Having worked as a tradie for over 30 years, I've faced both challenges and rewards. One of the most fulfilling aspects of the job was being able to bless others through fridge and air-conditioning repairs. I enjoyed the problem-solving aspect of fault finding and working with my hands, but even more, I appreciated the opportunity to minister to and pray with my customers.
In 2018, I sold my business and moved to New Zealand, where I took on new employment. While I felt somewhat restricted in sharing my faith, I told myself, "She’ll be right!"
However, everything changed in June 2022. While cycling with my 9-year-old son, I had to stop suddenly to avoid crashing into him. I slammed on the brakes, went over the handlebars, and ended up breaking bones in my hand and injuring my wrist. I’m still recovering from surgery and undergoing regular physiotherapy, and I found myself having to decide about how to spend my time, especially since I couldn’t even lift a dinner plate with my dominant right hand.
For me, the choice was clear—it was either a time to grow spiritually or waste it away on YouTube and Xbox gaming. Just as I had seen the lockdowns as an opportunity to spend more time with the Lord and dive deeper into His Word, I took this injury as another chance to focus on Christ. I found comfort in 2 Corinthians 3:17, "Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." (NKJV).
Although my body was in a kind of "lockdown," unable to drive or work with my hands, my mind was free to pursue learning about Christ. I used YouTube to follow various sermons and dedicated time to personal Bible study.
My men’s life group has benefited from my spiritual growth as I’ve challenged them to think more deeply about their own faith journeys. I’m inspired by the meaning of *epignōsis* from Strong's Concordance — Greek: 1922 — which refers to a thorough, precise knowledge. It suggests a deeper understanding that goes beyond just facts, involving revelation from the Holy Spirit and a personal relationship with Christ. It’s like knowing my wife so well that with just a look, I can tell her mood or emotions because we’ve spent so much quality time together.
As the holiday season approaches, we often get caught up in end-of-year events and activities. I urge you to set aside intentional time for prayer, conversation with the Lord, and reading His Word. To stay focused on Christ, we must choose not to neglect our time in His presence, to grow in the *epignōsis* of knowing Jesus.
Blessings
Peter Meyer
Peter Meyer serves on the Promise Keepers Board, is involved in men’s ministry in his Whangarei church and is studying at Theological College.