The day with dianne Louise

“For the word of God will never fail.”” Luke‬ ‭1‬:‭37‬ ‭NLT‬‬ This verse is a part of the word that the angel Gabriel brought to Mary. Gabriel had told Mary that she was chosen by God to bear His Son, but that her elder cousin Elizabeth was pregnant. This verse follows. How did this verse apply to Elizabeth? Gabriel had appeared to Zechariah whilst he was on duty in the temple and told him his wife would bear a son. Zechariah had doubted Gabriel’s words and so was struck dumb for the time of Elizabeth’s pregnancy right up until John was born. As Gabriel had told Zechariah his son would be called John, this is what Zechariah insisted he be called, even though no one in his family had been called that before. As he wrote the name for those who asked, his mouth was opened. When God speaks to us, He keeps His word. We can delay His word or refuse it entrance. This is our choice, to walk in unbelief or faith. Zechariah’s problem was his lack of faith. Silence prevented him from speaking unb...

“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 John tells us that Jesus is the Word of God. He was the voice that spoke creation into being. We may not have thought about who did the creation, I used to think the Father did, but this tells us it was Jesus. Jesus told John in Revelation 22:13-15: ‘I am the Alpha and a omega, the first and last, the beginning and end’. He is everything! It is preposterous for us to claim God is not real or powerful. Satan would have us deluded and believing we are all we need. This is foolishness at best damning deception at worst. Jesus said, ‘I am the way, the truth and the Life, no man comes to the Father...

“From now on, worshiping the Father will not be a matter of the right place but with a right heart. For God is a Spirit, and he longs to have sincere worshipers who adore him in the realm of the Spirit and in truth.” John‬ ‭4‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Coming to God is not a formality, a duty but rather a glorious joyful encounter. Yesterday morning I prayed that the Lord would give me an opportunity to share Him with my neighbours. Before going to Bible study last night I went to the store to buy some snacks to share. When I returned an elderly Nepali woman was making her way up the steep road beside our flat. I cheered her on. She showed me blood results which I could read and see she had an infection. In Nepali I asked if I could pray for her, she responded in the affirmative, and so I did, right there. When I entered my flat my flatmates were sitting on the couch and I told them what had happened. I asked them to pray for the woman with me, and we did. At Bible study we also prayed for her....

““Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends.” Revelation‬ ‭3‬:‭20‬ ‭NLT‬‬ This scripture is often quoted in relation to the unsaved, however, on the contrary, it was spoken by Jesus to the church at Laodecia. If we read the full message to the church we discover that they thought they were doing well because they were rich, however Jesus said, ‘you are neither hot or cold, but you are lukewarm, I wish you were hot or cold but because you are lukewarm I will spit you from my mouth’ (Rev 3:15,16). The city of Laodecia was destroyed in an earthquake in 60AD.  The church in Laodecia sounds like many of the churches today, particularly in the West. We can learn from this lesson. Jesus is not only saviour, He is Lprd and will give justice (sometimes that justice is judgement).

“For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”” ‭‭Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭14‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Jesus was approached by a religious leader who asked Him, ‘what must I do to obtain eternal life?’  “Jesus replied, “What does the law of Moses say? How do you read it?” The man answered, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” “Right!” Jesus told him. “Do this and you will live!”” ‭‭the man then asked, ‘who is my neighbour?’ Jesus answered with a parable we call ‘The Ggod Samaratin’. Jesus showed the man that anybody needing our help is our neighbour. It is a good dialogue to read, Luke 10:25-37. We generally will help friends, family and possibly church people and work colleagues. These are all known to us. However the parables speaks about the unknown. Social media often shows clips of such people. We all applaud them. However, our Heavenly Father is lo...

“For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” But if you are always biting and devouring one another, watch out! Beware of destroying one another.” Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭13‬-‭15‬ ‭NLT‬‬ When Jesus was asked what the greatest law was, He said: ‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ Matthew‬ ‭22‬:‭37‬-‭39‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Loving God first will cause us to love others. Loving others as we love ourselves cannot come out of a carnal nature, it must come from a heart that is filled with the Holy Spirit. As we abide in Jesus, we are transformed into His image, and we are filled with His love with which we can love others. How ...

“Be imitators of God in everything you do, for then you will represent your Father as his beloved sons and daughters.” Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭1‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Little children exemplify this best. Thy copy their parents and people of influence in their lives. Their innocence is beautiful.  Jesus exhorted us to be as little children in the gospels.  “Learn this well: Unless you dramatically change your way of thinking and become teachable like a little child , you will never be able to enter in.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭18‬:‭3‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Paul exhorted his readers:  “I want you to pattern your lives after me, just as I pattern mine after Christ.” ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭11‬:‭1‬ ‭TPT‬‬ We can examine how Paul lived in the book of Acts and his writings in the various epistles. Humility and innocence are desirable and important. Amen!

“If you suffer for being a Christian, don’t consider it a disgrace but a privilege. Glorify God because you carry the Anointed One’s name.” 1 Peter‬ ‭4‬:‭16‬ ‭TPT‬‬ In John 9:1-3 we see the disciples ask Jesus ‘who sinned that this man was born blind, was it him or his parents?’ Jesus said neither, this was so the glory of God might be displayed!’ We can so easily judge someone who is suffering and assume they have done something wrong. It is easy to judge and even mock those who suffer. In our ease and complacency we can become hard to the suffering of others. However, God alone knows the full truth. In 1 Peter 4:15 Peter admonishes the readers of his epistle not to suffer because of wrong doing, but rather righteousness. If we suffer because of our own foolishness then we have ourselves to blame but if we suffer for Christ then we can rejoice. Amen!

“But it is no shame to suffer for being a Christian. Praise God for the privilege of being called by his name!” 1 Peter‬ ‭4‬:‭16‬ ‭NLT‬‬  Have a new friend who has suffered shame for being a Christian. She was expelled from Nepal because she had some Christian material and was a business woman. Her files were inspected and something was found to implicate her. Although she did not use her business to proselytise, this material implicated she did. She was cast out from the country she loved. I’ve been rejected by family because of my decision to serve God and not man. I know many who suffer physical abuse by family for being a Christian. There are many refugees in my church from Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and China. These dear people find a safe haven in Nepal, however, they are non-persons here and even if they find a sponsor they have a debt to Nepal to pay beofre they can leave. Unless the sponsor is willing to pay this fee also they remain stuck. Those who speak out agains...

““How enriched you are when persecuted for doing what is right! For then you experience the realm of heaven’s kingdom.” Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭10‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Those who suffer open the way for heaven to deal with iniquity. Harshness, cruelty, abuse, and rejection,  are all forms of persecution. In the name of religion many have been killed; state controlled countires throw believers into jail; the jealous murdered our saviour. We are in good company. Jesus was betrayed by a man close to Him. His own brothers rejected Him. Jesus’ suffering brought God’s judgement on those who persecuted Him. The temple in Jerusalem was destroyed and the people scattered by the Romans. Everything the religious bigots held dear was torn away from them. Judgement is coming but first the suffering. Those who suffer will be greatly rewarded. Our God does not forget. Amen!

“God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭10‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Persecution takes many forms; it is the jailing of those who dare to speak of Jesus; the dismissal of Christian workers; the families who turn their backs on believers and even hand them over to authorities; the murder of Christians. Jesus warned us this would happen. Yet, He said we would not have to worry about what to say, the Holy Spirit would be our voice. I am watching the creeping persecution in the west, the blatant persecution in North Korea, China, Iran, Afganistan, Nigeria and more. In chapter six of the book of Revelation, we hear the saints asking the Lord, ‘How long Lord?’ His answer was ‘when the complete number of those who will join them have come’. Only God knows how long and how many must suffer. The suffering saints address wickedness, their goodness and meekness speak to the overthrow of wickedness. The Jews are again being persecuted and time is ...

“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.” Romans‬ ‭5‬:‭3‬-‭5‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Today I found a way of pushing back what appeared to be a trouble-making spirit in my flat. No amount of rebuking rid us of it, until today, I played worship music all day and it disappeared. Praise God and tonight our fellowship time was sweet, ending in worship and prayer. At present there are a lot of demons being worshipped in Nepal, resulting in a lot of spiritual activity. It was good to clear the air. We are praying for revelation and hunger in the people of Nepal.  Our God brings freedom and liberty, He alone is good. He is the only God who sacrificed Himself for our salvation. He ...

“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.” Romans‬ ‭5‬:‭3‬-‭5‬ ‭NLT‬‬ As I seek greater presence of the Holy Spirit I encounter trials that would prune away my flesh; my pride, selfishness and self-righteousness. My Lord does this through conflict, relational problems, physical distress and financial challenges, but mostly relational problems. I share a flat with two other women and we have our challenges together, but they all aid us in shedding the flesh and seeking God’s Holy Spirit. I praise God that He is interested in a pure bride, one He would delight in, and one that would not bring Him grief. Whilst we are on earth we have an opportunity to be cleansed ...

“Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away.” Acts of the Apostles‬ ‭3‬:‭19‬ ‭NLT‬‬ We will continually need forgiveness, first we must repent of our misdeeds. Jesus gave us a prayer to pray and it intimates a continual need: ‘forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us’. Notice we forgive first. Next we are forgiven by our Father. Try it today! Amen!

“And now you must repent and turn back to God so that your sins will be removed, and so that times of refreshing will stream from the Lord’s presence. And he will send you Jesus, the Messiah, the appointed one.”  Acts‬ ‭3‬:‭19‬-‭20‬ ‭TPT‬‬ These verse were part of Peter’s first sermon after he was baptised in the Holy Spirit. Before being baptised in the Holy Spirit Peter was not able to boldly stand and preach to thousands, however, annointed by the Holy Spirit he was on fire and three thousand people came to believe. Repentance was something Peter had to experience, he had denied he knew Jesus when Jesus was facing death. Fear was in control. Repentance, therefore was a familiar friend. We see Peter speak out several times in the gospels, but always in the wrong spirit. Here, he was in the Holy Spirit’s control. We all need the Holy Spirit to guide, correct, empower, teach and comfort. The Holy Spirit gives us the gift of repentance. Repentance is heartfelt and not superficial. P...

““So above all, constantly seek God’s kingdom and his righteousness, then all these less important things will be given to you abundantly.” Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭33‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Above all God’s thoughts are more important about everyone and everything. It is raining again, a really wet set seems to have taken hold. I am supposed to go to Bible study tonight but am cautious in the wet on bikes. I did not go to college today as the last time I tried that it took 11/2 hours and it was the day I hurt my arm. Perhaps will try a taxi. My friend from Australia has finally secured his 12 month visa. We might celebrate before going out to study. This friend has been a great challenge to me, stretched my grace and compassion and faith. We all need stretching friends. Amen!

““So above all, constantly seek God’s kingdom and his righteousness, then all these less important things will be given to you abundantly.” Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭33‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Do you know what the less important things are? What you eat or drink; what you wear; what you drive; what you live in. Yet, these things can preoccupy us. Eternity is forever. This life is but a flash in comparison. It is this life that determines our eternity. How we allow God’s Holy Spirit to direct us, chasten us, teach us is important. Create in me a clean heart, oh God, renew a right spirit within me. Amen!

““Yet even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments.” Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents over disaster.” ‭‭Joel‬ ‭2‬:‭12‬-‭13‬ ‭ESV‬‬  No matter what time it is, no matter how bad things have become, it is never too late to call out to the Lord for forgiveness and deliverance from the bondage you find yourself in. John Newton sank so low he became a slave trader, yet, he had someone praying for him, he came to the Lord in such a way that Amazing Grace, the hymn, tells his story. ‘I once was lost but now I am found, was blind but now I see!’ Jesus has touched terrorists, drug dealers, homosexuals, drunks and more. He has called them to Himself and set them free from their bondage. Each Christian can attest how Jesus set them free from their own personal hell. New life in Jesus is life in...

““Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.” Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.” Joel‬ ‭2‬:‭12‬-‭13‬ ‭NIV‬‬ The Lord is looking for the inward change not a performance. Many believe that because they attend church they are safe, or because they are a particular religion they are safe. However, if we read the scriptures we can see there is more than an outwards show of contrition. Our God is looking for the heart to change and genuinely seek Him. Last night I had a dream about a person who sold their company, it was a small building amongst many tall buildings. This person had decided to serve the Lord instead of business. Someone asked why they had sold the business and they said something lame and the other person persued the question and asked a deeper question about the Lord, an...

“We all experience times of testing, which is normal for every human being. But God will be faithful to you. He will screen and filter the severity, nature, and timing of every test or trial you face so that you can bear it. And each test is an opportunity to trust him more, for along with every trial God has provided for you a way of escape that will bring you out of it victoriously.” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭10‬:‭13‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Most of our testing comes in relationships, many close to us. When we have difficulties with each other we are then tempted to go outside the sorting of our problems and indulge in things that make the situations worse. Addictions to alcohol, drugs, food, sex all make for a bigger mess. It is much better to prayerfully address the problem. Always!!! Our Bible instructs us in problem solving, we must take a breath and,  obey the word of God! Amen!

“We all experience times of testing, which is normal for every human being. But God will be faithful to you. He will screen and filter the severity, nature, and timing of every test or trial you face so that you can bear it. And each test is an opportunity to trust him more, for along with every trial God has provided for you a way of escape that will bring you out of it victoriously.” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭10‬:‭13‬ ‭TPT‬‬ At night, my flatmates and I study a chapter from the Bible, discuss it and pray. We have been studying the Book of Revelation. In chapter two Jesus is speaking to the churches.  “Do not yield to fear in the face of the suffering to come but be aware of this: the devil is about to have some of you thrown into prison to test your faith. For ten days you will have distress but remain faithful to the day you die, and I will give you the victor’s crown of life.” Revelation‬ ‭2‬:‭10‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Satan tests us. Right now he is attempting to control my attitude against a woman of...

“The father instantly cried out, “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!” Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭24‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Today in church we had a message about Issac, how his life was similar to his father in most ways. One thing that differed was when a drought came in the land and Issac headed off to go to Egypt God told him not to go but stay in the land. He had travelled as far as Gerar, Abimelech’s land. Like his father he lied about Rebecca being his sister instead of his wife. Like his father he was unable to trust God for his beautiful wife.  This is so typical of us. There are many things we are able to trust God in and yet many others we are not able. When necessary we can also pray, ‘Lord help my unbelief!’ If we are honest we all are tested the same and grown into faith or walk away from faith. The choice is ours. Today as I face new challenges I must decide to allow God to be God and handle what He promises to handle. Amen!

“The father instantly cried out, “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!”  Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭24‬ ‭NLT‬‬ We have have long-term difficulties and illness and have struggled to be free and in the continual seeking pray this prayer, ‘I believe but help my unbelief’. Jesus met this man where he was at. His honesty brought him a miracle. His son had been afflicted for years by a demon and no doubt the father had gone to all of those who claimed they could help, but to no avail. Watching his son be cast into the fire by an evil spirit must have been horrifying. Living with this deomonic presence would have been soul destroying. Unable to cast out the demon would lead him to believe that the demon had more power than God, but that was a lie. The disciples, embolden by there recent success, where demons did in fact obey them,  also failed. The father was again devestated. Who could set his son free? Jesus came down from the mountain where He had been transfigured before the eyes of P...

“But you, my delightfully loved friends, constantly and progressively build yourselves up on the foundation of your most holy faith by praying every moment in the Spirit.  Fasten your hearts to the love of God and receive the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who gives us eternal life.  Keep being compassionate to those who still have doubts, and snatch others out of the fire to save them. Be merciful over and over to them, but always couple your mercy with the fear of God.  Be extremely careful to keep yourselves free from the pollutions of the flesh.” Jude (Judah)‬ ‭1‬:‭20‬-‭23‬ ‭TPT‬‬ These verses encapsulate the essence of the gospel. Jude was Jesus’ brother. He appears to be a more compassionate brother, however, he does not hold back in addressing mockers and those who would seduce believers into corruption. Jude encourages us to pray at all times in the Spirit; fasten our hearts on the love of God; deal with those who doubt with compassion and keep ourselves free fro...

“Jesus responded, “Thomas, now that you’ve seen me, you believe. But there are those who have never seen me with their eyes but have believed in me with their hearts, and they will be blessed even more!” ‭‭John‬ ‭20‬:‭29‬ ‭TPT‬‬ An encounter with the Lord caused me to know and confess my sin and ask Jesus to be Lord of my life. Prior to that I was searching for Him in the Catholic Church. I did not find Him there. He met me in my bedroom. When I experienced His love I knew I had found Him. I did not need to see Him to believe, to feel His love was enough. The above scripture was Jesus speaking to Thomas who would not believe unless he saw with his own eyes. Thomas had not had an encounter, even though he was a disciple. When Jesus came just for him he was born again, he believed. An encounter with Jesus changes everything! Amen!

“Then Jesus told him, “You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who believe without seeing me.” John‬ ‭20‬:‭29‬ ‭NLT‬‬ The above words were spoken by Jesus to Thomas who had doubted that Jesus rose from the dead. Jesus made a special appearance for Thomas to bring him doubt to belief. Jesus did not condemn him, as we might, but rather came to show Thomas He really had risen from the dead. Thomas would have taken that encounter with him for the remainder of his life. Thomas , it appears, may have travelled to India to evangelise as he is celebrated there. We have friends who struggle to believe God has wholeness for them in some part of their lives. Our challenge is to be faithful in prayer for them. It is God who brings divine encounters. Amen 

“Let giving flow from your heart, not from a sense of religious duty. Let it spring up freely from the joy of giving—all because God loves hilarious generosity!” ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭7‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Today in class a student was eating a sweet and when asked he had none to share. The resident giver did that, she even gave one to the student who did not share. She already has a reputation for generosity. I know which I prefer, a generous reputation. However, with one person I know I am viewed as ungenerous. He recently needed $3000US to have momentarily in his bank for his visa. I was willing but he also needed another 20,000R. He asked for that amount first, this then prevented me from giving the former amount.  It does not matter what perceptions people have, it matters that I am obedient to Holy Spirit. When I stand before Him that is the day I need to hear, ‘we’ll done’. In my class two of us are Christians, we have a role to present Jesus. Generosity is one such way we show His grace...

“You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” 2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭7‬ ‭NLT‬‬ This verse comes from a passage that deals with a special offering for those who were suffering a famine in Jerusalem. However, its principles can be applied to our regular giving at church; our spontaneous giving outside of church; our commitments to causes; our giving to special offerings at church, in fact all giving. Regular giving at church makes ministry possible. We cannot feed at a particular place and hold back our giving. We are a part of the body of Christ. Scripture tells us tor not muzzle the ox that is treading out the grain. The ox could not do the work without being fed. Neither can our church leaders. When giving regularly we look to scripture for guidance. Even before the Law patriarchs are noted as giving 10%. Abraham was the first. We know Jesus have as He had a treasurer, Judas who ...

“Let me emphasize this: As you yield to the dynamic life and power of the Holy Spirit, you will abandon the cravings of your self-life.” Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭TPT‬‬ When I make decisions outside of the Holy Spirit I am buffered by doubt, fear and anxiety. Recently a friend was telling me of a financial problem and I knew I could help, however I knew more about why this need had arisen. I allowed shame to motivate me rather than the Holy Spirit and offered to help, later I regretted my offer. On Sunday I prayed for guidance as now fear was my portion. The Lord, instead prompted me to buy a pair of shoes for a woman in meed and I knew the difference, a release in my spirit. There was no shame or fear here. When I am caught in the flesh I know I am there as I tend to complain. I hate complaining people and despise it in myself. However, when I act in the Spirit I am free from all the ugly trappings of the flesh. Currently, my study load is heavy and as I told my tutor she railed against th...

“Let me emphasize this: As you yield to the dynamic life and power of the Holy Spirit, you will abandon the cravings of your self-life.” Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭TPT‬‬ When I make decisions outside of the Holy Spirit I am buffered by doubt, fear and anxiety. Recently a friend was telling me of a financial problem and I knew I could help, however I knew more about why this need had arisen. I allowed shame to motivate me rather than the Holy Spirit and offered to help, later I regretted my offer. On Sunday I prayed for guidance as now fear was my portion. The Lord, instead prompted me to buy a pair of shoes for a woman in meed and I knew the difference, a release in my spirit. There was no shame or fear here. When I am caught in the flesh I know I am there as I tend to complain. I hate complaining people and despise it in myself. However, when I act in the Spirit I am free from all the ugly trappings of the flesh. Currently, my study load is heavy and as I told my tutor she railed against th...

“Within your heart you can make plans for your future, but the Lord chooses the steps you take to get there.” Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭9‬ ‭TPT‬‬ The steps are important. The steps are full of experience. Psalm 23 depicts steps and relationship.  The Lord is my shepherd- relationship I shall not want - provider He leads me beside still waters- shepherd He restores my soul- doctor He makes me lie down in green pasture- provider and shepherd He leads me in the paths of righteousness- shepherd Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death - shepherd Your rod and staff protect me- shepherd You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies- training in fear management You anoint my head with oil- appointed Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me- although I now walk ahead He has goodness and mercy following me. There is the path! That is the journey! Amen!

“Within your heart you can make plans for your future, but the Lord chooses the steps you take to get there.” Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭9‬ ‭TPT‬‬ This is so true! So many times I have been filled with a vision that was not for now but one that would come to pass in time.  There was a time of preparation to endure first, and sometimes it was conditional on my faith or a current work I needed to attend to.  When in a frustrating time of preparation we can chafe at the bit eager to start, however, if a barn needs building first then that is what the farmer must do, we must also prepare for the task and make sure we understand all that will be involved; how will this project tax me? I am compelled to learn the Nepali language before going out of Kathmandu. I do not like this concrete jungle however, it is where I must train. In the process I am making many friends and enjoying practising my language skills on the locals. The Lord has all timing, He is master. Amen!

“My fellow believers, when it seems as though you are facing nothing but difficulties, see it as an invaluable opportunity to experience the greatest joy that you can! For you know that when your faith is tested it stirs up in you the power of endurance.” ‭‭James (Jacob)‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Today my faith was tested. I was unsure if it was foohardy on my account, or, just what the Lord had in mind. I caught a motorbike taxi to college. This in itself is a dangerous endeavour, the splint on my arm complicated it somewhat. My bike taxi drives lives in the apartment next door to us here in Kathmandu. I mounted his bike here in the quiet back blocks and we navigated towards the maniac stream of buses, bikes, scooties, men on foot, tuk tuks, dogs and ever honking horns. Our initial foray was a tad hair-raising, drivers who want to enter the manic flow just do so with little regard for what is approaching. In the melee we wound around the mess of vehicles etc towards the Ring Road, the arter...

“My fellow believers, when it seems as though you are facing nothing but difficulties, see it as an invaluable opportunity to experience the greatest joy that you can! For you know that when your faith is tested it stirs up in you the power of endurance.” ‭‭James (Jacob)‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Last week was one of those weeks. I had two physical injuries and a financial concern. Yesterday the Lord solved the financial concern by giving me a project, someone needed shoes, I stepped up and provided. That gave me great joy! I rejoice that He is in control. My physical problems He is also solving. The fall I had resulting in a cracked bone I am believing for a complete recovery, the broken tooth, well I know someone who knows someone. In Nepal a referral is always the best path. Today I anticipate a return to college, to continue my language studies, my Nepali friends are keen to speak to me. One lady who had come running when she heard me scream in my fall, saw me with a splint and sling and...

“If you bow low in God’s awesome presence, he will eventually exalt you as you leave the timing in his hands.” 1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭6‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Today we heard a message about Jacob and his constant manipulating of others. The amazing thing was God chose him. I am grateful God chose me. I did not and cannot deserve His love, but He loves me anyway. How good is He??? Oh praise the name of the Lord our God, oh praise His name forevermore, for endless days I will sing God’s praise, oh Lord, oh Lord our God! (Song)

“So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor.” ‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭6‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Humility was foreign to Peter in his early walk with Jesus; he had foot and mouth disease. He talked when he should have been silent. My talk is my problem. However, like Peter, God’s grace can transform me. God used Peter to preach to three thousand people who then repented of their sins and became Christians. The book of Acts shows glimpses of Peter; where God prepared him to go down to Cornelius’ house and share the gospel with the gentiles there; a time when Paul had a problem with Peter’s duplicity and confronted him. These two instances show us Peter was still very much a man dependant on Jesus. Moses is reputed as the ‘most humble man that ever lived’. However, his mouth caused him a problem. When God told him to strike a rock so that water would come out, he did the first time and the second time God told him to speak to the rock, but he struck it ...

“Go ahead and give God thanks for all the glorious things he has done! Go ahead and worship him! Tell everyone about his wonders!” Psalms‬ ‭105‬:‭1‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Today I was able to go out from our flat for a long walk with a friend. This was my first major outing since my accident in which I cracked the Ulna on my right arm. So good to see the trees, mountains and sky. The joy of having the claustrophobic bandages off my arm is most liberating. I waited until my flatmates left as they would remonstrate with me for disobeying doctor’s orders. As I have been a trained nurse I tend to write my own rules a bit. However, I do it carefully. This afternoon I attended a Nepali service with good friends. It was good to see them all. Giving God credit for no breaks is a must, however,  I tend to claim a bit of glory for my bold faith, when it is He who gives me the faith in the first place. Without the Holy Spirit I would be a mess. Thank You Lord!

“Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim his greatness. Let the whole world know what he has done.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭105‬:‭1‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Last night whilst crunching on toasted wheat I lost part of a tooth. The thought came to me, ‘be careful of this tough grain you teeth may break’. I chewed on the side that I thought was stronger, but lost. I should have listened to wisdom. I apologised to the Lord. Fortunately dentistry is cheap here in Nepal. It is important to listen to the still small voice, it is also important to keep our hearts with Him for there is safety. I had a fall when feeling sorry for myself, which took me outside the safety zone. In the zone I am safe. I rarely get caught up in self-pity as I despise it.  However, Satan knew how to trip me. I had a 1 1/2 hour ride through storms to college that day and returned to the grocery store near me before going home. The driver was complaining about the fare. I had to carry three grocery bags, plus a collection of toilet rolls, my backp...

“For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭13‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Today I read some Craig Groeschel material on maintaining momentum and my heart said, ‘time for the desk!’ The desk I’ve been wanting to have made is now on the way. The desk represents business, study, serious progress. On Monday I had a fall and as a result I have a cracked Ulnar bone in my arm. Having to take time off is a pest, and so I have done lessons remotely. I am now, also, prompted to write out my business plan and prepare for the next phase. I’ve worked out how to type with both hands even though a splint limits my right arm. You might say I am gathering steam. I love moving with my God. He had one day of rest. I’ve had four and I’m over it. There is always something I can do. Whilst I cannot get back in the pool I can exercise at home and walk up and down the hill beside my house. We are expecting visitors tomorrow. I would also like to visit a young friend...

“For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭13‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Yes! He is! Last night I went to a worship night and I struggled for a minute to worship until I realised, ‘ this is not about me, it is about worshipping a perfect Gid and forgetting this imperfect vessel’. I had the best time! My God is so worthy! Today my landlord is worshipping the snake god. How aweful for them! Praise God He has given me Jesus, a wonderful saviour. I prayed that they would dream of Jesus piercing the head of the snake God and setting them free. https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=lCurAnLiwiY&si=k6kFESss3sKygsif

“I have fought an excellent fight. I have finished my full course with all my might and I’ve kept my heart full of faith.” 2 Timothy‬ ‭4‬:‭7‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Our enemy attempt to have us tied to fights we were never meant to fight; a fall-out with friends, family, neighbours, the boss. God is our vindicator, we are called to trust, love and obey. The fights we must be concerned with are the flesh and the enemy of our friends, family, workmates, neighbours etc. We can pray heaven to earth and see God’s kingdom come! We change atmospheres, hearts and minds as we pray.  Pray! Amen!

“Wisdom pours into you when you begin to hate every form of evil in your life, for that’s what worship and fearing God is all about. Then you will discover that your pompous pride and perverse speech are the very ways of wickedness that I hate!” Proverbs‬ ‭8‬:‭13‬ ‭TPT‬‬ I have begun to desire union with the Lord above my opinion. I love the favour He gives. Living in His favour is more important than having my way in a dispute. Yielding hurt feelings and hurt pride to Him is the sacrifice He wants. Jesus longs to impart His presence into us and use us to impact our world. He loves the lost who surround us and as we yield to Him He touches our world through us. Each day is a new opportunity. Use it well! Amen!

“Jesus looked at them intently and said, “Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible.” Matthew‬ ‭19‬:‭26‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Most miracles are impossible, humanly speaking. However, Jesus is the master of the impossible. Impossible relationships can be restored. Impossible health problem can be healed. Impossible financial disasters can be rectified. Impossible sinners can find their way to Jesus. Jesus is God not a genie in a bottle. He is the Son of Gad who said, ‘destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up!’ Here He was talking of His own body. Now that is power! Trust Him with all you have! Amen!

“Jesus looked at them intently and said, “Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible.” Matthew‬ ‭19‬:‭26‬ ‭NLT‬‬   We humans limit people all the time with negative conversation. The above verse comes after Jesus had told the disciples it is hard for a rich person to enter heaven. The disciples were horrified and said, ‘then who can enter heaven?’ It is not only money that causes people problems, offense and bitterness keep many away. Self-righteousness causes many to assume they are safe. However, may we not, by our judgements preclude souls. Some people need a lot of refining before they turn to God and He is the refiner’s fire. Amen

“If your faith remains strong, even while surrounded by life’s difficulties, you will continue to experience the untold blessings of God! True happiness comes as you pass the test with faith, and receive the victorious crown of life promised to every lover of God!” James (Jacob)‬ ‭1‬:‭12‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Today I learned a valuable lesson. I started well and had a momentary lapse of godliness ( self-pity ) and in that time I had a fall and cracked a bone. Fortunately, it was a small break that only required a splint. Once again I bruised my right elbow but did not break it, in agony I sat screaming,’Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, healing, healing, healing.’ An effective way to evangelise. A trip to hospital showed God’s glorious grace, just a cracked long bone of the right arm, a splint later and I was discharged. A very good friend took me to a beautiful hospital with great service. A tad expensive for a Nepali hospital. However, compared to Australia it was cheap. Thank You Jesus! Amen!

“If your faith remains strong, even while surrounded by life’s difficulties, you will continue to experience the untold blessings of God! True happiness comes as you pass the test with faith, and receive the victorious crown of life promised to every lover of God!” James (Jacob)‬ ‭1‬:‭12‬ ‭TPT‬‬ How do I keep my faith strong? I hang around faith-filled people; I stay in the word of God; I listen to faith-filled messages; I speak faith. Ther are days that I awake with a head that rings and dizziness. I say, ‘it will be well!’ I cannot moan and complain. These two are tools of the defeater, the robber. They must go! Amen! There are days when my knees hurt, they will be well in Jesus name. There are days when my back hurts; it will be well in Jesus name. In Jesus name all sickness must flee, in Jesus name all hurts healed, in Jesus name all mountains removed. Amen!

“Put your heart and soul into every activity you do, as though you are doing it for the Lord himself and not merely for others. For we know that we will receive a reward, an inheritance from the Lord, as we serve the Lord Yahweh, the Anointed One!” ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭TPT‬‬ The Onympics are on again and atheletes have worked hard for medals. In time their medals will corrode. However, Paul urges us to compete for a heavenly prize that does not corrode. Our heavenly prize is a new name, a crown, our names written in a heavenly book and an eternity with Jesus as opposed to one in flames. Many joke about hell, they have not read the bible’s depiction of what it is like. It is not a place where they can do as they please, they will be tormented in blazing fires that never go out and a worm that never dies. Sounds ghastly! Making an account with Jesus who is the only way, is all that is required. Jesus is the only saviour, our own righteousness is as filthy rags (This refers to men...

“Put your heart and soul into every activity you do, as though you are doing it for the Lord himself and not merely for others. For we know that we will receive a reward, an inheritance from the Lord, as we serve the Lord Yahweh, the Anointed One!” ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Recently we had received some millet grain and Monika (my flatmate) sat and sifted it for over an hour to remove all impurities and then at dusk she walked to the mill and left it to be ground. No impurities could be left or the whole batch would have been spoiled by the impurity. This speaks to me. Even in fun activities.  Yesterday whilst Monika worked the grain her sister Martha, two friends of mine and I played a game called Kwirkle. When playing games it is easy to play with selfish motives. Selfishness can cause us to cheat or steal. Not a good look, we can also become envious of the winner. Games really sift our attitudes and motives. Today I have language school. This is where I know I am needin...

“Now faith brings our hopes into reality and becomes the foundation needed to acquire the things we long for. It is all the evidence required to prove what is still unseen.”  Hebrews‬ ‭11‬:‭1‬ ‭TPT‬‬ Many people say, ‘I’ll believe it when I see it’. However, in the realm of faith we need to believe in faith before we see. God is a God of faith.!He saw, spoke and there was! Speaking has power. We need to be careful of our speech. We can curse, then bless, and then curse and wonder why a thing is not done. Careless words are still counted!  Let the words of my mouth and the mediation of my heart be acceptable in they sight oh Lord (psalm19:14). Amen!

“Now faith is the reality of what is hoped for, the proof of what is not seen.” Hebrews‬ ‭11‬:‭1‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ Fairh is that ah moment when reality comes, it is the ‘yes’ and ‘amen’ it is YES!! It is not a soppy’I hope so’, it is definite. It is ‘I trust You Jesus! Your sacrifice is enough!’ ‘YOU are enough!’ Often I experience pain in various places and know this is a prompt to pray for someone who is suffering in those areas. I refuse to accept the disease on myself. I refuse to believe the fearful lie from my enemy. He is a liar and has been from the beginning. I stand with Jesus, not a liar. In the past few days I have experienced something like a hormonal problem and I went to prayer. Yesterday I discovered why. My flatmates had a friend call from England to say she had ovarian cancer. This is not acceptable, I am now praying for this woman. I have a task to see the kingdom of God come to earth, I do this in prayer. Amen! I cannot drift along allowing the liar to boast that he has more...

“Some take pride in chariots, and others in horses, but we take pride in the name of Yahweh our God.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭20‬:‭7‬ ‭HCSB‬‬ My God is good all the time! His ways are perfect! His love is eternal!  When living in the centre of His will all things work together for our good! Take time to enjoy Him and all He has created for it is good! Amen!

“Some nations boast of their chariots and horses, but we boast in the name of the Lord our God.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭20‬:‭7‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Today we do not have nations boasting in horses and chariots but rather nuclear warheads, the number of warships, fighter planes etc. Russian holds the west at ransom with his threats to use his nuclear weaponry and Europe has effectively been brought to heel, meanwhile America is left to support the Ukraine and now Israel. Little Israel stands up to her violent enemies when all the world tries to dictate how she should fight. The gutless attempt to direct David, and like David Israel throws off their suggestions. If it was not for the hostages Israel would be able to throw them off completely. However, against Iran they are most helpful. Israel does depend on American ammunitions and warships. Scripture tells us of a coming battle when all the world are against Israel and only God supports her. That battle is a sound victory. With my God I can leap over a wall. Wi...

““But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence.” ‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭17‬:‭7‬ ‭NLT‬‬ I have only one Hope- Jesus! He suffered for my freedom, deliverance and healing. The price He paid is enough. I am whole because of Him!  No man or woman can save me like He can. He is all I need! My future is in His hands, not man’s. He is God they are not! Amen!

“But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence. They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they never stop producing fruit.” Jeremiah‬ ‭17‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬ What comes before the BUT?  “This is what the Lord says: “Cursed are those who put their trust in mere humans, who rely on human strength and turn their hearts away from the Lord. They are like stunted shrubs in the desert, with no hope for the future. They will live in the barren wilderness, in an uninhabited salty land.” Jeremiah‬ ‭17‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭NLT‬‬ So, blessing and cures are before us, what will we choose? Of course we would say blessing, but do we rely on mankind for our solutions? We have just seen the Hamas political leader assassinated, will that solve the war in Gaza? Or will that cause other enemies of Israel to rise up ag...

“Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize.” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭24‬-‭25‬ ‭NLT‬‬ One prize I love is joy. My journey with the Lord brings me joy. Today, after only three hours sleep I went to college. Today we learned about family terms and then moved on the days of the week. As my teacher at home, Martha, taught me a song to sing to help remember the days I performed it for the class. You have to remember I am 70 and here I was out the front of class dancing and singing. They all loved it. So did I, just quietly. I returned home, had lunch with Martha and then a lesson with her. This one is more advanced and deals with speaking sentences and correct grammar use. I then crashed for around four hours of delightful sleep. When I awoke Martha had guests. She asked me to help entertain the two men while she...

“Isn’t it obvious that all runners on the racetrack keep on running to win, but only one receives the victor’s prize? Yet each one of you must run the race to be victorious. A true athlete will be disciplined in every respect, practicing constant self-control in order to win a laurel wreath that quickly withers. But we run our race to win a victor’s crown that will last forever.” ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭24‬-‭25‬ ‭TPT‬‬ At present the France Olympic Games are in progress. Althletes are running, swimming and entering their field of expertise. They may win a medal that over time will gather dust. However, the Christian runs in a race for a heavenly and eternal prize. They discipline themselves to be present even when ill, they is no room for the faint of heart. Us Christians have the same disciplines upon us. We must show up and be engaged when tired, when feeling ill.  Smiths-Wigglesworth, the great healing evangelist in the early 1900 was reputed to be suffering with gallstones, yet h...