap operas before doing her homework. She enjoyed the escape into the TV world and wasn’t aware that the programmes were arousing sexual curiosity in her. After years of exposure to these soaps, her perspective on life took a - [Travelling light](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/travelling-light/) - Jesus said, ‘Protect yourself against…greed. Life is not defined by what you have, even when you have a lot’ (Luke 12:15 MSG). We live in a materialistic society that’s obsessed with accumulating stuff. But the more you have, the more you have to worry about. So, what do you suppose Jesus wanted to teach His - [Become a better listener](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/become-a-better-listener/) - When you take time to listen to another person, you don’t just give them a gift, you give yourself one. Dr Juli Slattery observes: ‘Everyone is attracted to a good listener. How ironic that you can major in communications and never take a class on one of the most fundamental aspects of communicating – listening…Perhaps - [Peace that defies human logic](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/peace-that-defies-human-logic/) - No matter what problems you’re grappling with, it’s good to know that the peace of God ‘which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and…minds in Christ Jesus.’ Author Lorie Newman said: ‘For me, that peace came when my husband lost his job…We were a one-income family with seven children, a mortgage, [and] bills. Would - [Your emotions matter to God (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-emotions-matter-to-god-2/) - Like Jesus, we have been created in the image of a God who expresses emotions. Neither the Father nor the Son was afraid or embarrassed to feel deeply, and we shouldn’t be either. In Scripture God’s heart broke for His wayward children (see Hosea 11:8-9). Jesus wept openly at the grave of His dear friend - [Your emotions matter to God (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-emotions-matter-to-god-1/) - Emotions – we all have them. Some we enjoy, some we endure. The question is, what does God say about how we should handle them? ‘Count it all joy when you fall into various trials’ (James 1:2 NKJV). ‘Let all bitterness, wrath, anger…be put away from you, with all malice’ (Ephesians 4:31 NKJV). ‘Be…full of - [Don’t speak too quickly](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-speak-too-quickly/) - When you speak too quickly, you can send the wrong signal and get results you don’t want. This is particularly so when you’re negotiating for the best deal. Speaking impulsively, and overtalking, are not signs of strength but of weakness and insecurity. Here is a story that illustrates the point: A young computer salesman named - [Submit to ‘Spirit control’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/submit-to-spirit-control/) - In Bible times cities were built with high walls around them for protection. Why? Because an enemy strong enough to tear down those walls was strong enough to take the city. Now you understand this Scripture: ‘Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.’ An anonymous poet wrote ‘The - [‘Moved with compassion’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/moved-with-compassion/) - Was God telling him to stay in London rather than go to China? Thomas Barnardo had come to London for missionary training, only to have a ten-year-old child show him a rooftop where eleven homeless boys were sleeping. Barnardo was ‘moved with compassion’, and set out to find temporary lodging for them. Other midnight tours - [A prayer for deliverance from addiction](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/a-prayer-for-deliverance-from-addiction/) - ‘Heavenly Father, your Word says: “The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you. Therefore…you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you - [The benefits of true friendship](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-benefits-of-true-friendship/) - Here are four benefits of a true friendship: First, a true friend is someone who, when you feel like you have made a mess out of things and a fool out of yourself, still believes in you and reassures you that you haven’t done permanent damage. The Bible says, ‘There are “friends” who destroy each - [Give your children confidence](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/give-your-children-confidence/) - Constantly tell your child that they’re loved, valuable, and capable. Otherwise, their self-evaluation will be based on their worst qualities and perceptions rather than their best ones. Psychologists say that some of the world’s most successful people suffer from ‘the imposter phenomenon’. When interviewed, these people often express deep self-doubt, saying they don’t feel worthy - [A relationship governed by rules](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/a-relationship-governed-by-rules/) - Going to heaven is based solely upon having a relationship with Christ; one in which you place your total trust in Him. This relationship also involves rules you live by and guidelines that make you more godly. A tennis player isn’t free to play tennis if there is no baseline to let him or her - [God wants to work through you (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-wants-to-work-through-you-3/) - God is not hesitant or indifferent when it comes to showing Himself strong. Rather, He is looking ‘throughout the whole earth’ for people who are loyal to Him so He can reveal His power through their lives! Here are three things you need to know about God: 1) He is always at work in supernatural - [God wants to work through you (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-wants-to-work-through-you-2/) - Jesus said, ‘The Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does. For the Father loves the Son and shows him all he does’ (John 5:19-20 NIV). The demands on Jesus were endless. Those who were sick wanted Him - [God wants to work through you (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-wants-to-work-through-you-1/) - Here is an amazing story of how God works: ‘I saw the Lord sitting on His throne, and all the host of heaven standing by, on His right hand and on His left. And the Lord said, “Who will persuade Ahab to go up, that he may fall at Ramoth Gilead?” So one spoke in - [7 worry-conquering Scriptures](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/7-worry-conquering-scriptures/) - Is your mind besieged with fear and worry? Read these seven Scriptures prayerfully and carefully, and use them in prayer: ‘Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace - [Laugh more often](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/laugh-more-often/) - Solomon wrote, ‘I recommend having fun, because there is nothing better for people in this world than to eat, drink, and enjoy life. That way they will experience some happiness’ (Ecclesiastes 8:15 NLT). If you are wise, you will take those words to heart. The impact of laughter is well documented. Studies show it lowers - [Create a peaceful atmosphere](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/create-a-peaceful-atmosphere/) - How much peace do you display? How well do you respond to the difficulties in your workplace? Are you always tense or complaining? Is your desk neat and organised, or are there huge piles of paper all around? Disorder can be mentally unsettling and stress inducing, and wear down your peace. What about your overall - [Prepare for the next phase](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/prepare-for-the-next-phase/) - When you move into a different house, you arrange a date for movers to come; you change the phone, electricity, and internet to your new address; and you place your belongings in boxes marked bedroom, kitchen, and living room, etc. Preparing for the next phase of your life is similar. Here are some tips to - [Get back on track](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/get-back-on-track/) - It’s time to get back in touch with who you really are and your God-given gifts. This may mean confronting certain things you may dislike about yourself and your present situation. Beginning the process is the most difficult part. One approach to do that is to stop seeing yourself as you or others see you, - [Speak ‘life’ (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/speak-life-2/) - Notice that the Bible doesn’t say, ‘Let the weak call their friends and discuss their weaknesses.’ Or, ‘Let the weak talk about their weaknesses.’ Or, ‘Let the weak whine about their weaknesses.’ No, it basically says, ‘Let the weak say the opposite of how they feel.’ So instead of talking about the way you are, - [Speak ‘life’ (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/speak-life-1/) - Make sure your words agree with God’s Word, then send your words on the path you want your life to travel. What are you speaking about your future? Your family? Your finances? Your health? If you’re going through a difficult time right now, don’t merely use your words to describe your situation, use them to - [The conquering spirit](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-conquering-spirit/) - The Brooklyn Bridge, which links Brooklyn to Manhattan Island, is one of the most famous bridges in the world. When it was first conceived in 1867, bridge-building experts throughout the world told the designer, a creative engineer by the name of John Roebling, that his idea wouldn’t work. Roebling convinced his son Washington, who was - [God has a plan for your life](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-has-a-plan-for-your-life-2/) - A minister writes: ‘To the average eye, it was a mutilated piece of marble. The aborted sculpture had been abandoned a half century earlier…but a young artist named Michelangelo saw something in that stone others did not. Chiselling the eighteen-foot block of marble would consume nearly four years of his life, but that seemingly worthless - [You have a gift God can use](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-have-a-gift-god-can-use/) - A pastor writes: ‘God used a seemingly random skill to strategically position David. And the slingshot skill isn’t the only example…When David played the harp, it soothed Saul’s spirit [see 1 Samuel 16:23]. That’s how David met Jonathan [King Saul’s son]. That’s how he learned the customs of the king’s court. Without his musical skills, - [Know the ‘season’ you’re in](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/know-the-season-youre-in/) - One key to fulfilling your destiny is realising what season you’re in. If you don’t, you will feel exasperated and disappointed. For example, in some seasons learning to follow is more important than learning to lead. In some seasons handling failure offers more value than handling success. One of the biggest errors we make is - [You will never be perfect enough (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-will-never-be-perfect-enough-2/) - Author Dorothy Littell Greco writes: ‘For some perfectionists, the fear of making a mistake results in a sort of paralysis, causing us to agonise over every decision…To help you discern if [perfectionism] has crept into your life…consider the following questions: a) Are you comfortable asking for help or only offering it? b) Are you able - [You will never be perfect enough (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-will-never-be-perfect-enough-1/) - A perfectionist seeks to achieve nothing less than perfection. Dorothy Littell Greco writes: ‘I’ve been a perfectionist for as long as I can remember…I had to get A’s, had to win, and had to please everyone. Every mistake or perceived failure unleashed a torrent of self-condemnation…Perfectionism often [comes from] insecurity and a faulty understanding of - [What will we do in heaven?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/what-will-we-do-in-heaven/) - If you are a purpose-driven person, the thought of spending eternity doing little, or nothing, will have no appeal to you. But that’s not the case. When we get to heaven, God is not going to say, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you can take the rest of eternity off.’ No, He will say, - [Pass it on!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/pass-it-on/) - Mentor Graham was so absorbed in evaluating the assignments he had given his students that he failed to notice the youthful giant who slouched into his Illinois classroom one day after school. After his eyes had adjusted to the brightness of the late afternoon sunshine, causing the husky young man to be in silhouette before - [SOS prayers](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/sos-prayers/) - The three-digit emergency system has amazing capabilities. In most places in the UK, you need only dial those numbers to be instantly connected to a call handler. On a computer screen, the call handler instantly sees the caller’s telephone number, address (or approximate location if calling from a mobile phone), and the name under which - [How your faith can produce results (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-your-faith-can-produce-results-4/) - If you really believed God’s Word concerning your situation, how would you act differently? Saying you believe is just the beginning; activating your faith means preparing for the answer to arrive. Ask yourself, ‘If I really expected an answer to my prayers, how would I prepare for its arrival?’ In Scripture, Jesus gave His disciples - [How your faith can produce results (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-your-faith-can-produce-results-3/) - James asks, ‘What good is it…if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds…Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says…“Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing…what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not - [How your faith can produce results (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-your-faith-can-produce-results-2/) - Thank God, faith isn’t reserved for deeply spiritual people. If that was the case, we would all be in trouble! The fact is that regular people from all walks of life can be faith filled. We’re inclined to think faith belongs exclusively to people like Abraham, Moses, Elijah, Samuel, David, Daniel, Peter, and Paul. Now, - [How your faith can produce results (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-your-faith-can-produce-results-1/) - Faith has little to do with religion or what church you attend. The Greek definition of the word ‘faith’ is pistis, which means a firm persuasion, a conviction based on hearing and learning. Some other words that help to define faith are trust, confidence, and believing. And for good measure, here are a few scriptural - [The Bible and your investments (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-bible-and-your-investments-3/) - In order to overcome your fear of investing, you must do these three things: 1) Get savvy. Before you start investing, you need to learn the language and nuances of the stock market, housing market, mutual funds, and other transactions. There is a wealth of information available on the internet. Yes, your savings accounts, certificates - [The Bible and your investments (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-bible-and-your-investments-2/) - The Bible teaches two things about getting ahead financially. 1) You must be wise when you invest. When someone offers you a return on your money that’s too good to be true – it usually is! 2) Don’t just work for money; make your money work for you. ‘There is desirable treasure…in the dwelling of - [The Bible and your investments (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-bible-and-your-investments-1/) - Jesus said: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a man travelling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them. And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability…Then he who had received the five talents went - [Encourage someone today](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/encourage-someone-today/) - Every one of us needs encouragement (support that inspires confidence and a will to continue). The words we speak can either build up or tear down the people around us. Author Rebecca Barlow Jordan writes: ‘One of the first questions I like to ask Jesus when I wake up each morning is, “How can I - [Love and honour your wife](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/love-and-honour-your-wife/) - There is an old story where a chief executive officer and his wife are travelling, and they stop to get petrol. The CEO goes inside, and when he comes out, he notices his wife talking to the petrol station attendant. He asks her why; it turns out that she knew the attendant and used to - [Get up and try again](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/get-up-and-try-again/) - Thomas Edison conducted thousands of experiments with various kinds of materials in his search for a filament he could use in carbon incandescent lamps. As each fibre failed, he would throw it out the window until, eventually, his pile of failures stretched all the way up to the second storey of his house. Then about - [Be prudent; use forethought](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-prudent-use-forethought/) - Solomon writes: ‘The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways.’ ‘The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty’ (Proverbs 22:3 NIV). ‘The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty’ (Proverbs 21:5 NIV). What you are today - [‘My name is gossip!’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/my-name-is-gossip/) - If you’re inclined to gossip, read this carefully: ‘I maim without killing. I break hearts and ruin lives. I am cunning and malicious, and I gather strength with age. The more I’m quoted, the more I’m believed. I flourish at every level of society. My victims are helpless; they can’t protect themselves against me because - [The ‘shadow’ cannot hurt you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-shadow-cannot-hurt-you/) - A pastor writes: ‘The great preacher Dr Donald Grey Barnhouse, whose first wife died, was driving his kids from the funeral. One of the kids said, “Daddy…where did Mommy go? I don’t understand what it means that she died.”…Just then, a truck passed by and cast a shadow over the car. He…said, “Kids, would you - [Building healthy, fulfilling relationships](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/building-healthy-fulfilling-relationships/) - To fulfil God’s plan for your life, you need relationships with the right people, those who stick by you come what may. Remember Jonathan, who loved David even at the cost of his own life? And Ruth, who loved her mother-in-law Naomi and gave her a reason to live again? God can introduce you to - [God’s answer to anxiety (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/gods-answer-to-anxiety-4/) - Dr D. James Kennedy wrote: ‘A proper epitaph for most people…today would be “Hurried, worried, buried”…Many times we wish we could wash our hands of all our responsibilities and worries. The executive of one small company decided he would. Even though his company was headed for bankruptcy, he decided to quit worrying about it. So - [God’s answer to anxiety (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/gods-answer-to-anxiety-3/) - One Christian author writes: ‘I once went through a period…when I was plagued by anxiety. I was filled with fear and dread for no particular reason. I kept feeling something terrible was going to happen. Finally I went to the Lord and asked Him what was troubling me. He told me it was “evil forebodings”. - [God’s answer to anxiety (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/gods-answer-to-anxiety-2/) - Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses in the nation. That was never part of God’s plan. In Matthew 11:28-29, Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all you who are…burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you - [God’s answer to anxiety (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/gods-answer-to-anxiety-1/) - Anxiety is the curse of the modern era, but it’s not a new trend. Throughout Scripture, Jesus talked a lot about anxiety, stress, and fear. In fact, He mentioned them repeatedly in His teachings. In Matthew 6:25-27, He said, ‘Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or…what you will wear. - [A fresh start](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/a-fresh-start/) - The largest bulldozer in the world is the Komatsu D575A. It’s 16 feet long, 25 feet wide, 41 feet high, and weighs 225,000 pounds. It was once used in a country where there was a surplus of rubbish that was polluting the environment. The bulldozer was brought in to dig a hole big enough to - [Are you feeling the heat?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/are-you-feeling-the-heat/) - C.S. Lewis said, ‘God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pain; it is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world.’ It was in the furnace of affliction that the psalmist David said, ‘Teach me knowledge and good judgment, for I trust your commands. Before I was afflicted, - [God’s footprints](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/gods-footprints/) - The psalmist wrote, ‘Your path led through…mighty waters, though your footprints were not seen’ (v. 19 NIV). When you can’t see God’s ‘footprints’, He is calling you to walk by faith, not by sight (see 2 Corinthians 5:7). Joni Eareckson Tada wrote: ‘A few months from now, I’ll mark an anniversary that is a heart-breaking - [Have you been wounded in church? (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/have-you-been-wounded-in-church-2/) - Author Sherry Surratt notes that when Jesus promised to build His church, ‘[he] wasn’t just talking about the bricks or wood that form a…building, but he was talking about building his church of…ordinary, human people who are imperfect…broken and [who] bring their messy lives…with them every time they walk through the door. This is what - [Have you been wounded in church? (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/have-you-been-wounded-in-church-1/) - Being hurt by another Christian can be devastating, but the church is filled with imperfect people who do things they shouldn’t. As C.S. Lewis said, ‘God works on us in all sorts of ways…above all he works on us through each other.’ So before you give up and walk away, consider these suggestions: 1) Admit - [Dealing with stress-producing people](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dealing-with-stress-producing-people/) - At times it’s impossible to be at peace with certain people. Recognising this reality, the apostle Paul, in essence, said, ‘Do all that you can to try and make it happen.’ Besides the covenant relationship you have with your husband or wife and your responsibility for your children, if you’re wise, you will prayerfully evaluate - [Communication that works at home](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/communication-that-works-at-home/) - Virginia Satir, a founder of family systems therapy, determined that most families have five styles of communication. 1) Some members are placaters. They go along to get along, and reduce stress by saying what others want to hear that makes them less upset. 2) Others are blamers: finger-pointers, nit-pickers, spinners of exquisite theories, eager to - [Grace – when you need it most](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/grace-when-you-need-it-most/) - During World War II, Corrie ten Boom and her Dutch family hid many Jews from the Nazis. Eventually, she was caught and put in a concentration camp where she saw all sorts of atrocities, including the death of her father and sister. Then she was accidentally released. She never became bitter. She even forgave the - [Seeing yourself through God’s eyes (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/seeing-yourself-through-gods-eyes-2/) - One Christian author writes: ‘What if everywhere you went, you ran into someone you didn’t like? You attend a party and have to endure her conversation and constant opinions. You go to church, and she’s sitting right beside you…she is at the dinner table…she’s everywhere! That sounds pretty awful, but this is the exact situation - [Seeing yourself through God’s eyes (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/seeing-yourself-through-gods-eyes-1/) - If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Most of us could come up with a long list! The fact is, Jesus alone holds the world record when it comes to perfection. In the words of Jennifer Dukes Lee: ‘Until you are convinced of God’s incredible love…you will continue looking for - [A life-enriching habit](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/a-life-enriching-habit/) - An ancient European monastery perched on a high ledge was accessible only by way of a basket that was held in place by a single rope on a series of pulleys. One day a concerned visitor noticed the rope was frayed in numerous places. Hoping to relieve his anxiety, he asked the monk who was - [One thousand, four hundred and forty](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/one-thousand-four-hundred-and-forty/) - A woman once had a dream in which an angel was giving her this message: ‘As a reward for your virtues, the sum of £1,440 will be deposited into your bank account every morning. This amount has only one condition. At the close of each business day, any balance that has not been used will - [Removing the ‘flesh’ element](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/removing-the-flesh-element/) - In Pharaoh’s palace, Moses threw down his rod and ‘it became a snake’ (v. 3 NIV). He was so scared; he ran from it. Then God said, ‘Reach out your hand and take it by the tail,’ leaving the head, the most dangerous part, unrestrained. One Bible teacher points this out: ‘During your training trip - [Understanding how God’s love works](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/understanding-how-gods-love-works/) - God loves you unconditionally at all times – but you must receive His love. Only when you do that can you love God in return and extend His love to others. In other words, you can’t give away what you don’t have! ‘God’s love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit - [In step with the Spirit](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/in-step-with-the-spirit/) - The Bible says, ‘Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.’ Problems arise when you try to understand spiritual things with your natural mind. Comparing spiritual things to natural things makes the things of God seem foolish (see 1 Corinthians 2:14 NCV). Paul says, ‘The Spirit searches all things, - [Keep on going](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/keep-on-going/) - A Sunday school teacher was telling the story of how Jonah disobeyed God and ended up being swallowed by a big fish. For three days, he cried out from the depths of the ocean, and after three days and nights, God ordered the fish to spit him up on the beach. At the end of - [Get back up and keep going! (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/get-back-up-and-keep-going-2/) - One author writes: ‘Grit is passion and perseverance for long-term goals. It’s a marathon, not a sprint…You’re not just running, but getting hit along the way. Grit keeps you moving forward through the sting of rejection, pain of failure, and struggle with adversity. When life knocks you down, you may want to stay down and - [Get back up and keep going! (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/get-back-up-and-keep-going-1/) - Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania tell us that a key predictor of success isn’t talent, title, wealth, or good looks. It’s the ability to work hard for a prolonged period of time towards a focused goal; to keep moving forwards despite challenges, obstacles, and failures. Paul writes: ‘We are pressed on every side by - [Show it!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/show-it/) - Author Tim Hansel tells about a seminary professor who set up his homiletics class in an unusual way. Each student was required to deliver a sermon on the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37). They were to go from classroom to classroom preaching love and compassion for others. Some students had ten minutes between - [Be there when you’re needed](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-there-when-youre-needed/) - Generally speaking, when we’re young, healthy, capable, and socially involved, we can go where we want and do as we please. As the saying goes, ‘The world is our oyster!’ It seldom occurs to us that we’re surrounded by those who, because of age, disability, illness, or social and physical isolation, can no longer enjoy - [Learn to ask for what you want](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/learn-to-ask-for-what-you-want/) - Some people know what they want and have the bravery to ask for it. Others know what they don’t want and have developed the ability of saying it in a way that doesn’t create hostility. If you do not practise asking for what you desire, you will live in frustration. You may also become resentful - [How to become generous (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-become-generous-2/) - Someone said this about money: ‘You can’t win. If you focus on making it, you’re materialistic. If you try to but don’t make any, you’re a loser. If you make a lot and keep it, you’re a miser. If you make it and spend it, you’re a spendthrift. If you don’t care about making any, - [How to become generous (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-become-generous-1/) - If you want to become a generous person, do these: 1) Be grateful for whatever you have. Generosity rises out of contentment; it doesn’t come from obtaining more. John D. Rockefeller admitted, ‘I have made millions, but they have brought me no happiness.’ It’s an inside job; if you’re not content with a little, you - [Will you be made whole?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/will-you-be-made-whole/) - For thirty-eight years, this paralysed man waited amongst the sick and disabled at the pool of Bethesda for a supernatural moment that could change his miserable existence. But each time someone got into the pool before him and walked away healed. Time after time, when the opportunity came, there was no one there for him. - [Living life on life’s terms](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/living-life-on-lifes-terms/) - When you learn to forgive and accept yourself, it means you have come to terms with your humanity and learned to be at peace with your imperfections. You realise that what you have been through, together with the grace of God, has made you the person you are today. Veronica Shoffstall said: ‘After a while - [God is pushing you out of your comfort zone](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-is-pushing-you-out-of-your-comfort-zone/) - In Even Eagles Need a Push, David McNally describes a mother eagle teaching her young to fly: ‘The eagle gently coaxed her offspring towards the edge of the nest. Her heart quivered with conflicting emotions as she felt their resistance to her persistent nudging. “Why does the thrill of soaring have to begin with the - [Reasons to be thankful (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/reasons-to-be-thankful-2/) - Author Jon Gordon writes: ‘I’d love to share with you the benefits…of two simple words. THANK YOU. They…have the power to transform our health, happiness…and success. Research shows that grateful people are happier and more likely to maintain good friendships. Gratitude…also improves the heart’s rhythmic functioning, which helps us to reduce stress, think more clearly - [Reasons to be thankful (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/reasons-to-be-thankful-1/) - Breathing is a complicated process. It requires physiological precision, and the average person takes about twenty-three thousand breaths a day. And while we’re inclined to thank God for everything that takes our breath away, maybe we should also thank Him for all of our other breaths. In 2000, Pastor Ed Dobson was diagnosed with motor - [Don’t be double minded](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-be-double-minded/) - Don’t be double minded and attempt to think in two different ways at the same time. For example, we come to church to get ‘the wisdom that is from above’ (James 3:17 KJV), then leave church and get the wisdom from below and try to combine them. But it doesn’t work. You cannot mix unleaded - [Acknowledge your mistakes and shortcomings](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/acknowledge-your-mistakes-and-shortcomings/) - We all make mistakes, misjudge issues, and mess up at some point. We’re all human. The truth is that mistakes are one of the major ways in which we learn and get wiser. But because of our fear of being criticised or losing face, we often attempt to hide our mistakes. The only real calamity - [Show grace under fire](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/show-grace-under-fire-2/) - Author Chuck Swindoll says that when he was a young man, he couldn’t understand how two people who loved the Lord and believed the Bible could come to different conclusions: ‘In my two-by-four thinking I was convinced that all godly minds held identical conclusions…I soon discovered that there weren’t only various opinions, but God had - [Get on the bus!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/get-on-the-bus/) - Are you in ‘the school of hard knocks’ today? Are you wondering, ‘Why am I going through this?’ Because God is more interested in your character than your comfort! Patsy Clairmont writes: ‘Jason, our youngest, has two goals in life. One is to have fun, and the other is to rest. And he does both - [The Bible helps us to overcome temptation (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-bible-helps-us-to-overcome-temptation-5/) - When we give in to temptation, it’s easy to blame other people and our environment. ‘Women dress too provocatively today…Men are too sexually aggressive…The media is too explicit.’ These statements may be true, but they don’t help us to overcome the tempter’s tactics. Humorist Will Rogers is attributed with saying, ‘Things aren’t what they used - [The Bible helps us to overcome temptation (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-bible-helps-us-to-overcome-temptation-4/) - Lust is as natural to us as breathing. Our flesh nature lives to fulfil its selfish desires. It never gets enough or stops wanting more. Alternatively, our new nature craves more of what satisfies the Holy Spirit who lives in our redeemed spirit. We’re more familiar with the appeal of the flesh because we have - [The Bible helps us to overcome temptation (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-bible-helps-us-to-overcome-temptation-3/) - According to Jesus, lust is preceded by temptation and can lead to sin (see Matthew 5:27-28). But the good news about dealing with temptation is that you’re not alone. God’s Word tells us, ‘No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to - [The Bible helps us to overcome temptation (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-bible-helps-us-to-overcome-temptation-2/) - The patriarch Job said, ‘I made a covenant with my eyes not to look with lust at a young woman’ (Job 31:1 NLT). Job couldn’t control his environment and its temptations any more than we can. Still, we can learn a valuable lesson from Job’s words. A covenant is a promise made in good faith - [The Bible helps us to overcome temptation (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-bible-helps-us-to-overcome-temptation-1/) - It seems like no matter where you look nowadays, there are temptations. Our young people are bombarded by imagery that confuses, seduces, and erodes standards of decency and self-control. A wise and devoted eighty-year-old pastor was asked at what age sexual temptation was no longer an issue. Without hesitation, he replied, ‘It must be sometime - [Rest and relaxation are essential](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/rest-and-relaxation-are-essential/) - God instructed the observance of the Sabbath day with good reason: rest from our labours. Now if God felt He should rest after six days of creative activity, how much more should we? Jesus was a big advocate of taking time off. Once, He sent His disciples on an evangelistic journey. When they returned thrilled - [Don’t ‘assume’ your children are okay](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-assume-your-children-are-okay/) - The Bible says: ‘Every year Jesus’ parents went to Jerusalem for the Passover festival. When Jesus was twelve years old, they attended the festival as usual. After the celebration was over, they started home to Nazareth, but Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents didn’t miss him at first, because they assumed he was among - [The power of encouragement](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-power-of-encouragement/) - Everybody needs encouragement. None of us achieves anything without help. The great achievers in history became all that they were because of the people in their lives. We've seen The Chronicles of Narnia and The Lord of the Rings. But did you know that their authors, C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, were professors at Oxford - [The importance of good thinking (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-importance-of-good-thinking-2/) - If you want to change your life, you must change how you think and what you think about. When you think about the wrong things, your life goes wrong. But when you think about the right things, your life goes right. 1) Changing your thinking isn’t easy. It’s not automatic and doesn’t happen on its - [The importance of good thinking (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-importance-of-good-thinking-1/) - Good thinkers are constantly in demand. Why? Because they solve problems, always have ideas that can build an organisation, and are hopeful for a better future. And good thinkers seldom find themselves under the control of bad thinkers. Adolf Hitler once boasted, ‘What luck for rulers that men do not think.’ Those who build the - [Always do what’s right](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/always-do-whats-right/) - When you wilfully do wrong, you experience anxiety, stress, and insecurity. ‘“There is no peace,” says the Lord, “for the wicked”’ (Isaiah 48:22 NKJV). Whenever you choose a plan of action incompatible with what you believe to be right, you forfeit your peace of mind. For instance, a person may accept a job or duty - [Help for your marriage](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/help-for-your-marriage-3/) - The following definition of love and marriage is a time-tested formula that would be hard to improve on: ‘Love is friendship that has caught fire. It’s quiet understanding, mutual confidence, sharing, and forgiving. It’s loyalty through good times and bad. It settles for less than perfection and makes allowances for human weakness. Love is content - [The Word at work](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-word-at-work/) - Talking about the power behind the Reformation, Martin Luther said, ‘I simply taught, preached, wrote God’s Word; otherwise I did nothing. And then, while I slept…the Word so greatly weakened [the erroneous system] that never a prince or emperor did such damage to it. I did nothing. The Word did it all.’ Later, when Luther - [You have come too far to give up now!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-have-come-too-far-to-give-up-now/) - V. Raymond Edman said, ‘To be torn…by external forces, and still…preserve one’s inward integrity, is to know the discipline that endures.’ So when you’re faced with opposition, do you automatically throw in the towel, or like Moses, do you persevere? Chuck Swindoll characterises Moses as a man ‘who hung tough, who refused to give in - [Overcoming loneliness](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/overcoming-loneliness/) - You don’t have to be alone to be lonely. Some of us are married to emotionally unavailable spouses. Some of us put up with verbal and emotional abuse because we prefer anybody’s company to our own. Some of the loneliest people you will meet are in crowded bars at ‘happy’ hour. They mingle, but they - [The challenge of developing leaders (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-challenge-of-developing-leaders-3/) - A leadership expert who conducted a poll to find out how people came to be leaders writes: ‘I asked if they became leaders because a) they were given a position; b) there was a crisis in the organisation; or c) they had been mentored. More than 80 per cent indicated that they were leaders because - [The challenge of developing leaders (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-challenge-of-developing-leaders-2/) - In the Bible, you discover that leaders were most often trained ‘on the job’. A leadership expert writes: ‘It takes secure leaders at the top to let the leaders working for them be full participants in the organisation’s leadership process. If [mid-level] leaders…question them, they don’t take it personally. When they share ideas, the leaders - [The challenge of developing leaders (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-challenge-of-developing-leaders-1/) - There is a two-fold challenge in developing leaders: 1) Emerging leaders many times want to take the lead before they’re actually ready. 2) Potential leaders can only become mature leaders when they’re permitted to develop and exercise their initiative. How does this happen? Through good timing! Paul writes, ‘Never be in a hurry about appointing - [You need to exercise](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-need-to-exercise/) - Physical exercise strengthens your immune system so that you can fight off heart disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, thyroid malfunction, impaired memory, and a host of maladies. The best kind of exercise is the one you like and is the most convenient. Here are the two biggest reasons we’re inconsistent in following an - [Just for today](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/just-for-today/) - When the going gets tough, and you’re tempted to complain about your lot in life, stop and remind yourself that this day is a gift from God, one you will never have again. Think about the following words and they will help you: Just for today, I will experience and enjoy each hour to the - [Called to overcome (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/called-to-overcome-3/) - Have you heard of the principle of supercompensation? A pastor explains: ‘When an athlete is pushed beyond the threshold of pain and exhaustion, the body overcompensates. The more a muscle is broken down, the more it builds back up…The two hundred and six bones in the body are constantly going through a process called remodelling. - [Called to overcome (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/called-to-overcome-2/) - A pastor encourages us: ‘Psychoanalyst Alfred Adler conducted a fascinating research project that popularised the theory of compensation. He studied art students and discovered that seventy per cent of them suffered from optical anomalies. He found degenerative traces in the ears of great composers like Mozart and Beethoven. And he cited numerous examples of other - [Called to overcome (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/called-to-overcome-1/) - A pastor writes: ‘All of us want every day to be a good day. But if every day was a good day, there would be no “good” days, because there wouldn’t be any bad days to compare the good days to…Sickness helps us appreciate health. Failure helps us appreciate success. Debt helps us appreciate wealth. - [Citizens and pilgrims](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/citizens-and-pilgrims/) - There is a story about an American tourist’s visit to the home of a nineteenth-century Polish rabbi. The tourist was surprised to find it so sparsely and inexpensively furnished. The living area, a simple room lined with books, contained a table and a bench. When the tourist asked the rabbi, ‘Where’s all your furniture?’ he - [Don’t be afraid of getting old](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-be-afraid-of-getting-old/) - Before he was put to death for his faith, Paul wrote: ‘I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day’ (vv. 7-8 KJV). Up until - [Show kindness](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/show-kindness/) - ‘A woman came having an alabaster flask of very costly oil…and poured it on His head. But there were some who were indignant…and said, “Why was this fragrant oil wasted? For it might have been sold for more than three hundred denarii and given to the poor.” And they criticised her sharply. But Jesus said, - [The increased value of a greater purpose](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-increased-value-of-a-greater-purpose/) - The value of anything is determined by its function. What problem does it solve? What need does it meet? Sand is a good example. At the beach, sand is free. But if you want to build a playground, that same sand has to be bagged and transported, so it costs more; hence its value goes - [How to get along with others](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-get-along-with-others/) - Put yourself in the other person’s shoes and try to see things from their point of view. That’s one of the great keys to working with clients, pleasing customers, sustaining a marriage, raising children, pastoring people, helping those who are less fortunate, etc. Live by this Scripture: ‘All of you be of one mind, having - [Speaking in public](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/speaking-in-public/) - You don’t have to be a great orator; you just have to deliver the message. You don’t have to emulate any other speaker; you just have to decide to be the best ‘you’ possible. So: 1) Forget about messing up. The chances are that you will know more about your topic than 90 per cent - [You have enough (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-have-enough-2/) - Have you been praying, and God hasn’t yet answered? Let’s look at some keys. 1) Maybe you’re expecting a lot from God but not much from yourself. Perhaps He is asking you to work harder by utilising the ingenuity He has given you. Remember, God’s promises are never an excuse for laziness. Elijah was in - [You have enough (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-have-enough-1/) - Spurgeon’s contemporary, Dr Joseph Parker, pastored the City Temple Church in London. One day he walked up to his pulpit and read this verse: ‘The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.’ After a long pause, he closed his Bible, looked at the congregation, and said, ‘Friends, that is enough!’ And scripturally and practically speaking, - [Righteousness is a gift, not a reward](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/righteousness-is-a-gift-not-a-reward/) - The Bible says, ‘Those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ.’ The righteousness that God approves and accepts comes as a ‘gift’. And it’s based on ‘grace’. And grace means ‘unmerited, unearned, undeserved favour with God’. Are you trying through your own - [Keep it simple](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/keep-it-simple-2/) - If you’re serious about reaching and teaching people, there are two things you must try to do: 1) Talk to them, not above them. A pre-schooler was eating an apple in the back of the car. ‘Daddy,’ he said, ‘why is my apple turning brown?’ His father explained: ‘Because after you assimilated the skin on - [The five crowns (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-five-crowns-5/) - The fifth crown is the crown of glory. Peter wrote: ‘The elders who are among you I exhort, I who am a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed: shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, - [The five crowns (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-five-crowns-4/) - The fourth crown is the crown of life. Two different verses depict it for us. ‘Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him’ (James 1:12 NKJV). ‘Be faithful until death, and I will - [The five crowns (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-five-crowns-3/) - The third crown mentioned in Scripture is the crown of righteousness. Paul writes: ‘I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord…will give to me on that Day, and…also to all who have loved - [The five crowns (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-five-crowns-2/) - The second crown mentioned in Scripture is the crown of rejoicing. It’s given to those who take part in leading others to Christ. The background for this passage is written about in Acts 17, which tells the story of Paul arriving in the city of Thessalonica. He went into the synagogue, ‘and for three Sabbaths - [The five crowns (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-five-crowns-1/) - In describing our heavenly rewards, the Bible speaks of crowns. Let’s look at each and see what we can learn. The first is the victor’s crown. ‘Everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run - [Don’t rush into this relationship](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-rush-into-this-relationship/) - Patience is a difficult skill to practise when it comes to relationships. This is particularly so when you feel lonely, empty, and incomplete. When that happens you can jump the gun, and make a choice based on your limited perspective rather than the larger picture that would emerge if only you had sought more information - [Wisdom for parenting teenagers](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/wisdom-for-parenting-teenagers/) - Why does a happy, cooperative twelve-year-old suddenly turn into a sullen, depressed thirteen-year-old? There are two powerful forces that account for some of the adolescent behaviour that drives you crazy as a parent. The first is linked to social pressures common at that age. But there is a second source of disruption. It’s related to - [Honour others, and God will honour you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/honour-others-and-god-will-honour-you/) - One of the real tests of character and maturity is how you react to someone else’s success. That’s particularly so when they succeed in an area where you failed or in which you’re frustrated over not having achieved greater success. F.B. Meyer, a well-known author and minister in England, once shared the following experience to - [Finding your life’s purpose](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/finding-your-lifes-purpose/) - In baseball, the catcher tries to distract the batter. On one occasion when Yogi Berra was behind the plate, Hank Aaron came up to bat. Yogi started in, ‘Hank, you’ve got the writing on the bat in the wrong place. The words should be facing you.’ Yogi kept going, ‘You better check it.’ Hank didn’t - [Take responsibility for your life](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/take-responsibility-for-your-life/) - What an amazing question Jesus asked this paralysed man: ‘Do you want to get well?’ Who wouldn’t? You might be surprised! Kay Arthur tells of passing a beggar one day on a street in the Old City of Jerusalem. As he sat begging, his trouser leg was pulled up to reveal his terrible sores. She - [A word to graduates](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/a-word-to-graduates/) - Graduate, here are eleven lessons to empower and inspire you: 1) You’re here for a reason, and the most vital thing you can do is find it. 2) Follow your passion. You may not already know what it is, but make it your mission to discover it. 3) Although you might love Facebook, you might - [How do you handle fear?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-do-you-handle-fear/) - Being in a position of leadership won’t give you courage, but showing courage will establish you as a leader in the eyes of others. Larry Osborne said, ‘The most striking thing about highly effective leaders is how little they have in common. What one swears by, another warns against. But one trait stands out: the - [Beware of covetousness](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/beware-of-covetousness/) - Covetousness will rob you of contentment. It works like this: you browse through a home-decorating magazine, and the home you were thankful for an hour ago suddenly seems ramshackle. Or you see an ad on TV for a new car, and the car in your driveway suddenly looks like an old banger. God expects you - [God still loves you!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-still-loves-you/) - Dr Gerald Mann writes: ‘Moralisers are faithful to remind us that King David’s life was all downhill after Bathsheba-gate. They list the litany of his woes: the baby of the illicit union died. He never recovered his moral stature. His sons fought over succession. One of them was beheaded for trying to dethrone him. God - [The need for connectedness](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-need-for-connectedness/) - Unfortunately, the word fellowship has come to be associated with awkward gatherings in church basements, drinking red punch, and participating in stilted conversations. No wonder people give up on it! Paul describes connectedness as ‘being rooted and established in love’. When a tree puts roots into the ground, it takes in nutrients and water, and - [When you feel blah](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/when-you-feel-blah/) - The word ‘perish’ conjures up images of deterioration and decay, like fruit rotting from within. On what specific day does passion leave a marriage or a worker lose interest in a job that once excited them? Like air leaking silently out of a tyre, what was meant to carry our weight and to power us - [Are you in a stress mess?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/are-you-in-a-stress-mess/) - The Bible says: ‘The next day Moses took his seat to serve as judge for the people, and they stood around him from morning till evening. When his father-in-law saw all that Moses was doing for the people, he said, “What is this you are doing for the people? Why do you alone sit as - [When God asks you to give](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/when-god-asks-you-to-give/) - When God asks you to sacrifice on behalf of somebody else, do it. It’s like putting money in a heavenly account. You may not need it today or tomorrow, but when you do, God will ensure it comes back to you in multiplied form. Indian Christian missionary Sadhu Sundar Singh and a companion were travelling - [Compassion begins with the word ‘notice’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/compassion-begins-with-the-word-notice/) - Joseph was serving a prison sentence for a crime he didn’t commit, which makes it remarkable that he had the time and energy to care about anybody else. ‘Pharaoh’s chief cupbearer and chief baker offended their royal master…and he put them in prison…Joseph…noticed that they both looked upset. “Why do you look so worried today?” - [Dealing with relationship issues (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dealing-with-relationship-issues-2/) - Relationships are built on mutual trust – and trust is based on speaking the truth. But there are ways of speaking the truth that help and ways that hurt. The ‘give-them-a-piece-of-my-mind’ approach just drives the wedge deeper. Then there is the Bible way: ‘Speaking the truth in love, we will grow’ (Ephesians 4:15 NIV). Let’s - [Dealing with relationship issues (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dealing-with-relationship-issues-1/) - Every worthwhile relationship can experience problems. With that in mind, it’s important to recognise this: 1) Problems are inevitable, normal, and potentially beneficial. They’re inevitable because relationships bring together very different people. They’re normal because all relationships, including great ones, go through ups and downs. And they’re potentially beneficial because, handled effectively, the relationship can - [How to stay enthusiastic about God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-stay-enthusiastic-about-god/) - No one had more energy than Jesus. He got up early, stayed up late, and sometimes pulled all-nighters. Where did He get all that energy from? The answer is found in a fascinating dialogue. ‘His disciples urged him, “Rabbi, eat something.” But he said to them, “I have food to eat that you know nothing - [The secret to success](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-secret-to-success/) - The so-called ‘secret’ to success is really no secret at all! It’s simply getting back up when life has knocked you down and taking with you into the future the lessons you have learned. In talking about heroes such as Samson and David, the Bible goes on to say, ‘Whose weakness was turned to strength; - [Become willing to change (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/become-willing-to-change-4/) - To grow, you must dedicate yourself to the process. Whether it’s in your career, your marriage, your ministry, or your walk with God, once you dedicate yourself to growth and development and a lifestyle of planned improvement, it becomes normal to you. And you realise when you’re not making progress. Something is missing! It’s been - [Become willing to change (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/become-willing-to-change-3/) - Change must happen inside you before it can happen around you. In an old Peanuts comic strip, Lucy tells Charlie Brown she would like to change the world. So, Charlie asks her, ‘Where would you start?’ In typical Lucy fashion, she replies, ‘I would start with you.’ Think about it: when we have marital problems, - [Become willing to change (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/become-willing-to-change-2/) - You must be willing to pay the price for change. Dramatist and screenwriter Sidney Howard remarked, ‘One-half of knowing what you want is knowing what you must give up before you get it.’ Change always costs you, if not in money, then in time, creativity, and energy. In fact, if it doesn’t cost you anything, - [Become willing to change (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/become-willing-to-change-1/) - Recognise that without change, there can be no progress. Now, we’re not advocating change for its own sake. That can be a characteristic of restlessness and a symptom of inner conflict. Change can represent great opportunities as well as potential losses. Although all progress produces change, not all change produces progress. But as leadership expert - [Don’t lose your passion for God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-lose-your-passion-for-god/) - Try to imagine the fire in the eyes of Jesus and the flex of His muscles as He turns over the tables of the money changers in the temple. And He does it while wielding a whip He made Himself. ‘Then his disciples remembered this prophecy from the Scriptures: “Passion for God’s house will consume - [Free from jealousy](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/free-from-jealousy/) - The Bible says, ‘People are slaves to whatever has mastered them’ (2 Peter 2:19 NIV). And that’s especially true of jealousy. Chuck Swindoll writes: ‘Jealousy and envy are often used interchangeably, but there’s a difference. Envy begins with empty hands; it mourns what it doesn’t have…Jealousy begins with full hands; it’s threatened by the pain - [Have a biblical perspective](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/have-a-biblical-perspective/) - There is a cute story about a girl who left home and went away to university. After her first term, she emailed her mother, saying, ‘I think it’s time I brought you up to date on what’s going on in my life. Shortly after I arrived at university, I got bored with dormitory life and - [Faith is not faith until it is acted upon](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/faith-is-not-faith-until-it-is-acted-upon/) - Could it be that the negative perception people have of the church stems from the negative energy we project? And could it be that our negative energy stems from our negative view of righteousness? We falsely view righteousness as doing nothing wrong: ‘Don’t do this. Don’t do that. And you’re okay.’ The problem with that - [Knowing the season you’re in](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/knowing-the-season-youre-in/) - Your life’s purpose is connected to a specific time and season. In other words, it will have a beginning and an ending. Some of God’s purposes can be fulfilled in a short time, while others take a lifetime. You won’t always be able to do what you’re doing today, or at least to the extent - [Go the extra mile](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/go-the-extra-mile/) - Try to picture this: you’re in a restaurant with someone whose meal costs £15, and you’re watching them struggle over the tip. They have £2 left over, and they know that a 10 per cent tip is considered the very minimum. They waste five minutes getting change for that second pound so they can leave - [Don’t be dismissive](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-be-dismissive/) - If you are in a position of leadership, try to be aware of how you respond to the feelings, thoughts, and opinions of those around you. What you say as a leader will resonate more deeply with people than what others say, so you must be sensitive to this. Even when someone offers an idea - [Go when the light is green](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/go-when-the-light-is-green/) - In his book Deep Thoughts, Jack Handey writes: ‘As the light changed from red to green to yellow and back to red again, I sat there thinking about life. Was it nothing more than a bunch of honking and yelling? Sometimes it seemed that way.’ Many of us are waiting for the green light we - [Try. Try harder. Try longer.](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/try-try-harder-try-longer/) - One of the greatest predictors of success in any endeavour is persistence. It’s not only how hard you try; it’s how long you try. We tend to overestimate how much we can accomplish in the short term. And according to an American pastor and author, we also ‘underestimate how much we can accomplish over the - [Why can’t we work together? (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/why-cant-we-work-together-4/) - A lady told her friend, ‘My husband and I have a very happy marriage. There’s nothing I wouldn’t do for him, and there’s nothing he wouldn’t do for me. And that’s the way we go through life – doing nothing for each other!’ We smile, but that’s not so funny when it’s true. That attitude - [Why can’t we work together? (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/why-cant-we-work-together-3/) - Reason three: temperament. Some people aren’t naturally outgoing. When they face challenges, it never occurs to them to enlist other people’s help in order to accomplish their goal. When you operate alone, you will achieve a certain amount of success, but when you cooperate with the right people, you will achieve things you never dreamed - [Why can’t we work together? (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/why-cant-we-work-together-2/) - Reason two: naivety. An old Chinese proverb says, ‘Behind every able man there are always other able men.’ Even if you can do the job yourself, isn’t it wise to stop and ask, ‘Who do I know who could help me to do it better?’ That question defines the difference between mediocrity and excellence. Business - [Why can’t we work together? (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/why-cant-we-work-together-1/) - Reason one: insecurity. The Florentine philosopher Machiavelli said, ‘The first method for estimating the intelligence of a ruler is to look at the men he has around him.’ Insecure leaders are threatened by talented individuals, so they surround themselves with weak people. As a result, the work suffers, and everybody involved suffers too. When a - [Knowing when not to speak](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/knowing-when-not-to-speak/) - Someone else’s need to know shouldn’t determine your need to speak. When a friend of Jesus wanted to stop His arrest, Jesus said, ‘Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels?’ (Matthew 26:53 NIV). When Jesus stood in Pilate’s - [To love, you must forgive](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/to-love-you-must-forgive/) - It’s impossible to love anyone fully and at the same time resent someone else. You cannot give total love when your heart is divided. And a bitter heart is a divided heart. You may be thinking, ‘My spouse is a wonderful person, but I just can’t love him.’ Look beneath the surface. You may still - [Are you preparing yourself?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/are-you-preparing-yourself/) - After Peter had fished all night and caught nothing, Jesus said, ‘Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets.’ After explaining to Jesus that the fish weren’t biting, Peter said, ‘Nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net’ (v. 5). Notice an important detail here. When Jesus said, ‘Let down your - [Don’t be a murmurer (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-be-a-murmurer-2/) - Paul writes: ‘Do all things without murmurings and disputings: that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world’ (vv. 14-15). What was the attitude that Paul zeroed in on? Murmuring! What was the - [Don’t be a murmurer (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-be-a-murmurer-1/) - If you don’t think God takes murmuring seriously, read this: ‘Don’t murmur against God and his dealings with you as some of them did, for that is why God sent his Angel to destroy them. All these things happened to them as examples – as object lessons to us – to warn us against doing - [Stay open and approachable](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/stay-open-and-approachable/) - Some people seem to go through life with a ‘closed’ sign on their foreheads. Whether through fearfulness, selfishness, callousness, or busyness, they’re not open to the thoughts of others. And it can cost you dearly. Take a moment and ponder these Scriptures: ‘He who disdains instruction despises his own soul, but he who heeds rebuke - [Help for caregivers](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/help-for-caregivers/) - One day you may end up caring for a sick or ageing loved one. And to take care of them properly, you must learn to take care of yourself. Following her parents’ deaths five weeks apart in a nursing home twelve hundred miles away, Beth Witrogen McLeod succumbed to clinical depression. ‘By ignoring my physical - [Resolve conflict quickly (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/resolve-conflict-quickly-2/) - In order to resolve conflict, do these: 1) Focus on the person’s behaviour and stay away from remarks about their character. Saying, ‘It was unacceptable for you to open my post’ is better than ‘I can’t believe you were so nosy!’ 2) Try to understand the other person’s behaviour instead of justifying your own. This - [Resolve conflict quickly (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/resolve-conflict-quickly-1/) - Few things in life cause more stress than unresolved conflict. It will elevate your blood pressure and consume your thoughts until you resolve it, so if you’re wise, you will deal with it right away. Not all people feel this way. Even though Jesus commanded us to deal with it, many Christians refrain from saying - [The waiting strategy](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-waiting-strategy/) - When you’re up against a problem that seems too big for you or feel like you are ‘in over your head’ and you don’t know what to do or which way to go, use the waiting strategy. That’s the one David the psalmist used. And it worked for him: ‘I waited patiently for the Lord; - [Don’t burn out (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-burn-out-2-2/) - To keep from burning out, do this: 1) Join a support group. Ask yourself, who fills the role of Paul to your Timothy? Who teaches you to pray like Jesus and John the Baptist taught their disciples? With whom can you share your struggles? The Bible says, ‘As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens - [Don’t burn out (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-burn-out-1-2/) - Did you know that people in the medical profession can be more prone to problems with addiction? A report from the British Medical Association estimated that one doctor in fifteen may be affected. A major contributing factor is they only hear and see the troubles and negative side of people’s lives. So in order to - [Understanding the word ‘imputed’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/understanding-the-word-imputed/) - Picture a transfer of funds from one account to another. Banks do it every day. Now imagine yourself destitute and unable to pay your debts. Then in an astounding act of grace, someone assumes all your debts and then transfers to your account such abundance that you never have to work or worry for the - [God uses damaged people](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-uses-damaged-people/) - Too often people are devalued or dismissed because of what they have been through in life. Sometimes it’s because of what they have done to others, sometimes it’s because of what others have done to them. If you have been to a second-hand shop, you know there are valuable items at deeply discounted prices; you - [Have a God perspective](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/have-a-god-perspective/) - In writing to the church at Corinth, Paul reflects on the cost of serving Jesus: ‘From the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep; in journeys - [Don’t look at Christians, look at Christ](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-look-at-christians-look-at-christ/) - One day Peter looked at John and asked Jesus, ‘Lord, what about him?’ Jesus answered…‘What is that to you? You must follow me’ (v. 22 NIV). When others disappoint you, remember that you have disappointed others. When others give you bad advice, remember that you have given others bad advice. There is only one person - [Pastor, keep your sword sharp](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/pastor-keep-your-sword-sharp/) - Paul warned his spiritual son and successor, Timothy: ‘Know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: for men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers - [Rejoice – day forty-one is coming!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/rejoice-day-forty-one-is-coming/) - In Scripture, the number forty denotes testing, trials, and temptation. God told Noah, ‘I will send rain on the earth for forty days and forty nights, and I will wipe from the face of the earth every living creature I have made’ (Genesis 7:4 NIV). Goliath defied the armies of Israel for forty days: ‘For - [Fathers, leave footprints for your children](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/fathers-leave-footprints-for-your-children/) - The story is told of a man in a supermarket pushing a trolley with a screaming baby. He kept repeating softly, ‘Keep calm, George. Everything’s going to be okay, George.’ A lady watching with admiration said to the man, ‘You are to be commended for your patience in trying to quiet little George.’ The man - [Who are you depending on?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/who-are-you-depending-on/) - Because God’s Spirit lives within you doesn’t guarantee His power is at work in your life. God’s power is available, but you must plug into it. Jesus associates our spiritual life with a vine and its branches: ‘I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears - [Get alone with God (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/get-alone-with-god-3/) - When the pressures in your life begin to mount, the first thing you will be tempted to drop is your time alone with God, praying and reading His Word. And what’s more, Satan knows if he can keep you from it, he has won the battle, and he will get no opposition from you. So, - [Get alone with God (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/get-alone-with-god-2/) - Dr Stephen Olford said, ‘I want to hear the voice of God before I hear anyone else’s in the morning, and his is the last voice I want to hear at night.’ Whatever time you set, morning or evening, be consistent. Make an appointment with God like you would with anyone else. And keep it. - [Get alone with God (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/get-alone-with-god-1/) - To grow spiritually, you must get alone with God. When you come into His presence, you should have these attitudes: 1) Anticipation. Expect to give and get from your time together. Make it a time of intimacy. It’s impossible to have a love affair in a public place; intimacy calls for being alone with the - [Connect. Commit. Communicate.](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/connect-commit-communicate/) - When it comes to life’s great achievers, the apostle Paul is in a league of his own. But he takes one entire chapter of the Bible, Romans 16, to acknowledge all the people who helped him to succeed in his calling. The chapter could be captioned ‘I couldn’t have done it without you!’ He starts - [Bearing spiritual fruit](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/bearing-spiritual-fruit/) - A pastor writes: ‘When God created man, He made him “in His own image”. That was God’s original plan, and it has not changed. He wants to make us like Himself…godly. He does it by working on our character through His Word, through His Holy Spirit, and through circumstances. The Greek word for “character”…means “tested - [Your life is a letter (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-life-is-a-letter-3/) - Every day, people ’read’ you. The question is: what kind of message are they getting? Here is what they’re supposed to get: ‘We…are being transformed into his image’ (2 Corinthians 3:18 NIV). ‘We have renounced secret and shameful ways’ (2 Corinthians 4:2 NIV). ‘If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: the old - [Your life is a letter (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-life-is-a-letter-2/) - You have probably heard the old saying about doctors and their prescriptions, ‘They can read writing, but they can’t write reading.’ A letter must be easily read and understood. Incomprehensible writing distorts the message and discourages the reader. The purpose of a letter is to convey the writer’s thoughts. When it doesn’t, the reader stops - [Your life is a letter (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-life-is-a-letter-1/) - Paul wrote to the Corinthian believers: ‘You are our letter…for everyone to read and understand…a letter written by Christ and delivered by us. But you are not written with pen and ink or on tablets made of stone. You are written in our hearts by the Spirit of the living God’ (vv. 2-3 CEV). Usually, - [Don’t get ahead of God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-get-ahead-of-god/) - One Bible teacher writes: ‘Satan doesn’t mind when we build, as long as he’s the head contractor. He’ll make sure we smear God’s name all over our dreams, then when they fail, it’ll look like He failed. Romans 8:14 says, “As many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of - [Out with the old and in with the new!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/out-with-the-old-and-in-with-the-new/) - As a new creation, you’re no longer controlled by your old behaviour but by your relationship with Christ. Jon Walker writes: ‘A few miles from my house there’s a convenience store that went through a makeover. However, the employees may have missed the makeover memo. The kid behind the counter wore a new uniform…but he - [Today, use your God-given power](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/today-use-your-god-given-power/) - You say, ‘If Christ lives in me, why do I still think and act the way I do?’ A Christian leader explains: ‘The answer is illustrated in a story about a lady who had a small house…at the turn of the century. She was quite wealthy but also quite frugal…People were surprised, then, when she - [Be real](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-real/) - Jesus was rough on Pharisees: ‘People look at you and think you are saints, but beneath the skin you are total frauds’ (Matthew 23:28 MSG). They put on a good front but were devoid of grace, mercy, and compassion. And Jesus called them on it! Because we live in an appearance-focused society, Jesus warns us - [You are the vessel, not the treasure](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-are-the-vessel-not-the-treasure/) - Be careful to make the distinction between the ‘earthen vessel’ and the ‘treasure’. Paul says, ‘We have this treasure’; he doesn’t say, ’We are this treasure’! Anytime you allow people to think of you as the treasure, God is not pleased, and you’re setting yourself up to fail. When God deposits a treasure within you, - [‘Much more’ or ‘much less’ (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/much-more-or-much-less-2/) - Try to imagine the abundance God has prepared for you (see 1 Corinthians 2:9). Then decide that the language of your heart will be the ‘much more’ of faith, not the ‘much less’ of unbelief. Observe: 1) Your salvation supersedes your sin. No matter how sinful your history, ‘if through the offence of one many - [‘Much more’ or ‘much less’ (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/much-more-or-much-less-1/) - Here is an expression used throughout Scripture to describe God’s provision for us: ‘much more’. It assures us there is no need we will ever face that can’t be met through His abundant resources. Our tendency is to approach our needs with an attitude of ‘much less’. It assumes that God is unable or unwilling - [A ministry of tears](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/a-ministry-of-tears/) - If you cry easily, it could be that God has given you a ministry of tears. What is that? Author Liz Curtis Higgs explains: ‘I cry easily and often. Happy tears, sad tears, over-the-top tears, Hallmark commercial tears – you name it…I cry at church…When I hear a wondrous truth spoken or a glorious song - [You’re almost there!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/youre-almost-there/) - Psychologists say the strongest influence on our present is often our past. But Paul tells us to forget the past, and focus on ‘what lies ahead…press on to…receive the heavenly prize’ (v. 13-14 NLT). One counsellor writes: ’I know you’re tired…overwhelmed…as though…this hard time will last forever. It won’t. You are almost there. You don’t - [Tell them while you still can](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/tell-them-while-you-still-can/) - Read this: ‘I remember when I took your new car on the road and wrecked it. I thought you would be livid and come down hard on me, but you didn’t. I remember when we went to the beach, and you didn’t want to go because you said it was going to rain. We went, - [To be used by God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/to-be-used-by-god/) - To be used by God, you must know two things: 1) Who God is. A little girl in Sunday school was asked by her teacher what she was drawing. She replied, ‘A picture of God.’ The teacher said, ‘But nobody has ever seen Him.’ Confidently she replied, ‘They will when I’m finished!’ Please understand this: - [Don’t let a wall build up between you.](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-let-a-wall-build-up-between-you/) - An unknown author wrote these poignant words: ‘Their wedding picture mocked them from the table, these two whose minds no longer touched each other. They lived with such a heavy barricade between them that neither battering ram of words nor artilleries of touch could break it down. Somewhere, between the oldest child’s first tooth and - [Give God all the glory](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/give-god-all-the-glory-2/) - When we try to impress the people, we consider to be important, we become trophy collectors. ‘I’m more important because I know this famous person’ is how our thinking goes. And all kinds of objects can become trophies: our grades in school, the houses we live in, people we have impressed, our looks, clothing brands, - [Always agree with God’s Word](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/always-agree-with-gods-word/) - Do you think of yourself as a person who has faith in God? Do your thoughts and words reflect that? We can deceive ourselves into thinking we have great faith, but if challenges easily defeat us, then maybe our faith isn’t as great as we thought it was. Jesus said, ‘The mouth speaks what the - [You can learn to love](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-can-learn-to-love/) - You can learn to love by thinking loving thoughts. By focusing on the other person’s needs, pains, difficulties, goals, and desires, not just your own. The old saying goes, ‘It’s easier to understand someone when you walk a mile in their shoes.’ Hurting people tend to hurt other people. If someone is hurting you, that - [Learn to say no](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/learn-to-say-no/) - To say yes to the will of God, you will have to say no to other things. And some people won’t like it, especially if they are used to getting their own way. People will make demands on you based on their needs and be oblivious to or uncaring about your needs. So, you have - [Prayer and your RAS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/prayer-and-your-ras/) - To understand how prayer is powerful and effective, look at it from a neurological perspective. At the base of our brain lies a cluster of nerves called the reticular activating system (RAS), which monitors our environment. We are constantly bombarded with countless stimuli vying for our attention, and it is the job of the RAS - [If you’re a leader, read this!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/if-youre-a-leader-read-this/) - A leadership expert says: ‘Most leaders focus on two things: the vision and the bottom line. The vision is what usually excites us most, and taking care of the bottom line keeps us in business. But between the vision and the bottom line are all the people in your organisation…If you ignore the people and - [The kids are watching you (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-kids-are-watching-you-2/) - If you’re a parent, you want your children to turn out well, and the best way to do that is by modelling proper behaviour at home (see Ephesians 5:1 MSG). Learn to say no. Susan Alexander Yates says: ‘There are simply too many demands…choices, and too little time. Maturity means learning to postpone something you’d - [The kids are watching you (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-kids-are-watching-you-1/) - Susan Alexander Yates offers us scriptural guidelines for influencing our kids. (If you’re not a parent, why not use these points to help you have a positive influence on the children in your family or community.) 1) Reach out to non-Christians. If you want kids to grow in faith, expose them to people who need - [Be true to the Scriptures](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-true-to-the-scriptures/) - When asked if they believed that the Bible was the inspired and the infallible Word of God, a majority of sixteen- to twenty-nine-year-olds in America said, ‘Yes. Give it to me straight. And if you don’t live it, don’t give it!’ It’s an honest response! Think about it: who told the first lie ever recorded? - [‘Forgive them’ and delete it](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/forgive-them-and-delete-it/) - Some societies in history punished those who committed adultery by making them wear a big scarlet letter A, publicly identifying with their behaviour. And if you were caught stealing, they made you drag a ball and chain around. Maybe you’re thinking, ‘Well, they deserved it.’ Really? Jesus said if you simply lust after someone, you - [Put God between yourself and the foe](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/put-god-between-yourself-and-the-foe/) - Faced with an enemy he couldn’t conquer on his own, King Asa prayed, ‘“Lord, there is no one like you to help the powerless against the mighty. Help us, O Lord our God, for we rely on you, and in your name we have come against this vast army. Lord, you are our God; do - [Only Jesus can satisfy your soul](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/only-jesus-can-satisfy-your-soul-2/) - We are desirous by nature. We keep desiring things just like we keep taking our next breath. The trouble is, when we get the things we crave, they don’t bring us the happiness we yearn for. So, we keep looking for more and more things. Online shops are in the business of ‘creating need’. Things - [Born to believe (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/born-to-believe-2/) - Parenting doesn’t end when your child becomes a teenager. Teens are just more mobile, spend less time with you, and are more independent. Now they value and emulate peers who are as immature as they are. Even when you have laid moral and spiritual foundations in their early years, something will happen that leaves you - [Born to believe (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/born-to-believe-1/) - Training a child is both challenging and rewarding. By shaping their underlying belief system, you help their developing brain establish permanent neural pathways that will guide their moral and spiritual growth. Neuroscientists Andrew Newberg and Mark Robert Waldman, authors of Born to Believe, tell us the most crucial years are from age seven to ten. - [How God sees you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-god-sees-you-3/) - Once we understand that God’s love for us is based on what Christ did for us rather than what we do ourselves, the struggle is over. Now we can stop ‘performing’, and we can serve God because we know He loves us and that we don’t need to try to make Him love us. We - [Setting prayer traps](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/setting-prayer-traps/) - When we read the verse, ‘Take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ,’ we tend to think it’s about capturing sinful thoughts and getting them out of our minds. And it is. But it’s also about capturing creative thoughts and keeping them in our minds. This Scripture also means stewarding every word, every - [How long will you live?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-long-will-you-live/) - Do you ever wonder how long you will live? The Bible says, ‘The days of our lives are seventy years; and if by reason of strength they are eighty years, yet their boast is only labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away’ (v. 10 NKJV). Why do some of - [Use your imagination](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/use-your-imagination/) - Lack of faith is not a failure of logic; it’s a failure of imagination. Lack of faith is the inability or unwillingness to entertain thoughts of a God who is able to do ‘immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us’ (v. 20 NIV). Did - [Learn to delegate](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/learn-to-delegate/) - The New Testament church grew so fast that the apostles became overwhelmed with the challenge of administering it. What did they do? ‘So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers - [Put away the measuring stick!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/put-away-the-measuring-stick/) - Reimar Schultze says: ‘The more conscientious we are, the more we…go to bed with some sense that we missed the elusive 100 per cent again…Many precious saints fall for this trap…robbing themselves of the joy of the Lord and the peace…that passes all understanding…We all are familiar with the testimonies of some of the greatest - [Know when to let go](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/know-when-to-let-go/) - Persistence, determination, commitment, and recognising the ‘right time…to hold on’ are all commendable qualities, whether it’s setting aside time to pray and read every day, eating dinner with your family, finding a better job, or losing weight, etc. But it’s equally important to recognise the ‘right time…to let go’ of self-generated urgency and things that - [Don’t break, bounce back (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-break-bounce-back-2/) - Here are two more keys to bouncing back: 1) Instead of complaining about what you can’t change, change what you can. When you can’t change your situation, you can change your attitude towards it. How do you do that? By reprogramming your mind with God’s Word. The Bible says, ‘For every child of God defeats - [Don’t break, bounce back (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-break-bounce-back-1/) - When resilient people hit bottom, they don’t break, they bounce back. The apostle Paul was such a person: ‘We often suffer, but we are never crushed. Even when we don’t know what to do, we never give up. In times of trouble, God is with us, and when we are knocked down, we get up - [Consult God on your daily to-do list](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/consult-god-on-your-daily-to-do-list/) - To come up with a daily to-do list that keeps your peace and joy intact, consult God. When you take on too much, you set yourself up for failure – and stress. If you’re wise, you won’t schedule more than one or two ‘majors’ in a day. Life doesn’t run smoothly, no matter how badly - [When others ‘don’t get it’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/when-others-dont-get-it/) - When you share your faith with someone and they don’t seem to ‘get it’, don’t be disappointed, don’t be upset, and don’t be impatient. In Scripture, God’s Word is referred to as ‘seed’ (Luke 8:11), so that makes you a sower. Yes, we would all like to sow and then reap as quickly as possible. - [Shake it off, and move forward](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/shake-it-off-and-move-forward/) - Let’s be honest, each of us wants others to love, respect, and accept us. But when people are unready or unwilling to change or haven’t experienced the joy and fulfilment in Christ that you have, you will often experience rejection. Indeed, when you follow Jesus, rejection is guaranteed. What should you do? Here is what - [Is God shaking you up?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/is-god-shaking-you-up/) - God told Ezekiel to declare His word to a valley full of bones, and they became a mighty army. These bones were dead, dry, and in disarray. That may describe where you are today. Your hopes are dead, your soul is dry, your life in disarray. What’s the answer? 1) You need God to shake - [Refuse to wear the label](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/refuse-to-wear-the-label/) - The name Jabez means ‘pain and trouble’. Perhaps that’s why no other parent in Scripture gave their child that name. But it’s a label he refused to wear and a name he refused to be defined by. A label usually tells you what is in a bottle; its contents and even its value. And when - [Keep praying and believing](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/keep-praying-and-believing/) - How long should you keep praying and believing God for the answer? This Scripture addresses your question: ‘Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise’ (vv. 35-36 NKJV). Many of God’s - [Find prayer partners](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/find-prayer-partners/) - You say, ‘I don’t have faith to be healed.’ Then find some prayer partners with faith. ‘Then they came to Him, bringing a paralytic who was carried by four men. And when they could not come near Him because of the crowd, they uncovered the roof where He was. So when they had broken through, - [Growth is about enlargement](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/growth-is-about-enlargement/) - Read these enlargement Scriptures: ‘You enlarged my path.’ ‘Jabez called on the God of Israel saying, “Oh, that You would…enlarge my territory”’ (1 Chronicles 4:10 NKJV). ‘Enlarge the place of your tent…lengthen your cords, and strengthen your stakes’ (Isaiah 54:2 NKJV). God wants to enlarge you spiritually, emotionally, relationally, and in every area of your - [Today expect God’s favour](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/today-expect-gods-favour/) - The Bible says that God will surround the righteous with favour. If you are trusting in the finished work of Christ, God sees you as ‘righteous’ (see Romans 3:22). So, you qualify; you can pray, ‘Lord, I need your favour in this job interview,’ or ‘in selling this house’, or ‘in making this deal’, or - [Governed by Christ’s love for us](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/governed-by-christs-love-for-us/) - The most powerful incentive to overcoming sin is not our love for Christ, but His love for us. Even with the best of intentions, our love for Him is subject to fluctuations. Jesus said to the church in Ephesus, ‘You have left your first love’ (Revelation 2:4 NKJV). He said to the church in Laodicea - [God knows what’s ‘good’ for us (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-knows-whats-good-for-us-2/) - Carolyn Arends writes: ‘Our expectations are not just unrealistic, they’re anti-gospel…Many of us…distort His promise of abundant life into something that resembles the illusion advertisers sell us every day. How do we resist our sense of entitlement and the distorted expectations that are so deeply ingrained? 1) Check the Definitions. When I read that God - [God knows what’s ‘good’ for us (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-knows-whats-good-for-us-1/) - Our definition of ‘good’ is different from God’s. ‘It was the Father’s good pleasure…to reconcile all things to Himself…through the…cross.’ Carolyn Arends writes: ‘During a jubilant Easter service, our pastor said something that stopped me in my mental tracks: “The world offers promises full of emptiness. But Easter offers emptiness full of promise.” Empty cross, - [Do you believe this?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/do-you-believe-this/) - Author Chuck Swindoll tells about a couple whose marriage had been a fifty-year battle. The husband died, and it fell to the wife to choose a gravestone. She contacted a stonemason and told him, ‘I don’t want to be fancy or spend a lot of money. Just engrave the words: “TO MY HUSBAND” in a - [Double jeopardy](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/double-jeopardy/) - In the legal system, there is something known as ‘the law of double jeopardy’. It means that, except in some very specific circumstances, you can’t be tried twice for the same crime. Now, let’s apply this principle to your salvation. Jesus has already been tried and punished for your sins – all of them! So - [Embracing uncertainty and following God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/embracing-uncertainty-and-following-god/) - A part of us feels as if something is spiritually wrong with us when we experience uncertainty. But that is precisely what Jesus promised us when we are born of the Spirit and start following Him. ‘The wind blows wherever it wants. Just as you can hear the wind but can’t tell where it comes - [Change your routine](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/change-your-routine/) - As attested by the law of requisite variety, the continued existence of any system requires the ability to cultivate variety in its internal structures. In physical exercise, for example, routines eventually become useless. If you exercise the same way each time you work out, your muscles begin adapting and stop developing. You have to change - [Fear is the enemy of growth](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/fear-is-the-enemy-of-growth/) - If you want to grow, you need to get over any fear you may have of making mistakes. As author and professor Warren Bennis states, ‘A mistake is simply another way of doing things.’ So, expect to make mistakes along the way, and embrace them as a sign that you are going in the right - [Keep trusting God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/keep-trusting-god/) - The story of Job reads like this: Chapter 1, he is one of the wealthiest men in his generation. Chapter 2, he loses everything, including his health, his wealth, and his children. Chapter 42, he is back on top again. Wouldn’t you like to know what happened from chapters 3 through 41? If so, you - [Use your gifts in ministry to others](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/use-your-gifts-in-ministry-to-others/) - When God gives us a spiritual gift, He doesn’t take it back. ‘The gifts and…calling of God are irrevocable.’ And if God does not, we must not! Paul writes: ‘If someone falls into sin, forgivingly restore him, saving your critical comments for yourself. You might be needing forgiveness before the day’s out. Stoop down and - [Expect to ‘wrestle’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/expect-to-wrestle/) - The new birth brings a new battle between your regenerate spirit and your unregenerate body, which still craves old desires and clings to old proclivities. Paul describes this graphically as a wrestling match. ‘For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this - [You are called to be salt and light](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-are-called-to-be-salt-and-light/) - Jesus gave us two everyday metaphors so that we could clearly understand how He wants us to serve and represent Him each day. Let’s look at each of them. 1) Salt. The only thing that can threaten salt is sitting in a shaker so long that it gets damp, loses its flavour, and can’t be - [‘Throw it down’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/throw-it-down/) - The Bible says: ‘Then the Lord asked him, “What is that in your hand?” “A shepherd’s staff,” Moses replied. “Throw it down on the ground,” the Lord told him. So Moses threw down the staff, and it turned into a snake! Moses jumped back. Then the Lord told him, “Reach out and grab its tail.” - [Pass it on to others](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/pass-it-on-to-others/) - What’s your goal in life? Survival, success, or succession? Some of us suffer from ‘duck syndrome’. We appear calm on the surface, but underneath we’re paddling furiously. We think, ‘I’m glad people around me don’t know how much I don’t know,’ and we keep them at a distance hoping they never find out. That’s not - [Let’s respect our differences](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/lets-respect-our-differences/) - Paul wouldn’t yield an inch when it came to standing on the central truths of Scripture. But when it came to traditions, personal opinions, and personal preferences, he said, ‘Let each be fully convinced in his own mind’ (v. 5 NKJV). Under the law of Moses, being circumcised was considered equal to having a covenant - [How to conquer the fear of failing](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-conquer-the-fear-of-failing/) - Every opportunity in life comes with two things: the possibility of succeeding, and the possibility of failing. When you reach the end of your life, your greatest regrets won’t be over your failures, but the opportunities you failed to seize because you were afraid of failing. So here are some principles to help you conquer - [The grandfather’s mistake became the grandson’s miracle](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-grandfathers-mistake-became-the-grandsons-miracle/) - If Abraham and Sarah had been willing to wait a little longer, Isaac would have been born and the promise of God fulfilled. But they became impatient and, as a result, Ishmael was born. One of the names given to God in Scripture is ‘Redeemer’, because He can redeem our mistakes and turn them into - [The best is yet to come](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-best-is-yet-to-come/) - Humanly speaking, the chances of a Gentile like Ruth marrying a wealthy Jew like Boaz were less than zero, because the law of Moses forbade it. ‘An Ammonite or Moabite shall not enter the assembly of the Lord; even to the tenth generation none of his descendants shall enter the assembly of the Lord forever’ - [What the Bible teaches us about money (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/what-the-bible-teaches-us-about-money-5/) - When a recession hit Jerusalem, Paul asked the believers at Corinth to give offerings to meet this need: ‘Now about the collection for the Lord’s people: do what I told the Galatian churches to do. On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping - [What the Bible teaches us about money (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/what-the-bible-teaches-us-about-money-4/) - When it comes to giving, here are two important truths the Bible teaches us about money: 1) God does not expect us all to give the same amount. ‘Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord your God which He has given you’ (v. 17 NKJV). Paul writes, - [What the Bible teaches us about money (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/what-the-bible-teaches-us-about-money-3/) - Here is what Job said about his great wealth: ‘Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return there.’ Job understood that we all enter life with our hands empty, and we all exit life with our hands empty. The only thing we can take with us when we go is what - [What the Bible teaches us about money (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/what-the-bible-teaches-us-about-money-2/) - After four hundred years of living like slaves, the Israelites were about to take possession of the promised land. And God had a concern. What was it? The same concern He has about each of us. When you have little, you realise how dependent you are on God. But when you have much, your tendency - [What the Bible teaches us about money (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/what-the-bible-teaches-us-about-money-1/) - God owns everything. If you doubt that, read these Scriptures: ‘“The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine,” says the Lord of hosts.’ ‘The earth is the Lord’s, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein’ (Psalm 24:1 NKJV). ‘Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes - [‘Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.’ Psalm 30:5 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/weeping-may-last-through-the-night-but-joy-comes-with-the-morning-psalm-305-nlt/) - Are you raising children alone? One marriage expert says a single mother sent him a story that helped explain the loneliness and stress faced by those raising children alone. She said she was looking out her window one drizzly day and saw a mother robin and her brood of chicks perched in a nest. As - [Seeking God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/seeking-god/) - God instructs us to seek Him, but not as though He is hiding from us. When we seek God, we make a decision that’s necessary for bringing us into the spiritual realm. Some levels of blessing are never received unless they are diligently sought. It’s your seeking after God that moves Him to respond. ‘But - [Pause and reflect](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/pause-and-reflect/) - After sharing great truths and insights with us, the psalmist often uses the word ‘Selah’. It is thought to mean ‘pause and reflect’. For years people have said that experience is the best teacher. But the truth is, evaluated experience is the best teacher! Stopping to reflect is one of the most important activities you - [How to forgive](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-forgive/) - In 1982, John Hinckley Jr attempted to take the life of President Ronald Reagan by shooting him with a handgun. Reagan’s daughter, Patti, later recounted what she learned from her father when he was in hospital: ‘My father said he knew his physical healing was directly dependent on his ability to forgive John Hinckley…It showed - [Be guided by wisdom, not impulse](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-guided-by-wisdom-not-impulse/) - If you are impulsive, you tend to lack discipline. You can be thoughtless, or insensitive to others, or driven by appetite. You may have a hard time with delayed gratification. You have a low frustration tolerance. You get bored easily. You can fly off the handle. If this describes you, here are six principles you - [How God sees you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-god-sees-you-2/) - When you put your trust in Christ as your Saviour, God sees you ‘in Christ’. The words ‘in Christ’ appear no less than seventy-eight times in the New Testament. When God looks at you, He doesn’t see you with all your flaws and imperfections; He sees you in Christ. And since Christ has atoned for - [Change your thoughts, and change your life](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/change-your-thoughts-and-change-your-life/) - Your thoughts create your feelings, and your feelings dictate your approach to life. So by changing the way you think, you can change how you feel and how you approach life. Unlike the world, which teaches you to empty your mind to achieve peace, God’s way is to fill your mind with fresh, powerful, redeeming - [Worship: giving yourself to God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/worship-giving-yourself-to-god/) - To become a worshipper in the fullest sense requires two things. First, an understanding that God’s love towards you is not predicated on your love towards Him. The moment you accept Christ as your Saviour, God accepts you and clothes you in the righteousness of Christ; therefore, you are always worthy to approach Him. Second, - [Signs follow faith](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/signs-follow-faith/) - The book of Mark concludes this way: ‘They went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following.’ Understanding the will of God is not a precise science, and the most spiritually mature among us can get it wrong. But this much you can count on: God - [How to build your self-esteem](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-build-your-self-esteem/) - After four hundred years of living as slaves in Egypt, the Israelites struggled with low self-esteem. So, God said to them, ‘I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you. Again I will build you, and you shall be rebuilt’ (vv. 3-4 NKJV). Notice the words ‘built’ and ‘rebuilt’. - [Parenting, the Bible way](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/parenting-the-bible-way/) - Planting a seed is only the first of a season’s worth of steps. There is watering, fertilising, weeding, and protecting the struggling plant from pests, diseases, storms, and adverse weather. Many flowers and vegetables require stakes, cages, and other supports to help them stand tall and bear their fruit. The gardener who does nothing but - [How to get what you want](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-get-what-you-want/) - The first step to getting what you want in life is knowing what you want. Jesus said, in essence, ‘The key to getting what you want out of life is to focus on what I want for your life.’ Note the words ‘seek first’. This word ‘seek’ means ‘to strive for diligently’ or ‘to desire - [Know your purpose, know your partners](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/know-your-purpose-know-your-partners/) - In order to identify God’s will for your life, you must be clear about two things: 1) Your purpose. Facing the cross, Jesus said, ‘For this cause came I into the world’ (John 18:37 KJV). Your passion is that area of your life that fires you up. It might be world hunger, or neglected pensioners, - [Have you talked to God about it?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/have-you-talked-to-god-about-it/) - Moses had a special place where he met with God. It was called ‘the tabernacle of meeting’ (v. 7 NKJV). What did they talk about? ‘Then Moses said to the Lord, “See, You say to me, ‘Bring up this people.’ But You have not let me know whom You will send with me…Now therefore, I - [The link between disobedience and stress](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-link-between-disobedience-and-stress/) - A leading Christian psychologist says there is a direct correlation between the stress we experience and disobeying God’s Word. Could that be true? Could there be a link between the stress you are feeling and the level of your obedience to God? Yes. Think about it. As a redeemed child of God, when you knowingly - [The importance of God’s Word](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-importance-of-gods-word/) - When Josiah became king in Jerusalem, he assigned workers to repair the temple. There they discovered a copy of God’s law in the ruins. No one had seen it in years! Josiah quickly reasoned that Judah’s idolatry was directly tied to the absence of the reading of God’s Word. So, he gathered all the people - [Pray about it, then take action](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/pray-about-it-then-take-action/) - There is a time to pray, and there is a time to take action. Sometimes that means filling out the job application, or writing the cheque, or setting up the appointment, or having the conversation, or making the move. Peter Marshall said: ‘I wonder what would happen if we all agreed to read one of - [See yourself as valuable (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/see-yourself-as-valuable-2/) - If you want to be a 10 but your self-esteem is a 5, you will never achieve at the level of a 10. You will achieve a 5 or lower. Why? Because you cannot surpass the image you have of yourself. Low self-esteem puts a cap on your potential. So where does our low self-esteem - [See yourself as valuable (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/see-yourself-as-valuable-1/) - When God made the first man, He saw that his creation was ‘very good’. That means every person that has ever been born, including you, has seeds of success within them. All you need to do is water them and feed them, and they will grow. So why do many people fail to reach their - [Just sow the seed](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/just-sow-the-seed/) - One day when Charles Colson was scheduled to preach to three hundred inmates at San Quentin prison, a lockdown was called and most of the prisoners were confined to their cells. To the few who were allowed to attend, Colson decided to go ahead and give the complete message he had prepared. Later when he - [Group guidance](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/group-guidance/) - A group of believers met together and dedicated significant time to pray, fast, and worship. And as a result, ‘the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”’ How did they know the Spirit told them this? The passage doesn’t say. It may have - [Don’t avoid – engage](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-avoid-engage/) - Jesus prayed in John 17:14-18: ‘I have given them your word…My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. As you - [Problems? Draw closer to God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/problems-draw-closer-to-god/) - We say we trust God but often fear that He won’t come through for us when we need Him most. So, we falsely assume that if we keep thinking about the problem and worrying about it enough, somehow we can take care of it on our own – just in case God doesn’t show up - [Jesus is the answer](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/jesus-is-the-answer/) - The Bible says, ‘I was found by people who were not looking for me. I showed myself to those who were not asking for me.’ You say, ‘What does this Scripture mean?’ That even though you’re looking for answers in the wrong places, asking the wrong questions, and heading in the wrong direction, Jesus will - [Your past qualifies you as a worshipper](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-past-qualifies-you-as-a-worshipper/) - The Bible says: ‘One of the Pharisees asked Jesus to have dinner with him…When a certain immoral woman…heard he was eating there, she brought a beautiful alabaster jar filled with expensive perfume. Then she knelt behind him at his feet, weeping. Her tears fell on his feet, and she wiped them off with her hair. - [You are not beyond God’s reach](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-are-not-beyond-gods-reach/) - The Bible says that Jesus ‘left Judea and departed again to Galilee. But He needed to go through Samaria’ (vv. 3-4 NKJV). In case you may not be aware of it, Samaria was not on the way to Galilee. Actually, it was miles out of the way. Yet, the Bible says Jesus ‘needed to go’. - [God cares about you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-cares-about-you/) - Charles Weigle was an itinerant evangelist who enjoyed travelling and preaching, despite the rigours of the road. His wife, however, grew disillusioned with her frequently absent husband. One day Charles returned home to find this note: ‘Charlie, I’ve been a fool. I’ve done without a lot of things…from here on out, I’m getting all I - [You are commanded to love](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-are-commanded-to-love/) - Love is not an emotion, because you cannot command someone to feel a certain way. Loving someone is a choice that manifests itself in your attitudes and actions towards that person. Jesus said, ‘A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one - [The importance of fellowship](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-importance-of-fellowship/) - Euclid was a great mathematician who lived about three hundred years after Christ. He is best known for his thirteen-volume series of books called Elements. Two of his axioms of geometry have been revised to produce the modern saying: ‘The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.’ Another way of saying this would - [Compassion](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/compassion/) - When you’re self-absorbed and focused on your own interests, it’s easy to overlook people in need and show no concern. But when you commit your life to Christ and decide to follow in His footsteps, that changes. ‘But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and - [You’re in the school of faith](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/youre-in-the-school-of-faith/) - The story has been told of a mother who said to her son, ‘It’s time to get up and go to school.’ He replied, ‘I’m not going to school today!’ His mother said, ‘Why not?’ He replied, ‘Because the children hate me, and the teachers criticise me. Why should I have to go to school - [Be biblical; be bold!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-biblical-be-bold/) - The Bible says, ‘The people who know their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits.’ This Scripture is not a licence to be arrogant and insensitive to the feelings of others, or to have an overinflated opinion of yourself. It means that when you understand God’s Word, God’s ways, and God’s will, you - [Discover what’s special about you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/discover-whats-special-about-you/) - A fascinating study was done on divergent thinking – which is thinking outside the box. The results? Ninety-eight per cent of children between three and five years old scored in the genius category for divergent thinking. Between eight and ten, that number dropped to 32 per cent. By the time they became teenagers, it dropped - [Your prayers will be answered](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-prayers-will-be-answered/) - God told Cornelius, ‘Your prayers…have gone up as a memorial before [Me].’ Memorials are usually built for people who are dead and gone. What a great promise this is. Even after you have gone to heaven, the prayers you pray on behalf of your loved ones become a memorial before God, getting His attention and - [Live by obedience, not emotion](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/live-by-obedience-not-emotion/) - Emotions have a tone that we call ‘feeling’. And the tone of feeling is very strong. Most of us realise how we feel. We make decisions driven by feeling. Relationships are established or damaged because of feeling. Seeing what felt good, enjoyable, and to be desired is what led Eve to disobedience. The Bible does - [Keep going, and you will succeed](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/keep-going-and-you-will-succeed/) - In life, you’re going to have all kinds of problems. So, what should you do? Persevere! No matter what’s going on in your life, the victory is in refusing to quit. Keep in mind that in the heat of your struggles, the Holy Spirit is often doing His greatest work within you. Paul writes, ‘We - [Want what God wants](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/want-what-god-wants/) - The rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls began with two questions the king asked Nehemiah. The first question was ‘What is bothering you?’ (see v. 2). The second question was ‘What is it you want?’ (v. 4 NIV). Nehemiah replied, ‘Send me to the city in Judah where my ancestors are buried so that I can rebuild - [What’s keeping you from winning?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/whats-keeping-you-from-winning/) - In ancient Greece, athletes practised with weights strapped to their bodies. But on the day of the race, they took them off in order to win. What’s keeping you from running and winning? 1) Comparing yourself to others? The only person you should compare yourself to – is you. Your objective is to become better - [Practise being tender-hearted](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/practise-being-tender-hearted/) - In his best-selling book 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, author Stephen Covey describes an experience he had on a subway in New York. A man and his children boarded the train, and the children were so loud and rambunctious, they disrupted the entire car. The man sat down beside Covey, seemingly oblivious to the - [Everybody has a thorn (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/everybody-has-a-thorn-2/) - Paul tells us two things about his thorn: First, that it was a messenger of Satan sent to buffet him. The word ‘buffet’ means ‘to render blow after blow’. It was not one battle, but a series of back-to-back attacks that didn’t let up. Satan knows your weakest areas, and he will repeatedly attack you - [Everybody has a thorn (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/everybody-has-a-thorn-1/) - Paul writes: ‘A thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is - [God can keep you together](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-can-keep-you-together/) - This may come as a surprise to you, but the main purpose of marriage is not to produce children. Couples who cannot give birth are as married as couples who can. Jesus said, ‘A man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’ (v. - [Faith equals righteousness with God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/faith-equals-righteousness-with-god/) - We think of Abraham with a halo. Hardly. Not once, but twice he throws his wife under the bus. As they travelled through Egypt, Abram says to Sarai, ‘You’re a beautiful woman; I’m afraid the Egyptians will want to kill me so someone can have you for a wife, so let’s tell them you’re my - [A peaceful state of mind](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/a-peaceful-state-of-mind/) - God wants you to have a peaceful state of mind. His word says: ‘Let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ’s] one body you - [Intimacy, dependency, obedience (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/intimacy-dependency-obedience-3/) - The third thing that defines Jesus’ relationship with His Father is this: obedience. Jesus said, ‘I judge only as I hear…for I seek not to please myself but him who sent me.’ Note the words ‘as I hear’. When you know you have heard from God, you have confidence to handle whatever life throws at - [Intimacy, dependency, obedience (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/intimacy-dependency-obedience-2/) - The second thing that defines Jesus’ relationship with His Father is this: dependency. Corrie ten Boom used to say, ‘I am just the glove, Jesus is the hand that fills it and works through it.’ That’s a picture of Christ’s relationship with His heavenly Father, and it’s a blueprint for the kind of relationship you - [Intimacy, dependency, obedience (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/intimacy-dependency-obedience-1/) - These three things define the relationship Jesus had with His Father, and they are a blueprint for the kind of relationship you need to build with God: intimacy, dependency, obedience. First: let’s look at intimacy. Jesus said, ‘For the Father loves the Son and shows him all he does.’ You only reveal yourself, including your - [Blessing is progressive](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/blessing-is-progressive/) - The greatest chapter in the story of Elijah’s life took place on Mount Carmel. That’s when he called down fire from heaven, defeated the prophets of Baal, and turned the hearts of the Israelites back to God. The word ‘Carmel’ means ‘fruitful ground’. But before Elijah could get to Mount Carmel, he had to go - [The difference between Abraham and Peter](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-difference-between-abraham-and-peter/) - When Peter stepped out of the boat at the command of Jesus, he was doing something he had never done before; something miraculous – walking on water. As long as he remained in faith, he was successful, but when fear gripped his heart, he began to sink. The Bible says, ‘When he saw the strong - [Are YOU feeling unqualified?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/are-you-feeling-unqualified/) - With its walls torn down, Jerusalem was defenceless against her enemies. So, Nehemiah assembled a team to rebuild the walls. He had no training for this job. He wasn’t an architect or a builder. Jerusalem was far away, and he had never been there. Any way you look at it, he was unqualified for the - [Improve your self-talk](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/improve-your-self-talk/) - Whether you know it or not, you have an ongoing conversation with yourself. How does it sound? Do you encourage yourself? Or do you condemn yourself? If you are positive, then you strengthen your positive self-image. If you are negative, you weaken your self-worth. If you’re serious about improving your life, then you must improve - [Breaking out of the failure syndrome](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/breaking-out-of-the-failure-syndrome/) - When you have been abused, rejected, or abandoned, it’s easy to become shame based and end up with a very poor self-image. The devil knows this, so he will attack your personal confidence whenever he can find an opening. He wants you to believe that you are a failure, because without confidence you will never - [Prayer (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/prayer-2/) - A PhD student at Princeton University once walked into Albert Einstein’s office and asked, ‘What is there left in the world for original dissertation research?’ The brilliant scientist replied, ‘Find out about prayer.’ Einstein wasn’t the only person who was curious about prayer. Jesus taught about it, and the reason was because the disciples asked - [Prayer (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/prayer-1/) - Demonstrating an uncommon level of honesty, a well-known pastor says: ‘Prayer is the biggest struggle I have…It’s difficult to maintain a consistent prayer life, and especially difficult to sustain the conviction that it does any good at times.’ Prayer doesn’t come naturally for the majority of us. We know it’s supposed to be a dialogue, - [You choose: your calling or your comfort](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-choose-your-calling-or-your-comfort/) - The Bible says, ‘Terah took his son Abram…and together they set out from Ur of the Chaldeans to go to Canaan. But when they came to Harran, they settled there’ (v. 31 NIV). A Christian author writes: ‘Terah accompanied Abram for part of the journey to Canaan, but then he stopped…Terah and his family begin - [Faithfulness](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/faithfulness/) - Jesus begins the parable of the talents with these words: ‘For the kingdom of heaven is like’ (v. 14 NKJV). And one of the strongest points He makes is the importance of being faithful. Whether God gives you five talents, two talents, or one talent, the thing that matters to Him is your faithfulness. ‘His - [Don’t give place to pride](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-give-place-to-pride/) - Before his 1971 fight with Joe Frazier, Muhammad Ali said: ‘There’s not a man alive who can whup me. [He jabbed at the air with his blinding left.] I’m too smart. [He tapped his head with his glove.] I’m too pretty. [He showed the cameras his profile, like a bust on a pedestal.] I am - [Are you searching for meaning?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/are-you-searching-for-meaning/) - Are you thinking that if you had more money or greater success, you would be happy? Tennis star Boris Becker said: ‘I had won Wimbledon twice before, once as the youngest player. I was rich. I had all the material possessions I needed…It’s the old song of movie stars and pop stars who commit suicide. - [Friendship](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/friendship/) - Jonathan was the rightful heir to the throne of his father, Saul, but David had been called by God to succeed Saul as Israel’s next king. From day one, they were on a collision course. They had everything to lose by becoming friends, because ultimately only one of them could reign. So how did they - [Keep praying for your children](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/keep-praying-for-your-children/) - The Prodigal Son eventually came back home and was restored to his place in the family. When he lost everything and ended up feeding pigs, the Bible says, ‘He came to himself’ (Luke 15:17 NKJV). It’s hard to watch someone you love suffer, but sometimes they need to hit the bottom in order to turn - [Getting beyond it](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/getting-beyond-it/) - When you experience tragedy or loss, unless you get help, you can shut down emotionally and remain stuck. And when you focus on the pain of the past, you risk forfeiting the blessing God has for you in the future. If anyone had reason to give in to despair and quit, it was Joseph. Those - [Only Jesus can satisfy your soul](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/only-jesus-can-satisfy-your-soul/) - The woman Jesus met at the well had been married five times. She had tried multiple relationships in an attempt to fill the void within her. But it didn’t work for her, and it won’t work for you. Neither will climbing the corporate ladder, or acquiring more and more stuff, or achieving fame. Note what - [Understanding righteousness](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/understanding-righteousness/) - You will go to heaven because you trusted in Christ’s righteousness, not your own. You say, ‘But isn’t doing the right things important?’ Absolutely. Your reward in heaven will be predicated upon what you do for God here on earth. But your salvation depends on trusting in Christ’s performance, not your own. Satan knows this, - [When God shows up](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/when-god-shows-up/) - When Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego refused to bow before Nebuchadnezzar’s ninety-foot golden god, he threatened them with a fiery furnace. Here is what they told him: ‘Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. But if not…we do - [Glean, store up, and share](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/glean-store-up-and-share/) - Notice what Joseph told Pharaoh: ‘Collect one-fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt in the seven plentiful years…gather all the food of those good years that are coming, and store up…Then that food shall be as a reserve for the land for the seven years of famine…that the land may not perish’ (vv. - [Don’t give up!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-give-up-2/) - Solomon says there is ‘a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; - [God cares about the details of your life](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-cares-about-the-details-of-your-life/) - If you want to know how incomprehensively big God is, read this: ‘My hand has laid the foundation of the earth, and My right hand has stretched out the heavens’ (Isaiah 48:13 NKJV). Could such a God care about your daily troubles and woes? Yes. ‘Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins? And - [What it takes to do God’s will](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/what-it-takes-to-do-gods-will/) - Paul’s life changed forever when he asked the question, ‘Lord, what do You want me to do?’ Note how God answered his question: ‘Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do’ (v. 6 NKJV). Discovering God’s will takes place in steps. Step one is awareness. You cannot change - [Believe God, in spite of the odds](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/believe-god-in-spite-of-the-odds/) - Gideon’s army of thirty-two thousand men is enormously outnumbered by the Midianites when God tells him, ‘You have too many men.’ He instructs Gideon to release anyone who is afraid, and Gideon loses two-thirds of his army. Now he has only ten thousand men. Again the Lord says, ‘There are still too many men,’ and - [You will be rewarded for it](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-will-be-rewarded-for-it/) - In 1857 David Livingstone gave this speech at Cambridge University: ‘People talk of the sacrifice I have made in spending so much of my life in Africa…Away with the word in such a view and with such a thought! It is emphatically no sacrifice. Say rather it is a privilege. Anxiety, sickness, suffering, or danger - [Personal growth; commit to it](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/personal-growth-commit-to-it/) - Paul had a succession plan for his ministry. That’s why he mentored Timothy and instructed him, ‘Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.’ The words ‘that your progress may be evident to all’ mean that growth is measurable. Question: as you look back over the - [Prodigal, come home!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/prodigal-come-home/) - The parable of the prodigal son is about two boys and their father’s love for each. The younger one dishonoured his father and ended up in a pigpen. When he returned home, he had lost everything – except his father’s love. So no matter who you are or what you have done – God loves - [We all need the same grace](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/we-all-need-the-same-grace/) - Jesus said: ‘Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, “God, I thank You that I am not like other men – extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I - [God is at work!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-is-at-work/) - The experiences you had before you committed your life to Christ, including things you regret, can be redeemed, and put to good use. Before Paul met Christ on the Damascus road, his life had been dedicated to the study of Old Testament law. ‘I was a member of the Pharisees, who demand the strictest obedience - [Knowing the counterfeit from the genuine](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/knowing-the-counterfeit-from-the-genuine/) - In 2 Corinthians 11, Paul reveals four ways in which Satan works like a master counterfeiter. First, he supplies a counterfeit saviour: ‘For even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.’ So though there are cults that preach Jesus, they do not preach the Christ of Christianity. Second, Satan presents counterfeit servants: ‘For such - [Throw out your fears](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/throw-out-your-fears/) - When you were young and said a bad word, your parents may have threatened to wash your mouth out with soap. Well, if fear is a dirty word, then faith in God’s unconditional love for you is like soap! Too many put the cart before the horse. We believe that God accepts us based on - [Determine to finish strong](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/determine-to-finish-strong/) - Following God means finishing what He has called you to do. Not everyone who starts out well finishes well. Occasionally we’re shocked and saddened to learn that a leader has been brought down by a moral or a financial problem. Paul writes, ‘Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you’ (Colossians 4:14 KJV). Later, he - [Freed from the drama of emotions](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/freed-from-the-drama-of-emotions/) - Dealing with crucifixion, Jesus prayed in the garden of Gethsemane. He felt intense emotions. ‘Being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground’ (Luke 22:44 NKJV). So strong were these emotions that He prayed for the cup of crucifixion to pass. But that - [Show compassion to everyone (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/show-compassion-to-everyone-2/) - Jesus demonstrated compassion wherever He went. He taught that we must care for ‘the least’ among us (Matthew 25:40). The New Testament church continued His ‘brand’ by doing away with racism and lots of other ‘isms’. ‘There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female…you are - [Show compassion to everyone (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/show-compassion-to-everyone-1/) - Luke writes, ‘It happened, that when He went into the house of one of the leaders of the Pharisees on the Sabbath to eat bread, they were watching Him closely’ (v. 1 NASB). That day He turned one of their most prized religious traditions on its ear by saying, ‘Whenever you give a banquet, invite - [Use your tongue the right way](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/use-your-tongue-the-right-way/) - Your tongue has creative power. If you doubt that, criticise someone, and observe the look on their face and their response. Now try complimenting them and observe the look on their face and their response. But let’s not just talk about the effect your words have on others but what they have on you. The - [Soul care](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/soul-care/) - Your body is like an ‘earth suit’ that will eventually die and be replaced with a new, celestial, Christlike body. Paul writes, ‘We have this treasure in earthen vessels’ (2 Corinthians 4:7 KJV). The treasure, the thing that matters most, the thing that will live for eternity, is your soul. John writes, ‘Beloved, I pray - [Three steps to spiritual restoration](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/three-steps-to-spiritual-restoration/) - Satan wants to convince you your failures are so bad that they disqualify you in God’s eyes, that you’re unworthy of His love and grace, and that you should avoid God altogether. Don’t believe him. Here are three steps that lead to spiritual restoration: 1) Repent. Acknowledge your sin, renounce it, and trust in the - [God can heal your memories](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-can-heal-your-memories/) - Satan is called ‘the accuser’, and he will try to keep you focused on your past. He can hurt you every day unless you accept God’s forgiveness, forgive yourself, and move forward. At the cross, Jesus bore both your sin and shame, but Satan wants you to keep carrying them. Where can you find an - [God has an assignment for you to fulfil](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-has-an-assignment-for-you-to-fulfil/) - Your God-given assignment in life comes with three things. 1) A plan. ‘He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.’ As you spend time with the Lord in prayer, He will reveal His plan to you. And He will do it one - [Are you doing what you’re supposed to do?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/are-you-doing-what-youre-supposed-to-do/) - In his book, How Successful People Grow, John Maxwell identifies three kinds of people: ‘1) People who don’t know what they would like to do…They lack a strong sense of purpose…They dabble. They drift. They…have no idea what to shoot for. I believe the main reason is that they don’t know themselves as well as - [Abiding: the secret of perpetual fruitfulness](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/abiding-the-secret-of-perpetual-fruitfulness/) - If serving the Lord stresses you out, read what Jesus said: ‘Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I - [The importance of being alone with God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-importance-of-being-alone-with-god/) - Jesus was both human and divine. Because we tend to think of Him as the Son of God more than the Son of Man, we overlook what we can learn from His human experience. When Jesus miraculously fed five thousand people, His divine power and prerogatives were on display (see Matthew 14:13-21). Yet after the - [Start by forgiving](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/start-by-forgiving/) - If you would like to start the New Year with a clean slate and travelling lighter, let go of the old grudges that are weighing you down. Philip Yancey describes forgiveness as ‘an unnatural act’. He says, ‘You don’t find dolphins forgiving sharks for eating their playmates. It’s a dog-eat-dog world…not dog-forgive-dog.’ Bitterness and hatred - [Your quiet time (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-quiet-time-4/) - Sometimes Jesus rose early in the morning to pray; other times, He prayed all night long. So, your quiet time can be morning, evening, or whatever time works best for you. You’re not punching a time clock where God pays you; accordingly, He is inviting you to spend time with Him. David said, ‘I cried - [Your quiet time (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-quiet-time-3/) - When everything in the psalmist’s life began falling apart, he prayed, ‘Put me together again with your Word.’ That’s what your quiet time with God does. So, why don’t we have a consistent quiet time with God? Two reasons: 1) We think our quiet time must be a long time. Start small. Reserve five minutes - [Your quiet time (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-quiet-time-2/) - One of Satan’s most successful strategies for keeping us away from our quiet time with God is reminding us of our sins and shortcomings. That’s a lie; don’t believe it. In the Old Testament, the High Priest went into the Holiest of Holies to atone for the sins of the people. When he came back - [Your quiet time (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-quiet-time-1/) - What’s stopping you from having a regular quiet time with God? Maybe the very thought feels filled with ‘shoulds’ and ‘ought tos’; like another item to add to the unending checklist of your life. So, you think, ‘Maybe later, when life slows down.’ We need to shed the myths and impractical expectations the Enemy uses - [God has a plan for your life](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-has-a-plan-for-your-life/) - Paul was totally invested in what God had called him to do. Are you? When it comes to barriers to success, we are usually our own worst enemies. Taking the steps necessary to fulfil a God-given dream will cost you. You will have to work hard. You will have to make sacrifices. You will have - [Lessons from the life of Joseph (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/lessons-from-the-life-of-joseph-4/) - There are divine purposes that must be faithfully watched over and protected in order to be fulfilled. Joseph gives us three keys to seeing God’s promises fulfilled. The first is mercy, and the second is faith. Let’s look at the third: obedience. ‘Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord - [Lessons from the life of Joseph (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/lessons-from-the-life-of-joseph-3/) - In Joseph’s life we see three keys to experiencing the fulfilment of God’s purpose and promises in our lives. The first is mercy. Let’s look at the second: faith. ‘While he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be - [Lessons from the life of Joseph (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/lessons-from-the-life-of-joseph-2/) - Joseph’s life of silent action gives us three keys to living in God’s promises. Today, let’s look at the first key: mercy. We are introduced to Joseph in the middle of a personal crisis. He is in love with Mary. And he believed that she loved him…until he heard she was pregnant. How should he - [Lessons from the life of Joseph (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/lessons-from-the-life-of-joseph-1/) - You can search the Gospels and you won’t discover a single word spoken by Jesus’ earthly father, Joseph. But he is irreplaceable in the story of Jesus’ birth. Here is why: God used Joseph to protect and preserve the life of the Saviour. So today, let’s look at the lesson we draw from the life - [‘Do not disturb’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/do-not-disturb/) - In training Timothy for ministry, Paul says, ‘Preach the Word!…[Whether it is convenient or inconvenient…you as preacher of the Word are to show people in what way their lives are wrong].’ Most hotels have a sign you can put on your bedroom door that says, ‘Do Not Disturb’. That sign on your door means you - [Reach for your potential](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/reach-for-your-potential/) - Your personal potential is what you may be – the person you can become. God, who sees the end from the beginning, knows your potential and will help you to reach it. But you have a part to play. You must desire growth and commit yourself to it each day. Growth is a pathway that - [Doing God’s will](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/doing-gods-will/) - Doing God’s will can be difficult, but it always brings a sense of fulfilment and reward. David experienced resentment from his family, betrayal by his boss, and rejection by his friends. Yet he could say, ‘I delight to do thy will, O my God.’ To fulfil your God-given destiny, you need to be passionate. Passion - [Are you called to go or to stay?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/are-you-called-to-go-or-to-stay/) - Sometimes following God involves leaving a secure and lucrative career. Moses left a palace, Elisha left a farm, James and John left their fishing boats. But sometimes, following God means staying where you are and maximising every opportunity He gives you to promote His kingdom. When David returned from battle with the spoils, some of - [A heart for others](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/a-heart-for-others/) - On December 18, 1933, a curious ad appeared in a Canton, Ohio, newspaper: ‘Man Who Felt Depression’s Sting to Help 75 Unfortunate Families. Anonymous Giver Known only as “B. Virdot”, posts $750 to Spread Christmas Cheer.’ All the reader had to do was describe their plight in a letter and mail it care of ‘general delivery’. The - [Be willing to look foolish](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-willing-to-look-foolish/) - A pastor writes: ‘Poll after poll has found that most people’s number one fear is speaking in public. Death ranks number two. That means some people would rather die than speak in public. Why? It’s the fear of looking foolish…But faith is the willingness to look foolish. Noah looked foolish building an ark in the - [Trust God and take action](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/trust-god-and-take-action/) - There is a time to be cautious and a time to throw caution to the wind. And it takes discernment to know the difference. If you’re waiting for perfect conditions before seizing an opportunity, you will be hesitating until you die. The Bible says, ‘He who observes the wind will not sow, and he who - [Praying passionately](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/praying-passionately/) - Here is what Paul said about Epaphras, a disciple so obscure you probably don’t recognise his name: ‘Epaphras…is…always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God…he has a great zeal for you’ (vv. 12-13 NKJV). James writes, ‘Pray for one another, that you may - [Worship God with abandon (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/worship-god-with-abandon-2/) - True worship calls for being less self-conscious and self-absorbed and more God-conscious and God-absorbed. After watching him dance before the Lord, David’s wife gave him an earful: ‘How the king of Israel has distinguished himself today, going around half-naked in full view of the slave girls of his servants as any vulgar fellow would!’ (v. - [Worship God with abandon (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/worship-god-with-abandon-1/) - In 2 Samuel 6, David had just been crowned king of Israel. He had defeated the Philistines and recaptured Zion. Now he is bringing the ark of the covenant, the ultimate symbol of God’s presence among His people, back to Jerusalem. After years of living without it, the sight of it overwhelmed David with joy, - [Be honest in small things, and all things](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-honest-in-small-things-and-all-things/) - In his poem ‘The Road Not Taken’, Robert Frost writes, ‘Two roads diverged in a wood, and I – I took the one less travelled by, and that has made all the difference.’ Sadly today, the road less travelled is honesty in small things and honesty in all things. According to Psychology Today, 70 per - [The influence of a godly grandparent](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-influence-of-a-godly-grandparent/) - Fanny became blind at six weeks old at the hands of a fake doctor. But her grandmother Eunice resolved that Fanny would never grow up feeling disabled or deprived. Eunice devoted years to training Fanny in all kinds of things – teaching her the Bible, assisting her in exploring nature, and enabling her to develop - [The attack is over your future](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-attack-is-over-your-future/) - Peter writes, ‘Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith’ (vv. 8-9 NLT). The word Christ means ‘the Anointed One’. So as a Christian, you are anointed by the same Spirit - [Knowing who to trust](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/knowing-who-to-trust/) - In Scripture, we are commanded to love everyone, not trust everyone. Jesus is our example in this. ‘Because of the miraculous signs Jesus did…many began to trust in him. But Jesus didn’t trust them, because he knew human nature…what mankind is really like’ (vv. 23-25 NLT 2004). These words were not spoken concerning the crowd - [Uncovering Satan’s schemes (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/uncovering-satans-schemes-3/) - You can have 20/20 vision in the natural world yet be blind in the spiritual world and fall prey to Satan’s schemes. But when you turn to God in prayer, He can open your eyes and give you a strategy for victory. Notice what happened when Elisha and his servant woke up in the city - [Uncovering Satan’s schemes (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/uncovering-satans-schemes-2/) - The Bible says: ‘Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armour so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers - [Uncovering Satan’s schemes (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/uncovering-satans-schemes-1/) - The Bible calls Satan a schemer. Now, when someone schemes against you and you’re unaware of it, you don’t take defensive measures, and you can end up getting hurt. One of Satan’s most effective schemes is to downplay his influence in our lives. And he does that so that he can outwit us. But the - [The river of God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-river-of-god/) - Moses’ mother put him in a basket, placed it in the river Nile, and the tide carried him to Pharaoh’s daughter, who adopted him and made him part of Pharaoh’s family. His next forty years would be spent preparing him for one of the greatest assignments of all time: the exodus. There is a lesson - [Humility is the pathway to honour](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/humility-is-the-pathway-to-honour/) - Elisha started out serving Elijah and, in some ways, ended up surpassing him. In Bible days, servants washed the hands and feet of their masters. Elisha did that. He began with the humble task of pouring water on Elijah’s hands and ended up receiving Elijah’s mantle and using it to supernaturally part the waters of - [Lead your children to Christ](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/lead-your-children-to-christ/) - Abraham gave Isaac two things: his material assets and a godly example. What could he not give him? A personal experience with God. Your children must experience God for themselves. Isaac’s God encounter happened when crisis hit his life. ‘The Lord appeared to him…and said, “I am the God of your father Abraham; do not fear, for I am with you. I will bless - [Build an altar](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/build-an-altar/) - After the flood, the first thing Noah did was build an altar to the Lord. Think about it. Noah had an altar before he had a home. Most of us have homes, but the old-fashioned family altar has virtually disappeared. Everywhere Abraham went, he built an altar. Why? 1) An altar is a place of - [Salvation doesn’t always mean instant deliverance](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/salvation-doesnt-always-mean-instant-deliverance/) - Luke records: ‘There met Him ten…lepers, who…lifted up their voices and said, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!”…He said to them, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And…as they went, they were cleansed’ (vv. 12-14 NKJV). In those days, when someone was cured of leprosy, a priest had to pronounce them clean before they could - [Make ‘an authoritative decision or a pronouncement’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/make-an-authoritative-decision-or-a-pronouncement/) - If you’re serious about fulfilling God’s will, you must have determination. One definition of determination is ‘to settle a dispute by an authoritative decision or a pronouncement’. Let’s apply it to one of our biggest problems – the daily battle between our flesh and our spirit. ‘The flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, - [Think right, and you will live right](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/think-right-and-you-will-live-right/) - The Bible says, ‘The mind of the wise instructs his mouth, and adds learning and persuasiveness to his lips. Pleasant words are as a honeycomb, sweet to the mind and healing to the body’ (vv. 23-24 AMPC). Your thoughts and your words are intimately connected. Because of this, it’s important that you think pleasant thoughts - [Get serious about personal growth](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/get-serious-about-personal-growth/) - The story of Jabez takes up only two Scriptures, but they contain life-changing truth: ‘Jabez was more honourable than his brothers, and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, “Because I bore him in pain.” And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, “Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, - [Cross the line (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/cross-the-line-2/) - Sam Parker writes: ‘When you decide to cross the line that separates failure from success, you’ll discover that not everyone will applaud your choice. Nor will everything go your way. There are those who have decided they would rather not cross the line and would prefer you didn’t either. And unfortunately, sometimes those people might - [Cross the line (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/cross-the-line-1/) - In his booklet Cross The Line, Sam Parker writes: ‘With everything, there’s a line. On one side of the line is a greater chance to make good things happen (better results, better relationships, more opportunities). This is where you will find all those people you admire. On the other side of the line, there is - [The value of one lost sheep](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-value-of-one-lost-sheep/) - Jesus told of a shepherd with a hundred sheep. When one of them was lost, he left the other ninety-nine in the fold and searched until he found the one lost sheep. Then he put it on his shoulders and rejoiced as he brought it home. Good shepherds don’t care about some of the flock, - [What kind of neighbour are you?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/what-kind-of-neighbour-are-you/) - Jesus told the story of the Jewish traveller who was robbed, beaten, and left to die on the Jericho road. Two Jews, both in the ministry, walked past him without helping. Then a Samaritan rescued him. No race of people was more hated by the Jewish people than the Samaritans. They were openly cursed in - [You need a bigger concept of God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-need-a-bigger-concept-of-god/) - Your internal picture of God decides how you see everything else. The majority of our troubles are not circumstantial; they are perceptual. We can trace our biggest problems back to an insufficient understanding of who God is. God says, ‘As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, - [God thought of everything you need](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-thought-of-everything-you-need/) - Way before God set earth’s foundations, He had you in mind. He thought of all you could conceivably need. Mind-boggling, isn’t it? A respected author writes: ‘God planned for every contingency you might ever encounter, before the beginning of time…It is impossible for finite minds to comprehend the sovereignty of God, but let me put - [Growth is a pathway](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/growth-is-a-pathway/) - When it comes to growth, you never ‘arrive’. It’s not a place you reach; it’s a pathway you walk. ‘The path of the just is like the shining sun, that shines ever brighter unto the perfect day.’ A pastor writes: ‘Many people learn only from the school of hard knocks. Difficult experiences teach them lessons - [God can use you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-can-use-you/) - One of the greatest missionaries in the history of the church was Mary Slessor, although she started out as a most unlikely candidate. Because of her father’s drinking problem, eleven-year-old Mary was working twelve-hour shifts in the mills, assisting her family in paying their bills. She discovered she could prop books on her loom as - [The importance of sound doctrine](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-importance-of-sound-doctrine/) - People who desire to beautify themselves with diamonds use the timeless counterfeit – cubic zirconia. But now, scientists can create real diamonds in a laboratory. And they are so good that gemologists have trouble recognising laboratory diamonds from mined ones. To tell them apart, an expert’s checklist is used: weight, colour, clarity, and brilliance. Without - [Jesus: the source of enlightenment (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/jesus-the-source-of-enlightenment-2/) - John Ortberg writes: ‘In 1780 a Jesus-follower in Great Britain named Robert Raikes could not stand the cycle of poverty and ignorance that was destroying little children, a whole generation. He said, “The world marches forward on the feet of little children.” So he took children who had to work six days a week in - [Jesus: the source of enlightenment (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/jesus-the-source-of-enlightenment-1/) - First and most importantly, Jesus brought the light of salvation to all mankind. But one of the enduring benefits of His kingdom is His impact on learning and education. The word university began with those who believed that God created the universe; therefore, His ways must be studied and known. Martin Luther highlighted from the - [Overcoming the fear of sharing your faith](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/overcoming-the-fear-of-sharing-your-faith/) - To share your faith effectively with others, you must overcome these three obstacles. 1) You must be sure of your own salvation. John writes: ‘He who believes in the Son of God has the witness in himself…And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son…These - [Transformed from rubbish into treasure](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/transformed-from-rubbish-into-treasure/) - A Christian leader writes: ‘The Italian violin maker Antonio Stradivari was a poor man. And yet his violins are now the most prized violins ever made because of the rich and resonant sound they produce. The unique sound of a Stradivarius cannot be duplicated. What may surprise you is that these precious instruments were not - [Quitters don’t win. Winners don’t quit.](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/quitters-dont-win-winners-dont-quit/) - Persistence and a refusal to abandon your vision kept you coming back and back and back again until you finally succeeded. Try to imagine what life would be like without the light bulb or the polio vaccine. Yet Thomas Edison and Jonas Salk lived through endless chapters of trial and failure before they succeeded. Successful - [Plan for the best, be prepared for the worst](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/plan-for-the-best-be-prepared-for-the-worst/) - Unexpected events can knock us off our feet. And while some of us get knocked down and out, others get back up and go on. They refuse to accept defeat as being permanent. They’re like the man who said, ‘I’m never down; I’m either up, or I’m getting up.’ They see everything that happens in - [A spiritual ECG](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/a-spiritual-ecg/) - Just as an ECG can measure the health of our physical heart and blockages that can threaten it, it’s helpful to have an instrument that can measure the level of our zeal, commitment, and wholeheartedness when it comes to serving the Lord. The following six questions will do just that: 1) Do I talk openly - [Strive for wholehearted devotion to God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/strive-for-wholehearted-devotion-to-god/) - The Bible says, ‘Amaziah…did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, but not wholeheartedly’ (vv. 1-2 NIV). Contrast that with what God said about David: ‘I have found David…a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do’ (Acts 13:22 NIV). This can be a little bewildering because - [Forgiveness comes first, feelings afterward](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/forgiveness-comes-first-feelings-afterward/) - Small offences can be forgiven easily. But when someone hurts us badly and seems to be getting away with it, forgiveness is a real challenge. Until you forgive the offence and let it go, you will constantly feel the weight of it weighing you down. One of the biggest mistakes you can make when it - [Leave the judging to God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/leave-the-judging-to-god/) - Jesus said: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field; but while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat and went his way. But when the grain had sprouted and produced a crop, then the tares also appeared. So the servants of the owner…said - [Catching fish and winning souls](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/catching-fish-and-winning-souls/) - Jesus told professional fishermen, ‘Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.’ These men knew three things about catching fish: 1) You must go where the fish are. You might say, ‘I thought we were supposed to separate ourselves from the world.’ Jesus didn’t avoid the culture; He engaged it in order to - [Wait in God’s presence](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/wait-in-gods-presence/) - Our inner self can be trained to wait on God, even though our outer self is stressed and anxious for answers. This is not easy to do in our fast-paced society, where the spiritual discipline of waiting on the Lord is often lacking. We want everything – right now. But if we are always in - [However small, Jesus can use it](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/however-small-jesus-can-use-it/) - If you feel you’re not talented enough to be used by God, read the story of the feeding of the five thousand. Actually, there were five thousand men. If you add women and children, the number could be more than twenty thousand. And the boy’s lunch was more meagre than you imagine. A loaf was - [Stand on the promise God gave you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/stand-on-the-promise-god-gave-you/) - When Joseph’s brothers stripped him of his coat of many colours, which represented his father’s favour, what held him steady? The promise God gave him. When he was thrown into a pit and then sold into slavery, what held him steady? The promise God gave him. When the butler he befriended in prison failed to - [Songs of deliverance (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/songs-of-deliverance-4/) - The psalmist wrote, ‘Come before His presence with singing…Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name’ (vv. 2, 4 NKJV). When you approach a king, a certain protocol is required. And David gives us the protocol for coming into the presence of the - [Songs of deliverance (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/songs-of-deliverance-3/) - The original King James Bible says, ‘O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.’ The New King James Bible says, ‘You are…enthroned in the praises of Israel.’ You say, ‘Which translation is accurate?’ Both are accurate. The word ‘inhabit’ pictures a dweller who feels right at home. And the word ‘enthroned’ pictures someone in a - [Songs of deliverance (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/songs-of-deliverance-2/) - Even science agrees that music has healing power. Today we have music therapists who play sounds that set captives free in hospitals, special educational needs classrooms, nursing homes, and other environments. Harvard University researchers, among others, are reporting that music is a healing balm for stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and the physical stress of premature birth. - [Songs of deliverance (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/songs-of-deliverance-1/) - The psalmist wrote, ‘You are my hiding place; You shall preserve me from trouble; You shall surround me with songs of deliverance.’ When trouble comes, you can turn to God and hide in Him. How? By surrounding yourself with songs of deliverance. Ruth Ward Heflin gives us the road map into God’s presence: ‘You praise - [Love God with all your strength](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/love-god-with-all-your-strength/) - What does it mean to love God with all your strength? A pastor defines it: ‘It means expending tremendous amounts of energy for kingdom causes. It means blood, sweat, and tears. It means servanthood and sacrifice. It means good old-fashioned hard work. Energy may be the least appreciated dimension of love because it’s the least - [The many ways God speaks to us](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-many-ways-god-speaks-to-us/) - The patriarch Job wrote to ‘speak to the earth, and it will teach you’. George Washington Carver is considered one of history’s greatest scientific minds. Around the turn of the twentieth century, agriculture in the southern states of America was suffering. The boll weevil was destroying cotton crops. And the soil was being emptied of - [Make God the source of your self-worth](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/make-god-the-source-of-your-self-worth/) - Guess who said, ‘You are precious to me’? God. So don’t let anybody tell you otherwise. Why is this important? Because understanding who you are as a person and genuinely believing that you merit love and attention from another person is essential to your self-worth. The capability to convey that successfully and in a considerate - [It’s a walk of faith](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/its-a-walk-of-faith/) - Impalas are one of the most powerful animals in Africa. They can leap to a height of more than ten feet and cover more than thirty feet in one jump. Yet the impala can be kept in an enclosure with a fence that’s no more than three feet high. Why? Because it won’t jump unless - [Bring your problem to Jesus](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/bring-your-problem-to-jesus/) - A Christian leader informs us: ‘There was not a bigger social happening in Jewish life than a wedding. It usually began with a ceremony at sundown in the synagogue. Then the entire wedding party would leave the synagogue and begin this long candlelight procession through the middle of town. The couple would be escorted past - [Jesus is the way](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/jesus-is-the-way/) - A minister writes: ‘Between the human race and God stands a barrier called sin. If we are going to be reconciled with a perfect God, that barrier has to be dealt with. We cannot go around it or over it. Sin demands a payment. Jesus came specifically to make that payment. He lived a perfect - [Not justice, but grace](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/not-justice-but-grace/) - There is a story about a man who had his picture taken. When he saw it, he said to the photographer, ‘This picture doesn’t do me justice!’ The photographer looked at him, smiled, and said, ‘With a face like yours, you don’t need justice; you need mercy and grace!’ Seriously, that’s the situation we are - [Don’t rush to judgement](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-rush-to-judgement/) - This happened when Chuck Swindoll was speaking in California: ‘A gentleman came to him and said, “I have waited so long for this week, I am going to eat up everything you have to say.” Swindoll thanked him. Sunday night…the man started nodding [off]. Swindoll figured that he’d had a long drive and was probably - [Knowing when to be quiet](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/knowing-when-to-be-quiet/) - Calvin Coolidge, the thirtieth US president, was known as a reserved man who spoke very little. One day when a reporter attempted to interview him, the conversation went like this: Reporter: ‘Do you wish to say anything about the war threat in Europe?’ Coolidge: ‘No.’ Reporter: ‘Do you have anything to say about the strike - [When someone lets you down](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/when-someone-lets-you-down/) - When William Gladstone was Chancellor of the Exchequer in Britain, he requested that the Treasury send him certain statistics upon which he might base his budget proposals. Unfortunately, the statistician made a mistake, and Gladstone was so certain of this man’s reputation for accuracy that he didn’t take the time to verify his figures. As - [When God opens the door (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/when-god-opens-the-door-2/) - The New Living Translation states Paul’s words this way: ‘There is a wide-open door for a great work here, although many oppose me.’ In doing the will of God, you should anticipate opposition from those who are not privy to what God has shared with you or instructed you to do. Indeed, if you are - [When God opens the door (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/when-god-opens-the-door-1/) - In seeking to know God’s will, there are two things you should never do. First, when the door is closed, get impatient and force it open. Second, create your own door. To succeed in what God has called you to do, follow the ‘open door policy’. The Bible describes it this way: ‘To the angel - [Be a giver (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-a-giver-2/) - Paul writes, ‘Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.’ The giving that God rewards is purposeful giving when it’s done with a cheerful attitude. Here are three ways to do that: 1) Put people before yourself. Every - [Be a giver (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-a-giver-1/) - If you want to become a giver, think of yourself as a river instead of a reservoir. Reservoirs continually take in water, but only to fill themselves up. In contrast, a river flows. Whatever water it receives, it gives away. Note what Jesus said about giving: ‘Give, and it will be given to you. A - [Let Him comfort you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/let-him-comfort-you/) - God can make you comfortable in the most uncomfortable places. He can pull you out of situations you thought you’d be stuck in forever. He can give you peace, even in the midst of trauma. Before your life is over, you’ll live, love and experience loss. Losing some things will actually help you to appreciate - [Be present in the moment](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-present-in-the-moment/) - One author writes: ‘One of the strategies I employ is to block enough time so that I’m not thinking of what I have to do next. I find it best to wait until I can invest more than a few minutes in being with someone so that the person is not frustrated with my divided - [Find a mentor (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/find-a-mentor-4/) - The mentors you choose must be available to you. Jesus told those He mentored, ‘No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you’ (v. 15 - [Find a mentor (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/find-a-mentor-3/) - Your mentor should not only demonstrate professional excellence and possess skills from which you can learn, but must also be someone who displays character qualities worth imitating. Bernie Madoff was one of the most admired and sought-after brokers on Wall Street. That is, until he ended up in prison for perpetrating a multibillion-dollar Ponzi scheme - [Find a mentor (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/find-a-mentor-2/) - Jesus said, ‘I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it’ (Matthew 16:18 KJV). When He spoke those words, the religious leaders of His day were plotting His death, the society in which He lived was controlled by the might of Rome, and His followers were common people. Humanly - [Find a mentor (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/find-a-mentor-1/) - Most people who decide to grow personally find their first mentors in the pages of books. That is a great place to start. For that matter, it’s a great place to continue. And the wisdom that’s found in Scripture makes the Bible the best mentor’s manual ever written. If you are not reading it daily, - [Leadership can be lonely](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/leadership-can-be-lonely/) - One of the things leaders know is that while many people will never step up to be the leader, there are plenty of people willing to criticise any steps towards leadership you might take and tell the whole world how they know better and why you did it wrong! While you will always accomplish more - [Don’t be envious](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-be-envious/) - Envy, in essence, accuses God of being unfair, a respecter of persons, and unaware of what’s best for our lives. Therefore, we should engage in an all-out campaign against envy when it appears in our life. Here are six ways to do that: 1) Confess and repent of your impure intentions for wanting something other - [You can change](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-can-change/) - Self-help books sometimes claim you can change your life in five or ten simple steps. It takes a lot more than that to make substantial and lasting changes in your life. First, change comes by drawing on a power greater than your own – God’s power. Paul writes: ‘I know how to be abased, and - [Your daily bread](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-daily-bread/) - After World War II, Europe was devastated with hungry, homeless children who had been orphaned by the battles. They were put in large camps where they were given food and care. Yet they didn’t sleep well at night; they were nervous, fearful, and fidgety. The caregivers were baffled until a psychologist taught them to offer - [Rebuild your marriage (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/rebuild-your-marriage-4/) - Perhaps you have heard the joke about the lady who told her friend, ‘I didn’t know what real happiness was until I married my husband, and now it’s too late.’ Seriously, that doesn’t have to be your story. Through God’s wisdom, love, and grace, you can rebuild your marriage. To do it, you will need - [Rebuild your marriage (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/rebuild-your-marriage-3/) - Other translations say to forgive others’ ‘trespasses’. To trespass means to go where you’re not supposed to and do what you’re not supposed to. Infidelity, dishonesty, and other wrong things are among the trespasses we may experience. Without the ability to practise forgiveness, even for the little things, it’s hard to offer or receive the - [Rebuild your marriage (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/rebuild-your-marriage-2/) - Because something is said, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s heard. At least, not in the way you think it is. The apostle Peter uses the words ‘considerate’ and ‘respect’. Both are essential to the art of listening, which is essential to a good marriage. Unless you’re willing to consider what your spouse is saying and - [Rebuild your marriage (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/rebuild-your-marriage-1/) - A pastor advises, ‘To regain true intimacy, physical and emotional, to restore the closeness you once shared, you must be willing to allow your heart and soul to reopen.’ If you have been hurt, that’s not easy. But you must be willing to risk exposing yourself to the unknown in order to reconnect with one - [Preparation for parenting](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/preparation-for-parenting/) - Many of the appliances in your home come with an instruction manual. Taking the time to read and understand it can save you all sorts of trouble. And God has given us the ultimate instruction manual for raising children – the Bible. It says, ‘Parents are the pride of their children.’ One of the highest - [Keep praying about it](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/keep-praying-about-it/) - Many of our failures result from our failure to pray. As we examine our mistakes, we discover a forsaken prayer altar and an unopened Bible. James bottom-lines it: ‘You do not have because you do not ask God.’ One Christian leader writes: ‘As a burned-out, frustrated young Christian, I realised one day that living in - [Take control of your thoughts](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/take-control-of-your-thoughts/) - Your mind is the battlefield where victory or defeat is decided. That’s why Paul writes, ‘We lead every thought and purpose away captive into the obedience of Christ.’ You have a choice: either you lead your thoughts, or your thoughts will lead you. Either you take your thoughts captive, or your thoughts will take you - [Depend on God (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/depend-on-god-3/) - In the Bible, when God calls someone to do something, you will notice they don’t jump up and say, ‘No problem, I’m ready.’ In story after story, they tell God why they can’t do it. Consider the following list of people. Moses: ‘I have never been eloquent…I am slow of speech and tongue’ (Exodus 4:10 - [Depend on God (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/depend-on-god-2/) - The last thing Jesus said to His disciples before returning to heaven was this: ‘Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…I am with you always.’ When God gives you an instruction or an assignment, it will always require His involvement, His strength, His guidance, and His provision. Will He use your talents? Yes. - [Depend on God (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/depend-on-god-1/) - Paul shares with us the key to his amazing success in life: ‘I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency].’ There is a syndrome called ‘failure to launch’. It’s - [Take time to rest and relax](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/take-time-to-rest-and-relax/) - When you find yourself saying, ‘I don’t know how much longer I can keep this up,’ you may need to change some of your priorities and adjust your lifestyle. The psalmist said, ‘I am…wonderfully made’ (Psalm 139:14 KJV). God designed your body to give you warnings when you’re pushing too hard, like an ache here - [Invest in your marriage](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/invest-in-your-marriage/) - It’s amazing how many of us are willing to invest time and effort into our education, career, and financial future, but not our marriage. (If you’re not married, perhaps you could remember married couples you know in your prayers today.) One of the leading causes of divorce is boredom. One minister explains: ‘Partners lose their - [Nothing about you surprises God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/nothing-about-you-surprises-god/) - Nothing about you surprises God. He knew what He was getting when He chose you. He ‘actually picked us out for Himself as His own’. You didn’t just randomly show up one day. And God hasn’t decided to merely tolerate you. He is not rolling His eyes when you have a problem. Instead, He will - [Share your wisdom](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/share-your-wisdom/) - The wise old adage goes, ‘Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.’ Sometimes what people need more than your money is your wisdom. By taking the time to share with them the insights and wisdom you have learned - [Knowing who you are ‘in Christ’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/knowing-who-you-are-in-christ/) - If you’re struggling with self-worth, the answer is knowing what you have and who you are ‘in Christ’. Paul writes, ‘I pray that…you understand every blessing we have in Christ.’ Here are some practical steps you can take to increase your sense of confidence and self-worth: 1) Don’t speak negatively about yourself. Instead of focusing - [Led in a roundabout way](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/led-in-a-roundabout-way/) - The Bible says, ‘When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter. For God said, “If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.” So God led the people around by the desert road’ (vv. 17-18 NIV). There - [When God says go](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/when-god-says-go/) - The two parts to God’s ‘go’ are going from and going to. Ur, Abram’s home, was considered the place to be. Setting out for ancient Mesopotamia, all the trading wealth from around the Mediterranean had to travel through Ur. It was a place of immense affluence, trade, education, and technology. One author writes, ‘The first - [How God answers our prayers](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-god-answers-our-prayers/) - If you are battling illness today, God says, ‘I am the Lord who heals you’ (Exodus 15:26 NKJV). If you are facing a problem that seems as big as a mountain, Jesus says: ‘Whoever says to this mountain, “Be removed and be cast into the sea,” and does not doubt in his heart, but believes - [You have more to learn](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-have-more-to-learn/) - Having a ‘statement of faith’ is a good thing because it lets people know your beliefs and values and where you stand on the issues. But it also carries with it a certain danger; you can end up believing you know all there is to know about the subject or at least all that is - [Making the right choice](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/making-the-right-choice/) - Maybe you’re facing graduation. More frequently than ever before, people are switching to different jobs and companies and changing their whole careers. In 2014, career specialist Andy Chan observed that young adults will face, on average, twenty-nine jobs over their lifetime. In 2013 Oxford researchers predicted that about half the jobs will be replaced with - [Decision-making is character building](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/decision-making-is-character-building/) - One author pens: ‘Would you want the kind of kids you have to tell their whole lives, “Wear these clothes. Take these classes. Go to that school. Apply for this job. Marry that person. Purchase this house,” and you always have them do exactly what you tell them as long as they live? No…Why? Because - [Anchors for your soul (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/anchors-for-your-soul-3/) - Third, anchored by God’s promises. The third anchor that gives us confidence in a crisis is found in Paul’s words, ‘I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me.’ If you have ever been betrayed by an unfaithful spouse, you may have lost trust in marriage. If you’re a victim - [Anchors for your soul (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/anchors-for-your-soul-2/) - Second, anchored by God’s plan and purpose. The second anchor in a time of crisis is found in Acts 27:24, where Paul quotes God’s angel: ‘Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.’ In other words, ‘You’re on - [Anchors for your soul (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/anchors-for-your-soul-1/) - While everyone else on board Paul’s ship was in a state of panic, he remained at peace. Why? Because of three great truths that serve as anchors for our souls, truths you can build your life on that will steady you in the storm. Let’s look at each. First, anchored by the presence of God. - [When you’re not certain, trust God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/when-youre-not-certain-trust-god/) - Close your eyes and try walking without sight, and you will get an idea of what it means to walk by faith. Faith in what? The unchanging character of God, goodness of God, love of God, and truth that He always has your best interests at heart. With God, information is given on a need-to-know - [Open doors](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/open-doors/) - A noted author states: ‘People who study entrepreneurs say they excel in something called “opportunity alertness.” They look at the same circumstances as everyone else, but they “notice, without search, opportunities that have hitherto been overlooked.” They are “alert, waiting, continually receptive to something that may turn up.”’ Paul was such a person. ‘I came - [Choose the right attitude](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/choose-the-right-attitude/) - One author writes: ‘Columbia researcher Sheena Iyengar has found that the average person makes about seventy conscious decisions every day. That’s 25,550 decisions a year. Over seventy years, that’s 1,788,500 decisions. Albert Camus said, “Life is a sum of all your choices.” You put all those 1,788,500 choices together, that’s who you are. Victor Frankl - [Honour God in all you do](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/honour-god-in-all-you-do/) - When Moses commanded Pharaoh to set God’s people free, Pharaoh offered him three compromises. First, he offered to let them go if they didn’t go too far away. Second, he offered to let them go provided they left their children in Egypt. Third, he offered to let them go provided they left their business interests - [Do it in Christ’s strength, not your own](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/do-it-in-christs-strength-not-your-own/) - One of the quickest ways to get discouraged is to try living the Christian life in your own strength. It’s like trying to lift yourself up by your own bootstraps; it cannot be done. Indeed, God designed it that way. Jesus said: ‘If you love Me, keep My commandments. And I will pray the Father, - [Expect good things from God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/expect-good-things-from-god/) - Your concept of God determines your confidence in approaching Him. Do you always view Him like an auditor, and your books don’t balance? Or do you view Him like a father who loves you at all times and wants to be good to you? When approaching God, many of us consult a mental scorecard to - [Two prayer principles](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/two-prayer-principles/) - When it comes to the importance of having a consistent prayer life, Jesus is our greatest example. Before He calmed the storm on Galilee, called His twelve disciples, or fed the multitudes with five loaves and two fish, He spent time alone in prayer. And you have been called to follow in His footsteps (see - [Speak life](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/speak-life/) - The Bible says, ‘He who would love life and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips from speaking deceit. Let him turn away from evil and do good’ (vv. 10-11 NKJV). Note the words ‘let him turn away’. That doesn’t mean you should be rude or insensitive, but be - [Christ can set you free](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/christ-can-set-you-free/) - Pornography is sweeping across the world, leaving families torn apart in its wake. Many churchgoers who are struggling to break free feel isolated and helpless. One UK survey revealed that 75 per cent of Christian men and 35 per cent of Christian women viewed pornography regularly or occasionally. When you watch it, powerful neurotransmitters such - [Take a faith-based risk (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/take-a-faith-based-risk-3/) - Gates are defensive devices, and storming those gates requires offensive measures. Think of the church as a battering ram. Instead of complaining about the culture, we need to present better options. We must produce higher-calibre films and compose more extraordinary music, write more notable books, and start superior schools and form better businesses. The old - [Take a faith-based risk (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/take-a-faith-based-risk-2/) - When making important decisions, especially when they can affect the lives of others, the Bible says you should do two things. First, count the cost (see Luke 14:28). That means you should evaluate and investigate, and you should seek guidance and counsel. ‘The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to - [Take a faith-based risk (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/take-a-faith-based-risk-1/) - Peter gets unfairly criticised. He is the disciple who denied Christ three times, but he is the only one who got close enough to Jesus to get caught. He is the disciple who impulsively cut off Malchus’s ear when the lynch mob came to arrest Jesus, but he is the only one who came to - [In the storm with Jesus (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/in-the-storm-with-jesus-2/) - A pastor describes some storms in life: ‘You come home from work, walk into the kitchen, and find a note saying, “I want out of the marriage.” A clap of thunder! You go to the doctor anticipating a normal check-up, and the lab work comes back, and you have cancer. The wind howls! You go - [In the storm with Jesus (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/in-the-storm-with-jesus-1/) - Growing in faith and getting to know Jesus intimately requires going through storms with Him. The disciples discovered this when Jesus said to them, ‘Let us cross over to the other side.’ Next, we read: ‘A great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was already filling’ (v. 37 NKJV). - [Always be open-minded (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/always-be-open-minded-2/) - Here is a tale of two cities: 1) Thessalonica rejected the truth. ‘Then Paul, as his custom was, went in to them, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures…saying, “This Jesus whom I preach to you is the Christ”…But the Jews who were not persuaded, becoming envious, took some of the evil - [Always be open-minded (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/always-be-open-minded-1/) - King Solomon is considered one of the wisest men who ever lived. He wrote three books in the Bible and is quoted regularly. And he was a lifetime learner and seeker of truth. ‘When I saw it, I considered it well; I looked on it and received instruction.’ Note the words ‘I considered it well’. - [Why does God choose weak people to do His will?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/why-does-god-choose-weak-people-to-do-his-will/) - Answer: because the only kind of people God has to work with are weak people! Moses’ relationship with God is described in these remarkable words: ‘The Lord spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend’ (Exodus 33:11 NKJV). So, was Moses perfect? Far from it. He spent the first forty - [You are protected by God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-are-protected-by-god/) - During World War II, Britain built air-raid shelters. Often there were several on the same street. A pastor tells of standing in one when bombs were falling all around. Turning to a man beside him, he asked, ‘How come this shelter is always crowded, and the others are empty?’ He replied, ‘Pastor, we all know - [Jesus wants to spend time with you!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/jesus-wants-to-spend-time-with-you/) - Mary and Martha were similar in that they both loved Jesus. But the difference showed up when He visited their home. ‘Martha opened her home to him…Mary…sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, - [What have you promised God?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/what-have-you-promised-god/) - When God makes a promise to us, we have every right to expect Him to keep it. And when we make God a promise, He has every right to expect us to keep it. ‘You will make your prayer to Him, He will hear you, and you will pay your vows. You will also declare - [It’s a new day for you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/its-a-new-day-for-you/) - Don’t allow the pain of your past to blur your vision and steal the blessing God has in store for you in the future. God says, ‘Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing’ (vv. 18-19 NKJV). If you have been wounded by old - [Could the Lord call on you?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/could-the-lord-call-on-you/) - Why did God use Ananias to lead Saul of Tarsus to Christ? Because he was the right man, in the right place, at the right time, with the right message, and the right attitude. ‘In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, “Ananias!” “Yes, Lord,” he answered. - [Be aware of Satan’s schemes](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-aware-of-satans-schemes/) - Walking in spiritual victory calls for understanding Satan’s ‘schemes’. Here are some points at which you’re particularly vulnerable: when you feel up, when you feel down, when you’re alone, when you’re exhausted, and when you have experienced loss. There is no such thing as fair play with the devil. If you give him an inch, - [When choosing a mentor (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/when-choosing-a-mentor-2/) - A pastor shares this: ‘The process of growing with the help of a mentor usually follows this pattern: it begins with awareness. You realise that you need help and that following yourself is not a viable option for effective personal growth. When a person comes to such a realisation, one of two things can happen. - [When choosing a mentor (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/when-choosing-a-mentor-1/) - The further you go in the pursuit of your potential, the more ground you will have to break. This is where you can benefit from the experience of others. As the Chinese proverb says, ‘To know the road ahead, ask those coming back.’ In picking a mentor, look for two things: 1) Someone who possesses - [Live in the light (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/live-in-the-light-3/) - Jesus said, ‘You are the light of the world…Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven’ (vv. 14, 16 NKJV). The pastor continues to explain: ‘If you are a follower of Christ, you should also be light amidst the darkness. Your job is - [Live in the light (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/live-in-the-light-2/) - The pastor continues: ‘Light is one of the things we often take for granted…We could not live without it. Plants are necessary for the existence of mankind. The entire human species and all animal life are dependent on plants for survival. Plants provide all the essential amino acids and most of the vitamins necessary for - [Live in the light (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/live-in-the-light-1/) - A pastor writes: ‘Have you ever heard the term achluophobia? It is the fear of darkness…Being in complete darkness is unnerving. It induces a sense of helplessness. And yet physical darkness is nothing compared to emotional, relational, and spiritual darkness.’ Today you may feel like you’re in a dark place with no way out: ‘My - [The blessings of battle](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-blessings-of-battle/) - When you commit your life to Christ, you switch sides. Now you’re up against three things. The world with its pressures, values, and agenda. The flesh, with its impulses and weaknesses. The devil, who is out to defeat you. But God would never allow us to get into a fight we couldn’t win, so let’s - [God will come through for you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-will-come-through-for-you/) - The heroes in Scripture often found themselves faced with impossible odds and overwhelming situations. Think of Moses standing up to Pharaoh and David standing up to Goliath. Think of King Jehoshaphat facing the overwhelming might of three combined armies determined to destroy his nation. Here is what he said to God: ‘For we have no - [Where do our prayers go?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/where-do-our-prayers-go/) - Have you ever wondered where your prayers go? The answer is ‘up for a memorial before God’. Notice that they are ‘before’ Him. They are in His hands and on His mind. Here when Cornelius prayed, God not only changed his circumstances, He changed history; for the first time, Gentiles heard the gospel and became - [The ingredients of a miracle](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-ingredients-of-a-miracle/) - Let’s examine the story of Jesus turning water into wine. It was His first miracle, and it reveals how He works in our lives. 1) Invite Jesus. ‘There was a wedding in Cana of Galilee…Jesus and His disciples were invited’ (vv. 1-2 NKJV). When the problem arose, this couple didn’t have to send for Jesus - [‘The habit of joyful and confident hope’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-habit-of-joyful-and-confident-hope/) - Does it feel like the attack coming against you right now is more than you can bear? If so, read this: ‘Pressure and affliction and hardship produce patient and unswerving endurance. And endurance (fortitude) develops maturity of character (approved faith and tried integrity). And character [of this sort] produces [the habit of] joyful and confident - [Sometimes it’s wise to say no](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/sometimes-its-wise-to-say-no/) - Moses fielded complaints and listened to stories of frustration and woe until he reached the place where he told God, ‘I am not able to bear all these people alone, because the burden is too heavy for me.’ And God agreed. He told Moses to pick seventy mature leaders, ‘and they shall bear the burden - [Believe in your vision](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/believe-in-your-vision/) - God has a plan for your life. In Scripture, it’s sometimes referred to as a ‘vision’. It works like a compass that will always point you in the right direction and an anchor that will hold you steady in life’s storms. Why did God say, ‘Write the vision and make it plain’? Because sometimes, we - [Include Jesus in all you do](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/include-jesus-in-all-you-do/) - The Bible says: ‘Every year Jesus’ parents went to Jerusalem for the Festival of the Passover. When he was twelve years old, they went up to the festival…After the festival was over, while his parents were returning home, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but they were unaware of it. Thinking he was in - [God will deliver you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-will-deliver-you/) - Have you suffered a series of defeats and setbacks? Are you discouraged because the attacks have been long and tiring? Read these words from the psalmist David and stand on them: ‘Lord, how I love you! For you have done such tremendous things for me…In my distress I screamed to the Lord for his help. - [Experiencing ‘his incomparably great power’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/experiencing-his-incomparably-great-power/) - Like a proud parent, our heavenly Father loves it when we carry out impossible things by His power and for His glory. And when you live in raw reliance upon His power, you will do things that otherwise cannot be done. When you think about it, in and of ourselves, we are incapable of loving - [They will ‘lay hands’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/they-will-lay-hands/) - Here is an often overlooked part of the Great Commission Jesus gave us: ‘In My name they will…lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.’ A comforting, caring touch can reduce stress, enhance sleep, and assist us in recovering more quickly from injury. One study found that a thirty-minute massage three times a week - [God’s goodness leads to godliness](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/gods-goodness-leads-to-godliness/) - Do you remember the woman who took an alabaster box of fragrant oil and anointed Jesus with it? The Bible says: ‘Now when the Pharisee who had invited Him saw this, he spoke to himself, saying, “This Man, if He were a prophet, would know who and what manner of woman this is who is - [You can overcome the temptation (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-can-overcome-the-temptation-3/) - If you are serious about overcoming temptation, here are five things you must do: 1) Think about the choices you are making, and the consequences, before you make them. Wisdom always looks ahead. 2) Believe that you can resist temptation – because you can. ‘You are of God…and have overcome them, because He who is - [You can overcome the temptation (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-can-overcome-the-temptation-2/) - The Amplified Bible, Classic Edition says: ‘Therefore let anyone who thinks he stands [who feels sure that he has a steadfast mind and is standing firm], take heed lest he fall [into sin]. For no temptation (no trial regarded as enticing to sin), [no matter how it comes or where it leads] has overtaken you - [You can overcome the temptation (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-can-overcome-the-temptation-1/) - In Scripture, Satan is called ‘the tempter’ and ‘the accuser’. First, he will tempt you, and when you fail, he will accuse you. He wants you to feel unworthy and disqualified in God’s eyes. But you’re not! ‘We do not have a high priest who is unable to feel sympathy for our weaknesses, but we - [Rely on God and stay within the boundary lines](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/rely-on-god-and-stay-within-the-boundary-lines/) - There is just enough ego and independence in us to want to do things our own way. And they keep getting us into trouble. Paul writes: ‘Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is - [Focus on your spouse’s best qualities](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/focus-on-your-spouses-best-qualities/) - The best marriages are built by couples who try to remember the qualities that initially attracted them to one another. If you want to build a happy marriage or improve a less-than-happy one, do these: 1) List your spouse’s best qualities. Write down the things you love most about him or her, and endeavour to - [How to ease financial stress](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-ease-financial-stress/) - Did you know that God’s willingness to bless you with more money depends on how well you handle what He has already given you? When it comes to money, here are some Bible principles you must live by: 1) Pay God His share first so you won’t feel ashamed of not doing so (see Malachi - [Develop your awareness of God’s presence](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/develop-your-awareness-of-gods-presence/) - When you sense God’s presence and know He is with you, you can handle whatever life brings. Try to imagine the assignment Moses had – liberating two million people from the grip of slavery: leading them through a wilderness where they were exposed to enemies and elements such as extreme heat and cold; feeding them, - [Unlearning](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/unlearning/) - Failing to unlearn irrational fears and misconceptions keeps us from becoming who God wants us to be. The invalid man in John 5 is a great example of this. He had been crippled for thirty-eight years when Jesus asked if he would like to get well. However, the man believed there was only one way - [The essence of leadership](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-essence-of-leadership/) - To be worthy of a following, you need more than talent and a title. The essence of leadership lies in doing two things. 1) Going first! ‘Cross over ahead of your fellow Israelites.’ That means if God has called you to lead, you must step out in faith and go first. That requires believing in - [Protect your marriage](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/protect-your-marriage/) - Why do 50 per cent of marriages, including Christian marriages, end in divorce? Jesus answers that question: ‘The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came so that they would have life, and have it abundantly’ (v. 10 NASB). God performed the first wedding ceremony between Adam and Eve in the garden - [Don’t be afraid of failing (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-be-afraid-of-failing-3/) - The Bible says, ‘“Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came towards Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” - [Don’t be afraid of failing (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-be-afraid-of-failing-2/) - Let’s take another look at how to conquer the fear of failure. 1) Pursue your God-given purpose in life. To truly succeed at something, you must have a passion for it. And God will not only reveal to you His purpose, He will give you a passion to pursue it. Paul had the gift, education, - [Don’t be afraid of failing (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-be-afraid-of-failing-1/) - Let’s look at some Bible strategies for overcoming the fear of failure. 1) Make sure that your vision and your values line up. The rise and fall of King Uzziah are told in these words: ‘Uzziah was sixteen years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-two years…He did what was right - [You can conquer your fear](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-can-conquer-your-fear/) - According to psychiatric reference, approximately two thousand classified fears exist. What’s interesting is that psychiatrists say we are born with only two innate ones: the fear of falling and the fear of loud noises. That means we learn every other fear. And more importantly, that means we can unlearn every other fear. The majority of - [Keep your conscience clear](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/keep-your-conscience-clear/) - Sometimes we want to justify what we are doing and say, ‘It feels right, so it can’t be wrong.’ However, if God’s Word says something is wrong, it’s wrong, no matter how right it feels. The old adage, ‘Let your conscience be your guide,’ is only half the truth. The other half should read, ‘as - [The secret of happiness](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-secret-of-happiness/) - What kind of work environment brings out the best in you? Do you thrive on routine? Are you motivated by people’s needs? Do you enjoy tackling challenges that might discourage others? How about your relationships? Do you enjoy being part of a team, or do you work better alone? If you only come to life - [Why church is good for you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/why-church-is-good-for-you/) - Jesus attended church regularly. ‘He went as usual to the synagogue on the Sabbath’ (Luke 4:16 NLT). The apostles also went to church on a regular basis: ‘They worshipped together at the Temple each day’ (Acts 2:46 NLT). And David loved God’s house. He said, ‘A single day in your courts is better than a - [How to know God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-know-god/) - There are three ways whereby you can know God is real and have a relationship with Him. 1) Intellectual knowledge of God. ‘They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they - [Knowing who belongs in your life](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/knowing-who-belongs-in-your-life/) - Gideon chose thirty-two thousand soldiers to fight the Midianites. But the truth is, you don’t need lots of people in your life, you just need the right people. So when Gideon said, ‘Whoever is timid or afraid may…go home’ (v. 3 NLT), twenty-two thousand soldiers left. But God told him he still had too many, - [Always ask, ‘What does the Bible say?’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/always-ask-what-does-the-bible-say/) - Paul writes: ‘From among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves. Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears. So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which - [The blessing of unanswered prayer](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-blessing-of-unanswered-prayer/) - A pastor writes: ‘According to legend, King Midas loved gold so much that when Dionysus granted him a wish, Midas asked that everything he touched would turn to gold. At first, Midas was delighted with his request, but when he discovered that his touch made food inedible and his embrace made loved ones lifeless, he - [When you feel inadequate (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/when-you-feel-inadequate-2/) - First, acknowledge your inadequacy to God. Joni Eareckson Tada says, ‘Deny your weakness, and you will never realise God’s strength in you.’ God told Paul, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Anything that makes you lean on God is a plus and not a minus. Second, stop - [When you feel inadequate (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/when-you-feel-inadequate-1/) - The fear of inadequacy is a state of mind in which you think your best is not good enough. Usually, it originated in childhood when our parents, teachers, and others we considered important, failed to appreciate and affirm us or compared us negatively to someone else. You will see it from Moses, who felt inadequate - [How to influence and impact others](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-influence-and-impact-others/) - There is no magic trick when it comes to influencing and impacting others. The Bible gives you the formula, and here it is: 1) Try to listen carefully. The truth is that people don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care. They tend to filter what they hear through their - [Who helps you?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/who-helps-you/) - Charles Plumb was a pilot in Vietnam, and after seventy-five combat missions, his plane was demolished by a surface-to-air missile. Plumb ejected, parachuted into enemy hands, and spent the next six years in a Communist prison. He survived the ordeal and now lectures on what he learned from his experience. One day when he and - [Running to win](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/running-to-win/) - Desperate situations sometimes call for desperate measures, and severing your supply line to your flesh means getting radical. Jesus puts it like this: ‘If your right eye leads you astray pluck it out and throw it away…better…to lose one of your members than that your whole body should be thrown on to the rubbish-heap. Yes, - [Stop covering it up](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/stop-covering-it-up/) - The Bible says, ‘He who covers his sins will not prosper. But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy’ (v. 13 NKJV). Could this be the reason you’re not succeeding? Unresolved guilt has the ability to corrode your confidence like acid. But there is an answer: ‘Whoever confesses and forsakes [his sins] will have - [Do what God’s Word says](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/do-what-gods-word-says/) - When you listen to or read God’s Word but don’t apply it to your life, you deceive yourself. How so? 1) You settle for knowledge rather than experience. The Bible says, ‘If anyone…knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them’ (James 4:17 NIV). How does that grab - [Are you stressed out? (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/are-you-stressed-out-3/) - Stress is like kryptonite (Superman’s nemesis), and it’s out to knock off your cape and diminish you to a heap of trembling, useless mush. What should you do? 1) Immerse your exhaustion. Try a bubble bath. Even simply standing in the shower can assist in washing away fatigue and reviving your breathless body tissues and - [Are you stressed out? (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/are-you-stressed-out-2/) - Let’s look at three proven and effective strategies for dealing with stress. 1) Place yourself on your daily to-do list. Designate fifteen minutes twice a day to renew, regroup, and restore. Distance yourself from the stress source, even if that simply means stepping outside for a few minutes and going for a walk to refresh - [Are you stressed out? (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/are-you-stressed-out-1/) - When you ignore the warning signs, chronic stress can take a toll on your body. So what are some of the signals? Well for starters, your stomach churns at any form of disagreement. When you can’t find an outlet for pent-up frustration, you may resort to overeating, smoking, drinking, drugs, and generally abusing your body. - [Keep renewing your mind with God’s Word](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/keep-renewing-your-mind-with-gods-word/) - How do we renew our minds? One pastor writes: ‘The way to upgrade your mind is to download Scripture. Doctors…of the National Institute of Mental Health did a fascinating study asking subjects to perform a simple motor task – a finger-tapping exercise. As subjects tapped, the doctors conducted an MRI to identify what part of - [Wrestling with Satan – up close and personal!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/wrestling-with-satan-up-close-and-personal/) - Before doing battle with Syria, Joab told his brother, ‘If [they] are too strong for me, then you shall help me; but if the people of Ammon are too strong for you, then I will help you’ (1 Chronicles 19:12 NKJV). If one was overwhelmed, the other could step in and help. Spiritual warfare is - [Start at his feet](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/start-at-his-feet/) - As a Moabitess, the law said Ruth was unqualified to mix with Jews. ‘An Ammonite or Moabite shall not enter the assembly of the Lord’ (Deuteronomy 23:3 NKJV). But when God has a plan for your life, He steps in and says, ‘I have called you by your name; you are Mine…you were precious in - [Don’t get stuck in the past](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-get-stuck-in-the-past/) - Before God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, He sent angels to warn Lot and his family to get out of town: ‘“Run for your lives!” [one warned]. “And don’t look back or stop anywhere in the valley! Escape to the mountains, or you will be swept away!”…But Lot’s wife looked back as she was following behind - [The law of entropy](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-law-of-entropy/) - A pastor writes: ‘The second law of thermodynamics states this physical truth: If left to their own devices, everything in the universe moves towards disorder and decay. Cars rust. Food rots…It’s also called the law of entropy. And the only way to prevent entropy is to introduce an outside energy source to counteract it. The - [Why do we resist change? (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/why-do-we-resist-change-4/) - Two more reasons we resist change are these: 1) Because it feels awkward and uncomfortable. When was the last time you tried something for the first time? Can you name it specifically? If you can’t remember, your comfort zone may have turned into a rut. A sign on a wall contained two statements. The first - [Why do we resist change? (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/why-do-we-resist-change-3/) - What happens when you try to implement change at the wrong time? For that matter, when is the right time to do it? From a leadership perspective, there are actually better times than others to make changes. Dr John Maxwell, who wrote the best seller The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, says: ‘I developed the - [Why do we resist change? (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/why-do-we-resist-change-2/) - Who among us wouldn’t like to have a success story like Abraham’s? He had fame, great riches, and ‘was even called the friend of God’ (James 2:23 NLT). It doesn’t get better than that! But Abraham’s story begins with these words: ‘By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place - [Why do we resist change? (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/why-do-we-resist-change-1/) - When Christopher Columbus returned to Spain, he was considered a national hero and credited with discovering new lands. But do you think people changed their minds about the earth being flat? Not at all – they went right on believing the earth was flat. It was not until that generation passed on and the next - [God will test you in little things](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-will-test-you-in-little-things/) - Your small deeds of kindness may go unnoticed by others, but God sees them. And they can reward you in ways you never dreamed possible. Take the case of Joseph. Betrayed by his brothers and lied about by his boss’s wife, he ends up sentenced to a thirteen-year prison term. If ever a person had - [The reason you’re being tested](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-reason-youre-being-tested/) - Have you tried to do right, yet things have gone wrong? When Joseph honoured God by saying no to Potiphar’s wife, he landed in prison. While there he told a fellow prisoner, ‘I was kidnapped from my homeland…and now I’m here in prison, but I did nothing to deserve it’ (Genesis 40:15 NLT). If that’s - [Trust in God’s unchanging character](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/trust-in-gods-unchanging-character/) - If you live long enough, life will bring you bad news. It may be the loss of a loved one, your health, your income, your marriage, your reputation, etc. The psalmist wrote, ‘When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.’ When bad times come, you need to hold on to everything you know - [Know what the Scriptures ‘also say’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/know-what-the-scriptures-also-say/) - Satan will use half-truths to trap you. He took Jesus to ‘the holy city, Jerusalem, to the highest point of the Temple, and said, “If you are the Son of God, jump off! For the Scriptures say, ‘He will order his angels to protect you.’”…Jesus responded, “The Scriptures also say, ‘You must not test the - [What more could God have done for you?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/what-more-could-god-have-done-for-you/) - Author Brennan Manning tells the story of how he got the name ‘Brennan’. Growing up, his best friend was Ray. The two of them did everything together: bought a car together as teenagers, dated together, went to school together, and so forth. They even enlisted in the army together, went to boot camp together, and - [The importance of good works](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-importance-of-good-works/) - The word ‘love’ isn’t just a noun, it’s a verb (an action word). And it’s not demonstrated simply by what you say but by what you do. In a small Jewish town in Russia, there is a rabbi who reputedly doesn’t show up for several hours every Friday morning. His followers claim that during this - [Get into the right environment](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/get-into-the-right-environment/) - When you encounter someone who tries to ‘cut you down to size’, remind yourself they are probably trying to cut you down to their size. So, what should you do? Love them, but don’t be overly influenced by what they say. As a rule, instead of staying where you’re tolerated, go where you’re appreciated! The - [Never give up](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/never-give-up/) - Failure doesn’t mean you will never succeed; it just means it may take a bit longer. John Wayne coined a great line in the movie The Train Robbers. He said, ‘You’re going to spend the rest of your life getting up one more time than you’re knocked down, so you’d better start getting used to - [Worship your way through it](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/worship-your-way-through-it-2/) - Don’t allow what’s wrong with you to keep you from worshipping what’s right with God. With their feet locked in stocks, their backs lacerated with whips, and the unjust contempt of society heaped upon them, the Bible says, ‘At midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God.’ They decided to stop focusing - [A father’s blessing](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/a-fathers-blessing-2/) - Dad, here are two Bible ingredients for blessing your children and grandchildren: 1) The power of prayer. In Scripture, a father’s blessing included an open-eyed prayer to God for his children. Isaac, who was a farmer, said to his son, ‘May God give you heaven’s dew and earth’s richness – an abundance of grain and - [Confess your sins to God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/confess-your-sins-to-god/) - In Scripture, the word confession is comprised of two Greek words: homo, meaning ‘the same’, and logeo, meaning ‘to speak’. Therefore, confessing your sin to God means saying the same thing about it as He does. It means calling a spade a spade – not a gardening tool! Nowhere does the Bible refer to our - [‘Strong, firm and steadfast’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/strong-firm-and-steadfast/) - If you want God to restore you and make you ‘strong, firm and steadfast’, meditate prayerfully on these four Scriptures, and look for ways to put them into practice each day: 1) ‘Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time’ (v. 6 NIV). 2) ‘Cast all your - [God will forgive and restore you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-will-forgive-and-restore-you/) - There is bad news, and there is good news. The bad news is, when David tried to hide his sin, God exposed it to the entire nation. The good news is, when he repented of his sin, God forgave him and expunged his record. And what God did for David, He will do for you. - [How to have peace (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-have-peace-5/) - The Bible says, ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths’ (vv. 5-6 NKJV). God wants you to trust Him. As long as you’re struggling to figure things out on your own, you’re not trusting God - [How to have peace (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-have-peace-4/) - To have peace you must focus on God’s presence. What you choose to focus on either fuels your fears or your faith. The Bible says, ‘You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you’ (Isaiah 26:3 NIV). That verse could be reduced to one sentence: ‘Get your focus - [How to have peace (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-have-peace-3/) - In order to find real peace, you must do two things: 1) Live by the principles of God’s Word. ‘Great peace have those who love your law.’ Peace arrives when you live in harmony with God. A new car comes with an owner’s manual. It tells you that for your car to perform well, you - [How to have peace (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-have-peace-2/) - Jesus said His peace is a gift. That means you don’t have to work for it and you cannot earn it. You cannot psych yourself up for it, and you cannot ‘try really hard’ to obtain it. No, it’s a gift you must accept by faith. Jesus also said that His peace is unique from - [How to have peace (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-have-peace-1/) - God will give you three kinds of peace. 1) Spiritual peace. ‘Since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.’ That’s the foundation, the bottom line. You must have peace with God before you can have any other kind of peace. Jesus said, ‘I am leaving you - [Listen more carefully](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/listen-more-carefully-2/) - One expert points out that leaders touch your heart before they ask for your hand. That’s the law of connection. Before a leader can touch a person’s heart, he or she has to know what’s in it. And you learn that by listening. A reluctance to listen is too typical among poor leaders. Over half - [Learn to listen to your marriage partner](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/learn-to-listen-to-your-marriage-partner/) - God designed your marriage partner to meet your physical needs, your emotional needs, and yes, even some of your spiritual needs. Adam enjoyed perfect health, worked at the perfect job, and lived in the perfect environment. He even went for walks with God every day. Nevertheless, he was lonely and incomplete. So God said, ‘It - [Ready…go!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/readygo/) - The words for you today are 1) Get ready. For forty years, Joshua had served Moses and been mentored by him; now he was ready to lead Israel into the promised land. This raises the all-important question: are you ready for the success you seek? The frustrating thing about preparation is sometimes it takes more - [Storm-proofed for life](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/storm-proofed-for-life/) - Remember the words of the old Sunday school song, ‘The wise man built his house upon the Rock…The foolish man built his house upon the sand’? The storm hit both houses leaving only the wise man’s house standing. Jesus wasn’t simply recommending the virtues of wisdom over foolishness. The truth is, we’re all wise at - [When you go through difficulties (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/when-you-go-through-difficulties-3/) - Here is something else Joseph knew that you need to know too. You can’t afford the excess baggage of bitterness. After many years, Joseph met his brothers again when they came to Egypt for grain. As they entered Joseph’s presence and bowed before him, Egypt’s second-in-command, they were unable to recognise him. And when Joseph - [When you go through difficulties (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/when-you-go-through-difficulties-2/) - Here are two more things Joseph understood that you need to understand as well: 1) You can’t afford to give in to self-pity. Perhaps you’re going through a trial right now and you’re an innocent party – the victim of a situation you didn’t cause. Consider Joseph’s reaction when he was in a similar position. - [When you go through difficulties (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/when-you-go-through-difficulties-1/) - To reach his destiny, Joseph went through betrayal, temptation, slander, and wrongful imprisonment. But he came out on top. Here is what Joseph recognised that you need to recognise too: 1) God knows what you’re going through, and He cares. There is a key phrase found five different times in the story of Joseph: ‘But - [To grow we must keep asking questions](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/to-grow-we-must-keep-asking-questions/) - Jesus often answered a question with a question. When asked about paying taxes, He took a coin and said, ‘“Whose image and inscription is this?” They said to Him, “Caesar’s.” And Jesus answered…”Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” And they marvelled at Him’ (Mark 12:16-17 - [Gideon’s God is your God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/gideons-god-is-your-god/) - The Bible says: ‘When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.” “Pardon me, my lord,” Gideon replied, “but if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us?”…The Lord turned to him and said, “Go in the strength you have and save - [Are you worried about retirement?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/are-you-worried-about-retirement/) - A survey was taken of Americans over fifty years old, and half of them had less than thirty thousand dollars in their retirement fund. Since we are all living longer, that means a) a lot of people are going to be dependent on the government for their survival, and b) a lot of people who - [The right balance](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-right-balance/) - Some of us major in grace but neglect confronting people with the truth lest we offend them. Others of us major in truth but fail to show God’s grace to people. But Jesus was ‘full of grace and truth’, and that’s the balance you must strive for! A man with little interest in spiritual matters - [Are you a true friend?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/are-you-a-true-friend/) - Two men were travelling down the road together when a bear appeared out of nowhere. Before the bear could spot them, one guy ran for a tree at the side of the road, climbed into its branches, and hid. The other man, who wasn’t as nimble as his tree-climbing companion, threw himself on the ground - [Don’t strike back](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-strike-back/) - The Bible says, ‘Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you’ (Ephesians 4:32 NKJV). You say, ‘But what they did to me was unfair, unkind, and unwarranted.’ Exactly – and God feels the same way about some of the things you have done! Any attempt to avenge - [Train your brain](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/train-your-brain/) - Anytime you substitute positive thinking for faith in God and obedience to His Word, you’re on dangerous ground! But don’t throw out the baby with the bathwater. As a believer, you’re supposed to train your brain to trust God and think positive thoughts that are founded on His Word. A study conducted in the Netherlands - [Stand on God’s Word (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/stand-on-gods-word-5/) - When you’re depressed. When depression is physiologically based, God can heal you through a miracle, the right medical treatment, vitamins, herbs, and supplements. But sometimes it goes deeper, and just like your body can suffer from ‘dis-ease’, so can your soul. Thankfully, God is the ultimate soul doctor! The psalmist said, ‘The day…I cried out, - [Stand on God’s Word (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/stand-on-gods-word-4/) - When you feel inadequate for the job. Have you been given a job you don’t feel qualified to do? No problem – it’s an opportunity for God to show Himself strong on your behalf (see 2 Chronicles 16:9). Fix your mind on your all-powerful, always-present, loving heavenly Father. ‘Cast your cares on the Lord and - [Stand on God’s Word (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/stand-on-gods-word-3/) - When you’re controlled by materialism. The flawed philosophy behind materialism is ‘more, more, more!’ And it’s the result of ‘eye trouble’. The Bible says, ‘The eyes of man are never satisfied.’ It’s okay to want a nice home, a reliable car, and financial security – and God will provide those things when you’re a good - [Stand on God’s Word (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/stand-on-gods-word-2/) - When you need to pass a difficult test or exam. The fear of failing can cause your brain to freeze just when you need your thoughts to flow freely. When you know you have done your best to study the material and prepare yourself, trust God with the outcome and stand on His Word: ‘Trust - [Stand on God’s Word (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/stand-on-gods-word-1/) - When you have a hard time forgiving yourself. There is only one unpardonable sin named in the Bible (see Luke 12:10). And as a believer, you probably haven’t committed it, so God will forgive you for everything else. However, when God says He forgives you and you refuse to forgive yourself, it’s like opting to - [Your Boaz season](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-boaz-season/) - After ten years of sorrow and hardship in which she lost her husband and her support system, God introduced Ruth to her new husband, Boaz. Where? In the field where she worked each day. Who was Boaz? The owner of the field. One of the things that attracted Boaz to Ruth was her work ethic. - [You can rise above worry (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-can-rise-above-worry-2/) - When you honestly evaluate your worries, you will find you are doing these: 1) Forgetting that God is your friend. The psalmist said, ‘The Lord is a friend to those who fear him’ (Psalm 25:14 NLT). Friendship with God is built by sharing your life’s experiences with Him – every activity, every conversation, every problem, - [You can rise above worry (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-can-rise-above-worry-1/) - Missionary Gladys Aylward said, ‘The eagle that soars in the upper air does not worry itself how it is to cross rivers.’ You can’t escape worry; it will come at you from different directions and in different forms. But like the eagle, you can rise above it. Jesus said: ‘If you decide for God…it follows - [Are you hooked on pornography?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/are-you-hooked-on-pornography/) - There are certain doors in life that once opened are hard to close – pornography is one of them. And like any addict, once you’re hooked, you need increasing doses to satisfy yourself until finally you end up shocked and shamed by the depths to which you have sunk. And statistically speaking, the problem is - [Raising great kids in a troubled world (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/raising-great-kids-in-a-troubled-world-5/) - Embittered children ultimately become discouraged. A discouraged child is less hopeful, less enthusiastic, lacking in determination, and easily led astray. By destroying a child’s hope, you’re undermining their God-given temperament. Children are born with optimism, inspiration, anticipation, and possibilities. Without hope, there is nothing to inspire them. Hopelessness brings depression and darkness of heart and - [Raising great kids in a troubled world (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/raising-great-kids-in-a-troubled-world-4/) - Another point of parental confusion is this: 4) Bitter versus better. What is bitterness? It is strong resentment or cynicism. How do parents create bitterness in their children? Consider the following triggers: a) Inconsistency. This happens when you are autocratic and authoritarian one day and permissive the next. What brought a strong rebuke today brings - [Raising great kids in a troubled world (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/raising-great-kids-in-a-troubled-world-3/) - Here are some more areas where parents are often confused. 2) Discipline versus punishment. ‘Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child, the rod of discipline will drive it far from him.’ (Proverbs 22:15 AMPC). Notice God’s choice of words: ‘the rod of discipline’ not the ‘rod of punishment’. Discipline and correction are - [Raising great kids in a troubled world (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/raising-great-kids-in-a-troubled-world-2/) - Over the next few days, let’s look at some practical areas where parents are often confused. (If you’re not a parent, why not use these points to help you pray for parents you know.) 1) Guidance versus criticism. If you have a placid, agreeable, and compliant child who enjoys school, homework, and doing household chores, - [Raising great kids in a troubled world (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/raising-great-kids-in-a-troubled-world-1/) - If you’re a parent, do you ever wish for a parenting do-over – a second chance to raise your kids? With hindsight and insight, you think you would do it right this time! Parenting is both rewarding and guilt inducing. It’s rewarding because we love our children and they bring us joy. It’s guilt inducing - [It’s not too small for God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/its-not-too-small-for-god/) - Second Kings 6 tells of a prophet chopping trees near a river when his iron axe head falls in. He said to Elisha: ‘Alas, master! For it was borrowed’ (v. 5 NKJV). He uses the past tense. As far as he is concerned, this axe head is gone forever. He has no expectation whatsoever that - [The right attitude (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-right-attitude-2/) - Demosthenes, who was reputed to be the greatest orator in ancient Greece, had a serious speech impediment. Legend has it that he overcame it by reciting verses with pebbles in his mouth and speaking above the roar of the waves at the seashore. As a prisoner in the Wartburg castle, Martin Luther made use of - [The right attitude (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-right-attitude-1/) - Observe: 1) The right attitude makes a difference in your relationships. Theodore Roosevelt said, ‘The most important single ingredient in the formula for success is knowing how to get along with people.’ And Paul writes: ‘Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than - [Moving from failure to success (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/moving-from-failure-to-success-2-2/) - It’s easier to recognise success looking back than it is looking forward. For some of us, it can be many years before we recognise our success, celebrate it, and feel secure in it. That’s because we lack a proper perspective. At its widest point, the Mississippi River requires a two-mile-wide steel span bridge to get - [Moving from failure to success (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/moving-from-failure-to-success-1-2/) - Everyone who ever achieved anything significant had to beat the odds. The problem for most of us isn’t the odds; it’s that we sell ourselves short. As R.H. Headlee observed, ‘Most people think too small, aim too low, and quit too soon.’ The odds in favour of David defeating Goliath weren’t good. Unless you factor - [Honour God, and He will honour you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/honour-god-and-he-will-honour-you/) - There comes a time when we have to face our fears and take a stand for what we know is right. That’s what Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego did. They risked their lives when they refused to bow to King Nebuchadnezzar’s idol. They could have rationalised, ‘I’ll bow on the outside, but not on the inside,’ - [Believe God for greater things](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/believe-god-for-greater-things/) - Many of us have a God-sized dream within us, but we’re so afraid of failing we never even try. We can’t imagine how it could possibly happen. So, we don’t act on it. Here is a challenge: don’t worry about the outcome. That isn’t your responsibility. ‘Being confident of this, that he who began a - [Tell the truth](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/tell-the-truth/) - Are you in a situation where lying seems to be the only viable solution? Unless you want to create a problem between God and yourself – don’t do it! ‘The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth.’ When you lie, you hurt God, others, and yourself. ‘Dishonesty destroys treacherous - [Come out of that corner](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/come-out-of-that-corner/) - Under Old Testament law, God commanded Jewish farmers: ‘When you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not wholly reap the corners of your field…You shall leave them for the poor and for the stranger’ (v. 22 NKJV). Ruth was working in an obscure corner of a field owned by a wealthy man named - [Going forwards or going back](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/going-forwards-or-going-back/) - The book of Ruth illustrates the difference between those who step out in faith and take risks, and those who give in to fear, play it safe, and miss God’s best for them. The book begins with these words: ‘There was a famine in the land. And a certain man of Bethlehem, Judah, went to - [Live in the ‘here and now’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/live-in-the-here-and-now/) - God wants us to appreciate the season we are in; to live in the ‘here and now’. Some people live only for the future. ‘I’ll be happy when…’ Other people live in the past. Solomon addresses them: ‘Do not say, “Why were the former days better than these?” For you do not inquire wisely concerning - [To be conformed is to be creative](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/to-be-conformed-is-to-be-creative/) - Since God is both our Creator and our Redeemer, we are called to be ‘conformed to His image’ in both senses. So, to become more like the Creator is to become more creative. When we apply our sanctified imagination to serve His objectives, we are doing what God does best and loves most. And our - [Be patient, God is at work](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-patient-god-is-at-work/) - When things don’t happen as quickly as we want them to, we can become anxious, frustrated, irritable, and negative. And if you’re a ‘make it happen’ person, you can rush ahead of God and get into trouble. ‘The steps of good men are directed by the Lord. He delights in each step they take’ (Psalm - [Don’t be so controlling!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-be-so-controlling/) - Do you get upset when you cannot control others? Or moody and irritated when people don’t do what you want? Do you react when your mistakes are pointed out? Or try to force people to comply with your demands? Do you exaggerate your pain, sickness, or need in order to gain attention or sympathy? Or - [Take time to wonder and worship](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/take-time-to-wonder-and-worship/) - The first reaction recorded in Scripture is God’s reaction to His own creation. He stepped back at the end of each day, looked at what He had made, and said, ‘It’s good.’ Then on the sixth day when creation was complete, He said, ‘It’s very good.’ This is why we feel so spiritual when we - [Be a disciple of Jesus](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-a-disciple-of-jesus/) - Did you know that the word ‘disciple’ occurs 269 times in the New Testament, whereas the word ‘Christian’ is found only three times? The word ‘Christian’ was first introduced to describe who they were, disciples of Jesus Christ! Dallas Willard uses the illustration of the car: ‘The disciple of Jesus is not the deluxe or - [Make an impact](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/make-an-impact/) - The men and women who made the greatest impact on the world were those who were totally focused and sold out to their vision. John Wesley, founder of the Methodist Church, once said, ‘If I had three hundred men who feared nothing but God, hated nothing but sin, and were determined to know nothing among - [How to deal with difficult people](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-deal-with-difficult-people/) - Jesus said, ‘If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles.’ Roman soldiers were permitted to force a Jew to carry a burden a mile for them. They treated Jews as tools to be used. So, what do you do in that kind of situation? Jesus invites us to take the - [God knows what’s best for you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-knows-whats-best-for-you/) - They say, ‘The devil is in the details.’ But for a redeemed child of God, He is in the details! When you set your heart on something and it doesn’t happen, it’s only human to experience disappointment. At such moments, here is what you need to keep in mind: 1) At best, you’re always working - [Choosing a leader](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/choosing-a-leader/) - There are plenty of good leaders around – don’t be afraid to follow them. But what about the ‘blind guides’ that Jesus talks about? Here are some signs to help you identify and avoid them: 1) Inflexibility. True leaders have a teachable spirit and a servant’s heart. They rejoice in your growth and aren’t threatened - [Muzzle your mouth!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/muzzle-your-mouth/) - The Bible has a lot to say about the dangers of the tongue. James devotes an entire chapter to this subject: ‘If we could control our tongues, we…could also control ourselves in every other way.’ Now there is an aspect of self-control to consider! The Greek sage Publius said, ‘I have often regretted my speech, - [Finding self-worth](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/finding-self-worth/) - When you read God’s Word, you discover how He feels about you. As a result, your memories begin to heal, your self-worth is restored, and you stop trading with a devalued self-image. When that happens, you no longer believe that ‘anybody’s company is preferable to my own’. In a survey of supposedly happy couples, over - [Use the gift God gave you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/use-the-gift-god-gave-you/) - A respected Bible teacher says: ‘Because my family’s so large, we draw names to see who we’ll buy presents for. One Christmas when I opened my present, I was disappointed…then I looked at my twin brother who got two nice gifts. Sensing my disappointment, my wife came over to me and said, “Don’t worry. When - [You need God’s help](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-need-gods-help/) - Self-help books and motivational speakers are like cheerleaders standing on the sidelines shouting, ‘You can do it!’ They can be helpful, but if the ‘you can do it’ philosophy always held true, we wouldn’t need God. Paul understood this. That’s why he wrote, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’ (Philippians 4:13 - [Your limited window of opportunity](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-limited-window-of-opportunity/) - Let’s read what God said to the parents who entered the promised land: ‘Take heed to yourself, and diligently keep yourself, lest you forget the things your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life. And teach them to your children and your grandchildren’ (v. 9 NKJV). - [Give children convictions to live by](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/give-children-convictions-to-live-by/) - If you’re a parent, are you trying to keep your children under lock and key in order to keep them out of trouble? Or if you’re a teacher or Sunday school leader, do you try to impose strict rules? It won’t work. You’re not keeping them out of trouble, you’re simply postponing it. Things like - [Your harvest is on the way](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-harvest-is-on-the-way/) - Have you sown a ‘seed’ of faith, and now you’re wondering when you will reap the ‘harvest’ God promised in His Word? If so, read on: ‘The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground, and should sleep by night and rise by day, and the seed should sprout - [Stop and ask for directions](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/stop-and-ask-for-directions-2/) - You can be sincere in your intentions – but sincerely wrong. The Bible says the rain falls on ‘the just and the unjust alike’ (Matthew 5:45 NLT). The law of cause and effect applies to everybody, and all your good intentions won’t bring you out at the right destination if you’re on the wrong road. - [Your personal guide](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-personal-guide/) - It’s easy to say, ‘The Lord is my shepherd,’ but how can you tell if it’s real for you or if you’re just saying the words? Here is a simple test: when you need help, who do you turn to first? Most people go to God only after they have tried everything else. And when - [The Holy Spirit prays through you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-holy-spirit-prays-through-you/) - Life can wear you down. You can get to the place where your anxiety runs so deep, or your stress levels increase so high that you can’t think clearly. The problem or pain you’re experiencing is so overwhelming that you can’t put it into words. Good news: that’s when the Holy Spirit living within you - [Having job security (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/having-job-security-4/) - Losing your job can be devastating. This is when you must keep the right perspective. Having less doesn’t make you a lesser person. God still values you, and you must keep valuing yourself. The Christian life is one of trial and triumph. Paul writes: ‘I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. - [Having job security (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/having-job-security-3/) - To have job security you should: 1) Increase your visibility in your industry. Establish contacts and relationships with others outside your company by attending local industry gatherings wherever possible. Your goal should not merely be to know enough to get by but to develop your skills so that you will get noticed and get ahead. - [Having job security (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/having-job-security-2/) - To have job security you should: 1) Endeavour to be as indispensable as possible. ‘Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty. Wealth created by a lying tongue is a vanishing mist and a deadly trap’ (vv. 5-6 NLT). Strive for integrity and excellence in your work, while learning - [Having job security (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/having-job-security-1/) - If you think the perfect life would be one in which you didn’t have to work, think again. God created the garden of Eden, then He created Adam, then He told Adam that his job was to take care of it. Why? Because work gives dignity and meaning to our lives. That’s why the Bible - [Show grace under fire](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/show-grace-under-fire/) - Here are three important principles you need to keep in mind when conflict arises: 1) Deal with the issue without attacking the person. Some of the most vicious personal attacks have been waged over religion. What a shame! Some of us would rather lose the relationship than lose the argument. 2) Sometimes it’s best to - [Praying without saying a word](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/praying-without-saying-a-word/) - Jesus said, ‘Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need’ (v. 33 NLT). You ask, ‘When I think about God, is that the same as praying?’ It can be. We’re all familiar with the power of unspoken communication. Many of us grew up with - [Get out of debt and stay out of debt!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/get-out-of-debt-and-stay-out-of-debt/) - It’s not by accident that these two Scriptures are back-to-back: ‘Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it. The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender’ (vv. 6-7 NIV). Your child’s college university education, an affordable - [God will speak to you – if you listen](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-will-speak-to-you-if-you-listen/) - Jesus did only those things placed in His mind by His Father. And He wants you to learn to live that way too. You ask, ‘Is such a life possible?’ Yes, it’s not only possible, it’s essential to fulfilling God’s will for your life. The Bible says that Mary took time to listen to Jesus, - [To know God, examine what He has made](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/to-know-god-examine-what-he-has-made/) - The New Testament Greek word translated as ‘disciple’ means ‘learner’. By definition, a disciple is someone who never ceases to learn. He or she makes the most of the hundred billion brain cells God has loaned to them. They keep asking and seeking and knocking (see Matthew 7:7). Leonardo da Vinci carried a notebook wherever - [Be interested in everything God does](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-interested-in-everything-god-does/) - Anything that reveals something about our Creator is something we ought to be interested in. Scripture is in a classification all by itself as God’s written revelation. But mathematics discloses a distinctive dimension of God’s personality too. Along with art. And science. The Bible says: ‘God gave Solomon wisdom and very great insight…He spoke three - [Evidences of Christ’s resurrection (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/evidences-of-christs-resurrection-2/) - Here are three more pieces of evidence that will convince any open-minded seeker of the truth of Christ’s physical resurrection from the dead: 1) The Christian sacraments. The Christian sacraments point to the death and suffering of Christ and also to His resurrection and power. These can be traced back in uninterrupted sequence to the - [Evidences of Christ’s resurrection (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/evidences-of-christs-resurrection-1/) - Trust the fact that Jesus rose from the dead! Here are two evidences of it: 1) The Lord’s Day. For thousands of years, the Hebrew people had maintained their Sabbath doctrine. Then later, a group of early Christians who were Jews changed the day of worship from the seventh day to the first day! What - [Work on growing closer](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/work-on-growing-closer/) - The more history you have with your spouse, the more joy and pain you have experienced. You’re closer at times than others as the circumstances of life rise and fall. Yet if you did due diligence at the onset of the relationship, were clear about what you desired in a partner, and honestly evaluated who - [Your secret place](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/your-secret-place/) - Jesus said, ‘When you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you’ (v. 6 NIV). The Christian life could be compared to the Old Testament tabernacle, which was divided into three compartments. There was - [Walking with God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/walking-with-god/) - Did the people in Scripture who ‘walked with God’ ever stumble? They did. Did they get off track sometimes? Yes. But when their feet hit the floor every morning, their commitment was to walk with God throughout the day. They drew on His strength, endeavoured to do His will, and aimed towards the goal that - [You’re growing in grace](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/youre-growing-in-grace/) - When Peter exercised enough faith to get out of the boat and walk on water, he sank and looked worse than any of the other disciples. When he tried to defend Jesus, he cut off a man’s ear. When he promised to be loyal, he fell flat on his face. When he tried to advise - [Don’t shout about it](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-shout-about-it/) - Jesus said: ‘Take care! Don’t do your good deeds publicly, to be admired, for then you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. When you give a gift to a beggar, don’t shout about it as the hypocrites do – blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts - [Prophecy fulfilled](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/prophecy-fulfilled-2/) - One of the most convincing proofs that the Bible is truly the Word of God lies in the number of prophecies fulfilled during the life of Christ. Daniel prophesied the coming of the one and only Jewish Messiah prior to the temple’s demise. The Old Testament prophets declared He would be born in Bethlehem (see - [How to enrich and strengthen your relationships](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-enrich-and-strengthen-your-relationships/) - You can enrich and strengthen any relationship by developing and demonstrating the fruit of the Spirit. The Bible speaks about being filled with the Spirit (see Ephesians 5:18) and walking in the Spirit (see Galatians 5:16 AMPC). To be ‘filled’ with God’s Spirit means you’re a receptacle, whereas ‘walking’ in the Spirit means you’re a - [God and work](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-and-work/) - The phrase ‘discover your strengths’ was made famous by researcher Marcus Buckingham in what’s referred to as the ‘Strengths Movement’. It calls us to stop focusing on our weaknesses and name and develop our strengths – which reflects God’s design. God didn’t say, ‘Moses, your craftsmanship skills are weak. Let’s have you stop leading this - [Set other things aside and serve](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/set-other-things-aside-and-serve/) - When it came to serving others, Jesus went first. He ‘rose from supper…laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself…poured water into a basin…began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded…Peter said to Him, “Lord, are You washing my feet?”’ (vv. 4-6 NKJV). - [Learning to listen to God (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/learning-to-listen-to-god-4/) - God’s direction will often be followed by a season of preparation. And the length of that season is determined by the size of your assignment. So when God speaks to you, it’s not always wise to rush out and tell people. Who wouldn’t want to talk about the amazing experience Paul had with Christ on - [Learning to listen to God (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/learning-to-listen-to-god-3/) - When you pray diligently and believe you have heard from God, but then you start asking other people what they think, you’re honouring their opinions above God’s. That kind of mindset will prevent you from developing a relationship where you constantly hear from Him. You need to trust Him. If you have made bad decisions - [Learning to listen to God (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/learning-to-listen-to-god-2/) - People think they can’t hear from God, when in reality, there are things they already know He wants them to respond to, and so far they haven’t done it. The quicker you do whatever the Lord has already told you to do, the sooner He will reveal the next step to you. His promise is, - [Learning to listen to God (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/learning-to-listen-to-god-1/) - Jesus told His disciples, ‘I have much more to say to you, but right now it would be more than you could understand. The Spirit shows what is true and will come and guide you into the full truth’ (vv. 12-13 CEV). Jesus spoke these words to men He had spent the previous three years - [Don’t give up!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-give-up/) - Paul writes, ‘Let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up’ (v. 9 NLT). Look at Job the patriarch: attending the funerals of his ten children, losing his health and wealth in a single day, and listening to - [Take control of the small things](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/take-control-of-the-small-things/) - Can you imagine being uprooted from your home and taken prisoner to a hostile country? It happened to Daniel. King Nebuchadnezzar conquered his homeland and carried him off to slavery in Babylon. He lost his house, his job, his freedom, his culture, his friends, and his status as a member of Israel’s nobility. He had - [Four principles for victorious living](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/four-principles-for-victorious-living/) - Jesus said: ‘Count yourselves blessed every time people put you down…or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable. You can be glad when that happens – give a cheer, even! – for though they don’t like it, I do!’ - [Put your heart into your part](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/put-your-heart-into-your-part/) - You have probably heard that unless you’re the lead dog, the view seldom changes. The problem is, however, not everybody can be the leading man or woman. And it’s better to be a working actor than an out-of-work star; at least you get to be in the play! Besides, most great achievers, if they are - [Turning two families into one](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/turning-two-families-into-one/) - Due to the divorce rate today, both inside the church and outside, couples are falling in love and facing the challenge of blending two families into one. Here are some of those challenges: visiting rights, custodial care, court intervention, and ex-in-law involvement. Add to that a mountain of paperwork and legal specifications, and it’s like - [Take it easy, Mum](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/take-it-easy-mum/) - An old, tired-looking dog wandered into a woman’s garden. She could tell from looking at him that he had a good home. He followed her inside, down the hall, and promptly fell asleep. Two hours later, he went to the door and she let him out. The next day he came back, resumed his position, - [The seven-day challenge](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-seven-day-challenge/) - Some cancers, like skin cancer, are more obvious and you can remove them. Then there is the kind that grows undetected and it destroys your body. Complaining is like that; it impacts your health and sabotages your success. Paul says, ‘Do everything without grumbling or arguing.’ Dr Ann Shorb writes: ‘If you find yourself…feeling negative - [Live the living Word](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/live-the-living-word/) - Bible expositor Eugene Peterson, author of The Message, says: ‘The words printed on the pages of my Bible give witness to the living and active revelation of the God of creation and salvation, the God of love who became the Word made flesh in Jesus, and I had better not forget it. If in my - [Do the Word](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/do-the-word/) - A pastor writes: ‘The Latin word for “listen” is where we get our word audit. When you audit a class, you take in lots of information, but you don’t do anything with it. You don’t do the homework, or if you do, you don’t turn it in to get it graded. You don’t take the - [Pull down those strongholds!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/pull-down-those-strongholds/) - When the Bible speaks of a stronghold, it’s referring to an area in your life that’s controlled by wrong thinking. And that stronghold will attract people who think the same way and feed off it. But there is good news. Not only will God reveal to you the strongholds in your life, He will show - [Are you tired of living in defeat?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/are-you-tired-of-living-in-defeat/) - God’s Word is like a prescription from your doctor. You don’t have to understand how the medication works – you just have to faithfully keep taking it. Something amazing happens when you feed regularly on God’s Word. Temptation begins to lose power, and overcoming strength begins to replace it. Each time a Scripture opens up - [Don’t doubt your salvation](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-doubt-your-salvation/) - You would be surprised how many people harbour doubts about their salvation. So, let’s open God’s Word and settle the issue once and for all: ‘God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life…I write these things to you who believe in the name of - [What you will do in heaven](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/what-you-will-do-in-heaven/) - Perhaps the reason many of us are not as excited about heaven as we should be is because of what we have been told; that we will stand around playing harps, singing songs, and worshipping God forever. Think about it. When the singing and prayers in the average Sunday-morning service last longer than fifteen minutes, - [Is your business struggling?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/is-your-business-struggling/) - When your business is failing, you can lose your sense of security, your peace of mind, and your ability to sleep. It even affects your family. If that’s where you are today, read these words: ‘God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.’ Clear your mind for a moment - [Respond with love](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/respond-with-love/) - Some of the negative people in your life lack intimate relationships. So, they keep others at arm’s length, rarely share their feelings, and are uncomfortable with those who do. They find it easier to condemn than to accept. Their hard-and-fast views make them inflexible. Often these people can’t handle freedom. They need rules that limit - [Let God remould you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/let-god-remould-you/) - What would you like to change about yourself? How would you change it? To ask it another way, what would your spouse or your best friend like you to change? Maybe that would be more enlightening. How would you end the sentence, ‘It’s just like me to…’? Always be late? Not stay on a diet? - [Changing how you pray](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/changing-how-you-pray/) - Bible prayers are powerful. They put things into perspective. For example, Paul prayed that God would give the Ephesians ‘the Spirit of wisdom and revelation…that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you…and - [Hope for the future](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/hope-for-the-future/) - Are you surrounded by people whose mission is to inject ‘a dose of reality’ into your life? They continually point out how tough the economy is, how dismal the job market is, and how the sky is falling down. Jon Walker writes: ‘I remember my high school English teacher telling me not to apply to - [Try to be more flexible](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/try-to-be-more-flexible/) - Flexible people are happy people. They experience a lot less stress than the rigid types who insist on things always being done a certain way. One of the reasons inflexibility is so stressful is that we have to achieve our goals through thinking human beings who often have their own ideas, ideas different from ours. - [Armed for spiritual warfare (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/armed-for-spiritual-warfare-3/) - Your spiritual armour must be put on correctly so that all the pieces fit; otherwise, you’re vulnerable to defeat at Satan’s hands. So, how do you do that? Paul tells us how: ‘Pray in the Spirit at all times.’ Your clothes closet is where you find what you need to wear in the natural realm, - [Armed for spiritual warfare (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/armed-for-spiritual-warfare-2/) - Let’s look at the next three pieces of spiritual armour God has provided for us to live victoriously: 1) ‘You will need faith as your shield’ (v. 16 TLB). For what? ‘To stop the fiery arrows aimed at you by Satan’ (v. 16 TLB). Do you remember in the old western movies the battles between - [Armed for spiritual warfare (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/armed-for-spiritual-warfare-1/) - Every day you live, you will battle the world, the flesh, and the devil. In order to be armed for spiritual warfare, Paul gives us six specific pieces of spiritual armour. Here are the first three: 1) The sturdy ‘belt of truth’ (v. 14 NLT). During World War II, a plane flew many miles past - [Don’t doubt God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-doubt-god/) - John writes: ‘Thomas (nicknamed the Twin), was not with the others when Jesus came. They told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he replied, “I won’t believe it unless I see the nail wounds in his hands, put my fingers into them, and place my hand into the wound in his side.” Eight days - [Live with integrity at home](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/live-with-integrity-at-home/) - Make your life an open book. Establish a system of values against which all of life is judged. Walk with God; maintain your integrity at work and at home, and you will make the right choice every time. Lot failed to do this, and it cost him dearly. ‘Lot went out and spoke to his - [What’s the ‘most important’ thing to you?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/whats-the-most-important-thing-to-you/) - The story is told of Major Arthur Godfrey Peuchen, a wealthy Canadian man who survived the Titanic. After it struck the iceberg, he returned to his stateroom and, ignoring cash, jewellery, and other valuable possessions worth around $300,000, grabbed a favourite pearl pin and three oranges. Later, he was reported to have said, ‘The money - [The breaking process (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-breaking-process-3/) - The Bible says that Jesus ‘took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, He blessed and broke and gave the loaves to the disciples; and the disciples gave to the multitudes’ (v. 19 NKJV). Notice the progression in this story: the loaves were taken, blessed, broken, then given to others. - [The breaking process (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-breaking-process-2/) - Brokenness leads to blessing. To receive a double portion of the spirit of Elijah, Elisha, who was a farmer, had to break and burn his plough. To demonstrate her love for Jesus, Mary had to break open her box of costly ointment and pour it over Him. To defeat the armies of Midian, Gideon’s three - [The breaking process (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-breaking-process-1/) - Brokenness is the process by which God strips us of pride and self-sufficiency so that the character of Christ can shine through. Brokenness doesn’t necessarily mean experiencing some tragedy. Many people suffer tragedy without drawing closer to God. The issue in brokenness is not so much your circumstances but your response. What’s God trying to - [Prepare yourself](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/prepare-yourself/) - All things don’t come to those who wait but to those who prepare. There is a great illustration of this in 2 Kings 3. As part of God’s strategy for defeating the Moabites, God told the Israelites to dig a ditch and He would fill it with water until it became a mighty river. They - [God ideas](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-ideas/) - The first Jewish temple ranks as one of the architectural wonders of the ancient world. Built in the tenth century BC, the project’s scope was so massive that Solomon employed thirty thousand loggers and eighty thousand stonecutters. More than three thousand foremen managed the seven-year project. The temple was the epicentre of Judaism. It was - [Keep hope alive](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/keep-hope-alive/) - David said, ‘Wait…for God. Wait with hope. Hope now; hope always!’ When you decide things are hopeless, you slam the door in God’s face. For most of us, as long as we’re in reasonably good health and know where the rent is coming from, hope doesn’t work. First: Ask yourself what’s your strongest desire. Imagine - [Tackle your giant head-on](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/tackle-your-giant-head-on/) - Chuck Swindoll says: ‘Goliath reminds me of the [visually impaired] discus thrower. He didn’t set any records…but he sure kept the crowd awake! Every day Goliath paraded along the slopes of the Valley of Elah issuing threats…The only response from the Israeli troops was the sound of knees knocking and teeth chattering! The giant’s strategy - [Being friends with God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/being-friends-with-god/) - When you talk to a close friend, you’re relaxed, trusting, unguarded, and open. There is no need to watch your p’s and q’s; you can express how you feel without fearing you will be judged or rejected. That’s how Moses and God talked to each other – like two friends, trusting and transparent. They said - [Let’s work together](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/lets-work-together/) - The Bible says we must love, honour, and work together. So, why don’t we do it? Ego! We like to think we can do everything ourselves – but that’s not reality! There are no supermen or superwomen. So, the question isn’t whether or not you can do everything on your own; it’s how soon are - [The right attitude](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-right-attitude/) - What separates the best from the rest? Have you ever given that some thought? What separates a gold medallist from a silver medallist in the Olympics? What separates a successful entrepreneur from someone who doesn’t make it? What makes it possible for one person to learn and flourish after making a mistake while someone else - [Moving from failure to success (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/moving-from-failure-to-success-4/) - To move from failure to success, you must do these: 1) Learn to laugh at yourself. No matter what you lose or how often you lose, never lose your sense of humour. When you take your mistakes too seriously, everything becomes a life-or-death issue. The psalmist wrote: ‘When the Lord brought back his exiles to - [Moving from failure to success (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/moving-from-failure-to-success-3/) - A Christian leader writes: ‘Oliver Goldsmith was born the son of a poor preacher in Ireland in the 1700s. Growing up, he wasn’t a great student. In fact, his schoolmaster labelled him a “stupid blockhead”. He did manage to earn a [university] degree, but he finished at the bottom of his class. He was unsure - [Moving from failure to success (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/moving-from-failure-to-success-2/) - A noted psychiatrist remarked that two of the saddest words in human vocabulary are ‘if only’. He believes people who get trapped by their failures spend their lives saying, ‘If only I had tried harder…if only I had been kinder to my kids…if only I had been more truthful…if only…’ The way to change that - [Moving from failure to success (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/moving-from-failure-to-success-1/) - The writer of Hebrews said: ‘I do not have time to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson and Jephthah, about David and Samuel and the prophets…whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies’ (vv. 32-34 NIV). Some of the biggest success stories in Scripture are about people who - [Who are your true friends?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/who-are-your-true-friends/) - Cicero said, ‘Friendship improves happiness and abates misery, by the doubling of our joy and the dividing of our grief.’ The fact is, it’s impossible to have more than a few close friends, because true friendship takes time, attention, and commitment. ‘One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend - [Never stop learning and growing (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/never-stop-learning-and-growing-2/) - To keep learning and growing, you must recognise these: 1) Successful people view learning differently than unsuccessful people. Joshua learned from Moses. Timothy learned from Paul. Who have you chosen to learn from? Author Sydney J. Harris wrote: ‘A winner knows how much he still has to learn, even when he is considered an expert - [Never stop learning and growing (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/never-stop-learning-and-growing-1/) - The most important skill you can acquire is learning to learn. Gifted people can sometimes act like they know it all, which makes it hard for them to keep growing. Teachability isn’t so much about competence and mental capacity as it is about attitude; it’s an innate hunger to grow. It’s a willingness to learn, - [Heed your own advice](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/heed-your-own-advice/) - Solomon told his son: ‘Pay attention to my wisdom…the lips of an immoral woman are as sweet as honey, and her mouth is smoother than oil. But in the end she is as bitter as poison, as dangerous as a double-edged sword…Stay away from her! Don’t go near the door of her house! If you - [Treasure your children](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/treasure-your-children/) - A Christian psychologist writes: ‘Several months ago I talked to a man who described one of the most painful experiences of his life. When he was seventeen, he was one of the stars on his high school football team. But his father, a very successful man in the city, was always too busy to come - [Give your worries to God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/give-your-worries-to-god/) - When you feel anxious and afraid, here are two things you should do: 1) Find a ‘faith friend’. When anxiety grabs your mind, one of the most powerful ways to break the worry spiral is to disclose it to a ‘faith friend’. When Israel went out to occupy the promised land, here is what God - [Hear God’s voice](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/hear-gods-voice/) - You can read the same Scripture on different occasions, and it will speak to you in totally different ways. The Greek philosopher Heraclitus is attributed with saying, ‘You never step into the same river twice.’ And you never read the same Bible verse the same way twice. That is a testament to its heavenly author. - [‘Hold fast’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/hold-fast/) - You will notice that during the creation process, God counts days based on the previous nights. The Bible doesn’t say, ‘The morning and evening were the first day.’ No, it says, ‘God called…the evening and the morning…the first day’ (Genesis 1:5 KJV). That means God specialises in bringing light out of darkness – you just - [Fulfilling God’s plan for your life](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/fulfilling-gods-plan-for-your-life/) - To fulfil God’s plan for your life, you need to do these: 1) Map out your day. Plan your time and stick to your plan. Only one out of three people do that. One leadership expert says, ‘It’s…rare…that I get up in the morning wondering what I’ll be doing that day.’ That’s why he is - [‘Just as I am’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/just-as-i-am/) - There is a tale about a boy who comes home and doesn’t know his mum is visiting with their pastor. He carries a dead rat in his hand. ‘Mum, you’ll never guess what. There was a rat running around in the garage. I saw it, threw a stone, and hit it. It just lay there, - [Insecurity in leadership](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/insecurity-in-leadership/) - The Bible says: ‘Many people did believe in him, however, including some of the Jewish leaders. But they wouldn’t admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue. For they loved human praise more than the praise of God’ (vv. 42-43 NLT). How secure are you as a leader? When someone - [Be disciplined](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/be-disciplined/) - The only way to keep improving is to keep practising. Nancy Dornan says, ‘The longest distance between two points is a shortcut.’ That’s really true. If you desire to grow in a particular area, figure out what it will really take, including the price, then determine to pay it. David didn’t suddenly discover his talent - [Listen more carefully](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/listen-more-carefully/) - Jesus said, ‘Hear Me, everyone, and understand.’ He spoke life-changing words, but He understood that preoccupied minds don’t always listen too well. Are you a good listener? 1) If you’re a leader, do you listen to your followers? The kind of leaders people want to follow do more than conduct business when they interact with - [Bracing your children for the turbulent years](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/bracing-your-children-for-the-turbulent-years/) - In order for your child to thrive and have self-worth, they must understand four things: 1) How God feels about them. The psalmist says, ‘His love never quits’ (Psalm 136:1 MSG). Knowing this is foundational to your child’s spiritual development and to their relationship with God. 2) How you feel about them. So, let them - [A relationship problem? Take action!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/a-relationship-problem-take-action/) - One author writes: ‘It took me half my life to discover the great power of choices and chances. Good relationships are God’s gift to you; what you do with them is your response to Him. Too often we drape our passivity, or lack of courage, or disregard for our relationships in the frayed tapestry of - [What the Bible teaches about money](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/what-the-bible-teaches-about-money/) - Let’s settle it once and for all. If God can trust you with something small, He will trust you with more (see Luke 16:10, 2 Corinthians 9:6-11). But His blessings come with certain conditions, and here are four you need to honour. 1) Don’t try to claim credit. God told the Israelites, ‘You may say - [Grace in marriage](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/grace-in-marriage/) - Who in the Bible would you say had the best marriage? Adam and Eve started in Paradise, and it all went downhill from there. Abraham lied and said his wife, Sarah, was his sister, then impregnated her servant, Hagar. Isaac and Rebekah spent much of their marriage battling because he favoured Esau and she favoured - [Prayer gives us a God’s-eye view](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/prayer-gives-us-a-gods-eye-view/) - The word ‘watchful’ is a throwback to the Old Testament-era practice of sitting on a city wall and keeping watch. Watchmen were the first to see attacking armed forces or travelling merchants. They had the optimal vantage point. They saw what nobody else saw. They saw them sooner than others saw them. That is exactly - [Sensing and seeing God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/sensing-and-seeing-god/) - The Bible says, ‘“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit’ (vv. 9-10 NKJV). The Holy Spirit compensates for our sensory limits by enabling us to conceive - [Read the signals with your children](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/read-the-signals-with-your-children/) - Smithsonian magazine once featured a British master stonecutter named Simon Verity. He restored thirteenth-century cathedrals in Great Britain. As the authors watched him work, they noticed something fascinating. ‘Verity listens closely to hear the song of the stone under his careful blows. A solid strike, and all is well. A higher-pitched ping, and it could - [Stop and ask for directions](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/stop-and-ask-for-directions/) - Making decisions without seeking God’s guidance is like trying to fly without radar and a compass. You can do what makes sense based on your past knowledge and experience, but what ‘looks right’ can end up destroying what’s most important to you. The Bible says even the most profound human thinking is foolish to God - [Guard against envy and jealousy](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/guard-against-envy-and-jealousy/) - Paul cautioned the early church about envy, and it’s still a problem. Your co-worker gets a raise, a friend’s child wins a scholarship, a neighbour takes a dream holiday. Do you rejoice with them, or force a tight smile? We’re human; an occasional flicker of envy is normal. But beware of harbouring a chronic sense - [Growing through criticism](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/growing-through-criticism/) - Solomon said, ‘If you accept correction, you will be honoured.’ Charlie Shedd gives us ten ways to grow through criticism: 1) Criticism is often a compliment. The barbs in daily life strike only those who raise their heads above ground level. Jesus said, ‘Count yourself blessed every time someone cuts you down…it means…that the truth - [Don’t be afraid of getting old (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-be-afraid-of-getting-old-2/) - Does the thought of getting older depress you, make you anxious, or make you fatalistic in your outlook? If so, read this: ‘Those who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bear fruit in old age; they shall be fresh and flourishing’ (vv. - [Don’t be afraid of getting old (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-be-afraid-of-getting-old-1/) - We live in a fickle society where a few wrinkles can devastate your self-worth. But you don’t have to be a victim of that value system. ‘As the days of a tree, so will be the days of my people; my chosen ones will long enjoy the work of their hands’ (v. 22 NIV). Someone - [What it means to ‘love’ someone](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/what-it-means-to-love-someone/) - In today’s culture, the word ‘love’ means different things to different people. You can love your husband or wife, your country, your dog, your new mobile phone, and your car. But you don’t love your husband or wife the same way you love your mobile phone or your car, right? The television and tabloid kind - [Are you dealing with relationship problems?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/are-you-dealing-with-relationship-problems/) - When it comes to handling relationships, we all have our pluses and minuses, strengths and weaknesses. So to survive and flourish in a relationship, we must learn to persevere. Even when we have done the best we can to lessen our potential for failure, we must still be ready for it. If we stay mired - [The gift of confession](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-gift-of-confession/) - Spiritual healing takes place when you’re able to confess your problem to someone mature enough to handle it and committed enough to not give up on you. What does it mean to ‘walk in love’? a) To be confident of God’s unfailing love towards you. b) To show His love to others. c) To be - [You are under God’s protection](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-are-under-gods-protection/) - What is ‘the shadow of the Almighty’? In the wilderness where Israel wandered for forty years, temperatures could get up to 120 or 130 degrees. There was no shade except what was provided by the tents in which the people lived. So they understood this powerful metaphor, ‘under the shadow of the Almighty’. If you - [Work on improving your communication skills](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/work-on-improving-your-communication-skills/) - Whether in your personal life or your career, learning how to communicate with others is essential to success and happiness in a relationship. Apart from obtaining facts, communication should deliver a way to gain some understanding into the heart and mind of another person. And good communication calls for translation. Really, you’re learning that other - [Blind chance versus God’s command (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/blind-chance-versus-gods-command-2/) - Speaking of our amazing bodies…what about DNA? Each human cell (up to 100 trillion) contains a database larger than the Encyclopedia Britannica! Could all that have originated by chance? English physicist Paul Davies makes this comparison: ‘It’s rather like exploding a stick of dynamite under a pile of bricks and expecting it to build a - [Blind chance versus God’s command (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/blind-chance-versus-gods-command-1/) - Could life as we know it – plant, animal, and human life – have spontaneously happened by chance? Could our amazing solar system be the result of an accident? The more advanced science becomes, the more evidence there is for a Master Designer. Researchers continue to uncover the divine order in each tiny human cell. - [Never stop learning (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/never-stop-learning-2-2/) - Loving God with all your mind means managing your mind and making the most of it. It means loving God logically and creatively, intuitively, and thoughtfully. Albert Einstein, one of history’s greatest minds, said: ‘The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existence. One cannot help but be in - [Never stop learning (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/never-stop-learning-1-2/) - God has created us with the capacity to keep learning until the day we die, which is something we shouldn’t take for granted. The average brain weighs approximately three pounds, yet neurologists approximate that we have the ability to learn something new every second of every minute of every hour of every day for the - [This year, do first things first](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/this-year-do-first-things-first/) - We all get the same twenty-four hours every day. That’s 1,440 minutes, or 86,400 seconds. And we ‘must give an account to God’ for how we use them (see Ecclesiastes 11:9). A good place to start is by asking yourself, ‘How would I spend the next twenty-four hours if I knew I would stand before - [A new year, a new start](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/a-new-year-a-new-start/) - Refuse to let your past rob you of your future. This year God wants to give you a new start. Let’s face it, we all have relationships that can’t be healed, and issues that will never be resolved to our liking. But by God’s grace we can forgive, forget, and move on. You don’t have - [Get to know God next year](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/get-to-know-god-next-year/) - God says: ‘Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong boast of their strength or the rich boast of their riches, but let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know me’ (vv. 23-24 NIV). The truth is, if you don’t know God it doesn’t matter - [God and your work (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-and-your-work-3/) - The first person in the Bible who was said to be ‘filled with the Spirit of God’ was Bezalel. And if his name doesn’t ring a bell, it’s because he wasn’t a prophet, priest, king, or apostle. He was a craftsman, skilled in design. He had an eye for colour and a flair for management, - [God and your work (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-and-your-work-2/) - Most adults spend about half their waking lives at work. Your work is a huge part of God’s plan for your life. He designed a specific vocation just for you in which you should find personal fulfilment, meet the needs of your family, and help to perpetuate His purposes in the earth. The fourth commandment - [God and your work (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-and-your-work-1/) - In the Bible, you will notice that everybody works! And most of its heroes had secular vocations. Isaac developed land, Jacob was a farmer, Joseph served God best by staying in his well-paying government job rather than starting a non-profit, faith-based organisation to do charity work. Daniel was an immigrant who attended Babylon’s version of - [God’s first commission to us](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/gods-first-commission-to-us/) - The first thing God told Adam and Eve to do was ‘fill the earth and govern it’. Because Adam and Eve were banished from the Garden of Eden doesn’t mean they were limited to the Garden of Eden. God told them to ‘fill the earth and govern it’. Stop and think about it. God was - [Keep Christmas alive all year](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/keep-christmas-alive-all-year/) - An early pioneer travelling across the Great Plains stopped at the edge of the Grand Canyon. Amazed to discover a vast chasm one mile deep and eighteen miles wide stretching out of sight, he exclaimed, ‘Something must have happened here!’ And as Haddon Robinson observed: ‘At…Christmas…anyone who stops to look and listen must ask what - [He is all this…and more!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/he-is-all-thisand-more/) - Jack Hayford writes: Who is this Babe of Bethlehem…who became flesh…who called forth songs of angels…this Christ of Christmas?…the answer comes back with ringing authority…He is the Redeemer – “in whom we have redemption” (Colossians 1:14 NKJV). We who believe on His name have been “qualified” (v. 12 NKJV), “delivered” and “conveyed” (v. 13 NKJV) - [A whole new approach](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/a-whole-new-approach/) - When the angel visited Mary, he said, ‘Don’t be frightened…God has decided to…bless you!’ (Luke 1:30 TLB). Yet when it comes to approaching God directly, many religions are ruled by fear. Philip Yancey says: ‘Certainly the Jews associated fear with worship…A person “blessed” with a direct encounter with God expected to come away scorched or - [‘Silent Night’?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/silent-night/) - We have sung the words of that Christmas carol since infancy. But those words actually do not come from Scripture. ‘Silent Night’ was a poem written by an Austrian priest in 1816. The words conjure up a serene picture with the happy couple watching their newborn baby. It’s not likely, however, that there was silence. - [The power of a shared faith](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-power-of-a-shared-faith/) - If your attraction to your partner is founded only on the way they look, imagine how they might look twenty-five years from now. Regular exercise and good diet will only take you so far, then Mother Nature and Father Time begin to take their toll. The truth is that looks may bring you together, but - [Kids and kites](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/kids-and-kites/) - If you’re a parent, letting go of your children is often one of the toughest phases of parenting. Erma Bombeck compared it to flying a kite. ‘Mum and dad run down the road hoping to catch a breeze. Eventually, and with much effort, they manage to hoist the kite a few feet in the air. - [Patience, love, and encouragement](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/patience-love-and-encouragement/) - If you’d met Asaph, who wrote some of the psalms, you’d probably have thought he hadn’t a care in the world. But you’d have been wrong: ‘I came so close to the edge of the cliff! My feet were slipping and I was almost gone.’ Then at the end of the psalm he does a - [Character (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/character-2/) - Because he was handsome, Joseph attracted the unwanted attentions of his boss’s wife. Day after day, she tried to seduce him. Now fast-forward to later in his life: if Joseph encountered that level of temptation when he was just a household slave, can you imagine the level he was exposed to when he became Egypt’s - [Character (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/character-1/) - Abraham Lincoln said, ‘Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.’ It’s easier to focus on our talent because, generally speaking, it produces results that are rewarded and celebrated by others. In other words, there is an element of ego connected to our gifts. Character - [Winning the battle over apathy](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/winning-the-battle-over-apathy/) - Paul told Timothy, ‘Stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands.’ That Scripture means, even though you’re gifted, you can become apathetic if you don’t keep doing the right things. ‘Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we - [When you feel angry (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/when-you-feel-angry-2/) - Your anger may or may not hurt the person towards whom it’s directed, but it can definitely hurt you. Prolonged anger releases toxic chemicals into your body that elevate your blood pressure, create cholesterol, and increase your risk of stroke and heart attack. Every minute given to anger is a minute taken away from joy. - [When you feel angry (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/when-you-feel-angry-1/) - The Bible gives us three keys to handling our anger the right way. Let’s look at each one and see what we can learn: 1) ‘Be quick to listen.’ Don’t react, and don’t rush to judgment. Slow down and try to get the facts, then prayerfully and carefully consider how God wants you to respond. - [Don’t be afraid of failing](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/dont-be-afraid-of-failing/) - Because we are keenly aware of our limitations, we tend to limit our pursuits to our comfort zone. And that can lead to a life of mediocrity and unfulfilled dreams. Your efforts don’t rest solely on your shoulders, but on God’s. Yes, you have a part to play. But when you have done your best, - [Meditate on the Scriptures](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/meditate-on-the-scriptures/) - If you want to grow spiritually, you need a consistent diet of Scripture. In fact, you will never outgrow your diet of Scripture. There is no substitute. There is no supplement. The poet T.S. Eliot said, ‘Everything we eat has some…effect upon us. It affects us during the process of assimilation and digestion; and I - [Set healthy boundaries](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/set-healthy-boundaries/) - Paul writes, ‘Do you think I make my plans carelessly? Do you think I am like people of the world who say “Yes” when they really mean “No”? As surely as God is faithful, our word to you does not waver’ (vv.17-18 NLT). Paul had learned to set boundaries on his relationships, and you must - [Contrary winds (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/contrary-winds-3/) - The winds were contrary when Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, they were contrary on their way to the promised land, and they were contrary when they got there. There is no such thing as a storm-free voyage: ‘Through…hardships and tribulations we…enter the kingdom’ (Acts 14:22 AMPC). When you have to fight to stay - [Contrary winds (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/contrary-winds-2/) - Paul told everyone on board the ship bound for Rome, ‘The voyage will be with injury and much loss, not only of the cargo and the ship, but…our lives’ (v. 10 RSV). One author writes: ‘Paul didn’t talk about a little skirmish…a little loss…This voyage would be beset with disasters, with much loss, even to - [Contrary winds (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/contrary-winds-1/) - When you set out to do anything for God, the Enemy will make sure you encounter ‘contrary winds’. In fact, if you’re not sailing against the wind, chances are you’re headed in the wrong direction! The Bible says Jesus was ‘tempted of the devil’ (Matthew 4:1 KJV). Satan never let up, including the night before - [Humble yourself](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/humble-yourself/) - Jesus said: ‘Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a despised tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: “I thank you, God, that I am not like other people – cheaters, sinners, adulterers. I’m certainly not like that tax collector! I fast - [How to pray when you are sick](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/how-to-pray-when-you-are-sick/) - The Bible says, ‘Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up’ (vv.14-15 NIV). So, let’s be in - [Do you know why you’re here?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/do-you-know-why-youre-here/) - When it comes to God’s will for your life, He decides it and you discover it. It’s not something you can change, a topic for debate, or a plan you get to have a say in. The truth is, you can miss God’s will and be miserable, or do things His way and experience ‘glorious, - [A father’s blessing](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/a-fathers-blessing/) - Every child longs for their father’s blessing, and every father is called to bless their children. When Isaac blessed his sons, he was acting on God’s behalf, using his divinely delegated power to impart blessing. A father’s blessing was a cherished institution, but its effectiveness rested on the fact that Isaac blessed his sons as - [Finding common ground (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/finding-common-ground-3/) - To establish common ground, you must be adaptable. Thomas Aquinas said, ‘To convert somebody, go and take them by the hand and guide them.’ You must be willing to move from where you are to where they are; to adapt and try to see things from their point of view. Anytime you’re aware of distance - [Finding common ground (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/finding-common-ground-2/) - Whether you’re applying for a job, trying to win someone to Christ, counselling and advising, or correcting someone’s behaviour, to be effective you must look for common ground. Let’s look at some of the qualities that calls for. Availability. Paul writes: ‘I have voluntarily become a servant to…all…to reach a wide range of people.’ Establishing - [Finding common ground (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/finding-common-ground-1/) - To influence someone, you must first connect with them. And to do that, you must look for common ground. Paul writes, ‘I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some.’ In The Message, Eugene Peterson paraphrases Paul’s words: ‘Even though I am free of the demands and expectations of - [Meditation for beginners](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/meditation-for-beginners/) - Hopefully by now you are convinced that the power that comes from meditating on God’s Word is a power you need working in your life. But maybe you’re a beginner and you need a starting point. You’re thinking, ‘Yes, I know I need to spend more time meditating on God’s Word, but how do I - [Do what God says](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/do-what-god-says/) - When God gives you a vision for your life, He doesn’t give you all the details up front. He simply says, ‘Don’t be afraid; just do what I say, and I will guide you and prosper you.’ What did Abram’s vision involve? ‘The Lord said to Abram: Leave your country, your family, and your relatives - [Praying God’s promises (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/praying-gods-promises-2/) - When you begin to pray scripturally based prayers, you will get the answers you need. Here is why: the Bible is God’s Word, and He always keeps His Word. Here is how to pray: 1) When you don’t have the answer. ‘Call to me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty - [Praying God’s promises (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/praying-gods-promises-1/) - According to one count, there are 3,573 promises in the Bible. That’s almost ten promises for each day of the year. When you know which of those promises apply to you, and you fulfil the conditions that go with them, you can literally begin to pray God’s promises into existence in your life (see John - [Meditate on God’s Word](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/meditate-on-gods-word/) - Thomas à Kempis wrote, ‘If you wish to grow in your spiritual life, you must not allow yourself to be caught up in the workings of the world. You must find time alone, away from the noise and confusion, from the allure of power and wealth.’ You say, ‘Does that mean God doesn’t want me - [God will rescue you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/god-will-rescue-you/) - Are you feeling hopeless about the situation you’re in and don’t know which way to turn? Maybe you’re struggling to find a reason to keep going, but you’re so tired and overwhelmed that you just want to give up. If that’s the case, you’re in a vulnerable place. Look out – Satan will try to - [The art of being a sheep (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-art-of-being-a-sheep-2/) - We need to know two things: 1) Our shepherd’s character. Jesus distinguished good shepherds from bad ones (see John 10:11-16). Bad shepherds look out for their own interests, not the welfare of the sheep. They’re unreliable; when a threat arises, they abandon the flock. But Jesus claimed, ‘I am the good shepherd’ (John 10:11 KJV). - [The art of being a sheep (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/the-art-of-being-a-sheep-1/) - Perhaps you memorised Psalm 23 as a child. The vivid visual images remain with us lifelong. Author Hannah Whitall Smith said, ‘What we all need is just to get back into the nursery again, and take up our childish verses once more, and, while reading them with the intelligence of our grown-up years, to believe - [You are a wonder](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/you-are-a-wonder/) - Despite your aches and pains, you are a living, breathing, walking, talking wonder. The psalmist said, ‘You created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made’ (vv. 13-14 NIV). One author explains: ‘Most of us take our eyesight for granted, but even - [What makes you glad, sad, or mad?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/what-makes-you-glad-sad-or-mad/) - A pastor writes: ‘What makes you glad or sad or mad? What puts a holy smile on your face? What causes your spirit to sob uncontrollably? What makes you pound your fist on the table out of righteous indignation? Somewhere in the mixture of that gladness, sadness, and madness is your God-ordained passion. Or maybe - [Pray for a ‘sympathy breakthrough’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wft/pray-for-a-sympathy-breakthrough/) - The poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote, ‘If we could read the secret history of our enemies, we should find in each man’s life sorrow and suffering enough to disarm all hostility.’ In his documentary on twentieth-century wars, Jonathan Glover refers to what he calls ‘sympathy breakthroughs’. Even in the situation of war, acts of compassion ## WFY - [Rich young ruler (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/rich-young-ruler-1/) - ‘A certain ruler asked him, “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?”…Jesus answered…“You know the commandments: ‘You shall not commit adultery, you shall not murder, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, honour your father and mother.’” “All these I have kept since I was a boy,” he said. - [Irreversibly blessed](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/irreversibly-blessed/) - The Israelites conquered the Promised Land and took possession of it, one town and one city at a time. As they approached Moab, one of its princes named Balak hired a prophet named Balaam to pronounce a curse upon the advancing Israeli armies. Standing on a mountain overlooking the camp of Israel, Balak expected curses - [Spirit and soul](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/spirit-and-soul/) - If we were simply a ‘spirit-being’ our spiritual potential would be unlimited. But we have to constantly contend with our soul, which is our emotions, will, and intellect. We also have to cope with the needs and appetites of our physical body. We’re constantly torn between our spiritual and earthly bodies. Our human nature and - [God’s presence](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-presence/) - In the Old Testament, the most recognised symbol of God’s presence was the ark of the covenant. Wherever the ark was, God’s presence was there. But we have His presence always. ‘God has said, “I will never leave you; I will never abandon you”’ (Hebrews 13:5 NCV). God’s presence is with us always, nothing can - [Good gifts](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/good-gifts/) - Some people are really great gift givers. They know exactly what to buy to make the person feel understood and loved. God is the ultimate gift giver. He always knows what we need. He always knows what the desires of our heart are. He always knows the right time to give us the gift. And - [Steps](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/steps/) - Part of God’s plan for Elijah was for him to stand on Mount Carmel, call down fire from heaven, and rescue Israel from a life of worshipping idols. But he could only get there one step at a time. That’s how God works. First God sent him to a brook at Cherith (which means ‘covenant’). - [Wise heart](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/wise-heart/) - As we’re growing up, we can often begin to resent our parent’s wisdom. We want to do things our own way. We think we know better than they do. And sometimes we do. But most of the time, our parents, or youth leaders, or teachers, do know best. They can speak into our lives from - [Lies, masks and exaggeration](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/lies-masks-and-exaggeration/) - Ever told a lie to try and avoid hurting someone’s feelings? Ever exaggerated your story to make others think more of you? We may only be trying to spare someone’s feelings or make ourselves look better to others, but it’s still wrong. We can see this in the story of Ananias and Sapphira. When this - [Let it go](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/let-it-go-3/) - When Abraham tried to hurry the plan of God and make it happen through well-intentioned but misguided human effort, Ishmael was born (you can read the story in Genesis 16). We can often try and hurry God’s plans too. When He promises us something, we can try and manipulate the situation so that it comes - [Fear (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/fear-5/) - Every day fear and faith will rise up inside of us, and we get to decide which one will shape our day. The one we feed will come out on top. We can’t expect fear to simply disappear. If we focus on our fears, think constantly about them, and give in to them, they’ll increase. - [Fear (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/fear-4/) - Yesterday and tomorrow both want our attention. Yesterday wants us to second-guess our decisions and worry if we did the right thing. That’s wasted energy. It wants to keep us looking backwards, going over and over the things we did and said. Sometimes it wants us to remember the good times so that we worry - [Fear (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/fear-3/) - When we feel fear, we might think we’ve failed as a Christian. After all, we’re told so many times throughout the Bible not to be afraid. But it’s not the feeling of fear that’s bad, it’s our response to the fear that can cause us problems. When we let our fears stop us from doing - [Fear (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/fear-2/) - When fear takes over our lives, we can’t fully live. We become paralysed by our fears, afraid to move forward into the future or experience our present. But the truth is that many of our fears don’t come to anything. A lot of the things that we worry about never happen, yet we’ve spent hours, - [Fear (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/fear-1/) - A lot of our fears are based on feelings, not facts. When we look beyond our fears and think about the things that lie beneath them, we can understand them a bit better. For example, if we were raised in poverty we may be afraid to be generous. If we were abandoned we may be - [Seeing then serving](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/seeing-then-serving/) - How many people do you reckon we end up seeing in one day? It’s probably quite a few. There’s the people we know, the people we pass in the street, the people we see in magazines or on TV. But how many of those people do we really see? How many times do we stop - [Timing, location, and purpose](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/timing-location-and-purpose/) - Sometimes we can wonder why we’re here. What’s our purpose? What can we do with the time we have, the places we go and our lives in general? Firstly, it’s important to remember that God’s always wanted us; we’re no accident. He scheduled the moment of our birth, has a purpose for our lives, and - [God first (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-first-2/) - Sometimes we can end up saying ‘why do bad things happen to good people?’ or ‘I’ve been through enough, why me?!’ But we’re not promised an easy life. Jesus never said ‘Follow me and it will be an easy and uneventful life.’ He actually said: ‘If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself - [God first (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-first-1/) - We can often be pretty selfish. We want to put our desires, our needs, and our plans above everything else. We may still seek God, but we stop seeking Him first. We stop prioritising Him in our lives. We end up just fitting Him in to our busy schedules and only praying when we need - [Kingdom success](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/kingdom-success/) - We’re all called to increase God’s kingdom. Whether that’s by introducing people to God, or by living in such a way that more of God’s kingdom is seen on Earth, our purpose is to follow God’s call on our lives. God uses us all for His kingdom. Maybe it’s a calling to share our faith - [Keep on praying](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/keep-on-praying/) - When we’ve been praying for ages and haven’t seen an answer, or it doesn’t even feel like God’s listening, we can become discouraged and stop praying. But the Bible tells us to ‘never stop praying.’ God wants us to be persistent pray-ers. He may not answer in the way we think He should, or within - [Go back to the cross](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/go-back-to-the-cross/) - We all go through times when we feel hopeless and worthless. Times when we feel unloved and rejected. It can be hard to know where to turn. But what we need to do at those times is simply go back to the cross, and remember what Jesus did for us. When He gave up His - [Integrity](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/integrity-3/) - Integrity is all about us being a whole, honest person. And that means we’re the same wherever we are, whatever we’re doing and whoever we’re with. We can often end up putting on different masks or identities, depending on the situation. Maybe how we are with our parents is totally different from how we are - [Start again](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/start-again/) - However much we try not to, we’ll all fail at some point in our lives. But that doesn’t need to stop us. Failure can be used to make us stronger, it grows us and prevents us from making the same mistakes again. When we become trapped by our failings and anything else in our past, - [Conviction and credibility (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/conviction-and-credibility-2/) - The second quality we must have when we're dealing with others is: Credibility. When people trust you, they’ll listen to what you have to say. In the early stages of a relationship, (and that could be any type of relationship, like a friendship, a work colleague, a tutor, a romantic relationship) the other person involved - [Conviction and credibility (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/conviction-and-credibility-1/) - On the night before his spectacular victory over the Midianites, Gideon told his army of three hundred men, ‘Watch me…Follow my lead…do exactly as I do’ (Judges 7:17 NIV). Have a think about how you would react if your boss, a tutor, or your best friend said that to you. Would you be prepared to - [Look ahead (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/look-ahead-2/) - Bethel is where Jacob had his life-changing dream, and made a vow to God. Gilgal is where the Israelites camped after God miraculously parted the Jordan River and they stepped into the Promised Land for the first time. Beersheba is where Isaac dug a well and built an altar. All three places held special significance; - [Look ahead (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/look-ahead-1/) - God told Elijah that Elisha would eventually take his place as prophet. And Elisha’s ministry started like this: ‘He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the plowing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people …Then he set out to follow Elijah.’ It sounds pretty drastic. Destroying his - [Make the first move](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/make-the-first-move/) - Two of the most famous ‘marriage advice’ type of verses can shed some real light on how all relationships, not just the relationship between husband and wife, can work better: be considerate (1 Peter 3:7) and be worthy of respect (1 Timothy 3:11). In any kind of relationship, it’s about growing an environment where the - [Jairus (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/jairus-4/) - While Jairus was asking Jesus to come and heal his daughter, someone came to him and said, ‘Your daughter is dead…Don’t bother the teacher anymore.’ But Jesus responded: ‘Don’t be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed’ (v.50 NIV). Jairus was given two conflicting voices to listen to. Would he listen to the human - [Jairus (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/jairus-3/) - When Jairus first went to Jesus, his daughter was critically ill but still alive. Then while he was with Jesus, he was told: ‘Your daughter is dead’ (v. 49 NLT). Jesus then looked at Jairus and said, ‘Don’t be afraid. Just have faith, and she will be healed’ (v. 50 NLT). In between approaching Jesus - [Jairus (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/jairus-2/) - When Jairus asked Jesus to come to his house because his daughter was dying, he was interceding for his daughter. And we can come to Jesus with other people’s needs too. Paul said: ‘I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people.’ We can ask for things for others, those we - [Jairus (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/jairus-1/) - When Jairus’ daughter was ill, he knew that Jesus could heal her. The Bible tells us that when Jairus reached Jesus, he ‘fell at his feet, begging him to come to his house’ (NCV). And we can bring our problems to Jesus’ feet too. When something happens in our lives, we should take them straight - [God’s will](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-will/) - The Psalmist wrote: ‘You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God’ (vv.16-17 NLT). If you want to know God’s will for your life, pray this prayer: - [Hiding place](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/hiding-place-2/) - Ever felt like escaping? Like your problems were so overwhelming that you couldn’t take facing them anymore? Or you just needed a break from everyone and everything? We’ll probably all feel like that at some point in our lives. A couple of week’s holiday away from everything may help in the short-term, but at some - [Zeal](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/zeal/) - We’re called to be on fire for God, to be passionate and to be intentional in how we live for Him. But it’s not always easy. Our faith can be pushed to the background, we can lose our motivation to seek God and we can become weighed down by things we have to face in - [Setback to comeback](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/setback-to-comeback/) - When we feel like we’re experiencing a setback, we’re often being prepared for a comeback. When we feel like we’ve taken some steps backwards, it can actually mean we end up moving forwards afterwards. Good Friday is a great illustration of this. On the Saturday between Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday, it seemed all was - [Telling people about God (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/telling-people-about-god-2/) - If we're not used to telling others about God (and sometimes even when we are), it can be a nerve-wracking experience. But as we talked about yesterday, it's something that we're called to do. It's something Jesus commanded. Maybe we've tried, and not got very far. We might have a friend or know someone at - [Telling people about God (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/telling-people-about-god-1/) - On one of the occasions when Jesus was teaching, the Bible tells us that ‘the large crowd listened to him with delight’ (Mark 12:37 NIV). And there were lots of other times when Jesus drew a large crowd; we know that He had to feed 5,000 people who had come to hear Him speak. And - [Teamwork](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/teamwork/) - Working with others can be tough. We have different ideas, different personalities and different ways of getting things done. But we’re called to work together. When Paul wrote to the church in Corinth, he said: ‘Some members of Chloe’s household have told me about your quarrels’ (v. 11 NLT). Then he went on to say, - [Church foundations (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/church-foundations-3/) - The first church we read about is in Acts 2. It was set up just after Pentecost, the time when the Holy Spirit came. The church written about in Acts 2 has become a model that many people think churches should follow. The Message version describes the church like this: ‘They committed themselves to the - [Church foundations (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/church-foundations-2/) - Paul (also called Saul) was one of the least likely people to be a crucial part of the building of the church. He was one of the people trying to stop the church from growing. In Acts 8, we’re told that he was persecuting the Jerusalem church. ‘Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to - [Church foundations (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/church-foundations-1/) - After Jesus’ ascension, the early church was founded. But even before this, Jesus already knew that the church would be built through Peter. After Simon Peter had recognised Jesus’ identity as the Messiah, Jesus recognised Simon Peter’s. Jesus said: ‘I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church.’ - [Bitter or better?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/bitter-or-better/) - At seventeen, Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery. He suffered for many years because of what his brother had done to him. Once he was ruler of Egypt, during the time of the famine, he held the power of life and death over his brothers. And despite what they’d done to him, and the things - [Sorry](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/sorry/) - When someone hurts us, we tend to want an apology. And when that ‘sorry’ doesn’t come, we can hold it against that person. But if we want to move forward, we have to accept that an apology may never come in the way we want it to. After Jacob cheated his brother Esau out of - [Ants (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/ants-4/) - Ants don't have any sort of retirement. They always have a job to do, whatever stage of life they're at. Ants literally die working. That doesn't mean that we should all suddenly become workaholics. The Bible doesn’t promote a lifestyle that’s dangerous to our health and makes us neglect important things like friends and family. - [Ants (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/ants-3/) - A leaf-cutting ant might have to carry up to fifty times its own weight nearly 100 metres. That’s the equivalent of a man carrying five tons on his back for 17 miles. In one single summer, a large colony of ants can dig out 30 to 40 thousand pounds of earth to make a nest, - [Ants (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/ants-2/) - Whatever task they’re doing, ants never see their work as menial or beneath their dignity. Whether it’s moving dirt or carrying bread crumbs, they merrily go along doing their job. We can often be disappointed in the work we're doing, or think that we deserve something better. Maybe we want to be leading worship in church, - [Ants (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/ants-1/) - Proverbs 6 says: ‘Take a lesson from the ants…Learn from their ways and become wise! (v. 6 NLT). It seems strange to be asking us to take ants as one of our role-models, but when we take some time to think about them, there are several things they can show us. We'll be looking at - [Be a peacemaker](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-a-peacemaker/) - When we’re peace-lovers, it generally means we’re looking out for our own interests. We desire for things to be peaceful, and we love it when they are, but we don’t do anything about it when that peace disappears. When we’re peacemakers, we’re committed to making that peace happen. Making peace isn’t easy. We can end - [Discover your assignment](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/discover-your-assignment/) - Finding our God-given assignment is an exciting, and maybe even daunting experience. It might involve stepping out of our comfort zone and into something unfamiliar, but God loves us and wants us to succeed in the task He’s given us. But how do we discover our own assignment in the first place? Here are some - [Salt and light](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/salt-and-light/) - As Christians, we’re called to be world-changers. To go against the status quo, challenge popular culture and encourage others to do good too. We’re supposed to stand out. The Bible says: ‘Do not conform to the pattern of this world’ (Romans 12:2 NIV). And one way we can stand out is by acting more like Christ. - [What’s your ox goad?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/whats-your-ox-goad/) - Shamgar was able to save Israel from the Philistines. The Bible tells us that ‘he once killed 600 Philistines with an ox goad’. This suggests that he didn’t have a sword or spear, but just had to use what he had. And that was an ox goad, which was used to guide animals. What’s our - [Faithful serving](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/faithful-serving-2/) - Ever been serving God and thought you shouldn’t have to do the task you’re doing? Ever got tired of serving when it doesn’t seem to be making any difference? Ever thought ‘why am I even bothering?’ It can be easy to have these thoughts. But when it comes to serving God, and others, we need - [Friendship (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/friendship-2-2/) - We all need friends in our lives. And when we don’t have them, we can feel lonely, isolated and like we have to go through life on our own. The Bible says that ‘God sets the lonely in families.’ He knows when we’re feeling lonely, and when we ask Him to provide us with true, godly - [Friendship (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/friendship-1-2/) - The Bible says: ‘Friends come and…go, but a true friend sticks by you.’ So what’s the difference between a friend and a true friend? Friends can be there for you sometimes, but true friends help each other out, no matter what it costs. The Bible tells us that ‘two…are better off than one…they can help - [Personal Provider](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/personal-provider/) - At the start of Psalm 23, David says: ‘The Lord is my shepherd’. By saying this, he was affirming that he had a very personal relationship with God; one that was unique. God has given each of us a one-of-a-kind personality, gifting, purpose, and calling. And He wants a relationship with us that is unlike - [Love God’s Word (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/love-gods-word-5/) - Reading, receiving, researching, remembering, and reflecting on God’s Word are important, but we must also respond to it. John 13:17 reminds us: ‘Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them’ (NIV). It’s not enough to just know the truth. God blesses us when we apply that truth to our - [God the Father](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-the-father/) - God is the ultimate Father figure for us. Whatever our experiences of earthly fathers have been like, God is the perfect Father for us all. He knows us better than we know ourselves. The Bible says: ‘I’m an open book to you; even from a distance, you know what I’m thinking. You know when I - [Fathers](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/fathers/) - Today is Father’s Day. A day we can use as an opportunity to thank our fathers for what they do, and have done, for us. Being a father, or just a parent in general, can be a pretty tough job, and they can have a huge impact on us. Throughout the Bible, there’s advice for - [Love God’s Word (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/love-gods-word-4/) - Here are some ways that you can develop and deepen your love of God’s Word: 1) By researching it. Our Bible study should give us insight, not just information. A great way to start is to write down thoughts and ideas that come to you while you’re reading. Ask questions about what you’re reading, and - [Love God’s Word (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/love-gods-word-3/) - As we fill our minds with God’s Word, the Holy Spirit will use it to transform us. ‘Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives’ (Colossians 3:16 NLT). So how do we do that? 1) By committing to reading God’s - [Love God’s Word (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/love-gods-word-2/) - In John’s third letter, he writes, ‘I hope all is well with you and that you are as healthy in body as you are strong in spirit’ (3 John v.2 NLT). To ensure we’re also ‘strong in spirit’, we need to be making God’s Word one of our first priorities each day. Jesus said, ‘If - [Love God’s Word (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/love-gods-word-1/) - When we study the Bible, amazing things can happen. We’ll find that all kinds of new ideas start to form in our minds, which then resonate in our heart, and help to bring the truth of the Bible to life. God’s Word is powerful, because the Holy Spirit uses it to speak to us and - [Wisdom](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/wisdom/) - When God said to Solomon ‘ask for whatever you want me to give you’ (1 Kings 3:5 NIV), Solomon must have had a lot going through his mind. What should he ask for? He chose something many of us may not have even considered asking for. He chose wisdom. Solomon said: ‘Give your servant a discerning - [Longing for home](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/longing-for-home/) - Ever had a really rough, tiring day? The sort of day when you haven’t got another scrap of energy left, and you’re so mentally drained that it almost hurts to think? The sort of day when you crave home? When you finally do get home, and curl up in your pyjamas with a hot cup - [Right words](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/right-words/) - Our words have power. They can lift people up or bring them down. They can heal or they can hurt. They can speak God’s truth or the enemy’s lies. And we have the ability to choose, every day, the way we use our words. The Bible says: ‘May these words of my mouth and this - [Good examples](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/good-examples/) - When we’re children, we respect and look up to lots of people. Sometimes it’s someone in our family, maybe a teacher or someone like a youth leader. We want to be like them and respect them. They set us an example to follow and show us right from wrong. They may even set us an - [Heartsick (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/heartsick-2/) - When we try and do everything in our own strength, we can become burnt out. Sometimes we try and do everything on our own because it doesn’t feel like God’s working, or maybe because we’re trying to prove ourselves and gain His acceptance, or maybe we just think we know how to solve everything. But - [Heartsick (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/heartsick-1/) - When we’ve been praying for something for a long time, we can become discouraged when it doesn’t seem to be happening. We keep expectantly praying, we keep hoping, but nothing seems to change. We begin to tire in our prayers, we start expecting nothing to happen. We lose hope. The Bible says: ‘Hope deferred makes - [Push through to victory](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/push-through-to-victory/) - When we’re facing problems in our lives, we can sometimes end up feeling despondent, bitter and like giving up on our faith. But Paul says: ‘We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know…they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope…And - [Responding with grace](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/responding-with-grace-2/) - At the Last Supper, John’s gospel tells us that Jesus sat down and washed the disciples’ feet. It was a horrible task, after having walked the dusty streets all day in sandals, and it was usually done by the lowest servant of the household. The disciples must have been shocked to see their leader doing - [Desire: Attractiveness](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/desire-attractiveness/) - The Bible tells us to eat, drink, celebrate, sing, dance, shout, and make music – all things we do with our bodies. And these things can actually become a way of remembering how good God is. Our physical lives are not separate from our spiritual lives. After all, it’s God’s Spirit who makes our bodies - [Desire: Friendship](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/desire-friendship/) - Jonathan and David had a very strong friendship. The Bible says: ‘By the time David had finished reporting to Saul, Jonathan was deeply impressed with David – an immediate bond was forged between them. He became totally committed to David. From that point on he would be David’s number-one advocate and friend’ (1 Samuel 18:1 - [Desire: Achievement](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/desire-achievement/) - We can all have the desire to achieve. We want to do well in exams, perform in our jobs and be the best we can be. We crave success. This is often seen as a bad thing. But the key is to make sure we’re desiring to achieve at the right things. In the Bible, - [Desire: Wealth](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/desire-wealth/) - Making money and working hard at your job are things that can bring glory to God. In Acts 16, we’re introduced to Lydia, a businesswoman who dealt in textiles. She was one of Paul’s first converts to Christianity and was so successful she owned her own home. It was large enough to become the meeting - [Why read the Bible?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/why-read-the-bible/) - Whether we think it’s outdated, unhelpful, boring or simply something we can’t fit in to our busy schedules, it can be easy for our Bible to be left on the side, gathering dust. But Paul wrote to Timothy: ‘There’s nothing like the written Word of God for showing you the way to salvation through faith - [Be creative](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-creative/) - All of us are creative in some way. Maybe we like writing, baking, painting, drawing or making music. Maybe we like thinking creatively about a problem. That’s what a group of people did in the Bible when they were trying to get their friend to be able to see Jesus. Their friend was paralysed and - [Idolising (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/idolising-2/) - It’s a fairly good guess that anyone who builds a statue of themselves is probably trying to compensate for something. Nebuchadnezzar’s statue was the ultimate display of pride. And the truth is, we all have a little Nebuchadnezzar in us. We can get upset when people don’t do what we want. We can get angry - [Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/shadrach-meshach-and-abednego-1/) - In the book of Daniel, we’re told that King Nebuchadnezzar built a huge statue of himself, and then commanded everyone to bow down and worship it (take a look at Daniel 3:1-6). Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego knew they should only be worshipping God. But they also knew that if they refused, they’d be executed in - [Where’s God in the storm?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/wheres-god-in-the-storm-2/) - There are times when God seems inaccessible. When we pray and we don’t feel God’s listening, we can end up feeling abandoned and like we have to face our situations alone. And that can also make us feel terrified and even hopeless. Paul understood those feelings. He’d longed for an opportunity to preach in Rome, - [Spiritual maturity](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/spiritual-maturity/) - As children grow and mature, they progress from milk to solid foods. And in Hebrews, our spiritual journey is compared to this progression. The Bible says: ‘Anyone who lives on milk is still a baby and knows nothing about right teaching. But solid food is for those who are grown up. They are mature enough to - [The resurrection](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-resurrection/) - People have argued about the truth of the resurrection for centuries. And it can seem like an unbelievable story. If it happened in our lifetime, would we really believe that someone who had been executed would rise from the dead, fully alive, a few days later? It sounds impossible. It's not really surprising that Thomas - [Being there (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/being-there-4/) - Some of us are natural fixers. We want to help people and take away their problems. We want to make things better for the person who’s struggling. We throw everything we have into helping someone else. But there are some things we just can’t fix. And we have to remember that being there for others - [Being there (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/being-there-3/) - When we’re trying to be there for someone, we can be sympathetic or we can go one step further and be empathetic. While sympathy shows compassion and kindness, empathy provides understanding. Empathy is putting ourselves into their shoes. Walking the pain with them. And true empathy can only come from having gone through the same, - [Being there (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/being-there-2/) - When a friend or family member is in a crisis, we need to be there for them. Being there for people is what the kingdom of God is all about. We’re told to ‘carry each other’s burdens’. But ‘being there’ may look different depending on the person or the situation. Sometimes, we just need to - [Being there (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/being-there-1/) - When someone’s facing a crisis, we can end up saying, ‘It’s not my responsibility. I don’t want to get involved’. Sometimes it’s because we’re not willing to put ourselves out for others, other times it’s because we’re already dealing with a lot, or it’s just inconvenient timing. Or maybe we’re so wrapped up in our - [Praying for your assignment](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/praying-for-your-assignment/) - We should all want to be successful for God. His idea of success isn’t the same as the world’s idea of success, so it’s important that we take time to pray about our work and the tasks He’s assigned to us, so we can stay focused and on track. Here’s a prayer we can all - [Discernment](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/discernment-2/) - When God asked Solomon what he wanted, Solomon gave what we might think of as a surprising answer. Out of everything he could have wanted, he asked for the gift of wisdom. He prayed: ‘Give your servant a discerning heart…to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of - [Freedom (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/freedom-2/) - Throughout the Bible, we see people being set free. When the Israelites were in captivity, ‘they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress’ (v.13 NIV). When people were trapped in their sin, Jesus forgave them and set them free. Jesus can free us today, and ‘if the Son sets you - [Freedom (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/freedom-1/) - For 400 years the Israelites were enslaved by Egyptian taskmasters who oppressed them and ‘made their lives bitter’ (Exodus 1:14 NIV). Many of us can relate to their feelings of helplessness when we think about areas in our own lives where we struggle with habits. Whether it’s food, alcohol, money, procrastination or something else, we’ve - [Dependable](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dependable/) - We all have habits, struggles, weaknesses, dreams, childhood memories, unspoken needs, and longings that we keep hidden deep inside. We don’t want the world to know about some of the more painful memories we’re holding on to, or for anyone to find out about the things we’re ashamed of. And the truth is, we can’t - [Speaking in the storm](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/speaking-in-the-storm/) - When we’re going through a challenging time, it can be easy for God’s voice to be drowned out by the wind and waves of the storm we’re facing. Things like fear, disappointment and bitterness that we’re having to go through a trial, can take God’s place. But the truth is, we can’t avoid storms in - [Welcome the test (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/welcome-the-test-3/) - God said to Abraham, ‘Because you…have not withheld…your only son…I will multiply your descendants as the stars of the heaven.’ Isaac was the lifelong dream of a barren woman named Sarah and her husband Abraham. He was probably the biggest blessing they could ever have imagined. But God had an even bigger blessing in store. - [Welcome the test (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/welcome-the-test-2/) - Abraham considered Isaac to be a special gift from God. But God-given gifts can be both great and dangerous things. If we’re not careful we can end up relying on the gifts God’s given us, more than we rely on God Himself. We start doing things in our own strength and forget that we need - [Welcome the test (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/welcome-the-test-1/) - The Bible says: ‘God tested Abraham, and said…“Take now your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you.” So Abraham…went to the place of which God had told him’ - [Barabbas](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/barabbas-2/) - The Bible says: ‘With one voice they cried out, ‘Away with this man! Release Barabbas to us!’ (Barabbas had been thrown into prison for an insurrection in the city, and for murder)’ (vv.18-19 NIV). Barabbas was a ‘notorious prisoner’ (Matthew 27:16 ESV) but still the people chose for Him to be released. Imagine how he - [Bring them to Jesus](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/bring-them-to-jesus/) - Every time Andrew makes an appearance in John’s gospel, he’s bringing someone to Christ. First he brought his brother, Peter. Then he brought a boy to Jesus who had five loaves and two fish (have a read of John 6). And in John 12, he was involved in introducing a group of Greeks to Christ. - [It’s not you, it’s me (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/its-not-you-its-me-3/) - Whatever our past may have been, God has a better future in mind for us. But too often, we keep ourselves stuck in the past. We hold onto bitterness, hurt and disappointment. We keep thinking about the things that have happened to us, or the mistakes we’ve made. We prevent ourselves from moving forward into - [It’s not you, it’s me (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/its-not-you-its-me-2/) - When we’ve made a mistake in our lives, we can be quick to blame others. But often we’ve had a choice. And we need to take responsibility for that. So when we get to a place of realising that we’ve made mistakes, there’s three things we need to do. First, we need to refuse. Refuse - [It’s not you, it’s me (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/its-not-you-its-me-1/) - When God asked Adam if he’d eaten from the tree that God had told them not to eat from, Adam told God that it was Eve who made him do it. Eve told God that the devil had made her do it. Both were blaming others. It’s true that without Eve suggesting Adam tried the - [Compassion](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/compassion-2/) - In Matthew 25, Jesus gives us a description of what Judgment Day will be like: ‘All the nations will be gathered in his presence, and he will separate the people as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will place the sheep at his right hand and the goats at his left. Then - [Be careful what you say](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-careful-what-you-say/) - Ever thought about the power of words? The things people say to us can last for years. They can shape how we behave and what we think about ourselves. And our words can do the same for others. And when our words are lies or gossip, they can create big problems. The Bible says: ‘Consider - [Accuser vs. advocate (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/accuser-vs-advocate-2/) - Paul writes: ‘Who can accuse the people God has chosen? No one, because God is the One who makes them right. Who can say God’s people are guilty? No one, because Christ Jesus died, but he was also raised from the dead, and now he is on God’s right side, appealing to God for us’ - [Accuser vs. advocate (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/accuser-vs-advocate-1/) - When John wrote that ‘the accuser of our brothers and sisters has been thrown down to earth – the one who accuses them before our God day and night’ (v. 10 NLT), he was talking about Satan. And Satan has only one aim: ‘To steal and kill and destroy’ (John 10:10 NIV). He’ll try and - [Music](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/music/) - The Bible says: ‘How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise Him!’ (Psalm 147:1 NIV). There's something about expressing our love for God in music and singing that helps us to reinforce our faith. When we've been singing praise and worship songs, we tend to come away - [What’s the point?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/whats-the-point/) - In the book of Ecclesiastes, Solomon talks about all the things in life he tried and found to be disappointing: the pursuit of knowledge, pleasure, and wealth. In the last chapter of Ecclesiastes he sums it all up: ‘Everything is meaningless’ (v.8 NIV). Most of us will, at some point, feel the same. When we - [Jabez (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/jabez-4/) - Not only did Jabez have great ambition, he had a growing faith and a deep trust in God. He had enough faith to pray and expect an answer. There’s no mention of Jabez having any special ability or talent. The Bible doesn’t say he was wealthy or educated. We can often be worried that we’re - [Jabez (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/jabez-3/) - One of the things Jabez prayed was ‘enlarge my territory’. That can be confusing when we first read it. We’re used to being told not to desire material things or crave loads of possessions. Luke 12:15 says, ‘Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own’ (NLT), and Hebrews - [Jabez (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/jabez-2/) - There are three specific ways Jabez prayed that God would bless him: 1) ‘Enlarge my territory.’ He had a dream of owning more land, and he asked God to bless that dream. When we stop dreaming we lose direction. When we stop setting goals we stop growing. It’s always good to have something we’re pushing - [Jabez (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/jabez-1/) - In 1 Chronicles, the Bible tells us about a man named Jabez. The first nine chapters consist of genealogies, listing more than six hundred names. And right there in the middle of all those names, God singles out one man for special recognition, and his name is Jabez. There are only two verses in the - [Blessed on the job](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/blessed-on-the-job/) - Vocation. It’s your day-to-day, your job, your life’s work. The word comes from the Latin word vocare, which means ‘spiritual calling.’ Every vocation, regardless of what it is, is a calling from God. The work of God is for all the people of God, no matter where you work. Even if your job makes you - [Why run?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/why-run/) - ‘Don’t you realise that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So I run with purpose in every step. I - [Take the right approach](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/take-the-right-approach/) - When we see the people around us hurting or struggling with something, we may feel like we’ve got the answers or the right advice for them. But if we don’t have the right approach, we can end up making things worse. Good ideas and advice are wasted when we try and force it on other - [Lethal laziness (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/lethal-laziness-4/) - Who are you mimicking? Who do you have as role-model? Paul said, ‘Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ’ (1 Corinthians 11:1 NIV). And if we claim to admire Jesus’ disciples, we have to remember that these were people who spent themselves on spreading the kingdom of God, just the same when - [Lethal laziness (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/lethal-laziness-3/) - The lazy see an obstacle in every opportunity. They can’t hold down a job – but there’s always a good excuse. The hours are too long, it pays too little, the work’s too hard, people are too demanding – they have all kinds of excuses. And if you don’t like any of those excuses, the - [Lethal laziness (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/lethal-laziness-2/) - A student grabbed a coin, flipped it, and while it was in mid-air, said, ‘Heads, I’m going to the cinema. Tails, it’s a DVD night. And if it lands on its edge, I’m going to study.’ This student has a few things in common with Proverbs’ sluggard. So, let’s see what we can learn from - [Lethal laziness (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/lethal-laziness-1/) - ‘Sluggard’ isn’t exactly a word we use much anymore – so, what does it mean? Basically, someone who wants things without the necessary work it’ll take to get them. But you’ll never convince a sluggard that they’re a sluggard. They won’t admit it. ‘The lazy man is wiser in his own eyes than seven men - [Chase grace](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/chase-grace/) - Every day you live God will give you opportunities to grow in grace. Those who grow the furthest don’t just stay open to them: they chase them eagerly. A grandma celebrating her 50th wedding anniversary shared what made her relationship: ‘On my wedding day I decided to make a list of ten of my husband’s - [Show them God’s love](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/show-them-gods-love/) - When a woman began anointing Jesus with oil and washing His feet with tears, Simon who had invited Jesus said: ‘If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is – that she is a sinner’ (Luke 7:39 NIV). Simon was more concerned about ‘right and - [Gift of grace](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gift-of-grace/) - Celebrations often involve gift-giving. We get presents on our birthday. Our parents might give us a gift when we graduate. When we get married, family and friends give us gifts to help us begin a new chapter of life. And when we make the decision to believe and accept salvation, God celebrates with us by - [God knows](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-knows/) - The Bible says: ‘Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding’ (Proverbs 3:5 NIV). That verse can be easy to quote but hard to live by, especially when tragedy and loss happen in our lives and we don’t understand why. But we won’t always understand why things happen. - [Experiencing fear and faith](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/experiencing-fear-and-faith/) - Any time we attempt something for the first time, something we’ve failed at before, or something we think is too big for us, we’ll probably experience both fear and faith. They go together. One will win out over the other, but they never go away. Because Israel had no idea what challenges awaited them or - [Flattery](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/flattery/) - Flattery is something a person will say to our face but will not say behind our back. It’s insincere praise from an insincere motive. And the Bible warns us to beware of it: ‘A flattering neighbour is up to no good; he’s probably planning to take advantage of you’ (Proverbs 29:5 MSG). Solomon says that - [All glory to God (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/all-glory-to-god-4/) - How do you live for God’s glory when you’re in severe pain? Think of Gethsemane, the garden where Jesus Himself wrestled with the will of God, saying ‘Take this cup from me’ (Mark 14:36 NIV). He was talking about the cup of God’s anger. Jesus knew He’d have to drink it to the dregs. But - [All glory to God (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/all-glory-to-god-3/) - How do we live for God’s glory? There are two ‘whatever’ verses in Scripture. The first one is this: ‘Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men’ (Colossians 3:23 NIV). It’s a great goal to love what you work at, and work at what you - [All glory to God (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/all-glory-to-god-2/) - Where do we find God’s glory? All things were created by God and for God: He gets to enjoy them – and He designed it so that we could enjoy them too. The line between sacred and secular isn’t real. Every note of music, every colour splashed on canvas, every flavour, shows God’s glory. A - [All glory to God (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/all-glory-to-god-1/) - You’ve probably heard it if you’ve ever been to a wedding – Bach’s Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring, one of the most popular soundtracks as brides walk down the aisle. And for good reason – it’s a pretty stunning piece. The reason Bach’s music touches your soul is because it came from his soul. Bach’s - [Christ in you - the hope](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/christ-in-you-the-hope/) - The prophet Zechariah wrote, ‘Many peoples and strong nations shall come to seek the Lord…saying, “Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you”’ (vv. 22-23 NKJV). When people see God at work in your life, they’ll be drawn to you. It happened to a cook and dish washer named - [Don’t turn a blind eye](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-turn-a-blind-eye/) - Jesus set out a picture of the day we’ll all meet Him, beyond this life: ‘All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. - [Pray for God’s favour](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/pray-for-gods-favour/) - When you ask someone for a favour, you’re generally asking for something they don’t owe you. The Bible says this about God: ‘You bless the righteous; you surround them with your favour as with a shield.’ The word ‘righteous’ doesn’t mean flawless, otherwise none of us would qualify for His blessing. Instead, it means to - [Get in the splash zone](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/get-in-the-splash-zone/) - You could probably spend a day at your favourite theme park without getting soaked by some passing flume ride. But ever noticed that they have a designated splash zone for people who want to? Positioning yourself to receive makes all the difference. For example, as you read this, if you position yourself to receive by - [You’re invited (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/youre-invited-5/) - We can get so focused on our troubles, worries, and doubts that we can forget what God’s Word says: ‘Goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life’? (Psalm 23:6 ESV). We know about Job’s troubles, but we tend to forget they were just for a short span in an otherwise extremely - [Chosen and appointed by God (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/chosen-and-appointed-by-god-4/) - Take a look at Jesus’ words to the disciples in John 15:16. It’s a personal message of encouragement to us too. God personally chose each of us. He wanted us specifically for Him. He has a plan for our lives. He helps us to keep going when we think we can’t do what He asks. - [You’re invited (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/youre-invited-3/) - Once you grasp the fact that God has ‘chosen and appointed’ you to get some things done – a mission handpicked for you – lots of your unanswered questions will begin to make sense. Like why you see things differently from others, or feel a gut compulsion to move on while they’re happy to stay - [You’re invited (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/youre-invited-2/) - Nobody adopts a child by accident. Think about this: knowing in advance about all your weaknesses, God chose you anyway. ‘You are now fully adopted as his own…an heir, with complete access’ (vv. 5-7 MSG). You never have to wonder whether it’s okay to approach your heavenly Father, because He’s always ready to welcome you. - [You’re invited (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/youre-invited-1/) - Ever walked into a party you weren’t invited to? Feels odd, doesn’t it? You’re constantly looking over your shoulder in case someone starts asking why you’re sitting on their sofa or helping yourself to their drinks… But if you’re invited to the party, it’s a different thing. You don’t have to wonder if you’re welcome, - [‘Here am I. Send Me!’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/here-am-i-send-me/) - Isaiah writes, ‘Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I, send me!” He said, “Go…!”’ (vv. 8-9 NIV). Before God asked ‘Whom shall I send?’, Isaiah was despairing that he wasn’t good enough and would be destroyed. ‘I - [Do something about it](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/do-something-about-it/) - The Bible says, ‘We are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.’ We’ve been designed to do good works, and to carry out His plan here on earth. But we can often look at the terrible things going on - [Leading others to Christ](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/leading-others-to-christ/) - It’s not always easy being a Christian. We can often look at how other people are living their lives, with values and morals that conflict with what the Bible teaches, and wonder how we can possibly make a difference. But with God’s help, we can make a positive impact. Here are a few ideas: 1) - [Theory or Truth (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/theory-or-truth-3/) - Imagine how Jesus’ followers must have felt on the first Easter. Their friend and mentor had just died in horrific circumstances. Some of them had even witnessed it. His body was in a cold tomb. They were alone, scared, and without guidance. They would have been grief-filled and probably had no idea where to turn. - [Theory or Truth (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/theory-or-truth-2/) - Let’s take a look at another theory from those who try to disprove Christ’s resurrection: the Swoon Theory. In his book, The Passover Plot, Hugh J. Schonfield suggests that Jesus was just unconscious when he was taken down from the cross, and thought to be dead. Then in the coolness of the tomb He woke - [Theory or Truth (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/theory-or-truth-1/) - Sometimes we’ll come across people who try to disprove that Jesus’ resurrection ever happened. So over the next few days, let’s take a look as some of their theories. Some people say that because the Gospels were written two to three hundred years after the event, the story was either untrue or embellished. But archaeology - [Role model](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/role-model/) - Role models can shape you and make you, or, if they don’t really know what they’re doing, break you. That’s why they’re pretty important to get right. If you devote your life to being like somebody else – and especially if they’re the wrong type of person – you risk becoming something God doesn’t want - [Love your church (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/love-your-church-3/) - Christians aren’t perfect. Here’s why: 1) Because they’re human. But even with full knowledge of our highest potential and our lowest sins, God loves us unconditionally. The Bible says, ‘We have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.’ Every time we look for - [Love your church (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/love-your-church-2/) - Every church has problems. Look at the Corinthian church. Some members got drunk during communion, and others refused to come unless their favourite preacher was speaking. One man was even having an affair with his stepmother (take a look at 1 Corinthians 5:1). Sitting with you in church on Sundays are some very messed-up people. - [Love your church (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/love-your-church-1/) - It’s easy for us to be critical of our churches. Maybe we didn’t like the music choices, or the speaker, or the coffee they served this week… but before we get judgmental, it’s good to remind ourselves that ‘Christ loved the church and gave himself for her.’ Every church is made up of imperfect people, - [When what worked won’t work](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-what-worked-wont-work/) - Hermit crabs spend their lives looking for a shell that fits them. They live in shells until they outgrow them, then they scurry along the ocean floor and find a bigger one. They do this their whole lives – a process that repeats over and over. Is what worked in the past not working for - [Compassion](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/compassion/) - The news headlines we read are often full of tragedy, poverty and suffering. We see news reports of children starving in refugee camps, and hear about the 1.7 billion people who live on less than £1 a day and go to bed hungry every night. And we don’t always respond to them. Sometimes we become - [S.O.S. Prayers](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/s-o-s-prayers/) - It’s important for us to spend time with God regularly, to talk to Him and pray about whatever’s on our hearts. We don’t have to have an urgent need to bring to Him. God desires an ongoing relationship with us, and He wants to share in the everyday as well as the extraordinary. But sometimes - [Life is what you make it](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/life-is-what-you-make-it/) - We often find that our mood depends on our circumstances, and that if we could just have a really good day, we’d be a lot happier. Of course, our circumstances will have an effect on how we feel. But we shouldn’t let them dictate our feelings. The thing that can really affect our day, whatever - [Helping others (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/helping-others-4/) - Peter and John were willing to let the lame man at the temple gate interrupt their plans, and maybe make them late for prayer – which raises an important question. Is it possible to be so busy with religious activities that we don’t take time for people who are hurting? Selfishness is one of the - [Helping others (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/helping-others-3/) - Helping other people isn’t all about us. We see someone in need, are prepared to help and then have it all go wrong because the person isn’t ready to be helped. We can’t help someone until they’re ready. That calls for knowing the difference between people who are looking for solutions, and those who may - [Helping others (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/helping-others-2/) - When we’re wanting to help others, it’s important that we know ourselves. We need to know what we’ve got to offer, what our gifts and skills are and the kind of people we’re called to help. ‘Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you.”’ Peter couldn’t - [Helping others (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/helping-others-1/) - God can use us to help others, sometimes in a miraculous way. In Acts 3 we read about an encounter between a crippled man and the disciples Peter and John. They were simply walking to the Temple at the time for prayer, when the man asked them for money. But Peter said to him: ‘I - [Show grace](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/show-grace/) - Grace is when we show favour to those who don’t deserve it. And that’s what God shows us. His love and favour are available to us, even though we make mistakes and don’t deserve it. While grace doesn’t give us a licence to live however we want, we can often be guilty of judging others - [Obedience](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/obedience-2/) - We can often think of obedience as something negative and restrictive. We might associate it with being told to do things we don’t really want to do, or we might feel resentful towards those who have some sort of authority over us. But obedience to God is totally different. Following His commands and guidance should - [White-knuckled worry vs. peaceful prayer](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/white-knuckled-worry-vs-peaceful-prayer/) - The Bible says, ‘With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God. Then…God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel’ (vv. 6-7 CEV). When we pray more, we worry less. With that fact in mind, we’re left with - [Break your alabaster jar (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/break-your-alabaster-jar-3/) - Most of us are good actors, but it’s difficult to fake a reaction. When the woman broke the alabaster jar, the reaction of the disciples was very revealing. ‘Why this waste?’ They thought that by pouring it at Jesus’ feet, she was throwing her perfume down the drain. They called it a waste, but He - [Break your alabaster jar (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/break-your-alabaster-jar-2/) - That alabaster jar of perfume was probably every penny of this woman’s life savings. Two gospel writers thought it was so wildly expensive that they gave us a written estimate: three hundred denarii – the equivalent of an entire year’s salary. It was an astonishing thing to break at the feet of Jesus. For most - [Break your alabaster jar (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/break-your-alabaster-jar-1/) - ‘A woman who had lived a sinful life…brought an alabaster jar of perfume, and as she stood behind him [Jesus] at his feet weeping…poured perfume on them’ (vv. 37-38 NIV). The perfume this woman was using was ridiculously expensive: it was pure nard (look up ‘spikenard’ online to see how expensive it is, even now). - [Influencers and teachers](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/influencers-and-teachers-2/) - Can you remember who first introduced you to God and encouraged your faith to grow? Maybe it’s something that’s only happened recently. Or maybe you can’t remember a time when you didn’t know about Him. Timothy probably fell into the second group. In the Bible, Paul the apostle wrote to Timothy, advising him in his - [Prioritise prayer](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/prioritise-prayer/) - Too busy. Too tired. Too content. These are all excuses we could use to avoid spending time in prayer. When life’s full-on and we’re rushing around trying to do everything on our to-do lists, we forget to take the time out to pray or we think ‘I’ll pray tomorrow when I’m less busy’. Or maybe - [Give God your best](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/give-god-your-best/) - Instead of trusting God for victory over his enemies, David decided to count the number of troops in his army to see how strong he was. God wasn’t pleased and a plague hit Israel that wiped out seventy thousand people. In order to stop the plague, David was told: ‘Build an altar to the Lord - [Take care of your body](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/take-care-of-your-body/) - We can often focus on our mental health and getting our minds in line with God’s truth, and forget that we should be doing the same with our bodies. The Bible says: ‘Honour God with your body.’ And that means we need to be looking after our bodies well. From what we eat to how - [Stop the gossip](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/stop-the-gossip/) - When we gossip it’s like we’re throwing dirt on others, hoping to bring them down to our level. It’s why Solomon warned: ‘The words of a gossip are like tasty bits of food. People like to gobble them up.’ Our ears crave gossip like a stomach craves food. Solomon goes on to give this warning: - [Secrets of self-control (7)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/secrets-of-self-control-7/) - Depend on Christ’s power to help you. ‘Let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves.’ The sequence in this Scripture is very important. ‘Let the Holy Spirit guide your lives’ – that’s the first part – ‘then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves.’ - [Secrets of self-control (6)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/secrets-of-self-control-6/) - Avoid the things that tempt you. Stay away from situations that weaken your self-control. In the Lord’s Prayer, we ask God to ‘lead us not into temptation’ (Matthew 6:13 NIV) – in other words, we’re asking Him to help us avoid being tempted (He wouldn’t deliberately put temptation in our way). But we also have - [Secrets of self-control (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/secrets-of-self-control-5/) - Make yourself accountable to someone. Whenever you feel the pressure building to return to an old, destructive habit, it’s good to have a ‘buddy’ to call on, who can help you get back on track. And it’s scriptural; Galatians 6:2 reminds us that we should ‘share each other’s burdens’ (NLT). If you’re struggling, find someone - [Secrets of self-control (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/secrets-of-self-control-4/) - Start believing you can change. Your beliefs control your behaviour. The way you think determines the way you feel. And when your feelings become strong enough, they determine the way you act. The person who says ‘I can’t do it,’ and the person who says, ‘I can do it,’ are both right. Much of the - [Secrets of self-control (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/secrets-of-self-control-3/) - Think your feelings can’t be mastered? If Christ is your Master, then they absolutely can. Talk back to your feelings. We often put far too much emphasis on them, thinking that everything has to feel good or it’s not worthwhile. We say (or more often think) things like, ‘I don’t feel like studying…’ ‘I don’t - [Secrets of self-control (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/secrets-of-self-control-2/) - Put your past behind you. ‘This one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining forward toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal’ (Philippians 3:13 NIV). The Bible ends the lie that’ll hold you back from self-control: ‘once a failure, always a failure.’ Maybe you’ve taken that lie on board, thinking, - [Secrets of self-control (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/secrets-of-self-control-1/) - If we’re serious about taking the Bible at its words, then we’ll have to listen when it says that we have to die to self (take a look at Colossians 3). Dying to ourselves means losing grasp on all our inward desires that draw us down. At the beginning, this means controlling them: keeping a - [Communicate well](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/communicate-well/) - However well we get on with someone, arguments will happen from time to time. People have different personalities, tastes, and ways of thinking so we won’t always agree on things. But there are a few things we can do to avoid some of the conflict we end up in. 1) Think before you speak. We - [6am priorities](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/6am-priorities/) - When you wake up, first thing, what goes through your head? Chances are you reach for a familiar net of worries and anxieties. Or maybe you try to head straight back into sleep, which can be another way of dealing with the same problem. Either way, it’s a pretty vicious habit to create, especially when - [Strengthen your faith (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/strengthen-your-faith-3/) - Faith is like a muscle; trouble may strain it, but the more we use it and stretch it, the stronger it gets. David was continually hounded by his enemies. Even as he was being anointed to sit on the throne of Israel, Saul was still occupying it. But instead of losing faith in God’s promise, - [Strengthen your faith (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/strengthen-your-faith-2/) - When we go through hard times it can be easy to doubt God and lose our faith. But we should try and strengthen our faith, because faith honours God and God honours faith. Challenging times can actually be used to strengthen our faith rather than cause us to lose it. When Job lost his health, - [Strengthen your faith (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/strengthen-your-faith-1/) - The Bible says: ‘The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It’s our handle on what we can’t see. The act of faith is what distinguished our ancestors, set them above the crowd’ (vv.1-2 MSG). The heroes of faith - [Helping others](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/helping-others/) - When we’re going through a hard time or a time where we’re struggling to meet our own needs, the help of others can make all the difference. Whether that’s financial help, practical help like helping us move house, cooking us a meal or simply sitting with us while we cry, it can encourage us, help - [Where are you living?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/where-are-you-living/) - Israel’s journey from Egypt to the Promised Land shows us three different places we can be living in: 1) The place of ‘not enough.’ As slaves in Egypt the Israelites were forced to depend on Pharaoh for everything. And when we’re relying on other people for what we need, rather than relying on God, we’re - [Fear](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/fear/) - We all have times when we’re afraid. Times when fear seems to be all we feel and we’re not sure what to do. Whether it’s fear over our health, our finances, the future, someone we love or something else, fear can be debilitating when it takes hold of us. We can feel like we’re not - [Seven seconds (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/seven-seconds-3/) - Ever noticed how some people have bad memories of growing up in church? They think back to stern, grumpy faces, delivering harsh messages of condemnation to the world, the sky, and anyone who’d listen. It’s a bit of a disservice to God when you think about it – especially when you remember that Jesus called - [Seven seconds (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/seven-seconds-2/) - One of the most annoying things about making a bad first impression is how unfair it seems. ‘Why should people judge me based on my first seven seconds?’ Sadly, it’s one of those truths that’s hard to shift – people make impressions and stubbornly stick to them, even when they’re wrong. But we can grow - [Seven seconds (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/seven-seconds-1/) - Imagine you’re in a dark room, you see the door open, and someone carrying a torch walks in. You see the light before you see the person carrying the light, right? Jesus said, ‘Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.’ First impressions are - [No drive](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/no-drive/) - People in the Bible dealt with pretty significant low moods – that’s not a modern phenomenon. Elijah said, ‘I have had enough, Lord…Take my life’ (1 Kings 19:4 NIV). Job said, ‘I loathe my very life’ (Job 10:1 NIV). David wrote, ‘My soul is downcast’ (Psalm 42:6 NIV). There are times, as these three discovered, - [Protect the important stuff](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/protect-the-important-stuff/) - Are you a bit adrift with self-discipline? Start here: self-discipline is just about learning what’s important in life and putting walls around those things to protect them. To get better, try to practice a few things: 1) Start your day by doing the hard things first. You’ll protect the value of work, and integrity. There - [Live in strengths](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/live-in-strengths/) - Often we live inside the things we’re bad at, insecurely worried about all the stuff we can’t do. But actually, ‘God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well.’ And if that’s the case, there are some things that are just built-in for us, that will come naturally and flow easily. Why not - [Looking after our finances (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/looking-after-our-finances-3/) - The level of financial blessing God’s prepared to trust us with depends on three questions: 1) Are you mature enough to handle it? 2) Are you hoping to reap rewards but unwilling to sow into the kingdom first? 3) Are you a hoarder or a giver? God knows we can’t all give the same amount. - [Looking after our finances (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/looking-after-our-finances-2/) - Joseph gave Pharaoh some great advice when Egypt was facing a famine: ‘Gather all the food produced in the good years…That way there will be enough to eat when the seven years of famine come…Otherwise this famine will destroy the land’ (Genesis 41:35-36 NLT). Pharaoh recognised the value of this advice: Joseph’s suggestions were well - [Looking after our finances (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/looking-after-our-finances-1/) - It’s never too early to think about our future, and to try and get into good habits now, so we’re really well prepared for any circumstance we might have to face. And one of the things that’s important for us to learn to manage well is our money. So let’s start by looking at Proverbs - [Ferocious faith in your lungs](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/ferocious-faith-in-your-lungs/) - Remember how terrifying swimming lessons were at first? You might not want to hear it, but developing your faith is just the same. Fears like water. If you let it, it will take you under. Faith’s the air in your lungs. It will sustain you and keep you afloat if you just relax. Have you - [God uses ordinary people (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-uses-ordinary-people-2/) - Sometimes we can think that God won’t use us because we’re too young. Our age means we don’t have enough experience or we worry that others will think we’re not competent enough to do the things that God calls people to do. But the Bible says: ‘Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are - [God uses ordinary people (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-uses-ordinary-people-1/) - God calls us all to be evangelists, basically to share the news about Him to other people. Whether that’s through sharing why we believe or by telling our story of how God’s transformed our lives, we’re called to tell others about Him. But we don’t always feel qualified to do it. We think we’re not - [Why not?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/why-not/) - Back in the early days of Saul being king, battle lines were drawn. The Philistines controlled the western border of Israel. Saul was happy enough lounging on the sidelines, but Jonathan wanted to get at that front line: ‘Come, let’s go over to the Philistine outpost on the other side’ (v. 1 NIV). Jonathan and - [God’s promises](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-promises/) - When we’re facing a tough situation, or a hard time in our lives that doesn’t seem to be ending, we can sometimes start to lose hope. We feel like things will always be this way and that there’s no possibility of anything changing. We may have been praying for years and not seen any change. - [God’s already in your ordinary](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-already-in-your-ordinary/) - One night Jacob had a dream. He saw a ladder with angels on it extending all the way up to heaven, and God said to him, ‘I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go’ (v. 15 NIV). The next morning Jacob said, ‘The Lord is in this place, and I was - [Relationships: Growth](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/relationships-growth/) - When we’re in a relationship, we’re one half of a team. And that team, through commitment, love and communication, can be really strong. We’re not two individuals competing with each other, but a team working together. We bring our own individuality, and we shouldn’t lose who we are, but we become part of a team - [Relationships: Communication](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/relationships-communication/) - For a relationship to be successful, we need to have good communication with each other. Without sharing our thoughts and feelings with the other person, we won’t get very far. In fact, we may just end up resentful and bitter because the other person didn’t do what we expected them to. But without telling them - [Relationships: Love](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/relationships-love/) - We throw the word ‘love’ around loosely, leaving it to be defined in many different ways. People say things like ‘I love cake,’ or ‘I love that TV show.’ What they really mean is they ‘like’ and ‘enjoy’ these things. To love someone is to pursue their well-being and make it a priority. The Bible - [Relationships: Commitment](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/relationships-commitment/) - We can sometimes be quite bad at commitment. We get bored of our job, so we look for a new one. We’re struggling at our church so we just decide to leave. And when things get serious in our relationships, we can find ourselves running a mile rather than committing ourselves to that person. The - [‘When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.’ Matthew 13:46 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-he-found-one-of-great-value-he-went-away-and-sold-everything-he-had-and-bought-it-matthew-1346-niv/) - There’s no question about how much God loves us. The Bible tells us that we need to ‘grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ’ (Ephesians 3:18 NIV). But how much do we love Him? If we want to measure the depth of our love for God, we can start by - [‘Devote yourselves to prayer.’ Colossians 4:2 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/devote-yourselves-to-prayer-colossians-42-nlt/) - Ever been praying for something or someone for a long time, and nothing seems to be happening? It’s tempting to give up. We become discouraged, fed up of praying for the same thing over and over again. We begin to doubt whether God’s going to answer us, and maybe if He’s listening to us at - [‘You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory.’ Revelation 4:11 NIVUK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-are-worthy-our-lord-and-god-to-receive-glory-revelation-411-nivuk/) - Praising God isn’t a religious activity that belongs only in church on Sunday morning. The Bible says: ‘From the rising of the sun to its going down the Lord’s name is to be praised’ (Psalm 113:3 NKJV). That means our first words in the morning and our last words at night should be praise to - [‘Does anyone dare despise this day of small beginnings?’ Zechariah 4:10 MSG](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/does-anyone-dare-despise-this-day-of-small-beginnings-zechariah-410-msg/) - Imagine the temple lying in ruins and having to be rebuilt from the ground up. That’s what things were like when Zechariah shared his vision with the people of Israel. Some thought it couldn’t be done, and others thought that their particular contribution would make no difference. So, Zechariah challenged them in these words: ‘Does - [‘God…has blessed us with every spiritual blessing.’ Ephesians 1:3 NKJV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/godhas-blessed-us-with-every-spiritual-blessing-ephesians-13-nkjv/) - When we’re going through challenging times, it can be difficult to see the blessings we have. Our mind can become so focused on the darkness that we struggle to see the light. But the truth is that however bad our situation may seem, we’re still blessed, and there are still blessings to come. The Bible - [‘Before you were born I set you apart.’ Jeremiah 1:5 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/before-you-were-born-i-set-you-apart-jeremiah-15-niv-2/) - Society gives us mixed messages about our identity. One minute we’re told that we need to be like everyone else, have what everyone else has and look a certain way. Then the next we’re told we should embrace our uniqueness and be ourselves. But the truth is that we’ve been made by God. He made - [‘Every good and perfect gift is from above.’ James 1:17 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/every-good-and-perfect-gift-is-from-above-james-117-niv/) - In his book Outlive Your Life, author Max Lucado says the Greek word for ‘blessed,’ makarios, was the name of an island off Greece. It was known as ‘the blessed island’ because it was self-contained. The residents didn’t need to leave it in order to get their needs met. The natural resources of this island - [‘The Holy Spirit…will teach you…and will remind you of everything I have said.’ John 14:26 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-holy-spiritwill-teach-youand-will-remind-you-of-everything-i-have-said-john-1426-niv/) - Jesus ended His Sermon on the Mount with a striking story that addresses the gap between knowing and doing: ‘Therefore anyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock’ (Matthew 7:24 NIV). There are two parts: hearing the words and - [‘Do not merely listen to the word…do what it says.’ James 1:22 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/do-not-merely-listen-to-the-worddo-what-it-says-james-122-niv/) - It can be easy to get caught up in gaining Christian knowledge. We read the Bible, read lots of Christian books advising us on all areas of our lives, study theology, listen to sermons…and that’s all great. But it’s only great if we’re putting that knowledge into action in our lives. We need to practise - [‘Jesus often slipped away to be alone so he could pray.’ Luke 5:16 NCV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/jesus-often-slipped-away-to-be-alone-so-he-could-pray-luke-516-ncv/) - The final difference between Samson and Samuel involves prayer. The Bible only mentions two occasions when Samson prayed. The first was when he thought he was dying of thirst and needed water: ‘Because he was very thirsty, he cried out to the Lord’ (Judges 15:18 NIV). The second was in the last moments of his life - [‘The Lord has helped us to this point.’ 1 Samuel 7:12 NCV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-lord-has-helped-us-to-this-point-1-samuel-712-ncv/) - Another difference between Samson and Samuel can be seen in their accountability. Samson had an independent attitude and refused to be accountable to anyone else. He was a ‘lone ranger’ who refused to work with others. ‘This time I have a right to get even with the Philistines; I will really harm them’ (Judges 15:3 - [‘The Lord your God was your king.’ 1 Samuel 12:12 NKJV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-lord-your-god-was-your-king-1-samuel-1212-nkjv/) - Samson and Samuel also had differing motives. Samson repeatedly dishonoured God by his actions and his lifestyle. That’s because he had no regard for God’s honour. In contrast, honouring God was Samuel’s highest priority. When Israel wanted a king in order to be like all the surrounding nations, it upset him. He said to the - [‘Get her for me. She’s the right one for me.’ Judges 14:3 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/get-her-for-me-shes-the-right-one-for-me-judges-143-niv/) - The second difference between Samson and Samuel is to do with relationships. Samson was guided by his desires instead of the principles of God’s Word. ‘Samson said to his father, “Get her for me. She’s the right one for me.”’ And following his desires didn’t go too well for Samson. When he ended up with - [ ‘I do not have time to tell about…Samson…and Samuel.’ Hebrews 11:32 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/i-do-not-have-time-to-tell-aboutsamsonand-samuel-hebrews-1132-niv/) - Samson and Samuel are mentioned in the same Scripture, but there are big differences between them and the way that they lived their lives. The first difference between them is based on how they dealt with their finances. Samson was greedy and manipulating, whereas Samuel practiced integrity. One day Samson bet thirty Philistine princes that - [‘Moses then wrote down everything the Lord had said.’ Exodus 24:4 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/moses-then-wrote-down-everything-the-lord-had-said-exodus-244-niv/) - There are lots of times in the Bible where God tells people to write things down. He said to Moses: ‘Write down these words, for in accordance with these words I have made a covenant with you and with Israel’ (Exodus 34:27 NIV). And to Habakkuk he said: ‘Write down the vision; write it clearly on clay - [‘Honour the LORD…with the first fruits of all your crops.’ Proverbs 3:9 NIVUK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/honour-the-lordwith-the-first-fruits-of-all-your-crops-proverbs-39-nivuk/) - Solomon wrote: ‘Honour the LORD with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine’ (Proverbs 3:9-10 NIVUK). The people who heard those words lived off their land and their livestock. Whenever they reaped a harvest or - [‘Diligent hands bring wealth.’ Proverbs 10:4 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/diligent-hands-bring-wealth-proverbs-104-niv/) - A diligent person wants to work, make a difference, and contribute to their families and to society. Whether we’re in employment or we’re a student, does that describe us? Are we diligent in our work? Sometimes we can end up resenting the fact we have to work. Or we feel that the work we’re doing - [‘The blessing of the LORD makes a person rich, and he adds no sorrow with it.’ Proverbs 10:22 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-blessing-of-the-lord-makes-a-person-rich-and-he-adds-no-sorrow-with-it-proverbs-1022-nlt/) - When we think of being rich, often the first thing (maybe the only thing) we think of is having plenty of money. But what’s God’s idea of being rich? God wants us to be ‘rich’ in our relationships, in our health, in our peace of mind, in our careers, and in everything that concerns us. - [‘We have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view.’ 2 Corinthians 5:16 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/we-have-stopped-evaluating-others-from-a-human-point-of-view-2-corinthians-516-nlt/) - We label other people. We’ve all done it. Maybe it’s based on personality, appearance, capabilities, nationality or something else. We seem to like to fit people into neat categories. But labelling others causes division not unity. Exclusion not inclusion, prejudice not love, them and us. We see the label, not the person, making it easier - [‘If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God.’ James 1:5 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/if-any-of-you-lacks-wisdom-you-should-ask-god-james-15-niv/) - When we’re at a crossroads in life, when we’re not sure which way to go or what to do, we’ve got a God who delights in giving us wisdom. When we’re experiencing a conflict or a problem in our lives, He’s got the answers. He knows what’s best for us. But we can so often - [‘If the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.’ John 8:36 NKJV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/if-the-son-makes-you-free-you-shall-be-free-indeed-john-836-nkjv/) - We can often feel like we’re not free, like we’ve been tied up in chains that we can’t get out of. Sometimes we end up feeling like this for a long time; we try and find freedom from the things that hold us back, but we can still feel imprisoned by it. But the Bible - [‘Their weakness was turned to strength. They became strong in battle.’ Hebrews 11:34 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/their-weakness-was-turned-to-strength-they-became-strong-in-battle-hebrews-1134-nlt/) - The word metamorphosis means to be changed from one form into another. In Hebrews 11, we find famous people such as Moses and David. These men are often described as full of faith and men of God. Yet they were human just like us, they struggled and they had weaknesses. But we’re told that ‘their - [‘Remain in me, as I also remain in you.’ John 15:4 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/remain-in-me-as-i-also-remain-in-you-john-154-niv/) - If you’re a tea drinker, you’ll know that there’s an art to making good tea. You can dip your teabag up and down in the hot water a few times. Or you can let it stay there so that you can experience the tea’s full strength and flavour. Jesus said: ‘Remain in me, as I - [‘My heart says of you, “Seek his face!” Your face, Lord, I will seek.’ Psalm 27:8 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/my-heart-says-of-you-seek-his-face-your-face-lord-i-will-seek-psalm-278-niv/) - The planet Mercury is hot, whereas Pluto is cold. That’s because Mercury is close to the sun and Pluto is further away. A planet’s temperature and climate are determined by its proximity to the sun. And this is like our spiritual life too. As children of God, our spiritual temperature is determined by how close - [‘Everyone who hears these words of mine.’ Matthew 7:24 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/everyone-who-hears-these-words-of-mine-matthew-724-niv/) - Studying the Bible helps us to become more dependent on God and to give us the right approach to life. But sometimes we can be tempted to study for the wrong reasons. People mainly read the Bible for three reasons: 1) To find texts that support our views. But when we do this, we can - [‘Open my eyes to see the wonderful truths in your instructions.’ Psalm 119:18 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/open-my-eyes-to-see-the-wonderful-truths-in-your-instructions-psalm-11918-nlt/) - Here are a few more things you can try to help you get more out of your Bible study time: 1) Ask questions and research them. The more questions you ask, the more you’ll get out of it. You could ask things like: who was this written to, and why? What situation was the writer - [‘Your commands are boundless.’ Psalm 119:96 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/your-commands-are-boundless-psalm-11996-niv/) - Ever noticed that you can read a verse in the Bible several times, and discover something different each time? It’s like shining light on a diamond. Each time you turn it slightly, you suddenly see another facet of its beauty. The Bible’s different from every other book we will ever read. We can learn all - [‘Remember, we will all stand before the judgment seat of God.’ Romans 14:10 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/remember-we-will-all-stand-before-the-judgment-seat-of-god-romans-1410-nlt/) - Jesus tells the story of three servants who were given talents to invest on behalf of their master. The first two invested well and were rewarded, while the third one buried his talent and was judged accordingly. The first two considered their options, decided to step out and were willing to risk failure. As a - [‘Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid…[of] them!’ Deuteronomy 31:6 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-strong-and-courageous-do-not-be-afraidof-them-deuteronomy-316-nlt/) - Despite everything they’d had to go through, when Israel encountered difficulties in the wilderness, they wanted to return to their old life of slavery in Egypt. The security of the known was less threatening to them than the challenges of the unknown. So, the Lord said to them, not once, but twice: ‘Be strong and - [‘Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.’ Isaiah 41:10 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-be-afraid-for-i-am-with-you-isaiah-4110-nlt/) - Two of our biggest fears are: failure and criticism. And they never completely go away. We can overcome them for a time, but they’ll often show up when we face our next challenge. Yet when we accept fear as part of life’s journey instead of running from it, we can learn to grow stronger through - [‘Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead.’ Philippians 3:13 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/forgetting-the-past-and-looking-forward-to-what-lies-ahead-philippians-313-nlt/) - Did you make any New Year resolutions last year? Be honest – how many did you manage to keep? When we’ve not been able to keep all of them, we can get upset with ourselves and feel like we’re failures. But it’s difficult to make a lot of changes suddenly, all in one day, and - [‘We got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.’ Acts 16:10 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/we-got-ready-at-once-to-leave-for-macedonia-concluding-that-god-had-called-us-to-preach-the-gospel-to-them-acts-1610-niv/) - The Bible says, ‘Paul and his companions travelled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. So, they - [‘They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.’ Revelation 12:11 NKJV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/they-overcame-him-by-the-blood-of-the-lamb-and-by-the-word-of-their-testimony-revelation-1211-nkjv/) - Jesus defeated Satan at the cross, and His victory is also our victory. His authority is also our authority. We must acknowledge the existence of the devil but shouldn’t be afraid of him. The Bible says: ‘the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world’ (1 John 4:4 NIV). - [‘By their fruits you will know them.’ Matthew 7:20 NKJV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/by-their-fruits-you-will-know-them-matthew-720-nkjv/) - When we speak about ‘the fruit of the Spirit,’ we are talking about these nine qualities of character: ‘Love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control’ (Galatians 5:22-23 NKJV). These fruits are not for ‘show,’ they are for sharing with others; otherwise, they’re no better than fruit that was never grown in the first - [‘And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”’ Isaiah 6:8 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/and-i-said-here-am-i-send-me-isaiah-68-niv/) - William Carey is often referred to as ‘the father of modern missions.’ But the number of his accomplishments in India was almost equal to the number of obstacles he overcame just to get there. He was told by a group of ministers, ‘If God wants to save the heathen, young man, He will do it - [‘We walk by faith, not by sight.’ 2 Corinthians 5:7 ESV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/we-walk-by-faith-not-by-sight-2-corinthians-57-esv/) - In the book of Hebrews we read, ‘By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going’ (Hebrews 11:8 NIV). When we follow God, most times we’ll go out not knowing as much as we’d - [‘Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!’ John 1:29 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/look-the-lamb-of-god-who-takes-away-the-sin-of-the-world-john-129-niv/) - Bible scholars disagree about the exact date of Christ’s birth. They also don’t know if the Church of the Nativity (which is visited every day by pilgrims in Bethlehem) is the exact location of His birth. None of us can understand how a virgin girl could conceive a child by the power of the Holy - [‘Nothing…will ever be able to separate us from the love of God.’ Romans 8:39 NCV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/nothingwill-ever-be-able-to-separate-us-from-the-love-of-god-romans-839-ncv/) - The very first Christmas, God did something extraordinary. In the busyness and excitement of this time of year, we can sometimes forget this and lose the sense of wonder of Christmas. So let’s take a few minutes to reflect on what that first Christmas in Bethlehem really means for us. Jesus gave up His comfort - [‘Each of us should please our neighbours…to build them up.’ Romans 15:2 NIVUK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/each-of-us-should-please-our-neighboursto-build-them-up-romans-152-nivuk/) - The words we use are powerful. They can be the best encouragement or the strongest weapon. Ephesians 4:29 reminds us: ‘Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen’ (NIV). So we need - [‘Phoebe…has been the benefactor of many people.’ Romans 16:1-2 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/phoebehas-been-the-benefactor-of-many-people-romans-161-2-niv/) - Every church needs people who are committed to supporting and encouraging each other. And a great example from the Bible of an encourager is Phoebe. Paul wrote about her: ‘I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church in Cenchreae. I ask you to receive her in the Lord in a way - [‘I urge you…to join in my struggle by praying to God for me.’ Romans 15:30 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/i-urge-youto-join-in-my-struggle-by-praying-to-god-for-me-romans-1530-nlt/) - We can often find it challenging to pray with others. We might be worried that our prayers won’t sound right and that others will be judging what we say. We might be unsure of praying for someone else’s situation, especially if we don’t know the person or the details very well. What if they don’t - [‘As she listened to us, the Lord opened her heart.’ Acts 16:14 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/as-she-listened-to-us-the-lord-opened-her-heart-acts-1614-nlt/) - The Bible tells the story of how Lydia came to know about Jesus. ‘One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshipper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message. When she and the members of her household - [‘Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love?’ Romans 8:35 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/can-anything-ever-separate-us-from-christs-love-romans-835-nlt/) - Paul asked the big question: ‘Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love?’ When we don’t know why God loves us in the first place, it’s easy to doubt His love at times. When we feel like we’re unlovable, that we’re too messed up or too broken for anyone to love us, we can question - [‘May God…give you grace, mercy and peace.’ 1 Timothy 1:2 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/may-godgive-you-grace-mercy-and-peace-1-timothy-12-nlt/) - If we’re being honest with ourselves, how many times have we said we’d pray for someone and then forgotten to? Or how often have we been so wrapped up with our own lives and our own problems that we don’t even notice when someone needs prayer? Praying for others can be a challenge, we don’t - [‘You need to persevere.’ Hebrews 10:36 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-need-to-persevere-hebrews-1036-niv/) - Imagine what life on the ark must have been like for Noah. He probably didn’t get much sleep. He was feeding, cleaning, and caring for thousands of animals around the clock. It was smelly and messy. And that’s a pretty accurate picture of what obedience to God sometimes looks like. It’s hard work, and it - [‘God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise.’ 1 Corinthians 1:27 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-chose-things-the-world-considers-foolish-in-order-to-shame-those-who-think-they-are-wise-1-corinthians-127-nlt/) - As long as we rely on the approval of others, God’s limited in what He can do through us. Having faith often means we’ll look foolish, irrational or illogical to the world. Think of how some of the most faithful biblical characters would have appeared from the world’s perspective. Noah would’ve looked foolish building a - [‘Noah found favour in the eyes of the LORD.’ Genesis 6:8 NIVUK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/noah-found-favour-in-the-eyes-of-the-lord-genesis-68-nivuk/) - What does it mean to have God’s favour? The Hebrew word translated as ‘favour’ is chen, which can also mean ‘grace’ or ‘acceptance’. The first time the word ‘favour’ appears in the Bible is Genesis 6:8, telling us that ‘Noah found favour in the eyes of the LORD’ (NIVUK). God had decided to destroy the - [‘Noah…walked faithfully with God.’ Genesis 6:9 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/noahwalked-faithfully-with-god-genesis-69-niv/) - Can you imagine what must have gone through Noah’s mind when God told him to build a massive boat in the middle of a desert? Maybe Noah wondered if he’d misheard. But we already know that ‘Noah did everything just as God commanded him’ (Genesis 6:22 NIV). And he did it because he ‘walked faithfully - [‘By faith Noah…built an ark.’ Hebrews 11:7 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/by-faith-noahbuilt-an-ark-hebrews-117-niv/) - What type of things do you think of when you think about worshipping God? Probably it involves prayer, praise and singing worship songs. We don’t immediately think that we can turn every activity we do, no matter how big or small, into an act of worship. But seeing them from this perspective can have a - [‘Noah did everything just as God commanded him.’ Genesis 6:22 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/noah-did-everything-just-as-god-commanded-him-genesis-622-niv/) - Imagine if God had asked you to build the ark. It’d be an incredibly daunting task. The Bible tells us that Noah’s ark was 300 cubits long, 50 cubits wide, and 30 cubits high (we can find this in Genesis 6:15). A cubit is the equivalent of just over 44 centimetres, which means the ark - [‘It is…by my Spirit,’ says the Lord.’ Zechariah 4:6 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/it-isby-my-spirit-says-the-lord-zechariah-46-nlt/) - Sometimes it can feel like we’re having to face things on our own, that nobody is willing to walk alongside us or support us in what God’s calling us to do. People can often assume we’re strong and don’t need anything. It’s easy to become discouraged and give up when we feel we’re not being - [‘Everything they do is done for people to see.’ Matthew 23:5 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/everything-they-do-is-done-for-people-to-see-matthew-235-niv/) - The word ‘hypocrite’ comes from the Greek word hypokrites, which means stage actor. An actor is pretending to be someone they’re not, and that’s exactly what a hypocrite does. A hypocrite may act as if they believe something, when actually they don’t. Or they may point out all the mistakes others are making, when secretly - [‘All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.’ Proverbs 14:23 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/all-hard-work-brings-a-profit-but-mere-talk-leads-only-to-poverty-proverbs-1423-niv/) - When we put effort into something, when we work really hard, we can achieve so much more than when we don’t try. Whether that’s with exams, our job or relationships, hard work pays off. Sometimes we may start something with loads of energy and passion, only to become discouraged and stop working hard towards achieving - [‘He gave himself fully to his work for God.’ 2 Chronicles 31:21 NCV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/he-gave-himself-fully-to-his-work-for-god-2-chronicles-3121-ncv/) - Sometimes we can think that to be successful for God, we must become a church leader and work for Him in that way, but that’s not true. We’re not all called to that work, and we can be successful in God’s eyes even when we’re in the secular world. Money, fame and power make us - [‘Along unfamiliar paths I will guide them.’ Isaiah 42:16 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/along-unfamiliar-paths-i-will-guide-them-isaiah-4216-niv/) - When we feel we’ve been guided by God, whether through His Word, His Spirit or another person, we’ve got a choice to make. Are we going to step out and follow His leading or stay where we are? It’s one thing to ask for His guidance, it’s another thing to be willing to follow what - [‘The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.’ Proverbs 12:15 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-way-of-fools-seems-right-to-them-but-the-wise-listen-to-advice-proverbs-1215-niv/) - We may not always experience God’s guidance through Him giving us a Bible verse or speaking to us directly. Sometimes He uses other people to advise and guide us instead. Moses experienced this. Instead of getting help, he tried to do it all himself. At that point his father-in-law, Jethro, said to him, ‘What you - [‘Check out everything and keep only what’s good.’ 1 Thessalonians 5:21 MSG](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/check-out-everything-and-keep-only-whats-good-1-thessalonians-521-msg/) - God doesn’t always speak to us in the ways we think He will. He can definitely guide us through the Bible, but He can also guide us through images and our own thoughts. When we tune ourselves into His voice, His guiding, we learn how to determine what God is trying to tell us. He - [‘Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.’ Psalm 119:105 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/your-word-is-a-lamp-for-my-feet-a-light-on-my-path-psalm-119105-niv/) - When we’ve got decisions to make, it can feel like we’re stumbling in the dark. We’re unsure which path to take, the unknowns seem scary, and we can’t see which way to go, and when these decisions are life-changing, the pressure seems even worse. What we need is God’s light so that we can see - [‘Ask yourself what you want people to do for you…and do it for them.’ Matthew 7:12 MSG](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/ask-yourself-what-you-want-people-to-do-for-youand-do-it-for-them-matthew-712-msg/) - The Bible often tells us to put others first, showing them compassion, care and love. Jesus sums up all these instructions in a single sentence in Matthew 7:12. We can find a similar phrase in other religions and cultures around the world, but with one important difference. The others are usually worded negatively, along the - [‘Blessed are the peacemakers.’ Matthew 5:9 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/blessed-are-the-peacemakers-matthew-59-niv/) - When we find ourselves in the middle of conflict and arguments, we can decide to do one of two things: we can become a troublemaker or a peacemaker. We can either choose to add to the stress and tension or try to bring a solution. It’s often difficult to step into the middle of a - [‘One day Elisha went to Shunem. And a well-to-do woman was there.’ 2 Kings 4:8 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/one-day-elisha-went-to-shunem-and-a-well-to-do-woman-was-there-2-kings-48-niv/) - When things start going wrong in our lives, what happens to our faith levels? Do we start losing hope and give up praying because the breakthrough isn’t coming? Or do we expectantly and persistently keep the faith knowing that God will come through for us, even if it’s not in the way we expect Him - [‘The borrower is the slave of the lender.’ Proverbs 22:7 ESV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-borrower-is-the-slave-of-the-lender-proverbs-227-esv/) - Getting your first credit card can be an exciting experience. But with it also comes a lot of responsibility, and as Christians, we should behave with integrity. That includes being sensible with our money and what we spend. The Bible actually has a lot to say about how we should manage our money; here are - [‘Before you were born I set you apart.’ Jeremiah 1:5 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/before-you-were-born-i-set-you-apart-jeremiah-15-niv/) - When we start criticising ourselves and our spiritual progress, we can hinder our spiritual growth. It can be tempting to focus on how far we’ve got left to go and how we fall short, rather than on how far we’ve come and the progress we’ve made. It’s true that we all have more progress to - [‘When we grew up, we quit our childish ways.’ 1 Corinthians 13:11 CEV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-we-grew-up-we-quit-our-childish-ways-1-corinthians-1311-cev/) - Comparison is dangerous. And when comparison creeps into our spiritual lives, we need to remove it because it isn’t healthy. When we spend time with people who seem to have really strong faith, it can make us feel ‘less than’ and not good enough when we compare ourselves to them. Other people can seem to - [‘At the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.’ Galatians 6:9 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/at-the-proper-time-we-will-reap-a-harvest-if-we-do-not-give-up-galatians-69-niv/) - Sometimes spiritual growth can feel like two steps forward and three steps back. Sometimes we can feel that we’re not growing at all. Spiritual growth doesn’t come easily; that’s why Paul encourages us not to give up. When we look in the mirror each day we can’t see much change, but when we look back - [‘God has shown me that I should not call anyone impure or unclean.’ Acts 10:28 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-has-shown-me-that-i-should-not-call-anyone-impure-or-unclean-acts-1028-niv/) - From the Jews’ point of view, Cornelius wasn’t really the type of person they wanted to be hanging round with. Although the Jews respected him, he was a Gentile. He was one of Caesar’s centurions, he didn’t eat kosher food and he didn’t descend from Abraham. Everything about him made him someone they’d usually avoid. - [‘Clothe yourselves with humility.’ 1 Peter 5:5 NASB](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/clothe-yourselves-with-humility-1-peter-55-nasb/) - The Bible says: ‘Clothe yourselves with humility…for God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble…humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you’ (vv. 5-7 NASB). Let’s break this Scripture down into - [‘Who has despised the day of small things?’ Zechariah 4:10 NKJV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/who-has-despised-the-day-of-small-things-zechariah-410-nkjv/) - In Today’s society we think that bigger is better. That having more means we’re more successful. But throughout the Bible we see God using small things and those who seem to have little to offer, to bring about His plan and advance the kingdom. When God gave Gideon victory over the Midianites, He used an - [‘Happy is the person who finds wisdom, the one who gains understanding.’ Proverbs 3:13 NCV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/happy-is-the-person-who-finds-wisdom-the-one-who-gains-understanding-proverbs-313-ncv/) - There are many times in the Bible that encourage us to gain or use wisdom. One important place to use wisdom and good judgment is when we’re working. We might think that we should always be busy and constantly occupied, but that isn’t using good judgment. Here are a few things to bear in mind: - [‘The LORD looks at the heart.’ 1 Samuel 16:7 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-lord-looks-at-the-heart-1-samuel-167-nlt/) - Why do we hide our sins? There are lots of reasons, some of which we’ve covered in the past few days’ readings. We might feel ashamed, or we’re afraid of facing the consequences if we reveal them. We might be worried of showing others that underneath our polished exterior, we’re not as perfect as we’d - [‘You forgave me! All my guilt is gone.’ Psalm 32:5 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-forgave-me-all-my-guilt-is-gone-psalm-325-nlt/) - Let’s be clear about this: nobody is perfect. Ecclesiastes 7:20 says, ‘Not a single person on earth is always good and never sins’ (NLT). Only Jesus, who was fully human and fully divine at the same time, can claim never to have sinned, and yet, when we’ve done something wrong, we feel like the only - [‘Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt.’ Psalm 32:4 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/finally-i-confessed-all-my-sins-to-you-and-stopped-trying-to-hide-my-guilt-psalm-324-nlt/) - When we’ve done something wrong, or even many things wrong, we can begin to think that we’ve made too many mistakes for God to ever want us to do kingdom work for Him. We might think there’s no point in confessing to Him, but it actually makes a massive difference. When we choose to tell - [‘You can’t whitewash your sins and get by.’ Proverbs 28:13 MSG](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-cant-whitewash-your-sins-and-get-by-proverbs-2813-msg/) - Have you ever done any decorating? Maybe the plaster covering the wall has a couple of cracks. Nothing too big, but they ruin the surface and don’t look good, so you fill them in and paint over them. It all looks fine, but you know there are problems below the surface. Eventually, a quick fix - [‘You can’t hide behind a religious mask…sooner or later the mask will slip.’ Luke 12:2 MSG](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-cant-hide-behind-a-religious-masksooner-or-later-the-mask-will-slip-luke-122-msg/) - We often feel under pressure to appear to be the perfect Christian at church, at school/college/uni, or at work. Others almost seem to be watching and waiting for us to make a mistake so they can speedily point out that we’re no better than them, and we’re not, we all make mistakes. We all have - [‘Bring them up in the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.’ Ephesians 6:4 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/bring-them-up-in-the-discipline-and-instruction-that-comes-from-the-lord-ephesians-64-nlt/) - It can be difficult to know what we can learn from Ephesians 6:4. ‘Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord’ (NLT). For those of us who aren’t parents, we might think it’s a verse - [‘Christ loved the church.’ Ephesians 5:25 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/christ-loved-the-church-ephesians-525-niv/) - We can often think of all kinds of reasons why we shouldn’t go to church. Maybe we’ve had a busy week and just want some time to ourselves. Maybe we feel like we’ve not been getting anything from it. Maybe we don’t really like joining in with a big group of people. But going to - [‘Remember…those who are mistreated.’ Hebrews 13:3 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/rememberthose-who-are-mistreated-hebrews-133-niv/) - The Bible tells us, ‘Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters’ (Hebrews 13:1 NIV). Then it gets specific: ‘Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering’ (v. 3 NIV). When we offer to pray for - [‘The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.’ Hebrews 13:6 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-lord-is-my-helper-i-will-not-be-afraid-hebrews-136-niv/) - When we become insecure in our identity, we can start fearing unacceptance. We become people-pleasers who want other people to like us and approve of us. We think that approval comes from what we do, and we constantly strive to be good enough and acceptable. Sometimes this happens in our relationship with God too. We - [‘For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid.’ 2 Timothy 1:7 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/for-the-spirit-god-gave-us-does-not-make-us-timid-2-timothy-17-niv/) - Whether it’s an upcoming presentation, a job interview, an exam or something else, the fear of failure can be huge for us. It’s the most common fear of all, and it keeps us from fulfilling any vision God may give us. But if we think about it, the consequences of failing aren’t usually as big - [‘You will be secure, because there is hope; you will look about you and take your rest in safety.’ Job 11:18 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-will-be-secure-because-there-is-hope-you-will-look-about-you-and-take-your-rest-in-safety-job-1118-niv/) - None of us want bad things to happen to us. Whether it’s illness, grief, a broken heart, financial ruin or something else, we want to avoid these things. The popular phrase goes ‘we need the bad times to appreciate the good’ and that’s true, but most of us would prefer to just experience the good - [‘You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood.’ 2 Timothy 3:15 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-have-been-taught-the-holy-scriptures-from-childhood-2-timothy-315-nlt/) - Not everyone who chooses to follow Jesus was brought up in a Christian household. Some of us don’t get introduced to God until we’re in college or university, or even later. (And God rejoices over every single one of us who turns to Him, regardless of when we do.) But some of us have always - [‘Hate what is evil and hold on to what is good.’ (Romans 12:9 NCV)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/hate-what-is-evil-and-hold-on-to-what-is-good-romans-129-ncv/) - Anger is not necessarily a bad emotion to feel. God Himself gets angry. The Bible says, ‘The Lord became angry with Solomon, because his heart had turned from the Lord God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice’ (1 Kings 11:9 NKJV). But it needs to be the right kind of anger. It needs - [‘Be angry, and do not sin.’ Ephesians 4:26 NKJV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-angry-and-do-not-sin-ephesians-426-nkjv/) - We all get angry. But there’s a right way and a wrong way to handle our anger. Moses handled his anger the wrong way and it cost him the Promised Land. After Moses let the Israelites quarrelling and complaining get to him, he didn’t remind them of the glory of the Lord. So, God told - [‘On his law he meditates day and night.’ Psalm 1:2 ESV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/on-his-law-he-meditates-day-and-night-psalm-12-esv/) - What type of Bible reader are you? Do you tend to read it hurriedly when you have a few minutes to spare, getting through it as fast as you can? Or are you the type of person who prefers to take time and think about what you’re reading? Most of us probably fall somewhere between - [‘The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.’ Proverbs 11:25 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-generous-will-prosper-those-who-refresh-others-will-themselves-be-refreshed-proverbs-1125-nlt/) - There are lots of ways we can be generous. We can give our time, money, knowledge, and so on. But why should we be generous? It’s easy for us to think ‘I’ve already given up enough of my resources to help others this week. I don’t need to give for a while. Let someone else - [‘God wants you to be holy and stay away from sexual sin.’ 1 Thessalonians 4:3 NCV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-wants-you-to-be-holy-and-stay-away-from-sexual-sin-1-thessalonians-43-ncv/) - When God created Adam and Eve, He told them to ‘multiply and replenish the earth’ (see Genesis 1:28). That helps to explain why sex is one of our strongest drives. But when we let those feelings take control and determine our behaviour, we can end up making bad decisions. The Bible says: ‘God wants you - [‘Exercise daily in God.’ 1 Timothy 4:7 MSG](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/exercise-daily-in-god-1-timothy-47-msg/) - When writing to the church in Laodicea, John said: ‘You’re not cold, you’re not hot – far better to be either cold or hot! You’re stale. You’re stagnant’ (Revelation 3:16-17 MSG). These seem like harsh words, but they can often apply to us too. We can become lukewarm in our faith, we lose our passion - [‘Take heart! I have overcome the world.’ John 16:33 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/take-heart-i-have-overcome-the-world-john-1633-niv/) - When we’re facing things in our lives, things that make us feel trapped, overwhelmed or ashamed, we don’t have to let it continue, or just put up with it, we can take action. I know that can be easier said than done, change and freedom can seem impossible. When we’ve felt trapped by something for - [‘Shamgar son of Anath rescued Israel. He once killed 600 Philistines with an ox goad.’ Judges 3:31 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/shamgar-son-of-anath-rescued-israel-he-once-killed-600-philistines-with-an-ox-goad-judges-331-nlt/) - If we’re being completely honest with ourselves for a minute, when’s the last time we stepped out of our comfort zone? When is the last time we felt God asking us to do something, but we decided not to? It can be really challenging to be obedient to Him, we are faced with fear, feelings - [‘He offered himself once and for all.’ Hebrews 9:26 CEV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/he-offered-himself-once-and-for-all-hebrews-926-cev/) - Throughout the Old Testament, we see sacrifices being made by the high priests to pay for the sins of the people, but when Jesus died, He paid for all our sins… once and for all! The Bible says: ‘The high priest enters the Most Holy Place once every year with blood that is not his - [Promises for difficult times (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/promises-for-difficult-times-3/) - Here are some more promises from the Bible to encourage us in difficult times: 1) ‘You have made the Lord your defender, the Most High your protector, and so no disaster will strike you, no violence will come near your home. God will put his angels in charge of you to protect you wherever you - [Promises for difficult times (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/promises-for-difficult-times-2/) - Ready for more of God’s amazing promises? 1) ‘Let all those who…put their trust in You rejoice…because You cover and shelter them, let those who love Your name be joyful’ (Psalm 5:11 AMP). 2) ‘The eternal God is your refuge, and his everlasting arms are under you. He drives out the enemy before you’ (Deuteronomy - [Promises for difficult times (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/promises-for-difficult-times-1/) - We all have to face challenging times. Sometimes it might be unpleasant or inconvenient, but we manage to get through it. Other times, everything just seems like it’s threatening to swamp us. But whatever we’re going through, one thing stays the same - God’s promises to us. So, for the next few days, let’s remind - [Spiritual lens](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/spiritual-lens/) - The way we see things can be determined by what we’re looking through. We’ve got to clean our glasses, windows, and windscreens regularly in order for us to see out of them clearly. And we need to do the same with our ‘spiritual lenses’. The lenses we’re looking through determine what we see, and how - [Who’s your Saul?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/whos-your-saul/) - Saul of Tarsus was the last person on earth you’d ever have expected to become a Christian, much less the author of half the New Testament. Describing his life before he met Christ, he wrote, ‘I persecuted the church of God beyond measure and tried to destroy it’ (Galatians 1:13 NKJV). So when God called - [Forgiveness](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/forgiveness/) - The Psalmist wrote, ‘Who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.’ The answer to this can be seen in the story of the man lowered into the room Jesus was teaching in. Jesus said to those in the room: ‘I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth - [Respectful evangelism](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/respectful-evangelism/) - It’s tough when those closest to us don’t believe what we believe. We can feel so passionate about our faith and want others to experience Jesus too. But however much we want them to share our beliefs, we’ve got to accept each other’s differences and unique perspectives. Sometimes our relationships with friends and family can - [Gift of leadership](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gift-of-leadership/) - Leadership is both a privilege and a challenge. It’s something we all do to an extent. When we persuade or encourage someone else to do something, we’ve led them. But some of us are called to a higher level of leadership. Whether that’s within the church, or the secular world, God calls some of us - [Church leaders](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/church-leaders/) - Those in church leadership have a pretty challenging job. To lead a church, full of different personalities, different thoughts and different ideas, can be tricky. Keeping unity, building up people’s faith, encouraging, caring, discipling and evangelising is a huge job. Our church leaders have to juggle a lot of tasks. And they can make mistakes. - [Effective criticism](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/effective-criticism/) - The Bible tells us to ‘encourage one another and build each other up’ (1 Thessalonians 5:11 NIV). But sometimes, we need to point out where someone’s going wrong. If they’ve started going down the wrong path and are making decisions that are harming themselves and others, we may need to speak up. Nobody likes criticism - [We can’t do it all](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/we-cant-do-it-all/) - Helping others is something we’re called to do. The Bible says that we should care about the ‘interests of the others’ not just our own (Philippians 2:4 NIV). But sometimes we can take this too far. We try and be everything for everyone, seeing it as our responsibility to help everyone with their problems. And - [Confessing our sins](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/confessing-our-sins/) - When we deliberately sin, we’re rebelling against God’s rule in our lives - and we feel bad about it. Feeling bad is evidence that we truly are redeemed children of God; otherwise our sins wouldn’t bother us. Have you ever had a moment where you’ve ended up feeling really bad about something you’ve done? Maybe - [Has your love grown cold?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/has-your-love-grown-cold/) - Love is like a fire; when it’s not fuelled, it goes out. That’s what happened to the Christians in the church at Ephesus. In earlier years Paul wrote these words to them: ‘Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with incorruptible love’ (Ephesians 6:24 NASB). Their love for the Lord was - [If it’s God’s will - He’ll give it to you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/if-its-gods-will-hell-give-it-to-you/) - When you were younger, did you ever try throwing coins into a wishing well, or wishing if you saw a shooting star, or as you blew out your birthday candles? Maybe you heard the story of Aladdin, and hoped that one day you’d find a magic lamp with a genie too. It’s something we can - [Turn fear to faith](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/turn-fear-to-faith/) - How much does fear play a part in your life? Sometimes fear can be useful, such as when we, or people we love, are in physical danger. Then it can act as an alarm that something’s wrong and we need to get help or get out of the situation. (If we find we’re not recognising - [Keep growing](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/keep-growing/) - In life we’ve got to keep growing, keep maturing and keep working to become more like Jesus. The Bible says that we need to ‘grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ’ (1 Peter 3:18 NIVUK) and that ‘the wise listen and add to their learning.’ But how do we - [Put on your new self](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/put-on-your-new-self/) - When we allow wrong thoughts into our mind, we might be tempted to excuse them by saying, ‘What harm will it do?’ The truth is, it can do a lot of harm. The Bible says, ‘Put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires…put on the new self, created to be - [Peace radiates](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/peace-radiates/) - Jesus told His disciples that ‘in this world you will have trouble’ (John 16:33 NIV). Life’s not easy. We all experience stress, demands on our time, deadlines, expectations, personal pressures ganging up on us and constantly trying to rob us of the peace we desperately desire. No one is immune to stress, frustration, and the - [An appetite for God’s Word](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/an-appetite-for-gods-word/) - As we read the Bible, God will give us strength and guidance for our lives that we can’t get any other way. Eliphaz said to Job: ‘He bruises, but he binds up; he wounds, but his hands make whole’ (Job 5:18 NKJV). That’s what God does to us as we read the Scriptures. ‘His Word - [Change your thinking](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/change-your-thinking/) - When we become Christians, we accept God’s gift of salvation, and God works in us to make our nature more Christlike. It’s a lifelong process - we won’t suddenly become Christlike overnight. But we still have to make an effort to meet God and make changes in our life. And to make those big changes, - [Don’t be intimidated](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-be-intimidated/) - One of the ways God helps us to grow our faith is by allowing us to go through challenging situations. We need to have something to look forward to and believe God for, otherwise our faith stays in one place. In Mark 6:45-51, we’re told that ‘Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and - [Friendship (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/friendship-4/) - Two important qualities that can help deepen a friendship are honesty and loyalty. The Bible says, ‘You can trust a friend who corrects you, but kisses from an enemy are nothing but lies.’ Sometimes we need our friends to tell us where we’re going wrong. While that can be hard to take, we know we’ve - [Friendship (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/friendship-3/) - Being a good friend, and investing in the friendship, doesn’t necessarily mean that the friendship will never be challenging or that you will always agree on everything. Sometimes we can see our friends going down the wrong path, at other times they may even try and make us go down those paths too. Being a - [Friendship (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/friendship-2/) - If we want to have, and keep, good friends, we need to make sure we’re being a good friend too. We can’t expect people to show us friendship when we’re not prepared to show it back. A friendship, just like any relationship between two people, needs both people to invest. It requires both people to - [Friendship (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/friendship-1/) - An important part of life is making, and maintaining, relationships with the right people. We’re not supposed to do life on our own. When we’ve got friends, we’ve got a support network and people to share the good and bad with. Being able to get along with other people and make good friends is a - [While you’re waiting](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/while-youre-waiting/) - God works according to His own perfect timetable. Sometimes He’ll move suddenly, like He did for Bartimaeus (you can read about this in Mark 10:46-52). But a lot of the time, we’ll find He asks us to wait. And that isn't always something we’re good at. When we’re struggling with our situation, or even really - [Celebrate yourself - God does!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/celebrate-yourself-god-does/) - Who am I? It’s a question that we all seem to be searching for an answer to. And that’s because knowing our identity is so crucial. God tells us that we’re ‘fearfully and wonderfully made’ (Psalm 139:14 NIV). In fact, He loves us so much that ‘he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will - [Worry](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/worry/) - Author John Mason writes: ‘I couldn’t feel at peace. Unless I had everything figured out, I became anxious, restless, nervous, worried, and grouchy…I was a Christian and supposedly walked by faith. I trusted Jesus for salvation, but in other areas I trusted myself.’ Does any of this sound familiar? When we’re anxious, the thing we’re - [Treat your enemy with kindness](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/treat-your-enemy-with-kindness/) - It’s not enough for us to just leave our enemies alone; we need to actively show God’s love toward them. The Bible tells us, ‘If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink; for so you will heap coals of fire on his head, - [Pray. Listen. Act](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/pray-listen-act/) - When we’re praying, it can be tempting to list off all our requests to God. We tell Him all the things we want Him to do, and forget to take the time to listen to what He wants us to do. If we stop for a minute and listen to what He’s got to say, - [Things cut off, things cut back](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/things-cut-off-things-cut-back/) - Jesus said the vine dresser ‘cuts off every branch…that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes [cuts back] the branches that do bear fruit so they…produce even more.’ God cuts some things off. Things we’re comfortable with but that stand in the way of our progress. Things He hasn’t chosen for us. Things that will bring - [God’s our light](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-our-light/) - Darkness can represent evil, fear and the unknown. Light brings all the opposites: good, peace and guidance. When light replaces darkness, suddenly we can see where we are and where we should go. We don’t fear light as much as we fear the dark. Sometimes we can feel like we’re in darkness, that we’re stuck - [Beautiful Transformation](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/beautiful-transformation/) - Ever watched a lump of clay being transformed into something beautiful? If the potter wasn’t shaping it, the clay wouldn’t change. Isaiah says, ‘We are the clay, and you are the potter. We are all formed by your hand.’ With God shaping us, we’re transformed into something even more beautiful than we were before. The - [Follow His call](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/follow-his-call/) - When Nehemiah first saw the ruins of Jerusalem, he wept. Then he rolled up his sleeves and went to work. In the face of overwhelming odds and relentless opposition, he rebuilt the walls in just fifty-two days. How? Because he was driven by vision and passion. How many times have we been afraid to say, - [A prayer for peace](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/a-prayer-for-peace/) - God’s peace doesn’t mean we’ll have a perfect, stress-free life. Instead, it gives us the security of knowing that when problems do come along, we don’t have to be anxious, because God’s there alongside us, supporting and helping us through tough times. So today, let’s take a few minutes to pray this prayer for peace: - [Be content](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-content/) - Discontentment. It’s something that can stop us from feeling joy and living life to the full. The Bible says we must learn to be content ‘whatever the circumstances.’ That can be really hard. We see what other people have and we want the same. We see what other people have achieved, and we want to - [Understanding Satan’s role (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/understanding-satans-role-4/) - The Bible says that Satan is like a thief who ‘comes only to steal and kill and destroy’ (John 10:10 NIV). Sometimes we can feel like things in our lives have been taken away and destroyed. Maybe that’s a dream we once had, a relationship that’s gone wrong, or feeling like hope for the future - [Understanding Satan’s role (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/understanding-satans-role-3/) - As we saw yesterday, Satan’s attack can strengthen our faith. The devil dared to question the strength of Job’s faith, so God gave him permission to test Job. ‘The Lord said to Satan, “All right then. Everything Job has is in your power, but you must not touch Job himself”’ (Job 1:12 NCV). God allowed - [Understanding Satan’s role (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/understanding-satans-role-2/) - When we’re being attacked by the enemy, it can drive us closer to God. That was true in Paul’s life. Paul had an amazing experience when Jesus appeared to Him on the road to Damascus, he had heavenly visions, was an apostle chosen by God and an author of the Bible. He healed the sick, - [Understanding Satan’s role (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/understanding-satans-role-1/) - Satan’s a fallen angel who wasn’t satisfied to worship God; he wanted God’s throne for himself. Angels, like humans, were made to serve and worship God. And they were given free will; otherwise, how could they worship? But Satan said, ‘I will make myself like the Most High’ (Isaiah 14:14 NIV). That got him evicted - [Identity (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/identity-2/) - If knowing our identity helps us avoid becoming trapped in the cycle of people-pleasing, then it’s crucial for us to work out exactly what our identity is, and see if there are any areas of our identity that we’re getting from other sources than God. Satan wants us to identify with who people say we - [Identity (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/identity-1/) - We can often fall into the trap of people-pleasing. We find ourselves performing, or acting a certain way, in order to gain people’s approval. What we really need to be doing is meeting other people’s needs knowing that we already have God’s approval. When we’re trapped in the people-pleasing cycle we end up being controlled - [Remember to forget](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/remember-to-forget/) - No matter how good our relationships with other people are, conflicts can still happen. And when they do, we need to be extending grace and showing forgiveness. We need to be managing conflict well. So how can we do that? Well, we need to be practicing self-control which keeps conflicts from escalating into hurtful standoffs. - [Testing Times](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/testing-times/) - Being a Christian doesn't promise us an easy, comfortable life. In fact, we might find that we experience more difficulties and go through more testing times than those who don't believe, either because God’s plan leads us through challenges, or because the enemy tries to make things difficult for us. So to prepare us for - [What are you thinking about?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/what-are-you-thinking-about/) - The things we think about can have a huge influence on the way we live. If we’re thinking about worldly things, we’ll have a worldly focus to the way we live. If we’re thinking about God, we’ll have Him as the focus of our lives. It’s easy to say, but not quite so easy to - [Cleansed by the blood of Jesus](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/cleansed-by-the-blood-of-jesus/) - When mountaineers are exploring some of the toughest environments in the world, they need a rope that they can rely on to save them if they fall. The members of the first mountaineering club, the Alpine Club, commissioned a manufacturer to make a rope they could trust. It looked pretty much the same as other - [Environments](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/environments/) - When a new person comes to your church, school/college/uni, or your workplace, how do you tend to react? We know we’re supposed to make new people feel welcome. But sometimes, especially when we’re with a close-knit group of friends or among people we know well, we can be a bit wary of letting new people - [Respect](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/respect-2/) - Respecting others can be difficult at times. Sometimes we can feel resentful towards a tutor, leader or manager - it isn’t necessarily the person themselves that we have a problem with, but we might struggle with the fact that they can tell us what to do. Or we might come across a person that we - [Choices](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/choices/) - Every day, we’re faced with lots of opportunities to make the right choice. The choice to do what Jesus would do in that situation. The choice that’ll bring us closer to His nature. Sometimes we might not really realise we’re facing that choice - ever avoided that person in church who’s always on their own? - [Time for God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/time-for-god/) - Ever have days when you just don’t seem to have time for God? You’re right up against a deadline, so you’ll have to give prayer time a miss, and your usual Bible reading’ll just have to wait. Sound familiar? We’ve all been there. Although we don’t mean to neglect God, we worry sometimes about fitting - [Obedience](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/obedience/) - There are a lot of verses in the Bible that tell us we should submit ourselves to God. It isn’t something we’re always comfortable with, but when we look at it from a biblical perspective, we start to see that it’s a positive force to accomplish good, not a negative force that God’s using to - [Speak up](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/speak-up/) - In Genesis, before God created Eve, He warned Adam not to eat the forbidden fruit, and it was Adam's responsibility to pass this message on to Eve. Later, the devil suggested to Eve that she should disobey God’s command and eat the fruit. The Bible tells us: ‘When the woman saw that the fruit of - [God has a plan - trust Him](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-has-a-plan-trust-him/) - The Bible says, ‘The Lord will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right’ (Psalm 84:11 NLT). Sometimes we pray for a certain thing, thinking it’s good for us, or simply because it’s what we’d like. But God, who has a plan for each of our lives, knows what’s right for us - [Discover who you’re called to reach](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/discover-who-youre-called-to-reach/) - The Bible tells us: ‘[The disciples] were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak different languages by the power the Holy Spirit was giving them. There were some religious Jews staying in Jerusalem...each one heard them speaking in his own language. They were completely amazed at this. They said, “Look! Aren’t all - [Be open to advice](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-open-to-advice/) - Sometimes we can think that we know best, that we don’t need anyone else’s advice, but that’s not the case. The Bible says that ‘the way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice’ (Proverbs 12:15 NIV) and says that we should ‘listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the - [Live life free](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/live-life-free/) - There are many things in life that can make us feel like we’re stuck in chains. From the way we think about ourselves, to huge life-controlling issues such as anxiety and depression, we can often feel like we’re trapped and that we’ll never be free. But God promises us freedom. He can break off all - [Pursue your dream (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/pursue-your-dream-2/) - When Joseph dreamed big dreams, this is how his brothers responded: ‘They said to each other, “Here comes that dreamer. Let’s kill him...then we will see what will become of his dreams”’ (Genesis 37:19-20 NCV). The Bible tells us about Joseph's dreams in Genesis 37:7 and 37:9. In the first dream, he saw himself and - [Pursue your dream (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/pursue-your-dream-1/) - Every problem introduces you to yourself. The way that Joshua responded to the challenge of leading God’s people told him what he needed to know about himself. When it came time for Joshua to take the place of Moses, God said to him, ‘Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, - [Kindness](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/kindness/) - In Bible times, when a new king ascended to the throne, he usually killed or banished every member of the old king’s family. So here’s the story. Jonathan, King Saul’s son, and David, who Saul hated, were close friends. So close, they made a promise to protect each other with their lives. After Jonathan and - [Growing through tough times](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/growing-through-tough-times/) - James writes: ‘Be glad, even if you have a lot of trouble. You know that you learn to endure by having your faith tested. But you must learn to endure everything, so that you will be completely mature and not lacking in anything’ (vv. 2-4). Trouble isn’t something we’re usually glad to have. In fact, - [Resent or Rejoice?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/resent-or-rejoice/) - When someone else achieves something, we can end up feeling resentful. Maybe we wanted that success for ourselves, or maybe we feel threatened and insecure because someone’s done something better than us. But that’s not how God wants us to react. The Bible tells us to ‘rejoice with those who rejoice’ (Romans 12:15 NIV). We - [At home in God’s love](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/at-home-in-gods-love/) - When someone says, ‘Make yourself at home,’ it means you’re welcome and accepted. And that’s what the Message version of the Bible is getting at when Jesus says, ‘Make yourselves at home in my love.’ You never have been and never will be loved by anyone as much as God loves you. The reason you - [Stick with it](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/stick-with-it/) - Struggling to get through a tough breakup? Battling against people who don’t get what you’ve set out to do? Roughing it through a cold? It all needs patience. And in today’s verse, James gives us role models for patience, people to look to. Who? Well, it’s not immediately comforting. In verses 10-11, James tells us - [What does God want? (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/what-does-god-want-3/) - About 75 percent of believers now live in developing countries, often in anti-Christian environments. Xu Yonghai is one of them. He worked to make house churches legal in China. The government responded by locking him up for two years in an eight-by-eight-foot cell in a Beijing prison. There was no bathroom, only a pipe in - [What does God want? (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/what-does-god-want-2/) - When you look back on your life (hopefully a few years from now), the thing that’ll give you the most joy is knowing you’ve done the will of God. It should be a pretty sweet moment. But to get there, you have to want to do God’s will. If you've cultivated a real, deep desire - [What does God want? (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/what-does-god-want-1/) - Before we all walked around with phones in our pockets, how did we find out what our old primary school friends had for lunch? What they thought about the weather? Our phones make everyone's thoughts way easier to access. So now, if someone asks, 'what does your best friend think about that news?', we just - [Bring life, be wise](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/bring-life-be-wise/) - The Bible says, ‘Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them’ (1 John 2:15 NIV). But some of us act like loving the Lord more requires loving those around us less. We feel awkward around them, or lose touch with - [Build early](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/build-early/) - Everybody wants a house built on rock. Nobody wants a house built on sand. But in Matthew 7, Jesus points out that it’s only wise people who actually bother to build on rock before storms come in. ‘Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who - [When bad people win](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-bad-people-win/) - If you’d met Asaph, who wrote some of the psalms, you’d probably have thought he hadn’t a care in the world. But you’d have been wrong: ‘I came so close to the edge of the cliff! My feet were slipping and I was almost gone.’ Why? Because he saw bad people winning everywhere, and he - [Your life’s assignment](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/your-lifes-assignment/) - To miss out on your assignment in life is to miss out on why God put you on earth. You’re gifted and called by God, and you need to take it seriously. The question is not what are you running from, but what are you moving toward? To succeed you must know God’s will and - [Loved. Accepted. Forgiven.](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/loved-accepted-forgiven-2/) - When we make a mistake, we can end up beating ourselves up about it for ages. We overthink it, worry about it, think we’ve failed and anticipate that we’ll just fail again. Once we’re in this mind-set, it’s dangerous. Our self-esteem evaporates and we can label ourselves as failures. But this isn’t our identity. It’s - [Practise humility](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/practise-humility/) - Jesus asked His disciples, ‘“What were you arguing about along the way?” They had been arguing about which one of them was the greatest, and so they did not answer…he said, “If you want the place of honour, you must…serve others!”’ (vv. 33-35 CEV). If, after living with Jesus day and night for three years, - [How God works](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-god-works/) - The Bible says: ‘When he [Jesus] had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will”…When they had done so, they caught such a large number - [‘Lord, Where Are You?’ (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/lord-where-are-you-2-2/) - When you plant a seed, it can take ages before you see a little green shoot pushing through the soil. It stays in the ground until the time is right for it to emerge. If it’s too early or late, the conditions aren’t right and the young plant will struggle or fail. It’s like this - [‘Lord, Where Are You?’ (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/lord-where-are-you-1-2/) - Ever feel like God isn’t answering you? Job felt the same way when he said, ‘I cry out to you, God, but you do not answer; I stand up, but you just look at me…when I hoped for good, only evil came to me; when I looked for light, darkness came’ (vv. 20 & 26 - [Fellowship](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/fellowship/) - When we experience tension with someone in our family, we’re still members of the same family, but our conversations can become superficial and forced. We might even find that we’re more comfortable spending time apart than together. In other words, we don’t really want fellowship with that person anymore. Fellowship involves dedicating time to spend - [Be Gentle](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-gentle/) - When Paul wrote to Titus in Crete, the Cretans were living a lifestyle of greed, laziness and evil. ‘One of Crete’s own prophets has said it: “Cretans are always liars, evil brutes, lazy gluttons.” This saying is true’ (Titus 1:12-13 NIV). Paul instructed Titus to remind people how they were supposed to be living. ‘Remind - [Seek His face](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/seek-his-face/) - The Psalmist writes: ‘I have sought your face with all my heart’; but what does it mean for us to seek God’s face? In Hebrew, the word for face is paniym, which can also be translated as presence. So the Psalmist is talking about seeking God’s presence. And it’s something that we’re called to do - [God’s plan](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-plan/) - The people of Israel ended up living as slaves in Babylon because they disobeyed God and decided to do their own thing. And they paid a high price for it. They lost their homes, their jobs, their freedom, and their self-respect. The same thing can happen to us too. We can decide to go our - [Do You Love God’s Word?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/do-you-love-gods-word/) - The Bible is powerful. An anonymous author wrote: ‘It contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the fate of sinners, and the happiness of believers. It is a light to direct you, food to nourish you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveller’s road map, the pilot’s - [God’s greatness (6)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-greatness-6/) - When God decided to destroy everything on earth in a flood, He instructed Noah to build an ark to save Noah and his family, plus the animals. The New Living Translation tells us that the dimensions of the ark were ‘450 feet long, 75 feet wide, and 45 feet high’ (Genesis 6:15). So roughly speaking, - [God’s greatness (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-greatness-5/) - Let’s have a read of Isaiah 51:6: ‘Look up to the skies above, and gaze down on the earth below. For the skies will disappear like smoke, and the earth will wear out like a piece of clothing. The people of the earth will die like flies, but my salvation lasts forever. My righteous rule - [God’s greatness (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-greatness-4/) - There are so many things in God’s creation that point to His greatness and power, and show how amazingly He organised the world around us. Let’s think about one of them: the water cycle. It doesn’t sound very exciting at first, but let’s take a look at it more closely. The water cycle wasn’t fully - [God’s greatness (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-greatness-3/) - Job was going through a really rough time. Satan had thought that Job was only a good, righteous man because God had blessed him, and that if he had to face real difficulties, he’d turn against God. So God had granted Satan permission to test this out. First, Job’s animals, servants and children were all - [God’s greatness (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-greatness-2/) - Let’s take a look at the first part of Isaiah 40:22: ‘God sits above the circle of the earth. The people below seem like grasshoppers to him!’ (NLT). The word circle is translated from the Hebrew word chuwg, which can also be translated as circuit or compass. It suggests a picture of God encompassing the - [God’s Greatness (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-greatness-1/) - There are still thousands of questions about the world around us that our scientific knowledge hasn't been able to get close to answering yet. Scientists look closely at our world to try and understand the rules that govern it and keep it all working. But God, as the Creator of the world, knows the answers. - [God’s help for stress](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-help-for-stress/) - Stress seems to be something we all experience during our lives. Sometimes our worries, responsibilities and problems become so overwhelming that we think we’ll crack under the stress of it all. But, unsurprisingly, God doesn’t want us to be living this way. He wants to calm us and take away our stress. He wants us - [Confiding in others](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/confiding-in-others/) - Ever off-loaded your situation to someone, only to find everyone now knows your business? It’s not a nice feeling. When we trust someone, open up to them and allow them to see our vulnerabilities, we don’t want it passed around. When that happens, it can break down relationships because we stop trusting and decide not - [Responding to shame (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/responding-to-shame-2/) - When we feel ashamed, we can end up hiding ourselves away. We try and become invisible to others, and to God. We feel like we’re in darkness, consumed by feelings of shame and guilt. Adam and Eve experienced this too. When they’d eaten the fruit that God had told them not to eat, they were - [Responding to shame (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/responding-to-shame-1/) - When we’ve been hurt, abused or lied to, we can find our self-worth becomes undermined. We begin to think: ‘If someone did that to me, there must be something wrong with me.’ We can feel like we’re damaged goods, like we’re not good enough and that we’re the sort of person who just gets used - [Protect your home](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/protect-your-home/) - The Bible says God put Adam into the garden ‘to work it and take care of it’ (NIV). Eden was an amazing place to be, but it still needed work and care. Left unattended, the best garden in the world will eventually turn into a weed patch. It’s the same with areas of our lives. - [Not out, but through](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/not-out-but-through/) - Before God changes our circumstances, He often uses our circumstances to change us. He promises to help us when we’re facing troubles, but God wants to do more than just get us out of the situation. He wants to use the situation to make us more like Christ and to help us fully discover our - [‘Satan has demanded the right to test each one of you.’ Luke 22:31 CEV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/satan-has-demanded-the-right-to-test-each-one-of-you-luke-2231-cev/) - Understanding Satan’s role (5) Luke writes: ‘Jesus said, “Simon, listen to me! Satan has demanded the right to test each one of you, as a farmer does when he separates wheat from the husks. But Simon, I have prayed that your faith will be strong. And when you have come back to me, help the - [Singleness](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/singleness/) - In society (and this often includes churches), being married or in a relationship seems like the preferred option, the thing that we’re all supposed to be aiming for in life. And if we remain single, well, it seems to be going against the norm. Not everyone is single out of choice; sometimes it really hurts - [Soul satisfaction](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/soul-satisfaction/) - Sometimes we end up looking for love in the wrong places. That was true of a woman Jesus met at a well in Samaria. She’d tried religion but it didn’t satisfy her. She told Jesus, ‘Our ancestors worshipped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem’ - [You’ve been called by God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/youve-been-called-by-god/) - God told Jeremiah, ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you…sanctified you [set you apart]…I ordained you a prophet to the nations.’ Let’s take a closer look at each of these points: 1) God knew you. The word knew means ‘to have intimate knowledge of’. When your fingers were just a web, before - [You can change](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-can-change-2/) - In any area of life, if we want to grow, we have to be willing to change. Most of us want to improve, but at the same time we resist change. But we can’t have one without the other. Change is possible only if you want it badly enough. Fred Smith, the founder of FedEx, - [When God calls you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-god-calls-you/) - God told Jeremiah, ‘Before you were born, I set you apart for a special work’ (Jeremiah 1:5 NCV). When God decides to use us, five things happen: first, there’s a call. God asks ordinary people to do extraordinary things, like Peter getting out of a boat and walking on water. Second, there’s fear. When God - [Learning from David (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/learning-from-david-5/) - When you’re older and looking back on your life, what will you be thinking about? What will you want to tell others? Will you think that you’ve lived to your highest potential and fulfilled God’s purpose for your life? David’s story is a patchwork of good and bad, profit and loss, victory and defeat. These - [Learning from David (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/learning-from-david-4/) - David knew how to develop other leaders. He didn’t use people to get what he wanted. He recognised what unique things they carried, gave them opportunities to serve, then rewarded and honoured them. And as a result, they were willing to lay down their lives for him. In 2 Samuel 23 they even risked their - [Learning from David (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/learning-from-david-3/) - Hundreds of years before Jesus walked the earth, David was a model of a Christian’s relationship with God. He spent quality time in the quiet place with God. He knew God was near, and he knew God was good. That’s what you need to have in your relationship with God if you want to ‘fight - [Learning from David (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/learning-from-david-2/) - Here are three lessons from David’s life: 1) God makes the choice. When Samuel the prophet came to David’s house to pick Israel’s next king, David wasn’t even up for consideration. But God chose him anyway – just like He chose Deborah to lead the nation in a male-dominated society. If you spend your life - [Learning from David (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/learning-from-david-1/) - It's not over until God says it’s over. Look at King David's life. He fails time and time again, even while he’s a leader walking in the middle of God's calling. Right after he does something truly horrific and thinks he’s got away with it, 2 Samuel 12:13-14 shows God coming to him with unexpected - [Put yourself in the way of adventure](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/put-yourself-in-the-way-of-adventure/) - The book of Ecclesiastes can be a bit of a misery-trudge if you’re not prepared for it. But the author’s stark discussion on the briefness of life shows up some great insight. Knowing life is short and we only get a handful of decades on the earth, Solomon writes: ‘Seize life!…Each day is God’s gift…Whatever - [Gratitude](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gratitude/) - God loves to bless us. But when we’re overwhelmed with a tricky situation like a challenging relationship or health problem, it can be easy to overlook the blessings. Sometimes the problems seem to make us forget God’s goodness and all the good things we’ve been given. We can even become ungrateful, always wanting the next - [Look for the treasure](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/look-for-the-treasure/) - Disagreements happen. There’s no denying it. One of the worst arguments in the Bible was between Paul and Barnabas - one of the most successful ministry teams of all time. And it was all about the guy John Mark. Barnabas wanted to take him on their next missionary journey and Paul didn’t. Paul felt so - [At Home in God’s Presence](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/at-home-in-gods-presence/) - At the end of a hard day, it feels good to come home to a place you know - a place where you can kick off our shoes and not worry about what anybody thinks. God’s presence can become equally comfortable to us too. With time, we can learn to go there for strength, for - [Find the key log](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/find-the-key-log/) - Think about a car starting a race. You’ve got to point it in the right direction first, yeah? Otherwise, the rest of the race you’ll be lagging behind. It’s the same with life. How you line up your approach dictates how the race goes. So, where are you starting from? You’re not trying to condemn - [Which ‘law’ are you operating under?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/which-law-are-you-operating-under/) - Sometimes we feel that we fall really short of God’s standards. We reflect on our flaws, failures and weaknesses and think we’ll never be good enough. Unfortunately, we’re never going to be perfect while we’re here on Earth. But that doesn’t mean that we need to be beating ourselves up for our lack of perfection - [Guard against intolerance](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/guard-against-intolerance/) - Tolerance isn’t just about agreeing to embrace our differences. It’s about accepting the other person’s freedom to believe what they want, and to behave according to those beliefs. One of the best tests of spiritual maturity is this: how willing am I to love and pray for those whose beliefs and behaviours are unacceptable to - [Faith developers](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/faith-developers/) - If someone in our lives was going to be given the title of ‘faith developer’, who would it be? A faith developer is someone who’s had a huge influence on our lives. They’ve shown us the way we want to live; they’ve inspired us to keep going when we want to quit, they’ve got super - [Conflict](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/conflict/) - Paul wrote: ‘Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends. Don’t push your way to the front; don’t sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don’t be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand’ (Philippians 2:2-4 MSG). Conflict - [Chase down change](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/chase-down-change/) - Most of us don’t like change. We do everything in our power to avoid it. We want improvement but we don’t like to pay the price that goes with it. We’ll hear a good sermon, or get excited when we hear God's voice, but we won't go any further. Because even getting psyched up and - [How to grow spiritually](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-to-grow-spiritually/) - There are some huge promises in this chapter of Galatians. One of the most earth-shattering is this: God wants Jesus to 'be formed in you'. That means that all the parts of you you're unhappy with, all the parts that frustrate and vex you, God has a plan to replace them with something astounding. He - [Never worry about numbers](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/never-worry-about-numbers/) - This one's really easy to fall into. Maybe you've fallen into it before. You start off enthusiastic about some great kingdom idea, or you get hyped up for evangelism, or you start a charity idea. Then, quickly, you get overwhelmed with the huge amount of work you need to do. There are so many people - [God wants to set you free](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-wants-to-set-you-free/) - When we’re hurting, we can end up isolating ourselves. People try and help but our pain is all we can think about, so we push them away. We may be hurting so much that we feel like we can’t trust anyone anymore. We may feel that we can’t even trust God. But if we believe - [Perfect love](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/perfect-love/) - There are many different types of loves. There’s the love of parents, or a husband or wife, or a friend. We may not experience them all, and we definitely won’t experience them all in the same way. But whichever we experience, there’s one thing that we’ll all have in common. Human love is flawed. People - [Recognising when Satan’s at work](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/recognising-when-satans-at-work/) - Just as the apostles worked amazing miracles through the power of God, Simon the sorcerer was able to do astonishing things through the power of the devil. So how did the apostles handle the situation? Did they avoid it? Live peacefully with it? Say, ‘It’s no big deal’? No, Peter confronted Simon, saying, ‘Repent…that [God] - [Step back](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/step-back/) - A busy life isn’t necessarily a productive life. We tend to fill our schedules up with loads of things, trying to fit everyone in and to help out with everything we’re asked to do. We juggle study, work, relationships, church, daily responsibilities and can end up so busy that we’re stressed, struggling and not being - [You can start again](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-can-start-again/) - God is a mender and not a discarder. With Him, broken lives aren’t the end of the story. When we feel broken, useless and that we’ve gone too far away from the path that God wanted us to go down, there’s hope. God doesn’t give up on us. We’re never too broken for Him to - [Spring Cleaning](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/spring-cleaning/) - We’ve probably all been in that place where we’ve let the past dictate our future. When someone hurts us we can hold a grudge. And when grudges build up, we carry all that hurt, pain, anger and bitterness around with us. That’s a pretty heavy load. A load that stops us from moving forward into - [Use your gifts](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/use-your-gifts/) - God’s given us all gifts and skills. Even when we struggle to see them, or put ourselves down, it’s the truth. The question is: ‘what are we doing with them?’ Maybe we’re using them already, maybe there’s some that we’ve put to one side. Fear can make us hide our talents and abilities. But that’s - [Your own thing](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/your-own-thing/) - Paul writes: ‘As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body [church] is healthy and growing and full of love.’ There are two kinds of growth – symbiotic growth and parasitic growth. Symbiotic growth is a give-and-take relationship where both sides benefit. Parasitic growth is - [When Jesus prayed (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-jesus-prayed-5/) - After Jesus prayed His prayer in John 17, He then went to a garden to pray again. He was just about to face the greatest crisis in His life. The Bible says: ‘Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples followed him. On reaching the place… He withdrew about a - [When Jesus prayed (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-jesus-prayed-4/) - Perhaps the times we pray the most are the times the people we love and care for need our prayers. Praying pastorally, basically praying for the needs of others, is really important. Jesus often prayed when He was concerned about the people He loved. He told Peter: ‘Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. - [When Jesus prayed (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-jesus-prayed-3/) - Another time when Jesus prayed was when the pressures and expectations of others threatened to wreck God’s plan for His life. The Bible says, ‘While it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Simon and his companions went to look for him, and - [When Jesus prayed (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-jesus-prayed-2/) - Jesus also turned to prayer when His heart was heavy. When His cousin John the Baptist was arrested and publicly beheaded for confronting a king about his sin, Jesus ‘withdrew…privately to a solitary place’ (Matthew 14:13 NIV). Throughout our lives we’ll face bad circumstances, disappointment, and grief and while there are people who can help - [When Jesus prayed (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-jesus-prayed-1/) - Prayer can be difficult. We struggle to know what to say, when to say it and how to say it. We listen and wonder if we’re hearing from God or not. So, when we’re trying to think how we can pray, it’s great that there’s someone who we can look to for inspiration: Jesus. He - [What will you be remembered for?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/what-will-you-be-remembered-for/) - At funerals, there’s usually a time when people speak about the person who’s died. They often share memories and what they loved about the person. When we die, what do we want people to say, and remember, about us? It’s probably not going to be how much money we made, what grades we got in - [Complaining doesn’t help](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/complaining-doesnt-help/) - When things don’t go the way we’re expecting, or circumstances seem to be against us, it’s easy to fall into the trap of complaining. It can temporarily make us feel better. But it won’t solve anything and, in the end, it makes things worse. The cycle goes like this: we have a problem, so we - [Break out of the box](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/break-out-of-the-box-2/) - We’re very good at putting limits on ourselves. We might not always realise we’re doing it. It might be something as simple as seeing a job advert, and immediately thinking ‘I couldn't apply, they probably want someone with more experience.’ Or maybe we’ve not done as well as we’d hoped in exams, and now we’re - [‘He…increases the power of the weak.’ Isaiah 40:29 NIV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/heincreases-the-power-of-the-weak-isaiah-4029-niv/) - We’ve all gone through moments of complete helplessness. Times when we felt absolutely powerless to help others, or even to help ourselves. It might be our own thoughts holding us back, because we feel we’re not capable or not strong enough to face something. Maybe the words of others have chipped away until we believe - [Know your calling (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/know-your-calling-2/) - Our calling will always be connected to an unmet need or an opportunity to do good. It was in listening to the cries of the Israelites in slavery that Moses discovered his calling. So did William Wilberforce. He devoted his life to seeing slavery eradicated in Britain. Nelson Mandela was a lawyer with the potential - [Know your calling (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/know-your-calling-1/) - When God called Moses, one of the first questions He asked him was: ‘What is that in your hand?’ Moses was holding his shepherd’s staff – the one he used each day to lead and protect his sheep. But God had a different plan for it – a greater plan He used it to part - [Having the right attitude](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/having-the-right-attitude/) - Ever had to work on a group project with someone who didn’t have a good attitude towards the task, or towards the tutor/manager who set the project? Even if they do their fair share of the work, it somehow makes the task seem harder. A bad attitude can negatively affect all kinds of things, like - [Sons and daughters](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/sons-and-daughters-2/) - 2 Corinthians 6:18 tells us that God says, ‘I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters’ (NIV). Maybe you’ve had a great relationship with your own father, and you can use that experience to try and grasp the immense love God has for us when He calls us - [Baggage](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/baggage/) - We all have things in our lives that we hold onto. Things that slow us down and, sometimes, prevent us from moving forward at all. Whether it’s fear, insecurity, perfectionism, past hurts or something else, if we never let them go, then we start to have so much baggage that we can’t carry it all. - [Shalom](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/shalom/) - What images and feelings come to mind when you think of the word ‘peace’? Maybe you imagine sitting by a calming stream, listening to the water tumbling over the rocks. Maybe you think of lying on a beach, enjoying the sun. As lovely as these things are, they don’t really come close to describing the - [God’s goodness](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-goodness-2/) - The Bible says, ‘When the people saw that Moses was so long in coming down from the mountain, they gathered around Aaron and said, “Come, make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who brought us up out of Egypt, we don't know what has happened to him”’ (Exodus 32:1 - [Forgiveness sets you free](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/forgiveness-sets-you-free/) - Years after her harrowing experience in a Nazi concentration camp, Corrie ten Boom was speaking in a church when she found herself standing face-to-face with a man who had been one of the cruellest guards she had ever met in the camps. This man had humiliated and degraded both her and her sister, jeering at - [Recognising Jesus](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/recognising-jesus/) - When we face a crisis it’s easy for us to lose perspective. It happened to two of Jesus’ disciples on the Emmaus Road. Discouraged about His death, they were ‘going over all these things that had happened. In the middle of their…questions, Jesus came up and walked along with them. But they were not able - [Born identity](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/born-identity/) - The most defining moment of your life you won’t even remember. You had absolutely no choice in it – you were born. When we become a Christian the Bible describes it like a second birth: ‘For you have been born again, but not to a life that will quickly end. Your new life will last - [Precious to God (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/precious-to-god-3/) - The High Priest’s breastplate shows us that we’re precious to God, that we’re close to Him and that He doesn’t forget about us. So how does this impact our lives? It doesn’t mean we can go around thinking it’s okay to live any way we want, because God will accept and forgive us no matter - [Precious to God (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/precious-to-god-2/) - Every year, on the Day of Atonement, Israel’s High Priest went into the ‘Holiest of Holies’ where God’s presence was, in order to obtain forgiveness for the people’s sins. He wore different things, each signifying different truths. But of all the garments he put on, the breastplate was the closest one to his heart. If - [Precious to God (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/precious-to-god-1/) - In Exodus 39, we’re given very detailed information about what the high priest wore, and it can be tempting to skim over these passages, believing that there’s nothing we can learn from them. But there are no insignificant details in the Bible. When we look at the description of the breastplate worn by Israel’s high - [Godly words](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/godly-words/) - Having integrity includes how we use our words. If we wouldn’t say something because a parent, friend, or Jesus himself was standing next to us, then we probably shouldn’t be saying it at all. God’s always with us and He knows every word we’ve ever said and will ever say. He even knows the words - [Be truthful to yourself](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-truthful-to-yourself/) - Ever had to do a test in school/college/uni, and at the end, the tutor’s asked everyone to mark their own paper? What would you do if there was an answer you’d missed, but suddenly you remembered what it was? You’ve got the opportunity right there to change it. Nobody would know. Okay, it’s after the - [Let go of past mistakes](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/let-go-of-past-mistakes/) - Ever said something you regret, or made a mistake that you’re feeling guilty about, and then you keep replaying the scenario over and over in your head, wishing you could go back and do things differently? Constantly repeating, ‘if only...if only...’? Well, here’s what God says: 1) ‘Your sins are forgiven in Jesus’ name’ (1 - [Anger (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/anger-5/) - When we think about anger, we often think about anger towards another person. A conflict. A hurt. But there’s another kind of anger: righteous anger. This is the kind of anger where we’re angry at what makes God angry. It’s anger against injustice, suffering, cruelty and oppression. We can often get angry in a selfish - [Anger (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/anger-4/) - When we’re angry we know how we shouldn’t respond. So how should we respond? The answer is in a Christlike way. Firstly, we need to not walk away and leave conflicts unresolved and simmering. Instead, we should aim to sort things out. The Bible tells us to not offer our gifts to God if we - [Anger (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/anger-3/) - If we keep pouring liquid into a bottle, eventually it’s going to start overflowing. The same is true in our lives. If we keep adding things that’ve hurt us, anger that we feel, words that have been spoken and disappointments then eventually it’s going to spill out. And as it’s a whole load of negative - [Anger (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/anger-2/) - When we get angry, it’s natural for us to simply react. We don’t always think about what we say or what we do, or the consequences that it will have. Sometimes we react by blaming others. This is a way for us to escape responsibility. We push the responsibility onto other people and blame them - [Anger (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/anger-1/) - Anger. Should we feel it? Here’s what the Bible has to say: ‘Go ahead and be angry. You do well to be angry - but don’t use your anger as fuel for revenge. And don’t stay angry. Don’t go to bed angry. Don’t give the Devil that kind of foothold in your life…Watch the way - [Focus on what really matters](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/focus-on-what-really-matters/) - What do you want to achieve in life? Years from now, when you’re looking back over your life, how will you measure how successful you’ve been in achieving it? A lot of the time, the world’s usual measure of success is something like how much money you’ve managed to make, or the possessions you own. - [You belong to God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-belong-to-god/) - We all want to belong. We all want to be accepted. We all want to be loved. That’s why rejection and loneliness hurt so much. When we’re searching for human acceptance and belonging, we’re always at risk of being disappointed. But there’s a place where we belong, with acceptance and love that never ends, waiting - [Act on the vision](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/act-on-the-vision/) - If God gave you a vision today, how would you feel? Excited? Scared? It’s often difficult to know where to start, so here are some ideas for putting that vision into action: 1) Begin with prayer; ask God to confirm what He wants you to do, and how to do it. ‘Many are the plans - [Words](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/words/) - ‘Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me’ Right? Wrong. Words have so much power. They can build up or tear down. They can heal or hurt. The Bible says: ‘Kind words heal and help; cutting words wound and maim’. When we use words that tear people down, that criticise - [Foundations](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/foundations/) - When building a house, it’s vital that the foundations are solid. And that often requires concrete. Concrete is made by mixing cement, sand, gravel and water. If the mix isn’t right, the cement can’t become concrete. It’s the same with the foundations of our faith life. We need to build our faith on solid foundations. - [Envy](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/envy/) - If we don’t recognise, and then remove, any envy in our lives it can become a ‘stronghold’. We can end up feeling resentful of other people and avoiding them because of their successes. The Bible says, ‘Envy rots the bones’ (Proverbs 14:30 NIV) and the New Living Translation paraphrases it this way: ‘Jealousy is like - [Share your story](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/share-your-story/) - Psalm 107 is full of examples of God restoring people. From those who were imprisoned and in chains, to those who were destroying themselves, to those who were going through storms. The Psalm says that God ‘delivered them from their distress’ (vv.6; 13; 19; 28 ESV). Then it goes on to encourage each group to - [Be still](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-still/) - God’s able to speak to us at any time. But it’s so much harder for us to hear Him, remember what He’s said and understand it when we’re really busy. God says: ‘Be still and know that I am God’. When we’re still and quiet, we can hear what God’s saying to us. We give - [How change happens (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-change-happens-5/) - Change happens through challenge. The name Jacob means ‘he grasps the heel’ which was also interpreted to mean cheater or deceiver. This name was given to him at birth, and the label seemed to stick. His brother Esau, in his anger, exclaimed ‘Isn’t he rightly named Jacob? This is the second time he has taken - [How change happens (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-change-happens-4/) - Change happens through cooperation. Jacob named the place where he wrestled with the angel ‘Peniel’, meaning ‘the face of God’. Each of us must eventually come face to face with God, and when we do He can change us. In today’s society, we’ve become used to helping ourselves. We’ve developed an attitude of ‘I must - [How change happens (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-change-happens-3/) - Change happens through confession. When Jacob was speaking to God, he said ‘I am unworthy of all the kindness and faithfulness you have shown your servant’. It was a humble confession, admitting to God that he wasn’t perfect and that he’d made mistakes. Confession is an important part of God’s process for changing us, because - [How change happens (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-change-happens-2/) - Change happens through commitment. When Jacob realised he was wrestling with the angel of the Lord, he said, ‘I will not let you go unless you bless me.’ Jacob was committed and persistent; he stuck with it until he worked his way through it. He didn’t like where he was; it was frustrating and it - [How change happens (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-change-happens-1/) - Change happens through crisis. God used a crisis to change things for Jacob. Jacob was in a desperate situation. He realised he needed to go home but that meant he’d have to face the anger of his brother Esau. That night, in his tent, he wrestled with the angel of the Lord until the morning. - [Lead by example](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/lead-by-example/) - We read a lot in the Bible about advice for church leaders. But we can’t and won’t all be called into a leadership role, and for those of us who don’t feel it’s our calling, we might think that these parts of the Bible just aren’t relevant to us. However, we’re all responsible for setting - [Nothing time](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/nothing-time/) - That moment when things run out. A dream dies. A relationship ends. Resources or finances reach zero. That’s when God can minister to us by providing seemingly unreal, supernatural ways forward. That ‘nothing’ time is really precious: it’s a moment when God invites us to rely on Him for a way forward, when our way - [Keep the peace](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/keep-the-peace/) - There’s an awkward bit in Galatians that’s easy to skip over. Paul writes up a list of things the world does, that children of God aren’t made for. And it’s easy to agree with him, right until the end: ‘idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions’ (Galatians 5:20 ESV). Divisions. Staying - [Go for the gold](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/go-for-the-gold/) - Jesus constantly saw the best in people who others overlooked. He chose to spend time with people others avoided. Once, he even spent time with woman in hiding from her community - deliberately going to fetch a bucket of water when she knew other women wouldn’t be around to condemn her. Five divorces down (whether - [Hold on – help is on the way](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/hold-on-help-is-on-the-way/) - Samson lost everything: his hair, his strength, his sight, his position, his family, and his reputation. The mightiest man in Israel was now being tortured in a Philistine dungeon. At his lowest point Samson cried out to God for help and got it. ‘The hair on his head began to grow again.’ His hair, which - [Keep together (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/keep-together-3/) - Relationships are two-way things. We can’t build a strong friendship if it isn’t balanced. Maybe you know someone who you’ve helped when they’ve been struggling, spent time with them, supported when they’ve been upset. But they don’t seem to do the same for you when you need help. It makes it difficult for you to - [Keep together (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/keep-together-2/) - What price or thing would tempt you away from your husband/wife? If you’re not married, what would separate you from your best friend? Let’s raise the stakes: what could someone offer you that would tempt you away from God? It’s easy for us to say, ‘I wouldn’t let anything come between me and God’. And - [Keep together (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/keep-together-1/) - Imagine you’re married. You and your husband/wife never disagree about anything and never get cross or annoy each other. Household chores are shared equally. Your priorities are identical. You hate spending time apart because you’re completely happy in each other’s company. And you’ve probably guessed by now that we’re not being completely realistic here. We - [How many times should we forgive someone?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-many-times-should-we-forgive-someone/) - If God was only interested in right and wrong, He wouldn’t have wanted connection with us in the first place. God cares about more than principles. His first desire is relationship. Look at how He treats Peter in Matthew 18. First (we’re paraphrasing here), Peter asks Jesus, ‘how many times should I forgive someone? Is - [Where humility leaves you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/where-humility-leaves-you/) - When we’re at our lowest, when we’ve sinned, or when we feel utterly left out or overlooked, right then we can choose to run after humility, or run after pride. It’s up to us. But if we choose humility, God loves to step in. God always rejects a proud heart, but he responds in love - [A home that transforms](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/a-home-that-transforms/) - Ever seen the film Stardust? The hero, feeble, bored Tristan, travels off to the magical land where he was born, discovering his identity. When he comes back, everything’s changed. He’s walking tall. His shoulders are relaxed. He talks with confidence. Since he visited his true home, he found his true identity, and he’s become totally - [Comfortable in uncomfortable places](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/comfortable-in-uncomfortable-places/) - God can make us comfortable in some of life’s most uncomfortable places. He can bring us through situations we think we won’t survive or feel like we’ll be stuck in forever. He can give us peace when we’re under pressure. All of us will experience loss in our lives. Losing things can actually help us - [Childlikeness: Dependency](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/childlikeness-dependency/) - Children are dependent on other people. They depend on people for the basics in life: food, a place to sleep, safety…children can’t provide these things for themselves. They simply have to trust that someone else will give them the things that they need. Not only do we need to be like children in terms of - [Childlikeness: Direction](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/childlikeness-direction/) - Children trust their parents. They trust that they’ll be looked after and guided to do the right things. As we get older, we can begin to feel differently about direction. We can start to think that we don’t need other people’s help and can view guidance as interference. We want to be independent and solve - [Childlikeness: Discipline](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/childlikeness-discipline/) - In Matthew 18, we’re encouraged to ‘become like little children’ otherwise we ‘will never enter the kingdom of heaven’ (Matthew 18:3 NIV). This is a call for us to be ‘childlike’ not ‘childish’ – there are plenty of times in the Bible where we’re called to be mature and not to act in childish ways - [God’s interruptions](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-interruptions/) - Sunday morning at church, you’re ready to worship - and then you remember. Your mate who upset you. Or the row you had with your brother. Just as you’re about to launch into a rousing chorus of How Great Thou Art, the rug shoots out from under your feet. It makes sense that we’d have - [Living in a peaceful state of mind](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/living-in-a-peaceful-state-of-mind/) - How peaceful we feel can be dependent on what we’re focusing on. If we’re constantly focusing on our problems, things going on in the world and our own thoughts it’s much harder to feel at peace. The Bible says: ‘You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you…whose thoughts are fixed on you…for - [God can restore you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-can-restore-you/) - The prophet Jeremiah was instructed by God to ‘go down to the potter’s house’ (Jeremiah 18:2 NIV). God then spoke to him about Israel, using the metaphor of the potter and the clay. That metaphor applies to us too. Isaiah wrote: ‘We are the clay, you are the potter’ (Isaiah 64:8 NIV). God, as the - [You can change](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-can-change/) - When we talk about renewing our minds, we often look at how we think about ourselves. But it also applies to how we think about others and our circumstances. When we’re thinking things like ‘I thought they’d change’, ‘no one appreciates me’ or ‘it’s always me who makes the effort in the friendship’, we’re not - [Believe the truth](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/believe-the-truth/) - We all know that we shouldn’t lie. Lying can damage relationships by removing trust. Just one lie can cause a wound that takes years to heal, and in some cases is never healed at all. And believing the lies of the enemy has the same effect on our relationship with God. The Bible calls the - [Speak well of them](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/speak-well-of-them/) - When we’ve been criticised or offended by someone, speaking well of them is usually the last thing we want to do. If we’ve been hurt by their words, we can often want to retaliate with our words. But unsurprisingly, this is not what we’re being called to do. Jesus tells us to ‘Love your enemies, - [Trust and obey](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/trust-and-obey/) - Sometimes when we hear from God or have someone prophecy over us, we receive a fairly clear picture of what He’s planning for us. It might sound something like ‘you’ll be a leader one day’ or ‘your words will influence thousands’. Even if we don’t know how we’re going to achieve it, we know the - [Locusts](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/locusts/) - At the beginning of the book of Joel, we’re introduced to a scene of destruction. The prophet Joel writes that ‘the fields are ruined; the ground is dried up; the grain is destroyed’ (Joel 1:10 NIV). He goes as far as to say that ‘surely the people’s joy is withered away’ (v.12 NIV). One of - [Flattery will get you nowhere](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/flattery-will-get-you-nowhere/) - It’s important for us to learn how to recognise flattery. It’s usually excessive, over-the-top praise, and the giver will have an ulterior motive. Perhaps to make you more open and sympathetic towards them in order to gain your approval, or maybe to get something out of you that benefits them. A genuine compliment is truthful - [Grace](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/grace/) - Sometimes we can live thinking that God’s like an examiner in a driving test, sitting there watching what we do, ready to make a note of all our minor and major faults. Or maybe we think that God has a big performance chart with our name on it, and at the end of each day - [Unmoved by any circumstance](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/unmoved-by-any-circumstance/) - Life can throw some pretty tough challenges at us. And when those challenges start to pile up, we can end up feeling overwhelmed. When our problems seem huge, we can forget that we’ve got a God who’s even bigger. The Bible says, ‘God can do what men can’t’ (Luke 18:27 TLB). Whatever circumstances we’re facing, - [Keep going](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/keep-going/) - In stressed-out days it's hard to remember that we, just as we are, with all our weakness and tired thoughts, are enough to God. When we forget that God has said that we’re enough, it’s important to have friends who will come and remind us of that. One of the wonderful things about being in - [You must go through the fire](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-must-go-through-the-fire/) - Sometimes it feels like we’re going through the fire. Circumstances are challenging, things seem to be mounting up against us and we’re wondering what’s going on. And when we’re in the middle of it, it can be hard to remember that good can come from it. One good thing is that it helps us to - [Do you believe this?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/do-you-believe-this/) - We struggle with the idea that, one day, we’ll die. And that’s understandable. It’s full of unknowns. What will it feel like? Will I suffer? Will it hurt? Will I know what’s happening? Nobody can answer those questions for us. Even Jesus, who knew with absolute certainty that He would be returning to His Father - [Keep the fire burning](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/keep-the-fire-burning/) - After the resurrection, Jesus met two of His disciples who’d seen Him crucified and didn’t know He’d been raised from the dead. Then later as He ate supper with them at their house, an interesting thing happened: ‘Then their eyes were opened and they recognised him…they asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within - [The cross was always part of God’s plan](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-cross-was-always-part-of-gods-plan/) - The psalmist wrote: ‘My God, why have you forsaken me?...I am…scorned by everyone, despised by the people…All those who see me mock me…“He trusts in the LORD,” they say, “let the LORD rescue him”…I am poured out like water…my bones are out of joint…my tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth…they pierce my hands - [What are you waiting for?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/what-are-you-waiting-for/) - When God’s got a new chapter of life for us to move into, we don’t always move into it straightaway. Sometimes that’s because we’re pretty comfortable where we are, and we don’t want to take the risk of moving into something new. We begin to question whether God’s really calling us, so we often decide - [Anger](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/anger/) - You wake up. Late. Your alarm didn’t go off and now you’ve got to race round getting ready for school/college/work. In your hurry, you forget to check on the toast, and it burns. At lunchtime, you’re waiting in the queue at your usual coffee shop, when someone cuts in front of you without even apologising. - [The problem with envy](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-problem-with-envy/) - Envy and jealousy are destructive. They divide us, cause bitterness and make us feel inferior. We can envy other people’s possessions, circumstances and character. It can lead to us comparing ourselves with others and feeling like we’re never good enough. We can start to become ‘if only’ people. ‘If only I could be more like - [Develop an overcoming attitude](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/develop-an-overcoming-attitude/) - When we become disappointed with how life seems to be going, we can end up thinking negatively about the future. We think we can’t do things, stop taking risks, say no to opportunities that could help us grow, complain about how unfair things are and believe that there’s nothing we can do to make a - [No condemnation](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/no-condemnation/) - The Bible says: ‘The Pharisees brought a woman caught in adultery…they said to [Jesus]…”in the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women.”’ Jesus replied: ‘“He who is without sin among you, let him be the first to throw a stone at her”…When they heard it, they began to go out one by one…Jesus said - [God is at work in your circumstances](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-is-at-work-in-your-circumstances/) - One author writes: ‘We manage time, waste time, spend time, and save time. We wish it would come…we wish it would pass…we see time fly…we feel it drag. We watch clocks and carry calendars…yet God controls time. He created time, and His creations are fenced by His time, directed and guided by His loving hand. - [Learning from others](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/learning-from-others/) - When we’re around people who we think are successful, knowledgeable and wise, we can often end up feeling insignificant compared to them. Sometimes that’s to do with our attitude and how we feel about ourselves, other times it’s to do with the way people act towards us. Whatever wise people know, they haven’t always known - [Always a sinner?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/always-a-sinner/) - Every one of us has something we struggle with, some weakness or behaviour that we find difficult to put aside. It might be a tendency to gossip, or unwillingness to forgive, or a struggle with alcohol…the list could go on. While we might be able to overcome a hundred other sins, there’s probably at least - [Called, then equipped](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/called-then-equipped/) - The disciples didn’t blend in, they stood out, and the world they lived in recognised that they ‘had been with Jesus’ (Acts 4:13 NCV). They preached His message, used His methods, and demonstrated His miracles. At Antioch they were first called ‘Christians’ (Acts 11:26). That’s because they talked and acted so much like Christ. We - [Simplifying doesn’t have to be complicated](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/simplifying-doesnt-have-to-be-complicated-2/) - Author and philosopher Henry David Thoreau said, ‘Our lives are frittered away by detail…simplify, simplify.’ Jesus put it another way: ‘Do not worry about your life…the birds…neither sow…reap nor gather into barns…yet your…Father feeds them’ (vv. 25-26 NKJV). So how can we avoid complicating our lives with worry about unnecessary details? Here are a few - [Be a uniter, not a divider](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-a-uniter-not-a-divider/) - David said, ‘How wonderful, how beautiful, when brothers and sisters get along…that’s where God commands the blessing’ (vv. 1, 3 MSG). When we strive to work together in spite of our differences, God ‘commands’ His blessing to be on what we’re doing. Satan knows this, so his main strategy is to divide. He knows the - [Bad memories](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/bad-memories/) - When we’re struggling with bad memories, there are a few things we can do: 1) Reframe them. Looking back, Joseph said, ‘You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good’ (Genesis 50:20 NASB). We can try and see the good that came from things rather than just think about the bad parts. 2) - [Don’t let complaining creep in (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-let-complaining-creep-in-2/) - Complaining can show a lack of faith in God’s Word that says, ‘God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love [him]’ (Romans 8:28 NLT). The Bible says: ‘When Pharaoh…let the people go, God did not lead them along the main road that runs through Philistine territory, even though that was - [Don’t let complaining creep in (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-let-complaining-creep-in-1/) - Grumbling and complaining are things that can easily become part of our everyday lives. We come across things we don’t want to do, so we moan. Things don’t go the way we wanted them to, so we moan. Other people make decisions that end up affecting us, so we moan. And when a group of - [Use what God has given you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/use-what-god-has-given-you/) - When a woman poured expensive ointment onto Jesus’ head, people were quick to complain about how much of a waste it was. But Jesus paid her one of His greatest compliments: ‘She has done what she could.’ God requires us to do what we can too. One night in 1837, a woman felt the voice - [Peace](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/peace/) - In a society that’s full of busyness, stress and anxiety, there’s a huge need for peace. People are desperate to experience peace, but they try and find it without a relationship with Jesus, the Prince of Peace. They seek it in ways that don’t work - physical fitness, improving their appearance, financial security, fame, social - [Be kind to animals](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-kind-to-animals/) - Have you ever noticed how many Bible verses talk about caring for animals in some way? Isaiah 40:11 says, ‘He will tend his flock like a shepherd' (NIV). Psalm 147:9 says that God 'gives food to the wild animals and feeds the young ravens when they cry' (NLT). Proverbs 12:10 tells us: 'The godly care - [Confrontation](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/confrontation/) - Can you imagine the courage and integrity it took for Nathan the prophet to challenge King David about his affair with Bathsheba? Most of us tend to avoid confrontation because we fear being disliked and rejected. But when you avoid confrontation, it often makes things worse. By hiding his sin, David was depriving himself of - [Mother’s Day](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/mothers-day/) - Today is Mother’s Day. A day for us to tell our mothers how much we appreciate everything they do, as well as being an opportunity to say thank you to anyone who loves and cares for us like a mother does. The Bible tells us numerous times to honour our parents, listen to them, and - [Christ is in you (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/christ-is-in-you-2/) - Paul writes, ‘Christ lives in me’ (Galatians 2:20 NKJV). We often think about Christ being for us, or with us, or ahead of us. But Paul said it’s better than that - Christ in us. Paul realised that it wasn’t just the philosophy, ideals, and influence of Christ, but the person of Christ. Christ moved - [Christ is in you (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/christ-is-in-you-1/) - God’s always doing new things. In Isaiah it says, ‘See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland’ (Isaiah 43:19 NIV). Sometimes that new thing happens within us. We can become worn, weighed down with - [God is kind](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-is-kind/) - The Bible says: ‘God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms…that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus’ (vv. 6-7 NIV). God sent Jesus from heaven to earth, so that we can leave - [How do you affect others?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-do-you-affect-others/) - Have you ever noticed that we start to become like the people we’re around the most? We pick up the way they speak, ways they behave, their belief systems and the attitudes they have. And this means that the people who spend time with you will pick up things from you too. So how are - [Enjoy each season of your life!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/enjoy-each-season-of-your-life/) - The Bible tells us that we come across different seasons in our lives. Some of these seasons are tough, while some are great. Some are for doing new things, while some involve waiting. Ecclesiastes 3 says ‘There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens…a time to plant and - [Patience (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/patience-3-2/) - There’s another situation we often face when we can get very frustrated and disheartened: waiting for someone to come to Christ. Most of us have probably got a friend or family member who we’ve spent countless hours praying for and telling them all about God. But despite our best efforts, they still resist Him. It - [Patience (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/patience-2-2/) - When we’re in the middle of a time of suffering, it can be really hard to keep our patience. We begin to question God’s goodness and ask, ‘why me?’ or maybe we simply give up. It doesn’t have to be like this. Job is a great example of how we should react when we’re suffering. - [Patience (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/patience-1-2/) - Waiting is hard. It can be stressful, frustrating, irritating. We think we know what should happen, and when. But God has other ideas. When He keeps us waiting for something, whether that be a new phase of life, something we’ve been asking for, a fulfilment of what He has promised or a prophecy to come - [Be kind to the unkind](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-kind-to-the-unkind/) - In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus taught, ‘Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you’ (vv. 27-28 NIV). Then He added, ‘Your reward will be great’ (v. 35 NIV). God sees everything we do. Every time we choose to be kind, - [Judgement day will be a great day for you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/judgement-day-will-be-a-great-day-for-you/) - The idea of judgement day can cause us to fear. We don’t like the idea of being judged. But the Bible says, ‘As we live in God, our love grows more perfect. So, we will not be afraid on the day of judgement, but we can face him with confidence because we live like Jesus - [Battling bitterness](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/battling-bitterness/) - When we’ve been hurt, or feel we’ve been wronged, it’s easy to let bitterness take over. The anger we feel sets bitterness into motion and the seed that’s planted grows until it takes us over. The Bible says, ‘Make sure…bitterness doesn’t take root and grow up to cause trouble that corrupts many’ (Hebrews 12:15 GWT). - [Good thinking](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/good-thinking/) - Our thoughts are so powerful; our mind can control our actions, emotions and character. The Bible tells that ‘We have the mind of Christ.’ Yet our thoughts don’t always add up with this. Negative thoughts can enter our minds and influence how we feel and act. But we have the ability to stop this from - [Are you resisting a rest?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/are-you-resisting-a-rest/) - Following Jesus should energise you, not leave you feeling burned out. He says: ‘Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you…and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, - [Godly friendships](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/godly-friendships-2/) - We need friends. But more than that, we really need godly friends. These are the friends who help us grow our faith and lead us closer to God. All of us need at least one friend like this. Life is tough and we need people there to encourage, support and walk with us. Godly friends - [Beware of pride](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/beware-of-pride/) - Think about some of the things we can become proud over. Things like our academic achievements, the things we own, how popular we are on social media and the job we’ve managed to get. When we’ve worked hard to get to where we are, we need to be on the lookout for pride. Paul asks, - [God’s idea of success (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-idea-of-success-2/) - ‘If only I had a better relationship with God.’ ‘If only I prayed more.’ ‘If only I had more time so I could read the Bible.’ Any of these sound familiar? We can often fall into the ‘if only’ trap when it comes to our spiritual life. But we don’t need to wait around for - [God’s idea of success (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-idea-of-success-1/) - When we see people with the latest phone, designer labels, nice cars, high-paid job we can often be tempted to want to be like them, to be as ‘successful’ as them. It can be easy to get swept up in this striving for worldly success. But as Christians, we’re called to be people who ‘do - [Give your love away](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/give-your-love-away/) - One evening before Broadway musical star Mary Martin was to go on stage in South Pacific, a note was handed to her. It was from Oscar Hammerstein, the lyricist of the musical she was about to perform. It said: ‘Dear Mary, a bell’s not a bell till you ring it. A song’s not a song - [Be willing to pay the price](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-willing-to-pay-the-price/) - When God calls us to do something, He doesn’t promise that it will be easy. Successfully doing what we’re being called into often involves perseverance and determination through the challenging parts. Hard times and struggles often lead us to success. So when God calls us to do something, what stops us from persevering through to - [Recovering from grief](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/recovering-from-grief/) - One of the best ways to recover from grief and loss is to take your memories and turn them into motivators, then reach out in love to others who are hurting. Jesus was never too busy to show compassion to hurting people. After Ray and Judy Williamson’s son David was killed in a fall, Ray - [Relationships (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/relationships-2/) - Adam lived in a perfect place and had a perfect job - the one God gave him. It doesn’t get much better than that. But something was missing from his life, and he felt lonely. God recognised Adam’s need for companionship, and He met that need. God didn’t leave Adam to sort things out for - [Relationships (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/relationships-1/) - In Genesis, God created a perfect world. After making each thing, He took a step back and saw that it was good. There was only one thing that He wasn’t completely happy with: ‘It is not good for the man to be alone’ (Genesis 2:18 NIV). So, God’s solution to the problem was to ‘make - [Church (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/church-5/) - Church leadership. Something you feel God is calling you to right now? Something that seems like a possibility in the future? Something you’ve never even thought about? Whichever category you fall into, it’s important to know what the Bible says about how to be a great church leader. Even if you never end up in - [Church (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/church-4/) - How involved are you in your church? Some of us turn up on Sundays and that’s it. Others serve in every ministry area until they burn out. Neither is healthy. We are all called to serve others, and part of that service is within the church. God has given us all gifts and skills to - [Church (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/church-3/) - Pastor, Minister, Vicar, Leader – whatever we call them, they can have a tough time. We expect them to be everything in the church. The teacher, the pastor, the evangelist…there’s a lot for them to do. God has called them into this position and has given them the gifts and strength they need to do - [Church (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/church-2/) - ‘I didn’t like any of the songs today’; ‘I didn’t get anything from the talk’; ‘The singers were out of tune’; ‘None of my friends were around’; ‘The coffee was awful’…. How many times have you arrived home from church and had thoughts like these? We all fall into the trap at some point. And - [Church (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/church-1/) - Ever heard the phrase: the church is the people, not the building? Well if it’s the people (in other words, us), then we need to make sure that we’re working together for the church to be effective. As the church, our responsibilities are to evangelise sinners and equip saints. Basically, to tell people about Jesus - [God will keep His word to you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-will-keep-his-word-to-you/) - We can all probably think of a time when we’ve been let down by someone. When people have failed to keep their promises to us. It hurts and we’re disappointed. But when God promises something, He will fulfil it. Sometimes we’ve got to do something before His promises are fulfilled in our lives. It hadn’t - [God is our comforter](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-is-our-comforter/) - Everyone has different ways of coping with things. When life becomes overwhelming and we feel out of control, our natural response is to want to try and take control back. Or when we’re feeling hurt beyond what we feel we can bear, we can try and make the pain go away ourselves. We can try - [Share your struggle](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/share-your-struggle/) - When we’ve got an issue or problem in our lives, it’s so tempting for us to try and hide it from everyone. We pretend we’re fine because we don’t want anyone to know what we’re struggling with. But that doesn’t set us free, in fact it makes us even more trapped. An important step towards - [Try to be kind today](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/try-to-be-kind-today-2/) - If you’re an organised, time-conscious, purpose-driven kind of person, you might find yourself getting upset with others who have more of a laid back, spontaneous attitude to life. And if you’re in the spontaneous, easy-going camp, you’ll probably get cross with the types who prefer to plan and stick to a schedule. In the middle - [All kinds of people](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/all-kinds-of-people/) - The Bible tells us: Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited’ (Romans 12:16 NIV). Another way of saying this is that we shouldn’t look down on others, but always try to get along with people, no matter who - [Make time to pray](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/make-time-to-pray/) - Before Jesus walked on the Sea of Galilee, He climbed a mountain to be alone with His Father in prayer. He left the demands of the crowd at sunset and prayed until dawn. Prayer can often feel like an uphill climb. We can be unsure of how to start praying or how to pray without - [Walk in the light](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/walk-in-the-light-2/) - God spoke into our darkness twice in the Bible. In Genesis He said, ‘Let there be light’ (1:14 NIV). And in John’s Gospel, Jesus declared, ‘Light has come into the world’ (3:19 NIV). To walk with God, we have to reject the ways of darkness and walk in the light. And that means confronting areas - [Dealing with: Inexperience](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dealing-with-inexperience/) - When we’re called to do something, we can sometimes feel that we’re too young and too inexperienced to be able to do it. We get scared to even try because we think we’ll fail and believe that there are plenty of other people more suited to the task than us. But when God calls us, - [Dealing with: Emotions](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dealing-with-emotions/) - How emotional would you say you are? Emotions are natural and we shouldn’t repress them. In fact, the Bible mentions emotions quite a lot. In Ecclesiastes, we’re told that there’s ‘a time to weep and a time to laugh’ (v.3:4 NIV). While in Romans, it says ‘rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who - [Dealing with: Situations](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dealing-with-situations/) - Situations can make us feel trapped. We want to change things, but our circumstances keep us from being able to make those changes. Maybe we want to go to university, but we can’t afford it. Or maybe we want to change jobs but feel trapped by the fear of losing our salary. Perhaps it’s an - [Don’t rush into a relationship](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-rush-into-a-relationship/) - God made us with a core need for companionship. And because it’s a feature of our design, we might be tempted to leap at the first person who offers us a relationship with them, whether they’re the right person for us or not. We might feel under pressure from family or friends who ask when - [Don’t retaliate](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-retaliate/) - When we’ve been hurt, often the first thing we think about is retaliation. We want the people who hurt us to experience some of the pain that we’re feeling. But if we do seek revenge and retaliate to try and get even with them, we’re left with an awful sense of regret. And that’s because - [What kind of Christian are you? (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/what-kind-of-christian-are-you-3/) - Jesus said, ‘[The Pharisees] tie up heavy, cumbersome loads and put them on other people’s shoulders’ (Matthew 23:4 NIV). They imposed rules that people couldn’t keep, and on the rare occasion when they could keep them it didn’t bring them any joy. When Jesus died for us, He took away the rules and regulations that - [What kind of Christian are you? (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/what-kind-of-christian-are-you-2/) - Let’s take a little bit of time to do a ‘character health check’. There are a so many things we could look at, but here’s three. First, how approachable are we? When talking about the Pharisees, Jesus said, ‘they love the place of honour…they love…to be called “Rabbi” by others’ (Matthew 23:6-7 NIVUK). In Jesus’ - [What kind of Christian are you? (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/what-kind-of-christian-are-you-1/) - The Pharisees were self-appointed experts in matters of dietary laws, dress codes, etc. These practices allowed them to decide who was ‘in’ and who was ‘out.’ And what’s worse, the insiders became judgmental toward the outsiders. Jesus didn’t do that. When He was asked to identify what the law was all about, He simply replied, - [Give yourself away](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/give-yourself-away/) - Your friend’s decided to hold a charity cake sale and asks you to help. What do you do? Do you decide to go on the day and buy something, or do you join your friend in the kitchen and help with the baking? What takes greater effort – handing over some cash or giving up - [Don’t let fear stop you (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-let-fear-stop-you-2/) - The master of an estate gave each of his servants a sum of money to invest for him. One man got five talents, the second two talents, and the third man one talent. The servants with two and five talents turned a respectable profit, while the man with one talent told his master, ‘I was - [Don’t let fear stop you (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-let-fear-stop-you-1/) - What does the word ‘courageous’ make you think of? Maybe the picture in your mind is of someone in a war zone or battling cancer. Or the emergency services rescuing someone from a dangerous situation. And it’s true, all these things take an immense amount of bravery. What probably doesn't come to mind are the - [‘Each man must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.’ Ephesians 5:33 NLT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/each-man-must-love-his-wife-as-he-loves-himself-and-the-wife-must-respect-her-husband-ephesians-533-nlt-2/) - Two of the most famous ‘marriage advice’ type of verses can shed some real light on how all relationships, not just the relationship between husband and wife, can work better: be considerate (1 Peter 3:7) and be worthy of respect (1 Timothy 3:11). In any kind of relationship, it’s about growing an environment where the - [Giving at a higher level](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/giving-at-a-higher-level-2/) - God doesn’t want our generosity to be restricted by fear. Either we’ll trust Him and experience the joy of participating in His purposes on earth, or trust our own ability and live with anxiety. The danger of not moving to a higher level of giving is that we can miss out on something great that - [Having inner joy (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/having-inner-joy-3/) - The word happiness comes from the old English word happ, which means ‘chance.’ It corresponds to the Latin word fortuna, which means ‘luck.’ Both words suggest that when things happen the way we want them to we’re happy, and when they don’t we’re unhappy. But that kind of happiness is temporary and fickle; true joy - [Having inner joy (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/having-inner-joy-2/) - The Bible says, ‘A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.’ You’ve probably heard the phrase ‘laughter is the best medicine’. While it’s not literally true (we definitely wouldn’t recommend that you visit a comedian instead of a doctor next time you need antibiotics or have a broken arm), - [Having inner joy (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/having-inner-joy-1/) - Jesus said, ‘I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.’ The joy Jesus is talking about is unique: ‘My joy.’ And it’s fulfilling in a way that the world’s happiness isn’t: ‘That your joy may be complete.’ Being a faithful follower of Christ’s - [How do you come across?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-do-you-come-across/) - God gave Joseph a dream of future greatness - one in which his brothers would bow down to him. But when he told his brothers about his dream, they hatched a plan to kill him. And to make things worse his father ‘loved Joseph more than all his children…and he made him a coat of - [Self-control](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/self-control-2/) - If we’ve the faith to believe it, the moment we pray for salvation, we receive it. It doesn’t work that way with self-control. Yes, we should pray for it, but Peter writes, ‘Make every effort to add to your faith…self-control.’ It only becomes a reality when we ‘make every effort’ to practise it every day. - [Trust](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/trust/) - When we trust in relationships, we’re able to share our secrets and struggles, our inner fears and failures – we’re able to have intimacy based on honesty. It takes courage for us to be honest with God, and even more for us to be honest with one another. We’ve probably all been in that place - [Always tell the truth](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/always-tell-the-truth/) - The Bible’s crystal clear: we shouldn’t lie. We could pull out loads of verses that tell us the same thing (check out Leviticus 19:11 or Proverbs 12:22 for starters). We know the big, terrible lies that hurt others are wrong. But what about the small ‘white lies’ that people tell every day to keep everything - [Criticism (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/criticism-2/) - Yesterday we were talking about avoiding being critical. But there are times when we really do need to point out where someone's going wrong. So how can we avoid being harsh or judgemental? Here are a couple of things we can bear in mind: 1) A lot of the time, we want to help because - [Criticism (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/criticism-1/) - If it’s constructive, criticism can be a good thing. If we point out mistakes from a position of love and of wanting the other person to be the best they can be, it’s a useful tool that we can use to help others improve. Otherwise, it can easily turn into a destructive force that discourages - [Perfect Process](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/perfect-process/) - Let’s take a look at Matthew 5:48: ‘Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect’ (NIV). Perfectionists everywhere can rejoice that their struggle to do everything faultlessly is justified. Or can they? Romans 3:23 reminds us that ‘all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God’ (NIV). So, when we aim for - [Have​ ​you​ ​prayed​ ​about​ ​it?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/have-you-prayed-about-it/) - Can​ ​you​ ​imagine randomly​ ​walking​ ​into​ ​a​ takeaway and​ ​asking​ ​if​ ​your​ ​order​’s ready?​ ​‘We don’t seem to have it…when​ ​did​ ​you​ ​call it​ ​in?’​ ​the​ ​server​ ​asks.​ ​‘Oh,​ ​I​ ​didn’t,’​ ​you​ ​reply.​ ​‘I​ ​just​ ​thought​ ​ ​you​ ​might​ ​have something with​ ​my​ ​name​ ​on​ ​it.’​ ​Okay, that’s not likely to happen. But the point - [Get God involved](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/get-god-involved/) - Some​ ​people​ ​think​ ​God​ ​is​ ​against us​ ​having​ ​money,​ ​or​ ​that​ ​He​ ​doesn’t​ ​want​ ​us​ ​to​ ​have very​ ​much​ ​of​ ​it.​ ​But​ ​the​ ​Bible​ ​says,​ ​‘He​ ​will​ ​increase​ ​what​ ​you​ ​have,​ ​so…you​ ​can​ ​give​ ​even more​ ​to​ ​those​ ​in​ ​need.​ ​You​ ​will​ ​be​ ​blessed​ ​in​ ​every​ ​way,​ ​and​ ​you​ ​will​ ​be​ ​able​ ​to​ ​keep​ ​on​ - [Remove the mask (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/remove-the-mask-2/) - So how can we take that risk and let other people know who we are and what we’re going through? Firstly, we need to figure out why we get that feeling of fear rising up when we think about taking our mask off and spend some time to work through those things. Then it’s time - [Remove the mask (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/remove-the-mask-1/) - Ever done a personality test? One thing they can point out to us is our level of openness. Are we people who let others in or keep them firmly out? Keeping people out can be a coping mechanism. We build barriers around ourselves to avoid anyone getting too close and knowing too much about the - [Parental guidance (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/parental-guidance-2/) - One of the biggest topics that Solomon tackles in the book of Proverbs is about God’s perspective on sex. His letter to his children and students contains a lot of warnings about the misuse of sex and the damage and heartache it can bring. The three largest sections in Proverbs that deal with this one - [Parental guidance (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/parental-guidance-1/) - Have a read through the first 7 chapters of Proverbs and count up how many times the words ‘my son’ or ‘my child’ appear. It’ll vary depending on the Bible translation you’re using, but it’ll probably be around twenty times. So, one way we could read the book of Proverbs is as a letter from - [Give generously](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/give-generously/) - One night a man came to Mother Teresa’s house and told her about a family of eight who hadn’t eaten for a week. When she got there, she saw the faces of little ones suffering from malnutrition, so she gave them a sack of rice. Then the children’s mother did something interesting. She kept half - [The principle of reciprocity](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-principle-of-reciprocity/) - Have a read of Acts 10:1-8. Up until this time the gospel had been preached exclusively to the Jews. But all that was about to change: ‘One afternoon at about three o’clock, Cornelius had a vision. He saw an angel from God coming to him and calling him by name…”God has heard your prayers and - [Write it down](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/write-it-down/) - Write things down and you’ll have less chance of forgetting them. Seems like pretty basic life advice. But when it comes to remembering what God’s been telling you, it takes on another dimension. A key part of Christian living is to spend time in the presence of God, listening. It’s in those moments, when we - [Let it go](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/let-it-go-2/) - Letting go of the past is a challenge. Heard of the phrase ‘forgive and forget’? Sometimes it’s just not that easy. When you’ve been through hard times, when you’ve been hurt by others, you can hold on to what happened for a long time. When King Nebuchadnezzar threw Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego into the fire, - [Is God directing you to Zarephath?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/is-god-directing-you-to-zarephath/) - Elijah had pretty high levels of faith. God had sent him to a brook and promised to provide for him. Elijah trusted God and went to the brook, where He was true to His word. Then God asked him to go to Zarephath, this time promising that a widow would be there to provide for - [Honour your family](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/honour-your-family/) - It’s a commandment we’re familiar with: ‘Honour your father and your mother.’ We can get so used to hearing it that we might forget what it really means for us. So, let’s take some time to have a closer look at what honouring your parents can look like. When we honour our parents (or in - [Honour your family](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/honour-your-family-2/) - It’s a commandment we’re familiar with: ‘Honour your father and your mother.’ We can get so used to hearing it that we might forget what it really means for us. So, let’s take some time to have a closer look at what honouring your parents can look like. When we honour our parents (or in - [Refuse to settle](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/refuse-to-settle/) - Time for a check-in. How’s life going? Feeling like you’re surviving rather than thriving? Given up on the dream you once had? Settled for the life you’ve got now? Well, it doesn’t have to be like that. There’s a whole load of reasons why we choose to settle. Maybe we’re afraid to step out of - [God’s got your back](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-got-your-back/) - The Bible says that God’s your rear guard. In other words, God’s got your back. We don’t need to fear because He surrounds us. Psalm 139 says, ‘You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me’ (v.5 NIV). The fact He is before us and behind us means we are - [Successful = Faithful](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/successful-faithful/) - What is success? Is it getting the best grades? Getting the highest paid job? World-wide fame? Maybe that’s how the world views it but God’s definition of success is totally different from the world’s definition. God does want you to be successful, His kind of successful. David’s a great example of this. He started out - [Don’t just pray - believe](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-just-pray-believe-2/) - Prayer is great. But if we’re all honest for a minute, prayer can sometimes just become part of our routine. We pray, but are we praying expectantly? In other words, do we pray expecting God to answer? David knew the importance of praying expectantly. He said: ‘In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in - [God on call (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-on-call-3/) - Where do you feel safe? Wrapped up in a blanket as you fall asleep? With your family? Maybe you’ve got that one spot that you retreat to when the day’s gone badly and you just want the world to go away and leave you alone for a while. The problem with all these things is - [God on call (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-on-call-2/) - Being a Christian doesn’t automatically give us a comfortable, problem-free life. God isn’t a good-luck charm who gives us a perfect journey through life the minute we choose to accept Him. You’ve probably already realised this though, right? We have just as many (and just as serious) problems as those who don't believe. Jesus even - [God on call (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-on-call-1/) - Ever been thinking about someone, when suddenly your phone rings and it’s them? Or it starts to ring unexpectedly, and somehow you just know who it is before you even look at the caller ID? Well, that’s kind of like the prayer relationship we have with God (although we don’t always realise it). Imagine God - [Don’t proceed without peace](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-proceed-without-peace/) - Think back to the last big decision you had to make. Maybe you prayed about it, talked to others, went with what you felt God was saying and now feel great. You just know, deep down, that you made the right choice. You’ve got peace. Or maybe it worked the other way. You made a - [Ask and Obey](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/ask-and-obey/) - It’s great to ask God for His direction and to want to do His will. But, if we’re honest, how many of us really want to hear the answer? How prepared are we to make changes and follow what He says? See, there’s two parts to this passage. In verse 3, the people are asking - [Leave it in God’s hands](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/leave-it-in-gods-hands/) - When you see your friend going down the wrong path and making the wrong decisions, you’re going to try and talk to them. We hand out advice to those we care about, desperate for them to change direction. We all do it. But we can’t force them to listen or to put into action the - [Dealing with the Devil (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dealing-with-the-devil-4/) - The third, and final, temptation can pretty much be summed up as: Satan said to Jesus, ‘If you serve me, I’ll help you rise to the top.’ What’s your ambition in life? Success? Fame? The world tells us that to be accepted and successful we need to achieve and then be recognised for those achievements. - [Dealing with the Devil (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dealing-with-the-devil-3/) - Memorising Bible verses. Maybe that just feels a little too much like being at school. But it’s an important, and useful, thing to do. There’s a lot of power in God’s Word. In fact, there is so much power that it’s summed up as ‘…alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword’ (Hebrews 4:12 NIV). - [Dealing with the Devil (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dealing-with-the-devil-2/) - Jesus had to face the devil when He was tempted three times. Take the first temptation. ‘If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become loaves of bread’ (v. 3 NLT). See that two-letter word at the start? ‘If.’ It immediately brings up feelings of doubt. Getting Jesus to doubt His identity - [Dealing with the Devil (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dealing-with-the-devil-1/) - The devil. There is no denying that he is real. Doubting he exists just means he’s free to hurt us and stop us from doing what God is calling us to do. Jesus never doubted the reality of the devil. The Bible says, ‘Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be - [This year let God be God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/this-year-let-god-be-god/) - How does God provide for us? One day at a time. Do you remember the Israelites in the wilderness? God fed them faithfully each day by sending manna from heaven. But some of them wanted to make sure they’d have enough for tomorrow, revealing their lack of trust in God, so they gathered more. But - [This year recognise your calling](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/this-year-recognise-your-calling/) - By recognising and fulfilling your God-given assignment in life you free yourself from a sense of failure and are able to stop worrying about what others think. Why? Because your self-worth no longer depends on people but God. However, recognising our calling can be tricky. So, what can we do? 1) Be honest about your - [This year trust God and stay calm](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/this-year-trust-god-and-stay-calm/) - There are some things God will do for us, and other things He wants us to do for ourselves. ‘Blessed [with wisdom and prosperity] is the man whom You discipline and instruct, O Lord, and whom You teach from Your law…You…grant him [power to calm himself and find] peace in the days of adversity.’ Do - [This year listen to God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/this-year-listen-to-god/) - We can’t say we have a personal relationship with God, and at the same time believe that He never talks to us. It can be tricky to hear Him sometimes, but He always wants to talk to us and guide us. Being open to guidance from the Holy Spirit is a crucial part of Christian - [The New Year (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-new-year-2/) - January 1st. The day the world makes list upon list of things they’re going to change. One resolution leads to another, and you end up with a whole load of things you feel you need to change during this year. Ever feel under pressure from that? Seems like you’re not good enough as you are, - [The New Year (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-new-year-1/) - How are you feeling this NYE? Some of us may be full of excitement, eager to get on with 2025. Others of us may be feeling apprehensive; we’re not sure what’s up ahead and that can be daunting. However we’re feeling, there’s one thing that’s the same for all of us. God has crowned the - [Never thirst again](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/never-thirst-again/) - Jesus asked the woman at the well for a drink of water. Surprised that a Jew would talk to a Samaritan, she asked Him why He was asking her for water. He replied: ‘If you knew…who I am, you would be asking me for…living water. Everyone who drinks this water will get thirsty again and - [Don’t look back](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-look-back/) - Jesus looked for people prepared to do more than just believe in Him - He wanted people willing to follow Him. His early ministry was marked by people like Andrew, Peter, Philip, and Nathaniel (see John 1:35-52): people willing to leave where they were and what they owned to follow Him. Jesus called people to - [Put on the garment of praise](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/put-on-the-garment-of-praise/) - Praise works like a magnifying glass. It causes what we’re focusing on to get bigger, to be ‘magnified.’ David said, ‘Magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together. I sought the Lord, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears’ (Psalm 34:3-4 NKJV). It can be tempting to - [Humble Beginnings](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/humble-beginnings/) - One Christmas in London Phil Yancey went to hear Handel’s Messiah. He says: ‘I’d spent the morning viewing remnants of England’s glory – crown jewels, a gold mace, the Mayor’s gilded carriage…such images must have filled the minds of Isaiah’s contemporaries who heard the promise, “The glory of the Lord shall be revealed” (Isaiah 40:5 - [The Christmas spirit](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-christmas-spirit/) - For some people Christmas is not a time of joy, but sadness. In some cases, it’s because their families are fractured by divorce and their memories are painful. In their book, None of These Diseases, S.I. McMillen and David Stern described the damage we inflict on ourselves when we dislike someone or refuse to forgive - [Why Jesus came](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/why-jesus-came/) - Christmas: that time of year we sing about joy and peace. But how can we go beyond singing about it and actually experience it? The answer is finding God. For 300 years, Enoch walked with God. Can you imagine how well we’d know God after spending all those years with Him? There’s nothing dull or - [Smile, and start a chain reaction](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/smile-and-start-a-chain-reaction/) - Sometimes we can feel like we’ve got nothing to smile about. If anyone had a right to feel like that, it was Job. He’d just experienced the death of all his children, the loss of all his money, and was now covered from head to toe in boils. ‘When I smiled at them, they could - [The key to a successful life](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-key-to-a-successful-life/) - The news often contains health advice. We’re encouraged to eat healthier and cut back on foods that aren’t so good for us. We’re told which foods are best to eat and which ones we should probably be avoiding. But when it comes to spiritual health, there’s something we should definitely be doing. Just as we - [The hardest thing you’ll ever do](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-hardest-thing-youll-ever-do/) - The hardest thing you’ll ever do is to put others first and yourself second, because we intuitively look out for ourselves. Self-preservation is our first instinct - but it isn’t the best way to live. Do you know how two goats respond when they meet on a narrow path above a river? They can’t turn - [Transformed by beholding](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/transformed-by-beholding/) - Sometimes we can think that God is just waiting to pounce on us for our failures. We start imagining He’s waiting around the corner for us with a big stick whenever we go wrong or make a mistake. The problem is, when we view God that way, we can’t help but live in constant fear, - [Feeling Overwhelmed (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/feeling-overwhelmed-5/) - When we’re feeling completely overwhelmed by the situation we’re facing, it’s easy for us to lose perspective and let our thoughts exaggerate the negative. This happened to Elijah when Queen Jezebel threatened to kill him. When he felt like his problems were too big to handle, he started believing that the whole world was against - [Feeling Overwhelmed (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/feeling-overwhelmed-4/) - After Elijah fled to the desert and hid in a cave, God asked him, ‘What are you doing here?’ (v. 9 MSG). Elijah replied, ‘I’ve been working my heart out…the people of Israel have abandoned your covenant, destroyed your places of worship, and murdered your prophets. I’m the only one left, and now they’re trying - [Feeling Overwhelmed (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/feeling-overwhelmed-3/) - When Elijah felt he just couldn't take any more, he cried out ‘LORD…Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors’ (1 Kings 19:4 NIV). When we’re feeling completely hopeless, we can fall into a cycle of comparing ourselves with others - making ourselves feel worse in the process. Our thoughts might sound something - [Feeling Overwhelmed (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/feeling-overwhelmed-2/) - The Message paraphrase says: ‘When Elijah saw how things were, he ran for dear life to Beersheba… He left his young servant there and…went on into the desert another day’s journey. He came to a lone broom bush and collapsed in its shade, wanting in the worst way to be done with it all - - [Feeling Overwhelmed (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/feeling-overwhelmed-1/) - Elijah had been working fearlessly to challenge the worship of false gods in Israel, and proved that his God was the true God, but when Jezebel threatened to kill him for what he’d done, he got scared. Overcome by fear, he ran for his life into the desert. Alone, tired, hungry and emotionally drained, he - [An understanding heart](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/an-understanding-heart/) - Imagine God comes to see you and says you can ask for anything you want and He’ll give it to you. What would you ask for? Top exam results? A new car? Or maybe you’d ask for awesome prayer times or the gift of prophecy. Well, this happened one night to Solomon in 1 Kings - [Give your full attention](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/give-your-full-attention/) - We all want to be respected by others. One way we can make sure that we keep their respect is to make sure we’re just as interested, if not more, in them as we are in ourselves. When people share their struggles and successes with us, we can all fall into the trap of saying - [When you pray](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-you-pray/) - When Jesus was baptised the Bible says, ‘While He prayed…the Holy Spirit descended…upon Him…and a voice…from heaven…said, “You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased”’ (vv. 21-22 NKJV). After the crucifixion the disciples ‘prayed with a single purpose’ (Acts 1:14 CEV) and ‘the place…was shaken. They were…filled with the Holy Spirit, and - [Walk in the light](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/walk-in-the-light/) - How can we try to ‘walk in the light’? 1) Sin is God’s enemy, and ours. Jesus said, ‘There is no neutral ground. If you’re not on my side, you’re the enemy’ (Luke 11: 23 MSG). Being neutral or passive aren’t options; we must treat sin like the enemy it is. 2) Be honest with - [The power of intercessory prayer](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-power-of-intercessory-prayer/) - Sometimes God moves without giving you a heads-up or an explanation. Other times He moves only in answer to prayer. The prayers of Rees Howells, known as ‘the Welsh intercessor,’ were so powerful that they’re credited with blocking the Nazis’ plans and influencing certain events in World War II. Thank God for knowledge and ability, - [The Golden Rule (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-golden-rule-3/) - To make the Golden Rule part of our daily life, we must try to do three things for others: 1) Trust them. Without trust there can be no real relationship. Henry L. Stimson said, ‘The chief lesson I’ve learned in a long life is that the only way to make a man trustworthy is by - [The Golden Rule (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-golden-rule-2/) - In his book Running with the Giants, John Maxwell tells of a new pastor who shared some rules with his congregation. Here are some of them: 1) If you’ve a problem with me, come and see me privately. I’ll do the same for you. 2) If someone else has a problem with me and comes - [The Golden Rule (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-golden-rule-1/) - Try to slot yourself based on one of these statements: a) I’m always ethical. b) I’m mostly ethical. c) I’m somewhat ethical. d) I’m seldom ethical. e) I’m never ethical. Which slot do you fall into? If we’re truthful, most of us would likely put ourselves in slot b). Why? Because of personal convenience. Think - [Be yourself](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-yourself/) - It can be tempting to pretend that we’ve got everything together. It makes us look better to those around us, and if we’re honest, people-pleasing and looking for approval can trap us all at some point in our lives. But here’s the thing, when we’re keeping up that level of pretence, we’re actually being hypocritical. - [Being Thankful](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/being-thankful/) - Today, try making a habit of saying thank you (out loud, if you can) for as many things as you can manage. People who fill their lives with gratefulness for the ordinary things of life get let in on serious joy. Making space and time in your day to say thank you to God will - [The virtue of humility (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-virtue-of-humility-2/) - The story’s told of a young pastor who was widely known to be a gifted preacher. But as his congregation swelled, so did his head. One Sunday after he’d delivered his latest masterpiece sermon, a church member shook his hand and said, ‘You are, without a doubt, one of the greatest preachers of our generation.’ - [The virtue of humility (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-virtue-of-humility-1/) - When Benjamin Franklin was 22 years old, he was living in Philadelphia after escaping an oppressive apprenticeship. One question burned in his heart: ‘What are the greatest priorities of my life?’ In answer, he developed twelve ‘virtues’ - values that would govern his life. They were temperance, silence, order, resolution, frugality, industry, sincerity, justice, moderation, - [The double standard](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-double-standard/) - The Bible says: ‘The ways of right-living people glow with light; the longer they live, the brighter they shine. But the road of wrongdoing gets darker and darker - travellers can’t see a thing; they fall flat on their faces’ (vv. 18-19 MSG). How can we know what’s right and wrong, what’s ethical and moral? - [Be prepared](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-prepared-2/) - Have a think about this: if God gave you everything you’re praying for right now, would you be ready for it? Nothing great is created suddenly. Your destiny doesn’t arrive overnight. And neither does failure. Each is a process. The fact is every day of your life is preparation for the next. Think about ants - [God-Given Purpose](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-given-purpose/) - Been into a book shop recently? There’s often a whole section devoted to that thing called ‘self-help.’ Here you’ll find hundreds of books promising to help us help ourselves. There are books on dealing with anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, finding our purpose in life, becoming effective leaders or being able to make more money; - [When God sends someone to help you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-god-sends-someone-to-help-you/) - If we look at it in the right way, every experience in life is an opportunity to learn something new, and every person we meet can potentially teach us something. That means we always need to be open to new experiences so we can grab every chance to learn. And we also need to try - [Don’t doubt God’s Word](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-doubt-gods-word/) - We live in a world that relies on (and even demands) evidence. Physical evidence. Personal experience. A scientist might have a theory about how something works, but until it’s been tested thoroughly and physical proof found, other scientists won’t believe it. It’s sound practice, but it means that even in the rest of life, if - [Treasure in the attic](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/treasure-in-the-attic/) - Ever watched Antiques Roadshow? People bring their old paintings and furniture, to learn about their history and have them valued. Then there’s always that one dirty, battered item that someone’s dug out from the depths of their attic. It doesn’t look much. But the expert recognises its value straight away, and the most unassuming thing - [Come see](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/come-see/) - When God made a house for Himself in Israel, the plan was to make it as achingly glorious as possible. Just check off how many times King Solomon lathers on the gold: ‘And Solomon overlaid the inside of the house with pure gold, and he drew chains of gold across... and overlaid it with gold. - [Together. Forever.](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/together-forever/) - So, you’ve made all your vows, the wedding cake’s been cut, bouquet’s been thrown, and now you and your brand new husband/wife are standing there ready to take on the world together. Then suddenly the realisation hits you that this is the person you’re going to spend all the rest of your life with. It’s - [What is love?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/what-is-love/) - The word ‘love’ in the 21st century covers a whole bunch of different things. People use it to describe their feelings for coffee, partners, children, furniture. But in the Bible, ‘love’ means completely-given-over devotion to something. Sure, if you devote yourself to a TV show, you’ll watch it more than other TV shows. But if - [And…relax](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/andrelax/) - One of the best ways to keep your perspective on what’s truly important is to plan times of rest and recreation. The word recreation means to ‘re-create’: to recharge your batteries physically, spiritually, emotionally, and relationally. Rest and recreation help to restore your creativity, give you fresh passion for your God-given vision, and bring balance - [Deuteronomy 30:15 NET](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/deuteronomy-3015-net/) - One or the other When God first invited His people into life with Him, He couldn’t have been more shameless, really. ‘If you want life and good, choose me. If you want death and misery, don’t.’ We want happiness. We hate sadness. It should be an obvious choice. But isn’t it odd how, when we’re - [The strength you have](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-strength-you-have/) - Gideon looked out at the field of tents. 100,000 Midian Warriors primed for war against Israel. And Gideon was the one chosen to lead God’s people into battle against them. Gideon had a whole army ready, but God told him he had too many men, and the army of thousands was whittled down to just - [God says ‘Yes’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-says-yes/) - In the Old Testament, God’s promises came with conditions that had to be met. In other words, you had to do something. ‘If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land’ (Isaiah 1:19 NIV). There was a price to pay, conditions to meet, and certain things you had to - [Sabotaging friendship](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/sabotaging-friendship/) - God made friends because they’re a good thing: friends turn us outwards to focus on people other than ourselves, and friends boost us beyond what we could be on our own. So, it’s obvious that the enemy would jump to attack them, right where they should be giving us strength. Look where he attacks, and - [Word Association (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/word-association-2/) - ‘Shut up.’ We could summarise a decent amount of the book of Proverbs like that. When we’re tempted to argue: shut up. When we’re about to cut someone down, even with good cause: shut it. When we want to force our words on some poor innocent listener no matter how they feel: keep your mouth - [Word Association (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/word-association-1/) - You know when someone walks into a room and even before they open their mouths, everyone’s going ‘oh no…’ They’re known as someone who never has a good word to say about anyone, or anything. With a couple of well-chosen words, they can drain the energy and joy from a room. So, their words have - [Stick to God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/stick-to-god/) - Writing about mistakes some of God’s people made in the past, the apostle Paul penned these words: ‘These are all warning markers - DANGER! - in our history books, written down so that we don’t repeat their mistakes. Our positions in the story are parallel - they at the beginning, we at the end - - [Heaven (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/heaven-3/) - When the Bible says to store up ‘riches in heaven’ for ourselves, we think they’re for way later. Like 90 years from now, dead-in-the-ground later. But what the Bible has to say about riches in heaven is very different. Say you heard that there was snow stored up in a cloud. You wouldn’t think ‘can’t - [Heaven (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/heaven-2/) - Oil and water. Dogs and cats. Sweet and sour. We’re so used to talking about heaven and earth like they’re two separate things that can’t touch, that could never meet. The truth is right there in the Lord’s Prayer, though. God wants earth to come under His rule so that it looks like heaven (Matthew - [Heaven (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/heaven-1/) - If we asked five-year-old you to describe heaven, what would you come up with? Probably clouds, angels, harps - maybe, if you were imaginative, some new types of animals. Isn’t it funny how we leave God out from our descriptions? But if we read the Bible, the whole point of heaven is God. Heaven is: - [From the bottom to the top](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/from-the-bottom-to-the-top/) - Joseph’s life was full of ups and downs. At the beginning of his story there seemed to be more downs than ups. If that had been us, we might’ve been tempted to say, ‘It’s not fair.’ But at that point in his life there was no better place for him to be, because he was - [Free for what?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/free-for-what/) - What is freedom? Really. No trick questions. Freedom is freedom, right? When John wrote that Jesus made you ‘really and unquestionably free’, he meant it. So, if you want to go and have a massive sin-fest tomorrow, no lightning bolt’s going to come from heaven to stop you. But. The way you use your freedom - [Trusting God when there are no answers](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/trusting-god-when-there-are-no-answers/) - Life’s losses leave us hurting and wondering. Cancer takes a parent. Divorce strikes your family home. Money problems destroy the comfortable world we’ve built around us. A friend is killed or commits suicide. These times raise questions which are difficult, if not impossible for us to answer. We go over the circumstances again and again, - [Fruit or just leaves?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/fruit-or-just-leaves/) - The Bible says: ‘as Jesus was coming back to the city, He was hungry. Seeing a lone fig tree at the roadside, He went to it and found nothing but leaves on it; and He said to it, “Never again will fruit come from you.” And at once the fig tree withered’ (vv. 18-19 AMP). - [Learn to encourage yourself](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/learn-to-encourage-yourself/) - David had just won a string of spectacular military victories. But when he returned from battle, he found his home had been destroyed by the Amalekites and his family taken captive. He was heartbroken. He and his men fell to the ground and wept, until they could weep no more. But he didn’t stay down. - [God’s work (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-work-2/) - One pastor writes: ‘I could have taken a hundred gifts and ability tests as a young man and never discovered that I was gifted at teaching, because I’d never done it. It was only after I began accepting opportunities to speak that I saw the results, received confirmation from others, and realised God had gifted - [God’s work (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-work-1/) - It’s great when we’ve learned to be so in tune with God’s will and voice that we can feel sure of what He wants us to do. But discerning God’s will takes time and patience. And if we feel God asking us to do something that’s way out of our experience, it’s worth asking Him - [Jars of Clay](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/jars-of-clay/) - If someone called you a jar of clay, what would you think? It probably wouldn’t be the best compliment you’d ever received. Especially as jars may be chipped, flawed or broken. We can all feel we’re chipped, flawed or broken. None of us are perfect. But the truth is that Jesus changed that: ‘For by - [Integrity](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/integrity/) - The word integrity derives from the word integer, a mathematical term for a whole number as opposed to a fraction. So, when you walk in integrity, that means you tell the whole truth and not just a fraction of it. So why do we sometimes slant the truth, embellish it, or tell half-truths? Sometimes it’s - [Let’s go outside](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/lets-go-outside/) - We hate leaving comfort zones. Our mornings start with the biggest there are - duvets. We can barely convince ourselves to leave them, even though when we’re properly awake we’re usually fine in a matter of minutes. It’s buried deep in us to want a pile of blankets to retreat to, or a fortress to - [Heed the warnings](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/heed-the-warnings/) - Sticking to what you believe in and not letting others talk you out of it can be great. But when someone gives you a warning of what could happen if you stay on the path you’re on, and you choose to ignore it... well, that’s not so great. Especially if that warning is coming directly - [You can do it](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-can-do-it/) - One of Satan’s favourite strategies for discouraging you is to make you feel incapable of doing anything worthwhile. He’ll remind you of your past mistakes so that even when you do make an effort, your fear of failure will sabotage you. Satan wants you to feel so bad about yourself that you’ll have no confidence - [On-the-job training](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/on-the-job-training/) - When God called Moses to go into Pharaoh’s palace and announce, ‘Let my people go,’ Moses responded by saying, ‘Please send someone else.’ Is that how you feel today? If so, here’s what God told Moses: ‘Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say’ (v. 12 NIV). When God - [SAFE HEART](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/safe-heart/) - In Israel, houses were built with flat roofs. People would walk around the roof if they didn't want to go out, and on hot nights they would sleep up there. They treated the roof just like any other room in their house. But that could be quite a dangerous thing to do, so God said - [BEST LAID PLANS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/best-laid-plans/) - We’ve probably all been here at some point: you plan something, practise for it, do everything you possibly can to prepare yourself for it. Contingency plans all lined up. And then along comes a problem you haven’t anticipated, that’s way out of your control, and all your prep comes to nothing. That’s what Ecclesiastes 9:11 - [GIVE JOY A SHOT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/give-joy-a-shot/) - Nehemiah 8:9 tells us that when the Israelites heard the law being read out, they began to cry, because it reminded them of everything they’d done wrong. But Nehemiah tells them ‘this day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength’ (Nehemiah 8:10 NIV). The Israelites - [MAKE AMENDS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/make-amends/) - Zacchaeus had a bad reputation; he was tax collector who got rich by cheating people. When Jesus spent the night at his house, it shocked the religious community. We don’t know what Jesus told Zacchaeus that night, but it made him say, ‘Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, - [PRAYING IN GOD’S WILL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/praying-in-gods-will/) - Sometimes we pray outside of God’s will, and part of the Holy Spirit’s job is to change our minds - not convince God to give us what we want. That’s why the Spirit ‘searches our hearts’ in prayer. Sometimes words aren’t enough; you don’t always know what someone’s really thinking or wanting based on what - [LET IT GO](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/let-it-go/) - Jesus, ‘the Great Physician,’ never covers up an infected sore. He insists it’s lanced, drained, cleansed, and given time to heal. If you’ve done things you regret, don’t be discouraged. Jesus isn’t impressed by our virtues, He’s touched with ‘the feeling of our infirmities’ (Hebrews 4:15 KJV). He understands your struggle. ‘He himself has…been through - [TAKE THE RISK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/take-the-risk/) - Remember the three stewards who were each given a sum of money to invest? The first two doubled theirs; the third buried his in the ground. The first two were promoted; the third was fired. Could there be a more powerful incentive to take a risk of faith based on what God promised you? Failure - [PERSONAL GROWTH (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/personal-growth-3/) - As you keep growing and learning, you’re building and refining all kinds of new skills. And when that’s combined with a heart completely aligned with God, with a desire to help others, all those skills give you things to bless other people’s lives with – a big, but amazing, responsibility. So what can you do - [PERSONAL GROWTH (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/personal-growth-1/) - Personal growth. It’s what helps us move us forward in life. We don’t have to keep learning, keep growing; it’s not compulsory. But to move forward in your studying or your job, to be able to aim high you need to keep learning. It’s not just about the ‘academic’ side of things, though. It’s also - [HOLY! HOLY! HOLY!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/holy-holy-holy/) - Have a read of Isaiah 6:1-8. Isaiah’s commenting on what happened when he saw God. You can almost visualise the scene: God’s throne, the worshipping angels, the coal touching Isaiah’s lips. It must have been amazing to meet with God like this, to actually see Him and hear His voice, to be in the presence - [HE’S SAYING THE SAME TO YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/hes-saying-the-same-to-you/) - One of the first things Jesus did after His resurrection was to look for the disciples who’d failed Him so badly. ‘On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace - [GOD’S TIMING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-timing/) - If God had told you all the things you’d have to go through to get to where you are right now, could you have handled it? If He showed you your whole life in advance, you’d probably faint at the plans He’s got in store for you. Joseph discovered during his time in prison that - [MOVE BEYOND REGRET](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/move-beyond-regret/) - So you’ve made a big mistake, wasted an opportunity, wish you could go back in time and do things differently. Regret things. Regret can be a helpful feeling because it spurs us on to do better next time. But God doesn’t want us to live lives weighed down by regret. There are three things you - [A PRAYER FOR INTEGRITY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/a-prayer-for-integrity/) - Living a life of integrity - what does that mean? Integrity is being a genuine person, even when nobody’s watching. Think about how you are at church, at school or university, work, and at home. Are there differences? To be a person of integrity means being the same in all places and situations. We also - [START WITH WHAT YOU’VE GOT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/start-with-what-youve-got/) - Just before Jesus fed five thousand hungry people, the disciples said to Him: ‘There’s a young boy here with five barley loaves and two fish. But what good is that with this huge crowd?’ End of story? No, ‘Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks to God, and distributed them to the people…And they all ate - [WORKING WITH DIFFICULT PEOPLE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/working-with-difficult-people/) - God used a raven, a bird considered ‘unclean’ in Jewish culture, to feed the prophet Elijah during a famine. Nehemiah rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem with funds provided by a heathen king. The point is: don’t limit God. Sometimes the people we’d normally avoid are the ones He uses to provide what we need, and - [PRACTISE HEARING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/practise-hearing/) - Before problems come along, God can prepare you in advance by giving you ‘words of wisdom.’ He did it for Isaiah. Isaiah was a prophet, but when God first called him, he protested, ‘I am a sinful man’ (Isaiah 6:5 NLT). That means you can be flawed and still hear from God. Ever been in - [FIRST THING IN THE MORNING (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/first-thing-in-the-morning-2/) - God can speak to us whenever He wants to, so why does He say so often in Scripture that He’ll speak to us first thing in the morning? There are two reasons: 1) He wants to have first place in your life. He wants to be top on your list of priorities for the day. - [FIRST THING IN THE MORNING (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/first-thing-in-the-morning-1/) - Take a look at this amazing testimony from Isaiah chapter 50: ‘The…Lord has given me his words of wisdom…that I know how to comfort the weary. Morning by morning he wakens me and opens my understanding to his will. The…Lord has spoken to me, and I…listened. I have not rebelled or turned away’ (vv. 4-5 - [‘RESTLESS, IRRITABLE, AND DISCONTENT’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/restless-irritable-and-discontent/) - In Alcoholics Anonymous’ recovery program, those seeking help are taught that when they become ‘restless, irritable, and discontent’ they’re in danger of going back to their drug of choice. Falling back on old bad habits when we’re feeling discouraged doesn’t help, because inside each of us there’s a God-shaped blank that only He can fill. - [‘TURNING.SERVING.WAITING’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/turning-serving-waiting/) - Let’s read what Paul wrote to the Thessalonian believers: ‘You became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe…from you the word of the Lord has sounded forth…in every place. - [SET AN EXAMPLE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/set-an-example/) - Have a read of 1 Timothy 3:1-13. It outlines all the qualities that someone should have if they want to be a good leader in the church. It’s all really good advice and something you should bear in mind if you feel God’s calling you in that direction. But for a lot of us, that’s - [GO AFTER GOD’S CORRECTION](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/go-after-gods-correction/) - God’s correction humbles us in ways we need to be humbled. And when He does it, we have three choices: 1) Rebel against Him. 2) Make excuses. 3) Receive His correction and get back on track. But lasting change can’t even begin until you accept that God loves you unconditionally, just as you are. Without - [TRUST THE CREATOR (7)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/trust-the-creator-7/) - We often take water for granted. It's so readily available - just turn the tap and it's there - that we tend to forget about it. We get so fed up with the rain ruining our plans that we sometimes need to remind ourselves what a blessing (and a privilege) it actually is. Psalm 104:13 - [TRUST THE CREATOR (6)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/trust-the-creator-6/) - When you think of all the dangers and harmful things in the natural world around us, it’s a miracle that we’re still alive. But it's another proof that we’re safe in God’s hands. All kinds of meteorites from outer space are constantly falling on our planet. But God put a protective atmosphere around earth, which - [TRUST THE CREATOR (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/trust-the-creator-5/) - In Monday’s reading, we were thinking about the ‘delicately-balanced rules’ of quantum physics. Today, we’re thinking about something that we don’t need a microscope to see: the sun and moon. Just like the tiniest atom, God created rules for them to follow. ‘He made the moon to mark the seasons, and the sun knows when - [TRUST THE CREATOR (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/trust-the-creator-4/) - God designed the earth perfectly, to keep us alive by providing for us and meeting our basic everyday needs. He knew exactly what we required. He worked it all out so flawlessly that if there was even a small variation, we couldn't survive. If the earth was 10 percent larger or smaller, life as we - [TRUST THE CREATOR (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/trust-the-creator-3/) - Quantum physics reveals to us the delicately-balanced rules that keep our world under control. How did they happen so perfectly? You’ve probably come across the argument that science and the Bible disagree with each other, and there’s no way to reconcile the two. But physicist Henry Margenau puts it this way: ‘There’s only one convincing - [TRUST THE CREATOR (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/trust-the-creator-2/) - Have you ever looked up at the sky and tried to imagine the absolute vastness above your head? It’s almost impossible for us to process the thought of space being so massive, and when we do, it can make us feel incredibly tiny and insignificant. And when we’re feeling insignificant, our prayer requests can sometimes - [TRUST THE CREATOR (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/trust-the-creator-1/) - ‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.’ Deep down, we know those words are true. But what about those times when we’re feeling really discouraged and alone? When our prayers haven’t been answered as we’d like, and everything’s going wrong in spectacular fashion. At those times they sometimes feel like - [TELL HIM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/tell-him/) - The great preacher Charles Spurgeon once gave a sermon about commitment to Christ. The language is a bit old-fashioned now, but the message is just as important for us today. It goes like this: ‘I’ve known some who preached the gospel with power, but lived to depart from it altogether. I’ve known others who discharged - [THE REAL TEST OF LOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-real-test-of-love/) - Words are great. Words are important. Words overflow out of the generosity of our hearts. They spill out in kind words, encouragement, prayer. As you’re out and about every day - at the checkout, at the bus stop - you can unleash them on people. Ask God for a generous spirit and He’ll give you - [PREPARE YOURSELF](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/prepare-yourself-2/) - If Nehemiah was going to succeed in his quest to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, he needed money. And to get that, he needed the backing of his boss, the king. So he prayed for the king’s favour. It was a bold prayer, and it wasn’t one that was answered overnight. But Nehemiah didn’t just - [ENJOY EACH DAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/enjoy-each-day/) - ‘Seize life!...Each day is God’s gift...Make the most of each one!’ (vv.7-10 MSG). Are you waiting for something to happen before you can say that your life has truly begun? Are you waiting for a relationship? To graduate? To get a job? These things can all be great events in your life, but your life - [RECAST THE CLASSICS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/recast-the-classics/) - Let’s take a look at Esther. Esther was born into slavery, but a pagan king made her one of his wives because he thought she was beautiful. ’Out of place’ just doesn’t go far enough to describe how she must’ve felt. But she was in exactly the place God needed her to be. When Haman - [FIVE ALL-IMPORTANT ANSWERS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/five-all-important-answers/) - In Romans 8, Paul asks a lot of questions. These are questions with big, significant and life-changing answers. 1) ‘If God is for us, who can ever be against us?’ While this doesn’t mean that nothing bad will happen to us, it does mean that if we’re believers, God’s on our side and that we - [STAYING POWER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/staying-power/) - Sometimes the people you count on to support you will actually try to undercut you. When God gives you a vision that’s too big for them to handle, they’ll say, ‘you’re getting too big for your boots,’ and try to cut you down to size. (Usually their own size.) Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery, - [KEEP SERVING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/keep-serving/) - The people you’re closest to can be the ones who give you the strongest opposition when it comes to sharing your faith. Maybe you’ve got that one friend who can’t resist making fun of you whenever you talk about Jesus. Or it might be someone you work with, or even a member of your family, - [PUSHING ON](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/pushing-on/) - There are so many things demanding our time and attention. Pressure comes from all sides - deadlines to meet, work to do, serving at church. It’s hard. We tend to overwork and consume ourselves with busyness. The strategies we use to cope, though, don’t add up to ‘staying power’ so much as overexertion. Our lives - [YOU CAN’T KILL A DEAD GUY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-cant-kill-a-dead-guy/) - Can you imagine how hard would it be to threaten Lazarus? What would you say? ‘You’re gonna get yourself killed’? That’s not going to work on a guy who’s been given a new shot at life, and a relationship with the God who’s stronger than death. And it was the same for the early Christians. - [TRUE LOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/true-love/) - You might have come across the phrase 'familiarity breeds contempt'. In other words, as you get to know someone and become closer to them, you're also going to get closely acquainted with their personality quirks and irritating little habits. (Don't forget it works both ways - they'll get to know all of yours too.) It's - [JOY: EFFERVESCENT HOPE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/joy-effervescent-hope/) - Paul wrote this: ‘Rejoice in the Lord always’ (Philippians 4:4 NIV). Maybe you’re thinking, ‘Easy for Paul to say, he doesn’t have my problems.’ And you’d be right. He had a whole heap of his own. When he wrote those words he was in prison with no chance of getting out, and so in that - [DIVINE GUIDANCE (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/divine-guidance-3/) - Paul wrote: ‘We think you ought to know, dear brothers and sisters, about the trouble we went through in…Asia. We were crushed and overwhelmed…we thought we would never live through it. In fact, we expected to die. But as a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God, who raises - [DIVINE GUIDANCE (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/divine-guidance-2/) - Grab a pen and highlight these words: ‘God is working in you.’ He does this as you engage your mind, open your mouth, move your feet, and use your hands to do what He’s already put into your heart. The moment you say yes to Him, He’ll work on you until you’re completely ready to - [DIVINE GUIDANCE (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/divine-guidance-1/) - All through the Bible, God talked to ordinary people. He told Abraham when to leave home (Genesis 12:1), and Jacob when to go back home (Genesis 31:3). He told Elijah where to find food in the middle of a famine (1 Kings 17:1-5). Twice He stopped Paul from walking through what appeared to be a - [BOUND BY A LOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/bound-by-a-love/) - God’s love is a love that can be hard for us to get our heads around. It’s a love like we’ve never experienced from any human. It’s a love that can’t be quenched. It’s an inescapable, unending and unfailing kind of love. Nothing, and no one, can separate us from the love of God: ‘For - [REFUSE FEAR](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/refuse-fear/) - Fear’s powerful. It can stop us doing things. It can be crippling and consuming. So how can we overcome fear? First, be prepared to take a risk and step out of your comfort zone. That can ring alarm bells for us – what if I get hurt? What if I fail or embarrass myself? These - [REFUSE UNJUST TRADITION (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/refuse-unjust-tradition-3/) - It comes down to this: ask. Before anything else, you want to ask God. Make sure you’re in line with the heart of God. You don’t want to step out to challenge tradition if you’re not. Because traditions can be helpful ways of passing on what God wants to the next generation - or they - [REFUSE UNJUST TRADITION (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/refuse-unjust-tradition-2/) - The daughters of Zelophehad teach us that we have to be willing to do something about it. Muttering and complaining to yourself doesn’t change anything, it just makes you more miserable. With millions of people entering the Promised Land, other women were in their predicament. But nothing changed until these five women got proactive. That - [REFUSE UNJUST TRADITION (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/refuse-unjust-tradition-1/) - What can the five daughters of Zelophehad teach us? (Other than a quite terrific name for a doom metal band.) A lot, as it turns out. The Israelites were about to move into the Promised Land. Guidelines had been established for divvying up the land among the various tribes. But the law said that only - [BEYOND WORDS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/beyond-words/) - Every Christian, wherever they are, whoever they’re with, has the Spirit of God with them. Even if you’re not concentrating on prayer, He’s there, often just chatting away with God through you anyway. Even if your mind’s a million miles away, even if you’re thinking of a pink elephant, the Spirit prays at a level - [FEAR OF THE LORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/fear-of-the-lord/) - When you submit to God, you don’t have to be afraid of anything because He becomes your ‘refuge and strength’ (Psalm 46:1). Fearing God doesn’t mean being afraid He’s going to hurt you. He’s a good Father. ‘The fear of the Lord’ just means you’re in awe of His goodness, strength, and beauty. And because - [GOD CAN OUTGIVE US](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-can-outgive-us/) - One of the quirks of studying science is that every time you move up a level, the tutor says, ‘Forget everything you learned at Junior/Leaving Cert level - this is what’s really going on.’ It’s kind of like that when you learn about generosity. If you grew up in church, try and remember what it - [SHEKINAH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/shekinah/) - It’s like walking into your kitchen and finding a WWE pro-wrestler in an apron, baking a batch of fresh cookies. You just wouldn’t see it coming. But there’s actually a word for that kind of surprise meeting. ‘Shekinah’. Ancient rabbis coined it to describe that moment when you meet God’s presence in a place you’d - [WHEN YOU’RE NOT EXPECTING IT (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-youre-not-expecting-it-2/) - When you’re in a really good place spiritually, it’s easy to get complacent - but that’s exactly the time you’re vulnerable to attack. Even Jesus wasn’t exempt. In a display of supernatural power, He fed five thousand people with five loaves and two fish. After a miracle like that, most of us would’ve decided it - [WHEN YOU’RE NOT EXPECTING IT (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-youre-not-expecting-it-1/) - Anne Graham Lotz tells the story of a week when everything went wrong for her. She writes: ‘I was tempted to lose my temper, to worry instead of trust, and to neglect my prayer life. What looked like ordinary frustration…was something more sinister…Satan attacks our weakened defences in the mundane areas of our lives.’ The - [COMFORT: USE YOUR WORDS (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/comfort-use-your-words-2/) - Most of us have heard that the best way to comfort suffering people is with silence, and listening. There’s often time for a few words, though. The Bible definitely suggests so. Take a read of 1 Thessalonians 4 and see what it says about comforting people who are grieving with truth. But. There has to - [COMFORT: FLIP YOUR SUFFERING (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/comfort-flip-your-suffering-1/) - Paul said that God ‘comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble.’ And Billy Graham added (a few years later...): ‘Those who have suffered the most are best able to comfort others…to empathise with afflictions because of what they’ve experienced…The sufferer becomes the comforter in the service of - [GOD OF THE DISCOURAGED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-of-the-discouraged/) - Can you remember what you felt when you first became a Christian? Or, the first time you were really energised by the idea of a life of relationship with God? Maybe back then you were expecting things to turn out wildly differently than they have. Maybe you felt Christ promising a life of excitement, and - [PUT YOURSELF IN THE LINE OF FIRE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/put-yourself-in-the-line-of-fire/) - Before you were born, ‘every day of [your] life was recorded… Every moment… laid out before a single day had passed’ (Psalm 139:16 NLT). Obviously that sounds pretty appealing and you’ll want to get in on that. Like the bit in Back to the Future II where Marty jumps forwards in time and sees his - [THERE IS LOVE IN YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/there-is-love-in-you/) - Paul told the Thessalonians that as their faith grew, their love grew too. The two things come bundled up together. So how do we ‘grow in love’ like they did? Well, as your faith in God’s goodness grows, you see how you can share it. You see how introducing God’s goodness to people changes and - [BLOCK TEMPTATION (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/block-temptation-4/) - Let’s take a look at the first time in Scripture anyone was tempted and see what we can learn. The Bible says, ‘The serpent was the shrewdest of all the [creatures] the Lord God had made…he asked the woman, “Did God really say…?”’ (v. 1 NLT). First, Satan will blind you to all the good - [BLOCK TEMPTATION (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/block-temptation-3/) - ‘Joseph was a very handsome and well-built young man, and Potiphar’s wife…began to look at him lustfully. “Come and sleep with me,” she demanded. But Joseph refused. “Look,” he told her, “my master trusts me with everything in his entire household…How could I do such a wicked thing? It would be a great sin against - [BLOCK TEMPTATION (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/block-temptation-2/) - No matter how often you fall, get back up. ‘Though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again’ (Proverbs 24:16 NIV). Becoming spiritually mature is a whole-of-life process. It happens every time you turn to God in weakness and allow Him to do for you what you can’t do for yourself. ‘The Lord is near - [BLOCK TEMPTATION (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/block-temptation-1/) - ‘God is kind, but he’s not soft. In kindness he takes us firmly by the hand and leads us into a radical life-change’ (Romans 2:4 MSG). When Jesus told Peter he would soon deny his Lord, Peter boasted, ‘Others may, but I’ll never.’ But within a few hours he was swearing and disavowing any knowledge - [THE ULTIMATE PURPOSE OF PRAYER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-ultimate-purpose-of-prayer/) - The Bible says, ‘God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son.’ When you read the preceding verses in the chapter you’ll see that God changes people through prayer. Sometimes we don’t pray because we think God’s not at work and nothing’s happening. But God’s always working, and something’s - [LOVE, DON’T JUDGE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/love-dont-judge/) - We’ve all made mistakes and done things we regret. Even though we’ve been saved by God’s grace, it doesn’t mean we’re immune from making mistakes. So when you meet somebody whose lifestyle makes you uncomfortable, don’t judge them or take on a ‘holier-than-thou’ attitude. Learn as much as you can about them, and let your - [MORE THAN AVOIDING BAD THINGS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/more-than-avoiding-bad-things/) - You know when someone says ‘don’t think of a pink elephant’, and then waits, smiling, while your face contorts and your brain melts out of your ears? That’s sort of like the mental acrobatics you can get yourself in with sin. What do we mean? When you spend all your time thinking about how to - [BLESS THEM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/bless-them-2/) - When someone hurts you, you have three options: 1) hurt them back; 2) avoid them altogether; 3) pray for them and look for ways to bless them. (Take a look at Matthew 5:44-45 to see what Jesus thought.) Paul says: ‘as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people’ (Galatians 6:10 NIV). We - [JOB HOLDS FAST](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/job-holds-fast/) - Chapter 23 of Job is like the worst public shaming you can imagine. Job's a good man who's been facing disease, tragedy, and loss, and nobody knows why. But that doesn't stop people coming up with their own reasons. Three friends show up, pretending they’re there to offer Job comfort. 20 chapters later, they're openly - [HIDDEN BY DESIGN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/hidden-by-design/) - When God calls you to serve Him, you’ll sometimes go through a time of feeling invisible. God called Isaiah ‘from the womb’ (v. 1 NKJV), but he still went through a season of being hidden ‘in the shadow’ while God perfected his ministry. When God gives you a vision, it can be really frustrating if - [GET CHANGED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/get-changed/) - Skip with us to Exodus 19. God had an incredibly close friendship with Moses. Close enough to make other people scared of getting anywhere near it. But take a read of verses 10-13 and you’ll see God inviting all of His people to draw just as close. And skip over to chapter 20:18-21 to see - [](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/154852/) - ‘IT IS WELL WITH MY SOUL’ The peace Jesus gives brings a sense of assurance that no matter what happens, you know ‘it is well with my soul.’ He says to us: ‘My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and…afraid.’ - [IN YOUR FUTURE, YOU’RE FEARLESS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/in-your-future-youre-fearless/) - God doesn’t show you your future all in one go. He drip-feeds it. He doesn’t give Gideon the whole picture, either. He doesn’t show him all the heroic acts, the battles he’ll win, the size of the armies he’ll send running. If God did that, Gideon would just get scared by his own future. If - [BUT THE FEAR IS REAL!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/but-the-fear-is-real/) - God holds out the invitation to Gideon. Valour instead of fear. Thousands of enemies defeated, known as a hero everywhere, a champion among angel armies, doing it all with unshakeable confidence in God. Gideon, your future will look like this. But Gideon pauses, waiting for it all to make sense. It sounds a like a - [FEAR IS A TYRANT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/fear-is-a-tyrant/) - Think of the act of throwing something out of a window. Think of revolution against a corrupt government. That’s what you’ve got to do with fear. Fear’s a tyrant, and it needs to be given a firm shove out of your life. In fact, God’s rolling up His sleeves to dethrone fear from your life, - [EUREKA](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/eureka/) - Displacement. A science-y word with a whacking great godly truth for us. Did you ever hear that story about Archimedes taking a bath, watching water spill out as he lowered himself in? Or the old primary school experiments? That's how displacement works. And it's how the Holy Spirit works in our minds, too. We'll explain - [BIBLE STUDY: MAKE IT PERSONAL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/bible-study-make-it-personal/) - How bothered are you about Bible reading? That measures how much you get back in return. As you press into the Bible, God reveals its truth to you, and then it starts to show up in your life. Jesus puts it like this: ‘for there is nothing hidden which will not be revealed, nor has - [GET A GRIP ON THE KINGDOM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/get-a-grip-on-the-kingdom/) - Self-control’s one of the nine fruits of the Spirit. God’s character traits, which He shares with you when you get close to Him (check Galatians 5:22-23). The Greek word for ‘self-control’ comes from a root word meaning ‘to grip.’ Yes it means getting a grip on your desires, your spending, your anger, all of that. - [UNFAIR CRITICISM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/unfair-criticism/) - How did Jesus deal with unfair criticism? He didn’t engage. He kept looking up to heaven. ‘When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly.’ (v. 23 ESV) Why? He trusted that God was in charge, and would - [‘DOES THIS PERSON BELONG IN MY LIFE?’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/does-this-person-belong-in-my-life/) - A toxic relationship is like a limb with gangrene: unless you amputate it the infection can spread and kill you. Without the courage to cut off what refuses to heal, you’ll end up losing a lot more. Until God changes the other person’s nature, they can have the power to affect and infect you. Jesus - [REST BUILT IN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/rest-built-in/) - There’s this thing we do with Bible heroes where we make them out to be special people - like they didn’t need, sometimes, the same things we do. Take a look at Moses, for example. In Exodus 18, Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, shows up, and he tells him (in short) ‘you’re over-stretching yourself, get some help.’ - [NOT A CONVEYER BELT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/not-a-conveyer-belt/) - God’s kingdom is about rescuing human lives from sin, demonic powers, and empty, joyless ways of living. But God didn’t design His kingdom to roll out automatically. It’s not a conveyer belt rolling mechanically towards heaven. The plan is...us. In the middle of our growing, reaching, changing lives, the kingdom comes to earth. God’s giving - [DON’T GIVE UP - GO THROUGH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-give-up-go-through/) - When King David and his men returned home from battle, they discovered the Amalekites had burned down their homes and taken their families prisoner. They were devastated. They wept until they’d no tears left. Then God spoke to them and said, ‘Pursue…overtake…and…recover all.’ And with His help they did. Maybe the situation you’re in right - [HEALTHY CONFRONTATION (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/healthy-confrontation-3/) - Confronting someone spontaneously can end really badly. So it needs prep. Otherwise, it’s like going shopping without a list and ending up with nothing but bags of chocolate. If you go into a confrontation without prep, you’ll probably reach for the easiest emotion in the heat of the moment - anger. In fact, prepping for - [HEALTHY CONFRONTATION (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/healthy-confrontation-2/) - We might have our motives sorted, but how do we know the best time to confront someone? It’s probably not a good idea to confront your housemate as soon as they walk through the door after a day of work. Or to confront your friend when they’re clearly having a bad day. It’s also best - [HEALTHY CONFRONTATION (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/healthy-confrontation-1/) - Sometimes you’ve got no other option but to confront someone. But how? We’re not born with the ability to do confrontation well; we have to learn the art of it through practice and patience. Practice can be tricky though because we don’t like confrontation; in fact, we actively avoid it. But avoiding it just leads - [ABOUNDING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/abounding-2/) - All fear goes. All angst leaves. Joy moves in, and it overflows, and it tips you over what you thought was the edge of your personality. God wants that to be the normal Christian experience - it can actually be your experience of faith, if you want it to be. But maybe you’ve not felt - [IMAGINE THAT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/imagine-that/) - In Matthew 16:18, Jesus said to Peter, ‘I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it’ (ESV). Who was Peter at that moment? A pretty flaky chap. Learning slowly, if at all. Somehow both over-enthusiastic and under-committed at the - [FIGHT FOR GOD’S PROMISES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/fight-for-gods-promises/) - When God speaks to you, His words are designed to hit home, right to your core. And if you drop everything to listen to Him, sitting bolt upright and taking notice when you feel God whispering to you, He’ll lean in and speak more. He loves it when you show Him you’re bothered about His - [A FAITH THAT HOLDS YOU UP](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/a-faith-that-holds-you-up/) - The one who works hours tirelessly serving at a food bank, only to give up when she’s burnt out all her kindness and has nothing left for her family. The one who starts an interfaith group, only to find unexpected racism buried deep in himself. The one who decides to live by Jesus’ words, but - [True friends](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/true-friends/) - How many ‘true friends’ do you think you have? We all have ‘friends’ and ‘followers’ on social media, but how many of them would we class as true friends? How many of them would we really want to share our lives with? How many of them would be there for us when we needed them? - [What’s your harvest?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/whats-your-harvest/) - When the Bible talks about sowing and reaping, it can make us think of farmers gathering in the crops that they’ve planted and nurtured. But the idea of sowing and reaping can be applied to so many areas of our lives. We might have a talent for something, and by sowing into it through practice - [Develop your awareness of God’s presence](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/develop-your-awareness-of-gods-presence/) - When you sense God’s presence and know He’s with you, you can handle whatever life brings. Try to imagine the assignment Moses had – liberating two million people from the grip of slavery: leading them through a wilderness where they were exposed to enemies and elements such as extreme heat and cold; feeding them, clothing - [Unlearning](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/unlearning/) - Failing to unlearn irrational fears and misconceptions keeps us from becoming who God wants us to be. The invalid man in John 5 is a great example of this. He had been disabled for thirty-eight years when Jesus asked if he would like to get well. However, the man believed there was only one way - [The essence of leadership](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-essence-of-leadership/) - To be worthy of a following, you need more than talent and a title. The essence of leadership lies in doing two things. 1) Going first! ‘Cross over ahead of your fellow Israelites.’ That means if God has called you to lead, you must step out in faith and go first. That requires believing in - [Godly friendships](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/godly-friendships/) - We need friends. But more than that, we really need godly friends. These are the friends who help us grow our faith and lead us closer to God. All of us need at least one friend like this. Life is tough and we need people there to encourage, support and walk with us. Godly friends - [Don’t be afraid of failing (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-be-afraid-of-failing-3/) - The Bible says, ‘“Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came towards Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” - [Don’t be afraid of failing (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-be-afraid-of-failing-2/) - Let’s take another look at how to conquer the fear of failure. 1) Pursue your God-given purpose in life. To truly succeed at something, you must have a passion for it. And God will not only reveal His purpose to you, He’ll give you a passion to pursue it. Paul had the gift, education, and - [Don’t be afraid of failing (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-be-afraid-of-failing-1/) - Let’s look at some Bible strategies for overcoming the fear of failure. 1) Make sure that your vision and your values line up. The rise and fall of King Uzziah are told in these words: ‘Uzziah was sixteen years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-two years…He did what was right - [You can conquer your fear](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-can-conquer-your-fear/) - It’s estimated that approximately two thousand classified fears exist. What’s interesting is that psychiatrists say we are born with only two innate ones: the fear of falling and the fear of loud noises. That means we learn every other fear. And more importantly, that means we can unlearn every other fear. The majority of us - [Keep your conscience clear](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/keep-your-conscience-clear/) - Sometimes we want to justify what we’re doing and say, ‘It feels right, so it can’t be wrong.’ But if God’s Word says something is wrong, it’s wrong, no matter how right it feels. The old saying, ‘Let your conscience be your guide,’ is only half the truth. The other half should read, ‘as long - [The secret of happiness](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-secret-of-happiness/) - What kind of work environment brings out the best in you? Do you thrive on routine? Are you motivated by people’s needs? Do you enjoy tackling challenges that might discourage others? How about your relationships? Do you enjoy being part of a team, or do you work better alone? If you only come to life - [Why church is good for you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/why-church-is-good-for-you/) - Jesus attended church regularly. ‘He went as usual to the synagogue on the Sabbath’ (Luke 4:16 NLT). The apostles also went to church on a regular basis: ‘They worshipped together at the Temple each day’ (Acts 2:46 NLT). And David loved God’s house. He said, ‘A single day in your courts is better than a - [How to know God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-to-know-god/) - There are three ways that you can know God is real and have a relationship with Him. 1) Intellectual knowledge of God. ‘They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they - [Knowing who belongs in your life](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/knowing-who-belongs-in-your-life/) - Gideon chose thirty-two thousand soldiers to fight the Midianites. But the truth is, you don’t need lots of people in your life, you just need the right people. So when Gideon said, ‘Whoever is timid or afraid may…go home’ (v. 3 NLT), twenty-two thousand soldiers left. But God told him he still had too many, - [Always ask, ‘What does the Bible say?’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/always-ask-what-does-the-bible-say/) - Paul wrote: ‘From among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves. Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears. So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which - [The blessing of unanswered prayer](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-blessing-of-unanswered-prayer/) - A pastor wrote: ‘According to legend, King Midas loved gold so much that when Dionysus granted him a wish, Midas asked that everything he touched would turn to gold. At first, Midas was delighted with his request, but when he discovered that his touch made food inedible and his embrace made loved ones lifeless, he - [When you feel inadequate (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-you-feel-inadequate-2/) - First, acknowledge your inadequacy to God. Joni Eareckson Tada says, ‘Deny your weakness, and you will never realise God’s strength in you.’ God told Paul, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Anything that makes you lean on God is a plus and not a minus. Second, stop - [When you feel inadequate (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-you-feel-inadequate-1/) - The fear of inadequacy is a state of mind when you think your best is not good enough. It often started in childhood when our parents, teachers, and others we considered important, failed to appreciate and affirm us or compared us negatively to someone else. You’ll see it from Moses, who felt inadequate to be - [How to impact others](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-to-impact-others/) - There’s no magic trick when it comes to influencing and impacting others. The Bible gives you the formula, and here it is: 1) Try to listen carefully. The truth is that people don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care. They tend to filter what they hear through their own - [Who helps you?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/who-helps-you/) - Charles Plumb was a pilot in Vietnam, and after seventy-five combat missions, his plane was demolished by a surface-to-air missile. Plumb ejected, parachuted into enemy hands, and spent the next six years in a Communist prison. He survived the ordeal and now lectures on what he learned from his experience. One day when he and - [Running to win](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/running-to-win/) - Desperate situations sometimes call for desperate measures, and cutting the supply line to your earthly nature means getting radical. Jesus puts it like this: ‘If your right eye leads you astray pluck it out and throw it away…better…to lose one of your members than that your whole body should be thrown on to the rubbish-heap. - [Don’t cover it up](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-cover-it-up/) - The Bible says, ‘He who covers his sins will not prosper. But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy’ (v. 13 NKJV). Sometimes sin that hasn’t been dealt with can stop us moving forwards. Unresolved guilt has the ability to eat away at our confidence like acid. But there is an answer: ‘Whoever confesses - [Do what God’s Word says](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/do-what-gods-word-says/) - When you listen to or read God’s Word but don’t apply it to your life, you’re basically cheating ourself. That’s because: 1) You settle for knowledge rather than experience. The Bible says, ‘If anyone…knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them’ (James 4:17 NIV). How does that - [Are you stressed out? (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/are-you-stressed-out-3/) - Stress is like kryptonite (Superman’s nemesis), and it’s out to knock off your cape and reduce you to a heap of trembling, useless mush. What should you do? 1) Immerse your exhaustion. Try a bubble bath. Even simply standing in the shower can help ‘wash away’ fatigue and revive your body and brain. Feel the - [Are you stressed out? (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/are-you-stressed-out-2/) - Let’s look at three effective strategies for dealing with stress. 1) Place yourself on your daily to-do list. Set aside at least fifteen minutes twice a day to renew, regroup, and restore. Distance yourself from the stress source, even if that simply means stepping outside for a few minutes and going for a walk to - [Are you stressed out? (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/are-you-stressed-out-1/) - When you ignore the warning signs, chronic stress can take a toll on your body. So what are some of the signals? Well for starters, your stomach churns at any form of disagreement. When you can’t find a way to release stored-up frustration, you might try to release the pressure through overeating, smoking, drinking, taking - [Keep renewing your mind with God’s Word](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/keep-renewing-your-mind-with-gods-word/) - How do we renew our minds? One pastor writes: ‘The way to upgrade your mind is to download Scripture. Doctors…of the National Institute of Mental Health did a fascinating study asking subjects to perform a simple motor task – a finger-tapping exercise. As subjects tapped, the doctors conducted an MRI to identify what part of - [Wrestling with Satan](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/wrestling-with-satan/) - Before going into battle against Syria, Joab told his brother, ‘If [they] are too strong for me, then you shall help me; but if the people of Ammon are too strong for you, then I will help you’ (1 Chronicles 19:12 NKJV). If one was overwhelmed, the other could step in and help. But spiritual - [Start at his feet](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/start-at-his-feet/) - As a Moabitess, the law said Ruth was unqualified to mix with Jews. ‘An Ammonite or Moabite shall not enter the assembly of the Lord’ (Deuteronomy 23:3 NKJV). But when God has a plan for your life, He steps in and says, ‘I have called you by your name; you are Mine…you were precious in - [Don’t get stuck in the past](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-get-stuck-in-the-past/) - Before God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, He sent angels to warn Lot and his family to get out of town: ‘“Run for your lives!” [one warned]. “And don’t look back or stop anywhere in the valley! Escape to the mountains, or you will be swept away!”…But Lot’s wife looked back as she was following behind - [The law of entropy](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-law-of-entropy/) - A pastor wrote: ‘The second law of thermodynamics states this physical truth: If left to their own devices, everything in the universe moves towards disorder and decay. Cars rust. Food rots…It’s also called the law of entropy. And the only way to prevent entropy is to introduce an outside energy source to counteract it. The - [Why do we resist change? (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/why-do-we-resist-change-4/) - Two more reasons we resist change are these: 1) Because it feels awkward and uncomfortable. When was the last time you tried something for the first time? Can you name it specifically? If you can’t remember, your comfort zone may have turned into a rut. A sign on a wall contained two statements. The first - [Why do we resist change? (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/why-do-we-resist-change-3/) - What happens when you try to make a change at the wrong time? For that matter, when is the right time to do it? From a leadership perspective, there are actually better times than others to make changes. Dr John Maxwell, who wrote the best seller The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, says: ‘I developed - [Why do we resist change? (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/why-do-we-resist-change-2/) - We’d all like to have a success story like Abraham’s? He had fame, great riches, and ‘was even called the friend of God’ (James 2:23 NLT). It doesn’t get better than that! But Abraham’s story begins with these words: ‘By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he - [Why do we resist change? (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/why-do-we-resist-change-1/) - When Christopher Columbus returned to Spain, he was considered a national hero and credited with discovering new lands. But do you think people changed their minds about the earth being flat? Not at all – they went right on believing the earth was flat. It wasn’t until that generation passed on and the next one - [God will test you in little things](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-will-test-you-in-little-things/) - Your small acts of kindness might go unnoticed by others, but God sees them. And they can reward you in ways you never thought possible. Take the case of Joseph. Betrayed by his brothers and lied about by his boss’s wife, he ends up sentenced to a thirteen-year prison term. If ever a person had - [The reason you’re being tested](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-reason-youre-being-tested/) - Have you tried to do right, but things have still gone wrong? When Joseph honoured God by saying no to Potiphar’s wife, he ended up in prison. While there he told a fellow prisoner, ‘I was kidnapped from my homeland…and now I’m here in prison, but I did nothing to deserve it’ (Genesis 40:15 NLT). - [Trust in God’s unchanging character](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/trust-in-gods-unchanging-character/) - Life will bring you bad news. It may be the loss of a loved one, your health, your income, a relationship, your reputation, and so on. The psalmist wrote, ‘When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.’ When bad times come, you need to hold on to everything you know about who God - [Know what the Scriptures ‘also say’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/know-what-the-scriptures-also-say/) - Satan will use half-truths to trap you. He took Jesus to ‘the holy city, Jerusalem, to the highest point of the Temple, and said, “If you are the Son of God, jump off! For the Scriptures say, ‘He will order his angels to protect you.’”…Jesus responded, “The Scriptures also say, ‘You must not test the - [What more could God have done for you?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/what-more-could-god-have-done-for-you/) - American author Brennan Manning tells the story of how he got the name ‘Brennan’. Growing up, his best friend was called Ray. The two of them did everything together: bought a car together as teenagers, went to school together, and so on. They even enlisted in the army together, went to boot camp together, and - [The importance of good works](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-importance-of-good-works/) - The word ‘love’ isn’t just a noun, it’s a verb (an action word). And it’s not demonstrated simply by what you say but by what you do. In a small Jewish town in Russia, there’s a rabbi who reputedly doesn’t show up for several hours every Friday morning. His followers claim that during this time - [Get into the right environment](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/get-into-the-right-environment/) - When you’re up against someone who tries to ‘cut you down to size’, remind yourself they’re probably trying to cut you down to their size. So, what should you do? Love them, but don’t be overly influenced by what they say. Instead of staying where you’re tolerated, go where you’re appreciated! The Japanese bonsai tree - [Never give up](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/never-give-up/) - Failure doesn’t mean you’ll never succeed; it just means it might take a bit longer. John Wayne spoke a great line in the movie The Train Robbers. He said, ‘You’re going to spend the rest of your life getting up one more time than you’re knocked down, so you’d better start getting used to it.’ - [Worship your way through it](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/worship-your-way-through-it-2/) - Don’t allow everything that’s wrong in your life to keep you from worshipping what’s right with God. Paul and Silas had their feet locked in stocks, their backs lacerated with whips, and the unjust contempt of society heaped upon them, but the Bible says, ‘At midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to - [Sons and daughters](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/sons-and-daughters/) - 2 Corinthians 6:18 tells us that God says, ‘I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters’ (NIV). Maybe you’ve had a great relationship with your own father, and you can use that experience to try and grasp the immense love God has for us when He calls us - [Confess your sins to God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/confess-your-sins-to-god/) - In Scripture, the word confession is made up of two Greek words: homo, meaning ‘the same’, and logeo, meaning ‘to speak’. Therefore, confessing our sins to God means saying the same thing about it as He does. It means calling a spade a spade – not a gardening tool! Nowhere does the Bible refer to - [‘Strong, firm and steadfast’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/strong-firm-and-steadfast/) - If you want God to restore you and make you ‘strong, firm and steadfast’, think and pray about these four Scriptures, and look for ways to put them into practice each day: 1) ‘Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time’ (v. 6 NIV). 2) ‘Cast all - [God will forgive and restore you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-will-forgive-and-restore-you/) - There’s bad news, and good news. The bad news is, when David tried to hide his sin, God exposed it to the entire nation. The good news is, when he repented of his sin, God forgave him and wiped his record clean. And what God did for David, He’ll do for us. All we have - [How to have peace (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-to-have-peace-5/) - The Bible says, ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths’ (vv. 5-6 NKJV). God wants usto trust Him. As long as we’re struggling to work things out on our own, we’re not trusting God, and - [How to have peace (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-to-have-peace-4/) - To have peace you must focus on God’s presence. What we choose to focus on either fuels our fears or our faith. The Bible says, ‘You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you’ (Isaiah 26:3 NIV). That verse could be reduced to one sentence: ‘Get your focus - [How to have peace (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-to-have-peace-3/) - In order to find real peace, we need to do two things: 1) Live by the principles of God’s Word. ‘Great peace have those who love your law.’ Peace arrives when we live in harmony with God. A new car comes with an owner’s manual. It tells you that for your car to perform well, - [How to have peace (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-to-have-peace-2/) - Jesus said His peace is a gift. That means you don’t have to work for it, and you can’t earn it. You can’t psych yourself up for it, and you can’t ‘try really hard’ to get it. It’s a gift that we accept by faith. Jesus also said that His peace is unique from what - [How to have peace (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-to-have-peace-1/) - God will give you three kinds of peace. 1) Spiritual peace. ‘Since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.’ That’s the foundation, the bottom line. You must have peace with God before you can have any other kind of peace. Jesus said, ‘I am leaving you - [Listen more carefully](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/listen-more-carefully/) - One expert points out that leaders touch your heart before they ask for your hand. That’s the law of connection. Before a leader can touch a person’s heart, he or she has to know what’s in it. And you learn that by listening. A reluctance to listen is too common among poor leaders. Over half - [Learn to listen to your marriage partner](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/learn-to-listen-to-your-marriage-partner/) - God designed your marriage partner to meet your physical needs, your emotional needs, and yes, even some of your spiritual needs. Adam enjoyed perfect health, worked at the perfect job, and lived in the perfect environment. He even went for walks with God every day. Nevertheless, he was lonely and incomplete. So God said, ‘It - [Ready…go!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/readygo/) - The words for you today are 1) Get ready. Joshua had served Moses and been mentored by him gor forty years; now he was ready to lead Israel into the promised land. This raises an important question: are you ready for the success you desire? The frustrating thing about preparation is sometimes it takes more - [Storm-proofed for life](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/storm-proofed-for-life/) - Remember the words of the old Sunday school song, ‘The wise man built his house upon the Rock…The foolish man built his house upon the sand’? The storm hit both houses, but only the wise man’s house was left standing. Jesus wasn’t just recommending the benefits of wisdom over foolishness. The truth is, we’re all - [When you go through difficulties (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-you-go-through-difficulties-3/) - Here's something else Joseph knew that we need to know too. You can’t afford the excess baggage of bitterness. After many years, Joseph met his brothers again when they came to Egypt for grain. As they entered Joseph’s presence and bowed before him, Egypt’s second-in-command, they didn't recognise him. And when Joseph tried to tell - [When you go through difficulties (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-you-go-through-difficulties-2/) - Here are two more things Joseph understood that we need to understand as well: 1) You can’t afford to give in to self-pity. Maybe you’re going through a difficult situation right now and you’re an innocent party – the victim of a situation you didn’t cause. Let’s think about Joseph’s reaction when he was in - [When you go through difficulties (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-you-go-through-difficulties-1/) - To reach his destiny, Joseph went through betrayal, temptation, slander, and wrongful imprisonment. But he came out on top. Here’s what Joseph recognised that we need to recognise too: 1) God knows what you’re going through, and He cares. There’s a key phrase that appears five different times in the story of Joseph: ‘But the - [To grow we must keep asking questions](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/to-grow-we-must-keep-asking-questions/) - Jesus often answered a question with a question. When asked about paying taxes, He took a coin and said, ‘“Whose image and name are on the coin?” They answered, “Caesar’s.” Then Jesus said to them, ”Give to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and give to God the things that are God’s.” The men were - [Gideon’s God is your God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gideons-god-is-your-god/) - The Bible says: ‘When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.” “Pardon me, my lord,” Gideon replied, “but if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us?”…The Lord turned to him and said, “Go in the strength you have and save - [Are you worried about retirement?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/are-you-worried-about-retirement/) - Author and philosopher Henry David Thoreau said, ‘Our lives are frittered away by detail…simplify, simplify.’ Jesus put it another way: ‘Do not worry about your life…the birds…neither sow…reap nor gather into barns…yet your…Father feeds them’ (vv. 25-26 NKJV). So how can we avoid complicating our lives with worry about unnecessary details? Here are a few - [The right balance](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-right-balance/) - Some of us are good at grace, but neglect confronting people with the truth in case we offend them. Others of us are good at truth, but fail to show God’s grace to people. But Jesus was ‘full of grace and truth’, and that’s the balance we must all aim for! A man with little - [Are you a true friend?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/are-you-a-true-friend/) - Two men were travelling down the road together when a bear appeared out of nowhere. Before the bear could spot them, one guy ran for a tree at the side of the road, climbed into its branches, and hid. The other man, who wasn’t as nimble as his tree-climbing companion, threw himself on the ground - [Don’t strike back](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-strike-back/) - The Bible says, ‘Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you’ (Ephesians 4:32 NKJV). You might say, ‘But what they did to me was unfair, unkind, and unwarranted.’ Exactly – and God feels the same way about some of the things you’ve done, too! Any attempt to - [Train your brain](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/train-your-brain/) - Anytime you substitute positive thinking for faith in God and obedience to His Word, you’re on dangerous ground! But there are still benefits in thinking positively – as a believer, you need to train your brain to trust God and think positive thoughts that are founded on His Word. A study conducted in the Netherlands - [Stand on God’s Word (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/stand-on-gods-word-5/) - When you’re depressed. When depression is physiologically based, God can heal you through a miracle, the right medical treatment, vitamins, herbs, and supplements. But sometimes it goes deeper, and just like your body can suffer from pain, so can your soul. Thankfully, God is the ultimate soul doctor! The psalmist said, ‘The day…I cried out, - [Stand on God’s Word (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/stand-on-gods-word-4/) - When you feel inadequate for the job. Have you been given a job or a task you don’t feel qualified to do? No problem – it’s an opportunity for God to show Himself as strong on your behalf (see 2 Chronicles 16:9). Fix your mind on your all-powerful, always-present, loving heavenly Father. ‘Cast your cares - [Stand on God’s Word (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/stand-on-gods-word-3/) - When you’re controlled by materialism. The flawed philosophy behind materialism is ‘more, more, more!’ The Bible says, ‘They will never stop wanting more than they have.’ It’s okay to want a decent phone, a reliable car, a new outfit, and so on – and God will provide those things when you’re a good steward of - [Stand on God’s Word (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/stand-on-gods-word-2/) - When you need to pass a difficult test or exam. The fear of failing can cause your brain to freeze just when you need your thoughts to flow freely. When you know you’ve done your best to study the material and prepare yourself, trust God with the outcome and stand on His Word: ‘Trust in - [Stand on God’s Word (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/stand-on-gods-word-1/) - When you have a hard time forgiving yourself. There’s only one unpardonable sin named in the Bible (see Luke 12:10). And as a believer, you probably haven’t committed it, so God will forgive you for everything else. However, when God says He forgives you and you refuse to forgive yourself, it’s like choosing to stay - [Your Boaz season](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/your-boaz-season/) - After ten years of sorrow and hardship in which she lost her husband and her support system, God introduced Ruth to her new husband, Boaz. He was the owner of the field that she worked in each day. One of the things that brought Ruth to Boaz’s attention was her work ethic. The servant in - [You can rise above worry (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-can-rise-above-worry-2/) - When you honestly evaluate your worries, you’ll realise you’re doing these: 1) Forgetting that God is your friend. The psalmist said, ‘The Lord is a friend to those who fear him’ (Psalm 25:14 NLT). Friendship with God is built by sharing your life’s experiences with Him – every activity, every conversation, every problem, and every - [You can rise above worry (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-can-rise-above-worry-1/) - Missionary Gladys Aylward said, ‘The eagle that soars in the upper air does not worry itself how it is to cross rivers.’ You can’t escape worry; it’ll come at you from different directions and in different forms. But like the eagle, you can rise above it. Jesus said: ‘If you decide for God…it follows that - [Have you been tempted by pornography?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/have-you-been-tempted-by-pornography/) - There are some doors in life that are hard to close once they’ve been opened – and pornography is one of them. When someone is addicted to it, they need more and more of it to satisfy themselves, until finally they end up shocked and shamed by the depths they've sunk to. And statistically, the - [S.H.A.P.E. (5)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/s-h-a-p-e-5-2/) - The letter E stands for experience. How can you know God’s will for your life? Paul answers, ‘Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you’ (v.2 NLT). The word ‘transform’ means ‘to change in shape’. Your life's experiences will gradually - [S.H.A.P.E. (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/s-h-a-p-e-4-2/) - The letter P stands for personality. Before a company employs someone, they might do a personality profile to identify their strengths and weaknesses. Have a think about your own personality for a moment: are you compassionate towards people, or competitive with them? Are you a hard-driving, succeed-at-all-costs type of personality, or do you have a more - [S.H.A.P.E. (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/s-h-a-p-e-3-2/) - The letter A stands for abilities. The Bible says, ‘God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well’ (Romans 12:6 NLT). What’s your dominant gift? It might be undiscovered, undeveloped, unused, underused, or even misused, but you do have one. There’s a saying, ‘There is nothing so powerful as an idea whose time has - [S.H.A.P.E. (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/s-h-a-p-e-2-2/) - The letter H represents your heart. What do you have a ‘heart for’ or feel passionate about? As a Jew, Paul was passionate about reaching the Jewish people: ‘The longing of my heart and my prayer to God is for the people of Israel to be saved. I know what enthusiasm they have for God, but - [S.H.A.P.E. (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/s-h-a-p-e-1-2/) - Understanding God’s will can be really difficult, so for the next few days, let’s use the word S.H.A.P.E. as an acrostic to help us. S represents your spirit. Your regenerated spirit is the part of you that’s capable of connecting with God and responding to Him. The Bible says: ‘People who aren’t spiritual can’t receive these truths - [It’s not too small for God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/its-not-too-small-for-god/) - Second Kings 6 tells of a prophet chopping trees near a river when his iron axe head falls in. He said to Elisha: ‘Alas, master! For it was borrowed’ (v. 5 NKJV). He uses the past tense. As far as he’s concerned, this axe head is gone forever. He has no expectation whatsoever that the - [The right attitude (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-right-attitude-2/) - Demosthenes, who was said to be the greatest speaker in ancient Greece, had a serious speech disorder. Legend has it that he overcame it by reciting verses with pebbles in his mouth and speaking above the roar of the waves at the seashore. As a prisoner in the Wartburg castle, Martin Luther made use of - [The right attitude (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-right-attitude-1/) - Have a think about these two points today: 1) The right attitude makes a difference in your relationships. Theodore Roosevelt said, ‘The most important single ingredient in the formula for success is knowing how to get along with people.’ And Paul wrote: ‘Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of - [Moving from failure to success (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/moving-from-failure-to-success-2/) - It’s easier to recognise success when you’re looking back than it is looking forwards. For some of us, it can be many years before we recognise our success, celebrate it, and feel secure in it. That’s because we don;t always see it from the right perspective. The Mississippi River needs a two-mile-wide steel span bridge - [Moving from failure to success (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/moving-from-failure-to-success-1/) - Everyone who ever achieved anything significant had to, at times, work against the odds. The problem for most of us isn’t the odds; it’s that we underestimate ourselves. As R.H. Headlee said, ‘Most people think too small, aim too low, and quit too soon.’ The odds in favour of David defeating Goliath weren’t good, but - [Honour God, and He’ll honour you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/honour-god-and-hell-honour-you/) - There comes a time when we have to face our fears and take a stand for what we know is right. That’s what Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego did. They risked their lives when they refused to bow to King Nebuchadnezzar’s idol. They could have reasoned with themselves: ‘I’ll bow on the outside, but not on - [Believe God for greater things](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/believe-god-for-greater-things/) - Many of us have a God-sized dream within us, but we’re so afraid of failing at it that we never try reaching for it. We can’t imagine how it could possibly happen. So, we don’t act on it. Here’s a challenge: don’t worry about the outcome. That isn’t our responsibility, but God’s. ‘Being confident of - [Tell the truth](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/tell-the-truth/) - Are you in a situation where lying seems to be the only answer that’ll work? Don’t do it. Lying creates a problem between you and God. ‘The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth.’ When we lie, we hurt God, others, and ourselves. ‘Dishonesty destroys treacherous people’ (Proverbs 11:3 - [Come out of that corner](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/come-out-of-that-corner/) - Under Old Testament law, God commanded Jewish farmers: ‘When you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not wholly reap the corners of your field…You shall leave them for the poor and for the stranger’ (v. 22 NKJV). Ruth was working in an obscure corner of a field owned by a wealthy man named - [Going forwards or going back](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/going-forwards-or-going-back/) - The book of Ruth in the Bible shows us the difference between people who step out in faith and take risks, and people who give in to fear, play it safe, and miss God’s best for them. The book begins with these words: ‘There was a famine in the land. And a certain man of - [Live in the ‘here and now’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/live-in-the-here-and-now/) - God wants us to appreciate the season we are in; to live in the ‘here and now’. Some people live only for the future, saying ‘I’ll be happy when…’ Other people live in the past. Solomon said to them: ‘Do not say, “Why were the former days better than these?” For you do not inquire - [To be conformed is to be creative](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/to-be-conformed-is-to-be-creative/) - Since God is both our Creator and our Redeemer, we’re called to be ‘conformed to His image’ in both senses. So, to become more like the Creator is to become more creative. When we apply our imagination to serve His purposes, we’re doing what God does best and loves most. And our heavenly Father takes - [Be patient, God’s at work](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-patient-gods-at-work/) - When things don’t happen as quickly as we want them to, we can begin to feel anxious, frustrated, irritable, and negative. And if you’re a ‘make it happen’ type of person who likes to take matters into your own hands, you can rush ahead of God and get into trouble. ‘The steps of good men - [Don’t be so controlling!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-be-so-controlling/) - Do you get upset when you can't control a situation? Or moody and irritated when people don’t do what you want? Do you react when your mistakes are pointed out? Or try to make people comply with your demands? Do you ever exaggerate in order to gain attention or sympathy? Or criticise the opinions and - [Take time to wonder and worship](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/take-time-to-wonder-and-worship/) - The first reaction recorded in Scripture is God’s reaction to His own creation. He stepped back at the end of each day, looked at what He had made, and said, ‘It’s good.’ Then on the sixth day when creation was complete, He said, ‘It’s very good.’ This is probably why we feel so spiritual when - [Be a disciple of Jesus](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-a-disciple-of-jesus/) - Did you know that the word ‘disciple’ appears 269 times in the New Testament, whereas the word ‘Christian’ is found only three times? The word ‘Christian’ was first introduced to describe who they were, disciples of Jesus Christ! Dallas Willard uses the illustration of the car: ‘The disciple of Jesus is not the deluxe or - [Make an impact](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/make-an-impact/) - The men and women who made the greatest impact on the world were those who were totally focused and sold out to their vision. John Wesley, founder of the Methodist Church, once said, ‘If I had three hundred men who feared nothing but God, hated nothing but sin, and were determined to know nothing among - [How to deal with difficult people](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-to-deal-with-difficult-people/) - Jesus said, ‘If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles.’ Roman soldiers were permitted to force a Jew to carry a burden a mile for them. They treated Jews as tools to be used. So, what do you do in that kind of situation? Jesus invites us to take the - [God knows what’s best for you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-knows-whats-best-for-you/) - People say, ‘The devil is in the details.’ But for a redeemed child of God, it’s our heavenly Father who’s is in the details! When you set your heart on something and it doesn’t happen, it’s only human to experience disappointment. At those moments, here’s what you need to keep in mind: 1) At best, - [Choosing a leader](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/choosing-a-leader/) - There are plenty of good leaders around – don’t be afraid to follow them. But what about the ‘blind guides’ that Jesus talks about? Here are some signs to help you recognise and avoid them: 1) Inflexibility. True leaders have a teachable spirit and a servant’s heart. They rejoice in your growth and aren’t threatened - [Muzzle your mouth!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/muzzle-your-mouth/) - The Bible has a lot to say about the dangers of the tongue. James devotes an entire chapter to this subject: ‘If we could control our tongues, we…could also control ourselves in every other way.’ Now there is an aspect of self-control to consider! The Greek sage Publius said, ‘I have often regretted my speech, - [Get to the roots](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/get-to-the-roots/) - Plants need strong, healthy root systems to thrive. Those with weak or damaged roots can still grow, but they won’t be able to reach their full potential or withstand stresses as effectively. The good news is that the plants can be treated and the roots encouraged to grow stronger. Some plants suffer from root rot. - [Use the gift God gave you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/use-the-gift-god-gave-you/) - A respected Bible teacher says: ‘Because my family’s so large, we draw names to see who we’ll buy presents for. One Christmas when I opened my present, I was disappointed…then I looked at my twin brother who got two nice gifts. Sensing my disappointment, my wife came over to me and said, “Don’t worry. When - [You need God’s help](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-need-gods-help/) - Self-help books and motivational speakers are like cheerleaders standing on the sidelines shouting, ‘You can do it!’ They can be helpful, but if the ‘you can do it’ philosophy always held true, we wouldn’t need God. Paul understood this. That’s why he wrote, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’ (Philippians 4:13 - [The spirit of Caleb](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-spirit-of-caleb/) - Ever read the story of Caleb in the Bible? If he was alive today there’s a good chance he’d qualify for ‘Person of the Year’, someone who has done the most to influence circumstances for the better. Here’s his story in his own words: ‘I was forty years old when Moses…sent me…to explore the land…I - [Compromised](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/compromised/) - When Daniel was taken to the king’s palace, he made the decision to not eat the food that the king was served. A Babylonian feast was always eaten in honour of the gods. So whenever people sat down to a meal, it wasn’t just dining that they participated in, but an act of worship. This - [Your harvest is on the way](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/your-harvest-is-on-the-way/) - Have you sown a ‘seed’ of faith, and now you’re wondering when you will reap the ‘harvest’ God promised in His Word? If that sounds familiar, think about this Scripture: ‘The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground, and should sleep by night and rise by day, and - [Stop and ask for directions](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/stop-and-ask-for-directions-2/) - You can be sincere in your intentions – but sincerely wrong. The Bible says the rain falls on ‘the just and the unjust alike’ (Matthew 5:45 NLT). The law of cause and effect applies to everybody, and all your good intentions won’t bring you out at the right destination if you’re on the wrong road. - [Your personal guide](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/your-personal-guide/) - It’s easy to say, ‘The Lord is my shepherd,’ but how can you tell if it’s real for you or if you’re just saying the words? Here is a simple test: when you need help, who do you turn to first? Most people go to God only after they have tried everything else. And when - [The Holy Spirit prays through you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-holy-spirit-prays-through-you/) - Life can wear you down. You can get to the place where your anxiety runs so deep, or your stress levels increase so high that you can’t think clearly. The problem or pain you’re experiencing is so overwhelming that you can’t put it into words. But that’s when the Holy Spirit living within you prays - [Having job security (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/having-job-security-4/) - Losing your job can be devastating. This is when you must keep the right perspective. Having less doesn’t make you a lesser person. God still values you, and you must keep valuing yourself. The Christian life is one of trial and triumph. Paul wrote: ‘I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. - [Having job security (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/having-job-security-3/) - To have job security you should: 1) Increase your visibility in your industry. Establish contacts and relationships with others outside your company by attending local industry gatherings wherever possible. Your goal should not merely be to know enough to get by but to develop your skills so that you will get noticed and get ahead. - [Having job security (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/having-job-security-2/) - To have job security you should: 1) Aim to be as indispensable as possible. ‘Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty. Wealth created by a lying tongue is a vanishing mist and a deadly trap’ (vv. 5-6 NLT). Strive for integrity and excellence in your work, while learning - [Having job security (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/having-job-security-1/) - If you think the perfect life would be one in which you didn’t have to work, think again. God created the garden of Eden, then He created Adam, then He told Adam that his job was to take care of it. Work gives dignity and meaning to our lives. That’s why the Bible says, ‘Those - [Show grace under fire](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/show-grace-under-fire/) - Here are three important principles you need to keep in mind when conflict arises: 1) Deal with the issue without attacking the person. Some of the most vicious personal attacks have been waged over religion. What a shame! Some of us would rather lose the relationship than lose the argument. 2) Sometimes it’s best to - [Praying without saying a word](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/praying-without-saying-a-word/) - Jesus said, ‘Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need’ (v. 33 NLT). Ever wondered, ‘When I think about God, is that the same as praying?’ It can be. We’re all familiar with the power of unspoken communication. Many of us grew up with - [Finances](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/finances/) - Money is one of the things that can cause problems. If handled well, it’s useful for us living our lives and helping others. But when we get into debt, rely on retail therapy to feel better, feel like our value depends on our salary, or simply just love money rather than God, we can end - [God will speak to you – if you listen](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-will-speak-to-you-if-you-listen/) - Jesus did only those things that had been placed in His mind by His Father. And He wants you to learn to live that way too. It’s essential to fulfilling God’s will for your life. The Bible says that Mary took time to listen to Jesus, but her sister Martha didn’t because she was too - [To know God, examine what He has made](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/to-know-god-examine-what-he-has-made/) - The New Testament Greek word translated as ‘disciple’ means ‘learner’. By definition, a disciple is someone who never stops learning. He or she makes the most of the hundred billion brain cells God has given them. They keep asking and seeking and knocking (see Matthew 7:7). Leonardo da Vinci carried a notebook wherever he went. - [Be interested in everything God does](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-interested-in-everything-god-does/) - Anything that reveals something about our Creator is something we ought to be interested in. Scripture is in a classification all by itself as God’s written revelation. But mathematics reveals a distinctive dimension of God’s personality too. Along with art. And science. The Bible says: ‘God gave Solomon wisdom and very great insight…He spoke three - [Evidences of Christ’s resurrection (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/evidences-of-christs-resurrection-2/) - Here are three more pieces of evidence that support Christ’s physical resurrection from the dead: 1) The Christian sacraments. The Christian sacraments point to the death and suffering of Christ and also to His resurrection and power. These can be traced back in uninterrupted sequence to the exact time of the death of Jesus Christ. - [Evidences of Christ’s resurrection (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/evidences-of-christs-resurrection-1/) - Trust the fact that Jesus rose from the dead! Here are two proofs of it: 1) The Lord’s Day. For thousands of years, the Hebrew people had maintained their Sabbath doctrine. Then later, a group of early Christians who were Jews changed the day of worship from the seventh day to the first day! What - [‘I loved you as the Father loved me. Now remain in my love.’ John 15:9 NCV](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/i-loved-you-as-the-father-loved-me-now-remain-in-my-love-john-159-ncv/) - Intimacy with God Having intimacy with God means having a deep connection and relationship with Him. It means we’re close to Him. James 4:8 says: ‘Come near to God, and God will come near to you’ (NCV). God doesn’t force this connection with us, it’s up to us to come close to Him. He’s waiting - [Your secret place](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/your-secret-place/) - Jesus said, ‘When you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you’ (v. 6 NIV). The Christian life could be compared to the Old Testament tabernacle, which was divided into three compartments. There was - [Walking with God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/walking-with-god/) - Did the people in Scripture who ‘walked with God’ ever stumble? Yes, they did. Did they get off track sometimes? Yes. But when their feet hit the floor every morning, their commitment was to walk with God throughout the day. They drew on His strength, endeavoured to do His will, and aimed towards the goal - [You’re growing in grace](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/youre-growing-in-grace/) - When Peter exercised enough faith to get out of the boat and walk on water, he sank and looked worse than any of the other disciples. When he tried to defend Jesus, he cut off a man’s ear. When he promised to be loyal, he fell flat on his face. When he tried to advise - [Don’t shout about it](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-shout-about-it/) - Jesus said: ‘Take care! Don’t do your good deeds publicly, to be admired, for then you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. When you give a gift to a beggar, don’t shout about it as the hypocrites do – blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts - [Prophecy fulfilled](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/prophecy-fulfilled-2/) - One of the most convincing proofs that the Bible is truly the Word of God is the number of prophecies fulfilled during Jesus’ life. Daniel prophesied the coming of the one and only Jewish Messiah before the temple’s demise. The Old Testament prophets declared He would be born in Bethlehem (see Micah 5:2) to a - [How to enrich and strengthen your relationships](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-to-enrich-and-strengthen-your-relationships/) - You can enrich and strengthen any relationship by developing and demonstrating the fruit of the Spirit. The Bible speaks about being filled with the Spirit (see Ephesians 5:18) and walking in the Spirit (see Galatians 5:16 AMPC). To be ‘filled’ with God’s Spirit means you’re a receptacle, whereas ‘walking’ in the Spirit means you’re a - [God and work](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-and-work/) - The phrase ‘discover your strengths’ was made famous by researcher Marcus Buckingham in what’s referred to as the ‘Strengths Movement’. It calls us to stop focusing on our weaknesses and name and develop our strengths – which reflects God’s design. God didn’t say, ‘Moses, your craftsmanship skills are weak. Let’s have you stop leading this - [Set other things aside and serve](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/set-other-things-aside-and-serve/) - When it came to serving others, Jesus went first. He ‘rose from supper…laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself…poured water into a basin…began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded…Peter said to Him, “Lord, are You washing my feet?”’ (vv. 4-6 NKJV). - [Learning to listen to God (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/learning-to-listen-to-god-4/) - God’s direction will often be followed by a season of preparation. And the length of that season is determined by the size of your assignment. So when God speaks to you, it’s not always wise to rush out and tell people. Who wouldn’t want to talk about the amazing experience Paul had with Christ on - [Learning to listen to God (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/learning-to-listen-to-god-3/) - When you pray diligently and believe you have heard from God, but then you start asking other people what they think, you’re actually honouring their opinions above God’s. That kind of mindset will prevent you from developing a relationship where you constantly hear from Him. You need to trust Him. If you’ve made bad decisions - [Learning to listen to God (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/learning-to-listen-to-god-2/) - People think they can’t hear from God, when in reality, there are things they already know He wants them to respond to, and so far they haven’t done it. The quicker you do whatever the Lord has already told you to do, the sooner He will reveal the next step to you. His promise is, - [Learning to listen to God (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/learning-to-listen-to-god-1/) - Jesus told His disciples, ‘I have much more to say to you, but right now it would be more than you could understand. The Spirit shows what is true and will come and guide you into the full truth’ (vv. 12-13 CEV). Jesus spoke these words to men He had spent the previous three years - [Don’t give up!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-give-up/) - Paul wrote, ‘Let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up’ (v. 9 NLT). Look at Job the patriarch: attending the funerals of his ten children, losing his health and wealth in a single day, and listening to - [Take control of the small things](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/take-control-of-the-small-things/) - Can you imagine being uprooted from your home and taken prisoner to a hostile country? It happened to Daniel. King Nebuchadnezzar conquered his homeland and carried him off to slavery in Babylon. He lost his house, his job, his freedom, his culture, his friends, and his status as a member of Israel’s nobility. He had - [Victorious living](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/victorious-living/) - Jesus said: ‘Count yourselves blessed every time people put you down…or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable. You can be glad when that happens – give a cheer, even! – for though they don’t like it, I do!’ - [Put your heart into your part](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/put-your-heart-into-your-part/) - Imaging being part of an arctic sled team of dogs. Unless you’re the lead dog in the sled, the view rarely changes. The problem is, not everybody can be the leading man or woman. And it’s better to be a working actor than an out-of-work star; at least you get to be in the play! - [Be flexible](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-flexible/) - When it comes to our relationships with other people, we need to learn to be flexible. There are times when we need to stand firm, but if we find we always need to be ‘right’ and make the other person ‘wrong’, we’ll struggle to build stable, long-lasting friendships and relationships. One author writes: ‘We will - [Appreciation](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/appreciation-2/) - An old, tired-looking dog wandered into a woman’s garden. She could tell from looking at him that he had a good home. He followed her inside, down the hall, and promptly fell asleep. Two hours later, he went to the door and she let him out. The next day he came back, resumed his position, - [The seven-day challenge](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-seven-day-challenge/) - Some cancers, like skin cancer, are more obvious and you can remove them. Then there’s the kind that grows undetected and can destroy your body. Complaining is like that; it impacts your health and sabotages your success without you realising how much of an effect it’s having. Paul said, ‘Do everything without grumbling or arguing.’ - [Live the living Word](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/live-the-living-word/) - Bible interpreter Eugene Peterson, author of The Message, says: ‘The words printed on the pages of my Bible give witness to the living and active revelation of the God of creation and salvation, the God of love who became the Word made flesh in Jesus, and I had better not forget it. If in my - [Do the Word](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/do-the-word/) - A pastor writes: ‘The Latin word for “listen” is where we get our word audit. When you audit a class, you take in lots of information, but you don’t do anything with it. You don’t do the homework, or if you do, you don’t turn it in to get it graded. You don’t take the - [Pull down those strongholds!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/pull-down-those-strongholds/) - When the Bible talks about a stronghold, it’s referring to an area in your life that’s controlled by ungodly thinking. And that stronghold will attract people who think the same way and feed off it. But there’s good news. Not only will God reveal the strongholds in your life to you, He’ll also show you - [The overcoming power of God’s Word](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-overcoming-power-of-gods-word/) - God’s Word is like a prescription from your doctor. You don’t have to understand how the treatment works – you just have to trust the prescriber and faithfully keep taking it. Something amazing happens when you feed regularly on God’s Word. Temptation begins to lose power, and overcoming strength begins to replace it. Each time - [Don’t doubt your salvation](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-doubt-your-salvation/) - You’d be surprised how many Christians actually have doubts about their salvation. So, let’s open God’s Word and settle it once and for all: ‘God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life…I write these things to you who believe in the name of the - [Infinite worship](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/infinite-worship/) - Perhaps the reason many of us are not as excited about heaven as we should be is because of what we have been told; that we will stand around playing harps, singing songs, and worshipping God forever. Think about it. When the singing and prayers in the average Sunday-morning service last longer than fifteen minutes, - [If things are falling apart…](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/if-things-are-falling-apart/) - When your plans are failing and everything in life seems to be going wrong, you can lose your sense of security, your peace of mind, and your ability to sleep. It can even affect your family and friends. If that’s where you feel you are today, read these words: ‘God is our refuge and strength, - [Respond with love](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/respond-with-love/) - Some of the negative people in your life don’t have close relationships. They might keep others at arm’s length, rarely share their feelings, and are uncomfortable with those who do. They find it easier to condemn than to accept. Their more obstinate views make them inflexible. Often these people prefer to have self-imposed rules that - [Let God remould you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/let-god-remould-you/) - What would you like to change about yourself? How would you change it? To ask it another way, what would your best friend like you to change? Maybe that would be more enlightening. How would you end the sentence, ‘It’s just like me to…’? Always be late? Give up when things get difficult? Say the - [Changing how you pray](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/changing-how-you-pray/) - Bible prayers are powerful. They put things into perspective. For example, Paul prayed that God would give the Ephesians ‘the Spirit of wisdom and revelation…that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you…and - [Hope for the future](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/hope-for-the-future/) - Are you surrounded by people whose mission seems to be to inject ‘a dose of reality’ into your life? They continually point out how tough the economy is, how bad the job market is, and how everything generally is falling apart. Jon Walker writes: ‘I remember my high school English teacher telling me not to - [Try to be more flexible](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/try-to-be-more-flexible/) - Flexible people are happy people. They experience a lot less stress than rigid types of people who insist on things always being done a certain way. One of the reasons inflexibility is so stressful is that we have to achieve our goals with the help of human beings who often have their own thoughts and - [Armed for spiritual warfare (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/armed-for-spiritual-warfare-3/) - Your spiritual armour must be put on correctly so that all the pieces fit; otherwise, you’re vulnerable to defeat at Satan’s hands. So, how do you do that? Paul tells us how: ‘Pray in the Spirit at all times.’ Your clothes closet is where you find what you need to wear in the natural realm, - [Armed for spiritual warfare (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/armed-for-spiritual-warfare-2/) - Let’s look at the next three pieces of spiritual armour God has provided for us to live victoriously: 1) ‘You will need faith as your shield to stop the fiery arrows aimed at you by Satan’ (v. 16 TLB). Have you ever watched an old western film that had battles between the Native Americans and - [Armed for spiritual warfare (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/armed-for-spiritual-warfare-1/) - Every day you live, you’ll battle the world, the flesh, and the devil. In order to be armed for spiritual warfare, Paul gives us six specific pieces of spiritual armour. Here are the first three: 1) The sturdy ‘belt of truth’ (v. 14 NLT). During World War II, a plane flew many miles past its - [Don’t doubt God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-doubt-god/) - John wrote: ‘Thomas (nicknamed the Twin), was not with the others when Jesus came. They told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he replied, “I won’t believe it unless I see the nail wounds in his hands, put my fingers into them, and place my hand into the wound in his side.” Eight days - [Hypocrisy](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/hypocrisy/) - The word hypocrite comes from the Greek word hypokrites, which means stage actor. An actor is pretending to be someone they’re not, and that’s exactly what a hypocrite does. A hypocrite may act as if they believe something, when actually they don’t. Or they may point out all the mistakes others are making, when secretly - [The ‘most important’ thing](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-most-important-thing/) - Major Arthur Godfrey Peuchen was a wealthy Canadian man who survived the Titanic. After it struck the iceberg, he returned to his stateroom and, ignoring cash, jewellery, and other valuable possessions worth around $300,000, grabbed a favourite pearl pin and three oranges. Later, he was reported to have said, ‘The money seemed to be a - [The breaking process (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-breaking-process-3/) - The Bible says that Jesus ‘took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, He blessed and broke and gave the loaves to the disciples; and the disciples gave to the multitudes’ (v. 19 NKJV). Notice the progression in this story: the loaves were taken, blessed, broken, then given to others. - [The breaking process (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-breaking-process-2/) - Brokenness leads to blessing. To receive a double portion of the spirit of Elijah, Elisha, who was a farmer, had to break and burn his plough. To demonstrate her love for Jesus, the woman at Bethany had to break open her box of costly ointment and pour it over Him. To defeat the armies of - [The breaking process (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-breaking-process-1/) - Brokenness is a process God can use to remove our pride and self-sufficiency so that Christ’s character can shine through in us. Brokenness doesn’t necessarily mean experiencing a tragedy. Lots of people suffer tragedy without drawing closer to God. The issue in brokenness is not so much our circumstances but our response. What’s God trying - [Prepare yourself](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/prepare-yourself/) - We say that good things don’t come to those who wait – but it’s probably more accurate to say they come to those who prepare. There is a great illustration of this in 2 Kings 3. As part of God’s strategy for defeating the Moabites, God told the Israelites to dig a ditch and He - [God ideas](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-ideas/) - The first Jewish temple is one of the architectural wonders of the ancient world. Built in the tenth century BC, the project was so massive that Solomon employed thirty thousand loggers and eighty thousand stonecutters. More than three thousand foremen managed the project, which took seven years to complete. The temple was the epicentre of - [Keep hope alive](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/keep-hope-alive/) - When you decide things are hopeless, it’s like closing the door on God. But David said, ‘Wait…for God. Wait with hope. Hope now; hope always!’ For a lot of people, as long as they’re in reasonably good health and don’t have too many struggles in everyday life, they don’t really have a strong sense of - [Tackle your giant head-on](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/tackle-your-giant-head-on/) - Goliath’s best weapon was intimidation. With only threats and the force of his presence, he terrified the Israelites for forty days, effectively rendering them powerless. Chuck Swindoll said: ‘Every day Goliath paraded along the slopes of the Valley of Elah issuing threats…The only response from the Israeli troops was the sound of knees knocking and - [Being friends with God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/being-friends-with-god/) - When you talk to a close friend, you’re relaxed, trusting, unguarded, and open. There’s no need to watch what you’re saying or be careful what you reveal about yourself; you can express how you feel without fearing you will be judged or rejected. That’s how Moses and God talked to each other – like two - [Let’s work together](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/lets-work-together/) - The Bible says we must love, honour, and work together. So, why don’t we do it? Often it’s because of Ego! We like to think we can do everything ourselves – but that’s not reality! There are no supermen or superwomen. So, the question isn’t whether or not you can do everything on your own; - [The right attitude](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-right-attitude/) - Have you ever thought about what separates the best from the rest? What separates a gold medallist from a silver medallist in the Olympics? What separates a successful entrepreneur from someone who doesn’t make it? What makes it possible for one person to learn and flourish after making a mistake while someone else just gives - [Failure to success (4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/failure-to-success-4/) - To move from failure to success, you try to do these things: 1) Learn to laugh at your mistakes. No matter what you lose or how often you lose, never lose your sense of humour. There are times when a mistake is serious and humour isn’t appropriate, but when you take every mistakes too seriously, - [Failure to success (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/failure-to-success-3/) - A Christian leader wrote: ‘Oliver Goldsmith was born the son of a poor preacher in Ireland in the 1700s. Growing up, he wasn’t a great student. In fact, his schoolmaster labelled him a “stupid blockhead”. He did manage to earn a [university] degree, but he finished at the bottom of his class. He was unsure - [Failure to success (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/failure-to-success-2/) - A famous psychiatrist said that two of the saddest words in human vocabulary are ‘if only’. He believes people who get trapped by their failures spend their lives saying, ‘If only I had tried harder…if only I had been kinder to my kids…if only I had been more truthful…if only…’ The way to begin to - [Failure to success (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/failure-to-success-1/) - The writer of Hebrews said: ‘I do not have time to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson and Jephthah, about David and Samuel and the prophets…whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies’ (vv. 32-34 NIV). Some of the biggest success stories in Scripture are about people who - [Who are your true friends?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/who-are-your-true-friends/) - Cicero said, ‘Friendship improves happiness and abates misery, by the doubling of our joy and the dividing of our grief.’ The fact is, it’s difficult to have more than a few close friends, because true friendship takes time, attention, and commitment. ‘One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend - [Never stop learning and growing (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/never-stop-learning-and-growing-2/) - To keep learning and growing, we need to recognise these : 1) Successful people view learning in a different way from unsuccessful people. Joshua learned from Moses. Timothy learned from Paul. Who have you chosen to learn from? Author Sydney J. Harris wrote: ‘A winner knows how much he still has to learn, even when - [Never stop learning and growing (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/never-stop-learning-and-growing-1/) - The most important skill we can gain is learning to learn. Gifted people can sometimes act like they know it all, which makes it hard for them to keep growing. Being teachable isn’t so much about competence and mental capacity as it is about attitude; it’s a deep-rooted hunger to grow. It’s a willingness to - [Listen to your own advice](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/listen-to-your-own-advice/) - Solomon told his son: ‘Pay attention to my wisdom…the lips of an immoral woman are as sweet as honey, and her mouth is smoother than oil. But in the end she is as bitter as poison, as dangerous as a double-edged sword…Stay away from her! Don’t go near the door of her house! If you - [Heaven’s treasure](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/heavens-treasure/) - Today’s culture is one of ‘getting’. We buy one thing, but then something new and better is released, and we think we need that. We want to get the promotion and the raise. We think that new things, and more money, will make us happy. But Jesus said: ‘Life is not measured by how much - [Give your worries to God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/give-your-worries-to-god/) - When you feel anxious and afraid, here are two things that can help: 1) Find a ‘faith friend’. When anxiety grabs your mind, one of the most powerful ways to break the worry spiral is to talk to a ‘faith friend’. When Israel went out to occupy the promised land, here’s what God said to - [Hear God’s voice](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/hear-gods-voice/) - You can read the same Scripture at different times, and it’ll speak to you in totally different ways. The Greek philosopher Heraclitus is credited with saying, ‘You never step into the same river twice.’ And you never read the same Bible verse the same way twice. That’s a testament to its heavenly author. And His - [‘Hold fast’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/hold-fast/) - During the creation process, God counted days based on the previous nights. The Bible doesn’t say, ‘The morning and evening were the first day.’ It says, ‘God called…the evening and the morning…the first day’ (Genesis 1:5 KJV). That means God specialises in bringing light out of darkness – you just have to get through one - [Fulfilling God’s plan for your life](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/fulfilling-gods-plan-for-your-life/) - To fulfil God’s plan for your life, you need to do these: 1) Map out your day. Plan your time and stick to your plan. Only one out of three people do that. One leadership expert says, ‘It’s…rare…that I get up in the morning wondering what I’ll be doing that day.’ He uses his time - [‘Just as I am’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/just-as-i-am/) - There’s a story about a boy who comes home and doesn’t know the pastor is paying a visit to his mum at that moment. He runs into the house, carrying a dead rat, and shouts, ‘Mum, you’ll never guess what. There was a rat running around in the garage. I saw it, threw a stone, - [Insecurity in leadership](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/insecurity-in-leadership/) - The Bible says: ‘Many people did believe in him, however, including some of the Jewish leaders. But they wouldn’t admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue. For they loved human praise more than the praise of God’ (vv. 42-43 NLT). How secure are you when you have to take - [Be disciplined](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/be-disciplined/) - The only way to keep improving is to keep practising. Nancy Dornan says, ‘The longest distance between two points is a shortcut.’ That’s really true. If you really want to grow in a particular area, you’ll need to work out what it will really take, including the price, and then determine to pay it. David - [Listen very carefully](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/listen-very-carefully/) - Jesus said, ‘Hear Me, everyone, and understand.’ He spoke life-changing words, but He understood that preoccupied minds don’t always listen too well. Are you a good listener? 1) If you’re a leader in some way, do you listen to your followers? The kind of leaders people want to follow do more than just deal with - [Loved. Accepted. Forgiven.](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/loved-accepted-forgiven/) - When we make a mistake, we can end up fixating on it and punishing ourselves about it for ages. We overthink it, worry about it, think we’ve failed, and anticipate that we’ll just fail again. Once we’re in this mindset, it’s dangerous. Our self-esteem evaporates and we can label ourselves as failures. But this isn’t - [What the Bible says about money](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/what-the-bible-says-about-money/) - If God can trust you with something small, He’ll trust you with more (see Luke 16:10, 2 Corinthians 9:6-11). But His blessings come with certain conditions, and here are four you need to honour. 1) Don’t try to claim credit for yourself. God told the Israelites, ‘You may say to yourself…“My hands have produced this - [In His strength](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/in-his-strength/) - Sometimes it can feel like we’re having to face things on our own, that nobody is willing to walk alongside us or support us in what God’s calling us to do. People can often assume we’re strong and don’t need anything. It’s easy to become discouraged and give up when we feel we’re not being - [A God’s-eye view](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/a-gods-eye-view/) - The word ‘watchful’ is a throwback to the Old Testament-era routine of sitting on a city wall and keeping watch. Watchmen were the first to see attacking armed forces or travelling merchants. They had the best vantage point. They saw what nobody else saw, and they saw things sooner than others saw them. That’s exactly - [Sensing and seeing God](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/sensing-and-seeing-god/) - The Bible says, ‘“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit’ (vv. 9-10 NKJV). Our five senses are limited, so the Holy Spirit compensates for them by - [Discernment](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/discernment/) - When God asked Solomon what he wanted, Solomon gave what we might think of as a surprising answer. Out of everything he could have wanted, he asked for the gift of wisdom. He prayed: ‘Give your servant a discerning heart…to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of - [Stop and ask for directions](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/stop-and-ask-for-directions/) - Making decisions without getting God’s guidance first is like trying to fly a plane without radar and a compass. You can do what makes sense based on your past knowledge and experience, but what ‘looks right’ can end up destroying what’s most important to you if it’s actually the wrong course to take. The Bible - [Envy and jealousy](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/envy-and-jealousy/) - Paul warned the early church about envy, and it’s still a problem. A friend gets better exam results, a co-worker gets promoted, a neighbour gets a new car. Do you rejoice with them, or force a tight smile? We’re human; an occasional flicker of envy is normal. But beware of harbouring a lingering sense of - [Growing through criticism](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/growing-through-criticism/) - Solomon said, ‘If you accept correction, you will be honoured.’ Pastor Charlie Shedd gives us ten ways to grow through criticism: 1) Criticism is often a compliment. The barbs in daily life only strike people who are prepared to raise their heads above ground level. Jesus said, ‘Count yourself blessed every time someone cuts you - [Don’t be afraid of getting old (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-be-afraid-of-getting-old-2/) - Does the thought of getting older depress you, make you anxious, or make you fatalistic in your outlook? If so, read this: ‘Those who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bear fruit in old age; they shall be fresh and flourishing’ (vv. - [Don’t be afraid of getting older (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-be-afraid-of-getting-older-1/) - We live in a society where showing signs of getting older can devastate our self-worth. But you don’t have to be a victim of that value system. ‘As the days of a tree, so will be the days of my people; my chosen ones will long enjoy the work of their hands’ (v. 22 NIV). - [What it means to ‘love’ someone](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/what-it-means-to-love-someone/) - In today’s culture, the word ‘love’ means different things to different people. You can love your family, your country, your dog, your new mobile phone, and your car. But you don’t love your family the same way you love your mobile phone or your car. The kind of love we see in films and books - [Relationship problems](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/relationship-problems/) - When it comes to handling relationships, we all have our pluses and minuses, strengths and weaknesses. So to flourish in a relationship, we must learn to persevere. Even when we’ve done the best we can to reduce our potential for failure, we must still be ready for it. If we stay stuck in self-defeat, guilt, - [The gift of confession](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-gift-of-confession/) - Spiritual healing takes place when you’re able to confess your problem to someone mature enough to handle it and committed enough to not give up on you. What does it mean to ‘walk in love’? a) To be confident of God’s unfailing love towards you. b) To show His love to others. c) To be - [You are under God’s protection](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-are-under-gods-protection/) - What is ‘the shadow of the Almighty’? In the wilderness where Israel wandered for forty years, temperatures could reach over 54 degrees. (To put that into perspective, the highest temperature ever recorded in the UK was 40.3 degrees in 2022.) There was no shade, except what was provided by the tents in which the people - [Work on improving your communication skills](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/work-on-improving-your-communication-skills/) - Whether it’s in your personal life or your career, learning how to communicate with others is vital to success and happiness in a relationship. Apart from learning facts, communication should be a way to gain some understanding into the heart and mind of another person. And good communication calls for translation. Really, you’re learning that - [Blind chance versus God’s command (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/blind-chance-versus-gods-command-2/) - Speaking of our amazing bodies…what about DNA? Each human cell (up to 100 trillion) contains a database larger than the Encyclopedia Britannica! Could all that have originated by chance? English physicist Paul Davies makes this comparison: ‘It’s rather like exploding a stick of dynamite under a pile of bricks and expecting it to build a - [Blind chance versus God’s command (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/blind-chance-versus-gods-command-1/) - Could life as we know it – plant, animal, and human life – have spontaneously happened by chance? Could our amazing solar system have happened by accident? The more advanced science becomes, the more evidence there is for a Master Designer. Researchers continue to uncover the divine order in each tiny human cell. American biochemist - [Never stop learning (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/never-stop-learning-2/) - Loving God with all your mind means managing your mind and making the most of it. It means loving God in all ways: logically, creatively, intuitively, and thoughtfully. Albert Einstein, one of history’s greatest minds, said: ‘The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existence. One cannot help but - [Never stop learning (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/never-stop-learning-1/) - God has created us with the capacity to keep learning for the whole of our lives, which is something we shouldn’t take for granted. The average brain weighs approximately three pounds, but neurologists estimate that we have the ability to learn something new every second of every minute of every hour of every day for - [This year, do first things first](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/this-year-do-first-things-first/) - We all get the same twenty-four hours every day. That’s 1,440 minutes, or 86,400 seconds. And we ‘must give an account to God’ for how we use them (see Ecclesiastes 11:9). A good place to start is by asking yourself, ‘How would I spend the next twenty-four hours if I knew I would have to - [A new year, a new start](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/a-new-year-a-new-start/) - Refuse to let your past steal your future. This year God wants to give you a new start. Let’s face it, we all have relationships that can’t be healed, and issues that will never be resolved ion the way we’d like. But by God’s grace we can forgive, forget, and move on. You don’t have - [Get to know God next year](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/get-to-know-god-next-year/) - God said: ‘Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong boast of their strength or the rich boast of their riches, but let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know me’ (vv. 23-24 NIV). The truth is, if you don’t know God it doesn’t matter - [God and your work (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-and-your-work-3/) - The first person in the Bible who was said to be ‘filled with the Spirit of God’ was Bezalel. And if his name doesn’t ring a bell, it’s because he wasn’t a prophet, priest, king, or apostle. He was a craftsman, skilled in design. He had an eye for colour and a flair for management, - [God and your work (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-and-your-work-2/) - Most adults spend about half their waking lives at work. Your work is a huge part of God’s plan for your life. He designed a specific vocation just for you in which you should find personal fulfilment, meet the needs of yourself and the family you build, and help to maintain His purposes in the - [God and your work (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-and-your-work-1/) - In the Bible, you’ll notice that everybody works! And most of its heroes had secular jobd. Isaac developed land, Jacob was a farmer, Joseph served God best by staying in his well-paying government job rather than starting a non-profit, faith-based organisation to do charity work. Daniel was an immigrant who attended Babylon’s version of Oxford - [God’s explorers](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/gods-explorers/) - The first thing God told Adam and Eve to do was ‘fill the earth and govern it’. Because Adam and Eve were banished from the Garden of Eden doesn’t mean they were limited to the Garden of Eden. God told them to ‘fill the earth and govern it’. Let’s stop and think about that for - [Keep Christmas alive all year](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/keep-christmas-alive-all-year/) - An early pioneer travelling across the Great Plains of America stopped at the edge of the Grand Canyon. Amazed to discover a vast chasm one mile deep and eighteen miles wide stretching out of sight, he exclaimed, ‘Something must have happened here!’ And as preacher Haddon Robinson said: ‘At…Christmas…anyone who stops to look and listen - [He’s all this…and more!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/hes-all-thisand-more/) - Jack Hayford writes: Who is this Babe of Bethlehem…who became flesh…who called forth songs of angels…this Christ of Christmas?…the answer comes back with ringing authority…He is the Redeemer – “in whom we have redemption” (Colossians 1:14 NKJV). We who believe on His name have been “qualified” (v. 12 NKJV), “delivered” and “conveyed” (v. 13 NKJV) - [A whole new approach](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/a-whole-new-approach/) - When the angel visited Mary, he said, ‘Don’t be frightened…God has decided to…bless you!’ (Luke 1:30 TLB).But when it comes to approaching God directly, many religions are ruled by fear. Philip Yancey says: ‘Certainly the Jews associated fear with worship…A person “blessed” with a direct encounter with God expected to come away scorched or glowing - [‘Silent Night’?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/silent-night/) - We’ve sung the words of the Christmas carol ‘Silent Night’ since we were very young. But those words don’t actually come from Scripture. ‘Silent Night’ was a poem written by an Austrian priest in 1816. The words paint a peaceful picture with the happy couple watching their newborn baby. But it’s unlikely that there really - [‘Lord, where are You?’ (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/lord-where-are-you-2/) - When you plant a seed, it can take weeks before you see a little green shoot pushing through the soil. It stays in the ground until the time is right for it to emerge. If it’s too early or late, the conditions aren’t right and the young plant will struggle or fail. It’s the same - [‘Lord, where are You?’ (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/lord-where-are-you-1/) - Do you ever feel like God isn’t answering you? Job felt the same way when he said, ‘I cry out to you, God, but you do not answer; I stand up, but you just look at me…when I hoped for good, only evil came to me; when I looked for light, darkness came’ (vv. 20 - [Patience, love, and encouragement](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/patience-love-and-encouragement/) - If you’d met Asaph, who wrote some of the psalms, you’d probably have thought he hadn’t a care in the world. But you’d have been wrong: ‘I came so close to the edge of the cliff! My feet were slipping and I was almost gone.’ Then at the end of the psalm he does a - [Character (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/character-2/) - Because he was handsome, Joseph attracted the unwanted attentions of his boss’s wife. Day after day, she tried to seduce him. Now fast-forward to later in his life: if Joseph encountered that level of temptation when he was just a household slave, can you imagine the level he was exposed to when he became Egypt’s - [Character (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/character-1/) - Abraham Lincoln said, ‘Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.’ It’s easier to focus on our talent because, generally speaking, it produces results that are rewarded and celebrated by others. In other words, there’s an element of ego connected to our gifts. Character is - [Winning the battle over apathy](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/winning-the-battle-over-apathy/) - Paul told Timothy, ‘Stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands.’ That Scripture means, even though you’re gifted, you can become apathetic if you don’t keep doing the right things. ‘Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we - [When you feel angry (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-you-feel-angry-2/) - Your anger may or may not hurt the person towards whom it’s directed, but it can definitely hurt you. Prolonged anger releases toxic chemicals into our bodies that can eventually affect our health and may even harm us. Every minute we give to anger is a minute of joy taken from us. And it can - [When you feel angry (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/when-you-feel-angry-1/) - The Bible gives us three keys to handling our anger the right way. Let’s look at each one and see what we can learn: 1) ‘Be quick to listen.’ Don’t react, and don’t rush to judgment. Slow down and try to get the facts, then prayerfully and carefully consider how God wants you to respond. - [Don’t be afraid of failing](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/dont-be-afraid-of-failing/) - Because we’re often very aware of our limitations, we tend to limit our efforts to our comfort zone. And that can lead to a life of mediocrity and unfulfilled dreams. Your efforts don’t rest only on your shoulders, but on God’s. You have a part to play, and you should give it your best effort, - [Meditate on the Scriptures](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/meditate-on-the-scriptures/) - If you want to grow spiritually, you need a consistent diet of Scripture. In fact, you’ll never outgrow your diet of Scripture. There’s no substitute, and there’s no supplement. The poet T.S. Eliot said, ‘Everything we eat has some…effect upon us. It affects us during the process of assimilation and digestion; and I believe that - [Healthy boundaries](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/healthy-boundaries/) - Paul wrote, ‘Do you think I make my plans carelessly? Do you think I am like people of the world who say “Yes” when they really mean “No”? As surely as God is faithful, our word to you does not waver’ (vv.17-18 NLT). Paul had learned to set boundaries on his relationships, and we need - [Contrary winds (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/contrary-winds-3/) - The winds were contrary when Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, they were contrary on their way to the promised land, and they were contrary when they got there. There is no such thing as a storm-free voyage: ‘Through…hardships and tribulations we…enter the kingdom’ (Acts 14:22 AMPC). When you have to fight to stay - [Contrary winds (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/contrary-winds-2/) - Paul told everyone on board the ship bound for Rome, ‘The voyage will be with injury and much loss, not only of the cargo and the ship, but…our lives’ (v. 10 RSV). One author writes: ‘Paul didn’t talk about a little skirmish…a little loss…This voyage would be beset with disasters, with much loss, even to - [Contrary winds (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/contrary-winds-1/) - When you set out to do anything for God, the Enemy will make sure you encounter ‘contrary winds’. In fact, if you’re not sailing against the wind, chances are you’re heaing in the wrong direction! The Bible says Jesus was ‘tempted of the devil’ (Matthew 4:1 KJV). Satan never let up, including the night before - [Humble yourself](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/humble-yourself/) - Jesus said: ‘Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a despised tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: “I thank you, God, that I am not like other people – cheaters, sinners, adulterers. I’m certainly not like that tax collector! I fast - [How to pray when you’re sick](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/how-to-pray-when-youre-sick/) - The Bible says, ‘Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up’ (vv.14-15 NIV). So, it’s absolutely not - [Do you know why you’re here?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/do-you-know-why-youre-here/) - When it comes to God’s will for your life, He decides it and you discover it. It’s not something you can change, a topic for debate, or a plan you get to have a say in. The truth is, you can miss God’s will and be miserable, or do things His way and experience ‘glorious, - [A father’s blessing](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/a-fathers-blessing/) - When Isaac blessed his sons, he was acting on God’s behalf, using his divinely delegated power to impart blessing. A father’s blessing was a cherished thing, but its effectiveness rested on the fact that Isaac blessed his sons as an act of faith and not just out of empty sentiment or favouritism, or because it - [Finding common ground (3)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/finding-common-ground-3/) - To mark out common ground, we must be adaptable. Thomas Aquinas said, ‘To convert somebody, go and take them by the hand and guide them.’ We must be willing to move from where we are to where they are; to adapt and try to see things from their point of view. In practical terms, that - [Finding common ground (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/finding-common-ground-2/) - Whether you’re applying for a job, trying to win someone to Christ, counselling and advising, or correcting someone’s behaviour, to be effective you must look for common ground. Let’s look at some of the qualities we need to do that. First up, availability. Paul wrote: ‘I have voluntarily become a servant to…all…to reach a wide - [Finding common ground (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/finding-common-ground-1/) - To be a good influence on someone, you need to connect with them first. And to do that, you have to look for common ground. Paul wrote, ‘I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some.’ In The Message, Eugene Peterson paraphrases Paul’s words: ‘Even though I am free - [Meditation for beginners](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/meditation-for-beginners/) - The power that comes from meditating on God’s Word is a power we need at work in our lives. But maybe you’re a beginner, unsure how to go about it, and you need a starting point. Maybe you’re thinking, ‘I know I need to spend more time meditating on God’s Word, but how do I - [Do what God says](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/do-what-god-says/) - When God gives you a vision for your life, He doesn’t give you all the details up front. He simply says, ‘Don’t be afraid; just do what I say, and I will guide you and prosper you.’ What did Abram’s vision involve? ‘The Lord said to Abram: Leave your country, your family, and your relatives - [Praying God’s promises (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/praying-gods-promises-2/) - When you begin to pray scripturally based prayers, you’ll get the answers you need. Here’s why: the Bible is God’s Word, and He always keeps His Word. Here are some scenarios you may encounter in life, and ideas of how to pray scripturally based prayers: 1) When you don’t have the answer. ‘Call to me, - [Praying God’s promises (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/praying-gods-promises-1/) - According to one method of counting, there are 3,573 promises in the Bible. That’s almost ten promises for each day of the year. When you know which of those promises apply to you, and you fulfil the conditions that go with them, you can literally begin to pray God’s promises into existence in your life - [Meditate on God’s Word](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/meditate-on-gods-word/) - Thomas à Kempis wrote, ‘If you wish to grow in your spiritual life, you must not allow yourself to be caught up in the workings of the world. You must find time alone, away from the noise and confusion, from the allure of power and wealth.’ Does that mean God doesn’t want us to set - [God will rescue you](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/god-will-rescue-you/) - Are you feeling hopeless about the situation you’re in and don’t know which way to turn? Maybe you’re struggling to find a reason to keep going, but you’re so tired and overwhelmed that you just want to give up. If that’s the case, you’re in a vulnerable place. Stay alert, because it’s at times like - [The art of being a sheep (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-art-of-being-a-sheep-2/) - We need to know two things: 1) Our shepherd’s character. Jesus distinguished good shepherds from bad ones (see John 10:11-16). Bad shepherds look out for their own interests, not the welfare of the sheep. They’re unreliable; when a threat appears, they abandon the flock. But Jesus claimed, ‘I am the good shepherd’ (John 10:11 KJV). - [The art of being a sheep (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/the-art-of-being-a-sheep-1/) - Have you ever tried to memorise Psalm 23, or learnt about it in Sunday School? The vivid visual images remain with us lifelong. Author Hannah Whitall Smith said, ‘What we all need is just to get back into the nursery again, and take up our childish verses once more, and, while reading them with the - [You are a miracle](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/you-are-a-miracle/) - Despite flaws, aches, and pains, you’re a living, breathing, walking, talking miracle. The psalmist said, ‘You created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made’ (vv. 13-14 NIV). One author explains: ‘Most of us take our eyesight for granted, but even the - [Glad, sad, or mad](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/glad-sad-or-mad/) - A pastor wrote: ‘What makes you glad or sad or mad? What puts a holy smile on your face? What causes your spirit to sob uncontrollably? What makes you pound your fist on the table out of righteous indignation? Somewhere in the mixture of that gladness, sadness, and madness is your God-ordained passion. Or maybe - [Pray for a ‘sympathy breakthrough’](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/pray-for-a-sympathy-breakthrough/) - The poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote, ‘If we could read the secret history of our enemies, we should find in each man’s life sorrow and suffering enough to disarm all hostility.’ In his documentary on twentieth-century wars, Jonathan Glover referred to what he calls ‘sympathy breakthroughs’. Even in the situation of war, acts of compassion - [Being friends with God (2)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/being-friends-with-god-2/) - Listen to more of Moses’ friendly talk with God: ‘If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favour with you.’ Moses is in a national crisis that could end Israel’s relationship with God, but notice what he’s praying for. Not, ‘God, I’m in a - [Being friends with God (1)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/wfy/being-friends-with-god-1/) - Moses talked with God like a friend, sharing what he felt and thought. And God wanted it that way. Here is how the conversation went: ‘Moses said to the Lord, “You have been telling me, ‘Lead these people,’…You have said, ‘I know you by name and you have found favour with me.’”’ Moses is mirroring ## Channels - [UCB Ireland](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel/ucb-ireland/) - [Full Access](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel/full-access/) - [UCBI Worship](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel/ucbi-worship/) ## Videos - [The 7 I Am's of Jesus (Is Jesus Your I Am?) - Robbie Frawley](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/the-7-i-ams-of-jesus-is-jesus-your-i-am-robbie-frawley/) - Visit our website: https://www.ucbireland.ie/ Follow us on social media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ucbireland Instagram: ... - [Encouragement during hard times - Robbie Frawley](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/encouragement-during-hard-times-robbie-frawley/) - Do you find yourself discouraged? By the state of the world? Unmet expectations? Loss? In this video, Robbie points to the word ... - [From our family to yours 1](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/from-our-family-to-yours-1/) - Beverley shares a message of encouragement. - [IMG 1444](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/img-1444/) - Update from Robbie Frawley. - [Beverley Joseph Final one](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/beverley-joseph-final-one/) - [Robbie Frawley Thank You for Gift Day 2019](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/robbie-frawley-thank-you-for-gift-day-2019/) - [Robbie Frawley Gift Day](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/robbie-frawley-gift-day/) - [Prayer & Praise Day 2019](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/prayer-praise-day-2019/) - [Good Morning](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/good-morning/) - Welcome to our Prayer & Praise Day. - [Happy Birthday UCB Ireland Final](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/happy-birthday-ucb-ireland-final/) - Thank you from UCB Ireland for being part of our journey over the last 10 years. - [Happy Birthday from David L'Herroux](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/happy-birthday-from-david-lherroux/) - Description. - [10th Birthday closing message](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/10th-birthday-closing-message/) - Thank you for joining us on this 10 year Celebration Day. - [Robbie 8am 10th Birthday](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/robbie-8am-10th-birthday/) - Starting our 10th year Celebrations this morning. - [Meet The Team 2](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/meet-the-team-2/) - A day in the life... Ger O'Reilly. - [The UCB Ireland Gift Day Look Back](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/the-ucb-ireland-gift-day-look-back/) - Here is a look back at UCB Ireland's very first 'Gift Day'. Thank you to all who responded to the call and who support us regularly. - [Meet The Team](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/meet-the-team/) - A day in the life of... Vincent Hughes. - [UCB Ireland's Robbie Frawley 'THANK YOU!'](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/ucb-irelands-robbie-frawley-thank-you/) - Thank you for being apart of UCB Ireland's First Gift Day. It has been a very memorable day! :) - [UCB IRELAND NEEDS YOU!!!](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/ucb-ireland-needs-you/) - UCB Ireland's Robbie sharing how every donation counts no matter what it is... "if not you then who!" - [UCB Ireland's Vincent and David Sharing About the Word for Today](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/ucb-irelands-vincent-and-david-sharing-about-the-word-for-today/) - [Thank You from Robbie](https://www.ucbireland.ie/videos/thank-you-from-robbie/) - A thank from Robbie to all our Supporters! ## Mobile Pages - [Bible in a Year](https://www.ucbireland.ie/mobile_pages/bibleinayear/) - A reading plan to cover the entire bible in 365 days. click here to view - [Listen Again](https://www.ucbireland.ie/mobile_pages/prayerline-2/) - We have a selection of content uploaded to our website, click the link below to listen again. Listen Again - [Prayerline](https://www.ucbireland.ie/mobile_pages/prayerline/) - UCB Prayerline is all about bringing God into the equation of your life. Prayerline is not a counselling or advice service, it is about praying to God and asking for His help or even saying thank you to Him for what He has already done. Prayerline is a confidential service for everyone. You can call - [Our Mission](https://www.ucbireland.ie/mobile_pages/our-mission/) - Our Mission Statement is Serving the Church, Reaching the Nation. This means that we aim to be a ministry that churches can rely on to help them to reach their communities. Providing resources and a message of hope. We are excited to see how we can help churches across Ireland to strengthen and spread the - [Standing Order](https://www.ucbireland.ie/mobile_pages/donate-using-standing-order-or-post/) - To set up a standing order call the office on 01 4299 899 and we will send you details of how to set up a standing order. We are unable to do this for you, you will need to set this up through your bank. Email us on finance@ucbireland.ie and we will send you our - [Irish Tax Payer](https://www.ucbireland.ie/mobile_pages/irish-tax-payer/) - If you are an Irish tax payer, and give over €250 during the year, we can claim the tax back back on your donations. If you would like to support us in this way, then you can complete a CHY3 form and send it to us and the donations you give for 5 years will ## Mobile Banners - [Gift Days](https://www.ucbireland.ie/mobile_banner/podcast-2/) - [Podcast](https://www.ucbireland.ie/mobile_banner/podcast/) - [Full Access](https://www.ucbireland.ie/mobile_banner/full-access/) - [Breakfast with Robbie](https://www.ucbireland.ie/mobile_banner/breakfast-with-robbie/) - [Prayerline](https://www.ucbireland.ie/mobile_banner/prayerline/) ## Channel History - [CELTIC WORSHIP - BE THOU MY VISION](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/celtic-worship-be-thou-my-vision-344/) - [NEW LIFE WORSHIP [+] DESPERATION BAND - ALL TO HIM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/new-life-worship-desperation-band-all-to-him-196/) - [HILLSONG UNITED - TOUCH THE SKY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-united-touch-the-sky-159/) - [FRANCESCA BATTISTELLI - DEFENDER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/francesca-battistelli-defender-167/) - [SWITCHFOOT - DARE YOU TO MOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/switchfoot-dare-you-to-move-47/) - [REND COLLECTIVE - RESCUER (GOOD NEWS)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rend-collective-rescuer-good-news-179/) - [NICOLA SERRANO [+] FT. CHRIS TOMLIN - I STAND IN AWE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/nicola-serrano-ft-chris-tomlin-i-stand-in-awe-297/) - [DAVE LUBBEN - SPEAK TO ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/dave-lubben-speak-to-me-170/) - [ELLIE LIMEBEAR - WHAT LOVE LOOKS LIKE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ellie-limebear-what-love-looks-like-164/) - [NATIVE KINGDOM - WIND AND WATERS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/native-kingdom-wind-and-waters-156/) - [ELEVATION RHYTHM - WASHED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/elevation-rhythm-washed-124/) - [7th TIME DOWN - THE ONE I'M RUNNING TO](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/7th-time-down-the-one-im-running-to-152/) - [KENZ HALL - COME AS YOU ARE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kenz-hall-come-as-you-are-213/) - [SHANE AND SHANE - LIBERTY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/shane-and-shane-liberty-159/) - [THIRD DAY - CALL MY NAME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/third-day-call-my-name-109/) - [NICK AND BECKY DRAKE - SLINGSHOT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/nick-and-becky-drake-slingshot-169/) - [STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN - The Great Adventure](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/steven-curtis-chapman-the-great-adventure-49/) - [RYAN STEVENSON - IN THE EYE OF THE STORM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ryan-stevenson-in-the-eye-of-the-storm-260/) - [WE THE SAINTS - TRUST IN YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/we-the-saints-trust-in-you-157/) - [CODY CARNES - RUN TO THE FATHER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cody-carnes-run-to-the-father-395/) - [LAUREN DAIGLE - O LORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lauren-daigle-o-lord-175/) - [MICHAEL W SMITH - SURROUNDED (FIGHT MY BATTLES)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/michael-w-smith-surrounded-fight-my-battles-190/) - [HANNAH KERR - ORDINARY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hannah-kerr-ordinary-168/) - [MERCYME - TO NOT WORSHIP YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mercyme-to-not-worship-you-91/) - [GREG LAFOLLETTE FT. ALISA TURNER - SOFTLY AND TENDERLY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/greg-lafollette-ft-alisa-turner-softly-and-tenderly-137/) - [STUART TOWNEND - COMPASSION HYMN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/stuart-townend-compassion-hymn-284/) - [ELLIE HOLCOMB - AS SURE AS THE SUN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ellie-holcomb-as-sure-as-the-sun-156/) - [NATALIE LAYNE - FRAGILE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/natalie-layne-fragile-137/) - [GREG SYKES - NO GREATER LOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/greg-sykes-no-greater-love-144/) - [WE ARE MESSENGERS - POWER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/we-are-messengers-power-136/) - [SIERRA - STORY OF LIFE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sierra-story-of-life-74/) - [BENJAMIN HASTINGS - FEELS LIKE A BLESSING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/benjamin-hastings-feels-like-a-blessing-196/) - [I AM THEY - MAKE ROOM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/i-am-they-make-room-176/) - [FOR KING AND COUNTRY FT. JORDAN SPARKS - LOVE ME LIKE I AM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/for-king-and-country-ft-jordan-sparks-love-me-like-i-am-112/) - [JOSH BLAKESLEY - SING HALLELUJAH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/josh-blakesley-sing-hallelujah-199/) - [ZACH WILLIAMS - OLD CHURCH CHOIR](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/zach-williams-old-church-choir-189/) - [JEREMY CAMP - LET IT FADE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jeremy-camp-let-it-fade-182/) - [AUDREY ASSAD - CARRY ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/audrey-assad-carry-me-164/) - [CROWDER - LIFT YOUR HEAD WEARY SINNER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/crowder-lift-your-head-weary-sinner-129/) - [MEGAN WOODS - HEAVEN DOWN HERE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/megan-woods-heaven-down-here-46/) - [KEITH AND KRISTYN GETTY - WE BELIEVE (THE APOSTLE'S CREED)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/keith-and-kristyn-getty-we-believe-the-apostles-creed-189/) - [LOU FELLINGHAM [+] CHRIS MCCLARNEY - LORD I NEED YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lou-fellingham-chris-mcclarney-lord-i-need-you-198/) - [CORY VOSS - HE WHO MOVES MOUNTAINS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cory-voss-he-who-moves-mountains-190/) - [TAUREN WELLS - LIKE YOU LOVE ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tauren-wells-like-you-love-me-178/) - [NEWSONG - I AM A CHRISTIAN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/newsong-i-am-a-christian-154/) - [AARON BOYD - BOW DOWN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/aaron-boyd-bow-down-144/) - [SANCTUS REAL - UNSTOPPABLE GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sanctus-real-unstoppable-god-172/) - [TASHA COBB LEONARD - GOTTA BELIEVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tasha-cobb-leonard-gotta-believe-165/) - [JOSH WILSON - DREAM SMALL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/josh-wilson-dream-small-156/) - [DAVID DUNN - DID YOU COME FOR ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/david-dunn-did-you-come-for-me-224/) - [ELEVATION WORSHIP [+] BRANDON LAKE - I KNOW A NAME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/elevation-worship-brandon-lake-i-know-a-name-75/) - [WE THE KINGDOM - HOLY WATER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/we-the-kingdom-holy-water-174/) - [SELAH - STEP INTO MY STORY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/selah-step-into-my-story-158/) - [MATT MAHER - CLEAN HEART](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matt-maher-clean-heart-139/) - [PHIL KEAGGY - BE IN MY HEART](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phil-keaggy-be-in-my-heart-64/) - [MATTHEW WEST - BROKEN THINGS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matthew-west-broken-things-156/) - [NATALIE GRANT - AWAKEN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/natalie-grant-awaken-159/) - [FORREST FRANK - OKAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/forrest-frank-okay-3/) - [ANDREW RIPP - REJOICE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/andrew-ripp-rejoice-159/) - [CITIZEN WAY - THE LORD'S PRAYER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/citizen-way-the-lords-prayer-182/) - [LAURA STORY - HOLY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/laura-story-holy-164/) - [Big Daddy Weave - OVERWHELMED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/big-daddy-weave-overwhelmed-137/) - [CHRIS TOMLIN - RESURRECTION POWER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-tomlin-resurrection-power-165/) - [MICAH TYLER - PRAISE THE LORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/micah-tyler-praise-the-lord-97/) - [CASTING CROWNS - LOVE MOVED FIRST](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/casting-crowns-love-moved-first-158/) - [TODD AGNEW - GRACE LIKE RAIN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/todd-agnew-grace-like-rain-168/) - [TIM NEUFELD [+] THE GLORY BOYS - MAY THY WILL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tim-neufeld-the-glory-boys-may-thy-will-150/) - [ABBY ROBERTSON - SANCTUARY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/abby-robertson-sanctuary-201/) - [Kari Jobe - FOREVER (LIVE)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kari-jobe-forever-live-83/) - [MERCY ME - THEN CHRIST CAME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mercy-me-then-christ-came-173/) - [SHANE AND SHANE - CREED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/shane-and-shane-creed-70/) - [THE QUIET SCIENCE - DEFIANT JOY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/the-quiet-science-defiant-joy-184/) - [EMMA GRANT - EYES ON ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/emma-grant-eyes-on-me-146/) - [MERCYME FT. SAM WESLEY - ON OUR WAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mercyme-ft-sam-wesley-on-our-way-172/) - [CORY ASBURY - THE PRODIGAL SON](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cory-asbury-the-prodigal-son-156/) - [JESS RAY - GRACE AND MERCY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jess-ray-grace-and-mercy-135/) - [STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN - MUCH OF YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/steven-curtis-chapman-much-of-you-48/) - [KATE NICHOLE - IN JESUS NAME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kate-nichole-in-jesus-name-175/) - [VARIOUS ARTISTS [+] THIRD DAY - BY HIS WOUNDS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/various-artists-third-day-by-his-wounds-145/) - [SIGNS & WONDERS - TELL THE ELEVEN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/signs-wonders-tell-the-eleven-164/) - [SIDEWALK PROPHETS - COME TO THE TABLE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sidewalk-prophets-come-to-the-table-146/) - [JOHN WALLER - STILL CALLS ME SON](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/john-waller-still-calls-me-son-164/) - [CITIZEN WAY (for MAF) - LIFT MY EYES (Radio edit)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/citizen-way-for-maf-lift-my-eyes-radio-edit-47/) - [DANNY GOKEY - NEW DAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/danny-gokey-new-day-149/) - [BUILDING 429 [+] FEAT. BLANCA CALLAHAN - WRECKING BALL (PRESS ON)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/building-429-feat-blanca-callahan-wrecking-ball-press-on-161/) - [SEEDS FAMILY WORSHIP - THE WAGES AND THE GIFT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/seeds-family-worship-the-wages-and-the-gift-146/) - [FOR KING AND COUNTRY - IT'S NOT OVER YET](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/for-king-and-country-its-not-over-yet-175/) - [JENN JOHNSON - FOR THE ONE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jenn-johnson-for-the-one-146/) - [REND COLLECTIVE - PLANS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rend-collective-plans-180/) - [NATALIE LAYNE - THE LONG WAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/natalie-layne-the-long-way-44/) - [TIM HUGHES - NEVER STOP SINGING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tim-hughes-never-stop-singing-160/) - [PHILIPPA HANNA - YOU'RE STILL GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/philippa-hanna-youre-still-god-327/) - [ELIAS DUMMER (THE CITY HARMONIC) - SIMPLE TRUTH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/elias-dummer-the-city-harmonic-simple-truth-145/) - [JORDAN ST CYR (pronounced saint seer) - GRATEFUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jordan-st-cyr-pronounced-saint-seer-grateful-178/) - [SCOTT RIGGAN - THIS WHO I AM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/scott-riggan-this-who-i-am-48/) - [PHIL WICKHAM - THE KING IS IN THE ROOM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phil-wickham-the-king-is-in-the-room-171/) - [JEREMY CAMP - MY DEFENDER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jeremy-camp-my-defender-174/) - [BRANDON LAKE - MORE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brandon-lake-more-234/) - [REBECCA ST JAMES [+] FOR KING & COUNTRY - KINGDOM COME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rebecca-st-james-for-king-country-kingdom-come-339/) - [MISSION HOUSE - NEVER SEE THE END](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mission-house-never-see-the-end-265/) - [PAUL BALOCHE - RISING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/paul-baloche-rising-306/) - [KEITH AND KRISTYN GETTY - HYMN OF COMPASSION](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/keith-and-kristyn-getty-hymn-of-compassion-268/) - [MICHAEL W SMITH - ABOVE ALL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/michael-w-smith-above-all-84/) - [CHRIS TOMLIN - I LIFT MY HANDS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-tomlin-i-lift-my-hands-255/) - [KRISTIAN STANFILL - ONE THING REMAINS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kristian-stanfill-one-thing-remains-287/) - [AARON KEYES - TO MAKE YOUR NAME GREAT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/aaron-keyes-to-make-your-name-great-285/) - [HOUSE OF WORSHIP [+] CECE WINANS [+] DARLENE ZSCHECH - SHOUT TO THE LORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/house-of-worship-cece-winans-darlene-zschech-shout-to-the-lord-32/) - [CELTIC WORSHIP - BE THOU MY VISION](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/celtic-worship-be-thou-my-vision-343/) - [NEW LIFE WORSHIP [+] DESPERATION BAND - ALL TO HIM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/new-life-worship-desperation-band-all-to-him-195/) - [ISRAEL HOUGHTON [+] NEW BREED - JESUS THE SAME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/israel-houghton-new-breed-jesus-the-same-187/) - [TODD AGNEW - GRACE LIKE RAIN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/todd-agnew-grace-like-rain-167/) - [LAUREN DAIGLE - RESCUE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lauren-daigle-rescue-139/) - [PRESENCE MUSIC - PICK UP THE BOOK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/presence-music-pick-up-the-book-47/) - [DELIRIOUS? - I COULD SING OF YOUR LOVE FOREVER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/delirious-i-could-sing-of-your-love-forever-72/) - [BELINDA ADU - I'M YOURS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/belinda-adu-im-yours-164/) - [KIM HILL - HERE INSIDE OF ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kim-hill-here-inside-of-me-56/) - [MATT REDMAN - BLESSED BE YOUR NAME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matt-redman-blessed-be-your-name-131/) - [BROOKE LIGERTWOOD - HONEY IN THE ROCK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brooke-ligertwood-honey-in-the-rock-360/) - [FORREST FRANK - YOUR WAY IS BETTER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/forrest-frank-your-way-is-better-140/) - [TORI KELLY - NEVER ALONE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tori-kelly-never-alone-173/) - [CROWDER - IN THE HOUSE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/crowder-in-the-house-125/) - [MICAH TYLER - EVEN THEN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/micah-tyler-even-then-175/) - [FIRST CALL - BREAKING THROUGH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/first-call-breaking-through-15/) - [MARTIN SMITH - WAITING HERE FOR YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/martin-smith-waiting-here-for-you-269/) - [MATTHEW WEST - HOPE RETURNS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matthew-west-hope-returns-143/) - [HALEY JONES - THANKFUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/haley-jones-thankful-43/) - [JASON CASTRO - RISE TO YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jason-castro-rise-to-you-178/) - [JEREMY RIDDLE - PRAYER FOR THE CHURCH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jeremy-riddle-prayer-for-the-church-156/) - [ROYAL TAILOR - MAKING ME NEW](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/royal-tailor-making-me-new-193/) - [STEFFANY GRETZINGER - CHRIST THE LORD IS WITH ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/steffany-gretzinger-christ-the-lord-is-with-me-291/) - [Big Daddy Weave - THIS IS WHAT WE LIVE FOR](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/big-daddy-weave-this-is-what-we-live-for-167/) - [FAYE ANNABELLE - BEAUTY FROM ASHES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/faye-annabelle-beauty-from-ashes-75/) - [BRANDON HEATH - HUMAN NATURE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brandon-heath-human-nature-173/) - [MELANIE WALDMAN - WHAT A SAVIOUR (PSALM 65)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/melanie-waldman-what-a-saviour-psalm-65-142/) - [NATALIE GRANT - LIVE FOR TODAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/natalie-grant-live-for-today-8/) - [ANNA WATERS - EVERY NEED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/anna-waters-every-need-215/) - [MISSION WORSHIP - BLESSING AND HONOUR](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mission-worship-blessing-and-honour-203/) - [THE AFTERS - I WILL FEAR NO MORE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/the-afters-i-will-fear-no-more-152/) - [JON REDDICK - NO FEAR](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jon-reddick-no-fear-174/) - [CHRIS TOMLIN [+] FT. THE WILBERFORCE UNIVERSITY CHOIR - AMAZING GRACE (MY CHAINS ARE GONE)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-tomlin-ft-the-wilberforce-university-choir-amazing-grace-my-chains-are-gone-336/) - [COCHREN & CO - THANK GOD FOR SUNDAY MORNINGS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cochren-co-thank-god-for-sunday-mornings-83/) - [LOVE AND THE OUTCOME - YOU GOT THIS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/love-and-the-outcome-you-got-this-146/) - [LEDGER - COMPLETELY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ledger-completely-189/) - [ZACH WILLIAMS - LESS LIKE ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/zach-williams-less-like-me-146/) - [COLTON DIXON - THE LOVE I HAVE FOR YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/colton-dixon-the-love-i-have-for-you-112/) - [PHIL STACEY - MORE LIKE HIM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phil-stacey-more-like-him-86/) - [BEN FULLER - WHO I AM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ben-fuller-who-i-am-187/) - [NATALIE CROMWELL - YOU'RE WELCOME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/natalie-cromwell-youre-welcome-191/) - [RYAN STEVENSON [+] FEAT. AMY GRANT - FAITHFUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ryan-stevenson-feat-amy-grant-faithful-164/) - [HILLSONG - God is Able](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-god-is-able-269/) - [AUSTIN AND LINDSEY ADAMEC - AS FOR ME AND MY HOUSE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/austin-and-lindsey-adamec-as-for-me-and-my-house-160/) - [MEGAN WOODS - HEAVEN DOWN HERE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/megan-woods-heaven-down-here-45/) - [PEOPLE OF THE EARTH - THAT'S WHO JESUS IS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/people-of-the-earth-thats-who-jesus-is-181/) - [LINDY & THE CIRCUIT RIDERS - STAND IN AWE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lindy-the-circuit-riders-stand-in-awe-112/) - [PASSION [+] CHRISTY NOCKELS - YOU ARE MY KING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/passion-christy-nockels-you-are-my-king-153/) - [GARY ANDERSON - LORD I COME AND BOW DOWN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/gary-anderson-lord-i-come-and-bow-down-182/) - [Big Daddy Weave - ALIVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/big-daddy-weave-alive-187/) - [CARRIE UNDERWOOD - JESUS TAKE THE WHEEL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/carrie-underwood-jesus-take-the-wheel-31/) - [PHATFISH - HOLY SPIRIT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phatfish-holy-spirit-148/) - [LOULITA GILL - WILL YOU LET ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/loulita-gill-will-you-let-me-152/) - [RALPH VAN MANEN - EMPTY PAGE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ralph-van-manen-empty-page-143/) - [PHIL WICKHAM - THIS IS OUR GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phil-wickham-this-is-our-god-112/) - [GODFREY BIRTILL - EMBRACED BY GRACE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/godfrey-birtill-embraced-by-grace-352/) - [WE THE KINGDOM - NO DOUBT ABOUT IT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/we-the-kingdom-no-doubt-about-it-153/) - [NEW WINE WORSHIP - THIS IS MY SURRENDER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/new-wine-worship-this-is-my-surrender-161/) - [MACK BROCK - YOUR PRESENCE IS A PROMISE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mack-brock-your-presence-is-a-promise-280/) - [HERE BE LIONS - WILDFIRE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/here-be-lions-wildfire-299/) - [LIFE CHURCH WORSHIP - WHERE THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD IS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/life-church-worship-where-the-spirit-of-the-lord-is-359/) - [VIBE WORSHIP - A LOVE LIKE THIS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/vibe-worship-a-love-like-this-368/) - [CHARITY GAYLE - GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/charity-gayle-great-is-thy-faithfulness-247/) - [JAMIE MACDONALD - COMMON HYMNAL - HE HAS TIME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jamie-macdonald-common-hymnal-he-has-time-300/) - [HILLSONG UNITED - Here I am to worship](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-united-here-i-am-to-worship-186/) - [BROOKE LIGERTWOOD - HONEY IN THE ROCK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brooke-ligertwood-honey-in-the-rock-359/) - [VERTICAL CHURCH BAND - SPIRIT OF THE LIVING GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/vertical-church-band-spirit-of-the-living-god-224/) - [SELAH - YOU RAISE ME UP](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/selah-you-raise-me-up-294/) - [BRENTON BROWN - EVERLASTING GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brenton-brown-everlasting-god-205/) - [BEN CANTELON - JESUS YOU ARE WORTHY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ben-cantelon-jesus-you-are-worthy-315/) - [HEARTCRY OF DAVID - O LORD YOU'RE BEAUTIFUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/heartcry-of-david-o-lord-youre-beautiful-179/) - [DAN BREMNES - FINGERPRINTS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/dan-bremnes-fingerprints-295/) - [JOSH GROBAN - YOU ARE LOVED (DON'T GIVE UP)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/josh-groban-you-are-loved-dont-give-up-180/) - [JEAN WATSON - EVERYTHING CAN CHANGE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jean-watson-everything-can-change-145/) - [JACI VELASQUEZ - Speak For Me](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jaci-velasquez-speak-for-me-65/) - [MERCYME - BEST NEWS EVER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mercyme-best-news-ever-158/) - [MOYA BRENNAN - WHISPER TO THE WILD WATER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/moya-brennan-whisper-to-the-wild-water-204/) - [KEITH AND KRISTYN GETTY [+] FEAT. JOHN PATITUCCI - WE BELIEVE (APOSTLE'S CREED)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/keith-and-kristyn-getty-feat-john-patitucci-we-believe-apostles-creed-314/) - [RACHEL WAMMACK - WHEN I SAY AMEN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rachel-wammack-when-i-say-amen-176/) - [THIRD DAY - GOD OF WONDERS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/third-day-god-of-wonders-155/) - [LIAM LAWTON - IF YOU LISTEN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/liam-lawton-if-you-listen-118/) - [BETHEL CHURCH [+] FEAT. KALLEY HEILIGENTHAL - EVER BE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/bethel-church-feat-kalley-heiligenthal-ever-be-133/) - [SHEILA WALSH - OPEN THE EYES OF MY HEART](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sheila-walsh-open-the-eyes-of-my-heart-158/) - [CASTING CROWNS - OH MY SOUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/casting-crowns-oh-my-soul-158/) - [OSLO GOSPEL CHOIR - IN CHRIST ALONE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/oslo-gospel-choir-in-christ-alone-120/) - [PAT BARRETT - MORNING BY MORNING (I WILL TRUST)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/pat-barrett-morning-by-morning-i-will-trust-160/) - [CHRIS TOMLIN - HOME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-tomlin-home-161/) - [MANDISA - WAYMAKER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mandisa-waymaker-224/) - [CITIPOINTE WORSHIP - JESUS IS YOUR NAME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/citipointe-worship-jesus-is-your-name-103/) - [ALL SONS AND DAUGHTERS - BROKENNESS ASIDE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/all-sons-and-daughters-brokenness-aside-134/) - [BLESSING OFFOR - BRIGHTER DAYS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/blessing-offor-brighter-days-167/) - [HILLSONG WORSHIP - YOU ARE LIFE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-worship-you-are-life-303/) - [CHRIS RICE - NEW LIFE IN CHRIST](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-rice-new-life-in-christ-161/) - [PHILLIPS, CRAIG AND DEAN - THE HEART OF WORSHIP](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phillips-craig-and-dean-the-heart-of-worship-179/) - [BLANCA FT TAUREN WELLS - SOMETHING BETTER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/blanca-ft-tauren-wells-something-better-329/) - [DELIRIOUS? - MAJESTY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/delirious-majesty-394/) - [JJ WEEKS BAND - LET THEM SEE YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jj-weeks-band-let-them-see-you-193/) - [SHANE AND SHANE - BE THOU MY VISION](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/shane-and-shane-be-thou-my-vision-268/) - [RICH MULLINS - IF I STAND](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rich-mullins-if-i-stand-69/) - [LAURA STORY - THERE IS NOTHING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/laura-story-there-is-nothing-131/) - [RED ROCKS WORSHIP - LOVE CHANGES EVERYTHING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/red-rocks-worship-love-changes-everything-88/) - [NORTHWOOD WORSHIP - EVERY PRAISE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/northwood-worship-every-praise-227/) - [TENTH AVENUE NORTH - HEALING BEGINS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tenth-avenue-north-healing-begins-154/) - [PHIL WICKHAM - DIVINE ROMANCE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phil-wickham-divine-romance-102/) - [SARA GROVES - SAY A PRAYER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sara-groves-say-a-prayer-153/) - [THRIVE WORSHIP - I STILL BELIEVE (FAITHFUL ALWAYS)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/thrive-worship-i-still-believe-faithful-always-283/) - [JOHNNY PARKS [+] VARIOUS - MY SOUL YEARNS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/johnny-parks-various-my-soul-yearns-190/) - [DON MOEN - MIGHTY TO SAVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/don-moen-mighty-to-save-223/) - [JOHN MICHAEL TALBOT [+] ST MICHAEL'S SINGERS - THE HIDING PLACE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/john-michael-talbot-st-michaels-singers-the-hiding-place-167/) - [SANCTUS REAL - SAFE IN MY FATHER'S ARMS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sanctus-real-safe-in-my-fathers-arms-183/) - [ISHMAEL - MAY THE PEACE AND PRESENCE OF GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ishmael-may-the-peace-and-presence-of-god-191/) - [MISSION HOUSE - YOUR EYES SEE ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mission-house-your-eyes-see-me-255/) - [JONATHAN DAVID & MELISSA HELSER - I BELIEVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jonathan-david-melissa-helser-i-believe-28/) - [MATT REDMAN - 10,000 REASONS (BLESS THE LORD)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matt-redman-10000-reasons-bless-the-lord-230/) - [JESUS CULTURE [+] FEAT. CHRIS QUILALA - FIERCE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jesus-culture-feat-chris-quilala-fierce-123/) - [CAIN - JESUS MUSIC](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cain-jesus-music-244/) - [JEREMY CAMP - GIVE YOU GLORY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jeremy-camp-give-you-glory-174/) - [BENJAMIN HASTINGS AND BLESSING OFFOR - THAT'S THE THING ABOUT PRAISE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/benjamin-hastings-and-blessing-offor-thats-the-thing-about-praise-244/) - [UNSPOKEN - YOU'VE ALWAYS BEEN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/unspoken-youve-always-been-138/) - [CHRIS SAYBURN - SPIRIT AND TRUTH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-sayburn-spirit-and-truth-227/) - [CHRIS MCCLARNEY - HALLELUJAH FOR THE CROSS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-mcclarney-hallelujah-for-the-cross-162/) - [NATHAN JESS [+] ELIM SOUND - WHEN I AM LOST](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/nathan-jess-elim-sound-when-i-am-lost-79/) - [CORY ASBURY - RECKLESS LOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cory-asbury-reckless-love-173/) - [PASSION [+] FEAT. KRISTIAN STANFILL - MORE LIKE JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/passion-feat-kristian-stanfill-more-like-jesus-123/) - [BILL BEATY - WALK WITH ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/bill-beaty-walk-with-me-5/) - [MICHELLE STRONG - STRONG](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/michelle-strong-strong-20/) - [HILLSONG WORSHIP - JESUS I NEED YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-worship-jesus-i-need-you-148/) - [HILLSONG - AWAKE MY SOUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-awake-my-soul-271/) - [KIM WALKER SMITH - JUST BE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kim-walker-smith-just-be-311/) - [STUART TOWNEND - IN CHRIST ALONE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/stuart-townend-in-christ-alone-323/) - [ABUNDANT LIFE CHURCH - NAME ABOVE ALL NAMES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/abundant-life-church-name-above-all-names-152/) - [BETHEL CHURCH - PRAISE IS THE HIGHWAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/bethel-church-praise-is-the-highway-235/) - [SHANE AND SHANE - YOUR WAYS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/shane-and-shane-your-ways-298/) - [BEN CANTELON - HALLELUJAH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ben-cantelon-hallelujah-312/) - [STEPH MACLEOD - NO OTHER GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/steph-macleod-no-other-god-271/) - [CHRIS TOMLIN - OUR GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-tomlin-our-god-189/) - [Gather Worship Matt redman and Kaestrings - THE IMAGE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/gather-worship-matt-redman-and-kaestrings-the-image-255/) - [CROWDER - FORGIVEN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/crowder-forgiven-127/) - [AUDIO ADRENALINE - GET DOWN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/audio-adrenaline-get-down-113/) - [CASTING CROWNS - ALL YOU EVER WANTED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/casting-crowns-all-you-ever-wanted-138/) - [REND COLLECTIVE - LOVE DIVINE LOVE EXCELLING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rend-collective-love-divine-love-excelling-172/) - [I AM THEY - KING OF LOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/i-am-they-king-of-love-176/) - [NEEDTOBREATH - WHO AM I](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/needtobreath-who-am-i-141/) - [MATT BROUWER [+] FT. JJ HELLER - LOVE CAN FIND A WAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matt-brouwer-ft-jj-heller-love-can-find-a-way-160/) - [PHIL WICKHAM - WHAT AN AWESOME GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phil-wickham-what-an-awesome-god-78/) - [JAMIE GRACE - BEAUTIFUL DAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jamie-grace-beautiful-day-194/) - [HOMEGROWN WORSHIP - TAKE ME BACK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/homegrown-worship-take-me-back-164/) - [MICAH TYLER - AMEN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/micah-tyler-amen-159/) - [MATT MAHER - ALIVE AND BREATHING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matt-maher-alive-and-breathing-188/) - [ELEVATION WORSHIP [+] BRANDON LAKE - I KNOW A NAME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/elevation-worship-brandon-lake-i-know-a-name-74/) - [SHAUN GROVES - WELCOME HOME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/shaun-groves-welcome-home-77/) - [JORDAN FELIZ - WITNESS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jordan-feliz-witness-139/) - [CONSUMED BY FIRE - I NEED YOU GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/consumed-by-fire-i-need-you-god-164/) - [NCC WORSHIP - HOPE OF GLORY (THE JESUS WAY)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ncc-worship-hope-of-glory-the-jesus-way-368/) - [NATALIE GRANT - MORE THAN ANYTHING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/natalie-grant-more-than-anything-143/) - [FAYE ANNABELLE - BEAUTY FROM ASHES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/faye-annabelle-beauty-from-ashes-74/) - [JOSH BALDWIN - LET THE REDEEMED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/josh-baldwin-let-the-redeemed-328/) - [CECE WINANS - COME JESUS COME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cece-winans-come-jesus-come-204/) - [MATTHEW WEST - TRUTH BE TOLD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matthew-west-truth-be-told-133/) - [SARAH KROGER AND VILLAGE LIGHTS - HERE IS OUR HALLELUJAH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sarah-kroger-and-village-lights-here-is-our-hallelujah-532/) - [MATTY MULLINS - SHOW YOU THE CROSS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matty-mullins-show-you-the-cross-167/) - [MATT REDMAN - SON OF SUFFERING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matt-redman-son-of-suffering-119/) - [COLTON DIXON - BUILD A BOAT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/colton-dixon-build-a-boat-157/) - [BEN RECTOR - THANK YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ben-rector-thank-you-159/) - [GUNGOR - BEAUTIFUL THINGS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/gungor-beautiful-things-71/) - [SIDEWALK PROPHETS - THE WORDS I WOULD SAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sidewalk-prophets-the-words-i-would-say-169/) - [Stephen McWhirter, Jason Clayborn - RAPHA](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/stephen-mcwhirter-jason-clayborn-rapha-320/) - [BRANDON LAKE - HARD FOUGHT HALLELUJAH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brandon-lake-hard-fought-hallelujah-117/) - [CHANDLER MOORE - LEAD ME ON](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chandler-moore-lead-me-on-219/) - [CHRIS TOMLIN - GOD'S GREAT DANCE FLOOR](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-tomlin-gods-great-dance-floor-177/) - [JORDAN ST CYR (pronounced saint seer) - TO SAVE MY LIFE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jordan-st-cyr-pronounced-saint-seer-to-save-my-life-273/) - [STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN - SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/steven-curtis-chapman-something-beautiful-173/) - [FOR THE FATHERLESS - FAITHFULLY MINE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/for-the-fatherless-faithfully-mine-138/) - [SHANE AND SHANE - CREED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/shane-and-shane-creed-69/) - [CORY BARNES - HE IS RISEN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cory-barnes-he-is-risen-207/) - [PATRICK MAYBERRY - THE JOY OF THE LORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/patrick-mayberry-the-joy-of-the-lord-294/) - [MAC POWELL - AND CAN IT BE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mac-powell-and-can-it-be-153/) - [LINCOLN BREWSTER - MADE NEW](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lincoln-brewster-made-new-150/) - [FINDING FAITH - PRECIOUS LIFE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/finding-faith-precious-life-168/) - [HILLSONG WORSHIP - FIGHTING FOR US](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-worship-fighting-for-us-14/) - [JEMIMAH PAINE - I CHOOSE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jemimah-paine-i-choose-231/) - [RYAN STEVENSON - WHEN WE FALL APART](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ryan-stevenson-when-we-fall-apart-154/) - [JOHN TIBBS [+] FT. SANDRA MCCRACKEN - SHEPHERD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/john-tibbs-ft-sandra-mccracken-shepherd-175/) - [DANNY GOKEY - TELL YOUR HEART TO BEAT AGAIN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/danny-gokey-tell-your-heart-to-beat-again-153/) - [FOR KING AND COUNTRY - GOD ONLY KNOWS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/for-king-and-country-god-only-knows-170/) - [HALEY JONES - THANKFUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/haley-jones-thankful-42/) - [COCHREN & CO - RUNNING HOME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cochren-co-running-home-90/) - [KEITH AND KRISTYN GETTY - LIVING WATER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/keith-and-kristyn-getty-living-water-230/) - [FRAN FRAWLEY - THE RIVER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/fran-frawley-the-river-56/) - [JEREMY CAMP - OUT OF MY HANDS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jeremy-camp-out-of-my-hands-160/) - [MAVERICK CITY - FEAR IS NOT MY FUTURE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maverick-city-fear-is-not-my-future-202/) - [PHILIPPA HANNA - LET THE BODY SING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/philippa-hanna-let-the-body-sing-35/) - [ALEXANDER PAPPAS - A BEAUTIFUL LIFE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/alexander-pappas-a-beautiful-life-206/) - [ELLIE HOLCOMB - STRONGER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ellie-holcomb-stronger-100/) - [REND COLLECTIVE - AS FOR ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rend-collective-as-for-me-187/) - [AVALON - KEEPER OF MY HEART](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/avalon-keeper-of-my-heart-179/) - [LINCOLN BREWSTER - NO ONE LIKE OUR GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lincoln-brewster-no-one-like-our-god-175/) - [JOEL VAUGHN - PRAY IT UP](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/joel-vaughn-pray-it-up-149/) - [NATALIE LAYNE - FRAGILE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/natalie-layne-fragile-136/) - [ALLEN FROSE - ALL THINGS NEW](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/allen-frose-all-things-new-164/) - [TAUREN WELLS - ALL GOD'S CHILDREN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tauren-wells-all-gods-children-156/) - [ZACH WILLIAMS - FEAR IS A LIAR](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/zach-williams-fear-is-a-liar-167/) - [FRANCESCA BATTISTELLI - I'M LETTING GO](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/francesca-battistelli-im-letting-go-184/) - [PHIL WICKHAM - GLORY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phil-wickham-glory-211/) - [ANDREW ROBINSON - DEEPER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/andrew-robinson-deeper-159/) - [ELEVATION RHYTHM - WASHED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/elevation-rhythm-washed-123/) - [ALISA TURNER - THIS IS MY PRAYER FOR YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/alisa-turner-this-is-my-prayer-for-you-169/) - [LAUREN DAIGLE - LET IT BE A HALLELUJAH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lauren-daigle-let-it-be-a-hallelujah-119/) - [DAVID CROWDER BAND - AFTER ALL (HOLY)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/david-crowder-band-after-all-holy-70/) - [NATIVE KINGDOM - WHO YOU SAY I AM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/native-kingdom-who-you-say-i-am-140/) - [COMMON HYMNAL - THE KINGDOM IS YOURS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/common-hymnal-the-kingdom-is-yours-120/) - [RENEE GARCIA - DEEPEST LOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/renee-garcia-deepest-love-65/) - [7th TIME DOWN - QUESTIONS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/7th-time-down-questions-143/) - [WE THE KINGDOM - DANCING ON THE WAVES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/we-the-kingdom-dancing-on-the-waves-156/) - [ANDREW PETERSON - BE KIND TO YOURSELF](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/andrew-peterson-be-kind-to-yourself-170/) - [CHRISTA WELLS [+] NICOLE WITT - PRAY (TEACH US TO PRAY)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/christa-wells-nicole-witt-pray-teach-us-to-pray-145/) - [BEN CANTELLON - LOVE CAME DOWN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ben-cantellon-love-came-down-130/) - [NEEDTOBREATHE - THE LONG SURRENDER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/needtobreathe-the-long-surrender-46/) - [GRETCHEN KESKEYS - YOU ARE GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/gretchen-keskeys-you-are-god-203/) - [DAN BREMNES - HOLD YOU TIGHT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/dan-bremnes-hold-you-tight-176/) - [MEGAN WOODS - I BELIEVE YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/megan-woods-i-believe-you-174/) - [CASTING CROWNS - JUST BE HELD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/casting-crowns-just-be-held-172/) - [GREG SYKES - NO GREATER LOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/greg-sykes-no-greater-love-143/) - [PHIL WICKHAM - GREAT THINGS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phil-wickham-great-things-180/) - [LAURA STORY - FAITHFUL GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/laura-story-faithful-god-143/) - [SARAH REEVES - SWEET SWEET SOUND](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sarah-reeves-sweet-sweet-sound-159/) - [BROOKE LIGERTWOOD FT. PASSION [+] BRANDON LAKE [+] CODY CARNES - BLESS GOD (LIVE from PASSION 2024)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brooke-ligertwood-ft-passion-brandon-lake-cody-carnes-bless-god-live-from-passion-2024-117/) - [DAVID LEONARD - GOOD LORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/david-leonard-good-lord-185/) - [BRANDON HEATH - NO TURNING BACK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brandon-heath-no-turning-back-148/) - [CITIZEN WAY - EVIDENCE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/citizen-way-evidence-125/) - [JOHNNY DIAZ (DYE-AS) - WAITING ROOM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/johnny-diaz-dye-as-waiting-room-144/) - [FORREST FRANK - OKAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/forrest-frank-okay-2/) - [MATT MAHER - RISE UP](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matt-maher-rise-up-172/) - [7EVENTH TIME DOWN - GOD IS ON THE MOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/7eventh-time-down-god-is-on-the-move-184/) - [MATTHEW WEST - WALKING MIRACLES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matthew-west-walking-miracles-232/) - [HILLSONG WORSHIP - JESUS I NEED YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-worship-jesus-i-need-you-147/) - [HILLSONG - AWAKE MY SOUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-awake-my-soul-270/) - [KIM WALKER SMITH - JUST BE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kim-walker-smith-just-be-310/) - [STUART TOWNEND - IN CHRIST ALONE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/stuart-townend-in-christ-alone-322/) - [ABUNDANT LIFE CHURCH - NAME ABOVE ALL NAMES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/abundant-life-church-name-above-all-names-151/) - [BETHEL CHURCH - PRAISE IS THE HIGHWAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/bethel-church-praise-is-the-highway-234/) - [SHANE AND SHANE - YOUR WAYS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/shane-and-shane-your-ways-297/) - [BEN CANTELON - HALLELUJAH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ben-cantelon-hallelujah-311/) - [STEPH MACLEOD - NO OTHER GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/steph-macleod-no-other-god-270/) - [CHRIS TOMLIN - OUR GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-tomlin-our-god-188/) - [Gather Worship Matt redman and Kaestrings - THE IMAGE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/gather-worship-matt-redman-and-kaestrings-the-image-254/) - [Gather Worship and Elevation Rhythm - NO NOT ONE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/gather-worship-and-elevation-rhythm-no-not-one-242/) - [STEPH MACLEOD - WHEN I FOUND JESUS (ALT VERSION)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/steph-macleod-when-i-found-jesus-alt-version-163/) - [STRAHAN - FEEL THE NIGHT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/strahan-feel-the-night-151/) - [CITIZEN WAY (for MAF) - LIFT MY EYES (Radio edit)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/citizen-way-for-maf-lift-my-eyes-radio-edit-46/) - [JOSH WILSON - PUSHING BACK THE DARK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/josh-wilson-pushing-back-the-dark-172/) - [CALLING GLORY - MY REDEEMER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/calling-glory-my-redeemer-175/) - [ELEVATION MUSIC - BECAUSE OF YOUR LOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/elevation-music-because-of-your-love-210/) - [SUZIE PARKS - UNSHAKABLE FAITH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/suzie-parks-unshakable-faith-200/) - [CECE WINANS - THATS MY KING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cece-winans-thats-my-king-108/) - [BETHANY DILLON - HALLELUJAH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/bethany-dillon-hallelujah-292/) - [MERCYME - ALMOST HOME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mercyme-almost-home-194/) - [PHILIPPA HANNA - STARS WILL FALL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/philippa-hanna-stars-will-fall-157/) - [CLIFF RICHARD - SUCH IS THE MYSTERY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cliff-richard-such-is-the-mystery-6/) - [KUTLESS - BETTER IS ONE DAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kutless-better-is-one-day-218/) - [NORTH POINT INSIDE OUT - DEATH WAS ARRESTED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/north-point-inside-out-death-was-arrested-157/) - [NATALIE LAYNE - THE LONG WAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/natalie-layne-the-long-way-43/) - [TASHA LEYTON - LOOK WHAT YOU'VE DONE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tasha-leyton-look-what-youve-done-168/) - [PAUL WILBUR - THE BATTLE IS YOURS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/paul-wilbur-the-battle-is-yours-167/) - [SARAH KROGER - A THOUSAND THANK YOUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sarah-kroger-a-thousand-thank-yous-155/) - [CHRIS TOMLIN - WHOM SHALL I FEAR (GOD OF ANGEL ARMIES)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-tomlin-whom-shall-i-fear-god-of-angel-armies-211/) - [COLTON DIXON - THROUGH ALL OF IT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/colton-dixon-through-all-of-it-142/) - [FOR KING AND COUNTRY FT. JORDAN SPARKS - LOVE ME LIKE I AM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/for-king-and-country-ft-jordan-sparks-love-me-like-i-am-111/) - [JOSIAH QUEEN - THE PRODIGAL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/josiah-queen-the-prodigal-308/) - [STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN - DO EVERYTHING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/steven-curtis-chapman-do-everything-125/) - [TENTH AVENUE NORTH - INVITED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tenth-avenue-north-invited-197/) - [DAVID AND NICOLE BINION - THE MIGHTY CHORUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/david-and-nicole-binion-the-mighty-chorus-181/) - [MIKE JANZEN - ABOUNDING IN LOVE - PSALM 86](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mike-janzen-abounding-in-love-psalm-86-359/) - [JOHN NEUFOLD - WE'VE GOT A LOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/john-neufold-weve-got-a-love-164/) - [SIDEWALK PROPHETS - PRODIGAL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sidewalk-prophets-prodigal-173/) - [HILLSONG UNITED - WONDER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-united-wonder-187/) - [LESLIE JORDAN - GREAT I AM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/leslie-jordan-great-i-am-232/) - [BRANDON LAKE - RUNNING TO THE LIGHT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brandon-lake-running-to-the-light-178/) - [LOUANN LEE - HE BREAKS EVERY CHAIN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/louann-lee-he-breaks-every-chain-169/) - [PHIL WICKHAM - WHAT AN AWESOME GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phil-wickham-what-an-awesome-god-77/) - [EVAN CRAFT - CHANCES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/evan-craft-chances-218/) - [MATTHEW WEST - GRACE WINS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matthew-west-grace-wins-175/) - [REND COLLECTIVE - EVERY GIANT WILL FALL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rend-collective-every-giant-will-fall-180/) - [EVERFOUND - GOD OF THE IMPOSSIBLE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/everfound-god-of-the-impossible-184/) - [JOHN MARK AND SARA MCMILLAN - KING OF MY HEART](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/john-mark-and-sara-mcmillan-king-of-my-heart-309/) - [ST MARK'S CHAPEL BAND - FIRE BY NIGHT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/st-marks-chapel-band-fire-by-night-131/) - [HALEY JONES - THANKFUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/haley-jones-thankful-41/) - [CROWDER - COME AS YOU ARE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/crowder-come-as-you-are-105/) - [CORY ASBURY - KIND](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cory-asbury-kind-208/) - [TRAVIS RYAN - YOU HOLD IT ALL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/travis-ryan-you-hold-it-all-169/) - [FERNANDO ORTEGA - TRAVELER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/fernando-ortega-traveler-162/) - [WE ARE MESSENGERS - IMAGE OF GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/we-are-messengers-image-of-god-143/) - [GEORGE STRAIT - THREE NAILS AND A CROSS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/george-strait-three-nails-and-a-cross-31/) - [HILLSONG - IN YOUR HANDS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-in-your-hands-30/) - [LAUREN DAIGLE - HOW CAN IT BE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lauren-daigle-how-can-it-be-159/) - [EOGHAN HEASLIP - COME AND HEAL US](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/eoghan-heaslip-come-and-heal-us-167/) - [CAGELESS BIRDS (Jonathan David and Melissa Helser) - MOUNTAIN HIGH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cageless-birds-jonathan-david-and-melissa-helser-mountain-high-137/) - [HANAH HARDING - WHAT A FRIEND WE HAVE IN JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hanah-harding-what-a-friend-we-have-in-jesus-338/) - [KEITH AND KRISTYN GETTY [+] CHRIS TOMLIN - O CHURCH ARISE (ARISE, SHINE)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/keith-and-kristyn-getty-chris-tomlin-o-church-arise-arise-shine-106/) - [GREEN BAY COMMUNITY WORSHIP - JESUS MY HEALER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/green-bay-community-worship-jesus-my-healer-324/) - [KATE MINER - FATHER GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kate-miner-father-god-376/) - [NEW LIFE WORSHIP - OH WE WORSHIP](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/new-life-worship-oh-we-worship-203/) - [BRIAN JOHNSON [+] BETHEL - GRACE OF GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brian-johnson-bethel-grace-of-god-265/) - [MISSION HOUSE - HOW DEEP THE FATHER'S LOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mission-house-how-deep-the-fathers-love-266/) - [SUZANNE HANNA - TO GOD BE THE GLORY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/suzanne-hanna-to-god-be-the-glory-309/) - [DIVINE HYMNS - I'M FOREVER GRATEFUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/divine-hymns-im-forever-grateful-338/) - [VINEYARD WORSHIP - BREATHE IN SING OUT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/vineyard-worship-breathe-in-sing-out-329/) - [CHRISTY NOCKELS - HOSANNA](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/christy-nockels-hosanna-180/) - [ELEVATION WORSHIP - O COME TO THE ALTAR](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/elevation-worship-o-come-to-the-altar-169/) - [MAVERICK CITY CHOIR - REVELATION 19](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maverick-city-choir-revelation-19-66/) - [HARVEST WORSHIP - YOUR GREAT NAME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/harvest-worship-your-great-name-365/) - [DARLENE ZSCHECH - JESUS AT THE CENTRE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/darlene-zschech-jesus-at-the-centre-214/) - [SHANE AND SHANE - YOU KNOW EVERYTHING (PSALM 139)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/shane-and-shane-you-know-everything-psalm-139-282/) - [KIRK FRANKLIN - PRAY FOR ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kirk-franklin-pray-for-me-162/) - [SHAWN MCDONALD - TAKE THIS LIFE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/shawn-mcdonald-take-this-life-174/) - [SELAH - BLESS THE BROKEN ROAD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/selah-bless-the-broken-road-41/) - [UNITED PURSUIT - SIMPLE GOSPEL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/united-pursuit-simple-gospel-97/) - [ROBIN MARK - NO ONE LIKE YOU LORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/robin-mark-no-one-like-you-lord-114/) - [PAUL BALOCHE - WHAT A GOOD GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/paul-baloche-what-a-good-god-188/) - [DON MOEN - BE LIFTED UP](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/don-moen-be-lifted-up-143/) - [CAIN - YES HE CAN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cain-yes-he-can-175/) - [MICHAEL CARD - EL SHADDAI](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/michael-card-el-shaddai-172/) - [BRYAN & KATIE TORWALT - MY HALLELUJAH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/bryan-katie-torwalt-my-hallelujah-289/) - [TEEA GOANS - LETTER FROM GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/teea-goans-letter-from-god-185/) - [TASHA LAYTON - LOVE LIFTING ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tasha-layton-love-lifting-me-142/) - [JENN BOSTIC - JEALOUS OF THE ANGELS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jenn-bostic-jealous-of-the-angels-154/) - [ZACH WILLIAMS - RESCUE STORY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/zach-williams-rescue-story-147/) - [JOSH BALDWIN - THERE IS FREEDOM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/josh-baldwin-there-is-freedom-301/) - [CHARITY GAYLE - I SPEAK JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/charity-gayle-i-speak-jesus-287/) - [JEREMY CAMP - WHEN YOU SPEAK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jeremy-camp-when-you-speak-181/) - [JEAN WATSON - DREAM MAKER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jean-watson-dream-maker-142/) - [RHETT WALKER - GOODNESS OF GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rhett-walker-goodness-of-god-156/) - [HILLSONG YOUNG AND FREE - LORD SEND REVIVAL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-young-and-free-lord-send-revival-307/) - [PHATFISH - THERE IS A DAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phatfish-there-is-a-day-159/) - [TAMELA MANN - HERE I AM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tamela-mann-here-i-am-306/) - [DANNY GOKEY - MASTERPIECE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/danny-gokey-masterpiece-150/) - [BEN CANTELON [+] FEAT. WORSHIP CENTRAL - THE SAME POWER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ben-cantelon-feat-worship-central-the-same-power-273/) - [KELITA HAVERLAND - HEALING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kelita-haverland-healing-171/) - [LIFE WORSHIP - MY SAVIOUR STILL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/life-worship-my-saviour-still-171/) - [STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN - Live Out Loud](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/steven-curtis-chapman-live-out-loud-53/) - [YOLANDA ADAMS [+] FEAT. DONNIE MC CLURKIN - THE PRAYER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/yolanda-adams-feat-donnie-mc-clurkin-the-prayer-185/) - [THE ASIDORS - BLESSINGS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/the-asidors-blessings-123/) - [JONATHAN AND MELISSA HELSER - SOUND MIND](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jonathan-and-melissa-helser-sound-mind-151/) - [CODY CARNES - WHAT FREEDOM FEELS LIKE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cody-carnes-what-freedom-feels-like-173/) - [KATELYN MCCARTER - FREE FROM ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/katelyn-mccarter-free-from-me-185/) - [GRAHAM KENDRICK - THE PEACE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/graham-kendrick-the-peace-141/) - [HILLSONG WORSHIP - YOU CROWN THE YEAR](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-worship-you-crown-the-year-244/) - [ESTHER MUI - GOD IS MY DEFENSE (PSALM59)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/esther-mui-god-is-my-defense-psalm59-154/) - [CASTING CROWNS - THE WORD IS ALIVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/casting-crowns-the-word-is-alive-55/) - [JONATHAN VEIRA - EMPTY PAGE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jonathan-veira-empty-page-122/) - [PASSION - GOD YOU'RE SO GOOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/passion-god-youre-so-good-117/) - [MICHAEL W SMITH [+] FEAT. CECE WINANS - KING OF GLORY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/michael-w-smith-feat-cece-winans-king-of-glory-187/) - [KRISTYN GETTY - KEEP LETTING THE LIGHT IN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kristyn-getty-keep-letting-the-light-in-148/) - [CITIZENS WORSHIP - HEAVEN COMES DOWN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/citizens-worship-heaven-comes-down-209/) - [COCHREN & CO - PARKING LOT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cochren-co-parking-lot-143/) - [BRIAN AND JENN JOHNSON - YOU'RE GONNA BE OK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brian-and-jenn-johnson-youre-gonna-be-ok-61/) - [MATT REDMAN - 10,000 REASONS (BLESS THE LORD)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matt-redman-10000-reasons-bless-the-lord-229/) - [LEELAND - TEARS OF THE SAINTS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/leeland-tears-of-the-saints-58/) - [BETHEL MUSIC - IT IS WELL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/bethel-music-it-is-well-222/) - [Kari Jobe - STEADY MY HEART](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kari-jobe-steady-my-heart-147/) - [THIRD DAY - REVIVAL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/third-day-revival-189/) - [FRANCESCA BATTISTELLI - WRITE YOUR STORY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/francesca-battistelli-write-your-story-151/) - [PAUL AND HANNAH MCCLURE - JESUS WE LOVE YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/paul-and-hannah-mcclure-jesus-we-love-you-146/) - [TIM HUGHES - MY JESUS MY LIFELINE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tim-hughes-my-jesus-my-lifeline-38/) - [SHANE AND SHANE - PSALM 139](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/shane-and-shane-psalm-139-84/) - [THE VILLAGE CHURCH [+] FT. LAUREN CHANDLER - COME TO ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/the-village-church-ft-lauren-chandler-come-to-me-183/) - [STEPHEN STANLEY - REST IN THE FATHER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/stephen-stanley-rest-in-the-father-217/) - [CARRIE UNDERWOOD - BLESSED ASSURANCE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/carrie-underwood-blessed-assurance-414/) - [MELANIE WALDMAN - YOU'RE THERE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/melanie-waldman-youre-there-139/) - [REND COLLECTIVE - THE JOY OF THE LORD IS MY STRENGTH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rend-collective-the-joy-of-the-lord-is-my-strength-210/) - [LOULITA GILL - GRACE AND MERCY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/loulita-gill-grace-and-mercy-135/) - [HILLSONG - CORNERSTONE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-cornerstone-288/) - [ELLIE BUTTON - AFTER ALL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ellie-button-after-all-167/) - [KEES KRAAYENOORD (Case Craayenoord) - FOR THE LETTING GO](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kees-kraayenoord-case-craayenoord-for-the-letting-go-69/) - [JORDAN FELIZ - JESUS IS COMING BACK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jordan-feliz-jesus-is-coming-back-173/) - [PHIL WICKHAM - ALL I WANT IS YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phil-wickham-all-i-want-is-you-187/) - [MEGAN WOODS - THE TRUTH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/megan-woods-the-truth-162/) - [FORREST FRANK - YOUR WAY IS BETTER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/forrest-frank-your-way-is-better-139/) - [MICHAEL FARREN - I BELONG TO JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/michael-farren-i-belong-to-jesus-316/) - [RUSH OF FOOLS - UNDO](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rush-of-fools-undo-187/) - [SARA GROVES - THE WORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sara-groves-the-word-50/) - [LEANNA CRAWFORD - TRUTH I'M STANDING ON](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/leanna-crawford-truth-im-standing-on-154/) - [JEREMY CAMP - I STILL BELIEVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jeremy-camp-i-still-believe-189/) - [SELAH - HELLO GRACE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/selah-hello-grace-156/) - [PEOPLE OF THE EARTH - YOU'RE THE FIRE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/people-of-the-earth-youre-the-fire-176/) - [SINACH - WAYMAKER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sinach-waymaker-331/) - [RYAN ELLIS - HEART OF THE FATHER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ryan-ellis-heart-of-the-father-399/) - [ROBIN MARK FT. NEW IRISH CHOIR AND ORCHESTRA - GOD OF GRACE AND HOLINESS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/robin-mark-ft-new-irish-choir-and-orchestra-god-of-grace-and-holiness-297/) - [CHRIS TOMLIN - MADE TO WORSHIP](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-tomlin-made-to-worship-201/) - [DELIRIOUS? - What a friend I've found](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/delirious-what-a-friend-ive-found-97/) - [I AM THEY - CROWN HIM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/i-am-they-crown-him-266/) - [HOMEGROWN WORSHIP [+] FT. LOULITA GILL - SHELTER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/homegrown-worship-ft-loulita-gill-shelter-169/) - [MISSION HOUSE - BEHOLD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mission-house-behold-285/) - [MISSION HOUSE FT JOSH BALDWIN - I DON'T HAVE MUCH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mission-house-ft-josh-baldwin-i-dont-have-much-296/) - [HILLSONG - ADONAI](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-adonai-15/) - [GRAHAM KENDRICK - SHINE JESUS SHINE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/graham-kendrick-shine-jesus-shine-343/) - [LINCOLN BREWSTER - THERE IS POWER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lincoln-brewster-there-is-power-147/) - [THE AFTERS - BROKEN HALLELUJAH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/the-afters-broken-hallelujah-149/) - [MERCYME - TO NOT WORSHIP YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mercyme-to-not-worship-you-90/) - [BIANCA - WHO I AM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/bianca-who-i-am-202/) - [LAURA STORY - I CAN JUST BE ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/laura-story-i-can-just-be-me-149/) - [STUART TOWNEND - Beautiful Saviour](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/stuart-townend-beautiful-saviour-111/) - [SANCTUS REAL - ON FIRE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sanctus-real-on-fire-142/) - [UNSPOKEN - LOVE IS EVERYTHING WE NEED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/unspoken-love-is-everything-we-need-210/) - [PAT BARRETT - SPARROWS AND LILLIES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/pat-barrett-sparrows-and-lillies-156/) - [CHRIS TOMLIN - FOREVER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-tomlin-forever-56/) - [JOSIAH QUEEN (feat. BRANDON LAKE) - CAN'T STEAL MY JOY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/josiah-queen-feat-brandon-lake-cant-steal-my-joy-203/) - [APOLLO LTD. - REDEMPTION SONG](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/apollo-ltd-redemption-song-227/) - [HILLARY SCOTT - THY WILL BE DONE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillary-scott-thy-will-be-done-173/) - [SEEDS FAMILY WORSHIP - KEEP YOUR HEART (PROVERBS 4)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/seeds-family-worship-keep-your-heart-proverbs-4-169/) - [MACK BROCK - STILL IN CONTROL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mack-brock-still-in-control-159/) - [BRANDON LAKE FT. ELEVATION WORSHIP - PRAISE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brandon-lake-ft-elevation-worship-praise-240/) - [HILLSONG WORSHIP - ABBA FATHER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-worship-abba-father-201/) - [CASTING CROWNS [+] FT. MATTHEW WEST - NOBODY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/casting-crowns-ft-matthew-west-nobody-126/) - [TAUREN WELLS FT. H.E.R - HOLD US TOGETHER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tauren-wells-ft-h-e-r-hold-us-together-34/) - [THRIVE WORSHIP - BREAKTHROUGH IS COMING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/thrive-worship-breakthrough-is-coming-197/) - [FAYE ANNABELLE - BEAUTY FROM ASHES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/faye-annabelle-beauty-from-ashes-73/) - [SIDEWALK PROPHETS - SMILE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sidewalk-prophets-smile-292/) - [BRANDON HEATH - WHOLE HEART](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brandon-heath-whole-heart-163/) - [DARLENE ZSCHECH - THE POTTERS HAND](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/darlene-zschech-the-potters-hand-76/) - [NATALIE GRANT - FACE TO FACE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/natalie-grant-face-to-face-156/) - [AUSTIN FRENCH - GOOD FEELING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/austin-french-good-feeling-267/) - [MICAH TYLER - PRAISE THE LORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/micah-tyler-praise-the-lord-96/) - [COLTON DIXON - MIRACLES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/colton-dixon-miracles-182/) - [KEITH AND KRISTYN GETTY - CHRIST OUR HOPE IN LIFE OR DEATH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/keith-and-kristyn-getty-christ-our-hope-in-life-or-death-247/) - [WHITE HEART - WE ARE HIS HANDS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/white-heart-we-are-his-hands-60/) - [JILLIAN JONES - STREAMS IN THE WASTELAND](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jillian-jones-streams-in-the-wasteland-170/) - [FORREST FRANK - B.I.G](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/forrest-frank-b-i-g-11/) - [THE LIGHTHOUSE PROJECT - ALL FOR JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/the-lighthouse-project-all-for-jesus-312/) - [CECE WINANS - WORTHY OF IT ALL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cece-winans-worthy-of-it-all-79/) - [LEIGH NASH - ISAIAH 55 (NOTHING YOU CAN'T DO)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/leigh-nash-isaiah-55-nothing-you-cant-do-49/) - [JASON CRABB - JUST AS I AM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jason-crabb-just-as-i-am-134/) - [THE PORTER'S GATE WORSHIP PROJECT - YOUR LABOR IS NOT IN VAIN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/the-porters-gate-worship-project-your-labor-is-not-in-vain-151/) - [TENTH AVENUE NORTH - NO MAN IS AN ISLAND](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tenth-avenue-north-no-man-is-an-island-128/) - [KRISTIAN STANFILL - EVEN SO, COME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kristian-stanfill-even-so-come-298/) - [LYDIA LAIRD - HALLELUJAH EVEN HERE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lydia-laird-hallelujah-even-here-162/) - [FORREST FRANK - YOUR WAY IS BETTER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/forrest-frank-your-way-is-better-138/) - [FOR KING AND COUNTRY - FOR GOD IS WITH US](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/for-king-and-country-for-god-is-with-us-179/) - [Big Daddy Weave - EVERY TIME I BREATHE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/big-daddy-weave-every-time-i-breathe-77/) - [MATT STELL - PRAYED FOR YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matt-stell-prayed-for-you-168/) - [SONAL TIMOTHY - PSALM 139](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sonal-timothy-psalm-139-158/) - [GINNY OWENS - BE THOU MY VISION](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ginny-owens-be-thou-my-vision-327/) - [OUT OF THE GREY - IF I KNOW YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/out-of-the-grey-if-i-know-you-77/) - [TOBYMAC - BEYOND ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tobymac-beyond-me-154/) - [MERCY GATE WORSHIP - COME REVIVE ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mercy-gate-worship-come-revive-me-203/) - [PHILIPPA HANNA - FREEDOM FOUND ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/philippa-hanna-freedom-found-me-155/) - [STEFANY GRETZINGER AND MELISSA HELSER - GIVE THANKS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/stefany-gretzinger-and-melissa-helser-give-thanks-284/) - [JESUS CULTURE [+] FT. RUTH RIDLEY - LOVE THAT SAVES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jesus-culture-ft-ruth-ridley-love-that-saves-163/) - [SHANE AND SHANE - CREED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/shane-and-shane-creed-68/) - [JEREMY CAMP - KEEP ME IN THE MOMENT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jeremy-camp-keep-me-in-the-moment-158/) - [AUDIO ADRENALINE - CHANGE MY NAME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/audio-adrenaline-change-my-name-144/) - [REBECCA ST JAMES [+] BRANDON LAKE - BATTLE IS THE LORDS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rebecca-st-james-brandon-lake-battle-is-the-lords-204/) - [FRANCESCA BATTISTELLI - HOLY SPIRIT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/francesca-battistelli-holy-spirit-188/) - [LAUREN DAIGLE - TRUST IN YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lauren-daigle-trust-in-you-130/) - [PETER FURLER [+] FT. PHIL JOEL & BILL FURLER - GREATER IS HE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/peter-furler-ft-phil-joel-bill-furler-greater-is-he-119/) - [MERCYME - GREATER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mercyme-greater-151/) - [CROWDER - ALL MY HOPE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/crowder-all-my-hope-123/) - [PHIL WICKHAM - AT YOUR NAME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phil-wickham-at-your-name-218/) - [SINACH - WAYMAKER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sinach-waymaker-330/) - [RYAN ELLIS - HEART OF THE FATHER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ryan-ellis-heart-of-the-father-398/) - [ROBIN MARK FT. NEW IRISH CHOIR AND ORCHESTRA - GOD OF GRACE AND HOLINESS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/robin-mark-ft-new-irish-choir-and-orchestra-god-of-grace-and-holiness-296/) - [CHRIS TOMLIN - MADE TO WORSHIP](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-tomlin-made-to-worship-200/) - [DELIRIOUS? - What a friend I've found](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/delirious-what-a-friend-ive-found-96/) - [I AM THEY - CROWN HIM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/i-am-they-crown-him-265/) - [HOMEGROWN WORSHIP [+] FT. LOULITA GILL - SHELTER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/homegrown-worship-ft-loulita-gill-shelter-168/) - [MISSION HOUSE - BEHOLD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mission-house-behold-284/) - [MISSION HOUSE FT JOSH BALDWIN - I DON'T HAVE MUCH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mission-house-ft-josh-baldwin-i-dont-have-much-295/) - [HILLSONG - ADONAI](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-adonai-14/) - [GRAHAM KENDRICK - SHINE JESUS SHINE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/graham-kendrick-shine-jesus-shine-342/) - [BENJAMIN HASTINGS - O PRAISE THE NAME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/benjamin-hastings-o-praise-the-name-59/) - [CORY VOSS - HE WHO MOVES MOUNTAINS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cory-voss-he-who-moves-mountains-189/) - [REBECCA ST JAMES - PRAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rebecca-st-james-pray-52/) - [TIM HUGHES - HAPPY DAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tim-hughes-happy-day-208/) - [ZACH WILLIAMS - HEART OF GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/zach-williams-heart-of-god-156/) - [BRIAN DOERKSEN - REFINER'S FIRE (PURIFY MY HEART)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brian-doerksen-refiners-fire-purify-my-heart/) - [MATT MAHER - YOUR LOVE DEFENDS ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matt-maher-your-love-defends-me-150/) - [TAUREN WELLS - ECHOES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tauren-wells-echoes-151/) - [MICHAEL W SMITH - BREATHE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/michael-w-smith-breathe-341/) - [REND COLLECTIVE - BUILD YOUR KINGDOM HERE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rend-collective-build-your-kingdom-here-174/) - [TASHA COBBS LEONARD - HAPPY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tasha-cobbs-leonard-happy-141/) - [RILEY CLEMMONS - FOR THE GOOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/riley-clemmons-for-the-good-149/) - [VERSES - THANKFUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/verses-thankful-184/) - [MORIAH PETERS - BRAVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/moriah-peters-brave-141/) - [CORY ASBURY - THE FATHER'S HOUSE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cory-asbury-the-fathers-house-163/) - [KAT MILLS - I'M GRATEFUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kat-mills-im-grateful-159/) - [NEED TO BREATHE - BROTHER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/need-to-breathe-brother-159/) - [MATT REDMAN - IT'S RISIN' UP](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matt-redman-its-risin-up-61/) - [SWITCHFOOT - WHEN WE COME ALIVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/switchfoot-when-we-come-alive-116/) - [KRISTYN GETTY [+] FT. ALISON KRAUSS - IN CHRIST ALONE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kristyn-getty-ft-alison-krauss-in-christ-alone-318/) - [JOHN WALLER - GOD IS GOOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/john-waller-god-is-good-56/) - [PASSION - THERE IS NOTHING THAT OUR GOD CAN'T DO](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/passion-there-is-nothing-that-our-god-cant-do-182/) - [CHARITY GAYLE - WE NEED A MIRACLE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/charity-gayle-we-need-a-miracle-159/) - [FOR THE FATHERLESS - BREAKERS AND BILLOWS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/for-the-fatherless-breakers-and-billows-153/) - [GREG LAFOLLETTE - BLESSED BE THE NAME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/greg-lafollette-blessed-be-the-name-272/) - [MATTHEW WEST - FAMILY TREE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matthew-west-family-tree-147/) - [KIM WALKER SMITH - LET REVIVAL IN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kim-walker-smith-let-revival-in-226/) - [MAVERICK CITY - PROMISES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maverick-city-promises-236/) - [THIRD DAY - I WILL HOLD MY HEAD HIGH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/third-day-i-will-hold-my-head-high-161/) - [THE HUDSON TAYLORS - THE LORD BLESS AND KEEP YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/the-hudson-taylors-the-lord-bless-and-keep-you-113/) - [DAN BREMNES - FINGERPRINTS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/dan-bremnes-fingerprints-294/) - [CHRIS TOMLIN - THE NAME OF JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-tomlin-the-name-of-jesus-229/) - [HANNAH KERR - WARRIOR](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hannah-kerr-warrior-138/) - [MARANATHA SINGERS - SING UNTO THE FATHER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maranatha-singers-sing-unto-the-father-41/) - [MARANATHA SINGERS - BE STILL AND KNOW](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maranatha-singers-be-still-and-know-39/) - [MARANATHA SINGERS - FATHER, I ADORE YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maranatha-singers-father-i-adore-you-44/) - [MARANATHA PRAISE BAND - ABOVE ALL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maranatha-praise-band-above-all-184/) - [MARANATHA SINGERS - HIS NAME IS JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maranatha-singers-his-name-is-jesus-50/) - [MARANATHA SINGERS - I WANT TO PRAISE THE LORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maranatha-singers-i-want-to-praise-the-lord-48/) - [MARANATHA SINGERS - I LIFT UP MY HEAD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maranatha-singers-i-lift-up-my-head-50/) - [MARANATHA SINGERS - PEACE I GIVE TO THEE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maranatha-singers-peace-i-give-to-thee-50/) - [MARANATHA SINGERS - A SHIELD ABOUT ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maranatha-singers-a-shield-about-me-67/) - [MARANATHA SINGERS - JESUS, NAME ABOVE ALL NAMES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maranatha-singers-jesus-name-above-all-names-48/) - [MARANATHA SINGERS - IN MOMENTS LIKE THESE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maranatha-singers-in-moments-like-these-50/) - [MARANATHA SINGERS - WE HAVE COME INTO THIS HOUSE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maranatha-singers-we-have-come-into-this-house-50/) - [MARANATHA SINGERS - THE SWEETEST NAME OF ALL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maranatha-singers-the-sweetest-name-of-all-42/) - [MARANATHA SINGERS - OH THE SWEETNESS OF YOUR NAME_MY JESUS, I LOVE THEE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maranatha-singers-oh-the-sweetness-of-your-name_my-jesus-i-love-thee-48/) - [MARANATHA SINGERS - SPIRIT SONG](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maranatha-singers-spirit-song-49/) - [JEREMY CAMP - SAME POWER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jeremy-camp-same-power-162/) - [TIM TIMMONS - CAST MY CARES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tim-timmons-cast-my-cares-158/) - [HILLSONG WORSHIP - THE FATHER'S HEART](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-worship-the-fathers-heart-137/) - [ERIC OSSEBAAR - NEW BEGINNING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/eric-ossebaar-new-beginning-187/) - [MADISON STREET WORSHIP [+] FEAT. COREY VOSS - LIBERATOR](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/madison-street-worship-feat-corey-voss-liberator-136/) - [DAVE BARONI - A NEW ANOINTING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/dave-baroni-a-new-anointing-219/) - [FOR KING AND COUNTRY - TOGETHER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/for-king-and-country-together-155/) - [BRIAN HOUSTON - JESUS BE THE CENTRE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brian-houston-jesus-be-the-centre-221/) - [STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN - CINDERELLA](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/steven-curtis-chapman-cinderella-183/) - [GAITHER VOCAL BAND - BECAUSE HE LIVES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/gaither-vocal-band-because-he-lives-37/) - [MARK WILLIAMSON - LOVE DIVINE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mark-williamson-love-divine-127/) - [JESSICA BUSBOOM - REVEAL YOUR MAJESTY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jessica-busboom-reveal-your-majesty-331/) - [PHIL WICKHAM - HYMN OF HEAVEN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phil-wickham-hymn-of-heaven-276/) - [HILLSONG [+] HILLSONG LONDON - JESUS IS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-hillsong-london-jesus-is-154/) - [ALL SONS AND DAUGHTERS - OH HOW I NEED YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/all-sons-and-daughters-oh-how-i-need-you-275/) - [ANDREW PETERSON - FAITH TO BE STRONG](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/andrew-peterson-faith-to-be-strong-275/) - [CFC MUSIC - JERICHO](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cfc-music-jericho-161/) - [MISSION WORSHIP - HOSANNA (PRAISE IS RISING)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mission-worship-hosanna-praise-is-rising-321/) - [SARAH KROGER AND VILLAGE LIGHTS - CHRIST OUR KING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sarah-kroger-and-village-lights-christ-our-king-304/) - [LIFE WORSHIP - YAWEH (LIVE)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/life-worship-yaweh-live-316/) - [MICHAEL W SMITH - NEW HALLELUJAH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/michael-w-smith-new-hallelujah-287/) - [THE QUIET SCIENCE - HE IS HERE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/the-quiet-science-he-is-here-256/) - [THE WORSHIP INITIATIVE - COME LORD JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/the-worship-initiative-come-lord-jesus-345/) - [WE THE KINGDOM - GOD IS ON THE THRONE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/we-the-kingdom-god-is-on-the-throne-184/) - [CHRIS MCCLARNEY - ALL CONSUMING FIRE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-mcclarney-all-consuming-fire-253/) - [FRANCESCA BATTISTELLI [+] BETHEL CHURCH - THERE'S NO OTHER NAME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/francesca-battistelli-bethel-church-theres-no-other-name-85/) - [ALISA TURNER - PSALM 13](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/alisa-turner-psalm-13-54/) - [NORTH POINT WORSHIP - THIS IS MY SONG](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/north-point-worship-this-is-my-song-328/) - [CASTING CROWNS - MERCY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/casting-crowns-mercy-96/) - [HILLSONG UNITED - GOOD GRACE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-united-good-grace-172/) - [KIM HILL - HOLD ME CLOSE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kim-hill-hold-me-close-164/) - [DARA MCCLEAN - MY DELIVERER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/dara-mcclean-my-deliverer-159/) - [CHRIS TOMLIN - AT THE CROSS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-tomlin-at-the-cross-305/) - [KERRIE ROBERTS - SAVIOR TO ME (SING GLORY)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kerrie-roberts-savior-to-me-sing-glory-168/) - [KRISTENE DI MARCO - TAKE COURAGE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kristene-di-marco-take-courage-203/) - [NATHAN JESS - I AM REDEEMED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/nathan-jess-i-am-redeemed-120/) - [STATION WORSHIP - IN ONLY HIM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/station-worship-in-only-him-302/) - [DON MOEN - SAVIOUR KING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/don-moen-saviour-king-67/) - [CHRISTY NOCKELS - WAITING HERE FOR YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/christy-nockels-waiting-here-for-you-151/) - [LIAM LAWTON - I FOUND LOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/liam-lawton-i-found-love-139/) - [HILLSONG - NONE BUT JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-none-but-jesus-152/) - [SHANE AND SHANE - HE IS EXALTED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/shane-and-shane-he-is-exalted-308/) - [PAUL BALOCHE - YOUR NAME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/paul-baloche-your-name-111/) - [ROBIN MARK - WHAT THE LORD HAS DONE IN ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/robin-mark-what-the-lord-has-done-in-me-117/) - [ISRAEL HOUGHTON - YOUR PRESENCE IS HEAVEN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/israel-houghton-your-presence-is-heaven-138/) - [JEAN WATSON - THE PLACE YOU HAVE FOR ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jean-watson-the-place-you-have-for-me-138/) - [JASON GRAY - GLORY DAYS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jason-gray-glory-days-162/) - [CROSS POINT MUSIC - OH THE WONDER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cross-point-music-oh-the-wonder-332/) - [MADELEINE KERZNER - FORGIVE ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/madeleine-kerzner-forgive-me-119/) - [LAURA STORY - INDESCRIBABLE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/laura-story-indescribable-100/) - [JARS OF CLAY - MUCH AFRAID](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jars-of-clay-much-afraid-123/) - [Ragamuffin Band - MAKE ME AN INSTRUMENT OF YOUR PEACE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ragamuffin-band-make-me-an-instrument-of-your-peace-175/) - [POINT OF GRACE - TRUST IN THE LORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/point-of-grace-trust-in-the-lord-170/) - [HOMEGROWN WORSHIP - JOHN 3:16](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/homegrown-worship-john-316-142/) - [FERNANDO ORTEGA - WHEN ALL THY MERCIES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/fernando-ortega-when-all-thy-mercies-145/) - [STARS GO DIM - YOU ARE LOVED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/stars-go-dim-you-are-loved-150/) - [NEW WINE WORSHIP - THIS IS MY SURRENDER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/new-wine-worship-this-is-my-surrender-160/) - [CHRIS RICE - COME TO JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-rice-come-to-jesus-165/) - [STUART TOWNEND - HOW LONG](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/stuart-townend-how-long-155/) - [JORDAN MOYES [+] FEAT. ASHLEY HESS - OCEANS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jordan-moyes-feat-ashley-hess-oceans-169/) - [BEN CANTELON - SAVIOUR OF THE WORLD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ben-cantelon-saviour-of-the-world-220/) - [SELAH - YOU AMAZE US](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/selah-you-amaze-us-91/) - [GARY ANDERSON - LORD I COME AND BOW DOWN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/gary-anderson-lord-i-come-and-bow-down-181/) - [CALEB & KELSEY - SEE A VICTORY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/caleb-kelsey-see-a-victory-309/) - [FFH - COME THOU FONT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ffh-come-thou-font-43/) - [MARC JAMES - SURRENDER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/marc-james-surrender-146/) - [AARON SHUST - GIVE ME WORDS TO SPEAK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/aaron-shust-give-me-words-to-speak-132/) - [MATT MAHER FT. LIZZIE MORGAN - LEANING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matt-maher-ft-lizzie-morgan-leaning-137/) - [ELEVATION WORSHIP - EMPOWERING GRACE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/elevation-worship-empowering-grace-125/) - [HILLSONG WORSHIP - WHAT A BEAUTIFUL NAME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-worship-what-a-beautiful-name-156/) - [LENNY LE BLANC - LOVE CAME DOWN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lenny-le-blanc-love-came-down-145/) - [AMONG THE THIRSTY - COMPLETELY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/among-the-thirsty-completely-116/) - [MARANATHA SINGERS - MAJESTY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maranatha-singers-majesty-157/) - [TRAVIS GREENE - BE STILL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/travis-greene-be-still-103/) - [YUNG KRISS - ALL MY LOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/yung-kriss-all-my-love-11/) - [MICHAEL W SMITH - YOU WONT LET GO](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/michael-w-smith-you-wont-let-go-137/) - [LAUREN DAIGLE - REBEL HEART](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lauren-daigle-rebel-heart-163/) - [MERCYME - ALL OF CREATION](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mercyme-all-of-creation-54/) - [JOSHUA MICAH FT. OWL CITY - LET THE LIGHT IN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/joshua-micah-ft-owl-city-let-the-light-in-198/) - [REND COLLECTIVE - MORE THAN CONQUERERS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rend-collective-more-than-conquerers-185/) - [PASSION 2020 - THERE'S NOTHING THAT OUR GOD CAN'T DO](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/passion-2020-theres-nothing-that-our-god-cant-do-126/) - [MAC POWELL - RIVER OF LIFE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mac-powell-river-of-life-166/) - [ALL SONS AND DAUGHTERS - GREAT ARE YOU LORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/all-sons-and-daughters-great-are-you-lord-518/) - [HERE BE LIONS - WE BELONG](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/here-be-lions-we-belong-282/) - [WES GRIERSON - UNTIL YOUR KINGDOM COMES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/wes-grierson-until-your-kingdom-comes-235/) - [CHRIS MCCLARNEY - YOUR LOVE IS EVERYTHING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-mcclarney-your-love-is-everything-260/) - [STEFFANY GRETZINGER - KING OF MY HEART](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/steffany-gretzinger-king-of-my-heart-268/) - [PAUL BALOCHE - ALMIGHTY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/paul-baloche-almighty-157/) - [JOSHUA AARON - PRAISE THE LORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/joshua-aaron-praise-the-lord-289/) - [SHANE AND SHANE - LIVING WATER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/shane-and-shane-living-water-280/) - [BRIAN AND JENN JOHNSON - OH TASTE AND SEE THAT THE LORD IS GOOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brian-and-jenn-johnson-oh-taste-and-see-that-the-lord-is-good-297/) - [PHIL WICKHAM - THIS IS AMAZING GRACE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phil-wickham-this-is-amazing-grace-208/) - [PHIL WICKHAM - THE JESUS WAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phil-wickham-the-jesus-way-437/) - [BRAD AND REBEKAH - REJOICE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brad-and-rebekah-rejoice-146/) - [STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN - ALL ABOUT LOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/steven-curtis-chapman-all-about-love-46/) - [LOVE AND THE OUTCOME - MOVING ON](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/love-and-the-outcome-moving-on-139/) - [DAVID CROWDER BAND - HOW HE LOVES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/david-crowder-band-how-he-loves-138/) - [JEREMY CAMP - GETTING STARTED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jeremy-camp-getting-started-172/) - [ELLIE HOLCOMB - I WILL CARRY YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ellie-holcomb-i-will-carry-you-274/) - [ROB WESTALL - SHOW US YOUR GLORY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rob-westall-show-us-your-glory-187/) - [JAKE HAMILTON - SING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jake-hamilton-sing-193/) - [FOR KING AND COUNTRY FT. JORDAN SPARKS - LOVE ME LIKE I AM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/for-king-and-country-ft-jordan-sparks-love-me-like-i-am-110/) - [DANNY GOKEY - THE COMEBACK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/danny-gokey-the-comeback-289/) - [Kari Jobe - HEAVEN INVADE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kari-jobe-heaven-invade-169/) - [CASTING CROWNS - DESERT ROAD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/casting-crowns-desert-road-238/) - [MICAH TYLER - DIFFERENT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/micah-tyler-different-140/) - [JON NEUFELD - COME ALIVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jon-neufeld-come-alive-170/) - [COCHREN & CO - ONE DAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cochren-co-one-day-147/) - [JASON AND CHARMAINE BROWN - TURNING THE LIGHT ON](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jason-and-charmaine-brown-turning-the-light-on-166/) - [CHRIS BRAY [+] FT. DAN MACAULEY - ALL THINGS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-bray-ft-dan-macauley-all-things-113/) - [NEEDTOBREATH - COUNT ON ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/needtobreath-count-on-me-131/) - [BAYLOR WILSON - JOY COMES IN THE MORNING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/baylor-wilson-joy-comes-in-the-morning-240/) - [CHRIS AUGUST - THE CENTRE OF IT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-august-the-centre-of-it-156/) - [RACHEL LAMPA - I LIVE FOR YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rachel-lampa-i-live-for-you-54/) - [ISLA VISTA WORSHIP - FOR U](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/isla-vista-worship-for-u-5/) - [BIG NIK & JIMMY LEVY - NO LONGER SLAVES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/big-nik-jimmy-levy-no-longer-slaves-19/) - [GIO. - HERE I AM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/gio-here-i-am-2/) - [ROY TOSH - OTHERSIDE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/roy-tosh-otherside-7/) - [JUSTO CHALAIRE FT. STEVEN PEREZ - LONG DAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/justo-chalaire-ft-steven-perez-long-day/) - [JORDAN ST CYR (pronounced saint seer) - HANDS TO THE SKY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jordan-st-cyr-pronounced-saint-seer-hands-to-the-sky/) - [PHIL WICKHAM FT. BRANDON LAKE - WHERE I'M STANDING NOW](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phil-wickham-ft-brandon-lake-where-im-standing-now-3/) - [Bizzle - No Hate (feat. Bumps Inf)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/bizzle-no-hate-feat-bumps-inf-5/) - [HOPEFUL. - DON'T BLINK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hopeful-dont-blink-2/) - [RUA YOUNG - SAY THE WORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rua-young-say-the-word-3/) - [CALEB GORDON - LIKE THAT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/caleb-gordon-like-that-5/) - [MOLLY KATE KESTNER - CONTENT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/molly-kate-kestner-content/) - [SWOOPE - OLD ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/swoope-old-me-2/) - [JOSEPH OBRIEN - LISTEN TO ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/joseph-obrien-listen-to-me/) - [SEU WORSHIP - I WANT YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/seu-worship-i-want-you-7/) - [ANNE WILSON - SUNDAY SERMON](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/anne-wilson-sunday-sermon-198/) - [MELANIE WALDMAN FT. WENDY PAUL PAIGE - Our Father](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/melanie-waldman-ft-wendy-paul-paige-our-father-132/) - [HILLSONG UNITED - GREATEST OF THESE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-united-greatest-of-these-155/) - [ELLIE LIMEBEAR - BYE FEAR](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ellie-limebear-bye-fear-162/) - [RHETT WALKER BAND - WHEN MERCY FOUND ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rhett-walker-band-when-mercy-found-me-80/) - [MATTHEW WEST - YOU ARE EVERYTHING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matthew-west-you-are-everything-176/) - [CITIZEN WAY - HOW SWEET THE SOUND](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/citizen-way-how-sweet-the-sound-140/) - [SANCTUS REAL - CONFIDENCE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sanctus-real-confidence-149/) - [WILL WALKER - PASSION AND FIRE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/will-walker-passion-and-fire-184/) - [GODFREY BIRTILL - EMBRACED BY GRACE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/godfrey-birtill-embraced-by-grace-351/) - [JORDAN ST CYR (pronounced saint seer) - WEARY TRAVELER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jordan-st-cyr-pronounced-saint-seer-weary-traveler-153/) - [LINCOLN BREWSTER - NO ONE LIKE OUR GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lincoln-brewster-no-one-like-our-god-174/) - [FRANCESCA BATTISTELLI - THE BREAK UP SONG](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/francesca-battistelli-the-break-up-song-168/) - [ZACH WILLIAMS [+] DOLLY PARTON - THERE WAS JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/zach-williams-dolly-parton-there-was-jesus-184/) - [KEITH AND KRISTYN GETTY - EVERY BREATH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/keith-and-kristyn-getty-every-breath-190/) - [CORY ASBURY - RECKLESS LOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cory-asbury-reckless-love-172/) - [I AM THEY - SCARS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/i-am-they-scars-145/) - [THIRD DAY - REVELATION](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/third-day-revelation-155/) - [SANDRA MCCRACKEN - YOU ARE WITH ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sandra-mccracken-you-are-with-me-164/) - [TIM HUGHES - BEAUTIFUL ONE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tim-hughes-beautiful-one-94/) - [KANE ADAMS - FRESH NEW START](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kane-adams-fresh-new-start-190/) - [FIREFLIGHT - KEEP YOUR HEAD UP](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/fireflight-keep-your-head-up-190/) - [STEVEN MALCOLM FT. NATALIE GRANT - EVEN LOUDER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/steven-malcolm-ft-natalie-grant-even-louder-145/) - [TAUREN WELLS [+] GARY LeVOX - UNTIL GRACE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tauren-wells-gary-levox-until-grace-174/) - [RED - HOLD ME NOW](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/red-hold-me-now-132/) - [CONSUMED BY FIRE - FIRST THINGS FIRST](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/consumed-by-fire-first-things-first-226/) - [TAUREN WELLS - TAKE IT ALL BACK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tauren-wells-take-it-all-back-250/) - [SANDI PATTY - ANOTHER TIME, ANOTHER PLACE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sandi-patty-another-time-another-place-56/) - [WE ARE MESSENGERS - MAYBE IT'S OK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/we-are-messengers-maybe-its-ok-163/) - [CHARLIE REY - UNDENIABLE LOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/charlie-rey-undeniable-love-162/) - [CHRIS TOMLIN FT. THOMAS RHETT - THANK YOU LORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-tomlin-ft-thomas-rhett-thank-you-lord-169/) - [HALEY JONES - THANKFUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/haley-jones-thankful-40/) - [JOSEPH OBRIEN - DOWN IN MY HEART](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/joseph-obrien-down-in-my-heart-156/) - [FAYE ANNABELLE - BEAUTY FROM ASHES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/faye-annabelle-beauty-from-ashes-72/) - [ASARELA - I AM NOT AFRAID](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/asarela-i-am-not-afraid-178/) - [CODY CARNES - AINT NOBODY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cody-carnes-aint-nobody-348/) - [COLTON DIXON - MY LIGHT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/colton-dixon-my-light-301/) - [REND COLLECTIVE - YOU WILL NEVER RUN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rend-collective-you-will-never-run-189/) - [ALL SONS AND DAUGHTERS - GREAT ARE YOU LORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/all-sons-and-daughters-great-are-you-lord-517/) - [HERE BE LIONS - WE BELONG](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/here-be-lions-we-belong-281/) - [WES GRIERSON - UNTIL YOUR KINGDOM COMES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/wes-grierson-until-your-kingdom-comes-234/) - [CHRIS MCCLARNEY - YOUR LOVE IS EVERYTHING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-mcclarney-your-love-is-everything-259/) - [STEFFANY GRETZINGER - KING OF MY HEART](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/steffany-gretzinger-king-of-my-heart-267/) - [PAUL BALOCHE - ALMIGHTY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/paul-baloche-almighty-156/) - [JOSHUA AARON - PRAISE THE LORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/joshua-aaron-praise-the-lord-288/) - [SHANE AND SHANE - LIVING WATER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/shane-and-shane-living-water-279/) - [BRIAN AND JENN JOHNSON - OH TASTE AND SEE THAT THE LORD IS GOOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brian-and-jenn-johnson-oh-taste-and-see-that-the-lord-is-good-296/) - [PHIL WICKHAM - THIS IS AMAZING GRACE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phil-wickham-this-is-amazing-grace-207/) - [SIDEWALK PROPHETS - HELP ME FIND IT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sidewalk-prophets-help-me-find-it-123/) - [MATT KEARNEY - AIR I BREATHE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matt-kearney-air-i-breathe-159/) - [STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN - LET US PRAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/steven-curtis-chapman-let-us-pray-51/) - [JONATHON CLEMENTS [+] GREEN PASTURES - LIFE TO THE LIFELESS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jonathon-clements-green-pastures-life-to-the-lifeless-173/) - [PHILLIPS, CRAIG AND DEAN - LET EVERYTHING THAT HAS BREATH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phillips-craig-and-dean-let-everything-that-has-breath-57/) - [FOR KING AND COUNTRY - SHOULDERS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/for-king-and-country-shoulders-162/) - [TENTH AVENUE NORTH - STRONG ENOUGH TO SAVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tenth-avenue-north-strong-enough-to-save-144/) - [NATIVE KINGDOM - BORN AGAIN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/native-kingdom-born-again-143/) - [NATALIE LAYNE - THE LONG WAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/natalie-layne-the-long-way-42/) - [NICOLE BINION - NO CONDEMNATION ROMANS 8](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/nicole-binion-no-condemnation-romans-8-203/) - [CROWDER - RED LETTERS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/crowder-red-letters-147/) - [JEREMY CAMP - DEAD MAN WALKING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jeremy-camp-dead-man-walking-150/) - [MANDISA - WAYMAKER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mandisa-waymaker-223/) - [ROBBIE SEAY BAND - SONG OF HOPE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/robbie-seay-band-song-of-hope-132/) - [PATRICK MAYBERRY - HOLY SPIRIT COME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/patrick-mayberry-holy-spirit-come-186/) - [BLESSING OFFOR - BELIEVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/blessing-offor-believe-234/) - [Big Daddy Weave - ALL THINGS NEW](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/big-daddy-weave-all-things-new-126/) - [BRANDON LAKE - THATS WHO I PRAISE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brandon-lake-thats-who-i-praise-296/) - [FAYE ANNABELLE - BEAUTY FROM ASHES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/faye-annabelle-beauty-from-ashes-71/) - [LAURA STORY - HOLY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/laura-story-holy-163/) - [NEELY FT. KACI NEELY - GOD YOU LOVED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/neely-ft-kaci-neely-god-you-loved-178/) - [LAUREN DAIGLE - BE OKAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lauren-daigle-be-okay-210/) - [THOUSAND FOOT KRUTCH - SO FAR GONE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/thousand-foot-krutch-so-far-gone-142/) - [MEREDITH KINLEIGH - Living Sacrifice](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/meredith-kinleigh-living-sacrifice-170/) - [FORREST FRANK - YOUR WAY IS BETTER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/forrest-frank-your-way-is-better-137/) - [PHILIPPA HANNA - ONE PEOPLE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/philippa-hanna-one-people-170/) - [MERCYME FT. SAM WESLEY - ON OUR WAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mercyme-ft-sam-wesley-on-our-way-171/) - [THE KATINAS - DRAW ME CLOSE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/the-katinas-draw-me-close-76/) - [FOR ALL SEASONS - CLARITY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/for-all-seasons-clarity-173/) - [TREE63 - BLESSED BE YOUR NAME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tree63-blessed-be-your-name-339/) - [TODD AGNEW - GRACE LIKE RAIN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/todd-agnew-grace-like-rain-166/) - [CECE WINANS - THATS MY KING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cece-winans-thats-my-king-107/) - [UNSPOKEN - REASON](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/unspoken-reason-168/) - [WE THE KINGDOM - CHILD OF LOVE (LIVE)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/we-the-kingdom-child-of-love-live-176/) - [VERTICAL WORSHIP - YES I WILL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/vertical-worship-yes-i-will-196/) - [7th TIME DOWN - Lean On](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/7th-time-down-lean-on-164/) - [MISSION HOUSE - YOUR EYES SEE ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mission-house-your-eyes-see-me-254/) - [CITIZEN WAY (for MAF) - LIFT MY EYES (Radio edit)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/citizen-way-for-maf-lift-my-eyes-radio-edit-45/) - [JESUS CULTURE - YOUR LOVE NEVER FAILS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jesus-culture-your-love-never-fails-51/) - [BRANDIN REED - SATISFY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brandin-reed-satisfy-177/) - [RENEE - NOTHING BUT JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/renee-nothing-but-jesus-168/) - [MATT PAPA AND MATT BOSWELL - PSALM 150 LET EVERYTHING THAT HAS BREATH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matt-papa-and-matt-boswell-psalm-150-let-everything-that-has-breath-330/) - [MATT MAHER - THE LORD'S PRAYER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matt-maher-the-lords-prayer-204/) - [CHRIS TOMLIN - I LIFT MY HANDS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-tomlin-i-lift-my-hands-254/) - [ALAN JACKSON - LOVE LIFTED ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/alan-jackson-love-lifted-me-43/) - [LOU FELLINGHAM - OUR GOD IS FOR US](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lou-fellingham-our-god-is-for-us-188/) - [JON REDDICK FT MATT MAHER - GOD TURN IT AROUND](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jon-reddick-ft-matt-maher-god-turn-it-around-223/) - [CHRIS MCCLARNEY - ON EARTH AS IT IS IN HEAVEN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-mcclarney-on-earth-as-it-is-in-heaven-109/) - [HILLSONG - MIGHTY TO SAVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-mighty-to-save-254/) - [JENN JOHNSON - THE MENTION OF YOUR NAME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jenn-johnson-the-mention-of-your-name-117/) - [NICOLE C MULLEN - CALL ON JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/nicole-c-mullen-call-on-jesus-174/) - [SELAH - YOU ARE MY HIDING PLACE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/selah-you-are-my-hiding-place-92/) - [KRISTIAN STANFILL - BEAUTIFUL JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kristian-stanfill-beautiful-jesus-196/) - [SHANE AND SHANE - HELP ME LIVE IN STEP](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/shane-and-shane-help-me-live-in-step-215/) - [RYAN ELLIS - KEEP MY EYES UP](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ryan-ellis-keep-my-eyes-up-163/) - [MICHAEL W SMITH - SURROUNDED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/michael-w-smith-surrounded-185/) - [ELEVATION WORSHIP - RESURRECTING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/elevation-worship-resurrecting-237/) - [LIFE WORSHIP - LIGHT UP](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/life-worship-light-up-115/) - [LEELAND - VIA DOLOROSA](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/leeland-via-dolorosa-104/) - [SALVADOR - WHEN I PRAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/salvador-when-i-pray-179/) - [CASTING CROWNS - ONLY JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/casting-crowns-only-jesus-166/) - [JEREMY RIDDLE - LOVE ON FIRE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jeremy-riddle-love-on-fire-118/) - [LINDY COFER FT. LEE UNIVERSITY SINGERS - STIR A PASSION](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lindy-cofer-ft-lee-university-singers-stir-a-passion-317/) - [JEAN WATSON - EXALT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jean-watson-exalt-119/) - [Gather Worship and Sinach - OUR GOD REIGNS 2025](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/gather-worship-and-sinach-our-god-reigns-2025-242/) - [EDEN'S BRIDGE - BREATH OF HEAVEN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/edens-bridge-breath-of-heaven-194/) - [DANNY GOKEY - LOVE GOD LOVE PEOPLE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/danny-gokey-love-god-love-people-173/) - [ENCOUNTER WORSHIP BAND - HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/encounter-worship-band-how-great-is-our-god-340/) - [MARC JAMES - YOUR GRACE IS ENOUGH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/marc-james-your-grace-is-enough-296/) - [BRIGHT CITY - CHANGE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/bright-city-change-283/) - [JULIE COSTELLO - ALLELUIA, ALLELUIA](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/julie-costello-alleluia-alleluia-240/) - [HILLSONG WORSHIP - REMEMBRANCE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-worship-remembrance-233/) - [CELTIC WORSHIP - BE THOU MY VISION](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/celtic-worship-be-thou-my-vision-342/) - [PAUL BALOCHE - RISING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/paul-baloche-rising-305/) - [BETANIA WORSHIP DUBLIN - SOMETHING NEW (LUCURI NOI)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/betania-worship-dublin-something-new-lucuri-noi-336/) - [DAVID AND NICOLE BINION - ALL CREATION](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/david-and-nicole-binion-all-creation-158/) - [SOVEREIGN GRACE - LET YOUR KINGDOM COME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sovereign-grace-let-your-kingdom-come-331/) - [BETHEL WORSHIP - DRENCHED IN LOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/bethel-worship-drenched-in-love-139/) - [CHANTELLE J'NAE - MOST BEAUTIFUL/SO IN LOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chantelle-jnae-most-beautiful-so-in-love-208/) - [REBECCA ST JAMES [+] FOR KING & COUNTRY - KINGDOM COME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rebecca-st-james-for-king-country-kingdom-come-338/) - [JOHN ANDREW SCHREINER [+] MARANATHA MUSIC - NOT MY WILL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/john-andrew-schreiner-maranatha-music-not-my-will-190/) - [STEPH MACLEOD - NO OTHER GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/steph-macleod-no-other-god-269/) - [LIAM LAWTON - SO LONGS MY SOUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/liam-lawton-so-longs-my-soul-118/) - [PHIL WICKHAM - LIVING HOPE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phil-wickham-living-hope-124/) - [CHRISTY NOCKELS - FIND ME AT THE FEET OF JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/christy-nockels-find-me-at-the-feet-of-jesus-147/) - [THE CASHMANS - BURN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/the-cashmans-burn-180/) - [DARLENE ZSCHECH [+] HILLSONG - YOU ARE HOLY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/darlene-zschech-hillsong-you-are-holy-143/) - [KELITA HAVERLAND - MIRACLES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kelita-haverland-miracles-157/) - [RILEY CLEMMONS - KEEP ON HOPING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/riley-clemmons-keep-on-hoping-180/) - [EOGHAN HEASLIP - YOU SEE BEAUTY IN ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/eoghan-heaslip-you-see-beauty-in-me-170/) - [BEN WALTHER - CHRIST IS LORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ben-walther-christ-is-lord-489/) - [HOPE SOUNDS - PEACE BE STILL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hope-sounds-peace-be-still-187/) - [FERNANDO ORTEGA - Jesus paid it all](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/fernando-ortega-jesus-paid-it-all-91/) - [CHARITY GAYLE - NEW NAME WRITTEN DOWN IN GLORY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/charity-gayle-new-name-written-down-in-glory-179/) - [CHRIS TOMLIN [+] FT. THE WILBERFORCE UNIVERSITY CHOIR - AMAZING GRACE (MY CHAINS ARE GONE)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-tomlin-ft-the-wilberforce-university-choir-amazing-grace-my-chains-are-gone-335/) - [SARAH KELLY - HOW MUCH YOU LOVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sarah-kelly-how-much-you-love-165/) - [MARIE BARNETT - BREATHE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/marie-barnett-breathe-114/) - [KEN SPENCE - I GIVE IT ALL UP TO YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ken-spence-i-give-it-all-up-to-you-329/) - [JEREMY CAMP [+] BECCA BRADLEY - GIVE ME JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jeremy-camp-becca-bradley-give-me-jesus-88/) - [STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN - WHEN LOVE TAKES YOU IN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/steven-curtis-chapman-when-love-takes-you-in-133/) - [SARAH KROGER AND VILLAGE LIGHTS - HERE IS OUR HALLELUJAH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/sarah-kroger-and-village-lights-here-is-our-hallelujah-531/) - [PAT BARRETT - BUILD MY LIFE (HOLY THERE IS NO ONE LIKE YOU)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/pat-barrett-build-my-life-holy-there-is-no-one-like-you-75/) - [CAIN - THE COMMISSION](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cain-the-commission-115/) - [THE AFTERS - WHAT WE'RE HERE FOR](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/the-afters-what-were-here-for-154/) - [HILLSONG UNITED - SO WILL I (LIVE)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-united-so-will-i-live-118/) - [AARON KEYES - NOT GUILTY ANYMORE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/aaron-keyes-not-guilty-anymore-157/) - [MARK WILLIAMSON - IN YOUR PRESENCE (GOD IS HERE)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mark-williamson-in-your-presence-god-is-here-160/) - [MAVERICK CITY - I THANK GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maverick-city-i-thank-god-210/) - [IVETH LUNA - RIGHT ON TIME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/iveth-luna-right-on-time-177/) - [GWEN SMITH - BROKEN TO BEAUTIFUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/gwen-smith-broken-to-beautiful-149/) - [Kari Jobe - I AM NOT ALONE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kari-jobe-i-am-not-alone-140/) - [GREG SYKES - JUST THE BEGINNING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/greg-sykes-just-the-beginning-193/) - [DON MOEN - BE PRAISED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/don-moen-be-praised-138/) - [HANAH HARDING - WHAT A FRIEND WE HAVE IN JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hanah-harding-what-a-friend-we-have-in-jesus-337/) - [DAMIEN LEITH - BEAUTIFUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/damien-leith-beautiful-198/) - [HEARTCRY OF DAVID - O LORD YOU'RE BEAUTIFUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/heartcry-of-david-o-lord-youre-beautiful-178/) - [MISSION WORSHIP - Humble King](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mission-worship-humble-king-173/) - [LAUREN DAIGLE - HOLD ONTO ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lauren-daigle-hold-onto-me-157/) - [PHATFISH - HOLY SPIRIT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phatfish-holy-spirit-147/) - [THRIVE WORSHIP - POUR YOUR SPIRIT OUT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/thrive-worship-pour-your-spirit-out-194/) - [REND COLLECTIVE - NAILED TO THE CROSS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rend-collective-nailed-to-the-cross-158/) - [ALISA TURNER - AS IT IS IN HEAVEN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/alisa-turner-as-it-is-in-heaven-102/) - [JAMIE MACDONALD - COMMON HYMNAL - HE HAS TIME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jamie-macdonald-common-hymnal-he-has-time-299/) - [EMMA GRANT - EYES ON ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/emma-grant-eyes-on-me-145/) - [JEAN WATSON - STEADY MY GAZE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jean-watson-steady-my-gaze-62/) - [ELLIE HOLCOMB - FIND YOU HERE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/ellie-holcomb-find-you-here-155/) - [LIFECOLOUR - THIS HOUSE IS TEMPORARY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lifecolour-this-house-is-temporary-160/) - [HILLSONG - Forever Reign](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-forever-reign-263/) - [TAUREN WELLS - GOD'S NOT DONE WITH YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tauren-wells-gods-not-done-with-you-176/) - [COMMON HYMNAL FT. JON CARLOS & GABRIELLA - BROKEN PIECES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/common-hymnal-ft-jon-carlos-gabriella-broken-pieces-277/) - [BUILDING 429 - FEAR NO MORE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/building-429-fear-no-more-136/) - [CLIFF RICHARD - WHY SHOULD THE DEVIL HAVE ALL THE GOOD MUSIC](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cliff-richard-why-should-the-devil-have-all-the-good-music-7/) - [RICH MULLINS - CREED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/rich-mullins-creed-68/) - [STUART TOWNEND - WHO PAINTS THE SKIES?](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/stuart-townend-who-paints-the-skies-115/) - [BRITT NICOLE - SET THE WORLD ON FIRE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/britt-nicole-set-the-world-on-fire-93/) - [STACIE ORRICO - WITH A LITTLE FAITH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/stacie-orrico-with-a-little-faith-75/) - [AMY GRANT - STRAIGHT AHEAD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/amy-grant-straight-ahead-12/) - [MATT REDMAN - THE HEART OF WORSHIP](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matt-redman-the-heart-of-worship-46/) - [BRIAN HOUSTON - HOLD ME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brian-houston-hold-me-36/) - [ANOINTED - REVIVE US](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/anointed-revive-us-112/) - [JADON LAVIK - COME THOU FONT OF EVERY BLESSING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jadon-lavik-come-thou-font-of-every-blessing-53/) - [AUDIO ADRENALINE - BEAUTIFUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/audio-adrenaline-beautiful-134/) - [RUSS TAFF - WINDS OF CHANGE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/russ-taff-winds-of-change-17/) - [SUSAN ASHTON - REMEMBER NOT](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/susan-ashton-remember-not-67/) - [MACK BROCK - YOUR PRESENCE IS A PROMISE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mack-brock-your-presence-is-a-promise-279/) - [LINCOLN BREWSTER - EVERLASTING GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/lincoln-brewster-everlasting-god-159/) - [JON EGAN - GOD IS OVER ALL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jon-egan-god-is-over-all-277/) - [SHANE AND SHANE - TELL THE STORY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/shane-and-shane-tell-the-story-295/) - [KINGSWAY MUSIC - FATHER HEAR THE PRAYER WE OFFER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kingsway-music-father-hear-the-prayer-we-offer-337/) - [KEITH AND KRISTYN GETTY - OH HOW GOOD IT IS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/keith-and-kristyn-getty-oh-how-good-it-is-89/) - [KUTLESS - ALL WHO ARE THRISTY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/kutless-all-who-are-thristy-16/) - [CHRIS TOMLIN - HOLY IS THE LORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-tomlin-holy-is-the-lord-328/) - [MACK BROCK - YOUR PRESENCE IS A PROMISE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mack-brock-your-presence-is-a-promise-278/) - [PLANETSHAKERS - MY SOUL LONGS FOR JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/planetshakers-my-soul-longs-for-jesus-300/) - [HILLSONG YOUNG AND FREE - LORD SEND REVIVAL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hillsong-young-and-free-lord-send-revival-306/) - [MAVERICK CITY CHOIR - REVELATION 19](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/maverick-city-choir-revelation-19-65/) - [BRIAN HOUSTON - GLORY GLORY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brian-houston-glory-glory-786/) - [JOHN WALLER - STILL CALLS ME SON](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/john-waller-still-calls-me-son-163/) - [STRAHAN - DELIVERENCE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/strahan-deliverence-150/) - [MICHAEL W SMITH - Missing Person](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/michael-w-smith-missing-person-50/) - [MELANIE WALDMAN [+] ALISA TURNER - HEAVEN COMING DOWN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/melanie-waldman-alisa-turner-heaven-coming-down-181/) - [MATT MAHER - BECAUSE HE LIVES (AMEN)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/matt-maher-because-he-lives-amen-160/) - [JON REDDICK - DONT FIGHT ALONE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jon-reddick-dont-fight-alone-151/) - [PHILIPPA HANNA - YOU'RE STILL GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/philippa-hanna-youre-still-god-326/) - [NEEDTOBREATHE - THE LONG SURRENDER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/needtobreathe-the-long-surrender-45/) - [MEREDITH ANDREWS - OPEN UP THE HEAVENS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/meredith-andrews-open-up-the-heavens-167/) - [BLANCA - SHATTERED](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/blanca-shattered-170/) - [PHILLIPS, CRAIG AND DEAN - THERE IS A GOD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phillips-craig-and-dean-there-is-a-god-169/) - [MICHAEL W SMITH - This Is Your Time](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/michael-w-smith-this-is-your-time-50/) - [ELIAS DUMMER (THE CITY HARMONIC) - SIMPLE TRUTH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/elias-dummer-the-city-harmonic-simple-truth-144/) - [THIRD DAY - SHOW ME YOUR GLORY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/third-day-show-me-your-glory-51/) - [PHIL WICKHAM - GREAT THINGS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/phil-wickham-great-things-179/) - [FRANCESCA BATTISTELLI - BEAUTIFUL BEAUTIFUL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/francesca-battistelli-beautiful-beautiful-222/) - [BRIAN AND JENN JOHNSON - GOD OF REVIVAL](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brian-and-jenn-johnson-god-of-revival-271/) - [NEED TO BREATHE - WALKING ON WATER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/need-to-breathe-walking-on-water-150/) - [PRESENCE MUSIC - PICK UP THE BOOK](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/presence-music-pick-up-the-book-46/) - [JEREMY CAMP - HE KNOWS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/jeremy-camp-he-knows-160/) - [DAVID DUNN - HAVE EVERTHING](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/david-dunn-have-everthing-143/) - [CHARITY GAYLE - GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/charity-gayle-great-is-thy-faithfulness-246/) - [FAITHFUL FT. SAVANNAH LOCK , SARAH KROGER , TAMAR CHIPP - THE DETOUR](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/faithful-ft-savannah-lock-sarah-kroger-tamar-chipp-the-detour-159/) - [SCOTT RIGGAN - THIS WHO I AM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/scott-riggan-this-who-i-am-47/) - [HOPE DARST - PROMISE KEEPER](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/hope-darst-promise-keeper-153/) - [ZACH WILLIAMS - TO THE TABLE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/zach-williams-to-the-table-153/) - [CHRIS RICE - BIG ENOUGH](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/chris-rice-big-enough-56/) - [I AM THEY - NO IMPOSSIBLE WITH YOU](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/i-am-they-no-impossible-with-you-180/) - [SELAH - YOU RAISE ME UP](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/selah-you-raise-me-up-293/) - [AARON BOYD - BOW DOWN](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/aaron-boyd-bow-down-143/) - [TENTH AVENUE NORTH - GREATER THAN ALL MY REGRETS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/tenth-avenue-north-greater-than-all-my-regrets-167/) - [ISRAEL HOUGHTON [+] NEW BREED - JESUS THE SAME](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/israel-houghton-new-breed-jesus-the-same-186/) - [FORREST FRANK - GOOD DAY](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/forrest-frank-good-day-124/) - [MERCYME - EVEN IF](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/mercyme-even-if-159/) - [MICAH TYLER - PRAISE THE LORD](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/micah-tyler-praise-the-lord-95/) - [CASTING CROWNS - THRIVE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/casting-crowns-thrive-166/) - [JOHN MARK KOHL - BECAUSE HE LIVES](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/john-mark-kohl-because-he-lives-348/) - [WE THE KINGDOM - PEACE (LIVE AT OCEAN WAY NASHVILLE)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/we-the-kingdom-peace-live-at-ocean-way-nashville-141/) - [CADE THOMPSON - ARMS OF JESUS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/cade-thompson-arms-of-jesus-209/) - [SEVENTH DAY SLUMBER - LEAD ME TO THE CROSS](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/seventh-day-slumber-lead-me-to-the-cross-196/) - [BROOKE LIGERTWOOD FT. PASSION [+] BRANDON LAKE [+] CODY CARNES - BLESS GOD (LIVE from PASSION 2024)](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/brooke-ligertwood-ft-passion-brandon-lake-cody-carnes-bless-god-live-from-passion-2024-116/) - [LUKE & ANNA HELLENBROTH - ABIDE](https://www.ucbireland.ie/channel-history/luke-anna-hellenbroth-abide-194/) ## Events - [The Birth of Jesus](https://www.ucbireland.ie/event/the-birth-of-jesus/) - Dicta sunt explicabo. Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernaturaut odit aut fugit, sed quia consequuntur. Dicta sunt explicabo. - [The Literature We Love](https://www.ucbireland.ie/event/the-literature-we-love/) - Dicta sunt explicabo. Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernaturaut odit aut fugit, sed quia consequuntur. Dicta sunt explicabo. - [The Half-Man Day](https://www.ucbireland.ie/event/the-half-man-day/) - Dicta sunt explicabo. Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernaturaut odit aut fugit, sed quia consequuntur. Dicta sunt explicabo. - [The Evening of Spiritual Culture](https://www.ucbireland.ie/event/the-evening-of-spiritual-culture/) - Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce laoreet, ligula condimentum tincidunt, arcu orci laoreet massa, nec sagittis elit urna in diam. Sed consectetur dolor non nulla porttitor, in scelerisque quam ultricies. Phasellus et ipsum justo. Aenean fringilla a fermentum mauris non venenatis. Praesent at nulla aliquam, fermentum ligula a eget, fermentum metus. Morbi - [Symphonic Concert](https://www.ucbireland.ie/event/symphonic-concert/) - Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce laoreet, ligula condimentum tincidunt, arcu orci laoreet massa, nec sagittis elit urna in diam. Sed consectetur dolor non nulla porttitor, in scelerisque quam ultricies. Phasellus et ipsum justo. Aenean fringilla a fermentum mauris non venenatis. Praesent at nulla aliquam, fermentum ligula a eget, fermentum metus. Morbi - [Festival of Colors 2023](https://www.ucbireland.ie/event/festival-of-colors-2023/) - Dicta sunt explicabo. Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernaturaut odit aut fugit, sed quia consequuntur. Dicta sunt explicabo. - [Kids & Youth Festival](https://www.ucbireland.ie/event/kids-youth-festival/) - Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce laoreet, ligula condimentum tincidunt, arcu orci laoreet massa, nec sagittis elit urna in diam. Sed consectetur dolor non nulla porttitor, in scelerisque quam ultricies. Phasellus et ipsum justo. Aenean fringilla a fermentum mauris non venenatis. Praesent at nulla aliquam, fermentum ligula a eget, fermentum metus. Morbi - [The Joy of Mother's Love](https://www.ucbireland.ie/event/the-joy-of-mothers-love/) - Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce laoreet, ligula condimentum tincidunt, arcu orci laoreet massa, nec sagittis elit urna in diam. Sed consectetur dolor non nulla porttitor, in scelerisque quam ultricies. Phasellus et ipsum justo. Aenean fringilla a fermentum mauris non venenatis. Praesent at nulla aliquam, fermentum ligula a eget, fermentum metus. Morbi - [The Newcomers Lunch](https://www.ucbireland.ie/event/the-newcomers-lunch/) - Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce laoreet, ligula condimentum tincidunt, arcu orci laoreet massa, nec sagittis elit urna in diam. Sed consectetur dolor non nulla porttitor, in scelerisque quam ultricies. Phasellus et ipsum justo. Aenean fringilla a fermentum mauris non venenatis. Praesent at nulla aliquam, fermentum ligula a eget, fermentum metus. Morbi ## Portfolio - [Parents](https://www.ucbireland.ie/portfolio/parents/) - The most important condition that unites religions: parents need to be loved and parents need to be taken care of. Treat the same as you would treat your children: with care and understanding. To honor father and mother means to be respectful in words and actions, as well as to pay tribute to their position. - [Holidays](https://www.ucbireland.ie/portfolio/people/) - In the modern calendar of the Latin Rite, two levels of holidays are distinguished: celebrations as holy days of special significance and holidays. Holidays are closely connected with the traditions and customs of religious Catholic countries. - [Baptists](https://www.ucbireland.ie/portfolio/religion/) - Baptism as a religion attracts people with its moral values and philosophy. For believers, it has always been the science of life. All Christian holidays associated with the name of Christ are highly respected by baptists. The fundamental importance for baptists is the doctrine of voluntary baptism, and the rejection of a sinful lifestyle. - [Lifestyle](https://www.ucbireland.ie/portfolio/lifestyle/) - Philosophy and religion seek to answer the questions about the place of man in the world, about the relationship between man and the world, the source of good and evil. Religion influences the way of life of entire countries and nations, determines the mentality of people, and their cultural and spiritual traditions. - [Education](https://www.ucbireland.ie/portfolio/prosperity/) - In church schools, people study the Law of God, biblical history, Holy Scripture, the fundamentals of the faith, liturgy, church singing, and fine arts. In addition to classes, they participate in worship services, in parish events, in fairs, in religious holidays. - [Family](https://www.ucbireland.ie/portfolio/family/) - The church strongly supports traditional family values. The best way to teach family values is through examples demonstrated by the parents themselves. The main values of family relations: trusting communication, respect for elders and younger ones, following family traditions, responsibility, generosity, love. - [Love](https://www.ucbireland.ie/portfolio/love/) - Love makes us more attentive to each other, becoming the basis of human relationships. It gives us the ability to overcome the barriers of our weaknesses and prejudices. The love of Jesus builds bridges in us, teaches us new paths, charges us with optimism and inspiration. - [Cathedral](https://www.ucbireland.ie/portfolio/cathedral/) - Ignissimos ducimos qui blandiitis praesentium voluptatum deleniti atque corrupti quos dolores et quas molestias excepturi, sint occaecatii gnissimos ducimus qui blandiitis praesentium. - [Friendship](https://www.ucbireland.ie/portfolio/friendship/) - In religious communities adults and children of all ages can find many friends. Friendship bases on sympathy, respect, common interests, spiritual intimacy, and understanding. - [Children](https://www.ucbireland.ie/portfolio/children/) - If you don't talk about God with children, then you will have to talk with God about children for the rest of your life. The natural and generally accepted way of religious education in the family, first of all, is going to church, participating in the Sacraments and praying together. - [The Symbols](https://www.ucbireland.ie/portfolio/the-symbols/) - Ignissimos ducimos qui blandiitis praesentium voluptatum deleniti atque corrupti quos dolores et quas molestias excepturi, sint occaecatii gnissimos ducimus qui blandiitis praesentium. - [Jesus Loves Us](https://www.ucbireland.ie/portfolio/jesus-loves-us/) - Ignissimos ducimos qui blandiitis praesentium voluptatum deleniti atque corrupti quos dolores et quas molestias excepturi, sint occaecatii gnissimos ducimus qui blandiitis praesentium. - [Holy Bible](https://www.ucbireland.ie/portfolio/holy-bible/) - Ignissimos ducimos qui blandiitis praesentium voluptatum deleniti atque corrupti quos dolores et quas molestias excepturi, sint occaecatii gnissimos ducimus qui blandiitis praesentium. - [Christian Band](https://www.ucbireland.ie/portfolio/christian-band/) - Ignissimos ducimos qui blandiitis praesentium voluptatum deleniti atque corrupti quos dolores et quas molestias excepturi, sint occaecatii gnissimos ducimus qui blandiitis praesentium. ## Services - [Smartspeaker](https://www.ucbireland.ie/services/soarview-channel-211/) - UCB Ireland - [Ellie](https://www.ucbireland.ie/services/ellie/) - [Online](https://www.ucbireland.ie/services/god-worship/) - UCBI Worship, UCB Ireland & Full Access - [UCB Ireland App](https://www.ucbireland.ie/services/yoga-practices/) - UCBI Worship, UCB Ireland & Full Access - [Social Media](https://www.ucbireland.ie/services/christian-education/) - Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus et Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consetetur sadipscing elitr, sed diam nonumy eirmod tempor invidunt ut labore et dolore magna aliquyam erat, sed diam voluptua. At vero eos et accusam et justo duo dolores et ea rebum. Stet clita kasd gubergren, no sea takimata sanctus est Lorem ipsum - [Prayerline](https://www.ucbireland.ie/services/prayerline/) - Mauris eu nisi eget nisi imperdiet vestibulum. Nunc sodales vehicula risus. Suspendisse id mauris sodales, blandit tortor eu, sodales justo. Morbi tincidunt, ante vel suscipit volutpat, turpis enim volutpSectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusm onsectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusm od tempor incididunt ut labore. Ut vel placerat eros, eu tincidunt velit. Consectetur adipiscing elit, - [Word For Today](https://www.ucbireland.ie/services/word-for-today/) - Mauris eu nisi eget nisi imperdiet vestibulum. Nunc sodales vehicula risus. Suspendisse id mauris sodales, blandit tortor eu, sodales justo. Morbi tincidunt, ante vel suscipit volutpat, turpis enim volutpSectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusm onsectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusm od tempor incididunt ut labore. Ut vel placerat eros, eu tincidunt velit. Consectetur adipiscing elit, - [UCB Ireland Radio](https://www.ucbireland.ie/services/radio/) - Mauris eu nisi eget nisi imperdiet vestibulum. Nunc sodales vehicula risus. Suspendisse id mauris sodales, blandit tortor eu, sodales justo. Morbi tincidunt, ante vel suscipit volutpat, turpis enim volutpSectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusm onsectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusm od tempor incididunt ut labore. Ut vel placerat eros, eu tincidunt velit. Consectetur adipiscing elit, - [Word For Today](https://www.ucbireland.ie/services/events-seminars/) - The Word For Today is designed to encourage and equip you in your walk with God. - [Prayerline](https://www.ucbireland.ie/services/volunteering/) - This confidential service is available to you whoever you are and whatever background you come from. - [UCB Ireland Radio](https://www.ucbireland.ie/services/people/) - We broadcast 24 hours a day with Christian music, short messages of encouragement, and news from the day. - [Marriage & Family](https://www.ucbireland.ie/services/marriage-family/) - Mauris eu nisi eget nisi imperdiet vestibulum. Nunc sodales vehicula risus. Suspendisse id mauris sodales, blandit tortor eu, sodales justo. Morbi tincidunt, ante vel suscipit volutpat, turpis enim volutpSectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusm onsectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusm od tempor incididunt ut labore. Ut vel placerat eros, eu tincidunt velit. Consectetur adipiscing elit, - [Children & Youth](https://www.ucbireland.ie/services/children-youth/) - Mauris eu nisi eget nisi imperdiet vestibulum. Nunc sodales vehicula risus. Suspendisse id mauris sodales, blandit tortor eu, sodales justo. Morbi tincidunt, ante vel suscipit volutpat, turpis enim volutpSectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusm onsectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusm od tempor incididunt ut labore. Ut vel placerat eros, eu tincidunt velit. Consectetur adipiscing elit, ## Categories - [Teaching](https://www.ucbireland.ie/category/teaching/) - [Interviews](https://www.ucbireland.ie/category/interviews/) - [Focus on Friday](https://www.ucbireland.ie/category/focus-on-friday/) - Subtitle Goes Here - [Woman to Woman](https://www.ucbireland.ie/category/womantowoman/) - [News](https://www.ucbireland.ie/category/news/) - [Life Today](https://www.ucbireland.ie/category/life-today/) ## Tags - [Lifestyle](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/lifestyle/) - [Holidays](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/holidays/) - [Podcast](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/podcast/) - [womantowoman](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/womantowoman/) - [dublin](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/dublin/) - [testimoney](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/testimoney/) - [asbury](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/asbury/) - [jean watson](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/jean-watson/) - [interview](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/interview/) - [forgiveness](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/forgiveness/) - [focusonfriday](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/focusonfriday/) - [robbie frawley](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/robbie-frawley/) - [teaching](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/teaching/) - [bible](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/bible/) - [John ahern](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/john-ahern/) - [all nations church](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/all-nations-church/) - [nick park](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/nick-park/) - [book](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/book/) - [sian fitzgerald](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/sian-fitzgerald/) - [anxiety](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/anxiety/) - [fear](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/fear/) - [love](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/love/) - [confidence](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/confidence/) - [self esteem](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/self-esteem/) - [counselling](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/counselling/) - [Chris and Amy Stroup](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/chris-and-amy-stroup/) - [Joy of the World Foundation](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/joy-of-the-world-foundation/) - [Breannas House of Joy](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/breannas-house-of-joy/) - [trafficking](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/trafficking/) - [Beverley Joseph](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/beverley-joseph/) - [ministry](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/ministry/) - [Tim shiels](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/tim-shiels/) - [life story](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/life-story/) - [Elaine Marrett](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/elaine-marrett/) - [guilt](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/guilt/) - [shame](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/shame/) - [Ann Marie scully](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/ann-marie-scully/) - [broken relationships](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/broken-relationships/) - [stress](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/stress/) - [disappointment](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/disappointment/) - [divorce](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/divorce/) - [identity](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/identity/) - [Michelle bolton](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/michelle-bolton/) - [Tim sheils](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/tim-sheils/) - [cap](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/cap/) - [Janine stellatos](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/janine-stellatos/) - [Metro World Child](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/metro-world-child/) - [life today](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/life-today/) - [Stella's voice](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/stellas-voice/) - [sports chaplaincy](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/sports-chaplaincy/) - [sport](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/sport-2/) - [Nelly Greisen](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/nelly-greisen/) - [brian kelly](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/brian-kelly/) - [mind matters](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/mind-matters/) - [anger](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/anger/) - [helen holden](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/helen-holden/) - [breda hanrahan](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/breda-hanrahan/) - [firebrand church](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/firebrand-church/) - [eai](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/eai/) - [evangelical alliance ireland](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/evangelical-alliance-ireland/) - [agape](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/agape/) - [agape ireland](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/agape-ireland/) - [evangelism](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/evangelism/) - [quiet time](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/quiet-time/) - [God's love](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/gods-love/) - [Catherine Carey](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/catherine-carey/) - [jeanne whelan](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/jeanne-whelan/) - [evamgelism](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/evamgelism/) - [news](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/news/) - [blog](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/blog/) - [ellie](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/ellie/) - [creation](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/creation/) - [stewardship](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/stewardship/) - [crown jesus](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/crown-jesus/) - [mitch](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/mitch/) - [ireland](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/ireland/) - [Peter bradshaw](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/peter-bradshaw/) - [OM](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/om/) - [Logos Ship](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/logos-ship/) - [mission](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/mission-2/) - [robbie](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/robbie/) - [coparenting international](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/coparenting-international/) - [tammy jay daughtry](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/tammy-jay-daughtry/) - [michael smith mbe](https://www.ucbireland.ie/tag/michael-smith-mbe/) ## Form Categories - [Kids](https://www.ucbireland.ie/donations/category/kids/) - [Mission](https://www.ucbireland.ie/donations/category/mission/) - [Family](https://www.ucbireland.ie/donations/category/family/) - [World](https://www.ucbireland.ie/donations/category/world/) ## Product categories - [Jewelry](https://www.ucbireland.ie/product-category/accessories/) - [Wooden](https://www.ucbireland.ie/product-category/wooden/) - [Books](https://www.ucbireland.ie/product-category/books/) ## Product tags - [Branded](https://www.ucbireland.ie/product-tag/branded/) - [Drinkware](https://www.ucbireland.ie/product-tag/drinkware/) - [Top Sale](https://www.ucbireland.ie/product-tag/top-sale/) - [Variable](https://www.ucbireland.ie/product-tag/variable/) - [Sale](https://www.ucbireland.ie/product-tag/sale/) - [Trend](https://www.ucbireland.ie/product-tag/trend/) - [Eco](https://www.ucbireland.ie/product-tag/eco/) ## Event Categories - [Modern Church](https://www.ucbireland.ie/events/category/modern-church/) - [Festival](https://www.ucbireland.ie/events/category/festival/) - [Harmonic](https://www.ucbireland.ie/events/category/harmonic/) - [Faithful](https://www.ucbireland.ie/events/category/faithful/) ## Portfolio Group - [Modern](https://www.ucbireland.ie/portfolio_group/modern/) - [Mission](https://www.ucbireland.ie/portfolio_group/holy-church/) - [Christian Church](https://www.ucbireland.ie/portfolio_group/christian-church/) ## Services Group - [Modern Church](https://www.ucbireland.ie/services_group/modern-church/) - [Community](https://www.ucbireland.ie/services_group/community/) - [General](https://www.ucbireland.ie/services_group/general/) - [Protestants](https://www.ucbireland.ie/services_group/protestants/) - [Full Access](https://www.ucbireland.ie/services_group/fullaccess/) ## Testimonials Group - [Testimonials](https://www.ucbireland.ie/testimonials_group/testimonials/) - [Test](https://www.ucbireland.ie/testimonials_group/test/)