Category: Christian faith

Bible, Christian blog, Christian faith, Christian Writer, Devotional thought, Jesus, The Word of God

BECOMING AS A CHILD

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My granddaughter is 2 and a half years old. She is growing up quickly and is developing her own little character. Sweet, gentle, caring, curious, and feisty at times. She is a delight to spend time with, a real joy – and I don’t think I am biased! She is so grown up that she has recently started to come to Nana’s house on her own, without her big brother who is now at school every day.

Play with me

What that does mean is that when she comes, everything else I was hoping to do that day will have to be put aside. ‘Play with me’ she will demand, and boldly walk away to where the toys are, expecting me to follow. It doesn’t enter her head that I might refuse to play with her. Of course I won’t! She knows that. I want to enjoy her company and if that means getting down to her level I will.

Lowering myself

And it might mean literally getting down to her level. Lowering my aging stiff body onto the carpeted floor, laying down and propping myself on an elbow, or sitting with my legs bent awkwardly beneath me. Getting low enough to engage with the lego, or the jigsaw, or the play cars, or the plastic food. I have to lower my expectations too, put aside my level of maturity and understanding, to be present with her in her imaginative games.

What use would it be to suggest a 1000-piece jigsaw, when she can only manage a 24 piece? What nonsense to suggest a complicated board game, when she can only just about play animal dominos? Those might be the things that I would prefer to do, but they are too adult for her. Becoming as a child means just that. I have to put aside my adult experience, knowledge and understanding, lower myself to be able to play her games and enjoy her company. I can teach her things as we play, but only things that are appropriate for her level of understanding.

Jesus blesses the children

I was thinking about this as I read Luke 18 : 15-17 recently. It is the passage where mothers bring their children to Jesus to be blessed and are turned away by the disciples. But Jesus won’t have it – He wants the children to come to Him. He wants to bless them and be in their company. We don’t know what He said, whether He laughed with them, played with them even. In Mark’s gospel we are told He took them in His arms and held them. (Mark 10:13-16) What a beautiful picture that is! I am sure He lowered Himself to their level somehow.

But it is what He said that resonated with me,

‘Let the little children come to Me and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.’             Luke 18:16 -17 NKJV

In Matthew’s account He adds this,

‘Therefore, whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.’ Matt 18:4 NKJV

Becoming as a child

When I think about how I have to adjust myself in order to get down to my granddaughter’s level, what Jesus said about being a part of His kingdom makes a lot of sense to me. He doesn’t want me to be childish, that is not what ‘becoming as a child’ means. He just wants me to follow His example. He who lowered Himself from heaven’s splendour to walk our sorry world. He who was willing to come down to our level, so that He could be in our company – for eternity.

Nothing compared to Him

When it comes to His kingdom, all that I think I know, however learned I am, is nothing compared to what He knows and wants to reveal to me. He wants to spend time with me, show me more of the things that are important for me to understand. That requires me to be willing to humble myself, to lower myself, to not rely on, or be proud of my own abilities and knowledge. To even put aside all the things I think I can do for Him. He wants me to have a child- like trust, that He knows better than I do, and that I am safe with Him. He might even want to change the way I think, alter the things I thought I knew. He has much to teach me.

Do I want to be ‘great in the kingdom of heaven’? I am not sure I even know what that looks like. But I do want to be pleasing to the King. I do want to spend quality time in His company. I do want to learn His ways above my own. If that means becoming as a child for that to happen, that seems a small price to pay.

Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power.

She has also written two non-fiction devotionals. More information on Joy, and her books can be found here

The Healing
The Pilgrim
The Bride
The Stranger
Christ Illuminated, an advent devotional
Because of the cross: a lent devotional
Christian faith, Christian Writer, Devotional thought, Healing

GOD IS IN THE BOAT

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We have recently come home from a boating holiday and it was a mixed blessing. Canal boating definitely has a way of bringing out the best and the worst in people!  We booked the trip weeks ago, not long after the loss of my parents, as something for us to look forward to. A break away, just for my husband and I, an attempt to have a nice restful time, space to relax and recuperate, to reconnect with each other.

Phot of the bow of a canal boat entering an open canal lock

Canal boating is not relaxing! Well, it is, in that the pace of life definitely slows, but unless you are actually moored up all of the time, getting a heavy boat from A to B, with the wind and water flow often fighting against you, is hard physical work! Especially for novices. And stressful. Very stressful at times.

But we saw some amazing sights, encountered wildlife up close and personal, learnt some new skills, navigated beautiful waterways, and actually really enjoyed ourselves. And weathered a 36-hour storm with gale force winds whilst we were at it!

Safe in the boat

God has been talking to me about boats a lot recently. A few months ago, when I felt all my anchor points had been ripped out, when life was so confusing and the future so uncertain, He gave me a picture of a lifeboat in a storm. A dear friend shared what she felt God had shown her for me. That we had been on a big ocean liner (think the Titanic), but we had been forced to jump ship. This was God’s plan for us, and the lifeboat was a safe place for us to be, even if the sea was stormy and scary. The little boat wasn’t heading in any particular direction, and was being thrown about by the waves, but we were safe in it, because it was where He wanted us to be, and He was with us. At the time I found this strangely comforting.

The sail of hope

And then a few weeks ago, a couple of months after we had said goodbye to mum, and we were beginning to re-adjust to a more normal way of living again, God gave me another boat picture. This one was a literal picture – a painting on the wall of a cottage where we had gone to stay for a few days. It showed a small sailing dingy with figures in it. The waves were still choppy, and the little boat was being tossed, but the difference this time was that the boat had a sail up, and someone was holding onto the tiller. The boat was going somewhere. I felt God reassure me this time, that the sail was hope, and the wind was His Spirit. That although life still felt unsure, and stormy at times, that He was in control. That little wind filled sail filled me with hope and expectation. Things were moving on.

Image of a painting of a small sailing dingy on a choppy sea

Slower is quicker

The week on the canal boat has spoken to me too, in so many ways. A narrowboat is hard to steer. In fact, the faster you go, the harder they are to control. You have to be moving forward, the boat engine in gear, in order to be able to steer, but we learnt very quickly that we would get into a real mess if we tried to go faster than snail’s pace! As The Boating Handbook advises, ‘slower is quicker’.

I went away on that holiday with high expectations of having the time and space to think, pray and write. It didn’t happen. I was so tired before we even stepped on the boat, and the sheer hard work involved in driving the craft, navigating bridges, locks and tunnels, made me even more exhausted. When we moored up, we ate and we slept! I was so frustrated by this, itching to get started on another book. But God had other plans. This was not the time for that. I was going too fast. I needed to slow down and let Him steer.

Safe in the boat with Him

I am still healing, from loss and grief, on so many fronts. I need more time – He needs more time with me. He knows when I will be ready to write fiction again, but I cannot rush it. That would be disastrous. And in the meantime, I am writing – this blog, that I hope will bless its readers!

Maybe you are going through a stormy season, when the winds blow strong and cold, or perhaps it feels like your moorings are coming loose? If so, I hope that perhaps my boat pictures might encourage you. Boats are safe when the person handling them knows what they are doing! So, if you feel you are in the storm-tossed lifeboat, the plucky little sailing dingy, or the lumbering, slow canal boat, remember the Captain has you. You can trust Him. Just stay in the boat with Him and listen for His voice to reassure you. Let Him steer and let Him set the pace.

Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power.

She has also written two non-fiction devotionals. More information on Joy, and her books can be found here

Bible, Christian blog, Christian faith, Christian Writer, Devotional thought, Seasons of life, The Word of God

HE KNOWS BETTER THAN I

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It’s been a while since I have felt inspired to write anything that might possibly bless anyone. It has been a season where I have felt unable to share much, due to the weight of grief, loss and uncertainty that has marked it.

Then today I heard God whisper to me. I have heard Him whisper many words of comfort and encouragement during the last few months. In my spirit, through His word, through the kindness of others. But today I think He meant me to share what He said to me, with you.

Joseph’s prison

I was prompted to think about the life of Joseph ( the one with the coloured coat, not the earthly father of Jesus) by a Kingdom Story Writers Facebook post. It was a writing challenge on the biblical character, and my immediate reaction was, as it has been for months, to dismiss it. To inwardly say, ‘…not for me. This isn’t a writing season. Let others respond.’ But it seemed that God had other ideas.

The thing that came back to my memory was a scene from the animated film ‘Joseph: King of Dreams’. I haven’t watched it for years, not since my own children were small. But I vaguely remembered Joseph in his dungeon prison in Egypt, wrongly accused by Potiphar’s wife.  There in the prison was a shoot of a dead branch, with one live leaf. As Joseph sings (‘You know better than I’), we see him support and tend that feeble shoot and leaf, and as time passes that sprig turns into a rooted, fully flourishing tree, under the single shaft of light above him.

There is still a glimmer of hope

I knew God was speaking to me. When we feel like life has thrown us into the darkest of places, where we feel alone, stripped of the familiar and unsure of the future. When it seems that life as we knew it has ended –  there is still hope. It might only be the smallest glimmer of hope, but we need to tend and protect it. We need to let it take root and grow in our hearts. Knowing that God really does have a greater plan for our lives, as He did for Joseph.

Photo image of a pair of hands holding a seedling rooted in soil, against a green, light filled background

Giving it back to God

Watching the video clip again today (YouTube link) the words of the song touched me deeply. It is a declaration of trust in the most hopeless seeming circumstances. It is an acknowledgement that sometimes we have to give up our own understanding, and just give it all back to Him

…to see the best that I can do, Is put my trust in You.

For You know better than I, You know the way.

I’ve let go the need to know why, For you know better than I.

A personal word

But it wasn’t just hope and trust that God was speaking to me about. It was something much more personal. This is what He said to me,

Take what you have, what I have given you, even in this season. That gift that feels shrivelled and barely there. Tend it, pray over it, hold it in your heart, and then watch in grow and develop. Because what was rooted in the darkest place, what just started as a glimmer of hope, of a life beyond, will grow into something glorious, life-filled and fruit bearing. Even in the dark places my light finds a way. Even where there seems no easy way out, I am still working behind the scenes. There is more for you. I never abandoned Joseph. I will never abandon you.

I knew God was speaking, in part, about my writing. I need to not abandon the gift He has given me, but where it feels feeble and barely alive, to tend it, and hold it out to His light. So I listened, and today I wrote this. I pray that His light and truth will bring it alive as you read it.

He knows better than I

Joseph’s story ends well – you can read it all in Genesis chapters 37-50. He becomes more than he could ever imagine, and God uses him to miraculously save millions of people, his family included. Now we may not all become people of influence and status, we may not all do incredible things that change the course of history, but God does have a big plan for each of our lives if we choose to trust Him. A good and perfect plan, better than we can possibly imagine. He knows why we have had to walk the difficult paths and where they might lead. He knows better than you, and He knows better than I.

Photo of a desert landscape with the words of Jeremiah 29:11 and Genesis 50:20 imposed.

Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021.

‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022, and her third novel, ‘The Bride‘, published on 20th October 2023. ‘The Stranger‘, her fourth full length novel was published 22 November 2024 by Broad Place Publishing.

Her first non-fiction book, an Advent Devotional, ‘Christ Illuminated‘ was published in September 2023 and her latest 40 day devotional, ‘Because of the Cross‘ was published 7 February 2025

More information on Joy, and her books can be found here

Bible, Christian blog, Christian faith, Devotional thought, The Word of God

BETWEEN THE OLD AND THE NEW

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Have you noticed snowdrops appearing from the cold hard frosted earth? Winter is coming to an end, finally, and spring will surely follow. From what appears dead, new life appears. The seasons of earth reflect the seasons of our lives.

Photograph of snowdrops appearing from a frost covered soil

LETTING GO

Personally, we are in what I guess you could describe as a grieving season. We are grieving the loss of precious loved ones, but also experiencing upheaval in other ways. Huge change is happening, things that we thought were foundational to our lives are being swept away, It is a time of questioning and pain as we work through letting go of the familiar and moving into a place of uncertainty.

One of my favourite promise verses in the Old Testament that I have gone back to many times over my lifetime is Jeremiah 29:11

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord,

thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.                                                                                                                                                                                            NKJV

JEREMIAH IN CONTEXT

This year I have been reading through the book of Jeremiah. It hasn’t been easy at times! The prophet Jeremiah had it tough, really tough. Called to deliver a crushing message heralding the death knells of Judah, (all that remained of God’s once great Kingdom of Israel) he experienced depression, grief and constant persecution. Still he was obedient to speak as God asked him to.

Reading Jeremiah 29:11 in context has brought it into new light for me. A few chapters earlier God had told the people, through the prophet, that Babylonian exile was going to be an inevitability, God had orchestrated it. But that there was hope – if they chose to go into exile willingly and not resist – then He would protect them. Those who did not heed the warnings and stayed, would suffer and die.[1]

A LETTER FROM GOD’S HEART

It seems that many did indeed chose to go willingly into exile – this would have included Daniel, Ezekiel, and many other God-fearing men and women. So in chapter 29 God tells Jeremiah to write the exiles a letter – from His heart. Settle in Babylon, He tells them, build homes, plant crops, grow your families – I want you to prosper. Bless the land you live in, seek it’s peace, because then you will be at peace. Don’t listen to those who say your exile won’t last long – I have my plans and they are for 70 years of exile.

Jeremiah 29: 11 was a promise to those who had lost everything. Refugees, they were dragged away, leaving their homes, jobs, friends and maybe even family. Everything familiar had been ripped away, the old gone. These are grieving, hurting people. But God tells them  – I haven’t forgotten you, or any of the promises I have made. You are still in my thoughts. You still have a destiny, a future full of hope in Me. I have not and will not abandon you.

Image of a water-colour painting of flowers in a field in shades of blue and green, with the text of Jeremiah 29:11 super imposed on it.

GOD IS THINKING OF US

He goes in in verses 11-14 to remind them that He will always be available to them. They will pray and He will hear, they will seek Him and find Him. In The Passion Translation, v14 has these words ‘I will not disappoint you’ and ‘all that you have lost, I will restore.’

God’s very personal letter of comfort and hope, from His heart to the people He loved, speaks just as loudly to us today. We may feel a little lost in that area between the old and the new, but He is with us, constantly available. He sees our grief, He knows the hard season we are in, but His heart for us is to prosper us and give us an amazing future in Him. We have a destiny, a new thing to walk in, and in His timing, He will take our hands and lead us into it, restoring all that we have lost.

Spring will always follow winter.

Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021.

‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022, and her third novel, ‘The Bride‘, published on 20th October 2023. Her first non-fiction book, an Advent Devotional, ‘Christ Illuminated‘ was published in September 2023.

‘The Stranger‘, her fourth full length novel was published 22 November 2024 by Broad Place Publishing.

More information on Joy, and her books can be found here

[1] Jeremiah 22:8-10

Christian faith, Christian Writer, Seasons of life

HIS HARNESS OF LOVE

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I haven’t written much lately; I haven’t felt able to, for many reasons. I definitely wasn’t intending to write anything today, New Year’s Day 2025, but God had other ideas.

The promise

This time last year I wrote a blog about the promise God had given me for 2024. How it was going to be an extra-ordinary year that I would look back on with wonder.

It has been an incredible year. Most notably with the launch of Kingdom Story Writers and the way that has flourished, not to mention the publication of novel #4, The Stranger, an accompanying short story, The Widow, and a certain award nomination.

However the promise last year also spoke of uncertain times, stony paths, but of a hand that was there to hold mine and keep me safe from the crashing waves.

The One who is faithful

2024 has been tough, particularly the latter part of the year. There are things that we have had to face that have shaken our foundations, threatened to trip us up in our faith walk, caused deep grief and pain.

He who promises is faithful. He has held my hand, as I have gripped tightly to His.

The need to hear His voice

As I came before Him today and reviewed last year with Him, I could see so many instances of His goodness, His faithfulness and His provision. I am so thankful! But I also needed to hear from Him again, as we face what could be a really difficult year.

He didn’t let me down. This is what He whispered to my soul as I gazed out at a rough, wave crashing sea and heard the wind whistle outside my window.

The wind will blow but your house will stand. The waves will crash but not overwhelm. In all things you will see my hand and hear my voice. Your foundations are stronger than you think. Your faith holds fast even when it feels like it is slipping through your hands. I have you, beloved. The rope might be rough and wet and slippery, and you may feel like your grip is weak, but look down. My rope harness holds you and I will not let you fall. Let me hold you, beloved. Trust my ability to hold you, over your ability to hold on to me. Let me be the strong one.

As I heard those words I had a really clear picture of me hanging off a cliff in a storm, with my hands around an old hemp rope, thinking that I had to hold on to save myself from falling, and yet feeling my grip gradually slipping. Even as my hands failed to hold onto the rope, I did not fall. I was tied tightly into a harness that easily took my weight, and on the cliff top above me stood the One whose grip will never fail.

My Hiding Place

I turned, comforted, to the scriptures and read Psalm 32.

This is the promise from v 6-7

For this cause everyone who is godly shall pray to You
In a time when You may be found;
Surely in a flood of great waters
They shall not come near him.
You are my hiding place;
You shall preserve me from trouble;
You shall surround me with songs of deliverance. Selah

I’ll take that for 2025.

Perhaps you can take it too.

Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021.

‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022, and her third novel, ‘The Bride‘, published on 20th October 2023. Her first non-fiction book, an Advent Devotional, ‘Christ Illuminated‘ was published in September 2023.

‘The Stranger‘, her fourth full length novel was published 22 November 2024 by Broad Place Publishing.

More information on Joy, and her books can be found here

Bible, Christian blog, Christian faith, Christian Writer, christmas, Devotional thought, Jesus, Lessons from life

JOY AND PAIN

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At the beginning of last month we had a fabulous family day out. So full of joy! We took the children and the grandchildren and visited a stunning country estate, with lush green lawns, hidden gardens, views of mountains and water, and a house full of fascinating history. The sun shone, the ice-creams were delicious, and we all enjoyed it very much. The day after I struggled to move from my bed.

That is the nature of the chronic condition I live with. I can do some of the things that I want to do, I can push myself to live a ‘normal’ life, I can spend a whole day out with my family and walk far more than I usually do. But there is always payback. This time around the payback lasted for some days, and it was painful – both physically and emotionally.

Photo of a family with three adults and two small children walking down a gravel path between grass and trees

That’s life

I took my frustrations out on God, as I always do. He is big enough to take it! And as always He spoke comfort and wisdom to my soul. He reminded me that life is actually about joy and pain. The two co-exist in tension, and will do until we all enter that place where pain will be no more and our joy inexpressible. Would I have chosen not to go out for that family day if I had known what the after effects would be? No! I would not have missed it for the world. We celebrated one another and created some really special memories that day. The pain was worth it.

Was the pain worth it?

We are fast approaching Christmas (sorry to mention it!). We will be remembering the story of a frightened young girl enduring unimaginable emotional and physical pain as she carried and gave birth to the Son of God. I wonder if Mary thought all the pain worth it? The shunning by her neighbours, the distrust from her betrothed, the looks and snide comments, the exhausting journey to a distant town, the filthy damp stable where she had to give birth. I think she did think it was worth it. For the joy of being chosen to bear the Messiah, the joy of holding her Saviour in her arms, the joy of understanding that this was all so much greater than her momentary suffering.

Jesus

And then of cause there is Jesus,

‘who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross,’ Hebrews 12:2 NKJV

None of us can ever fully understand the pain that Jesus endured. Horrendous physical pain of course, but then there was the heart pain of separation, the weight of sin and all it’s consequences, the betrayal, the mocking. But this verse tells us that it was for the joy to come that He endured it all. The joy of knowing me, and you, and millions of others who would find their life in Him. We were the joy He looked forward to as He submitted himself to the cross.

Photo of a stately home with grass and trees in front of it, water and mountains behind and a blue sky above.

There is always joy

Not all pain has a reason that we can see. God knows and He sees the bigger picture. Perhaps our pain will produce something fruitful and eternal? And we have this hope – there might be pain, but there is always joy. Jesus came to turn it all around.

“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me,
…. to comfort all who mourn,
To console those who mourn in Zion,
To give them beauty for ashes,
The oil of joy for mourning,
The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness;
That they may be called trees of righteousness,
The planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.”              Isaiah 61:1-3 NKJV

Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021.

‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022, and her third novel, ‘The Bride‘, published on 20th October 2023. Her first non-fiction book, an Advent Devotional, ‘Christ Illuminated‘ was published in September 2023.

‘The Stranger‘, her fourth full length novel is coming soon! Due for publication November 2024

More information on Joy, and her books can be found here

Christian blog, Christian faith, Devotional thought

WHEN THE DIGGING GOES DEEP

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… and gets messy!

We live in a beautiful spot. From every window at the back of our house we get a panoramic view of the sea. Between our garden and the beach is nothing but a small grassy farmer’s field, very occasionally inhabited by a few sheep or cows. It is protected land, and cannot be built on, for which we are most grateful. One of the reasons for this is that the field covers what was once, many decades ago, the town rubbish tip.

Imagine our surprise when  a few weeks back we woke to find a small mechanical digger sitting in the field. We were even more surprised when two men proceeded to erect a tent in the far corner. A few enquires with our neighbours put our minds at ease. The bottle diggers had arrived.

Photo of field being dug over by a mechanical digger, with the sea beyond

The bottle diggers

Now I knew nothing about bottle diggers. Think metal detectorists, but with a fascination with old glass!  A few months ago we had noticed torch lights playing across the pitch black night sky, and woke to find a hole to one side of the field. The bottle diggers somehow knew about the status of our field as an old rubbish tip, and, in this case, had illegally trespassed to look for treasure. Apparently there is a network of bottle diggers in this country, and when the diggers with the tent found out about the night time digging, they approached the owner of the land and asked for permission to dig – in the daylight! By turning over the whole field, legally, they would hopefully discourage the less honest diggers from returning.

Unearthing treasure

And they knew their stuff. They dug deep, down to several feet, and turned up hundreds, maybe even thousands of bottles of all shapes and sizes. We watched as they examined them, throwing some into sacks, placing others more delicately into crates. Who knew that old bottles could be so valuable? They were happy to chat and share their knowledge – and even gifted us a few of their finds. Including a 70 year old Australian wine bottle that apparently is worth quite a bit in Australia! We won’t be going any time soon… They didn’t show us the most valuable pieces, but did assure us they had more than covered the cost of the digger hire and diesel. They also dug up lots of broken glass and crockery, and made a lot of mess!

Photo of old glass bottles in different colours and shapes

Restoring the surface

One of the conditions of being allowed to dig was that the bottle diggers were to level the field, remove any surface glass, and sow new grass seed when they had finished. As I look out at the field today, it is still very obvious that someone has dug it over, but grass is beginning to appear. In a few months time it will be as if the bottle diggers were never there.

A messy business

Why am I telling you all this? Well God spoke to me very clearly through what I observed. Sometimes in life God wants to do some deep work in us. He wants to bring treasure to the surface, but the process can be messy, and unearth more than things of eternal value. Digging deep into our hearts and souls can also bring a lot of rubbish to the surface. That is not a bad thing. If the deep work exposes both good and bad, then both can be dealt with through His grace at work in us.

Real treasure

I was dwelling on this. Knowing that in this season of my life God has done some deep work, bringing things to the surface that have long been buried. It has not been comfortable, and has even been messy at times.  I know we have had to face some rubbish together, but I also believe He has brought some real treasure to the surface.

 I wonder if it is visible to anyone else that a deep digging has taken place in my life? And does it matter if it doesn’t? If others look at me and see me as they have always seen me? I know that the  ‘bottle digger’, that is the Holy Spirit, has been. In fact He is still here. And if I am the only one who ever appreciates the work He has done in my life then that is OK. The treasure is all His.

Text of Psalm 139: 24-25 in The Passion Translation, on a background photo of a beach in early evening light.

Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021.

‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022, and her third novel, ‘The Bride‘, published on 20th October 2023. Her first non-fiction book, an Advent Devotional, ‘Christ Illuminated‘ was published in September 2023.

‘The Stranger‘, her fourth full length novel is coming soon! Due for publication November 2024

More information on Joy, and her books can be found here

Bible, Book Review, Books, Christian faith, Christian publishing, Christian Writer, The Word of God

BOOK REVIEW: The Wardrobe by Alan Hoare

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The Wardrobe: Encountering the Kingdom of Heaven through the Bible, by Alan Hoare. Published by Broadplace Publishing, July 2024. RRP £12.99 ISBN 978-1915034915

Image of front cover of The Wardrobe, showing an open Bible against a faded out background of wooden doors/

THE BLURB

Lucy’s journey into the Land of Narnia via a wardrobe mirrors our invitation to explore the Kingdom of God through the Bible. But how did this sacred text come to us? Can we rely on its authenticity? Why are there numerous translations? What overarching narrative does it convey? Where do we start when reading and studying it? Seasoned Bible teacher Alan Hoare delves into these questions and more in his meticulously researched book. He offers a wealth of insight from his personal relationship with the Bible, explores the sweeping arc of Biblical history and invites us to discover both the sacred text and the God who inspired it. If you’re passionate about your Christian growth, enter The Wardrobe today.

THE REVIEW

I am an unashamed lover of the Word of God. My passion for the Bible has not always been what it is now, for years I found it hard to read and comprehend, difficult to make time for in my busy life. But I have come to see that it is so much more than a book. The Bible is God’s living, breathing Word. It is essential for our life, health and growth as Christians, and in this season of my life has become even more so for me . I go to it every day, to hear God’s whisper of love, and to gain strength: spiritually, emotionally, and physically.

Passion for the Word

Alan Hoare shares my passion for the Bible, and it is evident on every page of his book. He takes his inspiration from the works of C S Lewis. Just like the Professor’s wardrobe, made from Narnian wood, gave the Pevensie children a doorway into another realm, so the Bible, Alan argues, connects us with another, more real, more powerful world: the Kingdom of Heaven. His heart is to encourage us to read, study, believe and learn from the Bible. To hear the voice of God through it, and experience insights into His Kingdom. The Bible is God’s gift to us – the expression of His very heart. Every Christian should love and know the Book, and meet its Author through it.

Well written and easy to read

The Wardrobe is very well written. The author’s years of knowledge and experience shine through. It is scholarly in its content but easy to read – Sunday afternoon easy to read. It carries a deep wealth of insights, information and helpful suggestions in an easily accessible format. It is a book to return to, think on, and digest over time.

The first few chapters are mostly concerned with explaining the historical accuracy of the Bible, where it came from, how it was written and translated, and how we come to have it so widely available today. As a history lover I found this part fascinating, as a Christian I found it encouraging and faith building. Later in the book, Alan goes on to give us a really helpful overview of how the Bible hangs together.

The challenge

The really challenging part of The Wardrobe comes in the last few chapters. Here the author explains his ideas on how best to read, study and meet God through the Bible. There are some really good suggestions here, but I did also find it a little prescriptive at times. We are all different, and how we interact with the Scriptures varies according to how best suits us. I was a little confused with his recommendation to start with putting 20 minutes aside a day to read the Word (good), and to read several chapters a day, slowly and meditatively (also good. But the two don’t line up!). Alan also recommends a lot of books to help with Bible Study. Again, whilst I agree other people’s work and interpretations of Scripture can help, I don’t believe these are completely necessary. There was also no mention of the lots of free online resources now available for help with Bible Study.

A book I can highly recommend

Image of the back cover of The Wardrobe showing the blurb and an image of the author

However, these small niggles did not detract from the overall positive response I had to The Wardrobe. It has been well put together and expertly produced by its publishers. I really enjoyed it!

I would highly recommended it – particularly to those young in the faith, or those just young in age and eager to learn about the Bible. It answers many of the questions people ask about the Word of God and its place in our modern day lives. I believe The Wardrobe will be a valuable resource for any person wanting to know the Bible better or seeking to fall in love with it again.

The Wardrobe, by Alan Hoare, available to purchase direct from the publisher, via Amazon, or by request from booksellers nationwide.

Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021.

‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022, and her third novel, ‘The Bride‘, published on 20th October 2023. Her first non-fiction book, an Advent Devotional, ‘Christ Illuminated‘ was published in September 2023.

‘The Stranger‘, her fourth full length novel is coming soon! Due for publication November 2024.

More information on Joy, and her books can be found here

Christian blog, Christian faith, Christian Writer, Devotional thought, Jesus

LET GOD GUARD THE GATEPOSTS

joymargetts

God often uses my experiences with my grandchildren to speak to me, but today it is dogs that have inspired me to write. I am a dog lover, and a bit of a softie, so when asked to dog-sit for friends, I agreed. There was a little trepidation as we already have a small dog, a little Jack Russell cross, who is sweet, but can also be terrier feisty at times.

Our dog is used to living with other dogs – the home she came from has a multitude – but this was going to be the first time in her short life (she is 15 months old) that she has shared our home with another dog. We made the introductions a few weeks ago and all seemed to go well. It has in fact been a relatively smooth transition for both of them since the visitor moved in yesterday. There have been no problems with feeding, sleeping, or behaviour – generally.

Dogs on Guard

This morning I was chuckling watching them. They are both exhausted from much racing around the house and garden, but for a time neither of them would lie down and relax completely. It was almost as if they weren’t sure who was supposed to be ‘on guard’, and who should be the one barking at random potential threats. They have taken it in turns to sit in the window and bark or growl, inevitably setting each other off. I found myself just wishing they would both just give in – lie down and give me some peace! They don’t need to guard the house because I am here. There is no threat.

Image shows two small black and white dogs sitting looking out at a garden.

Potential Threats

As I was thinking about this, I felt God speak into my heart. There are a lot of uncertainties in my life at the moment. Potential threats, worries about what might be. Those uncertainties are affecting several areas of my life, and they aren’t small things. I guess many of us have them. I know of many friends who feel the same struggles – walking the path of the unknown. It is tempting to be ‘on guard’ in those seasons. To take too much time to think, and worry, and try to prepare, when we don’t even know what we are preparing for!

Will You Just Rest?

This is what I heard God whisper to me today, as I watched those two little dogs taking turns in ‘guarding’ the house.

Will you just rest, child? You don’t have to keep looking for trouble! You don’t have to be on guard. You don’t have to worry about what will be, about what might happen. There is grace enough. I Am here. The pack leader is here. I can protect you, I can keep you safe, I will provide. You can leave the worry to Me.

Learn from those pups. You provide all that they need, and they look to you. They do not need to protect and guard the house, because you are there, you can see and understand more than they do – what is a threat and what really isn’t! So it is with Me. Let Me take the load, let Me be all you need, let Me carry you, let Me be the guard at your gateposts. Put your trust in Me, I am your place of rest.

Lie Down and Rest

As I write this I now have two small dogs asleep on my feet. They have given up. I am not sure for how long, but I am enjoying the peace. I wonder if sometimes God looks down and wishes we would just give up being what we don’t need to be! That we would just lie down and rest.

I also read Psalm 103 today. What a glorious declaration of what God has done for us, and will continue to do for us! He has blessed us without limit already and He will continue to bless us. To hold us, provide for us, and do what we can’t do. He knows us intimately, He knows what is coming, and how to get us through it. He is all that I need, He has all that I need. Help Me Lord to leave the guarding to You, to lie down and take my rest in You.

Image shows a woodland clearing with the words of Psalm 103 imposed on it.

Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021.

‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022, and her third novel, ‘The Bride‘, published on 20th October 2023. Her first non-fiction book, an Advent Devotional, ‘Christ Illuminated‘ was published in September 2023.

‘The Stranger‘, her fourth full length novel is coming soon! Due for publication November 2024

More information on Joy, and her books can be found here

Bible, Christian blog, Christian faith, Christian Writer, Devotional thought

A KISS ON THE KNEE

joymargetts

Those of you who read my blog regularly will know that my grandchildren are a source of constant inspiration. They are small and trusting and loving, and as yet untarnished by the values of this world. How they interact with us speaks to me so much of the relationship God seeks to have with us, His children.

A Kiss on the Knee

A few weeks back we had both grandchildren to stay for the afternoon. Our granddaughter is only 17 months old and it has taken her a while to get comfortable with being left without mum, but we had finally cracked it. She had played beautifully with her 3 year old brother for hours. We had fed them, bathed them and even got them into their pyjamas, before mum came to pick them up. As my daughter walked in I observed something really cute. Our granddaughter glanced over at her mum, stood unsteadily to her feet and walked over to plant a kiss on her mum’s knee. She then went straight back to her toys.

We laughed at the time. Actually amazed that having been separated from my daughter for some hours, that she wasn’t more effusive in her welcome. We half expected tears of joy/why did you leave me?  But a small kiss on the knee was all mum got –  at least it was an acknowledgement of her return and a sign of her affection!

A small sign of affection

I was musing on this and I knew that this is sometimes how I treat God. I know He is there, and I know He cares about me, but sometimes life gets so full that all I can manage is a ‘kiss on the knee’; a small, short, acknowledgement of His presence and of my love for Him. A whispered prayer, a moment of worship, a cry for help.

We all go through busy times and seasons. For young mums like my daughter, life is crazy busy. She, I know, would love to have more time to spend with God. It is just not always possible. I wondered if sometimes God gets hurt by our lack of time spent with Him? Is it not enough to just give Him the odd moment of our attention?

But my daughter loved that little show of affection! She was so pleased to see her daughter happy and contented, and yet aware of her presence.

Is it enough for God?

I know that the most precious times of my life are when I can spend lots of quality time with God. I love speaking to Him, listening to Him, immersing myself in His Word, worshipping Him with music. Those times are life-giving and vital, and I know He loves them too. But there are days where I just don’t have the time and space to spend a long time with Him. I could feel guilty about that, I could go down the road of self-condemnation. I know that it isn’t ideal and that God deserves more of my time. I know my life is far richer and I am much stronger the more time I spend with Him.

But what that kiss on the knee reminded me of, is that God takes any and every demonstration of our affection, however small that might seem to us, and it really blesses His heart. He understands when we can’t do more. He doesn’t condemn us. He is in effect sitting in the room, watching over us as we ‘play’, as we get on with our lives, loving us unconditionally. All He asks is that we acknowledge His presence and whisper our love for Him. That we take the moments to place a kiss on His knee. There will be plenty of times for full hugs later and He will be waiting for those too.


Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God’s redemptive power. Her debut novel ‘The Healing‘ was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021.

‘The Pilgrim‘, her second full length novel, was published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022, and her third novel, ‘The Bride‘, published on 20th October 2023. Her first non-fiction book, an Advent Devotional, ‘Christ Illuminated‘ was published in September 2023.

‘The Stranger‘, her fourth full length novel is coming soon! Due for publication November 2024

More information on Joy, and her books can be found here