Drawing closer to God with Wendy Robinson: Recent Episodes
Wendy Robinson
Welcome to Drawing Closer To God with Wendy Robinson. Join Wendy each week as she shares her insights into drawing closer to God and living life to the full despite the tough challenges you might be facing. To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
When did you last do an audit of the words you speak? Are you speaking “faith and life” or “fear and death”?
Late last year we were facing another challenging medical situation with our daughter, Victoria. I found myself going down that path of fear. I was spending time with God, a lot actually due to a broken wrist slowing me down! In these times I was primarily looking for reassurance and comfort. I was not speaking faith into Victoria’s situation.
Something changed in the Be Still moment But then something changed. During one of those quiet times with God, I was sitting on a seat in the park, asking Him for a word for our family for this year, 2024. Yes, another Be Still and know that I am God (Psalm 46:10) moment. He drew my attention to an image that was directly in front of me - two rectangular sandstone blocks, with a narrow gap in between.
Beyond the gap, the grass ran down to the wide open expanse of the lake. As I looked at this image, God gave me these words, “I am the Way Maker.”
Don’t we all love the Way Maker song
"Way maker Miracle worker Promise keeper Light in the darkness My God That is who you are"
What a powerful declaration of Who God is.
God's Word speaks life God gave me three scriptures to go with the image:
“This is what the LORD says - he who made a way through the sea, a path through the mighty waters,” Isaiah 43:16 NIV
“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Isaiah 43:19 NIV
“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” Matthew 7:13-14 NIV
Three life-giving scriptures, asking of us, Do we have the faith to believe that God made a way through the sea? Do we trust that He is making a way in the wasteland? Do we have the courage to keep walking on the narrow road that leads to life?
God in His graciousness had given me a way to speak faith and life into Victoria’s situation.
God encourages each one A bit more on this story about the way maker word ….
At the beginning of each year when I get a word for our family, I make an A4 poster, laminate it and give a copy to each family member, so they can have it ready on hand for encouragement throughout the year. I'm under no illusion as to what has happened to these posters in the past - I've seen them peeking out from under a pile of papers on desks!
But this year was different - perhaps because it had the photo of the sandstone blocks and the way through. This year some chose to put the poster on the wall above their desks, some on the wall near their beds. But all put it in a visible, easily accessible place. I need that extra bit of encouragement so I have two posters - one near my desk, and one near my side of the bed!
The Way Maker makes a way Since the beginning of January, there have been at least 8 significant crossroads for people in our family, and each time, we have called on this word from God, declaring, “God you are the way maker, we are trusting that you will make a way through this - Your will be done, in Jesus Name.”
God knew that each person in our family was going to need to speak ‘faith and life’ into situations this year, and that each would need His encouragement to do so. God always knows!
In each circumstance God has clearly made a way, showing us that He is sovereign, powerful, gracious and kind. Often too in these situations, it has felt like God has been asking us these questions, Do you trust Me in this situation? Do you have the patience to wait? Will you humble yourself and acknowledge that I am Lord of All? Oh God so wants us to mature!
Maturing in our faith James speaks to us about this maturing process,
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” James 1:2-4 NIV
I’m not always a fan of the maturing process, even though it always yields good fruit - I just have to remind myself of that. Joyce Meyer says,
“The Bible talks about purification, sanctification, sacrifice and suffering. These are not popular words; nevertheless, if we are to be Christlike in character, we must sometimes go through difficult circumstances to learn His ways. I struggled with this process for a long time, but I finally realised that God was not going to do things my way. He placed people and situations in my life that caused me to want to quit this whole process, and He did not want an argument from me. He only wanted to hear, “Yes, Lord. Your will be done.”" The Everyday Life Bible, Joyce Meyer, Page 2060
It is only the beginning of March, so it is going to be very interesting to see what the remainder of the year brings with a word like “I am the Way Maker”
The power of the tongue So getting back to the words we are speaking, are they “faith and life” or “fear and death”? Further on in James Chapter 3, we read about the power of the tongue. Verse 5 says,
“Even so the tongue is a little member, and it can boast of great things. See how much wood or how great a forest a tiny spark can set ablaze!” (James 3:5 AMPC)
Funnily enough, I was listening to my husband doing his Sunday morning radio program on Rhema 99.7FM yesterday morning, and I heard him sharing on this scripture too. God must really want to say something about the power of the tongue this week.
I know there are times when I have said things, mainly to my family, that I have regretted as soon as they have come out of my mouth.
The tongue can spark a fire It's an interesting analogy that James draws with the tongue and the starting of a forest fire. I have certainly experienced the power of my tongue starting a war of words in our home, and it hasn’t been pretty. I have regretted the words as soon as they have come out, but like that spark in the forest - once it is out, it is very difficult to contain! Of course in hindsight, I know it definitely would have been better to leave the room, or at the very least take a long pause and count to 10 (or maybe 100)!
Warren W. Wiersbe, in his commentary on James, Be Mature, Growing up in Christ, reminds us that Jesus experienced the wrath of the tongue,
“Fire burns and hurts, and our words can burn and hurt. One of the sorrows our Lord had to bear when He was here on earth was the way His enemies talked about Him. They called Him a “man gluttonous and a winebibber” (Matthew 11:29) because He graciously accepted invitations to dine with people the Pharisee did not like. When He performed miracles, they said He was in league with Satan. Even when He was dying on the cross, His enemies could not let Him alone but threw vicious taunts into His face.” Be Mature - Growing up in Christ, Warren W. Wierbse, Page 102
Can we tame the tongue? So can we tame the tongue? Yes we can. But not by ourselves. We need God’s help. With the help of the Holy Spirit we can develop the fruit listed in Galatians. We can display that fruit through our speech and communications:
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 NIV
Imagine if every word we spoke came from the place of love, loving Jesus and loving people, with our selfish desires nowhere to be seen (or heard!).
Imagine if our words brought peace into a situation, rather than adding fuel to it.
Imagine if the way we communicated was always from a place of forbearance, exuding patience and never with that, ‘Will you just hurry up’ tone.
Imagine if we had self-control and chose not to speak on occasions and let the Holy Spirit bring conviction.
The Holy Spirit can help us The good news is that with the help of the Holy Spirit, these things can become a reality in our lives. It probably won’t happen overnight (that certainly hasn’t been my experience), but rather little by little as we let the Holy Spirit do transformative work in our lives - the consecration process.
Here are a couple of specific scriptures that have helped me in this area -
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer. Psalm 19:14 NKJV Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips. Psalm 141:3 NIV
I have found both these Psalms are wonderful prayers to pray regularly, especially before any tricky conversations.
Are you speaking "faith and life"? So back to those two questions I started with, When did you last do an audit of the words you speak? Are you speaking “faith and life” or “fear and death”?
If, in considering the answers to these questions, you feel the Holy Spirit is nudging you to make some changes, so you can speak more "faith and life" into your life or those around you, then let's pray and ask Him for that help.
Holy Spirit, we thank you that you are a gift in our lives to help us become more like Jesus. Please help me to mature so that Your fruit, love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control, are very evident in my life, especially in the words I speak and how I communicate. Thank you that you will help me so that the words I speak will be acceptable to you. Thank you that you will put a guard over my mouth in those moments when I want to say something that is going to inflame a situation or hurt someone. Thank you for your graciousness towards me, and that you will continue to help me, even when I get it wrong. In Jesus Name we pray, Amen.
Looking for more encouragement? Are you looking for more resources to help you draw closer to God, please check out my other blog posts and podcasts.
Have you ever said to yourself, “There is not enough time to do all this.”? I have and it's normally followed up with a huge sigh of exasperation! Then the Holy Spirit reminds me of something I heard a few years ago, “God will always give you enough time for what He wants you to do.”
Press pause! Does that mean I am doing things that God doesn’t want me to do? Does that mean I am doing things differently from how He wants me to do them? Sounds like it is time to check in with God and find out.
Getting direction from God Let's look at those questions again, firstly "Am I doing things that God doesn't want me to do?" Or it could be asked this way, "Am I going in the direction God has for me?" In Psalms, we read,
“The steps of the God-pursuing ones follow firmly in the footsteps of the Lord, and God delights in every step they take to follow him.” (Psalm 37:23 TPT).
So when we have those thoughts of "There is not enough time" perhaps it is a good idea to pause and check in with God on the direction we are taking. Oh! there is again, that "Be Still and know that I am God" attitude. Maybe a prayer like, "God, am I doing what you want me to do? Am I following the path you have for me? Please show me if I have gone off track and am doing things that are outside your will for my life."
Jesus is a wonderful example of only doing what His Father, God, our Heavenly Father, told him to do. In the Gospel of John we read that Jesus said,
"I do what my father tells me to do. I do that so that the people of this world can know that I love my father.” (John 14:31 PEV) An aside: Jesus had complete clarity about why He was being obedient to His Father, "so that people of this world can know that I love my father." The Passion Translation says it this way, "I am doing exactly what the Father destined for me to accomplish, so that the world will discover how much I love my Father." (John 14:31 TPT)
So a question for us - "Do we have that level of clarity about the motives of our actions?"
Right direction, but not sure on the "how" Perhaps the answer is "Yes," we have clarity on our motives. We are confident we're being obedient to God and going in the direction He is leading us. However, we are still feeling overwhelmed with all that has to be done, "There is not enough time to do all this!"
So then we need to look at the "how" and ask the question, "Am I doing things God's way?"
We have the direction, but we need more of God's wisdom on how to take each step. In the book of Proverbs we read,
"A man’s mind plans his way [as he journeys through life]. But the LORD directs his steps and establishes them." (Proverbs 16:9 AMP).
We know there are often many ways to get to the end goal, but not all are efficient, and not all are the ways God wants it done. We need to remind ourselves that God’s ways are higher,
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts." (Isaiah 55:8-9 NKJV)
God's ways are higher - always - not just sometimes. God knows the bigger picture.
God has the bigger picture We don’t even know what will happen later today, or tomorrow, or next year. Receiving a ‘surprise’ medical report or receiving an unexpected promotion at work, reminds us of that.
James 4:13-15 tells us,
“Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” (James 4:13-15 NIV)
And so it is with the plans we make, we might have some ideas on the outcomes, but we don’t know for sure. But God knows.
Ask God for wisdom So getting back to the question, "Am I doing things God's way?" James also tells us we can ask for God's wisdom and He will give it to us,
"If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault; and it will be given to you." (James 1:5 NIV)
We need to ask God for His wisdom on the "how."
Recently my days have been very full, and I have been asking God each morning to order the tasks I have on the list. I knew my plan wouldn't be the best for me or my family, but I had confidence in God, that He has the bigger picture and He would fit it all together perfectly. And He has - leaving me very surprised at the end of the day with what had been achieved. Thank you God - your ways are astronomically higher than mine!
God's plan vs AI Interestingly, last week I was talking to someone about the busy-ness of the week. During the conversation I asked her if the Holy Spirit brought me to her mind, could she please pray for me, that I would clearly hear from God on what tasks to do each day. She agreed and then told me about electronic calendars now using AI to order people’s schedules.
I don’t know about you, but I would much prefer to trust God, the creator of Heaven and Earth, to order my day, rather than a man-made algorithm. As we read in James 4, God alone knows what the day will bring, and what tomorrow will bring, and how we need to prepare for it.
Pride and casting our cares on Jesus So why is it sometimes that we don't go to God to get His wisdom, but rather we press on, doing things our own way and often ending up in a pickle?
For me the answer is simple, Pride! I take pride in being independent, knowing the best course of action, not having to ask anyone for help. Yes, I know - plenty to repent of in that list! God has been helping me in these areas for the past 30 years, gently, and sometimes not so gently, showing me that I need to be totally dependent on Him.
When are feeling overwhelmed we always have the option of pausing, acknowledging God, yes, there it is again, "Be still and know that I am God." and asking for His help. We can give all of our cares to Him as it says in 1 Peter 4,
“Therefore humble yourselves [demote, lower yourselves in your own estimation] under the mighty hand of God, that in due time He may exalt you, casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully.” (1 Peter 4:6-7 AMPC)
Humility is key Humility is a key here, because it is us saying that we can't do this alone. We don't have what it takes. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines Humility as, "freedom from pride or arrogance: the quality or state of being humble." (Merriam-Webster)
I recently read this about humility in one of John Maxwell's books, "What is humility? My friend Rick Warren says, "Humility is not denying your strengths. Humility is being honest about your weaknesses. All of us are a bundle of both great strengths and great weaknesses and humility is being able to be honest about both." My belief is that humility is a choice every day to give credit to God for our blessings and to other people for our successes." (Good Leaders ask Great Questions, John Maxwell, page 33).
Humility gives us freedom. As we acknowledge that we need God's help, we take the pressure off ourselves.
A matter of trust
We don't need to have all the answers anymore, rather we trust God and His wisdom.
Proverbs 3:5-7 says,
"Trust in the Lord completely, and do not rely on your own opinions, with all your heart rely on him to guide you, and he will lead you in every decision you make. Become intimate with him in whatever you do, and he will lead you wherever you go. Don't think for a moment that you know it all, for wisdom comes when you adore him with undivided devotion. and avoid everything that's wrong." (Proverbs 3:5-7 TPT).
So today, let's choose to trust that God has the perfect plan for our lives. Let's choose to trust that when we ask Him, He will give us the steps to follow His path. And trust that He will always give us enough time to do what He wants us to do.
Looking for more encouragement? Are you looking for more resources to help you draw closer to God, please check out my other blog posts and podcasts.
Saturday morning was damp and humid, perfect mosquito conditions. Sometimes walking in this place can feel like mosquito feeding time! However, this morning I realised no mosquito had come near me. My thoughts moved to the insect repellent I had put on before walking. I have two types of repellent I use, a spray from one brand, and a roll-on from a different brand. Today I applied the roll-on and it was definitely providing the full protection and I was grateful.
God's protection Oh, my brain suddenly started going off, thinking about all the parallels between putting on the protection against mosquitos and putting on the protection God gives us to keep us safe from the enemy in the spiritual battles we face each day. Ephesians 6 is one of the chapters in the Bible where the Apostle Paul gives us some very clear directions about putting on the armour of God. He says,
“Put on God’s whole armour [the armour of a heavy-armed soldier which God supplies], that you may be able successfully to stand up against [all] the strategies and the deceits of the devil.” Ephesians 6:11 AMPC
Is the protection effective? The armour that God supplies is the best! No questions there.
But with the mosquito repellent, from my revelation on Saturday, I know that there are different levels of protection. I wonder if it is the application method (ie roll-on vs spray) or the repellent content that makes the difference? or both? Perhaps I might have to do a test on that! But in the interim, I will make sure that I am prepared and have the roll-on repellent with me for future walks.
Protection preparation So that brings up another question, how prepared are we when it comes to protection on our spiritual walk? How many times have you heard someone say "we are in a spiritual battle"? What does that mean to you? The Apostle Paul explains about the spiritual battle,
“For we are not wrestling with flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the despotisms, against the powers, against [the master spirits who are] the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spirit forces of wickedness in the heavenly [supernatural) sphere.” Ephesians 6:12 AMPC
The spiritual battle is real Just as mosquitos and the impact of their bite is very real, so are the spiritual enemies of God. This week someone shared with me about a dream they had where a demon came into their room and said “I am real”. This person’s response was to go to God’s word and seek after the truth. The truth in God's word is one of the pieces of armour God has given us - “the sword that the Spirit wields, which is the Word of God.” (Ephesians 6:17).
We need to know about the spiritual armour we have access to and be daily putting it on. Joyce Meyer says,
“It is important for us to see that we cannot fight darkness with darkness. I believe the best way to resist and overcome our powerful spiritual enemy is not by venting our anger and frustration in some fleshly manner. Rather, we need to put on our spiritual armour as described in Ephesians 6:13-17 and yield ourselves to the power and presence of the Holy Spirit within us as we pray (see Ephesians 6:18).” The Everyday Bible - Joyce Meyer, p1945
Gaps in the protection lead to distraction Sometimes I am in a hurry to get going on my walk. I forget to apply the repellent to my neck. When I have my hair up the back of my neck can be vulnerable to mosquito bites. I can hear them buzzing around my neck and I spend my walk continually shooing and slapping them away. They become a distraction, impacting on the purpose of my walk, which often is to have conversations with God - talking and lots of listening.
And so too it can be for us if we are not putting on the full armour of God daily. Each part of God’s armour has its purpose. We don’t want any chinks in the armour where the enemy can come in and distract us.
The Message Bible says,
“Be prepared. You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it’s all over but the shouting you’ll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You’ll need them throughout your life. God’s word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way prayer is essential for ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.” Ephesians 6:13-18 The Message
We are called to pray for one another, as each one of us is in this spiritual battle - some days it is just more evident than others. The Passion Translation says,
“Pray passionately in the Spirit, as you constantly intercede with every form of prayer at all times. Pray the blessings of God upon all his believers.” Ephesians 6:18 The Passion Translation.
The indispensable weapon A final word about God’s Word, the indispensable weapon. One of the first books I bought when I became a Christian, aside from a New King James Bible, was The Spiritual Warrior’s Prayer Guide by Quin Sherrer and Ruthanne Garlock. It helped me to understand the spiritual battle we are in and the armour God has given us. They say,
“The only piece of the spiritual warrior’s armour which is both offensive and defensive is named last on Paul’s list: “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God (Ephesians 6:17). William Gurnal aptly describes this piece of armour: “the sword is the weapon continually used by soldiers to defend themselves and to rout their enemies. Thus it illustrates the most excellent use of God’s Word, by which the believer both defends himself and cuts down his enemies.” The Spiritual Warrior’s Prayer Guide - Using God’s Word in prayer and spiritual warfare; Quin Sherrer & Ruthanne Garlock p41.
Build up your storehouse of scripture So I encourage you to build up your storehouse of scripture. Meditate on it day and night. Ask God for Scriptures and Rhema words you can wield into the atmosphere. They both protect and attack - reminding the enemy of the authority you have in Jesus Name. They are God-breathed words that build faith as you declare them over yourself, your family, your community and nation.
One of the scriptures I regularly declare over our family is:
“No weapon formed against you (any member of our family) shall prosper” Isaiah 54:17 NIV
We live in a spiritual world, so let's not be naive and apathetic, but rather be equipped and prepared for each day, putting on the full protection that God has given us. So we can do all God has called us to do without distraction!
To hear more encouragement from Wendy visit https://drawingclosertogod.org/podcasts
Do you need some encouragement to finish that project?
How many times in your life have you started a project and struggled to complete it? Perhaps you are in that situation right now! Where do you go to get the encouragement you need to finish a project?
Striving to find a way So many times in my life I have been unable to find a way through. I strive to find the strategy, to find the key to moving forward.
When I feel myself striving this way, I know there is only one action to take - Be Still. Yes, Psalm 46:10 again! I keep coming back to that very clear command from God - Be Still. Just “Be Still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). It’s as though God is saying, “Will you just stop thinking all those thoughts and listen to Me.”
Not by might nor by power Often too God reminds me of the words the angel said to Zechariah to encourage the Israelites to complete the rebuilding of the temple after their return to Jerusalem from exile. The angel said to Zechariah,
“ ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.” (Zechariah 4:6 NIV)
It was a challenging time for the Israelites, they were returning to a city that had been decimated. One commentary says,
“Although the archaeological data is fragmentary, there is enough to suggest that the exiles returned to a shattered urban landscape where considerable effort was needed to simply survive.” (NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible, p1555).
Encouragement to complete the project The rebuilding of the temple project seemed impossible to the Israelites. There was so much to be done and limited resources available. The Israelites needed some encouragement to keep focused and complete the project God had given them to do. So God provided that encouragement through Zechariah. Here is what one commentary says about their struggle:
“The community was struggling to rebuild a sustainable economy, and severe limits on resources made rebuilding the temple an almost unthinkable task. For this reason, both Haggai and Zechariah needed to remind their audiences that God controlled the resources.” (NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible, p1555).
Who controls the resources? An aside (or perhaps a key point!), in the economy we are living in today, it is important to remind ourselves that God still controls the resources. I remember one day last year I was walking and talking to God about my concerns about our finances, a Philippians 4:6-7 prayer. As I prayed a flock of cockatoos flew over, probably about 30 of them, and the Holy Spirit reminded me of Matthew 6:26,
“Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” (Matthew 6:26 NKJV).
Yes, God is in control and He is trustworthy.
By My Spirit says the Lord Getting back to completing projects and the need for encouragement, let's have a look at Zechariah 4:6 from the Amplified Bible,
Then he said to me, This [addition of the bowl to the candlestick, causing it to yield a ceaseless supply of oil from the olive trees] is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit [of Whom the oil is a symbol], says the Lord of hosts. Zechariah 4:6 AMPC
I love how the Amplified Bible gives that fuller picture to help us understand more of what God is saying. Read it again and listen out for which words the Holy Spirit quickens to you,
Then he said to me, This [addition of the bowl to the candlestick, causing it to yield a ceaseless supply of oil from the olive trees] is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit [of Whom the oil is a symbol], says the Lord of hosts. Zechariah 4:6 AMPC
A Ceaseless supply These words are quickened to me “ceaseless supply of oil”, followed by "“My Spirit” [of Whom the oil is a symbol]."
Who is the Spirit? He is the Holy Spirit, the third member of the Trinity. When we receive Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour, the Holy Spirit comes and indwells in us. Jesus tells us this in John 14:16-17,
“If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you." John 14:16-17 NIV
So with the Holy Spirit living within us we then have a ceaseless supply of God’s power.
The Holy Spirit The Passion Translation footnote on John 14:16-17 explains some more about the Holy Spirit,
“The Greek word used here is parakletos, a technical word that could be translated “defence attorney.” It means “one called to stand next to you as a helper.” Various translations have rendered this “Counsellor,” “Comforter,” “Advocate,” “Encourager,” “Intercessor,” or “Helper.” However none of these words alone are adequate and fall short in explaining the full meaning. The translator has chosen the word Saviour, for it depicts the role of the Holy Spirit to protect, defend, and save us from our self and our enemies and keep us whole and healed. He is the One who guides and defends, comforts and consoles. Keep in mind that the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Christ, our Saviour.” (The Passion Translation p630).
Ask the Holy Spirit for help So what do we do when we need encouragement to finish the project, or perhaps we need some wisdom on how to finish the project? We ask the Holy Spirit for His encouragement and help. Joyce Meyer says,
“Are you faced with a difficult obstacle? Like the Israelites, you cannot overcome any situation with determination alone. You do need to be determined, but as Zechariah 4:6 teaches, be determined in the Holy Spirit - not in the effort of your own flesh. The Holy Spirit is your Helper; seek His help. Lean on Him. You cannot make it alone. You need Him.” (The Everyday Life Bible - Joyce Meyer (p1451))
No project is too big or small for the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit is there available to help with all sorts of projects and problems - nothing is too big or small.
Last week I was having difficulty doing some formatting in a word document. I tried a few things but they didn’t work, I could feel myself getting frustrated. So I paused and asked the Holy Spirit for help and then I felt a quiet prompting, “Try this,” I did and it worked. Perhaps I should have asked sooner for His help!
As the year ramps up and the days get busier, sometimes it is a challenge to fit all the tasks and activities into one day and I can once again feel myself getting frustrated and impatient, saying things to myself like, “There is not enough time to get this all done.” But again, a simple inquiry to the Holy Spirit as to what is actually necessary to do today always makes the day flow better. He knows which jobs can wait, and even which jobs are completely unnecessary.
On the bigger scale, there may be a situation that I have been asked to pray for - a situation where there appears to be no human way for things to change. So people pray, the Spirit moves, miracles occur and situations change. I’ve been blessed to witness this more than a few times in my life.
These are only a few examples of surrendering something, some project, to the Holy Spirit and trusting that He will bring the right resolution,
“ ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.” (Zechariah 4:6 NIV)
The parenting project A final note about a slightly different type of project - parenting. It is a project I find I often need encouragement for!
Parenting is a major area in my life where I have found this truth, "Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit" to be revolutionary. So many times I have wanted to yell and scream and jump up and down and say to our children “Just do it this way!” And honestly, there have been occasions, to my embarrassment, when I have done that and it didn’t end well! I quickly learnt that “Might and Power” wasn’t a good strategy with teenagers! Yes, boundaries are necessary but the implementation has to be right - love, grace and truth is a good starting point. And who is best-placed to give you the specifics of that implementation - the perfect approach for each child? Yes, that is right - the Holy Spirit!
A challenge for this week So I’ll leave you with a little challenge for this week. The next time you need encouragement with any project, big or small, and you are tempted to just ‘get in there and fix it’ or perhaps even thinking of giving up, then pause, take a breath and declare that this situation won’t be resolved “by might nor by power, but by the Holy Spirit,” and then ask the Holy Spirit for His guidance, making sure you be still so you can hear His answer!
To find out more please visit https://drawingclosertogod.org
Christmas was over a month ago. We were a little late putting our tree up this year, 23 December, but we did get there. Perhaps we will leave it up until February as it adds so much colour to the room. When we take the tree down the room looks very bland.
It’s a bit like the tree in our garden I shared about a couple of weeks ago, stunning hot pink flowers and fresh green leaves in the summer, and then in winter - just plain brown branches.
That thought leads me to a question, what brings colour into your life? What brings joy into your life?
What dulls the colour in your life? Or what about these questions, what dulls the colour in your life? What steals your joy?
Ken and I were recently reflecting on our almost 26 years of marriage, talking about the many times we have faced battles that have come to not only steal our joy but to steal our marriage and our family - the physical health battles; mental health battles; financial battles and relationship battles.
We know that Jesus tells us in John 10:10, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy;"
The Thief comes to steal And we know that reading something and thinking that we understand it, is very different from the reality of living it!
Ken and I have no doubts about why we are still “standing” today. We have a hope in someone so much greater than ourselves.
A hope in Jesus Christ and faith to believe His words in the second part of John 10:10, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
Jesus comes to give us life Life. Over the years, especially with the journey with our daughter and cancer, my understanding of that word ‘life’ has changed. Often we are so focused on our life right here, right now. But God tells us in James 4:14 that our life here is fleeting,
“But you don’t have a clue what tomorrow may bring. For your fleeting life is but a warm breath of air that is visible in the cold only for a moment and then vanishes!” James 4:14 TPT
Life on earth is fleeting What we experience here today on earth is only one part of our life - the fleeting part of our life, perhaps even the dull part of our life when one considers eternity. The apostle Paul knew and understood this well. While in prison he wrote to the Philippians, “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:13 NIV.
Life here on earth is not the end game! There is more. Heaven. Eternal life.
There is more If you are interested in finding out some more about Heaven, I can highly recommend this book that a friend gave me some years ago, Imagine Heaven - Near-Death Experiences. God’s promises, and the exhilarating future that awaits you, written by John Burke.
Our access to eternal life is faith in Jesus Christ, as Romans 6:23 tells us,
“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
I don’t know what is happening in your life right now, but I do know that there is a God in Heaven who loves you. I know that life here has many challenges and we face many battles.
But I also know this, as a person who has been living with faith in Jesus Christ for 28 years, Jesus is our only hope for living life to the full both here on earth and for eternity. There is no other way.
“This is the true testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life has its source in his Son. Whoever has the Son has eternal life; whoever does not have the Son does not possess eternal life.” 1 John 5:11-13 TPT
Jesus brings the colour into my life Jesus brings the colour into my life - now and forever.
He can do the same for you if you choose to receive Him as your Lord and Saviour. If you want to do this now, please pray this prayer* with me:
Father,
You loved the world so much that You gave Your only begotten Son to die for our sins so that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16).
Your Word says we are saved by grace through faith as a gift from You. There is nothing we can do to earn salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9).
I believe and confess with my mouth that Jesus Christ is Your Son, the Saviour of the world (Romans 10:9). I believe He died on the cross for me and bore all of my sins (1 Peter 2:24), paying the price for me (Isaiah 53).
I believe in my heart that You raised Jesus from the dead and that He is alive today.
I am a sinner and I am sorry for my sins and I ask You to forgive me. By faith I receive Jesus Christ now as my Lord and Saviour. I believe that I am saved and will spend eternity with You! Thank You, Father. I am so grateful! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Next steps If you prayed this prayer for the first time, I encourage you to do three things:
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Start reading God’s Word (The Bible) today. The book of Matthew is a great place to start.
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Find a local Bible-based church and commit to attending each week, so you can grow in your faith, be encouraged and encourage others, and learn more about the purpose God has for you on earth.
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Tell a family member or friend about the decision you have made today to receive Jesus as your Lord and Saviour. I pray that they will rejoice with you and encourage you.
*This prayer is based on a prayer in The Everyday Life Bible.
To find out more please visit https://drawingclosertogod.org
What's your 'go-to' when things aren't working out how you thought they would? Does frustration take over? For me, being a planner and organiser by nature, frustration is definitely my 'go-to' when things aren't working out as I'd planned.
The broken wrist In early December I broke my wrist while renovating a room in our home. Standing on a kiddie step to sand a cornice, I stepped off awkwardly and fell. I screamed. My daughter came running and helped me get up off the floor. Immediately I started planning how I could continue the sanding. I attempted to pick up something with my left hand - but couldn't. My daughter looked at my left wrist and said, "Mum, you need to go to the hospital." I started crying, all these thoughts going through my head, the waiting at the hospital, the thought of not being able to drive and the implications on all the plans around Christmas. I could feel the frustration building.
Be Still moment Then I took a moment to Be Still and to acknowledge God, as it says in Psalm 46:10. I asked Him what He wanted me to do in this situation, and I had a sense of a 'Slow down Wendy' message (Obviously!).
Choose to yield At that moment I could have continued with the negative thoughts about all I wouldn't be able to do due to this injury. But over many years of having many unexpected medical situations in our family, I've learnt enough from God to know that when He speaks it is best to quickly yield, receive and embrace His words. The "just do it" and in this case it was "Slow down Wendy".
Yielding quickly
Another key God has taught me to yielding quickly is thankfulness. Look for the things to be thankful for, as it says in Thessalonians 5:18,
"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." Thessalonians 5:18 NIV In the situation with the broken wrist, I was thankful that I could get up and walk - I didn't injure any other part of my body. I was grateful that I was now going to get the rest I needed - I didn't have to ask anyone's permission to stop!
Now, the cast is off, the bone has healed, and I can drive again. There are movement and strengthening exercises to do but life is back to normal. But I am so grateful that for 6 weeks I had a slower-paced life.
Frustration brings limits And I am so grateful for all the years that God has been teaching me how to yield and not let frustration overtake me. James 1:2-4 tells us that these trials we face have a purpose, "My brethen, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." James 1:2-4 NKJV
God matures us through our trials. But I must say, I find it really hard to "count it all joy" when I'm feeling frustrated. The frustration seems to take all my energy, so much so that it limits my ability to think and hear clearly. I can't hear clearly from God or other people who are trying to help me process the frustration. I need a circuit breaker to stop the moments of frustration turning into hours, days, months and years!
The Circuit breaker With each trial I go through in life, complete with its frustration, something interesting happens - my understanding of God's trustworthiness grows. My ability to go to that place of "Okay, this is frustrating and annoying, but I am going to choose to trust that God has a plan and purpose here." has increased over the years and most times I can relatively quickly yield and go to the place of trusting God. Of course, sometimes there is still that wrestle and it takes a bit longer - I am a work in progress - and thankfully God is patient and kind.
... is trust! So my circuit breaker to being overwhelmed by frustration is - Trust! And not trusting in myself and my abilities, but trusting in God.
Proverbs 3:5-6, I'm sure you know it, says, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your path." (NKJV)
Trusting God with all your heart For me, as I said, learning to trust God with all my heart is a journey. It didn't just happen like the flick of a switch when I received Jesus Christ as my Lord and Saviour, at age 24. No, it has been and still is a gradual process of letting go of my plans (difficult when a lot of my career was about project planning!); letting go of the trust I have in my wisdom and knowledge (ie I know best); letting go of being led by my feelings, and letting go of the expectations of myself. Basically, it is the process of dying to oneself, and as Jesus said to His disciples,
“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me." Luke 9:23 NIV
Surrender to His Ways The Passion Translation says it this way, "If you truly desire to be my disciple, you must disown your life completely, embrace my 'cross' as your own, and surrender to my ways." Luke 9:23 TPT
Surrender. Letting go of my ways and following Jesus' ways. Trusting God.
The catalyst for me to learning how to let go has been the trials of life, those trials that James talks about. With each trial that Jesus helps me overcome I learn more about His character. I grow in my understanding of just how trustworthy He is. And I learn more about my character and that my frustration at the circumstances I didn't like or want, is highlighting to me the areas where I need to trust God more.
Getting frustrated? Trust God So next time you feel yourself getting frustrated at a situation or person, take a breath and tell yourself that this is the time to, "Trust in the LORD with all my heart, and lean not on my own understanding; In all my ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct my path."
And perhaps if you haven't already, start writing in a journal about every time you make that choice to trust God and then record what the outcome is. It will become your book of personal testimonies to remind yourself that God is trustworthy.
To find out more please visit drawingclosertogod.org
What are the first words you say to yourself when you wake up? Over the last few months, I have been purposefully saying to myself these words from a childhood Sunday School song (actually Psalm 118:24), "This is the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it." (NKJV). It is a declaration to my soul. Me, telling myself that God is in control. He made this day (Psalm 118:24). He knows what is to come (Psalm 139:16). He will not leave me to do this day alone. (Deuteronomy 31:8).
Speaking faith Essentially I am speaking faith into my day. Faith that no matter what happens, whether is it no drama (we don't actually have many of those days) or a little bit of drama, or some massive drama (we have had too many of those days!) - This is the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it! I'm telling myself that I will choose to keep my eyes on Jesus (Hebrews 12:2)...
Be thankful ... and I will keep looking for things to be thankful for. In fact, in The Passion Translation, Psalm 118, where the scripture, "This is the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it" comes from, is titled, "Glorious Thanksgiving". Its first few verses say, "Keep on giving your thanks to God, for he is so good! His constant, tender love lasts forever! Let all his princely people sing, His constant, tender love lasts forever!" Psalm 118:1-2 The Passion Translation
Awake, my soul As someone who often speaks to themselves, I always find it reassuring when I hear of someone else who speaks to themselves too. In Psalm 108 we hear King David speaking to his soul as he prays to God for help, "My heart, O God, is quiet and confident, all because of you. Now I can sing my song with passionate praises! Awake, O my soul, with the music of his splendor. Arise, my soul, and sing his praises! I will awaken the dawn with my worship, greeting the daybreak with my songs of light." Psalm 108:1-2 The Passion Translation
Yes, here is King David at dawn, speaking to himself, telling his soul to sing praises to God. King David is speaking faith as he asks God for His help in the battle, "Save us and help us with your right hand, that those who you love may be delivered." Psalm 108:6 NIV
An aside ... You may have heard Hillsong's beautiful worship song, Awake My Soul, which has some lyrics based on Psalm 108.
Words Matter We all know that the words we speak matter. We are often so careful with the words we speak to others. But for those of us who are often speaking to ourselves, we can easily forget to consider what we are saying to ourselves. Just as we need to take our thoughts captive (2 Corinthians 10:5), we need to remember the truth of Proverbs 18:21,
"Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and they who indulge in it shall eat the fruit of it [for death or life]." Proverbs 18:21 AMPC
This truth applies to the words we say to ourselves and others. Joyce Meyer often speaks about the power of words and she says, "We have heard the phrase, "You're going to have to eat your words," and Proverbs 18:21 confirms this truth. The words we speak have power to influence our lives. In fact, you may be eating your words right now, and that may be why you are not happy with your life. Your mouth may be getting you in trouble with yourself!" (The Everyday Life Bible, P993).
What words will you wake up with tomorrow? So I'll leave you (and me) with a little challenge ... what words will we wake up with tomorrow? Will it be the 'Ugh, I wonder what's going to go wrong today,' with a generally unenthusiastic tone? Or will it be a statement of faith, such as "This is the day the LORD has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it," combined with a thankful attitude that His grace is sufficient for us today.
To find out more please visit drawingclosertogod.org
In our garden we have a hot pink Crepe MyrtIe (I had to google to find out what type of tree it was!). It blooms in the height of summer, bringing a huge splash of colour to our garden. I love it, often exclaiming to the children as we drive in the driveway, “Look at the tree, look at the tree, it is so beautiful.”
Of course in the winter it looks very different. Just a trunk and branches. No leaves. No hot pink flowers.
Seasons God tells us in Ecclesiastes that there are seasons,
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV.
In September 2020 I felt that nudge from God that my season for writing this weekly blog had ended - Permanently or temporarily - I didn’t know, but I obediently stopped. A few weeks later in October 2020, we found out that Victoria would have to re-commence chemotherapy treatment for a year.
Is it time to start again? Midway through 2022 I wondered, is it time to start again? But I didn’t get a clear “yes” from God so I just waited. And then in Oct 2022 we received the news Victoria was going to need brain surgery, so clearly not the right time to start writing again - there were other priorities!
Maybe now? Then in May 2023, it seemed as though it may be the right time to write so I put together a plan for the first couple of months of blog posts, planning to start in July. However, that timing wasn’t right either, as some new health challenges appeared for Victoria in June of which she is still contending with.
Or maybe now? But here we are today, the first Sunday in 2024. My husband has recently started as the Sunday morning announcer at a local Christian radio station. He is up and out of the house early so I have a quiet few hours to myself. Victoria’s health continues to be challenging, but God is giving us each the daily grace we need to do that journey well. So I am sensing that it seems as though my next season of writing is finally here!
Now, where to start? So where to start? I have read over the blog post plan I wrote last year and it still seems relevant - thank you Jesus for going before me and making a way!
When I reflect on the past three years, particularly with the challenges of Victoria’s health, there are many questions one could ask, but how about this one … “How does one live a life of hope when we are faced with so many unknowns?” That word ‘unknowns’ means different things to each of us. For me, with the unknowns of life, I need something unchanging that I can rely on - a firm foundation.
A firm foundation A firm foundation - a place that I can go, no matter what is going on in our lives, and it will give me strength and faith to get up the next day and keep moving forward. For me, that firm foundation is God’s word - the Bible. That is the place I go to, reading it daily, fully expecting that God will speak to me through it, giving me His wisdom; reminding me that He loves me and that He will never leave me; encouraging me that He works all things together for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose; reassuring me that because of Jesus Christ we can have eternal life.
The Bible - the word of God So over the next few weeks, I’m going to write about some of my favourite scriptures and how God has used them in my life. Today I will leave you with this one …
He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10 NIV.
I encourage you today, to find a physical space, perhaps it is sitting under a beautiful blooming tree like our Crepe Myrtle, and take five minutes to be still and meditate on the truth that there is a God in heaven and He loves you.
PS: Don’t be surprised if tears come as you receive more of His love.
Needing some help to 'Be Still?' Here are some beautiful worship songs that have helped me come to that place of 'Being Still' before God:
Be Still - Kari Jobe Be Still - Live - Hillsong Worship
To find out more please visit https://drawingclosertogod.org
In my lifegroup we are studying Romans. What a wonderful time we are having getting greater revelation of God's grace, learning more about why and how Jesus set us right with God. Every week we are reminded that it's all about God. Not us. It's all about Who He is, and what He says about us.
Our justification
We are up to Chapter 4. Warren W. Wiersbe in his book, Be right - how to be right with God, yourself, and others, says the following about this section in Romans and our justification ...
Paul's theme in the second section of his letter was salvation - righteousness declared. He proved that all people are sinners; so his next goal was to explain how sinners can be saved. The theological term for this salvation is justification by faith. Justification is the act of God whereby He declares the believing sinner righteous in Christ on the basis of the finished work of Christ on the cross. Each part of this definition is important, so we must consider it carefully.
To begin with, justification is an act, not a process. There are no degrees of justification; each believer has the same standing before God. Also, justification is something God does, not man. No sinner can justify himself before God. Most important, justification does not mean that God makes us righteous, but that He declares us righteous. Justification is a legal matter. God puts the righteousness of Christ on our record in place of our own sinfulness. And nobody can change this record. Warren W. Wiersbe, Be right - how to be right with God, Page 45
God does it all
What truth. How many times to do need to hear this to get the revelation that it is all God's doing, and nothing to do with us.
He declares us righteous .... And nobody can change this record.
Those words that God said about Abraham, "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness," apply to us too, as Romans Chapter 4:24, 25 tells us ...
But [they were written] for our sakes too. [Righteousness, standing acceptable to God] will be granted and credited to us also who believe in (trust in, adhere to, and rely on) God, Who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead, Who was betrayed and put to death because of our misdeeds and was raised to secure our justification (our aquittal), [making our account balance and absolving us from all guilt before God]. Romans 4:24,25 AMPC
Jesus set us right with God
The Message Bible says it this way ...
But it's not just Abraham, it's also us! The same thing gets said about us when we embrace and believe the One who brought Jesus to life when the conditions were equally hopeless. The sacrificed Jesus made us fit for God, set us right with God. Romans 4:24,25 The Message
When I read this scripture, two songs came to mind ...
Clean by Hillsong United
Nothing but the blood by Hillsong
I don't have much more to say today, other than that - that life-giving truth...
The sacrificed Jesus made us fit for God, set us right with God.
And that is more than enough. Thank you Jesus.
Are you right with God?
If you want to be set right with God, and accept what Jesus did you for you, making a way for you to be right with God, then simply say this prayer from your heart, surrendering your life to Jesus Christ. Then seek out a local bible-believing church and connect with other followers of Jesus who can help you on your journey.
Lord Jesus, I believe that you are the Son of God. I believe that You became man and died on the cross for my sins. I believe that God raised You from the dead and made you the Saviour of the world. I confess that I am a sinner and I ask you to forgive me, and to cleanse me of all my sins. I accept your forgiveness, and I receive You as my Lord and Saviour. In Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen.
Please note, this prayer came from Gerald, K 1997, The Proving Ground - Nine tests that prove your personal potential, Insight Publishing Group, Tulsa, OK, 106.
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
What does worship mean to you? Recently I read this statement about worship. It reminded me that worship is not about us.
"Sometimes worship is difficult. We don’t want to praise God or hear God’s voice. Sometimes worship grabs us by the nape of the neck and shakes us up as we come face to face with an ineffable God. Sometimes worship is comforting as we bow down before a God who loves us and gave up everything for us. Sometimes worship is joyous as we praise God who does great things for our world. And sometimes worship is all those things at once. Worship should never be a passive experience, and it is never about us." Postmodern Children’s Ministry – Ministry to children in the 21st Century, Ivy Beckwith, Page 151.
Let's consider this phrase again ...Worship should never be a passive experience, and it is never about us.
What did Jesus say? When Jesus was being tested in the wilderness by the enemy Jesus reminded us of Who we are to focus our worship on.
Then the devil, taking Him up on a high mountain, showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. And the devil said to Him, “All this authority I will give You, and their glory; for this has been delivered to me, and I give it to whomever I wish. Therefore, if You will worship before me, all will be Yours.”
And Jesus answered and said to him, “Get behind Me, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’ ” Luke 4:5-8 NKJV
Jesus' words are very clear ...
'You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve.'
The Message Bible says it this way,
Jesus refused, again backing his refusal with Deuteronomy: “Worship the Lord your God and only the Lord your God. Serve him with absolute single-heartedness.” Luke 4:8 The Message
What is worship? We can think about worship in many different ways. One of the ways we are probably most familiar with is the 'singing time' in church, which at the moment, due to COVID-19, has greatly dimished in the wake of social distancing rules.
I'm so grateful that our church has been able to meet again, in smaller numbers, and have a time of worship, albeit quite differently to what we are used to, but still a beautiful time of worshipping Jesus.
With the absence of the familiar corporate worship time during COVID, we have had to purposefully seek out and embrace alternatives to continue fellowshiping and drawing closer to God. So as with many aspects of our faith during this time of COVID, the small group gathering and our individual devotion time with Jesus has taken on a more central role.
Worship in the small group For me, my early experiences of home-group / life-group involved a time of worship. While there was some singing during the worship, mostly it was a time of sitting in the presence of God, focusing on the words that declared truth about our Saviour. For example, Lord of All, Hillsong Worship
'Lord I long to see you glorified
In everything I do
All my heartfelt dreams I put aside
To see your Spirit move with power in my life.
Jesus, Lord of all eternity
Your children rise in faith
All the earth displays your glory
And each word you speak brings life to all who hear.'
I'm grateful for those experiences and what I learned. They were one aspect of the equipping that enabled me to start a life-group in 2019, where we normally include a time of worship, sitting in the presence of God, with our heart and mind focused on Jesus, Lord of All.
God prepares the way How perfect is that for today's scenario of COVID-19 when singing has so many restrictions around it. I love how God goes before us, preparing us for what we need, before we know we need it.
And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.” Deuteronomy 31:8 NKJV
Despite the social distancing restrictions, we can still listen to some anointed worship songs, lay down our concerns from the day and turn our hearts and minds towards God.
Here are a few of worship songs we play:
Find me at the feet of Jesus- Christy Nockels
What A Beautiful Name - Hillsong Worship
Breathe/Rest (Spontaneous Worship) - Cory Ashbury
Goodness of God - Bethel Music and Jenn Johnson
You are for me - Kari Jobe
Worshipping in Spirit and in Truth In these times though, when our experience of 'church' is a little different, I think it is important to pause and consider the wider definition of worship, and how we are living that out in our lives.
CompellingTruth.org has an interesting article, How can I worship the Lord in Spirit and Truth, refering to our response to John 4:23-24.
But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.” John 4:23-24 NLT
And here is the same scripture in The Passion Translation ...
From here on, worshiping the Father will not be a matter of the right place but with the right heart. For God is a Spirit*, and he longs to have sincere worshipers who worship and adore him in the realm of the Spirit and in truth.” John 4:23-24 TPT
A side note, or perhaps the key note when it comes to worshipping Jesus, ... the footnote in The Passion Translation says,
*Or “God is breath,” or “God is wind.” Jesus refers to “Spirit” more than one hundred times in the four Gospels.
The transforming power of the Holy Spirit The power of the Holy Spirit transforms us, over time, into more sincere worshippers of Jesus. His power transforms our lives so we become a reflection of God's love - ie the fruit of the Spirit grows in us ...
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 NKJV
Here is a more contemporary translation from The Message:
But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely. Galatians 5:22-23 The Message
Worship is not about us So we have meandered from that original statement by Ivy Beckwith ....
Worship should never be a passive experience, and it is never about us."
... to Jesus' words in Luke 4:8 ...
'You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve.' Luke 4:8 NKJV
... to Jesus' words in John 4:24 ...
For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.” John 4:24 NLT
... to Paul's words about what happens in us when we allow the Holy Spirit transforms us ...
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 NKJV
We need to choose to engage in worship So yes, worship is not about us, but we need to choose to engage in worship. We need to fully engage and allow the Holy Spirit to transform us through worship. Fully engaging means we continually choose to put Jesus first in our lives, acknowledging that He is Lord of All.
Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:9-11 NKJV
Today, let's choose to engage fully in worship, however that looks for us - singing, loving, serving, and through that worship allow the Holy Spirt to transform us to be more and more like Jesus in this place.
To find out more, please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
During COVID-19 our business slowed down, so Ken and I took the opportunity to learn some new skills, specifically in relation to video recording. A week ago Ken told me about a one month challenge he was going to do with a group Live Streaming Pros, about telling stories and listening to stories.
The 31 Day Challenge The challenge, 31 Days to being Youniquely you on camera, involves doing a live stream to a private Facebook group, speaking to a question/topic provided by Live Streaming Pros. For example, 'What is holding you back?'
One of the important aspects of the group is the giving and receiving of encouragement to other group members, of which there is 543 globally. It is a fascinating environment with plenty of stories to listen to. There are lots of Christians in the group, learning how to tell their stories in a more effective way. Actually that's why I decided to join Ken in this challenge, to improve my communication skills on video so I can more effectively share stories about Jesus.
However the other morning after I had completed a live stream, I was doing the dishes (because the mundane activities of life have to be done!) and was thinking about how interesting it was listening to people learning how to share their faith and their dreams etc in this group. And I felt God say to me, "I want you to listen to the other stories too and learn from them."
Listen to the other stories By 'Other stories' I knew God was referring to the people in the group who were obviously from other cultures and religions - remember this group has 543 people from all over the world who want to tell their stories more effectively, mostly with the goal of helping others.
This instruction from God about listening to the stories and learning from them, reminded me of recent messages I had heard at church in relation to The Stolen Generation (Donna Meehan) and Gender-related issues. How easy is it to only listen to the things that make us feel comfortable, rather than the stories that challenge our thinking and hopefully our actions.
So my response to God was, "Okay God, I will listen to the other stories too. Give me insight to hear what is being said and understand more about people. Please help me to listen with my heart."
Of course this 'listening' doesn't only apply to the videos in the lifestreaming group, it applies to all areas of our lives.
Listening to my children As a mum I haven't always been a good listener, either because I have been too busy to listen, or I have already made assumptions about what I would hear from the mouth of my child, or about the scenario that has played out.
Over the years though I have learned that when I hear the words, 'Mum' it is best to stop and completely shift my attention to the person. Even if sometimes only to say, 'I will just finish this job and then I can speak with you.' Of course I am not perfect at this and sometimes its a couple of hours until I 'finish the job!' But most times I do try to respond with that initial acknowledgement.
Stopping making assumptions has been a little bit more challenging for me, especially as the children grow and change. Sometimes after my 'assumption response' they have had had to say to me, 'Mum, I'm not like that anymore. I don't do that now.' And I've had to say sorry, and make a mental note to myself that they have changed. We can all be better listeners, especially with those closest to us.
But who is going to listen to me? On the flipside, have you ever felt like, 'Who is listening to me? I am listening to my husband, my children, etc, but who is taking time to listen to me?'
There is One who is always available to listen to us, and doesn't make assumptions about what we are going to say. Yes, He knows us completely, but He listens graciously and loves us unconditionally.
Lord, you know everything there is to know about me.
You perceive every movement of my heart and soul,
and you understand my every thought before it even enters my mind.
You are so intimately aware of me, Lord.
You read my heart like an open book
And you know all the words I'm about to speak
before I even start a sentence!
You know every step I will take before my journey even begins.
Psalm 139:1-4 TPT
How wonderful is it to know that. Before I go to sleep I can chat with Him, leave my concerns with Him ...
Pour out all your worries and stress upon him and leave them there, for he always tenderly cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7 TPT
When I wake up I can ask Him for direction for the day ...
Show me Your ways, O LORD;
Teach me Your paths.
Lead me in Your truth and teach me,
For You are the God of my salvation;
On You I wait all the day.
Psalm 25:4-5 NKJV
And then the onus is on me again - to listen to God's teaching and instructions.
God, please help us to listen well I wonder how much have we missed about life and people because we haven't listened properly? At home? At school? At work? At church? In social settings? Are we listening to stories people want or need to tell us?
Let's ask God today to help us to listen well, listen with our heart (bypassing all the assumptions), and listen for the actions God wants us to take in response to what we hear.
To find out more visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
In these interesting days, how are you going with being content when things keep changing? Restrictions tighten and restrictions ease. We are unsure what tomorrow will look like.
Memories and grief surfacing When the Coronavirus started impacting on Australia there was a few days where I struggled as grief surfaced from our daughter's cancer journey. The continual hand santising was the trigger, a familiar practice during her 15 months of receiving chemotherapy.
And now when we are again on 'high alert' and restrictions are tightening, I am reminded of when we as a family were on 'high alert' or hypervigilant in relation to Victoria getting a high temperature (over 38 degrees) and having to go to hospital for at least three days. These emergency hospital visits happened many times and caused much anxiety and turmoil for each member of our family.
*Warning: unashamed promo - if you want to read more about this part of our story, and God's faithfulness throughout it, my book is available at* wendyrobinson.com.au
What does it take to be content? The current situation and memories of the past had me thinking about contentedness. How does one get to that state of contentedness regardless of what is going on in their lives or around them?
The Apostle Paul seemed to have found that place, as he explains to the Philippians...
**But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity. Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.** Philippians 4:10-13 NKJV
There is so much to meditate on in this passage of scripture. Let's not forget where Paul was when he wrote this letter - prison, with the exact location unknown. He himself was undergoing hardship, however he was still able to maintain his focus on Christ and on others.
Keep focussed on the goal Paul was focussed on a goal, regardless of his circumstances. He explains this to Philippians earlier in his letter.
**I don't mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.** Philippians 3:12-14 NLT
Remember, Paul is in prison when he wrote this letter. Plenty of restrictions and unknowns in his life at that time! But he keeps his focus on Christ and his mission.
John Maxwell says,
*This letter proves that even while the apostle Paul sat in a foul Roman prison, he never lost his passion, his sense of mission, his sense of direction, or his command of the situation. While Paul remained an inmate of Rome, he couldn’t plant new churches as he felt called to do. Instead, he sat in chains, attached to a Praetorian guard, awaiting a trial that he thought could end his life (1:21). Yet even in the midst of all of this, he never abandoned his role of leadership.* NKJV Maxwell Leadership Bible Page 1470)
Rejoice in the Lord Not only is Paul focussed on the mission despite the apparent hindrances, he is encouraging others to maintain their joy.
**Always be joyful in the Lord! I’ll say it again: Be joyful! Let everyone know how considerate you are. The Lord is near. Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks. Then God’s peace, which goes beyond anything we can imagine, will guard your thoughts and emotions through Christ Jesus.** Philippians 4:6-7 GW
A supernatural joy that only comes from knowing the Lord and trusting that He is in control. Remember the scripture, Nehemiah 8:10
**The joy of the Lord will be your strength.** Nehemiah 8:10 NIV
Why was Paul content? So how is it that Paul could experience that joy and continue to exhort others, in the midst of this trial?
Perhaps it had something to do with his first meeting with Jesus, which we read about in Acts 9.
**During those days, Saul, full of angry threats and rage, wanted to murder the disciples of the Lord Jesus. So he went to ask the high priest and requested a letter of authorization he could take to the Jewish leaders in Damascus, requesting their cooperation in finding and arresting any who were followers of the Way. Saul wanted to capture all of the believers he found, both men and women, and drag them as prisoners back to Jerusalem. *So he obtained the authorization* and left for Damascus.**
**Just outside the city, a brilliant light flashing from heaven suddenly exploded all around him. Falling to the ground, he heard a booming voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?”**
**The men accompanying Saul were stunned and speechless, for they heard a heavenly voice but could see no one.**
**Saul replied, “Who are you, Lord?”**
**“I am Jesus, the Victorious, the one you are persecuting. Now, get up and go into the city, where you will be told what you are to do.”**
**Saul stood to his feet, and even though his eyes were open he could see nothing—he was blind. So the men had to take him by the hand and lead him into Damascus. For three days he didn’t eat or drink and couldn’t see a thing**. Acts 9:1-9 TPT
Well Jesus certainly got Saul's attention. One moment Saul was on a mission to persecute the followers of Jesus. Then suddenly he has an interaction with Jesus and finds himself completely blind and having to be led by the men with him. Saul was in a very vulnerable position, and yet that encounter with Jesus was so powerful, he did exactly what Jesus told him to do.
God the Mastermind Around this same time Jesus was preparing the way for Saul, to become one of his 'chosen vessels'. This preparation involved a disciple, Ananais. For completeness, and because it is a wonderful example of how God brings restoration, purpose (and perhaps contentment?) into our lives, we will read Acts 9:10-19.
**Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.”**
**And he said, “Here I am, Lord.”**
**So the Lord *said* to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for *one* called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting *his* hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.”**
**Then Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.”**
**But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.”**
**And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Immediately there fell from his eyes *something* like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized.**
**So when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent some days with the disciples at Damascus.** Acts 9:10-19 NKJV
Knowing Christ We know from the Bible that Saul, now Paul, went on to spread the Gospel throughout the known world at that time, experiencing many hardships including prison and shipwreck, but always staying focussed on the goal.
Paul had met Jesus and experienced the power of forgiveness. He had been transformed by Jesus and knew His power and authority. Paul had been filled with the Holy Spirit and he knew what his mission was. These Christ centred experiences enabled Paul to be content, no matter what. He knew Jesus intimately and trusted Him completely.
**I’ve learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I’m just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I’ve found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am.** Philippians 4:12-13 The Message
So how about us? Are we content?
Is our relationship with Jesus so intimate that we are content regardless of what is happening around us? This is a challenging question. And the answer probably involves a journey, some movement from where we are today, to a closer relationship with Jesus.
How to do we do that?
There are many ways, but perhaps the first step is talking to Jesus, asking Him to show you what your next step is. So why not ask Him now.
To find out more visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
Are you a praying person? If not, perhaps today is a great day to start. Keep reading and hopefully, if I've communicated well, you will learn a little about prayer.
If yes, then I really want to encourage you that prayer matters. But remember, the 'how', 'when', 'where' of prayer doesn't matter. Any-way, any-where and any-time is suitable for praying. Even the 'why' doesn't really matter, as God sees our heart. He knows our motives and will respond accordingly. God is gracious. But the 'who' does matter. Who are you praying to? John 14:6 tells us that we are to connect with God the Father, through Jesus Christ, his Son.
Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6 NIV
Hence we pray, 'In Jesus Name.'
So a few thoughts on prayer ...
Praying for our nation Now is the time to pray for our country, if you haven't been already. There is so much need, and so many hurting people, what do we pray for? Protection? Provision? Forgiveness?
Yes, all of those things, and perhaps a prayer for everyone in this nation to have greater revelation of God's great love for them, because remember the Bible says,
Our love for others is our grateful response to the love God first demonstrated to us. 1 John 4:19 TPT
Imagine what our country would be like if we all loved each other as God loves us.
To help me pray for our nation, I have set up a music playlist 'City and Country'. It includes
God of this city (Chris Tomlin)
Good Grace (Hillsong United)
Revival's in the air (Bethel Music & Melissa Helser)
Here is as in Heaven (Elevation Worship)
The Blessing Australia (Churches UNITE to sing the blessing over Australia)
Pray for our Governments A little story... since March 2020 when COVID-19 started to impact more and more on our life in Australia, I began my day with praying for our Prime Minister. Praying for things like wisdom, protection and rest. Then one morning God said to me, 'Why aren't you praying like that for your husband?' So now, I pray those things for Ken, and then our Prime Minister and State Premiers.
But back to God's word and what it says about praying for our governments...
1 Timothy 2:1, in the NIV says,
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people - for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 1 Timothy 2:1 NIV
The following verse then tells us that it is pleasing to God when we pray for people in authority. Here is The Passion Translation ...
Most of all, I’m writing to encourage you to pray with gratitude to God. Pray for all men with all forms of prayers and requests as you intercede with intense passion. And pray for every political leader and representative, so that we would be able to live tranquil, undisturbed lives, as we worship the awe-inspiring God with pure hearts. It is pleasing to our Saviour-God to pray for them. He longs for everyone to embrace his life and return to the full knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4 TPT
Yes, God wants hearts to return to Him and His truth.
Praying for our Christian brothers and sisters We can also be praying for our Christian brothers and sisters. The Apostle Paul is a great example of praying regularly for those who love Jesus. We know this by what he writes in his letters. Here are a couple of examples.
God knows how often I pray for you. Day and night I bring you and your needs in prayer to God, whom I serve with all my heart by spreading the Good News about his Son. Romans 1:9 NLT
Ever since I first heard of your strong faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for God's people everywhere, I have not stopped thanking God for you. I pray for you constantly, asking God, the glorious Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to give you spiritual wisdom and insight so that you might grow in your knowledge of God. I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called - his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance. I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God's power for us who believe him. Ephesians 1:15-19 NLT
AMEN! AMEN! AMEN! If the Holy Spirit prompts you to pray for someone and you don't know where to begin, perhaps Paul's prayer is a good starting place!
With some churches still unable to practically meet for 'normal' Sunday services due to COVID-19, it is important that we pray for each other, encourage each other and keep finding ways to stay connected, just as Ephesians 6:18 reminds us.
In the same way, prayer is essential in the ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out. Ephesians 6:18 The Message
Another little story ... when our lifegroup (homegroup) meetings had to transition to online due to the COVID-19 social distancing restrictions, the Holy Spirit prompted me to invite a friend from church, who wasn't currently in a lifegroup, to join us. She doesn't live close to us, and it was too far for her to come to our home each fortnight for the meeting. However, the establishment of the online lifegroup provided an opportunity for her to join and connect regularly with other women from church. Now as the social distancing restrictions have eased we are using a hybird approach with both face to face and zoom meetings (as I am sure many other groups are too) so she, and others who are unable to physically attend, can be at the meeting. That's our God - always working things out for good.
So let's be asking God to show us ways to keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out, especially in these interesting times!
Praying for yourself There comes a time in life when we realise we can't do this life well alone. We need help, someone bigger than ourselves and our world. I recently watched the movies of the true story of Louis Zamperini in Unbroken and Unbroken - the path to redemption. They were a great reminder of this truth.
I remember the day when I had that revelation, almost 24 years ago. And most days since, probably at least once a day, these words have come from my lips, 'God I need your help' for many different reasons, including relationships, finances, health and peace.
We need to be honest in our prayers and ask God for His help. Because of Jesus, we have direct access to God, our Heavenly Father. Hebrews 4:16 says,
Let us therefore come boldy to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace in the time of need. Hebrews 4:16 NKVJ
The Psalms are full of examples of David telling God how he feels, oscilating between fear and faith, and acknowledging where his help comes from. Here is one of my favourites, Psalm 121:1-2
I look up to the mountains; does my strength come from mountains? No, my strength come from GOD, who made heaven, and earth, and mountains. Psalm 121:1-2 The Message.
So if you are wondering if God really understands how you are feeling, I suggest that you take some quiet time to read through the Psalms. There will be at least one Psalm that will reasonates with you. If you are wondering where to start, here is a helpful resource from Jennifer Rothschild, Four Psalms to pray when you need God's help.
And remember, Jesus is praying for you! Always remember, just as we are praying for others, there are people who are praying for us! And that includes Jesus. Romans 8:34 tells us,
Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died - more than that, who was raised - who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. Romans 8:34 ESV
Yes, Jesus is interceding for you and me. The Passion Translation says it this way,
"Who then is left to condemn us? Certainly not Jesus, the Anointed One! For he gave his life for us, and even more than that, he has conquered death and is now risen, exalted, and enthroned by God at his right hand. So how could he possibly condemn us since he is continually praying for our triumph? Romans 8:34 TPT
What a glorious thought, Jesus is praying for our triumph!
The Holy Spirit is also praying for us, as The Passion Translation's footnote for Romans 8:34 reminds us ...
Not only does the Holy Spirit pray for us, so does Jesus Christ. Two divine intercessors are praying for you each day. Two-thirds of the Trinity are actively engaged in intercession for us. This is typified by the incident of Moses interceding on the mountain for Israel’s victory with one hand held high by Aaron (the high priest, a type of Jesus, our High Priest) and Hur (or “light,” a metaphor for the Holy Spirit, who prays with divine illumination for our good). See Ex. 17:9-13; Heb. 7:25; 9:24.
Are you feeling encouraged? I sure am.
Are you a praying person? So I'll ask again, 'Are you a praying person?'
If not, perhaps today is a great day to start. Begin by saying hello to Jesus and telling Him how you are feeling, and asking for His help.
If yes, you know that there is no shortage of situations and people to pray for, so let's continue to pray feverently and be expectant that our God will answer.
Let us hold strong to the confession of our hope, never wavering, since the One who promised it to us is faithful. Hebrews 10:23 The Voice
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Have you experienced a time when you thought to yourself, "I wish Jesus was here with me." I remember a friend, who was having radiation treatment for cancer, saying to me, "Before I go into the treatment room, I stand at the door and say, 'Okay Jesus, in we go together.'" She was declaring that Jesus was going with her into that room, acknowledging that she was not going alone. Sometimes we need to remind ourselves that "I am not alone."
Jesus walks with me That story reminds me of a song, "He walks with me" from Merle Haggard. The lyrics are simple but beautiful ...
I come to the garden alone While the dew is still on the roses
And the voice I hear falling on my ear
The son of God discloses
And he walks with me and he talks with me And he tells me I am his own
And the joy we share as we tarry there
None other has ever known
He speaks and the sound of his voice is so sweet The birds hush their singing
And the melody that he gave to me
Within my heart is ringing
And he walks with me and he talks with me And he tells me I am his own
And the joy we share as we tarry there
None other has ever known
You know that feeling you have after spending time with someone who loves you. You feel heard, encouraged, safe and secure. Well that is how we can feel after spending time with Jesus.
But first we have to recognise that He is with us and acknowledge Him.
Recognising Jesus Let's take a look at a couple of stories where Jesus wasn't immediately recognised.
At the empty tomb Firstly, at the empty tomb after Jesus' resurrection ...
But Mary stood outside the tomb weeping. As she wept, she knelt to look into the tomb and saw two angels sitting there, dressed in white, one at the head, the other at the foot of where Jesus' body had been laid. They said to her, "Woman, why do you weep?"
"They took my Master," she said, "and I don't know where they put him." After she said this, she turned away and saw Jesus standing there. But she didn't recognise him.
Jesus spoke to her, "Woman, why do you weep? Who are you looking for?"
She, thinking that he was the gardener, said, "Mister, if you took him, tell me where you put him so I can care for him."
Jesus said, "Mary."
Turning to face him, she said in Hebrew, "Rabboni!" meaning "Teacher!" John 20:11-16 The Message
But she didn't recognise Him In regards to Mary not recognising Jesus, let's look at the way other translations say verse 14,
The Passion Translation - Then she turned around to leave, and there was Jesus standing in front of her, but she didn't realise that it was him!
The New King James Version - Now when she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, and did not know that it was Jesus.
Recognise, realise and know
According to the NIV Study Bible, we don't know why Mary didn't recognise Jesus,
"He may have looked different or he may intentionally have prevented recognition." NIV Study Bible, Luke 20:14 Commentary, page 1633.
What about us? I wonder how many times things have happened in our lives and Jesus has been there and we haven't recognised, realised or known.
Or why we sometimes don't recognise Jesus, or realise what He is doing in our lives? Perhaps this is the moment to ask Him.
Jesus calls us by name An aside, or maybe one of the main points ... notice that it is when Jesus calls Mary by her name that she recognises him. In the TV series about Jesus, The Chosen (available at the App Store or Google Play), there is a beautiful scene in Episode 1, when Jesus calls Mary by her name and she is redeemed.
The road to Emmaus Let's have a look at another interaction on that same day, when Jesus was not recognised. He is walking with two of the disciples on the road to Emmaus.
And behold, that very day two of [the disciples] were going to a village called Emmaus, [which is] about seven miles from Jerusalem. And they were talking about all these things that had occurred. And while they were conversing and discussing this together, Jesus Himself caught up with them and was already accompanying them. But their eyes were held, so that they did not recognise Him. Luke 24:13-16 AMPC
In this story it is clear that the disciples did not recognise Jesus because of divine intervention. The Passion Translation says it this way ...
They were unaware that it was Jesus walking alongside them, for God prevented them from recognising him. Luke 24:16 TPT
Jesus is recognised when He broke the bread In fact, the disciples didn't recognise Jesus until that evening at supper...
Joining them at the table for supper, he took bread and blessed it and broke it, then gave it to them. All at once their eyes were opened and they realised it was Jesus! Then suddenly, in a flash, Jesus vanished before from their eyes! Luke 24:30-31 TPT
Oh my, there certainly was a lot of mysterious things going on at the time, and I don't pretend to understand any of them. But it is good to ask God what He wants to show us through these stories.
Current events - what's going on? An interesting aside about the conversation on the road to Emmaus, the disciples were discussing the current events of the day ...
And He said to them, "What kind of conversation is this that you have with one another as you walk and are sad?"
Then the one whose name was Cleopas answered and said to Him, "Are You the only stranger in Jerusalem, and have You not known the things which happened in there in these days?
And He said to them, "What things?"
So they said to Him, "The things concerning Jesus of Nazareth, who was a Prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how the chief priests and our rulers delivered Him to be condemned to death, and crucified Him. But we were hoping that it was He who was going to redeem Israel.......
....Then He said to them, "O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken! Ought not the Christ have suffered these things to enter into His glory?" And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself." Luke 24:17-27 NKJV
Jesus explains the bigger picture In our world today, there are certainly many interesting current events to discuss. But notice what happens in this conversation on the road to Emmaus, who brings the wisdom and explains what is going on? Jesus.
John Maxwell comments on this conversation,
"As two grieving men conversed about Jesus' crucifixion, they struggled to understand what it all meant. Jesus saw their confusion and could tell they needed someone to guide them. So He joined them and began to explain His resurrection in light of Scripture (Luke 24:27,45). By the end of their time together, it all made sense." John Maxwell, The Maxwell Leadership Bible, Page 1299.
Listen to how The Passion Translation explains the disciples' response when they realised they had been walking with Jesus on the road to Emmaus,
Stunned, they looked at each other and said, "Why didn't we recognise it was him? Didn't our hearts burn with the flames of holy passion while we walked beside him? He unveiled for us such profound revelation from the Scriptures!" Luke 24:32 TPT
What is God showing us? So what profound revelation does God want to give us today through these stories from Scriptures?
Possibly some of these things, and probably a whole lot more!
- Jesus will reveal himself when He chooses.
- When Jesus asks us questions, we need to search our heart and give an honest answer.
- If we spend time with Jesus and learn to know His voice as Mary did, we will recognise Him when He speaks to us.
- Jesus knows when we are struggling and will walk alongside us and help us, if we let Him.
- Sometimes Jesus will do the unexpected, like vanishing at the supper. We won't always understand what He does and that's okay. We have to trust that His plan is good.
- Only Jesus has the complete picture, understanding how each part of the puzzle fits together, so we need to listen when He speaks.
Jesus walks and talks with us today To finish today, let's just revisit the words of that song again, knowing that Jesus is with us and we are not alone.
And he walks with me and he talks with me And he tells me I am his own
And the joy we share as we tarry there
None other has ever known
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
Have you had the experience of crying out to God for many years, and then as the busy-ness of life takes over, the cry is still there, but not so loud? Then one day you have this moment, where the Holy Spirit nudges you and says, 'Look.' You look and see that God is answering that prayer. A smile comes over your face, and your heart feels full. The blindness of busy-ness is lifted.
The blindness of busy-ness When this recently happened to me, I started thinking about how we often get so focused on other things, that we miss what God is doing. Proverbs 29:18 in The Message Bible says ...
If people can't see what God is doing, they stumble all over themselves; But when they attend to what he reveals, they are most blessed. Proverbs 29:18 The Message
When I obeyed the prompting of the Holy Spirit, and looked and saw what God was doing, I did indeed feel and know that I was most blessed.
The Amplified Bible says Proverbs 29:18 this way,
Where there is no vision [no revelation of God and His word], the people are unrestrained; But happy and blessed is he who keeps the law [of God]. Proverbs 29:18 AMP
Ummm ... No revelation of God and His word ... the people are unrestrained...
The blindness in our thinking Let's look at this scripture for a moment in the context of our thought-life. That is, when our thoughts are not focused on God's truth they can wander wherever they desire. This happens when we are not actively taking our thoughts captive, as God says to do in 2 Corinthians 10:5.
We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV
This is another blindness, not towards what God is doing, but in relation to what we are thinking!
Negative thoughts causing blindness I experienced this type of blindness recently when I let negative thoughts overwhelm me. They caused me to lose sight of God's word. I couldn't see the good. I couldn't see a positive path forward.
The story Over the past month our daughter has had nine medical appointments in relation to her left leg, and there are two more this coming week. Attending all these appointments brought back the memories of the multiple hospital visits from her time of having chemotherapy treatment. Late last week, both my daughter and I were at the point of sighing, crying and thinking, 'No, not another appointment,' and 'Will it always be like this?' So strong is the emotional pull of old memories and feelings of despair - grief.
For our daughter during recent years the negative experiences around these ongoing appointments have been offset by the joy and excitement of swimming training and competing at sporting events. But due to COVID-19 restrictions and other factors beyond our control, those activities are currently not happening. So, the question she now often asks is, 'What is there to look forward to?'
What is there to look forward to? What is there to look forward to? Yes, blindness can stop us looking forward and it can stop us looking to Jesus.
The blind beggar These thoughts about blindness led me to reading the story of Jesus healing the blind beggar Bartimaeus, recounted in Mark 10 and Luke 18.
Then they came to Jericho. And as He was leaving Jericho with His disciples and a great crowd, a blind beggar, Bartimaeus, a son of Timaeus, was sitting by the roadside.
And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout, saying, Jesus, Son of David, have pity and mercy on me [now]! And many severely censured and reproved him, telling him to keep still, but he kept on shouting out all the more, You Son of David, have pity and mercy on me [now]!"
And Jesus stopped and said, Call him. And they called the blind man, telling him, Take courage! Get up! He is calling you.
And throwing off his outer garment, he leaped up and and came to Jesus. And Jesus said to him, What do you want Me to do for you? And the blind man said to Him, Master, let me receive my sight.
And Jesus said to him, Go your way; your faith has healed you. And at once he receive his sight and accompanied Jesus on the road.
Mark 10:46-52 AMPC
What did God speak to you about as we read that story? For me, there were four things which I share below. But first, lets give thanks for the revelation God brings to us through His word. Remember Proverbs 29:18 that we read earlier,
Where there is no vision [no revelation of God and His word], the people are unrestrained; But happy and blessed is he who keeps the law [of God]. Proverbs 29:18 AMP
Keep asking. Don't give up Firstly, Bartimaeus called out to Jesus not once, but twice. He didn't give up. Interestingly when this story is recounted in Luke, earlier in Chapter 18, Jesus is teaching the disciples about prayer, saying,
Don't you know that God, the true judge, will grant justice to all of his chosen ones who cry out to him night and day? He will pour out his Spirit upon them. He will not delay to answer you and give you what you ask for. God will give swift justice to those who don't give up. So be ever praying, ever expecting, just like the widow was with the judge. Luke 18:7-8a TPT
Jesus finishes this teaching about prayer with this question, a challenge to me and you ...
Yet when the Son of Man comes back, will he find this kind of persistent faithfulness in his people? Luke 18:8b TPT
Revelation (or reminder) Keep calling out to Jesus. Let's be people of persistent faith.
Courage to respond Secondly, when Jesus responded to the blind beggar's call, it appears from the disciple's words that Bartimaeus was a little hesitant to go to Jesus.
So they went to the blind man and said, "Have courage! Get up! Jesus is calling for you!" Mark 10:49 TPT
As we know Bartimaeus did muster the courage, get up and go to Jesus. Imagine if he hadn't. He would have missed that opportunity to receive healing.
The Message Bible says,
They called him. "It's your lucky day! Get up! He's calling you to come!" Mark 10:49 The Message
His lucky day indeed!
Revelation (or reminder) Sometimes it takes courage to respond to what Jesus asks us to do, but that is part of the faith adventure.
Note: there is a great song that reminds me to take courage: Take Courage by Kristine DiMarco.
Throw off the old cloak Thirdly, look what Bartimeaus did when he responded to Jesus ...
And throwing off his outer garment, he leaped up and came to Jesus. Luke 10:50 AMPC
It seems like, that to get up, Bartimeaus had to throw off something - his outer garment. The Passion Translation says,
So he threw off his beggars' cloak, jumped up, and made his way to Jesus. Luke 10:50 TPT
He had to throw off the cloak that represented his old life, before he could receive the new life Jesus had for him.
Revelation (or reminder) This was one of the main points of the story God wanted me to understand. I had to throw off the old memories of years of medical appointments. I had to take those thoughts captive and remind myself that we are in a new season now. This is not the past. God is doing a new thing. Some serious talk to self, declaring God's truth and promises was required. For both me, but for our daughter.
Confidence in Jesus' power Finally, Bartimaeus had confidence that Jesus could make him well.
Jesus said to him, "Go; your faith [and confident trust in My power] has made you well." Immediately he regained his sight and began following Jesus on the road. Mark 10:52 AMP
So a question for us, "Who or what are we putting our confidence in today?"
Revelation (or reminder) There is only one answer -> Jesus.
Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth and the life." John 14:6 NKJV
The Blindness and Jesus So just remember to keep a look out for blindness in your life. The blindness of busy-ness can cause us to miss seeing what God is doing in our lives. The blindness of negative thinking can stop us looking to Jesus, the One we need to have our confidence in.
The importance of confidence in Jesus Three final thoughts on the importance of confidence in Jesus, and accompanying scripture, because remember what the Amplified Bible says in Proverbs 29:18.
Where there is no vision [no revelation of God and His word], the people are unrestrained; But happy and blessed is he who keeps the law [of God]. Proverbs 29:18 AMP
- We need to have confidence that with Jesus we can do all things.
I can do all things [which He has called me to do] through Him who strengthens and empowers me [to fulfil His purpose - I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency; I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace.] Philippians 4:13 AMP
- We need to have confidence that with Jesus we can more than overcome.
Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Romans 8:37 NKJV
- And when we can't find that confidence, we need to remember.
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power my rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9-11 NIV
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What has God put on your heart to do today? Is it something you regularly do, or is it a little 'out-of-the-box'? This is a story about having the courage to do what God says, no matter how 'weird' it seems, and then witnessing how God blesses others through that obedience. I pray this simple story encourages you to follow through on promptings from the Holy Spirit, trusting that your obedience will bring blessing to yourself and others.
Walking and praying One of my weekly activities is twice a week walking and praying around the school grounds, normally with a couple of other mothers from school. Most of the time we have no idea how God uses our prayers. We just walk and pray in faith that He is at work in the supernatural. We may never know the outcomes of those prayers, but we trust that in this season it is what God has asked us to do.
Plans change The presence of COVID-19 put a stop to the walking around the school grounds. But it did not stop us praying together, as we like many others around the world quickly worked out how to pray together online.
No weapon that is formed against you shall prosper. Isaiah 54:17 NKJV
And, again, as I'm sure many people found during this time, the stretching and having to do things a little differently, actually became a blessing.
In our school prayer example, praying online enabled more mums to pray than could usually be present at school, which led to more conversation and deeper relationships.
It's a bit like, the enemy had a plan, and God used it for good, sound familiar ...
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28 NKJV
More changes Now as the restrictions from COVID-19 are slowly reducing, we can walk and pray at school again, albeit in a specified area, the school oval, and with a maximum of three prayers. We are just so grateful to be allowed to pray on school grounds again.
Normally we commence our prayer walk by going around the boundary of the school. Our starting place is the oval. For the past couple of years we have done this on Friday afternoons when sport is on, so the children and teachers were used to seeing us walking and praying.
Last Friday was my first time returning to pray at school, and I was by myself. When I completed my first lap of the oval I thought, "How silly is this going to look, when I walk around the oval again?" As I couldn't go on our normal route around the school due to the COVID-19 restrictions.
It's not about me! But then, with the prompting of the Holy Spirit, I remembered that it wasn't about me! But rather it was about what God wanted to do in that moment. And I had no idea what that was, so I asked Him, "God, why is it that we are allowed only here, on the oval? I know from a COVID-19 safety perspective why we are here, but why have You got us only here? What is it that You want me to do?"
Pause for a moment and picture this - a sports oval filled 7 classes of children and their teachers, and one woman walking around the perimeter of the oval praying. What do you think God wanted me to do?
We have all been impacted by COVID-19 in different ways, especially teachers who had to completely re-think the way they deliver education very quickly, and implement new strategies effectively and efficiently.
Pray for the teachers So God's answer to me was simply, "Pray for the teachers on the oval."
So I started on my second prayer lap of the oval. As I walked past each teacher, God gave me a word of encouragement, very specific, which I madly scribbled on a piece of paper. As much as I wanted to, I knew it wasn't appropriate to walk up to them in the middle of their sports activities and say, 'Hi, I felt God wanted to say to you .... '
Previously I had received specific words of encouragement for teachers, normally one or two, but never seven during one prayer walk. This was a little unusual. What was God doing?
What next God? As I drove home from school I asked God about those words of encouragement, and how specific they were, and what to with them. Do I email each teacher individually, or send a group email including everyone's word of encouragement?
You may think, what does it matter how you deliver the words of encouragement? But more and more I am learning that God is interested in the details. It mattered to Him how they were delivered, because, as He was about to tell me, He had another message to deliver to these teachers.
God's response to my question about the specificity was something like, "This is My body – each one with a role to play and a gift to bring."
The diversity of the body of Christ I got it! God was wanting to not only deliver a word of encouragement to each teacher, but He wanted to send a message about the wonderful diversity of His body.
It is the same Holy Spirit who continues to distribute many different varieties of gifts.
The Lord Yahweh is one, and he is the one who apportions to believers different varieties of ministries.
The same God distributes different kinds of miracles that accomplish different results through each believer's gift and ministry as he energises and activates them.
Each believer is given continuous revelation by the Holy Spirit to benefit not just himself but all. 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 TPT
God's response to the 'How' question was 'send as a group email' to illustrate the diversity of the body.
Later in the afternoon I sent that group email with the words of encouragement and supporting scriptures. The responses I received confirmed that God's message had been delivered and understood. All glory to God, He knows what we need and when we need it.
The 'takeaways' from this story So there are plenty of 'takeaways' from this simple story. I've listed them below with the supporting example.
- Make space in your life for God to speak to you (e.g. purposefully set aside time to pray and listen to God)
- Trust that God is at work in the unseen (e.g. praying for people, students and families, that we don't know)
- When seemingly barriers arise, be expectant that God will use it for God (e.g. temporary move to praying online)
- Take your eyes off yourself and put them on Jesus (e.g. worrying about what others will think about repeatedly walking around the oval).
- When plans change, ask God what He wants to bring from the change (e.g. What were God's plans for us praying only on the oval?)
- Be ready for God to do things differently (e.g. God's words of encouragement for each of the seven teachers on the oval)
- Keep asking God for the next step (e.g. how to deliver the words of encouragement to the teachers)
- God has a bigger plan (e.g. this was about more than words of encouragement, it was about giving a picture of Christ's body - unity through diversity)
- Obeying leads to blessing others (e.g. obeying God's call to take time to pray lead to His word of encouragement for others).
Obedience will bring blessing This is a very simple story of how when we obey what God asks us to do, we can be a blessing to others. Just as God wanted to encourage these teachers that they all have gifts and are part of one body, it is the same for us. We all have gifts, gifts to bless others with, however sometimes we just need a little bit of encouragement to get out there and use them!
So I pray that this story encourages you to do what God has put on your heart, and know that He has gifted you for a purpose, far greater than you could have imagined. And whatsmore, you may never know how far the blessing ripples will travel from your step of obedience.
But God has carefully designed each member and placed it in the body to function as he desires. A diversity is required, for if the body consisted of one single part, there wouldn't be any body at all! So now we see that there are many differing parts and functions, but one body. 1 Corinthians 12:18-20 TPT
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Do you remember your most recent dream? What was it about? What did it mean? I only remember a few of my dreams, mainly because they were delivering very clear messages from God. Messages that helped me to re-focus rather quickly! Dreams and messages - don't ignore them.
One of my dreams that I remember most clearly came soon after Ken and I were married. One night we had an argument. Ken went for a walk. I was emotionally exhausted so went to bed, and promptly fell asleep. I had a very vivid dream, with one lasting image - our bed, Ken lying on one side, me on the other side, and a huge snake lying in between us.
On seeing this image I woke up, phoned Ken asking him to come back immediately. He did. We apologised to each other, forgave each other and prayed.
I believe that dream was from God, a warning that there needed to be unity in our marriage as the enemy was already planning on how to cause division, after only a few weeks of marriage.
Yes, God can speak to us through dreams. And He wants us to listen.
King Nebuchadnezzar's dream A friend recently shared a link to one of Ravi Zacharias' last sermons. In the sermon he illustrated the importance of seeking God's wisdom by recounting a story from the book of Daniel, King Nebuchadnezzar's request for the Chaldeans to make known to him his dream and its interpretation. It's a great story of how God delivers messages through dreams.
In the second year of the reign of Nebuchadnezzar, Nebuchadnezzar had dreams by which his spirit was troubled and agitated and his sleep went from him.
Then the king commanded to call the magicians, the enchanters or soothsayers, the sorcerers, and the Chaldeans [diviners], to tell the king his dreams. So they came and stood before the king.
And the king said to them, I had a dream and my spirit is troubled to know the dream. Daniel 2:1-3 AMPC
However, the Chaldeans wanted the king to tell them the dream first, and then they would respond with the interpretation.
Then said the Chaldeans [diviners] to the king in Aramaic [the Syrian language], O king, live forever! Tell your servants the dream, and we will show the interpretation. Daniel 2:4 AMPC
No man on earth can do that But Nebuchadnezzar insisted - both the dream and the interpretation. And the Chaldeans continued to resist. They knew they had no way of knowing what Nebuchadnezzar's dream was because, as they expressed, they had felt only the gods could reveal that to the king.
The Chaldeans [diviners] answered before the king and said, There is not a man on earth who can show the king this matter, for no king, lord, or ruler has [ever] asked such a thing of any magician or enchanter or Chaldean.
A rare and weighty thing indeed the king requires! None except the gods can reveal it to the king, and their dwelling is not with [human] flesh. Daniel 2:10-11 AMPC
The Chaldeans did not have a relationship with the one true God, the living God. They didn't have access to His wisdom. The Message Bible says it like this,
The fortunetellers said, "Nobody anywhere can do what you ask. And no king, great or small, has ever demanded anything like this from any magician, enchanter or fortuneteller. What you're asking is impossible unless some god or goddess should reveal it - and they don't hang around with people like us. Daniel 2:10-11 The Message
Nebuchadnezzar wants answers Nebuchadnezzar obviously wasn't very happy with the response from the Chaldeans. He wanted answers!
That set the king off. He lost his temper and ordered the whole company of Babylonian wise men killed. When the death warrant was issued, Daniel and his companions were included. They also were marked for execution. Daniel 2:12-13 The Message
Daniel did have a relationship with the living God, and he had confidence that God would give him wisdom to respond correctly to the king's request - providing both the dream and the interpretation. So Daniel asked the king for a little extra time to provide an answer to his request.
The mystery is solved Then Daniel went to his house, and made the decision known to Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, his companions, that they might seek mercies from the God of heaven concerning this secret, so that Daniel and his companions might not perish with the rest of the wise men of Babylon. Then the secret was revealed to Daniel that night in a vision So Daniel blessed the God of heaven. Daniel 2: 17-19 NKJV
Daniel then went back to Nebuchadnezzar and gave him the answer. He prefaced his response with acknowledgement of where the wisdom came from.
Daniel answered the king, "No mere human can solve the king's mystery, I don't care who it is - no wise man, enchanter, magician, diviner. But there is a God in heaven who solves mysteries, and he has solved this one. He is letting King Nebuchadnezzar in on what is going to happen in the days ahead. This is the dream you had when you were lying on your bed, the vision that filled your mind. Daniel 2:27-28 The Message
Godly wisdom This story makes me think about James 1:5, a scripture I have posted on the wall near my desk,
If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. James 1:5 NLT
God speaks to us through dreams So dreams and messages ... God uses dreams to tell us about our future, just as He did with King Nebuchadnezzar. And God can give us wisdom regarding the interpretation of our dreams, just like He did for Daniel. We just need to ask Him for His wisdom.
Sometimes God uses dreams to give us information about situations, to give us greater understanding and essentially encouraging us to trust that He has got the situation sorted. God did that for Joseph when he found out Mary was pregnant.
Her fiance, Joseph, was a righteous man, full of integrity and he didn't want to disgrace her, but when he learned of her pregnancy he secretly planned to break the engagement. While he was still debating with himself about what to do, he fell asleep and had a supernatural dream. An angel from the Lord appeared to him in clear light and said, "Joseph, descendant of David, don't hesitate to take Mary into your home as your wife, because the power of the Holy Spirit has conceived a child in her womb. She will give birth to a son and you are to name him 'Saviour,' for he is destined to give his life to save his people from their sins."
... When Joseph awoke from his dream, he did all that the angel of the Lord instructed him to do. Matthew 1:19-21, 24 TPT
God warns us through dreams Sometimes God uses dreams to give us warnings. Again He spoke to Joseph via a dream, warning him about Herod's plans to kill Jesus.
Now when they had departed, behold an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, "Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young Child to destroy Him."
When he arose, he took the young Child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt. Matthew 2:13-14 NKJV
Note, the 'they' who had departed, were they wise men, who had also received a warning from God in a dream.
Afterward they returned to their own country by another route because God had warned them in a dream not to go back to Herod. Matthew 2:12 TPT
Note 2: What is it with these Kings who get angry, albiet for different reasons, frustration and fear, and then respond with killing - Nebuchadnezzar and all the wise men of Babylon; Herod kills every baby boy two years old and younger in Bethlehem. This is the fallen world we live in.
God uses dreams to give us directions In Egypt God speaks to Joseph again in a dream, this time, to give Joseph clear direction on where to go next.
Now when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, "Arise, take the young Child and His mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the young Child's life are dead. Then he arose, took the young Child and His mother, and came into the land of Israel. Matthew 3:19-21 NKJV
But then Joseph is concerned because Herod's son is now in control in Judea, so in another dream God gives Joseph further instructions.
But when he heard that Archelaus, Herod's son, had succeeded him as ruler over all the territory of Judah, he was afraid to go back. Then he had another dream from God, warning him to avoid that region and instructing him instead to go to the province of Galilee. So he settled his family in the village of Nazareth, fulfilling the prophecy that he would be known as the "Branch." Matthew 2:22-23 TPT
God's instructions and our obedience How obedient is Joseph? After each of these dreams where he received the information, warnings and instructions from God, Joseph did what God asked of him. Furthermore, some of those actions fulfilled prophecy from the Old Testament.
So how important is it that we consider our dreams, asking God if He is giving us a message in them. And how important is it, to do whatever He asks us to do.
God has the big picture Remember God has the big picture. He has the plan and He will reveal our next step, maybe via a dream, at the right time.
To finish, let's meditate on what Daniel said when God revealed the mystery of King Nebuchadnezzar's dream to him ...
That night the answer to the mystery was given to Daniel in a vision. Daniel blessed the God of heaven, saying,
"Blessed be the name of God, forever and ever. He knows all, does all:
He changes the seasons and guides history, He raises up kings and also brings them down,
he provides both intelligence and discernment,
He opens up the depths, tells secrets,
Sees in the dark - light spills out of him!
God of all my ancestors, all thanks! all praise!
You made me wise and strong.
And now you've shown us what we asked for.
You've solved the king's mystery."
Daniel 2:19-23 The Message
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When do you get impatient? I remember years ago someone saying that you know when you are in a hurry when you put a frozen meal in the microwave, turn it on, and then get impatient because it takes 4 minutes to defrost and cook a meal. When I heard that I gained some insight into myself!!!! Yes, it seems like I'm continually on the patience journey.
I wonder if we did a little stock-take of our patience levels for one week what the results would show. For me I'm sure there would be some impatient moments related to technology, my husband and our children. Although by the grace of God, thankfully not as many as there used to be! If we let Him, God will continually transform us.
But the moment one turns to the Lord with an open heart, the veil is lifted and they see. Now, the "Lord" I'm referring to is the Holy Spirit, and wherever he is Lord, there is freedom.
We can draw close to him with the veil removed from our faces. And with no veil we all become like mirrors who brightly reflect the glory of the Lord Jesus. We are being transfigured into his very image as we move from one brighter level of glory to another. And this glorious transfiguration comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:16-18 TPT
The Holy Spirit The New King James Version says it this way,
But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed in to the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. 2 Corinthians 3:18 NKJV
On this patience journey, there has been one scripture that the Holy Spirit often leads me to when I can feel myself getting frustrated and feeling like I want to step in and take control ...
So he answered and said to me: “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ Says the LORD of hosts. Zechariah 4:6 NKJV
This scripture always stops in me my tracks.
And I am reminded of a situation a few years ago with an organisation I am connected with, where there was a lot of might and power happening, it was very ugly. After months the situation was resolved, not by the might and power, but by the Spirit.
And I am reminded of situations in our family, where using my own resources and wisdom (my might and power) I have tried and tried and tried to resolve issues. But then one day, by the Spirit, change comes and the issue is resolved.
Developing patience In this season with three teenagers and one pre-teen, patience is certainly a virtue, and one I am relying on the Holy Spirit to develop more within me.
But the fruit produced by the Holy Spirit within you is divine love in all its varied expressions: joy that overflows, peace that subdues, patience that endures, kindness in action, a life full of virtue, faith that prevails, gentleness of heart, and strength of spirit. Never set the law above these qualities, for they are meant to be limitless. Galatians 5:22-23 TPT
Mary, the mother of Jesus As a parent, I want patience that endures. I was thinking of a couple of parents we read about in the Scriptures, such as Mary the mother of Jesus. She knew before she became pregnant that the child she was carrying was the Son of God.
But the angel reassured her, saying, "Do not yield to your fear; Mary, for the Lord has found delight in you and has chosen to surprise you with a wonderful gift. You will become pregnant with a baby boy, and you are to name him Jesus. He will be supreme and will be known as the Son of the Highest. And the Lord God will enthrone him as King on his ancestor David's throne. He will reign as King of Israel forever, and his reign will have no limit." Luke 1:30-33 TPT
How patient would Mary have been, knowing that her son had this future ahead of Him, but having to wait on God's perfect timing. I'm sure I would have had many moments of impatience and frustration thinking, "Why don't you just get on with it and do your job now!"
God's timing We know from John 2, that eventually Mary does ask Jesus to do a public miracle when the wine runs out at the wedding in Cana.
And when Mary realised it, she came to him and asked, "They have no wine, can't you do something about it?' John 2:3 TPT
The footnote from The Passion Translation says, "This is a dilemma that Mary is hoping Jesus will solve by performing a miracle. Mary has no doubt about the power and anointing of her Son."
The story goes on ...
Jesus replied, "My dear one, don't you understand that if I do this, it won't change anything for you, but it will change everything for me! My hour of unveiling my power has not yet come." John 2:4 TPT
Again, lets read the footnote from The Passion Translation, "For Mary, it will change her very little, but for Jesus, this will be his first public miracle and will dramatically change his ministry from this moment on as the crowds see the power he possesses. Jesus knows his miracle ministry will "come out of hiding" by performing a miracle. Yet with Mary's encouragement, Jesus proceeds to do just that."
God knows all the implications There is so much for us to learn from that story. In relation to patience it shows how important it is that we gain understanding that God's timing is perfect. He has the full picture, and knows all the implications for everyone involved.
For me as a mum I am always learning that God is at work in our children's lives, even when I can't see the physical outworking. Not by my might or my power, but by His Spirit, the transformation is happening. My role is to love and encourage - often with no words, just actions, and sometimes no actions either, but just interceding for them in prayer.
The father of the Prodigal Son Another story in Scripture that came to mind is the parable Jesus told about the prodigal son. I wonder how long the son was away from home, and how often the father thought to himself, "Come on son, why don't you just come home!"
But the father knew the son had to make his own decision to return home. It was another 'not by might, not by power, but by My Spirit' time.
I found this commentary from Oosterzee, regarding the father ...
"The father has, however, been indirectly working for his recovery, by allowing him to bear all the consequences of his transgressions; he has, besides, been waiting patiently, and keeping both his heart and his house open to him."
-Theological and Homiletical Commentary on the Gospel of St Luke, Volume 2. Johannes Jacobus van Oosterzee, edited by Johann Peter Lange and translated by Sophia Taylor. Edinburgh, 1867.
The father in the parable is just like our Father in Heaven, who keeps His heart and house open to us. He allows us to make our own decision to return to Him, first through salvation, and then each day as we continually yield to Him in different areas of our lives. God is love, and love is patient.
Love is ... I'm sure you know this scripture, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, often read at weddings (how interesting that Jesus did His first public miracle at a wedding, an event celebrating love) ...
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. Love does not traffic in shame and disrespect, nor selfishly seek its own honour. Love is not easily irritated or quick to take offense. Love joyfully celebrates honesty and finds no delight in what is wrong. Love is a safe place of shelter, for it never stops believing the best for others. Love never takes failure as defeat, it never gives up. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 TPT
When I read this scripture and think about God, these are all the qualities I picture in Him. And these are the qualities He wants to develop in us, including patience, not by our might, not by our power, but by His Spirit.
And when God is personally present, a living Spirit, that old, constricting legislation is recognised as obsolete. We're free of it! All of us! Nothing between us and God, our faces shining with the brightness of his face. And so we are transfigured much like the Messiah, our lives gradually becoming brighter and more beautiful as God enters our lives and we become like him. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 The Message
The patience journey, only made truly possible when walking in His Spirit. Let's walk that way today.
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It is always worth taking the time to read The Bible. God constantly wants to show us something. Earlier this week I was reading about Jesus feeding the five thousand in Matthew 14:13-21. As I was reading God reminded me that often Jesus does the unexpected. Let’s take a look at the story.
Getting bad news Jesus has just heard that his cousin, John the Baptist, has been beheaded, thanks to King Herod. Jesus is obviously upset by this news and seeks out some time alone.
When Jesus heard it, He withdrew from there privately in a boat to a solitary place. Matthew 14:13a AMPC.
I don’t know about you, but for me, when I hear some devastating news, I want to be by myself to process what I've just heard. I remember those first couple of days after Victoria was diagnosed with a brain tumour. In the hospital I'd often escape to a small room attached to the Ronald McDonald Family Room, and spent a lot of time there crying and praying. It was called ‘The Quiet Room.’ I was very grateful for that space.
But Jesus didn’t have the luxury of that quiet processing space. Everyone wanted to see Him and speak with Him.
But when the crowds heard of this, they followed Him on foot from the cities. Matthew 14:13b AMP.
No time to process the grief The story goes on ...
So when Jesus landed he had a huge crowd waiting for him. Seeing so many people, his heart was deeply moved with compassion toward them, so he healed all the sick who were in the crowd. Matthew 14:14 TPT
Jesus barely had any time alone to start processing the grief of losing someone He loved, but He doesn’t appear to be bothered by it. Jesus does the unexpected. He continues to give practically to the people, meeting their needs. This is a wonderful example of Jesus' capacity to love others when He is in suffering.
John Maxwell says an interesting thing about Jesus' actions,
"One of the greatest remedies for our own suffering is serving others. Servant-leadership becomes a solution for both the one serving and the one being served." (The John Maxwell Leadership Bible, Page 1198)
After Jesus had healed many people, the disciples thought it was time for the crowds to go so Jesus' could have some space and rest.
Toward evening the disciples approached him. "We're out in the country and it's getting late. Dismiss the people so they can go to the villages and get some supper. Matthew 14:15 The Message
The crowd is still on His mind But Jesus still has the crowd on His mind, and is ready once again to do the unexpected.
"They don't need to leave," Jesus responded. "You can give them something to eat." Matthew 14:16 TPT
The disciples are a little perplexed as they know they don't have enough food to feed the people, which we find out later in the story numbered more than 5000.
And they said to Him, "We have here only five loaves and two fish." Matthew 14:17 NKJV
The disciples, probably like me if I was in that situation, could only see what they had in the 'natural.' But Jesus saw the potential in the supernatural.
Jesus said, "Bring them here." Then he had the people sit on the grass. He took the five loaves and two fish, lifted his face to heaven in prayer, blessed, broke, and gave the bread to the disciples. The disciples then gave the food to the congregation. They all ate their full. They gathered twelve baskets of leftovers. About five thousand were fed. Matthew 14:18-21 TPT
Jesus does the unexpected Jesus does the unexpected. He feeds more than five thousand people from the starting ingredients of five loaves of bread and two fish.
How?
I don't really know, other than what the Scriptures tell us:
He looked up to heaven (showing His complete reliance on His Father - God).
Note; The Chosen a historical series, beautifully depicts Jesus looking up to heaven before He does a miracle.
He gave thanks to God (acknowledged that everything He has comes from The Father).
He broke the bread into pieces (Jesus took action with what was in His hand)
Jesus is still doing the unexpected today Jesus does the unexpected in how He provides food the five thousand. He is still doing the unexpected today in our lives, especially in this season of living with COVID-19.
For example, lets take a look at one of the things God values most, relationships. In my world, since the arrival of COVID-19, I have seen and experienced relationships that have deepened through shared experiences; relationships that have been restored as priorities shifted, and relationships that have become more authentic as pain surfaced and is processed. Jesus has done the unexpected. Once again.
What have you seen Jesus do, unexpectedly, in your world in this season?
Lets continue to keep our eyes on Jesus, trusting that He will carry on doing the unexpected, with provision, healing and restoration.
I'll finish with these lyrics from Hillsong United's Song, Shadow Step.
In every way, You never fail
So have Your way, here God
And I'll sing Your praise
Fix my heart to Yours
Ready for the unexpected
Ready for what you will do next
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
When the COVID-19 social distancing restrictions were implemented in March 2020, in Australia, I asked God what He wanted me to do during this time. He simply said, 'Tend to your garden." I knew He meant literally, as our garden was long overdue some TLC. But I also knew He was speaking metaphorically about areas in my life, family relationships and other activities I'm involved in. What has God been saying to you during COVID-19?
Tending the literal garden For me, tending to the literal garden wasn't going to be a complex activity. It just involved a plan - with achievable goals, time, a little money, and sunshine. Over the past six weeks we have transformed our front path, planting seeds to create a border of white cottage flowers. What a joy it has been each morning to walk out the front door and see the growth.
Another section of the garden has been weeded and had turf laid. In the midst of those improvements a stunning white Camellia tree has bloomed, dropping petals white as snow on the newly laid turf. So beautiful.
Our youngest daughter has planted seeds to create flower borders around two trees. The shoots are starting to come through now. Doing this gardening together with her is part of the other 'tend to your garden' that God was speaking to me about.
Tending to relationships Through our journey of having four children and one with cancer who obviously required more attention, understanding the concept of love languages has been essential. They have helped immensely in working to restore relationships with our other children. For more information on love languages, see 'The Five Love Languages of Children by Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell.'
Over the years we had purposefully implemented routines and strategies to increase the frequency that we 'spoke' each child's love language. Strategies that God used to bring healing into relationships. For example, for those with a love language of Quality Time, we identified specific times during the weekly schedule. They often happened in the car on the way to sporting activities.
So guess what happened when the COVID-19 social distancing restrictions came in? Sport stopped, and along with it those precious Quality Time moments. The flow on-effect? Increased tension and frustration as the love tanks were suddenly running very low!
How do we do this now? There was frustration for me as well as the children. I was so angry with the enemy for attempting to destroy what God had restored.
The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. John 10:10 NKJV
However, I am grateful for all God has taught me over the years about the enemy's attempts to steal, kill and destroy. A couple of key scriptures that help me in these times of frustration - although sometimes only after I have loudly expressed my frustration! ....
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Ephesians 6:12-13 NKJV
So he answered and said to me: “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ Says the Lord of hosts. Zechariah 4:6 NKJV
God says, 'Do it this way.' So with the help of the Holy Spirit we have created new ways of 'speaking' each child's love language in this COVID-19 season and possibly beyond. And yes, for one child, that does include time in the garden. Praise God. He always has a plan and it is good.
Another area that I knew God was referring to with the 'Tend to your garden' response was a ministry group I am involved with.
In January this year God spoke to me about doing something new with the group. I was excited about what He had said, but did not know how to implement it. Sure I had ideas, but none of them seemed to be feasible, so I did nothing.
Yesterday I was outside at sunrise preparing the ground for laying the turf before the forecasted rain came, when God spoke to me about that new thing. He said something like, 'Now is the time to do that, and do it this way.' The strategy was brillant, masterful! Thank you God.
In January, how could I have known that COVID-19 would impact our country in this way? And that there would be a flow-on affect impacting the way our group operated? How could I have known that this would be the perfect time to implement what God had spoken to me about? The answer to all these questions is, 'I couldn't have known.' Only God knew.
For My thoughts are not your thoughts,
Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord.
For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways,
And My thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:8-9 NKJV
Make space to hear what God wants to say So why am I sharing these stories? Because I really believe God has at least one thing, probably more, He wants to say to each of us during this time. And His words to us, as always, are critical for our future. They give us purpose and the strategies on how to achieve that purpose.
How are you going to make space in your day to hear what God wants to say to you?
For some more thoughts on hearing from God please visit these posts at https://wendyrobinson.com.au
God hears our heart's cry
God's timing and our patience
God is listening - Day 22 - Drawing Closer to God devotion
Today is a fabulous day to draw closer to God. With so many unknowns in our world, how good is it to know that there is one constant, one that does not change - yesterday, today or tomorrow.
Jesus, the Anointed One, is always the same—yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13:8 TPT
It can be so easy to let our thoughts be consumed by the news reports and let the Word of God take a back-seat. But now is the time to be more purposeful about spending time reading the Bible, ensuring that it is the first thing we read each morning - not the news feed.
In fact, we need to have our focus right from the moment we wake up, an immediate conversation with God - perhaps even before you get out of bed. A short prayer of, 'Thank you God for this day. Thank you that you are sovereign and you know what this day will bring. Thank you for your Godly wisdom for all leaders in this world, and courage to do as You ask them to do. Please help me to trust You in everything. Thank you for your peace and protection over those I love. Thank you that You have the victory, in Jesus Name.'
Make your life a prayer. And in the midst of everything be always giving thanks, for this is God’s perfect plan for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18 TPT
If you have a yearning to improve your relationship with God, this is a great opportunity - don't waste it, embrace it and go for it. Every time you feel fearful or anxious remind yourself that God is with you ...
Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6 NKJV
And that God has not given you a spirit of fear ...
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV
The Passion Translation says ...
For God will never give you the spirit of fear, but the Holy Spirit who gives you mighty power, love, and self-control. 2 Timothy 1:7 TPT
Another way to daily draw closer to God is to make room in your day to have some time to worship God. Here are some worship songs that have helped me lift my eyes to Jesus when I have been struggling ...
You're Gonna Be Okay - Brian and Jenn Johnson
Be Still - Hillsong Worship
Who can compare - Christy Nockels
10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord) - Matt Redman
When we have our eyes on Jesus, and purposefully draw closer to Him we will find that through the love we receive from Him, we have greater capacity to help others in these challenging times.
Look at how much encouragement you’ve found in your relationship with the Anointed One! You are filled to overflowing with his comforting love. You have experienced a deepening friendship with the Holy Spirit and have felt his tender affection and mercy. Philippians 2:1 TPT
We will have a greater capacity to put others first - perhaps other family members or someone else in your world.
So I’m asking you, my friends, that you be joined together in perfect unity—with one heart, one passion, and united in one love. Walk together with one harmonious purpose and you will fill my heart with unbounded joy.
Be free from pride-filled opinions, for they will only harm your cherished unity. Don’t allow self-promotion to hide in your hearts, but in authentic humility put others first and view others as more important than yourselves. Abandon every display of selfishness. Possess a greater concern for what matters to others instead of your own interests. Philippians 1:2-4 TPT
So I really really really want to encourage you in these 'unprecedented times' (a phrase that I have seen often recently in all the cancellation emails!), times that are not a surprise to our God - that every moment we choose to draw closer to God rather than focus on our circumstances, will give us the strength and peace to finish this season well.
I'll finish up with a quick summary
- Have a conversation with God before you get out of bed. Remember to thank Him for something - your salvation is always a great place to start.
- Read your Bible before your news feed.
- Set aside time to pray and worship
- Seek out someone else you can help and encourage in these times.
How great is our God!There’s absolutely nothing his power cannot accomplish,and he has infinite understanding of everything. Psalm 147:5 TPT
For some more thoughts on the overcoming fear and having the courage to keep standing, please visit these posts ...
Are you feeling fearful?
Courage to keep standing
In the Battle
Be strong and of good courage
Courage to do the little things
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
Are you feeling fearful today? There is so much going on in this world that can cause us to experience fear. But what is it that we are afraid of? And what does God's word say about those fears?
Are you fearful of 'not having enough?' With all the media reports about our economy, are you feeling fearful about not having enough?
God's word says ...
The Lord is my best friend and my shepherd.
I always have more than enough. Psalm 23:1 TPT
And in Matthew 6:31-33
So then, forsake your worries! Why would you say, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear?’ For that is what the unbelievers chase after. Doesn’t your heavenly Father already know the things your bodies require? So above all, constantly chase after the realm of God’s kingdom and the righteousness that proceeds from him. Then all these less important things will be given to you abundantly. Matthew 6:31-33 TPT
I know sometimes it can be really hard to believe the truth in this scripture, but I encourage you to meditate on it and ask God to give you faith to believe it.
Are you fearful of anxiety overtaking you? Are you feeling fearful, that you are loosing your grip on reality, that anxiety is taking over?
God's word says ...
He offers a resting place for me in his luxurious love.
His tracks take me to an oasis of peace, the quiet brook of bliss.
That’s where he restores and revives my life.
He opens before me pathways to God’s pleasure
and leads me along in his footsteps of righteousness
so that I can bring honor to his name. Psalm 23:2-3 TPT
And remember Jesus left us with His peace ...
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27 NIV
Are you fearful of loneliness? Are you fearful of being alone and having to face things by yourself?
God's word says ...
Lord, even when your path takes me through
the valley of deepest darkness,
fear will never conquer me, for you already have!
You remain close to me and lead me through it all the way.
Your authority is my strength and my peace.
The comfort of your love takes away my fear.
I’ll never be lonely, for you are near. Psalm 23:4 TPT
God tells us He is always with us.
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV
Are you feeling fearful of the enemy? Are you feeling surrounded and powerless?
God's word says ...
You become my delicious feast
even when my enemies dare to fight.
You anoint me with the fragrance of your Holy Spirit;
you give me all I can drink of you until my heart overflows.
Psalm 23:5 TPT
You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord, who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalem!’ Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the Lord is with you. 2 Chronicles 2:17 NKJV
Just a note about 'positioning' ourselves. I can think of at least four ways we can position ourselves well today ....
- In God's Word
- In worship - having an attitude of worshipping God
- Having quiet time with God
- In the company of believers
Are you fearful about the future? Are you feeling fearful about the future?
God's word says ...
So why would I fear the future?
For your goodness and love pursue me all the days of my life.
Then afterward, when my life is through,
I’ll return to your glorious presence to be forever with you!
Psalm 23:6 TPT
Our God has the victory, and we are more than overcomers in Jesus Name.
Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Romans 8:37 NKJV
No more fear in Jesus Name. Our eternal destiny is heaven. AMEN!
So while it is important to be aware of what is happening in this world, let's always remember to keep reading God's word, meditating on it and declaring His promises.
For some more thoughts on the overcoming fear and having the courage to keep standing, please visit these posts ...
Courage to keep standing
In the Battle
Be strong and of good courage
Courage to do the little things
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
Something wonderful has happened in our garden. After receiving the beautiful life-giving rain the plants are growing again! Thank you God. The boundary hedges are expanding upwards and outwards. So much so, that our gate had difficulty opening. The power from the protruding branches was almost too great for the electric motor. The gate shuddered as the electric motor pushed against the branches. Finally the breakthrough came and the gate continued on it's path. When I observed this struggle I realised some pruning was required to ensure with the longevity of the gate motor! So out came the pruning shears and off came the branches. The gate is running smoothly now.
There are a few things we can draw from this gardening story ...
God makes things grow Firstly, while we planted the hedge plants, it is God who makes them grow, just as it is God who makes us grow ...
After all, who is Apollos? Who is Paul? We are only God’s servants through whom you believed the Good News. Each of us did the work the Lord gave us. I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow. It’s not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What’s important is that God makes the seed grow. The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work. For we are both God’s workers. And you are God’s field. You are God’s building. 1 Corinthians 3:5-9 NLT
We are God's workers, working together for His purposes. The Passion Translation says it this way,
I was the one who planted the church and Apollos came and cared for it, but it was God who caused it to grow. This means the one who plants is not anybody special, nor the one who waters, for God is the one who brings the supernatural growth. 1 Corinthians 3:6-7 TPT
And we always need to remember that truth and as Micah 6:8 says,
Walk humbly in the company of your God. Micah 6:8 ISV
God knows the pruning plan Secondly, God will discern when and how our pruning is required, and it will always be at the right time and in the right way. We need to trust Him.
I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. 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 15:1-2 NLT
How important is that cutting off of the branches that don't produce fruit? In my garden example, if those branches hindering the gate's movement had not been chopped then we would not have been able to get into our property. In a spiritual sense, we need that tidying up - cleansing - so we can enter into all God has for us - a relationship with Him for now and all of eternity.
Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Hebrews 10:19-22 NIV
Jesus enables us to live again Yes, Jesus has done that cleansing for us. He enables us to live fully again, so we need to stay connected to Him.
I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you’re joined with me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant. Separated, you can’t produce a thing. Anyone who separates from me is deadwood, gathered up and thrown on the bonfire. But if you make yourselves at home with me and my words are at home in you, you can be sure that whatever you ask will be listened to and acted upon. This is how my Father shows who he is—when you produce grapes, when you mature as my disciples. John 15:5-8 The Message
As we stay connected to Jesus, and allow God to do the pruning, we can then confidently run the race set before us.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3 NIV
And that race may not be run quite as smoothly as my electric gate is running now, but with perseverance and the power of God, we will complete the race, in Jesus Name.
For some more thoughts on the benefits of pruning please visit this post ... who likes pruning?
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
God has given me a scripture to start today's post, Proverbs 8:14. But I have no idea what will happen after that, so I am trusting the Holy Spirit will guide me and bring revelation. Let's see where He takes us.
"You will find true success when you find me,
For I have insight into wise plans that are designed just for you.
I hold in my hands living-understanding, courage, and strength.
They're all ready and waiting for you."
Proverbs 8:14 TPT
I read this scripture last week. It encouraged and challenged me.
It encouraged me with the thought that God has a wise plan designed just for me. And He has a wise plan designed just for you too.
It challenged me with "You will find true success when you find me" - what is "true success?" And what does it mean to "find God?"
I don't have a succinct answer to what is 'true success,' but for me, I know that is has something to do with the closeness of my relationship with God. My heart is to keep drawing closer and closer to God.
Move your heart closer and closer to God, and he will come even closer to you. But make sure you cleanse your life, you sinners, and keep your heart pure and stop doubting. James 4:8 TPT
Oh look, there are another few challenges .... cleanse your life... keep your heart pure... stop doubting. I need some help with those actions. Thank you Holy Spirit that you are my helper.
And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. John 14:16-17 NIV
And thank you God that your grace is sufficient for me every time I get it wrong.
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV
Going back to Proverbs 8:14, God has a wise plan that is perfectly designed for each of us, and when we are weak and rely on God, we have more of Christ's power is us. The power that raises the dead to life.
Here is Paul's prayer for the Ephesians, asking God to give them wisdom, revelation, and to experience the power of God.
I pray that the Father of glory, the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, would impart to you the riches of the Spirit of wisdom and the Spirit of revelation to know him through your deepening intimacy with him.
I pray that the light of God will illuminate the eyes of your imagination, flooding you with light, until you experience the full revelation of the hope of his calling—that is, the wealth of God’s glorious inheritances that he finds in us, his holy ones!
I pray that you will continually experience the immeasurable greatness of God’s power made available to you through faith. Then your lives will be an advertisement of this immense power as it works through you! This is the mighty power that was released when God raised Christ from the dead and exalted him to the place of highest honor and supreme authority in the heavenly realm! And now he is exalted as first above every ruler, authority, government, and realm of power in existence! He is gloriously enthroned over every name that is ever praised, not only in this age, but in the age that is coming!
And he alone is the leader and source of everything needed in the church. God has put everything beneath the authority of Jesus Christ and has given him the highest rank above all others. And now we, his church, are his body on the earth and that which fills him who is being filled by it!
Ephesians 1:17-23 TPT
AMEN! AMEN! AMEN!
WOW! When I started writing this post, I had only two things, firstly the scripture from Proverbs 8:14, and secondly a prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide in writing this post. And look where we ended up - with a declaration about Jesus and His power ....
And now he is exalted as first above every ruler, authority, government, and realm of power in existence! He is gloriously enthroned over every name that is ever praised, not only in this age, but in the age that is coming! Ephesians 1:21
This is exactly where we need to be - focusing on Jesus - the author and perfecter of our faith.
Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 NKJV
So what is the purpose of this post? To encourage you, on occasions, to wander through the scriptures, don't stop at the first one you read, allow the Holy Spirit to guide you in where to go next. Let Him direct your time in the Word, and be open to what He wants to reveal to you. Time spent in God's Word, with an open heart, will always be a blessing to you.
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
Have you ever thought 'Who am I?'
Often we are identified by our relationship to other people. For me, some of those relationships are ... Ken's wife, Marshall's Mum, Charlotte's Mum, Victoria's Mum, Alexandra's Mum, Betty's daughter, etc.
Or we can be defined by the roles we undertake ... the coach, the teacher, the doctor, the pastor, the writer, etc.
Or by where we live, where we were born, what we eat, what we wear, what we didn't do and the list goes on and on and on.
So many things in this world to define ourselves by.
Sometimes the world defines us, and it doesn't always do it in ways that are empowering. There are some great examples in the movie The Greatest Showman.
But if all those people and roles were stripped away, what then is the answer to 'Who am I?'
I am Wendy.
So what?
Who is Wendy?
For me, there is one simple answer to that question. God reminded me of it yesterday, when I had the blessing of sitting by myself in the shade of some trees. No other people, no other roles. Just me, the trees and God. He reminded me that when everything else is stripped away, there is only one answer to the 'Who am I?'
I am a child of God.
What peace there is in knowing that truth. Regardless of whatever happens or doesn't happen in my life, I am loved by my Heavenly Father and I have an eternal destiny in Heaven with Him.
You can have that peace too. A simple prayer of surrender and accepting of Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour.
Say the welcoming word to God—“Jesus is my Master”—embracing, body and soul, God’s work of doing in us what he did in raising Jesus from the dead. That’s it. You’re not “doing” anything; you’re simply calling out to God, trusting him to do it for you. That’s salvation. With your whole being you embrace God setting things right, and then you say it, right out loud: “God has set everything right between him and me!” Romans 10:9-10 The Message
If you have prayed that prayer, don't stop there. Keep communicating with God, tell Him everything, and listen for His wisdom and direction.
Don’t be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing. Be saturated in prayer throughout each day, offering your faith-filled requests before God with overflowing gratitude. Tell him every detail of your life, then God’s wonderful peace that transcends human understanding, will make the answers known to you through Jesus Christ. Philippians 4:6-7 TPT
No matter what you face each day always remember, 'I am a child of God and He chooses to lavish His love on me.'
See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! 1 John 3:1 NIV
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
What do you believe God is capable of?
Maybe your answer is, "Everything. In Luke 1:37, the angel Gabriel told Mary, 'For nothing will be impossible with God.' "
That's a great answer.
Now, let's write a list of all the things you would like the 'God of the impossible' to change in your life or the lives of those you love.
What's on your list?
Re-read it.
Is the list complete? Is there anything you have subconsciously put in the 'That will never change' basket, so you haven't bothered to put it on the list?
Things like ...
... the medical condition that doctors said would never improve or change?
... those areas of deep emotional pain that you don't dare to think about?
This week I wrote a list with some of these 'This will never change' items, and it really challenged me.
Yes, I believe God is the 'God of the impossible.' I have witnessed Him change many circumstances in our lives over the years.
But perhaps now, with some of the things on my list I have become complacent, even apathetic, with the thinking that it will be okay if that doesn't change. And perhaps it will be okay. But is that how God wants us to live? in the okay?
I'm not so sure.
The apostle Paul tells us...
I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:11-13 NIV
Content - is that content for the status quo?
Or is that content knowing that God is in control, He is at work in the unseen and that He has a plan?
For me, I'm going with the second idea of contentment.
I remember the time in 2015 when we found out the tumour in Victoria's brain had grown for the third time. We were devastated. During the following three months there were many tears, conversations with God, reading of His Word, declaring of His promises and building faith to once again believe His promises. Around that time a friend sent me a message with Ephesians 3:16-21 ...
May He grant you out of the rich treasury of His glory to be strengthened and reinforced with mighty power in the inner man by the [Holy] Spirit [Himself indwelling your innermost being and personality].
May Christ through your faith [actually] dwell (settle down, abide, make His permanent home) in your hearts! May you be rooted deep in love and founded securely on love,
That you may have the power and be strong to apprehend and grasp with all the saints [God's devoted people, the experience of that love] what is the breadth and length and height and depth [of it];
[That you may really come] to know [practically, through experience for yourselves] the love of Christ, which far surpasses mere knowledge [without experience];
That you may be filled [through all your being] unto all the fullness of God [may have the richest measure of the divine Presence, and become a body wholly filled and flooded with God Himself]!
Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams] –
To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever and ever. Amen (so be it). Ephesians 3:16-21 AMPC
I had never read this scripture before. When I read it for the first time, I was in a place of absolute desperation, not knowing what would happen to our child. It was one of those moments when I knew without a doubt that God was speaking to me through His word, reminding me of His power and that He was indeed the 'God of the impossible.' That truth helped me to move back to a place of faith and that contentedness knowing that God was at work in the unseen.
And indeed He was at work. The next routine scan showed the tumour had stabilised without any human intervention. And whatsmore it has remained stable for four years.
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 3:21 TPT
So today let's take each of the supposedly 'unchangable' items on our list and declare that we will ...
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. Ephesians 3:20 TPT
Let's dare to dream the impossible, in JESUS Name.
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We all have times when we struggle to stand strong in our faith. The times when we start to ask questions like, ‘God what are You doing?’ and ‘God, what do I need to do?'
Paul, in his letter to the Romans, says he is longing to visit and equip them to keep standing in their faith.
I yearn to come and be face-to-face with you and get to know you. For I long to impart to you the gift of the Spirit that will empower you to stand strong in your faith. Romans 1:11 TPT
The Amplified Bible says it this way,
For I long to see you so that I may share with you some spiritual gift, to strengthen and establish you. Romans 1:11 AMP
The Message Bible says it this way,
The longer this waiting goes on, the deeper the ache. I so want to be there to deliver God’s gift in person and watch you grow stronger right before my eyes! Romans 1:11 The Message
Paul talks about the gift that will help the Romans to stand strong in their faith, and strengthen and establish them. What is this gift?
I found this explanation in the MacArthur Study Bible ….
Romans 1:11 Spiritual gift. The Greek word translated “gift” is charisma, which means “a gift of grace” – a spiritual enablement whose source is the Spirit of God. Romans use this same term to describe: 1) Christ Himself (5:15,16); 2) General blessings from God (11:29; 1 Timothy 6:17); and 3) specific spiritual gifts given to members of the body to minister to the whole (12:6-8; 1 Cor. 12:1-31; 1 Pet 4.10,11). Paul probably intends to encompass all 3.
Going with the ‘encompass all 3’, let’s explore the concept of 'the spiritual enablement whose source is the Spirit of God.'
Recently in a radio interview about our journey with a child with cancer I was asked about “Finding meaning when things don’t go the way you had dreamed.”
"Finding meaning" could also be expressed as ‘How do you come to a place of standing strong and trusting in God when you are overwhelmed with disappointment and grief?”
For me, the answer is about the processing of disappointment and grief. A processing, that to get the best outcome, must be facilitated by the Spirit of God. In my experience that processing involves many aspects including:
Having authentic conversations with God, expressing my inner most thoughts, heartaches and fears, and then giving Him time to speak and minister to me.
Having authentic conversations with people God brought into my life, close friends, counsellors, support groups.
Gaining an understanding of the stages of grief, which helped to normalise the process for me. I can highly recommend a short but very informative book, Good Grief – By Granger E. Westberg.
Regularly reading God’s Word, expecting that He would speak to me through it, helping me to understand that He did understand the pain I was in. The Psalms so often reflected all my emotions! When I was feeling overwhelmed and unsure what to do next, the declaring of this scripture brought peace.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV
Constantly surrendering my plans, my dreams for me and my family to God. For me, this mostly happened during times of worship, usually when I was in my car by myself.
Increasing the ‘closet’ time I spent with God by, at the prompting of the Holy Spirit, getting up earlier to have that daily quiet time with Him. That was truly a spiritual enablement whose source is the Spirit of God. Getting up an hour earlier, having a more focused time of worship, prayer, listening and reading God’s word transformed my relationship with God.
So there are some of the key activities I did that enabled me to stand strong in my faith during challenging times. Easy!
But no, it is far from easy. Mainly because we have our own thoughts and ways of doing of things, and processing disappointment and grief with the spiritual enablement whose source is the Spirit of God, is all about doing it God’s way. It is a continual surrendering of all we know and letting God have control. It is repeatedly choosing to say “Jesus, you are Lord of my life, all of it!”
Every activity we undertake in this process must be accompanied by that desire to believe that God is good, He is faithful and that He has a plan. I say desire because sometimes the reality is we don’t believe that God is good, but we want to believe it. We need God’s help to get back to that place of belief. Remember the father’s prayer in Mark 9:24….
Jesus said to him, “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.” Immediately the father of the child cried out and said with tears, “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief.” Mark 9:23-24 NKJV.
It is the spiritual enablement whose source is the Spirit of God, which really does enable us to process disappointment and grief well, bringing us back to that place where we can declare with certainty in our heart scriptures like Romans 8:37-39
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:37-39 NIV
So today, if you are having trouble standing firm in your faith, I strongly encourage you to make the time to sit quietly with God, tell Him how you really feel, ask Him for His help to enable you to believe that He is at work in the unseen, declare His word and then choose to worship Him in faith.
And we know that in all things God works for the good for those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 NIV
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This morning I had no thoughts on what to write. My heart is heavy for the suffering this country is going through with the bushfires, and I have a great sense of helplessness. Last night I struggled to pray, 'Please bring rain God.' So my words shifted to 'Please make it not be as bad today as predicted. Please give the firefighters strength. Please protect people.'
Earlier this morning I was frustrated by a technical issue with my PC. And then I remembered the people who will be wondering if they will have a home by the end of the day. And the people who have chosen to stay and protect their homes. Perspective came.
But still the question is there, 'What do I write about today?' So I ask God, 'Please tell me what to write about today.' He simply responds, 'Me.'
Start at the beginning ....
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1 NKJV
The earth. Our temporary home. Heaven. Our eternal home.
Then God said, 'Let us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth." So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Genesis 1:26-27 NKJV
God forgive us for not taking care of all you have given us.
And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.” Deuteronomy 31:8 NKJV
When we are seemingly hemmed in, help us to trust that you have gone before us, you are with us and you will not leave us.
God, you're such a safe and powerful place to find refuge!
You're a proven help in times of trouble - more than enough and always available whenever I need you. Psalm 46:1 TPT
Sometimes your help comes in ways we don't expect. You are always more than enough. Thank you.
For this how much God loved the world - he gave his one and only, unique Son as a gift. So now everyone who believes in him will never perish but experience everlasting life. John 3:16 TPT
Jesus Christ. Choose to believe in Him.
And since we now have a magnificent King-Priest to welcome us into God's house, we come closer to God and approach him with an open heart, fully convinced by faith that nothing will keep us at a distance from him. Hebrews 10:21 TPT
We open our hearts to you God.
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,”
declares the Lord.
“As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts."
Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV
We choose to trust that your ways are higher than ours and that you are at work in the unseen.
He will wipe away every tear from their eyes and eliminate death entirely. No one will mourn or weep any longer. The pain of wounds will no longer exist, for the old order has ceased. Revelation 21:4 TPT
We know the end-game. Eternity with You, our Heavenly Father. Thank you.
Let's finish with the prayer Jesus suggested we pray, from The Passion Translation ....
Our Father, dwelling in heavenly realms, may the glory of your name be the centre on which our lives turn.
Manifest your kingdom realm, and cause your every purpose to be fulfilled on earth, just as it is fulfilled in heaven.
We acknowledge you as our Provider of all we need each day.
Forgive us the wrongs we have done as we ourselves release forgiveness to those who have wronged us.
Rescue us every time we face tribulation
and set us free from evil.
For you are the King who rules
with power and glory forever. Amen.
Matthew 6:9-13 TPT
Today is a good day to 'pray without ceasing' for this nation.
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"You love me as you find me ... Your love's too good to leave me here."
These lyrics are from Hillsong United's recent song, "As you find me."
The 'you' in these lyrics is Jesus.
Jesus, who today, willingly lavishes us with His love - no matter where we are, what we are doing or not doing, what we are saying and thinking.
A love that says, "I know you aren't perfect and that's okay."
A love that says, "I'm standing in the gap between you and your Heavenly Father, so your relationship with Him is restored."
A love that says, "I have plans for you. Let my love take you into your future."
A love that has transformed my life, given me love, purpose, strength, healing, joy and peace. What a gift!
What's on your gift list for this Christmas?
Is love on your list?
Is purpose on your list?
Is strength on your list?
Is healing on your list?
Is joy on your list?
Is peace on your list?
Where do you start shopping for these gifts?
On your knees. Confess that Jesus is Lord, believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. (Romans 10:9)
You may say, "Oh, I can't do that, I'm not good enough."
And I would reply, "Well, neither am I, and Jesus knows that. He loves us as He finds us. There is no checklist to see if we measure up, because we don't, and we never will without Him. He loves us as He finds us. We just need to respond to His love and choose to make Him Lord of our lives."
You may say, "But if I do that, won't I need to change the way I live?"
And I would reply, "You don't need to do the changing. Over time as you understand more of Jesus love for you, the changes will happen. His love's too good to leave you here. Just plan some one on one time with Jesus every day, and see what He will do in you."
You may say, "Oh I'm still not sure this is for me."
And I would reply, "There is a God in Heaven Who loves you. He knows your heart's desires. He knows your pain. He's made a way for you to be lavished with unconditional love, know your purpose, have strength, receive healing, live with joy and peace. That way is Jesus and He knows your name. Just talk to Him."
Jesus ... "I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of." John 10:10 The Message
The gift of love - Jesus.
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So many sad things going on in this world we live in. It's so important that daily we look for things to be thankful for.
For me every time I read about someone who has passed away from cancer, or more specifically a brain tumour, (this week it was Roxette singer, Marie Fredriksson), my heart aches for the ones who have lost someone they love, and at the same time I am so grateful to God that that was not our story.
And I am grateful for the way that God has continued to bring healing and wholeness to our family over the past 9 years. We have grieved (and sometimes surprisingly find we are still grieving) the expectations of how we thought our family would be. For me every time the tears have surfaced the Holy Spirit has given comfort and restored peace.
But the [Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name [in My place, to represent Me and act on My behalf], He will teach you all things. And He will help you remember everything that I have told you. John 14:26 AMP
Over the last few years the ability to dream about the future has returned. What a blessing it to be able to dream again! Dreams for me, dreams for our marriage, dreams for our children, all wrapped in God's love and purposes. I didn't realise how important dreams were until I was in an emotional place of being unable to dream of the future.
When there is no clear prophetic vision,
people quickly wander astray.
But when you follow the revelation of the word,
heaven’s bliss fills your soul.
Proverbs 29:18 TPT
I am grateful for a God who doesn't abandon us, but rather carries us when we need to be carried. He is always there in the midst.
God is our refuge and strength,
A very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear,
Even though the earth be removed,
And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;
3Though its waters roar and be troubled,Though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah
There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God,
The holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High.
God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved;
God shall help her, just at the break of dawn.
Psalm 46:1-5 NKJV
I am grateful for a God that tells us He has plans to prosper us, give us a hope and a future.
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
I am grateful for a God who sacrificed His son Jesus, so we could have life to the full, and life eternally with Him in Heaven.
The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. John 10:10
I am grateful for a God that is no respecter of persons. His gift of eternal life is freely available to all of us when we confess with our mouths that Jesus is Lord.
Say the welcoming word to God—“Jesus is my Master”—embracing, body and soul, God’s work of doing in us what he did in raising Jesus from the dead. That’s it. You’re not “doing” anything; you’re simply calling out to God, trusting him to do it for you. That’s salvation. With your whole being you embrace God setting things right, and then you say it, right out loud: “God has set everything right between him and me!” Romans 10:9-10 The Message
So today, when you consider your life, what is that you are grateful for?
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There is a scripture that the Holy Spirit often quickens to me when I am unsure what to do about a situation. I have some thoughts about the action I want I take - but often those actions are rooted in my own hurt and strong desire to see change. They are not necessarily the actions God wants me to take. That scripture is ...
And he answered and said to me, “This is the word of Yahweh to Zerubbabel, saying, ‘Not by strength and not by power, but only by my Spirit,’ says Yahweh of hosts. Zechariah 4:6 LEB
A recent example. Without getting too specific this week I was concerned about a situation and what it would mean for 2020. I didn't want a repeat of what had happened in 2019. I had a plan of action, but I wasn't entirely comfortable with it. Notice all the I's in those few sentences!
That feeling of uncomfortableness made me stop and take a moment to speak with God, "God, please help me, I'm not sure if I should do this." And then this scripture came to mind, thank you Holy Spirit.
So he said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty. Zechariah 4:6 NIV
"Not by might
Nor by power
But by my Spirit," says the Lord Almighty
My next words to God were something like this, "Okay God, by your Spirit. I will do nothing. I'm going to trust that if You want this conversation to happen, then you will orchestrate it."
And within an hour I found myself with an opportunity to speak to the exact person, able to say what I wanted to say, knowing that I was being heard, and that 2020 would have a different outcome to 2019. Thank you Jesus.
This was not the first time that God has used this Scripture to remind me that His ways are different to mine, and always much better! But it's more than a reminder, every time it has been a call to action.
Actually it has been a series of actions that involve me:
- surrendering my plans
- examining my heart regarding my motives for wanting to take that action, repenting when necessary
- waiting on the Lord to see what He was going to do
- being ready for what God would ask me to do
In every instance of this happening God has worked in His mysterious ways, resolved the situation and brought about the change - all glory to Him.
Perhaps I need to add this scripture to my daily prayer ...
"Thank you for this day Jesus. Thank you for loving me. Help me today to remember that it is not by might, not by power, but by Your Spirit, that all things will work together for good. ....."
In our world today we are surrounded by the narrative, "You can do it. You can make it happen. You are in control of your destiny." I disagree with these statements, from the perspective that they are all relying on us - you and me to make it happen. We are imperfect. We don't have all the answers. We don't know what is going to happen in the future. We don't know all the intricacies of people's emotions and motives.
But God does. And when we surrender our life to Jesus, and change the narrative and acknowledge that He is the one that empowers us to do it; He is the one who makes it happen; and that Jesus is the one who offers us an eternal destiny, only then we will live a fulfilling life here on earth.
A life where we are not forcing change, we are not living by our inadequate efforts alone, but instead day by day we are becoming more dependent on our Heavenly Father and His ways. We are growing the fruits of the Spirit and becoming the blessing to others that He has called us to be. Only by His Spirit.
Then he said to me, “This is what the Lord says to Zerubbabel: It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. Zechariah 4:6 NLT
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Those who know me, know I love to pray, spending precious time with God, sometimes talking, sometimes listening; in the quiet of the early morning, in the hustle and bustle of life, in the office with my husband, in the car with my children, in the cafe with friends, walking and praying around the school, at church, well really wherever I am, for me it is always a good time to pray.
Over the years I have seen God answer many of these prayers, in many different ways, and mostly not in the way I expected! God is faithful.
But then there are the other sort of prayers. The prayers that come from that deep place in your heart, knowing that man cannot fix it, only God can bring the change. We leave the request at the foot of the Cross, genuinely believing that one day, God in His wisdom and timing will answer it.
Life goes on and that prayer is no longer on our lips. It hasn't been forgotten, it just isn't the main focus anymore. Occasionally it is brought to the surface again, triggered by a situation or a conversation, and that cry of your heart comes out again, "God I am choosing to trust You, that You have heard the cry of my heart and You have got this sorted."
Lord, you know and understand the hopes of the humble and will hear their cries and comfort their hearts, helping them all! Psalm 10:17 TPT
And then that "one day" comes, and the prayer is answered. God is faithful. There is an overwhelming sense of God's love and a deeper understanding that He is always at work in the unseen. By His grace we move a step closer to the maturity that He is calling us to.
He must increase, but I must decrease. John 3:30 NKJV
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Have you found yourself saying that phrase, 'Where can I get some peace around here?' or, 'God I just need some peace, please!' Or perhaps you have been trying to go to sleep and that concern keeps going over and over in your mind, and you just want it to stop so you can get some peace and have a good night's sleep.
Peace. We want it. We need it.
I'm still on my sojourn through the Old Testament, now in Numbers, and I read this scripture this morning ...
And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying: "Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying,
'This is the way you shall bless the children of Israel. Say to them: "The LORD bless you and keep you; The LORD make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; The LORD lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace." '
"So they shall put My name on the children of Israel, and I will bless them." Numbers 6:22-27 NKJV
Reading it reminded me of a beautiful song by Matt Redman, Benediction, that starts with lyrics relating to this passage of scripture ...
May the Lord bless you and keep you.
May the Lord smile on you,
Shine His light upon you.
May the Lord lift you,
Turn His face towards you.
Give you His peace,
Give you His peace.
Perhaps this is a song to play if you find yourself tossing and turning unable to sleep. I remember hearing this song at lifegroup. The Holy Spirit would minister to me every time it was played. With open hands and an open heart it was as if the Lord poured His peace in everytime it was played.
Or maybe it was more that it reminded me that I already had His peace in me, as Jesus tells us ...
I leave the gift of peace with you—my peace. Not the kind of fragile peace given by the world, but my perfect peace. Don’t yield to fear or be troubled in your hearts—instead, be courageous! John 14:27 TPT
As I've said before I'm not a Bible scholar, but I do know this, there is a peace that Jesus gives that really does surpass all understanding.
Don’t be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing. Be saturated in prayer throughout each day, offering your faith-filled requests before God with overflowing gratitude. Tell him every detail of your life, then God’s wonderful peace that transcends human understanding, will make the answers known to you through Jesus Christ. Philippians 4:6-7 TPT
Let's have another look at the first part of verse 6 ....
The Passion Translation ... Don't be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing
New King James Version ... Be anxious for nothing
New Living Translation ... Don't worry about anything
The Message ... Don't fret or worry
The Amplified Bible ... Do not fret or have anxiety about anything
Maybe your response to this command, is 'Yes, but you don't understand .....'
But God's response is still ....
Don't be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing ...
Be anxious for nothing ... Don't worry about anything ...
Don't fret or worry ... Do not fret or have anxiety about anything
And whatsmore God doesn't just tell us what NOT to do, He tells us what to do ...
The Passion Translation ... Be saturated in prayer throughout each day, offering your faith-filled requests before God with overflowing gratitude.
New King James Version ... but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.
New Living Translation ... instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.
The Message ... Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns.
The Amplified Bible ... but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God.
Yes, God tells us to pray, but we need to pray with faith, not double-mindedness. And always give thanks for all He has done.
And what happens when we do that? Philippians 4:7 tells us we will experience God's peace, as our focus shifts from our circumstance to Jesus and Who He is.
then God’s wonderful peace that transcends human understanding, will make the answers known to you through Jesus Christ. The Passion Translation
New King James Version ... and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
New Living Translation ... Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
The Message ... Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life
The Amplified Bible ... And God’s peace [shall be yours, that [b]tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall [c]garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
I've had many opportunities in my life to fret and worry, and I have fretted and worried. But Philippians 4:6-7, one of the first scriptures I learnt when I became a Christian, has always been a 'go-to' scripture in those circumstances. Sometimes I haven't gone there immediately, but eventually I do get that place of petitioning God in prayer, thanking Him for what He has done, then experiencing His wonderful peace. And I am able to face the next day.
You may be thinking, "I have prayed about this before and nothing has changed." Well, I really encourage you to pray again. There is an enemy who wants you to stop praying, as Jentezen Franklin says ..
"The devil knows your greatest weapon against his kingdom is your voice, your prayer life. Prayer will usher you into the presence, power, and purpose of God." (The Spirit of the Python, page151)
So today, if you are wanting peace, take some time, perhaps play that beautiful song, Benediction, offer up a heartfelt prayer to God, your Heavenly Father, remember to thank Him for what He has done, keep your eyes on Jesus and be expectant that you will experience His peace.
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Earlier this week I was having a conversation with one of our children and she said to me, "Mum, they just need to know that God loves them."
God's love. It's freely available for you and me. It is the love that doesn't come with strings attached. It doesn't change depending on what you do or don't do. It doesn't stop and start depending on how God feels. It is complete and forever love.
It's available to us because of what Jesus did for us. It is comes to us via the Holy Spirit.
And this hope is not a disappointing fantasy, because we can now experience the endless love of God cascading into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who lives in us! For when the time was right, the Anointed One came and died to demonstrate his love for sinners who were entirely helpless, weak, and powerless to save themselves. Romans 5:5-6 TPT
Derek Prince, in his book, The Flow of Divine Love, says,
"Hope, or love, is never disappointed when it is fixed in God because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts - the totality of God's love. God withholds nothing. He just turns the bucket upside down and pours out the whole thing when He gives us the Holy Spirit." page 39
There are so many things in our lives that cause disappointment. We can be disappointed in ourselves - our reactions, our choices and our inability to change (probably because we are trying to change in our strength, without letting God lead the transformation). We can be disappointed in other people - their reactions, their choices, and their inability to change! Oh yes, many opportunities for disappointment to set in.
But when we get a revelation of God's love for us...
This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. John 3:16 The Message
His grace given to us .... that is sufficient for every situation
And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 NKJV
His mercy available to us ... as an on-going daily gift
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV
Yes, when we have that revelation of God's love, grace and mercy, then we can process disappointment in ourselves well.
The more we understand that God's love for us does not change, we are able to have authentic conversations with Him, hear His guidance for our lives and act on that advice as best we can. His still small voice oozes love for us, and our acceptance of that love, helps us to better love ourselves, and ultimately move from that place of disappointment.
And when we get that revelation that God loves everyone in the same way - unconditionally, and that His grace and mercy is available for everyone, then it becomes easier for us to process our disappointment with other people. We are all sinners.
For we all have sinned and are in need of the glory of God. Yet through his powerful declaration of acquittal, God freely gives away his righteousness. His gift of love and favor now cascades over us, all because Jesus, the Anointed One, has liberated us from the guilt, punishment, and power of sin! Romans 3:23-24 TPT
But before we can love others well, our personal revelation of God's love for us has to come first ...
Our love for others is our grateful response to the love God first demonstrated to us 1 John 4:19 TPT
Once we understand God's love for us, we are more able to love others well and let go of the disappointment because we know that they, just like us, are in that transforming process. His grace is sufficient for everyone; His mercies are new every morning for everyone.
And when we are in that place, our heart is more aligned with God's heart for people, what a beautiful place to be. A place of love.
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Have you been in that place where you feel like the enemy is tempting you to cross the line, to say the thing that is going to bring death, not life?
Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat it's fruit. Proverbs 18:21 NKJV
I've been there this week. It has taken every ounce of worship in my body to keep my focus on Jesus, and not let fear take hold and cause me to say something that would be destructive.
Every thought needing to be identified and categorised.
We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV
Fear or faith? truth or lies? What are the promises God has spoken in the past? What does His word say? What do I know about God's character? What is the long, very long, list of testimonies of all God has done for us?
It has literally felt like there was a battle going on in my mind. And it has been just a little bit exhausting! But because of who God is, there has been no choice but to stand firm and trust Him.
Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong.
1 Corinthians 16:13 NLT
Standing firm can be tough going. Thankfully God always goes before us, equipping us, if we remain teachable, with what we are going to need in the future.
Example ... Two weeks ago I started listening to a podcast from the series - 'Elevation with Steven Furtick'. However I only had time to listen to the first ten minutes or so. This week, in the midst of the mind battle, thanks to the prompting of the Holy Spirit, I continued listening to the podcast. The title of the podcast? 'I caught a thought.' A good dose of God's truth, helped me to keep standing firm.
And everything I’ve taught you is so that the peace which is in me will be in you and will give you great confidence as you rest in me. For in this unbelieving world you will experience trouble and sorrows, but you must be courageous, for I have conquered the world!” John 16:33 TPT
There it is again, that word courageous. I wonder how many times it is written in the Bible. This week I needed courage to stand, to keep my mouth shut, to keep believing, to trust that God had a plan and it was unfolding even though I couldn't see it.
Where does courage come from? From choosing to believe that God is God, and Jesus has conquered the world - no matter what we think, see or don't see. Our courage comes from having confidence that God is good and He loves us.
Praise God, this week I was able to stand firm until the breakthrough came. However, an interesting thing happened after the breakthrough came. I was doing a task that should have only taken ten minutes, however due to a software issue an hour later the task still wasn't completed. Frustration bubbled to the surface and out it came! How disappointed was I in myself, to have stood firm on the major thing all week and then be broken over the minor thing!
The lesson for me - when the breakthrough came, I should have stopped, taken time to give thanks to God, not only for the breakthrough, but for the strength He gave me to keep standing.
But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:57 NLT
Pausing and giving thanks, possibly combined with a few minutes of worship, would have allowed me to process well, giving the Holy Spirit space to minister and dissipate the underlying frustration that was there, but had not surfaced prior to the breakthrough.
Let's pray,
Thank you Jesus for who You are and what You did for us, giving us victory over sin and death. Thank you God that You are at work even when we can't see it. Thank you that the confidence we have in You and Your ways, confidence that gives us courage to stand firm. Thank you that you are always going before us, equipping us and making a way. Forgive us for when we stray into fear, doubt and unbelief. Please help us to identify the thoughts that are not from You, taken them captive and replace them with Your truth. Please help us to always remain teachable, open to the counsel of the Holy Spirit. Thank you for Your love and desire to see us become all that You have called us to be. In Jesus Name, Amen.
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It can be so easy to read or hear about a situation and think I wouldn't have done that! It's easy because we are reading or hearing about it after it has happened. We are not the ones in the moment having to make decisions under pressure. We rarely know the full story, yet we judge.
This morning I was reading Matthew 27:11-26, the story where Jesus stood before Pilate. Here is the story ...
Meanwhile Jesus stood before the governor, and the governor asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?”
“You have said so,” Jesus replied.
When he was accused by the chief priests and the elders, he gave no answer. Then Pilate asked him, “Don’t you hear the testimony they are bringing against you?” But Jesus made no reply, not even to a single charge—to the great amazement of the governor.
Now it was the governor’s custom at the festival to release a prisoner chosen by the crowd. At that time they had a well-known prisoner whose name was Jesus Barabbas. So when the crowd had gathered, Pilate asked them, “Which one do you want me to release to you: Jesus Barabbas, or Jesus who is called the Messiah?” For he knew it was out of self-interest that they had handed Jesus over to him.
While Pilate was sitting on the judge’s seat, his wife sent him this message: “Don’t have anything to do with that innocent man, for I have suffered a great deal today in a dream because of him."
But the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowd to ask for Barabbas and to have Jesus executed.
“Which of the two do you want me to release to you?” asked the governor.
“Barabbas,” they answered.
What shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called the Messiah?” Pilate asked.
They all answered, “Crucify him!”
“Why? What crime has he committed?” asked Pilate.
But they shouted all the louder, “Crucify him!”
When Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere, but that instead an uproar was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. “I am innocent of this man’s blood,” he said. “It is your responsibility!”
All the people answered, “His blood is on us and on our children!”
Then he released Barabbas to them. But he had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified.
Now I am no Bible scholar, but as I read this story I thought about the pressure Pilate would have been under in this situation. Pilate knew the outcome that was expected of him from the religious leaders.
(Now, Pilate was fully aware that the religious leaders had handed Jesus over to him because of their bitter jealousy). Matthew 27:18 TPT
He watched them persuade the crowd to choose to free Barabbas.
But the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowds to ask for Barabbas and to put Jesus to death. Matthew 27:20 AMP
He even had his wife giving him advice.
Just then, as Pilate was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent him this message: “Leave that innocent man alone. I suffered through a terrible nightmare about him last night.” Matthew 27:19 NLT
But he also knew in his heart that Jesus was innocent, and he didn't want to take responsibility for Jesus' death.
When Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere and that a riot was imminent, he took a basin of water and washed his hands in full sight of the crowd, saying, “I’m washing my hands of responsibility for this man’s death. From now on, it’s in your hands. You’re judge and jury.” Matthew 27:24 The Message
I guess you could say that Pilate abdicated his responsibilities to the crowd. Other than Pilates thought a riot was imminent, we don't know what other thoughts he was having at this time. Clearly he wasn't listening to his wife (joke!).
And this it the point of today's post, to remind each of us, including me, that we don't know the full story behind people's decisions, and it is not our place to judge them.
God alone, who gave the law, is the Judge. He alone has the power to save or to destroy. So what right do you have to judge your neighbor? James 4:12 NLT
Also keeping in mind that Jesus came to so that none may perish ...
For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 NLT
It is not our job to judge, but it is our responsibility to pray for others including our brothers and sisters in Christ ...
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Ephesians 6:18 NIV
... our political leaders ....
Most of all, I’m writing to encourage you to pray with gratitude to God. Pray for all men with all forms of prayers and requests as you intercede with intense passion. And pray for every political leader and representative, so that we would be able to live tranquil, undisturbed lives, as we worship the awe-inspiring God with pure hearts. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 TPT
... and those who persecute us.
But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you. Matthew 5:44 NKJV
Just as Jesus prays for us.
Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Romans 8:34 NIV
So today, let's take hold of those thoughts that want to judge others and instead say to ourselves, "No, I am not going down the judging path. Instead I am choosing to pray for that person today, Jesus bless them and draw them to Yourself."
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There is as phrase I heard a long time ago, something like, "Always keep the main thing, the main thing." I can't remember exactly where I was, but it was in a church, and the 'main thing' was 'living our lives Jesus' way.'
This week I thought about that phrase again as I was reading a passage from James:
Instead you should say, “Our tomorrows are in the Lord’s hands and if he is willing we will live life to its fullest and do this or that.” James 4:15 TPT
Beth Moore, in her book, James, Mercy Triumphs, discusses this scripture in conjunction with Jeremiah 29:11:
‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’ Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
And then she poses some interesting questions...
“What if we understood down to the marrow of our bones that His is the only plan that really does end up prospering us?
What if we really believed Jesus when He said that those who insist on finding their own lives will lose them and those who lose them for His sake will find them (see Matt 16:25)?
What if we really believed that, if we seek God’s kingdom and His righteousness, everything else of true value would be given to us, too (see Matt 6:33)?
What if we really believed that, “He did not even spare His own Son but offered Him up for us all; how will He not also with him grant us everything” (Rom 8:32)?
What if we really believed that “godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1 Tim 4:8 NASB)?
What if we really believed that God is not only great, He is good?"
(Beth Moore, James, Mercy Triumphs, Page 153)
These are some very thought-provoking questions. Try substituting the 'What if we really believed that...' with 'Do I believe that...'
Then, lets take the questioning a step further, ... not answering with words, but rather with an inventory of our past actions ie Does what we do line up with what we say we believe?
Please understand my intention is not to bring condemnation, but rather to encourage us (definitely me too), to pause and consider how we are travelling with 'living with Jesus as Lord of our lives.'
There is always room for improvement, an area in our lives that the Holy Spirit wants to help us with - greater trust, quicker obedience, greater evidence of the fruit of the Spirit in our lives, just to name a few.
So today, let's determine to let God have His way in our life, helping us to keep 'the main thing, the main thing' as He alone knows what tomorrow will bring.
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What happens when God gives you a vision for something in your future? What is your response? Maybe there is an excited exclamation of 'Yes!' Maybe there is a 'Wow God, really?' Maybe there is an acknowledgement of our inadequacy, 'This will have to be all you God, as I have nothing.'
Whatever our response, one of the big lessons I have learnt is that God controls the timing of when that vision comes to pass. There is nothing we can do to speed up the process.
To everything there is a season, and a time for every matter or purpose under heaven. Ecclesiastes 3:1 AMPC
We have the option of ignoring this truth and toiling away in our own strength to make things happen in our perceived perfect timing. I have found that this option always leads to disappointment, frustration and often exhaustion. And to make matters worse, most often the vision doesn't actually come to pass, and if it does, it doesn't happen the way that God intended!
The other option is that we choose to let God be the leader, submit to Him and practice patience.
Patience is a supernatural fruit of the Holy Spirit.
But the fruit produced by the Holy Spirit within you is divine love in all its varied expressions: joy that overflows, peace that subdues, patience that endures, kindness in action, a life full of virtue, faith that prevails, gentleness of heart, and strength of spirit. Never set the law above these qualities, for they are meant to be limitless. Galatians 5:22-23 TPT
What does practicing patience look like? Here are a few of my thoughts ...
- Asking the Holy Spirit for help to practice patience
- Removing all our expected time-frames. This means not just erasing them from our plans, but saying to God, "I let go of my time-frame and submit to Yours."
- Recognising that even though you prayed the prayer in #2, you may still be operating with your expected timeframe. So keep a careful watch on your reactions when something doesn't go as you thought it would. Are you disappointed? Is there frustration? When you think about what happened, does your body tense up? If you are having these type of responses, take some time to ask the Holy Spirit a few questions ... Why am I are responding this way? What is it that I haven't completely surrendered to God? Holy Spirit, what do You want to teach me through this experience?
- Regularly remembering that God has the big picture. Reflecting on all the times when God's time-frame was different to yours, but unsurprisingly, it turned out that His time-frame was always perfect.
This scripture always helps me to put my plans and thoughts in their rightful place ....
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts,
Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways,
And My thoughts than your thoughts.Isaiah 55:8-9 NKJV
The project God gave me to write a book about the first three years of our journey with Victoria and the brain tumour, has taught me many things, including patience. My time-frame for completing the project was completely unrealistic in many aspects, from overestimating the actual time that I had available, to the unanticipated time for the emotional processing that would be required for me to complete the project.
As I missed each of my self-imposed deadlines, the more aware I became that this project wasn't really my project at all. Yes, God had birthed the book project in my heart, but, as I now know, that did not mean that He had handed over the managing of the project to me. With each of my missed deadlines over the years, God was subtlety changing my mindset showing me that it was His project, and He was going to do it His way and in His timing. And I would just have to be patient.
Years on, I understand just a little bit of His plan. But that little bit is enough to know that His plans will always be better than mine. And that the more I practice patience, the more I am able to enjoy the time that it takes for His plans to unfold. It becomes like an adventure, not knowing exactly when the next step will happen, but making sure that I am listening to the guidance of the Holy Spirit to ensure I am prepared and equipped for when it does come to pass.
So if you are in the waiting season and finding it a bit frustrating, I encourage you to have those authentic conversations with the Holy Spirit, let Him guide and be open to what He wants to teach you.
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At the start of the year I began reading The Bible from the beginning. It's almost the end of September and I am up to Chapter 22 in Leviticus, the third book of The Bible! Just so you don't think I am a complete slacker, I have been reading other parts of The Bible too - Proverbs, Psalms, and various books in the New Testament.
But I have struggled with reading the Old Testament. I've just calculated that it has taken me about 300 days to read 141 pages, so at that rate, I should finish reading the Old Testament by 2030!
I have this mindset that that says 'Some of the Old Testament is just not that interesting, so why should I read this.' Now I know that mindset is wrong. So I have pressed on and will continue to read it, simply because God has been speaking to me through each passage I've read from the Old Testament.
This morning I read from Leviticus 21 ....
"He may eat the bread of his God, both the most holy and the holy; only he shall not go near the veil or approach the altar, because he has a defect, lest he profane My sanctuaries; for I the LORD sanctify them." And Moses told it to Aaron and his sons, and to all the children of Israel. Leviticus 21:22-24 NKJV
Now I don't pretend to understand much in these three verses, but these seven words stood out to me, 'he shall not go near the veil.' As I was reading those words this passage in Hebrews came to mind, thank you Holy Spirit.
Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, and having a High Priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. Hebrews 10:19-23 NKJV
Today because of what Jesus did we can approach the altar. Because of Jesus' blood we can commune with a Holy God. Because of Jesus, we have faith, hope and love.
The Passion Translation says it this way,
And now we are brothers and sisters in God's family because of the blood of Jesus, and he welcomes us to come right into the most holy sanctuary in the heavenly realm - boldly and with no hesitation. For he has dedicated a new life-giving way for us to approach God. For just as the veil was torn in two, Jesus' body was torn open to give us free and fresh access to him!
And since we now have a magnificent King-Priest to welcome us into God's house, we come closer to God and approach him with an open heart, fully convinced by faith that nothing will keep us at a distance from him. For our hearts have been sprinkled with blood to remove impurity and we have been freed from an accusing conscience and now we are clean, unstained, and presentable to God inside and out! Hebrews 10:19-22 TPT
Aside, there is a beautiful song, Clean, from Hillsong United's People -Live album, that simply declares that 'because of Jesus my heart is clean.' If you have a spare couple of minutes I think it is worth listening too, it very quickly centers your focus on Jesus.
Back to the scripture, let's read these words again ... He welcomes us to come right into the most holy sanctuary in the heavenly realm - boldly and with no hesitation.
I remember hearing these words soon after I became a Christian 20-plus years ago, and I took these words literally into my heart - because of Jesus I am welcome at the altar. How precious is that truth! This truth gave me the confidence to come, just as I am and ask.
The Amplified Bible translates verse 22 as ...
Let us all come forward and draw near with true (honest and sincere) hearts in unqualified assurance and absolute conviction engendered by faith (by that leaning of the entire personality on God in absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness), having our hearts sprinkled and purified from a guilty (evil) conscience and our bodies cleansed with pure water. Hebrews 10:22 AMP
So today, let's acknowledge that Jesus has opened the way for us to go to the Father. Let's draw near with confidence, not because of who we are or what we have done, but because of who our God is and His unconditional love for us.
Finally, just referring back to my Old Testament reading, lets encourage each other to read God's word, even when it doesn't seem very interesting to us. God is always wanting to reveal something more to us and remind us of His great love for us. He desires us to be purposefully drawing nearer to Him.
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What a beautiful thing it is to watch someone fall more and more in love with Jesus, being vulnerable and opening their heart to Him. With each taste of His love, the more open they become. Gently with every moment of surrender God responds with an act of loving transformation. The mercy of God in action.
To see this happening in someone else's life is a privilege and a blessing. But then when you realise that God has been doing the same thing in your own life for 20+ years, the overwhelm moves to a new level. For only we know just how undeserving we are of His love, the thoughts we have that would make others cringe; the words we say sometimes that don't illustrate love and grace; the actions that are clearly of the flesh. God knows all these things about us too, yet He continues to offer His transforming love to us through Jesus.
Paul understood about being undeserving of God's love. He wrote about it many times in his letters, like this letter to Timothy.
Mercy kissed me, even though I used to be a blasphemer, a persecutor of believers, and a scorner of what turned out to be true. I was ignorant and didn’t know what I was doing. I was flooded with such incredible grace, like a river overflowing its banks, until I was full of faith and love for Jesus, the Anointed One!
I can testify that the Word is true and deserves to be received by all, for Jesus Christ came into the world to bring sinners back to life—even me, the worst sinner of all! Yet I was captured by grace, so that Jesus Christ could display through me the outpouring of his Spirit as a pattern to be seen for all those who would believe[jin him for eternal life.
Because of this my praises rise to the King of all the universe who is indestructible, invisible, and full of glory, the only God who is worthy of the highest honors throughout all of time and throughout the eternity of eternities! Amen! 1 Timothy 1:13-17 TPT
Let's look at verse 14 again,
I was flooded with such incredible grace, like a river overflowing its banks, until I was full of faith and love for Jesus, the Anointed One! 1 Timothy 1:14 TPT
The Message Bible says it this way,
Grace mixed with faith and love poured over me and into me. And all because of Jesus. 1 Timothy 1:14 The Message Bible
Grace, faith and love for Jesus, with the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives brings transformation. Continual transformation. Transformation that only produces good things in our lives.
We can all draw close to him with the veil removed from our faces. And with no veil we all become like mirrors who brightly reflect the glory of the Lord Jesus. We are being transfigured into his very image as we move from one brighter level of glory to another. And this glorious transfiguration comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:18 TPT
Transformation that enables us, just as it did Paul, to fully do what God has asked us to do - love Him and love people.
“Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?” Jesus answered him, “‘Love the Lord your God with every passion of your heart, with all the energy of your being, and with every thought that is within you.’ This is the great and supreme commandment. And the second is like it in importance: ‘You must love your friend in the same way you love yourself.’ Contained within these commandments to love you will find all the meaning of the Law and the Prophets.” Matthew 22:36-40 TPT
Today, lets be open to letting God do more of His wonderful transforming work in our lives, so we can be the blessing to others that He has made us to be.
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"Ask, and the gift is yours. Seek, and you'll discover. Knock, and the door will be opened for you. For every persistent one will get what he asks for. Every persistent seeker will discover what he longs for. And everyone who knocks persistently will one day find an open door." Matthew 7:7 TPT
Have you got a longing in your heart? I have many.
Many longings for God to move in people's lives, both people I know, those close and those not so close, and those I don't. A longing for people to know in their hearts that God is good despite what is happening in their lives. A longing for people to know that God knows them, and He has always known them. He hears the cries of their heart and He is working all things together for good for those who love Him.
Psalm 139, so often we hear verses 12 onwards. But lets read the preceding verses:
Lord, you know everything there is to know about me.
You perceive every moment of my heart and soul,
And you understand every thought before it even enters my mind.
You are so intimately aware of me, Lord.
You read my heart like an open book
And you know all the words I'm about to speak
Before I even start a sentence!
You know every step I will take before my journey even begins.
You've gone into my future to prepare the way,
And in kindness you follow behind me
to spare me from the harm of my past.
With your hand of love upon my life,
You impart blessing to me.
This is just too wonderful, deep and incomprehensible!
Your understanding of me brings me wonder and strength.
Where could I go from your Spirit?
Where could I run and hide from your face?
If I go up to heaven, you're there!
If I go down to the realm of the dead, you're there too!
If I fly with wings into the shining dawn, you're there!
If I fly into the radiant sunset, you're there waiting!
Wherever I go, your hand will guide me;
Your strength will empower me.
It's impossible to disappear from you
Or to ask the darkness to hide me,
For your presence is everywhere, bringing light into my night.
There is no such thing as darkness with you.
The night, to you, is as bright as day;
There's no difference between the two.
Psalm 139:1-12 TPT
This passage of scripture describes the intimate relationship between each of us and our Creator. Let's read it again, just one line at a time. At the end of each line remind yourself that this is not just some pretty poem written thousands of years ago. This is a description of God's love and plans for you and me.
A few years ago we were on a family holiday. There was something in our lives that needed to change. Some days we felt like it was a hopeless situation. Other days we would be full of faith. It was an emotional rollercoaster. But the cry of our hearts were always the same. We kept asking God to bring the change. It was something only He could do.
“Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you." Matthew 7:7 NLT
Those desires of our hearts haven't fully come to pass ... yet! But there has been movement. Lots of movement. Things that a few years ago would have seemed impossible are happening. God is bringing restoration. He is doing a new thing.
So why am I sharing this story, because sometimes we need to be reminded to keep asking, don't give up on God. Keep Ephesians 3:20-21 written on your heart ....
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 energises 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
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I saw something this week that made me cry. I seem to spend a lot of time at the pool these days, with three of our four children involved in regular squad training. As I may have mentioned before I have found it to be a blessing as I have uninterrupted time to pray, read and write - time for me! Most other parents appear to be enjoying some 'me' time, or having a chat time with other parents or going swimming too.
But this week I saw something different, a vision impaired swimmer training. His father wasn't sitting down having 'me' time. Rather he was walking up and down the pool with each lap his son swam and tapping him with the cane just before he reached the end of the pool.
I cried when I watched them. I cried because of the selfless act I was witnessing. I cried because it reminded me of the hours and hours that went into Victoria's rehab, especially the physical therapy for her left hand and arm. I cried because I was seeing the love of a father in action.
And it made me think about how much our Heavenly Father loves us and wants to help us, including 'tapping' us before we 'hit the wall,' or 'tapping' us so we can start getting ready for the next 'lap'.' The prompting of the Holy Spirit, always wanting to guide and direct us.
Paul allowing the Holy Spirit to direct his travels through Asia is a great example of listening to God's guidance.
Now when they had gone through Phrygia and the region of Galatia, they were forbidden by the Holy Spirit to preach the word in Asia. After they had come to Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit did not permit them. So passing by Mysia, they came down to Troas. And a vision appeared to Paul in the night. A man of Macedonia stood and pleaded with him, saying, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." Now after he had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go to Macedonia, concluding that the Lord had called us to preach the gospel to them. Acts 16:6-10 NKJV
So what about in our lives? How good are we at recognising the prompting of the Holy Spirit? Especially when it is something unexpected that we are being asked to do or say. It takes courage to move to that new level of trusting that what we are hearing or sensing is actually from the Holy Spirit.
Someone challenged me earlier this week about being bolder in a certain area of ministry. It was an area that I knew I had been growing in, and I was seeing how God was using it to help and encourage others, and bring breakthrough. But it did not always sit comfortably with me, as I didn't always understand what God was doing (surprise surprise). I needed to move to a greater level of trusting God, and understand that when the 'tap' came from the Holy Spirit, I needed to just do it, otherwise it would have implications for other people. And I certainly don't want to get in the way of what God wants to do in people's lives. He loves each of us and wants to see us all moving forward into His purpose for our lives. But that takes trust and obedience on our part.
Let's determine to continue to keep moving forward, growing under the guidance of the Holy Spirit and God's word.
In the same way that nursing infants cry for milk, you must intensely crave the pure spiritual milk of God’s Word. For this “milk” will cause you to grow into maturity, fully nourished and strong for life — especially now that you have had a taste of the goodness of the Lord Jehovah and have experienced his kindness. 1 Peter 2:2-3 TPT
Let's not settle for where we are now, but rather let ourselves be 'tapped' by the Holy Spirit, listen and obey, so that we can be vessels for our Heavenly Father's love, showing His kindness to others.
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For a long time, actually years, I would ask the question of God, 'How did we get here?' with here being a not so good place. Now I find myself asking Him the same question, 'How did we get here?' but with a heart overflowing with gratitude. So many things to be thankful for.
But in those challenging years, when I asked that question from the not so good circumstances, I knew it was important to also actively be seeking something to thank God for. Sometimes the only thing that came to mind was what Jesus had done on The Cross - the gift of salvation. Of course that is no minor thing, it is a life-changing gift Jesus gave to each of us.
But when your world appears to be falling apart, it can be so easy to focus on all things negative and even lose sight of Jesus' gift of eternal life. In those times of trauma and crisis, our perspective can, I have found, become easily distorted.
Finding those one or two things to be thankful for enables us to come to the place where we remind ourselves that there is a God in Heaven, and He loves us. Paul tells us in 1 Thessalonians 5:18:
And in the midst of everything be always giving thanks, for this is God’s perfect plan for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 TPT
This week I was preparing for a talk an event in a couple of weeks and God reminded me about the importance of thankfulness. It was a time almost nine years ago, only three days after I had been told, "There is a mass in your child's brain."
Here is an excerpt from my book about that morning when I came to a place of thankfulness, enabling me to see that God had gone before us, and He was with us.
How wonderful it was to wake up at home on Saturday morning, rather than in the hospital. We were confident that the surgeon would do his very best for our daughter, and even more confident that our God would get us all through, no matter what the outcome. However, in the midst of this trauma, I was still a mum with very raw emotions. It was my daughter who was in a fight for her life.
It was a beautiful summer morning and I went for a ride on my bike. As soon as I rode down the driveway, the tears began to flood. I called out to God, with an ache in my heart, ‘She is only three years old, why does she have to go through this?’
I spent the next thirty minutes riding around our local streets, pouring out my heart to God. I returned home with peace in my heart and the strength from God to continue through the day.
The rest of the family was still sleeping when I returned from my ride. So I sat down with my journal and began thanking God for all the good things about this horrendous circumstance. I came up with a list of twenty two things to thank God for.
My list included things like friends with the specific knowledge needed for the diagnosis after the initial doctor’s misdiagnosis. My mum’s renewed passport arriving on the day of diagnosis, so she was able to be with us on the following day. Victoria’s health and well-being, aside from the impact of the tumour, she was healthy and not in any pain. My sister and her family, who lived in New Zealand at the time, just happened to be holidaying in Byron Bay, Australia. They had planned to visit us the following week, so they came down a week earlier. Marshall’s school teacher had already been in contact with parents via email, two weeks before the first term of 2011 commenced, which meant I was able to email her about our situation, and she called on the Junior School teachers to pray. I had finished breastfeeding Alexandra in December, so didn’t have to do a quick painful wean. Earlier in the week I had done a lot of cooking for school lunches. The freezer was full of muffins and cupcakes.
Now, when I think about that time, I wonder how I was able to only three days after hearing some devastating news, come to this place of finding so many things to be thankful for?
I believe the answer is two-fold; Firstly, God's grace - it really is sufficient for every situation we find ourselves in.
And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 NKJV
Secondly, years of practice (prior to hearing that news), of choosing in the times of disappointment and anger (eg miscarriages; marriage challenges; business difficulties) to process with God, drawing closer to Him and growing in my understanding that God is good all the time.
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. James 4:8 NKJV
Through each of those previous circumstances I had cried out to God, told Him exactly how I was feeling, found comfort from that still small voice, and His promises. Little did I know that all those experiences were preparing me and my heart for this situation with Victoria. And for whatever else our future holds. God is continually equipping us for our future. And learning to be thankful in all circumstances is a key aspect of that equipping.
In every situation [no matter what the circumstances] be thankful and continually give thanks to God; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 AMP
Thankfulness brings us to that place of knowing that God is with us, He has not abandoned us.
And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed. Deuteronomy 31:8 NKJV
Finding at least one thing to be thankful for, especially our salvation, enables us to lift our eyes to Jesus, our Saviour.
Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and [finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 NKJV
So today, lets take some time to be still and consider what it is that we have to be thankful for, lift our eyes to Jesus and offer a prayer of thanksgiving.
To find out more please visit https:/wendyrobinson.com.au
A couple of months ago at church we had a Pastor from overseas visiting. In the morning service at the end of his sermon he asked who would like to receive from God what he had been preaching about. I felt the Holy Spirit say "Put your hand up." So I did.
In the evening service, the visiting Pastor was preaching again. After the sermon he invited people to come out for prayer. I felt the Holy Spirit say, "Go out for prayer." So I did.
When it was my turn to be prayed for I explained what had happened in the morning service, and why I had come out for prayer. He said something like, "Okay" and started the praying for me. One of the things he said during the prayer was, "You have been holding God's hand, now let God hold your hand." And then he demonstrated it, taking my right hand reaching up to hold God's hand; then with a hand reaching down to hold my hand.
I was perplexed. What does that mean? How do I do that? Here is my processing over the next few days ...
Start with a simple prayer, "God, I don't know how to do that, please show me."
Then search for scriptures about God holding our hand.
For I, the Lord your God, will hold your right hand,
Saying to you, ‘Fear not, I will help you.’ Isaiah 41:13 NKJV
That's a good start, meditate on that scripture
Still having difficulty understanding, so I think about what it is like for me as a parent when I reach out to hold my child's hand. What is their response - they take my hand, and let me gently guide them with a firm and safe grip.
Okay, now I am starting to understand, a little. I need to release my grip, re-position my hand, so God is doing the guiding, not me.
But what does that look like practically?
Literally a laying down of my plans and only acting when the Holy Spirit prompts. This is the strategy I have been using with my book project, and I have seen the fruit of doing it God's way - the doors opening easily in His timing. Now God was telling me I needed to use the same strategy with this children's creative ministry - only plan as the Holy Spirit prompts; only do what the Holy Spirit shows me to do, and when He shows me to do it.
Because I, your God, have a firm grip on you and I’m not letting go.
I’m telling you, ‘Don’t panic. I’m right here to help you.’
Isaiah 41:13 The Message
With the children's creative ministry, due to a change in circumstances with some members of our team, we were going to have to change the way we were running the program. So, the first step, "God, we have to change this, how do we do it?"
His practical answer, "Use this format, invite these people to help." We have done as He said, and He has breathed something fresh upon the children and we are seeing their creative gifts coming forth in new ways. It's so good!
Thank you God for speaking to me, telling me how I needed to change, so we could then change what we are doing with the program and have a greater impact on this next generation.
For the past year I have had a book (well actually 4 books) sitting on my bedside table, and I haven't started reading any of them. A couple of weeks ago I was prompted to start reading one of them, a compilation of 9 of Derek Prince's books, Derek Prince on Experiencing God. The first book in the compilation is The Holy Spirit in You. Very interesting God, You are making sure I really get the message about relying less on my abilities and more on the Holy Spirit!
Here is a passage from the chapter 'Our indwelling helper'....
"What does it mean for us, practically, that the Holy Spirit has come to be our Paraclete? We will being by looking again at the passage in John 14:16-18 where Jesus gave this specific promise:
And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor [Paraclete] to be with you forever - the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. [You can see that this is a promise only for believers, not the world.] I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. (NIV)
"The word paraclete, derived from a Greek source, was simply transliterated into English. It literally means "someone who is called alongside to help." A Paraclete is someone who can do something for you that you cannot do for yourself." Page 27
Wow, that is who is available to us as believers, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, someone, the Holy Spirit, who can do things for us that we cannot do for ourselves. It is so important that we are regularly reminded of this truth so we can be as effective as possible in doing what God has called us each to do.
And if you are like me, a planner, that reminder might just have to come from God via another believer from another country, in a very direct manner. Just as it did for me in this example with this visiting Preacher from overseas. Praise God for the freedom in this country to gather, hear the word of God and pray for one another in Jesus Name.
One final thought, let's always be open to learning more of God's ways and giving Him time and space to speak into our lives.
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
Over twenty years ago most Saturday mornings, Ken and I would travel by public transport (we were newly married and didn't have a car) from Elizabeth Bay, inner Sydney, to Chatswood. Why? For Ken to pre-record his radio show, 'Arts in Review' at a community radio station During the week he'd contact his interviewees and assign a time for an over the phone interview on the Saturday morning. On those Saturdays I'd sit in the chair outside the studio and often fall asleep after a long, sometimes challenging week working on an IT helpdesk.
Why am I sharing about Ken's community radio show? Well, because yesterday God reminded me about it. I was sitting in my car having just finished a phone interview with a Christian radio station in Perth about my book and God's faithfulness. Aside; I was in my car so I wouldn't be interrupted by any of the family - but I forgot to turn off call-waiting on my phone! Thankfully the interview was being pre-recorded!
Anyway, as I sat there giving thanks to God for how well the interview had gone (from my perspective anyway), He gave me a picture of Ken and I in the studio in Chatswood, and Ken interviewing people over the phone. He was reminding me of a few things ...
1, God always goes before us, preparing the way. In this case, over 20 years ago, unknowingly, I was being immersed in an environment that I would need to know about today!
And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed. Deuteronomy 31:8 NKJV
2, God will always make sure we are prepared for what He wants us to do and will fill the gaps that need to be filled. In this example, Ken with his radio experience, was able to coach me in the preparation for the interview.
Now may the God who brought us peace by raising from the dead our Lord Jesus Christ so that he would be the Great Shepherd of his flock; and by the power of the blood of the eternal covenant, may he work perfection into every part of you giving you all that you need to fulfill your destiny. And may he express through you all that is excellent and pleasing to him through your life-union with Jesus the Anointed One who is to receive all glory forever! Amen! Hebrews 31:20-21 TPT
Giving you all that you need to fulfill your destiny. Even when we don't realise it at the time. Thank you God that you are the Master planner!
3, God knows the end of the story and He knows the part He wants us to play. He knows that He is working all things together for good ...
So we are convinced that every detail of our lives is continually woven together to fit into God’s perfect plan of bringing good into our lives, for we are his lovers who have been called to fulfill his designed purpose. Romans 8:28 TPT
So, despite all that has come against us over the years, in the words of a wonderful, life giving song, Raise a Hallelujah, by Bethel Music ....
I raise a Hallelujah, in the presence of my enemies.
Remember, our God, the one who goes before, equips us, and knows how the story ends, He will always have the last say ...
Jesus has the last word on everything and everyone, from angels to armies. He's standing right alongside God, and what he says goes. 1 Peter 2:33 The Message
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Once again this week I have been reminded of the importance of taking time to give God space to do what only He can do.
Picture this... a group of women silently communicating with God. Writing messages to God, including things they want to be set free from in their lives and their family's lives. I write something on my paper, and then throw it in the fire (literally), declaring quietly, "God you've got this.'
Then about five minutes later I see a child peeping in the door. So I leave my cosy chair near the fire and go to her. The tears come and she confesses the exact sin that only minutes before I had written and thrown into the fire. What's surprising to me, is that I had no idea that this particular sin was an issue for that child!
I was completely overwhelmed with God's love for us, how intimately He knows us, and how mysteriously He works. The seed for this night of group quiet time with God, confession and throwing in the fire, was planted over month a go. God knew then what He was going to do on that night. It is good and right to remember that His ways are always higher than ours.
“I don’t think the way you think.
The way you work isn’t the way I work.”
God’s Decree.
“For as the sky soars high above earth,
so the way I work surpasses the way you work,
and the way I think is beyond the way you think.
Isaiah 55:8-9 The Message
God hears our prayers.
Since we have this confidence, we can also have great boldness before him, for if we present any request agreeable to his will, he will hear us. And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we also know that we have obtained the requests we ask of him. 1 John 5:14-15 TPT
God wants us and our family and friends to experience the freedom that only He can give. The next part of this scripture explains the importance of prayer in that process.
If anyone observes a fellow believer habitually sinning in a way that doesn’t lead to death, you should keep interceding in prayer that God will give that person life. 1 John 5:16 TPT
I was not expecting what happened in our daughter's life that night, that she would have greater revelation of the truth that she is fearfully and wonderfully made. I had expected God to do some heart work within myself (that is always necessary!); and to see some answers to the other prayers over the coming weeks and months. But not within the following five minutes. Clearly I need to take all my delivery timeframes off my prayers!
So let's remember that we have a God who can do the unexpected, the unimaginable, but always the best. I believe we do have a part to play in that too, just as 1 John 5:16 said ... you should keep interceding in prayer that God will give that person life.
If I analyse what happened on that night and the choices that I made (prompted by the Holy Spirit), there were six distinct actions. Now this is not a formula to follow, rather some principals that could be applied when wanting to be more intimate with God and see breakthrough in our lives and the lives of those that God connects us with.
1. Make time to hear from God - Prioritise time with Him
Evening and morning and at noon
I will pray, and cry aloud,
And He shall hear my voice. Psalm 55:17 NKJV
2. Being silent so can hear - Quieten your voice so you can hear His
Be still, and know that I am God;
Psalm 46:10 NKJ
3. Confession - Be real, God knows everything anyway
But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. 1 John 1:9 NLT
4. Awareness - Look around, observe what is happening around you
"Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” Mark 14:38 NLT
5. Obey the prompting - Act on what the Holy Spirit is nudging you to do
“Yes,” said Jesus. “But God will bless all who listen to the word of God and carefully obey everything they hear.” Luke 11:28 TPT
6. Love and reassure - That's what Jesus does, everyday.
But Lord, your nurturing love is tender and gentle.
You are slow to get angry yet so swift to show your faithful love.
You are full of abounding grace and truth. Psalm 86:15 TPT
So those are some choices we can make. But ultimately God is the one in control. His perfect love manifests in so many different ways, bringing freedom into our lives. Remember our salvation. Let's never underestimate what He can do.
But God still loved us with such great love. He is so rich in compassion and mercy. Even when we were dead and doomed in our many sins, he united us into the very life of Christ and saved us by his wonderful grace! Ephesians 2:4-5 TPT
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
I remember years ago sitting on the toilet, feeling battle weary (in a spiritual sense), feeling like there was this unrelenting push to make me give up on God.
But then I lifted my head and read this scripture that I had put on the wall a few weeks earlier...
Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:37-39 NKJV
As I spoke those words out aloud, I felt the fight of faith rise. Nothing was going to separate me from the love of God.
The Passion Translation says it this way ...
**Yet even in the midst of all these things, we triumph over them all, for God has made us to be more than conquerors, and his demonstrated love is our glorious victory over everything.
So now I live with the confidence that there is nothing in universe with the power to separate us from God's love. I'm convinced that his love will triumph over death, life's troubles, fallen angels, or dark rulers in the heavens. There is nothing in our present or future circumstances that can weaken his love. There is no power above us or beneath us - no power that could ever be found in the universe that can distance us from God's passionate love, which is lavished upon us through our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One!** Romans 8:37-39 TPT
What happens when you speak this truth out into the atmosphere? For me I can sense courage and boldness rise up and it reminds me of the power of God. The power of His victory.
That same sense of courage and victory rises up when I declare this scripture too ...
Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams] - To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever and ever. Amen (so be it). Ephesians 3:20-21 AMPC
This scripture reminds me that while there is an enemy that is trying to get us to give up on God, God has an amazing future for each of us. We need to not lose sight of that and continually choose to stick with Him.
With God's power at work in us the possibilities are ... just as the scripture says, infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes or dreams.
Let's think about that for a moment. What is the highest prayer you have ever prayed? What is the biggest dream that you have? What does infinitely beyond those look like? Can you see it? Can you see it for your life?
The Passion Translation says ...
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. Ephesians 3:20 TPT
It comes down to that action again, that I often find myself thinking and writing about ..... TRUST! Trusting that God is here and He is working all things together for good, even when we can't see it.
Recently I have started re-reading Joel Osteen's book, I declare - 31 Promises to speak over your life. Each day has a story and a declaration. It has been good for my soul to read about waiting and victories. You may think that sounds odd given all we have been through as a family. But the reality is, there is normally always something going on in all our lives that requires waiting for the victory, and sometimes it gets a little wearying.
Here is one of the declarations I read this week from his book .....
"I declare that God has a great plan for my life. He is directing my steps. And even though I may not always understand how, I know that my situation is not a surprise to God. He will work out every detail to my advantage. In His perfect timing, everything will turn out right. This is my declaration."
So if you are feeling like you are in the battle right now, get armed with God's word, and declare His truth into your future. Choose to trust God today. He loves you and will not forsake you.
None of this fazes us because Jesus loves us. I’m absolutely convinced that nothing—nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today or tomorrow, high or low, thinkable or unthinkable—absolutely nothing can get between us and God’s love because of the way that Jesus our Master has embraced us. Romans 8:37-39 The Message
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Seasons. As we transition to a new season I have been reflecting on all God has done, and all that we have learned, the times when there has been no other option but to trust God, and the depth of relationship that has come from those times of great need.
Whom have I in heaven but you? You’re all I want!
No one on earth means as much to me as you.
Lord, so many times I fail; I fall into disgrace.
But when I trust in you, I have a strong and glorious presence
protecting and anointing me. Forever you’re all I need!
Psalm 73:25-26 TPT
Our God is a God of order, not confusion. He does not ask you to do things before you are ready. At the time of Victoria's diagnosis our emotional capacity to engage with other people shrunk dramatically. Gradually that capacity has returned.
For me, initially it was a complete focus on Victoria, then my own mental health, then our marriage, then our children, and after about 6 years I was ready and able to connect more fully with the wider world. That isn't to say that I isolated myself for 6 years, no I was still engaging with people, but not at the emotional level that I was prior to Victoria's diagnosis.
Earlier this year when I was having some quiet time with God down at the lake He showed me three things ... a flock of black swans moving in unison on the water .... a flock of seagulls flying together just above the water .... a school of fish swimming close to the surface in the lake. Then He said, 'Wendy, don't forget about the gathering.'
God knew it was time for me to expand again. And of course His timing is always perfect. Just reflecting on this week .... Monday we received fantastic news regarding Victoria and no more routine scans being required; And then we had three separate unrelated fellowship gatherings at our home, Monday night; Wednesday night and Friday morning. After each one I felt so excited to have the emotional capacity to once again be hospitable and open our home to people.
So why am I sharing this story? Well, perhaps you are in a season where you are unable to fully act on the desires of your heart. So I want to encourage you that this season will change, and God will bring you to that place again.
But it won't be the same as before, it will be different, because you will be different. Your motive will be more aligned with God's heart. The execution will be better because of your greater dependence on God to make it happen. The blessing to others will be greater as God has enlarged your capacity to love.
Our God is faithful. He does work all things together for good to those who love Him, to those who are called according to His purpose.
Let's give a shout of joy to the Lord, in the words of Psalm 100 from The Passion Translation.
Lift up a great shout of joy to the Lord!
Go ahead and do it—everyone, everywhere!
As you serve him, be glad and worship him.
Sing your way into his presence with joy!
And realize what this really means—
we have the privilege of worshiping the Lord our God.
For he is our Creator and we belong to him.
We are the people of his pleasure.
You can pass through his open gates with the password of praise.
Come right into his presence with thanksgiving.
Come bring your thank offering to him
and affectionately bless his beautiful name! For the Lord is always good and ready to receive you.
He’s so loving that it will amaze you—
so kind that it will astound you!
And he is famous for his faithfulness toward all.
Everyone knows our God can be trusted,
for he keeps his promises to every generation!
Psalm 100 TPT
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Standing in the supermarket. The phone goes. It's my husband. I just start crying, and eventually manage to say, "I'm not coping." He says, "Where are you? I'll be there soon."
Wow, this whole morning has taken me by surprise. I thought I'd be okay, that I'd just push through as normal. But apparently no. Tears. Tears. And more tears. I'd already cried a couple of bucket fulls earlier during my prayer time, then while doing the ironing, and then when driving children around - thank God for sunglasses!
In the middle of these unexpected tears I receive a text from a friend saying she was praying for me. When I responded with how I was feeling she shared this scripture ...
You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book. Psalm 56:8
Praise God for family and friends. He knows that we cannot do this life alone. We need Him. We need other people. We need love. We need peace.
It was the morning of Victoria's scan, number 26! And potentially the last one ever! The tears were another level of the grieving for a childhood that has not been not as it should have. We are so grateful that she is still with us, as we know that is not the outcome for all families on the cancer journey. But there has still been loss. Loss of a carefree childhood.
In these times of unexpected tears I know where I have to go.... to that place where I am close to God. The place where I can be still and know that He is God, and that He will be exalted. The place that is the shadow of His wings.
When you sit enthroned 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. Psalm 91:1-2 TPT
It is not a tangible place. Rather it is a posture of my heart. Me knowing in my heart that God is real and that He cares about every aspect of my life, our marriage and our children's lives. It is a place where I can grieve but still know that there is hope and that it is good and right to have confidence in my God, the creator of Heaven and Earth.
[Most] blessed is the man who believes in, trusts in, and relies on the Lord, and whose hope and confidence the Lord is. Jeremiah 17:7 AMPC
We will all have those days when the tears unexpectedly come. Those times are an opportunity to be still and experience more of God's great love for us, His children.
See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are. 1 John 3:1 NIV
So let's not fight back the tears, but rather embrace them, and let our heart soften and lean a little further towards our Heavenly Father.
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In this full life lingering isn't something that I often do. But this year God has been teaching me about the power in lingering. Being more of a Mary and sitting at the feet of Jesus just a little bit longer. I'm sure you know the story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10 ...
As Jesus and the disciples continued on their journey, they came to a village where a woman welcomed Jesus into her home. Her name was Martha and she had a sister named Mary. Mary sat down attentively before the Master, absorbing every revelation he shared. But Martha became exasperated by finishing the numerous household chores in preparation for her guests, so she interrupted Jesus and said, "Lord, don't you think it's unfair that my sister left me to do all the work by myself? You should tell her to get up and help me."
The Lord answered her, "Martha, my beloved Martha. Why are you upset and troubled, pulled away by all these many distractions? Are they really that important? Mary has discovered the one thing most important by choosing to sit at my feet. She is undistracted, and I won't take this privilege from her." Luke 10:38-42 TPT
Over the years God has shown me the importance of sitting undistracted at His feet. This year He has been saying, stay there just a little bit longer. More of the 'Be still, and know that I am God' (Psalm 46:10).
This lingering has played out in three different ways, firstly in my own prayer time; secondly when praying for people at church or healing services; and thirdly when praying at the school our children attend.
In my own prayer time, when I am sitting, being still, not asking God for anything, just listening for what He wants to say, after I have heard something from Him there is a great temptation to say, "Thanks God, that's good. I'll mediate on that and I'll talk with you some more later." I guess that is not unlike when I am speaking with one of my children, wanting to communicate a few key things to them, and once they've heard the first one, they get up ready to leave saying, "Thanks Mum, got it." And I say, "Hold on, there is more." They stop and listen, albeit sometimes reluctantly.
However in these conversations with God I have noticed that sometimes my fleshly desire to 'get on and do things' means that I completely miss the gentle prompting of the Holy Spirit telling me, "Wait, there is more." And so I have learnt to linger a little longer once I have heard something from God, and most times there is something else that He wants to say. Something just as important as the first thing. Or maybe it is something else He wants me to see, as I'll share further on in this post.
So now I am at the place, where after hearing two things, I will ask the question, "Is there something else God you want to speak to me about today?" Sometimes there is silence and I know that I have received all that is required for this moment. Sometimes there is more.
I have taken what I have learnt about this 'lingering and listening a little longer' in my own prayer time, and applied it when praying 'face to face' for other people. Before bursting into prayer, most times now I just take time to wait on the Lord. Simply waiting for His prompting on what to pray, not afraid of the silence, because that gives Him space to speak and be heard.
And then again, when the time of prayer seems to becoming to a close, I ask Him, "Is there anything else for this person God, specific healing? a word of encouragement from you? a prophetic word? a picture?" Often there is, and it is the thing that brings the touch of God and often the tears start to flow. Lingering and listening can open the way for God's love to flow to others.
The third realm where God has been teaching me about lingering a little longer is in the playground, literally. A couple of times a week, I along with some other mums, with the permission of the school, walk around the school grounds praying. Sometimes the students are all in class, sometimes they are out and about on the grounds.
This week I was at an assembly. The assembly had finished and as the children were going to their classes, I felt the Holy Spirit say, "Sit a while longer." So I waited until there was only one class left, and then I saw what He wanted to show me. A child for whom I know that school has not been easy, and there she was laughing and interacting beautifully with the children in her class. A child, one of many, that we had prayed for as we regularly walked through the school corridors.
I was so grateful to the Holy Spirit prompting me to linger so that I could see that joy, a tangible reminder that God is continually at work in each of our lives, wanting us to live with the freedom and joy that only He can give.
So today let's linger a little longer in His presence, listen to what He wants to say, see what He wants to show us, so we can do what He wants us to do.
We carry this confidence in our hearts because of our union with Christ before God. Yes we don’t see ourselves as capable enough to do anything in our own strength, for our true competence flows from God’s empowering presence. 2 Corinthians 3:4-5 TPT
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What happens when you are in that place where there seems to be no options, no obvious solutions?
This week I was reminded once again that there is an amazing God of the universe who is able and willing to intervene...
Let everyone give all their praise and thanks to the Lord!
Here's why - he's better than anyone could every imagine.
Yes, he's always loving and kind, and his faithful love never ends.
Psalm 107:1 TPT
But how difficult is it when we are in the waiting? We know that He is able and He will. We just don't know when and how! These are the times when we have to choose to trust Him, and keep choosing to trust Him, and keep choosing to trust Him.
When I am afraid, I put my trust in You. Psalm 56:3 NIV
It sounds so simple to do - just put your trust in God. It's in these times that we need to keep our eyes firmly fixed on Jesus. We can't look to the left or to the right as there are distractions all around. We need to do whatever it takes to keep God's truth front and centre in our minds. His promises, His rhema words to us, that is what we need to be meditating on. Not the 'I don't know,' the 'What if,' the 'It's not going to work.' And I am reminding myself of this now too!
I set my heart on your precepts and pay close attention to all your ways. My delight is found in all your laws, and I won't forget to walk in your words. Psalm 119:15-16 TPT
A couple of weeks ago someone asked me if there was a prayer in my book they could pray during a family member's major operation. There wasn't a prayer as such. However I spent some time reading through the scriptures that I had included, scriptures that had breathed life and hope into me in some very dark moments, and compiled them into this prayer.
So let's pray and declare God's truth over our lives and circumstances....
We give thanks to you Lord, declaring Your lovingkindness in the morning, and Your faithfulness every night. (Psalm 92:1-2)
We are choosing today to approach Your throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)
We look at the mountain in front of us and declare that our help comes from the Lord who made the heavens and earth. (Psalm 121:1-2)
Thank you Jesus that you are here with us. We will not be afraid. (Joshua 1:9)
Your grace is sufficient for us today, for Your power is made perfect in our weakness. (2 Corinthians 12:9)
Thank you Jesus that we do not have to fight this battle. We will take up our positions, stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give us. We will not be afraid. We will not be discouraged because we know that the LORD is with us. (2 Chronicles 20:17)
Thank you Jesus that by your stripes, ______ is healed and made whole. (Isaiah 53:5)
We know that you Sovereign LORD, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and out-stretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you. (Jeremiah 32:17)
Help us to not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (with definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make our wants known to you God. Thank you that Your peace which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)
Thank you Jesus that as we wait upon You, You will renew our strength. (Isaiah 40:31)
We will hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful. (Hebrews 10:23)
We declare that in all these things we are more than conquerors and gain a surpassing victory through Him Who loved us. (Romans 8:37)
And we declare that Jesus came that _____ may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows). (John 10:10)
We give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. (1 Chronicles 16:34)
Blessed be the Lord, who bears our burdens and carries us day by day, even the God of our salvation! Selah [pause and think calmly of that]! (Psalm 68:19)
In Jesus Name we pray, Amen.
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This morning I felt to listen to some Christmas carols - yes it is June! Why not? Mary's Boy Child/Oh my Lord by Boney M; Emmanuel by Hillsong; Mary did you know? sung by Hayley Westerna, Breath of Heaven sung by Amy Grant ....
Christmas Carols remind me of the gift that Jesus is to us. Not a gift that has you thinking - really? why did you give me that? Not a gift that once consumed is gone forever (like chocolate!). Not a gift that goes out of fashion #nottrendinganymore. No, Jesus is a forever gift. The gift that truly does keep on giving, here on earth and in eternity. He is the gift of salvation.
And what did we do to deserve this gift? Absolutely nothing!
For it was only through this wonderful grace that we believed in him. Nothing we did could ever earn this salvation, for it was the gracious gift from God that brought us to Christ! Ephesians 2:8 TPT
How open are we to receiving the complete gift of Jesus? Forgiveness, acceptance, perfect love, joy, strength, peace, freedom, wisdom, healing and assurance of eternal life.
Over the past few weeks I have had the privilege of hearing people's stories of the freedom that Jesus has given them, freedom from situations that were meant to destroy them. Freedom that can only come from One who loves unconditionally and has the authority to say ....
The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. John 10:10 NKJV
Jesus. The gift. For you. For me. The only way to fully live. So we can fully give to others and do what God has called us to do.
Now, if anyone is enfolded into Christ, he has become an entirely new creation. All that is related to the old order has vanished. Behold, everything is fresh and new. And God has made all things new, and reconciled us to himself, and given us the ministry of reconciling others to God. In other words, it was through the Anointed One that God was shepherding the world, not even keeping records of their transgressions, and he has entrusted to us the ministry of opening the door of reconciliation to God. We are ambassadors of the Anointed One who carry the message of Christ to the world, as though God were tenderly pleading with them directly through our lips. 2 Corinthians 5:17-20 TPT
Today, let's ask Jesus three things, firstly, to show us where in our lives we are not fully receiving all He has done for us. Secondly to show us what we need to do to receive that freedom. And thirdly show us how we use that freedom to be His ambassadors in this world.
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What happens when hope starts slipping away? Darkness descends. It is difficult to think or see anything other than the negative.
Stuff happens. Sometimes from wrong choices we've made. Sometimes other people's wrong choices impact us. Sometimes things happen and we don't know why.
Earlier this week I was listening to Amanda Cook's song, City of Hope ...
Once we were a barren land
Dry from disappointment
But heaven like a heavy rain
Revealed your heart for us
Now we're dusting off our instruments
In you we found our will to live
What was once a wilderness
Is seeming with new life
'Cause you are mending the broken-hearted
You are making all things new
And you're rebuilding out of the ruins
A city of hope with the ones you love
How beautiful are those lines ...
'Cause you are mending the broken-hearted...
He heals the wounds of every shattered heart.
He sets his stars in place, calling them all by their names.5How great is our God!
There’s absolutely nothing his power cannot accomplish,
and he has infinite understanding of everything. Psalm 147:3-5 TPT
You are making all things new ...
Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me, “Write, for these words are true and faithful.” Revelation 21:5 NKJV
There is one that can give hope - Jesus. I have seen Him do that in my life, my husband's life, and many other people's lives.
“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me,
Because the Lord has anointed Me
To preach good tidings to the poor;
He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted,
To proclaim liberty to the captives,
And the opening of the prison to those who are bound;
To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord,
And the day of vengeance of our God;
To comfort all who mourn,
To console those who mourn in Zion,
To give them beauty for ashes,
The oil of joy for mourning,
The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness;
That they may be called trees of righteousness,
The planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.”
And they shall rebuild the old ruins,
They shall raise up the former desolations,
And they shall repair the ruined cities,
The desolations of many generations.
Isaiah 61:1-4 NKJV
Jesus. Our Saviour. A foundation that is solid, The Rock, not the sand of this world that shifts and changes with the latest trends.
Everyone who hears my teaching and applies it to his life can be compared to a wise man who built his house on an unshakable foundation. When the rains fell and the flood came, with fierce winds beating upon his house, it stood firm because of its strong foundation.
“But everyone who hears my teaching and does not apply it to his life can be compared to a foolish man who built his house on sand. When it rained and rained and the flood came, with wind and waves beating upon his house, it collapsed and was swept away.” Matthew 7:24-27 TPT
Jesus. Only Jesus. Surrender. Let Him rebuild hope in your life.
He's solid rock under my feet, breathing room for my soul, An impregnable castle: I'm set for life. My help and glory are in God. So trust him absolutely, people; lay your lives on the line for him. God is a safe place to be. Psalm 62:6-8 The Message
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It's almost that time of year when the roses need to be pruned. They still have a few blooms, but they are looking very raggedy. Not at all like the brilliantly flourishing bushes of mid-summer.
I'm a tough pruner. As pruning time approaches some of the rose bushes have branches that have grown to over 6 feet tall, and I cut them down to less than a foot in height.
A horticulturalist taught me a few very useful things about pruning roses....
- Consider the shape of the bush you are aiming for. The goal is to have the bush look like a vase with all branches cut so they will grow outwards, not towards the centre of the plant, and not crossing over other branches.
- Look for the slight showing of a bud and cut just above it, about 5mm, and on an angle sloping away from the bud.
- Clean the secateurs (pruning shears) with Methylated Spirits between each cut, so that disease is not spread in the plant or across the plants.
- When completed, spray the cuts with lime sulphur
For thirteen years I have followed this regime. Often when people visit our home in July/August they mention the 'severity' of my pruning, and ask do they really grow back? Yes they do, bigger and with more magnificent blooms.
Why this information about pruning roses?
When I was in NZ, I attended a church service and the message was on John 15:1-15.
Every branch in me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. John 15:2 NKJV
Towards the end of the message the preacher said something like, "The reward for fruit is more pruning... Pruning means that God is pleased with you... Pruning leads to growth, it is not a punishment.
I don't know about you, but for me the seasons of pruning can be a bit confusing and painful.
From my experience when the pruning season is approaching there is a sense that something is changing. It may not be absolutely clear what is changing and why it is changing. Fear may try to rise up and cause confusion. It is in these times that I remind myself of these truths ...
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV
For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints. 1 Corinthians 14:33 NKJV
As the pruning starts my go-to places are God's Word, and praise & worship. Reading His word - to understand why this pruning is taking place, finding answers to what is it that God is wanting to do in me. Praise and worship - to allow the Holy Spirit to minister to the pain and grief as God prunes, and to help me keep my eyes focused on Him and the end goal of becoming more like Christ.
Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 NKJV
And remind myself that ...
But we do not belong to those who shrink back and are destroyed, but to those who have faith and are saved. Hebrews 10:39 NIV
Please don't think I am saying that I love and embrace pruning seasons. I haven't reached that place yet, and maybe never will. I have moments of doubts, fears and tears. But I know enough to know that God doesn't cut and run. No, He gently prunes in exactly the right places, the places where there is the hint of the bud that He wants to see bloom, because it will bring the fruit He desires from our lives.
Philippians 3:13-14 from The Message bible says it this way ...
I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back. Philippians 3:13-14 The Message
Let's pray,
Heavenly Father, thank you that you have a plan and purpose for our lives. Thank you that you are faithful in every season. Thank you that always know what is best for us. Please help us to trust you more in the pruning seasons and embrace the change you bring into our lives, knowing that you will work everything together for good for those who love you and have been called according to your purpose. In Jesus Name we pray, Amen.
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There is nothing like visiting your home town to be reminded of where you have come from, and what was being sown into your life when you didn't realise it.
The photo above is me standing outside Christ Church, an Anglican church in Ellerslie, Auckland, New Zealand. This is the church my mother took me to when I was a child. It was here that I played the pipe organ (badly) at Sunday services. It is the place where I first experienced the church embrace the community at large.
Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel's hand. Zechariah 4:10 NLT
It is the church where I started to develop by own relationship with Jesus, before in my late teens becoming immersed in the world of marxist feminist teaching at University.
Now I am the mum of teenage children navigating their own faith journey. So as we drove around my home town of Auckland, God gently reminded me that I am also the mum who went into the spiritual wilderness for about six years before returning to the place of acknowledging Jesus as my Lord and Saviour. Amazing Grace.
And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 NKJV
God also reminded me of all the seeds that were sown in my life when my mother regularly took me to church when I was a child, all those years ago.
Dedicate your children to God
and point them in the way that they should go,
and the values they’ve learned from you will be with them for life. Proverbs 22:6 TPT
Seeds of God's truth and love that took root in my heart and have grown and bloomed in various ways over the years. Seeds that illustrate so clearly to me that God always goes before us, and He always has a plan.
It is the Lord Who goes before you; He will [march] with you; He will not fail you or let you go or forsake you; [let there be no cowardice or flinching, but] fear not, neither become broken [in spirit—depressed, dismayed, and unnerved with alarm]. Deuteronomy 31:8 AMPC
One beautiful autumn afternoon while I was in Auckland, God reminded me of another way that He had prepared me for my future. I was blessed that afternoon to go sailing on the Hauraki Gulf with my father on his boat. For those who enjoy a fast exhilarating sail, this was not their afternoon. Rather it was an afternoon of contemplation as the yacht ambled along in the glorious sunshine, occasionally making 3 knots!
As we circumnavigated an island in the gulf I started to reflect on all that the sailing adventures of my youth had taught me, and how those lessons had helped me over the years.
One of those lessons that stood out was patience. On the sail that afternoon we had the option of turning on the motor and increasing the speed to 6 knots. But neither of us wanted the chug chug chug of the diesel engine to ruin the serenity of the quiet slapping of the water against the hull. Remember we were only probably averaging 2 knots! So we persevered with the sailing, although it really wasn't that painful!
Sometimes in life we don't have any other options (like turning on the diesel engine), to 'improve' the situation. We have to be patient and trust that God's got this. He is the Alpha and Omega.
I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last. Revelation 22:13 NKVJ
We have to trust that He is Lord of all, and He is always working in our lives. A truth that God very clearly reminded me of during the past 10 days when visiting my home town.
I pray with great faith for you, because I’m fully convinced that the One who began this glorious work in you will faithfully continue the process of maturing you and will put his finishing touches to it until the unveiling of our Lord Jesus Christ! Philippians 1:6 TPT
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I used to think about courage in terms of doing 'big' physical things, like going on the giant swing at a Sport and Recreation camp, climbing out on the yard arm of a tall ship, and jumping off the 10m diving platform (I've never done that!).
But then I heard a sermon about having courage for the 'little', but often life-changing moments, like starting a conversation with someone you don't know, opening a letter that you know you may not like the contents of, and learning how to confidently say how you really feel.
Hearing that sermon, and it was quite a few years ago now, changed the way I approached the 'little' yet 'big' moments in my life. I started to see these moments as opportunities to build courage - essentially building a greater trust in Jesus.
However, these moments/opportunities required more than trust, they required me to actually do something. I could say to myself, I trust You God, and then leave the letter unopened on the table for days. Am I really trusting God? No. It was not until I actually opened that letter that the trust went into action and I became courageous. And wow did that feel good!
In my listening appointment with God this week, one of the things I felt God say to me was, 'have courage to let me do the work I want to do in you.' My immediate response was, 'Need more courage - I need to get more equipped!' . I know that over the years God has increased my courage, but this sounded like I was soon going to have some God-given opportunities to grow that courage to the next level and I didn't want to have fear sabotage the work God wanted to do in me.
Earlier in the week I had set up a playlist called 'Courage' and it included songs like, 'You're gonna be OK' by Jenn Johnson; 'Take Courage' by Bethel Music; 'Your grace finds me' by Matt Redman; 'Lions' by Skillet; 'This I believe' by Hillsong Worship; 'Whom shall I fear' by Passion; 'No Longer Slaves' by Bethel; 'Break every chain' by Jesus Culture and 'Another in the Fire' by Hillsong United; 'Oh Fear (My God is Near)' by Moriah Peters. So I added some more songs to the list and started playing them and declaring their truth
Then I made a list of some scriptures relating to courage ....
Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6 NKJV
The Lord is my revelation-light to guide me along the way;
he’s the source of my salvation to defend me every day.
I fear no one!
I’ll never turn back and run from you, Lord;
surround and protect me. Psalm 27:1 TPT
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9 NKJV
Also David told Solomon his son, Be strong and courageous, and do it. Fear not, be not dismayed, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail or forsake you until you have finished all the work for the service of the house of the Lord. 1 Chronicles 28:20
So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” Romans 8:15 NLT
Remember to say 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 TPT
We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed. Through suffering, our bodies continue to share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies. Yes, we live under constant danger of death because we serve Jesus, so that the life of Jesus will be evident in our dying bodies. 2 Corinthians 4:8-11 NLT
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV
So now I daily worship and mediate on these truths, declaring that God has indeed not given me a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind, and when the prompting from the Holy Spirit comes, step out trusting that He has gone before me. No fear, in Jesus Name.
Perhaps there is something in your life that requires you to step out and be courageous, and yet you hesitate. I pray that as you read this post and take time to read again the truth from our God, that trust and courage will rise up and you will be able to just do it - in Jesus Name. Trust that God has gone before you.
For God will never give you the spirit of fear, but the Holy Spirit who gives you mighty power, love, and self-control. 1 Timothy 1:7 TPT
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So the other morning I woke up at 2am, things on my mind, people on my mind. Prayed for the people. Mulled over the things. Finally went back to sleep at 3.30am, which wouldn't of been too much of a problem, except I had to get up at 4am to get ready to take a child to swimming training! Who needs sleep??????
Sitting at swimming training, my new location for quiet time with God, started mulling over those things again. And then I felt that Someone was asking me a question, 'Do you trust Me?'
Yes, I trust You.
'So why are continuing to mull, actually worry, about these things. Do you trust Me?'
Well, ...................... maybe I'm not trusting You with everything in my life. I'll write down what I need to trust You with.
And so on a blank piece of A4 paper I begin the list. Surprise surprise it didn't take long to fill the paper with the things and people that I wasn't trusting God with.
Down the side of the page I wrote Proverbs 3:5-6 ...
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV
Our Heavenly Father, in His gracious way, in the quiet of the swimming centre, had drawn my focus back to Him. He caused me to put Him in his rightful place, and to put my list of concerns in their rightful place - under the name of Jesus Christ.
Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
Matthew 6:9-10 NKJV
I don't know where you are at, but just maybe you have a list of things and people that runs around and around in your head. A list that needs to be submitted to Christ, and left with Him. A casting of your cares, not to the wind, but to the One who has the power and authority to take action at the perfect time.
Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.
1 Peter 5:7 NKJV
Or as The Passion Translation says,
Pour out all your worries and stress upon him and leave them there, for he always tenderly cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7 TPT
Trust. Something that doesn't always comes easily. Something that we sometimes assume we are doing, when we aren't. Something that is always safe to do with God. Choose to trust Him today.
Trust in the Lord completely,
and do not rely on your own opinions.
With all your heart rely on him to guide you,
and he will lead you in every decision you make.
Become intimate with him in whatever you do,
and he will lead you wherever you go.
Proverbs 3:5-6 TPT
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Some days we just feel sad. Recently I had one of those days. There were many reasons, a funeral the day before; a conversation that left me wondering once again about this world that we live in; an ANZAC day ceremony that gave pause for thought about the sacrifices so many young people made; and a movie that reminded me of the crucial role parents play in their children's lives.
There was a heaviness that I had not felt for a long time. And it was difficult to shake. I was having a constant conversation with Jesus, telling Him how sad I was feeling, knowing that He would understand.
As the afternoon progressed, and we enjoyed a beautiful few hours with friends out on the glorious Lake Macquarie, the conversation and laughter ministered to my soul. Along with the appreciation of how blessed we are to live here, in this country.
Home again, and the heaviness started to return. What an effort to prepare dinner for the family, I really just wanted to crawl into bed, and rest for a new day. It took every ounce of emotional strength to put the meal together and gather the family to sit at the table for dinner.
But as we did gather and eat, the most amazing things happened. Firstly there was reasonable conversation for more than five minutes (very unusual for us); then there was some serious discussion about the business of providing for a family; then there was an outpouring of emotion prompted by the funeral we had attended; then prayer with everyone thanking God for whatever was on their heart; and finally a family game of Scrabble that lasted for at least an hour. The heaviness had gone. Hope restored. Thank you Jesus.
So much in that little story .... sadness, heaviness, talking to Jesus, the power of friendship, pushing through, setting the table, tears and the faithfulness of our Heavenly Father. He is there in the midst, we need to keep our focus on him.
We look away from the natural realm and we fasten our gaze onto Jesus who birthed faith within us and who leads us forward into faith’s perfection. His example is this: Because his heart was focused on the joy of knowing that you would be his, he endured the agony of the cross and conquered its humiliation, and now sits exalted at the right hand of the throne of God! Hebrews 12:2 TPT
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I was reading a news article the other day and it included the phrase 'post Christian Culture'. And I immediately thought about Hebrews 13:8 ..
Jesus, the Anointed One, is always the same - yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13:8 TPT
How does the truth of Hebrews 13:8 reconcile with a 'post Christian Culture'?
The culture in this country is changing, but Jesus isn't changing.
Jesus Christ is the same, yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13:8 NKJV
What Jesus did for each of us almost 2000 years ago, does not change. His act of sacrifice does not disappear just because the culture is changing.
Jesus Christ (the Messiah) is [always] the same, yesterday, today, [yes], and forever (to the ages). Hebrews 13:8 AMPC
We may not be consistent in how we live our lives, but Jesus is.
We may not always know who we are and what our purpose here is, but Jesus knew exactly why He was on earth and what His purpose here was.
Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." John 14:6 NKJV
Our Heavenly Father wanted us back with Him. But God is Holy and we were full of sin.
For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23 NKJV
Someone needed to stand in the gap. Someone who was perfect, without sin. Only Jesus, the son of God, could do that. The Jesus that is still perfect today, unchanging.
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever! Hebrews 13:8 CEB.
The Jesus that we still need today, tomorrow and forever because we make mistakes and we live in a world where the culture is changing. We need to be a walking expression of His love in this place.
But the fruit produced by the Holy Spirit within you is divine love in all its varied expressions:
Joy that overflows,
peace that subdues,
patience that endures,
kindness in action,
a life full of virtue,
faith that prevails,
gentleness of heart, and
strength of spirit.
Never set the law above these qualities, for they are meant to be limitless. Galatians 5:22-23 TPT
And we cannot be that walking expression of His love without His transforming power, as Paul says in his letter to the Galatians ...
My only boast is in the crucifixion of the Lord Jesus, our Messiah. In him I have been crucified to this natural realm; and the natural realm is dead to me and no longer dominates my life...The only thing that really matters is living by the transforming power of this wonderful new creation life. Galatians 6:14,15 TPT
Let's pray,
Jesus, thank you that in a world that is changing, you are the same yesterday, today and forever. Thank you for what you did for us all those years ago on The Cross, an act of love for all time, regardless of the culture. Thank you Jesus for your grace and mercy in our lives. Please help us to be a walking expression of your love in this place. In your name we pray, Amen.
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
Over the past three days I have had the blessing of being away with two of our children. I thought I had a pretty good idea of how the three days would go. All the practical preparations were done to make sure we got to the right place at the right time with the right gear, although that didn't always happen! However, I was completely unprepared for what God was about to show me and teach me through these two beautiful children.
Lesson 1: Be courageous
One child has overcome many challenges, and knows well that 'things' happen, and we have a choice to retreat in fear or pain, or we can press on and go after the desires of our heart. As I watched her courageously press on during the first day of the swimming competition, I felt God say to me, 'Be courageous too.'
I knew exactly what He was talking about.
I thought about all our daughter has been through, and all the choices she makes every day to keep getting up and just doing it.
And I thought about some of the songs we used for our 'Be Brave' concert last year for the children's creative ministries program at church ...
Courageous - by Casting Crowns ...
We were made to be courageous, it starts with us tonight ...... Lord make us courageous ...
Lions - by Skillet
Today we live, today we breathe
Today we know that we are strong when we are weak
Today we trust, we overcome
Take every chain that kept us slaves and throw em' off
We're not waiting for permission
We defy our inhibition
Like our middle name is "fearless"
Unafraid
And I thought about Joshua 1:9 (how many times have I spoken that scripture to our children???)
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
And I thought about what God has directly spoken to me about a couple of weeks ago. I needed to be obedient to what He had said.
So I phoned my husband, explained what I was going to do, and asked him to pray for me, which he did, and he gave me some words of advice. And off I went - like my middle name was fearless, trusting that God had gone before me, with a picture in my mind of a young girl with a left leg that doesn't work properly, wobbling on the swimming blocks, holding on so tightly so she didn't fall in and false start, then finally dive in and swim her heart out, achieving a personal best time. All the time saying to myself, "Be courageous Wendy, believe that God wants this story told. It is His story. He wants people to hear about His faithfulness, His goodness, the victories that come in Jesus Name"
Thank you Jesus, that indeed when we are weak, You are strong. Thank you that you gave me eyes to see that truth again this week through my daughter. Thank you that you gave me the opportunity to live out of that truth this week and be courageous.
Lesson 2: People matter, love well.
Through these blog posts, or if you know me, you have probably gathered that I'm quite task focused. Give me a task and I'm all over it! Sometimes though I forget about the people and it takes a purposeful stop and a considering of where I am, who am I with and what their needs are. Along with a gentle reminder from the Holy Spirit that relationships with people are not tasks! God very clearly reminded me of that through our other precious daughter that I was away with.
This is the daughter who has from an early aged looked for opportunities to help, lovingly anticipating the needs of others in her family - Mum, Dad, Sisters, Brother. She has a heart ready to love and serve.
I had the blessing of seeing that love in action many times over these three days. But two of these times especially stood out to me - probably because they were actions of love directed towards someone outside of our family, that I, the adult should have initiated, not the 9 year old child. And why didn't I initiate them? - because I was too busy with my tasks!
On both occasions she quietly came to me and said, "Mum, could we .....". She had seen the need. She had come up with a solution. She had taken action to make it happen. I had been humbled by her love for others compared to my love of tasks!
Thank you Jesus for reminding me to "stop, look around, listen and love well." Thank you for a daughter, who probably for the rest of her life, will be reminding me by example, that people matter. Thank you God that you set the example of how to love people. Please help me to follow these examples well.
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16 NKJV
A final prayer ....Thank you Jesus for the people that you bring into our lives, children, family, friends, pastors and preachers, and for all that we can learn from them. Please help us to always be humble and have a teachable spirit. In your Name we live and pray, AMEN.
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
Earlier this week one of our children was reading to me from the Jesus Storybook Bible - Every story whispers his name, by Sally Lloyd-Jones, a fabulous children's bible that in the Old Testament stories overtly foreshadows Jesus coming as the rescuer. On this day she chose to read The Servant King, recounting The Last Supper, from Mark 14 and John 13-14.
These words in the story really spoke to me, "My heart will tear apart - and your hearts will heal." Jesus was speaking to the disciples about the breaking of his body and the pouring out of his blood so that we could be reconciled with our Heavenly Father.
Words filled with love, "My heart will tear apart - and your hearts will heal."
Have you ever had your heart torn apart?
I'm not sure if I have, but I do know that at times my heart has been heavy with disappointment.
In Luke 22 we are given some insight into Jesus' thoughts and actions regarding having his heart broken ....
Then he withdrew from them a short distance to be alone. Kneeling down, he prayed, "Father, if you are willing, take this cup of agony away from me. But no matter what, your will must be mine." Jesus called for an angel of glory to strengthen him, and the angel appeared. He prayed even more passionately, like one being sacrificed, until he was in such intense agony of spirit that his sweat became drops of blood, dripping onto the ground. Luke 22:43-44 TPT
In John 17, we get more of a glimpse into Jesus' heart for us, as he prays for us, the believers that were to come ...
"I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one: I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved me. John 17:20-23 NKJV
What's happening in your heart now, knowing that Jesus' heart was broken for me and you? Knowing that He was completely obedient to the will of his Father and sacrificed himself for us, so our hearts could be healed. That disconnection from God, our Heavenly Father, can now be reconnected through Jesus surrendering.
Jesus knew that his mission was accomplished, and to fulfill the Scripture, Jesus said, "I am thirsty." A jar of sour wine was sitting nearby, so they soaked a sponge with it and put it on the stalk of hyssop and raised it to his lips. When he had sipped the sour wine, he said, "It is finished, my bride!" Then he bowed his head and surrendered his spirit to God." John 19:28-30 TPT
We just need to choose to surrender and ....
confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9 NKJV
And then decide daily to surrender our will, the choosing to love and trust God no matter what the circumstance looks like; choosing to believe that God is for you, so who can be against you; choosing to believe that you are a child of God, lavished in His love.
Look with wonder at the depth of the Father's marvelous love that he has lavished on us! He has called us and made us his very own beloved children. 1 John 3:1 TPT
A marvelous love, that heals our heart as we yield and willingly receive all Jesus has freely given us.
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
"Don't strive - live!" Those are the words I heard from God earlier this week. Sounds strangely similar to words I sometimes hear from my husband, "Wendy, does everything need to run to a schedule? Lets be spontaneous!"
Don't strive. What does that mean? Does it mean that I have slipped back into doing things in my strength, not God's strength? Highly likely!
For it is [not your strength, but it is] God who is effectively at work in you, both to will and to work [that is, strengthening, energizing, and creating in you the longing and the ability to fulfill your purpose] for His good pleasure. Philippians 2:13 AMP.
So what needs to change? I'm not exactly sure, but a good starting place is taking a breath, being still, and asking God what needs to change. Obviously He knows and I need to listen.
Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out! "For who has known the mind of the Lord? or who has become His counselor?" Romans 11:33-34 NKJV
As the years go by in this walk with Jesus, I realise more and more my absolute need for Him in my everyday life. How is it that I ever did life before having Jesus as my best friend? Oh I remember, I did it all in my own strength. An example from my corporate life, working hard, exhausting myself so much so that every six months I would become physically sick and have at least a week off work! Not really a sustainable way to live. Definitely striving.
So what's different now? I have a counsellor that is continually with me.
But the aHelper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name [in My place, to represent Me and act on My behalf], He will teach you all things. And He will help you remember everything that I have told you. John 14:26 AMP
The Holy Spirit. He's not pushy. He doesn't force his opinions on me. He waits for me to ask him for guidance. Sometimes I am way too slow in asking. And sometimes I don't ask at all, and that's when the problems start.
And not only do we have the Holy Spirit, we also have available to us a peace that transcends all understanding ...
Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. [Let My perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength for every challenge.] John 14:27 AMP
Thank you Jesus! For me that feeling of uneasiness about a situation, is sometimes an indication of striving. Me not doing things God's way because I haven't bothered to seek His thoughts, or running ahead of God's perfect timing because I am too impatient to wait. Both perfect opportunities to ask the Holy Spirit for guidance. Of course once I do ask and wait, that sense of God's perfect peace does bring clam and gives me courage and strength.
To help me understand what He meant, yesterday God gave me a practical lesson on 'Don't strive - live'. He showed me what living looks like compared to striving. We had a situation that was causing issues, but we had no answers for how to resolve it. Notice the 'we had no answers'. So after 7 weeks of grappling with this issue, at the point of complete frustration we prayed a really heartfelt prayer. Not a half-hearted prayer, semi-relying on God to provide an answer. But a complete 'God we need your answer to this situation'.
We then entered the situation with a different attitude, with a heart prepared to love and show grace. The issue arose again. But this time the Holy Spirit opened my eyes to see something different - the perfect answer to the problem. It was an answer that none of us could have imagined as it was so opposite to the situation, yet so simple. We looked on in amazement. I felt like a little school girl with the teacher saying to me, 'If you'd just asked me earlier I could have shown you the steps to solve this and you would have avoided all this heartache.'
Don't strive - live. Okay Jesus, I'm starting to get the picture, the picture of where the striving has crept in and my reliance on you has reduced. Thank you for your gentle guidance and conviction.
My prayer is that what I've shared in this post will encourage you in a few ways, firstly to take time to hear what God is wanting to tell you; secondly if you don't understand what He means, seek him for clarity; and thirdly to have the courage to live His way in every area of your life - a daily challenge for us all.
Jesus came to give us life, life to the full, and isn't that what we want for ourselves and those around us?
The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows]. John 10:10 AMP
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
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 1:12 TPT
There is a lot to consider in that scripture, but the question that keeps coming into my head this morning is "Am I a lover of God?" I know without a doubt that I am a lover of chocolate, especially smooth dark chocolate! I know what dark chocolate looks like and tastes like. And I know exactly where to find it in the supermarket aisle.
But what about God? What does He look like? What is it like to taste his love? Where do you find him when you need him?
What does God look like? I don't know. But I know what His love looks like ... the peace that comes in a situation that seems utterly hopeless; the thing that just happens and there is no other explanation other than God did it; the word of encouragement that comes when no-one else knew what was going on in your life - except God; and of course the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus, opening the door for us to spend eternity with God.
What is it like to taste God's love? For me it is like that ice cool refreshing drink you have on a sweltering day, that helps to bring relief from the heat. His love brings me to back to the place of knowing that no matter what is going on, healing and restoration is possible. Other times his love is like that smooth hot chocolate drink that brings comfort, when even a hot chocolate drink can't. It is a comfort that is more than momentary. It is deep and stays with us. Always His love is sweet, bringing a smile to my lips and often tears to my ears as I think on Who He is, the creator of the universe who sent His son Jesus to earth to show His unconditional love for me and you. A love that is far sweeter and smoother than chocolate.
Drink deeply of the pleasures of this God.
Experience for yourself the joyous mercies he gives
to all who turn to hide themselves in him.
Psalm 34:8 TPT
Where do you find Him? God is here, with us, Emmanuel.
“Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” Matthew 1:23 NKJV
God is everywhere.
“Am I a God near at hand,” says the Lord,
“And not a God afar off? Can anyone hide himself in secret places,
So I shall not see him?” says the Lord;
“Do I not fill heaven and earth?” says the Lord.
Jeremiah 23:23-24 NKJV
God has gone before us.
And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed. Deuteronomy 31:8 NKJV
If we look for God with all our heart, we will find him. He will answer our call. The bible tells us that in Jeremiah 29.
Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:12-13 NKJV
And because of what Jesus did, when we accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour, God is directly accessible to each of us today ....
And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place. And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God’s house, let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him. For our guilty consciences have been sprinkled with Christ’s blood to make us clean, and our bodies have been washed with pure water. Hebrews 10:19-22 NKJV
Just mentioning chocolate again ..... even though it is delicious and so accessible in our world, it doesn't offer the salvation and new life that Jesus does.
So back to the original question that I was pondering, 'Am I a lover of God?' Knowing what Jesus has done for me, knowing the things I think, do and say each day that would not be pleasing to God and knowing that His forgiveness is readily available, knowing that Jesus is interceding for me, knowing that He won't leave me or forsake me, then the answer has to be yes. Could I be a better lover of God? The answer again is yes, and that comes through the daily walk with Christ, living more of His way and less of my way. Thank you Jesus for your grace.
My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20 NLT
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
What direction are you heading? Are you travelling fast or slow? Have you got everything you need? Who is guiding you? Are you listening closely for directions?
Here's a little story (actually by the time I finished this post I realised the story wasn't quite so little) about taking one step at a time, following God's leading, surrendering to doing things in His timing, and continually learning that His ways are always higher.
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways," says the LORD. "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8-9 NKJV
In January 2013 I started blogging about our journey with a daughter with cancer, almost two years after a nurse in the pediatric oncology ward suggested that blogging can be helpful when communicating with family and friends. It's less time intensive and less emotionally draining. When the nurse said that to me my thoughts were something like, "I won't need to do that, we won't be here for long."
Two years later when Victoria was 6 months into chemo treatment I felt God prompting me to start writing a blog. I knew that in the Christmas holidays I would have more time available so I planned to launch the blog in January, close to the anniversary date of Victoria's diagnosis.
Those holidays we were blessed with the opportunity to stay at Harry's House in Stockton, a beautiful family retreat for families with children with cancer. Early mornings, learning how to use blogger, setting up pages, writing background information, purple background and http://victoriagraceconqueror.blogspot.com/ was launched.
After I had been blogging for a while, a few people started saying to me, "You should write a book," and so the idea was birthed, a book about our story, testifying to what God has done......
My mouth shall tell of Your righteousnessAnd Your salvation all the day,
For I do not know their limits. I will go in the strength of the Lord God;
I will make mention of Your righteousness, of Yours only.
Psalm 71:15-16 NKJV
... but also with the practical things we had learned along the way that would hopefully help other families.
So much data to work with; the group emails I started sending when Victoria was first in hospital; notes from every appointment with specialists and therapists; blog posts; images; checklists for hospital and home; notes from talks I'd given at church; and guest blog posts related to our journey. It was a little overwhelming. Me being me, I started a spreadsheet because that's the way my brain works, listing all the items. Then with the help of the Holy Spirit I divided them into chronological chapters.
God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints. 1 Corinthians 14:33 NKJV
It was around mid 2014 when I started writing the book, so quite some time had passed since Victoria's initial diagnosis. I was finding that as I reviewed the content of each chapter, funnily enough, there was a theme coming through each chapter. So I decided to write a 'reflection' section at the end of each chapter relating to that theme. The reflections sometimes offered a bigger picture view, for example the role of (and impact on) the mother, father and siblings. Sometimes they were of a more practical nature, such as how to keep a three year old engaged in physical therapy as they learn how to make their left hand work again. The inclusion of these reflections have turned out to be a crucial part of the book - another example of God's ways being higher than mine.
“My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord.
“And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. Isaiah 55:8 NLT
So with the structure of the book in place, the next stage was to start putting it all together. A relatively simple task I thought, until I started writing it. The plan was for the first two chapters to cover the first two weeks in hospital (diagnosis, surgery, recovery). It took me six months to write about those two weeks, even now I feel teary as I think about it. Every sentence was a re-living of the moment, a processing of another level of grief for years of a childhood and family life that were stolen. But in pushing through and writing about this I had a overwhelming sense that the telling of this story of God's love and faithfulness was part of the plan for His manifestation of Romans 8:28 in our lives, and ultimately the lives of others.
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28 NKJV
I remember sharing with a friend that I had started writing the book and that I expected it would take a year or so to complete. She wisely said to me something like, "Wendy, it's okay if it takes 6 years to write it." I am grateful that she said that, as in some way it gave me permission to rest and not strive. And the reality is that it has taken almost five years to finish the book.
But God knew that it was going to be a long journey of not only writing, but also of emotional healing and understanding more about His grace. He brought people alongside to support and encourage me in so many different ways, emotionally, financially and technically. Here is one example of how He had gone before, preparing the way....
And the LORD, He is the one who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed. Deuteronomy 31:8 NKJV
In late 2014 Alexandra and I went to the launch of the Delta society's book 'Dogs that make a difference - inspiring stories of dogs bringing hope, help and happiness to people's lives.' On many occasions when Victoria had been in hospital she had received visits from the Delta dogs, and they had certainly added some brightness to the day. At the book launch we met a lady that we hadn't seen for many years. She and her husband had helped Ken and I back in 2000 when we had one of our many boating misadventures when cruising from Sydney to Lake Macquarie.
After a bit of chatting she explained that she was a member of the Lake Macquarie Fellowship of Australian Writers and that they had a monthly critique meeting where members could submit some of their writing and receive feedback. This sounded exactly what I needed, so I joined the group from September 2014 until December 2017.
During that time my confidence and writing competency grew. The critique group gently encouraged me as sometimes the tears flowed when I relived moments of this journey. I appreciated their non-judgemental attitudes when helping me to tell my story even though we did not necessarily share the same faith.
To me, this is another example of God's planning and provision for this project. He knew all those years ago when we had the boating incident that we would connect again with these people for a very different purpose. Thank you Jesus.
So I toiled away on this project among family and business responsibilities, and volunteering at school and church. There wasn't an abundance of time, but when half an hour or so became available, I took it, madly scribbling on notepads, typing and reworking drafts.
In January 2016 I felt God say to me, "Complete the first draft by the end of the year." Okay. I set to work with that goal in mind. The first six months of the year went really well and all was on track. But somehow in the second six months I was a bit distracted. A few days before school ended in December 2016 I remembered what God had said to me and went into a slight panic! There weren't many days of the year left, and I would soon have four children at home full time.
Needless to say those Christmas holidays weren't the most exciting holidays for the children. I set up a desk in our bedroom and would lock myself in there each morning for a few hours with my laptop, notes and a box of tissues. As over five years later I still easily became overwhelmed with emotion when I read back through the events of 2011 to 2013.
The children were very patient and gracious with me during this time. I put a sign on the door saying, "Mummy is working on her book. Thank you for your support and encouragement. Please pray for the book and that it will help many people."
A week before the holidays ended, by the grace of God, the first draft of the book was completed. There had been a cost those holidays, emotionally and with missing out on some family time, but I had to trust that God had it sorted, and that His grace was sufficient for all of us.
And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
2 Corinthians 12:9 NKJV
A few days later a beautiful lady from church approached me and said that she wanted to financially support me in the publishing of the book. Another reminder to me that God was the Project Manager, not me. He did have it sorted!
At the Colour conference in 2017 God spoke to me again about the book project. It was the last day of the conference and I hadn't yet received anything that I knew to be specifically for me. So I prayed, God, what is it that you want to say to me here? During the next session of worship, the response came, "Take your family on the journey of this book."
Within a couple of weeks I had an opportunity to do that. Victoria came home from school and was talking about her teacher's friend who had cancer. I asked Victoria how she would feel about giving the draft version of the book to encourage her. She was keen, so we discussed the idea with the teacher, and Victoria delivered the books. Once again God had shown me how important it was to keep seeking Him for direction and input.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV
I was starting to understand that really this wasn't our story at all. But rather it was His story. Around this time I felt to ask some people to pray specifically for this project. I knew that prayer covering was going to be essential to getting this book completed. I'm grateful that they said yes.
Around May 2017 we were having some parenting challenges and a wise friend of mine, who has known Ken and I since before we were married said to me, "Wendy, when you publish this book people will be looking at your family and your family's lives, it won't be much of a witness if your family is falling apart." Ooooh, that was hard to hear.
But God was obviously using him to prepare the way for what He wanted me to do. As a month later God said to me, "Lay down the book and focus on your family's health and healing." So I surrendered the book. I didn't pursue the outstanding draft versions that were being reviewed. I stopped all work on the project, learned how to love my family better and God brought more healing and restoration. Once again He showed me that ...
“I don’t think the way you think.
The way you work isn’t the way I work.”
God’s Decree.
“For as the sky soars high above earth,
so the way I work surpasses the way you work,
and the way I think is beyond the way you think.
Isaiah 55:8-9 The Message
In February 2018 I felt God say, "It's time to start work on the book again." So I did, spending a couple of months making some final edits. As I was putting this blog post together I found this note that I'd written to myself, "Today 22/4/18, another round of editing. Not so emotional, rather, in awe of what God had brought us through and where we are today."
Yes, over the years through writing God had been helping me to process the pain, disappointment and grief. Obviously there was a lot there, as it had taken almost 7 years to get to this place of being able to read our story without being a blubbering mess. He was gradually building the strength in me that I sense I will need for the next phase of this journey, whatever that is going to be.
For the remainder of 2018 I worked on the cover and layout with my friend who is a graphic designer, another God story of re-connection after 7 years of living in different countries. Finally the first printed version of the book arrived on my desk in mid November 2018, almost five years after I made that first planning spreadsheet.
What a journey, in no way comparable with the actual journey our family has been on, but still a journey of God's grace and faithfulness, and me learning more and more that His ways will always be better than mine and His timing is always perfect. What's more our family, still with some rough edges, is thriving and is in the healthiest place it has been in for almost 10 years. All praise and glory to Jesus.
Now the book is complete I am trusting God will get the book to the people He wants to read it. One of my favourite stories so far .... I gave the book to my neighbour for Christmas, and a week later she came over to buy five copies for me to give to families in similar situations in hospital!
We have made two versions of the book. At this stage they have the same content, but different titles. The first one, Victoria Grace - Living with victory through childhood cancer, has more of a story-focused title. Koorong has agreed to stock this version. For anyone interested my website for ordering this book is https://wendyrobinson.com.au/victoria-grace-by-wendy-robinson-paperback/
The second version is titled, Childhood cancer - a survival guide for parents, written by a parent. This is the version that we are hoping families who are in this situation will find when they are googling books to help them. I've had favourable discussions with various medical people and charities about this version. Again for anyone interested, or if you know someone who is in this situation, the website for ordering this book is https://childhoodcancerparentsguide.com/
This probably the longest post I've ever written on this blog, but my prayer is that what I have shared in this post will encourage you to keep going with whatever projects/dreams God has put on your heart, always listening closely for His direction, surrendering when and what He asks, and trusting that His ways are always best.
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
There is a beautiful song by Christy Nockels, Wonderful Name, through which I have cried out to God many times over the years ....
"There is healing for all who ache
There is comfort for all in pain
There is freedom
There is grace
Here in Jesus and the power of His name
All who are broken, His love endures
All who are weary, His rest is yours
All who are hopeless, run to His name
He is Jesus
You will never be the same"
How true those words are. Once again this week I am in awe of Jesus, the power of His name and His love for us. Please be encouraged, if your family seems like it is broken beyond repair, it is not. It is just in the process of receiving the love and reconciliation that Jesus freely offers each of us.
For it was only through this wonderful grace that we believed in him. Nothing we did could ever earn his salvation, for it was the gracious gift from God that brought us to Christ! Ephesians 2:8 TPT
But we have to be prepared to hang in there for the long haul. Choosing in every frustration, disappointment and seemingly backward step, to trust that God is good and He does have a plan. And know that He is drawing us closer to Him and maturing us in the process.
But that's not all! Even in times of trouble we have a joyful confidence, knowing that our pressures will develop in us patient endurance. And patient endurance will refine our character, and proven character leads us back to hope. And this hope is not a disappointing fantasy, because we can now experience the endless love of God cascading into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who lives in us! Romans 5:3-5 TPT
From what I have observed over the past 8 years, the outworking of His grace is so absolutely unique to each of us. He completely understands what each of us needs and when we need it.
Lord, you know everything there is to know about me. You perceive every moment of my heart and soul, and you understand my every thought before it even enters my mind. You are so intimately aware of me, Lord. You read my heart like an open book and you know all the words I'm about to speak before I even start a sentence! You know every step I will take before my journey even begins. You've gone into my future to prepare the way, and in kindness you follow behind me to spare me from the harm of my past. With your hand of love upon my life, you impart a blessing to me. Psalm 139:1-5 TPT
While Jesus' grace is the same for each of us, the way that Jesus gives it to us in our every day lives is a beautifully individualised gift.
Think back to yesterday, how did Jesus show you His love - in a way that only you needed?
And then think about all the people you know, and how He is doing the same for them, even if they don't recognise it yet.
Now, think about all those people you don't know - the other 7.53 billion or so, on this planet, and how Jesus is doing the same for them too. I don't know about you, but for me it is simply a mystery as to how He knows and loves each of us so well. I have difficulty with understanding the needs of just four children!
But I do know that His grace is simply amazing ...
This is just too wonderful, deep, and incomprehensible! Your understanding of me brings me wonder and strength. Psalm 139:6 TPT
It is that wonder and strength that enables us to keep pressing in to God despite what is happening in our lives. His love for us. The truth is that He loved us first and His love endures. Let's choose to stick with Him and be expectant for what He is going to do in and through our lives.
Give thanks to the only miracle working God! His tender love for us continues on forever! Psalm 136:4 TPT
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Earlier this week one of our children was preparing a talk for school. Part of the talk was about walls in her life. This started me thinking about the walls in my life, in particular a physical "wall", probably more accurately called a divider (a Bunnngs 4x4 cube bookcase), I built so I could have my own "office" at home.
I desperately wanted a space of my own that at least looked something like a serious working space, not at all pining after the 22nd floor window desk with a glorious view of Sydney Harbour that I used to have! I guess a window with a view of God's equally magnificent roses will have to suffice.
But at least I had created a space that the children could recognise as "Mum's working space". Although it was missing one vital component, a door, on which I could hang a 'Do not disturb' sign. But it seemed that sometimes my body language adequately conveyed that message.
Anyway, in June last year due to the need for me to help one of our children review some of their schoolwork, I had to remove the "wall", transforming my "office" into a pseudo mini classroom with 2 student desks, chairs and my desk and chair.
As I adjusted to the physical rearrangement of the room I was surprised at my emotional response to the change. Rather than being resentful about having to share my space, I was actually enjoying engaging with our children in this focused manner and working towards a goal together. It was as though pulling down the wall that I had erected to provide myself with peace and space, and let's be honest, in some cases to hide, enabled me to reconnect with our children in a completely new way.
Perhaps though I did need that time with my own space to re-establish boundaries that are now still respectfully in place, but also to re-define this space as one where serious work is done, where ideas and concepts are discussed and where meaningful life conversations take place and sometimes tears are shed. It has been a blessing for me to now have the emotional and physical space to come alongside our children in their learning.
So what's the point of this story? Sometimes we put up walls, and they may be necessary for a period of time, but let's always be open to when God wants us to pull down the walls and re-engage! Be expectant of the blessings that will flow to and from others when the walls do come down.
Our reconciling "Peace" is Jesus! He has made Jew and non-Jew one in Christ. By dying as our sacrifice, he has broken down every wall of prejudice that separated us and has now made us equal through our union with Christ. Ephesians 2:14 TPT
Praise God for the breaking down of walls.
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Oh how I am enjoying these weekly appointments with God, outside in creation, hearing from Him in a different way. Listening and watching, anticipating that He is going to speak to me through His creation. And He never disappoints.
But now ask the beasts, and they will teach you;
And the birds of the air, and they will tell you;
Or speak to the earth, and it will teach you;
And the fish of the sea will explain to you.
Who among all these does not know
That the hand of the Lord has done this,
In whose hand is the life of every living thing,
And the breath of all mankind?
Job 12:7-10 NKJV
This week there was some wind and drizzling rain but I wasn't going to let that deter me. Memories of sailing in much more inclement weather flooded back and reminded me of how comfortable my life has become. And that it was good for me to step out, into the weather, to purposefully meet with my Heavenly Father.
So I set off, confident that I would have yet another insightful encounter with God. This regular sitting, remaining silent in nature is a new way for me to hear from God. It has been so good for my soul to do something different, something fresh, and the revelation that comes from this time is reflecting that newness.
Anyway, this week I was sitting, becoming still, and I felt the wind on my face, again those memories of sailing came back. Then I became aware of the rain drizzling down my face, a soft cleansing. A cicada chirping in the distance caught my attention. Then it was like the wind, rain and chirping disappeared, although they were still there, and I heard the clear singing of a little bird for maybe 5 or 10 seconds, and then it was gone. The wind, rain and cicada chirping came into the fore again.
It was as though God was reminding me that sometimes there is a lot of noise around and we have to be listening attentively to hear His voice, otherwise we might miss it. And we don't want to miss what He has to say, because His truth gives us life and helps us to better discern between His ways and the world's ways.
Stop imitating the ideals and opinions of the culture around you, but be inwardly transformed by the Holy Spirit through a total reformation of how you think. This will empower you to discern God's will as you live a beautiful life, satisfying and perfect in his eyes. Romans 12:2 TPT
The point of this post? Two things. First, to encourage you to try something different in your quiet time with God. Secondly to be more purposeful in learning how to discern God's voice despite the noise.
Let's pray,
Jesus, thank you that you are for us so who can be against us. Please help us to take time to listen to you, whatever that looks like each and every day. Thank you that you give us courage to do new things and in that we can be expectant to hear new things from you. Thank you that you are transforming us, please help us to co-operate in that process. Thank you for your grace and patience as we learn more of your ways. Help us to be gracious and patient too with those around us. In your name we pray and live. Amen
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Indeed there are a few definitions of stubbornness. The Mirriam Webster dictionary gives these ones ... unreasonably or perversely yielding; difficult to handle, manage or treat; and justifiably unyielding, resolute.
Justifiably unyielding. That is the one that I believe God was talking about. The stubbornness that means we ...
... won't give up on believing in His word as being the final word.
1 Peter 3:22 in The Message Bible says, Jesus has the last word on everything and everyone, from angels to armies. He’s standing right alongside God, and what he says goes.
Over the years I have done some tantrums reminding the enemy that he does not have the victory - only Jesus has the victory. Stubbornly believing that God's promises are the only way forward. Not giving airplay to any other options.
... Stubbornness means that we will choose to believe that God loves us the same yesterday, today and tomorrow regardless of our thoughts, words and actions or inaction.
2 Corinthians 12:9 in the Amplified version says, But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me.
Choosing to believe that despite what I have done or said, He is there, and He is listening, and He is willing to forgive me, and give me His new mercies day after day after day.
... Stubbornness means that we will choose to believe that He will not leave us nor forsake us.
Joshua 1:9 in the NKJV says, Have I not commanded you? Be strong and
of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
Sometimes going into a challenging situation I visualise Jesus physically with me, fully expecting that I will sense His presence and that the Holy Spirit will give me the words to say. We do not walk alone.
Stubbornness, the resolute kind, is what we want. The resoluteness that Barnabas encouraged the believers in Antioch to have,
Then when he arrived and witnessed the grace of God, he rejoiced and began to encourage them all with resolute heart to remain true to the Lord; Acts 11:23 NASB
And so since that conversation and talking with God, my prayer has become, "God please take this stubbornness and use it for your good. Let there be a passion for you that is unyielding and resolute."
Or, in the words of Psalm 51:10
Create for me a pure heart, O God! Renew a resolute spirit within me! Psalm 51:10 NET
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"Keep your heart open to me," those are the words God whispered to me the other morning as I sat looking through the crystal clear water to the bottom of the lake. It was as though He was showing me how he wants my heart to be, so absolutely transparent. No outside disturbances like the slight breeze that was causing ripples in a less sheltered part of the lake. No pollution, like the impure water that flows from the storm water drain mixing in with the clean lake water.
The question is how? How do I keep my heart open to you Lord? How do I know when it isn't fully open? How do I know when I am subconsciously hiding something from you? You know what is hiding anyway!
This scripture comes to mind ... Psalm 51:10
Create a new, clean heart within me. Fill me with pure thoughts and holy desires, ready to please you. Psalm 51:10 TPT
So is that the answer? Ask you God to create a new clean heart within me? Ask the Holy Spirit to prompt me to sit quietly with you and wait for you to give me a word? And upon hearing that word I will know immediately, an aha moment, a revelation of yes that does need to be confessed. You always knew it was there. I just needed to acknowledge it, to confess it.
How happy and fulfilled are those whose rebellion has been forgiven, those whose sins are covered by blood. How blessed and relieved are those who have confessed their corruption to God! For he wipes their slates clean and removes hypocrisy from their hearts. Psalm 32:1-2 TPT
There it is - He wipes our slate clean and removes hypocrisy from our hearts. What peace comes after confession.
Then I finally admitted to you all my sins, refusing to hide them any longer. I said, "My life-giving God, I will openly acknowledge my evil actions." And you forgave me! All at once the guilt of my sin washed away and all my pain disappeared! Pause in his presence. Psalm 32:5 TPT
Pause in his presence. How often to we really do that? Completely pause in his presence?
This is something God spoke to me about at the end of last year - the need to more often pause in his presence. In fact, He gave me a very specific scripture .... Genesis 24:21 ...
And the man, wondering at her, remained silent so as to know whether the LORD has made his journey prosperous or not. Genesis 24:21 NKJV
The key words for me were the 'remained silent so as to know whether the LORD', ie for me to remain silent until God speaks. So for the first month of this year, once a week I have gone to a peaceful place and sat, remaining silent until God speaks. After only four weeks it has become one of my favourite times in my week. It is a weekly appointment that I certainly don't want to miss. I still have my daily time with God early each morning, and conversations throughout the day, but they are more times of two way communication. Whereas this weekly appointment is time set aside to remain silent and wait until He speaks. I don't want to miss what he wants to say to me. Because it is always exactly what I need to hear, as Psalm 32 says,
I hear the Lord saying, "I will stay close to you, instructing and guiding you along the pathway for your life. I will advise you along the way and lead you forth with my eyes as your guide. So don't make it difficult; don't be stubborn when I take you where you've not been before. Don't make me tug you and pull you along. Just come with me!"
So my conclusion is this: Many are the sorrows and frustrations of those who don't come clean with God. But when you trust in the Lord for forgiveness, his wrap-around love will surround you. Psalm 32:8-10 TPT
Don't let pain, anger, fear and disappointment keep you from having an open heart towards God. Find that time to pause in his presence, listen to what he reveals, confess your sin, ask forgiveness and let him minister his love and kindness to you. Only then we can move towards loving God and others better.
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
Earlier this week I was walking in our local park, making my way to the beautiful bush walk we are blessed to live near. As I walked from the open space with the heat of the summer sun beating down on my head, into the bush with the canopy providing shade and protection, I was struck by the sudden change of circumstances. With only one step I went from the open, unprotected area into the covered, protected place. And wasn't I glad I'd taken that step!
That sudden physical change in the atmosphere made me think about God's covering and protection, and how different life is when we choose to walk under it.
But let them all be glad, those who turn aside to hide themselves in you. May they keep shouting for joy forever! Overshadow them in your presence as they sing and rejoice. Then every lover of your name will burst forth with endless joy. Lord, how wonderfully you bless the righteous. Your favour wraps around each one and covers them under your canopy of kindness and joy. Psalm 5:11-12 TPT
How reassuring the Psalms are .... Your favour wraps around each one and covers them under your canopy of kindness and joy.....
There was a time when I didn't read anything in The Bible except the Psalms. The deep pain in my heart so often resonated with the words of the Psalmist.
Please, God, show me mercy! Open your grace-fountain for me, for you are my soul's true shelter. I will hide beneath the shadow of your embrace, under the wings of your cheribum, until this terrible trouble has past. Psalm 57:1 TPT
Please, God, show us mercy! And He has.
Open your grace-fountain for me. And He did.
For you are my soul's true shelter. And He is.
I will hide beneath the shadow of your embrace. And I do.
Until this terrible trouble has past. And it has.
If the season you are in now is a difficult one for you, I really encourage you to immerse yourself in the truth of the Psalms. God is listening to the cries of your heart and He is on your side.
You've kept track of all my wandering and my weeping. You've stored my many tears in your bottle - not one will be lost. For they are all recorded in your book of remembrance. The very moment I call to you for a father's help the tide of battle turns and my enemies flee. This one thing I know: God is on my side! Psalm 56:8-9 TPT
The end of this season will come. There will be a time when you can declare this, as the Psalmist does in Psalm 57 ...
My heart, O God, is quiet and confident. Now I can sing with passion your wonderful praises! Awake, O my soul, with the music of his splendor-song! Arise, my soul, and sing his praises! My worship will awaken the dawn, greeting the daybreak with my songs of light! Wherever I go I will thank you, my God. Among all the nations they will hear my praise songs to you. Your love is so extravagant it reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness so astonishing it stretches to the sky! Lord God, be exalted as you soar throughout the heavens. May your shining glory be shown in the skies! Let it be seen high above all the earth! Psalm 57:7-11 TPT
Be encouraged, protect your heart and choose to stay under the canopy of His kindness and joy.
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
When Abram was ninety-nine years old, GOD showed up and said to him, "I am The Strong God, live entirely before me, live to the hilt! I'll make a covenant between us and I'll give you a huge family." Overwhelmed, Abram fell flat on his face. Genesis 17:1-2 The Message
This morning I had no idea what to write about, so I prayed and continued my reading of Genesis, and one verse jumped out at me,
Then Abram fell on his face, and God talked with him saying, Genesis 17:3 NKJV
Well, it wasn't even the whole verse, just those first 6 words,
Then Abram fell on his face
There have been a few times in the past couple of weeks when I have felt so overwhelmed with the faithfulness of God that I felt like doing that - just falling on my face, lying prostate in awe at our God. (I'll share more about that in future posts) But I haven't. I've just either sat my desk weeping, or stood at the ironing board... weeping, or driven my car ... weeping.
There is something so special about waiting, trusting, and then seeing that second part of John 10:10 manifest....
But I have come to give you life in abundance, more than you expect - life in its fullness until you overflow. John 10:10 TPT
Actually the waiting and learning to trust is not really so special - just a lot of relying on the Holy Spirit to teach me patience and self-control.
But lets get back to the falling on your face... as I read that scripture I thought, I wonder how many people mentioned in The Bible fell on their face at the wonder of God? So I did a google search. Here are some of the results.
Moses and Aaron...
Moses and Aaron walked from the assembled congregation to the Tent of Meeting and threw themselves facedown on the ground. And they saw the Glory of God. Numbers 20:6 The Message
The children of Israel, at the time of Elijah's victory on Mount Carmel ...
Then the fire of the LORD fell and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood and the stones and the dust, and it licked up the water that was in the trench. Now when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces; and they said, "The LORD, He is God! The LORD, He is God! 1 Kings 18:38-39 NKJV
The three disciples that saw Jesus' glorious transfiguration ...
But while Peter was still speaking, a radiant cloud composed of light spread over them, enveloping them all. And God's voice suddenly spoke from the cloud, saying, "This is my dearly beloved Son, the constant focus of my delight. Listen to him!"
The three disciples were dazed and terrified by this phenomenon, and they fell facedown on the ground. Matthew 17:5-6 TPT
Jesus, in the garden of Gethsemane ...
Then he walked a short distance away, and overcome with grief, he threw himself facedown on the ground and prayed, "My Father, if there is any way you can deliver me from this suffering, please take it from me. Yet what I want is not important, for I only desire to fulfill your plan in me." Then an angel from heaven appeared to strengthen him. Matthew 26:39 TPT
In Heaven they are falling on their faces...
All who were standing around the Throne - Angels, Elders, Animals - fell on their faces before the Throne and worshiped God, singing:
Oh, Yes!
The blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving,
The honour and power and strength,
To our God forever ad ever and ever!
Oh, Yes!
Revelation 7:11-12 The Message
From just these few scripture we can see that it is okay, actually more than okay, to fall on your face, as it positions us to ....
Acknowledge the greatness of God when you physically can't do anything else (example - Abraham; the three disciples)
See the glory of God (example - Moses and Aaron)
Submit to the truth that the LORD is God (example - Children of Israel)
Surrender and receive strength from God (example - Jesus)
Worship in awe (example - Angels in heaven)
For me, in the times when I have literally fallen on my face and worshipped God, they have been an amazing times of surrendering, overwhelmed with awe, followed by a beautiful time of the Holy Spirit ministering God's love. Times when my hands and feet weren't tempted to do something else, but just be and focus completely on God.
In our world today we need to be constantly reminding ourselves of who our God is, and purposefully drawing closer to Him. Falling on your face is a great way to position yourself to do exactly that. Why not try it sometime and see what God does. Be expectant.
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
How enriched are they who find their strength in the Lord;
within their hearts are the highways of holiness!
Even when their paths wind through the dark valley of tears,
they dig deep to find a pleasant pool where others only find pain.
Psalm 84:5-6 TPT
Over the past few weeks I've had plenty of opportunities to marvel at God's grace and mercy both in our own family, and with our friend's families. He has shown time and time again that He grace is sufficient and His mercies are new every morning. He is a God of restoration and breakthrough.
And exactly as this scripture says, when we walk with Him and find our strength in Him, we can, in those really difficult times, dig deep to find a pleasant pool where others only find pain.
That pleasant pool is an overwhelming sense of His presence and a trusting that He's got this. He's got you. He's got your future. This is truth ....
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV
I implore you - Do not give up on God. The answers to your prayers may not come immediately, they may not come in the short term and they may not come as you expect them to. But He is there, He is at work and His end goal is always to spend eternity with you.
Right now it may feel as if you are alone and abandoned. But the truth is that you are not alone or abandoned. God is with you.
Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6 NKJV
Lift your head and look for things to be thankful for because those things are a tangible reminder that God is with you.
Let joy be your continual feast. Make your life a prayer. And in the midst of everything be always giving thanks, for this is God's perfect plan for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-17 TPT
I implore you again - Do not give up on God. Ask him to help you with areas of unbelief. Declare His promises until you see them come to pass. No one or no thing can deliver anything as good as our God can. Do not give up on God. Cry out. Press in and press on. The victory is ours in Jesus Name.
Yet even in the midst of all these things, we triumph over them all, for God has made us to be more than conquerors, and his demonstrated love is our glorious victory over everything.
So now I live with the confidence that there is nothing in the universe with the power to separate us from God's love. I'm convinced that his love will triumph over death, life's troubles, fallen angels, or dark rulers in the heavens. There is nothing in our present or future circumstances that can weaken his love. There is no power above us or beneath us - no power that could ever be found in the universe that can distance us from God's passionate love, which is lavished upon us through our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One! Romans 8:37-39 TPT
With God you can find that pleasant pool in the midst of darkness. Dive in today.
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Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!
Psalm 46:10 NKJV
Being a very task focused person, this is one of the scriptures the Holy Spirit often reminds me of. It is one of my go-to scriptures when I feel myself getting overwhelmed with life's circumstances.
A couple of worship songs based on this scripture can often help me get to that place of 'Being still', Be Still by Kari Jobe and Be Still on the Hillsong album, There is more. They are on my 'Be still' playlist!
When I was seeking God on scriptures He wanted me to keep focused on this year, 2019, Psalm 46:10 was one of them. I looked it up in The Passion Translation to help me get a fresh revelation on it ..
Surrender your anxiety!
Be silent and stop your striving and you will see that I am God.
I am God above all the nations, and I will be exalted through the whole earth. Psalm 46:10 TPT
Over the years, my main focus when reading this scripture has been the 'Be still, and know that I am God,' with me speaking to my mind, telling it to settle.
But last week when I read this scripture from The Passion Translation' I felt that God was directly speaking to me from the last part of the verse .... 'Wendy don't fear the future for I am God above all the nations, and I will be exalted through the whole earth.'
I am... I will
I had this overwhelming sense of God's power and authority on this earth. That despite what people say and do, He is and always will be the God above all nations, and He will be exalted through the whole earth - as unlikely as that seems today. Romans 14:11 came to mind ...
Just as it is written:
"As surely as I am the Living God, I tell you:
'Every knee will bow before me and every tongue will confess the truth and glorify me!"
Romans 14:11 TPT
Which is then followed by ...
Therefore, each one must answer for himself and give a personal account of his own life before God. So stop being critical and condemning of other believers, but instead determine to never deliberately cause a brother or sister to stumble and fall because of your actions. Romans 14:12-13 TPT
Plenty to meditate on there!
But back to Psalm 46:10, where God is declaring Who He is and that He will be exalted. Here is the Amplified version,
Let be and be still, and know (recognise and understand) that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations! I will be exalted in the earth! Psalm 46:10 AMP
Exalt - to elevate by praise; related to 'glorify' - to give glory (as in worship) (from Mirriam-Webster)
So what does exalting God look like in our lives? What does it look like in my life? What does it look like in your life? Perhaps a better question is what does God want it to look like in our lives?
Let's pray,
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the blessing of having your written word so freely available to us. Thank you for the revelation your Holy Spirit provides when we read it with the expectation that You will speak to us.
I acknowledge that you are God. Thank you for sending your son Jesus to be my Lord and Saviour. Thank you for giving the Holy Spirit to be my counsellor and guide every minute of every day.
Please help me to exalt you in the way You want to be exalted. Thank you that your grace is always sufficient and your mercies are new every morning. I love you.
In Jesus Name I pray, Amen.
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Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9 NKJV
There is a song, "Take Courage" by Bethel Music, here are some of its lyrics,
'Hold on to your hope as your triumph unfolds'
Oh that can be so hard to do, hold on; press in; stand. But sometimes there is no other choice. We have to believe that our triumph will unfold. And that we can learn to worship God in the waiting, something that I believe we only truly learn in those deep dark moments.
I remember a milestone moment in my constant journey of learning how to trust God more, and more, and more, and more. It relates to our daughter Victoria, and happened about 4.5 years when we had just found out that the tumour had started to grow for the third time.
There was a choice to be made - continue to live in fear that the tumour would continue to grow, or choose to live each day to the full - trusting God that no matter what happens He would get us through this. God helped us with making that choice by taking us to a Camp Quality camp where His Word - John 10:10 was displayed on posters in the dining hall.
"I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." John 10:10
That visual message was the starting point for helping me to change my hopeless thinking. I say starting point, because although God had given me that clear sign with the posters, those feelings of hopelessness didn't just go away overnight. They had to be attended to, and over-time they got quieter and quieter and God's truth got louder and louder in my head.
Here is a bit of what that process required ...
An Awareness of what my focus was on - diagnosis vs declaration of faith (John 10:10)
Action to replace those thoughts of hopelessness and fear with God's truth
Acknowledging that I couldn't do that replacement in my own strength.
Asking God daily to help me take that action.
Allowing God to do that work in me - not resisting, but instead surrendering. And only then I could ....
Authentically worship God, despite the circumstances because He was restoring my hope in Him.
Pressing into Him in the waiting season, learning to trust that not only would He get us through, but that His triumph would unfold - no matter what - here or in Heaven, has been a huge journey - and it continues now only in different spheres of our lives.
But it is a journey that despite the pain, I would not swap because it has grown a greater hope, a stronger faith and a deeper understanding of God's love for us.
So today, as you face the circumstances in your life, why not take a deep breath and say to God,
Okay God, I'm trusting You with this, please help me to grow in hope, faith and love through this situation. I choose to worship You. Thank you that you are with us wherever we go and that will get us through this day. Thank you that our triumph will unfold because of Who you are and what you have done. In Jesus Name, Amen.
Lord, I will worship you with extended hands as my whole heart explodes with praise! I will tell everyone about your wonderful works and how your marvellous miracles exceed expectations! I will jump for joy and shout in triumph as I sing your song and make music for the Most High God. Psalm 9:1-2 TPT
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A little story .... this week I have been reminded once again of what it means to do life 'in your own strength.' Those times when you are pushing through, but doing it the hard way, often with a really bad attitude - resentment being a key factor.
Over the past couple of years I have become more involved in our business, which has been great for me, Ken and the business. But not always great for our children especially when school holidays come around.
During the school holidays resentment can creep in as I have a strong desire to complete the day's work jobs well, but also have a strong desire to actually have some fun with our children as they are out of the normal school routine. One moment I am resenting the work, but then God reminds me this is the means by which we have a warm, dry home and food to eat. The next moment I am resenting the children being at home, but then God reminds me that they are a blessing from Him and how different my life would be without them!
This morning I realised that the source of that resentment is actually a lack of trust in God. That is, I'm not trusting that God will give me enough time in my day to do the things that He wants me to do (not the things I think I need to do). But rather I am trying to work out myself how to fit it all in (ie doing it in my own strength), and getting very impatient and frustrated with everyone around me.
The funny thing is, yesterday morning I expected that I would have to work all day to get various tasks done before we closed for the Christmas holiday period. The stress levels had risen by 8am when the children started waking up and my time of non-interrupted work suddenly became 10 minutes slots of concentration in among children's requests.
Then I went to a 10am appointment, only to find that the appointment was for today! So there was 45 minutes wasted.
Home again to work on some financial reporting, which turned out to be a lot simpler than I thought it was going to be. Finished! I looked at the clock on my computer - midday. Not the 6pm that I thought it was going to be. I felt pretty stupid. I had caused angst to myself and my children for nothing - other than for me to be reminded that it is always better to walk with God through the day, rather than try to run my own race and cause havoc in the process.
A simple matter of getting up in the morning, taking a deep breath, giving all the tasks I think I need to do to God, and saying, 'Please show me which ones I need to do, and how and when to do them.' And then waiting to hear what He says, and be guided by Him. Not charging off on my own agenda - doing it in my own strength.
"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways." says the LORD. "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8-9 NKJV
Thankfully God is gracious and merciful, and there was a time of restoration with the children in the afternoon as I switched off from work and we watched some Christmas movies together.
My grace is always more than enough for you, and my power finds its full expression through your weakness. 2 Corinthians 12:9 TPT
Hopefully when we re-open the business in January I will remember this lesson and trust that God has it all sorted!
Trust in the Lord completely, and do not rely on your own opinions, with all your heart rely on him to guide you, and he will lead you in every decision you make. Proverbs 3:5 TPT
To find out more, please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
"Mum, are you listening to me?"
"Well, I do know you were talking about ......, but I might have missed some of what you said."
To be honest, I probably missed quite a bit of what they said because when they came to speak to me I continued on with whatever I was doing and only half-listened to what they were saying to me! Too task focused.
I apologise for my inattentiveness, but our child still has that sense that Mum doesn't always listen to me.
Thankfully our Heavenly Father is not like that. He, in His majestically mysterious way, is available 24/7 for each one of us. In Jeremiah, the Lord says,
Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. Jeremiah 29:12 NKJV
God listening to us does not necessarily translate into Him doing what we ask. Just like as a parent we listen to our children's requests, but we don't always fulfill them as we often have a bigger picture in mind. Our Heavenly Father is the same. Our job is to stick with Him, wait and trust.
But me, I'm not giving up.
I'm sticking around to see what God will do.
I'm waiting for God to make things right.
I'm counting on God to listen to me.
Micah 7:7 The Message
Trust. Trust that His promises are true, despite what we see. How difficult that can be sometimes. We need to remind ourselves of the good things our God has done - starting with our salvation.
This I recall to my mind,
Therefore I have hope.
Through the LORD's mercies we are not consumed,
Because His compassions fail not.
They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness,
"The LORD is my portion," says my soul,
"Therefore I hope in Him!"
The LORD is good to those who wait for Him,
To the soul who seeks Him,
It is good that one should hope and wait quietly
For the salvation of the LORD.
Lamentations 3:21-26 NKJV
Wait patiently upon the LORD - Not always an easy thing to do. But as we go through trial after trial, hopefully we start to hone that skill of waiting patiently. As in each of those trials we see more and more of our God's faithfulness so our trust levels increase. We come to a place of knowing without a doubt that He listens to us because He loves us, and He has a plan for us.
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
Have you ever woken up thinking how am I going to get all these things done today? Where do I start? Well that was me one morning this week.
I had a specific time that I had to leave home for an appointment and I had a list of jobs that needed to be done before leaving. I could estimate the time required for some of the jobs, but for the remainder it was unknown.
Despite the list of jobs, I knew my number one priority was to commune with God. But how difficult it was to focus on Him when that list of jobs was running around in my head! The temptation to just get started on the jobs was so great.
But I knew that if I didn't stop and have time with God before commencing the day, things would not go as smoothly as they could do.
So I turned up the worship song that was playing , O come to the Altar by Elevation Worship, took off my glasses (so if I was tempted to open my eyes I couldn't read my list!!!), and simply said, "Speak to me God, show me how to do this day well."
My heart was ready to receive truth from God. I knew God was there and He wanted to talk to me. Just like He wants to talk to you today. And just like He wanted to speak to Samuel all those years ago ...
Then GOD came and stood before him, exactly as before, calling out, 'Samuel! Samuel!' Samuel answered, 'Speak. I am your servant, ready to listen.' 1 Samuel 3:10 The Message
And then our ever practical God said this to me,
"Wendy, just put one foot in front of the other and do what I’ve asked you to do."
Yes, that was exactly what I needed to hear. There is such truth in His words. They cut through that jobs list every time.
Listen for GOD's voice in everything you do; everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Proverbs 3:6 The Message
Acknowledge Him. I need you God today, and every day, all day.
And you guessed it, I got all those jobs done with ease, in fact with 10 minutes to spare!!!!
Oh God, why don't I live every moment like this with You guiding every area in my life? Why do I still wrestle in my own strength? Why do I still think that in some situations I know best? Why is there the continual need to learn to yield - the continual dying to self?
"My old identity has been co-crucified with Messiah and no longer lives; for the nails of his cross crucified me with him. And now the essence of this new life is no longer mine, for the Anointed One lives his live through me - we live in union as one! My new life is empowered by the faith of the Son of God who loves me so much that he gave himself for me, and dispenses his life into mine!" Galatians 2:20 TPT
Thank you Jesus that I have a new life that is empowered by your faith. Please help me to really live as one with you. Please help me to work out my salvation well.
"My beloved ones, just like you've always listened to everything I've taught you in the past, I'm asking you now to keep following my instructions as though I were right there with you. Now you must continue to make this new life fully manifested as you live in the holy awe of God - which brings you trembling into His presence." Philippians 2:12 TPT
Your presence God, what a beautiful place to be. Peace, love and joy are all there, ready to be embraced. Speak. I am your servant, ready to listen.
When we stop, take time to acknowledge God and listen and obey His ways, the result is always magnificent. How can it not be? He is magnificent.
GOD is magnificent; he can never be praised enough. There are no boundaries to his greatness. Generation after generation stands in awe of your work; each one tells stories of your mighty acts. Psalm 145:3-4 The Message
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
This book is about Wendy's journey with a child with brain cancer and a resulting physical disability - hemiplegia. The book is written from her perspective as the mother of a child who was diagnosed with a brain tumour at age three. Our daughter, Victoria underwent eight and half hours of surgery for a partial resection of the tumour, and then eighteen months later the tumour grew again requiring fifteen months of weekly chemotherapy treatment at John Hunter Hospital.
The book, ‘Victoria Grace – living with victory through childhood cancer,’ includes both Wendy’s story and practical information for families in similar situations or people who have been struggling with traumatic on-going life circumstances. The book includes information such as how to set up your home when you have a child receiving chemotherapy treatment; caring for the carer – coping with depression; being creative with strategies for physical therapy; helping siblings understand and process grief; and an example information pack I gave to our daughter’s school teachers to assist them to understand what was happening. Throughout the book there is the underlying theme of persistent faith and relying on God’s strength to get us through the tough times in life.
One of the charities that greatly helped Wendy and her family on this journey is Redkite. Redkite is an Australian cancer charity providing essential support to children and young people (0-24 years) with cancer, and the family and support network who care for them. One of the Redkite Senior Social workers wrote the following review of my book.
“This book is a very helpful guide for parents who gather strength through their religion in times of severe challenge to assist them to maintain hope and sustain the energy needed to manage the treatment journey. It may also be helpful to those who might struggle with their faith during these times – particularly with relevant quotations from psalms.
“For those parents who prefer to find other ways to assist in staying strong, this book is full of lists of practical suggestions and plans which will save time and energy – both usually very scarce for most families. Wendy also lists the support resources available to all families to support their children through brain cancer both through the text and in all appendices at the end of the book based on her own lived experience (including the mention of Redkite’s telegroup program which is how I came to know her). Support strategies for siblings and for the the child with cancer are there too.
“Victoria Grace” is also a very well written story of human strength and resilience – I couldn’t put it down even though I knew the story. Thank you Wendy for providing so much meaningful assistance to other parents, extended family and support networks!”
Linda Brown, Senior Social Worker – Redkite
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
This book is about Wendy's journey with a child with brain cancer and a resulting physical disability - hemiplegia. The book is written from her perspective as the mother of a child who was diagnosed with a brain tumour at age three. Our daughter, Victoria underwent eight and half hours of surgery for a partial resection of the tumour, and then eighteen months later the tumour grew again requiring fifteen months of weekly chemotherapy treatment at John Hunter Hospital.
The book, ‘Victoria Grace – living with victory through childhood cancer,’ includes both Wendy’s story and practical information for families in similar situations or people who have been struggling with traumatic on-going life circumstances. The book includes information such as how to set up your home when you have a child receiving chemotherapy treatment; caring for the carer – coping with depression; being creative with strategies for physical therapy; helping siblings understand and process grief; and an example information pack I gave to our daughter’s school teachers to assist them to understand what was happening. Throughout the book there is the underlying theme of persistent faith and relying on God’s strength to get us through the tough times in life.
One of the charities that greatly helped Wendy and her family on this journey is Redkite. Redkite is an Australian cancer charity providing essential support to children and young people (0-24 years) with cancer, and the family and support network who care for them. One of the Redkite Senior Social workers wrote the following review of my book.
“This book is a very helpful guide for parents who gather strength through their religion in times of severe challenge to assist them to maintain hope and sustain the energy needed to manage the treatment journey. It may also be helpful to those who might struggle with their faith during these times – particularly with relevant quotations from psalms.
“For those parents who prefer to find other ways to assist in staying strong, this book is full of lists of practical suggestions and plans which will save time and energy – both usually very scarce for most families. Wendy also lists the support resources available to all families to support their children through brain cancer both through the text and in all appendices at the end of the book based on her own lived experience (including the mention of Redkite’s telegroup program which is how I came to know her). Support strategies for siblings and for the the child with cancer are there too.
“Victoria Grace” is also a very well written story of human strength and resilience – I couldn’t put it down even though I knew the story. Thank you Wendy for providing so much meaningful assistance to other parents, extended family and support networks!”
Linda Brown, Senior Social Worker – Redkite
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
During the weekend I had the privilege of listening to someone's story of God's grace in their life as they shared about circumstance after circumstance that God had used (not created) to draw them to Himself. Of course I was in tears. It was a wonderful testimony of God continually seeking after 'the one', and not giving up until she had returned home to Him.
In Luke 15 Jesus shares about God's heart for us...
In response, Jesus gave them this illustration:
"There was once a shepherd with a hundred lambs, but one of his lambs wandered away and was lost. So the shepherd left the ninety-nine lambs out in the open field and searched in the wilderness for that one lost lamb. He didn't stop until he finally found it. With exuberant joy he raised it up and placed it on his shoulders, carrying it back with cheerful delight!
Returning home, he called all his friends and neighbours together and said, 'Let's have a party! Come and celebrate with me the return of my lost lamb. It wandered away, but I found it and brought it home."
Jesus continued, "In the same way, there will be a glorious celebration in heaven over the rescue of one lost sinner who repents, comes back home, and returns to the fold - more so than for all the righteous people who never strayed away."
Luke 15:3-7 TPT
It is difficult to describe the depth of God's love for us. He doesn't want us in the wilderness, doing life without Him. He wants us to make the choice to receive His love, and grow in His strength and live doing what He has called us to do - be His light in this world.
Now you must continue to make this new life fully manifested as you live in the holy awe of God - which brings you trembling into his presence. God will continually revitalise you, implanting within you the passion to do what pleases him. Philippians 2:12-13 TPT
Live in holy awe of God - that awe is what I felt when listening to my friend's story. Awe that God would patiently wait for her to return, bringing people alongside to pray for her, to share His love with her in many practical ways and to speak of His love. Even now as I think about it, the tears come.
Brings you trembling into his presence - about a month ago one of our children was unwell and couldn't go to church, so I stayed at home with her and we watched Louie Gigilo's Indescribable video. I still find it difficult to understand that this all powerful God passionately desires to have a personal relationship with me, you and other 7 billion plus people on the earth. That He knows each one of us ... not like we know a spouse or a close friend. No, much much more intimately than that ...
You formed my innermost being, shaping my delicate inside and my intricate outside, and wove them all together in my mother's womb.
I thank you, God, for making me so mysteriously complex! Everything you do is marvellously breathtaking.
It simply amazes me to think about it!
How thoroughly you know me, Lord!
You even formed every bone in my body when you created me in the secret place, carefully, skillfully shaping me from nothing to something.
Psalm 139:13-15 TPT
But what helps me come to that place of reconciling this unfathomable all powerful God and His love for me is the many personal experiences I have had of His love... That continual revelation of seeing how He goes before us, preparing a way... That witnessing of His mercy when you know a situation could have been much much worse... The receiving of His grace when you know that there is no other explanation than ... only by the grace of God... The sense that He is carrying you because you have absolutely nothing left in you... The knowing that you are 'the one' that He went looking for, so He could bring you home to where you belong.
Knowing that He is the creator of the universe AND the creator of me, having experienced His love, bring me trembling into His presence.
The purpose of today's post? To help you take a moment to reflect on just how much your Heavenly Father loves you, and to encourage you to take some time to enjoy His presence today. You are 'the one'.
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
Over the years we have had many moments we would rather forget, but thankfully now the season has changed and we are having more moments to treasure. This is one of them, our children racing Ken's dad on his mobility scooter. Four strong healthy children connecting with and loving their grandfather (and providing plenty of entertainment for other people in the park).
How different that picture looked 8 years ago, even 4 years ago. I am listening to the song Remembrance (Hillsong), and there is a line that always makes me teary ...
Oh to think where I would be If not for You
When I hear these lyrics I think about my salvation, the path I was on, and how that changed when I received Jesus as my Lord and Saviour.
I also think about the many challenges we have faced and how He has brought us through them all. So many hours spent crying out to God, believing for His mercy and grace, trusting that He has something better for our family. Asking Him to help me in those times of unbelief to believe that He would do it. Standing on His Word. Finally coming to a place of believing that He is good when we were still waiting for the circumstances to change.
Declaring His truth like Psalm 119:89-90, when His faithfulness to our next generation looked a little shaky...
Standing firm in the heavens and fastened to eternity is the word of God.
Your faithfulness flows from one generation to the next;
all that you created sits firmly in place to testify of you.
Deciding to keep turning to His Word for the final say, Psalm 119:91-92 ...
By your decree everything stands at attention,
for all that you have made serves you.
Because your words are my deepest delight,
I didn't give up when all else was lost.
Asking Him, what are wanting to teach me? Psalm 119:93-94
I can never forget the profound revelations you've taught me,
for they have kept me alive more than once.
Yes, God has taught us so much over these years, including how to appreciate these little moments together, and the sound of laughter that accompanies them. He has taught me that without Him I am nothing, so I best stick with Him despite my feelings. Psalm 119:94-95
Lord, I'm all yours, and you are my Saviour;
I have sought to live my life pleasing to you.
Even though evil men wait in ambush to kill me,
I will set my heart before you to understand more of your ways.
But one of the most important things I've learned is summed up in Psalm 119:96 ...
I've learned that there is nothing perfect
in this imperfect world except your words,
for they bring such fantastic freedom into my life!
For us the season has changed, there are many more moments of laughter and joy, and we are so grateful for that. But to have had the opportunity to draw closer to God, to learn how to stand and keep standing, to move to a deeper level of trust and belief brings an even greater joy.
A thief has only one thing in mind - he wants to steal, slaughter, and destroy. But I have come to give you everything in abundance, more than you expect - life in its fullness until you overflow! John 10:10 TPT
Let's pray,
Dear Jesus,
Thank you Jesus that you came, and that you didn't leave us or forsake us. Thank you that we can reflect on those moments in our lives and see how you carried us, you guided us, you protected us and you brought us through. Thank you for teaching us to stand and keep standing, bringing people alongside to hold up our arms when we are weary. Thank you that in You alone we find freedom to be who You made us to be. Thank you for the seasons of life and what You teach us in each one, help us to not miss any of the lessons you want us to learn. Thank you that your grace and mercy follow us all the days of our lives. In your name we pray and live, Amen.
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
The other week, actually in the middle of the night, we had a child who needed comforting. She suggested we sing some worship songs to help shift the focus. Great idea! We quietly sang some worship songs we had recently been singing at church, mainly just the choruses as we couldn't remember the other lines. She led. I followed (half asleep).
Then she asked, 'What's that song? It's a simple one, you know.' Yes I did know, and started to sing,
'Jesus loves me this I know .... for the Bible tells me so.....little ones to Him belong.... we are weak but ..... He is strong.'
I think the words are actually, 'they are weak'. But for us, we knew that it was definitely a 'we'.
Eventually she went back to her bed, and I could hear singing from her room ....
'Jesus loves me this I know' over and over, softer and softer and eventually the silence of peaceful sleep. Thank you Jesus.
Lifting up the name of Jesus, always helps us. He doesn't need a fanfare. He just wants us to call on Him because he cares for us.
Pour out all your worries and stress upon him and leave them there, for he always tenderly cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7 TPT
Day or night, He is there, ready and waiting to respond to our call. He isn't half asleep, half attentive. He is fully attentive always, ready with mercy and grace.
So here's what I've learned through it all; Leave all your cares and anxieties at the feet of the Lord, and measureless grace will strengthen you. Psalm 55:22 TPT
Measureless grace. Available to you and me.
But he answered me, "My grace is always more than enough for you, and my power finds its full expression through your weakness." So I will celebrate my weaknesses, for when I'm weak I sense more deeply the mighty power of Christ living in me. So I'm not defeated by my weakness, but delighted! For when I feel my weakness and endure mistreatment - when I'm surrounded with troubles on every side and face persecution because of my love for Christ - I am made yet stronger. For my weakness becomes a portal to God's power. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 TPT
We are weak..... but ..... Jesus loves me this I know.
And today we have access to His love and power, so let's surrender and lean on Him, allowing our weakness to become a portal to His power. Let's live with the certainty that He is with us now - Emmanuel, and forever, beyond our life in this place.
So why would I fear the future? For your goodness and love pursue me all the days of my life. Then afterward, when my life is through, I'll return to your glorious presence to be forever with you! Psalm 23:6 TPT
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
Are you searching for a safe place to express exactly how you feel today?
Sometimes when the circumstances around me are in turmoil I picture myself being wrapped in the strong arms of my God, protecting me. His peace settles in me and I am assured of His overwhelmingly tangible presence. Psalm 91 says it this way,
His massive arms are wrapped around you, protecting you.
You can run under his covering of majesty and hide.
His arms of faithfulness are a shield keeping you from harm. Psalm 91:4 TPT
Talking about running, at other times I want to run away, saying to myself, "It is all to hard, I want to have a simple life - with no responsibility and commitments." But that's not really life is it?
In those moments I know there is one place I can always run to - that place of worship and abandonment, that place where I commune with Jesus, that place where the tears come, grateful for His grace and mercy in my life. Grateful for who He is - the one who saves. Knowing that He has the big picture and I need to keep my focus on Him.
Philippians 4:6-9 reminds us of that,Don't be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing. Be saturated in prayer throughout each day, offering your faith-filled requests before God with overflowing gratitude. Tell him every detail of your life, then God's wonderful peace that transcends human understanding, will make answers known to you through Jesus Christ. So keep your thoughts continually fixed on all that is authentic and real, honorable and admirable, beautiful and respectful, pure and holy, merciful and kind. And fasten your thoughts on every glorious work of God, praising him always. Follow the example of all that we have imparted to you and the God of peace will be with you in all things. Philippians 4:6-9 TPT
A few words that jump out at me as I read that scripture ...Don't be pulledBe saturated in prayerOverflowing gratitudeTell every detail God's wonderful peaceMake answers knownThrough Jesus ChristThoughts continually fixedFasten your thoughtsPraising HimGod of peaceWith you in all things Well actually, that is more than a few words - that is a high level summary for finding that safe place, Jesus, who helps us to push through and find that place of feeling those massive loving arms of God around us.
When you sit enthroned 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.
Psalm 91:1-2 TPT
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
Last night one of our children asked me, 'Mum, is it okay to have a singular goal? Just one thing you are aiming for.'
'It depends what that singular goal is. I had a goal in my early 20's, to buy an apartment, and that was all I focused on,' I replied.
'What were your other goals?' she asked.
'None. I didn't have any other goals - just making money so I could live in a nice place and buy nice things,' I replied starting to reflect on how my life had changed since then.
'But surely you had other goals. What happened when you reached that goal - what next? Remember how a few weeks ago that preacher kept asking us 'what next?, then 'what next?', then 'what next?' What was next for you Mum ?' she pressed the point.
'Yes, well that was the problem, after buying the apartment I felt so empty and unfilled that I started asking questions about the purpose of my life, what was it all about? Buying that apartment and the subsequent feelings were one of the catalysts for me seeking Jesus. Now I realise He was using those circumstances to draw me to Himself. And now my singular goal is to do all that God wants me to do with my life.' I responded, amazed at the clarity of this answer as it was three hours after my normal bedtime, so all credit goes to the Holy Spirit.
We had some further conversation about how that singular goal of doing all God wants me to do has many facets in terms of being a wife, a mum, a business person, volunteer, writer, but the motive is the same - all for Jesus. Here is how Paul talks about his change in motive ....
Yet all of the accomplishments that I once took credit for, I've now forsaken them and I regard it all as nothing compared to the delight of experiencing Jesus Christ as my Lord! To truly know him meant letting go of everything from my past and throwing all my boasting on the garbage heap. It's all like a pile of manure to me now, so that I may be enriched in the reality of knowing Jesus Christ and embrace him as Lord in all of his greatness. Philippians 3:7-8 TPT
As a Christian there is a process that takes place over the years as we press into God, through the good and troubling times. I think the proper word is sanctification. The more we press in, the more we learn of God's character, a learning that feeds that deep yearning to know Him and His love for us more and more. For me, I never want to stop doing that as I am so grateful for the love, grace and mercy He has shown me over the years. The more closely I walk with Him, the more complete I feel every day.
Let's hear some more from Paul on his singular goal ...
I admit that I haven't yet acquired the absolute fullness that I'm pursing, but I run with passion into his abundance so that I may reach the purpose that Jesus Christ has called me to fulfill and wants me to discover. I don't depend on my own strength to accomplish this; however I do have one compelling focus: I forget all of the past as I fasten my heart to the future instead. I run straight for the divine invitation of reaching the heavenly goal and gaining the victory-prize through the anointing of Jesus. So let all who are fully mature have this same passion, and if anyone is not yet gripped by these desires, God will reveal it to them. And let us all advance together to reach this victory-prize, following one path with one passion. Philippians 3:12-16 TPT
Let's pray,
Jesus, thank you that you love us and you have called us for your purposes. Thank you that you have made us all unique, but with a heart for you. Thank you that you are continually drawing us to yourself, revealing more of yourself to us. Please help us to run this race you have set before us with passion, not getting distracted, but keeping our eyes on you. Please show us today, what you want us to do and help us to do it in your strength, not our own. In your name we pray and live. Amen.
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
Cause me to hear Your lovingkindness in the morning, for in You I do trust; Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, for I lift up my soul to You. Psalm 143:8 NKJV
What a great prayer to start the day with. In fact we have it on the wall in our toilet room - one of my homemade signs.
Here it is again, this time from the Amplified Bible ...
Cause me to hear Your lovingkindness in the morning,
for on You do I lean and in You do I trust.
Cause me to know the way wherein I should walk,
for I lift up my inner self to You.
Psalm 143:8 AMPC
Cause me to hear ...
This means we need to be listening. What a temptation there is some mornings to get up and get started on the long list of jobs that sit on my desk. I've worked out that I can't be thinking about all those jobs and listening to God at the same time. If I am not purposeful in shutting out the thoughts about the jobs list, they will take over.
Your lovingkindness in the morning,
How beautiful to hear first thing in the morning, before the family awakes and the chaos starts, that you are loved - regardless of what you did or didn't do the day before. To hear that you are forgiven, that His grace is sufficient and that His mercies are new every morning. That is good food for the soul.
for on You do I lean
Sometimes things in life can feel too heavy to lean on others, but Jesus is always strong enough and more than willing to support each of us.....
So here's what I've learned through it all: Leave all your cares and anxieties at the feet of the Lord, and measureless grace will strengthen you. Psalm 55:22 The Passion Translation
And in You do I trust.
We need to choose to trust Him, no matter what. It's simple - I trust you God, or I don't trust you God. Well it's simple to say the words, but sometimes it's not so simple to trust with our hearts, because we have emotions, disappointment, fears, grief and anger. They need to be processed to enable us to come back to that place of trusting God.
Cause me to know the way wherein I should walk,
How many times have you said to yourself, 'I wish someone would show me what to do next,' or 'I wish someone would tell me which option to choose.' Well, there is a God in Heaven who will show us the next step if we ask Him and listen...
Trust in the Lord completely, and do not rely on your own opinions. With all your heart rely on him to guide you, and he will lead you in every decision you make. Become intimate with him in whatever you do, and he will lead you wherever you go. Don't think for a moment that you know it all, for wisdom comes when you adore him with undivided devotion and avoid everything that's wrong. Proverbs 5:3-7 TPT
for I lift up my inner self to You.
What does it mean to lift up our inner self to God? Proverbs 5:6 and 7 give us a couple of beautiful phrases like 'become intimate with him.' Think of those people you are intimate with, what does that relationship look like, feel like? Do you have that sense when you commune with God? Here's another one, 'adore him with undivided devotion', again think of those people you are devoted to, how does that compare with your devotion to Jesus?
We have a God who is jealous for us, He loves us and desires us to love Him wholeheartedly.
So let's pray Psalm 143:8 with a heart that wants to know more of His love, so we can move further towards that place of fully trusting Him in all things, and love as He loves.
Let the dawning day bring me revelation of your tender, unfailing love. Give me light for my path and teach me, for I trust in you. Psalm 143:8 TPT
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A few years ago one of our children came to me while I was working at my desk and gave me this photo, complete with a handmade frame. This was more than a gift, it was a not-so-subtle request saying, 'Mum, I need more hugs and love from you.'
I had to stop and think about what was really going on here. What had I missed? What was I not seeing? Why wasn't I seeing it? What did I need to do next? Some soul-searching went on.
I changed some of my actions, but obviously not enough, because here is what I received from that child for Christmas that year ....
So at least one thing is very clear, I am falling short when it comes to fulfilling the love language of this child! Yes, even now, a few years on there are times when this child, who has since worked out how to verbalise what they need from me, is sometimes lacking in love and attention from their mum.
But as much as I try to fulfill that need I know that I will never do it perfectly. I believe my best approach is to love them the best way that I can, and teach them about Jesus' love for them - that He is the only one that can love them perfectly. Mummy can't.
I know that has certainly been my experience with Jesus. I love my parents and they have done their best to love me, but they aren't perfect. And neither have I been the perfect loving daughter. I love my husband and he does his best to love me, but he isn't perfect. And likewise the love that I have offered him has not been perfect either.
But Jesus' love is different. Here is what He says in John 15:9, from The Passion Translation....
'I love you with the same love that the Father loves me. You must continually let my love nourish your hearts.'
A love that God wants to lavish on us.
"Look with wonder at the depth of the Father's marvelous love that he has lavished on us! He has called us and made us his very own beloved children." 1 John 3:1 TPT
A love that understands pain.
For this is how much God loved the world - he gave his one and only, unique Son as a gift. So now everyone who believes in him will never perish but experience everlasting life. John 3:16 TPT
A love that hears the cry of the broken, and brings healing and restoration, not always as and when we expect, but in His way and His time.
Today, let's surrender and receive His love, knowing that it is perfect for every moment of our lives - today, tomorrow and forever more.
Psalm 23 ...
The Lord is my best friend and my shepherd.
I will always have more than enough.
He offers a resting place for me in his luxurious love.
His tracks take me to an oasis of peace, the quiet brook of bliss.
That's where he restores and revives my life.
He opens before me pathways to God's pleasure
and leads me along in his footsteps of righteousness
so that I can bring honor to his name.
Lord, even when your path takes me through
the valley of deepest darkness,
fear will never conquer me, for you already have!
You remain close to me and lead me through it all the way.
Your authority is my strength and my peace.
The comfort of your love takes away my fear.
I'll never be lonely, for you are near.
You become my delicious feast
even when my enemies dare to fight.
You anoint me with the fragrance of your Holy Spirit;
you give me all I can drink of you until my heart overflows.
So why would I fear the future?
For your goodness and love pursue me all the days of my life.
Then afterward, when my life is through,
I'll return to your glorious presence to be forever with you!
Psalm 23
The Passion Translation
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Last night I was really looking forward to going to bed, possibly because I'd had a patchy nights' sleep the night before. Anyway, two children were in bed (not asleep), one was doing homework with Ken and the other was chilling out.
Bed was looking like a good option for me, until I felt the Holy Spirit say, 'Go to your desk and finish the work you started today.' That work was probably going to involve at least an hour and a half of 'non-creative tasks, going through the motions, ticking all the boxes type' of work. I wasn't overly enthused. But I obeyed, thinking 'Yes Holy Spirit, you are right, if I complete this now it will ease the load tomorrow.'
I opened up the programs I needed, found the paperwork required and turned on my worship music and started on the work. It wasn't long before it became very evident that I was not at my desk to work (even though somehow the work was completed - thank you Holy Spirit), I was there to worship. Overcome by His Presence, there were tears and deep cries, interceding for those He put on my heart. I will probably never know what happened in the spiritual realm at that time. But I do know this, had I ignored the prompting of the Holy Spirit and gone to bed, God would probably have had to find someone else who was willing to be obedient.
The point of this little story?
We don't always know what God's plan is. We don't always know what He is wanting to bring out of a situation - for us or others.
For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,' says the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:8-9 NKJV
What's important is that we listen, recognise His voice and obey. Sometimes one, two or three of these three actions are not easy to do.
Listen - we have to have space in our thoughts. We need to stop our own dialogue or the noise around us so we can hear that still small voice.
Recognise - we know who is speaking. We know something of God's character and His love for us, so we know what He would be saying to us.
Obey - we choose to do what He asks - no matter what we think, understand or what our flesh says.
As I'm writing this the Holy Spirit is reminding me that there are some areas in my life where it is easy for me to listen, recognise and obey.
In that story about last night, even though I was tired, I am a task focused person who likes to be organised so it wasn't too much of a stretch to obey. However, when it comes to food, that is a different story - my flesh wins way too many times. That is definitely one of the thorns in my side. We are all a work in progress.
So let's ask God today to help us listen more, quickly recognise His voice and obey Him, because our obedience could help lead to breakthrough in our life, or the lives of others.
A portion of Psalm 86 ....
You are the one and only God.
What miracles! What wonders! What greatness belongs to you!
Teach me more about you, how you work and how you move, so that I can walk onward in your truth until everything within me brings honour to your name.
With all my heart and passion I will thank you, my God!
I will give glory to your name, always and forever!
Psalm 86:10-12 TPT
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Building a quality relationship takes time, purposeful actions, truth, revelation, mercy and grace. As I review the final layout of my book it is becoming more and more evident to me how God has been doing that in my life over the past eight years. Especially in the first three years from when Victoria was diagnosed, which is the focus of the book.
At one stage in the book editing process I identified 'feature sentences'. These are sentences that were to be highlighted on every few pages. We have since parked that idea, however yesterday as I was checking other formatting I wondered what it would look like if all the feature sentences were pulled out into a list. What journey would they show? Let's have a look ....
January 2011 - Diagnosis
Victoria had virtually no control over her left foot.
He told me to take Victoria to hospital straight away.
"The CT scan showed there is a mass in your child's brain"
"This is a very unusual tumour, in a very unusual place"
We did not know what our future would hold past next Thursday
I made some signs saying, 'This is a big trust God time.'
All I could think was, 'Will she be able to do this after the operation?'
How do you tell a five year old and a seven year old that their sister may not come home again?
But that is the sad reality of having a seriously ill child with siblings. As a parent you have to make choices with your time.
Fear was starting to set in. What was going on in her brain?
February 2011
Nothing spectacular about this day, other than our daughter was living and breathing.
Victoria is now including her left hand more often in play rather than ignoring it completely.
March 2011
I needed to give myself permission to grieve for the plans and dreams I had for Victoria.
April 2011
So now we have a chart on the fridge, an idea of the psychologist, called 'Let people help.'
August 2011
Once again we praise God for His healing power
I still cry when I watch her swimming.
February 2012
We were not expecting this news. It is a shock.
June 2012
I am so grateful for the wonderful support network who responded to my request for help.
The scan indicates that the tumour has grown by approximately 40%.
July 2012 - Chemotherapy starts
As the nurse explained, if the first port access is traumatic for the child, then subsequent accessing, in our case initially for three months, maybe twelve months, continues to be traumatic.
August 2012
This journey may not be a short one.
Of course during this time there have been some moments of joy.
October 2012
The tumour has reduced in size since commencing the chemotherapy
November 2012
I felt so loved by God, and so reassured of His love and provision for Victoria.
December 2012
While in hospital I had plenty of time to think about the impact of these hospital visits on our family
One of the biggest blessings of 2012 is that every member of our family has finished the year in a much better state emotionally that when the year started.
January 2013
"Some of the mums do blogs to keep people updated"
During the past couple of weeks Victoria has started to ask questions.
I can't express the disappointment that was in my heart.
February 2013
It is God whom we choose to put our faith in.
It was equally good to have some laughs as a family.
As for the tears, there was only one moment in the day when I felt the tears well up, while talking to one of the beautiful caring school mums.
March 2013
I don't want our children to fear death.
April 2013
I fully believe that God can help me get to the point where I can live each day like that, and no longer live 'from scan to scan.'
One big concept I am only starting to get a handle on is that God really does have it all under control.
June 2013
I spent the first half hour of the session crying as I watched Victoria do her best in the running relay races.
God has definitely been our rock during this journey, and He will continue to be.
July 2013
Victoria's wish is to go to the snow and throw snowballs at everyone.
I felt that God was telling me that He already knows the outcome with Victoria's health, and I am to rest in that truth.
August 2013
We will be leaving Mt Buller with so many wonderful family memories, and knowing that despite our circumstances, God is always in the midst.
One place we receive a lot of support from is the local church that we belong to.
September 2013
It is amazing the difference it has made to us all not having had Victoria in hospital for over three weeks.
October 2013 - Chemotherapy stops
The doctor nonchalantly said, 'This will be the last treatment today, and we will reassess after the scan.' I just sat there a bit stunned, that was not the plan last week.
I grieve for Victoria, she has been amazing throughout this time, but her childhood is not as it should have been.
As I have said many, many times before, Jesus is the Rock I stand on.
And that is where the book ends, three years of pain, fear, grief and disappointment, intertwined with God gradually drawing us closer and closer to Him. With a growing understanding of how to be content and grateful no matter what is happening in our lives, looking unto Jesus.
It's clear to me that there was a pivotal time in early 2013, when after two years of journeying through pain, I really start to see and believe in that God is bigger than our circumstance!
I believe that one of the catalysts for that change was an altar call I responded to in early 2013. At that time Victoria had completed six months of weekly chemo and I was starting to struggle emotionally, where was God? How much longer was this to go on for?
We had a visiting preacher at church. After preaching he invited people to come forward for prayer. I went forward. He said to me something like, "God says, You can trust me." And that was it. But God knew that was all I needed to hear. That was what I needed to know. I could trust God.
From that point, I can see that my focus started to gradually shift to be more on God and less on our circumstances. It was a gradual change, starting with moments in the day, which over the years grew to be minutes, eventually days, weeks and now months.
Saying that there are still moments of grief and pain, such as the other day at school when Victoria shared her testimony with the Secondary School - so young and so much to share about God's faithfulness, but it has come at a cost.
So it's necessary for him to increase and for me to be diminished. John 3:30 TPT
That is certainly what has happened on this journey, there has been an increasing of Christ in my life in every conceivable way.
He must increase, but I must decrease. [He must grow more prominent; I must grow less so.] John 3:30 AMPC
A stronger relationship has been built, where I have greater revelation that I am really nothing without Christ. Jesus. So intimately interested in each of us. Wanting us to surrender completely to His love and His ways. The cost we pay is nothing compared to what He has done for us.
For this is how much God loved the world - he gave his one and only, unique Son as a gift. So now everyone who believes in him will never perish but experience everlasting life. John 3:16 TPT
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Jesus then said to the crowds gathered around him, "When you see a cloud forming in the west, don't you say, "A storm is brewing"? And then it arrives. And when you feel the south wind blowing, you say, "A heat wave is on the way." And so it happens. What hypocrites! You are such experts at forecasting the weather, but you are unwilling to understand the spiritual significance of the time you're living in." Luke 12:54-56 TPT
What happens to you when you read this scripture? For me there is a prompting, 'Look up, look around, see what is really going on. Don't choose not to look.' I am convicted.
Everyone knows that our world is changing. I was reminded again this week that not all change is good. Not all new things are positive. Here is a simple example...
As a child I remember having Sunday dinner at my Grandparents home, and watching the series 'Anne of Green Gables'. How we loved to see what trouble Anne was unintentionally going to get into each week, and of course to see if there was going to be any movement forward in the relationship between Anne and Gilbert. It was a fun, clean TV show.
Recently another television version of this classic story has been created. I found this 'modern' version to be a bit different to the original version. It has beautiful cinematography, but it also includes scenes of abuse that Anne had experienced prior to living with Marilla and Matthew, the scheming and betrayal of travellers to the town of Avonlea, and a child's discovery of their sexual orientation. Gone is the innocence of the original Anne of Green Gables TV show.
I shouldn't have been surprised, I've seen plenty of the TV/You Tube/Gaming output that is around today, but I was disappointed. I know these additions to the TV Show are many people's experiences of life, and I don't mean to ignore that truth, but did this beautiful classic innocent childhood story need to be infused with them?
Is this a reflection of the world we are living in? This continual need to bring the dark side forth? Apparently so, as we are told in 2 Timothy 3:1-5...
But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! 2 Timothy 3:1-5 NKJV
Okay, so after reading that perhaps you aren't you feeling so positive about life and the future? How do we live in the world but not of the world? How do we keep our eyes on Jesus despite what is happening around us?
Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 NKJV
We have to continually choose to believe God's word is true, that we do have the victory through Jesus Christ.
"O Death, where is your sting?
O Hades, where is your victory?"
The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:55-57 NKJV
We need to declare victory with our mouths, particularly over this next generation, who live in a world of less and less innocence. They need to hear about Jesus and His love for them. They need to experience expressions of God's love - kindness, grace and mercy - through us. God wants them to know that in Jesus Christ, they have the victory too...
Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Romans 8:37 NKJV
So let's not shy away from what we see happening around us every day, being comfortable in our worlds, but rather let's be willing to understand the spiritual significance of the times that we live in, continually asking God what part He wants us to play in this world. Remembering that Jesus has the victory always and forever. Amen!
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In the past four days God has spoken to me in four different ways about being in the world but not of the world.
But now I am returning to you so Father,
I pray that they will experience
and enter into my joyous delight in you
so that it is fulfilled in them and overflows.
I have given them your message
and that is why the unbelieving world hates them.
For their allegiance is no longer to this world
because I am not of this world.
I am not asking that you remove them from the world,
but I ask that you guard their hearts from evil,
For they no longer belong to this world any more than I do.
John 17:13-16 TPT
Saturday night ...
After dinner on Saturday Ken and I escaped to his office (aka man cave) for some peace and quiet. We were watching some of the analysis of the political antics of the week, Ken promptly fell asleep (we are getting older!) and I managed to just stay awake (it was only 7.30pm) to watch the next show, Australian story.
The episode was Leading the way - Love over hate: We step inside the Wayside Chapel to see what’s in store for the new man behind one of the toughest, yet most rewarding jobs in Sydney.
Sunday night ...
At church we were blessed to have a visiting pastor, James MacPherson preaching at the 6pm service. He spoke about where our identity comes from - our intrinsic value, not externals. And building on this he also spoke to us regarding what we do in our day to day lives and challenged us to ask how God would go about doing that job/profession? Lots of food for thought.
Monday night ...
Not really sure what I was doing (it was at least 36 hours ago), perhaps taking a brain break from work. Anyway I was skimming through the Eternity News website, which I find is a great alternative to the ABC news website, and I found this video "Prominent pastor Carl Lentz on fame, criticism and #MeToo
When watching this video the word that God highlighted to me was demonstrate.
Tuesday morning ...
I had a couple of hours waiting for my car to be serviced, so after doing some work, I took a brain break and continued reading a book that a wise lady has lent me ... Kid's Ministry is for Real, a collection of true stories that show the 'why' of kids' ministry, by David Goodwin. There is so much gold in this book, such as...
I understand from Erickson's psycho-social stages that children in the middle childhood years need to experience success to have a healthy and confident transition to adolescence. It doesn't mean they need to be top of the class, but they do need to shine in one or more areas. Sadly, we all know many children who have experienced little or no success. Those of us in kids' ministry are in a unique position to help them.
There are a couple of reasons I have shared this today.
Firstly I found it interesting that God would use four different ways to communicate the same message to me, be in the world, but not of the world, love people my way. I am not sure what this means for me in terms of actions. I have an inkling, but will continue to seek Him for direction.
Secondly to encourage you to look at what and how God may have been speaking to you recently, is there something He has been communicating to you through different ways? Are you listening? Do you know what He wants you to do next? And will you have the courage to do it, knowing that He has gone before you and is with you?
Let's finish with prayer Jesus prayed for us ...
And I ask not only for these disciples,
but also for all those who will one day
believe in me through their message.
I pray for them all to be joined together as one
even as you and I, Father, are joined together as one.
I pray for them to become one with us
so that the world will recognise that you sent me.
For the very glory you have given to me I have given to them
so that they will be joined together as one
and experience the same unity that we enjoy.
You live fully in me and now I live fully in them
so that they will experience perfect unity,
and the world will be convinced that you have sent me,
for they will see that you love each one of them
with the same passionate love that you have for me.
John 17:20-23 TPT
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In the early years of our journey with Victoria one of the songs that echoed the cry of my heart was Matt Redman’s, 'I need You now.' Here are some of the lyrics ...
On this thirsty desert ground,
In a dry and barren land,
I bow down
I need You now
You will call and I will come
To Your river I will run
I bow down
I need You now
Oh, living water. Oh, God, my Savior,
If I ever needed You, I need You now
Oh, living water, Oh, God, my Healer,
If I ever needed You, I need You now
Often I would sing (yell) it with tears streaming down my face, needing to know that He was near, that we were not left or forsaken.
Be strong and of good courage; do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6 NKJV
Now we are in a different season. Hallelujah! And while there is not such a desperate sense of wondering where God is and what He is doing, there is still a great need for Him in our daily lives. As He takes the good work (now we can look back and see it as good work) that He has done in each of us over the past 8 years and enlarges us in different ways, our reliance on Him grows even more as we seek to do what He wants us to do. There is a much stronger tethering between God and us.
For me as aspects of my life increase there is still a constant cry out to God, but rather than the 'I am struggling, please help me get through this day,' it is an 'Okay God, you've given me these things to do, please order my steps, show me what to write, teach me how to lead well, help me listen more to Your Spirit and operate in your perfect timing. I need You now.'
Praise God that through those very challenging years He taught me that I cannot do my life without Him. And that He is always there. He is always listening.
But praises rise to God, for he paid attention to my prayer and answered my cry to him!
I will forever praise this God who didn't close his heart when I prayed and never said no when I asked him for help.
He never once refused to show me his tender love.
Psalm 66:19-20 TPT
Yes, sometimes God doesn't answer our prayers in the way that we think He should, and in these times we need to know in our hearts that regardless of what did or did not happen, He never refuses to show us his tender love. It's just that it looks different from His perspective because He has the big picture view.
We always need God in some way, to help us in the struggles, in the times of overwhelm, when we need direction and purpose and when we need love and comfort. So let's chose to stay connected no matter what is going on, and live today knowing that nothing will separate us from His love.
Romans 8:38-39 is one of the scriptures that I had on the wall of our toilet room in some of those early years with Victoria. I would declare it out aloud to myself and also to the enemy reminding him Who I belonged to and who had the victory.
So now I live with the confidence that there is nothing in the universe with the power to separate us from God's love. I'm convinced that his love will triumph over death, life's troubles, fallen angels, or dark rulers in the heavens. There is nothing in our present or our future circumstances that can weaken his love. There is no power above us or beneath us - no power that could ever be found in the universe that can distance us from God's passionate love, which is lavished upon us through Lord Jesus, the Anointed One! Romans 8:38-39 TPT
We need you Jesus, today and every day. Thank you that You are with us and Your love for us never fails.
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Can you remember when you first heard The Lord's Prayer?
For me it was when I was aged 5, at either the local Anglican church mum took me to or at school assemblies at the public primary school I attended.
Up to about 30 years ago, The Lord's Prayer was something that most people in our society knew. Something we learned, just like learning the alphabet...
Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
As we forgive our debtors.
And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver us from the evil one.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power
and the glory forever. Amen.
Matthew 6:9-13 NKJV
Sometimes though I know for me as a child it became just a reciting of some words that I had learned. The heart behind the words, the understanding of what I was actually praying as missing. I was saying the words, not praying them.
Today if I asked our children to pray The Lord's Prayer, they would probably have no idea what I was talking about. But if I said, 'Let's pray, who'd like to start?' they would respond with starting a conversation with God. And that's great, but sometimes the prayers become a bit self-centred, just as mine to do. We focus too much on our needs and wants.
There is something about The Lord's Prayer that, when prayed from the heart, very quickly silences our flesh and enables us to position God in our lives exactly where He should be - acknowledged as our Father in heaven, Lord of all, provider, forgiver of sins, rescuer with complete sovereignty over our lives.
When I am in that place of wanting to connect with God, but don't have the words to pray I often do one of two things, either pray in the spirit, or play a worship song (sometimes both). One of my favourite songs to play in these moments is Our Father/The Lords Prayer, recorded by Hillsong in 1997 on their Simply Worship II CD. I bought that CD just after I was saved. It is simply the piano and vocalist, and always takes me to that place of exalting our God. Hillsong have also recently done another version of The Lord's Prayer on their album, There's more.
So today, lets pause and pray The Lord's Prayer from our heart with a complete focus on our Father in heaven. This version is from The Passion Translation.
Our Father, dwelling in the heavenly realms,
may the glory of your name
be the centre on which our lives turn.
Manifest your kingdom realm,
and cause your every purpose to be fulfilled on earth,
just as it is fulfilled in heaven.
We acknowledge you as our Provider
of all we need each day.
Forgive us the wrongs we have done as we ourselves
release forgiveness to those who have wronged us.
Rescue us every time we face tribulation
and set us free from evil.
For you are the King who rules
with power and glory forever. Amen
Matthew 6:9-13 TPT
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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 power within you to endure all things. And then as your endurance grows even stronger it will release perfection into every part of your being until there is nothing missing and nothing lacking. James 1:2-4 The Passion Translation
John Maxwell, in his commentary about James 1:1-8 says,
'James is vitally concerned with big-picture living. After his brief greeting, he jumps into how to handle problems.'
This morning I have had to remind myself about big-picture living and not to get caught up in the moments of my recent thoughts of, 'What is going on here? That is just wrong. Why don't people understand?'
The big-picture living perspective reminds me to look at the end goal - Where are we heading?
And ask these questions;
What can we learn from this incident?
How does it fit in the big-picture?
Why did it happen?
How we will handle it when it happens again?
If we can't answer these questions we can ask God to give us wisdom to see as He sees.
And if anyone longs to be wise, ask God for wisdom and he will give it! He won't see your lack of wisdom as an opportunity to scold you over your failures but he will overwhelm your failures with his generous grace. James 1:5 The Passion Translation
And then there is the issue of the heart to be addressed - with this God-given wisdom, what attitude are we going to have about this incident today? Is it going to be an offense that becomes a stronghold? Or can we shift into 'big-picture living,' forgive and fully believe that God will get us through?
Just make sure you ask empowered by confident faith without doubting that you will receive. For the ambivalent person believes one minute and doubts the next. Being undecided makes you become like the rough seas driven and tossed by the wind. You're up one minute and tossed down the next. When you are half-hearted and wavering it leaves you unstable. Can you really expect to receive anything from the Lord when you're in that condition? James 1:6-8 The Passion Translation
Something to think about. Something to pray about. What issues in your life right now are taking up too much time being mulled over and over? Ask God to help you see the bigger picture - what is it that He is wanting to build into your life? to change in you? to help you live with confident faith?
Confident faith. Who wants it? I know I do. Here is something Jesus said about faith,
Jesus responded, "If you have even the smallest measure of authentic faith, it would be powerful enough to say to this large tree, 'My faith will pull you up by the roots and throw you into the sea,' and it will respond to your faith and obey you." Luke 17:6 The Passion Translation
Let's pray, Jesus, please forgive us for getting caught up in the 'small stuff'. Help us to do 'big-picture living' and see things the way that You do. Give us wisdom. Show us where we have taken offense, and help us to forgive. Please help us to live more and more from that place of confident and authentic faith. In Your Name we pray and live, Amen.
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"Thank you Jesus." This is how I start my prayer time each day, with these three words. There is so much to be thankful for. A list of specific things would go on and on and on. But sometimes in the making of that list of things, our focus can sway from Jesus to the things.
So sometimes it is good to pause and simply say, "Thank you Jesus."
The story of Jesus healing the ten lepers reminds us of this.
Jesus travelled on toward Jerusalem and passed through the border region between Samaria and Galilee. As he entered one village, ten men approached him, but they kept their distance, for they were lepers. They shouted to him, "Mighty Lord, our wonderful Master! Won't you have mercy on us and heal us?" Luke 17:11-13 TPT
How many times have we shouted out to Jesus, "Please help me Jesus, I need you. Please help me to get through this day."
When Jesus stopped to look at them, he spoke these words, "Go to be examined by the Jewish priests." They set off, and they were healed while walking along the way. Luke 17:14 TPT
Jesus heard their shouting and responded, telling them what to do. They obeyed. Jesus healed them on the way.
One of them, a foreigner from Samaria, when he discovered that he was completely healed, turned back to find Jesus, shouting out joyous praises and glorifying God. When he found Jesus, he fell down at his feet and thanked him over and over, saying to him, "You are the Messiah." This man was a Samaritan. Luke 17:15-16 TPT
Only one of the ten came back and gave thanks. He recognised who Jesus was. Then Jesus inquires about the other nine.
"So where are the other nine?" asked Jesus. "Weren't there ten who were healed? They all refused to return to give thanks and give glory to God except you, a foreigner from Samaria?" Then Jesus said to the healed man lying at his feet, "Arise and go. It was your faith that brought you salvation and healing." Luke 17:17-19 TPT
Jesus is merciful. He hears our shouts. He responds.
Then it is up to us...
Do we obey?
Do we give thanks?
Do we get greater revelation of who Jesus is?
Do we remember?
This morning I was reading this in Revelation ...
Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Revelation 2:4 NKJV
The Amplified version really does amplify it ....
But I have this [one charge to make] against you: that you have left (abandoned) the love that you had at first [you have deserted Me, your first love]. Revelation 2:4 AMPC
Urggghhh. Selah - pause and think on that.
Simply pausing regularly and saying a heartfelt, "Thank you Jesus" can help us maintain and nuture the love we have for Him. So let's take time to do that today.
Thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will]. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 AMPC
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'Hi Mum, can I talk with you about ......'
'Yes, no problem'
'Okay, well ..................'
There is a problem - and it’s with me! When this child comes to talk with me, I am sitting at my desk working. They start to talk to me. I stop for a moment, look at them, acknowledge them, but then, I continue on working. My thought process is something like, I need to get this work done, I can listen to them at the same time. The child keeps talking, I am still listening (well, that's what I tell myself), but my focus on the work takes over. The child is still talking and I realise their voice is just like a string of words and I actually have no idea what they are talking about. Yes, there is a problem - and its with me.
I am so grateful that we have a Heavenly Father who can multi-task. He can listen to me, and you and many of the other 7 billion people on this earth at the same time. He doesn't get distracted by my problem when He is listening to yours. He is simply amazing. He knows each one of us, He really knows us, and He knows all about our problems before we tell Him.
You saw who you created me to be before I became me! Before I'd seen the light of day, the number of days you planned for me were already recorded in your book. Psalm 139:16 TPT
He knows what we are about to say,
You are so intimately aware of me Lord,
You read my heart like an open book and you know all the words I'm about to speak before I even start a sentence!
You know every step I will take before my journey even begins. Psalm 139:3-4 TPT
And He cares. He cares deeply for each one of us, thinking about us continually.
Every single moment you are thinking of me! How precious and wonderful to consider that you cherish me constantly in your every thought! Psalm 139:17 TPT
He doesn't get distracted like me because He can truly multitask - every single moment, thinking about all the people He has created. I can't even think about 4 children at once!
But what I am understanding more and more, is that God isn't just thinking about us. No, He is doing on our behalf, creating opportunities for us to encounter more of His love for us. For example ...
Perhaps through an unplanned meeting with someone which leads to a conversation which then leads to heartfelt prayer and an action that results in the start of a relationship being restored.
Perhaps through being obedient and doing something that you wouldn't normally do, only to find out that God had you there for a different purpose, to be a blessing in a way that you had not planned.
Perhaps through a prompting to pray in the Spirit, having no knowledge of what you are praying, to then seconds later avoiding having your car and children t-boned at the round-a-about.
Yes, God is thinking about us and doing things for us....
You've gone into my future to prepare the way,
and in kindness you follow behind me
to spare me from the harm of my past.
With your hand of love upon my life,
you impart a blessing to me.
Psalm 139:5 TPT
God has his hand of love upon us, you and me. He is interested in all we do and say. He isn't distracted for a moment by anything else that is going on in the world.
And He wants us to have that same deep desire and love for Him, and then for others he has brought into our sphere of influence.
Our love for others is our grateful response to the love God first demonstrated to us. 1 John 4:19 TPT
However sometimes it is hard for us to believe there is a God in Heaven who is interested in us, as our unprocessed pain hinders us from fully receiving His love. Pain can prevent us from understanding that He is always thinking about us and doing things for us.
So today, let's ask God to show us if we have any blockages to receiving His love due to unprocessed pain. Praying Psalm 139 verses 23 and 24 is great place to start.
God, I invite your searching gaze into my heart.
Examine me through and through;
find out everything that may be hidden within me.
Put me to the test and sift through all my anxious cares.
See if there is any path of pain I'm walking on,
and lead me back to your glorious, everlasting ways -
the path that brings me back to you.
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There is a song I remember from Sunday school, the wise man built his house upon the rock. This song recounts what happens we choose to build on different foundations - the rock or the sand. It is based on this scripture,
What good does it do for you to say I am your Lord and Master if what I teach you is not put into practice?
Let me describe the one who truly follows me and does what I say. He is like a man who chooses the right place to build a house and then lays a deep and secure foundation. When the storms and floods rages against that house, it continues to stand strong and unshaken through the tempest, for it has been wisely built on the right foundation.
But the one who has heard my teaching and does not obey it is like a man who builds a house without laying any foundation whatsoever. When the storms and floods rage against that house, it will immediately collapse and become a total loss. Which of these two builders will you be? Luke 6:46-49 TPT
This is Jesus talking to his followers, challenging them to listen and obey, to really hear what He is saying and to put His teachings into practice.
Why are you so polite with me, always saying, 'Yes, sir,' and 'That's right, sir,' but never doing a thing I tell you? Luke 6:46 The Message
When I hear this question I think about the times when I have not done things (thought, word or deed) Jesus' way. Those are the times when my flesh takes over - my pain, my selfish desires or my need for instant gratification. Some of them happened just last week!
But despite my mistakes, I know there is a God who forgives me, and has grace sufficient for me - and you. He really wants us to know this truth, that He is stable, a deep and secure foundation for us to build our lives on.
These words I speak to you are not mere additions to your life, homeowner improvements to your standard of living. They are foundation words, words to build a life on. Luke 6:47 The Message
We always have a choice. We can choose Jesus, or we can reject Him and look elsewhere. When we choose Jesus, and purposefully move forward in His ways, we can stand (maybe wobbling a bit), no matter what storms and floods come our way.
If you work the words into your life, you are like a smart carpenter who dug deep and laid the foundation of this house on bedrock. When the river burst its banks and crashed against the house, nothing could shake it; it was built to last. Luke 6:48 The Message
Words cannot express how grateful I am that Jesus has been my foundation over the past 22 years. Many storms and floods have come and I have no doubt that the only reason I and my family are still standing, and now thriving, is because of Jesus. His love, His grace, His mercy, His patience and His wisdom in guiding us on how to build a foundation - His way. Not like the way of the foolish man....
But if you just use my words in Bible studies and don't work them into your life, you are like a dumb carpenter who built a house but skipped the foundation. When the swollen river came crashing in, it collapsed like a house of cards. It was a total loss. Luke 6:49 The Message
So that brings us back to this question from Jesus, 'Which of these two builders will you be?'
There are a couple of responses to this question, firstly for those who don't yet know Jesus as their Lord and Saviour, today will you choose to say, "Jesus I want to do life your way, forgive me for building my own unsustainable foundation. Help me to follow your ways."
Secondly for those who are already following Jesus and want to build a stronger foundation in Him, will we choose to say, "Jesus, help us to build a deeper foundation in You. Show us what needs to change in our lives, and help us to make those changes. Help us to be the wise man who digs deep and builds securely on the Rock so that we will not be moved when the storms and floods come."
Thank you Jesus for your mercy and compassion and unfailing love for us. Thank you that you are ready and waiting to be our deep and secure foundation. In your mighty name we pray, Amen.
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A little story. Yesterday I sat next to the MRI machine as Victoria had her 25th brain scan. The pattern of the beeps of the machine become strangely familiar after a few years, so yesterday when there was a pause in the process and then the machine did something recognisably different I felt my body tense. What's going on? Why is it different today? On the outside I sat calmly, but on the inside fear was trying to take hold.
Some self-talk, "No. All is good. You've got this God."
Breathing. Keep breathing.
I've had this experience before, about 7 years ago when it was me in the CT machine. They stopped the scan to review the images with a doctor before continuing to take another set of images. There was a concern. But praise God as they continued down the path with surgery, the concern dissipated.
Breathing. Keep breathing.
And then there was Victoria's initial scan 7.5 years ago, when I was oblivious to these nuances but I knew something wasn't right.
Some more self-talk, "It's gonna be okay. My God's got this."
The nurse enters the room. She explains that the doctor had ordered a different scan today.
My mind starts racing, why? He didn't say anything about that six months ago.
Breathing. Keep breathing.
The nurse continues explaining that now they are doing a different type of scan for children. She is looking intently into my eyes to re-assure me. Victoria is oblivious, watching the movie via the mirrors.
Okay, I choose to trust the nurse's words. I choose to trust that my God has got this. It's gonna be okay.
Some more new things happen during the scan, and then it is finished. We leave. We'll return on Thursday to get the results.
This is a little story of fragility, faith and the choice to trust. Fragility from the pain of past experiences. Faith to believe that there is a God in heaven who is bigger than our circumstances. And making the choice to trust Him in the waiting.
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1 NKJV
Today, if there is something in your life that is playing on your fragility, then lets remember who we are - children of God, with full access to the throne room of God ....
So now we come freely and boldly to where love is enthroned, to receive mercy's kiss and discover the grace we urgently need to strengthen us in our time of weakness. Hebrews 4:16 TPT
Let's go freely and boldly to Jesus today.
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Pain. What do we do with it? We can let it fester and the result is not pretty. We do and say things that we regret, resulting in the need to say sorry and be forgiven. That was me last week!
Pain. We can let it isolate us. It's too hard to connect because it takes emotional energy, and all our energy is being consumed by our pain. So we don't bother trying. That was me six years ago!
Pain. We can acknowledge it. Be real and say yes I am in pain. I am not okay. I need help. God help me. That was me on Monday!
Pain. We can release it - the right way - to Jesus. For me, times of worship are always a beautiful time of releasing pain, whether at church, at my desk, in my kitchen or in my car. Find me at the feet of Jesus, by Christy Nockels, always takes me to that place of surrender and release. That was me this morning!
Pain. It can be used for good, Romans 8:28 tells us,
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to whose who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28 NKJV
In the dark times I found it very hard to believe this truth and often wrestled with it. However eventually, in faith it brought hope to my soul, along with Ephesians 3:20-21
Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21 NKJV
Pain. Something God uses (but doesn't give) to draw people to Himself, both directly and indirectly through the testimony of others. If we process our pain well with Jesus, and other support, we will, because of a growing understanding of God's grace and mercy, draw closer to Him, and become those 'others' who testify to Romans 8:28.
Pain. Helps us to know that we know, that we know, God is for us.
What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31 NKJV
Another one of my favourite songs is You are for me, written by Kari Jobe. Again it helps take me to that place of knowing that I am loved and there is a God in heaven looking after me. Here are some of the lyrics
So faithful, so constant, so loving and so true
So powerful in all you do
You fill me, you see me
You know my every move
You love for me to sing to you
I know that you are for me, I know that you are for me
I know that you will never forsake me in my weakness
And I know that you have come now even if to write upon my heart
To remind me who you are
When we know that God is for us, we can continue on with hope while we are experiencing pain. We know in faith that we will see victory in Jesus Name.
Yet even in the midst of all these things, we triumph over them all, for God has made us to be more than conquerors, and his demonstrated love is our glorious victory over everything!
So now I live with the confidence that there is nothing in the universe with the power to separate us from God's love. I'm convinced that this love will triumph over death, life's troubles, fallen angels, or dark rulers in the heavens. There is nothing in our present or future circumstances that can weaken his love. There is no power above us or beneath us - no power that could ever be found in the universe that can distance us from God's passionate love, which is lavished upon us through our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One!
Romans 8:37-39 The Passion Translation
Let's pray,
Jesus, help me today to acknowledge my pain. Please forgive me for the hurt I have caused through my pain. Help me to sit with you and process my pain well. Please bring people to walk with me and guide me in this process. Thank you that you are for me and nothing can separate me from your love. Thank you that I am more than a conqueror because of you. Please help me to get to the place when I can testify to your goodness, grace and mercy. In your Name I pray, Amen.
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So then, we must cling in faith to all we know to be true. For we have a magnificent King-Priest, Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who rose into the heavenly realm for us, and now sympathises with us in our frailty. He understands humanity, for as a Man, our magnificent King-Priest was tempted in every way just as we are, and conquered sin. So now we come freely and boldly to where love is enthroned, to receive mercy's kiss and discover the grace we urgently need to strengthen us in our time of weakness. Hebrews 4:14-16 TPT
I have some sticky notes on the edge of my PC monitor and desk. On each sticky note there are names. Each name has a need. Some are clinging in faith to Jesus. He understands.
This morning another name was added, and a hearts cry went up to God, our Heavenly Father. He understands.
God, we need you. These people, these things going on in their lives, they need your miracle working presence.
A song comes, Lord of All by Hillsong .... the chorus
Lord of all
All of creation
Sings Your praise
In Heaven and earth
Lord we stand
Hearts open wide
Be exalted
He is Lord of all. Psalm 100 reminds us of this truth.
Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands!
Serve the LORD with gladness;
Come before His presence with singing.
Know that the LORD, He is God;
It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves;
We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.
Psalm 100:1-3 NKJV
Come before His presence - what a powerful place to be - His presence - the place to be. The place where hearts are transformed. How do we get there? We start by being still.
Surrender your anxiety! Be silent and stop your striving and you will see that I am God. I am the God above all the nations, and I will be exalted throughout the whole earth. Psalm 46:10 TPT
We acknowledge Who He is and what He does for us.
Here he stands!
The Commander!
The mighty Lord of Angel Armies is on our side!
The God of Jacob fights for us!
Psalm 46:11 TPT
The God of Jacob is fighting for every name on those sticky notes. He made each one. He is on their side.
We choose to trust, because if we don't, we get lost and we lose.
Trust in the Lord completely, and do not rely on your own opinions. With all your heart rely on him to guide you, and he will lead you in every decision you make. Proverbs 3:5 TPT
We choose to give thanks, sometimes in faith.
Enter into His gates with thanksgiving,
And into His courts with praise.
Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.
For the LORD is good;
His mercy is everlasting,
And His truth endures to all generations. Psalm 100:4-5 NKJV
There may be tears during this process of surrender, as your heart connects with the heart of your Heavenly Father. But these tears are good because there is an exchange taking place. Our desire for control, our feelings of hopelessness are being exchanged for the truth that He is Lord of all, He is trustworthy and He is on our side. We need that growing level of intimacy with our God.
Become intimate with him in whatever you do, and he will lead you wherever you go. Don't think for a moment that you know it all, for wisdom comes when you adore him with undivided devotion and avoid everything that's wrong. Then you will find the healing refreshment your body and spirit long for. Proverbs 3:6-8 TPT
And with that intimacy helping to build our confidence and trust in Who Jesus is, we can ...
therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16 NKJV
Let's do that today. Stop. Surrender. Exchange. Go Boldly and receive mercy and grace, in the name of Jesus.
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In my early years of 'mummying' four children I tried to schedule things to make the weeks as easy as possible for myself.
For example, with physical activity and sport, one strategy I employed was to encourage them all to do swimming, it was in one location, not weather dependent, cheapish, both boys and girls can participate in it, and of course, it is good for their fitness. And one of the biggest benefits for me, the mum was that it was easy to fit into our weekly schedule.
But it soon became evident that not all four children had a passion for swimming. It turns out that they had their own ideas about what they wanted to do for physical exercise! Yes, it seems they have their own thoughts and desires. They are four individual humans, that are not always going to fit into the nice orderly picture I had in my mind.
God reminded me of their uniqueness this morning as I was praying for them. I paused and read back over the prayers I'd journalled for each child, where I had thanked God for what He is doing in their lives and asked Him to help them in specific areas.
As I re-read the prayers I realised that they were very different for each child. Of course their differing ages had something to do with this, but it was more than that. It was as if God was showing me that they were unique because He created them that way. We read that truth in Psalm 139.
You formed my innermost being, shaping my delicate inside and my intricate outside, and wove them all together in my mother's womb. Psalm 139:13 TPT
God knows them inside and out.
I thank you, God, for making me so mysteriously complex! Everything you do is marvelously breathtaking. It simply amazes me to think about it! How thoroughly you know me Lord! Psalm 139:14 TPT
Mysteriously complex. Children sometimes certainly are that to us, the parents. However our children are thoroughly known by the Lord. He has their number of days planned.
You saw who you created me to be before I became me! Before I'd ever seen the light of day, the number of days you planned for me were already recorded in your book. Psalm 139:16 TPT
God has a unique plan for each of them.
For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome. Jeremiah 29:11 AMP
The final outcome, always drawing us to Himself, that is where our Heavenly Father's focus is. He is interested in the heart.
Beloved, we are God's children right now; however it is not yet apparent what we will become. But we do know that when it is finally made visible, we will be just like him, for we will see him as he truly is. And all who focus their hope on him will always be purifying themselves, just as Jesus is pure. 1 John 3:2-3 TPT
Not like me in those early parenting years, where my focus was more on trying to make my workload as easy as possible - arranging for them to all do the same things because it suited my schedule! Thankfully God's grace is sufficient for my selfishness.
God doesn't want our children's unique gifts and talents squashed because it doesn't fit with our thoughts, plans and schedules. No, He wants them understand their uniqueness, and to embrace and love it, because He has created them that way for His purposes. We as parents have the privilege of helping our children on this journey of discovery.
Of course all that I've written here this morning about uniqueness and purpose, applies not only to our children, but also to us. We are created by God, valued by Him and loved by Him. We are set apart, with a heavenly calling.
And so, dear brothers and sisters, you are now made holy, and each of you is invited to the feast of your heavenly calling. So fasten your thoughts fully unto Jesus, whom we embrace as our Apostle and King-priest. Hebrews 3:1 TPT
So today, let's not let our schedules get in the way of what God wants to do in and through us and those we love. Let's pray that God will help us today to fasten our thoughts fully unto Jesus, and giving ourselves and others space and permission to be all that God has called us to be.
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Here's a little story about the changing of seasons, I pray it is encouraging to all who are currently in a challenging season.
For at least 18 months, possibly longer, I have had this password on my computer, 'new day dawning.' (Now I'm going to have to change it!). Given that I frequently use my computer throughout the day, I was often typing these words and saying them quietly under my breath, 'It's a new day dawning.' I probably declared them at least 30 times a day over our family.
It was a prophetic statement that God was bringing our family into a new season. It started as a faith declaration as our actual circumstances were not reflecting that in anyway. But there was a sense in my heart that we were on the cusp of something new.
A few weeks ago it was my birthday and I was having some time for myself and was hungry to hear from God. At 47 years old, after some very difficult years, I wondered what was He going to say to me? I was reading Luke 5:37-39 from The Passion Translation. Jesus is talking to his disciples.
And who pours new wine into an old wineskin? If someone did, the old wineskin would burst and the new wine would be lost. New wine must always be poured into new wineskins. Yet you say, 'The old ways are better,' and you refuse to even taste the new that I bring'. Luke 5:37-39 TPT
I felt God challenge me with these words, 'Are you open, really open to taste the new things that I am going to bring into your life?'
As God was asking me these questions I was reminded of the new song from Hillsong, New Wine. So I sat in bed listening to that song over and over again,
Make me a vessel
Make me an offering
Make me whatever you want me to be
I came here with nothing
but all you have given me
Jesus bring new wine out of me
The more I listened, the more those words became the cry of my heart, totally surrendering my life and my plans. There was a growing desire to do all that God wanted me to do.
It was as though God was asking me, Are you ready to take all those years of crying out to Me, pressing in, hanging on and trusting that I would bring you through, and lay them down and let me do something new?
A big question. Am I? Can I? Will I? Yes. Yes. And yes.
So why am I sharing this God encounter with you? Simply to encourage those who are still in a night season, possibly feeling like David was in Psalm 13.
How long, O LORD? Will You forget me forever?
How long will You hide Your face from me?
How long shall I take counsel in my soul?
Having sorrow in my heart daily?
How long will my enemy be exalted over me?
Consider and hear me, O LORD my God;
Enlighten my eyes,
Lest I sleep the sleep of death;
Lest my enemy say,
I have prevailed against him";
Lest those who trouble me rejoice when I am moved.
But I have trusted in Your mercy;
My heart shall rejoice in Your salvation.
I will sing to the LORD,
Because He has dealt bountifully with me.
Psalm 13 NKJV
Over the years people have said to me, 'This won't last forever' and at times I struggled to believe that. As when you are in the night season it is so difficult to see beyond it. In that season Ephesians 3:20-21 was one of the scriptures I spent time daily meditating on ...
Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21 NKJV
Amen. So be it - in your life and in mine.
Hebrews 11:1 was on the back of our toilet door, a reminder to just believe ...
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1 NKJV
Even as I am writing this post today, sharing the hope that a new season will arrive in your life and mine, making the declaration that a new day is dawning, there is a niggly voice trying to get into my head, saying, 'What about that upcoming scan for Victoria? You know this could all be a lie, perhaps you haven't heard this from God. What a fool you are making of yourself.'
But to that voice I choose to say, 'No, you are a liar,' and declare Ephesians 3:20-21
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 energises 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 The Passion Translation
I pray that you will be able to recognise the enemy's voice when he comes to kill, steal and destroy your dreams and your declarations of faith to move into a new season. So that you can declare God's goodness and faithfulness over your life, and trust that a new season is on the way.
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On ANZAC day this year we had afternoon tea with Ken's parents at a local park. Something very special happened that afternoon. As we were chatting with Ken's dad, John, he started talking about a hymn he had written. I asked him if he would sing it for us. He generously let me video him and gave his permission for me to put the video on my blog.
As John sang his lovingly created song, tears came as I felt God reminding me that He always looks at the heart.
But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." 1 Samuel 16:7 NKJV
John's life has not been easy, and he is currently not in the best of health, yet his heart is so tender towards Jesus. Even now as I listen to him sing this song, there are tears. He knows that he is loved by God.
So a couple of questions for us to consider, firstly what does God see when he looks into our heart?
If we are honest, this is a very sobering question - no one has a pure heart. We all have some motives in our heart that don't align with God's heart for us.
For me, over the past month I feel that once again God has been challenging me about what is in my heart - that strong desire I have to get all the tasks done, to have all the boxes ticked and everything neatly ordered!
He has been gently asking me these questions, will you put people first Wendy? Will you lay down your agenda for the day and take time to connect with those I want you to connect with? Do you trust that I, your Heavenly Father, will make a way for everything I want done to get done?
Yes, very good questions for me! Reading 2 Peter 1:5-8 earlier this week was another way God reminded me of His priorities.
So devote yourselves to lavishly supplementing your faith with goodness, and to goodness add understanding, and to understanding add the strength of self-control, and to self-control add patient endurance, and to patient endurance add godliness, and to godliness add mercy toward your brothers and sisters, and to mercy toward others add unending love. Since these virtues are already planted deep within, and you possess them in abundant supply, they will keep you from being inactive or fruitless in your pursuit of knowing Jesus Christ more intimately. 2 Peter 1:5-8 The Passion Translation
The spiritual state of heart is central to getting us to the place where God can do what He wants to do in us and through us. There is a great need for us to be continually praying Psalm 139:23-24. Here it is from The Passion Translation.
God, I invite your searching gaze into my heart. Examine me through and through; find out everything that may be hidden within me. Put me to the test and sift through all my anxious cares. See if there is any path of pain I'm walking on, and lead me back to your glorious, everlasting ways - the path that brings me back to you.
The second question to consider is, do we really know that we are loved by God? Despite the pain and disappointment that we have experienced in our lives, do we know that there is a God in Heaven who loves us and has carried us through those times? A God who has a plan for you and me and desires to spend eternity with us in Heaven?
Jesus said,
"For this is how much God loved the world - he gave his one and only, unique Son as a gift. So now everyone who believes in him will never perish but experience everlasting life. God did not send his Son into the world to judge and condemn the world, but to be its Saviour and to rescue it." John 3:16-17 The Passion Translation
A final question, if you wrote a song about God, what would you write? What love and truth from your heart would be revealed? Why not have a go? You may just find that your song touches other people's hearts, drawing people closer to God, just like John's song did for me.
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
In the seasons of smoother sailing, as well as keeping that hunger for intimacy with God growing, it is important that we take time to understand what God has taught us during the storms, and ask Him how He wants to use us as His vessel to minister to others.
As the season for our family is changing from survival mode to more normal living, I am getting greater revelation of this truth. Here are a couple of scriptures God has recently highlighted to me,
But you are God's chosen treasure - priests who are kings, a spiritual "nation" set apart as God's devoted ones. He called you out of darkness to experience his marvellous light, and now he claims you as his very own. He did this so that you would broadcast his glorious wonders throughout the world. 1 Peter 2:9 TPT
Every believer has received grace gifts, so use them to serve one another as faithful stewards of the many-coloured tapestry of God's grace. 1 Peter 4:10 NKJV
So why not ask God who He wants you to help, and if they aren't in your life already, ask Him to bring them to you.
I love the movie WarRoom. Yes, it is fiction, however I wonder how many true stories it reflects. For those who haven't seen the movie, it is a beautiful story of an elderly widow who has learned so much from a living in a less than perfect marriage (normal!!!). She asks God to bring a younger wife into her life so she can come alongside her and impart wisdom. In Paul's letter to Titus we find him talking about this type of helping.
Likewise with the female elders, lead them into lives free from gossip and drunkenness and to be teachers of beautiful things. This will enable them to teach the younger women to love their husbands, to love their children, and to be self-controlled and pure, taking care of their household and being devoted to their husbands. By doing these things the word of God will not be discredited. Titus 2:3-5 TPT
Imagine what would happen if we all prayed that prayer, 'Lord, bring me someone I can help.'
Perhaps you might be thinking, 'I am not equipped to help anyone. I don't have the time and ability.' Be encouraged, you have all that you need to start now.
Years ago I remember hearing someone say, 'just use what is in your hand'. In the early years of Victoria's illness I had a desire to do something more for God, but I was quite limited in time, resources, and location, as most of my time was spent either at the hospital or caring for Victoria at home.
But God reminded me that I had a computer, an internet connection, the ability to write, and that He was doing plenty of things that I could write about.
Throughout that period when I started blogging, and with other projects I have started since, He always reminds me of Zechariah 4:10,
Does anyone dare despise this day of small beginnings? They'll change their tune when they see Zerubbabel setting the last stone in place! Zechariah 4:10 The Message
Another way that God might be wanting to use you and the wisdom gained from the storms could be by serving in a new or different way at church or elsewhere. This might become evident by a prompting of the Holy Spirit, or an invitation.
Last year I received an invitation to do something new, being a reader/writer for the HSC exams. When the invitation came, despite a busy work and family schedule, I felt the Holy Spirit say, 'say yes'. So I said yes.
Press pause - as you may have gathered, during the past seven years my prayer life has changed dramatically, my hunger to spend time with God, and hear his voice is continually growing and impacting on every area of my life, and hopefully by the grace of God, the lives of others around me.
Back to the story, during one of the exams, while I was in the room, I was not actually required to any reading or writing. So I started praying in my head for the student, perhaps 15 minutes or so, and then I started to pray for our family. But I felt the Holy Spirit say, 'No, I want you to pray for the student', so I prayed again for the student. Then after a little while I start to pray for our business, but again the Holy Spirit said, 'No, I want you to pray for the student'. So I prayed again for the student. Then I thought about praying for the children's creative ministry at church, but then I finally realised that my job today was not to read and write for the HSC student, it was to pray for them - 2.5hrs of dedicated prayer.
I learned a couple things from that experience,
- When an invitation comes, we need to ask the Holy Spirit what our answer is to be, as God has probably got far greater plans for that invitation, than just what we can immediately see.
"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways", says the LORD. "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways. And My thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8-9 NKJV
- God really loves us and will go to great lengths to help us in all situations. It amazed me that He loved this student so much, that He would arrange for someone to come and physically sit alongside them and pray for that length of time. I guess it shouldn't have amazed me so much, especially when we remember that God gave up his only Son, Jesus, so we could have eternal life, but I am human and it did.
But that thought does bring us back to Jesus, the anchor, where this little series on the analogy of the sailing voyage and the storms of life began. Jesus, our hope in all things.
And now we have run into his heart to hide ourselves in his faithfulness. This is where we find his strength and comfort, for he empowers us to seize what has already been established ahead of time - an unshakeable hope! We have this certain hope like a strong, unbreakable anchor holding our souls to God himself. Our anchor of hope is fastened to the mercy seat which sits in the heavenly realm beyond the sacred threshold, and where Jesus, our forerunner, has gone in before us. He is now and forever our royal Priest like Melchizedek. Hebrews 6:18-20 TPT
I pray that this series has been a blessing to you and regardless of whatever season you find yourself in now, Jesus will be your hope. And that in all seasons your desire to draw closer to Him will grow, and that the outworking of that desire will be a blessing to many.
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
So what happens when you make it through the storm and you are at anchor in a safe and peaceful location? A few things.
Firstly there is likely to be a feeling of relief, we made it! Thank you Jesus.
Then if you are process-minded like me you may start to do a mental review of how you could have been better prepared for the storm, or consider what could you have done differently in the storm
Finally you may ask that important question, what did I learn from the storm and how can I use that knowledge in preparing for the future?
And so it is with the storms of life, how do we take what we've learned about ourselves, God and our relationship with Him, and move forward? How do we at the very least maintain and hopefully build on the new level of intimacy with our heavenly father, that has developed through the storm?
It is easy when we have a deep personal need to cry out to God, petitioning Him to move in the circumstance, to heal, to provide, to help us through that minute of the day. The Psalms express these cries so well.
Oh, Lord God, answer my prayers!
I need to see your tender kindness, your grace,
your compassion, and your constant love.
Just let me see your face, and turn your heart toward me.
Come running quickly to your servant.
In this deep distress, come and answer my prayer.
Psalm 69:16-17 TPT
But what happens when by His grace and mercy that desperate need is gone and life moves to a new normal? How to you make sure that you don't revert back to that self-sufficient independent life, forgetting to do your day with Jesus because there appears to be no immediate need for Him?
Over the past couple of years as our family has transitioned from survival mode to a more normal life, here are some of the practical things that I've done to keep growing the hunger for a deeper relationship with God.
- Read a different translation/version of the Bible
For me this has included reading different translations of the Bible. I am currently loving reading The Passion Translation. I have also been reading a NKJV Bible with that includees leadership commentary from John Maxwell, The Maxwell Leadership Bible - Lessons in leadership from the Word of God, by John Maxwell. His commentary includes thoughts ont how God used the trials people faced to build character to enable them to do what He had planned for them.
I believe reading different Bible translations/versions helps to keep God's word fresh, and can help us to get greater revelation of His truth to help us move along the maturity path.
For the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power [making it active, operative, energising, and effective]; it is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating to the dividing line of the breath of life (soul) and [the immortal] spirit, and of the joints and marrow [of the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and sifting and analyzing and judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 AMP
- Get a new devotional book, start listening to a new podcast
God speaks through so many different people, in different ways for different purposes. I sometimes go to Koorong, knowing that I want to listen to someone I haven't listened to before, and I stand in front of the audio book section and say, "Holy Spirit, please show me who you want me to learn from," and he always directs me to exactly what I need to hear.
- Reading about or listening to other Christians who have done similar journeys
As Victoria has grown older and started to process her journey in new ways, we have sought out the stories of other Christians who have faced challenges, particularly physical challenges. We are currently reading, Joni, by Joni Eareckson Tada. As we read how she coped, what God taught her, it has prompted discussion about what we have learned. It has also given us another example of how God has used what happened to her for good, just as He promises in Romans 8:28.
So we are convinced that every detail of our lives is continually woven together to fit into God's perfect plan of bringing good into our lives, for we are his lovers who have been called to fulfill his designed purpose. Romans 8:28 TPT
- Sing a new song
How blessed are we today to have access to a multitude of scripture based, Jesus inspired music. Again, ask the Holy Spirit to guide you to something new. So many times, in my private worship time, I have heard a song for the first time and it has been like God has unlocked a little more of my heart with the lyrics and music. Or perhaps it is time for you to write your own song .... just a thought.
Go-ahead - sing your new song to the Lord!
Let everyone in every language sing him a new song.
Don't stop! Keep on singing! Make his name famous!
Tell everyone every day how wonderful he is.
Give them the good news of our great Saviour.
Take the message of his glory and miracles into every nation.
Tell them about all the amazing things that he has done.
Psalm 96:1-3 TPT
- Experiment with the times and places you talk to God
I love routine. But I know that routine can stifle what God wants to do, because the truth is I can sometimes loves my routine (code word for control) more than God! So it is good to sometimes change it up, to have your quiet time in a new place, perhaps out in the garden or on a balcony. Look for a different time in the day to do a devotion, maybe while you are waiting in the car to pick up children. Give God space to talk to you in new ways.
I am passionately in love with God because he listens to me. He hears my prayers and answers them. As long as I live I'll keep praying to him, for he stoops down to listen to my heart's cry. Psalm 116:1-2 TPT
So in your life, if the storm is finished, and you are entering a new season, and you want to continue to grow your relationship with Christ, I pray that these practical ideas I have shared today will be a starting point. Even if they are just a prompt for you to say, "God, I want a greater intimacy with you, please show me how."
He will answer you, because he wants that closer relationship with you. Be expectant and have courage to do what he shows you. He loves you.
Look with wonder at the depth of the Father's marvelous love that he has lavished on us! He has called us and made us his very own beloved children. 1 John 3:1 TPT
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
When preparing for a voyage one of the crucial factors is having the right crew. My dad was so blessed to have myself, my sister and my mum as his crew. During our sailing days when the storm hit, we were right there - down in the cabin keeping warm and dry, while he was out in the cockpit getting covered in salt spray and buffeted by the wind, doing his best to sail the boat through the storm. Yes, we were a very committed and supportive crew. Not! Ideally at least one of us should have been in the cockpit with dad helping him sail the boat in the 40 knot winds.
In life too, we were not designed to ride out the storms by ourselves. For me when the storms come, I have a tendency to want to hide from people, just wanting to get on with my life with minimal interaction, hoping everything will go away. The effort to connect with others drains my emotional energy. However I know that for other people, like my husband, in the storm, they need to connect with people. It's probably the internal vs external processor way of coping.
In our journey with Victoria, these differences in coping became very evident within hours of her diagnosis. Thankfully a social worker explained this to us and emphasised the importance of respecting the way each other will process through this storm.
That's a bit of a long introduction, but the key learning for me about this has been, that regardless of the sort of processor we are, in the storm, we all need other people. People who will love us, despite the out-workings of our stress. People who will pray for us. People who will fill the gaps emotionally and practically when we are unable to.
So we have choice number four in preparing for the storms - will I connect with another human being today?
To position us well for both the storms of life we will encounter, and to support others as they go through their storms, we need to connect with other people. We were made to be with others. And not just be with them, but actually connect in a meaningful way, giving them your time and attention.
Jesus simply says,
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. John 13:34 NKJV
At the weekend we were at the sporting ground and I had moved to the other end of the field to take some photos. This was the area in which the opposing team's supporters were sitting. I was intent on watching the game and getting some good shots. Ken came down to join me and he struck up a conversation with a parent from the opposing team, as Ken does!
It soon became evident that they were in a storm with some similarities to our journey with Victoria. Ken was fully engaged. I was only half listening in, still trying to get those photos! The more sort-of listened, the more I felt the prompting of the Holy Spirit saying, pray for the child, now. So with God's courage I asked if it would be okay if I prayed for the child right there on the sidelines of the field. The response was yes. It was a precious moment.
There is much to be learned from this experience ...
- Everyone has a story, a need.
2.Be Brave and connect - this parent could have stayed at home with her unwell child, but she didn't. Ken didn't have to strike up a conversation, but he did. She didn't have to tell us her story, but she did.
- Obey the promptings of the Holy Spirit - believe in faith that He has a plan and is working in the unseen.
We need each other. Sometimes we are the ones that need support. Sometimes we are the ones to do the supporting. So many times I have had the image in my mind of Moses having his arms held up by Aaron and Hur.
And Moses said to Joshua, Choose us out men and go out, fight with Amalek. Tomorrow I will stand on the top of the hill with the rod of God in my hand.
So Joshua did as Moses said and fought with Amalek; and Moses, Aaron, and Hur went up to the hilltop. When Moses held up his hand, Israel prevailed; and when he lowered his hand, Amalek prevailed.
But Moses' hands were heavy and grew weary. So [the other men] took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Then Aaron and Hur held up his hands, one on one side and one on the other side; so his hands were steady until the going down of the sun.
And Joshua mowed down and disabled Amalek and his people with the sword. Exodus 17:9-13 AMP
In my life, sometimes I have needed my arms held up, and I give thanks to God for bringing the people to do exactly that, in prayer but also in many other ways. Sometimes it has been me holding up the arms of others, what a privilege and blessing to do so.
Praise God for His wisdom of creating a concept called relationship - connecting with love, grace and forgiveness. He knows we cannot do this life alone, and we certainly can't make it through the storms and emerge stronger without God and other people. We need to connect with Him and others.
We need people, and people need us. Every day is preparation for the future, so lets not prepare alone. Today, let's choose to connect in some way with someone and learn more about loving one another well, just as Jesus loves us.
"Let me give you a new command. Love one another. In the same way I loved you, you love one another. This is how everyone will recognise that you are my disciples - when they see the love you have for each other." John 13:34-35 The Message
My last three posts have looked at some ways we can prepare for the storms that will come our way, by considering the choices that we make today:
- How am I walking with Jesus today?
- Did I read my Bible today?
- Will I choose to sing God's praises today, regardless of what is happening?
- Will I connect with another human being today on a deeper level?
As I said in Preparing for the storm part 1, making good choices in these areas enables us to:
- More quickly recognise the oncoming storms in our life
- Understand that we are not alone
- Have the courage to make a good choice
- Hang in there until the circumstance has passed.
So let’s ask God to help us make good choices today.
Jesus, please help us today with the choices that we make. Help us to make the choice to include you in every aspect of this day, talking and listening to you. Put a greater desire in our hearts to be with you and read your word and meditate on your truth. Please help us to come to the place where we can honestly sing your praises, regardless of what is happening around us, knowing that you are faithful and trustworthy, always. Thank you for the people that you bring into our lives, help us to connect at a deeper level with them, and both giving and receiving love. Thank you Jesus for your unfailing love for us and your grace and mercy that enables us to get through each day. In your name we pray, Amen.
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
I wonder what has happened in your last seven days. Has a storm hit or are you in a time of smooth sailing? Is there a storm brewing on the horizon?
Here is another every-day choice we need to think about, choices that are a key part of preparing when that big storm hits...
Choice Three: Will I choose to sing God's praises today, regardless of what is happening?
There are different places in which we have the opportunity to sing praises to God. The most obvious one is church. The church that we are blessed to belong to always has a beautiful vibrant time of praise and worship. An atmosphere where God's tangible presence can be felt.
However for me over the years there have been days when I have been in church and have had to consciously choose to open my mouth and sing those words of praise. On those days my heart has been full of pain, fear and disappointment.
My head knew all the words to the songs, but did I believe them? As I stood to sing, sometimes for the first couple of songs I just couldn't say the words. I had to let the words wash over me and literally soften my heart to allow God's love into the pain, fear and disappointment.
In those moments of worship it was God's presence, His love, that enabled me to surrender, become more vulnerable, open my mouth to speak those words of praise and worship and trust that they were true.
Although looking back I can see that it was in my private worship times that I first experienced this true surrender. Often this was during time spent singing God's praises in my car. Times when it was literally just me and God, and through music and lyrics God spoke to me and restored my hope. Times when He revealed more of His father heart and love for me.
So in terms of preparation for the big storms, we can practice with the small disappointments, choosing to praise God in those moments. The more we choose to do this, the more we will experience what God can do in us at those times.
Then when the big storms come, we will more quickly make that choice to genuinely sing His praises, because we know that He will bring us through. It almost becomes a default reaction to choose to sing His praises regardless, opening a way for peace and love to flow into our hearts.
Here is some of Psalm 34, for The Passion Translation. I pray that as you read this greater revelation of God's love and faithfulness will wash over you.
Psalm 34:1-10
Lord! I'm bursting with joy over what you've done for me!
My lips are full of perpetual praise.
I'm boasting of you and all your works,
so let all who are discouraged take heart.
Join me, everyone! Let's praise the Lord together.
Let's make him famous!
Let's make his name glorious to all.
Listen to my testimony: I cried to God in my distress
and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears!
Gaze upon him, join your life with his, and joy will come.
You'll never wear that shame-face again.
When I had nothing, desperate and defeated,
I cried out to the Lord and he heard me,
bringing his miracle-deliverance when I needed it most.
The angel of the Lord stooped down down to listen as I prayed, encircling me, empowering me, and showing me how to escape.
He will do this for everyone who fears God.
Drink deeply of the pleasures of this God.
Experience for yourself the joyous mercies he gives
to all who turn to hid themselves in him.
Worship in awe and wonder, all you who've been made holy!
For all who fear him will feast with plenty.
Dear Jesus, please help us today to choose to sing praises to You, regardless of what is going on in our lives. Thank you that you hear our cries when we are in distress and that you answer us with your love and mercy. Thank you that you free us from our fears. Please help us to be vulnerable and to know that you are a safe place, always faithful. Thank you for giving us the freedom to choose to draw closer to you. Amen.
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
Continuing on with the sailing analogy, sometimes we receive a warning that a storm is approaching. In my early sailing days that warning normally came via VHF radio. Now weather forecasts can be easily checked via a mobile phone, or a satellite phone.
But just knowing there is a storm coming is not enough to avoid it. Sometimes there are actions that we can take to avoid the storm. And sometimes we can't avoid them, as per my post last week - Storms and faith.
But in both these situations, either in an unavoidable storm, or when we are alerted about a possible storm, we have choices to make - do something or do nothing. If we decide to do something, the next choice we need to make is - what do we do?
So what helps us to make a good decision regarding what we choose to do? I believe the answer lies in good preparation.
Good preparation enables us to:
- More quickly recognise the oncoming storms of life
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 1 peter 5:8 NIV
- Understand that we are not alone
So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the LORD your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you. Deuteronomy 31:6 NLT
- Have the courage to make a good choice
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13 NKJV
- Hang in there until the circumstance has passed
But the Lord Yahweh is always faithful to place you on a firm foundation and guard you from the Evil one. 2 Thessalonians 3:3 The Passion Translation
They sound like fantastic things to be able to do:
- More quickly recognise the oncoming storms of life
- Understand that we are not alone
- Have courage to make a good choice
- Hang in there until the circumstance has passed
But how do we get there? What is good preparation?
I believe good preparation starts today, with the choices we make in each moment. Here are some choices to consider.
Choice One: How am I walking with Jesus through this day?
Did I wake up with a 'good morning Jesus' and then continue on my day without Him?
Did I have a bit of a chat with Jesus this morning, and then call out to Him again in the afternoon when the children came home and things got a little crazy?
Did I go through my day and then as I crashed into bed, say Hi Jesus, start a conversation and then fall asleep in the middle of it?
Some food for thought. We are all in the process of drawing nearer to Christ, and it is good to sometimes stop and ask, where am I in this process? We don't need to feel guilty about where we are at, because God loves us regardless of how much time we spend with Him. And because He loves us, He just desires to have the closest relationship possible with us.
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. James 4:8 NKJV
And relationship means time and communication - both talking and listening.
Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:12-13 NKJV
Choice Two: Did I read my Bible today? I am not sure where you are at with reading your daily Bible reading. I know I was very 'hit and miss' before our journey with Victoria.
There was always a desire in my heart to read the Bible, but I seemed to get distracted so easily and some days it just didn't happen. Again God's grace is sufficient for each of us, wherever we are at.
However now, after learning how essential it is to daily feed myself with God's truth, I definitely notice that I cope less well with the day's adventures if I have not spent some time reading His truth in the morning, virtually arming myself with His truth, ready to declare it forth when the sticky situations come - big or small.
For example, in our family setting, one of my favourite truths is Ephesians 6:12
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:12 NKJV
(An aside, as I paused in writing this post to attend to getting my children breakfast and off to school, this very truth was tested! Not surprising given the nature of this post - but I will not be distracted from proclaiming God's word.)
Reading God's word helps us to understand what is going on, and He also tells us what to do about it ...
Therefore take up the whole armour of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Ephesians 6:13 NKJV
Reading God's word always helps me move from my little perspective to God's sovereign perspective (well the little that I can comprehend it). It reminds me that He has a plan, and He always has the victory.
Yet even in the midst of all these things, we triumph over them all, for God has made us to be more than conquerors, and his demonstrated love is our glorious victory over everything. Romans 8:37 The Passion Translation
In my next post we will look at some more choices we can make in our preparation for the storms of life.
To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au
In the world of sailing storms happen. Sometimes there is no choice but to go through the storm, as terrifying as that may be. However the wise sailor will know about a technique called 'heaving to' - an ideal technique for riding out a storm, but there's an art to it in heavy seas.
So what about in our lives? Yes, we all experience storms too. They should not be a surprise to us. In James it says,
Consider it wholly joyful, my brethren, whenever you are enveloped in or encounter trials of any sort or fall into various temptations. James 1:2 AMP
Sometimes we can sense a storm is brewing, and if we are wise, we will prepare for it. Other times they arrive unexpectedly and we have to make choices as to how we respond.
In the Gospel of Mark, chapter 4 we read about a storm that arose unexpectedly for the disciples ...
Suddenly as they were crossing the lake, a ferocious tempest arose, with violent winds and waves that were crashing into the boat until it was all but swamped. Mark 4:37 The Passion Translation
Jesus did not appear to be too perturbed by the storm...
But Jesus was calmly sleeping in the stern, resting on a cushion. Mark 4:38 The Passion Translation
I am supposing that the storm wasn't unexpected for Jesus, as He was the one who told them to get in the boat and go to the other side...
On that same day [when] evening had come, He said to them, Let us go over to the other side [of the lake]. Mark 4:35 AMP
But one of the lessons for us from this story, is that in the storm, Jesus chose to rest. He knew where they were going. Before they started the voyage Jesus told the disciples they were going to the other side of the lake. That plan hadn't changed. They had just encountered a storm along the way.
John Maxwell says this about this scripture,
'When a terrifying storm convinced the disciples that they were about to die, they forgot one important factor: Jesus was in the boat and had told them they were going to the other side of the lake. His word always comes to pass.'
The Maxwell Leadership Bible, page 1232
How quickly we can forget God's Word when the storm hits. I wonder how differently I would have responded to those words of the neurologist, 'There is a mass in your child's brain' if I had immediately remembered the promise God had given us at Victoria's dedication some three years before...
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Psalm 23:6 NKJV
But the reality is that I had a faith journey to go on, just like the disciples. It was a journey that was long and painful, but through it I have learned that Jesus is always in the boat with me. It has been a journey of learning how to trust God at a deeper level. A maturing journey (that I am very much still on!), just as James says ...
Be assured and understand that the trial and proving of your faith bring out endurance and steadfastness and patience. James 1:3 AMP
So when the unexpected storm comes, we need to constantly, perhaps every minute, remind ourselves that Jesus is in the storm with us. We need to remind ourselves of His promises and not let our thoughts digress from His truth. He will get us to the other side.
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 1:12 The Passion Translation
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