The first chapter of Mark reveals the calling of the very first disciples, including Simon and Andrew, two brothers. Their call to be disciples was not a simple bolt-on to an already busy schedule but was to involve three clear aspects.

When we face life’s challenges, knowing that the Lord is with us is a supreme comfort. This can be more so as we face new chapters of uncertainty, perhaps a new job, moving home, a new calling or ministry. As we consider the Scriptures, we see the Lord encouraging His people to step into His purposes – to take their place in His kingdom plan – yet also promising His continued presence.

It can be difficult sometimes to feel like praising God, particularly if life’s circumstances are challenging, with prolonged seasons of suffering or unanswered prayer. It is much easier to give thanks when things are going well, when we feel at ease and in a good place generally.

The Bible is full of references to the benefits of allowing God’s Word, the Bible, to inform, guide and direct our lives (Ps. 12:6 and 119:1–176). Another psalm, the very first psalm, gives us a picture of the life of someone whose ‘delight is in the law of the LORD’ (v2), describing such a person as, ‘like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season’ (v3a).

Meeting together is one thing, but what should this look like? The question has been the cause of much discussion in churches throughout Church history. Debates about the décor, the time we meet, and other things, can cause unnecessary heartache and division. The Bible, perhaps frustratingly for some, gives us very little detail about ‘how’ and ‘when’ we meet.

As we serve the Lord each day, it is good to know we are part of the bigger, worldwide family of God. Yet, as with any family, at times, the various members can face trials and discouragements. Whilst some people may be happily serving and feeling blessed, others might be feeling isolated and discouraged.

It can be easy to compartmentalise our lives into the ‘sacred’ and the ‘secular’. Perhaps the things we do ‘in church’ or that have an obvious link to faith, we consider to be more spiritual or sacred, with everything else considered to be a distraction from God’s work – perhaps our job or family commitments.

Knowing what matters is an essential quality in life and work. If we react to everything in the same way, or treat everything with the same priority, then we risk focusing on the wrong things, or allowing less important matters to distract us from those that really matter. The apostle Paul knew what really mattered.

It can be easy when thinking of the various Bible characters, to think of them as perfect exemplars of service to God. Yet a detailed study of their lives, as depicted in the Bible, gives us a different picture. Abraham lied about Sarah being his sister (Gen. 20:2). King David committed adultery and murder (2 Sam. 11). John Mark deserted the apostle Paul on his first mission trip (Acts 13:13).

Sacrificially serving the Lord is one thing, but this in itself can become unhealthy if done with impure motives or as a means to demonstrate our spirituality. King David, after committing adultery and murder (2 Sam. 11), thought he could carry on in His God-appointed role without being held accountable.