The day with dianne Louise

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 Two gifts of the Spirit are: words of knowledge and words of wisdom. The book of proverbs talks a lot about wisdom and where it is found. No guru has it,social media rarely has it and movies definitely do not have it. Last night I watch a Loki Marvel Movie. I know my grandchildren watch Marvel and I need to stay in touch. Loki made what seemed to be a profound comment, but it wasn't. He said: "no one is truely good and no one is truely bad". On the surface, he is right, but he does not know about the God factor. Throughout the sequels Loki was searching for the mastermind who was controlling the timeline. He accused the man, when he found him, of lying and being a manipulator.  Loki had a female version of himself along. She wanted to kill the overlord, he didn't,  as experience had started to kick in. The femal...

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 We may think we have the answer, however leaving the outcome with God and trusting Him, is wisdom. I have learned that I can trust Him alone. We don't need to ask about everything: what to wear today, what to have for breakfast. However, on the very important decisions: who to marry, who to go on missions with, ask God. He has a divine plan and will bring it to pass. We can cause ourselves so much grief by insisting we must be in charge,  let go and trust Him! Amen!

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 We can be hungry for a meal, we can be thirsty for a drink of water. Yet, this scripture indicates another hunger and thirst. If I hunger and thirst for justice, I must be desperate. People experience extreme natural hunger and thirst, but do we experience extreme hunger and thirst for justice? What does that look like? Intercession? A burdened spirit? We are about to begin fasting and prayer at my church, for 21 days. Fasting makes you hunger for food, how about justice? I pray so. May the Lord's burdens be my burdens. Amen!

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 Jesus told a parable about  widow who's enemy had taken her land and she wanted justice. She went to a judge and petitioned him to help her, but he refused. This wasn't good enough for the widow and she turned up every day demanding he help her. Finally, the judge gave in, not because he feared God or man but because she was driving him nuts. This woman hungered and thirsted for justice ( Luke 18:1-8). I have such a thirst for justice. Every morning I present my case to the Lord. This scripture tells me I am heard and will receive justice. This has been several years and it would be easy to assume that I have lost. Yet,  scripture does not lie. Never give up!

We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters. 1 John 3:16 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1jn.3.16.NLT Giving up our lives...what does that look like? Not coveting our neighbours goods,  wives, husbands, or children? Loving enough to overlook an offence? Not needing to give our own opinion? Not talking about ourselves? Less selfies? Definitely! Jesus only spoke about where He had come from for a reason. He wanted His disciples to understand He was not there to make their lives easier, rather harder. He was not going to make them rich, they had to leant to live by faith. We have no right to make life about us. He will take care of us. We can take care of others. Amen!

We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters. 1 John 3:16 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1jn.3.16.NLT Jesus demonstrated real love to us. Throughout His ministry years, we see, in the gospels, love in action. How did He treat His family who had turned against Him? His friends? His enemies? Whilst we see Jesus was willing to confront, He did everything for a purpose, a heavenly purpose of establishing the kingdom of God in us. Ultimately He submitted to the cross, although He was afraid of the pain. I am grateful that we have Gethsemane to look back on. Jesus was willing to face His fears. The ultimate act of love was Him hanging on the cross asking the Father to forgive those who hurled abuse at Him, and those who put Him there. Today we are under extrememe pressure, even more so than last year, with the handling of COVID. May we remember why we are here, and what love is really about. Amen!

A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart. Luke 6:45 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/luk.6.45.NLT What are good things? Are they feel good things? Appearance of good things? Or good as in God is good. How does God do good? He is righteous and just, fair and loving but integrous. Is our good good enough? Where does our good come from? The above scripture tells us that the good person produces fruit from a treasury of good things. To have a treasury we have to embark on a process of acquisitions. What have we bothered to acquire? Truth? Forgiveness? Kindness? Gentleness? These are good treasures. We know what our treasures are when they are tested. When under fire what do we do and say? What is in your treasury?

A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart. Luke 6:45 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/luk.6.45.NLT We know what is in our hearts when our bottle is tipped. Yesterday,  whilst studying, I received notice that my duplex is being sold. What now Lord? Is it time for me to go? Or will I buy the unit? If so please provide. Is it time to go to Nepal on mission, if so, I don't need the unit. I talked to a few friends, one who has Nepal in his heart and asked for prayer. I have just helped a friend sell possessions for her move to Canberra, Australia's capital. She showed me how little a person really needs. I knew I was here for her, and now I am being released. Perhaps it is my turn. I thought it might be another year, but an early mark is always good. Waiting on God for the move is important.  Whilst I might speculate, I cannot move unt...

Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. 1 John 2:15‭-‬16 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1jn.2.15-16.NLT Today I discovered that China is cracking down on churches for internet usage in ministering to saints during COVID lockdowns. The persecuted Church speaks to me of sacrifice and intense love of the Lord. Earthy possessions mean little. Yet the church is growing! We need to watch these churches, and learn from them. The apostles knew what these saint know, sacrifice and persection are a way of life. Will we cope? Have mercy Lord!

Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. 1 John 2:15‭-‬16 NLT What do you crave? My head craves a coffee in the morning and like  spoilt, petulant, child will complain if it does not receive one. Do you know what lust feels like? Did you assume that it was a good desire that drove you to perform? Jesus said: do not worry about you life,what you should wear,  what you should eat, isn't life more than food and the body more than clothing (Matthew 6:25). Jesus did not have a home, He did not carry around a suitcase full of clothes, yet He knew His Father would provide all His needs, and He did. I think I would need one change so that I could clothe myself while I washed, and spare undies.  This Ki...

Fight the good fight for the true faith. Hold tightly to the eternal life to which God has called you, which you have declared so well before many witnesses. 1 Timothy 6:12 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1ti.6.12.NLT We have many good leaders in the fray fighting the good fight and we should join them and support them wholeheartedly. Today I listened to Martyn Iles, of Australian Christian Lobby, who fearlessly enters the front lines on our behalf. Others are: Lyle Shelton, Canberra Declaration and Family First. Martyn went to the core of the matter. There are two cities: the kingdom of earth and the Kingdom of Heaven. The Christian belongs to the kingdom of heaven, they just happen to be on earth on assignment for a short time. If I was a missionary in say, China, I would be subject to their laws,  however I would never be Chinese. Both they and I would view me this way. I would be there to do a job, my home would be Australia. I am a Christian who lives for the Kingdom of God. H...

Fight the good fight for the true faith. Hold tightly to the eternal life to which God has called you, which you have declared so well before many witnesses. 1 Timothy 6:12 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1ti.6.12.NLT Paul is exhorting Timothy,  in this chapter, to not lust after worldly riches, as money is the root of all evil, to be content with food and clothing, and to stay untainted from worldly ways. Timothy is a son in the faith to Paul, a young man who has charge of a large church in Ephesus.  First and second Timothy are unique as they are not written to churches but to one man, Timothy. Paul probably wrote other letters that were lost to us, fortunately these survived. What does the message mean to us? It is still very relevant. It smacks down selfish agendas and lusts and speaks to purity in Christ. Hold tight to the eternal life to which God has called us. Our eternity marks us. We are in training. Our warfare is against spirits of darkness that seek to deter us fr...

Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. Colossians 3:1 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/col.3.1.NLT The book fo Revelation gives us an inside view of the throneroom of God. Some interesting characters dwell there, however, Jesus,our redeemer is there and is called The Lamb that was Slain. He is the only one worthy to open the scroll of future events. We also see Him as a man in intense white with eyes blazing like fire. Awesome stuff! A very different Jesus, to the man Jesus, who visited earth.  This Jesus is a powerful conqueror and the lamb who paid the price for our freedom. I live now as if I am in training for eternity. My study, I know, is Important. How important? Very! I suppose that is why I can shut myself off from the noise and get to work. I also know my love of adventure is a key. My faith is valuable, so is my creativity.  After all, He made me this...

Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. Colossians 3:1 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/col.3.1.NLT In Chapter 2 Paul had been dealing with the readers latest troubling teachers wanting them to submit to food regulations. In chapter 2:8 he says: be careful that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit based on human tradition, based on the elemental forces of the world and not based on Christ. If we remember in the gospels Christ was often in trouble for breaking such rules. Why then would He want us in bondage to rules about food and such? Instead our thoughts should be upon Him, where He is seated as victor over all things. This is where we are headed after all. Jesus set us free from petty rules about dress and eating.  There are greater concerns to be mindful of. In our freedom we should not hurt those of weaker faith either. The love of God co...

And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength. Deuteronomy 6:5 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/deu.6.5.NLT Heart, soul and strength! Have you ever said, or have said to you: "Put your heart into it!" This is something we want to see in others, not surprisingly they want to see in us also. Our God delights when we are 'all in'. He is always, all in. We become distracted with our toys, as CS Lewis put it. We like our toys. Yet, toys distract our full attention from the One to whom it belongs. If the Lord gives us things, it is usually when He knows they won't own our attention.  What has your attention today?

And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength. Deuteronomy 6:5 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/deu.6.5.NLT When we are loving like this there is no room for wandering in our affections. We wander when we are enticed away by the lusts of our flesh, or natural person. Lusts for affairs, lust for finance, lusts for power and authority. Loving the Lord with all we have opens the doors to His presence.  His presence is enough, all else fades. Give it all you've got! Amen!

For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime! Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning. Psalms 30:5 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.30.5.NLT I have just finished re-listening to a message Bill Johnson gave in March last year called: from glory to glory.  In the last week I have had times of just sitting quietly before the Lord. I am aware that He is doing something, I sense great activity in the spirit,  as if pieces of a puzzle are being moved into place. I am an observer. I say little, at times read scripture but mostly just sit quietly and am content to be an observer of something I cannot physically see but sense. After listening to Bill's message I know that it is God 's glory, it is about what He is doing. He does not need my help, but appreciates my company whlst He works. He appreiates me not talking or praying even. He is happy with my company. I am happy also. Finally, I am happy to sit quietly, and let Him work. Tod...

For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime! Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning. Psalms 30:5 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.30.5.NLT The Old Testament knew God's anger. They also knew it was just,  but Moses showed that man could interceed and win against God's anger. Jesus taught: be angry but do not sin. He often was angry with the Pharisee's treatment and attitudes of those they ruled. He exhibited how to be angry, but not sin.  He did not carry His anger, but dealt with the matter by confrontation,  immediately. Then His anger was gone. How do we perceive our God? Do we see Him as an angry God? Jesus paid the penalty of all sin, we live in a period of grace, and until the time of judgement grace abounds. However, I am sure God is distressed with some things that happen on the earth or even in our lives. The Book of Revelation paints a picture of what that justice looks like. It is not pretty. Right now we can ...

Now, who will want to harm you if you are eager to do good? 1 Peter 3:13 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1pe.3.13.NLT Generally speaking, no one. However, today, if you stand up for righteousness, you will be persecuted. Bullies always find someone to attack. I was bullied as a child, for most of my school years, in fact. Oh! The glorious day when they disappeared for 2 whole years, until new ones found me when I went nursing. I was fortunate to be married to a man who trained me in standing up for myself,  now I know the lesson all too well. However, bullies abound! Generally, if you keep the laws: do not speed, do not drink or do drugs and drive, pay your taxes, be obedient and courteous, don't kill or steal, usually you will be let live. But, stand up for the unborn, the children caught with anxiety about their sexuality, the elderly, you will be targeted, because you care enough to help the vulnerable. No matter what the case, bullied or not, God is for us and works all things ...

Now, who will want to harm you if you are eager to do good? 1 Peter 3:13 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1pe.3.13.NLT We really should consider the verse after this one: But even if you should suffer for righteousness, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear or be disturbed (v 14). As I am a supporter of Open Doors, I know people suffer for their faith,  in fact Peter, who wrote this was crucified for his faith. However, most will not suffer other than the consequences of their behaviour. To these verse 13 is written. I presume Peter was a father, we know he was married, consequently he would speak with understanding.  Having said this, I know prominent leaders who are being persecuted in my own country, for something they said, which offended the sensibilities of minority groups. We are indeed in perilous times. Now, we must have a 'but God' moment. What is He planning? The apostle Paul knew he must suffer for the gospel,  and he did, willingly. Peter also knew and e...

God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Matthew 5:7 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.5.7.NLT What did this teaching do to existing knowledge? It turned it on its head. Revenge was something people did, mercy was not. Jesus began to teach merciful behaviour, He exhibited it in His actions. There was only one group of people He did not show mercy to: the religious leaders who did not show it themselves,  and in fact did everything to benefit themselves. Jesus came to fulfill the law. He was the answer for all judgement, condemnation and I justice. He was just and true. As His disciples, we are called to demonstrate His mercy. Be merciful!

God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Matthew 5:7 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.5.7.NLT Who needs mercy? We all do! Who gives mercy? Not many! Without Christ's Spirit ruling in our hearts we are unmerciful. Yet, Jesus taught: what we sow, we reap. If we want mercy, we need to sow it. Unfortunately, when we are being merciless, we fail to see our plight approaching. How then can we be intentionally merciful? By being intentionally mindful of the Spirit.  In Romans Paul tells us: the Spirit's law of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and death ( 8:1). We who know Christ have been set free from the law of sin and death to walk in life. The Spirit of Life is merciful. Our flesh is not merciful! Put on the Spirit and walk in it. Make time for the Spirit in these troublesome days and you will be merciful to the weak in faith, the offenders, the troublemakers. Be merciful today, because you will need mercy tomorrow! Amen!

The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. 1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1co.10.13.NLT The apostle Paul tells us that God will not allow temptation to be more than we can cope with, plus, He will provide a way of escape. We must believe this! If we were in captivity by terrorists and help came, we would take it and run. Temptation is like a terrorist. The problem is that most temptations come from our flesh. If our flesh like the sensation or experience brought by that temptation then we must see that sensation is the enemy and run, otherwise we will stay bound. We cannot fall in love with terrorists. Run!

The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. 1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1co.10.13.NLT Jesus told us to pray: deliver us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Do we take notice or blunder headlong into temptation? I believe we underrate prayer, especially this prayer. Why would Jesus tells us to pray it, if that was not important. Have a look again at the 'Lord's Prayer'. Our Father, who are in heaven, hallowed be Your name, Your kingdom come, Your will be done. Give us today our daily bread, and forgive us our sins, as we forgive the sins of others. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. First we glorify God our Father, and pray for His will to be done, then we ask for our physical needs, next we ask for forgiveness and forgive others, final...

May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. Psalms 19:14 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.19.14.NLT Meditations my heart are not always selfless. When unwell we can become selfish, when bored we can become reckless. Today was a trying day. I was attempting to press on with my studies and struggled to stay alert or even awake. When awake I was at a loss as to how to usefully employ my time if not studying. The challenge is always to stay in the zone of God's grace. I am receiving more and more notifications of COVID alerts from places I have been, and also am struggling to stay standing. My head hurts and body aches, I want to sleep but need to keep going. The one thing I know is, God is for me and I am not alone. He is with me and will bring me through. I have friends suffering and sick, I am not unique. Instead of study I read my bible. Last night we had an excellent bible study on ACTS. So this is where I turned...

May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. Psalms 19:14 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.19.14.NLT In this Psalm we encounter declarations  without words: The heavens declare the glory of the Lord, and the sky proclaims the work of His hand. Day after day they pour out speech; night after night they communicate knowledge. There is no speech; there are no words; their voice is not heard. Their message has gone out to all the earth, and their words to the end of the world (vs 1-4). Today take time to listen to their message. Rest in stillness from business, from social media, from the noise of mankind. Listen and hear the important message! Of late I have not wanted to hear the noise of mankind. I would rather seek the stillness of sunrise, and watch the beauty of sunset. They have a message. Their message is the faithfulness of my God, His unworried presence, His calm in the storm. Turn off the noise and wait for ...

Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.28.19.NLT To understand discipling we must look at what Jesus did. First, He called them, next He showed them, and then He empowered them, and finally, sent them to do as He had done. We do not make disciples if we are still spoon feeding, and allowing people to stay babies. All babies must grow, and learn to walk, feed themselves, and gradually become their own person. Empowering people to be their own person is imperative,  so that they too can make disciples,  then we can make new ones. The process of growth and maturity is essential. We are smothered if we allow new disciples to stay babies. They wear us out. We are foolish and deficient if we do not allow growth and maturity as well. Time to grow!

Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.28.19.NLT How does a non-pastor make disciples? Do you have children? Grandchildren? Neighbours? Family? We all have others in our lives. These others need to see us live out the life of a disciple, a disciplined one in what we say and do, what we eat and drink, and conduct ourselves on social media. We then should be looking for opportunities to share our lives with others, telling them our reasons to live a disciplined life, one that belongs to Christ.  He is the power and ability to do all. The power of Jesus is the change in a Christian's life, it is the power to love the unlovely, the power to make a difference. Share that power. Amen!

In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation. 1 Peter 5:10 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1pe.5.10.NLT Suffering is something we are being acclimatised to right now. If we're not able to work, walk or visit friends and families, they are not able to do likewise. Tornadoes, tsunamis, volcanoes erupting,  bushfire, floods and more are a constant.  We would be forgiven for thinking our world has lost its way, and it has. Without The Way, we are doomed to eternal separation.  For those who choose Christ they have the rock on which to build. It is not safe to run, but little by little we will make it to our destination,our eternal home. It is so important that we cling to Christ as the world is spinning out of control. Stay connected. Amen!

In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation. 1 Peter 5:10 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/1pe.5.10.NLT We are called to share God's eternal glory. This concept can be confusing. How do I share God's glory? We have the Spirit of Christ dwelling within us, the Holy Spirit. When we walk with Him and in His strength, this strength shines through. Recently I had to play keys in the early service. I was struggling as the leader was precise in his expectations, and had already told me, in practice, I was out of sync with him. I was nervous and prayed. The Holy Spirit came on me, and I played in sync and well. I was so grateful I cried. To feel the Lord's presence was so humbling, I knew He was sharing His glory with me. This same experience can be in all manner of circumstances. I know a walk of faith pleases...

You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.Psalms 139:13‭-‬14 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.139.13-14.NLT If you were asked what were your delicate parts, what would you say? Your emotions? Your brain, your heart? We have many delicate parts, however, we definitely would consider our emotions, or capacity for them as our most delicate. If this is so, God knew it when He made us. We were made in His image, therefore, with the same capacity He has for emotion. The bible tells us He became angry. We see Him proud of His Son, by turning up at Jesus' baptism. We see His compassion, in healing the sick and raising the dead. So, yes we have His capacity for emotions, we therefore need to learn how to manage these emotions, just as He would. After all, we are His children.  How blessed are we!

You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. Psalms 139:13‭-‬14 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.139.13-14.NLT At school when I studied science I learned about the structure of the human body and was amazed. The learning caused me to pursue a path of nursing when leaving school. My nursing education enlarged that already known. We are truely wonderfully made! Our mechanism for fighting disease was one that struck me as amazing. Our healing from injury was another. What was more amazing was that the God who created all things wanted an imtimate relationshiip with me. Why me? Because He loves me as a father. He is my divine Father, He is our Father who lives in heaven. Unlike the Hollywood promise, "I will not let anything hurt you, I promise!" He promises to be with us always amd He is. As we walk in faith before Him He moves on ou...

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/2ti.1.7.NLT What a day! I did go kayaking, and it was great. Met a few friends there and had good conversation. On the way home my friend who was driving tried  new road, not good, it was blocked. We went to have dinner on the way home at a lovely pub. No room in the inn. When we made it to mobile reception I discocered my dog had escaped whilst I was away and a atranger had him. As we neared home a powerful storm hit and the kayak fell off the truck. Praise God no other cars were impacted, the kayak survived and although we had to put it back on the truck in torrential rain, we did. We were soaked through. My friend had an idea on how to find my dog, and we did. A hot shower,  a warm meal, and a game fixed everything. Arrived home and my garage opener did not work. I had to knock on neighbour's door to help me break in, and we did. Pra...

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.  2 Timothy 1:7 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/2ti.1.7.NLT Last night I watched a movie I knew my grandchildren would watch called Shaung-Chi. It was all about the 10 rings of power. The father had chosen this power for evil and his son and daughter were opposed to him. Good and evil stuff. It reminded me of the power God has for us in Him, for His glory and purposes. A child of God has access to His power for the good of others, and to display His goodness. Fairh rises up to accept the power to do good, instead fear withdraws from sonship, and refuses to act. In acting on faith self-control is given, otherwise pride will enter, and there will be a misuse of power. Jesus told a parable of three servants who were given gifts. Two used them and doubled them but the third buried his gift. We are reaponsible for the gift given. We must use it and increase it. Otherwise it will be taken away...

This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! 2 Corinthians 5:17 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/2co.5.17.NLT Each New Year we attempt to put the old year behind us and move into the new. Many start diets,  exercise programmes, new careers, further education. However, an act of grace is given to us to step away from the former life, into a new life in Christ. What does that look like? It is a relationship, a good one where, daily, we trust the sacrifice Jesus made is enough, and refuse to walk in works, but rather faith. Noone else offers us freedom from our past. Convicted felons still carry a stigma on release, many carry the same compulsions and appetites. Yet, in Christ freedom is there for the taking. So, which way will you choose?

This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! 2 Corinthians 5:17 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/2co.5.17.NLT When we yield our lives to be loved by Jesus, and willingly interact with Him, the new life He offers becomes ours. All the past ways, habits and failures surrender to His victory over sin. If we suddenly become aware that we have a new family, one we did not know about before, one that is so different from all we knew, would we not want to investigate this family? When we become Christians we are brought into the family of God. The ways of thsi family are different. Love for Jesus and each other is the motivator. No longer do old selfish ways, arrogances, and nasitiness dominate. Love, forgiveness and a desire to serve each other run through our veins. Embrace the new, enjoy the benefits. Amen!

The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him. Psalms 24:1 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.24.1.NLT This Psalm has other famous verses: Who may ascend to the hill of the Lord? Who may stand in His holy place? The one who has clean hands and a pure heart, and do not worship idols. (Verses 4,5) This Pslam deals with the greatness and holiness of the Lord and then switches to who may stand in His Holy place. We are very fortunate that Jesus paid the price. We would never be consistently good enough, but He was and is. We do not need to walk in guilt and shame. He is good! Very good! Amen!

The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him. Psalms 24:1 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.24.1.NLT Jesus told many parables about an owner or ruler giving authority to his people to manage his estate whilst away on a long journey. In one, the tennants treated his servants badly, and finally killed the owners son. Jesus was telling them the complete disregard His people had for His Father and Himself. God is our creator and we belong to Him. Arrogance defies Him and attempts to wrench this authority from Him. It is laughable for us, the created, to defy the creator. The pot is attenpting to instruct the potter. Humility accepts the authority of God and asks for His forgiveness. He is the best God and most faithul Lord we could ask for. Try Him today. Amen!

Instead, I want to see a mighty flood of justice, an endless river of righteous living. Amos 5:24 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/amo.5.24.NLT Yesterday, and this morning I was being pressured by a scammer. He was reported and went away. Justice is there if we pursue it rather than being intimidated. Bullies rely on their victims silence. The best recourse for you is to be brave enough to report the bully. The worst part of being constantly bullied is a development of a complex of immobility and inadequacy. This is a lie! Rise up and take your stand. Be brave! Out saviour bought our victory and freedom. Step into it!

But let justice flow like water, and righteousness like an unfailing stream. Amos 5:24 The whole chapter is about the injustice that the Lord sees in His people. verse 15 says: Hate evil and love good, establish justice in the gate. Theg gate was where matters were dealt with, but God saw wickedness instead of godliness. Injustice oppresses the poor, wickedness abuses them. We are fools if we think that God should be pleased with us because of an outcome we judge to be good, but the process involved extractling all from the poor so we could live like kings. Who suffers becasue of our methods? Who is crushed and bruised? There is no reason to oppress the poor, none! Today we see the poor herded into factories to sew clothes for us in the west that are cheap. We like bargains, but the process includes long hours for little pay of the poor. How can we blindly ignore the cries of the poor? All my working life I battled injustice for the elderly and misinformed. Yesterday I battled fo...

The greatest among you must be a servant. Matthew 23:11 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.23.11.NLT A servant has not many rights. In fact in the time this was written, it depended on whether a family had to become servants to pay their debts, were forced into servitude by conquerors, ot like Joseph had been sold as a salve by his family. In our day and age, poor families in some countries sell their children for food. The children will become slaves, either sex slaves or workers in factories or on fishing boats. These people have no rights, very little pay amd harsh conditions. Here we have Jesus telling us to be willing to become servants for His sake. He was not talking about any of the above but rather choosing to serve Him and our fellow men and women, just as He did. Scripture tells us the Jesus did not seek to claim His equality with God, but rather chose to lay doen His rights, for our sake. Are we willing to do the same?

The greatest among you must be a servant. Matthew 23:11 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.23.11.NLT The whole chapter 23 deals with pride in those of authority. Jesus was taking a piece out of the Scribes and Pharisees. He called them whitewashed tombs, clean amd white on the outside but full of dead mens bones inside. As Jesus did serve, He has said He had come to seek and save the lost. He exemplified the servant role by washing the feet of the disciples. This role was not even relegated the Hebrew slaves it was so menial. What causes people to exalt themselves? Pride! What caises people to humble themselves? Christ! On Sunday I played keys at church. I arrived early to find the pastor's wife setting up the sound system. Why? There was no one else able and willing to do the task. As the service started this woman donned a jacket and rose to preach a good message. I love my pastors as they are both servants, they do not exalt themselves but humbly serve. They are an example to m...

Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Ephesians 4:2 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/eph.4.2.NLT Making allowances for the faults of others is not common. Rather, the knives are ever ready to cut, slice and dice. Nevertheless, we expect grace and squeal when it is lacking. Jesus said, " first take the log out of your own eye before attempting to take the splinter out of another's eye". Splinters are small, logs are huge. Perhaps the log makes the splinter seem large, when in fact it is small. Remember we judge others according to our own measure, that is, me first, me second and me third, you can go last! Ha ha! So...time to re-measure. Allow the Lord to be the judge. Amen!

Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Ephesians 4:2 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/eph.4.2.NLT I know a gentle man, who you would call a gentleman in days past. This man works with animals, perhaps it goes with the territory. He is drawing to the weak, the underdog. Gentle people are like this, they care for the weak, the sick, the unloved. They are rare. As Christians we are called to be gentle with one another, gentleness should be our trademark. There should be no bullying, as this is fleshly and ungodly. Bullying can take the form of manipulation. It really only cares for self and is pretensions in public. This characteristic the Lord wants to root out of our natures, as it does not represent Him. Amen!

Then he said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. Luke 9:23‭-‬24 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/luk.9.23-24.NLT The first thing a follower must do is yield control of their life to their master, the next is to trust His GPS system. We have become used to this in part with our GPS in our cars. Now we must expand it to not just direction but all of life. Our God created us. Like any manufacturer, He has the master plan. Surely He knows better that we what our ultimate design is for? We must let go and trust. Amen!

Then he said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. Luke 9:23‭-‬24 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/luk.9.23-24.NLT Keeping a way of living relates to comfort. If I am comfortable with a habit, even though it may kill me eg eating chocolate daily, or drinking alcohol daily, I am unwise. Everything in moderation is fine, but excess sets us up for disease or early death. Lazy behaviour is also detrimental to my health. How about a lazy attitude to God's ways, His desire for us to know Him, intimately? Judas walked with Jesus for 3 years. Yet his lust for money possessed him even in the presence of his saviour. This lust drove him to betray one he loved and ultimately hang himself. Was it worth it? Conversely Stephen chose to boldly defend the gospel in the face of his accusers. Whilst it...

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 Gathering for Christmas, New Year's Eve parties, birthday parties, retirement parties etc are usually good fun. We gather around a common cause, to celebrate. Church is a chance to celebrate the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Our God deserves our corporate praise.  Online TV is an opportunity to be selfish, don't make it a habit! You are missing something vital, gathering together. 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 At present with COVID ripping through our communities people are less inclined to gather. Yet, it is in gathering that we experience God's presence. It is in gathering that we rub off rough edges through communication. Without community we are more prone to deception and being permanently taken out. We must gather, we must do life together to stay sane, pure and whole. We are not islands, there is plenty of land mass for that. I recently watch the launch, via video, of the latest and largest telescope called the James Webb. This telescope will operate in isolation but will be in constant communication with earth. Earth will monitor it's functions, intimately. In our isolation who is monitoring us intimately? If we say, 'Me!" We have a problem. Stay connected! Do not only church assembly but also mid-week Bible study, where others g...

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/rom.6.23.NLT We love free gifts. However, the fact that the gift comes from an entity claiming to be God makes many pull back. Why? We are not comfortable with an entity claiming to be God when we like to think control sits with us. We have controls for our entertainment, our games, our computers. Many in the West are indoctrinated with the gospel of self. We are believers in democracy and protest when it fails. Whereas people who live in tolitarian governed countries obediently toe the line. We showed this during the many terms of lock down. Many rebelled against being told what to do and joined the ongoing protests in our major cities. Remember, yielding control and admitting Jesus just might be God but His offer of salvation is a bit rich. Why I am perfect! Why do I need a saviour? Oh the same of it all! May the Lord forgive us our arroga...

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/rom.6.23.NLT We receive wages for work, we receive a crop for sowing. It depends on who we work for and what seeds we sow. If we work for our human lusts for greedy gain, it results in death and emptiness. Many are the stories of unhappy and empty wealthy, many take their own lives. Conversely, if we work for the Lord and His kingdom purposes, sowing good deed and giving to godly pursuits, then life and peace are ours. An Old Testament scripture puts things plainly: today Input life and death before you, choose life that you might live (Deuteronomy 30:15 abbrev). Here Moses is instructing the children of Israel in God's ways.  Choosing life is choosing Christ. The Old Testament reveals how people could not be good in themselves. Jesus came to rectify this. Jesus said, "Take up you cross daily and follow Me." (Luke 9:23) it is a...

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Philippians 4:6 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/php.4.6.NLT Remember to give thanks. Don't take blessing for granted. When constant blessing comes we can become blase'. Always be mindfully grateful because a grateful heart is not a complaining heart.  Be grateful for the little things and the big things will follow!  Remember to tell God what you need and thank Him for the provision in advance. Pay it forward! Amen!

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Philippians 4:6 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/php.4.6.NLT The writer Paul goes on to say: 'and the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus'. Peace is important to us. It is what we all long for. True, lasting peace is found in Jesus Christ. He told the crowds in Jerusalem, 'Come to Me all who are weary, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light'. (Matthew 11:28-30) If ever you want a teacher, you want one who is humble and gentle. Jesus does not require us to earn our salvation, but rather to trust that His sacrifice is enough. He paid the debt for our waywardness. We will never be good enough. Trust Him! More than ever today is a ...

He gives strength to the weary and strengthens the powerless. Youths may faint and grow weary, and young men stumble and fall, but those who trust in the Lord will renew their strength. Isaiah 40:29-31 Trusting in the Lord makes for an exciting testimony. Exciting testimonies are attractive to empty souls. The life of faith is an adventure.Think of Paul's writings. He experieced much affliction but it did not faze him, in fact it made him appear to be somewhat a buccaneer, a reckless adventurer. Whilst Paul thought nothing of hanging on to possessions, prestige or position, he boldly claimed a position of an adventurer for Christ. Although beaten, shipwrecked and rejected, he was unbeaten by it all. He lived for Christ and the gospel. I have Facebook friends who are much like this, as well as missionary friends in Japan and Nepal who lay down their comfort for adventure with Christ. I am drawn to adventure. You might say I have a missionary heart. Lay down the comfort, take up th...

He gives strength to the weary and strengthens the powerless. Youths may faint and grow weary, and young men stumble and fall, but those who trust in the Lord will renew their strength. Isaiah 40:29-31 Theses verses are part of a chapter in which the prophet reminds the people of the greatness and goodness of their God. He is faithful and true and worthy of our trust. In verse 29 he says: Do you not know? Have you not heard? Yahweh is the everlasting God, the creator of the whole earth. He never grows faint or weary; there is no limit to His understanding. Today I feel weary. I put in a long day yesterday to write an assignment but as I wait on the Lord I refresh myself. His power is better than coffee or a good meal. Whilst they nourish the flesh, waiting on the Lord refreshes the spirit. Care for your spirit today, nourish it in the Lord. Amen!

The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. 2 Peter 3:9 NLT Today I receive a call from good friends, they have COVID. I had been with them when they were infectious and therefore must isolate for a period of time. The major concern I have is that many of us were together that day, disassembling the Christmas decorations at church. However, the very next day the majority of us went to help another friend who has cancer and is in a terminal phase.No-one wants to be responsible for the death of another person.  Before I received the call I had been in prayer and worshipping in the Spirit. I knew God was up to something. After breakfast I walked to the supermarket to buy my dog some medication. On arriving home I received the call. My friends with COVID are fine, they have just a flu like experience. They are both double vaccinated. Many people ar...

The Lord does not delay His promises, as some understand delay, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish but all to come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9 In the verses prior to this Peter was writing about the end of all things and the destruction of ungodly men. How does God's patience with the ungodly affect me? Perhaps I have a role? I know I must pray and share my faith with those who do not know Him. Is there more? The way to know the more is to ask the Holy Spirit for His more. What role would He have me in place for this year? I am a representative of Christ. How would He impact my world? Yesterday I spent 5 hours with some ladies who did not know the Lord. We were playing some board games, talking, and eating. They were lovely ladies and I pray my God's love on them. They were gracious, patient and kind. How can I bring God's love to them? I know I must be adventurous and go, not choosing reticence and being lazy. It is so easy to not bother, to seek comfort, bu...

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Philippians 4:6 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/php.4.6.NLT This morning I had a dog scratching, my ears ringing, and the need to hear correctly as I spending the day with people I needed to talk to. I also had two phones with dead batteries. My dog is fine, I heard everything I needed to hear, even with people wearing masks, my phones are in the process of being sorted. To top it off I am about to receive a battery operated mower, a new garden fork (a good one), and a new floor mat (one with memories). Tomorrow I start back at UNI. I am so looking forward to seeing what God will do in and through me. I am blessed! Amen!

Don't worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition let your requests be known to the Lord, and the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus(Philippians 4:6,7 HCSB). This scripture is a timely reminder to pray and trust the Lord for the answers. We are entering a worldwide spread of COVID 19. in Australia the latest variant Omnicron has taken off like wildfire. Now that the vast majority of the population are vaccinated the authorities have withdrawn almost all restrictions and are sitting back watching, and I hope praying. My dog has developed a nasty scratching habit, with a black stain spreading across his legs and abdomen. Without help he will need to visit the vet when they open tommorrow. For some reason my ears are ringing quite loudly and I am about to spend the day with a few unsaved ladies, hoping to share Christ with them. I will need to hear to be able to converse with them. These three needs ...

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 I am so grateful for Google maps. Gone are the fights, frustrations of relying on a cumbersome paper based map. Generally, the Google Map is accurate, even if the voiceover makes me giggle when it comes to Australian road names and places. We need maps and guides. If we travel we need directions,  unless we live in an area and know it intimately. In life we need guides. Today one of my pastors admitted needing to see a Christian psychological counsellor, annually. I was gobsmacked. However, on reflection,  if that what it takes to keep a marriage together, then go for it. Daily I rely on God's word for direction. I also rely on the prompting of the Holy Spirit to lead me. Going alone can be fraught with difficulty. Find the Holy Spirit's guidance, ask for it and read your bible. You have the tools. 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 When I need a light to read by or a light for my path into the darkness outside,  I turn on the light on my phone (almost everything is there nowadays). It would be foolish of me to stumble around in the dark, I could fall over unseen obstacles. The word of God is the lamp I run to in life. When challenged in a new way, the word of God has an answer. Daily new challenges arise and daily I need guidance.  Why am I so in need of guidance? I want what brings life and what is right for my life. Much will come my way and challenge my heart. It is usually people but blessings that come also need management. Is this right for me now? Will this be for my good or my destruction? Does it fit the life God has for me? I cannot bumble along and fall over hidden objects just because I did not use my torch. God has given me all I need for life and godliness(2 Peter 1 :...

“But forget all that— it is nothing compared to what I am going to do. 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 43:18‭-‬19 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.43.18-19.NLT Paths in the wilderness sounds great. However, remember you have to be in a wilderness for a path to be needed. Don't resent the wilderness, embrace the time as a time when God reveals Himself in a more unique way. Wildernesses, storms, valleys and fires are all chances ro see God's greatness. Amen!

“But forget all that— it is nothing compared to what I am going to do. 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 43:18‭-‬19 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.43.18-19.NLT This year is the year of breakthrough and fulfillment! No more struggle! I speak this over my life and my world. It has already begun! Our God has called us to a walk of faith, faith speaks into nothing, and calls into being what was not. In doing this we turn aside from the past failures and pain, and look boldly to the future, without self-pity or remorse. This year is a year of creation,  success and overcoming! This year sees an outpouring of God's grace and goodness. Souls will come into the kingdom of God, a new thing in God will spread like wildfire. Amen!