FORGIVENESS - the Key.

Today is my wedding anniversary - 28years of not always wedded bless. What has helped us through some of those bad times has been a gift God has given us both - the GIFT OF FORGIVENESS.

So, why, if I find this so easy to do in my marriage, am I finding is so hard to do in other areas of my life. When I received my letter from Education Queensland telling me I could `fight' their decision to terminate my employeement, I was in no condition to do so. In fact at the time I didn't think they had done anything wrong. I had made the mistake of moving out of my speciality into the classroom. I was the bad teacher. I was the one who had let my depression effect my work.

Later after speaking with other `hard done by' ex-employees (as they called themselves), I realized I did have other choices. They could have given me a lot better counselling, they could have offered me the opportunity for leave, and most of all, they had no right to deny me of my long-service.

I was ready to fight, but I had another way of doing it. I was going to get a job with another Education Department - I was going to show them!! I would move on - WITHOUT FORGIVENESS and heart still full of bitterness.

Recently, I received a letter from NSW Teach (Education Department). They had turned down me down.

"In view of the Departments (NSW) Occupation Health and Safety Policy, my employment with NSW Teaching Service could seriously compromise the Departments duty of care."

"We also note that there were issues relating to to your performance as a teacher while employed with Education Queensland."

I was a health risk! How dare they! Now I was ready to fight. All I needed was that `Disability Act'. And what about these issues with Education Queensland - it's all their fault. I will never get a job now - because of them. The bitterness grew and grew and we all know what happens to a heart full of unforgiveness and bitterness.

"Their mouths are full of bitterness...... destruction and misery always follow them. They don't know where to find peace. They have no fear of God at all." Romans 3:14-18

Thank you Lord for your Word, and thank you for sending along my old mate Dr Henry - just in time. You don't want to fight - you want to move forward. `The problem is you.' If I take this new bitterness, this hurt into a new relationship (workplace) I am a health risk to myself, my students and my colleagues.

"Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger. harsh words and slander, as well as all types of evil behaviour. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, FORGIVING ONE ANOTHER, just as God, through Christ has forgiven you." Ephesians 4:31&32

But I loved working for Education Queensland and I have been looking forward to being back in a school environment. I made a mistake, they made mistakes, but I cannot move on until I have this freedom from guilt and bitterness. I need to FORGIVE myself and the department.

I thank everyone who has supported me with their kind comments and reminders of God's love for me. But until I can `hold my head high and live free, walking through life without shame, guilt and bitterness', I can never have a brand new start - wherever God intends that to be.

Pray with me, and I will pray for you too. Is there anyone you need to forgive, so that you can move on? Do you need to accept the total forgiveness from our Lord who died on the cross so that you can have this total freedom. Take this first step with me, and together we can `find that peace and rest.'

"Come to me, all you who are tired from carrying heavy loads (of unforgiveness, bitterness and guilt) and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

Welcome to the New Year.

I promised I would not sit down at the computer until the New Year, but my journal is just so full of God's promises I couldn't wait any longer. It is New Years eve - that's close!!

Some of my wonderful friends have acknowledge how much I have grown in 2011:

"Your love and caring touches us all with your blessed presence." (My boss at Kip McGrath).

"I am proud of how you continue to declare your faith - I believe He is also proud of you." (My best friend and encourager).

But I still have a long way to go! I am still in such a hurry to take new steps before I am ready.

"You need to grow and develop your skills. One of the best things you can do is to work on who you are as a person". (Dr Henry Cloud: "The Secret Things of God).

There are 4 main things I need to be able to do before I can `move on', or I will just keep falling down again. They all involve lots of trusting in the Lord, reading His Word and praying.

1. I need to FORGIVE - both myself and Queensland Education.

2. I need to BELIEVE IN MYSELF AGAIN - what do I say when people ask `why aren't you teaching with Qld Ed. anymore, like at job interviews.

3. How can I USE MY GIFTS in other areas of employment? - as a tutor, as a writer, in the Church.

4. I need to TRUST AGAIN - asking for references. What are they actually going to say about me?

In the next few BLOGS, I will have a look at these 4 things in a little more depth, and as I do - I ask for you to PRAY WITH ME, as I continue to seek to `develop my skills, gain wisdom and knowledge and most of all GET CLOSER TO GOD!!`

4.

Money or Service - Can I Have Both?

This week as been busy and quite stressful. Why? Well, lately I have been having a little spiritual struggle. I've called it `Money or Service - Can I Have Both'. In the last couple of weeks I have started a new job as a Tutor. It started with just a little work with Kip McGrath, but then they wanted more, and then another Tutoring Group wanted me for some private Tutoring - a family of ESL Indian children. The little more money would be very handy at the moment, but this would mean giving up my volunteer tutoring at Church.

Oh, I have been getting a lot of encouragement, "there is nothing wrong with money' and `your best ministry can be done outside Church'. Still, I hadn't accepted these, and was still feeling quite guilty. Even when the Church told me they had decided to give their tutoring ministry a break for now. I thanked the Lord for this `way out', but I still blamed myself a little. The Lord and I have been talking this out, but still I felt no freedom - until TODAY.

Last week Pastor David finished our series on Daniel. His other sermons have been good, but I didn't really need a challenge in the areas of integrity and standing up for what I believe. These come naturally. It was the OBEDIENCE and FAITHFULNESS that were my little struggles of late. Although not mentioned in his sermons, my favourite verse that I was having the most hassles with.

"The wise will shine like the brightness. Those who teach others to live right will shine like the stars forever." Daniel 12:3

Ever since I was a child and had made my first decision to accept Christ as my Saviour, all I've ever wanted to be was his SERVANT. I wanted to `SHINE'. Guilt has always been the thing that has not only prevented me from doing this, but had lately also taken away the joy I find in service and worship. (Romans 12:1)

In the back of my Bible I have written a few notes from todays sermon. "God is `missio dei' - a God of missions. He prepares the way for us and then shows us where to go. Even though I was brought up in what some might call a very `sheltered spiritual family', I always found myself in situations, outside the Church where the Lord could use me. As a student and later a teacher in the Public School system, as a Foster Parent, as an Army wife, reaching out to the community with Kids Club, and now I am in what some might call the `sin city' of Queensland, the Gold Coast.

After my bout with depression and the loss of my job in the Public School system, I truly believed it was time I got some encouragement by working in a Christian senting. But the Private Schools didn't want me and I didn't get the Chaplaincy job or Children's pastoral jobs I applied for. Now I am called back to teaching - back into the big, wide world again. As for the joy in service - I find no greater joy than seeing a child's eyes light up when they learn something new.

Another of my greatest joys is music - especially worship. One thing I have missed not being at Bundaberg Church, is having someone make the comment each week, "Your smile when you sing just adds something to our worship." It's easier to smile when you know the words of a song and don't need to concentrate on `getting it right'. This morning in Church I decided to SMILE. I would sing for joy and not worry about whether I sang in key or not.

"My chains are gone, I've been set free." (Chris Tomlin, Louie Giglio). I don't know what chains were binding Chris and Louie when they wrote this `new' chorus of `Amazing Grace'. Maybe, like John Newton, they had just discovered the freedom that came with forgiveness and committment to Christ. For me, those chains have been guilt and fear, and as I am set free from these binds, I can move forward in service for my Lord, wherever that may be.

The Enstrangement from our Creator Has Been Healed

"Let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes focused on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from start to finish. He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross because of the joy He knew would be His afterward. Now He is seated in the place of honor beside God's throne in Heaven." Hebrews 12:1b & 2

Right back from the beginning we know that Adam and Eve sin caused a seperation between God and his beloved children. In the Old Testament we read how His people tried to break that barrier - through sacrifices and the people of the temple. Behind a curtain in the inner sanctuary of the temple the Ark of the Lord's Covenant was placed. It was in this inner sanctuary that on the Priests were allowed to go and spend time in the Lord's presence.

Later in the Gospels, we read that at the time of Jesus' death, "darkness fell across the whole land". The "light from the sun was gone" "Suddenly the thick veil hanging in the Temple was torn apart". ENSTRANGEMENT FROM OUR CREATOR HAD BEEN HEALED.

When I close my eyes and pray I can see this beautiful piece of imagry. This torn curtain that now allows me to be in the presence of my Lord.

"For what great nation has a God so near to them as the Lord our God is near to us whenever we call on him?" Deuteronomy 4:7

"So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive His mercy and will find grace in our time of need." Hebrews 4:16

"Because of Christ and our faith in Him, we can now come fearlessly into God's presence, assured of His glad welcome." Ephesians 3:12

Everyday, in whatever situation I am in, I know that the presence of the Lord is with me. In the car, as I sleep, as I teach and even doing the housework and cooking.

"My precious princess, I am with you wherever you are. I am the friend who walks

in when the world walks out..... I want to reach you with the reality of my presence."

Love, your King and your best friend. (Sheri Rose Shepherd, "His

Princess: Love Letters from

Your King)

The greatest reality of Christ's death and resurrection is that everyone now has an opportunity to have a relationship with Christ and His Father. Every child is a princess or prince, and can have a special relationship with their King. We are no longer estranged, because of sins committed and no longer need fear God presence. We are healed, we have a new birth and eternal life. One day, because Jesus died and rose again, we will have the greatest relationship of all - when we live with Him in Heaven.

ASSURANCE OF FORGIVENESS

"What we do see is Jesus, who "for a little while was made lower than the angels" and now is "crowned with glory and honour", because He suffered death for us. Yes, by God's grace, Jesus tasted death for everyone in all the world." HEBREWS 2:9

One of the things I love about Easter is singing the wonderful worship songs that remind us that "Jesus Paid it All", that the `Deliverer' took all our sins on the cross for us, and we have been `Set Free". This great assurance of forgiveness is often so overwhelming, that it is on these days that many people take their first step in accepting the Lord as their Saviour. For those of us who have walked with the Lord for many years, our faith may be renewed.

Why is it so important to have this assurance?

"He personally carried away our sins in his own body on the cross, so that we can be dead to sin and live for what is right. You have been healed by His wounds. Once you were wandering like lost sheep, but now you have turned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls." 1 Peter 2:24 (NLT)

I can only speak for myself, but the freedom and peace that comes from knowing I am forgiven, makes it easier to know that through the power of the Holy Spirit I can live the right way. When my friends say to me - `hey do this, or do that' and I know it is wrong, I can now say -`No', I am free from the bondage of that sin. I am no longer wandering alone and afraid, for my Shepherd is close by, ready to lift me into his arms, if I start to fall. (Psalm 37:23&2)

"He was beaten that we might have peace. He was whipped and we were healed. All of us have strayed away like sheep. We have left God's path to follow our own. Yet the Lord laid on Him the guilt and sins of us all." Isaiah 53:5&6 (NLT)

Peace, oh what wonderful peace we can have because of Jesus' obedience, because of the pain he suffered for us. Oh how easy it is to follow our own way and do our own thing, but now we have a new way to follow - a way without guilt or shame, because Jesus took our sins upon the cross, and we now have assurance of forgiveness.

"For all have sinned and fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet now God in His gracious kindness declares us not guilty. He has done this through Christ who has freed us by taking away our sins." Romans 3:23&34 (NLT)

The part I love about this verse is that Christ has `FREED US'. We are no longer bound by the need or desire to sin. This is not saying we aren't tempted - but because of God's great kindness and Jesus' death, we have a way out. We know that by `God's grace we are saved'. Through the Holy Spirit, we can now say `no, Satan be gone', and we can have the assurance that `he will run'.

Growing up as a child, and even now I have to confess, my favourite song was one by Jenni Flack. I would sing it at all my Holiday Programs, it was often the theme of Kid's Club or Sunday School lessons; because it summed up why there was so much join and peace in my life; and why I wanted others to have this same freedom. It's called `No Fishing'.

When Jesus forgives he forgets what I've done,

And the bad things I did have now gone.

When Jesus forgives he forget what I've done,

And the bad things I did have now gone.

For He's thrown them in the deepest part

Of God's forgetful sea,

Where there's a great big sign that says

NO FISHING.

For He's thrown them in the deepest part

Of God's forgetful sea,

Where there's a great big sign that says

NO FISHING

No fishing, no fishing, no fishing.

No fishing, no fishing, no fishing

When you're sorry for your sins that's where they go.

No fishing, no fishing, no fishing, no fishing,

They're buried deep in God's forgetful sin.

Remember, the CROSS TELLS US that we have ASSURANCE OF FORGIVENESS!!

(Jenni Flack: "Jibes & Vibes" - now available at Christian bookstores and www.jennieflack.com.au)

"Jesus Paid it All" (2006) Alex Nifong, Worship Together.

"Deliver" (2010) Vicky Breeching & Sarah McIntosh, Kingsway.

"Set Free (2011) Jason Ingram, Chris Tomlin, Matt Redman & Ben Fielding, Kingsway.

The Power Of The Cross - Kristyn Getty

Each Person is of Value to God (need to read previous BLOG first).

In just having a quick skim over the verses related to Christ's death in the Bible, one thing becomes clear - Jesus didn't die just because he thought it would be a good thing to do at the time. Reading the Old Testament, we discover that his death was definetely a part of God's great plan. Then later we discover those verses that remind us that Jesus died for US. Jesus came to earth, lived and died to be OUR `Shepherd', to be OUR `Servant', to be OUR `Saviour.' As a little girl I lived in a Christian family. I had always heard the story of Christ's death. Yet, I had a lot of bitterness in my life due to the death of my mother, whom I never knew. I was teased and bullied at school, because in my day being the child of a single parent, no matter what the circumstances was just `not in'. One day I'd had enough and at 11 years old I decided life wasn't worth living. My father had re-married and I was going to have my very first birthday party with all my friends from school to `show off' my new Stepmother. I thought she was great, so I invited my whole class - knowing Mum could handle it. Unfortunately - nobody turned up!! Of course that meant there was lots of food left over, but there was also left a very sad and rejected young girl. As I cried myself to sleep that night, Mum came in and we talked. We talked about all my anger, my bitterness, my hurt - and she reminded me of a friend I had who loved me. She reminded me that no matter what others thought, I was of value to God, and that's why he sent His son Jesus to die. She reminded me that Jesus took all my sins and I now had could have a new life as a Child of God - free of bitterness and hurt. It took me a little while to grasp this reality that Jesus died for me - I was just a kid. It has taken me years for that reality to really sink in - many years of depression. I do believe, although I sometimes still find it hard to accept, this promise I received as a child that Jesus died for me because I am SPECIAL and of VALUE TO GOD has kept me alive. MY PRINCESS...... I CAME TO SERVE YOU. "Even when you don't feel valued, let me remind you, my princess that I - your King - came to serve you. I not only created you; I also sustain your life, comfort your spirit, and provide what you need. YOU ARE SO VALUABLE THAT I EVEN PAID THE ULTIMATE PRICE AT THE CROSS TO RANSOM YOU." (Sheri Rose Shepherd) "For even I, the Son of Man came here not to be served, but to give my life as a ransom for many." Matthew 20:28

THE CROSS TELLS US

"But He was wounded and crushed for OUR sins. It was OUR sorrows that weighed Him down. He was beaten that WE might have peace. He was whipped and WE were healed. ALL OF US have strayed away like sheep. We have left God's paths to follow our own. Yet the Lord laid on Him the guilt and sins of US ALL". Isaiah 53:5&6 We all know WHAT happened when Jesus died. If we haven't read the Bible we most certainly would have seen `The Passion' - one persons rendition of the death of our Lord. He was `wounded and crushed', he was `beaten and whipped', he was nailed to a cross. But so often we don't take often think about `WHY' he did this. As we get closer to Easter, I have decided to take a little look at this WHY? Maybe just for my own spiritual growth, but also because someone out there in `BLOG' land might need to know. Based on 8 points summarised in a book we have been studying at our Ladies Group, by Paul E Little, "Know What You Believe", I want to look closer at the Word and how this is relevant to me, and if you are interested, can be to you. Come with me on this journey as we look at "WHAT THE CROSS TELLS US".

THE CROSS TELLS US:

PRAISE THE LORD!!

I suppose you are waiting patiently to find out about my Job Interview. There isn't a lot to tell. From the train to Scripture Union offices, I had a fall, which consequently led to a panic attack; but through the grace of God, as I walked into the interview, all the blood and fears had disappeared.

Unfortunately, although I felt the interview went quite well, I was told I lacked the confidence in my skills for the position. I guess this happens when you lose a job.

I have been a little mad with myself, because I didn't cope very well with this `rejection', even though they were positive and said I had a gentle nature and someday could be a good Chaplain. Consequently for the last week my depression was at an all time low, which as also led to a number of episodes of anxiety.

But, I was determined to leave last week behind me, and start anew. I started my week with my PRAYER, BIBLE READING AND PRAISE, along with a little exercise.

I began reading the book of Ezra, where we find the Israelities afraid and anxious as they attempt to return from exile to rebuild their temple.

"With praise and thanksgiving they sung to the Lord. `He is good;
His love to Israel endures forever.' All the people gave a great
shout of praise to the Lord, because the foundation of the Lord was
laid." Ezra 3:11

This verse reminds me of my Dad. If you read my `In the Palm of His Hands' BLOG you will read a lot about my Dad - a wonderful man of God. After the death of his wife, (my Mum) he raised three little girls, pretty much on his own. Over those years, and for most of his life, he suffered from depression.

But it's not this that I remember most about my Dad, but it was his words of PRAISE. Whether it was at Church singing with gusto those wonderful hymns, speaking words of encouragement to a congegration of seeking people or simply moving through the day with words of prayer on his lips - he would always be PRAISING THE LORD.

In her book, "The Power of Praying through the Bible", Stormie Omartin reminds us:

"When you're struggling, doubting, fearful or feel like your foundation
has crumbled, don't ever underestimate the power of Praise! Don't
just think about it. Do it. Pull out all the stops. Make praise your first
response to fearful situations in your life. God wants us to praise Him
at all times, but especially when we are afraid or discouraged. When
we do, not only will He take away our fear, but He will give us joy."

"I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak His praises.
I will boast only in the Lord; let all who are discouraged, take heart.
Come let us tell of the Lord's greatness; let us exalt His name together.
I prayed to the Lord and He answered me, freeing me from all my fears.
Those who look to Him for help will be radiant with joy; no shadow of
shame will darken their faces." (Psalm 34:1-5)

REMEMBER, FAITH, PRAYER, PRAISE and the WORD OF GOD will conquer your every fear.

PERFECT TRUST

Tomorrow I face a situation. Not a difficult situation, but for some reason for the last couple of days it has caused me to feel `sick' - you know the headache, stomach and muscle aches and the worst of all is these incontrollable shakes. I guess it could be the symptoms of flu, or it could just be fear.

I have a job interview!! Part of me is telling me not to stress - it doesn't matter whether I get it or not - that's in God's hands. The other part of me is feeling that same old `failure syndrome'. If I don't get it, what will people think of me - a failure again!! Part of me, still wants to be in control.

There are a number of things I do when I feel this way:

1) Pray- CLAIM GOD'S PRESENCE. That's number one of course. There is nothing more calming to the spirit than talking to the Father, telling God about my worry and leaving it with Him.

"Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you." (Matthew 6:33)

2) Read. I go the Bible - RECOUNT GOD'S PROMISES.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lead not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6

"Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord is the one who goes before you. He will be with you; He will neither fail you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:8

I am again reminded that I am to let God take the lead, to take over the controls.

"God will smooth out your path. He'll take away the obstacles. He'll take care of those barriers when you come to them. If you do your part - give Him the steering wheel and trust him to be in charge - He promises to make your path straight." (Charles Swindoll: "Perfect Trust", 2000, Thomas Nelson)

I remember the last time I went for a job as a Chaplain and God said `no, not now", I was comforted by the fact that I had been obedient, and this is what God had asked me to be. I walked in obedience, as best I understod it and followed his will. The failure still hurt at first, but it made it easier to except.

"God honours faith and obedience. When you trust Him completely, you will enjoy inner quietness and security. You will have a secure confidence that you are walking in His will. You will be surrounded by His peace." (Charles Swindoll: "Perfect Trust",2000, Thomas Nelson)

I AM FEELING BETTER ALREADY!!!

3. Listen to Music. PATIENCE. I know I should be listening to my Worship Songs - those great Hillsong hits - but I can't help it, I just love my Doug Horley (UK's favourite Children's Fun & Funky Worship for Kids).

Before I know it I am jumping around and dancing to those promises that God loves me, nothing is too big for His power, and my favourite at the moment, "You are Shaped for Serving God".

"If you walk like a model or walk with a waddle
You are, you are, you're God's indeed.
If you're very, very funny, or good at making money,
You are, you are God's indeed.

God had a brilliant plan when he created man
He knew just how each one would serve Him.
Wonderful indeed, gave you what you need,
To work on earth for Him.

You are shaped for serving God,
You are shaped for serving God,
You are shaped for serving God,
Holy, holy is His name.

If you laugh like a donkey
Or you're hairs a little wonkey
You are, you are, you're God's indeed.
If you're really good at caring
Or a little brave and daring
You are, you are, you are God's indeed.

If you're good at origami,
Or can make a great salami.
You are, you are, God's indeed.
If you're fast as a whippet
Or really good at cricket
You are, you are, God's indeed.

Doug Horley & Steve Whitehouse. (2005, Thankyou).

I AM READY TO FACE WHATEVER GOD HAS IN STORE FOR ME!!

Oh the shakes are still there, and the headache hasn't gone away, but I know that I am girded with the power of God, for I am ready to go forth in obedience to follow His will, and to face whatever He has in store for me. I have claimed God's presence, recounted his promises and now wait patiently on Him, trusting in His provision.

I ENCOURAGE YOU TO DO THE SAME!!

Be Careful of `False Prophets'.

Lynn Austin has written a wonderful series of books about the three Kings in the Bible. Having read in 2 Kings 21 about Hezekiah's son Manasseh's rule, I wasn't sure I wanted to read Book 4.



"Manasseh was 12 years old when he became King...... He did what was

evil in the Lord's sight, imitating the detestable practices of the pagan

nations....." 2 Kings 2:1&2.



Hezekiah and been a wonderful King who had faithfully served the Lord. I couldn't understand how his son could be so evil and forget the ways of his father.


In her book, Lynn introduces us to another character Zerah, a supposed medium. As a young man, Manasseh wanted to know about his future. He was easily led astray by Zerah, who was able to twist the Word of the Lord in the Torah. He was able to bring out what we might call today `new age' thinking, and Manasseh was lead to believe that the Priests of the true God were wrong, and that this new way of worshiping was the right way.



"He practiced sorcery and divination, and he consulted with mediums

and psychics." 2 Kings 21:6



The more Mannasseh listened to these mediums and psychics, the more evil he became and the angrier God became with him.


In her `note to the reader', Lynn reminds us that this `so called, New Age movement is centuries old.' These pagan beliefs are rooted in the four lies used by Satan in the Garden of Eden and are not only condemned by God in ancient times, but they still are.

What scares me most though, is how easy it is someone to become lured into practicing these acts. How easy it is for someone to twist scripture and use it out of context. I ask you to be aware, seek God's guidance continually, and don't fall into Satin's trap.

"As believers, we must cling to and protect the purity of our faith entrusted to us while proclaiming the fact that all other religious pratices are false".

"I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'
John 14:16.

UNDERSTAND WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A SERVANT OF THE KING

As believers some of us are called into ministries that will thrust us into worldwide recognitions. Others of us will be behind the scenes.

I always loved serving together with my husband Mark. We made a good team. I was a Leader, and he worked behind the scenes doing all those things that made my leadership position easier. I loved to TEACH, he loved to HELP. But his work was just as important, him not more important than mine. We were both called to SERVE, using the gifts God has blessed us with.

Every place we go in and everything we do is part of God's great plan. People will come to know the Lord through whatever `ministry' and service he has placed us in.

Many of us, as servants, struggle with pride, the need for recognition and honour. King Hezekiah did. I guess it would be easy too if you were a King in charge of a whole country too. Yet even Jesus' disciples struggled with pride - simple men like you and me. It is encouraging to know that that the disciples needed to learn to serve, but many of us are still in the learning process.

"I tell you the truth, whatever you did for the one of the least
of these brothers, you did it for me." Matthew 25:40

Sometimes, like the disciples, we feel tired and unappreciated. We may not want to change our plans, we like it our way. But we need to follow in the steps of Jesus - our servant.

One thing we can be sure of is that when Jesus calls us to serve, we need to be obedient. Sometimes what God asks us to do may seem too hard. It helps to have Jesus' example.

"My food is to do the will of Him who sent me and to finish His work."
John 4:34

Sometimes we may not feel qualified enough and we will make excuses, just like Moses, Gideon and Jeremiah.

Moses: "What if they do not believe me? O Lord I have never been eloquent. I am slow of speech and tongue."

Sound familiar!

Gideon: "But Lord, how can I save Israel. My clan is the weakest and I am the least in my family"

Ever felt this way!

Jeremiah: "Ah, Sovereign Lord, I do not know how to speak, I am a child."

We are all children!

Jesus did not call us to part-time service. We can't just be Sunday Christians. Every morning when you wake up, pray that God will send people to you who need your help. If we are sensitive to the God's leading, through the Holy Spirit, we will never miss an opportunity to serve.

We are to have a servant's heart so that others may see His love in us. He may be calling you to a new vision, or wants you to persevere in the `ministry' you are in. Whatever it is - remember, BE OBEDIENT - Jesus was. DON'T MAKE EXCUSES - Jesus didn't. Be a FULL TIME SERVANT - Jesus was.

Mentors - God's Special Gift.

One of the things I love about reading Lynn Austin's books is how she brings the characters alive, and of course introduces characters that we don't hear mentioned a lot in the Bible, but still they play an important part in history.

Hezekiah had his right hand men - his Palace Administrators and Secratary. One, was a man of wisdom, but no sense. His name was Shebna, an Egyptian who had been hired by Hezekiah's father to tutor him. Then there was the man who trusted in God, also very wise - his name was Eliakim.

After making a treaty with Babylon and then Egypt, on the advice of Shebna, Hezekiah sat in his room feeling depressed. He realized he had made the wrong decision. He was full of pride and the words of that Eliakim had earlier spoke to him came to his mind:

"The Torah says, Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand in vain. We need to put our trust in God."

Hezekiah had been trusting in man, not God, and he had stopped listening to who he truly knew to be his trusted advisor. He had always listed to Eliakim before because he knew he spoke the truth. Eliakim was his MENTOR, God's special gift top Him. Someone he needed to help him stay on track - to follow the Lord's will in His life.


As I said in my first BLOG for 2011, my little box of promises was given to me by my mentor. She may not realize, that even now that I have moved away, this `special gift' is helping to me to follow the most important mentor of all - the Lord.

"The Lord Himself will lead you and he will guide you.
He will not fail you or abandon you, so not lose courage
and to not be afraid."Deuteronomy 3:8

I encourage you, if you haven't already, to find yourself a mentor. Pray about it, as Hezekiah did, and the Lord will lead you to someone you can trust. Most of all, someone who you know you can be honest with and will pray with you. It may be someone in your Home Group or someone in Church that God points out for you. This is how it was for me.

I prayed about it, because I felt I wasn't growing in my Christian life. I needed someone to take my hand and walk with me in what I didn't know then would be a difficult and challenging journey. The next Sunday I looked across the Church - and the Lord pointed her out to me. She wasn't a Church elder, or someone I knew very well; but God said - "I have chosen her as your Mentor". I asked her and she was willing.

We started meeting at McDonalds after work, once a week until that got too expensive. We would read the Bible together, pray; must most of all talk together. You need to be a good listener - both the mentor and the mentee.

Later I started meeting in her home. Pam and I met together for 3 years I believe before I moved away. I know she still prays for me, and she rings me up at least once a month. Most of all though, I my mentor as helped me learn to rely on the Lord and to grow in Him, so that one day I may be a mentor to someone else.

A mentor is God's special gift, someone you need to have, and when the time is right, someone you need to be. But never forget to rely and trust on the greatest mentor of all - our Lord Jesus Christ.

Faith of the Fathers

"God keeps ever promise He makes. He is like a shield for all who seek His protection", Proverbs 30.5

My little `Promise Box' verse was very encouraging this morning. I have actually had it out for the last week, as I have felt I needed to be reminded of His protection over and over again.

Currently I am reading a series of books by Lynn Austin, mainly looking at the life of King Hezekiah and it has been exciting to see how God proctected him - with healing and protection from his enemies - even when he started to take on the nature of his father, nearly falling because of His pride. Book 4, which I haven't go to yet, talks about his son Manasseh, and it is disheartening when you read the Bible and it says: "Mannasseh was 12 years old when he became king. He reigned in Jerusalem 55yrs and did evil in the sight of the Lord." (2 Kings 21:1&2). Unfortunately, unlike His father Hezekiah, Mannasseh did not turn back to the Lord and "he caused Judah to commit similar sins, as they did evil in the sight of the Lord".

In Judges we also read about how the people of Israel continue to let the Lord down, "forgetting the Lord their God and serving Baals and Asherahs". But isn't it great to know that each time they cried out to the Lord, He was faithful to rescue them.

In this case God sent Ehud to be their deliverer (Judges 3:7-30)- in our case He sent His own son Jesus. So often we live our lives like Mannasseh, or the people of Israel, and we forget about the enormous price that Jesus paid so that we could have forgiveness and freedom from our sins and the strongholds that bind us. We can have victory and joy because we have been SET FREE, but not only that we have His on going PROTECTION.

God wants us to "Call upon Him in the day of trouble." He says, "I will deliver you and you will honour me." (Psalm 50:15).

"Hezekiah trusted in the Lord, the God of Israel. There was no one like him among all the kings in Judah. He held fast the the Lord and did not cease to follow Him." (2 KINGS 18;5)

I think I have found another favourite Bible character. Oh, not because he was so good and trusted in the Lord, but when his pride let him down, and he sinned, he knew where to go. When fear enveloped him as he looked at the Assyrian army, he knew where to go. When he was in the depths of depression and sickness, he knew where to go.

My father was a man like this too - when he felt alone and let down (when my Mum died), he knew where to go. When fear enveloped him (as he faced life as a single father), he knew where to go. When depression overcame him, he knew where to go. He went straight to the Lord, and the Lord protected him.

I thank the Lord each day for the faith of our fathers - men like Hezekiah and my Dad. But most of all I thank the Lord for the LOVE OF MY FATHER, AND HIS PROTECTION. Because of them, I know where to go when I have sinned, am afraid or in the depths of depression.

ENERGIZED FOR SERVICE

I don't know what to expect in my life right now, but I am looking forward to where God wants to send me. I am always ready and open for the unexpected; but I still need to trust the Lord for His strength; because I am still rather weary and tired.

The last few weeks going to Church has been a chore. By the time the service has ended I have been an emotional wreck. Why, in the place where I have always felt at home do I feel alone and unwell?

This morning after Church I started serving in the Church Bookstore, and it was great. I spoke to the Children's Ministry Leader, and I have been put on the Sunday School roster - just once a month for now. She said she looks forward to working with someone who has experience in Children's Ministry. I just feel excited about how the Lord can use me again and I am becoming more energized for service.

I know I need to be careful not to do too much. I need to be careful to make sure I am not making all these plans and not leaving my life in God's hands. I want my service to be authentic service. How can I know that it is?

1) IT FLOWS NATURALLY OUT OF WORSHIP.
Service that pleases God is a heartfelt response to what He Has done for me. Authentic service is a genuine attempt to say `Thank You' to God.

"So dear Christian friends, I plead with you to give your bodies as a living
sacrifice - the kind He will accept. When you think of what He has done for
you, is this too much to ask." Romans 12:1 (NLT)

2) IT TAKES INTO ACCOUNT YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS.
The Apostle Paul was quick to remind those who were motivated to serve that they shouldn't run out and sign up for the first job that came along. We need to first take time to determine our spiritual gifts. These are the unique abilities God places in each of us that enables us to build and encourage others.

"Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with
whatever gift you have received." 1 Peter 4:9 (NRSV)

3) IT TAKES INTO ACCOUNT YOUR PASSION.
An important element to consider when serving the Lord is your passion. James Dobson, founder of `Focus on the Family', has a passion for the family. Don Moen - one of my favourite singer/songwriters and worship leaders, has a passion to bring people together in worship and praise. Billy Graham had a passion for the lost and was a great evangelist. Once you have determined your passion, think of ways you can serve - again to encourage and build others up.

* What group of people do you feel most attracted to? When deciding which class to take in Sunday School, I always go for the Middle Primary age. Why - I know from experience that Toddlers and Junior Primary children don't relate to me, and I definetely can't relate to them.

* What area of need is of ultimate importance to you? Next to sharing the Gospel with children, I see a child in need - socially and intellectualy and I have to do something about it.

* What area of the Church's ministry would you most like to influence? Why did I decide to volunteer in the Bookstore. Someone asked me to - because I was always there, talking to people, sharing my passion for Christian books and music. Why Children's Ministry? Easy - Jesus said, "Let the children come to me and do not hinder them. The Kingdom of God belongs to them. " Luke 18:16 (NIV).

4) IT TAKES INTO ACCOUNT YOUR TEMPERAMENT.
Some people say I am a warm, caring, relational person. I can put others at ease - especially children. I am gentle, non-threatening and encouraging. What are the characteristics of your temperament?

Authentic service pleases God. It delights the one who is being served, and also gives the server a bit of a buzz too. When you are serving for the right reason in the right place, you feel really good and enjoy your service. God wants us to serve in this way.

This morning going to Church was not a chore, I didn't feel depressed. Why? Because my service was a joy, it energized me and most of all I experienced a blessing.

Service is vital part of the Christian life. But to be authentic and energizing it has to flow out of worship and has to fit who God made you to be. I don't know what to expect this year, but I do know that I am a unique individual and God has a special task - energizing service - both in and out of the Church. A special task designed just for me!!

Here's my favourite verse again:

"For I know the plans I have for you", says the Lord, "plans for your
welfare and not for harm, to give you a future and hope."
Jeremiah 29:11

BIG PICTURE DIRECTION

I must be a stubborn creature. When I started this study in 2007, I was struggling with problems I still have today. I seem to be making the same mistakes. Will I ever learn and grow?

"There are different kinds of gifts, but the same spirit.
There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord.
There are different kinds of working, but the same God
works all of them in all men." 1 Corinthians 12:4-6

Sometimes I feel incapable - but it is these times that I remember, "When you step into God's plan, when you are simply a vessel that God can use to accomplish His work, He provides the energy and the means." God can do His work through you, even when we don't understand why. All He asks of us is OBEDIANCE.

If I were to die tomorrow, I would want to be remembered as a woman who gave her all - endeavouring to follow God's will. That I cared for His children and I loved my family. I feel passionate about God's Word. I love reading and writing and sharing what I learn with others.

As I teacher I have wanted my students to see the special people God wants them to be - to reach their full potential as learners. I want them to be loved and to become people who care for others. I want them to feel confident in their gifts and in reaching their dreams. Of course, without God as part of the equation, they cannot do these things - so I want them to become His children.

Back in 1979, when I was leaving school, God told me I was to be his `seed planter'. I later realized that this meant marrying a soldier and becoming an Army wife. Moving around to many different places, becoming a part of communities and Church families for only a short time. Planting seeds of love and learning - then moving on. Often, never seeing the fruits of my labours.

Together Mark and I became Foster Parents, Youth Group and Kid's Club Leaders, Church deacons and of course the most of important of all, parents to our own wonderful son, Aaron. This was probably the hardest task of all. We were encouragers to single parents, other Army wives and soldiers and their families.

In 1996, Mark decided to leave the Army and I was accepted at Griffith University in Brisbane. Mark went to to drive a Bus and I started my `teaching career'. Together we continued our `seed planting'.

Now it is 2011. Mark is still driving buses and I am out of work - a housewife again, but no longer a mother. But there are still those `seeds' to plant. Where and how - only our loving Father knows; but as my good mate Max always reminds me, "God is not trying to keep secrets from you. He wants to direct you into His will, to accomplish His work. Understanding who God wants you to be is a vital part of becoming a vessel God can use."

I WILL DO MORE

I will do more than belong, I will PARTICIPATE.
I will do more than help, I will CARE.
I will do more than believe, I will PRACTICE.
I will do more than be fair, I will be KIND.
I will do more than forgive, I will LOVE.
I will do more than earn, I will ENRICH.
I will do more than teach, I will SERVE.
I will do more than live, I will GROW.
I will do more than be friendly, I will be a FRIEND.
I will do more than just be a Christian,
I will LIVE LIKE ONE.

St Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church, Pennslvania.

GO WITH GOD

Those who know me well know that my greatest desire of all is to follow the will of God in my life. So, it becomes very frustrating when I find myself struggling to understand what that will is.

Not so long ago in 2007, I applied for the position of Chaplain. I would be Bundaberg's first Primary School Chaplain, and it was down to myself and another lady. At the interview I was asked the Question - "If the job became a permanent one, would you be willing to give up teaching?" I suddenly realized that teaching meant more to me than anything. It wasn't the money - I just loved teaching, especially my children with Learning Difficulties. I truly believed that this was what God had called me to be.

So, you can imagine losing my job as a teacher and being told my the Education Department that I am `incapable', has been a huge blow. Surely being a teacher was God's will for my life - what else would he have me be? So I went back to 2007, and a study I did: "Pouring Out Your Life in Ministry as GOD DIRECTS." In the next few BLOGS I will share what I learnt in 2007, which I believe are still very relevant in 2011.

"Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain
a heart of wisdom". Psalm 90:12

Henry Blacaby once said, "Understanding what God is about to do is more important than telling God what you want Him to do."

How true! How often do we tell God what we want, rather than listen to what He wants. I know the Lord truly knows the sincerity of my heart and my desire to serve Him. I also know that I have so many things I still need to learn or addictions I need to grow out of - my "Fear of Failure" and "Need for Approval".

As I await for God to heal me, I will pray and study God's word, seeking his direction and when he says it is His time, I will move on and GO WITH GOD. Until then I will continue to serve Him faithfully as a teacher.

Protection for the New Year.

A few years ago, my friend and mentor gave me this little box of promises - Bible verses for each day. It always sat on my desk at school, so it wasn't surprizing that it turned up in one of the boxes of classroom `stuff'.

This morning I opened it up and have decided that it will be one of the inspirations for my BLOG this year. My first promise for 2011 - "God will put His angels in charge of you to protect you wherever you go." Psalm 91:11

I am certain I am going to need a lot of that protection as I move into this new year - for unlike other years where I have felt secure in my work and my home, this year I am faced with uncertainty. Even as an army wife, I always knew - even if we moved - that their would be a home and a job waiting for us at the other end. But with this year of uncertainty comes a wonderful opportunity to TRUST THE LORD.

Another inspiration for my BLOGS this year will be some `old (updated) Bible Studies and Sermons I have written in the past. Even though what they say may have been for a different time or situation - the same theme runs through them all - "I am with you, I will protect you. I have never let you down before and I am not about to start now". Just, TRUST IN ME."

Finally - for Christmas I received a little book called: "His Princess - Love Letters from Your King", by Sheri Rose Shepherd. As it would be breaching copyright for me to write out each letter, though I will at times just let you some of the promises God has given me through reading these `letters'. I do encourage you though to find this book and read it. It is one of the best discoveries you can make when you realize you are HIS PRINCESS. I believe there is one written for HIS PRINCES too, written by Sheri's husband. I intend to get it for my husband and son one of these days.

Come with me on a journey this year - a somewhat uncertain journey, but a journey of FAITH. With me, I pray you can make some discoveries and strengthen that bond that I hope you have with your Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.

New Years Resolutions.

Do you make New Years resolutions? Why? Is it in the hope that the new year will be better than the last. Do you want to have a little control of your life?

Jeremiah reminds us: "I know, O Lord that the way of human beings is not in their control, that as mortals they cannot direc their steps." (10:23: NRSV)

He also reminds us: "I know the plans I have for you. says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future and a hope." (29:11: NRSV)

Whatever resolutions (plans) we may make for the new year, it is really comforting to know that God has better plans. I have read this verse in many different versions. Some say, "I will bless you with success" (CEV), "They are plans for good", (NLT), "plans to bring you prosperity" (GN), "plans to prosper you" (NIV) "plans for peace" (GWT). The one I love the most is "plans for your welfare".

I recently read this in the `New Revised Standard" version. I have had a difficult 2010 - no success, not very good, definetely no prosperity, and peace was a little hard at times too. But I am still here in 2011. God has taken care of my welfare, and I have learnt and grown a lot on the way. I still have a future with lots of HOPE. That word is the same in all versions.

Starting to make my New Year's resolutions I decided - better eating, more exercising and lots more bible reading, prayer and Blogging were important. So far so good, but how long it will last who knows. The last 2 days I have been getting up early for my Bible Reading, exercise and today - I tried some BLOGGING. But my husband has just awoken - "Where's my cup of tea", "I hope today you will clean the house", "That spare room looks worse than when you started tidying it up", "Come and have your breakfast with me".

So I leave you with this prayer that 2011 will be a good one - maybe not a lot of success, prosperity and peace in the times you would like them - but a year with LOTS OF HOPE!!