Simon Benham’s Blog
Hello, and thanks for making it to my blog. My name is Simon and I am the Senior Pastor here at Kerith Community Church.
This blog is a place for me to share thoughts on pretty much anything which takes my interest. This will often be related to things happening in our church community or life lessons I am in the process of learning. It could also be reflections on current world events, reviews of books I am reading or commentary on how well Newcastle United are doing in the league! You just never know what you're going to get...
I hope you find this blog interesting and insightful. If you have any ideas on topics you'd like me to write about, then please email me and I’ll see what I can do. Also, if you’d like to get these blogs sent straight to your email inbox, you can subscribe using the button below.
Happy reading,
Simon
Advent Daily Devotional - Day 18
The Magi in the Christmas story had a unique guide: a supernatural star leading them to Jesus. Like them, our journeys toward purpose can face diversions. Yet, just as God faithfully guided the Magi, He directs our steps too—through His Word, His Spirit, and His people. Even when life feels off course, trust that His plan for you remains steady. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to lean on Him and take each step in faith, knowing He will lead us to where we need to be.
Advent Daily Devotional - Day 17
Herod’s secret scheming to locate baby Jesus mirrored the innocent "invisibility" of a child hiding in plain sight. Just as Levi's father easily spotted him during hide-and-seek, God saw through Herod's manipulative plans. This story reminds us of an unshakable truth: God's divine plan cannot be thwarted by human deception or fear. As we navigate our own struggles, hiding our anxieties or trying to control circumstances, we can trust in the loving, all-knowing Creator who sees us fully and offers grace. This Christmas, may we find courage in surrendering to His perfect plan.
Advent Daily Devotional - Day 12
Mary’s response to the wonder of the first Christmas was not just amazement but deep faith. Instead of dismissing what she didn’t understand, she treasured and pondered God’s unfolding plan in her heart. Her journey teaches us that faith means trusting God with the mysteries and holding on to His promises, even when life doesn’t match our expectations.
Advent Daily Devotional - Day 11
After encountering Jesus, the shepherds couldn't contain their joy—they had to spread the word! Their excitement challenges us: What fills us with such passion that we can’t help but share it? Could it be faith? Even if it feels uncomfortable, maybe it’s time to tell someone in your life about Jesus and invite them to experience the joy He brings.
Advent Daily Devotional - Day 10
"When the angels had left, the shepherds didn’t hesitate. They said, 'Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about' (Luke 2:15). Despite their humble status, they were chosen to witness the miracle of Jesus' birth, embodying the qualities God values: humility, obedience, and faith in action. In this season, let’s emulate the shepherds' wonder and willingness to act on God’s call."