In the movie "Sahara" the character Dirk while trying to convince his boss to lend him his speed boat to go hunting for an Iron Clad warship in the middle of the desert, says to him "Imagine" i.e. Imagine if we find it! And........... they found it!
Okay, I know it's just a movie.... but.... Think of this... Nothing on earth that has been created by man, has been created without it first being imagined!
I marvel at modern technology. I am tying an email that will be sent via a cell phone to a web page in cyber space. Phew, what a mouthful. None of this would be possible if a man named Alexander Graham Bell, had not first invented an object named a telephone.
And he first had to imagine this device before he could create it. I could go on for hours with listing fascinating inventions, but my point is that somebody somewhere dreamt up an object and made it happen.
What ideas are you sitting on that could transform our world and make a difference to peoples lives?
Common ....... Imagine!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Fresh leaves anyone?
Adam to Eve , "I didn't know that silk worms ate Fig leaves." So Adam needs a new Fig leaf? But don't we all at some stage need a fresh start?
God in his infinate wisdom knew this and set in motion the laws of the Universe that give us the opportunity to see this miracle of "New things."
Every day we wake up to a new day. Our calendars guide us through new weeks, new months and then new years. Each of these bring with them the opportunity to experience the grace of God with "starting over". Some lament the passing years as they grow older, but I am learning that with age comes wisdom, courage and inner strength.
Lamentations 3: 22-23 tell us that the mercies of God are new every morning. When we have sinned / failed / or even been hurt, the opportunities to experience God's forgiveness, grace and compassion are given to us fresh every day. Wow, God is amazing!
God in his infinate wisdom knew this and set in motion the laws of the Universe that give us the opportunity to see this miracle of "New things."
Every day we wake up to a new day. Our calendars guide us through new weeks, new months and then new years. Each of these bring with them the opportunity to experience the grace of God with "starting over". Some lament the passing years as they grow older, but I am learning that with age comes wisdom, courage and inner strength.
Lamentations 3: 22-23 tell us that the mercies of God are new every morning. When we have sinned / failed / or even been hurt, the opportunities to experience God's forgiveness, grace and compassion are given to us fresh every day. Wow, God is amazing!
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Cold Turkey!
The Christmas Turkey is barely cold when out come the "Back to school" promotions and every child in the country goes Aaaarrrrgh!
The event we've been so looking forward to gets eaten up in a bevy of heavy meals. We try desperately to hang onto "holiday fever" by partying up a storm at New Year and then what?
Back to reality, life goes on and another year has started. Then before you bat your eyes out January flies by and we lament that life is just flying by all to quickly.
This was the theme of a great movie called "Click". We end up spending our lives wishing away time till the next big event.
Well then, I suppose my New Years resolution is going to be to be present every day. To learn from the bad times and enjoy life's beautiful moments as they come.
Will you join me?
The event we've been so looking forward to gets eaten up in a bevy of heavy meals. We try desperately to hang onto "holiday fever" by partying up a storm at New Year and then what?
Back to reality, life goes on and another year has started. Then before you bat your eyes out January flies by and we lament that life is just flying by all to quickly.
This was the theme of a great movie called "Click". We end up spending our lives wishing away time till the next big event.
Well then, I suppose my New Years resolution is going to be to be present every day. To learn from the bad times and enjoy life's beautiful moments as they come.
Will you join me?
He's amazing..... daily
Yesterday I woke up with an excitement, expecting something good to happen. The whole day I waited with eager anticipation, for what I thought would be some amazing event.
Strangely, nothing out of the ordinary occured and I felt quite dissapointed as I made the drive home.
Then I realised that I had woken up to a beautiful day. Due to the school holidays the roads were clear and I could get to work comfortably. I have a job, and although it's not the dream job of a lifetime, it is providing for my needs and I have money to buy food. I can go home to two beautiful cats that adore me and sleep in a safe, warm bed.
Not sure about you, but I reckon that is something to not only be grateful for but to be celebrated as God's true goodness. I truly do hope that one day God would do a miracle through me and enable me to be a blessing to others as I know we live in a world with desperate needs.
Let's not take God's daily grace for granted. Let's celebrate each day!
Strangely, nothing out of the ordinary occured and I felt quite dissapointed as I made the drive home.
Then I realised that I had woken up to a beautiful day. Due to the school holidays the roads were clear and I could get to work comfortably. I have a job, and although it's not the dream job of a lifetime, it is providing for my needs and I have money to buy food. I can go home to two beautiful cats that adore me and sleep in a safe, warm bed.
Not sure about you, but I reckon that is something to not only be grateful for but to be celebrated as God's true goodness. I truly do hope that one day God would do a miracle through me and enable me to be a blessing to others as I know we live in a world with desperate needs.
Let's not take God's daily grace for granted. Let's celebrate each day!
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Is your PC bugged?
Computer software is vital to the smooth operations of an organisation. Large companies can spend millions on software licencing, implimentation and more importantly protection.
Virus protection is vital, yet even with it, hackers can still get through these measures and cause millions in damage. There are many types of viruses but essentially they corrupt and destroy data.
That's what the Devil does. He hacks into our minds and corrupts and destoys neuro data and corrupts the way we think which ultimately leads to negative or bad behaviour.
Let's take annorexia as an example. A perfectly healthy person, can be driven to starvation through an incorrect belief that they are fat. These thoughts have been fed to them as thought bombs which corrupt the way the person sees themselves and causes them to believe the lie and act out by starving themselves.
Dealing with our corrupted data files takes hard work. The same way computer files need to be rebuilt our minds need to be renewed. Romans 12 tells us that we need to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. How do we achieve this?
We need to constantly feed our minds with the word of God, so that his word can rebuild our damaged neuro path ways and thereby rebuild our thought processes to be aligned to his word. Along with this comes the work of the Holy Spirit as he heals our emotions. The word and the Spirit working together lead to a restored and whole life.
Virus protection is vital, yet even with it, hackers can still get through these measures and cause millions in damage. There are many types of viruses but essentially they corrupt and destroy data.
That's what the Devil does. He hacks into our minds and corrupts and destoys neuro data and corrupts the way we think which ultimately leads to negative or bad behaviour.
Let's take annorexia as an example. A perfectly healthy person, can be driven to starvation through an incorrect belief that they are fat. These thoughts have been fed to them as thought bombs which corrupt the way the person sees themselves and causes them to believe the lie and act out by starving themselves.
Dealing with our corrupted data files takes hard work. The same way computer files need to be rebuilt our minds need to be renewed. Romans 12 tells us that we need to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. How do we achieve this?
We need to constantly feed our minds with the word of God, so that his word can rebuild our damaged neuro path ways and thereby rebuild our thought processes to be aligned to his word. Along with this comes the work of the Holy Spirit as he heals our emotions. The word and the Spirit working together lead to a restored and whole life.
Monday, December 27, 2010
Winding through the storm
I've been told by my mother that my Great Grandmother, "Ouma Louw", loved to fly. I think I've inherited that joy. I've flown the flight too and from Kimberly many times now and it's usually quite routine. Ascend to cruising altitude, switch to auto pilot and cruise all the way there. Very often we'll encounter clouds along the way and the ride will get a little bumpy.
This time it was altogether different. The flight to Kimberly was unique. It seemed to be all routine, until the captain announced that there were some storm clouds ahead and he was going to have to try and fly around them. And boy, did he do that. With great care he lowered altitude and swayed left and right as he dived past the storm clouds.
I wish I could have been in that cockpit. I would have loved to see the whole process in action, and I had a thousand questions. Like, "Why dive below the clouds when you could soar above them?"
My stepfather was of great use when he explained that the Doplar radar systems on board the flight contols helped the pilots to plot out the route with the least turbulance and air resistance.
I think the work of the Holy Spirit is much like that. He sees things that to us with naked vision are impossible to see. When he guides us at times it seems as if he is going the wrong way, as he navigates us below the storm where we are sure to encounter rain and wind. You see Jesus never promised us that we will not go through storms, but that he would be with us and get us to the other side.
We truly need to obey the directions of the Holy Spirit and trust that he is guiding us through the storm safely!
This time it was altogether different. The flight to Kimberly was unique. It seemed to be all routine, until the captain announced that there were some storm clouds ahead and he was going to have to try and fly around them. And boy, did he do that. With great care he lowered altitude and swayed left and right as he dived past the storm clouds.
I wish I could have been in that cockpit. I would have loved to see the whole process in action, and I had a thousand questions. Like, "Why dive below the clouds when you could soar above them?"
My stepfather was of great use when he explained that the Doplar radar systems on board the flight contols helped the pilots to plot out the route with the least turbulance and air resistance.
I think the work of the Holy Spirit is much like that. He sees things that to us with naked vision are impossible to see. When he guides us at times it seems as if he is going the wrong way, as he navigates us below the storm where we are sure to encounter rain and wind. You see Jesus never promised us that we will not go through storms, but that he would be with us and get us to the other side.
We truly need to obey the directions of the Holy Spirit and trust that he is guiding us through the storm safely!
Friday, December 24, 2010
A swallow miracle!
I've just witnessed a modern miracle of nature. An old De Beers diamond mine that is currently being re-mined, has some time in the last 20 years become a natural bird sactuary.
Official mechanical mining of the diamond pipe ended in 1990. Some how since then a marsh has formed and thus the bird sanctuary developed. More importantly it has become the Southern Hemisphere home to millions of European swallows. Millions you say? I mean ...... MILLIONS!
Never before have I experienced something like the sight of thousands of swallows swarming in over your head at the same time. The entire spectacle lasted about an hour and then just as fast as it started, swooosh they dove into the reeds and were gone!
So what can I add to this? NOTHING! There just is no way I can top being witness to the amazing power of nature to heal itself! Our God created an amazing planet that is capable of healing itself if given the chance. Our God is Great!
Official mechanical mining of the diamond pipe ended in 1990. Some how since then a marsh has formed and thus the bird sanctuary developed. More importantly it has become the Southern Hemisphere home to millions of European swallows. Millions you say? I mean ...... MILLIONS!
Never before have I experienced something like the sight of thousands of swallows swarming in over your head at the same time. The entire spectacle lasted about an hour and then just as fast as it started, swooosh they dove into the reeds and were gone!
So what can I add to this? NOTHING! There just is no way I can top being witness to the amazing power of nature to heal itself! Our God created an amazing planet that is capable of healing itself if given the chance. Our God is Great!
Thursday, December 23, 2010
The miracle of birth
Most mothers say that the pain of giving birth is absolutely terrible, but the moment you get to hold your baby in your arms, you just forget the pain. This is the miracle of child birth.
Perhaps it's because for 9 months you've carried this little one inside you, developing a bond and growing to love them. So the moment you get to meet your little one, it's a moment of joy fulfilled.
Our visions can be like that some times. It seems for months or even years we toil at building them, then one day the fulfilment comes and all the pain, toil and labour finally pay off!
Don't stop plugging away at your dreams because God is walking with you, helping build them. You will see the fulfilment and experience the joy they bring. :-)
Perhaps it's because for 9 months you've carried this little one inside you, developing a bond and growing to love them. So the moment you get to meet your little one, it's a moment of joy fulfilled.
Our visions can be like that some times. It seems for months or even years we toil at building them, then one day the fulfilment comes and all the pain, toil and labour finally pay off!
Don't stop plugging away at your dreams because God is walking with you, helping build them. You will see the fulfilment and experience the joy they bring. :-)
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Meat gates, our internal boundaries
When we are born we are born with our basic "Operating System" that guides our basic body functions at that time. As we grow our brain is trained in movement, speech and thought as we develop. Through repetition our brain builds neuro pathways that form the foundation of our memories.
Various factors develop our emotions through experience in the home and our environment. When we go through a bad experience the first time, it will hurt tremendously, because deep down inside we know this goes against the grain of who we are. Then over time if the negative situation persists out of our control, we will develop coping mechanisms to enable us to survive.
Example, a women get's beaten. The first time she swears it will never happen again, but because the purpotrator "pleads" for forgiveness, she allows him back into her life and thus the cycle of abuse begins. Eventually she may even tell herself that he does it because he loves her.
So how do we break the cycle of sin? I've never been to Botswana, but my mother has. There they have what they call "meat gates". These are internal borders accross which you may not transport fresh meat.
What I'm suggesting is that we need to have "sin gates". Our own boundaries which we use to control negative behaviour or sin. Trick is..... You will need more than one, because we can and will always find a way to justify sin. So that doesn't mean the thought or desire won't come, but that we will have a process to control the outcome.
So for example if you had a shop lifting prolem and it started in one store, then the rule could be not to go to that store any more. If the problem persisted then tougher measures may be needed.
No one can tell you what your gates must be. In order for them to be effective, you need to choose them. So maybe it's time to build some gates.
Various factors develop our emotions through experience in the home and our environment. When we go through a bad experience the first time, it will hurt tremendously, because deep down inside we know this goes against the grain of who we are. Then over time if the negative situation persists out of our control, we will develop coping mechanisms to enable us to survive.
Example, a women get's beaten. The first time she swears it will never happen again, but because the purpotrator "pleads" for forgiveness, she allows him back into her life and thus the cycle of abuse begins. Eventually she may even tell herself that he does it because he loves her.
So how do we break the cycle of sin? I've never been to Botswana, but my mother has. There they have what they call "meat gates". These are internal borders accross which you may not transport fresh meat.
What I'm suggesting is that we need to have "sin gates". Our own boundaries which we use to control negative behaviour or sin. Trick is..... You will need more than one, because we can and will always find a way to justify sin. So that doesn't mean the thought or desire won't come, but that we will have a process to control the outcome.
So for example if you had a shop lifting prolem and it started in one store, then the rule could be not to go to that store any more. If the problem persisted then tougher measures may be needed.
No one can tell you what your gates must be. In order for them to be effective, you need to choose them. So maybe it's time to build some gates.
It doesn't work the way it should
If a welding machine breaks, electricians will open the box and test the various parts of the equipment to find the fault and replace the faulty parts. They don't look at the machine and say, "you're not functioning the way you should, so we'll turn you into a hammer".
That would be rediculous because the welding machine is not designed to work as a hammer. So why do we do that in so many areas of our lives? It could happen financially, relationally, sexually, or even in our career choices. When we try to put ourselves into a box it leads to mistakes and sin, like trying to live up to the Jones'.
Why do we try to change ourselves into something we are not? I believe it's because Satan is a master artist at deception. He fills our head with lies, then when circumstances seem to suggest something similar he quickly nugges us and says, "I told you so", and we believe him.
The devil will consistently re-inforce his lies, until we are caught up in sin. Unfortunately the human brain can be programmed and re-programmed to respond a certain way and that is why brain washing is so successful.
There is hope.... I believe by understanding the brain washing process we can take contol of the situation and stop ourselves from sinning. In my next blogg I will share on this.
For the time being..... Why don't you ask God to help you see in what area of your life you may be struggling in and in need of re-progamming.
That would be rediculous because the welding machine is not designed to work as a hammer. So why do we do that in so many areas of our lives? It could happen financially, relationally, sexually, or even in our career choices. When we try to put ourselves into a box it leads to mistakes and sin, like trying to live up to the Jones'.
Why do we try to change ourselves into something we are not? I believe it's because Satan is a master artist at deception. He fills our head with lies, then when circumstances seem to suggest something similar he quickly nugges us and says, "I told you so", and we believe him.
The devil will consistently re-inforce his lies, until we are caught up in sin. Unfortunately the human brain can be programmed and re-programmed to respond a certain way and that is why brain washing is so successful.
There is hope.... I believe by understanding the brain washing process we can take contol of the situation and stop ourselves from sinning. In my next blogg I will share on this.
For the time being..... Why don't you ask God to help you see in what area of your life you may be struggling in and in need of re-progamming.
Monday, December 20, 2010
What's he prowling for....?
We can all see the picture. Kitty leaves the house ready to start his night time prowl. Cat's being the creatures of habit that they are, there's a pre-set route. Along the way he has made it a habit to endear himself to few neighbors who have no idea that they are just a means to an end.....
The end?...... Well cat's have two things in mind.... Survival and comfort! So from a survival standpoint you see it makes perfect sense to have several supplimentary feeding stations.
I think we need to learn similar tricks with the word of God. I think we starve ourselves of the joy of regularly 'consuming' the word of God. Going back to some discussions from earlier bloggs, we need to make it as easy possible to get our daily dose of the word.
Then for comfort, cat's just find that it helps to have a number of places they can go for shelter and a tickle if they feel the need for love. Most owners are away during the day so it helps to have a place to go for attention.
It can be so hard for us to experience God's love on a daily basis, because God can't wrap his arms around us. That's where the ministry of the Holy Spirit comes in. He not only brings the word to life in us, he becomes our comforter in times of need.
The end?...... Well cat's have two things in mind.... Survival and comfort! So from a survival standpoint you see it makes perfect sense to have several supplimentary feeding stations.
I think we need to learn similar tricks with the word of God. I think we starve ourselves of the joy of regularly 'consuming' the word of God. Going back to some discussions from earlier bloggs, we need to make it as easy possible to get our daily dose of the word.
Then for comfort, cat's just find that it helps to have a number of places they can go for shelter and a tickle if they feel the need for love. Most owners are away during the day so it helps to have a place to go for attention.
It can be so hard for us to experience God's love on a daily basis, because God can't wrap his arms around us. That's where the ministry of the Holy Spirit comes in. He not only brings the word to life in us, he becomes our comforter in times of need.
Re-united!
The joy! I found it! I found my precious ring. Somehow in the change of routine with the roads being quieter and leaving later, I somehow forgot to put it on.
Oh but it just can't compare to the overwhelming joy that Father God must feel when his lost children return to him. We all know the story of the prodigal child returning to his father.
He expected to come back and beg for forgiveness, but before he even got home the father saw him coming and ran out to meet him, throwing aside all dignity in the process.
He bestowed on his son a robe, shoes and a ring. All symbols of belonging, family and authority. God too will waste no time in restoring you to your God given place of family and authority, if you open up your heart allow him to work in your life.
Did you ask God to take you back into his family? If not, he's still waiting for you... Longing to restore you too!
Oh but it just can't compare to the overwhelming joy that Father God must feel when his lost children return to him. We all know the story of the prodigal child returning to his father.
He expected to come back and beg for forgiveness, but before he even got home the father saw him coming and ran out to meet him, throwing aside all dignity in the process.
He bestowed on his son a robe, shoes and a ring. All symbols of belonging, family and authority. God too will waste no time in restoring you to your God given place of family and authority, if you open up your heart allow him to work in your life.
Did you ask God to take you back into his family? If not, he's still waiting for you... Longing to restore you too!
His most precious posession!
I lost my most precious posession today and I have no idea if I will ever find it again. A ring valuable not because of it's gem or metallic value, but valuable because of the precious family connection. Part from my late father, my mother and my sister.
As my heart has broken today over this loss which is mostly sentimental, my thoughts turn to how the heart of God must break when we choose to walk away from our relationship with him.
The problem is, I imagine that we just cannot comprehend the value that God places on each and every one of us. His heart yearns to be in close relationship to each of us. When we walk away from him, the pain is unimaginable as he sees the timeless price his precious Son paid as he hung on the cross.
I know I will never stop searching for my ring. I know God will never stop searching or yearning for the hearts that he has lost. If you've walked away from God, PLEASE won't you consider praying this prayer and allow God back into your life....
Dear Father God, forgive me of my sin. Precious Lord Jesus, I receive you as my Lord and Saviour once again. Sweet Holy Spirit, guide my heart to learn to walk in relationship with God again. Amen!
As my heart has broken today over this loss which is mostly sentimental, my thoughts turn to how the heart of God must break when we choose to walk away from our relationship with him.
The problem is, I imagine that we just cannot comprehend the value that God places on each and every one of us. His heart yearns to be in close relationship to each of us. When we walk away from him, the pain is unimaginable as he sees the timeless price his precious Son paid as he hung on the cross.
I know I will never stop searching for my ring. I know God will never stop searching or yearning for the hearts that he has lost. If you've walked away from God, PLEASE won't you consider praying this prayer and allow God back into your life....
Dear Father God, forgive me of my sin. Precious Lord Jesus, I receive you as my Lord and Saviour once again. Sweet Holy Spirit, guide my heart to learn to walk in relationship with God again. Amen!
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Highveld thunderstorms
The beauty of the Highveld thunderstorms. For the most part they thunder down rain and as in today's case even hail and then moments later the sun is out and you can go for a strole and breath in the freshly washed air.
But then there are the other storms that set in and just hang around. Both can cause havoc in their own way, but at least with the thunderstorms you can get it over and done with.
Life's like that some times. Some trials are quick and although they can cause damage, they are over with quickly. Other times trials hang around for ages and you just wish they would go away.
I suppose it helps to remember that storms bring much needed rain, which we cry out for in the parched winter months. There are lessons to be learnt from the storms of life, which can become the food/fertiliser for future growth.
But then there are the other storms that set in and just hang around. Both can cause havoc in their own way, but at least with the thunderstorms you can get it over and done with.
Life's like that some times. Some trials are quick and although they can cause damage, they are over with quickly. Other times trials hang around for ages and you just wish they would go away.
I suppose it helps to remember that storms bring much needed rain, which we cry out for in the parched winter months. There are lessons to be learnt from the storms of life, which can become the food/fertiliser for future growth.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
My porcelain mug
I was reminded again today about the fragility of human life. In a frightening instant it is taken away. Hearing of someone loosing a young child this time of the year is especially difficult and my heart goes out to the family. Yet how is it that day to day we wake up and go about our business not remembering the fragility of life until it hits us in the face.
I love coffee and collecting coffee mugs is my special fettish. I have MANY. My one favourite set is a set of hand crafted wild life mugs, they really are my kind of beautiful. Then there are my special travel mugs that I collect on my travels as well as from friends travels, they are indeed special. Recently though my eye was drawn to a mug I hadn't used but had received for one of my birthdays, I had a look at the bottom and the label at the bottom said bone china..... wow, not only rare but very fine in design. Indeed if you tap a teaspoon against it you can hear the difference between the bone china and the normal pottery mugs you get for everyday use.
Our lives are like that.... precious bone china. Unique, fine, beautiful yet useful and functional and especially crafted by God for a unique purpose. If you haven't done so in a while, thank God today for the life you have right now.
Take the time to remember those who may be grieving this time of year and if you can give them some special love!
I love coffee and collecting coffee mugs is my special fettish. I have MANY. My one favourite set is a set of hand crafted wild life mugs, they really are my kind of beautiful. Then there are my special travel mugs that I collect on my travels as well as from friends travels, they are indeed special. Recently though my eye was drawn to a mug I hadn't used but had received for one of my birthdays, I had a look at the bottom and the label at the bottom said bone china..... wow, not only rare but very fine in design. Indeed if you tap a teaspoon against it you can hear the difference between the bone china and the normal pottery mugs you get for everyday use.
Our lives are like that.... precious bone china. Unique, fine, beautiful yet useful and functional and especially crafted by God for a unique purpose. If you haven't done so in a while, thank God today for the life you have right now.
Take the time to remember those who may be grieving this time of year and if you can give them some special love!
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Life guide
Recently I had an amusing situation with my cell phone. Somehow I had managed to turn my phone onto flight mode without noticing it. The anguish........ In a week when not much had gone right already, I thought life was conspiring against me. That in mind my thoughts turned to say, "Lord, what are you trying to teach me today?"
Many ideas crossed my mind as to what God was possibly trying to teach me. Until in a moment of frustration I eventually started checking the settings on my phone, only to discover that they had all been mixed up some how. A few minutes of fiddling and BINGO! I was back on line.
All the while, the flight mode symbol had been on and I realized that I just had just not payed attention when reading the manual. Sometimes life teaches us that what we had expected to learn isn't what God intended and that the purpose is far simpler.
We need to learn to pay attention to the instruction manual. I hear you say that there is no manual for life..... I beg to differ. God's word is our guide and we need to hear what the word has to say about our specific situation.
So take some time to look at your life guide!
Many ideas crossed my mind as to what God was possibly trying to teach me. Until in a moment of frustration I eventually started checking the settings on my phone, only to discover that they had all been mixed up some how. A few minutes of fiddling and BINGO! I was back on line.
All the while, the flight mode symbol had been on and I realized that I just had just not payed attention when reading the manual. Sometimes life teaches us that what we had expected to learn isn't what God intended and that the purpose is far simpler.
We need to learn to pay attention to the instruction manual. I hear you say that there is no manual for life..... I beg to differ. God's word is our guide and we need to hear what the word has to say about our specific situation.
So take some time to look at your life guide!
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Guess who's come to visit?
Some days it feels like Satan himself has rocked up and knocked on your door to say Hello. It feels like nothing is going to go right. So how do you boot the devil out the door and get back to some form of normality when that happens?
I definitely feel that seeking solice by getting away from the agitation and just taking a few minutes to go for a walk and get some fresh air can really help to calm things down. Sometimes you just need to be by yourself to get back to yourself..... If you know what I mean.
I wish I could say that everything will be a walk in the park, or that the situation will automatically change, but I do know that things will definitely calm down and that you will be able to function more productively. Certain things do become clearer and the day should become easier to work through.
So hang in there through the rough moments, because things will perk up!
I definitely feel that seeking solice by getting away from the agitation and just taking a few minutes to go for a walk and get some fresh air can really help to calm things down. Sometimes you just need to be by yourself to get back to yourself..... If you know what I mean.
I wish I could say that everything will be a walk in the park, or that the situation will automatically change, but I do know that things will definitely calm down and that you will be able to function more productively. Certain things do become clearer and the day should become easier to work through.
So hang in there through the rough moments, because things will perk up!
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Surrender to the eyes of love
There is something about the look in a persons eyes before a passionate embrace, that softens the heart and causes us to surrender to the love they offer us.
It is no different in worship, for we must first behold the glory of God before our hearts are willing to surrender in worship to him.
Hebrews 4 tells us that we have the right, by the blood of Jesus, to enter the throne of Grace. I want to encourage you to draw near to God at this time of year when our lives can so easily be over run by food and festivities.
Remember as you draw close to God he is infinantly more in love with you than you can ever understand.
It is no different in worship, for we must first behold the glory of God before our hearts are willing to surrender in worship to him.
Hebrews 4 tells us that we have the right, by the blood of Jesus, to enter the throne of Grace. I want to encourage you to draw near to God at this time of year when our lives can so easily be over run by food and festivities.
Remember as you draw close to God he is infinantly more in love with you than you can ever understand.
The meaning of L.I.F.E.
When asked recently about about the meaning of life, the words "Living Influentially Fruitfully Enthusiastically" came to mind.
Living influentially means nothing if the motive for your influence are harmful. Adolf Hitler influenced millions to kill innocent Jews and nothing good came from that. Yet Abraham Lincoln led a nation to greatness through his influence to equality of all citizens.
Living fruitfully speaks to making an impact in this world that is positive and lasting. Mother Theresa owned nothing, yet has influenced millions to live a life of compassion.
Living enthusiastically speaks of living with no holds barred, grabbing every opportunity and making the most of it.
Are you going to live life..... Or let life live you?
Living influentially means nothing if the motive for your influence are harmful. Adolf Hitler influenced millions to kill innocent Jews and nothing good came from that. Yet Abraham Lincoln led a nation to greatness through his influence to equality of all citizens.
Living fruitfully speaks to making an impact in this world that is positive and lasting. Mother Theresa owned nothing, yet has influenced millions to live a life of compassion.
Living enthusiastically speaks of living with no holds barred, grabbing every opportunity and making the most of it.
Are you going to live life..... Or let life live you?
Monday, December 13, 2010
What's the box for?
Boxes come in all shapes and sizes but they are used to package things so that they can be moved, or stored. For the most part you can never see what's inside, so it begs the question...... Why do we put ourselves in boxes?
I think it's because society is so threatend by anything different that people put us into boxes so that they can try and control us. If you are boxed then they can feel safe that you won't go anywhere, you won't achieve anything or you can't impact anyone because you won't be able to reach out.
I think we need to break out of the box before they get the tape on...... Break free, make your mark, stand out be different and make the impact that God has designed for only you to make.
I think it's because society is so threatend by anything different that people put us into boxes so that they can try and control us. If you are boxed then they can feel safe that you won't go anywhere, you won't achieve anything or you can't impact anyone because you won't be able to reach out.
I think we need to break out of the box before they get the tape on...... Break free, make your mark, stand out be different and make the impact that God has designed for only you to make.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Please quit..... NOT!
I don't know about you, but I'm a bit of an obstinant individual. Any time someone tells me to quit, that just puts fuel in my fire! Truth is, there's a time to fight or stand your ground and a time to back down. So how do you tell the difference?
Well I think the easiest to identify is when you know for sure that you have a word from God. It goes back to trusting those co-ordinants that God has given you. Just because the wind blows, doesn't mean the plane should change direction. Nope, if necessary the pilot would have to disengage the auto-pilot and fly manually until the flight is back on course.
I would say that a good time to back down though would be if you have caused such damage to a situation that staying on that course of action would mean certain destruction. At that point retreat would be the best option to allow the situation to calm down. Most likely once things have cooled down and you've had time to think, you'll be able to figure out a wiser course of action.
don't be to quick to quit..... Think it through before you decide on an action.
Well I think the easiest to identify is when you know for sure that you have a word from God. It goes back to trusting those co-ordinants that God has given you. Just because the wind blows, doesn't mean the plane should change direction. Nope, if necessary the pilot would have to disengage the auto-pilot and fly manually until the flight is back on course.
I would say that a good time to back down though would be if you have caused such damage to a situation that staying on that course of action would mean certain destruction. At that point retreat would be the best option to allow the situation to calm down. Most likely once things have cooled down and you've had time to think, you'll be able to figure out a wiser course of action.
don't be to quick to quit..... Think it through before you decide on an action.
Visions die and rise again
Flowers are beautiful and their magnificent colours can brighten a room and bring life to a garden. Many flowers though have to die completely in winter to re-seed before they can spring up again in spring to once again bear flowers.
Very often our visions can be like that. They grow and bring forth evidence of life, then sometimes to us, without understanding why, they die.
This is when most of us give up on our dreams, which is very much like raking out all the seeds from the ground. What we need to learn to do, is to allow the winter season to do it's work and just keep the ground in good condition. Then when our spiritual spring comes, the seed will grow again and bear flowers.
Never give up on your dreams. They are precious to God and worth looking after.
Very often our visions can be like that. They grow and bring forth evidence of life, then sometimes to us, without understanding why, they die.
This is when most of us give up on our dreams, which is very much like raking out all the seeds from the ground. What we need to learn to do, is to allow the winter season to do it's work and just keep the ground in good condition. Then when our spiritual spring comes, the seed will grow again and bear flowers.
Never give up on your dreams. They are precious to God and worth looking after.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
It's Terminal
Some where along life's journey we are bound to be confronted with the reality of dealing with terminal disease. At these times most people check out of life immediately and just go through the motions until they slip away.
It is my belief that God desires us to live out every moment we can with enthusiasm. It doesn't mean denying the pain, but it does mean making the most of the good moments and enjoying them to the fullest.
Some people may not be faced with a terminal illness but a condition caused by accident or genetics that leaves them bed ridden for either hours, days or even a lifetime. Yes we must believe God for healing and continue to pray for a miracle at every opportunity, but acceptance and making the most of every situation is vital to fulfilling God's plan for your life.
It is my belief that God desires us to live out every moment we can with enthusiasm. It doesn't mean denying the pain, but it does mean making the most of the good moments and enjoying them to the fullest.
Some people may not be faced with a terminal illness but a condition caused by accident or genetics that leaves them bed ridden for either hours, days or even a lifetime. Yes we must believe God for healing and continue to pray for a miracle at every opportunity, but acceptance and making the most of every situation is vital to fulfilling God's plan for your life.
A life time to know him
One of my bible school lecturers once said that he believed that our time on earth is mearly a training school for heaven and that we are placed here to spend our lives learning to worship God.
I agree. As the years for me race towards heading for 40 I've learned that every day is a new walk with God. There is seldom a time when God doesn't surprise me. Walking with him is a daily growth path and it never ends. It is little wonder to me that Paul at the end of his life writes, that he still desires to know him, in the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of his sufferings. Paul had reached the understanding that the learning never ends.
In Corinthians we read that when we are in heaven we will know him fully, even as we are fully known. I long to know Christ more each day and know that only in God's presence in heaven will the true splendour of his Glory be revealed.
I agree. As the years for me race towards heading for 40 I've learned that every day is a new walk with God. There is seldom a time when God doesn't surprise me. Walking with him is a daily growth path and it never ends. It is little wonder to me that Paul at the end of his life writes, that he still desires to know him, in the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of his sufferings. Paul had reached the understanding that the learning never ends.
In Corinthians we read that when we are in heaven we will know him fully, even as we are fully known. I long to know Christ more each day and know that only in God's presence in heaven will the true splendour of his Glory be revealed.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Echoes of her voice
Eva Cassidy was a young American women who died at the tender age of 33 from cancer. She was a singer who's voice silenced rooms and left people awe struck, yet she died in total obscurity.
Several years later her music was released posthumosly and various songs went to number 1 on pop music charts around the world. The echos of her voice can now only be heard in these few amateur recordings left behind.
What speaks to me is that the eternality of the human spirit and soul can be captured in works of art we leave behind. We often hold back from sharing ourselves with the world and we miss the opportunity to leave behind precious gifts.
God has given each of us unique gifts. We must never hold back from using them and sharing them with others. So what if we don't become wealthy from our labours in our life time, what matters is that we give these gifts to God to use as he wills.
In memory of Eva Cassidy.
Several years later her music was released posthumosly and various songs went to number 1 on pop music charts around the world. The echos of her voice can now only be heard in these few amateur recordings left behind.
What speaks to me is that the eternality of the human spirit and soul can be captured in works of art we leave behind. We often hold back from sharing ourselves with the world and we miss the opportunity to leave behind precious gifts.
God has given each of us unique gifts. We must never hold back from using them and sharing them with others. So what if we don't become wealthy from our labours in our life time, what matters is that we give these gifts to God to use as he wills.
In memory of Eva Cassidy.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
So where did you put that shovel?
Archiologists study for many years to learn about history. They will spend much time researching an area before they will commence an excavation.
The interesting part for me is that they will also train to learn how to correctly process dirt..... process dirt? Yes, you can't just bull doze through a dig site and expect to preserve priceless treasures in tact.
Isn't it strange though..... that's how we approach the word of God. We pick at the bible like a worthless mound of dirt and expect to find God's treasures. We need to learn to patiently and carefully work our way through God's word so that when we find something that seems to be taking shape into something valuable, we can extract it correctly.
Well very few of us will actually attend a Bible College or similar institution, so what do you do? Thankfully the Bible is not only the most published book in the world, it is the most written about book as well. There are many study guides that you can read to help you interpret the word as well as millions of books that take topical themes and elaborate on them.
Take some time to do a little digging for yourself...... !
The interesting part for me is that they will also train to learn how to correctly process dirt..... process dirt? Yes, you can't just bull doze through a dig site and expect to preserve priceless treasures in tact.
Isn't it strange though..... that's how we approach the word of God. We pick at the bible like a worthless mound of dirt and expect to find God's treasures. We need to learn to patiently and carefully work our way through God's word so that when we find something that seems to be taking shape into something valuable, we can extract it correctly.
Well very few of us will actually attend a Bible College or similar institution, so what do you do? Thankfully the Bible is not only the most published book in the world, it is the most written about book as well. There are many study guides that you can read to help you interpret the word as well as millions of books that take topical themes and elaborate on them.
Take some time to do a little digging for yourself...... !
20/20 Vision
Why is it that it is always hind sight that is 20/20? We all have regrets about the decisions we have made somewhere along this journey of life. Decisions that have left us dealing with the very painful consequences of our mistakes.
I suspect it has something to do with our stubbornness to allow God full control of our decisions. We tend to forget and ignore the lessons of the past. We may be confronted by an issue in our lives. The lesson was taught and learnt, but because the consequences were not severe enough, we are able to evade dissaster..... and we go and do it again.
Then finally the moment arrives when there is no further escape from the problem and no matter how hard you try, you are just not going to wiggle your way out of this one.
The moment of truth arrives and we start to deal with the issue at hand. It is when we finally face the truth and repent that God is able to start the rehabilitation process.
He starts first by guiding us through repentance. Then he begins to provide for us, just enough to help us but not enough loose our dependancy on him. Then more and more he loosens the reigns. Through this time he showers us with his grace and reminds us of who our source is.
Till eventually, we are able to stand strong again, bit this time the wiser and more willing to obey.
I suspect it has something to do with our stubbornness to allow God full control of our decisions. We tend to forget and ignore the lessons of the past. We may be confronted by an issue in our lives. The lesson was taught and learnt, but because the consequences were not severe enough, we are able to evade dissaster..... and we go and do it again.
Then finally the moment arrives when there is no further escape from the problem and no matter how hard you try, you are just not going to wiggle your way out of this one.
The moment of truth arrives and we start to deal with the issue at hand. It is when we finally face the truth and repent that God is able to start the rehabilitation process.
He starts first by guiding us through repentance. Then he begins to provide for us, just enough to help us but not enough loose our dependancy on him. Then more and more he loosens the reigns. Through this time he showers us with his grace and reminds us of who our source is.
Till eventually, we are able to stand strong again, bit this time the wiser and more willing to obey.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Tranquility zone
In our desperately hectic lives, we all need to find a way to quiet our hearts so that we can put ourselves in a position to hear from God. This is difficult to do when we are racing about our daily business.
In order to achieve quiet we all need to find a place that brings us to a state of tranquility. There are so many ways to achieve this; a visit to a park, the Zoo, getting out into nature, maybe even floating in a quiet swimming pool. Some find solice in a beautiful Chapel or Church.
Where ever your "happy place" may be, try to go there often, even if it is only for a few minutes. As you rest there and find inner tranquility you will learn the comfort of the Holy Spirit and as he speaks to you, your soul will find peace and joy. You will receive the strength you need to carry on......
If it is possible, try to photograph this place so that you will have a constant reminder of the place. This will help at times when you are stressed and unable to go there immediately. Stop and remember the feelings you had there. Memories of happiness can be very powerful in helping us deal with daily stress.
In order to achieve quiet we all need to find a place that brings us to a state of tranquility. There are so many ways to achieve this; a visit to a park, the Zoo, getting out into nature, maybe even floating in a quiet swimming pool. Some find solice in a beautiful Chapel or Church.
Where ever your "happy place" may be, try to go there often, even if it is only for a few minutes. As you rest there and find inner tranquility you will learn the comfort of the Holy Spirit and as he speaks to you, your soul will find peace and joy. You will receive the strength you need to carry on......
If it is possible, try to photograph this place so that you will have a constant reminder of the place. This will help at times when you are stressed and unable to go there immediately. Stop and remember the feelings you had there. Memories of happiness can be very powerful in helping us deal with daily stress.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
We have lift off!
I love flying and my favourite part is that moment of lift off. And the bigger the plane, the bigger that drop in the pit of your stomach.
Fasinating though is that although considerable force is being used to barrel the plane down the runway to build up speed, it is the air that literally sucks the plane up as that crucial speed is reached.... And off you go.
Interesting too is that the bigger the plane, the higher the speed required to attain the lift off velocity.
Most of us have dreams, but we are kind of waiting around for God to make it happen. If we want our dreams to take flight we are going to have to get moving..... And fast at that too. God can only make our dreams come true once we hit that crucial speed.
So... Up you get.... Get moving.... Your dreams are waiting to take flight!
Fasinating though is that although considerable force is being used to barrel the plane down the runway to build up speed, it is the air that literally sucks the plane up as that crucial speed is reached.... And off you go.
Interesting too is that the bigger the plane, the higher the speed required to attain the lift off velocity.
Most of us have dreams, but we are kind of waiting around for God to make it happen. If we want our dreams to take flight we are going to have to get moving..... And fast at that too. God can only make our dreams come true once we hit that crucial speed.
So... Up you get.... Get moving.... Your dreams are waiting to take flight!
Foxterrier grip
When I was growing up we had a little Foxterrier. She was a cute hyperactive pup named Pammie. One of her favourite games was to gab hold of a towel and pull. (Ok, this part is going to sound nasty but hear me out). She had such a strong grip on that towel that we could literally lift her off the floor and swing her around and she wouldn't let go.
I've spoken before about trusting God's co-ordinates in life to stick it out on the long haul....but we also need tenacity. Making our dreams come true is going to require some real guts and determination. Life doesn't just hand our dreams to us on a silver platter.
When you have a dream, it is worth fighting for. You will need to constantly remind yourself of that dream and keep focused on that. If you do your part, God will honour your faithfullness and grant you the desires of your heart.
I've spoken before about trusting God's co-ordinates in life to stick it out on the long haul....but we also need tenacity. Making our dreams come true is going to require some real guts and determination. Life doesn't just hand our dreams to us on a silver platter.
When you have a dream, it is worth fighting for. You will need to constantly remind yourself of that dream and keep focused on that. If you do your part, God will honour your faithfullness and grant you the desires of your heart.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Cooking on the back burner
Have you ever made a decision you've regretted afterwards? I know I have. One thing I've definitely noticed is that making decisions when you are stressed is a really bad idea.I'm not talking about having the ability to make quick decisions in a crisis situation, but more making decisions when you are so stressed you are actually not thinking clearly.
Some times we are trying to resolve a major problem but we just can't see straight. It's at these times that we sometimes make rash decisions that can cost us dearly in life. You need to be able to assess the urgency of the matter, and even though it may be inconvenient, if you can.... delay the decision. A little trick I've learnt is learning to put things on the "Back burner". The reason I do that is because the human brain is a very powerful organ, but we don't always allow it to solve problems for us the way it can.
When it comes to some decisions, our brain needs time to look at all the options available to us before it can correctly calculate the right option. Sometimes this takes time, but if we are patient we will come to the right decision and we will have a peace about it.
We need to let God's peace rule our hearts and help guide us to the right choices in life. When we allow God's spirit to work with our brain we will come to the best decisions in life. Next time you have a major decision, give yourself some time to mull it through and you'll see you will make much better choices.
Some times we are trying to resolve a major problem but we just can't see straight. It's at these times that we sometimes make rash decisions that can cost us dearly in life. You need to be able to assess the urgency of the matter, and even though it may be inconvenient, if you can.... delay the decision. A little trick I've learnt is learning to put things on the "Back burner". The reason I do that is because the human brain is a very powerful organ, but we don't always allow it to solve problems for us the way it can.
When it comes to some decisions, our brain needs time to look at all the options available to us before it can correctly calculate the right option. Sometimes this takes time, but if we are patient we will come to the right decision and we will have a peace about it.
We need to let God's peace rule our hearts and help guide us to the right choices in life. When we allow God's spirit to work with our brain we will come to the best decisions in life. Next time you have a major decision, give yourself some time to mull it through and you'll see you will make much better choices.
Friday, December 3, 2010
That slippery little sucker
SO - The weapons of our warfare aren't carnal! Ha - tell that to my food! You know all those movies where the Oyster goes flying accross the room? I always laugh nervously..... Coz that's me (blush).
My most recent battle was with a pickle (common people where was the tooth pic when I needed one?) So what does this have to do with our faith. Well there are times when we are just clumsy and we think we have our eye on the ball but we don't and ....whoooosh, before we know it something happens in our lives and we realize... We just took our eyes off our faith. And in that moment the simplicity of what we should have done smacks us in the face.
Well then there's the rest of the utensils... Sorry but I just don't see the point... Never did.... I can do most things with my fork. We all have perceptions of what Etiquette is.... In India it's perfectly normal to eat your entire meal with your hands and the Chinese use chop sticks.
The utensils are all just a means to get the job of eating done. They do however have different uses. There are definitely tools that we can use to build our faith. You need to find which tools help you to grow spiritually the best and then get comfortable with that.
So while I go and make peace with my fork, why don't you take a moment to ask God to help you find which tools to use to grow your faith :-)
My most recent battle was with a pickle (common people where was the tooth pic when I needed one?) So what does this have to do with our faith. Well there are times when we are just clumsy and we think we have our eye on the ball but we don't and ....whoooosh, before we know it something happens in our lives and we realize... We just took our eyes off our faith. And in that moment the simplicity of what we should have done smacks us in the face.
Well then there's the rest of the utensils... Sorry but I just don't see the point... Never did.... I can do most things with my fork. We all have perceptions of what Etiquette is.... In India it's perfectly normal to eat your entire meal with your hands and the Chinese use chop sticks.
The utensils are all just a means to get the job of eating done. They do however have different uses. There are definitely tools that we can use to build our faith. You need to find which tools help you to grow spiritually the best and then get comfortable with that.
So while I go and make peace with my fork, why don't you take a moment to ask God to help you find which tools to use to grow your faith :-)
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Commit - make the connection
I'm definitely no electrician, but I do remember the basics of electronics we learnt in primary school. To build an electic circuit, you need: a power source, conductive wire, the appliance and a switch.
Many of us recognize God as our power source. So why the negative terminal? Romans 8 tells us that he works all things for the good of those who love the Lord and walk according to his purposes. So he takes all our bad experiences and tranforms them by his spirit to bring something positive out of the situation.
We are the conductive wire. The vessels God uses in the earth to fulfill his plans. We have to be connected to the power source for his power to flow through us.
The appliance is the object or desire for which we are standing in faith. We put all our energy into making this appliance work. We have the power source, the conductive wire, but why won't this appliance work..... The switch is missing.
When the switch is in the off position, the conductive wire has been seperated thus stopping the flow of electricity. When the swith is in the on position, all the conductive wires are connected and power can flow through the circuit making the appliance work.
So what's the switch? Commitment! Many of us wonder why things don't work in our lives. We simply haven't made the commitment to the process to allow God's power to flow. We can only have a break through once we are committed!
Many of us recognize God as our power source. So why the negative terminal? Romans 8 tells us that he works all things for the good of those who love the Lord and walk according to his purposes. So he takes all our bad experiences and tranforms them by his spirit to bring something positive out of the situation.
We are the conductive wire. The vessels God uses in the earth to fulfill his plans. We have to be connected to the power source for his power to flow through us.
The appliance is the object or desire for which we are standing in faith. We put all our energy into making this appliance work. We have the power source, the conductive wire, but why won't this appliance work..... The switch is missing.
When the switch is in the off position, the conductive wire has been seperated thus stopping the flow of electricity. When the swith is in the on position, all the conductive wires are connected and power can flow through the circuit making the appliance work.
So what's the switch? Commitment! Many of us wonder why things don't work in our lives. We simply haven't made the commitment to the process to allow God's power to flow. We can only have a break through once we are committed!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Letting Go
We've all heard the expression, let go and let God. But why is it so hard to do? It I hard because letting go means letting go of control and surrendering to the will of another.
There are two types of surrender. The first is through violence where our physical lives may be in danger and we are forced to do things against our will. This violates our sense of value and can cause deep pain that can take many years to heal. Less violent but equally painful could just be being forced to do something that don't feel like doing but are obliged to do.
The second type of surrender is the kind we experience when we surrender to love and passion. This type requires trust.
We may feel at times as though God is violating our will by forcing us to do something we think we don't want, or we may not yet have come to a place where we completely trust him.
We must remember that God created us and that he loved us enough to give us his Son. He will never bring us to harm. He loves us more than we could ever understand.
Trust God with your hopes and dreams and let go of control and let his Holy Spirit guide you. You'll find treasures you never imagined possible.
There are two types of surrender. The first is through violence where our physical lives may be in danger and we are forced to do things against our will. This violates our sense of value and can cause deep pain that can take many years to heal. Less violent but equally painful could just be being forced to do something that don't feel like doing but are obliged to do.
The second type of surrender is the kind we experience when we surrender to love and passion. This type requires trust.
We may feel at times as though God is violating our will by forcing us to do something we think we don't want, or we may not yet have come to a place where we completely trust him.
We must remember that God created us and that he loved us enough to give us his Son. He will never bring us to harm. He loves us more than we could ever understand.
Trust God with your hopes and dreams and let go of control and let his Holy Spirit guide you. You'll find treasures you never imagined possible.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Focus people focus
An important cousin to passion is focus. Some of us unfortunately need spectacles to get by. There are many different conditions to sight imparement. Some can see close but not far and others can see far but not close.
By making small adjustments to prescription lenses, the eye specialist is able to correct the vision and bring things in focus. My point being that sometimes we need to make small changes in order to bring life back into focus again.
Have you ever wondered why there are some goals that you just can't conquer? Well perhaps it is because there are things that need to be shelved temporarily in order for you to achieve your goal.
Focus will become the fuel to your passion. As your focus becomes clearer and you start to see success in your short term goals, you will be able to get a clearer vision as to where you are headed in the long term.
By making small adjustments to prescription lenses, the eye specialist is able to correct the vision and bring things in focus. My point being that sometimes we need to make small changes in order to bring life back into focus again.
Have you ever wondered why there are some goals that you just can't conquer? Well perhaps it is because there are things that need to be shelved temporarily in order for you to achieve your goal.
Focus will become the fuel to your passion. As your focus becomes clearer and you start to see success in your short term goals, you will be able to get a clearer vision as to where you are headed in the long term.
Powerful passion
Passion is a very powerful force. This time I'm not referring to the passion of love, but the passion of ambition. Many people plod through life wishing something good would happen to them, when God and people are just waiting on them to actually find what it is that motivates them.
When we are in plod through life mode, we seldom wake up with any joy. Life is just a grind from start to finish each day. Passion on the other hand is a force that will push you to take on challenges you would normally avoid, face them head on and push through the problem.
The amazing thing is that you will always find time for the things you are passionate about. Some do this though to the detriment of the people in their lives, which can cause endless conflict. Let me be explicit about this.... It is my utter conviction that the only reason we have been given human bodies with which to live in this world is so that we can communicate love. Communicate our love, communicate God's love..... But communicate we must!
When we take the THINGS we are passionate about and make them more important than the PEOPLE in our lives...... We have missed the point. God's desire for us is to be passionate about the things we do so that we can being Glory to him. Time to go and check your passion account.... Is it in balance or have things outweighed people?
When we are in plod through life mode, we seldom wake up with any joy. Life is just a grind from start to finish each day. Passion on the other hand is a force that will push you to take on challenges you would normally avoid, face them head on and push through the problem.
The amazing thing is that you will always find time for the things you are passionate about. Some do this though to the detriment of the people in their lives, which can cause endless conflict. Let me be explicit about this.... It is my utter conviction that the only reason we have been given human bodies with which to live in this world is so that we can communicate love. Communicate our love, communicate God's love..... But communicate we must!
When we take the THINGS we are passionate about and make them more important than the PEOPLE in our lives...... We have missed the point. God's desire for us is to be passionate about the things we do so that we can being Glory to him. Time to go and check your passion account.... Is it in balance or have things outweighed people?
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Early birds
My cats love to get out early in the morning. Now I'm not a morning person, but for once I thought I'd check what the fuss was all about.
The air is cold and crisp. The moon is still shining and the morning star is still visible. The loudest noises at this time of day are from the Hadi-dah's. The freshness ofthe day are tangible.
Have you ever messed up really badly and had to face some serious consequences? I know I have. Yet with each new day there is a promise from God of refreshing. With each day comes fresh opportunities and if we listen, the voice of the Holy Spirit will guide us to the right opportunity for a new "catch".
God's mercies are new every morning. He feeds the earth with refreshing dew. He is the restorer of our souls. Wake up and receive God's forgiveness and grace today.
The air is cold and crisp. The moon is still shining and the morning star is still visible. The loudest noises at this time of day are from the Hadi-dah's. The freshness ofthe day are tangible.
Have you ever messed up really badly and had to face some serious consequences? I know I have. Yet with each new day there is a promise from God of refreshing. With each day comes fresh opportunities and if we listen, the voice of the Holy Spirit will guide us to the right opportunity for a new "catch".
God's mercies are new every morning. He feeds the earth with refreshing dew. He is the restorer of our souls. Wake up and receive God's forgiveness and grace today.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Is there space at your table?
There is nothing more fun than having a great big family meal. The laughter and chatter is contagious and the joy lasts for hours afterwards.
For many though, family time is no longer a possibility. Consider the lonely elderly who have no family that are in Old age homes. Consider orphans who would love to spend just one day with a family.
Less dramatic but equally difficult may be the friend who won't be able to get home to their family because they have to work during the Christmas season.
If you are able, invite someone who will be alone at Christmas to join you at your Christmas table.
For many though, family time is no longer a possibility. Consider the lonely elderly who have no family that are in Old age homes. Consider orphans who would love to spend just one day with a family.
Less dramatic but equally difficult may be the friend who won't be able to get home to their family because they have to work during the Christmas season.
If you are able, invite someone who will be alone at Christmas to join you at your Christmas table.
When Christmas just isn't Christmas any more
For some folks sadly the Christmas season just brings back really bad memories. Hardest of which is having lost a loved one over the holiday season. No matter how strong our conviction of our eternal being is, dealing with the physical loss can still be devastating.
How do we cope with this loss? The first few years are the hardest and may feel like you'll never recover. Slowly over time though you'll find the new meaning of what Christmas means to you as an individual and look for the reality of the origin of Christmas, in celebrating the birth of Christ.
Then the chain of healing begins. From hope in Christ (as we cannot remember his birth without also remembering his death and resurrection), comes faith. Faith that if Christ was born, lived, died and was resurrected that we too will experience the same joy.
That is when our Christmas joy is fulfilled and we can celebrate the life we have now and enjoy this amazing holiday once again!
How do we cope with this loss? The first few years are the hardest and may feel like you'll never recover. Slowly over time though you'll find the new meaning of what Christmas means to you as an individual and look for the reality of the origin of Christmas, in celebrating the birth of Christ.
Then the chain of healing begins. From hope in Christ (as we cannot remember his birth without also remembering his death and resurrection), comes faith. Faith that if Christ was born, lived, died and was resurrected that we too will experience the same joy.
That is when our Christmas joy is fulfilled and we can celebrate the life we have now and enjoy this amazing holiday once again!
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Life and death: Is God confused?
The one thing that we can notice in common with all the elements that they all have tremendous life giving power and devastating destuctive power. How is this possible that this God of love who created these elements can have both life and death as part of his being?
There are some questions to which we'll only receive the complete answer to once we are with God. I look at it this way. God said he created us in his image.
Have you ever watched a child playing with building blocks? They build an object or shape, get all excited about it ....... Then they wreck it and start all over.
In God's eyes the circle of life does not end with death the way we see it. In God's eyes we are simply recreated into a new life form. When we die our spirit and soul leaves our body and we are freed to be the pure spirit being God created us to be.
Then more glorious than this is the promise we have from God that at the ressurection we will receive our recreated immortal bodies. Let's rejoice in God's creative and recreative power!
There are some questions to which we'll only receive the complete answer to once we are with God. I look at it this way. God said he created us in his image.
Have you ever watched a child playing with building blocks? They build an object or shape, get all excited about it ....... Then they wreck it and start all over.
In God's eyes the circle of life does not end with death the way we see it. In God's eyes we are simply recreated into a new life form. When we die our spirit and soul leaves our body and we are freed to be the pure spirit being God created us to be.
Then more glorious than this is the promise we have from God that at the ressurection we will receive our recreated immortal bodies. Let's rejoice in God's creative and recreative power!
Earth elements: Water
I love water in all it's forms. Being in water - even more fun. Whether it is a bubble bath, shower, pool or water slides, it relaxes and refreshes.
Water is a life giving force and a very precious one. Scientists are already trying to calculate how long our country's drinkimg water reserves will last. The Lesotho Highlands water project was designed to supply much needed water to the Gauteng region, in addition to generating much needed Hydro Electric power.
With much of the earths surface being covered in water, how is it that we are running out of this precious commodity? It is due to pollution and a total lack of respect for this precious earth element.
I think at times we treat the word of God with disrespect. We forget it's life giving force and the healing it can provide to our souls. The Psalmist David wrote in Ps 119 that he would hide God's word in his heart that he might not sin against God. I encourage you to draw God's word close to you and allow it to feed your spirit and guide your actions.
Water is a life giving force and a very precious one. Scientists are already trying to calculate how long our country's drinkimg water reserves will last. The Lesotho Highlands water project was designed to supply much needed water to the Gauteng region, in addition to generating much needed Hydro Electric power.
With much of the earths surface being covered in water, how is it that we are running out of this precious commodity? It is due to pollution and a total lack of respect for this precious earth element.
I think at times we treat the word of God with disrespect. We forget it's life giving force and the healing it can provide to our souls. The Psalmist David wrote in Ps 119 that he would hide God's word in his heart that he might not sin against God. I encourage you to draw God's word close to you and allow it to feed your spirit and guide your actions.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Earth elements: Earth
The earth: God's most magnificent creation! It sustains life with the exact balace of heat and cold. The distance from the sun precisely calculated to allow for this balance. God is the earth's and our source of life. He has planned every detail of what you need to be sustained.
Earth or clay are used to manufacture bricks used to construct homes that protect us from the harsh elements. God's spirit covers us and protects us from harm.
The earths textures are diverse. Sea sand, clay, potting soil, all have different functions. So too are God's people different and diverse. We are all unique and possess the different components needed within the body of Christ.
It is interesting too then that for the most part, precious metals and gem stones are burried deep within the earth. Our gifts and talents may be visible but their source is burried deep within our souls. As you grow in God, these gifts will become more obvious and you'll be able to access these treasures more fully..... I think it is time to get digging!
Earth or clay are used to manufacture bricks used to construct homes that protect us from the harsh elements. God's spirit covers us and protects us from harm.
The earths textures are diverse. Sea sand, clay, potting soil, all have different functions. So too are God's people different and diverse. We are all unique and possess the different components needed within the body of Christ.
It is interesting too then that for the most part, precious metals and gem stones are burried deep within the earth. Our gifts and talents may be visible but their source is burried deep within our souls. As you grow in God, these gifts will become more obvious and you'll be able to access these treasures more fully..... I think it is time to get digging!
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Earth elements: Wind
Continuing with earth elements, lets consider the wind. We don't know where it comes from or where it is going. We can however see the effects of the wind as it blows. We see the trees swaying and the clouds as they move accross the sky. The winds are the breath of life on the earth that drive the weather patterns. So too God's breath of life within us gives us life.
In Holland there are many beautiful old fashioned wind mills that are used to draw water from canals. Thanks to modern technology we now have giant turbines that harness wind power to generate electricity. The Holy Spirit is our power force to sustain our relationship with God, and to guide us.
Sail boats use captured wind force to power the vessel accross seas and oceans. The Holy spirit will become the power that drives your life.
For all its good, wind is also one of the most destructive forces on earth. Hurricanes, tornadoes, and storms are all driven by powerful winds. When the storms of life come, within minutes, hours or days, they can destroy something we've been building for many years.
BUT, storms do pass. They may leave a wake of destruction, but the do pass. What did Jesus do in the storm - He slept. How could he sleep? Because he knew the storm would end and they would get to the other side. How did he know that? Because he gave his disciples his word. It is vital for you to get to know the word of God, so that in the storm, you will have an anchor for your soul to stay grounded to!
In Holland there are many beautiful old fashioned wind mills that are used to draw water from canals. Thanks to modern technology we now have giant turbines that harness wind power to generate electricity. The Holy Spirit is our power force to sustain our relationship with God, and to guide us.
Sail boats use captured wind force to power the vessel accross seas and oceans. The Holy spirit will become the power that drives your life.
For all its good, wind is also one of the most destructive forces on earth. Hurricanes, tornadoes, and storms are all driven by powerful winds. When the storms of life come, within minutes, hours or days, they can destroy something we've been building for many years.
BUT, storms do pass. They may leave a wake of destruction, but the do pass. What did Jesus do in the storm - He slept. How could he sleep? Because he knew the storm would end and they would get to the other side. How did he know that? Because he gave his disciples his word. It is vital for you to get to know the word of God, so that in the storm, you will have an anchor for your soul to stay grounded to!
Earth elements: Fire
I think we can learn a lot from observing God's earth. Fire is one of my favourite earth elements. Fire has so many functions and forms.
A candle lights only a small space, but an oil lamp can light a whole room. The bible says that God's word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. A lamp on a dark path only gives enough light to see a little way in front of you. God will always give us enough guidance to see just far enough ahead so that we don't stumble and fall.
A fire place in a home warms the home and creates a welcoming abiance for everyone. The Holy Spirit is our comforter and He brings to life the love God in our hearts.
A flame can be used to cook a meal, wether on gas or an open fire. The word of God nourishes our soul and spirit.
Fire is also used to burn the open veld. I used to think it was just for pest and disease control. Recently though I learned that the veld is burnt at low heat on purpose to put nutrients back into the ground. Then when the spring rain comes these nutrients feed the soil and help the new grass to grow. This is so true in our lives. There are times when we go through difficult situations that burn us and leave us feeling destroyed. In Romans 8, we read that all things work together for the good of those who love the Lord and are called according to his purposes. God will always use every trial we go through to build our lives if we open our hearts to his healing rain.
A candle lights only a small space, but an oil lamp can light a whole room. The bible says that God's word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. A lamp on a dark path only gives enough light to see a little way in front of you. God will always give us enough guidance to see just far enough ahead so that we don't stumble and fall.
A fire place in a home warms the home and creates a welcoming abiance for everyone. The Holy Spirit is our comforter and He brings to life the love God in our hearts.
A flame can be used to cook a meal, wether on gas or an open fire. The word of God nourishes our soul and spirit.
Fire is also used to burn the open veld. I used to think it was just for pest and disease control. Recently though I learned that the veld is burnt at low heat on purpose to put nutrients back into the ground. Then when the spring rain comes these nutrients feed the soil and help the new grass to grow. This is so true in our lives. There are times when we go through difficult situations that burn us and leave us feeling destroyed. In Romans 8, we read that all things work together for the good of those who love the Lord and are called according to his purposes. God will always use every trial we go through to build our lives if we open our hearts to his healing rain.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Why is it taking so long?
Many times we come to God with prayers for things that are very precious to us. Then we wonder why and how it can take God so long to answer our prayers?
Well, let's think of it like a freight liner. A company will order stock from a foreign country. Due to the size of the order and the weight of the stock, it will need to be sent via ocean freight.
The process of getting stock from one country to another is a long and laborious one. Just the process of packing and loading the stock to get it on board ship can take days. Then comes the long haul as the container will be on a freight liner carrying hundreds of tons of cargo. The ship will spend many months on water, stopping at many ports en route before it arrived at the port for our country's client.
The offloading, inspection and transport of the goods to the clients premises can then take several days as well. At last it arrives at the client and can be offloaded and packed into the warhouse ready for sale. Shhhooe - that's a lot to get through.
Well I think the picture is clear. Here's the amazing part: the value of the shipment never changes! God hears hears our prayers and desires to give us the desires / values of our hearts, but there may be many ports of call before our precious cargo arrives.
Never give up on your prayers. Keep standing in faith and believe that God will answer you!
Well, let's think of it like a freight liner. A company will order stock from a foreign country. Due to the size of the order and the weight of the stock, it will need to be sent via ocean freight.
The process of getting stock from one country to another is a long and laborious one. Just the process of packing and loading the stock to get it on board ship can take days. Then comes the long haul as the container will be on a freight liner carrying hundreds of tons of cargo. The ship will spend many months on water, stopping at many ports en route before it arrived at the port for our country's client.
The offloading, inspection and transport of the goods to the clients premises can then take several days as well. At last it arrives at the client and can be offloaded and packed into the warhouse ready for sale. Shhhooe - that's a lot to get through.
Well I think the picture is clear. Here's the amazing part: the value of the shipment never changes! God hears hears our prayers and desires to give us the desires / values of our hearts, but there may be many ports of call before our precious cargo arrives.
Never give up on your prayers. Keep standing in faith and believe that God will answer you!
Hanging on through the long haul
Most of us can handle the shorter trials in life. It's the battles of life that set in for the long haul, that frustate is to the point of wanting to give up on the issue and some may even consider suicide. How do you find the strength to hang on? Then to our amazement it seems that God is silent.... Is this really the case?
There are many parallels we can draw in life. One I'd like to look at is a long distance flight. The pilot's are very hands on during take off and ascent. Once they reach cruising altitude they set the course co-ordinates and put the flight into auto pilot and let go of the controls. Then barring any hectic winds, storms or any big bangs, the pilot will leave the plane on auto pilot until it is time to decend.
Then the pilot only chat's to the passengers when there is a change of direction. The rest of the time he leaves the maintenance of the plane to the flight crew.
Well that's what God is like. He gives us instructions to set us on course, then he expects us to stay on track until it is time for a major change in direction. We need to learn to trust the co-ordinates that God has given us and just stay on track. Trust that God will tell you when he wants you to change direction and just keep going.
There are many parallels we can draw in life. One I'd like to look at is a long distance flight. The pilot's are very hands on during take off and ascent. Once they reach cruising altitude they set the course co-ordinates and put the flight into auto pilot and let go of the controls. Then barring any hectic winds, storms or any big bangs, the pilot will leave the plane on auto pilot until it is time to decend.
Then the pilot only chat's to the passengers when there is a change of direction. The rest of the time he leaves the maintenance of the plane to the flight crew.
Well that's what God is like. He gives us instructions to set us on course, then he expects us to stay on track until it is time for a major change in direction. We need to learn to trust the co-ordinates that God has given us and just stay on track. Trust that God will tell you when he wants you to change direction and just keep going.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Building your house on the rock
Most of us know the story of the two men building houses. The one built on sand and when the storm came it destroyed the house. The other build on the rock and it withstood the storm.
Mostly that is taught as the way we should build our relationship with God. Build your relationship on God's word and it will stand. I'd like to take that a step further and talk about romantic relationships.
What are some of the building blocks for a strong relationship. Friendship: make sure you enjoy each others company. Communication: being able to communicate about everything openly. Common ground: focus on the things you have in common, and there should be a few. Your relationship with God: you should both have a strong relationship with God individually and then develop your relationship with him together.
There are many other strong building blocks, but for me, these would be the most important.
Mostly that is taught as the way we should build our relationship with God. Build your relationship on God's word and it will stand. I'd like to take that a step further and talk about romantic relationships.
What are some of the building blocks for a strong relationship. Friendship: make sure you enjoy each others company. Communication: being able to communicate about everything openly. Common ground: focus on the things you have in common, and there should be a few. Your relationship with God: you should both have a strong relationship with God individually and then develop your relationship with him together.
There are many other strong building blocks, but for me, these would be the most important.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Braai time: Need fresh meat
You wouldn't take stale meat to a braai would you? No, I didn't think so. A nice fresh pack with some good salad and some other extras makes for a good braai.
Then there's the company. A good bunch of friends and you're off to an afternoon or evening of lively chatter.
We tend to over complicate Chrisitanity. It's really just about good spiritual food, coupled with good friends to walk the path with you. Stick to that combination and there is no doubt you will definitely grow in your relationship with God.
Then there's the company. A good bunch of friends and you're off to an afternoon or evening of lively chatter.
We tend to over complicate Chrisitanity. It's really just about good spiritual food, coupled with good friends to walk the path with you. Stick to that combination and there is no doubt you will definitely grow in your relationship with God.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
What's your perspective of people?
I've always been facinated by genetics. It facinates me that although every baby is born with their own unique DNA string, yet we are such an amazing blend of our family members.
In so many cases you will see a distinct resemblance in a child's eyes to their father. It reminds me of a very old Amy Grant song, "She's got her father's eyes." The song was mostly about looking at people through God's eyes.
Through who's eyes are you looking at people? We also often refer to looking at life through different lenses. Telescopes can look at items that are very far away, and microscopes enlarge the tiniest objects.
Are you a fault finder, or do you sometimes ignore people that are right in front of you and keep longing for the attention of people that are afar off? Give some thought to your perspective of people and learn to appreciate people more.
In so many cases you will see a distinct resemblance in a child's eyes to their father. It reminds me of a very old Amy Grant song, "She's got her father's eyes." The song was mostly about looking at people through God's eyes.
Through who's eyes are you looking at people? We also often refer to looking at life through different lenses. Telescopes can look at items that are very far away, and microscopes enlarge the tiniest objects.
Are you a fault finder, or do you sometimes ignore people that are right in front of you and keep longing for the attention of people that are afar off? Give some thought to your perspective of people and learn to appreciate people more.
Getting your fill
Have you ever had a meal so big, you just can't move afterwards? Well some books in the bible are so rich in content that there is just no way you can get through it all in one go.
That's where I think we should take our kew's from nature. Cow's have 4 stomachs. And once they have had their fill, they lie down and chew the Cudd.
We need to learn to do that. To read and re-read the same portions of scripture over and over and allow the word of God to settle in our spirits.
That's where I think we should take our kew's from nature. Cow's have 4 stomachs. And once they have had their fill, they lie down and chew the Cudd.
We need to learn to do that. To read and re-read the same portions of scripture over and over and allow the word of God to settle in our spirits.
Monday, November 15, 2010
God the accountant
Being an accountant myself, seeing the word "reconciled" in the Bible is quite exciting. In accounting, reconciliation brings all things into balance.
Paul speaks in Colossians 1 about the fact that we were all afar of (unreconciled), and that Christ through his death and shedding of blood, has purchased us at a price and reconciled us to himself.
Yipppie, thay means we are part of God's asset book. The good thing is that we are not a medium term asset that depreciates with time, but rather a fixed asset that grows in value!
Paul speaks in Colossians 1 about the fact that we were all afar of (unreconciled), and that Christ through his death and shedding of blood, has purchased us at a price and reconciled us to himself.
Yipppie, thay means we are part of God's asset book. The good thing is that we are not a medium term asset that depreciates with time, but rather a fixed asset that grows in value!
Our endless possibilities of Glory
I marvel that this amazing God we serve, created all things by his word. Even more amazing though is the fact that he desires for us to know him fully.
Even MORE amazing, is that the full creative power of God resides in us. In Colossians 1 Paul writes that Christ in us, is our hope of Glory. This is a truly mind blowing statement.
We truly do need to open our minds to the endless possibilities that we have if we could only stretch ourselves a little to tap into God's creative power residing in us. Common, tap into God now and streeeeeeetch!
Even MORE amazing, is that the full creative power of God resides in us. In Colossians 1 Paul writes that Christ in us, is our hope of Glory. This is a truly mind blowing statement.
We truly do need to open our minds to the endless possibilities that we have if we could only stretch ourselves a little to tap into God's creative power residing in us. Common, tap into God now and streeeeeeetch!
Saturday, November 13, 2010
His voice through an inner witness
God will speak to you through an inner witness. There are many terms
used for this i.e. intuition, inner voice, gut feeling. They speak
not so much of a hearing, but a knowing or feeling. In Romans 2 we
read about our conscience bearing witness. In Romans 8 His spirit
bears witness with our spirit that we are the children of God.
used for this i.e. intuition, inner voice, gut feeling. They speak
not so much of a hearing, but a knowing or feeling. In Romans 2 we
read about our conscience bearing witness. In Romans 8 His spirit
bears witness with our spirit that we are the children of God.
Opera has interviewed many people that have gone through personal
tragedies, whether it be through an accident or violence against them.
In so many cases the people have borne witness to the fact that
something just "felt off", but that they carried on with their actions
any way.
In my life I've seen it most active at times when I have had motor car
accidents. I know now that it is by obeying that inner voice to pray
and keep focused on God's spirit that I am still alive today. Learn
to pay conscious attention to this inner voice and act on what it
tells you to do.
His voice through a still small voice
God will speak to you at times through the "Still small voice". In 1
Kings 19, Elijah is on a mountain and he sees a strong wind, an
earthquake, and a fire – but God was in none of them. Then he hears a
still small voice, also translated as "a delicate whispering voice",
and he knows that is God, so he approaches God and God speaks to them.
Kings 19, Elijah is on a mountain and he sees a strong wind, an
earthquake, and a fire – but God was in none of them. Then he hears a
still small voice, also translated as "a delicate whispering voice",
and he knows that is God, so he approaches God and God speaks to them.
The scriptures are filled with hundreds of scriptures about the Voice
of God. As we read them, we begin to understand his voice and how it
works. God is a gentlemen and he will never force his way on you. He
will speak to you in a still small voice. The challenge for us today
is that our world is literally filled with things that 'Scream' at us.
The media, Television and movies all impact our daily lives and our
thinking.
We have to learn to take time out to be silent to hear the voice of
God and respond to his word according to his will. This is where
prayer and meditating on God's word will be a vital part of your life.
Learn to find a way to take a quite time to be with God and allow him
to speak to you.
His voice through the word
There are three primary ways that God will speak to you. Through his
word, a still small voice and an inner witness. In this segment we
look at God's voice through his word. Going back to the basics we
discussed earlier. Reading your bible is so important to help you,
not just with getting to know God and Jesus better, but in getting to
know his voice too.
word, a still small voice and an inner witness. In this segment we
look at God's voice through his word. Going back to the basics we
discussed earlier. Reading your bible is so important to help you,
not just with getting to know God and Jesus better, but in getting to
know his voice too.
When you commit yourself to regular reading of the word of God, you
will find over time that there will be many ocassions when something
you read in the bible will just jump off the page and speak right into
your situation.
How should we approach reading the word. Well for starters it's good
to read one of the gospels, and the book of John is usually
recommended. Then skip the rest of the Gospels and go to Acts and
then into the Epistles (letters), i.e. Romans through to Jude. If you
are starting out then skip Revelation as this book requires some
teaching to be able to understand some of the symbols and history
behind the writing of the book.
For Old Testament reading start with Psalms and Proverbs and then move
your way through some of the other books. Ask God to guide you in
your reading and you will find that he will quickly show you the books
he wants you to read.
Something for the ladies - a prayer for your husband
Lord today I stand guard over my husband
I pray you protect him physically, emotionally, spiritually and sexually
Guard his heart and mind in Christ Jesus
Give him strength and peace!
Bless him abundantly so that he may be able to bless his family
Conserve his life and satisfy him with long life!
I pray you protect him physically, emotionally, spiritually and sexually
Guard his heart and mind in Christ Jesus
Give him strength and peace!
Bless him abundantly so that he may be able to bless his family
Conserve his life and satisfy him with long life!
Friday, November 12, 2010
What am I?
In the movie, 'I Robot', Sonny attacks the Police officer and says, "what am I?" Interesting use of words...
I think most of us ask the question, who am I? When we should be asking, what am I?
Well, what are we? I am a spirit, I have a soul and I live in a body. Many of us get so caught up in our fleshly needs and desires, when we need to shift our focus to our spirits.
Living this way can totally change your mental paradigm. Give it some thought and let me know what you think?
I think most of us ask the question, who am I? When we should be asking, what am I?
Well, what are we? I am a spirit, I have a soul and I live in a body. Many of us get so caught up in our fleshly needs and desires, when we need to shift our focus to our spirits.
Living this way can totally change your mental paradigm. Give it some thought and let me know what you think?
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Anger management :(
Some situations in life just make your blood boil instantly. They arrive without notice and send you into a rage without warning.
The bible says "be angry, but don't sin". That sounds like a total contradiction. Loosing your temper and "chucking your toys", seldom achieves anything positive.
What do you do? Firstly recognise the fact that anger is a a sign that a personal boundary has been violated. Stop, take a deep breath and think. Realise to that you have the right to tell someone that you are angry with them, but you don't have the right to scream and shout at someone.
Tell the other person that you are angry with them and then tell them why. Then have respect enough for them to allow them to explain their side of the story. In all likelihood you will find that there is a miscommunication of some kind that can be resolved if you talk it through.
The bible says "be angry, but don't sin". That sounds like a total contradiction. Loosing your temper and "chucking your toys", seldom achieves anything positive.
What do you do? Firstly recognise the fact that anger is a a sign that a personal boundary has been violated. Stop, take a deep breath and think. Realise to that you have the right to tell someone that you are angry with them, but you don't have the right to scream and shout at someone.
Tell the other person that you are angry with them and then tell them why. Then have respect enough for them to allow them to explain their side of the story. In all likelihood you will find that there is a miscommunication of some kind that can be resolved if you talk it through.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Grace that gives endlessly
God gives Jonah a second chance and forgives him of his sin and allows him to carry on with his mission. Yet when God forgives Nineveh, Jonah becomes angry.
This seems at first glace to be so strange. But a closer look reveals that this is a normal reaction. Haven't you prayed for someone to get saved and then when they do and God blesses them you feel angry? It's definitely happened to me.
We need to remember that the grace of God has no bounds nor shows no favourites. God gives all willing hearts the same grace. We need to learn to be gracious too!
This seems at first glace to be so strange. But a closer look reveals that this is a normal reaction. Haven't you prayed for someone to get saved and then when they do and God blesses them you feel angry? It's definitely happened to me.
We need to remember that the grace of God has no bounds nor shows no favourites. God gives all willing hearts the same grace. We need to learn to be gracious too!
Rebel with a cause
It would seem to most people that worship should come naturally once we've commited our heart to Christ. In truth however our natural response to the presence of God leans more toward rebellion.
That's what Jonah was doing when he landed up in the belly of the fish. He heard God's voice clearly yet disobeyed and went in the other direction.
So don't be surprised when you hear the voice of God, or feel drawn to him if you suddenly find yourself running in the opposite direction.
Learning to yield to God's presence and call takes time, but as you surrender, you will soon hear his words of love as well as the words of gentle correction as he guides your life.
That's what Jonah was doing when he landed up in the belly of the fish. He heard God's voice clearly yet disobeyed and went in the other direction.
So don't be surprised when you hear the voice of God, or feel drawn to him if you suddenly find yourself running in the opposite direction.
Learning to yield to God's presence and call takes time, but as you surrender, you will soon hear his words of love as well as the words of gentle correction as he guides your life.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Belly of the fish
Yesterday I spoke about repentance. In Jonah 2, Jonah finds himself in the belly of the fish. We've all landed ourselves in trouble at some stage due to our own sin. Yet in the midst of this Jonah worships God and repents and God causes the fish to spit him out.
David worshipped and repented and God forgave him. Paul and Silas, were not in sin when they found themselves in prison, but I'm sure they remembered Jonah and they worshipped their way out of prison.
Worship and repentace release the power of God in our lives and to set us free from bondage.
David worshipped and repented and God forgave him. Paul and Silas, were not in sin when they found themselves in prison, but I'm sure they remembered Jonah and they worshipped their way out of prison.
Worship and repentace release the power of God in our lives and to set us free from bondage.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Messing Up
I mentioned that 1 John 1 v 9, says that we must confess our sins and that God is faithful to forgive us. Does that mean that we have to sit down every day, take stock of our sins and repent and pay pennance? No, what God desires is for us to become sensitive to his spirit and to learn when something has grieved him. Believe me, if you open your heart to God, you will quickly learn when you are being rebuked.
God desires sensitivity to his leading, and his ultimate goal is to have us become so sensitive to his Spirit that he can "lead us by his eye"..... You know what that is right? That look you got from mom or dad when you just shouldn't have done or said something, and they are not in a place to spank you!
Learn to just listen to your heart and inner voice. That is where God will speak to you.
God desires sensitivity to his leading, and his ultimate goal is to have us become so sensitive to his Spirit that he can "lead us by his eye"..... You know what that is right? That look you got from mom or dad when you just shouldn't have done or said something, and they are not in a place to spank you!
Learn to just listen to your heart and inner voice. That is where God will speak to you.
Friendships
Normally when we talk about building christian relationships, the emphasis is on church and home fellowship attendance.
What I want to focus on today though is building friendships. We need to make an effort to build friendships. Too often we expect others to come to us. We need to remember that other people have their own insecurities and that friendship is a two way street.
Make the effort to reach out to someone in friendship. I think you will be surprised at the result.
What I want to focus on today though is building friendships. We need to make an effort to build friendships. Too often we expect others to come to us. We need to remember that other people have their own insecurities and that friendship is a two way street.
Make the effort to reach out to someone in friendship. I think you will be surprised at the result.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Sharing the Gospel – the easy version
To get started it is probably best you use a hard copy bible. Then
you'll only need to memorize the first verse and you can guide
yourself along from there. Once you've learned the format, it will be
easy to use any version from there.
you'll only need to memorize the first verse and you can guide
yourself along from there. Once you've learned the format, it will be
easy to use any version from there.
John 3 v 16 – We all know this scripture well – the point being – God
loves us. God sent his one and only Son to die for us. If he gave
what was most precious to him for us, then that is how much he values
us.
Hint: write the next scripture to use at the bottom of your bible page.
Romans 3 v 23 – All of us have sinned - It's because we have all
sinned that we need a Saviour. Without sin, there may be no need for
God in our lives. Some people may say, "But I am good and live a good
life and treat people well". The truth is that because of our sin, we
fall far short of the standard that God has for righteousness.
Ephesians 1 v 7 - Jesus died so that we could be saved – Our
salvation and redemption was conditional to the shedding of blood.
Jesus died and shed his blood so that we could be saved.
Ephesians 2 v 8 – We are saved by Grace – There is nothing that we
could have done that would have saved us, it was only the blood of
Christ that could set us free. When we accept Christs gift by faith,
it is then that we are saved.
Romans 10 v 9 & 10 – We need to confess Jesus as our Lord – We need to
confess Christ as Lord and believe that God raised him from the dead,
and we need to accept that by faith. When we make that confession,
God sends his Holy Spirit to live in our heart and to help bring the
scripture to life so that we can gain a heart and mind reality of our
relationship with Christ.
Reaching Out - how can we effectively witness
I'll admit this isn't my strongest area. I'm a nurturer and teacher by nature. I really admire people with the talent to speak words that draw peoples hearts to God on mass and we have many wonderful evangelists today.
So, if I'm not an evangelist, what do I do? Well, we need to live our lives with a recognition of God's strength and compassion in our lives. My aim in life is to live in a way that will honour God. Yes, I do and have messed up many times, but what people need to see is that we are repentant and that we are willing to change where we need to and that we are not selfish enough to be too stubborn to admit when we are wrong.
Showing compassion to those around us is a great way to share the love of Christ, and somewhere, somehow that touches lives and if we learn the basic skills then for sharing the gospel, then that can be easy for anyone. I'll share these points and scriptures with you all soon.
So, if I'm not an evangelist, what do I do? Well, we need to live our lives with a recognition of God's strength and compassion in our lives. My aim in life is to live in a way that will honour God. Yes, I do and have messed up many times, but what people need to see is that we are repentant and that we are willing to change where we need to and that we are not selfish enough to be too stubborn to admit when we are wrong.
Showing compassion to those around us is a great way to share the love of Christ, and somewhere, somehow that touches lives and if we learn the basic skills then for sharing the gospel, then that can be easy for anyone. I'll share these points and scriptures with you all soon.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Prayer - What is it really?
What is Prayer really? Well prayer really just is communication with God in it's simplest form. Yes, there is a lot to learn about prayer as you grow, but getting started is important. Telling God how you feel, when you are stuck in traffic (and NO, not the bad mouth stuff), but really expressing your feelings in a positive way.... that's part of prayer. Talking to God when you wake up... that's prayer.
Well, how do we address God? Well, personally 'Father God', 'Precious Holy Spirit', 'Lord Jesus', all work for me. You'll find your own love language with God. What he desires most is for us to ADORE him!
So start talking to him now, he will be your closest friend in every joy and trial. He will rejoice in your victories with you, and weep with you when your heart is broken.
Well, how do we address God? Well, personally 'Father God', 'Precious Holy Spirit', 'Lord Jesus', all work for me. You'll find your own love language with God. What he desires most is for us to ADORE him!
So start talking to him now, he will be your closest friend in every joy and trial. He will rejoice in your victories with you, and weep with you when your heart is broken.
Read your Bible - Making it work
Never before in History have we had so much access to information, and we are bombarded with it constantly. At home I have several Bibles all different versions. These are great to use for home study and preparing teachings, but it can really be impractical for our "On the go" generation.
Thanks to technology though access to the word of God has also become so much easier. If you google 'Bible' you will find many versions for download to your PC or Mobile. My favourite mobile App currently is located on: www.gobible.com (you'll just have to scroll down to find the mobile App).
I want to hear from you what your favourite applications are. Please add your comments so that I can check them out too :-)
Thanks to technology though access to the word of God has also become so much easier. If you google 'Bible' you will find many versions for download to your PC or Mobile. My favourite mobile App currently is located on: www.gobible.com (you'll just have to scroll down to find the mobile App).
I want to hear from you what your favourite applications are. Please add your comments so that I can check them out too :-)
The Big 5 in your relationship with God
In getting started in your relationship with God, it's important to remember the "Big 5". What are the Big 5? 5 basic keys to help you in growing with God.
Look at your right hand. The 5 fingers of your right hand must remind you of 5 things that you need to do regularly (not ritualistically), but often to help you to grow.
Thumb - Your thumb should remind you to flick through the pages of your bible, like you would if you were scanning through a book for a page. Reading your bible regularly is key to getting to know God better.
Forefinger - Point your finger up to God. This finger should remind you to pray regularly to God. Prayer, very simply is not a ritual, but rather constant communication to God. You can talk to God anywhere, any time, any how you like, but remember to be respectful in your communication with God as he deserves our honour!
Middle finger - Your middle finger is the longest finger on the hand and this should remind you to reach out to other people and share your relationship with God.
Ring finger - Your ring finger is the relationship finger and is the finger that must remind you to stay in relationship with other Christians to grow. We need other people in order to grow in our relationship with God.
Little finger - Your little finger must remind you of a scripture. If you hold your little finger up, you have 9 other fingers left. The scripture to remember is: 1 John 1 v 9, which tells us that if we confess our sins to God that he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleans us from unrighteousness (or wrong standing with God).
So to re-cap quickly:
Thumb - Read your bible.
Forefinger - Pray to God
Middle finger - Reach out to others
Ring finger - Be in relationship with other Christians
Little finger - Confess your sins
Look at your right hand. The 5 fingers of your right hand must remind you of 5 things that you need to do regularly (not ritualistically), but often to help you to grow.
Thumb - Your thumb should remind you to flick through the pages of your bible, like you would if you were scanning through a book for a page. Reading your bible regularly is key to getting to know God better.
Forefinger - Point your finger up to God. This finger should remind you to pray regularly to God. Prayer, very simply is not a ritual, but rather constant communication to God. You can talk to God anywhere, any time, any how you like, but remember to be respectful in your communication with God as he deserves our honour!
Middle finger - Your middle finger is the longest finger on the hand and this should remind you to reach out to other people and share your relationship with God.
Ring finger - Your ring finger is the relationship finger and is the finger that must remind you to stay in relationship with other Christians to grow. We need other people in order to grow in our relationship with God.
Little finger - Your little finger must remind you of a scripture. If you hold your little finger up, you have 9 other fingers left. The scripture to remember is: 1 John 1 v 9, which tells us that if we confess our sins to God that he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleans us from unrighteousness (or wrong standing with God).
So to re-cap quickly:
Thumb - Read your bible.
Forefinger - Pray to God
Middle finger - Reach out to others
Ring finger - Be in relationship with other Christians
Little finger - Confess your sins
Getting Started
Getting started in your relationship with God is an exciting but scary road. You will encounter many wonderful experiences as you grow with God, but you must remember that first and foremost this is a "Relationship", and like most relationships it required some work.
Over the next few weeks I will share keys that will help you establish a strong foundation for a lasting relationship with God.
Looking forward to sharing this exciting adventure with you!
Over the next few weeks I will share keys that will help you establish a strong foundation for a lasting relationship with God.
Looking forward to sharing this exciting adventure with you!
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