What does it really mean when someone says, “I’m fine, thanks”? In this sermon, Phil reflects on a moment from student days — and a chaplain with a knack for seeing through polite English facades — to unpack how encouragement is more than a social nicety. It’s a ministry.

Drawing from Watching the English by Kate Fox and Colossians 1, this message explores how God works through our words to build up one another, and how encouragement is both a fruit of faith and a sign of grace. Whether you're a gifted encourager or someone quietly in need of it, this episode is for you.

Is God's grace really as simple as "wash and be clean"? In this episode, we explore the story of Naaman — the powerful commander who almost missed out on healing because the cure was too straightforward for his pride to handle.

Phil reflects on how we, like Naaman, often expect faith to be complicated, dramatic, or costly — and how our suspicion of anything “too easy” can get in the way of receiving the gift right in front of us. Along the way, there’s a story about free laptops, a cameo from Adrian Plass (and a confused bloke called Ron), and a good reminder from Phil’s dad: KISS — Keep It Simple, Stupid.

At the heart of it all? A gospel that really is as good — and as simple — as it sounds: God loves you, and there’s nothing you need to do to earn it.

🎧 This week we’re doing something a bit different.Phil is guiding us through the spiritual exercise of creating your own Rule of Life — a simple but powerful tool to help you stay rooted in your calling, grounded in your faith, and anchored in the storm.Whether you’re new to this idea or looking to refresh your spiritual rhythm, this session is practical, honest, and deeply personal.📄 Download the free worksheet to follow along and create your own Rule of Life:👉https://drive.google.com/file/d/1es6JR47nvYhiyECNLxtSVPXI3NmfTfEA/view?usp=sharing You’ll come away with something you’ve written yourself — not a list of rules to follow, but a reminder of who you are, who God is, and what He’s calling you to do.🎙️ Listen now. Reflect. Write. Be anchored.#RuleOfLife #SpiritualRhythms #FaithInPractice #Discipleship #ChristianLiving #Podcast #VicarOnAMission