Getting ready to say goodbye to 2015 is difficult. It has been an incredibly tough year. At the start of this year I declared that it would be my 'Lion heart' year, but I had not defined what that meant. Looking back now I see that it was a year of tremendous personal growth that was brought about by having the courage to to allow myself to dream big, try new things and allow myself to really feel love, joy, sadness, grief and all the other wonderful emotions that life causes us to feel.
I took the bold move to join and art group for the first time ever and made some wonderful friends, but more so after starting on familiar territory with beading, I challenged myself to learn to paint and that has been the biggest blessing in my life this year!
After declaring at the end of 2014 that I really wanted to adopt a child, I took steps to find out about what that would mean. I read books, spoke to families that have adopted and even joined our church's children's ministry to spend time with little ones to see how I'd cope. I have reached the end of that journey knowing that I truly am ready, willing and emotionally and physically able to do so, but right now just don't have the means to do this right now. I have given the dream to God and believe that He will bring things to pass in His time! Zachariah and Elizabeth taught me that God's timing is His doing and that I have no right to question that. God will do in my life as He sees fit and if I am willing to receive the gift at His appointed time, it will be a blessing!
As would be expected, this year brought with it many challenges. Health difficulties, house repairs and car trouble all put me under pressure one way or another, but God is good and has brought me through each trial!
This year our country has faced drought and in some parts this still persists, so spending time in the garden this year has been very limited and I haven't seen the development that I would have liked to achieve.
But without doubt the hardest part of this year was saying goodbye to my Grandmother, Gran Babe Smith! She had faced health challenges of her own early on in the year and when I went to see her last in April, I had a strong sense that this may well be the last time we got to spend time with one another. Sadly she passed at the end of October. It has been a particularly hard part of this years journey especially for her children.
Despite the heart ache and challenges I know that I have reached the end of this year stronger, more focused and more determined about my calling, knowing that God has more in store. I know too that this will mean digging really deep for every ounce of strength, being willing to make drastic changes to my life and being totally open and dependant upon the Holy Spirit for guidance in the year ahead.
What has this year meant to you? I would encourage you to take the time to reflect over the next few days so that when the bell tolls 12 at midnight on December 31st, you'll be ready to wave goodbye to 2015 and say with me:
Our God is an AWESOME God who REIGNS from heaven above, with WISDOM power and LOVE, our God is an Awesome God! I praise you at the end of this year Lord, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made and my days before you are numbered and you have a plan and a purpose for my life!
So long and goodbye 2015! See you all next year!
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
Wednesday, December 23, 2015
All wrapped up
No matter how you are feeling, nothing can get you more in the Christmas mood than wrapping gifts. I stopped at the shops on my way home from work on Tuesday to wrap up the last bit of shopping! While I was wrapping away I remembered the times I spent sitting on the bedroom floor wrapping gifts for what seemed to be hours. Then once it was all done placing them under the tree with great excitement imagining Christmas day and when we would all unwrap our gifts and what fun it would be. I had plenty of fun wrapping this years secret Santa gift as I have rigged it...you're not going to guess what it is by shaking it or feeling it... :-) Tee hee!
The excitement about wrapping any gift is the anticipated response we will get when our recipient opens the gift, especially when we have taken time and effort into the sourcing or preparation of the gift. We want the recipient to know how much we love them and the more extravagant the gift, the deeper the love we are showing.
I an only imagine God's great excitement in those days leading up to the birth of Christ. God hadn't spent days or months preparing our gift....no He spent millenia! The countless human lives that made up the blood line of Christ each had purpose and meaning. So on that day when Christ was born, God's joy was great! He rejoiced as He delivered the hope of our salvation into our world in the form of a small baby boy!
God's love for you is enormous, never ever underestimate that!
So I wish you all a very wonderful, Merry Christmas!
Peace on Earth! Goodwill towards men!
Monday, December 21, 2015
Drawing near feeling a tear
As the year winds down and Christmas is only 4 more sleepies away, I am truly torn inside. This will be our families first Christmas without my Gran and I know we are all still feeling the grief of her loss quite strongly. I am feeling joyful as I will be spending Christmas with my cousins, aunt and uncle and two cute little one's and other asorted guests. To be honest I think it will be the first Christmas that I spend with my cousins since our childhood years (unless I'm forgetting something). On the other hand, I won't get to see my mom, step dad, sister or her family and that really hurts. In a perfect world I wish we could all just find a way to be together, but it simply is never possible.
In life there really so seldom is that 'perfect' moment, there is almost always something or someone missing and the gaping whole that leaves inside leaves us longing for more. That is why the work of the Holy Spirit is so absolutely vital in our lives. When we draw near to God and ask Him to be our strength we will find that the Holy Spirit comes into that place of pain and fills us with His joy and strength.
I have been through many Christmas's "home alone" so whatever your situation is this year with heading for Christmas, know that I get how lonely this time of year can be. I am praying a special prayer this year for all who may end up being on their own or whom may have lost a loved one this year. I pray that the Holy Spirit will touch you with this comfort and strength!
In life there really so seldom is that 'perfect' moment, there is almost always something or someone missing and the gaping whole that leaves inside leaves us longing for more. That is why the work of the Holy Spirit is so absolutely vital in our lives. When we draw near to God and ask Him to be our strength we will find that the Holy Spirit comes into that place of pain and fills us with His joy and strength.
I have been through many Christmas's "home alone" so whatever your situation is this year with heading for Christmas, know that I get how lonely this time of year can be. I am praying a special prayer this year for all who may end up being on their own or whom may have lost a loved one this year. I pray that the Holy Spirit will touch you with this comfort and strength!
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Reconciliation day.....or not?
Well today is supposed to be reconciliation day.....Instead protests were held around the country for Jacob Zuma...our president nogal to resign.....! So I hear you bleating that a spiritual blog should not be political. Well all radical changes are politically driven one way or another...you don't agree?
Was the start of Jesus life and ministry not politically affected in a way? You may say no, but I beg to differ. Pilot says, "let me worship the king," the wise men take off and Joseph heads for Egypt. The death of John the Baptist too no doubt had an impact on Christ's life, entrenching in Him a defiant spirit to not surrender to the political will of the Jews to rule by force, but to lead His kingdom through a new reality.
Though the separation between church and state needs to be clear, there is no doubt in my mind that the one impacts the other and vice versa. So where should we stand as Christian's....I go back a few weeks and remind you of my call to revival, a call to awaken the church in South Africa to rise up once again and pray that political change in this country would come by peace and not by war.
What will happen if we fail to do this? Tom Ingles once implied that a physical war cannot be fought unless a spiritual was has been lost. It is therefore our responsibility to pray for peace and pray for revival like never before........
Are you with me?
Was the start of Jesus life and ministry not politically affected in a way? You may say no, but I beg to differ. Pilot says, "let me worship the king," the wise men take off and Joseph heads for Egypt. The death of John the Baptist too no doubt had an impact on Christ's life, entrenching in Him a defiant spirit to not surrender to the political will of the Jews to rule by force, but to lead His kingdom through a new reality.
Though the separation between church and state needs to be clear, there is no doubt in my mind that the one impacts the other and vice versa. So where should we stand as Christian's....I go back a few weeks and remind you of my call to revival, a call to awaken the church in South Africa to rise up once again and pray that political change in this country would come by peace and not by war.
What will happen if we fail to do this? Tom Ingles once implied that a physical war cannot be fought unless a spiritual was has been lost. It is therefore our responsibility to pray for peace and pray for revival like never before........
Are you with me?
Sunday, December 13, 2015
Miss one... hit one
Well sad to say my love affair with painting is still a miss one, hit one scenario. Lions are proving to be my Nemesis and impossibly difficult due to their similar toned fur, so my painting on Thursday night had been a complete bust and I felt terrible about it.
I decided to go back to basics and find something with more distinctive markings. I had a beautiful photo of a Norwegian forest cat that made for a good choice and I painted that on Saturday....Well it was a a wonderful success for me personally and folks seem to like it!
When we are growing in our relationship with God it can often feel that way too, that we just don't get things right automatically. Maybe the pep talk I gave myself with my painting would help you somehow.
- Think it through, don't just dive in and get started.
- Remember what worked for you before, try new things but stay within the framework of what has worked for you.
- Get the background right first (when reading scripture this is particularly helpful).
- In my case I find working light to dark works best for me, you can always layer up. In life focusing on the positive before the negative will be a good way to stay focused on the right things.
- Focus on the eyes. The eyes are the window to the soul and the eye in our faith is truth. Always be truthful with yourself about what you are dealing with. Being in denial will never get you anywhere.
Happy growing...and in my case painting :-)
I decided to go back to basics and find something with more distinctive markings. I had a beautiful photo of a Norwegian forest cat that made for a good choice and I painted that on Saturday....Well it was a a wonderful success for me personally and folks seem to like it!
When we are growing in our relationship with God it can often feel that way too, that we just don't get things right automatically. Maybe the pep talk I gave myself with my painting would help you somehow.
- Think it through, don't just dive in and get started.
- Remember what worked for you before, try new things but stay within the framework of what has worked for you.
- Get the background right first (when reading scripture this is particularly helpful).
- In my case I find working light to dark works best for me, you can always layer up. In life focusing on the positive before the negative will be a good way to stay focused on the right things.
- Focus on the eyes. The eyes are the window to the soul and the eye in our faith is truth. Always be truthful with yourself about what you are dealing with. Being in denial will never get you anywhere.
Happy growing...and in my case painting :-)
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
Starry summer nights
As much as the heat can drive you crazy, I absolutely love our summer nights. The one thing I used to love about the last garden cottage I lived in before I bought my house was that I could really see the stars at night if I left my patio light off and it was a very private space. From there I would gaze up and see the Southern Cross. My town house has too many lights in the complex but from here I do see Orion very clearly but I almost never see the Southern Cross.
It is so strange to me that the distance in land terms is relatively small yet the stars I see at night are so different. Similarly how we orientate ourselves in life about our world view is a matter of perspective. How you view your world and more importantly your God is often through the eyes of life experience.
This however is not the way that God wants us to go through life. He challenges that paradigm with mind altering faith, saying to us, call those things that be not as though they are! He challenges us to believe we are healed before we can feel it and to believe that we have provision before the supply arrives. God challenges us to reach beyond ourselves and to allow faith to shift our world into a new reality.
It is precisely then, when we have shifted our focus, that the impossible becomes possible! The very God that created the sun the moon and all the other stars and planets out there, suddenly becomes our healer, our provider, our strength and our wisdom....He is all that we need!
It is so strange to me that the distance in land terms is relatively small yet the stars I see at night are so different. Similarly how we orientate ourselves in life about our world view is a matter of perspective. How you view your world and more importantly your God is often through the eyes of life experience.
This however is not the way that God wants us to go through life. He challenges that paradigm with mind altering faith, saying to us, call those things that be not as though they are! He challenges us to believe we are healed before we can feel it and to believe that we have provision before the supply arrives. God challenges us to reach beyond ourselves and to allow faith to shift our world into a new reality.
It is precisely then, when we have shifted our focus, that the impossible becomes possible! The very God that created the sun the moon and all the other stars and planets out there, suddenly becomes our healer, our provider, our strength and our wisdom....He is all that we need!
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
Dipstick trouble
I had noticed a sudden increase in the amount of oil my car was using but had been monitoring it for a bit to see what would happen first seeing as no oil light had appeared. When I filled up on Saturday the petrol attendant advised that I needed to get the dipstick checked. I was hoping it would hold until my planned leave on the 17th but last night I got home to find my little car was spewing oil everywhere.
It got towed to the mechanic this morning and luckily for me it wasn't a big job. The dipstick had broken and needed to be fixed and some rubber cables had to be replaced. I am grateful the job didn't take long and my little car is back on the road again tonight.
The tricky part of the day was that I has a deadline that had to be met and I didn't want to inconvenience my colleagues to have them do it for me. Thanks to modern technology we made plan and I was able to get the work emailed in and out all in time to meet the necessary requirements.
We all have bits and bobs in our lives that just don't work right sometimes. We may be the worlds best organizer and then forget the simplest thing. We may be the most frugal person and then overspend on a whim. No matter what tricky situation you are facing right now, there is always a way out....God plans it that way. What we need to learn to do is to remain sensitive to the Holy Spirit and ask Him for wisdom, guidance and creative ideas to get you out of the trouble you are facing.
God will always make a way!
It got towed to the mechanic this morning and luckily for me it wasn't a big job. The dipstick had broken and needed to be fixed and some rubber cables had to be replaced. I am grateful the job didn't take long and my little car is back on the road again tonight.
The tricky part of the day was that I has a deadline that had to be met and I didn't want to inconvenience my colleagues to have them do it for me. Thanks to modern technology we made plan and I was able to get the work emailed in and out all in time to meet the necessary requirements.
We all have bits and bobs in our lives that just don't work right sometimes. We may be the worlds best organizer and then forget the simplest thing. We may be the most frugal person and then overspend on a whim. No matter what tricky situation you are facing right now, there is always a way out....God plans it that way. What we need to learn to do is to remain sensitive to the Holy Spirit and ask Him for wisdom, guidance and creative ideas to get you out of the trouble you are facing.
God will always make a way!
Monday, December 7, 2015
Lost and found
This weekend I went to visit a friend in the south of Joburg. As per my normal modus operandi when doing this route I got lost AGAIN! This time however I stumbled upon a route with road marks that I will NEVER forget. Finally!
That is how it is in our faith too! We will go through the same growth path over and over again until we understand what it is that God requires of us. This is all part and parcel of the process of working out our salvation.
The wonderful thing about this process is that God knows that it will take our entire lives before we even begin to obtain some form of real spiritual maturity....and He's okay with that! He knows that we will need time to grow into a true knowledge of Him.
It is then and then only that we will be able to start saying that we are no longer lost.....but found!
Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Get the detail
I have been itching to paint and could not wait till Thursday so last night I decided to paint my beloved Honey Bear. A couple of things went wrong. The background was too dark, I hadn't painted for a bit so my technique was off again and the main picture of kitty was just too small. Despite this however I could see the likeness but there just wasn't enough space to get in all the details. This all left me feeling very frustrated.
Well that is not a huge problem. I enlarged the main part of the picture and reprinted it to get my stencil and from there I will take another shot at it in the next few days. The situation does make me think though, how often in life don't we get frustrated with God's plan for our lives, because we look the image we see from afar an can't make out the finer points?
If the solution to my problem was enlarging the image, what image should we enlarge to gain more clarity on life? Well I would venture and educated guess at saying that would be our picture of God. How do we do this? By increasing our knowledge of the word of God to understand His character. The more we learn about God the more we will realize how little we actually know about Him. If we are allowing the Holy Spirit to be our teacher we will always learn something new!
Well that is not a huge problem. I enlarged the main part of the picture and reprinted it to get my stencil and from there I will take another shot at it in the next few days. The situation does make me think though, how often in life don't we get frustrated with God's plan for our lives, because we look the image we see from afar an can't make out the finer points?
If the solution to my problem was enlarging the image, what image should we enlarge to gain more clarity on life? Well I would venture and educated guess at saying that would be our picture of God. How do we do this? By increasing our knowledge of the word of God to understand His character. The more we learn about God the more we will realize how little we actually know about Him. If we are allowing the Holy Spirit to be our teacher we will always learn something new!
Monday, November 30, 2015
What right have I
I question God's plan for my life all the time. After all, the three things I have wanted most in life have alluded me. Marriage, ministry and family... pretty much all I've ever wanted! It is impossible not to feel disappointed round about now.
Well I'm not the only one, Elizabeth felt the same way. They had lived God fearing lives and honoured the Lord and they felt like they had nothing to show for it, but that is where they were wrong. God had planned this all along and I look at this now and I ask myself, "who am I to question the plan of God for my life?"
What right have I to say to God, do this or do that. Give me this and make this happen? If the creator of the universe can make an old woman have a baby and can bring forth in a young virgin the Son of God, then I have no right to even challenge anything God has planned for my life. My role is to be open to the leading of the Holy Spirit and humbly obey!
Well I'm not the only one, Elizabeth felt the same way. They had lived God fearing lives and honoured the Lord and they felt like they had nothing to show for it, but that is where they were wrong. God had planned this all along and I look at this now and I ask myself, "who am I to question the plan of God for my life?"
What right have I to say to God, do this or do that. Give me this and make this happen? If the creator of the universe can make an old woman have a baby and can bring forth in a young virgin the Son of God, then I have no right to even challenge anything God has planned for my life. My role is to be open to the leading of the Holy Spirit and humbly obey!
Sunday, November 29, 2015
Let it be
Today was our last Sunday school class for the year. With this ending I can also say that I have reached the end of one process in my life. My journey to considering adoption has now arrived at the conclusion that I am ready, willing and physically able to do it, however I don't have the means. And thus I now reach the point where I once again have to hand my dreams back to God and say, "Lord, if it by thy will, please provide." I will do nothing to force this into reality, it must be by God's design and appointment.
It was therefore special for me then, while preparing for today's lesson to read about the differences in response to the Angel Gabriel's messages to Zachariah and Mary.
When Zacharia heard the message he responded with doubt and fear, but there was something about his response that angered God as he was immediately met with punishment for his lack of faith. Mary however responded not by doubting it could happen but asking how it would happen and this seemed to please the Lord. Mary saying, "Let it be to me according to thy will," meant she believed God was able to do what He said He would do.
It is interesting that despite Zacharia's lack of faith that God did not take away the blessing, He simply punished him. I believe this is because this was a divinely ordained plan that Elizabeth specifically would give birth in her old age. Both the conception of John the baptist and Jesus of Nazareth needed to be spectacularly miraculous.
When we learn to say, "God let it be done according to your will," we open the door for the miracles of God to become a reality in our lives.
It was therefore special for me then, while preparing for today's lesson to read about the differences in response to the Angel Gabriel's messages to Zachariah and Mary.
When Zacharia heard the message he responded with doubt and fear, but there was something about his response that angered God as he was immediately met with punishment for his lack of faith. Mary however responded not by doubting it could happen but asking how it would happen and this seemed to please the Lord. Mary saying, "Let it be to me according to thy will," meant she believed God was able to do what He said He would do.
It is interesting that despite Zacharia's lack of faith that God did not take away the blessing, He simply punished him. I believe this is because this was a divinely ordained plan that Elizabeth specifically would give birth in her old age. Both the conception of John the baptist and Jesus of Nazareth needed to be spectacularly miraculous.
When we learn to say, "God let it be done according to your will," we open the door for the miracles of God to become a reality in our lives.
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Reminder
Today I'm reminded of why I started writing in the first place. I was in dark space in life and I could not see anything good in my life. Much has changed since then but the fact that our emotions will take us to a dark place hasn't.
So how do we get from being in a dark space to being positive again?
Have you ever noticed that a candle flame has no shadow? That's because God's word is true and there can be no darkness in light. So right now I have to remind myself that if I hide my heart in God's light that no darkness will be able to prevail.
So how do we get from being in a dark space to being positive again?
Have you ever noticed that a candle flame has no shadow? That's because God's word is true and there can be no darkness in light. So right now I have to remind myself that if I hide my heart in God's light that no darkness will be able to prevail.
Sunday, November 22, 2015
Flat mate and confidant
Today I had the wonderful priviledge of spending the afternoon with a former Bible School class mate and flat mate who is now living in Canada, my good friend Nicky. What a joy to see her and to meet and her wonderful husband and children. There were so many wonderful memories that raced through my mind as we spent the time together.
So precious for me was that even though we have not seen each other in probably 20 years the kindred spirit and the friendship that we shared then was alive and well. In talking to her I was able to once again discuss some issues that were close to my heart and get her thoughts on those matters and it was great to get input from a friend.
We sing the song, "What a friend we have in Jesus" but do we ever stop to think what that means? That means we should be able to talk to Jesus as though He is our oldest and dearest friend and the one we can sit and talk to for hours on end. He should be the person who's opinion about our lives means the most to us.
When last did you take the time to talk to your oldest friend?
So precious for me was that even though we have not seen each other in probably 20 years the kindred spirit and the friendship that we shared then was alive and well. In talking to her I was able to once again discuss some issues that were close to my heart and get her thoughts on those matters and it was great to get input from a friend.
We sing the song, "What a friend we have in Jesus" but do we ever stop to think what that means? That means we should be able to talk to Jesus as though He is our oldest and dearest friend and the one we can sit and talk to for hours on end. He should be the person who's opinion about our lives means the most to us.
When last did you take the time to talk to your oldest friend?
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
Issues
I had a few computer issues last night and it took till well past my bed time to resolve, so I'm a bit exhausted tonight. The strange thing is that no matter how tired I am when I get home, I get into "just do it" mode and hardly sit down for a moment, always finding something to do.
My current 'home issue' that I am trying to get resolved is how cluttered and untidy my cupboards have become... so glad I don't have a bigger house, I would just shove stuff in and leave it. At least now I am forced to face my nemesis once in a blue moon and do a clean out.
In our spiritual lives there are times when we also have to get stuck into our issues. We may not like it, but at some point we have to face it. One of my biggest challenges is simply using the word 'No'. I hate to feel like I am letting people down or that I am being difficult. One thing I realize though that if I want balance in my life, I am going to have to get used to saying NO, I just can't manage that right now.
Eish it is hard to clean out house, but it has to be done. Revival brings refreshing and with that the courage to deal with the issues in life that are causing us harm.
Tonight I give thanks and glory to God for the continued rain and pray for spiritual revival to do the same and heal our land. Please won't you join me 18:00 daily!
My current 'home issue' that I am trying to get resolved is how cluttered and untidy my cupboards have become... so glad I don't have a bigger house, I would just shove stuff in and leave it. At least now I am forced to face my nemesis once in a blue moon and do a clean out.
In our spiritual lives there are times when we also have to get stuck into our issues. We may not like it, but at some point we have to face it. One of my biggest challenges is simply using the word 'No'. I hate to feel like I am letting people down or that I am being difficult. One thing I realize though that if I want balance in my life, I am going to have to get used to saying NO, I just can't manage that right now.
Eish it is hard to clean out house, but it has to be done. Revival brings refreshing and with that the courage to deal with the issues in life that are causing us harm.
Tonight I give thanks and glory to God for the continued rain and pray for spiritual revival to do the same and heal our land. Please won't you join me 18:00 daily!
Monday, November 16, 2015
Disaster recovery
So it was my turn to be involved in our companies disaster recovery testing today. This meant working from a different location for a few hours. I was truly amazed at how seamlessly some aspects worked, but then as expected there were a few hiccups, which is precisely what the test is supposed to iron out and assist with.
In our faith our ability to cope through and recover from disaster is directly proportional to our level of reliance on God. The reason for this is that if we aren't able to trust God for the smaller things in life, then we most certainly will not be able to trust Him when disaster strikes.
Thankfully today we finally received some much needed rain, but it did not come with danger. As per expectations our biggest storms usually break out right around home time and even if I'd left the office 20 minutes earlier (which was not possible) or left half an hour later, I most likely would have been caught in it due to where I was when it struck. It was just one of those things. Thankfully again I saw our normally totally impatient Joburg drivers exercise extreme caution which was appreciated.
Answered prayers often do come with danger so we should be prepared and not be shocked when it happens. Remain calm, focused and patient through it and you will most likely come out the other side safe and secure.
As I give thanks to God for our rain, I continue to ask for more prayer for rain and revival, we still need more of both..... 18:00.
In our faith our ability to cope through and recover from disaster is directly proportional to our level of reliance on God. The reason for this is that if we aren't able to trust God for the smaller things in life, then we most certainly will not be able to trust Him when disaster strikes.
Thankfully today we finally received some much needed rain, but it did not come with danger. As per expectations our biggest storms usually break out right around home time and even if I'd left the office 20 minutes earlier (which was not possible) or left half an hour later, I most likely would have been caught in it due to where I was when it struck. It was just one of those things. Thankfully again I saw our normally totally impatient Joburg drivers exercise extreme caution which was appreciated.
Answered prayers often do come with danger so we should be prepared and not be shocked when it happens. Remain calm, focused and patient through it and you will most likely come out the other side safe and secure.
As I give thanks to God for our rain, I continue to ask for more prayer for rain and revival, we still need more of both..... 18:00.
Sunday, November 15, 2015
Revival for survival
I am amazed at the differences in responses my plants are having to this drought. Some plants are withering up and dying while others are growing well or normally. One such good grower is the passion fruit vine. I'm not entirely sure why but it is growing like wildfire...maybe it likes the heat, who knows.
I'm guessing this plants survival instinct is telling it it needs to spread in order to survive. Much like plants that grow well in times of crisis we need revival to help us in times of trial and difficulty. We need the strength that the infilling of the Holy Spirit will give us in order to not only sustain our lives but to help us further the gospel.
As we continue to pray for rain and revival, I am encouraging you to join me again and believe that God will hear. If our God could calm the seas or split them, I know he can move water to where we need it!
Call to prayer 18:00 your time zone daily. Pray for rain and revival.
I'm guessing this plants survival instinct is telling it it needs to spread in order to survive. Much like plants that grow well in times of crisis we need revival to help us in times of trial and difficulty. We need the strength that the infilling of the Holy Spirit will give us in order to not only sustain our lives but to help us further the gospel.
As we continue to pray for rain and revival, I am encouraging you to join me again and believe that God will hear. If our God could calm the seas or split them, I know he can move water to where we need it!
Call to prayer 18:00 your time zone daily. Pray for rain and revival.
Thursday, November 12, 2015
Too close to home
As I spend time contemplating the need for revival in our country, I wonder how do I get people motivated to join this movement? Well yes we need the rain, but why do we need a fresh outpouring of God's Spirit in our world and especially our country.
Well the answer came loud and clear tonight. I received a text from my mom that an attempted house robbery had gone bad right across the road from my sisters house. I called my sister to get the info and apparently the guys derailed the gate, bashed down the door and tied up the occupant. The next door neighbour heard the commotion, grabbed his gun and peered over the wall, at which time he was shot at and returned fire. One or two perpetrators were killed instantly, one injured and one got away.
This has all been too close to home and leaves me plain angry at the devil but how would revival curb crime in our country? Well it has been well documented throughout the centuries that in areas where revival breaks out, that crime goes down. Why? Because somewhere along the way these perpetrators come into contact with the gospel, they meet Christ and their lives are changed.
So I ask you....Is revival necessary in our country and around the world? Most certainly, so again I'm going to call you to stand with me in prayer for rain and for revival in our precious land.
Call to prayer: 18:00 daily - Pray for rain and pray for revival!
Well the answer came loud and clear tonight. I received a text from my mom that an attempted house robbery had gone bad right across the road from my sisters house. I called my sister to get the info and apparently the guys derailed the gate, bashed down the door and tied up the occupant. The next door neighbour heard the commotion, grabbed his gun and peered over the wall, at which time he was shot at and returned fire. One or two perpetrators were killed instantly, one injured and one got away.
This has all been too close to home and leaves me plain angry at the devil but how would revival curb crime in our country? Well it has been well documented throughout the centuries that in areas where revival breaks out, that crime goes down. Why? Because somewhere along the way these perpetrators come into contact with the gospel, they meet Christ and their lives are changed.
So I ask you....Is revival necessary in our country and around the world? Most certainly, so again I'm going to call you to stand with me in prayer for rain and for revival in our precious land.
Call to prayer: 18:00 daily - Pray for rain and pray for revival!
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
A country in crisis
Time spent focusing on family usually brings some clarity on priorities and what is important in life. As I look around me I see a country in crisis. The Rand is at an all time low, our government is a failure, our electricity supply is threatened daily and now to add insult to injury our country along with many others is in a drastic drought.
We are in desperate need of rain!! More than this though, we are in desperate need for revival. Revival of spirit, revival of faith, revival of conscience. This made me wonder, is it possible for one person, or a small group of people to start a revival? The answer is most certainly, Yes!!!
The world renown Azusa street revival began in 1906 and was led by William J Seymour and ran through to roughly 1915. Thousands of people were touched by this amazing revival and from it flowed was is believed to be the start of the modern pentecostal movement.
Directly from it the Apostolic Faith Mission was born but with it several others and one in particular that forms part of my faith foundation, the Assemblies of God. Missionaries from this movement went out into over fifty nations, including Britain, Scandinavia, Germany, Holland, Egypt, Syria, Palestine, South Africa, Botswana, Hong Kong, China, Ceylon and India.
You and I can make a difference and therefore I am going to stand up, raise my voice and say it is time to pray for the revival of God's earth through rain where there is drought and sunshine where there is flood but more so revival of spirit the world over.
Call to prayer for revival: 18:00 daily, for any amount of time you can! God CAN heal our LAND!
[Please share this with your family and friends]
We are in desperate need of rain!! More than this though, we are in desperate need for revival. Revival of spirit, revival of faith, revival of conscience. This made me wonder, is it possible for one person, or a small group of people to start a revival? The answer is most certainly, Yes!!!
The world renown Azusa street revival began in 1906 and was led by William J Seymour and ran through to roughly 1915. Thousands of people were touched by this amazing revival and from it flowed was is believed to be the start of the modern pentecostal movement.
Directly from it the Apostolic Faith Mission was born but with it several others and one in particular that forms part of my faith foundation, the Assemblies of God. Missionaries from this movement went out into over fifty nations, including Britain, Scandinavia, Germany, Holland, Egypt, Syria, Palestine, South Africa, Botswana, Hong Kong, China, Ceylon and India.
You and I can make a difference and therefore I am going to stand up, raise my voice and say it is time to pray for the revival of God's earth through rain where there is drought and sunshine where there is flood but more so revival of spirit the world over.
Call to prayer for revival: 18:00 daily, for any amount of time you can! God CAN heal our LAND!
[Please share this with your family and friends]
Sunday, November 1, 2015
Leave behind kindness
On Thursday I'll be flying to Durban for my Gran's funeral to take place on Friday. I have asked to be given a few moments to speak and there are so many thoughts and stories that come to mind that to be honest I'm not sure which way that will go.
Being a single person with no kids, the thought goes through my mind often about what legacy I'll leave behind. Something that I have been meditating on though is what was Gran Smith's legacy? I could speak of the accomplishments of her children and grand children but those would be hollow words for achievement like beauty is in the eye of the beholder. To me the one thing that sets Gran apart was her kindness and the care she showed to others.
There were always people visiting gran day in and day out and I don't believe it was because they had nothing better to do. I do however believe that in some way each person left a little better than when they arrived. In her years as caretaker of the flats there was nothing that Gran would not get sorted out if something when wrong. She always knew whom to call for each situation. More than that though I know that child and adult alike would have felt her warmth and love.
Money is the least of all legacies we leave behind therefore I am going to challenge you to ask yourself the question, what will I leave behind?
Being a single person with no kids, the thought goes through my mind often about what legacy I'll leave behind. Something that I have been meditating on though is what was Gran Smith's legacy? I could speak of the accomplishments of her children and grand children but those would be hollow words for achievement like beauty is in the eye of the beholder. To me the one thing that sets Gran apart was her kindness and the care she showed to others.
There were always people visiting gran day in and day out and I don't believe it was because they had nothing better to do. I do however believe that in some way each person left a little better than when they arrived. In her years as caretaker of the flats there was nothing that Gran would not get sorted out if something when wrong. She always knew whom to call for each situation. More than that though I know that child and adult alike would have felt her warmth and love.
Money is the least of all legacies we leave behind therefore I am going to challenge you to ask yourself the question, what will I leave behind?
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Mr Delivery
Although I know my grief will go through many phases I can rejoice in one good thing, I can truly tell that my Gran is ecstatically happy to be in heaven with her Tommy. Part of this whole process is remembering all the wonderful stories that people tell.
One of my Gran's favourite stories of my dad was about the times that he would go to Durban on business trips. Whenever possible he loved to surprise Gran with a take away meal and would always ring the doorbell and say "Hello, Mr Delivery!"
Well I can only imagine the party that broke out in heaven when Baby Smith crossed heaven's threshold. I know there would have been mad kisses between her and Tom and I can almost imagine Tom saying, "See I told you it won't be long." Thereafter when seeing my dad, I'm almost certain he would have been greeted with, "Ding dong, Mr Delivery!"
It is the small moments and surprises in life that make life memorable, so remember to grab every opportunity to give love and surprises to your family and loved ones.
One of my Gran's favourite stories of my dad was about the times that he would go to Durban on business trips. Whenever possible he loved to surprise Gran with a take away meal and would always ring the doorbell and say "Hello, Mr Delivery!"
Well I can only imagine the party that broke out in heaven when Baby Smith crossed heaven's threshold. I know there would have been mad kisses between her and Tom and I can almost imagine Tom saying, "See I told you it won't be long." Thereafter when seeing my dad, I'm almost certain he would have been greeted with, "Ding dong, Mr Delivery!"
It is the small moments and surprises in life that make life memorable, so remember to grab every opportunity to give love and surprises to your family and loved ones.
Sunday, October 25, 2015
House and home
On Saturday I had the maintenance guys come to do the final repairs after the last bout of water damage and in order for them to paint the downstairs bathroom ceiling I had to empty it of all loose items. Seeing the raw shell of the bathroom reminded me immediately of the time my friends and I came to the house to clean it before I moved in. A house is not a home until we fill it with things that are personal to us.
In the same way our physical bodies and earth are only our temporary building, they are here to allow us to live out God's plan for us while on earth, but heaven is our permanent home. Today my beloved Gran Baby Smith went home to be with the Lord and her wonderful husband. Though I am sad and devastated, I know she is rejoicing to be reunited with her beloved Tom.
Earth is our house but heaven is our home and we can all look forward to a wonderful time of being reunited with those we have loved and miss so dearly. For those of us left behind the journey of grief is difficult but the Holy Spirit is there to comfort us in our time of loss!
In the same way our physical bodies and earth are only our temporary building, they are here to allow us to live out God's plan for us while on earth, but heaven is our permanent home. Today my beloved Gran Baby Smith went home to be with the Lord and her wonderful husband. Though I am sad and devastated, I know she is rejoicing to be reunited with her beloved Tom.
Earth is our house but heaven is our home and we can all look forward to a wonderful time of being reunited with those we have loved and miss so dearly. For those of us left behind the journey of grief is difficult but the Holy Spirit is there to comfort us in our time of loss!
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
Straight talk
Today on the way home it was time for some straight talk with God. There were some things I just needed to get off my chest and tell him how I feel. There are some things about my life that just do not make sense and it is very frustrating.
Now I wish it had happened but there was no voice from heaven or a golden white light from above but I know God heard me and at some moment when I least expect it I'll get my answer. That is what faith is all about, it's about believing that God hears our prayers and then having the patience to get the answer.
So if you're feeling like your prayers are hitting a brick wall, you're not alone. Take heart, God truly desires to meet our deepest needs and He will answer when the time is right.
Now I wish it had happened but there was no voice from heaven or a golden white light from above but I know God heard me and at some moment when I least expect it I'll get my answer. That is what faith is all about, it's about believing that God hears our prayers and then having the patience to get the answer.
So if you're feeling like your prayers are hitting a brick wall, you're not alone. Take heart, God truly desires to meet our deepest needs and He will answer when the time is right.
Monday, October 19, 2015
Hair hair
So the story goes that young baby Ronwyn was once removed from church for causing a disturbance. Ja I know, hard to believe, right? Wink wink...giggle! Well the trouble all began when a lady with really long hair sat in the pew in front of us. Little one, got all excited and shouted out loud in afrikaans, "Hair hair" and then proceeded to rub her little face in the ladies hair. My poor mom didn't know where to hide.
You see for some unknown reason I just love the feel of hair on my face, hence the reason I have locks now. If you catch me in traffic you'll often see me rubbing my hair against my cheeks.....sorry I know it sounds funny, but I just love it! It is soft, tickles in a nice way and is very soothing.
The Holy Spirit is a truly powerful person and His touch upon our lives can at times be very over powering, but more often than not, He is just gentle, soft and comforting. He helps us to find peace and sanity at times when life is crazy busy and brings our soul to rest.
So if you've been stressed out lately, how about asking the Holy Spirit to bring your soul some soothing peace and rest.
You see for some unknown reason I just love the feel of hair on my face, hence the reason I have locks now. If you catch me in traffic you'll often see me rubbing my hair against my cheeks.....sorry I know it sounds funny, but I just love it! It is soft, tickles in a nice way and is very soothing.
The Holy Spirit is a truly powerful person and His touch upon our lives can at times be very over powering, but more often than not, He is just gentle, soft and comforting. He helps us to find peace and sanity at times when life is crazy busy and brings our soul to rest.
So if you've been stressed out lately, how about asking the Holy Spirit to bring your soul some soothing peace and rest.
Sunday, October 18, 2015
From scratch
Well we still haven't had much rain, although a bit has come so more prayer about that is certainly necessary. The temperatures did however cool enough for me to feel safe to do some gardening again. This time I managed to pull out the lavender's and tried again to clear out the unwanted mint. With this done I now have a blank canvas on which to restart my front garden. The aim this time is to go for fewer but larger plants.
The only part of this process I am not looking forward to is all the digging. I need to reshape the garden beds and then I can start planting. I'm still in split minds about some of the plants but I suppose I need to go with my gut feel and work from there. Gardening has been a trial and error journey for me but one that I thoroughly enjoy. The best part right now is being able to start using my herbs again.
The big thing of it is that I have had to push myself with it. I knew absolutely nothing about gardening when I started and have learned along the way. I have worked hard to study my plants and find out what works for me. At times it has really taken back breaking work with lots of sweat....Lol! but I have loved every second of it.
The things in life that's the important to remember that we may have many false starts before we get to where we want to go to. The trick is to keep at it and while you are doing so, trust God, rely on His leading and do the best you can do.
The only part of this process I am not looking forward to is all the digging. I need to reshape the garden beds and then I can start planting. I'm still in split minds about some of the plants but I suppose I need to go with my gut feel and work from there. Gardening has been a trial and error journey for me but one that I thoroughly enjoy. The best part right now is being able to start using my herbs again.
The big thing of it is that I have had to push myself with it. I knew absolutely nothing about gardening when I started and have learned along the way. I have worked hard to study my plants and find out what works for me. At times it has really taken back breaking work with lots of sweat....Lol! but I have loved every second of it.
The things in life that's the important to remember that we may have many false starts before we get to where we want to go to. The trick is to keep at it and while you are doing so, trust God, rely on His leading and do the best you can do.
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Seeing in colour
I've always been the type to stop and pay attention to the rays of light as they pour through the clouds or the colours of the sunset on a slightly cloudy day, but since I've been painting all of a sudden I see the colours in more vivid clarity. When you look closely you can see the the depth and light of the colours and often how many shades of orange are present in a sunset.
We may often think of that our lives are a bit dull or dreary but that is most certainly not the case. When we look at our lives through God's eyes we see the multiple shades of grace, mercy, forgiveness and courage that God has so majestically painted into our canvas.
It is only when we accept the beauty of God's love present in our own lives that we can start to see the love of God for others. When we do we will be more willing to show them grace, knowing how much grace and love God has poured out on us.
We may often think of that our lives are a bit dull or dreary but that is most certainly not the case. When we look at our lives through God's eyes we see the multiple shades of grace, mercy, forgiveness and courage that God has so majestically painted into our canvas.
It is only when we accept the beauty of God's love present in our own lives that we can start to see the love of God for others. When we do we will be more willing to show them grace, knowing how much grace and love God has poured out on us.
Monday, October 12, 2015
Anything that moves
I was making coffee in our break area the other day when I spotted a fighter jet on the TV that I just couldn't take my eyes off. The thing was a piece of beauty and looked like a cross between a Mig and Stealth fighter and was truly spectacular. One of my male colleagues was trying talk to me but I was pretty much ignoring him while I drooled. He was surprised at my interest and asked if I liked planes, to which I responded that I liked anything that moved. Planes, trains, automobiles, boats, you name it, if it moves I like it!
It was his next question that amused me most....what car do you drive? Lol! Response, Hyundai Atos. Now I had some explaining to do..... I noted that my decision to buy a car with a smaller engine was precisely a result of having a slightly heavy foot...teehee! Well you know what the bible says, if your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. But that's not what interests me most.
First boats: Since prehistoric times
First train - primitive moving machine 600BC but first locomotive: +- 1550
First automobile: 1885
First plane: 1903
Mankind was made to move yet look how far apart these discoveries and developments in human mechanical movement have taken place. How impatient don't we become in life when we expect change and development to come at a moments notice. God progresses things in our lives at His pace and at His will not ours and that is very hard to accept. I know I become easily frustrated but that is why I write to remind myself that God is in no hurry.
It was his next question that amused me most....what car do you drive? Lol! Response, Hyundai Atos. Now I had some explaining to do..... I noted that my decision to buy a car with a smaller engine was precisely a result of having a slightly heavy foot...teehee! Well you know what the bible says, if your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. But that's not what interests me most.
First boats: Since prehistoric times
First train - primitive moving machine 600BC but first locomotive: +- 1550
First automobile: 1885
First plane: 1903
Mankind was made to move yet look how far apart these discoveries and developments in human mechanical movement have taken place. How impatient don't we become in life when we expect change and development to come at a moments notice. God progresses things in our lives at His pace and at His will not ours and that is very hard to accept. I know I become easily frustrated but that is why I write to remind myself that God is in no hurry.
Sunday, October 11, 2015
We're having a heat wave....of note!
Yoh yoh yoh! But it is HOT! And with this kind of dry unrelenting heat I wasn't up for much gardening, so I took to just splitting some Clivia's. The saddest thing for me though is knowing that there are farmers out there that are in dire, dire straights. So tonight is a call to prayer, we need to pray for rain and it needs to come quickly.
Being parched, dry and burnt out happens in our spiritual lives just as much as it happens on our planet. We get to a point of being so stressed out that we simply cannot function. There are two things needed at times like these. The first is food for the soul, so that is why I took Friday leave to spend the day with my good friend Bridget to do some painting and the creative time did me the world of good!
Second and most importantly we need the refreshing rain of the Holy Spirit to pour over us and bring refreshing and strength to our spirit. Nothing could be more important at a time like this. So I'd like to encourage you to find any way you can to spend time in the presence of God and allow Him to soak you in His love and kindness and bring healing and restoration from within!
Being parched, dry and burnt out happens in our spiritual lives just as much as it happens on our planet. We get to a point of being so stressed out that we simply cannot function. There are two things needed at times like these. The first is food for the soul, so that is why I took Friday leave to spend the day with my good friend Bridget to do some painting and the creative time did me the world of good!
Second and most importantly we need the refreshing rain of the Holy Spirit to pour over us and bring refreshing and strength to our spirit. Nothing could be more important at a time like this. So I'd like to encourage you to find any way you can to spend time in the presence of God and allow Him to soak you in His love and kindness and bring healing and restoration from within!
Tuesday, October 6, 2015
Crazy questions
If you read last nights blog you may be wondering to yourself why I said that I was throwing out theology for the sake of my imagination. Well that's an interesting question because though much of the theology we know today has been tested through history there are still many aspects of knowing God and the truth of His word that truly still fall within the field of theory. You may not agree with me on that and you're entitled to your opinion just as I am. I do believe that books like Daniel and Revelation hold secrets and mysteries that will only be revealed to us in heaven.
So what is the main theory as to why there are no humans or like species on other planets? Mostly this centres around the issue that scripture tells us that God sent his only begotten Son to our planet to die for our sins. Well the question I'd like to ask is, are there other planets that God sent Lucifer and his demons to posses? What if the answer to that question is no? What if on other planets the human like species have never encountered evil and have no need of salvation in the same way we do?
Okay I know some people will say I am treading on thin ice, but maybe inside I'm just not willing to be limited to what other people believe about God and our universe. We do know that our God is infinitely greater, stronger and more powerful than we could ever imagine so I'm just not willing to put what we know about God in a box that suites my limited understanding of Him.
I don't know about you but I do look forward to the day when I can ask God all these crazy questions face to face.
So what is the main theory as to why there are no humans or like species on other planets? Mostly this centres around the issue that scripture tells us that God sent his only begotten Son to our planet to die for our sins. Well the question I'd like to ask is, are there other planets that God sent Lucifer and his demons to posses? What if the answer to that question is no? What if on other planets the human like species have never encountered evil and have no need of salvation in the same way we do?
Okay I know some people will say I am treading on thin ice, but maybe inside I'm just not willing to be limited to what other people believe about God and our universe. We do know that our God is infinitely greater, stronger and more powerful than we could ever imagine so I'm just not willing to put what we know about God in a box that suites my limited understanding of Him.
I don't know about you but I do look forward to the day when I can ask God all these crazy questions face to face.
Monday, October 5, 2015
To distant galaxy's and beyond.....
So for once and just for fun I'm going to throw true theology out the window and engage in some Christian Science fiction if you will...... Here's to my wild imagination and the things I dream of.
As a young women I had the privilege of attending Rhema Bible school and in those early years I was exposed the truth that God created mankind to be mortal, yet immortal... Since then though I have asked myself this question many times...
If God created us to live forever and never physically die, then where did he plan to put us all? Surely this planet can only sustain just so many human beings.....???
Well, my theory on this is that God does in fact want us to gain the technological ability to engage in true space travel. I believe that it is very possible that there could well be other habitable planets in other areas of ours or many other galaxy's. I think it is very possible that the reason our minds can even imagine space travel and create movies like Star Wars and Startrek is simply because it is doable. There are so many technologies in existance today that many would have said would never materialize, but here they are.
So in my dreams I see a day when when achieving warp drive will be a reality and traveling the vast expanses of our universe will be the norm. I truly do wonder what other planets in this universe look like and what other life forms are possible.....???
So tonight when I dream I'll be dreaming about going to distant galaxy's and beyond.......!
As a young women I had the privilege of attending Rhema Bible school and in those early years I was exposed the truth that God created mankind to be mortal, yet immortal... Since then though I have asked myself this question many times...
If God created us to live forever and never physically die, then where did he plan to put us all? Surely this planet can only sustain just so many human beings.....???
Well, my theory on this is that God does in fact want us to gain the technological ability to engage in true space travel. I believe that it is very possible that there could well be other habitable planets in other areas of ours or many other galaxy's. I think it is very possible that the reason our minds can even imagine space travel and create movies like Star Wars and Startrek is simply because it is doable. There are so many technologies in existance today that many would have said would never materialize, but here they are.
So in my dreams I see a day when when achieving warp drive will be a reality and traveling the vast expanses of our universe will be the norm. I truly do wonder what other planets in this universe look like and what other life forms are possible.....???
So tonight when I dream I'll be dreaming about going to distant galaxy's and beyond.......!
Sunday, October 4, 2015
Overwhelmed
I have had the privilege in life of being on the receiving end of other people's generosity and kindness many times. I'll be honest, I often feel totally overwhelmed by this because it has come in times of tragedy and sadness, times of pure stupidity on my part and often for no reason at all. I have felt unworthy of the the help, the gifts and the blessings.
Well isn't that the way we often feel about God's love? He showers us with goodness and kindness but above all He gave us His only Son and made Him die for our sins. The gift of His life, the gift of His love and His sacrifice are more overwhelming than any of us can truly describe.
Yet in God's eyes this gift was fully justified, for if He had not given us the right to choose and freedom of will, Adam never would have eaten of the fruit of the knowledge of good and evil. If God had made us like animals that operate from instinct only and are created to preserve the circle of life we would not have been exposed to Satan's treachery.
God had to make it right, He had to redeem us, he had to restore us to relationship with Himself at any cost.....and He did, He truly did!!!
Well isn't that the way we often feel about God's love? He showers us with goodness and kindness but above all He gave us His only Son and made Him die for our sins. The gift of His life, the gift of His love and His sacrifice are more overwhelming than any of us can truly describe.
Yet in God's eyes this gift was fully justified, for if He had not given us the right to choose and freedom of will, Adam never would have eaten of the fruit of the knowledge of good and evil. If God had made us like animals that operate from instinct only and are created to preserve the circle of life we would not have been exposed to Satan's treachery.
God had to make it right, He had to redeem us, he had to restore us to relationship with Himself at any cost.....and He did, He truly did!!!
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Gees.... We've got the Spirit
Us South African's do fascinate me some times, especially our sense of humour and when we most use it. Take the Bok's loss to Japan, man were the sushi jokes flying. Social media was a laugh a minute after that. A week later though we win........I think I've seen one joke. Mmmmm?????
So yes, I suppose it is a stress or coping skill that we employ, even at the most tragic times. I'll never forget the Westdene dam bus accident and all the bus jokes after that. Is it appropriate? Well in the case of the Boks, sure, Westdene, no but we do it anyway. So other than a coping skill why do we do it and what does it say about us?
I think there is a fighting spirit that runs in all of our veins. We have overcome so much yet there is still much to achieve and we won't give up without a fight! When we win, we rejoice together and when we loose, well that's just fodder for our humorous imaginations.
In our faith walk we need to learn to have the same kind of resilience. We need to have the guts to face life's difficulties and press on, knowing that God is always with us to guide us and protect us and no matter what happens, good or bad, God will redeem!
We have to think back to our good old school days and shout it out once more....
We've got the spirit, yes we do! We've got the spirit, how about you?
So yes, I suppose it is a stress or coping skill that we employ, even at the most tragic times. I'll never forget the Westdene dam bus accident and all the bus jokes after that. Is it appropriate? Well in the case of the Boks, sure, Westdene, no but we do it anyway. So other than a coping skill why do we do it and what does it say about us?
I think there is a fighting spirit that runs in all of our veins. We have overcome so much yet there is still much to achieve and we won't give up without a fight! When we win, we rejoice together and when we loose, well that's just fodder for our humorous imaginations.
In our faith walk we need to learn to have the same kind of resilience. We need to have the guts to face life's difficulties and press on, knowing that God is always with us to guide us and protect us and no matter what happens, good or bad, God will redeem!
We have to think back to our good old school days and shout it out once more....
We've got the spirit, yes we do! We've got the spirit, how about you?
Monday, September 28, 2015
Super sized
Some weekends really turn out great! We were given some time off on Friday so I had time to head to Lifestyle to pick up some plants for the garden before heading off to the store to do some grocery shopping. Saturday was busy and Sunday was back to children's church and then Sunday afternoon the plants found their new home. The sighting of the super moon on Sunday night was a real treat.
The beauty and majesty of God's creation is truly amazing and I was breaking out in a melody of "How great is our God" shortly afterwards. Most people pay little attention to natural events, but they have come to mean much to me. I have seen time after time how major life changing events have happened soon after a natural one.
This time I'm believing God for positive life changes, things that will add value and meaning to my life! I am holding onto God's promises of blessing and believe in my heart that God is busy with a new work.
Why don't you join me in believing God for new things....good things!
The beauty and majesty of God's creation is truly amazing and I was breaking out in a melody of "How great is our God" shortly afterwards. Most people pay little attention to natural events, but they have come to mean much to me. I have seen time after time how major life changing events have happened soon after a natural one.
This time I'm believing God for positive life changes, things that will add value and meaning to my life! I am holding onto God's promises of blessing and believe in my heart that God is busy with a new work.
Why don't you join me in believing God for new things....good things!
Thursday, September 24, 2015
Which one do I choose?
Today was heritage day and I hadn't really planned on blogging but I had to log onto the Internet for something else, so here I am. Usually at work the day before people wear traditional cultural clothes. Well now I don't have any anyway but if I had to I don't know which one I'd choose.
There are only 3 confirmed heritage lines in my family as my dad's mom was adopted, but what I do know I have is Welsh from my father, and Scottish and German from my mothers side. So which one I'd choose to celebrate in clothing I just don't know. I had a kilt as a kid but outgrew that many years ago (think I should get another one).
Heritage is a strange thing because for some reason it forms part of our identity. Jesus had a heritage crisis of His own, part human, part divine and somehow He understood this from an early age as the young boy was found once teaching in the synagogue and clearly knew that He was doing His 'Fathers work'.
Once we are born again we our heritage and lineage take on a new line as well, we become the children of God and as such we have the blessings and privileges of Kings Kids.
There are only 3 confirmed heritage lines in my family as my dad's mom was adopted, but what I do know I have is Welsh from my father, and Scottish and German from my mothers side. So which one I'd choose to celebrate in clothing I just don't know. I had a kilt as a kid but outgrew that many years ago (think I should get another one).
Heritage is a strange thing because for some reason it forms part of our identity. Jesus had a heritage crisis of His own, part human, part divine and somehow He understood this from an early age as the young boy was found once teaching in the synagogue and clearly knew that He was doing His 'Fathers work'.
Once we are born again we our heritage and lineage take on a new line as well, we become the children of God and as such we have the blessings and privileges of Kings Kids.
Tuesday, September 22, 2015
Zombie walking
No matter how positive and strong we may be feeling there are just days that life just takes it out of us and you finish the day feeling like the walking dead! Your energy is gone and you are in serious need of a recharge.
As Christians we are a walking dead of another kind. Colossians 3:3 "For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God". What does this mean?
It means that at the moment of our salvation our spirit man died and we were crucified with Christ but now we are reborn and our identity is Christ's identity. We are swallowed into His being. Now when God sees us He does not see our sin, He sees Jesus!
So every time you are tired and feeling like a zombie, smile and remember you are already dead :-)
Monday, September 21, 2015
Let's play
I'm always amazed and amused by the playfulness of animals and this trait is seen throughout the animal kingdom. Closest to home will be my two little fur balls that remind me on a regular basis to laugh and have fun. I love it when a game starts and their eyes go wide open or when we go for a walk round the complex and they charge past me tails in the air.
For millions of years before mankind walked the planet God only had these beautiful animals to keep Him company and that tells me a lot about the heart and nature of God. He wanted to have companions who could live free, play and have fun, pounce, charge and generally make Him laugh.
That makes me wonder if mankind makes God sad? Does He regret that He created us to have freedom of choice that would lead to us taking on the sin nature of Satan, with characteristics that could bring about hate, envy, strife, malice and murder? Does He regret giving us inventive minds that could create automobiles that kill people and the ability to create weapons of mass destruction? To be honest, yes I think we do make Him sad.
We moan and complain when all God wanted was companionship and to be able to walk together in the cool of the day and enjoy mutually satisfying conversation. How about we start to try and stop doing the things that make God sad and become the fun and playful beings He created us to be? How about we do something to make God laugh out loud???
For millions of years before mankind walked the planet God only had these beautiful animals to keep Him company and that tells me a lot about the heart and nature of God. He wanted to have companions who could live free, play and have fun, pounce, charge and generally make Him laugh.
That makes me wonder if mankind makes God sad? Does He regret that He created us to have freedom of choice that would lead to us taking on the sin nature of Satan, with characteristics that could bring about hate, envy, strife, malice and murder? Does He regret giving us inventive minds that could create automobiles that kill people and the ability to create weapons of mass destruction? To be honest, yes I think we do make Him sad.
We moan and complain when all God wanted was companionship and to be able to walk together in the cool of the day and enjoy mutually satisfying conversation. How about we start to try and stop doing the things that make God sad and become the fun and playful beings He created us to be? How about we do something to make God laugh out loud???
Sunday, September 20, 2015
Sushi
On Saturday it was time to start pulling out the lavender. It was a task I wasn't looking forward too as they have served me well, but I do need them out to reshape the beds and redo the landscaping. Oh boy, who knew chopping out lavender could be such a hard job. I had planned to get the heads chopped off so that I could then dig out the roots. Being such a tough job though I didn't finish which left me feeling unsatisfied with the progress, there was no sense of accomplishment. Who knows I might need to get help with this one.
Worse than this though was the failure of our beloved Springbok team to beat the Japanese rugby squad, which by all intents and purposes should have been a walk in the park. Academically speaking, we were better than them but what we had failed to take into account and should have was the good coaching that they had received was well as the well known Japanese toughness and grit. Well needless to say the sushi jokes have been flying ever since.... :-P I know its still early days and things could change but for us it was as if a national day of mourning had been declared and the grey sky's did not help the mood.
A sense of accomplishment is what keeps us going in life, but what we often forget is the hard journey along the way to reaching a specific point. My beautiful side garden did not happen over night it has taken years of trial and error with plants and constant change (and it is still changing). My front garden has been through many evolutions as well but then I figured out that I didn't like what I had done before and wanted something new, so now it will certainly take time to finish again. The work however will be worth the effort, of that I am sure.
Accomplishment is not a single event, but many moments of slog and toil that arrive at a positive destination. In our relationship with God we cannot expect to reach our spiritual growth goals in one moment. No, they will take consistent effort at developing our personal relationship with God - day by day.
And that is why no matter how old we are, or how long we've been serving Christ, every day will be a day in which we can only say that we are ......
Growing with God!
Worse than this though was the failure of our beloved Springbok team to beat the Japanese rugby squad, which by all intents and purposes should have been a walk in the park. Academically speaking, we were better than them but what we had failed to take into account and should have was the good coaching that they had received was well as the well known Japanese toughness and grit. Well needless to say the sushi jokes have been flying ever since.... :-P I know its still early days and things could change but for us it was as if a national day of mourning had been declared and the grey sky's did not help the mood.
A sense of accomplishment is what keeps us going in life, but what we often forget is the hard journey along the way to reaching a specific point. My beautiful side garden did not happen over night it has taken years of trial and error with plants and constant change (and it is still changing). My front garden has been through many evolutions as well but then I figured out that I didn't like what I had done before and wanted something new, so now it will certainly take time to finish again. The work however will be worth the effort, of that I am sure.
Accomplishment is not a single event, but many moments of slog and toil that arrive at a positive destination. In our relationship with God we cannot expect to reach our spiritual growth goals in one moment. No, they will take consistent effort at developing our personal relationship with God - day by day.
And that is why no matter how old we are, or how long we've been serving Christ, every day will be a day in which we can only say that we are ......
Growing with God!
Wednesday, September 16, 2015
Scorcher
I woke up to no electricity (thanks Eskom) and for some reason it was a little colder than it has been for a while. I figured, no problem, I'm sorted with gas, I'll bring the little heater up and I'm sorted (done it before). Then I started to get a little too warm so I turned it down a fraction, but as I'd probably had it at the lowest level it could go already it just did not want to hold the flame so I wanted to turn it off completely. Somehow I wasn't watching my mark precisely and instead of pressing on the lever with my thumb I hit the grid.
Oooooouuuuuuuuuucccccccchhhhh!
Well to be honest this month has been one long scorcher for me and I can feel myself cracking! I knew I'd have six weeks of hell after my leave. Its been four with two more to go but I just can't take it any more! Life just does not feel peachy right now!
Is there a sunny upside to this...Nope! And there are times that no matter how hard I want to be spiritual and remember to be considerate and kind to others, it just doesn't happen because I don't feel others are being kind to me.
Ok so enough moaning, what am I going to do about this? Well believe it or not I really did pray and ask God to help me to stay cool, calm and collected and I really did try, more than that I just cannot do. There is only one solice -
Hebrew 4:14-16
"Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need."
God knows me, He understands me, He forgives my weaknesses and He gives me His grace!
What more I can I ask for?
Oooooouuuuuuuuuucccccccchhhhh!
Well to be honest this month has been one long scorcher for me and I can feel myself cracking! I knew I'd have six weeks of hell after my leave. Its been four with two more to go but I just can't take it any more! Life just does not feel peachy right now!
Is there a sunny upside to this...Nope! And there are times that no matter how hard I want to be spiritual and remember to be considerate and kind to others, it just doesn't happen because I don't feel others are being kind to me.
Ok so enough moaning, what am I going to do about this? Well believe it or not I really did pray and ask God to help me to stay cool, calm and collected and I really did try, more than that I just cannot do. There is only one solice -
Hebrew 4:14-16
"Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need."
God knows me, He understands me, He forgives my weaknesses and He gives me His grace!
What more I can I ask for?
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
Just another day at the office
Normally I complain when my day is a little dull, but today I was feeling a little 'tender' and to be quite honest I was grateful for just another ordinary day at the office. The relative calm helped me to gain composure and have a productive day.
I often wonder though, what was going through each of the disciples minds the day that Jesus approached them and asked them to follow him? It must have been just another day at the office for them, going about their normal business and this man approaches them out of the blue and makes this simple offer.
Truth be told, we don't know if there was anything more to the conversation because the bible simply doesn't tell us! What was it about this man that made them drop everything they were doing and follow His commands? He must have made one heck of an impression on them somehow. OR, was it perhaps because somehow God allowed them to get a small, spine tingling glimpse into a vision of something they just could not understand yet.....His Glory!!??
I often wonder though, what was going through each of the disciples minds the day that Jesus approached them and asked them to follow him? It must have been just another day at the office for them, going about their normal business and this man approaches them out of the blue and makes this simple offer.
Truth be told, we don't know if there was anything more to the conversation because the bible simply doesn't tell us! What was it about this man that made them drop everything they were doing and follow His commands? He must have made one heck of an impression on them somehow. OR, was it perhaps because somehow God allowed them to get a small, spine tingling glimpse into a vision of something they just could not understand yet.....His Glory!!??
Monday, September 14, 2015
Don't push my buttons
I should have known better....................................!!!!
I was driving to work this morning thinking about last week and a couple of things that had left me feeling angry. I decided that I don't want to be ruled by anger so I needed to choose to take charge of my emotions and think through things. To be honest over the past few years I've learned that being 'controlled' angry is far more lethal than being 'wild' angry.
Ok, ok, by now I can see your frown....so you think Christians aren't supposed to be angry at all?? Is that what the bible says? No, it isn't.
Ephesians 4:26 (KJV) "Be ye angry, and sin not; let not the sun go down upon your wrath"
Here's the thing, when we get wild with anger we will not be in control of our thought processes and as a result we will say things that will hurt others. When we focus our anger it is like firing up a high pressure hose pipe, you let it loose and it blasts the dirt away.
So how do we calm down and gain focus and get control back of our anger so that we can use it wisely? Well one of my colleagues was kind enough to listen to my gripes and even had a good chuckle at my face turning different shades of red as I recounted the number of things that had gone wrong and were pushing my buttons, all in one morning. She was even able to give me one or two points from a different perspective and that helped me get back on track and finish the day successfully.
So take a deep breath and relax and allow God to guide you on your path to being a more 'focused' angry person....tee hee!
I was driving to work this morning thinking about last week and a couple of things that had left me feeling angry. I decided that I don't want to be ruled by anger so I needed to choose to take charge of my emotions and think through things. To be honest over the past few years I've learned that being 'controlled' angry is far more lethal than being 'wild' angry.
Ok, ok, by now I can see your frown....so you think Christians aren't supposed to be angry at all?? Is that what the bible says? No, it isn't.
Ephesians 4:26 (KJV) "Be ye angry, and sin not; let not the sun go down upon your wrath"
Here's the thing, when we get wild with anger we will not be in control of our thought processes and as a result we will say things that will hurt others. When we focus our anger it is like firing up a high pressure hose pipe, you let it loose and it blasts the dirt away.
So how do we calm down and gain focus and get control back of our anger so that we can use it wisely? Well one of my colleagues was kind enough to listen to my gripes and even had a good chuckle at my face turning different shades of red as I recounted the number of things that had gone wrong and were pushing my buttons, all in one morning. She was even able to give me one or two points from a different perspective and that helped me get back on track and finish the day successfully.
So take a deep breath and relax and allow God to guide you on your path to being a more 'focused' angry person....tee hee!
Sunday, September 13, 2015
The ceremony begins
This weekend was a rather productive one on all fronts, but especially because I managed to finish tidying up the side garden. I am still waiting for Lifestyle nursery to bring in their new berry bushes so once they arrive I'll have the berry garden completed for the season. The side garden however has been trimmed and cleaned, compost laid and new seeds sewn and is now ready for growth. That prompted me to begin my favourite candle ceremony.
In the warmer months and as often as I am home at sunset I like to make a cup of coffee and park myself on my back stairs. From there I can see almost all of my garden. The berry garden is behind me, I can see the whole side garden and most of the front garden is in view. Often I'll have a bible or book with me or sometimes not. It is a personal sacred time of reflection and meditation.
From here I can reflect on my garden and the progress I've made but it also gives me time to reflect on the week that has past, maybe some of the mistakes I've made and areas of my life I need to pray about. I also take time to reflect on what is good in my life and what I love about it and in general it just brings me closer to God.
Do you have a sacred time or space in your life for reflection? If not, I'd like to encourage you to do so. It is one of the key and most important building blocks to growing in our relationship with God.
In the warmer months and as often as I am home at sunset I like to make a cup of coffee and park myself on my back stairs. From there I can see almost all of my garden. The berry garden is behind me, I can see the whole side garden and most of the front garden is in view. Often I'll have a bible or book with me or sometimes not. It is a personal sacred time of reflection and meditation.
From here I can reflect on my garden and the progress I've made but it also gives me time to reflect on the week that has past, maybe some of the mistakes I've made and areas of my life I need to pray about. I also take time to reflect on what is good in my life and what I love about it and in general it just brings me closer to God.
Do you have a sacred time or space in your life for reflection? If not, I'd like to encourage you to do so. It is one of the key and most important building blocks to growing in our relationship with God.
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Caught in the thermals
When we are in the pressure zones
of life we may often ask ourselves whether it is possible to find true joy in
the midst of the mayhem. I believe it is
possible. Think of an eagle that takes
to the air from the ground. He knows his
destination is high in the air amongst the thermals, but in order to get there
he has to first fly against the air pressure and any gusts of wind that he may
encounter. In order to get high up
though he has to keep flying up, he cannot stop.
Once our eagle has gained sufficient
height the thermals will grab him and he’ll be able to glide round and round,
up and up and ahhhh, the joy of care free flight kicks in. Knowing the good that lies ahead in life can
give us the strength to fight against life’s windy zones and give us the
courage to keep going, because we’ll know our destination.
The bible tells us that for the
joy set before him Christ endured the cross.
He pushed on through the pain and agony until He finally declared “It is
finished!” Jesus knew that His death would
pave the way for us to enjoy eternal salvation and life with God and that image
in His mind kept Him going.
Whatever you are dealing with
right now know that there will be an easier time ahead when the thermals of
life will lift you up and you will be able to soar! So rejoice, smile in the tough times and know
that you will arrive at your destination.
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