Encouraging words from Bideford

Phil Harris from Goodliving Christian Bookshop in Bideford has some words of encouragement for all in the world of Christian retailing.

Just a few words of encouragement to anyone who may fi nd Christian Retailing intimidating, frustrating, sheer hard work for little reward, and perhaps wondering why they ever went down this road at all. Don’t give up! Trust God! Let me explain.

Back in 2000 Christina (my wife) and I - she’s the [sole trader] boss found ourselves called to set up a Christian Bookshop. We both had redundancy money and an inheritance, which would have set us up securely for the rest of our lives - BUT - we knew we had to put our money where our faith is!It’s not the money that’s important - it’s the faith bit!

Fifteen years down the line Goodliving Christian Bookshop still exists, in spite of our failings; and the reason? Because our Father God is faithful. We trust in God the Holy Spirit, that He, and He alone, will bring the custom to the shop that’s required to keep it in existence. And He does!

The blessings abound, with most of the churches in North Devon purchasing their requirements from Goodliving, and with enough income from many other customers to cover the costs. Lots of fun, lots of fellowship - what more can we ask?