Good News--Thrice Over!

Good News -- Thrice Over.

In the last few days three items of good news have come to my attention and given me, and doubtless other saints too, such encouragement. It is pleasing to be thus spiritual heartened in days seemingly so sad, grief-filled and often really darksome. But this well may cheer every believer with a longing for realised blessing amidst the gloom.

My humble ministry is mainly confined to the South West of England and South Wales, and it is within these bounds I have learned of these things. In an Assembly in Somerset two newly arrived believers, one a young lady the other a young man, have both asked for baptism and will obey the Word in submitting to baptism next Lords' Day! The young lady is a restored backslider; while the young man exhibits a heart for evangelism and has been assisting brethren in open air preaching. 

In a "small" Assembly in Gloucestershire, I mean of course where very few are "in fellowship," the Hall having been closed for an entire year, the saints have determined with the Lords' help and in accord with His will, to re-open and continue a testimony for Him in that locality. There is no other Assembly witness or even "evangelical" denominations for many miles around; another important reason for rejoicing under such circumstances.

Finally, an Assembly in Wiltshire has just received a believing couple into their fellowship, already appreciating the brothers contribution in gathering to call to mind our blessed Saviour in the Breaking of Bread meeting.

These precious instances of Gods' grace thrill my heart, as there seems to be so little to excite it over a good number of years. Some of you dear saints may feel these things to be of little account as you enjoy more largeness of blessing in your native country; but the U.K. is generally so apathetic about spiritual things and our law-makers have made things increasingly difficult. "Political correctness" and "Safety Regulations" have spiralled at almost blinding speed, and can hamper so many endeavours and efforts for the furtherance of the Gospel and the Word of God generally. You need to experience it first-hand to appreciate what I am saying! But nevertheless, our God is still Sovereign and rules in the Kingdoms and affairs of men! 

I still believe it to be my obligation to be subject to the authorities appointed by God, as it is clearly taught in the New Testament; e.g. Romans 13:1; but where such legislation is in definite conflict with that Word, I "must obey God rather than men." Acts 5:29.