The day with dianne Louise

Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God ’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track. Don’t assume that you know it all. Run to God ! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health, your very bones will vibrate with life! Honor God with everything you own; give him the first and the best. Your barns will burst, your wine vats will brim over. But don’t, dear friend, resent God ’s discipline; don’t sulk under his loving correction. It’s the child he loves that God corrects; a father’s delight is behind all this. Proverbs 3:5‭-‬12 MSG https://bible.com/bible/97/pro.3.5-12.MSG I watch my grandchildren learning this valuable lesson: obey. Children learn to obey through discipline, so do we. If we don't listen and go our own way, things go wrong and continue to go wrong until we do listen. Self- will for the christian is not good. Think about the consequences.

Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil. Proverbs 3:7 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/pro.3.7.NLT There are times when we glory in the fact that we have 'nailed it'. However, why did we? Was it our own ability or an impartation of God's wisdom? We must be careful to give God the glory. He is wisdom itself and we are often lacking. Yesterday I was presented with a problem a friend was experiencing. I knew I had ro step into the problem as the friend was being bullied at work. Of all the times nurses needed being bullied! I prayed for her but knew there was more. The Lord prompted me to contact another friend who  worked at the same nursing home and she offered support and advice. Now, to claim this was my inspiration would be wrong. God was leading me and I was merely a servant. When I solve problems for others, it is God leading and I must give Him the glory. Amen!

The way God designed our bodies is a model for understanding our lives together as a church: every part dependent on every other part, the parts we mention and the parts we don’t, the parts we see and the parts we don’t. If one part hurts, every other part is involved in the hurt, and in the healing. If one part flourishes, every other part enters into the exuberance. 1 Corinthians 12:25‭-‬26 MSG https://bible.com/bible/97/1co.12.25-26.MSG I am grateful that my body parts work together, that my legs and arms stay attached, that my fingers continue to function. The parts we don't see, the inner bowels, liver, pancreas, spleen to name a few, are vitally needed. I cannot live successfully without an input from all my inner parts.  I am grateful my inner parts do not fight with my visible parts for dominance. I am glad there is no jealousy or gossip. My body, generally, just gets on with the task of functioning as one entity. Jesus is the head and we are the body. Just as my brain dire...

This makes for harmony among the members, so that all the members care for each other. If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it, and if one part is honored, all the parts are glad. All of you together are Christ’s body, and each of you is a part of it. 1 Corinthians 12:25‭-‬27 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1co.12.25-27.NLT I have been convicted of injustice in so many areas of life. In the name of success amd growth the poor are exploited. The love affair we have had with success is abominable when the cost is so great. Those who suffer are across society, in the body of Christ and without. It is so easy to blind ourseves to the harm we do by the giving of huge tithes. If the money that is made to pay the tithes come from crushing, exorbitant fees, then the Lord disregards our giving. Again and again in scripture the Lord speaks out about injustice towards the poor, the orphans and widows. What good are grand buildings when heartlessness paid for it? We need to return to the...

“When you do something for someone else, don’t call attention to yourself. You’ve seen them in action, I’m sure—‘playactors’ I call them—treating prayer meeting and street corner alike as a stage, acting compassionate as long as someone is watching, playing to the crowds. They get applause, true, but that’s all they get. When you help someone out, don’t think about how it looks. Just do it—quietly and unobtrusively. That is the way your God, who conceived you in love, working behind the scenes, helps you out. Matthew 6:2‭-‬4 MSG https://bible.com/bible/97/mat.6.2-4.MSG Dont look for applause! Serve others and give willingly! Let God reward you! Amen!

But when you give to someone in need, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. Matthew 6:3 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.6.3.NLT What does this make you think of? For me it is like impulsive giving. I feel the urge and so it without weighing it up or worrying. However, if we read this verse in context with those before we see that the Pharisees made a lot of noise about their giving so to attract attention. Jesus said: "be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of people, to be seen by them. Otherwise, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven". What reward are we looking for? God's or man's? Heavenly reward surely? Therefore, give in quiet and move on not stopping to glory or gloat. Amen!

Meanwhile, the moment we get tired in the waiting, God’s Spirit is right alongside helping us along. If we don’t know how or what to pray, it doesn’t matter. He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of our wordless sighs, our aching groans. He knows us far better than we know ourselves, knows our pregnant condition, and keeps us present before God. That’s why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good. Romans 8:26‭-‬28 MSG https://bible.com/bible/97/rom.8.26-28.MSG We have an advocate! The Holy Spirit interceeds for us. As we all struggle with our load, He is there. Today I saw the injustice and inequity of the health system for seniors. I decided that the first thing I would do is pray. Expecting seniors to pay the same cost as working younger people is wrong. As a result many seniors cannot afford new glasses, dental work and needed surgery. Before my mum died she faithfully paid exorbitant monthly premiums for private h...

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/rom.8.28.NLT When we are in the midst of a mess, illness, relational drama or devestation, all we can see is the problem. Take for instance this yesr 2020. It began with the outbreak of COVID19 and progressively consumed our countries, our finances, our lives. It is now almost September and countries are in various stages of lockdown, attempting to revive their economies without killing too many people in allowing freedom to move about. We the people are the carriers of the disease and in our efforts to live normally we infect the vulnerable. So, what  good can come from this time? If scripture says all things, it means ALL THINGS. God uses hard times like sandpaper, to snoothe off the knots of offence and pain. As we turn to Him, He shows us a better way. This way starts with a new heart. A heart al...

God ’s loyal love couldn’t have run out, his merciful love couldn’t have dried up. They’re created new every morning. How great your faithfulness! I’m sticking with God (I say it over and over). He’s all I’ve got left. Lamentations 3:22‭-‬24 MSG https://bible.com/bible/97/lam.3.22-24.MSG When Jesus is all that is left, He is more than enough. His word is full of promises to keep me, sustain me and provide for me. If all I have is Him, then I am blessed indeed. Amen!

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 Lamentations was written by the prophet Jeremiah. As the name indicates the book is a lament. Yet these scriptures are the most positive and true depiction of the Lord's character. You may nor have considered God as having character but He does. He is consistent, fairhful, gracious, forever benevolent and longsuffering. In fact all of the fruits of the Spirit is who He is amd more. Each more I love to be up and on my couch, that faces west, before the sunrise. Although the sun rises in the east, as I look west I see a beautiful pink heaven descend to the hills and kiss them with an awakening dawn. Each day I am reminded of God's newness and faithfulness to me. I watch the birds wake and fly out for the day. They usually head east from the river below. They know when to enjoy th...

I’ll refresh tired bodies; I’ll restore tired souls. Jeremiah 31:25 MSG https://bible.com/bible/97/jer.31.25.MSG Are you tired? I must say my day has been busy. It started with time with the Lord, a long prayer walk, study, assignments, lunch, work, appointment, more work, online lecture, more work, cook dinner, more work, prep for connect tonight. Phew! 12 hours later, time to take a breath and refresh for Connect. Not all days are as busy, praise God! Yet even in busy God provides beautiful sunrises and sunsets, He reminding me of His love.

For I have given rest to the weary and joy to the sorrowing.” Jeremiah 31:25 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jer.31.25.NLT In this time of the pandemic the weariness most feel is more emotional. The constant bad news, the militant locking of boarders by states, (here in Australia), the curfews and testing. It goes on and on. The wearing of masks is obligatory in most affected Victoria and highly recommended in NSW. Yet, in the midst of all the societal concerns there is God. He has a plan and a purpose. For those who come to Him He will give peace. Jesus said: come to Me all you weary and I will give you rest for your soul. ( Matt 11:28-30) What if there is a plan within the devestation? What if there is good to be found? Why not distance yourself from news programmes and seek God for His way through? Amen!

Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love. 1 Corinthians 16:13‭-‬14 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1co.16.13-14.NLT What must we guard against? The attack of thr enemy upon our minds. His constant lies and insinuations against us, our families and friends. Be alert! He roams around looking for someone to devour. If we yield to his lies we give him room to change our attitudes to others. His lies are usually groundless. Joyce Meyer talks about the battle for our mind. It is a battle! Be prepared and be ready! Amen!

Keep your eyes open, hold tight to your convictions, give it all you’ve got, be resolute, and love without stopping. 1 Corinthians 16:13‭-‬14 MSG https://bible.com/bible/97/1co.16.13-14.MSG Loving is risky. You can be misunderstood, taken advantage of and hurt. However, you learn to be wise and with God's wisdom you grow. Holding tight to your convictions means you don't compromise God's truth in your life. You are not swayed by worldly ways and thinking. Being resolute means staying the course, enduring through hard times, staying faithful. Hang in there! Hold onto Jesus and He will pull you through. Amen

So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It’s your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it. Colossians 3:12‭-‬14 MSG https://bible.com/bible/97/col.3.12-14.MSG Without love I cannot be kind, compassionate, forgiving, humble, or even tempered. Love makes all others available. I only have love for others as God enables me, and He enables me as I abide in Him. If Jesus had to spend time with the Father to do what He did, I need to spend time for my tasks.

Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Colossians 3:12 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/col.3.12.NLT Each day we shower/bathe and clothe ourselves. If we are fortunate to have choice we will examine our options amd choose what is appropriate for what we have to encounter that day. In Christ we have choice also but are encouraged, as God's chosen ones, to put on the fruits of the Spirit: love, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Clothing ourselves required a conscious choice, naturally, and also spiritually. In this time of the COVID19 pandemic some have let themselves go as they are not rushing to the office but are housebound.  A visitor unexpected soon sorts out this behaviour, for a time at least.  As Christians we are not able to attend church as before and even bible study can be somewhat limited. My group meet by Zoom each week. Therefore, we are able t...

A gentle response defuses anger, but a sharp tongue kindles a temper-fire. Proverbs 15:1 MSG https://bible.com/bible/97/pro.15.1.MSG I have never heard the words 'temper-fire', yet, they describe the image of anger very well. James uses the analogy of fire for gossip as well. A small spark sets on fire a forest, especially if the timber is dry. This reminds me of the situation when a person has gone through a difficult time and been distant to others leading them to misunderstand and fall prey to the enemy's insinuations. This type of senario gives insight into two types of actions: if feeling marginal press into fellowship, if you notice someone becoming marginal, reach out and draw them in. When we misunderstand we are easily angered and offended, often unnecessarily, especially if the option of communication was there all along. Don't be lazy! Ask the hard questions and avoid the trap. Amen!

A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare. Proverbs 15:1 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/pro.15.1.NLT People (others) can annoy us with fleshly behaviour, our response requires a choice: flesh or spirit. If we respond in kind, the flesh, then we reap a harvest of anger, conversely, if we respond in the spirit of gentleness we provide oil for the wound. Healing will ensue. Always we are given a choice: flesh or spirit. Choose wisely!

“Do you want to stand out? Then step down. Be a servant. If you puff yourself up, you’ll get the wind knocked out of you. But if you’re content to simply be yourself, your life will count for plenty. Matthew 23:11‭-‬12 MSG https://bible.com/bible/97/mat.23.11-12.MSG Why do we boast and preen? Perhaps because deep down we are insecure and feel threatened. As we allow God to work in our lives the need to boast diminishes and we are content with a simple portfolio. We should remember that God must receive the glory. It is not our doing but His. He elevates us and deals with our ego ever so gently, opening our eyes and minds to better.

The greatest among you must be a servant.  But those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. Matthew 23:11‭-‬12 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.23.11-12.NLT These two verse come in the middle of teaching by Jesus about those who want to be considered teachers, He levelled criticism at the Pharisees saying they "shut the door of the kingdom of heaven in people's faces". Heaven forbid if we Christians do the same. The kingdom of heaven is not based on rules but on relationship. Jesus gave the example, He was God but humbled Himself to win the lost.  May we never be too important to feel we can shun the lost. Amen!

“Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink— even if you have no money! Come, take your choice of wine or milk— it’s all free! Why spend your money on food that does not give you strength? Why pay for food that does you no good? Listen to me, and you will eat what is good. You will enjoy the finest food. Isaiah 55:1‭-‬2 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.55.1-2.NLT The key to eating the finest foods appears to be the result of listening to the Lord. As to whether the finest foods are natural scripture seems to indicated they are spiritual. We as humans tend to live in the natural and ignore the spiritual. Yet God is more  concerned with our eternal life and a relationship with Him. This takes a refocus on our part. Amen!

 “Come, everyone who is thirsty, come to the waters; and you without money, come, buy, and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost! Why do you spend money on what is not food, and your wages on what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and you will enjoy the choicest of foods. Isaiah 55:1‭-‬2 HCSB https://bible.com/bible/72/isa.55.1-2.HCSB This scripture speaks to the heart of appetite, be it for food, wine or possessions. When we focus on Jesus He supplies all our needs and keeps us well. Jesus spoke similar words in John 7:37. On the last and most important day of the festival, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone is thirsty, he should come to Me    and drink!  The one who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said,   will have streams of living water flow from deep within him.” John 7:37‭-‬38 HCSB https://bible.com/bible/72/jhn.7.37-38.HCSB Jesus was and is the word of God in the flesh, the promise fulfil...

For there is one God and one mediator between God and humanity, Christ Jesus, Himself human, who gave Himself — a ransom for all, a testimony at the proper time. 1 Timothy 2:5‭-‬6 HCSB We have a mediator, Jesus Christ. He is the only faithful One! A mediator is one who interceeds for another, he is a go between. When relationships break down we need a mediator. Noone else is capable or faithful completely. All humans are frail and need help themselves. Jesus alone is able. Amen!

For, There is one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus. He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time. 1 Timothy 2:5‭-‬6 NLT This message is still timely. When governments are failing we can feel helpless and alone. Yet, in Christ we are not alone. He is our refuge and strength. When lies surround me, truth is found in Him. Jesus said of Himself: I am the way, the truth and the life, no man comes to the Father but through Me. John 14:6  Although mankind seeks all of these in itself, its governments, its manmake gods, nothing provides eternal salvation and an abiding, indwelling God, but Jesus. Amen!

If someone claims, “I know him well!” but doesn’t keep his commandments, he’s obviously a liar. His life doesn’t match his words. But the one who keeps God’s word is the person in whom we see God’s mature love. This is the only way to be sure we’re in God. Anyone who claims to be intimate with God ought to live the same kind of life Jesus lived. 1 John 2:4‭-‬6 MSG Years ago i was in a choir and we sang a song that had a verse, 'walk this way'. I remember the fun we had singing this song as there were movements involved and when the leader sang, 'walk this way' we would mimic his actions. Life in Christ is similar. We are called to follow the leader. As we do we find joy that we could not have dreamt about. Try following the leader! Amen!

Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did. 1 John 2:6 NLT This is a tall order. Jesus spent time with the Father and then went and ministered to the sick, preached the good news and taught His disciples. He was a friend, a teacher, a healer but most importabtly a lover of God. When we compare our lives to this, how do they hold out? Challenging yes? Lord Jesus guide us in your ways. Show us how to be your hands and feet, guide us in your path. Amen!

But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin. 1 John 1:7 NLT There is something about living in the light that is attractive. I know that in the polar regions of our world daylight is a rarity in the winter solstices. The planet Venus has one side that is always away from the sun. It is probably just as well as the side that faces the sun is extremenly hot. However, as Christians we are being exhorted to live in the light in a transparent way. If our behaviour is always able to be seen and does not cause anyone to stumble then we are living in the light and are a blessing. To live in the light we cannot take risks that would rob us of our purity, or that of others. We cannot compromise ourselves by taking safery for granted or assume we will behave in purity when we go where we should not go. To protect our light we must live as wise people. The light is a treasure in us and...

But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.  1 John 1:7 NT A good check to see if we are walking in the light is: how do I get on with other Christians? Do I judge them as not up to my standard, do I look for faults, criticise? Do I plan not to see them again? Or do I look forward to spending time with them? Fellowship is not always perfect, at times we have to give more love than we receive, more patience, more compassion. Be gracious, compassionate, and slow to anger, this is how the Lord is towards us. Amen

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. James 1:2‭-‬3 NLT One of my grandsons was wanting to progress up a level in his sport. To do so he had to pass a test. To pass the test he had to work. The reward was a new belt. We have a reward waiting for us. To gain the reward we have to pass a test. To pass the test we must endure a trial. Sounds similar doesn't it. However, one is for a belt that will decay, the other is for an eternal reward. Whilst it is good to work for a reward you can see, why not realise you need to work for an eternal reward. Amen!

For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. James 1:3‭-‬4 NLT If the goal is to be perfect and complete lacking nothing, then surely, bring it on! Yet, we squeal and complain wanting rid of our pain or discomfort. What then do we want? I seriously think short term pain is worth long term completion. If we think this through it makes logical sense.  God is into pefecting His children and forming them into images of His Son. Basically, He is seeking to replicate His Son. He lnew He could trust His Son with anything, He wants to trust us just the same. Amen!

For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.” Zephaniah 3:17 NLT As New Testament believers we know that we are the temple of the Holy Spirit and that He does indeed dwell with us.  Zephaniah lived and prophesied around 626BC. He was present during King Josiah's reign. He claimed lineage to King Hezekiah. The above scripture is taken from the final section headed: Final Restoration. It begins with: for I will then restore pure speech to the peoples so that all of them may call on the name of Yahweh and serve Him with a single purpose. (3:9) We can claim this scripture and pray: may Your kingdom come, Your will be done. Amen

Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies. Philippians 4:8‭-‬9 MSG I have seven grandchildren. I watch them being trained by their parents. My eldest grandson and I are close, perhaps because I see in him myself at his age. I was the eldest of 6. He is the eldest of 5. I love that he calls and we chat about the happenings in his life. He told me he had been grounded for 6 months for backchatting his mum. Some would say this was tough, it is, but he is being moulded beautifully. Myer talks opening about the grounding, his mistake and how he is handling it. He is very ambivilant about the whole process and ...

Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:9 NLT This is Paul speaking, not Jesus. Yet, he had the right to speak as he had put into practice all that he had been taught. If you read the previous verses he is instructing about self-control and giving our burdens to the Lord in prayer. He talks about fixing our thoughts upon what is good and clean and honourable. I am finding TV not very edifying and so have started a project. I am writing a book and combing through scripture and discovering a wonderful treasure trove. I think I have made the right move as I am now satisfied with the space that the Lord has given me. Fill you mind with good things. Amen!

Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another. Galatians 5:24‭-‬26 NLT Being kind always is not easy unless enpowered by a different spirit. The spirit that controls the flesh is at war with the Spirit of God in our lives. The flesh wants to be selfish and spoilt. The Spirit wants to teach us self-control, kindness, goodness, meekness, faith, gentleness, love, faith, longsuffering. I have not met many people who are long suffering, yet we are called to walk in endurance so that it might proove our faith. Paul tells us in Romans that endurance produces character. So, today, let us yield to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to control. Amen!

For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” 1 Peter 3:12 ESV My God has His ears open to my prayers. For this I am grateful. Today I saw His rewards. He is opening doors to me. Praise Him! Amen!

The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right, and his ears are open to their prayers. But the Lord turns his face against those who do evil.” 1 Peter 3:12 NLT As my heart is to do what is right I can be confident that my God watches over me. I can be bold in His care for me. After coming through an attack of fear, I find boldness is upon me. The fear was groundless as my God is for me and made me in His image. Yet the works of darkness never make sense. Our God has a kingdom plan and that is to set captives free. We are the liberators of all those held captive by the enemy of their souls. What a blessed task, the justice league in action. Take up your mandate and follow Him. Walk in the anointing of a mighty God! Amen!

“So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today. Matthew 6:34 NLT Worry is fear dressed up in frills. Underneath it is still fear. Determine where it is coming from. Usually the enemy of your soul making you believe you have failed, or will fail, someone hates you or will hate you. Rebuke the sucker and claim the scripture over it. Greater is He that is in me the he who is in the world. God has not given me a spirit of fear but of love, power and a sound mind. Next get people praying fpr you. He will leave. Amen!

“So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today. Matthew 6:34 NLT Watching the news or too much news can fill our hearts with worry and fear. However, focusing on today and asking God for provision for today is all we require. We need more to do that time to fill it right now, that is, the majority of people do, as most are stuck at home with the pandemic. When we have too much time on our hands we are won't to fill it with fault finding or worry. Both are a waste of space. Seek God and give Him the space. He has delights to show you if you would just give Him the time. Amen!

Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other, in step with each other. None of this going off and doing your own thing. And cultivate thankfulness. Let the Word of Christ—the Message—have the run of the house. Give it plenty of room in your lives. Instruct and direct one another using good common sense. And sing, sing your hearts out to God! Let every detail in your lives—words, actions, whatever—be done in the name of the Master, Jesus, thanking God the Father every step of the way. Colossians 3:15‭-‬17 MSG One thing I know is that worship lifts burdens and heaviness. After a bad night from a visitor of fear, I was heavy this morning. I put on worship music and talked to the Father. The burden lifted as I set my heart to worship it away. Today I attended a funeral and it was a testimony of God's goodness. Many unsaved attended and heard the gospel. My friend had planned the funeral down to the very last detail. What a song of praise it was. Bringing God into the situat...

And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Colossians 3:15 NLT  As we live in Christ, abide in Him, His ways, His principles, we experience His peace. His peace surpasses understanding. When all is falling apart we can find His peace. Right now we need His peace, we need His direction more than ever. People are attacking one another, vervally and physically. All governments are under fire, anarchy rules in places, yet, in Christ there is peace. My prayer is: may Your kingdom come Lord, Your will be done. Amen!

For the mountains may move and the hills disappear, but even then my faithful love for you will remain. My covenant of blessing will never be broken,” says the Lord , who has mercy on you. Isaiah 54:10 NLT Did you see the sentence: my covenant of blessing will never be broken? If my God has a covenant of blessing towards me, what stops it? Is it me? Is it my enemy? What does scripture say? No weapon formed against you will prosper.( Is 54:17). If God be for me who can be against me? (Romans 8:31) Often the problem is in my head. I allow myself to be sold a lie: this is all there is; you can't go any further; this is all you ever will have...or worse: you're a loser, you're a fake, a cheat... The evidence is both. Yet, the word of God is truth. Amen!

For the mountains may move and the hills disappear, but even then my faithful love for you will remain. My covenant of blessing will never be broken,” says the Lord , who has mercy on you. Isaiah 54:10 NLT Notice that this verse mentions hills disappearing amd mountains moving. In our venacular, a natural disaster. God promises to be with us in disaster. This year will be remembered in history as the year the whole world ground to a halt. We will remember it and our children's children will be taught it. We need to impart how the Lord was close in this time, how He provided and kept us sane. Perhaps a lot of practices that had their birth this year will continue. I saw a report last night that employees are now seeking to be able to work from home as it is working now. The evaluation will be: how successful have people been in managing isolation. Our God is never going away, He will always remain. His presence is here to be sought. Amen!

But if you refuse to serve the Lord , then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord .” Joshua 24:15 NLT When you hear the words: serving the Lord, what image comes to mind? Do you think this is just for missionaries, pastors or church leaders? Or do you consider this your madate as well? My pastor gave a good message today on the whole truth of living from a God centered life as opposed to a Me centered life. He made the point that a Me centered person can have a God space that was loosley attached to the Me centre. However, when stress came it was the first thing to go, along with compassionate giving, whereas a God centered life, even under pressure, does not cut off the Lord's working in its world. Jesus told the parable about two houses: one built on sand, the other on a rock. The differeces between...

“So fear the Lord and serve him wholeheartedly. Put away forever the idols your ancestors worshiped when they lived beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt. Serve the Lord alone. Joshua 24:14 NLT Many of us do not relate to gods beyond the Euphrates, however the gods of this age are humanism amd selfism. For us the reverse of the scripture may be true: You can serve whichever god you want but you should serve the God of you ancestors, the Lord Almighty. We have slipped, everso slowly away from the God of our Fathers but we now find ourselves in front of gods that demand the lives of the unborn, the pleasure of the young for evil purposes, the destruction of the elderly and sick. These gods say: do what you want, all pleasure is yours, except the living God. We must intentionally choose constantly putting the ways of the Lord first. It may appear less fun but it will always bring us close to purity of heart, safety of our eye and mind. The end of our days will be better than the beginni...

I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 NLT The interesting thing is that to receive the joy and peace we must trust in the Lord and not lean on our own understanding. Our own understand is driven by fear and anxiety. Trust defies these two. Courage is required to refuse to yield to fear and put total trust in the Lord. Amen!

I have called you back from the ends of the earth, saying, ‘You are my servant.’ For I have chosen you and will not throw you away. Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. Isaiah 41:9‭-‬10 NLT Today I am having to remind myself that I am chosen by God. When we work for someone we think we are chosen by that person for the role and if insecure can fear we might displease. However, if God was in us receiving the job, we sever Him, He is our ultimate boss. We can trust Him in the chain of command and not fear the one we see. This scripture is beautiful because it brings a reality check to us all. God is in control, we can trust Him to work all things out for our good. Amen!

If with heart and soul you’re doing good, do you think you can be stopped? Even if you suffer for it, you’re still better off. Don’t give the opposition a second thought. Through thick and thin, keep your hearts at attention, in adoration before Christ, your Master. Be ready to speak up and tell anyone who asks why you’re living the way you are, and always with the utmost courtesy. Keep a clear conscience before God so that when people throw mud at you, none of it will stick. They’ll end up realizing that they’re the ones who need a bath. It’s better to suffer for doing good, if that’s what God wants, than to be punished for doing bad. That’s what Christ did definitively: suffered because of others’ sins, the Righteous One for the unrighteous ones. He went through it all—was put to death and then made alive—to bring us to God. 1 Peter 3:13‭-‬18  Jesus is our example. He suffered for doing good, but in the process won eternal life for all of us. If we suffer for doing good, who will...

Now, who will want to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don’t worry or be afraid of their threats. 1 Peter 3:13‭-‬14 NLT Generally, the reasons we suffer is because we are being selfish or self motivated. However, there are times when we are persecuted for doing right. In those times we must trust the Lord. There are people who take offence easily and these people you cannot satify for long. If they are able to be stirred by our enemy, they will be. Jesus told His disciples: if they hate Me, they will hate you. We must trust the Lord at all times. Amen!

bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. Luke 6:28 HCSB As the foolishness of individuals is highlighted daily in the news, it is easy to rant and rave about these people in social media and in company. When we see people that are found to have the COVID19 virus visiting numerous locations and taking the infection and spreading it, we all want to take a switch and beat them. However, we are the benefactors of hindsight. If we were infected with the virus and felt well and went on a shopping spree, later to discover we were a carrier, how would we feel? Especially if our actions led to the death of 100 people? I would not like to be reaponsible for the death of people. Cut people slack, give grace as you might just need ot yourself sooner than you think. Amen!

Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you. Luke 6:28 NLT This might be hard to do, but it brings salvation, release and healing. We need more love right now and less shouting and fighting. We do not need to tear down leaders,  accusing them of not being or doing enough. Scripture tells us to pray for our leaders and enemies that all might go well. 1 Tim 2:1,2. In the book of Ezekiel 22:30 the Lord is saying: I looked for someone who would stand in the gap praying for the land so that I might not destroy it and found noone. I know I am praying, how about you? Let us pray for salvation of Xi and the communist party, let us turn the machine on its head. Amen!

Don’t let anyone under pressure to give in to evil say, “God is trying to trip me up.” God is impervious to evil, and puts evil in no one’s way. The temptation to give in to evil comes from us and only us. We have no one to blame but the leering, seducing flare-up of our own lust. Lust gets pregnant, and has a baby: sin! Sin grows up to adulthood, and becomes a real killer.James 1:13‭-‬15 MSG Sharp-shooter James brings home the truth. We cannot make excuses for our own sinful lusts. Truth and nothing but the truth is what we want. We find truth on Jesus! Seek Him! Amen!

And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, “God is tempting me.” God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else. James 1:13 NLT What causes temptation? The enemy of our souls sees a weakness and goes to work right there. The weak spots are areas not yet surrendered or areas we are not yet aware of or refuse to face. We are usually isolated in that we have noone who we share our all with or who are allowed to speak into our lives. We could have hidden desires or lusts. The next problem arises when we assume what we are experiencing is a test instead of a temptation. We know that God tests us to proove us and reveal things in us. However, temptation is a different position. James speaks to this misnomer in the book of James: 'Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death. So don’t be misled, my dear brothers and sisters'. Ja...

Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it. Proverbs 22:6 NLT I am forever grateful for the training I received as a child. I pray that my children also are linked to the training they received as children. I am watching my grandchildren being trained. I am grateful. Character is molded by discipline and instruction. Children need to be trained to be honest, selfless and self-controlled. However, fear of the Lord is central. Do not neglect such an important responsibility. Amen!

Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it. Proverbs 22:6 NLT The two previous verses feed into this one: True humility and fear of the Lord lead to riches, honor, and long life. Corrupt people walk a thorny, treacherous road; whoever values life will avoid it. By teaching children what is truely good and honouravle to the Lord you fill them with reapect. This comes right down to the sinple games they play. Kingdom games should protect them whereas worldly games teach them worldly ways, ever so subtlety at times and at others very much in evidence. We cannot be lazy when it comes to games. One of my grandsons wanted me to play a computer game with him. It looked very innocent until you watch the hints and tricks clip and find the child is told to watch TV every day so that they can get a weather report, which in itself is fine but what followed was, your horoscope. What? I did a quick search on the web and found a very good Christian game ...

I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 NLT We need hope! The news is bad and it appears all hope is dwindling, but God has a plan. I know I am praying for the countries of the world to be confronted by Jesus, the leaders to be smitten by Jesus. Victoria, Australia is now in complete lockdown as people qould not stay at home and infections continued to rise. Foolish, selfish people continue ro flout the law and in so doing carrying the Covid19 to uninfected communities. We are watching it grow instead of decrease. It reminds me of the scripture: a little leven levens the whole lump. (1 Cor 5:6) Have mercy Lord and set us free from our sins. Open our eyes to our selfishness. Show us how to completely yield to You! Amen!

I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 NLT The news last night filled me with despair at the selfishness of mankind. Many nations have people rallying demanding rights not to be told what to do, not to wear masks etc. Why I bothered I do not know, perhaps my penchant for being informed. Perhaps I need to replace this with good news. Yet God's word is filled with hope. He encourages us to be the answer, fill the void with prayer. My prayer for the nations is an awareness of sin and a need for a saviour. I will continue in prayer until I see God's kingdom come. Amen!

I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Psalms 119:11 NLT Are you less tolerant when tired? I am and st these times I mist remond myself: you are tired, so let it go. Today I waited from 12-4 for a friend to drop off a meal I forgot to take with me Friday night. I was already tored from a day of hard gardening yesterday and could have done with a nap. My friend arrived tired because of a long training afternoon. Two people tired and cranky are not a good mix. I have to go to grace and allow God to go to action. My God promises to be my strength when I am weak and I must allow Him. Amen!

I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Psalms 119:11 NLT What keeps us from sin? A reference to a better way. Recently I became angry with a friend for his derogatory comments about church, church leaders and eventually me. Anger wanted me to rip him to shreds, however, the word of God in me convicted me of forgivness. Whist I determined to forgive and prayed for my friend, ultimately I had to ask forgiveness for my anger. This act broke the power of the enemy's foothold and my friend responded: I cannot believe I said the things I did. Godly behaviour works. Jesus told us how to deal with offence. He would have known, he had brothers who were antagonistic towards him and His ministry. Trust the word of God. Amen!

“You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased.” Revelation 4:11 NLT Worthy to receive glory and honour! Why is God worthy to receive glory and honour? Because He made all we see for our enjoyment, to live in relationship with Him. Only a selfish mindset would prevent us from praising the creator of something amazing. What our God did was and is amazing. If we can't fathom this perhaps we need to take time to look, and look, and look, and appreciate. Amen!

Our Lord and God, You are worthy to receive glory and honor and power, because You have created all things, and because of Your will they exist and were created. Revelation 4:11 HCSB The truth that hits me here was that the Lord willed us into existence. He thought about what He wanted creation to include, us to look like and then He created us. Scripture tells us we are fearfully and wonderfully made. (Psalm 139:14). I have studied anatomy and physiology and found the human body to be indeed wonderful. The way the body functions is amazing; from the smallest cell to the largest organ, it functions in unison, unless unwell. When I look at the smallest creatures on the earth, the colour, the detail, I wonder at the mind who created it. What a beautiful mind! The creator is worthy of praise, always and forever. Amen!