I’m guessing you’ve seen one of those ‘antique show’ type programs. I wonder if, like me, you’re fascinated when people discover a long-forgotten item at home that turns out to be a priceless treasure? Do you even get a tinge of envy when you see their delight at an unexpected windfall coming from something that was so neglected and looked so unimportant to the untrained eye?

Well, here is some good news. Like almost every home in Ashby, you probably have a priceless item that looks so ordinary that you hardly notice it is there. It could well be dusty from a lack of use and may well have been in your family a while. The value of an item is often determined by its rarity. But that’s not the case with this item. In fact, it is estimated 100 million are produced every year and the Guiness book of world records declares it still to be the world bestseller.

Of course I’m talking about the Bible. Perhaps the least read best seller in the world and you probably own one. The usual question people ask in those TV programs is ‘What’s it worth?’. If you haven’t yet investigated it for yourself, you may already think it can’t be worth very much.

Can I offer another approach?

What if you considered this was a message for you from the God of all creation? A look into His future plans and insights that help make sense of today’s uncertain world. An invitation to a relationship with Him along with evidence to demonstrate who He is. A chance to learn from examples of people who, like us all, often get things wrong, and those who got it right. That’s exactly what this book is. And it’s there on your shelf waiting for you to take a look. What’s it worth? Many have discovered this book is priceless. So can you.

Useful passage to look up: Psalm 119 v162

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Most, if not all, people have times when they reflect on their lives. Every day we literally see our reflection in the mirror. As we grow older, we also tend to reflect on the past, considering what our lives were like, how things have changed, and whether those changes have been for better or for worse.

I can remember being about six or seven years old and being allowed to walk home on my own through fields for nearly a mile. In those days, this was considered safe. Today, the lines of cars outside junior schools are visible evidence of how attitudes towards safety have changed, often with good reason. Later, when I was old enough to drive, I remember four gallons of petrol cost just over one pound, so about 11p per litre! Today I saw it now costs about £1.60 per litre. A huge change.

Thankfully, there are also things that have never changed. The laws of physics for example. If they were not constant astronauts could not have travelled around the Moon last month. The seasons remain the same. If these changed, farmers would not know when to sow or when to harvest. The miracle of conception and birth has never changed. So, what are these unchanging things a reflection of?

The Bible tells us of a God who never changes. The things mentioned above are all evidence of this. If God were to change, there would be no point in reflecting on what He says He’ll do, or on the character by which He asks us to live. How different this is from the leaders of the world today.

So, the thought for this month is to reflect on the reliable and unchanging character of God, what he has promised us and what that then means for our lives. In an ever-changing and unstable world, God is the only stable thing we can build our lives on – a dependable foundation that won’t change or let us down.

Useful passage to look up: Proverbs ch3 vs5–6

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Belief is something everyone has. Some people say they don’t believe in anything, but that isn’t really possible. If we reject one explanation for life, we inevitably replace it with another. Human beings naturally build frameworks to make sense of the world around them. The real question is not whether we believe, but what we believe and why.

For some people belief centres on science and human progress. For others it may rest on personal experience, trust in society, or the idea that life has no deeper meaning beyond what we make of it. Yet each of these positions still involves belief. They are conclusions about the nature of the world and our place within it.

The Bible often speaks about belief, but never presents it as vague or irrational. Instead, belief is closely linked with faith. Hebrews 11:1 describes it like this: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” At first this might sound like ‘believing without proof’, but the verse actually points us in another direction. Faith is described as substance and evidence. It grows from reason, reflection and experience, even when we cannot see everything directly.

The Bible also encourages people to examine what they believe. The apostle Paul wrote, “Test all things; hold fast what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). Belief should be considered carefully rather than accepted through inheritance, habit or convenience.

Therefore, what we believe really matters because belief shapes how we live. Our view of God, humanity and the purpose of life influences the choices we make every day.

Perhaps it is worth asking ourselves: ‘What do I believe about life?’ Then importantly… ‘And why?’

If you’d like to explore these sorts of key topics, please drop-in to our Bible Half Hour each Sunday at 10am – you’ll be made very welcome. And if you’d like a FREE Bible to take home, please just ask.

Useful passage to look up: Romans ch10 vs9–13

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Most of us have a book at home that we intend to read one day. It sits on the shelf, quietly judging us. For many people, the Bible is that book. Big. Ancient. Slightly intimidating. And yet, inside it is one of the most influential collections of writing the world has ever known – shaping culture, language, art, law and even life itself.

But here’s the good news: the Bible isn’t a heavily locked door that only experts can open. It’s more like a door that just needs a gentle push.

When people do open it, they’re often surprised. Yes, there are famous stories, but there are also very human moments: fear and courage, doubt and trust, failure and forgiveness. It asks big questions. Why are we here? What really matters? Where is the world heading?  And gives thoughtful, hopeful answers that help us think about our lives now.

Unlocking the Bible doesn’t require a theology degree or a personality change. It simply starts with curiosity: looking at a few verses; asking a few questions; and maybe having a conversation. Many find that the Bible speaks most clearly when explored with other people – when questions are welcomed and understanding is shared.

That’s very much the spirit at Ashby Christadelphian Church. Each Sunday morning at 10am, people gather to open the Bible together, to think, to reflect, and to connect its message to everyday life. It’s relaxed, friendly, and focused on understanding what the Bible actually says and why it still matters.

So, whether the Bible on your shelf hasn’t been read for years, or never actually opened, consider this an invitation to come along. You might just find that unlocking the Bible unlocks something unexpected: clarity, purpose, and hope. Sometimes, all it takes is turning the first page.

Useful passage to look up: 2 Timothy ch3 vs16–17

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When you’re tiny, the most binding assurance is a pinky promise; where two children link little fingers and promise something. Regardless of sincerity, the promises were often broken. As we get older, we make other promises in a variety of different ways, but despite best efforts, these promises too are often difficult to keep.

God, however, is different. He has made many promises, and He keeps every one of them. He promises to always be there, to provide, protect, love and save believers. He promises strength to the weary, answer to prayers, peace in trials and a new life in Jesus Christ.

What he doesn’t promise is that life will be easy. He doesn’t promise we won’t face difficulties and hard times. Believers in God still endure the same challenges in life as everyone else. So how does a belief in God help, when life is hard? When it feels like God has forgotten his promises?

God’s promises give us a different perspective; to know that no matter what happens, God is there, giving us the strength, answering our prayers not with what we want, but what we need. He looks beyond the short-term, to the long-term plan. He knows everything and promises to be with us as he guides us towards his kingdom.

And knowing that God is truly with us, can give a believer peace of mind. That if we believe in him, he has a plan for our future.

If you want to know more about God’s promises to you, come along to one of our Bible Half Hour sessions on a Sunday morning – it’s our theme for the month of February.

Jeremiah 29v11 ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’

Useful passage to look up: Deuteronomy ch31 v8

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While for many, as one year ends and another starts with parties, fun and festivities, for others it’s a quieter more challenging time. A lot of people use this time of year as a chance to take a break, re-group, and plan for the year to come. To spend time with loved ones and to remember those loved ones who cannot be there. Our mindset at this time can be so important for how we go into the next year and face whatever challenges are to come.

Are we thankful and grateful for the time we have with our loved ones? Do we appreciate their care and interest in us? Do we view the past year as a trial we’ve barely survived or a learning experience that will make us stronger in the future? Are we positive about the potential opportunities the coming year may bring, or already listing potential negatives? I guess the key question of all… is our festive glass of bubbly half-full or half-empty?!?

At Christmas many people remember Jesus, his birth and the message that surrounds it. Jesus’ life was to be full of challenges, some even harder than the ones some of us face. He knew from an early age what his role was, he even knew how he would die and that he was going to be treated badly. Jesus had to spend many months away from his family, from his mum who understood more than anyone the sacrifices he was making and how strong he needed to be. He would be tested to the limit and loose friends and family along the way.

Yet, remarkably, Jesus was always focused on the positive. What could be achieved, what was possible. He saw the good in people who we probably wouldn’t and forgave those who we might feel unable to. There’s so much we can learn from him.

So, going forward, what is our mindset this January and how are we going to stride into 2026?

Useful passage to look up: 1 Thessalonians ch5 vs 16-18

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Sometimes, when the dust has settled after what for many is a frantic festive two or three days, how often do we ask, “Why do we do it?” Whether it’s exhausted parents totting-up the spiralling costs, regrets of over-indulgence on food and drink or concerns about that random gift that may never see the light of day – Christmas can leave us feeling conflicted. It’s telling that we can even feel relief when visitors have gone, or worse are now having to patch things up after the ‘traditional family fall out’ which seems to feature in too many homes.

But wasn’t this supposed to be a time of celebration?!? We tell ourselves it’s good to have a break from winter gloom, but how long before the ‘feel-good factor’ evaporates? Maybe it’s time to appreciate the real reason for the celebration. Without that, it becomes just another period of over-indulgence.

For you and your family, is the birth of Jesus anything more than an excuse to eat and drink too much? How much time do we spend debating when the turkey goes in the oven or whether we have enough wrapping paper? In stark comparison, do we ever question “Why might the birth of a baby in Nazareth two thousand years ago be a reason to celebrate? What is the real message of Christmas, and what does it mean for my family today?”

At the Ashby Christadelphian Church, we LOVE to celebrate the birth (and the life!) of that baby born in Nazareth. But it’s a celebration that lasts the whole year, not just a day or two. Knowing the thought behind the gift of Jesus gives us a joy that doesn’t melt away when the tinsel comes down. So, if you want a celebration this Christmas that carries into the New Year and beyond, come and celebrate with us and put the Christ back into your Christmas.

Useful passage to look up: Luke ch2 vs 8-12

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When we look at the world, it’s hard to find much peace or happiness. When I was young (granted a long time ago!) life seemed simpler and safer. We played outside with friends, and never heard about drugs, knife crime, or shootings. Small children walked to school without fear. Today that feels unthinkable.

The newspapers and media are filled with stories of war and fighting, poverty and hunger, school shootings, effects of climate change, earthquakes across the globe and a political outlook that looks wobbly at best. It’s not just in distant lands either – many of these things are happening on our doorstep.

Yet in the midst of all this darkness, there is a light – a promise that things will not always be this way.

The Bible very clearly tells us about the Kingdom of God. Jesus spoke about it extensively – you can read this in the New Testament gospels (which means ‘good news’). Jesus promised that a time will come when He will return to be King here on earth, putting a stop to the corruption, violence and fear.

Just imagine what the world will be like when Jesus is King:

• Peace will reign across the earth
• No more wars, no more illness, and no more death
• Justice, love, and truth will guide every decision
• The suffering we see today will be replaced by joy and healing

This is not just a dream, it is a firm promise from God; a promise for those who choose to believe and follow Him.

In 1 Corinthians ch2 v9 it says: “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him.”

So, even when the world feels overwhelming, take heart — there is hope. God has promised a future filled with peace, joy, and healing. That future is coming, and it’s found in His Kingdom.

Useful passage to look up: 1 Corinthians ch15 vs50-58

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Looking out over the fields in our beautiful countryside is surely one of the most interesting and breath-taking occupations. Through the seasons the panorama changes but it never ceases to bring joy to the observer. 

Gazing at the fields full of delightfully shaped hay bales (the ones near us are rectangular this year!), we can’t help but jump back to the recent views of golden crops waving in the breeze and the kids’ pleasure at watching the combine harvester at work. Casting our minds back slightly further to the spring; furrowed fields, all prepared and ready, tractors steadily working their way up and down with seed drill in tow, planting seeds which held such potential.

It was Ella Wheeler Wilcox, an American author and poet, who made such a beautiful parallel with our own lives, stating that “with every deed, you are sowing a seed, though you may not see it”.

The farmer works hard to prepare the ground and sow the seed, and, with a lot of care and prayer that God may bless the fruits of his labour, waits patiently for the crops to be ripe for harvest. Likewise, our small kindnesses shown to our neighbours, friends and colleagues, may be sowing a seed which, with care and God’s blessing, can grow into a wonderful outcome for those we try to help.

This harvest-time, when so many still don’t have enough, let us take time to not only pray for them, but also step-up and share the blessings God has given us with those around us. That small deed has potential – to sow the seed of positivity and love.

Note: If you are able to help, Ashby Foodbank always need of food items. More info at www.ashby.foodbank.org.uk. We are collecting food for the foodbank at our Harvest service on Sunday 5^th October at 10am. All welcome!

Useful passage to look up: Matthew ch13 vs 18-23

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Picture this – you’re playing hide-and-seek in the park. You’re ‘it’, standing in the middle, scanning for friends. From where you are, the trees, benches and bushes all seem like perfect hiding spots. You hear leaves rustle, but no matter how hard you look – you can’t see anyone.

Now imagine a friend watching from the top of a hill. They can see the whole park at once. Every hiding place is visible. They know exactly where everyone is, no matter how well hidden. You’re have a limited view, but they see it all clearly.

Life can feel a lot like this. We’re on the ground, trying to figure things out with only part of the picture. Our perspective is shaped by what’s right in front of us – our emotions, fears, hopes and the pressures of the moment. We worry about work, relationships, or problems that feel overwhelming, without fully realizing how they fit into something bigger.

But God’s perspective is different. Isaiah ch55 vs8-9 says, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways.” His view of the world is not bound by time or circumstance. He’s not standing in the middle of the park – He’s on the hill, seeing the entire story from beginning to end, the big picture.

Romans 8:28 reminds us that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” Even when we feel lost, confused, or stuck, He’s weaving every detail – successes, failures, and everything in between – into His perfect plan, working in ways we may not immediately understand.

We might not always understand the path ahead, but God sees it clearly. Like the friend on the hill, He knows exactly where we are and what we need. He’s working through it all – our successes, our failures, and everything in between. Our job isn’t to have it all figured out – it’s to trust the One who already does.

Useful passage to look up: Romans ch8 vs31–39

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Have you ever thought about reading the Bible? You pick it up, glance at how many pages there are, how tiny the words look, how thin the pages feel – and somehow, it’s still a really thick book. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You’re not alone.

But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t read it. Like any big or slightly daunting goal, there are ways to make it easier.

Start small. Choose a manageable section to read. The Gospels are a great place to begin. Take Matthew, for example. It’s only 28 chapters long – less than 25,000 words, or about a quarter of a typical novel. In that short space, you get the whole story of Jesus: his birth, teachings, death, and resurrection. It would only take a few hours to read!

Once you’ve chosen a section, try reading it with others. Join a group of people exploring the same text. If you come across something confusing, someone else might have insight – or you might be able to share your own.

Maybe that group has even invited different people to speak about parts of Matthew, like a focused book club. You could learn about Matthew’s style as a writer, the meaning behind the parables, why Old Testament references are included, and why this is called a “Gospel” or “Good News.”

That’s exactly what Ashby Christadelphians are doing this August; reading and thinking about all things Matthew. Why not join us?

What have you got to lose? Just a bit of time. But what might you gain? A new way to look at life and real hope for the future.

Useful passage to look up: The book of Matthew!

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For many, faith in God is rooted in a trust in a higher power, visible in the beauty of nature, the vastness of the stars, and human compassion. Believers come to recognise God as the creator, guide, and moral compass of life. Others rely on science and logic to explain existence. For them, the lack of clear, observable evidence for God leads to the belief that the universe is self-organized, shaped by natural processes, rather than a higher power. They find wonder and meaning in scientific discoveries and the laws governing our world.

Despite differing perspectives, the question of God’s existence remains unanswered by human reasoning alone. The Bible, an ancient and influential text, offers insights into God’s purpose and wisdom, calling out to everyone to hear, consider and respond to its message. The phrase ‘I am God’ appears frequently in the Bible, emphasizing divine power and uniqueness. Isaiah 46:9 declares, ‘I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me.’ This calls for trust in God’s singular power, authority and control over the world.

In the New Testament, God’s love and care are demonstrated through Jesus. John 3:16 states, “God so loved the world, that He gave His only son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” This is a profound expression of divine connection with humanity, reminding us that the death and resurrection of Jesus gives real hope for the future.

Ultimately, the phrase ‘I am God’ serves as a reminder of God’s eternal and unchanging nature, offering believers comfort and encouraging faith across generations.

Note: Throughout July, we are exploring this theme of ‘I am God’, looking aspects of God’s character. Come along any Sunday at 10am for Bible Half Hour to find out more.

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