We took the dog to the dog-beach this morning so she could have a play with the other dogs and enjoy a dip in the ocean. I think our boys have just as much fun as the dog though - what's not to like; warm weather, water and sand!

I know that our dog knows who we are in a crowd, I watched her look back once or twice to see if we were following her. She also responds when we call her and comes running back (usually anyway!) What amazed me this morning was the way that each dog could identify the voice of his/her master amongst so many other dogs, people, children and general noise. I saw masters stop and call a name and then a dog would come bounding to the voice.

It's a little like our relationship with our master God isn't it? Sometimes it's hard to hear His voice amongst the 'crowd'. Life is busy, we have so many distractions and yet we long to hear the familiar, comforting and commanding voice of God. So how do we hear God's voice?

The Bible, the Word of God is an obvious place to hear God's voice. All scripture is God breathed - this means it has come directly from God ( 2 timothy 3:16). The Bible teaches, rebukes and guides us along our daily walk. If we want to hear God's voice, we need to read the Bible!

We can hear God's voice through prayer. I always describe prayer to children as having a conversation with God. Conversations are ususally 2-way aren't they? We speak and then wait and listen while the other person speaks. I can not tell you that I have heard God reply to me in an audible way but some have claimed they have actually heard God's voice. God may speak through other people, through our thoughts, through our conscience, through a situation or circumstance. I know I 'hear' God through my concience, I get a feeling within myself that I know now is God prompting me to hear and obey. This may also be the Holy Spirit at work within us so that God's voice becomes clearer and easier for us to identify.

Occassionally when we called the dog this morning, she was busy playing and didn't want to come straight away. That's a little like us too. God may speak, but do we listen? We have a choice to be obedient, God never forces us to listen to His voice but I think that's the smart choice don't you?

Revelation 3:20 (NIV)
"Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him and he with me."

Will you be more disciplined to read God's Word and listen for His voice? I'm sure going to try!

Be Blessed to bits!
Narelle

Occasionally I get to watch Oprah and she has this saying about the 'light bulb moment'. She means the moment you make a big realisation, like a light coming on, that somehow changes your life and usually moves you to make some decisions or life improvements.

I had a bit of a 'light bulb moment' in church this morning and while I like the 'light bulb' analogy I really think for me it's God prompting and changing me.

The moment came when we were singing and my 2 year old was up in my arms cuddling me tight, Mr 6 was standing beside hubby, cuddling into him too. I just felt this overwhelming sense of care, protection and love for my boys.

I guess lately I've been feeling a bit like my own frustrations and struggles get in the way of me being the mum I should be. I get cranky if I can't get a minute on the computer to blog or check my mail, I'm quickly frustrated by their noise and 'silly' play and I have been 'snappy' in my speach instead of kind and patient with their stories and requests.

This morning I was reminded of how much I desired to be a mum. How I worried when it took time to fall pregnant with both our children, wondering if I would be able to be a mum at all. How my desire first and foremost all my life was to 'be a mum'. Well now it's here challenges and all! I'm not expecting life after this morning's 'moment' to suddenly be perfect (it rarely is with free willed children is it?) but what I do know is that for the moment I am a mum. This is my calling for this time in my life and I am so blessed that God allowed me to be mum to our 2 lively, brilliant, sensitive and yes noisy (sigh) boys. I will try harder to embrace my calling and be the best at it that I can be!

Psalm 127:3 The Message
"Don't you see that children are God's best gift? The fruit of the womb his generous legacy?"

Be blessed by your calling today!
Narelle

(PS ~ check out the new photos of the boys just under the 'blog archives' over on the right. How cute are my babies!!!!)

A friend rang yesterday for a chat. Yesterday would have been her daughters 34th birthday but she died years ago. A close friend has just found out her husband has been having an affair so they have separated. Another lady I know quite well is facing an ugly custody battle with her 'x' partner. These women are all dealing with a loss which brings grief.

There are no 'rules' as to how to deal with grief. It's such a personal experience which people handle in their own way. Some find it helpful to talk to someone who has experienced the same situation/event. Counsellors, pastors and self help groups can be helpful too. Some people prefer to grieve alone - meditating, reading, praying, journalling, painting.....

Helping someone in their grief is a blessing but also requires us to be a little sensitive to their actual needs. If your friend copes by spending time alone, then you popping over every day probably isn't going to help. Maybe a note or card in the mail or regular emails just to let them know you are just a phone call away is a better support. Maybe babysitting a friends children to give them some time alone would be appreciated.

If your friend needs to talk about their feelings, let them talk. Just listen and offer your sympathy - I think it's ok for you to shed a tear too. Do not judge how your friend feels, allow him/her to grieve in their own way. Do not give advice unless you are asked. Don't speak about your own problems or a situation you think is similar. Your friend just needs you to be there as a listening ear and maybe to give the occasional hug. Keep up the contact with your friend, it may be a little 'intense' at times, but your friend needs you.

Practical help like babysitting, cooking a meal, running to the shop or doing laundry can be appreciated but check first! Encouraging your friend to speak to a professional is a good idea but don't force the issue or pressure him/her to do so until they are ready.

As well as helping practically where I can and listening to my grieving friend (and I usually cry with them too, I can't help myself!) I also ask if I can pray for him/her. My friends know I'm praying for them and that God knows about their grief. If your friend knows God, just allow them to turn to Him in their own time and in their own way too. 'Sprouting' Bible verses every time you see them may not be the right way to show your support! Just let him/her know that you are praying for them.

Lamentations 3:32 & 33 (NIV)
"Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love. For he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to the children of men."

Job 8:21, The Message
"God will let you laugh again; you'll raise the roof with shouts of joy."

If you are grieving right now, all I can do is to encourage you to find something that helps you get through each day. I pray you can talk to someone you trust. Please remember that God is right there with you too.

"God didn't promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow, sun without rain but He did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears and light for the way." (source unknown)

Blessings to you today
Narelle

Here's another object lesson for you and your kids! Ask each of your children to squeeze a little bit of toothpaste out onto a plate. Ask the last child to put all the toothpaste back into the tube, exactly as it was, no mess left over! Impossible hey!

It's the same with our words and what we say to each other, once it's out there you can't take it back. That's why it's so important to think before you speak. I'm sure all of us at one stage in life have let a thought slip out through our mouth and then have regretted the consequences.

Publius, from Roman times, 500BC said...."I have often regretted my speech but never my silence."

The Bible indicates that the tongue is part of the body that we need to 'tame' (James 3:8).

Matthew 15:11 (NIV)
"What goes into a man's mouth does not make him 'unclean', but what comes out of his mouth, that is what makes him 'unclean'."

Matthew12: 36 (NIV)
"But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgement for every careless word they have spoken."

That's a little scary isn't it? And a real encouragement to think, pause and then speak if it's appropriate! Our words should be honest but loving if used for discipline or rebuke and used to encourage and build up.

Proverbs 15:23 (NLT)
"Everyone enjoys a fitting reply; it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!"

Be very Blessed today!
Narelle

A friend and I were talking recently about the power of 'words'. We were talking about parenting and how a quiet but firm word has more impact on our kids does than yelling at them does (neither of us ever yell though - truly!). After we spoke I got thinking about words! Here are some of my random thoughts:

* Words have the power to encourage, uplift, unite, bring joy.
* Words also have the power to corrupt, destroy, bring down, discourage
* Some people spend hours looking for the right words to use (like authors) while others should learn to think before they speak! (I reckon that's a whole blog topic in itself!)
*English words are confusing, like: there, their, they're!
* I believe words communicate thoughts and feelings better than anything else (even though there is a saying that says 'actions speak louder than words')
* A word of praise makes a person grow taller.
* Words are eternal, it's not easy to forget words that have hurt.

Of course that most important reference to 'words' I can think of is the Word of God. So lets explore that a little.....

God gave us the Bible as a guide. In children's talks I've done I've referred to The Bible as a road map which gives direction and tells us which path to take in life. God's Word gives us very clear instructions as to how we should live. God's word shapes and moulds us into Christ-likeness. He speaks to us through His Word.

Psalm 119:105 (NIV)
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."

Proverbs 4:20-23 The Message
" Dear friend, listen to my words, tune your ears to my voice.
Keep my message in plain view at all times. Concentrate! Learn it by heart!
Those who discover these words live, really live; body and soul, they're bursting with health."

God's word will never change (1 Peter 1:25). It is our constant and consistent guide for life.

God's word has also been referred to as a 'love letter' from God to you and I. As well as being full of instruction it is also full of God's love and care for us. If you ever doubt your importance in this world all you have to do is read your Bible. In my concordance (which is only a small one) there are 5 pages of references as to where to find the verses about 'love' in The Bible. God loves us and has given us a reminder in black and white (for the times we don't feel it or may doubt it).

In just the past few months I've re-discovered my Bible! I feel sad that I've neglected it when it's such a treasure. This is why this blog exists: to encourage each of us to get back to basics, reading our Bibles and learning how much God loves us and how He wants us to live to life to the fullest.

Be mighty Blessed
Narelle

Forgetting myself this afternoon I said to my misbehaving 2 year old, "Do you want mummy to smack your hand?" Of course this is a stupid question to ask when trying to discipline your child because of course they are going to say 'NO' which is a perfectly reasonable answer seeing as you asked a question!

Anyway, Mr 2, being cheeky, says "YES, I being naughty!" So what is a mum to do!

I don't know about you but the whole area of discipline gets me down sometimes. It's a challenge to know how to handle certain circumstances and to discern what 'punishment fits the crime.' We are working hard with Mr 6 at the moment trying to improve his self control and conscience.

I very rarely think of myself as still needing to improve my self discipline. You know I'm at Weight Watchers so food and exercise are areas where I need to discipline myself - I will add here by the way that I've just lost 5kg!

What other areas of life do we need to improve our self discipline? What about making time for friends, praying more, going to church, reading the Bible? What areas can you improve?

What about the discipline that comes from God? God has given us the Holy Spirit to gently prompt us and challenge us when we need to act on something. When I've shared here that I've been challenged to improve and area of my life or ask someone for forgiveness - that's the Holy Spirit working and God disciplining when necessary! Amazing to think that grown adults still need guidance and discipline like our children isn't it!

Hebrews 12:10 (NIV)
" Our Father's disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness."

Of course discipline is not usually a pleasant experience but we know from raising our children that it is essential in growing them into responsible and pleasant adults. It's the same for us. That prompting from the Holy Spirit may cause us to feel uncomfortable but we know that it is essential for us so that we can grow in the likeness of Christ.

Be Blessed today
Narelle

There is a lady in my life whom I just do not like. I know we all have certain people in our circle of life who can be tricky to get along with but this lady brings out the worst in me. Actually I find that my feelings towards this lady cause me to sin. I allow myself to think things I shouldn't and I've actually said and even done things I shouldn't have because of my strong dislike for her.



OH boy, such a big confession - I hope you still like me!?



You'll be pleased to know though that God has been working in my heart over the weekend and challenging me about this lady. I really don't have to like her, I think it's reasonable to not get along with everyone in life, BUT I certainly have a few lessons to learn in my reactions to her.



I need to show this lady God's love. I need to remember that she is looking at my life and my actions. I don't have to agree with her but I need to give gentle answers that will help build up and find solutions rather than a response that will stir up trouble and anger. I have been thinking, 'Am I showing this lady how a Christian should behave?' I may be the only Christian influence she has, am I being a good 'representative' for Christ? Sadly I think the answer is 'no' and I'm ashamed. From now, I will change my behaviour and show her Christ's love.



Romans 12: 18 &20, The Message
"Love from the centre of who you are. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to what is good. Bless your enemies; no cursing under your breath. Get along with each other."



Luke 6:27 & 28, The Message
"I tell you, love your enemies. Help and give without expecting in return. You'll never-I promise-regret it. Live out this God-created identity the way our Father lives towards us, generously and graciously, even when we're at our worst. Our Father is kind, you be kind. Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticise their faults - unless of course you want the same treatment. Be easy on people, you'll find life a lot easier."



Do you have anyone in your circle who you need to treat in a more Christ-like manner?



Blessings to you

Narelle

Is there someone in your life whom you love? Doesn't matter who it is.
Without getting all mushy I love my husband. We've been married for 11 and a half years and I still love spending time with him, chatting with him, doing things for him..... I bet you feel the same about your loved one?

I remember when I was still living at home and my husband and I were engaged. Mum and dad had a rule where Tuesday night was 'boy free' night just so I could have a night at home and concentrate on other things and spend some time with the family. Not seeing my intended for one night a week used to be a killer! I'd long to see him and chat with him, making up any excuse why I HAD to see him that night - I know, bordering on mushy now, but do you remember feeling the same?

I was challenged yesterday by the simple fact that, if I love God and am serious about wanting a relationship with him then I NEED TO SPEND TIME WITH HIM!!

If I go a day or 2 without spending time with God shouldn't my heart ache like it did for my soon to be husband? I should have the same desire in my heart for God as I have for the people whom I love the most.

Such a simple message really - if we love God it should be no effort to spend time with him, we should make it top priority!

Psalm 16:5, The Message
" My first choice is you, God, first and only."

Matthew 22:37 (NIV)
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind."

Blessings to you as you start a new week,
Narelle

By the time the Lord made woman, he was into his sixth day of working overtime. An angel appeared and said, "Why are you spending so much time on this one?"

And the Lord answered, "Have you seen my spec sheet on her? She has to be completely washable, but not plastic, have over 200 movable parts, all replaceable and able to run on diet coke and leftovers, have a lap that can hold 4 children at one time, have a kiss that can cure anything from a scraped knee to a broken heart and she will do everything with only 2 hands."

The angel was astounded at the requirements, "Only 2 hands!? No way! And that's just on the standard model? That's too much work for one day. Wait until tomorrow to finish."

"But I won't," the Lord protested. "I am so close to finishing this creation that is so close to my own heart. She already heals herself when she is sick AND can work 18 hour days."

The angel moved closer and touched the woman. "But you have made her so soft Lord."

" She is soft," the Lord agreed, "But I have also made her tough. You have no idea what she can endure or accomplish."

"Will she be able to think?" asked the angel.

The Lord replied, "Not only will she be able to think, she will be able to reason and negotiate."

The angel then noticed something, and reaching out, touched the woman's cheek. "Oops, it looks like you have a leak in this model. I told you that you were trying to put too much into this one."

" That's not a leak," the Lord corrected, "that's a tear!"

"What's the tear for?" the angel asked.

The Lord said, "The tear is her way of expressing her joy, her sorrow, her pain, her disappointment, her love, her loneliness, her grief and her pride."

The angel was impressed. "You are a genius Lord. You have thought of everything! Woman is truly amazing!"

And she is! Women have strengths that amaze men. They bear hardships and they carry burdens but they hold happiness, love and joy. They smile when they want to scream. They sing when they want to cry. They cry when they are happy and laugh when they are nervous. They fight for what they believe in. They stand up to injustice. They don't take 'no' for an answer when they believe there is a better solution. They go without so their family can have.

They cry when their children excell and cheer when their friends get awards. They are happy when they hear about a birth or a wedding. Their hearts break when a friend dies. They grieve at the loss of a family member , yet they are strong when they think there is no strength left. They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart.

Women come in all shapes, sizes and colours. They'll drive, fly, walk, run or email you to show you how much they care about you. The heart of a woman is what makes the world keep turning. They give moral support to their family and friends. Women have vital things to say and everything to give.

However, if there is one flaw in women, it is THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.

So 'Mum', you are an amazing woman loved by God and by many around you.

Remember your worth today and be mighty blessed,
Narelle

On Wednesday I found a small lump in my left breast. I saw my Doctor about it today. She thinks it's just a cyst but if it's still there in a month I have to go and be poked and prodded some more.

Phew! Must admit I'm more than relieved!

I think this little 'scare' has been really good for me though. I can be negative and whiney about my life sometimes......the kids are hard work, my job gets me down, we just get by financially......

Having a few days to ponder this little lump - while trying my hardest to give the anxious thoughts to God I promise, I realised how different life would be if I didn't have my health. How would I feel if I couldn't work or couldn't look after my boys or even worse, if I wasn't around to see the boys grow up.

Suddenly life is no-where near as bad as I sometimes lead myself to believe. I have a really good life! I have a brilliant husband, 2 happy, healthy and very noisy boys. I have a job that is perfect for my life stage and allows me to earn a necessary income while still being home with our children. We have a cosy and happy home. I am healthy and above all I have a Saviour who has my life firmly in His hands.

It's a shame some of us ( or is it only me?) need a wake-up call to realise how good we really have life!

Philippians 4:4 (NIV)
" Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again, REJOICE!"

Feel very blessed, because we really are!
Narelle

Our Mr 6 started school swimming lessons this week and my husband finished his training and 'started' his new job. They both shared how they were facing this week with fear.

Are you afraid of anything? I'm afraid of heights. Being up high makes me feel physically ill. I get sweaty, my heart races and I feel like I could throw up! I like my feet firmly planted on the ground.

People have all kinds of fears - the dentist, public speaking, animals etc. Some fears are a little more extreme - like agoraphobia (fear of open spaces - people with this fear are often housebound). Some people even fear death.

So how do you overcome fear? I've done some research for this topic! I have to say that for the 'extreme' fears advice is best left to the professionals, so if you're finding your fear becoming debilitating and is effecting your quality of life I urge you to call your Doctor for help.

I guess for my husband and son the event that they feared has quickly passed. After the first day of swimming my son declared he loved it and has been really looking forward to the next lesson. My husband finished his first day, did well and now the next days don't seem so 'scary'. I know that with my fear of heights, once I cross the bridge or whatever the height, I'll be at the other side. These are fears that quickly come and go.

The Bible also has LOTS to say about fear, actually the Bible refers to 2 very different types of fear. The first being the 'fear of God' which is really not a 'bad' fear and is encouraged! The second type is the sort of fear I've been referring to today - the fears that we can overcome. Today I'll focus on overcoming fear. Maybe some other time I'll share a bit about 'fearing God' - I'll need to do some more research for that first!

In many places in the Bible we are told to 'FEAR NOT'. There is a link between trusting God, having faith in Him and the ability to overcome fear. If we believe God's promises to us and turn to Him in the dark, uncertain times in our lives and trust Him we will find that we are less afraid.
Typing this, I can't help but think, "that's easier said than done." So what I find helpful is to think back to situations that I've found really frightning and remember how God helped me through. That helps me 'believe' that God can and will help me again!

PRAY! Verbalise your fears and let God have them. Literally say, "God, 'this' situation is terrifying me so I'm telling you about it - you can have it so that I don't have to be consumed by it anymore. I know you will help me through it and I know I have you with me every step of the way." Praying about your fears, will reduce your fear.

Being armed with a stack of Bible verses is so helpful! Type them up and put them around your home, so they are right there when you need a reminder.

Deuteronomy 31:6 (NKJV)
" Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you."

Psalm 27:1 (NKJV)
" The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of who shall I be afraid?"

Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)
" So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Here are some other 'fear' verses for you to look up when you have a minute spare:
Joshua 1:3-9
1 Chronicles 28:20
Psalm 56:3-4
Isaiah 41:13
Isaiah 54:4
Matthew 10:26, 28
Romans 8:15
Hebrews 13:5-6
1 John 4:18

I hope this has been helpful? I have seen Mr 6 grow in confidence this week just by being prayed for each morning. I wonder how people who don't have Jesus cope with fear?

2 Timothy 1:7 (NLT)
" For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love and self discipline."

Be very blessed today,
Narelle

There is an ad on TV at the moment for the new 'Magnum' ice cream. The ad shows an ice cream up on an alter and many people are bowing down to this ice cream in worship and adoration - I know, how ridiculous! The 'tag' at the end of the ad asks the viewer, "What do you worship?"

I've blogged before about things that distract us from our worship of God - TV, family, work etc so I want this post to focus a little more on what worship actually is.

If you ask the musicians in your church they'd probably tell you worship is all about music.
Yes music is an expression of our worship to God and secretly it's my favourite! But what about spending time in prayer? What about listening to a sermon and leaving church determined to put it into practice? What about dance, writing and poetry. Aren't these all forms of worship too?

One of my favourite Christian musicians is Matt Redman. He wrote a song called 'The Heart of Worship' and I did some research into why he wrote the song. His pastor wanted to challenge the church on the whole area of worship, so he got rid of the musicians and sound systems each Sunday for a time and encouraged people to look deep within themselves to express their love for God in a more heartfelt way. So they sang without music! Ok this is still a little about music
but worship is all about God - it's totally and completely about God, not you or me, just GOD! Whether you sing or pray or dance or write - whatever, however you express it, it's about God and our love and adoration for Him.

I'll bring You more than a song, for a song in itself is not what You have required,
You search much deeper within, through the way things appear, You're looking into my heart.

I'm coming back to the heart of worship and it's all about You, it's all about You, Jesus.
I'm sorry Lord for the thing I've made it, when it's all about You, it's all about You, Jesus.

King of endless worth, no-one could express, how much You deserve.
Though I'm weak and poor, all I have is Yours, every single breath.

Now that I understand that song better, I don't think I'll ever sing it the same again, will you? Worship isn't about performing songs at their best or having the best music or voices, it's about God and how we express our love to Him.

Colossians 1: 16 - 18 (NIV)
" For by Him (God) all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy."

So let's be honest and more focussed on God, however we express our love for Him.

Romans 6: 13
" Give yourselves to God... Surrender your whole being to him to be used for righteous purposes."

Romans 12:1
" So then, my friends, because of God's great mercy to us.... offer yourselves as a living sacrifice to God, dedicated to his service and pleasing to him. This is the true worship that you should offer."

Blessings to you!
Narelle

Last weekend we had our state elections. Our Mr 6 gave us some great advice for picking our new leader, "Just shut your eyes and point." Seriously as tempting as that was, it is a pretty important decision! Who do I want to lead the state and make decisions on my behalf?

So what kind of qualities should a leader possess? Hubby and I came up with this list, you may want to add some more attributes.....

So you may be thinking that the whole area of sin and temptation relates more to our children and their behaviour, but I hate to tell you it relates to us grown ups too!

Maybe our sin isn't as obvious as a 2 year olds temper tantrum or a teenagers 'attitude' but it's there!

It might not even be as obvious as breaking one of the 10 Commandments ( Exodus 20 ) or local Government law. Ok for those who have driven over the speed limit or parked in the wrong parking bay it may be a little more obvious! But what about issues in our life like anger, lust, greed, envy, materialism - ever been tempted by any of these monsters? Subtle but there!

What about all the things Jesus says we ought to do, I mean His teachings about the way Christians should live. Do we apply them to our lives or just pick and choose the ones that suit us? How about not worrying, tithing, spending time with believers, spending time with God......Not doing something we know is right is just as sinful as those more 'obvious' sins. Scary huh?

Paul descibes himself as a 'slave to sin' and makes this observation,
Romans 7: 15 (NIV)
" I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do."

Romans chapter 7 is titled 'Struggling with Sin'. When you have a minute, have a read of the entire chapter for a fuller understanding of Paul's struggle - I know it relates to you and I too.

Maybe temptation has or still does lead us into sin. We can be encouraged by 2 things - one that Jesus understands, was tempted too and can help us overcome. And two, that God will not let us be tempted beyond what we can bear.

Hebrews 4:15 (NIV)
" This High Priest of ours (Jesus) understands our weaknesses for He faced all the same temptations we do."


1 Corinthians 10: 13 (NIV)
" No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it."

God gives us clear instruction on how to avoid sin, PRAY!

Mark 14: 38 (NIV)
" Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing but the body is weak."

Matthew 6:13 (NIV)...part of the Lord's Prayer,
" And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one."


This is an area that can be a lonely struggle. I mean who openly discusses their sin: "I got a little too cross with the kids yesterday" or "I had a little too much to drink and did something I shouldn't have" or "I haven't opened my Bible in a year" or "I'm so jealous of my friend's new job while I'm hating my job"..... you get the idea.

So pray, pray and pray some more! God understands and He will help us overcome!
Be very Blessed,
Narelle

I found this list of tips in a devotional book I have. It kind of summarises a lot of the posts I've made so I thought it might be a useful reminder....

I have this really cool picture of a woman with all these little arrows pointed at her. Each arrow is pointed to a body part and labelled. The arrow pointing to her head says "eyes in the back of her head", another says, "remembers the lyrics to 500 children's songs". The arrow to her throat says, " an iron voice box, with a frequency range from a lion's roar to a mouse's squeak."
The arrow to her stomach, " an anchored stomach that never turns over and is especially adapted for food bolted down quickly" and I'll share just one more ( although they are all so funny and too true!) - the arrow to her bladder," capable of expanding to infinite capacity."

Yes we mum's are AMAZING! Multi tasking, all knowing, ever sacrificing - the list goes on doesn't it?

Yesterday was Father's Day here in Australia.
Happy Father's Day to any Dads who happen to read this.

For some of you, Father's Day may be a difficult day and celebrating it the last thing you'd want to do. Perhaps you've lost your Father? Perhaps you don't know who your Father is? Perhaps your relationship with him is strained? Maybe he has hurt you in the past?

I know that I have struggled with my relationship with my dad and sometimes celebrating his 'special day' is difficult.

If this is the case for you, I just want to remind you of a Heavenly Father who loves you and I more than any earthly father could. He will never hurt us or abandon us. Remember that He sent His only son to die in our place, He loves us that much!

Psalm 68:5 (NIV)
" A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His holy dwelling."

Of course if you have a good relationship with your Dad, a day like Father's Day is a good opportunity to thank, reward and spoil him! Telling him everyday that you love him is nice too.

Everyday is a good day to thank our Heavenly Father for all He is to us and for all He has done for us.

Blessings to you today
Narelle

Our Mr 6's school are focusing on 'RESPECT' at the moment and his class presented a fantastic assembly this morning about respect ( they even sang the Aretha Franklin r-e-s-p-e-c-t wearing sunglasses and dancing) it was awesome! I just have to be a proud mum for a sec and say that Mr 6 had lots of lines and delivered them perfectly! ( even though he cried all morning before school because he was so nervous!)

Respect is a good topic 'reminder' for us adults too. Like the kids said this morning if there was a little more respect shown, the world would be a happier place.

I don't really think I need to outline all the ways we can show respect to those around us - I'm pretty sure we all know! I personally think the only thing I need to say is, if you TREAT OTHERS AS YOU WANT TO BE TREATED BY OTHERS, then you can't go wrong!

1 Peter 2: 17 (NIV)
" Show proper respect to everyone."

Have a wonderful weekend and I'll see you back here on Monday!
Be very Blessed
Narelle

Sorry about the way the last 2 posts have been published - ie. no spaces between paragraphs.
I'm not sure what's happening. Hope you can still read it ok?!

It's funny how God works sometimes isn't it? I've been bombarded lately with reasons why I should be spreading the salvation message. We received this email this morning to refresh my memory! (Not sure of the original source.)

The next time you feel God can't use you just remember......

My boys love me and tend to be quite attached. Leaving them can often be a bit of a challenge. Last night I left the house to attend a meeting to the chorus of 2 VERY UPSET little boys! So this morning I sat with Mr 2 reassuring him that when I go out I always come back again and that I would NEVER leave him.

Do you ever feel far away from God? Does your heart ever long to be close to him, like my children long for me when I'm away?

Even through the times you feel so far away from God He has promised that he will never leave us.

Cheerleading isn't a 'big thing' here in Oz and I certainly don't have the figure for it but I think we could learn a few lessons from a cheerleader!

What do they do? They stand on the sidelines and call out chants and encouragements to spur on an athlete or team to victory. They believe in their team and stand beside them through victories and defeats.

I don't know about you but I need a cheerleader in my life and I want to spur others on too.
Here are some ideas:

How to BE a cheerleader:-
* Be available. Make time to speak on the phone, send a card, send an email. Make time to return calls and emails.
* Be there for your friends victories and be a shoulder to cry on after a defeat. Don't be a 'fair weather friend'.
* Speak positives into each situation. Tell someone if you think they are doing well at something.
* Pray. Pray for opportunites to encourage and pray that God will show you HOW to encourage in some situations.

How to be ENCOURAGED even if you don't have a cheerleader right by your side:-
* Keep any special or encouraging emails, cards, letters, notes in a box so you can reflect on what others have said to you anytime you need a 'lift' or encouraging word.
* Get closer to God. Read your Bible, pray, listen to worship songs. Having God by your side is the 'ultimate' encouragement isn't it?!

Romans 15:4 (NIV)
" For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope."

1 Thessalonians 5: 14 (NIV)
" Encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone."

Hebrews 3:13 (NIV)
" Encourage one another daily."

So what can you do to be an encouragement to someone else today?
Be blessed to bits!
Until next time,
Narelle

I had such a blessed day on Friday. You know why? Because I stopped looking at myself and my 'problems' and focussed on doing things for others.

I spent the day making dinner for a few families who needed a break and I spent some time crying with and hugging a friend in crisis.

Now I'm not telling you this so I get a big head or anything, I'm sharing this with you because of the wonderful feeling I got by helping someone else. Ask my husband and he'll tell you I was 'buzzing' all weekend! My sister in law says it's called 'Helper's High' and is actually a documented medical phenomenon!

Helping others is also Biblical.

Philippians 2:4 (NIV),
" Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."


Helping someone else helps put your own problems into perspective too. Not only are you helping someone in need, you receive a mighty blessing too.

Every Blessing to you today
Until next time
Narelle