On this month's Cover Disk
A popular feature of computer magazines is the cover disk. This offers free programmes often worth many hundreds of pounds.
When you come to access the programmes the offers aren't so attractive, most of the programmes are "feature disabled" or "time limited", to use the full programme or continue to use it after the initial 30 days you have to buy a "key".
That's the small print.
Small print is known for two things, one being small and two for explaining the terms of the offer/contract.
The Bible is there, with "on-line" help in the form of the Holy Spirit, to explain to you God's plan for you.
"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." (Jeremiah Chapter 29 verse 11)
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." (John Chapter 10 verse 10)
With the cover disks, the choice is there, you can try the software (evaluate), and if you think it's worth the price, buy it. if you don't think it is worth the price you don't have to buy it.
Why not find out what is on offer from God ?
As with the computer cover disks, try God out, read His word, evaluate, then put your trust in God.
O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. (Psalm 34 verse 8)
Slaves were an established feature of biblical times, slaves however who were given their freedom, could choose to continue to serve their master, in which case, a hole would be pierced through their ear lobe.
"But if the servant declares, 'I love my master and my wife and children and do not want to go free,' then his master must take him before the judges. He shall take him to the door or the door-post and pierce his ear with an awl. then he will be his servant for life." (Exodus Chapter 21 verses 5 & 6)
We are slaves today, if not willingly choosing to be a slave to God, then unwillingly a slave to the Devil.
Sin shows itself so openly in the views of the nation. lack of compassion for the suffering rationalised in the expression "charity begins at home"
Being a Christian, a follower (slave) of Jesus Christ is the only way to have a new life.
"Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation, the old has gone, behold the new has come!" (2 Corinthians Chapter 5 verse 17)
Michael Fowler 1999, 2005