The day with dianne Louise

Do nothing out of rivalry or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. Everyone should look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. Philippians 2:3‭-‬4 HCSB I struggle with humility, I like to challenge and kid people at the same time. In hindsight I may come on a little strong. In my astronomy club I feed people. However, I am very much aware that the men, generally, like what is not necessarily good for them: fatty, sugary foods. I will challenge the men because I am concerned for them. One in particular is very overweight and as an ex-nurse I can see a horrible end and I don't want to be responsible for that. Today he realised that I had been a nurse and understood my concern. I dont want this man to die on my watch. I travelled over to the mountain where we were meeting at a special site where a multitude of awesome telescope were to be seen. The man who drove me has an artificial arm and cochlear impla...

For it is God who is working in you, enabling you both to desire and to work out His good purpose. Philippians 2:13 HCSB We are not alone, been given a task to fulfill and left. The Holy Spirit works in us to conform us to the image of Christ. Conversely, outside of us, we have an enemy who is using crushing force to conform us to the image of the world. The world is trained to live for lust and self-gratification. This is in opposition to Christ who, Paul tells us, earlier in this chapter: Christ Jesus, who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be used for His own advantage. Instead He emptied Himself by assuming the form of a slave, taking on the likeness of men. And when He had come as a man in His external form, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death — even to death on a cross. Philippians 2:6‭-‬8 HCSB With such an example, who would be selfish? Well.....mmm... We would, as this is our natural bent, but Chri...

All things have been entrusted to Me by My Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son desires to reveal Him. Matthew 11:27 HCSB This sounds like relationship doesn't it! It's like: I meet Richard Branson and we hit it off, he invites me to his island for a visit. As a 'No longer a stranger' I am invited to do something I would not have done outside of relationship. This is how it is with God. I remember when He invited me to be His friend. I said:"Yes!" And then He began to show His ways to me and share His thoughts with me. God is no longer about law, rules and regulations and rituals but relationship. In relationship is friendship, fun and fellowship. This is not an exclusive club for the clean. As we seek Him, He makes us clean. Try Him! He is good! Amen!

“Come to Me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. All of you, take up My yoke and learn from Me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for yourselves. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28‭-‬30 HCSB Our world is reeling under the weight of so many disasters: man made and nature. Men would be forgiven for going to fear. Today Australia goes into a long weekend, a mini holiday, it is called 'Labour Day Weekend.' Us who labour are being given and extra day off. It also falls in school holidays and some are already on holiday. Yet, how much rest do we gain? Not much! Why? We are pushed along by appetites and desires, the wishes of others amd a feeling we should be doing something. Thus, no rest! Parents with small children know what this is like. I have a new, young, hyper-sensitive dog. My nights are seldom quiet. What rest we crave is seldom the rest we need. The first real rest is rest of spir...

Mockers inflame a city, but the wise turn away anger. If a wise man goes to court with a fool, there will be ranting and raving but no resolution. Proverbs 29:8‭-‬9 HCSB My country is hearing a lot from fools who mock my God at present. It is grievious to watch. Things that used to be clean fun are now a part of a corrupt campaign against purity. I see the nations who have gone before us and they are a mess. Is this our fate? Without God's divine intervention, yes. My prayer is that the Australian church will get on its knees for its nation and see God move. We cannot be lazy in our faith. Our God waits, as all creation waits, for the revealing of the sons and daughters of God. We will be recognised by our lack of compromise, purity and the power of God in our midst. A lot of ranting and raving is going on. Let's change this with the power of God! Amen!

The fear of man is a snare, but the one who trusts in the Lord is protected. Proverbs 29:25 HCSB Fearing the opinions of mere mortals is indeed a snare. When We fear what man will think we do even 'good stuff' with a wrong motive. For example giving: ' there is a building fund offering and I should give or I will look mean; there is a missionary offering, I should give or will look unkind'. Not a 'Good' motive when God sees the heart. We earn no credit for those gifts. Siding with popular opinion because of fear will see us before the Lord, looking into His eyes and knowing I chose being well thought of instead of Him. What is eternity made of? Populist thoughts or the living God who holds all things together? Fearing man snares us into a life of doing to be seen. Ugh! Fearing God is a life of freedom to live a life honoring God and being in good relationship with Him. Choose!

We have this kind of confidence toward God through Christ. It is not that we are competent in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but our competence is from God. He has made us competent to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter, but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit produces life. 2 Corinthians 3:4‭-‬6 HCSB I am doing an assignment at present and at the bottom of each section are the words: competent and not yet competent. Basically it is 'pass or 'fail.' I am so grateful that in Christ He makes me competent. He gives me the wisdom and knowledge I need to attempt a task He has prepared for me. At times, many times I do not know what I will do or say but as I step into the fray, He makes me able. Yesterday I was presented with a problem and did not know what to do. I decided to start walking towards the problem I had to solve, with a good heart, and He made a way. We cannot wait to feel competent. Paul tells us tha...

Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. We all, with unveiled faces, are looking as in a mirror at the glory of the Lord and are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory; this is from the Lord who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:17‭-‬18 HCSB In this chapter to the Corinthians Paul is comparing the revelation of the Old Testament and the New. In the Old Testament we see how the Spirit of the Lord came upon people for a task. However, as New Testament believers we have the joy of being able to provide a house for the Holy Spirit, we are His temple. When He comes in He does not possess us as an evil spirit would but He takes possession of that which we give Him. Of late I have been having revelations of 'more's of God and inviting Him into places I have not yielded before, unwittingly I had held on to them. Now I had the revelation I released them. With the Holy Spirit is freedom, not bondage. Our God is good! He...

Commit your activities to the Lord , and your plans will be achieved. Proverbs 16:3 HCSB Today I went to the bank to secure a better deal. The young man who cared for me confessed he is homosexual. I knew he was but I did not mind because I loved him and knew my God loves him. He was excellent in what he did for me and told me a lot about himself as I did about myself. I told him I was a Christian who believed in miracles and had seen people healed. He took it in his stride and only stopped for a nanosecond in his discourse. I came away praying for this young man and so grateful for the opportunity to meet and speak to him. How good is my God! I came home to negotiate with my manager for the ongoing relationship I was to have with another young man, one I had raised up in my business and one who wanted his own business. God is moving to give us both a better outcome. I am again grateful! My God gave me another client for next week amd my plans have been made for another road ...

A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord determines his steps. Proverbs 16:9 HCSB As I age I know that I do not know what tomorrow may bring. Whilst a part of me plans, I allow it to be flexible as I want God's surprises and I do not want my frustration. At the beginning of this year I had planned to finish certain studies promptly and begin others. I near the end of the year and am still completing the first two units. I have a vivid imagination and I imagine how things will go, I become excited as I see how things could go, but I allow the God factor. He knows the time and place. We fail to see the path when we envisage outcomes; God sees the path. The path may wind back on itself for a time and we may feel like we have gone nowhere, but we have. If we survey our surroundings we see differences; different people perhaps. Yes it can be frustrating but very necessary, trust God! God is always slower, His pace is more thorough!

All a man’s ways seem right to him, but the Lord evaluates the motives. Proverbs 16:2 HCSB It is so important that we are established in good fellowship with people who will challenge us and pray for us. When we isolate ourselves we start to pick up strange doctrine. Yesterday I was with a group who gather to pray for Nepal. The conversation afterwards came around to the current 'hot topic' in Australia. Should homosexuals be allowed to marry? On the surface many do say: "Sure! Why not!" However, as Christians, we must follow the word of God about sexual relationships. It is His opinion that matters. One women who I respect said: " Nowhere in the bible does it say people should marry." I was gobsmacked! I countered her opinion but knew that the church she attended had influenced her. She attends the Uniting Church in Australia Tonight I had another friend, another woman, post a religious dissertation put out by a woman who represents Trinity College...

Wickedness is atoned for by loyalty and faithfulness, and one turns from evil by the fear of the Lord . Proverbs 16:6 HCSB Repentance changes everything! The day I found repentance I was able to accept my need for a saviour. Then I invited Him in. Once I had found repentance and salvation I became eternally grateful. I looked to the Lord for His grace and ability to walk faithfully. Loyalty and faithfulness are treasured by God. On the one who is faithful He pours out His delight. The Lord loved King David. Yet God's love did not stop King Saul chasing him in mad jealousy and hatred. David sought the Lord, wrote songs of praise and prayers of hope. Through His darkest times he remained faithful and God showered him with presence. God sees the ones who will walk with Him and calls them out of their darkness and sin. God has faith and vision. I am grateful he had it for me. You can trust Him! If He is calling you, answer the call and give Him your all. Amen!

Know that the Lord has set apart the faithful for Himself; the Lord will hear when I call to Him. Psalms 4:3 HCSB We all know how much we value faithful friends. We carry a soft spot for them and will go the extra mile for them. Are you faithful? Can others count on you? Can the Lord count on you? If the answer is "Yes!" Then this is for you. The Lord shares His secrets with the faithful, those who put Him first and run after Him. He hears their prayers, their conversation, their thoughts and goes ahead to me them with the answer. How good is that? However, first, there is usually a test to see how faithful we are. Will we throw ourselves on the floor in a fit of rage or will we pick ourselves up and seek Him and still trust? What will He find when He returns? Will any be faithful?

You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and new wine abound. I will both lie down and sleep in peace, for You alone, Lord , make me live in safety. Psalms 4:7‭-‬8 HCSB I wonder at what time in David's life this Psalm was written? It embodies content similar to those written when he was on the run from Saul but this is the first Psalm with an instruction for the playing of a musical instrument, myself, I think I would choose chello. David know' s the joy of harvest but also, unlike many, knew the joy of the Lord's presence. I would have to agree with Him. Making a sale or baking a cake is good, watching my new plants flower for the first time is good but all these come from God. The flow is much deeper and more refreshing at the source. On this Sunday, as I sit and relish the word of God I am reminded that nothing is better than God. David goes on to say: ''I will lie down and sleep.' Many lie down but do not sleep. Being abl...

For whatever was written in the past was written for our instruction, so that we may have hope through endurance and through the encouragement from the Scriptures. Romans 15:4 HCSB The bible and the stories it contains fills me with hope when I read about the men who were close to God and the mistakes they made. The New Testament shows me my Lord and how He overcame. The epistles instruct me how to live. I would flounder and be lost without scripture. I am so grateful for the man who printed the first bible in the common mans language. Such perseverance and dedication. He endured with hope for all of us to come afterwards, who can read and be instructed. Thank you Mr Wycliffe. I am so grateful! Just the same, our lives can be living epistles as we walk in righteousness and submit to Him and live out the truth He gives us. Amen!

Now we who are strong have an obligation to bear the weaknesses of those without strength, and not to please ourselves. Each one of us must please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. For even the Messiah did not please Himself. On the contrary, as it is written, The insults of those who insult You have fallen on Me. For whatever was written in the past was written for our instruction, so that we may have hope through endurance and through the encouragement from the Scriptures. Romans 15:1‭-‬4 HCSB Being someone of discipline and faith I struggle with those who lack faith and continually flop around like fish out of water. However, my greatest achievement is to love these folk, be patient and walk alongside encouraging them on. Yes I have to go away for a time, because I need more grace but also I need them to test their legs and apply the lesson. There are some who refuse to learn, thinking they know how life should be: everyone else doing the work for them. These people...

I will say to the Lord , “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” He Himself will deliver you from the hunter’s net, from the destructive plague. He will cover you with His feathers; you will take refuge under His wings. His faithfulness will be a protective shield. You will not fear the terror of the night, the arrow that flies by day, the plague that stalks in darkness, or the pestilence that ravages at noon. Though a thousand fall at your side and ten thousand at your right hand, the pestilence will not reach you. You will only see it with your eyes and witness the punishment of the wicked. Because you have made the Lord — my refuge, the Most High — your dwelling place, no harm will come to you; no plague will come near your tent. For He will give His angels orders concerning you, to protect you in all your ways. Psalms 91:2‭-‬11 In this day when trouble comes upon the Lord's people from all angles we must trust the Lord, keep Him ever before our faces and refu...

The one who lives under the protection of the Most High dwells in the shadow of the Almighty. Psalms 91:1 HCSB When read this my mind sees a picture of a funny little guy, who definitely isn't the hero, but friend of the hero. The hero is constantly stepping into battle and the little guy, when confronted with the enemy says: "I'm with Him!" He points to the hero knowing he is secure and dependant upon the hero. We are the little guys. We have such a hero. His face blazes like the sun and He sits on a white horse, His name is King of Kings; Lord of Lords; Mighty God; Everlasting Saviour. He is my hero, He loves me, looks out for me and wants to hang out with this little weed. This same Lord, Jesus is His name, is coming again, in fact He could be on His way now. All will bow before Him. There is no one greater than He and I am His friend. Yes! I must keep my eyes on Him!

Praise the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. According to His great mercy, He has given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead and into an inheritance that is imperishable, uncorrupted, and unfading, kept in heaven for you. You are being protected by God’s power through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. 1 Peter 1:3‭-‬5 HCSB There is no rust in God's kingdom. Nothing of His wears out or decays. Our Inheritance, as children of God, is imperishable. Nothing can decay my inheritance. Here on earth our parents cash up and go travelling and spend our inheritance. However, there are things I inherit from them that will not decay: their genetics, memories; training. In the kingdom of God, He has more than enough and does not waste my inheritance on Himself. His Son Jesus purchased my inheritance and it cost Him dearly. Therefore, it is treasured in heaven and it would do me good to treasure...

Praise the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. According to His great mercy, He has given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead 1 Peter 1:3 HCSB In a day when our world needs hope, we have an opportunity to be born into a house of living hope! Jesus stayed pure, defeated death by rising again and then flings the doors open wide to any who would come: " come join Me in My kingdom and use My power and authority!" Now, that there is an awesome opportunity to be supernaturally blessed! It is like Elon Musk inviting you to join his family and giving you a blank cheque, only better! This is Jesus, the only Son of God offering you eternal life and power and authority in this life. So many people are defeated and trodden down, so many need hope. We must first put our trust in Jesus Christ and He will fill us with ALL hope! Amen! What god would do this for us? So many movies are made about pretend gods such as Thor. He...

But He was pierced because of our transgressions, crushed because of our iniquities; punishment for our peace was on Him, and we are healed by His wounds. Isaiah 53:5 HCSB He was punished for our peace. There is a cost for peace; there was a price paid for peace. He is our peace, who has broken down every wall. Nothing is too hard for Him! We can trust Him with our all! Peace, peace cries the nations as they prepare for war. I grew up in the era of the Peace movement. We wanted peace but we're not peaceful in our demands, in fact we created riots. Seems like history is repeating itself but this time we are calling: love! Love! Free love! Equal rights! There is only One Way; One Door! Jesus is the answer! Amen!

He was despised and rejected by men, a man of suffering who knew what sickness was. He was like someone people turned away from; He was despised, and we didn’t value Him. Isaiah 53:3 HCSB My Jesus is still being despised and rejected and His people called rude names for not yielding to sin; they are slaughtered for their faith and yet they still believe. Although we do not value Him and all He did for us, His Father does. In the same chapter of Isaiah it says: My righteous Servant will justify many, and He will carry their iniquities. Therefore I will give Him the many as a portion, and He will receive the mighty as spoil, because He submitted Himself to death, and was counted among the rebels; yet He bore the sin of many and interceded for the rebels. Isaiah 53:11‭-‬12 When I am feeling crushed, this is a reality check for me. All Things are used by God for His glory. May He receive glory! May many come to believe! Amen!

Refrain from anger and give up your rage; do not be agitated- it can only Bring harm. Psalm 37:8 Oh! How I need to hear this. I have a few dear friends that know how to push my buttons and I do not know why they are able when others can't. I come away knowing I need to repent and not let anger win or continue to agitate me. Perhaps it is because I am tired and sorely pressed. Nonetheless I do not want the sun to go down on my anger. It is me, not them. There are times I should go camping or fishing and debrief. However, I am using a rented car as mine is not quite back from the repaired and my garage is still not repaired and so it would be unwise to leave the house so vulnerable, and so I stay. Ahhhhhh! I will need to take a vacation in the Lord, have a coffee and sit out on my verandah and watch the garden or do a painting. No use thinking of lack, instead think abundance and blessing and see the bees, feel the breeze. Amen! Oh God! Oh God! Oh God!!

Know that Yahweh your God is God, the faithful God who keeps His gracious covenant loyalty for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commands. Deuteronomy 7:9 HCSB We need to know our God is faithful! Little things show us His faithfulness. When what we expect does not come in, it means He has another way. When the person we expect to call does not call, don't fret, thry aren't the answer, He is! We get so wound up because of unmet expectations, we are wrong in our expectations or our timing, not God. Remember we are not God and therefore do not know the best outcome, He does. Our God is faithful and His ways are hidden. It is the hidden that troubles us. We like predictable, certain, control. Ha! God is unpredictable and delights in surprise. Amen!

Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing. James 1:2‭-‬4 HCSB The key thing that stands out to me in these verses is that endurance must do it's complete work. Have you ever pondered what this means in your life? It means no quitting, no short cuts! Rats!!! God only knows what your complete endurance looks like. Mine will be different to yours. Mine will hurt just as much, maybe more or less depending on my take on things. If I expect things to be rosey; for there to be a white knight and there is none, I am bound to be disappointed. However, if I expect to trust my God and get to know Him, it won't be so bad. Why not seek God for what your road is like and ask for help to trust and go to it. Amen! Only those who complete the race win a prize. Make it worthwhile!

A man who endures trials is blessed, because when he passes the test he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him. James 1:12 HCSB Have you had trials that have left you exhausted, feeling wrung out, feeling stomped into the ground? You probably have had a trial. What did you do? Get depressed and eat Ice cream or curl up in a ball and wish to die? Or did you praise your way out? We see both such responses in the bible: the prophet Elijah, after he had called down fire from heaven to consume an offering covered with water, in defiance of a royal couple sold out to Satan and a country full of idol worshippers. Elijah then ran when he heard Jezebel, the queen was after him and lay down to die. God did not let him die but sent ravens to feed him. On the other hand we see David, destined to be king, living in Palestine because King Saul was after him, and feigning faithfulness to the Palestinian king. He returns from battle one day to find all his fam...

Don’t abandon wisdom, and she will watch over you; love her, and she will guard you. Wisdom is supreme — so get wisdom. And whatever else you get, get understanding. Cherish her, and she will exalt you; if you embrace her, she will honor you. Proverbs 4:6‭-‬8 HCSB Wisdom is not female but Solomon calls wisdom 'her'. French has a male and female language: e.g. la and le. Many languages have this, English does not. Solomon was writing a poetic book and the female form of a word may have been more poetic. Personally I like the French language and consider the French a more romantic race than ours. I dont mind Solomon's use of the language. We tend to think of our mother's as wise anyway and it fits for me. Nonetheless, we need to heed Solomon's exhortation. We should not throw away wisdom. I remember as a teenager, learning had been logical and strategic, until hormones kicked in, then there was a tendency to lay wisdom aside as too fuddy duddy in preference fo...

Wisdom is supreme — so get wisdom. And whatever else you get, get understanding. Proverbs 4:7 HCSB Wisdom is in the Lord yet not all Christians are wise in relationships, finance or faith towards God. James tells us that if we lack wisdom we should ask for wisdom and will be given it. Wisdom often comes through hard experience. We learn as we suffer, hopefully. As we suffer loss of relationships we should ask: what can I do better and repent for the wrong. With finance we can repent of foolishness and gain insight and understanding. The first thing we should learn to do is to honour God with our income. This comes with a promise. God promises that we will not put our money into a bag of holes if we give Him His first portion. Wisdom is quiet and is a blessing. It does not boast of self nor is it proud. Wise giving is quiet and effectual. Wise relationships are the same. We need to allow wisdom to reign supreme. Amen!

Don’t you believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me? The words I speak to you I do not speak on My own. The Father who lives in Me does His works. Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me. Otherwise, believe because of the works themselves. John 14:10‭-‬11 HCSB Jesus told us to abide in Him and that He and the Father would come and make their home with us. He also promised to send the Holy Spirit. Sounds like we have all of God as we abide and all of Him is in us. Sounds like a pickled gerkin doesn't it? A gerkin is in the vinegar and tastes of the vinegar, in other words pickled. Jesus spoke of Himself being the same with the Father, when He was on earth. He showed us what this relationship was like. The Spirit of God dwelling in Jesus did the work of miracles. The same is available for us! Amen!

The one who has My commands and keeps them is the one who loves Me. And the one who loves Me will be loved by My Father. I also will love him and will reveal Myself to him.” John 14:21 HCSB Further on in the same chapter, Jesus said: The one who doesn’t love Me will not keep My words. The word that you hear is not Mine but is from the Father who sent Me. John 14:24 Loving anyone, really loving them, means we believe in them, cover them, honour them. Offence breaks honour and respect. When we are offended we betray, much as Judas did. Therefore it is important we keep short accounts and deal with things promptly. How does Jesus offend us? He fails to comply with our agenda, we feel let down. When life dishes us a storm we blame our God for not protecting us or for not preventing it. I have had many opportunities to be offended with my God, fortunately or I should say, unfortunately, I reserve it for my fellow beings. Isn't this crazy! We become disappointed and offended. ...

Do you not know? Have you not heard? Yahweh is the everlasting God, the Creator of the whole earth. He never grows faint or weary; there is no limit to His understanding. Isaiah 40:28 HCSB The book of Isaiah was written between 783BC and 686BC. That is a long, long time ago. Yet Isaiah knew his God and was faithful. Many prophesies are contained in this book, especially those about Jesus, the coming Messiah who would save His people from their sins. I am sure there were times when Isaiah doubted himself and his calling as his messages seemed to fall on deaf ears. Yet for us who are alive in 2017AD his messages live. God is not dead, He is alive and very much still God. Amen!

I say then, walk by the Spirit and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is against the Spirit, and the Spirit desires what is against the flesh; these are opposed to each other, so that you don’t do what you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance — as I told you before — that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. Galatians 5:16‭-‬21 HCSB The flesh is a nasty beast, whereas walking in the Spirit, as we discovered this morning, is life and peace. We are seeing the working of the flesh more so now than ever before. All manner of vile behaviour is in practice and if good men do not stand up, it will wi...

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22‭-‬23 HCSB As a Christian I have the Holy Spirit residing in me. The above attributes are His. As I abide in Him, allow Him to rule they are manifested in me. I can try to be more loving, gentle, kind in my own strength and grow acne instead. You see if I do it, I claim the glory, much like a trophy in sport and then put the trophy on display. If, however, I yield to the Holy Spirit and stay in close fellowship with Him, I display Him and know it is not me. The fruit of the Spirit in me brings joy to those who interact with me. This is better for them than my flesh, my flesh is mean and revengeful, full of selfishness and pride. Yuk! If I manifest the fruit of the Spirit, I am blessed as well. I need to allow Him to be big in me. Amen!

All things were created through Him, and apart from Him not one thing was created that has been created. John 1:3 HCSB In a day when the authenticity of the claims of such scriptures are scoffed at, the ones that truly know Him, know He is in ALL things. He is the force that binds all things together, He is the magic, the beauty of all things. As all things are truly understood His beauty is made manifest. He is above all things, beyond all things. So things were creates for His good pleasure. He also created them for mankind to enjoy and care for. A Christian should, by nature, be the greatest conservationist. As we are created in the image of the One who sees even when a sparrow falls, He dresses the wild flowers with beauty. We are made in this image. We are not made to destroy. Today I did a road trip of 600kms. I love road trips as I get to see nature and be out in God's creation. It is a bit dry at present and so I prayed for rain. This is the least I can do. As we...

The true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. John 1:9 HCSB The Gospel of John would be my favourite. John has an insight and love for Jesus which is unparalleled. Thank you John! Previously in the first part of the chapter John writes more about Jesus being the light: Life was in Him, and that life was the light of men. That light shines in the darkness, yet the darkness did not overcome it. John 1:4‭-‬5 Jesus is the light of my soul, not philosophy, Wikipedia or Facebook. Only Jesus opens up the maze and shines right through to the heart of the matter. Unfortunately I am so thick, it usually takes until 3:45 in the morning to touch base. But when it does, I can repent and move on. I can say 'repent,' because often it is wrong thinking or attitudes. Into this present darkness that light still shines. There is no darkness that can overcome it, none! We are inundated with bad press but there is a light that shines through, a light that h...

So if you have been raised with the Messiah, seek what is above, where the Messiah is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on what is above, not on what is on the earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with the Messiah in God. Colossians 3:1‭-‬3 HCSB So much is being thrown at us at present, there is so much hate, but, what is God doing? He is not asleep. In fact He is preparing for a great outpouring of His Spirit. I came to know Jesus during one such outpouring in the 70s. In parts of the world rebellion was rampant, drug abuse was rife and immorality was huge. Transpose that to now. Yes it has notched up a level and is even worse but I think the God who poured out His Spirit on us then is about to so it again. Bring it on! I belong to a Connect Group made up of people my age and older. God is stirring us to pray, causing them to remember their first love. Watch out! He is coming again! My God is coming in might and power! He is not dead, as some sup...

Let the message about the Messiah dwell richly among you, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, and singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, with gratitude in your hearts to God. Colossians 3:16 HCSB 'Richly' is the operative word. The message about Christ is a good one, it brings life, heals the sick and gives power to the powerless. It is not an empty message or one just about being saved from sin. As we go into the world we must take the power of the gospel. My Jesus did not suffer and die just so I could dribble through life. He wants me to go in the power of the gospel. The power of the gospel speaks. I watch clips from the crusades held by Daniel Kolenda from Christ for all Nations and I see the poeer of God at work. How dare I expect the lost to come to a powerless gospel! Yesterday I visited a lady who was in distress. She reminded me of the woman in the gospels who had spent all she had on doctors. This woman had done just that and was being ab...

I want their hearts to be encouraged and joined together in love, so that they may have all the riches of assured understanding and have the knowledge of God’s mystery — Christ. All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden in Him. Colossians 2:2‭-‬3 HCSB God is a many faceted being. Just when we think we know Him, He surprises us. Paul uses such beautiful, love inspired language when He describes God. When I look at a beautiful butterfly, a tiny, baby mammal I never knew existed, when I discover a new bird or an insect I am in awe. Today I watched a U-Tube clip on the moon Titan, one of the moon's of Saturn. It has lakes of methane. How unusual is that! Yet God created all this for us to discover and as we do we see His beauty. God's ultimate mystery is Christ. Not just the man we see in the gospels, as if that is a 'just,' but when we discover Him woven throughout the Old Testament like a silver thread,and discover Him as Lord in the book of Revelation...

Therefore, as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, overflowing with gratitude. Colossians 2:6‭-‬7 HCSB Receiving Christ is the beginning. I love gardening and know that a seed planted has more chance than a seed left lying on the ground. A seed left lying will be eaten up by the birds. The new experience in Christ has to be planted in good soil, the word of God, fellowship and a determination to walk as a Christian, 'rooted and grounded.' When I came to Christ I saw a need to repent from my ways, my sins. This opened the door to a revelation of who Christ was for me. This is how I came to Him and this is how I must live in Him, through repentance and faith. Repentance opens the door, makes way for revelation. I need an ongoing revelation of God to grow. When I plant seeds in my garden I water them for without water they will not germinate and grow. As new flowers emerge...

Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God. Romans 12:2 HCSB Do you grasp the meaning of this verse? By not conforming to a world view you will be able to discern what is the good, pleasing and perfect will of God. Now, imagine each of those words: good, perfect and pleasing, one at a time and roll them around in your imaginary mouth like a piece of delectable chocolate. Savour them each in turn: good....pleasing......perfect..... Why they are all good. In fact you have never tasted better! These are all yours for the taking as you shun a world view for a good view, a heavenly view. A world view is formed by experiences. We evaluate God's character according to our experiences: good and bad. However, just suppose they are wrong or distorted. Think about it! These views have been forming forever, since we were tiny. How can tiny minds determine truth in a matur...

Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God. Romans 12:2 HCSB "That's not how it is done around here!" "Biggot!" "Homophobic!" Are some of the comments you will hear as you stay true to Christ. There are those who say they know Christ but have a compromised stand. They will sing from different hymn sheet. But what of me? I will confess Christ and Him crucified. Did He compromise the truth or stand for the truth? Our modern days are affected by a humanist gospel. The feel good gospel does not want to offend. In Australia we are about to vote on same-sex marriage. I am certain there is an element of Christianity that will struggle with the decision. For some, who do not study the scriptures diligently, they will rely on a heart decision. Unfortunately our hearts are corrupted by a social gospel. We must be guided by the word of God. If ...

For those who live according to the flesh think about the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, about the things of the Spirit. For the mind-set of the flesh is death, but the mind-set of the Spirit is life and peace. For the mind-set of the flesh is hostile to God because it does not submit itself to God’s law, for it is unable to do so. Those who are in the flesh cannot please God. You, however, are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, since the Spirit of God lives in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him. Romans 8:5‭-‬9 HCSB We can divide the world up into: those who do not have the Spirit of God and do not know Him; and those who have His holy Spirit residing in them. When we come to know Him we are liberated from the law of the flesh, the law of sin and death. The war rages between flesh and Spirit. Flesh is noisy, abusive, arrogant and frustrated where Spirit is quiet and peaceful knowing: He's got ...

Therefore, no condemnation now exists for those in Christ Jesus, because the Spirit’s law of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. Romans 8:1‭-‬2 HCSB I have loved this scripture since I first found it at 19. It has carried me and been my defence in times of condemnation and struggle. Condemnation is a tool of our enemy. If he can't fill your mind with it, he will get others to accuse you with it. I notice he is very busy right now as accusation and resultant hate are rife. Notice Paul says: 'for those who are in Christ.' Jesus told us to abide in the vine. The operative word is 'IN.' The purpose of condemnation is to take you 'OUT.' However, if you refuse to budge and stay in, as Paul says, later in the same chapter: 'nothing can seperate you from Christ, nothing! The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law the accuser operates under, 'the law of sin and death.' Refuse t...

Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of everyone’s blood, for I did not shrink back from declaring to you the whole plan of God. Acts 20:26‭-‬27 HCSB As I read this I am reminded of an Old Testament scripture that warns: if you see your brother sin and tell him of the consequences, then if he listens you have saved him but if he does not listen, his blood is on his own hands; however if you fail to warn him then his blood is on your hands. Perhaps this is a Jewish saying and understanding. This has spoken to me from the day I first saw it. I am accountable for how I handle truth. If I see my brother stumble, James tells me to correct him in gentleness. If we fail to teach the way; lead the way; challenge the way, how can we assume we are faultless before God? The 'I don't want to get involved' attitude will not defend us before God. Now I am not talking about hateful, vindictive speech, but one on one, loving gentle speech. However, confrontation...

In every way I’ve shown you that by laboring like this, it is necessary to help the weak and to keep in mind the words of the Lord Jesus, for He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ” Acts 20:35 HCSB I am reading a very good book right now called 'When Helping Hurts'. As one who gives and who wants to help nations like Nepal, I am very mindful of the right and wrong way to give. I could start right at the first place a Christian might give-church. Giving money is not enough, I must give my heart and be involved. When we just give money we can easily fall into critical mode as to how it would be spent. We see this even in the way we speak of our government, we pay taxes and therefore think it is right to criticise when money does not go where we think it should. If I give to a need in Nepal, I have to be willing to give more than money. Money alone feeds a boy for today, it does not teach him how to fish. I am in to enabling the whole person to get out of p...

The Lord is my light and my salvation — whom should I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life — of whom should I be afraid? When evildoers came against me to devour my flesh, my foes and my enemies stumbled and fell. Psalms 27:1‭-‬2 HCSB Being calm enough to not fret about troublesome experiences is important. Keeping my eyes on Jesus is what counts. In Australia we are having a time of raging left wing troublemaking. Horrible things are being done and said. It is as though our enemy wants to tear our heart out. Our home and country is being torn asunder by hate. The first major issue was same sex marriage. The left did not want the people to have a say. The left wanted politicians to make a decision. I knew the people must own this decision and stood on that premise. I prayed up a storm and kept praying and will continue to pray. The left took the right to court and today they lost. Praise God now we the people must vote. Again I will pray. I have to trust my God. My countr...

I have asked one thing from the Lord ; it is what I desire: to dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, gazing on the beauty of the Lord and seeking Him in His temple. Psalms 27:4 HCSB What one thing would you ask of the Lord? Deliverance from an addiction, deliverance from trouble, deliverance from enemies, safety in a new land? Would you seek abundance, provision? David was on the run and had been promised kingship but asked a strange request in the light of these troubles, don't you think? 'To dwell in the house of the Lord forever, gazing on God's beauty!' Jesus told His disciples to abide in the vine. If I am abiding in the vine I am filled with His lifeblood, His presence and in fact surrounded with His beauty. I am learning to abide, no matter what. I am surrounded by challenges, yet am seated having a feast in the face of my enemy. My God is allowing me to feast on learning. I have realised I have, for the longest time, been in a hurry. I h...

Now without faith it is impossible to please God, for the one who draws near to Him must believe that He exists and rewards those who seek Him. Hebrews 11:6 HCSB Faith is a key. It opens doors. However, like most keys we don't always carry them or at times we lose them. I have set routines with keys. Yet things happen that interrupt that routine, that's when I lose things, especially keys. Faith is a shield. It should be the first option when faced with a challenge, but I find drivel can sometimes be first out of my mouth. I saw it only the night before last. I met a lady, as I was coming out of the grocery store, who I had trained with for an ironman event. She asked me if I was swimming and I replied: " No! I am needing a shoulder repair first." Yes my shoulder needs work but earlier that day I had prayed and asked for healing and here I was talking the opposite. Faith pleases God! He loves it when I go to Him in faith and seek Him. It is not that He does no...

I will display wonders in the heaven above and signs on the earth below: blood and fire and a cloud of smoke. The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the great and remarkable Day of the Lord comes. Then everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. Acts 2:19‭-‬21 HCSB I belong to an astronomy club and am waiting for these days. I mingle with wonderful people who also seek out planets, asteroids and nebulae. These people are delightful, pure in their passion and fun to be with. I would not swap them for all the world. I make them cookies and.sausage sandwiches and occasionally hamburgers. It is an honour serve them. Why? Becaise they are God's creatures and He loves them as He loves me. The end times are here and it is only a matter of time till we see the events written about above. I believe I will see them. I want to be there for my friends when this happens. My God is in control and when the earth winds up He has a future plan and I can t...

For we are His creation, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time so that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10 HCSB We are actors in a play, written by God. We have a part to play, people to meet and touch. As we read the gospels we see such action in motion. Jesus was born, at the right time. Yet we could disagree. From the outset the enemy was after the baby, to kill Him. Yet God hid Him and brought Him forth into ministry, at the right time. Again his enemy was out to stop Him. First he tried temptation, surely a young man could be tempted, all others were! But No! Jesus stood the test and told Satan to go! So His enemy sent the haters, they did a good job and eventually crucified Him. His enemy thought he had won, but in his hate he forgot the nature of God towards His plan. My life is a battle also, to birth the plan, to bring forth His will into this fallen world. I have a part to play, people to touch with God. Will I go? Will I get up ou...

Better a day in Your courts than a thousand anywhere else. I would rather be at the door of the house of my God than to live in the tents of wicked people. Psalms 84:10 HCSB We all have desires. Those desires can take us out of the presence of our God, or closer in. Be they relational, financial or experiential, if God is not there, do we really want them? Over time I found in myself a sadness or loss. A part of me felt it was missing out. However, when I really evaluated these thoughts or feelings, what relevance were they? What is most important to my life? I can now honestly say, along with the psalmist, I would rather be a doorkeeper in God's house than anything else. All things, all things are measured against this fact: if my God is not in it or there, I don't want it! I will spend eternity with my God, in fact forever. Will I be delighting in a close relationship with Him, or forever regretting not knowing Him more? In all things, I look for Him. Where are ...

You are from God, little children, and you have conquered them, because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 1 John 4:4 HCSB When I became born again, I knew I was different, I had a new spirit. When I invited Christ into my life I became new, I became His. Having the Holy Spirit in residence makes all the difference. His life and presence assures me I am a child of God. Because I am a child of God I overcome, because of the power within me. Temptation has to bow the knee to Christ for: greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world. I must trust my God and His presence. He makes all things new. He is my strength and song. Amen! I love John's language: 'Little children.' I can see a loving old man saying these words. Just as I would encourage my grandchildren, He encourages me. John knew and loved his Lord. He could speak with authority. John had loved Jesus from the beginning and trusted Him. I also loved Him from the begin...

Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and by His vast strength. Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the tactics of the Devil. For our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world powers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens. This is why you must take up the full armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand. Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest, and your feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace. In every situation take the shield of faith, and with it you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s word. Pray at all times in the Spirit with every prayer and request, and stay alert in this with all perseverance and intercession for a...