The day with dianne Louise

Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1th.5.18.NLT This morning I went for a walk with my grandson Myer. I wanted to send a postcard to my mother and it meant walking for 1 1/2 hours, round trip. I thoroughly enjoyed the walk. The post box was near a shopping centre and it was hot. I bought us each a cool drink of water. I made a point of being extra thankful to the lady serving me.  Thankfulness extends beyond our mouths to our eyes. When we are 'all in' people notice. My daughter invited me to her home to swim and relax. Out of gratitude for her kindness I baked granola and muffins for her. As she works she was very grateful. Thankfulness goes the extra mile to show gratitude for kindness shown. Because I am grateful for being able to spend time with my son and his wife's children I put down my phone and played them scrabble. I have waited many months for this time ...

Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1th.5.18.NLT You only have to hang out with poor people who are grateful to learn thankfulness. We can have a grumbling attitude or a thankful attitude. When we wake each day we need to choose to be thankful and start praising God for the good. A thankful heart is a merry and blessed heart. Choose thankfulness and focus on all that is good. Amen!

So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jas.4.7.NLT Making the devil flee must be on the top to-do list of every Christian. I found myself awake at 2.30 am doing just this. Fear, anxiety and criticism we're flying at me. I rebuked it and said: "I have the mind of Christ!" Satan left. I am being challenged severely but am standing. In the meantime, I am making wins in God. Wins are always good! Amen!

So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jas.4.7.NLT It is when we are not humble in our attitudes towards God and others that we stray into enemy territory. Critical thoughts about others will crowd in. However, if we stay humble, that is knowing that we too are sinners, and refuse the enemy entrance, we can win. How do we resist? First, we recognise his rubbish yabbering away in our minds. It makes our mind feel heavy. It hurts. Then rebuke it, refuse to play the game. Ask for the Holy Spirit to help. Amen! Then replace these foreign thoughts with prayers and good thoughts, not anxious thoughts. Amen!

“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. Luke 16:10 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/luk.16.10.NLT Faithfulness extends to keeping secrets we are told in confidence, honouring others even if we don't always agree. Being kind is being faithful to our God. Our God is good to us, we can return the goodness and be faithful to Him. After all, He gave us His Son. Amen!

“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. Luke 16:10 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/luk.16.10.NLT What are the little things? Is it not paying the correct amount of tithe? Giving the correct change? Honouring our word and giving a child the promised pocket money? Keeping our word and repaying money owed? What are the big things? Paying the right wages? Paying the right tax? Not cheating God or others out of promised donations?  If we don't have faithfulness in the core of our being we will cheat, lie and steal. Faithfulness holds us together, it is cement. Our God promised to send His Son. He did. He promised us His Holy Spirit, He sent Him. He kept His word.

Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. Philippians 2:12 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/php.2.12.NLT Work hard to show results of salvation. Salvation is the beginning. At salvation, we are endowed with power and given a guide. We are filled with the Holy Spirit and Jesus tells us He, the Holy Spirit, is our guide. He whispers truth to us and when we read the word of God the Holy Spirit reveals the truth in it to us. We have all we need to step out and walk, giving testimony to the grace given. Amen!

Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. Philippians 2:12 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/php.2.12.NLT Everything comes with instructions. If we bother to read the instructions first, we will enjoy the experience. When we don't read the instructions and blunder ahead we fail to receive full benefits because of our lack of wisdom. When we enter relationships: marriage, having children, business partnerships, church commitments, friendships, there are guidelines to follow, always. Our God gives us guidelines to follow in relationship with Him. It is wise to follow these guidelines set down in His Word, the Bible. Our God is worth knowing, however, following His guidelines, much as Paul is instructing the Philippians to do, is imperative. We are not invited to follow our own rules. This will lead to disaster. Amen!

Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. Colossians 3:16 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/col.3.16.NLT How do we counsel each other? Strongly recommended, with all sincerity. The sincerity comes from a genuine love for one another. Caring about what others experience is imperative. Caring more than skin deep is challenging but essential. Each of us want others to care for us. We could start the ball rolling by showing we care. Good idea? Definitely!

Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. Colossians 3:16 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/col.3.16.NLT One who carries a message is sent by someone; given a message to deliver to someone. The message we have is the Good News about Christ. How can this news affect others for the best? Probably the same way it affected us, with a born again experience. If a medical scientist finds a cure for diabetes, would he not make it known? Would a biologist who finds a way to grown food cheaply and efficiently not share the news? When we discover the good news do we not want to share it? We share bad news, why not good news? Why not ask God for the news to share and the people to share it with? Start small and build from there. Amen!

For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.” Matthew 18:20 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.18.20.NLT He is present looking for us to reach out and connect. In connection we have revelation as to who we are in Him and who He is in us. We must meet together. It is good for us. Refuse to listen to the critical thoughts. Believe the best and allow Him to move. Amen!

For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.” Matthew 18:20 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.18.20.NLT   All who believe in Christ carry His Spirit. When they all gather a large part of Christ is there. When they all worship, heaven comes down. Being in a group of thousands worshipping is a beautiful thing. However, being in a small group of ardent believers is also a blessing. Today is Sunday. Do not neglect to gather with the saints or you lose something beautiful. Watching on TV is never as good as being there. Worship is good for us, it cleanses our spirit and refreshes our soul. Centering on Jesus takes the focus to a whole place. He is God and He is good. Amen

Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/gal.6.2.NLT We see others through our own lens. Rarely do we stop and wonder: what is the big picture? Why do people behave the way they do? Mostly they are under the influence of evil accusations and self-pitying thoughts. The enemy of our souls is very active. Constantly pouring our rubbish, constantly prodding and annoying and stealing peace. However, if we maintain the mind 0f Christ we see the truth. It is not others who are the trouble but rather the master of darkness. Today as I walked I pulled back as if hovering over my world, looking at the reality. I refuse to give my reactions to darkness. I want to be alert and ready to spring into the light and rip down the darkness.  The light is powerful and so able to deal with all the rubbish. We see so narrowly with our own eyes. He sees it all. That is the view we need. A watchman sees from a hight. Pull back and ta...

Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/gal.6.2.NLT Verse 3 goes on to say: and if you think yourself too important to help someone, you are fooling yourself. You are not that important. (Tyndale New Living Translation). I am now in Brisbane being given rest. Last night I attended Hillsong Mt Gravatt's church and heard a message about a man who was wrongfully jailed in the US and kept for 3 years in a holding cell. On the surface it is unjust but God had him there to preach the good news to the captives and he was faithfully doing this. We all suffer in various ways but God has us rightly placed to preach the good news to the captives. Recently I read about a man who was jailed in Turkey just because he was preaching the good news. Initially he was upset with God but soon realised what he needed to do. Even though your life might be hell, preach the gospel to those who don't know Christ around you. We can...

For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Galatians 5:14 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/gal.5.14.NLT Do you realise you can live alongside others and not know them. In my street there are a few permanent and a lot of transients who rent. How can I be a neighbour to these? My immediate neighbours have been in place for around 18months. They are quiet, which I value. They have a lot of motor vehicles and work trucks which gobble up parking. This has been my biggest challenge, to not become precious over parking.  Transient people are less friendly as they view the street as a place to sleep and eat. They do not think it is worth making friends. However, previous renters came to visit recently, because I had been friendly. How good was that. I cherish these kind of people. So, the motto is: be friendly anyway! Amen!

For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbour as yourself.” Galatians 5:14 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/gal.5.14.NLT A man once asked Jesus: 'who is my neighbour?' In reply, Jesus told a parable about a man who went on a journey and was set upon by robbers. Laying injured he now needed someone to help him. A Pharisee came by and turned up his nose, a Sadducee came by and is the same. Finally, a Samaritan came along and ministered healing, took him to an inn, paid for his food and accommodation before going on his way. Jesus turned to the man and asked: 'which one was being a neighbour?' The man replied: 'The one who lent a hand, I suppose.' My neighbour is anyone else. Jesus taught we must love them as we love ourselves. We know we love ourselves now we must apply that love to others. There is a challenge!

Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. Ecclesiastes 4:9‭-‬10 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/ecc.4.9-10.NLT I have a small dog who is very afraid of storms. He relies on me to comfort him in these situations. He reminds me of us and God. Our God is our comfort.  Today I saw my brothers partner suffer severe anxiety. She relied on my brother to help her. Again this is like us and the Lord. We are not able to comfort ourselves, be a companion to ourselves. Having our God as our comfort and companion is so much better than being all alone. Amen!

Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. Ecclesiastes 4:9‭-‬10 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/ecc.4.9-10.NLT I have a sister come to assist me at present. I must agree that two is better than one. However, in my oneness I have had the Lord as my strength and support. We have a brother and his partner visiting at present. Whist it is good to see my brother I struggle with another two upset people to handle as well as mum. Fortunately I am able to talk to my sister and rebrief. Strategy works better with the input of two heads. Problems discussed are solved better between two. Always with another you must understand the character of the other and not allow predispositions to influence. You cannot be gullible in relationships either. Wisdom is always required. The only other who is totally trustworthy and will not lead you astray is the Lord. Amen!

Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. Hebrews 10:24 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/heb.10.24.NLT Let's think! Well, that is original! Let's think first before reacting! Even better! Stirring one another up to GOOD works! Brilliant! Good works! GOOD! Let's put these both together: let's think of ways to motivate one another to do good works. Amen!

Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. Hebrews 10:24 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/heb.10.24.NLT This verse is a part of a group of verses exhorting us to live in Christ (verses 19-28). There are many such verses throughout the New Testament writings. Acts of love and good works should flow out of a life possessed by Christ, not by alcohol, drugs, lust for food or lusts of any kind. As someone who has been a nurse, I have watched people approach death and at that time the thing, or spirit, that possess them becomes more and more evident. It is actually quite ugly. So many people choose a form of godliness and deny the power of it because of the power of godliness delivers. Not everyone wants to give up their pet sin. A lot of people hang on to bitterness and resentment, judgement or criticism. I remember a good friend dying years ago. He had pancreatic cancer. On his death bed bitterness manifested itself. It was horrible. We might hide our sin f...

He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. John 15:2 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jhn.15.2.NLT Pruning for fruit is important. Pruning brings out the best. So, if you are being pruned get ready for growth. Vines produce grape juice. Good grape juice handled well produces the best wine. Good grape juice comes from well pruned and fertilized grapes. So, sit back and enjoy the ride, growth is coming.

He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. John 15:2 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jhn.15.2.NLT My phone had reached its limit in storage space and this led me to deleting unnecessary or unused files, photos, songs. To work at optimal level my phone needed to drop the rubbish it had accumulated. The branch cannot afford to have dead wood hanging from it. A good vinedresser would prune it back after every season. The deadwood would be cut off and destroyed. My concern, when reading this, is for those I know who have become deadwood, those who's love has grown cold and who had replaced it with mammon, ease and a life of self. As I thought this the Lord spoke to me. 'If they are removed they will have a chance to see they are really lost and come to truth and return.' In other words, keep praying. Amen!

So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:27 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/gen.1.27.NLT Scripture tells us: male and female He made them. God had no intention of validating all the varieties mankind thinks apply. A confused mankind grasps for answers and creates it's own reality. A relationship with the living God settles all confusion and sets the order in place. Trust is vital if one wants to navigate the path of emotional turmoil. Praise God He is faithful! Amen!

So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:27 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/gen.1.27.NLT There is nothing more gratifying and delightful than to see your own likeness in your children. Perhaps you may not like seeing the same bad habits but I am talking about likeness. Knowing that mankind is diverse, we are black and white, tall and thin, how can we all be the same? The likeness this scripture alludes to is our tripartite being: body, soul and spirit. The body you see, the soul is the real you, the character, predispositions, mind and intellect. The spirit is the breath of God in your life; when you are born again that it. Prior to the new birth, this part is barely alive. When we become born again we take on the likeness of the Son of God. Jesus' Spirit dwells with us. this delights the Father more than anything. Another trait that parents delight in is when their children behave with good charac...

Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Galatians 5:24 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/gal.5.24.NLT Nailing desires is not always what we want. Today I am tited and needing to lay down my life for my sick mother. When tired or hungry by flesh rears its head. How about you? These are the times I especially need a double dose plus of grace and power from above. I know many is the day I say to the Lord, 'in Your strength Lord I can do it.' Amen!

Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Galatians 5:24 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/gal.5.24.NLT This verse evokes visions of me collecting all my passions and carrying them to the cross. Just like I have attached baubles to the Christmas tree at Christmas past, I now hang my passions. Yet this hanging is not temporary. As it is permanent I nail them to the cross. They are never to come down. I cannot allow my imagination to go where my passions of the past would go as it would draw them back bleeding and punctured. They must remain on the cross. Christ was my forerunner. He Himself did this by giving up His sinless body for me. I am blessed! His example I can follow. Amen!

For “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:13 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/rom.10.13.NLT There is a part to this that we need to play: call upon the name of the Lord. Gods part is: saving us. Now, what type of salvation is meant here? Salvation from difficulty, salvation from harm, or salvation to eternal life. Eternal Life wins. We are guaranteed trials in this life but we are promised a companion. Jesus said: 'I will never leave your forsake you.' That is a pretty good deal! Amen!

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. I’ve promised it once, and I’ll promise it again: I will obey your righteous regulations. I have suffered much, O Lord; restore my life again as you promised. Lord, accept my offering of praise and teach me your regulations. My life constantly hangs in the balance, but I will not stop obeying your instructions. The wicked have set their traps for me, but I will not turn from your commandments. Your laws are my treasure; they are my heart’s delight. I am determined to keep your decrees to the very end. Psalms 119:105‭-‬112 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.119.105-112.NLT Your word is faithful to me oh Lord! I wonder if Joseph prayed this in his time in prison for something he did not do? Many will suffer false accusations and imprisonment but God is faithful as they endure. We must endure! Today is the second day of rain in our parched land. Many areas have received a bounty but we have not. However, I am grateful! My God ...

Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. James 1:17 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jas.1.17.NLT If I were to ask you what you considered what would constitute a 'good and perfect' gift, what would you say? Would you choose a car, a house or a holiday? I find it unusual that I can never discern what gift would knock my socks off, so to speak. Yet, God the Father does it again and again and again. Today I received a parcel in the post. I was expecting something I had ordered but it was something else. It was an umbrella, a special umbrella with art work on its canopy. It was a beautiful surprise from one of my sisters. I hope I was able to be the bringer of gifts to a friend who the Lord put on my heart. He also had two people phone me with items they wanted to give away. I knew I was in a slipstream and it was wonderful. I love to be an answer, how about ...

Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. James 1:17 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jas.1.17.NLT The most perfect gift was the Son all else is mere frosting. Yet the frosting is most welcome. I have my brother and his wife visiting and they have frosted us with gifts. My mother only has to mention a thing and it is there. I must say it is a treat to be frosted. I love the gifts God gives. I love His insights and understandings. I love Him just showing up. Last night we had our first rain in a long, long while; more is predicted, it was heaven. I am grateful for the prayers of all the saints worldwide. Thank you all! Our God is good! Amen!

Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. Matthew 16:24 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.16.24.NLT Did you know: my own way is a tautology? I should rather say "My way." In other words unnecessary repetition. Yet we would all say "my own way." We want our own way. This puts us at odds with our God who begs us to lay down our lives and follow Him. My own, me, mine: it is all about me! However, the cross is about Christ and His way.  Perhaps this year we could make a change and begin the narrow road of dying to self.

Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. Matthew 16:24 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.16.24.NLT What is your cross? I am sure it will entail not having your own way. It may include discipline or suffering. Why? Both give the opportunity to make choices. How will I behave? Will I respond well to this or will I spit the dummy? I have  layers of pressure being added to my life at present. I have not been given a sufficient break from my occupation for 8 or 9 months, it is 24/7 being a carer. I am also studying two subjects at uni and this current term is a shocker in terms of workload through Christmas. I have had many visitors and some this present week have extended. As I walked last night I realise I missed space. On the long weekend, we will have three families descend on us. I am very conscious of needing God more. He holds me together. He is my refreshment, my song, my energy....

Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand! Matthew 11:15 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.11.15.NLT Our hearts have ears. These ears are tuned into a deeper voice. What is God saying in this circumstance, this problem, this challenge? What He is saying makes all the difference. Gods word bring life. The world's word brings confusion and death. Yet God uses the most unlikely voices so don't stereotype or you will miss something beautiful! Amen!

Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand! Matthew 11:15 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.11.15.NLT The above verse Jesus spoke after he had told the crowd that John the Baptist was the prophet that was prophesied about. John was now in prison and although he was great in the kingdom of heaven those who believed in Jesus were greater than John. John had begun to doubt Jesus was the Messiah because Jesus did not do things John wanted. Perhaps John expected Jesus to rule as a king and to liberate him. John appears to be offended by his cousin Jesus. We can as Christians have expectations that knowing Jesus will remove all pain from our lives. This is not the case. We are to be lights in dark places. Joseph spent years in prison and stayed faithful. God used him mightily. Daniel was in exile his whole life, he was thrown in a lion pit and showed forth God's glory. We need to hear, really hear what God is saying about our circumstances. He is with us in the valley of dry...

The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. Lamentations 3:22‭-‬23 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/lam.3.22-23.NLT In all the bush fires in Australia, some may ask: "where is God, why hasn't He stopped the fires or sent the rain?" God did not send the fires but in answer to prayer, He did send rain and more is on its way. The beautiful thing is that we have had prayer from around the world.  Throughout the fires, many found prayer and experienced God. I challenged the ugly voices on social media to become a part of the volunteer answer rather than spewing out venom directed at out Prime Minister who was doing all he could to galvanised and organise the armed forces and assist the firefighters. I think given what he had to work with, he did well and continues to do so. He now has to deal with issues of international importance as well and I appreciate his honesty and integrity. The hea...

So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ. Romans 10:17 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/rom.10.17.NLT Did you know that when you see prayer answered it boosts your faith to pray bigger prayers?  Last week was a struggle for me in trying to help my sick mum. Saturday and Sunday I was determined. I asked God for wisdom and He gave it. I applied it and mum is getting better. How good is that? Now I can pray more effective prayers. Our God is a God of answers and we can trust Him! Amen!

I am counting on the Lord; yes, I am counting on him. I have put my hope in his word. Psalms 130:5 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.130.5.NLT The good news is good indeed. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life just as He had claimed. Hearing about His way is important to all. Hearing the gospel is not something we all may have chosen to do, yet when we heard it, we all did not, at first, receive it with joy. I remember I argued with my Christian friends but then was attracted to the smell of Christ and intrigued with His goodness. Persevere with sharing the gospel, it is the only source of life that will bring a soul eternal life and this life endures forever and ever. Amen!

I am counting on the Lord; yes, I am counting on him. I have put my hope in his word. Psalms 130:5 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.130.5.NLT This psalm is one of 15 called the Song of Ascents. These psalms were used in processions. They all refer to Jerusalem, Zion or the temple. These are for the people. They worship and lift up God. Today is Sunday. Many of us will go to church and the first thing we do is sing. Today, sing as if your life depended on it. Sing healing into our land, rain from the skies, breakthrough and change in our worlds. Don't go with a mind consumed with problems but go to seek God and worship Him. I am. In God is answers, in Him are solutions. He knows the way through, He can be trusted. Amen!

“But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence. Jeremiah 17:7 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jer.17.7.NLT Lord thank You! You are my hope! In You I trust! When my heart is overcome I can seek You and nestle in Your arms. Your warm embrace lifts me up. This week has been difficult. Mum has been very unwell and slept a lot. I have not wanted to be too far away as she cannot manage as well now. I watch her struggle with a bowel that lets go without warning and leaving her in a mess. This frail little lady valiantly soldiers on and when I assist her she is ashamed. How sad it is to watch this continual degradation. Today I had a sister come to visit. She is grieved to see mum like this and thinks there is more that could be done. I reminded her that she needs to recognise the real problem, her need to see mum not struggling. I told her this she can not have. Her expectation is added pressure on me. How much does my mother need me to be here f...

“But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence. Jeremiah 17:7 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jer.17.7.NLT Last night I watched a movie called The Shack. It had an interesting take on the Trinity members. The story wound around a lost soul called Mack. He had miles of hurt in him from his childhood. An abusive father left his mark, then he lost a daughter to a murderer and he was angry with God. Although raised in the church and attending church as an adult he was far from God. Relationship with God and others hinges on forgiveness. Mack had to learn to give up the right to be a judge, forgive and be forgiven. Forgiveness is integral to our lives. Judgement belongs to God. When we choose to take the role from Him we become angry and bitter. We are meant to trust. Trust is hard when a small child is taken by an evil and abusive man, however as Mack found out, God loves that man also and desires his repentance. We cannot imagine those who do...

If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. James 1:5 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jas.1.5.NLT Knowing that we need wisdom is a good position to be in, praying and asking God for it is the best solution. He will give what we ask, when we ask not wanting to make ourselves important but to help others. What prevents us from receiving wisdom? Praying half-heartedly, or having a corrupt motive. Yet, wisdom sought with a good heart produces great dividends. Amen!

If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. James 1:5 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jas.1.5.NLT Wisdom is essential. When we lack it we make foolish mistakes, however, with it, foolishness flees. Emotional strain pushes us to impetuosity; self-control defies this behaviour. Self-control is gained by submitting to God's word and allowing it to change us. Wisdom loves self-control, they are friends. Seek wisdom and you will find self-control. Amen!

And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him. 1 John 5:14 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1jn.5.14.NLT How do we know what we ask for pleases Him? Sometimes we know His pleasure, His smile.  When we ask to know His heart, His mind and His ways, these please Him. In the gospels we see Jesus praying to the Father. He said: "Father, thank you that you hear my prayers..." John 11:42. Recently I was challenged to pray: 'Father thank you that you hear my prayers and that you answer me.' It was putting belief into my prayers. Believing is something we must be intentional about. Try is as you pray. Amen!

Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later. Romans 8:18 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/rom.8.18.NLT So many are suffering right now. Yet we cannot allow this suffering to consume us or master our focus. There is hope beyond the fire. Already parts of the Australian forest that had been devastated by fire is regenerating. There is life beyond the grave. My mum is in the final stage of her life and is experiencing pain, discomfort and weakness. Yet she has a hope beyond the grave. She is ready to meet her Lord. There is more than we see. Amen!

Seek the Lord while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. Let the wicked change their ways and banish the very thought of doing wrong. Let them turn to the Lord that he may have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously. Isaiah 55:6‭-‬7 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.55.6-7.NLT There are times of salvation. We may have a meeting with God through something that happens to us. It is an opportunity to take a different path. In these moments we have a choice to make: will I continue to seek God first or now that He has helped me I will discard Him. Discarding the Lord and expecting Him to behave like a genie is fraught with danger. God wants a relationship with us. If we refuse Him, we may find there is a day when we cannot find Him. During the Bush fires in Australia, a farmer said he saw the face of the devil in the smoke. He was not a believer. I believe he was seeing the culprit. Blaming God for the fires is stupid. We have an enemy and he i...

God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they will be satisfied. Matthew 5:6 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.5.6.NLT Hungry people are desperate people. What will they not do for food? Australia was populated by people who were poor, hungry and desperate. The UK deported people who stole bread. My great, great grandfather was sent to Australia for stealing coal dust as he was trying to warm his family. Can you imagine a country that will deport it's citizens just because they are poor and desperate. My grandfather became a shepherd and raised his own family. One of his daughters knew Christ and I am grateful for her. This scripture is telling us that if we are hungry for justice, we will be satisfied. Right now I am in that position. I love justice and have long fought for it for others. Now I am seeking it for myself. My God is a God of justice and mercy. Amen!

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Psalms 119:105 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.119.105.NLT Our Lord's words are like precious jewels. How precious are our words? What value do we place on them? David wrote: let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart, be acceptable in Your sight of Lord! May our words be seasoned with salt. May we bring life, not death. Choose life and live life. Don't choose death. Amen!

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Psalms 119:105 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.119.105.NLT Your word is the only word that gives me life and light. Philosophy might sound good but it is devoid of life. Personal opinions, whilst I may enjoy them lack life and some, in fact, are powered by hell. In Australia at present, our Prime Minister is subject to the hate brigade. Our country is burning up and some have decided it is all his fault and they are determined to remove him. The ugliness makes me ill. Is this what hell looks like? Oh Lord have mercy! The word of God tells us to abide in Christ. As I do this my mouth speaks His words. I will encourage and stand against all ugliness and so will live in prayer. Opinions will not sway the throne of God. Goodness and mercy will. Amen!

Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. Let there be tears for what you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor. James 4:8‭-‬10 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jas.4.8-10.NLT Divided loyalty is really the only unfaithfulness. If you are not always loyal to your spouse, you are courting unfaithfulness and this is sin in God's eyes. In the same way, if we are not totally loyal to God but have our eye fixed on wealth or things money can buy, then perhaps there is a wire, ever so insignificant, between our faithfulness to God and Mammon. God wants all our faithfulness. Totally loyal in 2020. Nothing else but God! Amen!

But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.40.31.NLT I speak this word over our PM. Lord protect him and cover him with the blood of Christ. Make him bold as a lion in Your hand. May the enemy who comes against him be silenced. The critics are out braying for blood. May the only blood they receive be the blood of the lamb. Rise up oh Lord and win this battle. We do not need infighting in this vilest hour. We need to band together and fight our common foe, the fires that consume our land. Have mercy Lord!

“When you call on me when you come and pray to me, I’ll listen. “When you come looking for me, you’ll find me. “Yes, when you get serious about finding me and want it more than anything else, I’ll make sure you won’t be disappointed.” God ’s Decree. “I’ll turn things around for you. I’ll bring you back from all the countries into which I drove you”— God ’s Decree—“bring you home to the place from which I sent you off into exile. You can count on it. Jeremiah 29:12‭-‬14 MSG https://bible.com/bible/97/jer.29.12-14.MSG One of the best stories that have come out of the Australian bushfires is that of a man who was a self-confessed atheist. He said:" things were becoming really bad and I prayed: 'Jesus help!' (My words) a wind suddenly arose off the sea and came in and pushed the fire back". How good it is to hear stories of people who don't know God calling out and finding Him. This man went on to say:" I give all the glory to God!" Seek Him wholeheartedly a...

If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. Jeremiah 29:13 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jer.29.13.NLT As it is a New Year I see many more people out running and walking in the morning. In Dec these numbers will have dwindled to those who undertook the change wholeheartedly. You have heard the saying 'all in', it means wholeheartedly. God only operates this way. He gives His all. He doesn't think I'll just try this or that out and if I stay excited I might keep at it. No! If God decides to do something He is always 'all in'. Endurance and longevity are a part of God's character and these attributes He wants to develop in our characters. We are told in Hebrews that we need endurance so that we might prove the will of the Father, and we do. So, this year, find endurance. Amen!

Commit your actions to the Lord , and your plans will succeed. Proverbs 16:3 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/pro.16.3.NLT Not all actions, motivations or inclinations should be acted on. Right now I am somewhat cross with the way people are attacking our PM over the bushfires, yet they are not railing against the thousands that dress up and line up to go and watch the cricket or tennis. I could ask: how can you run off to enjoy yourself whist your national family suffers? (I suppose that the PM is now suffering for having a secret holiday in Hawaii just before Christmas). However, what does the Lord want me to do? I don't think being angry and vindictive is the answer. By allowing God to rule our emotional response, His will is done and He receives the glory. So, this scripture is not just about work or making money. It involves all aspects of our lives. Amen!

Commit your actions to the Lord, and your plans will succeed. Proverbs 16:3 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/pro.16.3.NLT This verse reminds me of The Lord's Prayer. As we honour the Lord first, then ask for our daily bread. For me 'daily bread' is more than food, it is all that I will do in that day, financial provision, a making-of straight paths. Another interesting correlation is asking for forgiveness and forgiving others. My day flows so much better with forgiveness. Asking to not be led into temptation in a day is also a part of giving my day to the Lord. I don't need the enemy tempting me to wander away from all God promises me. Amen

Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom. Psalms 90:12 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.90.12.NLT When we step onto a ride at the fair, we anticipate a thrill. We have no concept of time. The ride lasts bit a few minutes, however, the memory lasts forever. What memories will we cherish? I think my memory of coming to Christ is indelibly registered in my mind. The best memories are the ones God gives us. Life is short and we need to think about all those treasures and hold on to them. Let the God-things in our lives rule. Amen!

Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom. Psalms 90:12 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.90.12.NLT Who would have thought knowing how short life is would cause us to be wise? Perhaps all those who die over the Christmas break in car accidents, some as young as 19, would learn from this. Speed and using mobile phones top the reasons for the deaths, next is fatigue whilst driving, alcohol and drugs. All are foolish, all take our lives. How does this relate to me? Living with an awareness as to why I am here and the task God has given me makes me wise. Rushing and anxiety rob me of wisdom, and if I am to break anything it will be when I am rushing. Having a long view on life causes me to be wise, living with insight into my actions brings wisdom. I see many older Australians sick and invalid because of the choice to eat wrongly in younger life. This calls out to me, be wise! The same happens with exercise: look after your body now so it will keep you longer...

For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland. Isaiah 43:19 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.43.19.NLT We desperately need a new thing, a move of the Spirit. Hearts and minds awakening to the Holy Spirit's conviction. I am watching the Lord answer my prayers as I determine to seek Him daily. My family is coming together and old walls are falling. Only He can break that which divides us. Let's be faithful in prayer! This morning a group of us answered the call to prayer for souls across the globe. It was good to be a part of what God is doing. Determine to pray for our nation as it roasts in fires from hell. Love our nation enough to seek Him for souls. Amen!

A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord determines his steps. Proverbs 16:9 HCSB https://bible.com/bible/72/pro.16.9.HCSB Many will have a plan for 2020. However, it is ultimately God's plans that will prevail. We must prayerfully plan and submit our plans to God and watch what He will do. What will He do in you this year? God has so much to accomplish this year, all the team need to be in place and see His Kingdom come in our countries, our families and our friends. Allow God to be GOD! Amen!