U Matters - 13 January 2022 | U Matters

U Matters - 13 January 2022

by Rev Dr Michele Bland on January 13, 2022

U MATTERS

Jesus said it well, “in the world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered the world!” John 16:33 NRSV. The New International Version states, “In this world you will have trouble.”

If you have been watching the news, listening to parents of young children lament the daunting prospects of online school (yet again) and seeing educators scramble to respond to the latest Hong Kong pandemic situation, you would agree. Additionally, there are many in our congregation who are ill and facing challenging situations. In this world you will have trouble. We do and we will.

It is during these times of trouble we can hang onto the promises of God.

Canadian schoolteacher Everett R. Storms during his 27th reading of the Bible, compiled a list of God’s promises and he found 7,487 promises from God to people. He also found other combinations of promises totalling 8,810 promises. Here are a few:

“It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” Deuteronomy 31:8

“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, 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 will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:28-29

“For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.” Jeremiah 29:11

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” Isaiah 43:2

"I hereby command you: Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Looking for some encouragement today? I invite you to uncover some of those promises for yourself. Whatever storms you are facing, God’s Word can and will provide comfort and encouragement.

Blessings, Pastor Michele

About the Author

Rev Dr Michele Bland

Pastor Michele came to Hong Kong in 1996 with her husband Glenn. Pastor Michele holds a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, a Masters of Divinity, a Masters in Theology and a Masters in Psychology. Michele was ordained with the Canadian Baptist Convention, has advance standing in CPE (Clinical Pastoral Education), and before coming to Asia she was a youth pastor.

Pastor Michele was appointed Associate Pastor at Union Church in 2012 and became Senior Pastor in 2020. She is a trained Stephen Leader and has trained over 20 members of our congregation to become Stephen Ministers. During her time in Hong Kong, Pastor Michele served on the pastoral staff at another international church for over a decade and has worked in private practice. She has taught in hospitals in China, as well as seminaries in Hong Kong and Indonesia.

Pastor Michele has two university-aged children. Highlights have included working on a kibbutz in Israel, traveling to far off destinations and hanging out with her family. She loves good coffee and conversation.