Reason no. 1006...

On Wednesday I went to the last Alpha session of the series church put on. I hadn't been to the rest but it was a privilege to be there that night. At the end of the meeting I got to sit with a lady who became a Christian that night!  Amazing! Reason no. 1006 :)

Reason no. 1005...

You are the hope to the hopeless.

Reason no. 1005 :)

Reason no. 1004...

Thank you God for Your generosity towards me. Thank you God that You are not stingy but constantly giving in abundance. Reason no. 1004 :)

Reason no. 1003...

Having bought some new boots a couple of months ago, the heel on one of them completely caved in. I took them back to the shop yesterday and managed to get a full refund! Reason no. 1003 :)

Reason no. 1002...

Thankful for the holidays and a chance to have some lie-ins and recharge! Reason no. 1002 :)

Reason no. 1001...

Bill Johnson:

'God designed your mind to be one of the most supernaturally powerful tools in the universe, but it needs to be sanctified and yielded to the Holy Spirit so that you can carry out His designs, creative ideas, and plans in your everyday life.'

Reason no. 1001 :)

Reason no. 1000...

God is good day after day, week after week, year after year!  Regardless of how the day presents God is good in nature and He never changes.

1000 reasons :)

Reason no. 999...

On my bedroom wall there is a quote which  says: find what makes you happy in God and learn to make a discipline of it. Yesterday I was reminded actually there are certain people in my life who after spending time with I actually come away so encouraged in God, my faith levels rise and I am reminded of who God has called me to be. The whole thing of encouragement is huge. Words released have so much power. They have the potential to create and build up, yet they also have the power to tear down and destroy. God has put some incredible people around me and when they speak they release God's heart for me - even if done so indirectly!

I found this poem I wrote a few years ago, which fits just right!

Encouragement. Encouragement. Encouragement.

One act but a huge impact.

It's so easy to do, but so rarely ever done.

It can build a person up,

it can challenge their thinking,

it can transform an atmosphere.

The power it has, tells someone you care.

It can speak hope, it can speak destiny,

it can make a difference.

It may be a spoken, it may be written,

it may be a little gesture -

one smile can tell a thousand words.

Your words shape the world you live in.

To shape a culture, don't just conform,

rather counter with something far greater!

Imagine a world of encouragement...

joy, peace and acceptance -

is what could be on offer!

One step of encouragement results in

 a generation rising up and taking hold of:

who they are, their gifting and strengths.

Encouragement leads to boldness
and courage to step into destiny.

Reason no. 999 :)

Reason no. 998...

Yesterday I had a lovely catch-up with one of my old housemates! I am so thankful for the friends I have lived with for the past 2 years and how nearly all of them are still living in Manchester this year. I still remember worrying about the decision of who I would end up living with after 1st year at uni, little did I know and trust that it would turn out so well! Thank you God that you turn stories of fear into stories of Your goodness. Reason no. 998 :)

Reason no. 997...

Have finally nearly finished all the Christmas shopping! Only a few things left to go! Christmas is getting closer!! Reason no. 997 :)

Reason no. 996...

Fix your eyes on Him

Breathe in. Breathe out. And relax!

Fix your eyes on Him.

Let Him re-align all things.

With Him at the heart -

all else will fall into place.

Stresses, struggles, strains -

cast it over to Him.

He is HUGE.

He's so much bigger than all we face.

With Him we can do all things.

Nothing is impossible for Him.

As we hurl it onto Him,

sit back, wait and He'll come to the rescue.

If Peace is needed - He'll provide,

If Strength is needed - He'll provide,

There's nothing beyond His provision!

Draw Him into the circumstance

and just watch all He'll do!

He'll transform the situation,

bringing glory to His name!

So, breathe in. Breathe out. And relax!

Fix your eyes on Him!

Reason no. 996 :)

Reason no. 995...

Today David and I have finally removed all the mould on one of the white walls in our flat. It is disgusting and grows so quick. It starts off as something small and quickly multiplies. However with some spray it vanished pretty much instantly with a lot of scrubbing. I was thinking about it a bit later and it reminded me a lot about sin and Jesus. Sin is like the mould. It is dirty, disgusting and it can be consuming. As I was scrubbing away that reminded me of how sometimes sin makes us try so hard to cover it up and to remove it all by ourselves. We may try to do loads of good things to counter the sin in our lives. But as I was scrubbing the mould it may have looked a bit better, but actually it was all still there just spread over the wall a bit more thinly. Me trying to remove it all in my own strength is impossible. But then when Jesus comes the sin is completely removed and what was once stained is now entirely clean and pure. That is what Jesus has done for me, He has done it all! Reason no. 995 :)

Reason no. 994...

Through writing this blog, God has challenged me to be expectant to find unending reasons to be thankful to Him regardless of how I am feeling. Each time I come to write, especially when my mind goes blank that is when God reveals something new of who He is. When I started this blog based on the song ‘10000 reasons’ I knew that there were definitely 10000 reasons out there as He is God but the reality of actually finding all of them I wasn’t so sure about. Hence the challenge! It annoyed me every time that I sang this song and I tried to think of some reasons I would always think about the same few reasons. But now I can sing it and have a much deeper thankfulness than before. Reason no. 994 :)

Reason no. 993...

'The Spirit himself testifies with our Spirit that we are God's children.'

Romans 8:16

I am His child. He is my Father. He is the Father who guides, the Father who speaks, the Father who loves to spend time with me, the Father who loves to listen to me, the Father who protects me, the Father who comforts me, the Father who provides for me, the Father who likes to have fun with me, the Father who chose me to be His beloved daughter. Reason no. 993 :)

Reason no. 992...

I am so excited for my sister and the adventure that awaits her in a few months time. I still can't believe that she'll be all the way over in Canada for a year. She is so brave and courageous! I love how she uses her creative skills to make cards and sell them so she can make the most of her time out there! She will be such a blessing to all the Canadians and other international students she meets out there! Reason no. 992 :)

Reason no. 991...

Thank you God that I am free and totally forgiven regardless of how I may feel about myself. Even when I mess up, You tell me I am not condemned. Thank you God for that love and grace You have so extravagantly poured into my life. Thank you God that it is mine for eternity - not something You will take back from me! Reason no. 991 :)

Reason no. 990...

Something I love about the Psalms and some worship songs is how the writers speak to their heart and their soul and activate it into worship, for example 'bless the Lord oh my soul'. Sometimes that is what is needed. I don't feel like worshipping God every second of every day, but He is worthy of it and He is worthy of whole-hearted worship. Sometimes our heart and soul need warming up and a re-focusing so that their attention is on God. Sometimes we need reminders of just how great and how awesome our God actually is. God has included it in the bible and it shows me how I can worship Him when I don't feel like it and it reminds me that I'm not the only worshipper of God like that. Reason no. 890 :)

Reason no. 989...

These past 3 days I have realised just how tough this semester has actually been and just how exhausted I really am - everything has now caught up with me in one go leaving me completely shattered! Having some time to rest is exactly what has been needed for ages and I'm now finally in that season! I've now had a bit of time to catch hold of everything  and reflect on what has happened and to simply say 'God You have got me this far and You will get me through the rest of this academic year'. He has been good and He will continue to be good! Reason no. 889 :)

Reason no. 988...

This week I have been thinking about how close I am to reaching 1000 reasons. I worked out that it has taken me about 3.5 years to do 1000 reasons, so then I worked out how long it might take to get to 10000 reasons...I recon 30 ish years! As I was thinking about how old I will be, I realised I would be similar age to my parents and could potentially have a child like me nearly finishing university! It was a scary thought but also pretty exciting!

Alongside this I've been thinking a bit about how older people invest in younger people in the church, workplace and society and parents to kids and just how valuable this is. If it wasn't for my parents, youth leaders/ kids workers at church, teachers etc. I would not be the person I am today. For they have imparted such wisdom and guidance to me. They have been the ones praying for me and my situations and challenging me to shift my perspective. They have modelled what a God-fearing life looks like. They are the ones who have given me time and have opened up the bible with me and shared what God's heart is.

There is something so precious in the young and old partnering together. When the older share their God stories with the younger, the younger get to know what is possible with God and actually dream even bigger and go even further with God at an even younger age.

Reason no. 988 :)

Reason no. 987...

As I was walking home this morning I was reminded of a phonecall from a few weeks ago (or maybe even a bit longer) from David. He had just seen the royals and all their bodyguard protection drive past him. He didn't just ring me but he also rang a family member too. Earlier that week I'd been talking about Kate and William's arrival to the University of Manchester with a few other people. It crazy to think how much excitement and talk that situation got! What's even more incredible is that the King of Kings has already arrived and rather than Him being some distant famous person who I will probably never speak to, I get to have a personal relationship with Him and walk with Him each day. That's a reason to get excited and tell everyone! Reason no. 987 :)

Reason no. 986...

9 days till Christmas!! It will be my first Christmas with David as my husband! Reason no. 986 :)

Reason no. 985...

I find it amazing how some people go into research for speech and language therapy and how they are so passionate to find ways to improve diagnoses, intervention and outcomes for patients so that their quality of life can be improved. Through these people going into research the service patients receive as a consequence is advanced further. Reason no. 985 :)

Reason no. 984...

Thank you God that You provide so well for me. Today I was thinking about how I can come away so full from eating and snacking. I am in a position where there is food in cupboards for the next few days and I am not needing to be dependent on what a stranger will place in my hand. God thank you for Your generosity, help me to extend that generosity to those around me. Reason no. 984 :)

Reason no. 983...

'God love me purely, totally and unconditionally, simply because He made me and is my Father.'

Christine Caine

No love is ever as pure as His - completely faultless. No love is as full as His - complete wholeness. No love will be as independent of my thoughts, words, actions towards Him - He will keep on loving me regardless.

Reason no. 983 :)

Reason no. 982...

Thank you God for Your eye to detail - each tiny molecule has Your creative stamp all over it. Thank you God for how you draw things together in such a beautiful way. Thank you God that because I am made in Your image I am creative too! Reason no. 982 :)

Reason no. 981...

Thank you God that You love me! Your love for me is so much more than I know. My understanding and my awareness of it only scratches the surface. Ephesians 3:18 talks about Your love being wide, long, high and deep. On Sunday someone from church shared how Your love is not just 3D - it is something so much more. God, I long to be so much more aware, I want to grasp what Your love for me truly means! Reason no. 981 :)

Reason no. 980...

So proud of David...he has decorated the room for the youth Christmas party and it looks so great! I love how he is in a job that he enjoys, he is good at and gets to be creative within it! Reason no. 980 :)

Reason no. 979...

'My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior'

Luke 1:46-47

This was the beginning of Mary's song when she went to see Elizabeth and they were sharing in the amazement of what God had done in each of them. Mary's heart in God choosing to place His son in her is something so beautiful. Mary was a girl who loved God and had found favour with Him. The result of that favour was God entrusting His only Son to be raised by Mary.

Reason no. 979 :)

Reason no. 978...

The Lord will keep you from all harm—
    he will watch over your life;
the Lord will watch over your coming and going
    both now and forevermore.

Psalm 121:7-8

Thank you God that You care about me and You choose to watch over me! Thank you God for being my protection. Thank you God that you are not the one-off God but the eternal God who keeps His promises forever. Reason no. 978 :)

Reason no. 977...

Thankful for a relaxed day, with a tiny bit of work thrown in! Going for a hot chocolate with David was an added bonus! Reason no. 977 :)

Reason no. 976...

'I lift my eyes up to the hills - where does my help come from?'

Psalm 121:1

'I lift' - an active decision. I choose to take my eyes off my circumstances and fix them on Him. I won't find the help looking at the situation but as I shift my gaze onto Him, my help will come!

Reason no. 976 :)

Reason no. 975...

Thank you God that You found me, You chose me, You love me, You protect me and You hold me. Reason no. 975 :)

Reason no. 974...

Thank you God that You don't stop amazing me! Thank you God that You continually reveal something new to me about Yourself. You are so much greater than I know. Reason no. 974 :)

Reason no. 973...

Thankful for having an afternoon where I can tidy and sort our flat after the build-up of assignment deadlines between us! Reason no. 973 :)

Reason no. 972...

Thank you God for giving me this blog idea and the space to write, be creative and  to order my thoughts. Thank you God that it is a way where I can see Your incredible goodness reason after reason, day after day. I love how there is more than 10000 reasons to find. The reasons just keep going and going. Reason no. 972 :)

Reason no. 971...

'I produce what is around me based on what is inside of me.'

God let Your Holy Spirit fill me up till I am overflowing. God let my eyes be completely fixed on You. I want to carry You into the places I step foot in. I want to carry your life, peace and joy into situations. I want to bring Your word that it might shape what is around me. When You are present everything changes. Reason no. 971 :)

Reason no. 970...

Jesus is counter-cultural. He is the king. Instead of him having an expectation that society will serve him, he was the one who got down on his knees to wash people's feet. He is the King who serves. He shows us that nothing is too below him. He is the one who I follow, but does my life represent him? If it did, surely there would be such an eagerness to serve because that is what Jesus it like. He served with his whole life. He did not compartmentalise his life into sections where serving can happen -  no it over spilled into every area. Let my heart catch hold of Jesus's heart for people so that I might serve in the fraction of the way that he serves the people around him. Reason no. 970 :)

Reason no. 969...

Thankful for the year I have ended up on my uni degree and the people I have ended up with in my year. I am thankful for the friends I have made and the inclusivity between the whole class. Hearing some of the differences between some of the year groups made me realise just how easy this gets taken for granted. Reason no. 969 :)

Reason no. 968...

Thank you God that every day in the midst of everything happening around the world  that You are still God, still loving, still kind, still peace, still powerful, still strong, still reigning and still hope! You are God! Reason no. 968 :)

Reason no. 967...

Thankful for David's previous job before going into youth work. He has been able to help my family and give advice as they start needing to make decisions on care for my grandma. Thank you God that this was part of the journey David was on before going onto studying now! Thank you God that you know exactly the journey we go on and where each thing fits in with the rest of our lives. Reason no. 967 :)

Reason no. 966...

“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich.”

2 Corinthians 8:9

Jesus came from the riches of heaven to a manger. These are 2 huge extremes and he did it for me! He not only does that, but he clothes me in  his riches that I do not deserve. Thank you Jesus!  Reason no. 966 :)

Reason no. 965...

Grateful for going to a uni where some of the leading researchers in different fields for speech and language therapy are and I get to have lectures from them! Reason no. 965 :)

Reason no. 964...

Today a beautiful Christmas card arrived hand-made by my mum! I love how creative my family are! Reason no. 964 :)

Reason no. 963...

Tomorrow is the youth Christmas party!! So thankful for getting to spend my Friday evenings with them each week for the past year and a bit. They are a great bunch of young people! Reason no. 963 :)

Reason no. 962...

In 2 weeks time I will be back with my wonderful family! I love being back! Just chilling in front of the TV together, going for breakfast with my dad, not having to cook most evenings or do lots of other housework, chatting with my mum in the kitchen, playing games...just a few things that make it a great time where I can recharge! Reason no. 962 :)

Reason no. 961...

Finished for the Christmas holidays!!! Although lots of study awaits, to have a break is exactly what I need! Reason no. 961 :)

Reason no. 960...

'Find out what makes you happy in God, and make a discipline of it.'

Peter Greig

In the busyness of life it is so easy for these things to be the first to go, but NO these are the things that need to be the priority. When I make time for these things I gain His perspective on the situation and who I am in the midst of it all. That is something precious. Reason no. 960 :)

Reason no. 959...

'The mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.'

Romans 8:6

Your spirit lives in me and therefore I can walk in life and peace because that is what you have for me and that now becomes my default position. Thank you God!

Reason no. 959 :)

Reason no. 958...

Thank you God for being so faithful in all of Your ways. You are faithful to me yesterday, today and forevermore. You are faithful to me in the highs and the lows. You are faithful in every circumstance! Reason no. 958 :)

Reason no. 957...

Today David found out he has an interview in Canterbury the day after my only exam in January, the week before my dad's birthday. Therefore we can both head down to Kent together and have a bit of break before 2nd semester starts! Reason no. 957 :)

Reason no. 956...

Thank you Jesus for coming to earth for me and people like me. Thank you for living amongst your people. You were King in a society that did not know it. You came and worked as a carpenter and did not dictate over anyone. You lived and you worked. You lived the human life - knowing the good and bad in it. Thank you that you know what hard times look like in day-to-day life. Thank you that I can therefore come to you in the midst of the good and bad because you have walked through it too! Reason no. 956 :)

Reason no. 955...

Thank you God that You keep me safe and protect me each day.

Reason no. 955 :)

Reason no. 954...

Philippians 4:6-7

'Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God . And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.'

So true...these past few weeks I have been attempting an assignment that has caused me so much stress and the crazy thing is that it is only worth 10 credits of my whole degree. The fear of failing creates such a huge amount of pressure. But actually each time the pressure begins to build God wants to take me to a place of reminding me who He actually is...He is so much bigger than my assignment, He is so much bigger than if I fail. Will my world fall apart if I fail? No! Will God stop loving me? No! Will God be disappointed with me? No! Will He still work all things together for good? Yes! Will His promises over my life still be true? Yes! He is God! Reason no. 954 :)

Reason no. 953...

I only have 2 days left in uni (spread over this week) before breaking up for Christmas! To have some time where I can simply rest is exactly what I need! Reason no. 953 :)

Reason no. 952...

Thank you God that Your mercy triumphs over Your judgement on me!! Even though I may condemn myself or think that You ought to be condemning me - You don't! Thank you God that the verdict has passed and I am free! You write freedom over me and that is truly incredible! Reason no. 952 :)

Reason no. 951...

As I was attempting to do one of my assignments at uni, there was a huge queue outside for the graduation happening today...I am excited how in a matter of months I graduate too! Reason no. 951 :)

Reason no. 950...

Christmas is coming! Baby Jesus is coming...that's what Christmas is all about: the birth of a little baby boy. That is true but it only scratches the surface. That Jesus was fully human, yet fully God. That Jesus grew up to shake societies thinking. That Jesus knew what it was like to party (wedding). That Jesus did what we deem to be impossible: healing the sick, bringing the dead back to life, walking on water. That Jesus spoke to women in a culture where that was not the norm. That Jesus knew what love looked like. That Jesus loved me enough to die on a cross. That Jesus dying on a cross meant that I can know God. That Jesus dying means that I walk free as every wrong thing (sin) I have ever done is no longer counted against me - it is all on him. That Jesus raising back to life means that He is victorious over sin and death. That Jesus living now means that an eternity with him awaits me. Reason no. 950 :)

Reason no. 949...

Thank you God that David already has one offer from a uni and that You are beginning to open doors so he can study social work. Thank you for how You spoke so clearly about him doing an Access course this year at Catalyst (Christian festival) and that is where he is now. Thank you God that You have called Your church to be a prophetic people who will speak out Your word and Your heart and how that builds, encourages, directs and strengthens. Thank you God for giving that person who brought the prophetic word the faith to step out! Reason no. 949 :)

Reason no. 948...

I find it is so easy to get bogged down by uncertainties. The uncertainty of what will happen when I graduate, what job will I have, where will I live? These questions quickly fill me with dread, stress and panic. It is so easy to say with my mouth that 'I trust God', but actually when in the midst of the situation a different story comes to play. I don't know the end result and I find that really tough. God knows exactly what is coming and I don't.

He promises to work all things together for good and that includes the situation I'm in and about to walk into. He has done incredible things in every situation that has involved a big decision/move (even in the little things too!) - embarking on Impact in Horsham - how I ended up there just had God written all over it, moving to Manchester for my degree and actually seeing God's plan spoken to me 8 years ago and to be right in the midst of it now is truly incredible!!

This time God is doing something different. He is the Almighty God and He can choose to speak in any way He chooses and in  His own timing - not dictated by me. He is God and I am not. It is His words that I will choose to cling and will let override my thoughts and others opinions. He is King.

Reason no. 948 :)

Reason no. 947...

'It is finished, He has won!'

Reason no. 947 :)

Reason no. 946...

So thankful for how God can use a not so nice situation (a family member being really ill) to enable me to go home and have a time to recharge with my family. I am thankful that it is always a place where I can rest well. Reason no. 946 :)

Reason no. 945...

Today I watched a tiny clip from the Voice in America, where a guy got up and sang a worship song in the middle of the competition. It was so incredible to see God lifted high in that situation and in that area of culture. It is exciting to think of what else God has in store and what else could happen as God's spirit truly breaks out in society. Reason no. 945 :)

Reason no. 944...

Thank you God that in the busyness of uni, assignments, exams and illnesses, You have rest, peace and joy available for me! Reason no. 944 :)

Reason no. 943...

You are God and You go before me! Reason no. 943 :)

Reason no. 942...

God uses the roots in where you are from in where He is taking you. Thank you God that nothing is wasted! Reason no. 942 :)

Reason no. 941...

Thank you God that Your voice over-rides every other voice! Thank you God that Your voice is truth in midst of uncertainty. Thank you God that when You speak clarity comes. Thank you God that Your voice brings such life and such peace. Reason no. 941 :)

Reason no. 940...

Thank you God that You are in the waiting and the promises You have spoken will come to be. Reason no. 940 :)

Reason no. 939...

You will turn my fear to faith

and teach my heart to sing again.

Failure and disappointment

no longer have a hold on me.

There is victory in the name of Jesus

and freedom written over me.

I will go to the hidden place

and I will wait for you to speak.

Your word is truth, power and life

and it will silence the lies of the enemy.

I will know your voice

and it will guide my every step.

Reason no. 939 :)

Reason no. 938...

I'm taking you by the hand,

leading you on an adventure

that I have mapped out for you.

I'm taking you out of the mess

that has entangled you

and lifting you upon higher ground.

I'm placing you in my light

so you can gain my perspective

over each situation that you face.

I'm inviting you into my presence,

a time where I will speak

and you will know my voice.

I'm inviting you to come deeper with me,

just to sit and to be close with me,

for I will totally restore you.

I'm reminding you of my promises,

my love, grace, peace is unchanging,

yesterday and today I am pursuing you.

Reason no. 938 :)

Reason no. 937...

Thank you God for still giving me poems to write! Your words spoken over me still have life! Reason no. 937 :)

Reason no. 936...

I've been married to David for 5 months today!! He is so loving, kind, generous, funny and wise! He amazes me with how well he does with his access course and with uni interviews! To be out of studying for so long and to go back into it is not an easy thing to do! I love his passion to become a social worker and his heart to see injustice put to right. One day he will make an incredible social worker. Every time I look at a speech and language therapy (SLT) case where a social worker should be involved, I'm just amazed at what they do! Reason no. 936 :)

Reason no. 935...

I am grateful for being in a uni where quite a few of my lecturers are actually writing the research that I have to read about for my course! Reason no. 935 :)

Reason no. 934...

So thankful for finally having a draft on an assignment due really soon!! It has taken so long, but now it is finally close to the end! Reason no. 934 :)

Reason no. 933...

I love it how God can speak through a lecture at uni. The lecture was all about bilingualism, something I find so fascinating. At the end of the lecture I realised that I had written myself from working with this population in the future due to the huge amount of skill required. God gave me a little prod: 'you placing limits on yourself is limiting me'. He reminded me of everything that He taken me on so far through learning languages, mission trips in the nations to working in an international school over the summer. There's still more to go - the door is not shut!! Reason no. 933 :)

Reason no. 932...

Thank you God that despite having a headache and sore throat with the weather being so cold, dark and wet - You are so good! You are the One who keeps sustaining me, providing me with strength and enables the sun to keep on shining! Reason no. 932 :)

Reason no. 931...

Thank you God for people's amazing generosity...this afternoon I read a lovely story of a random lady paying so a couple could go on a date due to overhearing that he did not want to go on a proper first date until he had a job and could pay! Random act of kindness are great! Reason no. 931 :)

Reason no. 930...

Thank you God for providing me with a place to live. Round the corner from me is a temporary house for the homeless, thank you God that You can provide long-term accommodation for each of them there. Reason no. 930 :)

Reason no. 929...

Thank you God for holding onto me and never letting me go. Thank you God that You never give up on me! Reason no. 929 :)

Reason no. 928...

Thank you God that even in my tiredness right now You are my strength! Thank you God that You sustain me and keep me going. Reason no. 928 :)

Reason no. 927...

Last week was my birthday!!! I am so thankful for having a wonderful few days! Great Greek food, lovely presents and a fun time with friends! It was my 4th birthday up in Manchester and these have been such a good 4 years! Reason no. 927 :)

Reason no. 926...

Thank you God that with the busyness of everything this year, You are God and You remain on the throne. Thank you God that with the stresses of assignments and dissertations, You are peace. Thank you God that You look after me and You speak to me.  Thank you God that You know everything, even what lies ahead for beyond this degree. Thank you God that You already have a job lined up for me in Your perfect timing! Thank you God for how You provide so well for me and David and You will continue to do so. Reason no. 926 :)

Reason no. 925...

This week I have been reading about Moses. What I love is how when Moses feels way out of his comfort zone going on the adventure that God has set before him, God gives him Aaron to go on the journey with him. Thank you God! Thank you God that you equip us so we can do the things that You have called us to do. Reason no. 925 :)

Reason no. 924...

I am so proud of my little sister! She has set up a business that allows her to express her creativity! She is so talented and arty! I love the skill that God placed in her!  Reason no. 924 :) https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheBigGreenDragon 

Reason no. 923...

Thank you God for my wonderful husband! This week I have been busy each evening so far and David has always had dinner ready for my return! He is very good to me :) Reason no. 923 :)

Reason no. 922...

Thank you God for friends! Yesterday the traffic was awful coming out of the city centre, but the whole way home I had a lovely phone call from my old house mate! Reason no. 922 :)

Reason no. 921...

Thank you Jesus that you gave us the Holy Spirit when you ascended to heaven. It is amazing that the Holy Spirit lives in me and intercedes for me (Romans 8:26-27). Reason no. 921 :)

Reason no. 920...

Thank you God that Your brings life and Your word is truth!

 Reason no. 920 :)

Reason no. 919...

Yesterday I fell over due to the slippery paths from the wet weather. I am thankful for no broken bones or nasty bruising or cuts. Reason no. 919 :)

Reason no. 918...

Yesterday Manchester had a huge thunderstorm! It was very exciting watching it all from a nice warm dry home. Thankful for having a home to live in with enough money coming in to pay all the bills! Reason no. 918 :)

Reason no. 917...

Thank you God for putting people with lots of wisdom around me! 

Reason no. 917 :)

Reason no. 916...

In a week's time I return to university for my final year. Inside I am filled with a real mix of fear and excitement.  This year seems so daunting knowing that I am expected to carry out a research project (the equivalent of a dissertation) and be applying for jobs at the end it. It all seems too much too soon! However in the midst of this I have to remind myself of who God is, His tremendous goodness to me and that He wants me to trade my stress and fears for His perfect peace that transcends all understanding. Thank you God that You are so good to me and that You have got me through the first 3 years!! Thank you for Your faithfulness to this point and thank you that YOU NEVER CHANGE!! So faithful You will be!! Reason no. 916 :)

Reason no. 915...

Thankful for gifts! My parents gave me a house plant and some of my favourite cheese this weekend!  It was such a lovely surprise! Reason no. 915 :)

Reason no. 914...

Yesterday I watched a really inspirational film - '23 Blast'. It was all about an american footballer who gets an eye infection and becomes blind. In the film, he builds himself up to walking and even playing american football again. When reading up about the man, it turns out that he has an incredible faith in God and through the whole process he knows that God is good and faithful to him. He has a faith in God that I want! A faith that will remain in the midst of the storms, struggles and sufferings. Reason no. 914 :)

Reason no. 913...

Thankful for having my parents come up for the weekend. Enjoyed spending time with them, having a meal out in our own 'private' restaurant (we were the only people there for most of the time!) and going for a lovely walk in a local park in the beautiful weather. Reason no. 913 :)

Reason no. 912...

Psalm 37: 23-24

'The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.'

Thank you God for leading me. Thank you that you notice the details in my life and it brings you delight. Thank you God that you hold me by the hand - what a good Father, one who cares.

Reason no. 912 :)

Reason no. 911...

'Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you.' 

Psalm 37:5

Thank you God that you promise to help. Help me to commit everything I do to You - including You in all aspects of life and decision making. 

Reason no. 911 :)

Reason no. 910...

Thankful for having some great friends in Manchester! It is such a blessing having one of them live round the corner! Reason no. 910 :)

Reason no. 909...

Today my parents are coming to visit David and me!! So excited to see them! I haven't seen them since the wedding! Reason no. 909 :) 

Reason no. 908...

This summer I had a wonderful week away with the youth at Newday! It was amazing to see God speak, encounter and empower them! They are a great group of people to spend a week with. Over that week it was so good to see all their friendships grow too. Reason no. 908 :) 

Reason no. 907...

A couple of weeks ago David and I produced a photo book with our wedding photos. Today I was able to collect it. It was so great to look through them and re-live the day. The quality of the book was amazing :) Reason no. 907 :)

Reason no. 906...

This week my bus pass arrived in the post! I am thankful for being a student and entitled to incredibly good value travel for the year! Reason no. 906 :)

Reason no. 905...

For the past few days David has had conjunctivitis, which is very contagious. I am thankful that my eyes are still fine and are conjunctivitis free. Despite a long wait in the eye hospital (David's GP recommended the visit due to never seeing it as bad it was), it is remarkable to watch all the medical staff working so hard getting through everyone each day, diagnosing and treating them. Reason no. 905 :)

Reason no. 903...

Thankful for my laptop getting fixed again!! Thankful for being able to pay a small amount monthly, then regardless of the problem it being able to get fixed! Reason no. 903 :)

Reason no. 904...

Thankful for having time to bake and experiment with cooking. One of our wedding presents means we get try food dishes from around the world. Yesterday I made an extremely yummy Korean dish!

Reason no. 904 :)

Reason no. 902...

Psalm 37:23-24

'If the Lord delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm;  though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.'

God let my ways be a delight to you!

Reason no. 902 :)

Reason no. 901...

Last night I had a wonderful date night with my husband!! Having been given some vouchers as a wedding present, we could enjoy a very cheap night out! Reason no. 901 :)

Reason no. 900...

Thankfulness releases joy!

Reason no. 900 :)

Reason no. 899...

Thank you God that we don't need to strive for Your promises but instead we get to rest in Your promises! You are the faithful God! Throughout this morning I have been replaying the song 'Yes and Amen' by Housefires and it is full of truth!! I am so thankful for gifted worship leaders and song writers who can take hold of God's heart and what He is speaking and inspire people to worship the living God. Reason no. 899 :)

Reason no. 898...

I am thankful for living in a location so close to an awesome bus route that brings buses along so frequently, especially where we no longer have a car! Reason no. 898 :)

Reason no. 897...

I am thankful for time to just sit without thinking I need to get X, Y & Z done, an opportunity to recharge and refocus after the busyness of wedding stuff and before entering final year of university! Reason no. 897 :)

Reason no. 896...

Thank you God in the midst of the horrendous stuff going on in the world, You have not turned away. Thank you God that You love people, You care about the situations and even if a story has not made a news headline You have still seen what has happened. Thank You God that You care about us so much that You sent Your only son so that he could die and enable us to have a relationship with You and offer us an eternity with an absence of suffering. Reason no. 896 :)

Reason no. 895...

The house next door to us is a family home rather than a student flat. I love poking my head out of the bathroom window as thy have a beautiful garden with a little allotment patch! It's nice to be in a place with the mix of students but also families! Reason no. 895 :)

Reason no. 894...

Thank you God for all that You have done! I love seeing that there are 894 reasons to praise You! You keep giving, You keep reminding me of Your promises and revealing more of who You are! Thank You God that there is so much more to come!!! Reason no. 894 :) 

Reason no. 893...

I am thankful for coming from such a creative family! On our bookshelf we have a lovely card from my grandad that he drew/watercolour and a painting from my great-aunt and there's a space for one of Esther's wonderful creations! These people have such a talent with colour and shapes! Reason no. 893 :) 

Reason no. 892...

Thank you God that You honor those who are faithful with the little. God help me to use the little and the place I'm at now to be faithful to You with it all. Reason no. 892 :)

Reason no. 891...

Thank you God for giving David a job he enjoys and that he does really well. Reason no. 891 :)

Reason no. 890...

Thank you God that we get to know Your voice! You are not distant but welcome us into Your family. Thank you that You are our Father and You love to share things with Your children. You love sharing stories, You love to share Your wisdom and guide us! Reason no. 890 :)

Reason no. 889...

As I was watching a TV documentary this morning I was thinking how amazing it is that some people are so skilled at what they do and how they use that skill to be a blessing to those around them and pass the knowledge on! Reason no. 889 :)

Reason no. 888...

I had a wonderful evening with my old housemate at a lovely pub in Didsbury! It was so nice to catch up :) My house for the past 2 years has been such an incredible blessing. To be able to live with such good friends who draw out the best in me and the rest of the house is such an incredible environment! They all welcomed David in over the past year too and let him be 'one of the house' too! Reason no. 888 :)

Reason no. 887...

'Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.' (Hebrews 13:8)

You are unchanging - Your kindness, Your goodness, Your faithfulness, Your grace, Your peace, Your strength, Your power, Your love, Your rule and reign: all unchanging!!

Reason no. 887 :)

Reason no. 886...

Thank you God that You have said: "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." (Hebrews 13:5). Thank you God that 'all Your promises are yes and amen' - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EI22G5YpVds. You are the faithful God and how amazing that I can have such confidence in that!! Reason no. 886 :) 

Reason no. 885...

I am thankful for my new landlord. Every time I email a query or a problem I get a quick response and the problem is dealt with rapidly. Last year I had a problem with my bed and it took several months to be sorted, this time it took less than a week!! This landlord definitely knows how to look after her tenants! Reason no. 885 :)

Reason no. 884...

I love being on summer holidays and having baking ingredients already in the flat! This morning I made some bread rolls. Reason no. 884 :)

Reason no. 883...

'So I saw that there is nothing better for a person than to enjoy their work, because that is their lot.' Ecclesiastes 3:22

Work is where our time and energy go to. God I pray for new enjoyment as I study this coming year and enjoyment for the job I go into when I finish! Reason no. 883 :)

Reason no. 882...

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

Two are better than one,

    because they have a good return for their labor:

If either of them falls down,

    one can help the other up.

But pity anyone who falls

    and has no one to help them up.

 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.

    But how can one keep warm alone?

Though one may be overpowered,

    two can defend themselves.

A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

Thank you God for David and that I get to be a team with him! Thank you God that because You are the strand with us, the relationship is so much stronger! Reason no. 882 :)

Reason no. 881...

Thankful for having time to bake a chocolate chip banana loaf! :) 

Reason no. 881 :)

Reason no. 880...

Thank you God that: 'There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear' (1 John 4:18). Thank you God that Your love is perfect: patient, kind and keeping no record of wrongs. Thank you God that Your love displaces fear. Thank you God that Your love is for me and pursuing me! Reason no. 880 :)

Reason no. 879...

Thank you God that Your grace enables me to keep going.

Reason no. 879 :)

Reason no. 878...

Thank you God that You are the champion fighting for me! Thank you God that You are undefeatable! Your rule, Your reign and Your power shall never be overtaken for You are the champion!!!! Reason no. 878 :)

Reason no. 877...

Thank you God cupboards and drawers to hide mess and clutter away!!

Reason no. 877 :)

Reason no. 876...

Thank you God for rain after a stretch of days of heat and sunshine!

Reason no. 876 :)

Reason no. 875...

'Fear, Anxiety, Worry': a poem written a few years ago, but still so relevant.

Fear, anxiety, worry:

I hurl it over to You.

For the Spirit in me is:

power, love and sound-mind.

Fear no longer reigns,

but rather I trust in You.

With you on my side,

whom shall I fear?

Your love, grace, peace

is all inseparable of me.

Wherever I go

I cannot escape.

You go before and behind.

You protect my every step.

Every fear lined up to You

is a drop of water to the ocean -

it's minute and insignificant.

You are far greater!

You have claimed the victory!

Through fears and stresses

I stand upon You.

You are my Rock,

never shaking, never changing.

You are Peace

and that's what You offer me.

It transcends all understanding

and stands the test of time.

As I call out to You,

You'll not let me down.

You come to my rescue

and free me from all anxiety.

Reason no. 875 :)

Reason no. 874...

Thank you God that You enable the impossible to happen.

Reason no. 874 :)

Reason no. 873...

Thank you God that You always exceed expectations, You always fulfil Your promises and You are faithful in all that You do. Reason no. 873 :)

Reason no. 872...

Thank you God that You are the One who constantly provides. Yesterday I heard an amazing testimony of God's provision for someone to buy the flat they were renting! Reason no. 872 :)

Reason no. 871...

Thank you God that You are the One who protects and looks after Your children. Reason no. 871 :)

Reason no. 870...

This weekend our wedding photographer sent over our photos from the day! They look amazing and he captured the day so well. Reason no. 870 :)

Reason no. 869...

I am thankful for the journey from Horsham to Manchester only taking 5 hours, unlike the 7 hour journey down! Reason no. 869 :)

Reason no. 868...

This weekend I also got to spend time in Horsham and see people I spent the year with, which was so lovely! It also meant that David could meet some of them too :) Reason no. 868 :)

Reason no. 867...

Last weekend was so fantastic celebrating the marriage of my childhood's best friend!! It was a beautiful wedding and so much fun :) Plus it was so nice to catch up with her and her sister! Reason no. 867 :)

Reason no. 866...

Thank you God for the number of blessings You have placed in my life! Thank you that more are still to come! You are an incredibly good God!! Reason no. 866 :)

Reason no. 865...

Thank you God for pursuing me

Reason no. 865 :)

Reason no. 864...

'How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God.'

Hebrews 9:14

Christ's death does not just cancel the debt of sin but cleanses my conscience too!!! Reason no. 864 :)

Reason no. 863...

Thank you God that You are my Father who loves speaking and spending time with me, Your daughter! Reason no. 863 :)

Reason no. 862...

Yesterday me and David went shopping for things for the flat! So thankful for generous friends and family with the money and vouchers they gave us! Reason no. 862 :)

Reason no. 861...

Thank you God that our flat is in a quiet location - we could leave our window open all night to have no sound of traffic or noisy neighbours! Reason no. 861 :)

Reason no. 860...

I'm thankful for our landlord painting our flat whilst we were on our honeymoon! It looks so much lighter and fresher! Reason no. 860 :)

Reason no. 859...

Thank you God for a safe journey home yesterday from Windermere and that our flat is slowly coming together and beginning to feel more and more like home! Reason no. 859 :)

Reason no. 858...

'...He sacrificed for their sins once for all when he offered himself.' 

Hebrews 7:27

Thank you Jesus that Your sacrifice is enough and that it doesn't need to be repeated. Thank you Jesus that Your sacrifice deals with my sin: past, present and future. Reason no. 858 :)

Reason no. 857...

Next weekend my childhood best friend is getting married!!!! So excited to be travelling to Chichester to celebrate the day with her! Reason no. 857 :)

Reason no. 856...

Thank you God for great weather here in Windermere! The small moments of rain were far outweighed by wonderful sunshine and blue skies! Reason no. 856 :)

Reason no. 855...

Thank you God for a fantastic honeymoon with David, a time to relax after the busyness of wedding planning and to explore such a beautiful place together! Reason no. 855 :)

Reason no. 854...

...'We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where Jesus who went before us, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in order of Melchizedek.'

Hebrews 6:19-20

Thank you Jesus that You are the forerunner going into God's presence before us and preparing the way for us. Thank you for such security in this hope that will stand the calm and the storms.

Reason no. 854 :)

Reason no. 853...

Thank you God that I can approach the throne of grace with confidence (Hebrews 4:16).

Reason no. 853 :)

Reason no. 852...

'For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet was without sin.' Hebrews 4:15

Thank you Jesus that You are the high priest the One who offers a sacrifice for my sin. Thank you that You know what weakness and temptation is like and understand what life as a human is like too. Thank you Jesus that You are more than a high priest alone! You are God and You are Father.

Reason no. 852 :)

Reason no. 851...

Thank you God that Your word is 'living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.' ((Hebrews 4:12). Thank you God that Your word is not dead or passive. Thank you God that it is Your word, the One who is just, the One who knows all things, the One who is sovereign, the One who is powerful, the One who is loving and kind. Thank You God that You speak today and You are a relevant God. Reason no. 851 :)

Reason no. 850...

Thank you God that You speak joy, love, peace and grace over our marriage! Reason no. 850 :)

Reason no. 849...

I am thankful for my first holiday with David and getting to explore a new place together! I am excited for the many adventures that God has in store for us in the days, weeks, months and years to come! Reason no. 849 :)

Reason no. 848...

Thank you God that You reign with power and authority and that You are able to do all things! Thank You God that You are the God who is good and loving! Reason no. 848 :)

Reason no. 847...

Currently on my honeymoon surrounded by such wonderful scenery! It is so beautiful! God's creation speaks of His wonder, power and creativity! Reason no. 847 :)

Reason no. 846...

I am married! Last Saturday was our wedding day and it was so beautiful. We were blessed by so many people travelling over to celebrate the day with us and so many giving their time to help us - set-up/set-down, serving food, driving us around, arranging flowers and so much more! Friends served us so beautifully and made the day so wonderful! We were blessed by amazing generosity that outweighed anything we could have imagined! The day went beyond our expectations! God was so so so good to us!! Reason no. 846 :)

Reason no. 845...

Thank you God that 'there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death' (Romans 8:1-2). So amazing! Reason no. 845 :)

Reason no. 844...

Yesterday I went out for a meal with David to celebrate him graduating the course he completed this year. We went to a lovely Lebanese restaurant. I am thankful for living in a city where the nations all gather together and we can taste world foods within minutes from where I live! Reason no. 844 :)

Reason no. 843...

'For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry 'Abba, Father'. The spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children.' 

Romans 8:15-16

Reason no. 843 :)

Reason no. 842...

Outside my window is a telephone line and when it rains the raindrops all trickle down one by one. It's really fascinating to watch despite it being really simple. God reminded me of the value of the simple and how that is truly beautiful to Him. When I live to please Him in the everyday things and decisions that is what puts a smile on His face! Reason no. 842 :)

Reason no. 841...

Having had a really bad and painful gum for several days, I'm thankful that I managed to get an emergency dentist appointment yesterday to put my mind at ease that it is only my wisdom teeth moving around and being given advice about what to do! Reason no. 841 :)

Reason no. 840...

Thankful for coming home and having sky TV and just being able to relax with the family! It is definitely one thing I really enjoy about coming home  :) Reason no. 840 :)

Reason no. 839...

Yesterday I was offered a morning to shadow a speech and language therapist (SLT) in Ashford in one of the local high schools. It was a really positive experience and loved seeing how SLTs work with teenagers! Reason no. 839 :) 

Reason no. 838...

I had a lovely time away camping with Gateway Church Ashford :) It was nice to have a break from wedding related things and instead play games and eat yummy food! I am grateful for growing up with this church family! Reason no. 838 :) 

Reason no. 837...

Today I am heading back to Manchester and I get to see my wonderful fiance after over 3 weeks of not seeing him! Reason no, 837 :)

Reason no. 836...

In the story of Jesus calming the storm (Mark 4:35-40) we see the disciples being scared and panicking about the storm but meanwhile Jesus is sleeping peacefully and then calms the storm. In the midst of the pressure (storm) Jesus rested and then afterwards dealt with it by standing on the authority God had entrusted with him (Rooted: Banning Liebscher).

God help me to rest in You in the midst of stresses and pressures and understand the authority You have given me. I do not want to live out of a place of fear.

Reason no. 836 :)

Reason no. 835...

So thankful that You are the God who speaks! I'm so grateful for You opening up the opportunity for David to study this coming year and watching David step into what You have for him! Reason no. 835 :)

Reason no. 834...

Thank you God that I passed one of my assignments this summer (still waiting for 2 more results). In the busyness of everything You got me through!! Reason no. 834 :)

Reason no. 833...

Reading 'Rooted' by Banning Liebscher has been such an encouragement and God has used it to speak directly into what I'm facing and thinking about! (All taken from this book either quoted or summarized.)

Recently I've been thinking about whether I should be a lot further along in my walk with God than I am. And there was some advice!!! 'Stop being in such a hurry to get to the inner place of anointing and take time to die in the outer court.' 'As New Covenant believers, the outer court symbolizes our call to offer our lives as living sacrifices and renew our minds so we can learn to do the will of God. It represents sanctification and character formation - learning to die in the flesh and walk in the Spirit. The inner court represents our priestly ministry - ministering to God through worship and intercession, and ministering to others through teaching and preaching.' 

It's ok to go slow to thrive in the process and allows the roots to be well developed. To finish the race, the pace needs to be set for the long haul not just the beginning.

If  I'm not there, it's because He doesn't want me there yet!

Reason no. 833 :)

Reason no. 832...

Thank you God for Psalm 1:2-3

But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his promises he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.

Thank you God that as we read Your word fruit will follow in season. This is encouraging as it is ok that the fruit may not have come yet as there are different seasons for different fruit!

Reason no. 832 :)

Reason no. 831...

It has been nice to be back home for the past week and spend time with my family (including my dad's cousin and her husband from New Zealand)! This weekend we explored Dover Castle and went on a walk in the woods! Thank you God for placing me in the family You have placed me! Reason no. 831 :)

Reason no. 830...

Less than a month and I get to marry David!!! Coming back home I have realised just how much my mum has done towards it and for that I am truly grateful! The time she has given and the details she has taken care of has meant that less pressure has been on me and David. I am so thankful for my amazing mum! Reason no. 830 :)

Reason no. 829...

Thank you God for a lovely time yesterday with David's brother and his fiance. Reason no. 829 :)

Reason no. 828...

Thank you God that I am a part of a university that loves carrying out research and that means I can get paid to do little studies and learn at the same time! Reason no. 828 :)

Reason no. 827...

Thank you God that You are the One who is abundantly good in every season - You provide for me! Reason no. 827 :)

Reason no. 826...

Thank you God for sustaining me, thank you for putting breath in my lungs, thank you for waking me up each morning and giving me strength for each day. Reason no. 826 :)

Reason no. 825...

'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these.' Mark 10:14

I love how much value God places on children and how He has so much more for them than I imagine.This morning I read the introduction of a book and was just amazed at how much God has for them. 'He has not given them a Junior Holy Ghost' - children have the same Spirit in them so there is no reason for them not to be hearing God speak to them, healing the sick, seeing the Gospel taken to the nations. 

Reason no. 825 :)

Reason no. 824...

How much of what I say and do is rooted in Christian culture around me rather than the authentic culture of Christ's kingdom? (Jennifer Toledo) 

If Christian culture was replaced by the culture of Christ's kingdom a shift would happen that takes the limitations off and releases the power of God in a way that will see nations transformed as we allow God to have greater control and a faith that expects our expectations to be exceeded 10 fold, 100 fold, 1000 fold. 

God will You show me where I have limited myself to Christian culture and will You break it down so that a new culture can be built.

Reason no. 824 :)

Reason no. 823...

4 months off for summer - so much opportunity, one that might not come around again!! I woke up this morning being reminded of promises God had spoken a few years back and how this season of rest can be a time to pick up things I'd let go of in the busyness of studying! Reason no. 823 :)

Reason no. 822...

49 days to the wedding!!!! :) So thankful for God providing me with David. He is such an incredible blessing, who has seen me in my most stressful and grumpiness state these past few weeks and yet still wanted to spend time with me and make me smile! Reason  no. 822 :)

Reason no. 821...

'Transforming your mind means taking each thought to trial.'

Reason no. 821 :)

Reason no. 820...

Thank you God for providing a discounted ticket for a conference I really wanted to go to! Instead of £25 it was only £7! How amazing! You provide in the little, so faithful You will be in the big. Reason on. 820 :)

Reason no. 819...

Thank you God for getting me through 3rd year! Thank you for answering prayers yesterday - You put me with a lovely group of students who I could do my presentation with, I remembered what I wanted to say and came away positive. I have no idea what the result was, but it went so much better than I imagined it could have been! Thank you God!! Your blessings are relentless!! Reason no. 819 :)

Reason no. 818...

Thank you God that You are for me, defending me, cheering me on and helping me to get over the finish line for this year's final exam. Reason no. 818 :)

Reason no. 817...

"When people hear about what God used to do, one of the things they say is: “Oh, that was very long while ago,”…I thought it was God that did it. Has God changed? Is he not the an immutable God, the same yesterday, today and forever? Does not that furnish an argument to prove that what God has done at one time he can do at another? Nay, I think I may push it a little further, and say what he has done once, is a prophecy of what he intends to do again…Whatever God has done…is to be looked upon as a precedent…[Let us] with earnestness seek that God would restore to us the faith of the men of old, that we may richly enjoy his grace as in the days of old.” 

Charles Spurgeon

He has done many things before, so why should it not happen again?! He is generous in all that He does and has no limit to the things that He can do! 

Reason no. 817 :)

Reason no. 816...

Thank you God that You care about me and my stress!

As I’m panicking about my presentation on Thursday a couple of ladies from America (over visiting one of the local churches) are praying for Manchester and  knock on the door and offer to pray for my exam and my wedding!

Thank you God that in the midst of the stress You bring encouragement!

Reason no. 816 :)

Reason no. 815...

Thank you God that You say:

'I will fulfil the promised spoken,

breathe life onto dampened dreams

and restore hope that has been broken.'

Reason no. 815 :)

Reason no. 814...

'Thank you God that I am no longer a slave to fear, but I am a child of God!'

Thank you God that fear of failure, fear of disappointing, fear of not being good enough is triumphed through Jesus dying on the cross. Thank you God for making me a new creation: one that is Your daughter and someone who has Christ the anointed One living in me. 

Reason no. 814 :)

Reason no. 813...

Thank you God that You speak and that You speak directly to Your children. Thank you God that I can come speak to You any time, any day and You listen. Reason no. 813 :)

Reason no. 812...

 You are the First and the Last,

time sits with You,

You put the hours in the day,

and the days in the week.

You placed me in this moment

throughout history and location

and You knew what You were doing.

I can stand here knowing:

that You are God -

loving me, saving me, treasuring me.

You work things together for good,

with You I can triumph over stress,

triumph over fear and insecurity.

Reason no. 812 :)

Reason no. 811...

Thank you God for sleep and for rest! 

Reason no. 811 :)

Reason no. 810...

Thankfulness triumphs over uncertainty and insecurity,

Raising you above your circumstance,

 Resetting your perspective, 

shifting your agenda

Including Him into the picture - 

suddenly, in a moment, everything changes.

He is the God of the impossible,

The One who can do all things,

He's the One who calms the storm,

calming the chaotic heart,

He brings peace,

He is the refuge who is a strong fortress,

He is the cornerstone,

The unshakeable One.

Let praise rise!

Reason no. 810 :)

Reason no. 809...

You are my strength and my song -

cheering me on in the midst of the hard-times,

You are my encourager and my comforter -

never once leaving me or forsaking me,

You are my fortress and my refuge -

I can come and find rest,

You are my hope and delight -

Your presence is full of unending joy.

Today, I come running into Your courts,

Your arms are wide open,

You're beckoning me in,

How could I refuse my Father and my King?

You've seen me with all my baggage

and yet You love me the same.

What love, what grace!

More than I deserve!

Reason no. 809 :)

Reason no. 808...

You are so wonderful Jesus, You captivate my heart and save me by your grace! 

There is always such kindness!

(Bethel)

Yes Jesus!!! You are so much greater! Why do I choose to cut You out in the midst of the stress? There's such peace and such joy to be found in You.

Reason no. 808 :)

Reason no. 807...

Thank you God that You love me right where I am.

Reason no. 807 :)

Reason no. 806...

In a weeks time I will have made it through 3 years of my degree!!!! 

Reason no. 806 :)

Reason no. 805...

Thank You God for waking up early so I have more time to spend with You rather than 5 minutes on my way to uni! Reason no. 805 :)

Reason no. 804...

Thank You God that You've given me enough time to get my presentation done and enough time to do it well. You are the God of the impossible and the One who is my strength! Reason no. 804 :)

Reason no. 803...

Thank You God that I can choose joy each day! I don't have to write myself into a stressful day! Reason no. 803 :)

Reason no. 802...

Thank You God for Your outrageous grace. Thank You God that I do not have to be perfect to come to You - I can come in my weakness and You still love me! Reason no. 802 :)

Reason no. 801...

"The young lions suffer want and hunger; but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing" 

Psalm 34:10 

Reason no. 801 :)

Reason no. 800...

Church today! I am thankful for having the opportunity to worship God freely! Reason no. 800 :)

Reason no. 799...

Yesterday I had a evening in with some of my housemates: a film and a Chinese! I am thankful for the housemates I've had for the past 2 years! It's amazing to see them all go onto exciting things this summer - getting jobs, moving to new cities, starting their placement years! Reason no. 799 :)

Reason no. 798...

I'm grateful for good weather! The sun is shining and it is warm :) Reason no. 798 :)

Reason no. 797...

Last weekend was my hen-do! My housemates planned a wonderful day! We went to the spa and had a wonderful lunch then played games and had cocktails (which they names based on me and David!) in the evening! It was really great: my family came up and had lots of my favorite people around me for the day! Reason no. 797 :)

Reason no. 796...

This week God reminded me of the importance of taking 'every thought captive'. When I get tired and stressed with work, it's so easy to get caught up in lies that: 'I won't get my work done on time', 'I can't do it', 'I can't give my best as there's too much too' etc etc etc....but NO! All of the above aren't true: 'I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me' (Philippians 4:13) and I can be at peace in the chaos of deadline: 'the Lord gives strength to his people and the Lord blesses His people with peace' (Psalm 30:11). Reason no. 796 :)

Reason no. 795...

In less than 2 weeks, I will have completed 3/4 years of my degree!! It's amazing to think that through coming up to Manchester I got to meet my soon-to-be husband!!! God knew the whole picture! Reason no. 795 :)

Reason no. 794...

Thank you God that You will provide next year. It's slightly scary having no idea where the money will come from, but You will provide. Thank You God for the anonymous financial gift David got a few weeks ago. Thank you God that every mission trip I have been on You have perfectly met the amount needed, or even exceeded! Thank You God that on my volunteering gap year, I broke even for the whole year - You provided perfectly. Thank you God for the past 3 years of my degree, You have provided. Thank God for the flat me and David have for next year, it's half rent over summer - a huge blessing! Thank You God!! You will provide like You have already have done! Reason no. 794 :)

Reason no. 793...

Thank you God that You will provide. Thank you God that back in 2008 you said that I would have grants enabling me to have a good education. Thank you God that right now I am walking in that promise. Thank you God that I am on a course which has my tuition fees paid for and a grant to support my day-to-day living. Thank you God that You knew when and what I would be studying. Reason no. 793 :)

Reason no. 792...

'Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway.' 

Proverbs 8:34

Thank you God that You promise blessing over those who listen and seek you each day. Help me God as I want to see Your blessings on my life, my relationships, my future marriage, my community, my church and my studies.

Reason no. 792 :)

Reason no. 791...

"Listen to testimonies, share them- you'll change the atmosphere where you live...Testimonies are important because they are stories, stories of God’s nature. They reveal His heart, they reveal His person, they reveal what He values."

Bill Johnson

Reason no. 791 :)

Reason no. 790...

'I will search for the lost and bring back the strays. I will bind up the injured and strengthen the weak...' 
Ezekiel 34:16 

Thank you God for this promise! 
Reason no. 790 :)

Reason no. 789...

Thank you God for Your promises!

'I will make them and the places surrounding my hill a blessing. I will send down showers in season; there will be showers of blessing.'

Ezekiel 34:26

Thank you God that where I live, there will be blessing over the area surrounding me and that includes the people! Thank you God for the small amount of time I'm still in my house, blessings can still be counted. Thank you God that as I move to my new flat, You will bring blessing in that area!! Thank you God that You have great things in store for that community and our neighbors! I pray that You will grow a heart for them! Reason no. 789 :)

Reason no. 788...

Yesterday I met up with my old youth leader and youth group! It was so encouraging! It was so great to see what God was doing and where God has taken us all, then hearing where we think God is taking us over the next couple of years! Reason no. 788 :)

Reason no.787...

Thank you God for having 3 weeks off uni before going back for 6 weeks and then 3rd year is done!! Reason no. 787 :)

Reason no. 786...

Thank you God for getting lots of wedding stuff sorted this week. Thank you for putting some amazing people around us who have offered help so far! They have been a huge blessing! Reason no. 786 :) 

Reason no. 785...

Thank you God that I have been adopted as your daughter. As a gentile I have been grafted into the olive tree of Israel (Romans) and consequently have Jewish roots that go back to Abraham. Like Israel in Egypt, I have been taken out of slavery (under Satan's dominion) and have become God's beloved child and a co-heir with Christ! Reason no. 785 :)

Reason no. 784...

Thank you God that what is true of Jesus is true of me!

Reason no. 784 :)

Reason no. 783...

'Thankfulness is the light switch to peace. It is incompatible with anxiety.'

Reason no. 783 :)

Reason no. 782...

Thank you God that in Christ I am a saint! Thank you that I am washed, sanctified (set apart) and justified (declared not guilty). Thank you God I am not a sinner who tries to do good things but a saint who sometimes gets things wrong. Thank you for making me a saint! Reason no. 782 :)

Reason no. 781...

Thank you God that I am never too dry to be blessed by You! Reason no. 781 :)

Reason no. 780...

Today is mother's day...I'm so thankful for my amazing mum! She is so kind, caring, loving, creative and helpful! She does a lot for me - always cooked me nice food, did my washing, gave me lifts, helped me with all my homework and now is an amazing help with planning the wedding :) One thing I really appreciate is having someone I could always come home to and share my day with and who was always there whether I was smiling or in tears. I'm so grateful for having such a wonderful and talented mum! Reason no. 780 :)

Reason no. 779...

Just over 4 months and I get to marry the very lovely David!! Reason no. 779 :)

Reason no. 778...

Thank you God for the past couple of weekends: one in Somerset meeting David's grandparents and one in Blackpool with the Navigators. It's been a blessing to get away and make the most of having free time! Reason no. 778 :)

Reason no. 777...

Thank you God that I passed all my exams this semester! Reason no. 777 :)

Reason no. 776...

Jeremiah 10:12-14

'But God made the earth by his power; he founded the world by his wisdom and stretched out the heavens by his understanding. When he thunders, the waters in the heavens roar; he makes clouds rise from the ends of the earth. He sends lightening with the rain and brings wind from his storehouses.'

Reason no. 776 :)

Reason no. 775...

Jeremiah 9:24...

'..."but let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth", for in these I delight, declares the Lord.'

Reason no. 775 :)

Reason no. 774...

Thank you God for a good night's sleep, that I can wake up restored and that I had a nice bed to sleep on in a warm room! Reason no. 774 :)

Reason no. 773...

Yesterday I got to spend the afternoon with my parents as they came up to visit me! So good to see them and spend time with them :) Reason no. 773 :)

Reason no. 772...

Yesterday we had a lovely evening as a house and played risk! I am thankful for my house! Reason no. 772 :)

Reason no. 771...

Thank you God that 'painful praise has the potential to release spiritual  'earthquake' power from God into all kinds of situations, so that chains fall off people and dark places get shaken by the radiant presence of God'. Reason no. 771 :)

Reason no. 770...

Thank you God for rest. Thank you God that it is what you modelled at the beginning of creation. I thank you that I get to rest today! Reason no. 770 :) 

Reason no. 769...

My parents are coming to visit this weekend - yay!! :) 

Reason no. 769 :)

Reason no. 768...

'I will proclaim the name of the Lord. Oh, praise the greatness of our God! He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he.'

 Deuteronomy 32: 3-4

Reason no. 768 :)

Reason no. 767...

Today I get to spend the day with my wonderful fiance! :) 

Reason no. 767 :)

Reason no. 766...

'The Lord will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the Lord your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom.' 

Deuteronomy 28:13 

Reason no. 766 :)

Reason no. 765...

Thank You God that You define what success is...and that it is a far better way than I know it to be! Having Christ in me makes me a success and that means that all things are possible. I thank You that I will never be limited by what exam grades I have because You are the God who has the power to raise the dead, yet cares about the details of my life. Reason no. 765 :)

Reason no. 764....

Psalm 37:23-24

'If the Lord delights in a man's ways, he makes his steps firm; though he stumbles he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.'

Thank you God! Reason no. 764 :)

Reason no. 763...

My final exam is today at 11am!! Then one and a half hours later I will have made it through the  most stressful part of my degree so far! Yayyyyyy! Reason no. 763 :)

Reason no. 762...

Thank you God that You will give the words I need for my presentation tomorrow and You will give me enough time to get it all finished and learnt. You will give me peace and You will be my strength. Reason no. 762 :)