The day with dianne Louise

““God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭3‬ ‭NLT‬‬ What does poor in spirit mean? It means I am aware of how spiritually I am bankrupt and in need of salvation. This was the first beatitude from Jesus’ sermon on the mount. It was His introduction to the Kingdom of God. The realisation of sinfulness is the first step. It was for me and would be for many. It caused me to cry out to God for mercy and salvation. It brought me to Him. The beauty of this verse is the promise. Upon recognition of sinfulness I am given eternal life and the knowledge that the Kingdom of Heaven is mine. What a promise! https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=is_ccOVNOgU&si=q6ZDrthbwBbnvZQC

“Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again— my Savior and my God!” Psalms‬ ‭42‬:‭11‬ ‭NLT‬‬ This psalm was written by the sons of Korah. Korah was a clan of God’s people who rebelled against Moses. The earth opened up under them and swallowed them up. However, a remnant were left, the sons. These were Levites and they served in the house of God. This psalm depicts a separation from the house of God. It starts with: ‘as a deer pants for water so my soul longs after thee’. It is a beautiful phrase. For some reason the sons of Korah were unable to be in the house of God. They may have gone with David when his son was attempting to usurp the throne. In their day they believed God’s presence was in His temple. We who have accepted Jesus as saviour have His indwelling Holy Spirit. We are now God’s temple. He never leaves. Yet, there are times when we long to feel His presence. He places that hunger there. The psalmist reminds himself, af...

“Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.” 2 Corinthians‬ ‭12‬:‭9‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Paul had sought the Lord for healing/deliverance from what he called ‘a thorn in the flesh’ three times. However above was God’s reply. I have sought the Lord for healing of my ears again and again but still they ring and block my ability to hear people. I must admit that my faith is getting a good work out. They have not stopped me from attending college, going out and learning to communicate to people.  “This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: “Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it.” ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭30‬:‭15‬ ‭NLT‬‬ The scripture in Isaiah reminds me to trust in the Lord only! He is my refuge and strength. He is my provider. He is the way! Judah was wanting to ...

“Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows.” Isaiah‬ ‭1‬:‭17‬ ‭NLT‬‬ The Lord was reproving His people in Judah with these words. Sacrifices without heart He despised. He wanted their hearts for what matters. Where are our hearts? Do we think if we come to church, sing a few songs and put a bit of money in the offering we have completed our duty? My church back in Australia doe not take an offering. It relies on the hearts of the people being honest. They either pay online or put it in the box at the back of the sanctuary. I wonder how that works? However, what God is saying: care for orphans and widows first! Help those wrongly oppressed. Is that being done? I have attended a church here in Kathmandu that has homes for orphan children and widows. I was impressed! It seems God cares for such as these. Amen!

“He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.” ‭‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭2‬ ‭NLT‬‬ I understand this principle but then I am not always sure what He, God, thinks is a non-viable branch. When I think a branch just needs pruning it is cut off. In all our lives we constantly need pruning. Whilst it is painful, He sees it as necessary. Even though I do not understand I must submit to His ways. He sees the fruit He wants on His vine, He is the gardener, I am not. Jesus told His disciples that the Father is the gardener. It is interesting that the Father is typified by being a gardener. I love gardening. I do not have a plot of soil but I do have a balcony and pots. My flatmates and I are now growing coriander, chillies and hope to source some mint. We have attempted to grow things in the past with a modicum of success. When things fail they are dug up and removed. I love bonsais and have created several. These...

“Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment.” Proverbs‬ ‭9‬:‭10‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Jesus said, “ Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.” Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭33‬ ‭NLT‬‬ There is a lot of worldly wisdom floating around. It deals with finance, health and fitness and relationships. However, it does not give the life that is available in God’s kingsom. Wanting Him and His ways of doing and being right brings life and godly wisdom. If we want good judgement seek the Lord! If we want eternal life, seek the Lord! He is the source of all that lasts, fulfills and makes rich. Rich is relationships, rich in doing good to others and rich in our relationship with Him!   https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=dQdfs5S6jyA&si=i1ZijSys3UGBb4cq

“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.” And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.” ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬ This was a special offering for the poor in Jerusalem during a drought. Paul was collecting throughout the area he had ministered in to bring aid. This request comes with a promise of God’s provision. Prior to these scriptures Paul said: “Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop.” ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭6‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Generosity produces a harvest, an abundant harvest. God will provide back in response to our giving:  “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. T...