My Bible: reasons to believe in the power of the Bible
‘I was 19, working in a West End store selling what was called occasional furniture–mirrors, coffee tables, bureaux. It wasn’t for me.
I went to St Martin in the Fields Church and volunteered in a nearby hospital. I thought that this was something that I wanted to do. I was told that, if I wanted to do that kind of work–anything with people–I’d need a degree. I was all too aware that all I could offer were five O Levels and they didn’t include science or maths.
I remember going out into Trafalgar Square and spending time reflecting. I was thinking, “Now what do I do?” when the first ten verses of Joshua came into my head. It says several times “be determined and confident”.
I knew that I had to take my courage in both hands and do a degree, but I didn’t feel very courageous. At that point, I didn’t have much of an expectation of life or myself.
Without those verses, I might still be working in retail. I knew I wanted to get out but I couldn’t see how. But these verses gave me the confidence to step out.
I got a degree and became a house master in a school and later a priest. When people ask me for a verse to encourage them, I always give them that. Behind it is all the things that Christianity helps us realise. It’s about the love of Christ.’
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I had some dark times in my life when I lacked certainty
I went through a period in the pandemic of quite poor mental health
Yesterday, I became aware that I wasn’t really trusting God and his promises
I was raised a non-believing family
The Bible has always been important for me
I’m a retired dentist, and about 30 years ago I was involved in a project in Romania
Want to share how the Bible has impacted your life? Email [email protected]