iChaplain

A Heart That Acquires, An Ear That Seeks (Proverbs 18:15) The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge,  for the ears of the wise seek it out. Proverbs 18:15 Proverbs 18:15 presents learning as an intentional pursuit. The discerning heart does not wait passively; it acquires knowledge. The wise do not assume they already know enough; they seek and listen. Learning, then, is not merely an activity of the mind, but a posture of humility, openness, and readiness to be shaped. Learning as Worship: Loving God With the Mind In Christ, learning becomes an expression of worship. To love God with our minds is not limited to formal academic study or careful thinking, though these have their place. It also includes mentoring, lived experience, practice, reflection, and shared life together. Learning, in this sense, is open to everyone—not restricted by age, background, or perceived ability, nor confined to a single season of life. My own relationship with learning has grown over time—first ...

The Challenge of Contributing I didn’t expect a post about contributing time, energy, or money to need this many rewrites—but here we are. Contributing is complicated, personal, and often more emotive than we realise. This reflection is offered thoughtfully, knowing this is a subject many of us feel more than we explain.  It can be difficult, no matter the context.  To give is to offer something of ourselves, and very often that is something we hold dear. When we are invited to give, it can touch sensitive and vulnerable places within us. The more precious what we hold feels, the more challenging it can be to release it. This may involve our time, finances, or even a gift or strength we rely on to cope with the demands of life. The Feelings That Sit Beneath Giving Such moments can stir a range of emotions. Feelings of guilt, reluctance, weariness, or even quiet dread may surface. For some, the natural desire to give generously is held in tension with a deep instinct ...