The day with dianne Louise

I declared the past events long ago; they came out of My mouth; I proclaimed them. Suddenly I acted, and they occurred. Isaiah 48:3 HCSB Sounds like a prophet! Why it is! A prophet is a man or woman made in the image of God and willing to be used by Him for His glory. Isaiah was one such man, a man among many. Most lived in dire circumstances and those in sin did not want to hear their prophesies. Nowadays God's prophets tend to turn evil on its head by bringing down the power of God into desperate situations. Tonight I read on Facebook of a ring of 7 paedophiles who abused a young girl and the Father stayed in the room to calm her down whilst she was being abused. Everything that is in me is revulsed by this abhorrent behaviour. Fortunately all the men have been caught, and are going to jail, the girl has been set free. Whilst my revulsion of the sin wants to beat the men senseless, as I go to pray I pray that God takes these vile creatures and reveals their sin to them, giv...

This is what the Lord , your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel says: I am Yahweh your God, who teaches you for your benefit, who leads you in the way you should go. Isaiah 48:17 HCSB Jesus told us that He was the way. If He is the Way what does that entail? Currently, personally, I am reading Matthew. Not long after the beginning of Jesus' public ministry Matthew has Jesus up a mountain teaching His disciples His way. If we know He is the Way, then we need to discover what that looks like. As I read Matthew, I am struck with the simple beauty of Jesus and how He cuts away revenge, selfishness and greed. He calls divorce, so you can marry someone else, adultery, which it is. If we don't spend time in the gospels we miss this teaching and lose our way. If we lose our way them we are caught by every strange doctrine that comes along. These strange doctrine come to steal the Way from us so that we end up somewhere totally different to the truth and to the kingdom of God. ...

But anyone who lives by the truth comes to the light, so that his works may be shown to be accomplished by God.” John 3:21 HCSB The light test: if you believe and say you are in truth, then come into the light so that your deeds may be tested by the light. Darkness is where deception dwells. Even as Christians we can so believe we are right, but suddenly when we come into fellowship and start speaking our ideas and beliefs We are tested. We can see opinions we have held close be shot down in flames just by becoming public. I think the light is a good place to dwell, there is such safety there. I know I am protected by being in good fellowship. Overcoming depression is also possible by forcing yourself into fellowship, against all you feel. Darkness wants to consume you but you have to fight and the light charges your batteries. (Son powered batteries- now there's a thought!)

For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. Anyone who believes in Him is not condemned, but anyone who does not believe is already condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the One and Only Son of God. “This, then, is the judgment: The light has come into the world, and people loved darkness rather than the light because their deeds were evil. John 3:17‭-‬19 HCSB Judgement and condemnation are big issues today. The church is accused of judging the world because it will not agree to lifestyle behaviours, mainly sexual. However, Jesus did not come to condemn, rather it is our behaviour that justifies or condemns us. Do we love darkness more than light? Do we love the Son of God? Our deeds betray us. When we stand before God will we ridicule Him for not allowing us to live as we please or will we be in sync with all that He is because we have honoured Him and obeyed Him? The above passage ...

For where envy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every kind of evil. James 3:16 HCSB Tonight this text was a part of the message preached at church. I was struck with the stark difference between this verse and John 3:16 “For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. The book of James was written by Jesus brother and the gospel of John was written by a close disciple called John. One talks about cold selfish ambition and one pure selfless ambition. Such a huge gulf exists between the two. God's motive selfless to the core and our carnal nature selfish to the core. The good news is: God's selfless act makes way for us to walk in the same selflessness. What a redeemer! Amen!

The Lord is near the brokenhearted; He saves those crushed in spirit. Psalms 34:18 HCSB Isaiah prophesied about Jesus: He will not break a bruised reed, and He will not put out a smoldering wick; He will faithfully bring justice. Isaiah 42:3 HCSB In my most painful time he has been there. Although crushed in spirit and wounded in heart He has been the balm for my soul. When we are sick we know we must go to the doctor when crushed we must go to Jesus, He is our succor. Jesus Himself said: “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 If we read the first 4 books, the gospels, we discover Him. He is beautiful to behold. He beckons us "Come!" Amen

Endure suffering as discipline: God is dealing with you as sons. For what son is there that a father does not discipline? But if you are without discipline — which all receive — then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Hebrews 12:7‭-‬8 HCSB Some of the things that cause me to suffer are actually me not getting what I want or desire or I am told to wait. Not too bad! Basically it means: grow a little first! Other things that cause me to suffer is the removal of people I care about. I then have to learn to lean into my God for His sustenance. Both of these things hurt but both make me stronger. Therefore I should rejoice! Amen!

No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields the fruit of peace and righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Hebrews 12:11 HCSB When we think discipline we think fathers and teachers. My dad was tough on discipline. He did not always explain and he was not always fair but he was a man trying to do his best. As a teenager I went on a cultural excursion to the big city. We watched a movie called 'Women in Love' by D H Lawrence, pure porn in my book. I remember going to dinner down by the quay in Sydney and a few of us thought it would be cool to steal a glass from the restaurant. When we finally arrived back home I proudly showed my dad and He was furious. I soon learned that I had become a thief and we were not thieves in our house. Needless to say I never did it again. That discipline embarrassed me, it hurt but it was good for me. I respect the property of others. Had I have been congratulated and encouraged I would s...

For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with these. But those who want to be rich fall into temptation, a trap, and many foolish and harmful desires, which plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, and by craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pains. 1 Timothy 6:7-10 The chasing of riches and prosperity undo us. Jesus told us to seek first the kingdom. This is a good place to stay. If my mind is on Him then I am anchored in a safe, peaceful plan. Trying to be successful wears one out. Rather focussing on serving and loving people will bring the success you were meant for. If great wealth then so be it but if enough ( food and clothing and a roof over your head) be happy! When we focus on money Mammon moves into the field and He is very good at wearing us out amd tying us in knots. Stay in the vine and l...

Fight the good fight for the faith; take hold of eternal life that you were called to and have made a good confession about in the presence of many witnesses. 1 Timothy 6:12 HCSB Are you aware that you are in a fight? You have an enemy, His name is Satan, and He comes to kill, steal and destroy. How will defend yourself? The book go Revelation says; 'they overcame him (Satan) by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony. (Rev 12:11) . The apostle Paul tells us in Ephesians 6:11 to put on the full armour of God. Our faith is the prize. Our enemy wants us defeated and not believing anything that the word of God says. Daily bible reading and prayer along with good fellowship will sustain us. Eternal life is what we are called to. It is our hope and future. We have a treasure in earthern vessels. A prize awaits us. As we confess our faith, those who have gone before us watch and rejoice. Amen!

For everything created by God is good, and nothing should be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, since it is sanctified by the word of God and by prayer. 1 Timothy 4:4‭-‬5 HCSB When I look upon God's handiwork, unadulterated by mankind, I am in awe; when I see a newborn baby I am in awe; when I gaze into the sky on a dark night, I am amazed at the God who created it all. As God created, it is good and I accept it openly. The things I reject are the warped rearrangements of mankind; the destruction and the manipulation. How are things sanctified and why should they be sanctified? I know Paul was dealing with the false teaching around food. In some places there were a problem with food offered to idols and then sold for general consumption in the market. Paul did not have a problem with this type of food but He acknowledged some would. We sanctify our food as we pray over it before eating, by giving thanks and asking the Lord to bless it. Always, always seek God...

Now the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will depart from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and the teachings of demons, through the hypocrisy of liars whose consciences are seared. 1 Timothy 4:1‭-‬2 HCSB By 'last days' Paul is referring to the period that began when Jesus had come, died, rose again and ascended to the Father. We are still in the Last Days and in conjunction with other prophesies we see clearer that we are in the 'last' of the Last Days. When Paul refers to 'now the Spirit explicitly says' he is probably referring to a prophesy at that time. Further after this verse we see the behaviour of those Paul is referring to: 'they forbid marriage and demand abstinence from certain foods.' He is obviously referring to a cult movement of that time. We know all about these, we have had a few ourselves. Some have demanded mass suicide. Why are we not content with the Word of God? What causes us to itch for st...

For the Father loves the Son and shows Him everything He is doing, and He will show Him greater works than these so that you will be amazed. And just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so the Son also gives life to anyone He wants to. The Father, in fact, judges no one but has given all judgment to the Son, so that all people will honor the Son just as they honor the Father. Anyone who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him. John 5:20‭-‬23 HCSB Jesus here is giving a serve to the Pharisees. They rejected Him and the works He did and they certainly didn't like Him saying He was God's Son. He was really fuelling the fires of hate. What can we non-Jews learn from this? The Father loves His Son and gave Him great honour because He loved and obeyed the Father. Just like the first Adam He was without sin and unlike the first Adam He remained that way, just as Adam should have. Jesus shows us what Adam could have had and as born again be...

“I assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life. John 5:24 HCSB So simple! Believe and receive! In a world full of frauds here was a man claiming to be the Way to the Father. Do you have a good register of what is good and clean and lovely? I remember being told, many years ago now, that I was naive. I was considered too trusting and not seeing evil. Over the years I have continued believe in Jesus as the author of eternal life. You see, I know Him intimately. We have been through much together and He has always been faithful. Yes He has not performed to my ideas at times but I have trusted Him enough to allow time to show me why He was right and He was. In this chapter 5 of John we see Jesus heal the man who had laid by the pool at the Sheep Gate waiting to get into the pool, at a certain time, to be healed. However he had no-one to help him. Into his world came Jesus, on t...

The wind blows where it pleases, and you hear its sound, but you don’t know where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.” John 3:8 HCSB In our modern society I can study the wind and learn to understand it's ways. Geography introduced me to weather and now, astronomy makes me glad I bothered. Understanding the ways of the Holy spirit is only possible by becoming sensitized to His presence and sensing His movements. Getting to know the Holy Spirit is possible through having a born again heart. Life with the Holy Spirit is amazing. Taste and see that the Lord is good! Amen!

“For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. John 3:16‭-‬17 HCSB We are seeing a lot of the universe and new discoveries. The great mind who made all this is interested in our little blue planet called Earth and the people He created. It was God who created all we see, for His good pleasure and ours. As a parent and grandparent I have created many things for those I love. I do it for mine and their pleasure. My love for them drives me. Our God had a universe and His angels but still he wanted more. He created us. We see parents thinking of nothing more than having children. When they can't procreat they become forlorn. We are created in His image, like Him. Like Him we would do anything for the relationship with our children. Breakdowns in relationship...

But if our unrighteousness highlights God’s righteousness, what are we to say? I use a human argument: Is God unrighteous to inflict wrath? Romans 3:5 HCSB Mankind, in its effort to be God, judges the Living God for His power. Methinks there is a little jealousy here. Demi-Gods love power, they are quick to judge and unmerciful yet the true God sent a Son to show His nature. Did Jesus judge? I think the only people He had a real problem with were the religious leaders who said one thing and did another. He had good conversation with the godly Pharisees and many came to believe. Today He would stand against the haters and those who despised His goodness. Truth has a way of upsetting sinners. We don't like it but when we are humbled by our own foolishness, finally, we accept it. Eternity mocks the revilers, those who claim eternity without Christ would be fun, until they met their captors. Let us not be so willfully that we fail to find truth and real freedom. Amen.

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. They are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. Romans 3:23‭-‬24 HCSB Earlier in the chapter Paul says; 'none is righteous, no, not one.'(10,11) these verses are a reference to scriptures in the Old Testament, mainly Psalms. If we accept than not even a good person, in themselves are righteous, apart from Christ, then we can acknowledge that sin is still the problem. We don't like to be told we are sinners. Why? In the kingdom of self we rule and decisions are made from our throne. However there is one who disputes our throne. In the State of Western Australia, there is a family facing huge tax bills and they have been to court, to no avail. The problem is: the patriarch set up his own kingdom and called himself king. He didn't like the State he lived in and therefore refused to pay taxes. He now has a bill in the millions and is being forced to pay. Each of us, if...

How I love Your instruction! It is my meditation all day long. Your commands make me wiser than my enemies, for they are always with me. I have more insight than all my teachers because Your decrees are my meditation. I understand more than the elders because I obey Your precepts. I have kept my feet from every evil path to follow Your word. I have not turned from Your judgments, for You Yourself have instructed me. How sweet Your word is to my taste — sweeter than honey in my mouth. I gain understanding from Your precepts; therefore I hate every false way. Psalms 119:97‭-‬104 HCSB David is telling us why he is wise: he listened and obeyed the word of God. He had only a few books, we have so many more. For us, the Christians, Jesus came and set us free from our sins and shackles. We have the Gospels and the Epistles. What a rich source of teaching is available to us! Not only did David listen and obey, he meditated on the truths he learned. They were before him as a lamp to his fee...

Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light on my path. Psalms 119:105 HCSB What I find interesting here is the lamp is for the feet. Have you ever walked on a dangerous, narrow path? I have but fortunately it was in daylight. I have crossed rickety little bridges in the alps in Nepal. The bridges were so bad, had such huge holes between slats and they had no railings. I would not have contemplated crossing at night. Why do I need a lamp for my feet? I am on a walk. Jesus said: I am the way, the truth and the life, no man comes to the Father but by Me. (Jn 14:6) This seems to indicate that the path I should be on is leading to the Father. It then behoves a question: where is my path going? Am I seeking riches, position, power or God? I recently heard a message by Bill Johnson in which he said: "once the foundation is properly laid the walls will spring up automatically." I suddenly had a revelation that I was trying to build walls on a house but constantly struggling....

The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable to the Lord , but the prayer of the upright is His delight. Proverbs 15:8 HCSB Who knows that there is a difference between a sacrifice and prayers? Sacrifices we see. We hear about this or that 'good' person because they were so kind and giving. Remember the scripture: 'for My thoughts are not your thoughts neither are My ways Your ways.' Is 55:8 We look at the outward and He looks at the inward. Our motives are what He sees? Not our actions. He rewards according to the thoughts and intents of the heart. So, we could be so caught up in sacrifice but God sees wicked selfish intent. Remember the poor woman and the Pharisee in the temple. The woman put in 2 mites and the Pharisees was pounding his chest for he thought himself 'so good.' Jesus saw right through him and praised the lowly widow who gave her all, though a small amount. If all we can do is pray, then pray with a good heart. If we give make it with ...

A gentle answer turns away anger, but a harsh word stirs up wrath. Proverbs 15:1 HCSB Where do harsh words come from? I would hazard to suggest: history, hurt, hatred. When it comes to offence we have long memories. We can recognise this because in a conflict out comes the words: "You said this.... you did this!" It might have been 20 years ago but it is still there. What to do about it? Invite God into that memory, ask Him to heal the hurt. As I invite the Holy Spirit in and let Him go to work I am often surprised in how He heals me. It is always a pleasurable experience: sometimes a sense of knots being undone; sometimes a burden being lifted; other times a revelation of truth. Yet if I don't invite Him and don't humble myself and seek release, I stay the same. Gentle answers come from God. I don't have them in my flesh, all I have are hot irons. Working with the Holy Spirit is imperative when dealing with others. He loves them more than we do and He kn...

The tongue that heals is a tree of life, but a devious tongue breaks the spirit. Proverbs 15:4 HCSB The role of the Christian is that of a restorer. A tongue that heals will go a long way with this profile. Consideration, kindness and gentleness are a part of restoration. Do you get annoying phone calls from little Indian men, from call centres in India? I do! Today, at not such a good time one called and I was inclined to be annoyed. I determined to be civil and discovered he had a ligitimate reason to call. I often wonder why they always seem to call at the wrong time. Is the Holy Spirit trying to say something? "Be kind to all men!" Probably! This is a hard one for me as I am usually tired or busy when they call. God have mercy! Just think! These little people, just like me, have their own burdens that I know nothing of, which would probably crush me, yet valiantly they soldier on.

A gentle answer turns away anger, but a harsh word stirs up wrath. The tongue of the wise makes knowledge attractive, but the mouth of fools blurts out foolishness. The tongue that heals is a tree of life, but a devious tongue breaks the spirit. The lips of the wise broadcast knowledge, but not so the heart of fools. A discerning mind seeks knowledge, but the mouth of fools feeds on foolishness. A man takes joy in giving an answer; and a timely word — how good that is! Proverbs 15:1‭-‬2‭, ‬4‭, ‬7‭-‬7‭, ‬14‭, ‬23 HCSB The tongue can do so much good or so much damage. Myself, I know when I am emotionally charged with either offence or anger, if I let my tongue loose, I do damage;.when feeling euphoric I can bubble away indiscriminately and also do damage unknowingly. Yet, if all emotions are in check and the tongue has on the reins, I can be a blessing. I have to constantly ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom and guidance and self-control. Yes self-control needs my intentionality but ...

Don’t be deceived, my dearly loved brothers. Every generous act and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights; with Him there is no variation or shadow cast by turning. By His own choice, He gave us a new birth by the message of truth so that we would be the firstfruits of His creatures. James 1:16‭-‬18 HCSB We can get so caught up in the image of our own goodness that we steal God's glory. Becoming real is facing truth: God's grace leads us to goodness and acts of kindness. We do not have these attributes in ourselves, not completely. People who are 'good' outside of Christ are being corralled by their enemy into thinking that is all that is required. When Jesus was called 'good teacher', He said "No one is good but God alone." Now, if anyone could have been called 'good' it would have been Him, yet He refuses the title. Was it because He knew that accepting the flattery He would have to deal with pride? T...

Therefore, ridding yourselves of all moral filth and evil, humbly receive the implanted word, which is able to save you. James 1:21 HCSB Do you recognise moral filth? Do you reserve this phraseology for paedophiles whilst yourself looking at websites you should not be found in? Do you think moral filth is only sexual? We have an enemy who is roaming around looking for someone to devour. Are you presenting yourself on a platter? The trick with deception is it knows how to deceive. James tells us we are lured away by out own evil desires. The secret stuff will undo us. Morality is broad. How I treat others can be morally wrong. If I am caught up in euphoria from a win, a good experience, I can, without realising it crush and wound a poor person. It is as if I have a large 4WD vehile in amidst poor people on bikes and they are everywhere. Do I morally care for my elders or see them as a means to an end? Do I take from then without repaying and think It is right? If I use them i...

I give thanks to Christ Jesus our Lord who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, appointing me to the ministry — one who was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an arrogant man. But I received mercy because I acted out of ignorance in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord overflowed, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. 1 Timothy 1:12‭-‬14 HCSB Have you ever thought of the apostle Paul as a blasphemer? No? Neither had I, however, Paul knew himself well. His testimony is one that many could share. Do we see Paul living in shame or guilt? No! He knew: 'He who the Son sets free is free indeed.' (John 8:36) If Christ forgives me and hands me absolution, I am forgiven. Yes I have much to be grateful for but I must live as one set free from sin. Groveling around in the dirt dishonours Him! Amen!

This saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” — and I am the worst of them. 1 Timothy 1:15 HCSB Two things Paul says here: Jesus came into the world to save sinners. The second was He recognised himself for what he was. What was He? He had been a mass murderer before coming to Christ. He believed he was doing God's work. He had been a zealous Jew persecuting Christians. However, he had a time when Christ revealed Himself to Him and in an instant he was changed. My past was not so colourful yet because I knew I was a sinner I came to Him in gratitude and I stay with Him for the same reason. When Repentance brings you to Christ you do not want to leave Him, He is your source and supply of grace. Jesus did indeed come to save us from sin. Sin is a dirty word now days yet it is still a truth we must accept to be set free. Eternity with Him is the reward, eternity without Him the alternative. Not a good place! ...

And you have put on the new self. You are being renewed in knowledge according to the image of your Creator. Colossians 3:10 HCSB We are renewed in knowledge. Today I had a stressful time right up to about 2pm when I chose to play a podcast of Bill Johnson. It did the trick. I received revelation that renewed my mind. I was stuck in the problem and needed to move to the solution. I had a teleconference at 3pm and knew I needed my God's perspective or I would fail. After listening to the podcast my mind, heart and spirit were in alignment and I knew I was ready. The teleconference went well and I actually shared a solution I had been inspired with myself and it was lauded as good. All I can say is: " it must have been a God idea." Renewal is so, so important. We need the freshness of God to restore us, inspire us and motivate us. Amen!

And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Colossians 3:17 HCSB Paul starts this chapter with: 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 Paul goes on the warn that bad behaviour is fitting for who we were before Christ but after knowing Him we should walk as He walked. Many years ago arm bands with WWJD written on them were sold to remind the Christian about who they represented. We are not our own. We were bought with a price, the precious blood of Christ. If I have been bought with such a price then I need to live mindful of this fact. My Christianity must cost me the sacrifice of not living out of my carnal nature but rather out of His grace. This requires r...

Even if your exiles are at the ends of the earth, He will gather you and bring you back from there. The Lord your God will bring you into the land your fathers possessed, and you will take possession of it. He will cause you to prosper and multiply you more than He did your fathers. Deuteronomy 30:4‭-‬5 HCSB This is a picture of restoration. We see this played out in the nation of Israel. Yet restoration is promised to the Christian. Jesus restored lives, healed hearts, gave hope and a new beginning. Salvation does this. We are brought home to our heavenly Father, grafted into the vine and made a part of a new family. Today I took my mother on a 305km round road trip to our old home town where relatives and friends gathered to bury my great aunt 'Pixie' Galvin. She almost lived to 90. As I looked around at all my relatives present I was aware that I belonged to a large family. Yet my heavenly family is much larger and covers many different races and foreign speaking i...

For I am commanding you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in His ways, and to keep His commands, statutes, and ordinances, so that you may live and multiply, and the Lord your God may bless you in the land you are entering to possess. Deuteronomy 30:16 HCSB Moses is handing over the reigns to Joshua as the children of Israel prepare to go into the Promised Land. The above scripture is a part of his farewell speech. Moses is reminding the people of the Commandments, especially the first Commandment to love the Lord their God above all else. When Jesus was preparing to depart the earth He also made a speech, we see this in Matthew: Then Jesus came near and said to them, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the ...

I will establish a place for My people Israel and plant them, so that they may live there and not be disturbed again. Evildoers will not afflict them as they have done ever since the day I ordered judges to be over My people Israel. I will give you rest from all your enemies. “ ‘The Lord declares to you: The Lord Himself will make a house for you. 2 Samuel 7:10‭-‬11 HCSB I know Israel will not be moved no matter who comes against her or what others say about her. Looking on I can recognise this. Yet this is the same for me. I must trust that my God sees it all in His perspective and I am saved! This verse is from a chapter that reveals God's faithfulness. I can trust Him; we can trust Him! Amen!

This is why You are great, Lord God . There is no one like You, and there is no God besides You, as all we have heard confirms. 2 Samuel 7:22 HCSB David had wanted to build the Lord a house, as the Ark of the Covenant was housed in a tent but the Lord said "No! Your son will build me a house but I will build you a house." Do you ever have moments like this when you purpose to bless God and He says "No! I want to bless you!" David was overcome with His smallness. He wants to be a blessing but instead is being blessed. Gratitude pours our of His heart and he is overwhelmed. The above scripture tells it like it is. God is great because His love for us is far greater than ours for Him. His desire towards us is greater than ours for Him. He is so good! This is why we worship! He deserves all praise! Amen!

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 Trials come is all sorts of different shapes and sizes. What do they look like? Each of us has a weakness eg fear, anger, judgementalism. Each of us will be drawn into a trial that tests us. How will I stand? Will I yield to my weakness or submit it to God and trust Him for the outcome? The weaknesses we carry draw us into the trial, God allows it because He wants us to grow up and mature. As a parent and grandparent I have seen this many times, I may not be as aware of my own but they are the same nonetheless. As a grandparent I do not orchestrate the trial, I watch it happen. I can help in the lesson but do not cause it. Just the same God is there ready to help. If we do turn to Him and ask for help He is delighted. More so when He sees us overcome. Today I did the A21 walk for Freedom. There was a lady in the group...

My dearly loved brothers, understand this: Everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger, James 1:19 HCSB Oh dear! I think we have this backwards. I think we are slow to hear and quick to anger and to speak. Why is this so? In our natural state we rule out world. Everything is relative to me. How do I judge a thing? How do I perceive a thing? Do I find a matter insulting or flattering? Yet, this is not what James is telling us. Prior to accepting his brother Jesus as his saviour, now that would be a tall ask in most people's book, James would have been given to such behaviour. We actually see a record of Jesus brothers goading Him to retun to Judea for the Festival of Tabernacles: The Jewish Festival of Tabernacles was near, so His brothers said to Him, “Leave here and go to Judea so Your disciples can see Your works that You are doing. For no one does anything in secret while he’s seeking public recognition. If You do these things, show Yourself to the...

But you, brothers, are not in the dark, for this day to overtake you like a thief. For you are all sons of light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or the darkness. So then, we must not sleep, like the rest, but we must stay awake and be serious. For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at night. But since we belong to the day, we must be serious and put the armor of faith and love on our chests, and put on a helmet of the hope of salvation. 1 Thessalonians 5:4‭-‬8 HCSB It is dark out there! But the Christian has the light to guide them. JESUS said He was the light and that we are the light of the world. We must shine the light into the darkness. It is not time to be getting drunk, partying, laying about and wasting valuable time. We have a job to do and lost to seek and save. By being serious we give stability. I still laugh, even though I am serious. My mum is a riot. We find a lot of crazy stuff to enjoy but always keeping ou...

See to it that no one repays evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good for one another and for all. 1 Thessalonians 5:15 HCSB "I will get you back!" These words we have said and heard thousands of time Retribution! You touch my land and I will touch yours. We are seeing this played out with President Trump and Kim Jon Un. Threats and counter threats, leading to war. When we look at all the results of fights like this, many innocent die. Road rage is common in Australia. People become so enraged by the acts or omissions of others. Yet, if we pull back, cool down and look for the bigger picture, what do we see? Puppet strings! We have been manipulated to do the dirty work for another malevolent enemy. How do Christians avoid being caught up in this mess? Prayer, reading their bibles, fellowship with the Holy Spirit. Staying soaked in Him prevents the strings being attached in the first place. What is good for others? Patience, kindness, goodness, self-c...

If I say, “My foot is slipping,” Your faithful love will support me, Lord . When I am filled with cares, Your comfort brings me joy. Psalms 94:18‭-‬19 HCSB Climbing a mountain your foot will slip. When it is wet the slip is worse. I trekked to Annapurna Base camp in Nepal? 4130 metres high. It was arduous and grueling. However, many times I would pray: " Lord I am at the end of myself, now I will step out in Your strength." It was, surprisingly always there. Remember His comfort brings us joy! Seek it and step into it. Endurance is not just about pain and perseverance but it also about joy. Jesus Himself endured the cross for the joy of what it would bring. His comfort brings joy! Amen! I constantly meet people who can only see the pain or the problem. I bring them back to praise. I ask: "have you been told you will die from this?" Most say "No!" "Then rejoice!" I say! Keep perspective, rely on Him and rejoice! Amen!

If I say, “My foot is slipping,” Your faithful love will support me, Lord . When I am filled with cares, Your comfort brings me joy. But the Lord is my refuge; my God is the rock of my protection. Psalms 94:18‭-‬19‭, ‬22 HCSB The tension between the hurt, crushed, soul of David and the proclamation that His God will sustain him is so evident in this Psalm. The evil ones had indeed inflicted unjust treatment. David asks the Lord: "why do evil men last so long?" Why do they indeed. The cup has to be full. However, David asserts that even though the evil men think nothing of the poor and believe they themselves will escape, God is watching and will repay. David calls them 'stupid people!' I am sure we could likewise rail against our enemies, there are many. Yet, God Himself is showing the greatest form of justice is tearing these people from Satan's hands and bringing them to Christ. A repentant sinner is a higher victory than killing the enemy in his sin. M...

Therefore, God’s chosen ones, holy and loved, put on heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, accepting one another and forgiving one another if anyone has a complaint against another. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you must also forgive. Above all, put on love — the perfect bond of unity. And let the peace of the Messiah, to which you were also called in one body, control your hearts. Be thankful. Colossians 3:12‭-‬15 HCSB When we dress in the morning, first we put on underwear, then say a shirt or blouse, next pants or a skirt, if is is cold a jacket. Each of these items play a part in our dress. We like to collect a few varieties, some more so than others. We won't get into collecting excessive amounts. Without underwear, we are a little uncomfortable. If we are able to afford a few sets of underwear we know the joy of clean underwear. Heartfelt compassion is underwear. Out of this item flows goodness. If I have heartfelt compassion towa...

And let the peace of the Messiah, to which you were also called in one body, control your hearts. Be thankful. Colossians 3:15 HCSB Isaiah tells us: You will keep the mind that is dependent on You in perfect peace, for it is trusting in You. Isaiah 26:3 HCSB Paul tells us: Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6‭-‬7 HCSB The criteria for peace are: keeping our minds on Him; trusting Him and not ourselves; thanksgiving. Through all life's storms we must look ahead to Him and trust Him, no matter what is happening, with thankful hearts. Fear and worry are the enemies tools. They are like going into a room where the TV is on and trying to talk not distracted. Very hard but not impossible. First we must tune out the noise and focus on Jesus. What is He sayin...

My life is down in the dust; give me life through Your word. I told You about my life, and You listened to me; teach me Your statutes. Psalms 119:25‭-‬26 HCSB There is so much pain! My heart grieves for those who suffer; fires and hurricanes in America, earthquakes and all manner of disasters in Asia; ethnic cleansing in India; murder of the innocent; abuse is abundant. Our world reels under the burden of its own sin. Forgive Us Lord! Have mercy! Life is in Christ alone. He is our Saviour! He is our redeemer! Amen! Only He is pure and His love is untainted with hidden motive. He alone can be trusted! Build upon Him, not money or fame! Choose life in Him! Thank You that You listen Lord!

I will never forget Your precepts, for You have given me life through them. Psalms 119:93 HCSB A wise person, Jesus said, builds his house upon a rock. So what is the rock? Lets look! “Therefore, everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them will be like a sensible man who built his house on the rock. The rain fell, the rivers rose, and the winds blew and pounded that house. Yet it didn’t collapse, because its foundation was on the rock". Matthew 7:24‭-‬25 HCSB The rock is the words of Christ and the word of God. If we want to know the words of Christ we can read the Gospels. If we want more: the New Testament, and more still: the whole bible. The bible contains the building materials for constructing a good house. Amen! If my life is built on the materials of the bible, when the storms come, not if, but when, I am safe. Jesus also tells us the outcome if we fail to do this: "But everyone who hears these words of Mine and doesn’t act on them will be...

So you also have sorrow now. But I will see you again. Your hearts will rejoice, and no one will rob you of your joy. John 16:22 HCSB The disciples were facing a very troubling and hard time. Here Jesus was encouraging them: "Yes it will be tough but soon, you will get through this and there will be joy, and no-one will be able to take away your joy!" Today I had a tough day. It felt like I was am underweight in the ring with a big brute. Work was hard, I was unwell with a virus and the demands were constant. I almost went to bed early but decided to have a shower and go again. After Jesus was crucified Peter went fishing. Fishing is a good place to zone out. I garden, paint or read. I find gardening very restful, art is similar. Sometimes the pain is so bad we need time out to recover and process. Losing loved ones is hard. Losing your home is hard but losing your Lord, now that would be devastating. Kind David thought he had lost the Lord's presence when he l...

Until now you have asked for nothing in My name. Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete. John 16:24 HCSB In times of need, rather than fretting or complaining why not ask! Asking in the name of Jesus carries weight. Jesus had been telling His disciples that He must go away and that He would send them the Holy Spirit as a counsellor. The disciples were distressed. Why was Jesus going away? They were comfortable with Him in their midst. This morning I awoke praying and asking God for certain things. I know He has heard me and now I must trust Him to provide. Amen! The disciples did not need to ask for anything, they had what they wanted. A times was coming when they would need and this word would have encouraged them to ask. If you read the whole chapter you see the love Jesus had for His disciples. The same love is ours. Step into that love! Amen!

Look! He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, including those who pierced Him. And all the families of the earth will mourn over Him. This is certain. Amen. “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “the One who is, who was, and who is coming, the Almighty.” Revelation 1:7‭-‬8 HCSB All the families of the earth will mourn over Him. How sad! So many currently reject Him for their own lordship. A day is coming when they finally see Him and believe He is God. Every eye will see Him! No one will be able to say: "but I didn't see Him!" Just as news is broadcast all around the world and in every place all men will see. There will be no excuse! Are you ready?

Look! He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, including those who pierced Him. And all the families of the earth will mourn over Him. This is certain. Amen. “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “the One who is, who was, and who is coming, the Almighty.” Revelation 1:7‭-‬8 HCSB Verse 7 is a compilation of Daniel 7:13 and Zechariah 12:10. A popular song in the last few years was made from Daniel 13 and 14: I continued watching in the night visions, and I saw One like a son of man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was escorted before Him. He was given authority to rule, and glory, and a kingdom; so that those of every people, nation, and language should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and His kingdom is one that will not be destroyed. Daniel 7:13‭-‬14 HCSB I love this scripture as it reminds me of the majesty of Jesus. He is glorious to behold! No-one is like Him ...

For the palace will be forsaken, the busy city abandoned. The hill and the watchtower will become barren places forever, the joy of wild donkeys, and a pasture for flocks, until the Spirit from heaven is poured out on us. Then the desert will become an orchard, and the orchard will seem like a forest. Isaiah 32:14‭-‬15 HCSB When the Holy Spirit is poured out, things change, dramatically! I long for an outpouring of the Spirit on Australia. I would love to see lives drastically changed, as o my He can do. My prayer is that He would be poured out. I am seeing a change in attitude and a cooling of hatred as we are four weeks out from the final date of our national vote on same-sex marriage. God has raised up a strong army of believers who are praying and sharing their faith. 'May Your Kingdom come Lord, may Your will be done! Amen!' The stark difference between darkness and light is what the difference the Holy Spirit brings. He is good and worthy to be praised! I long for ...

The result of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quiet confidence forever. Isaiah 32:17 HCSB Walking in righteousness is a process whereby daily we choose godliness over worldly ways. Having an encounter with the Lord does not magically make us righteous. We have to intentionally choose God and His word over each and every situation. Living a righteous life is living a life where godliness is now a lifestyle, not just Sunday's best. As we now live in a time when 'each man pleases themselves', church attendance is not necessarily the norm. Many 'tune in ' to watch their church service. However, if this person is not committed in heart and soul, self-rule will become the norm. Away from prying eyes we can easily rewrite the bible to suit ourselves. Suddenly we are not even tuning in anymore as the lure of sun and fun become more important. A righteous soul knows itself and what it needs, fellowship and accountability. Without sh...

Come now, you rich people! Weep and wail over the miseries that are coming on you. Your wealth is ruined and your clothes are moth-eaten. Your silver and gold are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You stored up treasure in the last days! Look! The pay that you withheld from the workers who reaped your fields cries out, and the outcry of the harvesters has reached the ears of the Lord of Hosts. You have lived luxuriously on the land and have indulged yourselves. You have fattened your hearts for the day of slaughter. You have condemned — you have murdered — the righteous man; he does not resist you. James 5:1‭-‬6 HCSB There is so much injustice and usary, however James spells out the truth: you cannot rob from the poor amd use them, their God sees and will repay. We have stripped out forests bare in greed, polluted our rivers and oceans and killed our wildlife, for temporary grand plans. We are here today and gone ...

Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The urgent request of a righteous person is very powerful in its effect. James 5:16 HCSB Not many of us would think to do this when we need healing, we would rather go to the doctor. Yet a surer way to be healed is to confess our sins. Most of our sins are relational. We see people killing huge amounts of people in the USA. I wonder how many murders were done in rage fueled by offence? The latest in Las Vegas was horrendous. We in Australia only ever had one, then guns were banned. The few guns left are with the farmers and sportsmen and women. We have just had a gun amnesty which netted hundreds of illegal firearms. Unfortunately people will find ways to kill if they want to. Knives are quite common in domestic disputes. There is so much rage. Where does it come from? The pit of hell! It is the enemy's tool to 'kill, maim and destroy.'John 10:10. Jesus told us this. He ...

Never let loyalty and faithfulness leave you. Tie them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will find favor and high regard in the sight of God and man. Proverbs 3:3‭-‬4 HCSB Do you value loyal, faithful friends? I do! If you do not have these, be one! Start the ring of loyalty and fairhfulness, watch it grow and don't give up! Loyal people are dependable people, people you know will be at your back, in your team. Politicians are in every sphere of life. They have the worst reputations, worse than car salesmen. Yet we have a few local politicians who are consistent, dependable and reliable. I value them because of this and pray for them. One of our politicians is caught in a technicality surrounding dual citizenship. His parents had been citizens of New Zealand but migrated to Australia and He was raised as an Australian. A bunch of troublemakers from another party are trying to dislodge this man. I am praying that God intervenes. He is a good...

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths. Proverbs 3:5‭-‬6 HCSB There are times when we are just doing life but other times it may feel like we are clawing our way up a crevice wall without skill. I spend most of my time here and have to rely on my guide. I have had a desire to learn rock climbing. Maybe I should content myself with the figurative, it's hard enough and just paint the hills. Shucks! From when I first became a Christian I have loved this verse. It is a hard one to put in practice but it carries certainty that God is with us, we just need to trust Him. The learning of the depth of this verse takes us into His heart. He is our provider, our peace, our guide our comfort. Yet He leads us into a stretch. He wants us to know we are like Him and realise we can walk on water. (Again figuratively). Our own understanding is unfortunately much like th...

Don’t neglect to do what is good and to share, for God is pleased with such sacrifices. Hebrews 13:16 HCSB What good can I do? Look at others with seeing eyes and understanding hearts. It is so easy to just exist and do tasks when people need heart interactions. When we give heart interactions we show we care and release the love of God. Sharing can be as simple as a smile or conversation. Today I waited at the train station for my mum to arrive. The train was late and it was warm. A lady came along to get a drink of water at the fountain I happened to be sitting near. She made a comment and so I stopped and turned and conversed with her. Her eyes said "Thanks!" My heart heard "Thanks!" From above. Looking at others and bothering to see them is a sacrifice. I take my focus off me and my issues and see others. While I waited I also had a call from an international group who worked for justice, wanting money. I told the man I would sign his petition but would ...

Remember the prisoners, as though you were in prison with them, and the mistreated, as though you yourselves were suffering bodily. Hebrews 13:3 HCSB There are so many mistreated in our world today, we can become overcome. What is our part? We are bombarded with requests for finance yet not many for prayer. Our God sees and knows and wants us to care, why not seek Him for what that caring looks like. Imagine being in prison suffering in a foreign land. Only recently we saw footage of a young man who had been captured in North Korea and tortured. When he was finally released and sent home to America he died. Yet he is one. Many suffer for their faith yet the gospel is being poured out in so called closed countries, by the Spirit of God, as the result of praying saints. It is not enough to be an observer, we must do. What does God want you to do? We now have the ability, through social media to rally support and sign petitions. I sign petitions and am an active voice as well a...

A wicked person listens to malicious talk; a liar pays attention to a destructive tongue. Proverbs 17:4 HCSB We all have voices in our heads at times: what are they saying? Today I had another long drive, 600km all round trip. I listened to Bill Johnson podcasts, TD Jakes and music. However there were times when, even with music playing I sensed I was under attack from negative, critical, trouble-making thoughts. I decided to repeat: 'I have the mind of Christ'. I had to choose to think correctly and make an effort, even though I was tired. Our enemy knows when we are tired. Our enemy, for we do have one, wanders around looking for someone to devour, today not me! I had successful appointments and did not want to lose any ground, at all, in any way! Amen!

The intelligent person restrains his words, and one who keeps a cool head is a man of understanding. Even a fool is considered wise when he keeps silent, discerning when he seals his lips. Proverbs 17:27‭-‬28 HCSB This scripture brings a challenge: Do you want to be intelligent? Or considered intelligent? Then don't gossip! A fool flies into a rage and says too much. I am not always successful at this. If another starts a matter I am inclined not to join in but at times I have found myself starting a matter, to my shame. Why do we gossip to judge? We become angry and offended and do not resolve the matter. Better to resolve the matter. Resolution does not always come by confronting the person but by confronting ourselves and going to God for help. A bitter heart is not good. I saw a man die with a bitter heart. I did not recognise him, the evil spirit had taken over. If a fool can be considered wise by keeping his own opinions quiet surely a person who seeks truth and wisd...

These words that I am giving you today are to be in your heart. Repeat them to your children. Talk about them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Bind them as a sign on your hand and let them be a symbol on your forehead. Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. Deuteronomy 6:6‭-‬9 HCSB This scripture follows on from this morning's reading Deut 6:4,5 I wonder why the Israelites were being told to write the scripture on their doorposts, hands amd heads and recite them to themselves and to teach their children? I grew up in a school, where, every morning we would stand and recite the times tables, then we would be quizzed on them. Guess who knows her times tables, still today, after 50 something years? In high school I learned the mineral hardness scale by repeating an acronym. I still remember the acronym and therefore can repeat the hardness scale. Now, if I can remember information ...

“Listen, Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is One. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. These words that I am giving you today are to be in your heart. Deuteronomy 6:4‭-‬6 HCSB We could replace Israel with our own name. Moses here is giving the Israelites instruction before they go across the Jordan into the promised land. When we ask Christ into our lives our best lives happen as we put God first in all things. If we submit all our opinions to Him and allow Him to be Lord- we win! He is a good Lord! Amen! Loving God with all my heart, soul and strength will take a lot of time and energy, no time for offence, anger or opinions about others. To have 'loving God' as an occupation can be the best I can give Him and others. Amen!

I can testify about them that they have zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. Because they disregarded the righteousness from God and attempted to establish their own righteousness, they have not submitted themselves to God’s righteousness. Romans 10:2‭-‬3 HCSB What is our fascination with being righteous? Why do we want to be right? One of my problems is catching myself being self-righteous. Mind you I might fool others or myself at times but I do not fool God. Paul the apostle said: 'none is righteous, no not one!' No one is able to be righteous, without Christ. He is our righteousness. Why do we try to be righteous on our own terms? James tells us that: ' the heart is deceitful above all else.' We deceive ourselves into believing we are righteous, but our actions: gossip, judgement, anger, resentment point to the truth. Really, when I am being self-righteous I am pointing out the truth, I am a sinner in need of a saviour. Praise God Jesus sets us f...

If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9 HCSB What do I need to be saved for? I think I am a good person? Do you think this? I know I did before God gave me a revelation of my sin. He sees what we fail to see or skim over as not important. If I am Lord of my life, and outside of being 'born again' I am, then my judgement is true and all that matters. However, in Mark 18:10, some people had called Jesus a good teacher and He said: " why do you call me good? None is good but God alone." So, if Jesus, the Son of God said only God is good, I think we might have the truth. Then, if I am not good and my judgement is not good, what do I do? Pray! Ask God to show you the truth and invite Him into your life. Then, you will truly know what 'feeling good' is all about. You will know you have a new heart and that your God will be with you for all eternity. Amen!