Tag: Larus Press

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GOD'S STORY

GOD’s STORY: part 181 Are we Christians too polite?

How do the people turn the world? With a lot of effort! Push, push, PUSH!

I wonder, are we Christians too polite for our times?

How do we prepare as the Bride of Christ? One aspect is to learn GOD’S STORY. He created us in His image…. Piece by piece, and peace by peace, we learn to walk as He has walked. And we learn His perspective.

Genesis 38:26-30

“So Judah acknowledged them and said, “She has been more righteous than I, because I did not give her to Shelah my son.” And he never knew her again.

“Now it came to pass, at the time for giving birth, that behold, twins were in her womb. And so it was, when she was giving birth, that the one put out his hand; and the midwife took a scarlet thread and bound it on his hand, saying, “This one came out first.” Then it happened, as he drew back his hand, that his brother came out unexpectedly; and she said, “How did you break through? This breach be upon you!” Therefore his name was called Perez. Afterward his brother came out who had the scarlet thread on his hand. And his name was called Zerah.”

Then Israelite family is pushy!

Here is Tamar, a mother only because she pushed the boundaries of propriety and, using her wit, she mothered children. 

Then there’s Judah, going against the brothers to ensure young Joseph would survive; and then years later looking after his own young son Shelah, by not giving in to the custom to allow Tamar to be joined with him. 

There arrive the twin boys, fighting to get out of the womb (when so many babies don’t want to come out!)… Isn’t it a bit of an echo of Jacob and Esau?

It seems the LORD shines on industry and innovation

A look at the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-20) and of the parable of the workers in the vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16) reveals that the LORD does not teach us to do whatever is expected but to go beyond. Thinking outside the box is something Jesus seems to teach quite a lot. He sends out his disciples 2 x 2, with instructions to take nothing with them… (Mark 6:7-13).

Tamar was desperate for children after she was widowed without, twice. She is honoured for the creative thought she applies, and receives what is righteously hers.

The Lord asks for obedience but not for conformity

Let’s pause and think about this. 

As we are called by Him, we must obey Him. But this may lead us quite outside the customs box. While love is never rude, and grace abounds in those who follow Jesus, we must be bolder to share the Gospel and to fulfil our individual calls from GOD. 

I pray we all will be bolder in these last days: bolder to love, bolder to speak, bolder to stand on our principles. This takes courage, but (apparently), “Do not fear” occurs 365 times in the Bible. That’s once for every day in our calendar (and even more than once in the Hebrew calendar).

Jesus is outside the box. Let’s walk with Him — wherever He leads us.

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For Mothers

Honouring parents… with wriggle room

Honour but not Obey

I think it is really important that we honour our parents, all the days of our lives. That means as adult children, I think we need to give honour to our own parents, just as we’d hope our children would honour us… But what does “honouring our parents” actually look like? I mean, is it the same as obeying them? I don’t believe so.

To honour, to respect

Right now, my adult child is living at home, by our mutual choice, not by necessity. 


I am deeply honoured that he wants to live with me. And I am also aware that it is a privilege for him and it is also a privilege for me to share the same household, with joy, respect and good company.

That he should respect me as his parent probably won’t see too much opposition from readers. But perhaps not all will agree with me that I should respect him.

I don’t just respect him because he’s a human being, but also because, as an adult, he is a separate entity from me.

And so it will go, hopefully, from generation to generation.

The best way to look at this I think, is to respect our mature children, but not to demand obedience.

I think to honour someone is to pay them respect, but more importantly, to honour our parents is to take their views seriously, to consider them as learned and experienced, as worthy of consideration.

But that is not the same as to be obedient to them. 

Some cultures may call for obedience, but in my world, to honour is to show respect. However, to obey is for underaged children, not for grown-ups. In some families, adulthood may be seen as 21, or 25, or 18. Some children will grow up to take responsibility more seriously at an earlier age. Whatever the case, I encourage us all to give our children room to grow, permission to make mistakes, encouraging them to make their own decisions, even if they make a mistake… and of course to rescue them when we can from making a life-changing mistake early in life. 

But once they are of an age of responsibility, we need to recognise they have the legal right to make decisions and allow them to do so. Hoping they’ll ask our viewpoint — or offering even if they don’t ask is fine… without the expectation or even the demand they do it “our way”. That’s how I see things.

Grandparents

Grandparents are gold for the grandchildren. And for us, they can be great companions. But to honour them does not mean we have to agree with them or to do their bidding. 

As parents ourselves, we need to command authority with our children. That means over our children, the authority lies with us, not with our own parents.

As we become adults, to our more mature parents who will most naturally want relationship with us and with our children, we need to respect they’ll have their views, but we do not need to follow their wishes. 

A wise grandparent will recognise s/he must respect the wishes and views of her/his own children over the grandchildren. Did they not want their wishes respected as parents? Opinions may be shared but as older parents a generation removed from grandchildren, I believe it is vital to respect the parents’ wishes.

Mothers and daughters, I say agree to disagree if you must, but barring actual danger, a parent’s wishes supersedes the desires of the grandparent, otherwise, the grandparent is interfering.

To honour v to obey

I’m splitting hairs between honouring and obeying our parents, once we have grown up. 

The honour must never go away, even if it is simply to show courtesy in a difficult relationship. 

A book I follow closely says this:

“Honour your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land…” (Holy Bible, Exodus 20:12a)

But obedience must give way from generation to generation. This will enable the growing offspring to know where the authority lies in the family line, and will ensure when each becomes a parent to their own child, a line of authority can be acknowledged.


Life is a cycle, and so, as we pass from child into parenthood into grandparenthood, we need to take responsibility within the remit we have. I urge us all to remember this:

The centrepiece is the authority of the parent for the child, until the child matures into adulthood. If we keep to that, we all grow, we all know our boundaries, and we can all respect one another in an age appropriate way.

Blessings:) 

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Preparing the Bride of Jesus Christ

Drawing close overcomes Loneliness

Did you know that drawing Close to GOD overcomes loneliness?

Have you ever been at a party and felt completely alone? Or at a family banquet and had no one you felt you could talk to outside of superficial chatter?

All of us, at one time or another, have felt the sting of loneliness, whether as a forced shut in because of ill health, or in surroundings where others are literal strangers — or so distant in perspective or viewpoint, that we feel unable to relate to or to confide in them. 

Recognising others’ needs

As we draw into the autumn evenings, with an earlier and earlier darkening sky (northern hemisphere at least), can we be especially aware of those who may be all alone? For those who live nearby, is there a way to offer friendship when we spot someone who is otherwise isolated and alone? Shall I not be on the look-out for such people in my neighbourhood, or in fact act toward those who I know are alone, so that I can bless others. It is part of my responsibility as a follower of Jesus?

Recognising our needs

And what if you are the person who is isolated? Sometimes it is impossible to reach out. It is important then, to remember that, always we have Jesus. We that know him are never truly alone. And as we wave to our neighbour across the road, or simply smile at someone passing by, we may start a conversation which can lead anywhere. 

Created for Relationship

We all need human contact. We are created for relationship. Drawing close to Jesus is a great comfort we have, but not so for some others. 

When Jesus was on the cross, He was surrounded by others; and yet, he was utterly alone. Just as He was alone then, so He understands our needs and wants our fellowship. Time spent with him – in the Word, in prayer, in worship – is time spent in good company. No one likes to be alone all the time. But when our circumstances isolate us, we can remember he never leaves nor forsakes us; drawing near to him assures us that he will draw near to us (James 4:8).

As we pray, thanking GOD for His blessings to us, can we also pray for others, that they may experience the same intimacy with the Creator GOD that we have? And let’s also pray that He may draw us together, even miraculously if necessary. He so delights when we join together. Psalm 133 says, “How good and pleasant it is when brethren dwell together in unity…” It delights us; it also delights the One who made us for relationship.

May you be blessed in Jesus’ company at all times, whether you are by yourself or in the company of others. And may you take the opportunities you have to share that blessing, with the courage the LORD has given you to do it.

Shalom and GOD bless.

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GOD'S STORY

GOD’S STORY: part 180 Judah & Tamar

The story of Judah and Tamar, his daughter-in-law, is a story of integrity and dignity.

How do we prepare as the Bride of Christ? One aspect is to learn GOD’S STORY. He created us in His image…. Piece by piece, and peace by peace, we learn to walk as He has walked. And we learn His perspective.

Genesis 38:1-26

“It came to pass at that time that Judah departed from his brothers, and visited a certain Adullamite whose name was Hirah. And Judah saw there a daughter of a certain Canaanite whose name was Shua, and he married her and went in to her. So she conceived and bore a son, and he called his name Er. She conceived again and bore a son, and she called his name Onan. And she conceived yet again and bore a son, and called his name Shelah. He was at Chezib when she bore him.

“Then Judah took a wife for Er his firstborn, and her name was Tamar. But Er, Judah’s firstborn, was wicked in the sight of the Lord, and the Lord killed him. And Judah said to Onan, “Go in to your brother’s wife and marry her, and raise up an heir to your brother.” But Onan knew that the heir would not be his; and it came to pass, when he went in to his brother’s wife, that he emitted on the ground, lest he should give an heir to his brother. 10 And the thing which he did displeased the Lord; therefore He killed him also.

“Then Judah said to Tamar his daughter-in-law, “Remain a widow in your father’s house till my son Shelah is grown.” For he said, “Lest he also die like his brothers.” And Tamar went and dwelt in her father’s house.

“Now in the process of time the daughter of Shua, Judah’s wife, died; and Judah was comforted, and went up to his sheepshearers at Timnah, he and his friend Hirah the Adullamite. And it was told Tamar, saying, “Look, your father-in-law is going up to Timnah to shear his sheep.” So she took off her widow’s garments, covered herself with a veil and wrapped herself, and sat in an open place which was on the way to Timnah; for she saw that Shelah was grown, and she was not given to him as a wife. When Judah saw her, he thought she was a harlot, because she had covered her face. Then he turned to her by the way, and said, “Please let me come in to you”; for he did not know that she was his daughter-in-law.

“So she said, “What will you give me, that you may come in to me?”

“And he said, “I will send a young goat from the flock.

“So she said, “Will you give me a pledge till you send it?”

“Then he said, “What pledge shall I give you?”

“So she said, “Your signet and cord, and your staff that is in your hand.” Then he gave them to her, and went in to her, and she conceived by him. 19 So she arose and went away, and laid aside her veil and put on the garments of her widowhood.

“And Judah sent the young goat by the hand of his friend the Adullamite, to receive his pledge from the woman’s hand, but he did not find her. Then he asked the men of that place, saying, “Where is the harlot who was openly by the roadside?”

“And they said, “There was no harlot in this place.”

“So he returned to Judah and said, “I cannot find her. Also, the men of the place said there was no harlot in this place.”

“Then Judah said, “Let her take them for herself, lest we be shamed; for I sent this young goat and you have not found her.”

“And it came to pass, about three months after, that Judah was told, saying, “Tamar your daughter-in-law has played the harlot; furthermore she is with child by harlotry.”

“So Judah said, “Bring her out and let her be burned!”

“When she was brought out, she sent to her father-in-law, saying, “By the man to whom these belong, I am with child.” And she said, “Please determine whose these are—the signet and cord, and staff.”

“So Judah acknowledged them and said, “She has been more righteous than I, because I did not give her to Shelah my son.” And he never knew her again.”

The over-riding message in this story

A righteous woman can find her fulfilment if she is determined and crafty.

As is typical in the culture, Tamar wanted children. She married badly to start off. But she must have seen that Judah was a decent man, in spite of his lack of fathering skills and his broken (albeit impractical) promise to allow his daughter-in-law to marry his third son who was far too many years her junior.

She wanted a child but not at any cost. She knew her culture and worked within it. 

And Judah was, fortunately, a righteous man. 

Tamar lived to bear a child and Judah fathered a son from a woman his own sons had treated appallingly.  It took years, but Tamar was justified, ultimately.

GOD will do right by those who do righteously. Patience and dignity in tact, Tamar bore a child out of wedlock, and lived, because she was shrewd and outsmarted the man who had denied her the future she was legally and culturally entitled to.

Trust GOD, do right. “Delight yourself in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.” (Psalm 37:4)

It is worth noting that, through this couple, Jesus’ was descended.

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For Mothers

To argue or not to Argue?

Arguing with our children is a waste of energy. It is unproductive, it weakens our position, and it doesn’t help them to grow into productive, pleasant, and peaceful people.

To argue or not to argue? Not.

Giving our children a voice

I believe it is vital to encourage our children to express themselves, to learn they have a voice — their point of view matters and it’s good to share, to discuss perspectives. This is not arguing.

I believe it is important to enable our children to stand up for themselves. This is not arguing.

I believe we need to stand our ground when we are demonstrating obedience is important. Otherwise, how will a child get on with teachers, employers? This might bring arguments. But don’t argue.

Why kids argue

It is important, I think, to recognise that arguments usually take form when one or other person feels powerless. Sometimes our children will be relatively powerless, for example, when we have to make a decision on their behalf, based upon a lot of different needs and varying circumstances. But if we argue with our children, what are we really saying? We’re saying our words are equal to theirs — which they are not. As the parent, as the adult, we do hold more responsibility, more wisdom, more experience, and more power. The buck stops with us, in terms of safety, family harmony, long-term outcome.

If we’re not to argue, then what?

Let’s teach our children negotiation. Not manipulation, but honest negotiation. Chances are, our children will come up with possible trade-offs that will show us just how important their corner, their desire, their stance is. Or it will reveal to them, their “want” isn’t that important after all. Is it worth cleaning the car or doing errands in exchange for the money they’re asking for, or the visit to a friends that they want to make, when it clashes with a family visit to — somewhere else?

Let’s teach our children intelligent debate. They can demonstrate with facts the benefits of what they want to do versus the cost in finance or quality family time or homework or their safety.

Let’s teach our children to give as well as to receive.

And let’s hug and love them more than they squabble — with siblings, with you, with anyone.

Is there a time to compromise?

If you’re always giving in, they will experience your weakness and feel insecure because you haven’t strong boundaries.

If you never give in, they’ll learn they have no voice or that their dreams and interests aren’t important.

Navigating parenthood is just as new for us as their navigating life is for our children. We are the adults, so we need to give clarity for our children to feel secure, safe, and loved.

And always, we put love first, so that our children know we’re listening and know we care. Boundaries, yes — for their safety and for family harmony. But flexibility too, so we can discover who our children are, just as they are journeying through life to do the same.

Blessings,

Sarah

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Preparing the Bride of Jesus Christ

Don’t Lie to Me

“Don’t Lie to me”

I just came from church and from hearing a cracking good Word to the Ecclesia.

It’s time — a Kairos time — to stand for righteousness. When we see unrighteousness, it’s time to use our voices. 

As I listened, I thought, “What bothers me the most, that I would challenge without fear the status quo.” Answer: Lying.

I don’t want to be lied to by politicians anymore. I don’t want to be lied to by the Media. I’m saddened by couples who, within a marriage or partnership, they lie or are lied to by a spouse.

When my child was tiny, and the first Christmas came along, I made a decision I’d not lie about Santa. I knew that one day, if he lied to me, I’d say, “I never lied to you, so don’t lie to me,” and he’d likely challenge me.

Sure enough, when he was about 12, he did say something untrue (not a habit of his but he did test me out) and we had that very conversation.

I said, “Don’t lie to me.” 

He said, “You’ve lied to me.”

I said, “I’ve never lied to you.”

He said, “What about Santa Clause?”

I said, “I never lied. You drew your own conclusions. When you got a present with no card to say who it was from, you assumed it was from Santa. But I never said it was.”

“Oh yeah,” he said.

The relationship between my son and I is, until this day (and I trust beyond), built on our telling one another the truth.

Don’t lie to me

In Exodus 20 the 10 commandments are listed. One says, “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour” which we typically reduce to, “You shall not lie.”

In court, you’re meant to tell the truth. Politicians ‘swear’ to do right by the country. Traditionally, they swore on a Bible, although that is increasingly being passed by the wayside… and at our peril.

I want a politician to tell me the truth. I want people in the media to tell me the truth. Not their truth. Not their spin on the truth. Not the bit that suits them. Not an out-and-out fabrication. Not their wishful thinking. 


I want the truth. And I am going to insist on it. 

I will expect it, graciously and with patience… but with persistence. I will ask for it with GOD’s direction, discernment and revelation, as to timing and/or scenario. But I do want it and it is most reasonable to expect it.

What bothers you most?

Will you weigh in with the LORD, asking Him to reveal to you what puts fire in your belly that He will support as you challenge society in a direct, meaningful way that suits your personality and your calling?

Will you ask the LORD to give you the opportunity to challenge: to speak out, ask for, or to discuss whatever it is in situations that can make a difference?

This world is failing. We need to turn things around. We human beings are in charge (Genesis 2:15) and failing miserably.

Why you? Why me? Why now?

“Your arrows are sharp in the heart of the King’s enemies;
The peoples fall under You.” (Psalm 45:5)

We need to trust the LORD as we venture to impact society for the good of mankind, in a way that fits our calling and purpose, with His timing (not presumption). But this scripture and many more, are words that will enable us to find confidence in His plans and purposes, which are to be fulfilled by us.

Let’s we, in the Kingdom of GOD, begin to turn this ship around! With grace, with courtesy (as love is never rude (1 Corinthians 13)), with His timing, using our own voices… and with persistence, let us expose the Kingdom of Darkness, bringing it into the Light, where society is meant to be.

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GOD'S STORY

GOD’s STORY: part 179 Did Joseph trust GOD?

What do we do with a total betrayal, a total loss of personal agency and freedom? 

This is what Joseph experienced in an instant!

How do we prepare as the Bride of Christ? One aspect is to learn GOD’S STORY. He created us in His image…. Piece by piece, and peace by peace, we learn to walk as He has walked. And we learn His perspective.

Genesis 37:36

“Now the Midianites had sold him in Egypt to Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard.”

It would have taken only a matter of hours to get to Egypt. To be betrayed, kidnapped, sold, bought, all without any ability to take control over your own situation… What a fall Joseph fell. And so quickly! How did he cope?

Joseph’s Experience

What would it have been like to experience his brothers’ betrayal?

What would it have been like to be amongst a foreign band of enemies who bought you for a price? 

“Where am I going?” “Will I be murdered?” “What is to become of me?” Are these the thoughts that ran through his mind?

Or did he think of his father first and foremost? Did he count the days — of which there might be all too few remaining? How did Joseph reflect on his young life? 

I wonder, did he stand in faith knowing, ‘My brothers’ sheaves bowed down to mind. All will be well.’

Do we draw on our Faith?

Have you ever been in a predicament but you know, somehow, you will be okay?

As the world spins out of control, as we are warned (in the UK) to stock up on food, do we measure our steps, assured the LORD has us in the palm of His hand? I hope so…. Because if you are saved by His grace through faith in Him, you can rest assured He has the power, will and authority to look after you.

“Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? 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?” 

I wonder, did Joseph catch a message like this spoken by Jesus and recorded in Matthew 6:25-26?

I don’t know what I would have said or done if I were Joseph. But I do know, at some point, He knew He could trust is faith to GOD. We can trust and rely and do likewise.

Shalom, shalom. He will keep us in perfect peace, who’s mind is set on Him, because He trusts in Him. (Isaiah 26:3)

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For Mothers

For Mothers: School Rules

Recently, a head master decided to start the school year off right with expectations of strong behavioural boundaries of do’s and don’ts. School Rules: are they important for children’s success?

Are School Rules important?

Interim principle Dan Jeffries (Daily Mail, 17th September 2026) set out strict rules at Frome Community College in Somerset, with standards set against persistent disruption. It seems some parents were not happy. On the other hand, the fact there is an interim head suggests a strict policy may be needed, so the students will take his rules seriously. 

Frome Community College is a comprehensive secondary school.

We know from Katharine Birbalsingh, Headmistress of Michaela Community School in Wembley, and arguably the best comprehensive school in Britain, that discipline is the best and most important attribute to success.

Parents and Teacher to row together

It seems a bit discouraging that there is a disagreement between some of the parents and this head teacher. It’s a bit like 2 parents  in the family disagreeing, whereby the children therefore do not get a clear message and without it, lack the incentive to abide by the rules set forth with respect.

This is a potentially a big problem.

Discipline to learn

There need to be boundaries and discipline in the classroom (and at home) in order for children to learn. On the other hand, one hopes the environment of any school will exude an atmosphere of warmth and respect.

If parents object to the head of the school being strict with the students, the children receive “mixed messages” and therefore may quite naturally object to the discipline. 

Some caught in the crossfire

Rules aren’t made to be broken (contrary to the old phrase!). Neither do they exist to squash enthusiasm, creativity and fun! In the case of Frome Community College, apparently, some innocence were caught in the crossfire. 

How do we ensure learning, a stimulating environment, and an atmosphere of mutual respect?

Value of Home Influence on School Results

I think it starts at home. If children are taught to respect their elders and those in authority, they are less likely to act up in school. 


There is an old proverb: ‘Train a child in the way s/he should go, and when s/he grows up, s/he will not depart from it.’

Of course we must support and if necessary, defend our children. But may I encourage us all to loan respect to the teachers of our children, giving them room to teach and to make mistakes too. Can we work alongside them, in encouraging our children to take authority seriously, not so that they be bullied or dominated, but so they can learn how to cope with authority in work and in life. 


Head teachers and staff at schools are not infallible, but most are there to teach, encourage, and instruct our children. Let’s help them by giving them the benefit of the doubt at the start of the year, so that our children can learn and grow, not only in the subject matter they study, but within the social hierarchy and dynamics of the school in which they are placed.

My thoughts… as a mum and formerly, a classroom teacher.

Please feel free to share yours in the Comments. I’d love to hear from you.

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Preparing the Bride of Jesus Christ

Is Islam compatible with the West?

Recently, I was at a debate hosted by Winston Marshall in Central London. The topic was “Is Islam compatible with the West?”. 

I’ll explain my explanation as to why Islam is not compatible with the West.

Two faiths, two belief systems reveal overlap yet incompatibility

In a nutshell the two constructs of the The West and Islam are built on different faiths: Islam worships Allah as GOD. The West is build principally on the Judeo-Christian value system, with Christianity primarily at its core and the Creator GOD is the same entity for both.

First, let us address the basic difference between the god of Islam and that of the West… 

Names of GOD

There are many names for the G-D of the Bible. None of them is Allah.

Elohim. Jehovah. Yaweh. Immanuel. Yeshua. These are a few of the names of the GOD of the Bible. The GOD who sees (Hagar). The provider (Jehovah Raph) are two more…. There are many more. But not Allah. 

These two belief systems worship different gods.

Culture

At the core, these are two different religious systems, both with a moral code. There are some overlapping principles such as 

– Conservatism: both are fundamentally against abortion, for example. 

– Both the Bible and the Koran say sexual practices are meant to be between members of the opposite sex. 

– Excess with alcohol is discouraged… although Islam goes further and says alcohol is not allowed (some denominations of churches frown on alcohol too, but that is not ordained by GOD but rather, is a Christian cultural choice).

– the Family is valued as a construct… though Islam allows polygamy whereas Christianity embraces “one wife”

Politics

This name of GOD reveals a definite distinction between the two constructs of Christianity and Islam. The West is built on Judeo-Christian values and although there has been a definite shift (largely through pressure and manipulation of the pre-existing system towards socialism, beginning in the late 19th century, with the Fabian Society (on which much of Labour Party policy and many Labour MPs rests), Alice Bailey, and Cultural Marxism in the UK for example, Judeo-Christianity is still the bedrock on which the entire West was founded centuries ago.

Islam is locked into revenge and aggression whereas Christianity and the West are founded on consequences with forgiveness. “An eye for an eye” in the Koran and the Old Testament has been replaced with “turn the other cheek,” for example. Further even in the Old Testament, the principle of forgiveness was evident time and again as the Israelites pleaded with GOD to forgive their trespasses, which He did repeatedly do.

There are a series of other differences which I will only mention in passing for the sake of brevity

 – The view of women as equal v subservient

 – Equality v inequality in the sight of the law

 – Expectation toward truth telling in Christianity v acceptable to lie to the infidel in Islam

 – Regard for the stranger as welcome (and to assimilate into the Western culture) v the stranger in a foreign land, if Islamic, has a duty toward Jihad (to overtake)

 – The Western society is based upon love your neighbour as yourself v one the Islamic which is based on suppression and superiority to overtake your neighbour

Both beliefs are Evangelistic

Since both faith systems encourage evangelism and since they are competing rather than complementary systems, this puts the two constructs in opposition to one another.

Conclusion: 

Islam is the antithesis of the West

– Christianity centres around GRACE: forgiveness is its benchmark

– in Islam, personally, I see NO GRACE, only punishment and a lack of forgiveness

Islam is therefore, clearly not compatible with the West.

Categories
GOD'S STORY

GOD’S STORY: Part 178 The Lie Begins

Lies are complicated. Once we start, they go on and on, to keep the fabricated story going. Look at what begins in Jacob’s family, all triggered by jealousy. We see the lie begins when the sons return to Jacob with Joseph’s coat, but no Joseph.

How do we prepare as the Bride of Christ? One aspect is to learn GOD’S STORY. He created us in His image…. Piece by piece, and peace by peace, we learn to walk as He has walked. And we learn His perspective.

Genesis 37:32-35

“Then they sent the tunic of many colours, and they brought it to their father and said, “We have found this. Do you know whether it is your son’s tunic or not?

“And he recognised it and said, “It is my son’s tunic. A wild beast has devoured him. Without doubt Joseph is torn to pieces.” Then Jacob tore his clothes, put sackcloth on his waist, and mourned for his son many days. And all his sons and all his daughters arose to comfort him; but he refused to be comforted, and he said, “For I shall go down into the grave to my son in mourning.” Thus his father wept for him.”

Jacob weeps

We don’t know what the boys said. We do know Jacob drew conclusions and suffered greatly at the loss of his younger (and favourite) son. 

What could possibly have been going through the minds of the brothers, as they watched their father grieve. And though the sisters gathered as well, and may have been grieving with their father, the boys pretence continued. They pretended with father, they pretended with sisters, they pretended with the four mothers.

Was Judah worried for himself? Did he think leave well enough alone? He hid behind the blood stained coat, just as his brothers did, even though it was he who ensured Joseph’s life was spared.

Did Rubin feel shame because he was unable to protect his little brother? Or was he more relieved his father didn’t seem to hold him to account. 

What of the mothers — particularly Rachel, but the others as well. Was there any thought for them? There is no mention of it.

When there is a lie, it has to be maintained. The story needs to be corroborated. The lie needs to be maintained. The brothers did this the entire time of Joseph’s absence. And did they not feel any remorse, shame, or guilt?

When we lie there is consequence

Whether the lie is BIG or small, it carries with it a consequence… a looking over the shoulder, a dis-ease about being discovered. Presumably, some of the brothers would have wondered how Joseph faired — from time to time. 

And surely, sometimes, they looked at their depressed, mourning father and felt… something of pain or sorrow for him? 

Conscience has its consequences. As the move to Joseph’s story, let’s hold that thought. The brothers lived for many years with this lie. Buried though it was, surely from time to time, they looked at one another and wondered — Are you thinking about Joseph, or is it just me? Are you angry at Father for his grief, or are you sorry? 

A lie may be buried, but it never really disappears.

Categories
For Mothers

For Mothers: Always Available?

Are we meant to be always available?

When my mother raised her two daughters, my sister and I, she occasionally commented that she didn’t get to go to the bathroom on her own…

It was quite true, especially of me, that I’d follow her anywhere — even into the bathroom. She had limited privacy. 

Looking back, I realise she was very accommodating. I’ve not been a much, but then, I have a son.

Boundaries

Everyone needs to set boundaries. What limits do we choose to place on our family time, our privacy  time. It is important we do.

For me, my boundary for my son is more open than for any other human being. Perhaps it is because he’s relatively private and I’m so delighted whenever he wants to share. Perhaps it is my unashamed favouritism toward my only birth child. Perhaps it’s because I am happy to engage and value engagement with him over anyone else because he is my child. 


I have decided to make myself available. I’m happy to do it. There are rare occasions where I simply have to say, “not right now” for some reason: I’m on a business phone call, I’m in the bathroom, I’m on my way to catch a train.

Whatever boundaries we might set for our children, I think consistency is important so they learn to gauge when we are interruptible and when we’re not. They learn it at school with teachers, they’ll need to learn it with employers. They’ll need to establish their own in their personal and family relationships. 

We need to be available for our children. We need to set boundaries. I think so long as we’re there for them, and they know we are, and so long as we’re as consistent as we can be, I think whatever availability we can manage and maintain our own sense of rhythm and peace of mind, it’s a good way to relate.

Giving our children a sense of value and importance will develop and that will build in them confidence and assurance that they are loved. And that is the best and most important sense we can give them. Love is the most important message to give our children, and our time and attention — with healthy boundaries — will give them that.

Categories
Preparing the Bride of Jesus Christ

Fractious Times, so let’s stand for what is right!

It’s very good to get along with people. But when you can’t, you must stand for what you believe in. If it is an important principle, it’s worth fighting for…

We are in fractious times: times when wrong is considered right and right is considered wrong; times when freedom of speech depends on who’s doing the talking or what the speech is; times when evil is called good and good, evil. We live in fractious times, so let’s stand for what is right.

There are times to keep peace and a time for war (Ecclesiastes 3). Even though we fight — not against flesh and blood but against principalities and powers (Ephesians 6) — still we must learn to hold our ground over issues of faith, freedom, and righteousness.

There is a lot of robust debate and in-y0ur-face accusation at present. We need to learn which fights are worth engaging, and walk away from the rest.

There are different ways to fight too. Jesus used words to teach and to warn. He used love to touch the heart of a person, and truth to turn them from evil. We must do the same.

Jesus did not condemn the woman caught in adultery. He did say, “Go and sin no more.” He did not condemn, but nor did He condone. He set a standard and for humanity’s own good, He encouraged — and encourages us to keep to it.

Choose your battles and take your ground

There are moments (only a few) when I wonder if I’ll post something that I’ll be censured for. I’m not looking for trouble but I do consider: Is this worth fighting for?

It is… if it’s worth posting at all, it’s worth standing by whatever I might say.

Luke 14:28, “For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it”

I need to count the cost, and if it’s valuable, if it’s important, I need to post it. I also need to be aware: I might cause friction. I might get into trouble. Well, if it’s worth writing, someone won’t like it. But others may; others may learn. So, I need to forge ahead.

Don’t be Petty… But don’t compromise

How many times does it say, “fear not” or “do not fear”in the Bible? Apparently, once for every day of the year (Gregorian Calendar, ie 365 times). Why does it say it? Because as human beings, we tend to fear: fear what others may think; fear what others might say; fear what others might do.

Instead, I seek to be life giving, and life affirming, and also life convicting. To live a purposeful life, we need to have principles and to stand by them.We live now in a world of relativism, a time when ‘everyone does what they think is right in their own eyes’. Well, throughout the book of Judges, the Israelites did this and there was utter chaos: disobedience, defeat, repentence, a pleading-for-help, victory, disobedience — a cycle that ran over and over again.

So, can we lead the way back to righteousness, by modelling it? Can we lead the way by loving others and accepting them? Then when they ask us a question of morality, can we speak boldly, gently, truthfully, lovingly, honestly? It’s a risk. But let’s do it! Not to pick a fight but to stand for morality in a world that so desperately needs it.

Categories
GOD'S STORY

GOD’s STORY: Part 177 Motive makes (or breaks) the man

When Judah rescued Joseph from the pit and had him sold into slavery, it wasn’t a nice outcome for Joseph, but it kept him alive.

Reuben had a motive to keep him alive also, but it was in reference to himself.

Motive, makes or breaks the man

We see this when we look at Reuben and Judah.

How do we prepare as the Bride of Christ? One aspect is to learn GOD’S STORY. He created us in His image…. Piece by piece, and peace by peace, we learn to walk as He has walked. And we learn His perspective.

Genesis 37:29-31

“Then Reuben returned to the pit, and indeed Joseph was not in the pit; and he tore his clothes. And he returned to his brothers and said, “The lad is no more; and I, where shall I go?”

So they took Joseph’s tunic, killed a kid of the goats, and dipped the tunic in the blood. Then they sent the tunic of many colours, and they brought it to their father and said, “We have found this. Do you know whether it is your son’s tunic or not?”

When Reuben discovers Joseph is gone, he is worried about himself. “Where shall I go?” He bellows.

The men kill and skin a goat, so that Reuben can save his own skin. Imagine the pain and horror of Jacob, when he hears the story of his son’s demise… from his other sons. 

As for Judah, he has said little, and yet, he has ensured the safety of the boy without raising suspicious attention to himself.

When the one wants to save his brother and the other himself, both achieve their ends. And yet, it is the line of Judah which GOD uses to bring forth the Messiah.

Motive matters to GOD… more than outcome. That is worth remembering — especially when our outcome might not yield what we expect.

Categories
For Mothers

For Mothers: Dance into Tomorrow

For Mothers, I have a secret… You know how largely, if our children are happy, so are we? Well, it works both ways. A child who sees a happy parent, is also happy.

Happiness is infectious

… So, dance into tomorrow.

Physical expression of our emotions is healthy exertion. Dancing is one way of expressing ourselves and it’s great exercise too. Whether it is literal, or simply a phrase, to dance is to bring lightness and joy into whatever we are experiencing.

So, if we’re tired, glide into bedtime. If we’re frantic, let some of the tension go!

If we’re happy, ‘clap your hands and stamp your feet’ — as the very old song goes!!

Dance is also a euphemism 

To use the word Dance, I mean: to “have — and exude — a good attitude.”

When trouble strikes, dance your way through. When your child has a disappointment, teach him or her to dance too: To walk on water! To have a good attitude, no matter what. 

Having a good outlook carries us farther than having a bad one. So, choose to recognise the disappointment but also choose not to carry the burden of it. Express it and give it away… to GOD, to hope for a better tomorrow, or to whatever you believe hears your heart when you’re happy (or when you’re sad).

Keep dancing 

Not to exhaustion. We all need physical rest too. But in your heart, and in your mind, dance to the tune of hope, a short-lived disappointment, and 

a better tomorrow. Failure is our best teacher. So, really, there is no such thing as failure, just a missing of the mark this time. Next time, we’ll do better!

And teach your child the steps too. We all need to learn better how to dance through our ups and downs. We all have them, so we might as well learn how to step through them.

Categories
Preparing the Bride of Jesus Christ

Let Go Control, Let GOD Bless

GOD loves you and wants to bless you. No condition, no reservation, no catch!

Are you and I able to receive?

Let Go Control, Let GOD Bless

I want to urge all of us to let go control and let GOD bless us in the ways He desires. We can learn to say “yes” more to His opportunities and “no” to personal ambition and fear and distraction.


How GOD has blessed me

I’d like to share with you how very blessed I have been over the past 2 years… BUT there has been a tough time in the midst of this blessing, and that is a part of the blessing!

I can be super-organised. Because I can organise my time quite well, I am able to take on responsibility. And I love to be busy. 

So over the last couple of years, I’ve become more and more involved in a variety of missions and ministries, and I love it!

The first step was to say “yes” to GOD when He moved me to a new church. The former was great. The new is a perfect fit.

As I said “yes” to GOD in my work and my church family, He has blessed me by changing me, making me more like Him. The relationships I am building, as well as my pre-existing relationships are solid, life-giving, enriching and challenging: a perfect balance for life and growth.

The talents He’s given me are being used and developed. This is perhaps one of the most rewarding results of my learning better how to say “yes” to GOD.

In the midst, there has been some spiritual attack. There has been some decision-making where I went off-track. But He does make all things good to those who love Him, and so, I have moved through a difficult bit of time and come through, shining as before. (Romans 8:28; Job 23:10)

I am truly blessed in this life. It is because I’ve put aside more and more, my tendency to control outcomes through organisation, and focusing my organisation skills toward the missions He has given me. I’m still a work-in-progress, but what I’m saying is this: 

As we learn to let go our expectations and outcomes, as we lay down our control and allow Him to lead, we will be changed in ways that are truly a blessing. There are blessing for others and blessings for ourselves, there to be received, when we say “yes” to GOD. I am living it, and I encourage it!

Thank you, Jesus, for your wonder! Amen.

Categories
GOD'S STORY

GOD’s Story: part 176 Whatever man intends for evil…

Is there any circumstance GOD can’t overcome?

There is nothing GOD does not see. There is nothing GOD does not care about. He looks after the sparrow. How much more does He care for us. (Matthew 6).

Whatever man intends for evil, GOD can use for His good purposes.

Preparing the Bride for GOD’s Story

How do we prepare as the Bride of Christ? One aspect is to learn GOD’S STORY. He created us in His image…. Piece by piece, and peace by peace, we learn to walk as He has walked. And we learn His perspective.

Genesis 37:23-28

“So it came to pass, when Joseph had come to his brothers, that they stripped Joseph of his tunic, the tunic of many colours that was on him. Then they took him and cast him into a pit. And the pit was empty; there was no water in it.

“And they sat down to eat a meal. Then they lifted their eyes and looked, and there was a company of Ishmaelites, coming from Gilead with their camels, bearing spices, balm, and myrrh, on their way to carry them down to Egypt. So Judah said to his brothers, “What profit is there if we kill our brother and conceal his blood? Come and let us sell him to the Ishmaelites, and let not our hand be upon him, for he is our brother and our flesh.” And his brothers listened. Then Midianite traders passed by; so the brothers pulled Joseph up and lifted him out of the pit, and sold him to the Ishmaelites for twenty shekels of silver. And they took Joseph to Egypt.

“Then Reuben returned to the pit, and indeed Joseph was not in the pit; and he tore his clothes. And he returned to his brothers and said, “The lad is no more; and I, where shall I go?”

Where was Reuben?

Well, the pit was empty of water (hopefully of snakes too, though it doesn’t say), so the boys didn’t drown their brother. That was something… But then, they sit down to eat!

Where was the pit in relation to their dining? Wouldn’t Joseph have been crying out?

And where was Reuben?

I would imagine that Judah knew his brothers might end up killing Joseph the next day, and wanted to ensure his safety. Obviously, he and Reuben hadn’t conferred. Clearly they both wanted to rescue Joseph, but each had their own strategy. So, Joseph was removed from the pit and sold as a slave. Then Reuben shows up and is shocked!

Lack of Coordination

“And if a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand.” (Mark 3:25) The 2 against 12 ensured Joseph survived. Nevertheless, a lack of coordination led to Joseph being removed from the scene for the foreseeable future. Perhaps this was best. If Reuben had taken him back to Jacob, how long would it be before his life was threatened by his brothers again?

Two of the 12 wanted to save Joseph

Two against ten: that rings a bell with me — 

Remember Caleb and Joshua are 2 of 12 who want to go into the Promised Land after their spying venture into it!? (Numbers 13) As a consequence, it would take 40 years for the Hebrews to enter the Promised Land. 

In this situation, it would take many years for Joseph to rise to become the rescuer of his nation. But it would come…

What man intends for evil…

The LORD will always have the victory. We know from timeless stories throughout the Old Testament, that was man intended for evil, GOD used for good.

Pharaoh was brutal to the Hebrew slaves. GOD sent Moses to set them free.

Haman wanted the Jews destroyed. GOD used Esther to intervene.

Time and again, the enemy seeks to thwart and GOD comes through!

Time and again, the echoes of Joseph’s capture lead to triumph. We need to remember this, whenever we face adversity.

Categories
For Mothers

For Mothers: New start, new hope

Our children, whatever they may be displaying, will have a fresh, new hope — whether buried or transparent — for the new school year. 

New Start, New Hope, I’m sure of it! 

I think deep down, every human being has a similarity

Aren’t we all link this:

When something is new, don’t we have a hope it’ll be great!? There is always potential, right?

Even if we are dreading some event or experience, don’t we deep deep down have a hope it will be – could be, may be extraordinary?

I think that’s the same with our children:

Who will be in my class?

What courses is that person taking, who I’ve not seen and missed all summer?

Will I like my teacher(s)?

Will my teacher(s) like me?

Will I like my course? Will I get the teacher I wanted for this option?

We can always hope — and unless we are severely damaged, we always have hope.

So, let’s feed our children hope. Let’s encourage them to have a brave new start.

“Let’s hope for the best, prepare for the worst… and just get on!” You might say to them. Or perhaps, “Let’s see what happens today, and can you make a new friend today?”

Have a great start to term!

Categories
GOD'S STORY

GOD’s STORY: part 175 Reuben’s Wisdom saves a Life

What a family! 

Here we see Reuben attempt to outsmart his brothers in order to protect Joseph.

But what sort of family plans to kill a pesky brother?

Preparing the Bride for GOD’s Story

How do we prepare as the Bride of Christ? One aspect is to learn GOD’S STORY. He created us in His image…. Piece by piece, and peace by peace, we learn to walk as He has walked. And we learn His perspective.

Genesis 37:21-22

“But Reuben heard it, and he delivered him out of their hands, and said, “Let us not kill him.” And Reuben said to them, “Shed no blood, but cast him into this pit which is in the wilderness, and do not lay a hand on him”—that he might deliver him out of their hands, and bring him back to his father.”

Reuben was a bit of a quick-thinker. Perhaps he had more of a conscience. Maybe he held less of a grudge against the arrogant (or overly enthusiastic) Joseph. Maybe he loved his father and recognised how devastating Joseph’s disappearance would have upon him. Perhaps Reuben had more wisdom than the others and wanted to ensure no one betrayed Joseph. In whatever case, Reuben intended to secure a position for Joseph that would temporarily satisfy the bitter brothers, and would preserve the younger man’s life.

Everything backfired!

The boys did the deed! As soon as Joseph appeared, his brothers stuffed him into a hole. Reuben must have gone for a walk — perhaps distressed, nervous for Joseph and perhaps he has a fear of GOD the others lacked, an inherent understanding of right and wrong. In any case, he wasn’t present when the travellers came along. Joseph was sold into slavery. If any other brothers objected, there is no clear testimony of this in this passage.

Reuben’s plan had backfired. While Joseph’s life was preserved, nevertheless, the boy was gone! As good as dead, the brother fabricated a story and pre-DNA testing, they  “sacrificed” a goat, who’s blood stood in the place of Joseph’s.

Anything sound familiar??

Anyway, by the time Reuben returns to the scene, Joseph is gone and the boys have nothing but their brother’s coat to show for their troubles.

Or did it?

Just when we think the worst possible thing has happened, GOD makes a way. Fast forward to decades later when Jacob’s family are in famine (along with a lot of others), Joseph rescues them, and just as in his dream, they all bow before him — not knowing of course, that he was their long lost brother, and his dream was being fulfilled.

GOD’s plan was that Jacob’s family and all the inheritors would be saved. Why GOD allowed a drought in the first place, is another strand of debate. But as Joseph said, what his brothers meant for evil, GOD allowed for His good.

“And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life.” (Genesis 45:5)

So, whilst Reuben would have had a number of sleepless nights, GOD had all things under His ultimate authority. Joseph lived, Joseph learned, Joseph thrived, and Joseph rescued the Hebrew nation from extinction.

Categories
For Mothers

For Mothers: Remember to be Thankful (a poem for reflection)

“Thankful”
I don’t deserve to be this happy
I never knew such bliss
I had no idea
Motherhood would be like this.

You gaze upon my every move
With wide-eyed anticipation
‘What is going to happen next?’
Always positive expectation.

And as you grow, I’ll always know
Your every move and thought;
A good boy, sweet and kind
I’ll never be distraught.

Amazing how we know so much
Of who the heart-child is.
To raise him into that pure light
The challenge: that’s the biz.

I don’t deserve to be this happy
‘Ever-after’ my trust will be
For all this world could offer
Nothing compares with ye!

© Sarah Tun
2005

Categories
Preparing the Bride of Jesus Christ

Religion v Obedience: Is there a Difference?

GOD created us as human beings filled with His Spirit, to be in relationship with Him. He saves us today for relationship. He wants a relationship between us with Him, and since mankind’s disobedience which led to the Fall of man, GOD has worked a way to re-build His relationship with us. 

There is religion which man creates to try to get back to GOD. There is GOD’s way of obedience, to draw us to Himself. Religion v Obedience: Is there a difference? Yes, indeed there is…

The Gospel

Jesus came, died on the cross, was buried and was resurrected. That’s the heart of the Gospel that restores us to GOD. For those who believe, our relationship with GOD is restored.

Salvation by grace

Ephesians 2:8 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God”. GOD has made a way. GOD calls us. We can choose to respond. 

Salvation by works

While faith without works is dead (James 2), salvation doesn’t come through our works, but through our GOD-given faith. If that’s the case, how do we know the difference between works to preserve us v works as an attempt to save ourselves?

How do we spot the difference?


It isn’t actually that difficult to recognise the difference between works to save ourselves and works that are a delight to GOD.

If He’s asked us to do something and we do it, that’s obedience. (If we don’t, that’s disobedience.) The result is that we are grateful to the LORD for His salvation.

If the observation is in the Bible, we do behave accordingly out of obedience. Nevertheless, that isn’t what saves us. What saves us is our faith. We obey out of faith in Him.

– Our action is out of love for and faith in GOD.

– Although faith without (any) works is dead, when we “put our money where our mouth is”, aka when we do what we promise to do, then we are following through with our commitment, acting in faith and obedience, loving GOD.

But when we act (or react) out of fear, when we count on rules to save us — rather than GOD, when we do what the rules say, not trusting GOD but our behaviour to save us, that’s religion. And that isn’t what GOD wants for us.

Religion v Faith

Religion is empty. Faith is full. Obedience is a demonstration of our faith. 

Religion is action to save ourselves. Faith is belief in GOD who saves. Obedience is action led by the LORD, either through His word, or in HIs personal request to us.

In 1 Peter 4, Peter has written, “that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ” and likewise we do all things through Him.

Let us look at obedience as Faith in Action. Conversely, Religion is Action to get us saved. One is by GOD’s grace. The other is through our will. One is life-giving, the other is following religious rules. The behaviour might be similar, but the motive completely different. Let’s aim for life… and His love… every time:)

Categories
GOD'S STORY

GOD’s STORY: part 174 A need for Commandments

GOD’s STORY: part 174 A need for Commandments

The Ten Commandments won’t be given for centuries; but we can certainly see from Joseph’s brothers’ scheming, a need for Commandments, Laws: for guidelines on human behaviour.

You shall not kill. You shall not lie. These are ingrained in the human conscience; these actions are detrimental to society. We are born knowing right from wrong (Romans 1) and yet humanity needs laws to protect us from ourselves.

Preparing the Bride for GOD’s Story

How do we prepare as the Bride of Christ? One aspect is to learn GOD’S STORY. He created us in His image…. Piece by piece, and peace by peace, we learn to walk as He has walked. And we learn His perspective.

Genesis 37:19-20

“Then they said to one another, “Look, this dreamer is coming! Come therefore, let us now kill him and cast him into some pit; and we shall say, ‘Some wild beast has devoured him.’ We shall see what will become of his dreams!”

Joseph’s brothers are plotting to kill their little brother. They know it’s wrong, hence their plot is also to lie about murder to their father.

Why the brothers plot against Joseph?

Joseph riled his brothers by boasting about a dream he’d had which catapulted him ahead of this brothers.

First, these brothers are jealous, envious, coveting the love Joseph receives from his father, angry and bitter because he professes to have dreams they do not have.

They don’t like Joseph because his dream elevates him above them. Consequently, they conspire to kill him and to lie about it… to achieve their satisfaction.

What is happening on a spiritual level?

John 10:10 says,

“Then enemy comes to kill, steal and destroy, but I have come that you might have life and that more abundantly.” 

These brothers are so far from righteousness. Bitterness has taken hold. The enemy has destroyed their common sense and common decency.

In our society today

The LORD transformed what the enemy meant for evil into good, eventually. We’ll see this unpacked as we continue with the story of Joseph.

Likewise today, children are being taught to celebrate themselves, to look only to themselves, as the brothers were doing in Jacob’s age.

Today, as a consequence, we have a society of weak, shallow, self centred children growing into weak, shallow, self centred adults — who lie, steal, even kill for their own satisfaction and self determined ends. 

But GOD

But just as GOD watched over Joseph and rescued him and through him, an entire nation and more, GOD will move our younger generation, to lead them from selfishness to strength and moral courage. 

But we must pray. And we must teach our children differently from the trends of today. We must teach them moral value, moral courage, and moral righteousness.

Categories
For Mothers

For Mothers: to speak or not to speak

My son is an adult. My step daughter has her own two children. I think this suggests I have a bit of experience as a parent. Although I don’t know everything, I reckon I have learned a little. Nevertheless, I struggle sometimes, wondering, to speak or not to speak?

Can I help?

When I see a new mum with her young one, if both are showing frustration or distress, it’s hard to know whether to say anything to help or not. I mean, I may have the best of intentions, but is it my place to say anything?

I think, regarding advising another mum, it depends totally upon my relationship with her. Have I been invited to advise? Have I even held the baby!? It’s easy to see a problem and want to help; but’s important not to meddle or make things worse by sticking my nose where it doesn’t belong.

Smile, play, enjoy…

Can I make contact in an off-hand and encouraging way? Can I smile at the pair? Can I get toddler’s attention and cheer him up?

I’m quite sure what I think may be useful; I might offer a bit of insight that is helpful… to resolve the frustration…. in a casual way. But should I?

The most important question is this: Is what I think of from what I observe going to offer useful information? Can I sow and encourage love?

Or am I merely flaunting my opinion?

Social media is full of opinion…. Do I really need to offer mine?

Look inside first

I need to look inside myself as the first step. To examine my own heart, to be sure my motive is to help, is important before I gently present my observations.

Do I offer an opinion? Nope! Observations? Maybe. But first, may I be sure that any words I might offer are life-giving and nurturing?

We mums

In some ways, we mums are fragile.

Don’t we tend to feel vulnerable concerning our own children, wanting to do well, sometimes not knowing what is needed. no matter how much “experience” we have?

Let’s always try to sow life

Let’s be a blessing to other mums and their children. Then, let’s love, love, love! And, if there’s any time left, speak… maybe. 

Proverbs 12:18 says, “There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword, But the tongue of the wise promotes health.” Surely if that perspective is good enough for wise King Solomon, it’s good enough for me.

Categories
GOD'S STORY

GOD’s STORY: part 173 You shall not Covet

Do you want what someone else has?

Joseph’s brothers were envious and it stoked absolute chaos and tragedy. But “You shall not covet…” So, if you want something someone else has, bless them for their blessing…

Preparing the Bride for GOD’s Story

How do we prepare as the Bride of Christ? One aspect is to learn GOD’S STORY. He created us in His image…. Piece by piece, and peace by peace, we learn to walk as He has walked. And we learn His perspective.

Genesis 37:18

“Now when they saw him afar off, even before he came near them, they conspired against him to kill him.”

Premeditation for Murder

What is in your heart?

In these brothers’ hearts, they spoke of, planned, and intended to murder their own brother. 

Yes, he had a different mother from the rest — Remember there were 4 mothers in all, with one father in common, Jacob. But how is it that a family comes to the point of plotting the murder of one of them?

We also see murder in our society today — families filled with misery, where one person shoots or stabs a spouse and children, and then turns the weapon on himself. How do people come to this point of pain, jealousy, hatred and violence? It’s madness!

Cain killed Able because GOD preferred Able’s offering to Cain’s. 

Joseph’s brothers want to kill their brother because he is favoured by their father. 

Thou shalt not covet

The tenth commandment is “thou shalt not covet…” (Exodus 20) That means, don’t want what someone else has… Why not?

Here in Genesis 37, you have evidence of the destruction caused by envy. If someone has something you want, look at the evil it stokes within. 

Don’t wish you had something someone else has. Rather, bless them, celebrate with them and for them. The LORD will bless you too, in His way and in His time. In the meantime, as you bless rather than envy or curse others, you will be blessed with inner peace.

Shalom:)

Categories
Character Development

On my birthday

On my birthday

I’m young enough to be bothered about getting old, and old enough to know it’s inevitable now…

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.” This proverb speaks volumes to us and for me, it is trusting Him in and for my life, in every nuance and every aspect.

My birthday, another birthday, has just passed. I’m of an older generation now. Life has been rich, challenging;  with my grey hairs I know I’m in latter years. Although I am healthy, strong, joyful, energetic, my chronology suggests I’ve lived the majority of my life already. I am well. But I realise this year, as I pass over another year: 

I’m young enough to be bothered about getting old, and old enough to know it’s inevitable now…

Trust the LORD and His timing. I’ve done more in my life in the last few years than in all the decades before. GOD is not finished with me. I have no regrets and every expectation. The Joy of the LORD truly is my strength!

So, “be bold” is what I want you to catch today. Enjoy Him and enjoy the life He’s given you. And don’t regret the past but “press on to the upward call of GOD in Christ Jesus” today. 

All glory to GOD. 

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For Mothers

For Mothers: If I lose my temper

I used to lose my temper. If I lose my temper again, I’ll know why…

When I was a teenager, it was because I wasn’t being heard.

When I was an adult, it was because I was frustrated at not being heard.

As a parent, it has been because my child wasn’t listening to me.

Spot the pattern!

Whenever I felt ignored, not heard, ultimately, I got cross. But what was at the root of that feeling ignored? Fear. As a teen, fear of being over-ruled. As a peer, fear of being unloved. As a parent, fear of not having control when I should.

I was afraid.

I was afraid of having no control over my situation. I was afraid. That’s the bottom line.

I’m not afraid anymore. Or if I am ever afraid now, I spot it, and realise there is nothing to fear — or if there is, I can’t control the situation — I can’t control others. So I can relax.

Anger and temper have at their root: frustration and fear

If we realise we can’t control others, and stop trying, anger won’t get the better of us.

As a parent, if I don’t get angry, I’ll remain patient. And that will give me the leverage as a parent to navigate the lack of cooperation I might be getting from my child. And that will allow conversation, negotiation, peace, and progress.

And I’m all for progress!