The day with dianne Louise

“Never doubt God’s mighty power to work in you and accomplish all this. He will achieve infinitely more than your greatest request, your most unbelievable dream, and exceed your wildest imagination! He will outdo them all, for his miraculous power constantly energizes you. Now we offer up to God all the glorious praise that rises from every church in every generation through Jesus Christ—and all that will yet be manifest through time and eternity. Amen!” ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭3‬:‭20‬-‭21‬ ‭TPT‬‬ What can God’s miraculous power do in me? Far more than I could ask or think. For greater is He that is in me that he that is in the world ( 1 John 4;4). I have be blood-bought, rescued, made holy by Him. As I abide in Him He fills me with His dreams and leads me into greater exploits. Dreaming great dreams in Him are an adventure. He is mighty and able to do far more than I ask or think! Amen!

“Never doubt God’s mighty power to work in you and accomplish all this. He will achieve infinitely more than your greatest request, your most unbelievable dream, and exceed your wildest imagination! He will outdo them all, for his miraculous power constantly energizes you. Now we offer up to God all the glorious praise that rises from every church in every generation through Jesus Christ—and all that will yet be manifest through time and eternity. Amen!” ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭3‬:‭20‬-‭21‬ ‭TPT‬‬ What is ‘all this’? Paul says: “And I pray that he would unveil within you the unlimited riches of his glory and favor until supernatural strength floods your innermost being with his divine might and explosive power. Then, by constantly using your faith, the life of Christ will be released deep inside you, and the resting place of his love will become the very source and root of your life.” Ephesians‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Not bad! In fact very good! Supernatural strength I claim. I have a full day ahe...

“Recite this scroll of the law constantly. Contemplate it day and night and be careful to follow every word it contains; then you will enjoy incredible prosperity and success.”  Joshua‬ ‭1‬:‭8‬ ‭TPT‬‬ This was God speaking to Joshua. We can see God wanted him to know the word. He wants us to know our bibles also. When we know our bibles and what it has to say about a matter and if we flow what it says, we will have success in that matter. Jesus taught us how to resolve matters with others: go to them first, then others, then the church if not resolved. We don’t do this faithfully. I found myself determined to do this but because I delayed I spoke to another person about it first. Wrong! Today I spoke to that person and resolved the matter. I should have done it sooner!  Another thing we must be careful of is others warning us about people. Unless I see the problem with my own eyes I refuse to listen to others, and when I see for myself I confront, and determine the truth....

“There is a generation rising that considers themselves to be pure in their own eyes, yet they are morally filthy, unwashed, and unclean.” ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭30‬:‭12‬ ‭TPT‬‬ This is a warning. If we think we are clean but do the things Jesus said not to do, we are deceived. If we judge we will be judged. If we criticise we will be criticised. If we hate we will be hated. However, if we love we will be loved in return. Jesus though He was reviled did not return the behaviour. He prayed, ‘father forgive them for they know not what they do’.  Father forgive us our impurity, our sin that so easily deceived us into thinking we are pure. Cause us to come to You and seek Your righteousness and not be content with our own crafted in deceit. Amen!

“As for us, we have all of these great witnesses who encircle us like clouds. So we must let go of every wound that has pierced us and the sin we so easily fall into. Then we will be able to run life’s marathon race with passion and determination, for the path has been already marked out before us.” Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭1‬ ‭TPT‬‬ People wound us, and we wound people. The important thing is we forgive and are forgiven. If we say the Lord’s Prayer we cover both. ‘Forgive us our sins as we forgive others their sins’. I’ve returned from a blissful weekend away with a girlfriend who is similar in many ways. The Lord blessed us both. We both returned to a life that can create conflict. However, for both of us forgiveness must be first as is prayer for those who wound us. Wounds can come unexpected but they come through things others say and so, that is life. May we always be prepared to love and forgive. Amen!

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.” ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭1‬ ‭NLT‬‬ We all have fleshly tendencies unless we are walking in the Spirit. Judging and complaining are two that are common. I find myself doing these unless I am mindfully aware of my conversation. I don’t like them in others and therefore others must not like them in me. They are not helpful and can lead to offence and separation of friends. We then have routines playing or in our minds of what we can say to the person who has caused us grief. What happened to praying for the people and trusting the Lord for the outcome? Yesterday I found myself stuck here. I repented and prayed. I have a young Nepali paying  out guilt on me because I will not attend his fellowship group, telling me I do not care or love he and hi...

“But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God.” Acts of the Apostles‬ ‭20‬:‭24‬ ‭NLT‬‬ It is no good starting a project and quitting before the end. I know that the Lord wants as many as possible to hear the good news. Therefore, I must complete the task He has given me. I attended university for four years to prepare for this mission and now I am having Nepali language lessons. This will help me speak to those He draws. Today I went on a bush trek and hurt my left knee. There is no way I will allow this to stop me. I also attracted about eight leaches. I did enjoy the bush though. My nature does not give up. I praise God for that because He gave it to me. We had trekked downwards for about 2.5-3 km and came out on a paved road but did not know where it led. We asked a local and he said it is about a 35minute walk ‘that way’. ‘That way’ was uphill. I mana...

““But whether I live or die is not important, for I don’t esteem my life as indispensable. It’s more important for me to fulfill my destiny and to finish the ministry my Lord Jesus has assigned to me, which is to faithfully preach the wonderful news of God’s grace.” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭20‬:‭24‬ ‭TPT‬‬ From the start my desire when in Nepal is to go to the people that are not reached. However, I have been foiled by others who saw opportunity to take me places they wanted to go.  When God gave me a vision of a business to start I thought I’d perhaps eaten something wrong. I said, ‘that’s crazy but if it is you I’ll do it’. I immediately researched the idea and even went so far as to find out how to set up a business to be told ‘you need to pay the government $5,000,000 rupees’. You might say that stopped the searching. However, I knew that if I found a business established years ago before this rule came iin, I might have a chance. Yesterday I found the link. My new American friend has such a c...

“So fight with faith for the winner’s prize! Lay your hands upon eternal life, to which you were called and about which you made the good confession before the multitude of witnesses!” 1 Timothy‬ ‭6‬:‭12‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Today I travelled with a friend on a scooter to a place called Nagarcot, 31kms from Kathmandu, however, our Google maps extended the trip by 40km by sending us in the wrong direction. But, ah what a lovely diversion. We eventually arrived at our resort and booked in to find the booking was mismanaged and they wanted to change it. We pressed with evidence and they complied and gave us a beautiful room with twin beds and a gorgeous balcony looking out towards the majestic Himalayan mountains. We had come away to rest and pray. We did a study on rest and talked about what that meant to each of us. We discovered that God had placed in each of us a similar vision and we excitedly talked about future mission trips to the north to isolated people groups. My friend is an American woman...

“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 In chapter 6 Paul addresses many things, he deals with false teachers and lust for money. He encourages Timothy in verse 11: “But you, Timothy, are a man of God; so run from all these evil things. Pursue righteousness and a godly life, along with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness.” 1 Timothy‬ ‭6‬:‭11‬ ‭NLT‬‬ What are the evil things? Lusts for worldly riches: “For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows.” 1 Timothy‬ ‭6‬:‭10‬ ‭NLT‬‬ I have watched the Lord bless people and them say, ‘but I want more!’ There is a balance. When we walk with the Lord enjoying all He gives us with contentment and doing our work well is all that is needed. God is in charge of the abundance. Why do ...

“Remember to stay alert and hold firmly to all that you believe. Be mighty and full of courage.” ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭16‬:‭13‬ ‭TPT‬‬ The next verse says: let ove be the motivator for all you do. Gulp! Yes! Love not revenge or offense. We can easily offend, therefore we need love to handle when others are offended by things we do. I cannot ensue nobody is offended by me, however I can ensure that I stay in love and attempt to work things out, if possible. As people I do not know can be offended by the words I write, I cannot help that unless I am being downright antagonistic. I am sure Paul was referring to those we know and do life with. These are the ones we are called to love. These are the ones who need our love. Amen!

“Remember to stay alert and hold firmly to all that you believe. Be mighty and full of courage. Let love and kindness be the motivation behind all that you do.” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭16‬:‭13‬-‭14‬ ‭TPT‬‬ We are able to stand firm to all that we believe as we allow love and kindness motivate us. We find love as we stay in a strong relationship with our God. His love fills us and compels us. Kindness flows out of love. I cannot will myself to be loving and kind, the love I need is the god-kind of love. That love is only found in Him. Lord I praise You for giving me Your love, I thank you for Your presence and strength. Thank You for giving me Your Son. Thank You for giving me Your Holy Spirit. Thank You for this day when I can seek You and find You in all Your beauty. Amen! https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=qZaxmFO2Txg&si=i2hRgqAKKlPldMlz

“I am humbled and quieted in your presence. Like a contented child who rests on its mother’s lap, I’m your resting child and my soul is content in you.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭131‬:‭2‬ ‭TPT‬‬ This psalm speaks of contentment in God’s presence. I can attest that this is so. His presence is enough, His presence answers all questions. I can understand why Job lost all of his questions when the Lord turned up. This morning the Lord began to undo me. He showed me He was removed the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. This tree hindered my simple faith in Him. He gave me a song to look up and learn to play: No Longer a Slave to Fear. The actual words He gave me were, ‘you unravel me’. Praise Him! Tonight I went to a worship night at the Bethesda coffee shop and I spent a glorious time in worship and prayer. I was partnering in healing for a mass of people somewhere. It was so good. So many miracles. Tomorrow is Friday, I am glad to see it arrive as I am needing a good rest. However, I have enjoyed c...

“When you abide under the shadow of Shaddai, you are hidden in the strength of God Most High. He’s the hope that holds me and the stronghold to shelter me, the only God for me, and my great confidence.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭91‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭TPT‬‬ In Nepal I carry an umbrella in my backpack. As the rain comes at the most inconvenient time I also keep a raincoat in my backpack. As I ride on motorbike taxis this raincoat is imperative as rain will sleet down when in mid-ride. For me this verse reminds me of my heavenly umbrella. My God is my protector. He shields me from all evil that would want to take me out. I trust Him to protect me. He is my comforter, He is my warmth. I praise God for the Holy Spirit as He represents all my God is for me. Praise Him! Amen!

“I long to drink of you, O God, to drink deeply from the streams of pleasure flowing from your presence. My longings overwhelm me for more of you!” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭42‬:‭1‬ ‭TPT‬‬ New Testament believers are so blessed to carry the presence of God within. As we worship our God the Holy Spirit joins with us. What a wonderful we have together. I love my times with the Lord. His presence is so real and wonderful. As I speak the Lord’s Prayer intentionally I fell my Father’s love. Tonight I have bible study and will join with many souls to worship the Lord. Our fellowship will be sweet.

“I long to drink of you, O God, to drink deeply from the streams of pleasure flowing from your presence. My longings overwhelm me for more of you!” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭42‬:‭1‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Alcohol is not a patch on the Spirit of God. His love is more fulfilling and refreshing than cool water on a hot day, than warm soup on a cold day.  This psalm, written by one of the ‘sons of Korah’, is filled with a longing for God, presence. He is being taunted by his enemies and temporarily cut off from the ark of God. Although he is depressed by his circumstances he reminds himself of better times. He has disciplined his heart to wait for God.  I can do this! Complaining will not be my portion. I will rejoice in my God for He is good. His love goes before me and in fact surrounds me.  Today is the day for the funeral for my son in law’s father back in Tamworth NSW Australia. I cannot be present, however my church at home is facilitating the service. May Chis find his place in the Lord’s presence f...

“Our love for others is our grateful response to the love God first demonstrated to us.” 1 John‬ ‭4‬:‭19‬ ‭TPT‬‬ A response to genuine love is an abundant love for others. Do you remember falling in love? The world was greener and you floated on a cloud. I remember the day I met Jesus, I was the happiest girl alive. This was my first love. Jesus had a word of rebuke to the church at Ephesus in the Book of Revelation, they had lost their first love and He threatened them to find it again or He would remove their lamp stand. That is a heavy word! May I take this to heart and find it again. I was so grateful to have finally met Him, gratitude filled my heart. May gratitude carry me forward. May I remove everything that blocks gratitude and may I shine with His love. Amen!

“We love each other because he loved us first.” ‭‭1 John‬ ‭4‬:‭19‬ ‭NLT‬‬ We can think of ourselves as a loving person, and maybe we are inclined to be a touchy feely person. However, when people are their worst we discover the truth. Unless the love of God courses through our veins we avoid difficult people and turn to those we find it easier to love. The Lord impregnates our hearts with love for a particular group of people. For me they are the weak, old, frail, young children, and Nepali. I see the lostness in th eyes and the desperate need for a saviour. Last night my flatmates returned from a walk gushing with joy. They had a divine appointment with a Hindu family who showered them with gifts from their field. They are now determined to share their greatest gift with their new friends, Jesus. Whist I have my heartfelt need to pray for and seek to speak to certain people the Lord also surrounds me with those who are troublesome, and a challenge. I know that to serve these well I ne...

“You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.” Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭5‬ ‭NLT‬‬ When I think of the greatest challenge Jesus faced and kept His attitude right, I think of the last supper when He tells His disciples He is struggling with what He is about to face and they start arguing about who is the greatest. About here we would all lose our calm, if it was still intact. However, Jesus sees an opportunity to teach them a very good lesson. He washes their feet. Washing feet was a role for the lowest of low servants. Yet, here was their master washing their feet. He finalised it with, ‘ the greatest of all should be the servant of all’. Although He had warned them that they would all desert Him, they failed to register. Peter even argues that even if all the others would run away, he wouldn’t. Jesus corrects him, prophesying that even before the rooster crowed he would deny Jesus three times, and he did. Jesus showed us the way. We need to serve one another, not just those from who...

“Abandon every display of selfishness. Possess a greater concern for what matters to others instead of your own interests. And consider the example that Jesus, the Anointed One, has set before us. Let his mindset become your motivation. He existed in the form of God, yet he gave no thought to seizing equality with God as his supreme prize. Instead he emptied himself of his outward glory by reducing himself to the form of a lowly servant. He became human! He humbled himself and became vulnerable, choosing to be revealed as a man and was obedient. He was a perfect example, even in his death—a criminal’s death by crucifixion!” Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭4‬-‭8‬ ‭TPT‬‬ We rejoice when we see those considered great sportsmen and women humble themselves. We make much of film stars who give away much of their income. Yet, the greatest man, Jesus, the Son of God, emptied Himself of His position and all His authority and power to come to earth and live as we live. He lived an obedient life and served us,...

“Again, I give you an eternal truth: If two of you agree to ask God for something in a symphony of prayer, my heavenly Father will do it for you.” Matthew‬ ‭18‬:‭19‬ ‭TPT‬‬ A symphony of prayer, what a beautiful connotation. When our prayers are in harmony our God turns up. Surely this should be our goal! As I prepare for a weekend away in prayer, worship and fellowship next weekend, this will be my goal, to create a symphony. I love music and the idea that I create a symphony is appealing to me. Lord I welcome You to show us how to prepare for next weekend. Show us how to bless Your heart as we spend time with You! Amen!

“For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.” Matthew‬ ‭18‬:‭20‬ ‭NLT‬‬ How to attract the Lord: meet together with two or three others to fellowship. Daily my flatmates and I do bible study together, then we pray. Hunger for our God is not always evident, but when it is, He is there. Next weekend a friend and I are going away for the weekend to do a retreat. I believe spending time with God is the best refreshment we can find. My friend has been serving in Nepal for 16 years. We have chosen a beautiful place 31kms from Kathmandu. I have found a good study plan and am looking for worship songs to take along. When our purpose is seeking God He is delighted and makes an appearance. Finding Him is most satisfying. Amen!

“It takes a grinding wheel to sharpen a blade, and so one person sharpens the character of another.” ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭27‬:‭17‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Character is not a given, it is formed in the furnace of life experiences and relationships. It is how we react to life’s problems that creates habits and habits are the stones on which character is formed. Character speaks to the submission and obedience to the hand of God. Rather than reacting and rebelling good character submits. I live with two young Nepali women who are sisters. The elder tends to come across as a bossy boots type of personality. I have been that person, I am no longer that person. However, not reacring to a bossy person still challenges me. Gratfully, the woman is learning not to boss with her speaking, we are both working things out. Praise God!

“As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭27‬:‭17‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Iron is not usually used to sharpen iron, a whetstone is. However, I had two grandfathers who were butchers and ai still remember them sharpening their knives, either one against another or against a sharpening rod. It is not a quick and easy process, it takes time and effort. Friendships sharpen each other over time. I had three friends visit yesterday. Two were a couple and one a single man. Both sets have a different effect on me. All are Christians. I have another friend whom I will walk with later today, a new female friend who has been in Nepal for 16 years. Her dedication and committment to the Nepali people speaks to my heart. I have two female friends who I share our flat with. We are more active in sharpening each other. We come from different perspectives in life and have conflict, which when resolved sees us all sharper. All the above are people I do life with. I have newer friends who I am...

“As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭27‬:‭17‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Iron is not usually used to sharpen iron, a whetstone is. However, I had two grandfathers who were butchers and ai still remember them sharpening their knives, either one against another or against a sharpening rod. It is not a quick and easy process, it takes time and effort. Friendships sharpen each other over time. I had three friends visit yesterday. Two were a couple and one a single man. Both sets have a different effect on me. All are Christians. I have another friend whom I will walk with later today, a new female friend who has been in Nepal for 16 years. Her dedication and committment to the Nepali people speaks to my heart. I have two female friends who I share our flat with. We are more active in sharpening each other. We come from different perspectives in life and have conflict, which when resolved sees us all sharper. All the above are people I do life with. I have newer friends who I am...

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor:” Ecclesiastes‬ ‭4‬:‭9‬ ‭NIV‬‬ Two definitely can employ greater effort than one, unless one is used to going alone and makes no room for the mate. Sharing the load is wiser, as two minds, two hearts and two spirits have a greater capacity. I see many women who tag along after their husbands. Sure sometimes you are to be a support structure, a safe, soft place, however, by seeking God perhaps there is a better place beside the man. John and Lisa Bevere seem to do this well. Two spirits focussed on serving together is definitely a good plan. The Father, Son and Holy Spirit work together. One alone does not carry the load. Time to rethink?

“Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.” Ecclesiastes‬ ‭4‬:‭9‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Whilst I agree with this scripture and am not a loner, I have stayed single for 21 years because the Lord told me to wait for Him. He has shown himself to be my other person. I have come to know Him and appreciate Him as a faithful God. His love sustains me. His strength emboldens me. When everyone else has an agenda that is their own, He is trustworthy. His agenda is my best in Him. As I seek His opinion and His direction I am sure of the path I am on. When others fail me, He does not. He is good! Amen!

“Give generously and generous gifts will be given back to you, shaken down to make room for more. Abundant gifts will pour out upon you with such an overflowing measure that it will run over the top! The measurement of your generosity becomes the measurement of your return.” Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭38‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Today is language class our teacher had to leave the room and asked us to practice pronunciations of words on the board. I jumped up and conducted the class, and then invited the other students to take a turn. When successfully accomplished we all roared our delight. The teacher returned delighted that we had be so attentive. Praise is cheap but highly valued by others. Acknowledgement of others is not difficult but highly appreciated. Little moves are valued more highly than we imagine. Make someone’s day and bless them with involvement and praise. Amen!

“Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.”  Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭38‬ ‭NLT‬‬ When Jesus said, ‘the amount you give will determine the amount you give back’, He was serious. It works for good and bad. If we are mean to others, meanness will come back to us not in equal measure but, pressed down, shaken together, running over. Conversely, if we are generous, generosity will be returned to us in abundance. This applies to words spoken, acts done, attitudes displayed. Giving relates to all acts: giving a smile, an encouraging word, making time, giving finance, giving space, even thoughtfully making cookies. I have a friend who is gluten-free and I made her a batch of peanut butter cookies. She loved them. She had shared her banana cake with me and I reciprocated with cookie, in abundance. However, I did not share the cooki...

“So we can say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?” Hebrews‬ ‭13‬:‭6‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Today was my second day at the offical Nepali Language college. I was a little concerned that my hearing is not the best, but I was determined to eat deafness for breakfast. The room was ghastly. It echoed badly and we needed an overhead fan. I wear a hearing aid and it picks up fan noises in an unwelcomed way. However, I had prayed that I would hear and understand my teacher, and I did. I also discovered the lack in all my fellow students was equally disturbing for them. I sat next to a young Korean girl who spoke neither English or Nepali. She communicated with the teacher via an Ap on her phone. I could see that there are other disadvantages apart from hearing difficulties. I led the cheer squad when we all had to introduce ourselves in Nepali. I have mastered ordering my motorbike taxi and am confident that I will progress. I am so grateful that t...

“Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised.” ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭31‬:‭30‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Raising young girls to love the Lord and obey His commands is important. I have two granddaughters and both have been raised in a Christian environment. The youngest has a father who passionately loves the Lord. As I write this I think back to my own daughter at four in the back seat of my car praying with me in tongues so that we could get a break in the traffic. We lived in an estate that was bordered by a busy road and at times it was busier than others.  Parenting as pastors can be tricky. Peopel always want your attention and your children can learn to be quiet and not speak up when they also have a need. I think this was the case for my daughter more so than my son. As a consequence she pulled back. We can spend so much time before a mirror as women and try to make ourselves presentable to those we meet. Often times women waste time and money on...

“And later Isaiah spoke boldly for God, saying, “I was found by people who were not looking for me. I showed myself to those who were not asking for me.” Romans‬ ‭10‬:‭20‬ ‭NLT‬‬ We no -Jews are those that this scripture references. I am so glad our God decided to graft us into the vine. For thousands of years the only people God dealt with were the Jews, now, through Jesus the gates have been opened to all. Praise God! For thousands of years the Jews believed that God onky inhabited the borders of Israel. However, He is bigger than that. David said,  “I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave, you are there. If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me.”  Psalms‬ ‭139‬:‭7‬-‭10‬ ‭NLT‬‬ David had discovered that God indeed inhabited areas outside of Israel. During his time of evading Sa...

“For “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans‬ ‭10‬:‭13‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Note this says, ‘everyone’, not ‘someone’. As we come to the Lord and seek Him, genuinely seek Him, not offhandedly seek Him, we will find Him. There were two criminals crucified with Jesus, one sought Him the other reviled Him. The one who sought Him was saved the other condemned. Jesus is the way, the truth and the Life, no man or woman comes to the Father but by Him. However, who so ever who calls on His name, will be saved. We had a family visitor stay over last night. I pray she is blessed by the atmosphere in this house, the presence of the Lord. I pray she finds Him as her source and life. She attended our bible study and prayer. Praise God! He is life no other gods have life. Amen!

“I waited and waited and waited some more, patiently, knowing God would come through for me. Then, at last, he bent down and listened to my cry. He stooped down to lift me out of danger from the desolate pit I was in, out of the muddy mess I had fallen into. Now he’s lifted me up into a firm, secure place and steadied me while I walk along his ascending path.” Psalms‬ ‭40‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭TPT‬‬ This picture talks of a loving Father and a small child. We watch many video clips of small children falling into danger and heroic parents who come running to save them. Our Heavenly Father is like this. He loves us more than any earthly father.  Today I saw a clip of a dog which fell into an icy pool. The owner, a woman ran and jumped in to save the dog. She had no considerstion for her own welfare, her sole focus was to save her dog. How much more than a dog are we worth? My flatmates and I have had the honour ministering to one of their ill relatives who is a young married Hindu woman. She has ...

“I waited and waited and waited some more, patiently, knowing God would come through for me. Then, at last, he bent down and listened to my cry. He stooped down to lift me out of danger from the desolate pit I was in, out of the muddy mess I had fallen into. Now he’s lifted me up into a firm, secure place and steadied me while I walk along his ascending path.” Psalms‬ ‭40‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Waiting is not fun: waiting at hospitals, airports, government departments (immigration) can be deadly boring and frustraring, but can also be a time to seek the Lord. Recently I waited for four hours in immigration for my visa stamp. They tussled over the lack of stamps on my college receipts but finally gave way and approved them. While I waited I read my bible Ap. It kept me centered and spoke life into my heart in the waiting. Waiting on God is fun in a retreat with others. A girlfriend and I are planning a retreat to a lovely part of a Nepal in two weeks, just for the weekend. I have a beautiful w...

“Love is a safe place of shelter, for it never stops believing the best for others. Love never takes failure as defeat, for it never gives up.” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭7‬ ‭TPT‬‬ A safe place is needed by children and the elderly, the injured and frail. Warriors and soldiers know how to venture into dangerous places with wisdom and bravery. However, eventually they will need a safe place when injured or needing rest. Even surrounded by enemies we have a safe place in our God. He creates a table for us amidst our enemies (Psalm 23). He knows He can protect us, He knows He is God supreme and Lord over all. Satan and demons are under His feet. Our heart is safe with Him. We can trust Him not to abuse us. While all mankind may fail us, He won’t.  Oh praise the name of the Lord our God oh praise His name forever more, for endless days we will sing Your praise oh Lord, oh Lord our God (song). I believe in You, I believe You rose again, I believe in Jesus Christ our King (song). Amen!

“Love is a safe place of shelter, for it never stops believing the best for others. Love never takes failure as defeat, for it never gives up.” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭7‬ ‭TPT‬‬ I praise God for dreams. Through dreams He shows me good outcomes. This encourages me in prayer. He is displaying His love for me and those I am praying for. As His love is steadfast, I can rely on it to be a safe place to shelter. Of all creatures on the earth none are forever faithful and steadfast (dogs come close). Because my God’s love is steadfast I am safe telling Him my all. I do not need to hide anything. When failure comes I may be discouraged but He is not. He sees through His Son. All things are possible through Jesus. If I take this view I place my trust in the Holy Spirit and not a person. The Holy Spirit takes my prayers and trust in Him and goes to work. He is faithful and mighty. Today I must place my trust in my God and not myself or others. We may fail But He will not.

“Love does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out.” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭6‬ ‭NLT‬‬ We see injustice everywhere. Corrupt governments steal from the poor without consideration for their lives. Religious fanatics persecute those of different faiths, not stopping to consider the brutality they are enacting. However, there is a better way. Our God’s way is reconciliation, love and forgiveness. Restoring broken lives is His speciality. Bringing the crushed into a relationship of love, forgiveness and healing as opposed to persecution is His way. Who will we represent? Whose children are we? Seek truth and rejoice in it!

“Love does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged.” ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭5‬ ‭NLT‬‬ True love is not selfish demanding it’s own way. Carnal love is very selfish. Our God is not selfish, He wants what is best for us. Choosing what is best for us is wise, for best is God’s best, not our best. God’s best involves maturity, giving up what we want for others, when it is best for us all. Self-discipline involves making right choices not pandering to our flesh. Our flesh wants to be spoilt, not be disciplined. Discipline is good. It is best we do the disciplining and not leave it to others. If we are stubborn we could end up losing all we cling to.

“It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged.” ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭5‬ ‭NLT‬‬ The worst part about memory is we remember well the wrongs done to us and recite them when needed. The best thing we can do is actively pray for those memories to fade and actually pray for the ones who hurt us and thank God for the good they taught us. Thankfulness has turned many bad memories about my father to good memories. Maturity and experiences has given me insight into many of my father’s actions. Alrhoufh a Catholic my dad did not have a good relationship with ahis Heavenly Father until the last years of his life. I was instrumental in that because I chose to forgive and confront sin. Thankfulness changes things, it bring the Holy Spirit into every bad situation and shines the light. He is waiting to be released into your life, start thanking The Father for all the good that now exists in your life, for being your strength, for being your Heavenly F...

“Love is large and incredibly patient. Love is gentle and consistently kind to all. It refuses to be jealous when blessing comes to someone else. Love does not brag about one’s achievements nor inflate its own importance.” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭4‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Jealousy is tied to pride and fear of man. When we expect to receive attention and someone else gets it, we are affronted. Being humble enough to step back and clap the other person takes grit. Hungering for attention comes when we are deprived of it from parents and those we respect. When we crave attention and someone else gets it, it hurts. However, learning that we are loved by our Heavenly Father fills that need. The love this passage talks about is all about the love our God has for us. That love is patient and kind and never jealous or boastful. God is secure in who He is. As we get to know Him we become secure in His love and start to love others the same way. The best thing we can do for ourselves and others is get to know our ...

“Love is large and incredibly patient. Love is gentle and consistently kind to all. It refuses to be jealous when blessing comes to someone else. Love does not brag about one’s achievements nor inflate its own importance.” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭4‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Paul says the following about boasting: “For: The one who boasts must boast in the Lord. So let’s be clear. To have the Lord’s approval and commendation is of greater value than bragging about oneself.”  2 Corinthians‬ ‭10‬:‭17‬-‭18‬ ‭TPT‬‬ I am mindful that Jesus had His Father’s approval: “Then suddenly the voice of the Father shouted from the sky, saying, “This is my Son—the Beloved! My greatest delight is in him.”  Matthew‬ ‭3‬:‭17‬ ‭TPT‬‬ I can rest in my Father’s approval, He loves me, He made me unique and gave me gifts to use for the benefit of His church. In myself, and from my own devices I can do nothing, however, as I walk in what He wants for me, I am blessed and favoured. I am blessed and highly favoured of the Lo...

“God has transmitted His very substance into every Scripture, for it is God-breathed. It will empower you by its instruction and correction, giving you the strength to take the right direction and lead you deeper into the path of godliness. Then you will be God’s servant, fully mature and perfectly prepared to fulfill any assignment God gives you.” ‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭TPT‬‬ God’s word empowers us by instruction and correction found in His word, the Bible. As God inhabits scripture ‘it is living and active sharper that any two-edged sword piercing bone and marrow, spirit and soul, revealing the innermost thoughts and intentions’( Hebrews 4:12).  “Let the word of Christ live in you richly, flooding you with all wisdom. Apply the Scriptures as you teach and instruct one another with the Psalms, and with festive praises, and with prophetic songs given to you spontaneously by the Spirit, so sing to God with all your hearts!”  Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Do you get the messa...

“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.”  2 Timothy‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭NLT‬‬ We need to open our hearts to the truth contained in scripture. Reading for the sake of ticking a box devalues its power and robs us of transformation. Jesus is the word of God. As we read we find Him and His heart pulsating wirh love for us. We cannot miss an opportunity to find this love. By embracing the whole truth contained in scripture we allow it to correct us and redirect our focus. By finding Jesus in scripture we come alive to truth. Scripture is not a dead letter written by dead men, it is alive with an eternal life waiting for us to feast. Psalm 23 tells us our saviour prepares a table for us in the midst of our enemies. They are forced to watch divine fellowship and know what they...

“For the perfect Light of Truth was coming into the world and shine upon everyone. He entered into the world he created, yet the world was unaware. He came to the people he created — to those who should have received him, but they did not recognize him. But those who embraced him and took hold of his name he gave authority to become the children of God!”  John‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬-‭12‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Jesus was the perfect light of truth. Imagine being in the presence of total truth. You could trust every word that came from His mouth. When you were unsure of truth, He had it. There is authority in that truth, life in that truth, and peace in that truth. I have a friend who is in hospital here in Nepal, she is in a lot of pain and the doctors are doing a range of tests. She does not know if she can trust them, however, she has a spiritual son who has been with her since he was born. If he says she needs a thing, she trusts his word and does what he says. The longer we walk with Jesus the more we realis...

“So be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the Lord!” Psalms‬ ‭31‬:‭24‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Being strong for steadfastness sake is important. Knowing what is right to do and failing to do it is sin. Sin pollutes our hearts and minds as well as distancing us from our God. Therefore, being strong in our relationship with Him, trusting Him to be enough in purity is good. Jesus stayed pure for us and went further in obedience giving His life for us. We do not need to nail Him again to the cross in our unbelief that He is enough. The above verse is from a psalm of David, he also wrote in the same psalm: “I am dying from grief; my years are shortened by sadness. Sin has drained my strength; I am wasting away from within.” (Verse 10) ‭‭ Sin causes us to waste away from within. Therefore, let us confess our sin and come near to God. Amen!

“So be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the Lord!” Psalms‬ ‭31‬:‭24‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Being strong for steadfastness sake is important. Knowing what is right to do and failing to do it is sin. Sin pollutes our hearts and minds as well as distancing us from our God. Therefore, being strong in our relationship with Him, trusting Him to be enough in purity is good. Jesus stayed pure for us and went further in obedience giving His life for us. We do not need to nail Him again to the cross in our unbelief that He is enough. The above verse is from a psalm of David, he also wrote in the same psalm: “I am dying from grief; my years are shortened by sadness. Sin has drained my strength; I am wasting away from within.” (Verse 10) ‭‭ Sin causes us to waste away from within. Therefore, let us confess our sin and come near to God. Amen!

“In the beginning the Living Expression was already there. And the Living Expression was with God, yet fully God. They were together—face-to-face, in the very beginning. And through his creative inspiration this Living Expression made all things, for nothing has existence apart from him! A fountain of life was in him, for his life is light for all humanity. And this Light never fails to shine through darkness— Light that darkness could not overcome!” John‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭5‬ ‭TPT‬‬ I think I prefer this version: “In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.” John‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭5‬ ‭NLT‬‬ The reason I prefer NLT is it refers to Jesus as the Word of God, in Genesis 1 it is all ...

“But as for you, be strong and courageous, for your work will be rewarded.” 2 Chronicles‬ ‭15‬:‭7‬ ‭NLT‬‬ These words were a part of a ‘word from the Lord’ to King Asa of Judah, who ruled from around 911-870 BC. Asa succeeded his father Abijah. He was a godly king for 35 years and then became arrogant and jailed the prophet of the Lord for rebuking him in around his 36th year of reigning. He brought Judah back to the worship of the Lord and removed corrupt worship practices however he tolerated heathen gods. The above word was given him at the beginning of his reign and he had peace for 36 years. In the 36th year he had an enemy come against him and he did not seek the Lord but resolved it by taking all the gold and silver from the house of the Lord and his palace and giving it to Ben-Hadad of Aran who ruled in Damascus to create a treaty and have him assist Asa against his enemy. It worked but the prophet Hanani came and rebuked him and Asa became angry. God’s word said,’ because you ...

“I will send the fulfillment of the Father’s promise to you, so stay here in the city until you are clothed with the mighty power of heaven.” Luke‬ ‭24‬:‭49‬ ‭TPT‬‬ The mighty power of heaven was in the manner of the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. He came upon them with fire and wind; their spirits came alive and they began to speak in unknown tongues and tongues of foreigners current in Jerusalem. As they were unlearned the fact that they could speak languages they had not learned was a miracle. A greater miracle was the boldness of faith in which they operated. The baptism of the Holy Spirit is still available today. Speaking in tongues is a part of the package, as is bold faith; miracles, words of knowledge; words of wisdom; discernment of spirits; healings; prophesy. All gifts are available to those who seek them for the ministry of the gospel. Working with the Holy Spirit is a real privilege. We do not control, Him but submitting to His control is a wild ride. Try it! Amen...

“While they were still discussing all of this, Jesus suddenly appeared right in front of their eyes! Startled and terrified, the disciples were convinced they were seeing a ghost. Standing there among them he said, “Be at peace. I am the living God. Don’t be afraid. Why are you so frightened? Don’t let doubt enter your hearts.”  Luke‬ ‭24‬:‭36‬-‭38‬ ‭TPT‬‬ In a culture that believed in ghosts seeing someone who was dead would cause you to fear. Not understanding the full measure of scripture and what Jesus had been telling His disciples caused them to think naturally. Knowing that the same people who crucified Jesus could easily come for you would cause an amount of fear also. When we don’t understand all there is to a matter, we can be caught in doubt and fear. When we find ourselves in a difficult place we can tend to rely on what we know rather than reach out to God for the more. In the more is spirit and life. Once the disciples understood scripture, as Jesus took time to enlig...

“So now, beloved ones, stand firm, stable, and enduring. Live your lives with an unshakable confidence. We know that we prosper and excel in every season by serving the Lord, because we are assured that our union with the Lord makes our labor productive with fruit that endures.” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭15‬:‭58‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Nepal is not fully plunging into the Monsoons. Heavy rain began in the night and continues all day today. Whilst this is the season of abundant new growth it is also the season of floods. My flatmates tell me that in this season these is no need to go hungry. There is an abundance of new shoots from various plants. I have now eaten pumpkin vine shoots; many plants we would consider as weeds in Australia are also eaten. This is a time of new learning. One week tomorrow I begin to attend language school, the trip there takes 35-45 minutes on a motorbike taxi. This may also be a very wet period of time for me. It will be a time of making new friends from all corners of the world. To...

“So now, beloved ones, stand firm, stable, and enduring. Live your lives with an unshakable confidence. We know that we prosper and excel in every season by serving the Lord, because we are assured that our union with the Lord makes our labor productive with fruit that endures.” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭15‬:‭58‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Our labour in Christ is productive through our union with Jesus; for apart from Him we can do nothing. I am labouring in the learning of the Nepali language, it is hard, harder than I imagined, however, as I take a step at a time it is absorbed into my consciousness. I am learning the language so that I can communicate with the Nepali people and do whatever work the Lord tasks me with. I have one work: translation of David Pawson’s teaching videos, however the work to date had been fraught with difficulties. My translator has gone from too busy to work to quiet, and wants four times the work. This means four times the cost for me. I know that if God is in this He will provide. He...

“Jesus said to them, “You seem to be in a deep discussion about something. What are you talking about, so sad and gloomy?” They stopped, and the one named Cleopas answered, “Haven’t you heard? Are you the only one in Jerusalem unaware of the things that have happened over the last few days?” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭24‬:‭17‬-‭18‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Cleopas and his friend were sad and gloomy because they misunderstood prophesy. Can it be that we also misunderstand scripture and words over our own lives, and become disillusioned and miserable when our expectations are not met? These men had the living Son of God walking beside them, their heart were buring as He spoke, but still they did not understand until God opened their eyes. We cannot take scripture and prophesy out of context, causing misery for ourselves and others. One misunderstanding of scripture in my life time has been the timing of the retun of Jesus. Just as a Cleopas and his friend had expected Jesus to come as the king to deliver Israel from Roman ...

“Terrified, the women fell to the ground on their faces. The men in white said to them, “Why would you look for the Living One in a tomb? He is not here, for he has risen!” Luke‬ ‭24‬:‭5‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Why indeed would you look for the living in a tomb? As Jesus foretold He rose from the dead. Jesus’ mother Mary was one of those who went to the tomb. She, also, did not understand that her son would rise from the dead. Many years ago, when I was a child, my grandmother was pronounced dead and moved to the morgue. She startled a worker when she sat up alive on the trolley. I agree it would have been terrifying. Unfortunately, this grandmother lived in self-pity and eventually died an alcoholic. It was my father’s grandmother who was a godly woman. She lived to an old age, a woman of prayer. Jesus is a living God. He said of Himself: I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life, no one comes to the Father but by Me (John 14:6). He is all we need. When we are lost, He is the Way, when we doubt, He is th...

“Now, the “Lord” I’m referring to is the Holy Spirit, and wherever he is Lord, there is freedom.” ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭3‬:‭17‬ ‭TPT‬‬ The trick is to know where the Holy Spirit is moving. In Nepal many Nepali pastors want you in their churches. Whether it is a status thing or a financial thing I am not sure. However, where the Holy Spirit is that is where there is freedom for me. I have been attending a bible study group with a pleasant bunch of people. However, yesterday before the bible study I spent time with some on fire Pakistani refugees and experienced the gift of prophesy moving on me for the first time in 6 months.  The husband of the family was a spirit filled pastor who happened to be writing a book about the Holy Spirit. This experience caused the latter one to pale. Being with the Holy Spirit is better than being with nice people. In September I fly home to Australia to attend two conferences. Both are on-fire conferences and I am praying into those experiences. I want to...

“Jesus looked at him with sorrow and said, “A kiss, Judas? Are you really going to betray the Son of Man with a kiss?” Luke‬ ‭22‬:‭48‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Judas had walked with Jesus, lived in union with Him for three years, been given the responsibility of the treasury, been annointed to go and preach to the lost. Yet, here he was leading the haters to capture Jesus. This he did with the sign of a kiss. A kiss is intimate. When we greet family and dear friends we do so with a kiss. We do not greet enemies with a kiss, they barely rate a handshake. How could Judas stoop so low? He had been intimate with Satan that’s how. How long had he harboured attitudes that he hid? How long had offence been allowed to grow in his heart? If we harbour offence, bitterness, disillusionment in our hearts we are fodder for our enemy. Many can be offended at God not blessing them as they thought He would. Many can be offended at brothers and sisters in Christ for misdemeanours gone unchecked. Offence leads to betraya...

“But Peter said, “Man, I don’t know what you are talking about.” And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed. At that moment the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Suddenly, the Lord’s words flashed through Peter’s mind: “Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.” And Peter left the courtyard, weeping bitterly.” Luke‬ ‭22‬:‭60‬-‭62‬ ‭NLT‬‬ How bad would this have been? Fear caused Peter to deny Jesus. When Jesus looked at him, how hard would that have been? The realisation that you have denied the man you said you would follow to death, to see the eyes of that man. Have you ever denied someone you said you would defend? Have you given up family or friend to their enemy? Peter would have been greatly depressed and unable to forgive himself, yet Jesus did forgive him. After Jesus rose from the dead He made time to have a special breakfast with Peter by the lake and ask him three times, ‘do you love Me’? Each time Jesus ...

“Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.” Then an angel from heaven appeared and strengthened him. He prayed more fervently, and he was in such agony of spirit that his sweat fell to the ground like great drops of blood.” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭22‬:‭42‬-‭44‬ ‭NLT‬‬ I am so grateful that these passages are recorded. I have experienced times when it was as if heaven came to spend time with me before a disaster or difficulty or accident occurred. I remember, particularly the day my mother had a stroke. My time with the Lord that morning was particularly beautiful. Even when I sat to have my breakfast I sensed a divine presence sitting with me. It was a Sunday morning. The presence strengthened and encouraged me. Within 30 minutes my mother had a stroke. It was a difficult time but one we came through with God. I could see my mother had lost strength down her left side but with the right medication, within three days she walk...

“Then, accompanied by the disciples, Jesus left the upstairs room and went as usual to the Mount of Olives. There he told them, “Pray that you will not give in to temptation.” Luke‬ ‭22‬:‭39‬-‭40‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Jesus knew what stress the disciples would soon face and warns them to pray. However, they fell asleep, and subsequently ran away, Peter faced the temptation to lie and succumbed. When the cock crowed he was grief stricken as he recognised that Jesus was right and that his self-confidence was flawed. We also need to pray so that we do not enter temptation. Prayer is not just an afterthought, or a repetition of the Lord’s Prayer, but rather a lifestyle of prayer. A life bathed in prayer has no room for deception and doctrines of demons. Being in good fellowship with others also allows us to be exposed to cross-examination, and the truth. Reading God’s word puts it as the centre of truth for our lives. After Pentecost we see the disciples live differently, they were made alive and on fir...

“Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat. But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail. So when you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen your brothers.” Luke‬ ‭22‬:‭31‬-‭32‬ ‭NLT‬‬ This is the first time Jesus has so directly discussed the effect of sin with His disciples in so personal a way. He had said, ‘repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand’, He had forgiven the woman caught in adultery and told her, ‘go and sin no more’ but as for the disciples, and more importantly, Peter, it was the first. He had rebuked him with ‘get behind me Satan’, when Peter tried to counsel Jesus not to talk about the cross, but had He spoken these words to Peter or to Satan who was influencing Peter? I suggest He spoke to Satan. Jesus spoke to Peter about his denying he knew Jesus. Peter could not believe he would do such a thing, he protested and said, ‘even if all of these forsake you, I won’t!’ Peter had a view of himself that had n...