The day with dianne Louise

“Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross.” Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Humility allowed Jesus to complete His mission. He agonised over the final act, He knew it would be painful and that He could not use His power to stop it. However, one of the very temptations Jesus faced at the beginning: throwing Himself from the temple so that a legion of angels would pick Him up, He refused and replied, “it is written, you shall not tempt the Lord Your God”! We will be tempted to use what God has given us to use in the service of His Kingdom, for ourselves or to arrogantly appear powerful and gain glory for ourselves. All glory and all honour belongs to the Lord! Today I met my Wycliffe representative and told her I would really like to serve in Cairns. I went there last year in December and loved it. The role a...

“Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross.” Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭ My desire is to know the One who created all things and serve Him for all eternity. Whilst fleshly desires press me and people tug at my heart, my God woos me. He is worth all! Last night I studied astronomy as I am conducting a presentation tomorrow night. The more I study Astronomy the more I desire to meet the Lord and talk to Him face to face. When I see the flowers and birds He created I am drawn to His beauty. His love is in all He has created.  The fish in the sea also speak to me of Him. How wonderful and amazing is our God! How glorious beyond words He must be. Praise Him all you heavenly beings and all creatures here below. Praise Him! He gave His all for me, I can give my all for Him. Amen!

“You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!” Isaiah‬ ‭26‬:‭3‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Jesus is my keeper, He keeps me in peace as I worship and praise Him. He is my sustainer, my victor, my vindicator and more. Today my old friend messaged me to say “thanks”. Her blood test retuned a favourable reault. She is also grateful for the peace that came her way after I prayed for her yesterday. Disagreements arise when we act with carnal thinking and strategies. When we allow God to rule and reign we overcome. My astronomy friends are divided on project loyalities. I pleaded with them to talk face to face rather than via email. The rain stopped today, and so Oscar and I went down along the river for a walk. I played a game with my grandson but spent a lot of time researching astrophysics for my presentation Saturday night, along with a good music practice, as I am team on Sunday. Db is a difficult key to play in, lots of flats. So, practice, practice, practice. S...

“You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!” Isaiah‬ ‭26‬:‭3‬ ‭NLT‬‬ We can let our minds wander or be captured in a place that is detrimental to us. Fear and anxiety are the most common trap. However, lust, anger and offence are others. We have an enemy who sees to trap us. He is a master trapper and has minions working for him who are also experienced trappers. They are unimaginative, but persistent. In our Christianity we have the imagination to dream God dreams and access to heaven. We must proactively go there and not be trapped in earthly thinking. My old friend is captured by anxiety and fear. I prayed for peace to enter her heart, however, unless she proactively apprehends faith in Jesus she will be caught in the whirlpool again and again. We must also apprehend faith in Jesus and keep our minds on Him. Jesus faced fear and anxiety for us, He also faced lust and greed, offence and anger, yet He did not sin. If He has already faced ...

“Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets.Matthew 7:12 NLT Today I had an 'others day'. I hemmed pyjams for my old friend, took her to a doctors appointment, gave chicken vegetable soup to a sick neighbour, went and watched my nephews play soccer in the rain and then went to band practice. The weather is cold, rainy and miserable. However, inside it is nice and warm. A good day to stay inside, but hey! Standing in the rain with an umbrella, watching my two favourite nephews battle it out on opposing teams was fun. People need to know that are special and loved. What I sow comes back. I had the best time visiting my son and his children last week, it was special. God is good! Thank You Lord!

““Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets.” Matthew‬ ‭7‬:‭12‬ ‭NLT‬‬ This verse, in some bibles begins with a ‘therefore’ and comes after verses describing how God the Father gives good gifts to His children.  It infers generosity towards others. God is our example. Forgiveness must be the centre of our attitude. If it is at the centre then annoyance and offence at others is overridden with generosity. It is also the centre when Jesus also teaches: if a man demands your shirt, give him your cloak also ( Matt 5:40). To be able to behave like this you must be secure in God. He is your source and supply. Amen.

“Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the Lord.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭27‬:‭14‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Well! I never thought it would happen, and it did. I promised my grandson I would play his computer game when I returned home. Today I did. Time flies! I didn’t feel like eating dinner so a teaspoon of peanut butter sufficed. Now I know why the whole family was hooked playing this game while I was there visiting. However, gaming was not all I did today, and will not be my lifestyle, it is a waste of good time. I helped at the Astronomy Club as we hosted a school visit over three hours, I went to the bank to finalise an account dropped off goods to a friend, and bought petrol. I did some computer work and wrote emails. Best of all I listened to Utube sermons and had time with the Lord. Waiting without anything to occupy oneself is a hazard. Not a pleasant experience at all. Waiting with joy takes effort, praise helps, and so does a Christian radio station. God is good! We...

Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the Lord. Psalm 27:14 Oh how I don't like to hear this! I have waited almost 20 years for God's answer in one part of my life and 4 years in another and while I wait I am turning into Abraham (as in aging). Yet, what alternative do I have? Wait in good spirit! The previous verse says it all: 'I am certain I will see the Lord's goodness in the land of the living'. Hope has to contain me, faith has to keep me and His love for me must satisfy me. 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

For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation. There’s no regret for that kind of sorrow. But worldly sorrow, which lacks repentance, results in spiritual death. 2 Corinthians 7:10 NLT Today I met with my old friend,  I asked her if she had been reading her bible. She replied,"I've been too busy!" I replied that giving God 15 minutes first thing in the day will ensure her day goes well. She was not interested. I admonished her that she is still trying to work her day out herself and causing herself grief.  I watching this old lady struggle under a huge load of infirmity,  yet she will not come to Jesus for help. When she does her sorrow in not godly, rather worldly. I fear for her eternity,  it does not look promising. Have mercy Lord! Today I applied for a position with Wycliffe as a Sociolinguist. Nothing else was available. Amazing that! I pray for the opportunity to bring souls to know Jesus. Come Lord Jesus!

“For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation. There’s no regret for that kind of sorrow. But worldly sorrow, which lacks repentance, results in spiritual death.” 2 Corinthians‬ ‭7‬:‭10‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Godly sorrow, for me, was a result of a divine encounter with the Lord. He convicted me of my sins, this brought me to true repentance and a desire to change. Prior to this all sorrow was empty, I had no way out, I could see no release. We have an enemy that shamed us, this is a mental experience. Whereas, conviction is in the heart. I had a problem with shame from my youth and still have to discern where it is coming from. Once recognised I can rebuke it and move on in God. I must respond to Godly sorrow and not harden my heart, as this is deadly and will not result in life. Amen!

Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matt 6:21 Today I enjoyed being back at my church. I enjoy the Lord's presence and His word. Ps Darren was back preaching again after almost 9 months, due to being wrongly accused of indecent assault. He was cleared in court on 9th June. The church rallied around him, but he was made to not function as he had for so long. We are enjoying having him back on deck again. After church I talked to a woman who works in a jewellery store. She had many fine gems on her person. I was not jealous as it has been almost 20 years since I gave all mine away and now wear a ring my daughter gave me, a silver locket with family photos inside and an assortment of valueless stud earrings, and I am content. I do not need gems where I am going. I do not need to Invite thieves. Heaven is my greatest treasure. Amen!

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭21‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ Constantly I struggle to put God before people, fear, and finance. The desire for my family tends to crowd out obedience to the Lord; the fear of the unknown tends to stop me from trusting the Lord and the knowledge that I’ve had prophetic words about me and finance and my disire to support the Lords work and His people tends to try and push itself forward and want centre stage. However, they all must bow to obedience to the Lord. He has the best plans. Nothing is more important than the Lord and His kingdom ourposes. He has a unique plan for each of us. No matter how small we feel, we are overcomers through Christ who strengthens us. His ways are best. Amen!

Why am I so depressed? Why this turmoil within me?put your hope in God, for I will still praise Him, my saviour and my God. Psalm 42:11 I have just retured home after a lovely week with my son and his five children. We had a lot of fun, a few traumas,  but lots more fun. I caught up with my daughter and her son Moses as well. I have come home to a quiet empty house and know which I prefer, the noise. I anticipate my future will be even noisier as I go to work in missions among lots of children.  Thr Lord accomplished a lot in me. He showed me how I had allowed myself to be bullied, also He showed me the importance of fighting for reconciliation. I am grateful! Now I await my niece who is coming to stay overnight. A small amount of noise.

Why am I so depressed? Why this turmoil within me? Put your hope in God, for I will still praise Him, my Savior and my God. Psalms 42:11 HCSB Why do we become depressed? Often when things don't go according to how we believe they should, when we are rejected, when rotten things keep happening. As a Christian I have hope, My Saviour Jesus Christ is the answer to all my concerns and needs. Yesterday I let Wycliff know I am ready to serve as a missionary in Australia in the Indigenous communities. I sensed a release.  I had started to love my life in Tamworth and was reluctant to leave. I had lunch with my son and he said, "Mum you did all the training. If not now, when?" That was all I needed to refocus. Failure to move in faith can cause depression. The antidote is stepping out in faith. Faith conquers fears.  Don't stay in depression, go. Amen!

“Teach a youth about the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭22‬:‭6‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ Today I caught up with my daughter and her son Moses. My continual prayer for my family is that they would know Him and walk in His ways. I had trained up my daughter in God's ways,  and for a time she walked away. However,  God had His hand on her.  Today, she is fully aware of what walking with God means.  Now it is her turn to train her children.  Childhood training is not enough, prayer, continual prayer is also important. Amen

“Teach a youth about the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭22‬:‭6‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ I have many youths around me at present; my grandchildren are as tall as timbers. While they teach me to play computer games I teach them diligence in doing tasks. My daughter in law has been away all wekk but I can see the training they have received. The five of them share the housework. Each day their tasks rotate. However, when it comes time to remember to hang out the washing, games interfere, that’s where I come in.  My focus is doing jobs before pleasure. My son is showing his children what a praying father looks like. He has his time with the Lord every morning and has gone to paper-based bible study to keep away from distractions. I commend him for it. His eldest who is now 17 has his own smart phone and needs to also follow in his father’s footsteps. I am grateful that I trained my son and now he is training his children. I am grateful that my Heavenly ...

“Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained by the world.” James‬ ‭1‬:‭27‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ In our modern society there are many orphaned children, basically because their parents are struggling with alcohol or drugs. Thus the need for Foster Homes. There are many single women, through divorce, separation or death of a spouse. Because we live in a society that pays income support the responsible families refuse to assist their parents. Selfishness has a lot to do with the situation. If we had a God fearing society this would not happen. May the hearts of the children be turned to the parents and may the hearts of the parents be turned to the children. Amen!

“Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained by the world.” James‬ ‭1‬:‭27‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ We can be so occupied with ourselves and our world that we fail to see those who need us. Consumed with bitterness we become angry when our world is upset, all the while failing to see the need of others. Yet, our Heavenly Father wants us to open our eyes and ears to His heart. His priority needs to be our priority, His heart our heart.  A world of enetertainment, shopping and holidays can be an empty world. A more fulfilled world is giving ourselves to protect others.  Today let us open our eyes, repent, and seek the Lord! Amen!

And I pray this: that your love will keep on growing in knowledge and every kind of discernment, so that you can approve the things that are superior and can be pure and blameless in the day of Christ. Philippians 1:9-10 Knowing what is superior to be approved requires discernment. Paul told the Cossians 3:2 to set their minds on things above, not earthly things. Earthly things include earthly wisdom, earthly discernment, earthly love. We can run around like cats with firebrands attached or stop, look and listen.  What is God saying? What does His word say? It is important that we consider His opinion before reacting.  Amen!

And I pray this: that your love will keep on growing in knowledge and every kind of discernment, so that you can approve the things that are superior and can be pure and blameless in the day of Christ, Philippians 1:9‭-‬10 HCSB Have you ever thought of love having knowledge and discernment? This is a challenging concept. This is not a drifting, go with the flow  concept, it involved intention, thoughtfulness and work. How do I work at refining my love? I choose to make it a subject of study and consideration. Mostly, we consider it a feeling we experience.  A parent disciplines the child out of love, knowing that the best they can do for their child is lovingly reprove them. It hurts the parent as much as the child, but the results are the best. Our Heavenly Father applies loving discipline to our lives much the same. We do not always understand until it is over. So then, the challenge today is to think about love in this light, how can I improve my love?

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you.” Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭33‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ A seeker is someone or thing that has a eager and definite purpose in acting the way they do, as in hunger.  What we seek determines what happens next. If we seek evil, we will find it. If we seek goodness and the source of that goodness, we will find it. However, if we are not ardent then we will fail to find what we seek and instead we may find a counterfeit. As the devil parades as the angel of light this is easily done. Jesus said, “Seek first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness”. If first we seek the source of truth, we will find safety, a truth that will sustain us and keep protected. Seek first His kingdom! Amen!

Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and  all these things will be added unto you (Matt 6:33). The things we focus on will determine which kingdom we are seeking. Righteousness only comes from God. We can carve out our own version but it will be full of holes amd not hold water. God's righteousness, on the other hand, is solid and does not rust or rot. How do I seek righteousness? How do I attempt to create it? These questions I must ask myself. Seek first the kingdom,  means what it says. First is first, there is no equal. Accepting that my own righteousness is just fthy rags is smart. Nothing justifies me like being a child of God, nothing else cleanses me. Why do I attempt to create my own righteousness? Because, perhaps I have not fully understood the gift given to me, God's righteousness. It is all that is needed. I am right with my God, that is all that matters. Amen!

“Everything is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation:”  2 Corinthians‬ ‭5‬:‭18‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ There are times I would rather not have this role. This is especially true with offended family and friends. When confronted with anger I do not manage so well. I start to be intimidated and flounder with my reasonings. The end result is a debilitating sense of failure and inadequacy. I do not like the victim mentality and this confrontation brings back to the surface bad memories. Today I decided to face  my own fears and failures and see through to the other side. I can not help people if I cannot face my fears. Many who know me would not think me fearful as I usually attack and confront willingly. However, when it comes close to home I struggle. It was the home front that let me down and where I was made to look a fool. My prayer is that the Holy Spirit sets me free. I am sure He will, this is His ballpark. Amen!

“Everything is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation:” 2 Corinthians‬ ‭5‬:‭18‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ A counsellor often works to reconcile people who are separated by disagreement. Those who do not have the Lord in their hearts are removed from Him though unbelief, offence, or ignorance. We who know Him can act as mediators and bring reconciliation . What a joyful pastime. Mind you it can be frustrating. I find it thus at time. People can be caught by their enemy in places that blind and bind them. We need the Holy Spirit’s enpowerment and discernment when we work to reconcile people. The Holy Spirit is the best counsellor, the best reconciler know to man. Work with Him! Amen!

“And he will turn the hearts of fathers to their children and the hearts of children to their fathers. Otherwise, I will come and strike the land with a curse.”” ‭‭Malachi‬ ‭4‬:‭6‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ Our heavenly Father’s heart has always been towards us. However, He showed how much He loves us with one amazing act, sending His Son. By sending His Son we saw the nature and heart of God. He was full of compassion for the broken and hurting and admonishment for the Pharisees.  Jesus told a parable of the Prodigal Son and how the Father had looked out for Him and waited for His return. On His return the Father ran to welcome the son home. This is how the Father’s heart is towards the children. John the Baptist came calling people to repentance so that they would be ready for Jesus. John was the one Malachi spoke about. God is good! Amen!

Look I am going to send you Elijah the prophet before the awful day of the Lord comes. And he will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the hearts of the children to their fathers.otherwise I will come and strike the land with a curse. Malachi 4:5-6 This is an interesting chapter.  It is the last word from God for four hundred years, and then John the Baptist come preaching repentance and the coming of Jesus. Repentance has a way for returning hearts to the ways of faith, the restitution of family relations.  There is coming a great and dreadful day, the day of judgement at the end of time as we know it. Does the promise of returning hearts towards one another give us something to be gleaned? In the current outpouring of the Spirit are hearts being restored? One would hope so, they are being restored to godly truth, which is good.

Be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. Luke 6:36 HCSB My heavenly Father is merciful in that when I fail and slip up, He doe not condemn me. Paul highlights this in Romans 8:1: for there is therefore no condemnation  for those who are in Chriet Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but the Spirit. We could ask the question: how can you be following the Holy Spirit and slip up? We slip up when we take our eyes off the Lord and His ways; then our enemy corners us with noise, and we react badly. Quick repentance saves us and bri gs us back on track. Knowing that a repentant heart is all that is needed, not lengthy penance.  I am grateful for forgiveness. A real act of mercy is forgiving others.

“Be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful.” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭36‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ Showing mercy to sinners is what God is about. Paul even showed mercy to sinners in the churches he started by allowing, after a time, for the perpetrators of the sin to return to the church. Wisdom is knowing how and when. Repentance must be evident. However, Paul tells us: will we were yet sinners Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). Jesus paid teh price for all sun, past and present. He forgave us all our iniquities. Nothing is left out. We are clean by the blood of the lamb. ‘There is power, power, wonder-working power in the blood of the lamb’ (song). The power of the cross is deliverance from sin. We are given the power to run from sin. Amen!

Let no one despise your youth; instead, you should be an example to the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.1 Timothy 4:12 HCSB Timothy was instructed to not allow anyone to despise him. The reason was age, this could also apply in reverse. He was admonished to show godly character, in speech, faith,  purity and conduct. Showing a godly conduct, blesses ourselves, our God and those who associate with us. Godly conduct mimics that of Jesus. Although tempted, He did not succumb.  We have been given God's Holy Spirit, so that we might live in His power from within us. His power is enough for us. As Paul said, "flee youthful lusts" (2 Tim 2:22). I think lust is prevalent in all ages, so flee, all of you!

“Let no one despise your youth; instead, you should be an example to the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” 1 Timothy‬ ‭4‬:‭12‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ Timothy was a young leader.  This position, of being ignored, is often also the case for the elderly. I can see when the lights are out in people’s eyes. I saw it on Wednesday night. I am sure bright young people are considered too young to know anything, however, we all take our phones to them to have the young minds iron out the kinks. While many young preachers can be all noise and bravado, they might also have a portion of the Holy Spirit to impart. It is wise to wait and ask for godly hearing before we jump to conclusions. Older preaches can be also just noise. Always, seek God for what He is saying. Amen!

“The Lord is good, a stronghold in a day of distress; He cares for those who take refuge in Him.” ‭‭Nahum‬ ‭1‬:‭7‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ Each of us will experience a day of trouble, and in that time we will find the God of peace, if we seek Him with all that we have and not give into self-pity. Tonight I spoke to a person who had given up on God because her son died at a young age. I suspect she was a he, but now dresses as a she. She was bitter and had created a whole belief structure to agree with her bitterness. She said, “when I die, I will go out to space”. I said, “you will go into eternity and then find out where that is for you”. She halted and search for a clever response. I told her about my faith in God and offered to pray for her, she refused. I spoke to another man about praying to God for His answers about space. He also stopped before he went on. I pray that these folk think about eternity and what it means to them. My God is my refuge and stronghold in the day of trouble. No matter w...

“The Lord is good, a stronghold in a day of distress; He cares for those who take refuge in Him.” ‭‭Nahum‬ ‭1‬:‭7‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ A refugee is someone who has sought refuge, this makes all Christians refugees. The plight of refugees in the world’s system is atrocious, however, I can say that this refugee is cared for very well by the One I ran to. I understand many of God’s children are not so fortunate as wicked humans seek to destroy them. Having said that I have my beasts to slay, and slay them I will. Knowing that I can hide in the Lord’s stronghold blesses me.  God is good! He provides for all my needs, wipes away all my tears and comforts me in my distress. Not onky that He fills me with joy! Amen!

“Don’t collect for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. Matthew 6:19 HCSB Thieves leave you feeling physically abused. I have experienced a house break in, a car break in, a purse snatch and in Rome a loss of all money and cards. Each time it was very distressing. However, Satan has robbed me of family, a business, a home, a church and a husband. Now, I am fighting back. How much will we allow our enemy to steal before we take  stand? I know in my fight back I have overcome fear, learned to pray and won my children back, continue to pray for justice and am seeking compensation for my business. I no longer let my enemy steal my peace, my position as a child of God, and my protection as a child of God. The lessons have taught me what is really important. My God is first and foremost, then my children and grandchildren. My God is restoring all that the enemy has stolen. Amen!

““Don’t collect for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal.” Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭19‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ I recently downloaded a geocaching game to play with my little relatives, it entails discovering hidden treasure and following gps coordinates. The treasure you find are mere trinkets. The treasure that people collect are many and varied, from plates and cups of special design, ornaments, jewellery, bars of gold etc.  the treasure I have is the birds in the garden each day, the beautiful sunrises and sunsets, the little people I know, friends and family. Most I.portantly I ha e God'd Hoky Spirit, the very best treasure, and a relationship  with my God. I awoke around 3am and thought about Abraham, Elijah and Elisha especially. Abraham had given up all and followed the Lord and lived in a tent from when he was in his 70s until he died at over 100. Yet God gave him  cattle and treasure, he generously gave it to others and shared wha...

“But God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us!” ‭‭Romans‬ ‭5‬:‭8‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ Have you ever said, “Prove it!” To a person who declared they loved you? I am sure you have, or thought it. I have thought it often when I am told a too casual “Love you!” We know actions speak louder than words. We can speak too quickly words that are spent too carelessly. Genuine concern and consideration are important to us. However, when God says He loves us, He means it. His actions speaks volumes. He sent His perfect Son to pay the price for our separation from Him. By sacrificing His life Jesus also aid, “I love you! You are worth the sacrifice!” Jesus is enough! We are set free and brought into a loving relationship with Him. Amen!

“But God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us!” Romans‬ ‭5‬:‭8‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ We have moments of purity and times of failure. Some of our failures are bigger than others, but even then our relationship with Jesus is the same; He is the perfect one, the saviour, and we are the grateful recipients. As we start to get things right we can come to depend on our own ‘goodness’. Yet Isaiah tells us they are filthy rags (64:6). These filthy rags were menstural rags, so very smelly and despicable. Therefore, rejoice not in that you got away with sin but that you did indeed sin and were forgiven. This truth is the leveller. Every time pride in righteousness comes in, bam! We fall and need to repent. We so easily forget that our lives are about Jesus, not ourselves. We are good, because He is good! Amen!

“Love is patient, love is kind. Love does not envy, is not boastful, is not conceited,” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭4‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ I just read this scripture again and thought, ‘what exactly is conceited?’ It really is a result of pride and pride is the failure to humble oneself. I think I am able to do this, often. However, I also know how to repent, and am very grateful that I receive forgiveness for my arrogance. Today a neighbour posted a photo of a few bikie hoons in our street. I happened to ask if she reported the incident to the police, she had. However, just by engaging in this critical chatter I became a little too proud. It is so easy to become proud. I am grateful that Joyce Meyer also has a mouthy problem, but like me she knows how to repent. She accepts her mouthy downside along with her ability to speak. This helped me accept myself. This is where love being patient comes in. God is at work in each of us to change us into the likeness of His Son, He is at work, and does not give up...

“Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭4‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Patience comes when we lay down our selfishness for peace, annoying imperfections, intrusions. Children can be intruders in our desire for peace, time to exercise, time to do what we want. Yesterday, a girlfriend who works with displaced children, told me that parents dump their children on her work’s doorstep and say, “I’ve had enough, you can have them!” How can we throw children away like this? Yesterday, I also discovered that my nieces now live in a broken home. Only the Holy Spirit can give us the patience we need. We can only have that help when Jesus is our Lord. We just do not have it in ourselves . Making Jesus Lord is the single best thing we can do for ourselves and others. Amen!

“You are my refuge and my shield; your word is my source of hope.” Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭114‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Today I learned that my nephew and his partner have separated. Their children were at my home learning about the Lord and hanging out with Aunty Di and painting. The source of our courage and strength, faithfulness and rightness  is the Lord alone.  I realised only a few days ago that over time the Lord has taught me to empty out of fleshly reactions and allow Him to fill me more and more with Him. As a result His love often spills over in my life. Yesterday I discovered that loving family have returned to church. I am rejoicing that God is indeed working in my family. Today I want to see God moving in more and more of the areas I am praying for. He is indeed our source and supply!

“You are my refuge and my shield; your word is my source of hope.” Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭114‬ ‭NLT‬‬ God is our refuge when we are rejected and isolated; He is our hope when our circumstances are bleak, He is our hiding place when the enemy of condemnation comes against us, He is our saviour. The apostel Paul knew this well: there is therefore, no condemnation to those IN Christi Jesus, who walk after the dictates of the Spirit and not the dictates of the flesh  (Romans 8:1). IN Christ is one who is buried and raised with Him; we do not depend on our own goodness, only His alone. His goodness is enough for all mankind, for all time. I worship You Jesus, You alone are God. You are my refuge from my enemies, You are my righteousness, my hope, my future! Amen!

No oh people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: do what is right, to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8 What is right? Follow the Lord's ways, allow Him to be God in your life, love Him with all your heart, soul and mind and love your neighbour as yourself. Simple! Loving mercy ensure we do not abuse others, and walking humbly makes sure the Lord is first in all we do. This is enough, if love is our aim all else flows from it. Amen!

“Mankind, He has told you what is good and what it is the Lord requires of you: to act justly, to love faithfulness, and to walk humbly with your God.” ‭‭Micah‬ ‭6‬:‭8‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ The people of God were content with a showy practice; they offered sacrifices but neglected the weighty matters of the heart.  God can see past the front. He wants the heart. In Deuteronomy 10:12 Moses says,  ““And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you except to fear the Lord your God by walking in all His ways, to love Him, and to worship the Lord your God with all your heart and all your soul?” ‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭10‬:‭12‬ ‭ Jesus taught about the heart.   “The pure in heart are blessed, for they will see God.” Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭8‬ ‭HCSB‬‬  He operated from a pure heart and showed how to live a life in purity before God.   When asked by a ruler what was the most important commandment He cited the one above,  but went on the say, and the second is like it, love you neighbour a...

“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs it down, but a good word cheers it up.” Proverbs‬ ‭12‬:‭25‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ When we talk about carrying weight we usually mean flesh. Far too many of us are caught here. However, just as many carry emotional weight. They are troubled with guilt, shame, abuse, insecurities and more. Anxiety is a big one, it is related to fear. Today I had asked the Lord to use me in prayer for my pastor who was in court facing a fabricated charge. At about 1pm I received word that he was exonerated and the case was all over. This false charge had him out of ministry for 6 months, facing fears, especially the unknown. However, 3 weeks before the trial he said, “I will be back preaching in 3 weeks”, and he will be, this Sunday. Oh the joy he must be feeling! I felt like dancing, myself. I am so grateful to the Lord that He determined this enemy must stop, I sure did. Thank You Lord! Amen!

“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs it down, but a good word cheers it up.” Proverbs‬ ‭12‬:‭25‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ A good word can be a word of encouragement, an assuring word, a word from God. God continually speaks good words over us. Being one who delivers such good words can be a blessing? Where has God placed you? Do you have a voice? Use it for God’s glory. Build up, don’t tear down. Be generous with your voice. Amen!

“So we must not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don’t give up.” ‭‭Galatians‬ ‭6‬:‭9‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ Disappointment is a tool of the enemy, it is fuelled by unreasonable expectations. This also is a result of idealism. We can believe in fairy tales, waiting for the man on a white horse to rescue us. The only man on a white hourse that I am willing to trust is my saviour Jesus Christ. Otherwise, men are just as human as we females. Jesus told us to take up our cross and follow Him. Expecting a fairy tale existence is foolishness and smack in the face of our dead brothers and sisters who are persecuted for their faith. Endurance is something we are called to adopt. Hebrews 10:36 tells us: for you have need of endurance so that you might prove the will of the Father and receive what has been promised. Breakthrough has been promised. Why not endure and persevere to see the promise? Amen!

“So we must not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don’t give up.” ‭‭Galatians‬ ‭6‬:‭9‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ Good is not we emotionally feel is good, or plan with our own thinking. Doing good is motivated by the Holy Spirit working in our lives. Yesterday I finished uni, yay! I went for a hike up my hill, did a painting and on the way home was met by my Nigerian neighbour. We started talking and I told her I had finished uni. She asked me to help her with her studies, I said “I can do that!” When I find myself in foreign countries I rely on the inhabitants to help me with their language. I let my games group know I’d finished and they want to celebrate. I will make a ginger sponge roll to take. I know this will bless them. While I’m cooking I’ll make another for my neighbour’s birthday on Saturday. All of these people do not yet know Jesus as their saviour and Lord. Tonight I will attend my astronomy groups meeting. I am now able to serve and be involved looking for ...

“So faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the message about Christ.” ‭‭Romans‬ ‭10‬:‭17‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ Today was my daughter’s birthday and my granddaughter’s birthday. As both live in a affluent home, I decided to not send cards this year but SMS with a link to a song I believed would bless them. Both were Godly songs. Both songs were enjoyed.  In fact I heard one buzzing around in the Spirit most of the day. It was the one I sent to my granddaughter: Jesus is Coming by Jordan Feliz. It is a catchy tune and full of life. Songs have a way of connecting us. Songs speak to our hearts. I prayed that these songs ministered to my girls. This, for me, is much better than spending money on things that may not last beyond the month. Songs can be placed in music libraries and when they are played they will connect with memories. Give songs! Amen!

“So faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the message about Christ.” ‭‭Romans‬ ‭10‬:‭17‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ Last Sunday we had a visiting preacher who told how he had stepped out to invite his aunt (an atheist) to read the scripture with him. She agreed and eventually came to faith.  I thought to myself, “I’ll ask Kathy”. I did and she agreed. Kathy is my old friend who I’ve known for 9 years, shared much about what Jesus has done in my life, prayed with her and for her, yet, she still remained aloof. Now she is willing to read the Bible with me. I pray she finds faith. We find faith as we hear the scriptures read aloud to us. If we go to church expectantly we hear the word of God preached to us, faith meets the word of God and revelation, and healing comes. Therefore, our goal is to be changed into the image of Christ through hearing the word of God. Amen!

“Honor your father and mother, which is the first commandment with a promise, so that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life in the land.” Ephesians‬ ‭6‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ This is the only commandment, no 5, that carries a promise. I wonder why? Why is our length of life tied to our honouring our parents? Perhaps it is God’s way of ensuring respect for elders, of ensuring elders would be cared for perhaps. It is good for us to love and respect our parents. It is good for both oarties. Jesus honoured His mother and step-father but most of all He honoured His Heavenly Father. We need to do this also. I do not want to stand before Him knowing that I have not given Him the respect He deserves. Amen!

““Honor your father and mother.” This is the first commandment with a promise: If you honor your father and mother, “things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth.”” ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭6‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭NLT‬‬ This chapter in Ephesians deals with relationships between children and parents and slaves and masters. It finishes on a different topic; the full armour of God. Paul was an unmarried man who had no natural children. It is obvious that he had parents but they are never mentioned. It is also obvious that he had good role models. Paul exudes respect. He knows the scripture and teaches it with authority. I honour my dead mum and dad, God has helped here. My dad was a Catholic man who managed to father 6 children. The financial burden this created caused him angst and made him fractious. Yet, when I remember him I praise God for his steadfast love for my mother and his loyalty in his work environment, to his own mother and father and to his friends. It is good to be gra...

“Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me.” Psalms‬ ‭51‬:‭10‬ ‭NLT‬‬ It is amazing that a clean heart has a loyal spirit. A loyal spirit that does not cheat, criticise, backchat or denigrate. Loyal people are there, whilst rare, they are usually those who also love Jesus, really love Him, and put Him first. It is gratifying to know that I can have both a clean heart and a loyal spirit. Being loyal is a treasure to God and others. A loyal spirit is valued by friends and family. They can trust that you will speak well about them and not be two faced.  Lord I pray You work in me both of these! Amen!

Create in me a Clean heart, O God! Renew a right spirit in me. Psalm 51:10 https://bible.com/bible/116/psa.51.10.NLT When I awoke at 1am today I prayed that I might know today what was on God’s heart, rather than thinking about me, there’s the challenge. When I again woke at 5:30am to let my dog out, the enemy of my soul was ready with shame and condemnation. Sorry buster that is not the work of the Holy Spirit. He does not condemn me! The Holy Spirit reveals truth, as in lightbulb moments. The truth He reveals brings change and joy! Knowing more of God and His heart reveals Him and His purposes not me and my weaknesses. I enjoy His revelations! He is full of goodness, wholeness and joyful encounters! Amen!

“But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!” Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭NLT‬‬ After church and my nieces birthday party I returned home to be consumed with: Kepler’s Law; Newton’s Law to understand gravity. I returned home last night from Astronomy many questions. These laws explain them. Our creator God designed and executed a universe that runs according to laws. We should be aware of this when we assume grace has replaced law. It hasn’t, it fulfilled it. However, Paul said: the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set me free from law of sin and death (Roman’s 8:2). Live intelligently, being aware of the full truth and not lazily drifting and expecting all to work out because you are a Christian. Amen!

“But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!” Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Every tree produces fruit, a means of reproduction. It might be hidden: a root sucker, a fallen leaf germinating in the soil. Our lives produce fruit. Whilst it may not be obvious, it is there. If we are parents our behaviour in the home, towards our children and others are copied and produce the same fruit.  The passage above comes after Paul elucidating the works of the flesh. They are carnal and base. In the whole chapter Paul is dealing with foolishness in faith. The Galatians had stsrted strong in their faith and were now behaving like fleshly, carnal Christians trying to earn their salvation. We are given a free gift of salvation. It is ours to keep. It is our deliverance from working in the flesh, it is a cleansing from old sinful ways. By the power of ...

Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9 When we are afraid we cover ourselves. I notice some women heavily made up with make-up at soccer. I notice women my age done up to the nines,  It lookes out of place. We are  beautiful without the makeup, however deep inside we believes we are not enough without it. Conversely, my nephew played soccer today. He does not care how he looks, and is not driven by personal ambition.  I was impressed as he took turns in the position of goalie defence so that the guy in that position could run with the ball. That guy was good. However, my nephew was better because of his selflessness and kindness. My little niece, has no concept of giving to others just yet, I pray she will learn, she is only 8, but kindness can begin at any young age. Our God loves us, right to the core. Amen!

Thus is my command: be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9. Today I must listen to this command, we all must. Are you facing rejection from home or friends because of your stance for Jesus? You are not alone. Many are facing this, some are in jail or have been executed. As we stand firm for the gospel and what it defines in our slushy world, we will be different and ostracised. If our goal is acceptance and to fit in, we will be disappointed. There is only one fit for us, the true church of Jesus Christ.  Remember, He was rejected and despised for us. His whole family; sisters and brothers rejected Him until after the resurrection. Then things were different.  Keep alert and pray at all times for your brothers and sisters worldwide, they need you. Amen!

“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 When Jesus said, “It is finished!” He meant that all work to receive approval by God was covered. He paid that fee for us. We are to live in a trusting  relationship with Him, at rest. To do any more is to not be satisfied with His work, and say we must pay our bit. Now, whilst seated with Him in rest from that work, He May ask us to do a certain task for Him. For example: being observant of the need in our community, being friendly and showing His joy to all, and more. Today I did my first final essay in peace. I enjoyed it. Beforehand I took a birthday card up to my little niece who is 8 today. This afternoon I took a drive to collect a product that is normally delivered to me as I could tell the lady involved was unwell. While there I discovered her husband was suffering from a skin problem tha...

“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 How do I set my mind on things above? By refusing to participate in things down here that would destroy me. Around 1:30am I awoke from a fearful dream and fear was attempting to take my heart. I used the scripture: God has not given me a spirit of fear but Love, Power, and Self-Control (2 Tim 1:7). I then used controlled gratitude to put myself back to sleep. Whilst I had another wild dream, I have been reading a wild book for my exam today. Greed is another thing that will attempt to take us out.  We may not think we are in greed, however, if our mind is consumed with what we would do if we had a lot of money, it probably has.  If our mind is consumed with bitter thoughts, bitterness is attempting to set up home, kick it out and pray blessing on the person in view. Conversely, if we are cons...

“The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.” Psalms‬ ‭23‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Peaceful streams create an attractive picture. I have seen some beautiful photographs of Switzerland and there were many such streams. Whilst the green fields there are due to natural moisture, here it is aided by irrigation. These photos look inviting and remind us of our God’s promise of the future.  Winter time here is one time I long to be in a warmer climate near the sea. Snorkelling calls again. As I am about to start my last uni assignments, I am physically longing for completion and a rest. The sea beckons. There are times when we cannot escape a hard place. It is there to endure and overcome. In one week’s time I will be on the winning end, and looking forward to my trip north to Brisbane. One week is not too far away, not too hard to endure, just one week! Yes!!!

The Lord is my Shepherd; I have everything I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. Psalm 23:1,2 The Shepherd is in control,  He owns the flock, He owns the paddock. I am not expected to be in control of anything but my reactions and trust. A good shepherd knows where water is found, protection from predators,  restful places to lie down, and good food are in supply. The sheep have no capacity to do all this. Just the same I have no capacity to control all that is in my life, but He does. Praise Him! Today is a day to enjoy my Shepherd and trust Him! Amen!