Open the Bible UK Broadcast

Oftentimes, we see figures of staunch faith in phases of deep weariness; it's a human experience that doesn't exclude the diligent servant. Today's narrative brings to light Elijah's journey, a story that isn't about grand triumph, but humility before God, facing his dimming zeal. In our lives, the feeling of being singularly left to face hardships, much like Elijah felt, may seem all too real. But herein lies the uplifting message: God's enduring presence by our side, especially when we're at our lowest. Pastor Colin speaks to that tender care of our Lord that rejuvenates his people not only with rest but with purpose. Our exploration leads us to 1 Kings, chapter 19, and it's an encouragement to open your Bible and join in. By engaging with this tale of the 'Honorably Wounded,' the hope is for it to unfold as a revelation within you, that you matter to God profoundly — beyond your deeds.

In today's episode, we encounter Elijah wrestling with despair despite witnessing God's power at Mount Carmel. The victory that should have propelled him to greater heights instead precedes a fall into fear and discouragement. Such profound experiences aren't exclusive to ancient prophets—many of us might relate to Elijah's heartache in response to unforeseen challenges. His story reminds us that even the most devoted servants can find themselves in the grip of desolation. But here's the good news: Other believers have walked this path. If you're trudging through similar darkness or battling discouragement, you're not alone. The life of Elijah offers both solace and lessons, illustrating that God never abandons His people, even when they're honourably wounded.

Are you ever discouraged when prayers seem to go unanswered? Perhaps you've been praying earnestly for years, but the heavens seem silent. Today, Colin offers us valuable insights from Elijah's story in 1 Kings chapter 18—a man who knew the trials of persistent prayer. In today's lesson, entitled 'Prayer 101', Pastor Smith shares the transformative practice of praying with clarity and conviction, offering us seven Ps for effective prayer: Position, Private, Promise, Precision, Passion, and Persistence. Discover how Elijah's example can fuel our own prayer lives, encouraging us not to give up, but to continue seeking God fervently. In a society filled with instant gratification, waiting on the Lord's timing can be challenging. However, Colin reminds us that like Elijah, we can experience the fruits of our prayers if only we remain steadfast in faith. So, buckle up as we delve into a powerful messaging on praying God's promises, and position yourself to experience the refreshment that comes with a prayer life rooted in scripture and suffused with genuine desire. Remember, unanswered prayers are not ignored prayers—keep asking, seeking, and knocking. Listen closely as Colin unwraps the heart of persistent prayer, and let's engage together in 'prayer that avails much'.

On today's programme, we're delving deep into the true essence of Christian praying. Pastor Colin emphasizes that the goal of such prayer is not to achieve relaxation of the body – it's far more profound. As we explore this spiritual practice, we must understand that biblical prayer entails engaging the mind, focusing thoughts, and communing with God. A stark contrast to certain forms of mysticism that encourage an empty mind, Christian prayer invites us to fill our mind with God's presence. With the guidance of an open Bible, prayer becomes a dynamic and meaningful dialogue. For those feeling uncertain about prayer, this broadcast is your stepping-stone – a primer, if you will, on initiating a prayerful life. Pastor Colin shares seven practical pointers on effective prayer, each beginning with the letter 'P', derived from the life and prayers of the prophet Elijah, a man whose prayers were met with divine responses.

In today's broadcast, Pastor Colin explores the powerful story of Elijah on Mount Carmel, where the prophets of Baal find their cries met with silence, while the true God responds with might. This biblical account challenges us to reflect deeply on the focus of our lives. Are we placing our hopes in things that, ultimately, cannot fulfil our deepest needs? Philip Ryken aptly notes that success, pleasure, and personal beauty, though often idolised, remain incapable of answering our prayers. They are silent when we need them most. Yet, there is one who hears and saves—God Himself, the one who corresponds to the name we call upon. Join us as we probe into 1 Kings 18:20-40, drawing a "Line in the Sand," and discover why it's essential to anchor your life in someone who can genuinely respond to your call for help.

In today's broadcast, Pastor Colin challenges us with a profound topic: the impossibility of serving two masters. He asserts, "You cannot worship God and at the same time craft your own truth, shape your own morality, and somehow contrive your own independent purpose for life. It's about making a decisive choice, an inevitable decision that demands our attention." Through the narrative of Elijah and his confrontation with the prophets of Baal in 1 Kings 18:20-40, Pastor Colin illustrates the stark choices that confront us as believers. The ancient dilemma of 'limping between two opinions' speaks volumes to our contemporary struggles with faith and worldly distractions. He invites us to consider the exclusive claims of God over our lives and the futility of trying to follow Him while clinging to idols of our making. Join us for today's poignant message, aptly titled "A Line in the Sand," where we examine Elijah's challenge to the Israelites at Mount Carmel. It's a call to clear-cut commitment, to choose whom we will serve.

In today's broadcast, we dive into the intriguing relationship of Elijah and Obadiah – two men firmly rooted in their belief, yet with dispositions and callings so contrasting that mutual understanding was quite the challenge. While Elijah, the prophet, took the route of bold confrontation, announcing the word of God with zealous authority, Obadiah's life was strikingly different. Less known and seemingly more politically inclined, Obadiah served within King Ahab's court, a place shrouded in darkness. Despite the dubious shadows cast upon him, Obadiah was a beacon of influence where it was needed most, exemplifying that God's plans are often wider and more intricate than we can fathom. Today, we invite you to journey with us to 1 Kings chapter 18, as Pastor Colin unfolds the significance of these two distinct paths, reminding us that "Your Work Matters More Than You Think." What could possibly go wrong when two brothers in faith, who serve the same God, come face to face? A lot, actually. And therein lies a powerful lesson about embracing the diversity of God's callings.

Today, we venture into the curious and encouraging story of Obadiah, a lesser-known figure from the Old Testament. As we tackle the narrative of this godly man entrenched in the court of King Ahab, we observe a person of faith navigating an overwhelmingly ungodly environment – a scenario that reverberates with many of us today. Obadiah's tale reminds us of the light that can be found in the darkest of places and the influence one can wield by staying true to God's path. The challenges and pressures he must have faced resonate with those many of us experience in our workplaces, especially when our Christian values seem at odds with our professional ones. In this broadcast, Pastor Colin Smith opens the scriptures to the account of Obadiah in 1 Kings chapter 18, providing insights and strength to persevere for anyone feeling the weight of their calling. Whether you work in a secular job, face ethical dilemmas, or wonder if you should shift to vocational ministry, the story of Obadiah has something to say to you. Tune in as we explore why your work matters more than you might think, here on "Open the Bible."

In today's episode, Colin unpacks the pivotal role that personal ministry plays in our walk of faith. Each of us may not summon fire from heaven or call nations to repentance like Elijah did on Mount Carmel, but we are all given the precious opportunity to positively affect the lives of those around us, be it one person or one family at a time. Guiding us through 1 Kings chapter 17, Pastor Colin reflects on how our own hearts may at times condemn us and how we are to remind ourselves that God is greater than our hearts. He also shares the beautiful affirmation that faith, though tested, will eventually triumph, and one day we will stand before Jesus Christ, fully understanding and seeing clearly. As you listen, we invite you to open your heart to the truths drawn from Elijah's journey of strength and tenderness, and how it beautifully mirrors the incarnate work of Jesus—entering into our lives, bearing our burdens, and ultimately providing the path to everlasting life.

We often hear that 'faith begins where you trust God's promise enough to obey his commands', but today we're going to witness how a mother's leap of trust and obedience underscores this profound truth. Join us on a journey through one of Pastor Colin's favourite narratives—the tale of a widow and her son on the verge of their last meal, facing what seems to be the end of the line. But it's in this place of despair where God sends a prophet who asks for a sacrifice that borders on the unbelievable. The widow's response? To take a step of faith so staggering that it sets her on a remarkable path. As we explore 1 Kings 17:17-24, Pastor Colin guides us through the heartache and triumph of this mother's journey, showcasing how her actions thread the needle between belief in a distant deity and the transformative power of following God's direction, no matter the cost. It's a story that not only reaches us through the Scriptures but echoes in our own lives, as we each grapple with placing our trust in God's promises.

What does Jesus Christ want you to do with your life? Delving into the Christian ethos of self-sacrifice for the sake of eternal joy, he invites us to shift our focus from personal desires to serving God with unwavering generosity and spirit. We're guided through a journey into 1 Kings chapter 17, verses 7 to 16, pondering why God asks for sacrifice and what it truly means to 'take up the cross'. As Colin intensely explores the concept of counting oneself as 'dead already', he encourages Christians to relinquish ownership of their lives to God, and in doing so, discover the most impactful ways they can contribute to His purpose. Be prepared to question your own contributions, whether it's through prayer, service, or generosity, and take heart in knowing that any sacrifice made is in pursuit of a greater joy beyond this world.

As we delve into the story of Elijah, we learn that even when familiar sources of sustenance disappear, God's merciful hand is still at work, provisioning us through unexpected means. In the life of Elijah, we find a striking lesson in trust. Stationed at Cherith, God nourishes him, but the moment the brook dries up, Elijah is directed to Zarephath. It's here we find the crux of our message: We must rely on God, who is the ultimate supplier, rather than the supply itself. This truth resonates across various aspects of our lives, be it friendships, churches, or careers. These are but channels God uses; He alone remains our unwavering source. Perhaps you're presently facing a shift, where a familiar source of comfort or support is no longer available. Fear not, for Pastor Colin assures us of God's continuous guidance and provision. It's in these interims, as we await His new direction, that our faith is put to the test. Will we trust in His faithfulness, despite the uncertainty?

Today we're joined by Pastor Colin to talk about a common conundrum for Christians: Seeking God's guidance. In life, we often yearn for clarity in our next steps, but sometimes forget to focus on what God has already set before us. Colin suggests moving forward in faith with what God has given us, trusting Him to reveal the next steps when the time is right. But, how do we discern God's will, especially when faced with closed doors and uncertainty? Using the life of Elijah from 1 Kings chapter 17, Pastor Colin reveals a powerful principle: You can only guide a moving object. He encourages us to fix our minds not on what's ahead but to actively engage in what God calls us to do now — to uphold our current responsibilities and trust God's wisdom for the future. Interestingly, we'll learn that God's guidance often comes not through the grand and pristine but can arrive via unexpected, even 'unclean', vessels. Take the raven's role in nourishing Elijah, a creature deemed 'unclean' yet chosen by God as a provider. This serves as a reminder that God can use any means to support His people and fulfill His will.

In this episode, we delve into what many Christians recognise as the 'Chariot' experience, where God, quite unexpectedly, might close the door on the things we are most eager to accomplish. Join us as we explore the challenges and revelations that come with finding oneself in this spiritual wilderness. Pastor Colin guides us through the story of Elijah, focusing on a pivotal yet often overlooked moment in his journey: his time at the 'Chariot'. This is not merely a place of isolation; rather, it is where invaluable spiritual formation occurs. It's where God 'hides' you, showing that he is still conspicuously at work even when our plans seem to stall. Our discussion is based on the first chapter of the book of Kings, where Elijah experiences God's instruction to retreat rather than to advance. This might juxtapose with our understanding of progression in ministry, but as Pastor Colin articulates, such divine detours can lead to profound personal growth and prepare us for greater things ahead. The narrative of Elijah is a powerful reminder that God not only leads but sustains us through our 'Chariot' phases. Whether currently in this place of spiritual preparation or facing it in the future, this message is both encouraging and equipping.

Welcome to this encouraging episode of Open the Bible with Pastor Colin Smith. Today's program is bound to resonate with those feeling the weight of challenging times. This broadcast ventures into the story of Elijah—a beacon of steadfast faith amidst cultural and spiritual decline. As society strays from divine teachings, Elijah emerges, his resolve undimmed by the surrounding tumult. Pastor Smith's heartfelt longing is for the rise of modern-day Elijahs—valiant souls inflamed with holy courage. Our exploration in 1 Kings 16 promises to shed light on this courage, illustrating how divine intervention pierces through even the bleakest moments.

Today we delve into the significant tale of Ahab—a character whose choices reflect much of what we witness in today's society. The episode leads us down the 'broad road' that Ahab travelled, accompanying the many who, despite claiming to be of God's people, wandered down a path leading to destruction. In our exploration, we discuss how Ahab's defiance of God's commandments set a precedent, echoing through the corridors of the culture around him, and the impact of his actions on worship and society. Join us as Pastor Colin draws parallels to our current times and stresses the necessity for a generation of Elijahs—strong, courageous voices in the wilderness of modern culture. If you can, turn with us to the first book of Kings, chapter 16, for today's message titled "Courage When You Need It." As Pastor Colin unfolds Ahab's reign and Elijah's contrasting journey of obedience, he offers an insight into the challenges faced by those committed to their faith in a world that's often at odds with divine truth.

Whether you're front and centre or prefer to contribute from the background, leadership may seem like a foreign concept. But don't switch off just yet! Pastor Colin, explains why leadership is relavant to everyone. It's easy to underestimate our influence. Each of us has a circle of impact that encompasses family, colleagues, neighbours, and friends. Ponder for a moment – are you effectively leading within these spheres? Don't rush to brush off the notion, because leadership isn't solely about being outspoken or visibly in charge. In fact, the influence of each role in our lives – be it as a parent, sibling, or friend – is significant. Today, we're challenging you to reflect on those around you and the influence you wield, intentionally or not. Pastor Colin will guide us through seven key questions to assess our spiritual growth and readiness to be helpful to others. It's not just theoretical; it's deeply practical. So, grab a pencil and join us, drawing upon Psalm 23 as we recognize that your influence is greater than you think.

Have you ever pondered the profound influence you hold within your personal circles? Pastor Colin delves into the essence of true leadership, a concept that extends far beyond official titles or roles. Leadership doesn't root itself in gifts, but rather in the direction one is headed. Many might downplay their impact, questioning if the term 'leader' even applies to them. However, this episode aims to reshape that perception, highlighting that each of us possesses an innate ability to guide and shape the path of those around us. Leadership, as we will discover, is not about your abilities as much as it is about the journey you're on and who you're bringing along for the ride. With an engaging look at Psalm 23, Pastor Colin Smith presents a refreshing and inspiring take on how your individual trajectory is of significant consequence. Whether it's within your friendships, family, workplace or church - you're situated at the heart of an extensive web of influence.

With the blessings of our freedom, what does it look like to confess Christ in modern society? Pastor Colin looks at seven ways to confess Jesus Christ today.

What will Jesus say about you on the last day? Pastor Colin explains that this is intimately tied to what you say about him now.

You have a friend (or a loved one) who’s a Christian, and they’re dying. What could you say to encourage them? Pastor Colin gives us some surprising words for them: “Forget about your Christian life.”

If your future is secure, Christian, doesn’t that eliminate any real urgency from your Christian life? What’s the motivation for a holy life? Pastor Colin talks about where Christians find security and urgency.

Sometimes you wonder what good could possibly come from the basic things Christ is calling you to do. Pastor Colin talks about how God works in your life.

How is it possible for a marriage to be in trouble where Jesus Christ is present? Pastor Colin talks about the fact that being a Christian does not insulate you from the troubles and pressures of life in this world.

What does it look like to love God? Pastor Colin talks about how to love the Lord with your heart, soul, and strength.

Our message to the world is not “Love the Lord your God.” Pastor Colin talks about why this message is for Christians.

What do you think will give you satisfaction? Is it to be loved? To be appreciated? To get revenge? Jesus tells us that there is only one thing that will satisfy completely. Pastor Colin Smith shows us what this is.

What does it look like to be blessed by God? Jesus tells us that the blessed people are not those who think they’re right, but those who realise that they’re not. Pastor Colin shows us why.

How do you walk with God in a world where people have no place for God, people speak against God, and people are defiant towards God? Pastor Colin talks about the story of Enoch.

What did it look like to walk with God in the Old Testament, and is this possible for us today? Pastor Colin talks about the story of Enoch.

Jesus taught us to pray “Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” How is God’s will done in heaven? Pastor Colin talks about how the angels are a model for us.

Jesus taught us to pray “Your will be done.” What is God’s will? Pastor Colin talks about three spheres of God’s will.

One thing the gospel promises is that believers will “participate in the divine nature.” What does that mean? Pastor Colin talks about how it is that believers will participate in the divine nature.

Jesus is all you need for faith, but is He enough for all of life? Pastor Colin answers these questions (and more): Is He enough for high school and college? What about marriage or the single life? Is He enough for raising kids? How about old age? Discover the Bible’s extraordinary claim.

God has new strength, new purpose, and new joy for you. Pastor Colin talks about how these things can become yours.

What will keep you going when you feel tired, jaded, drained, and spent? Pastor Colin talks about three ways God sustains us.

No one ever died like Jesus Christ did—with a loud voice. When people die, they don’t shout, they whisper. Pastor Colin talks about what made Jesus’ death different from every other death.

What has happened to your loved ones who’ve died? Where are they now? Pastor Colin shows that everything you need to know about facing death is found in Jesus’ final words from the cross.

If you feel discouraged today, the story of David will bring you to the Saviour. If you feel confident today, the story of Saul will bring you to the Saviour. Pastor Colin talks about how this can happen for you.

How would you have felt? What would have run through your mind? The man who had set himself against you has finally died. Pastor Colin talks about how David reacted to news of Saul’s death.

How do you handle an antagonistic person in a way that shows grace? Pastor Colin talks about what grace looks like in our world today.

How can you handle a hostile person, someone who you feel like is always against you? Pastor Colin talks about how to do it in a way that shows grace and honours the Lord.

Saul was a destroyer; David was a deliverer. Are you more like the deliverer or the destroyer? Pastor Colin helps us think about our words and our character.

How important are the friends you hang out with? The church you go to? The books you read and the movies that you watch? Pastor Colin talks about why these decisions will shape the person that you become.

What does commitment to Jesus Christ look like? Pastor Colin takes us through the story of David to discover the profile.

What does commitment to Jesus Christ look like? Pastor Colin walks us through the story of David to discover the profile.

The great enigma of walking with God is that there will be painful trials. But in them you will be blessed. Pastor Colin talks about how this worked out in David’s life.

Perhaps sin has gained a stranglehold in your life. There is a story in the Bible that shows us how this can happen. Pastor Colin talks about why our compulsive behaviour is not the real problem.

Many people would like to throw off the claims of Christ. Do you think this is where you’ll find freedom? Pastor Colin talks about why it isn’t.

You know that God is at work when you see good things happening around you, but what about bad things? Pastor Colin talks about how God is at work through them, too.