Podcast appearances and mentions of wendy robinson

Send us a textSteph sits down with writer, academic, and fellow ADHD-er Wendy Robinson to talk about how she wrote an entire novel in six months—while working full time and managing ADHD. This is a must-listen whether you're a writer, a creative, or just someone juggling a big project with a neurodivergent brain. Spoiler: it's not about willpower—it's about systems, self-compassion, and knowing your brain.Wendy wrote her novel in 6 months (!), thanks to structure, support, and knowing what works for her ADHD brain.They talk about the real executive functioning challenges that come with ADHD and how women especially are impacted.Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) is real and so relatable—especially when launching creative work into the world.Steph and Wendy bond over the “good girl” ADHD diagnosis story—how so many women go undiagnosed because they weren't disruptive, just “daydreamy” and perfectionistic.Wendy shares her systems for getting big projects done: think writing retreats, body doubling at coffee shops, and her trusty “go bag.”The Parking Lot and Forward Only strategies are game-changers for staying focused and avoiding perfection paralysis.Why many ADHD women procrastinate by being too productive—but only for other people.Writing accountability groups are magic. External motivation > internal guilt.How Wendy redefined success: It's not about the book deal. It's about keeping promises to yourself and finishing the damn manuscript.Substack, querying, and how to cope when rejection stings like a wasp.“You don't have to do it. But you'll regret it if you don't.” —On choosing your pain and finishing creative work.

Wendy Robinson in conversation with David Eastaugh https://www.thecalmzone.net/ The band was formed by Wendy Robinson (vocals) and Polly Hancock (vocals, guitar), initially with a drum machine. This line-up recorded the debut "Don't Go Back" EPon Big Cat UK (catalogue number BBA02) in August 1988) achieving "Single of the Week" in Melody Maker. A John Peel session, produced by Dale Griffin and recorded at the BBC studios in Golders Green, London, was first broadcast on 21 September 1988 and repeated on 11 October 1988. It featured four original songs; "Perfect Dream Home", "Fine Lines", "Dr Fell" and "Backward" Daydream. They then recruited Dana Baldinger (born Seattle,), and signed to One Little Indian Records, releasing "Please Let Me Go" as a single in April 1990; this too attained Single of The Week in Melody Maker. Baldinger was eventually replaced by Anne Rogers of The Crowd Scene.

In this episode, Jules and Zak are joined by Wendy Robinson from CALM to talk about taking care of your mental health after you leave prison. We talk about how challenging it is when you first come out, and how reality can be different to what you expected. Wendy talks about how normal it is to struggle with your mental health after prison and the different ways you can get help. If you're struggling with your mental health and you need support today, you can contact The Samaritans on 116 123 any time of the day or night. Please know that you are not alone, you matter and there are people out there who can help you. Organisations mentioned: CALM – https://www.thecalmzone.net/ CALM helpline – 0800 58 58 58 (open 5pm-midnight) Samaritans – https://www.samaritans.org/ Samaritans helpline – 116 123 (24 hours) MIND – https://www.mind.org.uk MIND Infoline number – 0300 123 3393 (provides an information and signposting service. Open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday except for bank holidays.) SHOUT – text for free any time on 85258 – https://giveusashout.org/ NHS Mental Health Services – https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/menta... Together – https://www.together-uk.org/ Turning Point – https://www.turning-point.co.uk/servi... Rethink – https://www.rethink.org/ If you're a woman, these orgs can help direct you to a women's centre which is a great place to find all kinds of support: Women In Prison – https://womeninprison.org.uk/ Advance/Minerva – https://www.advancecharity.org.uk/ This season we want to hear what you think about Life After Prison, by completing this short survey https://forms.gle/de9a94MM3i3sujmC8   The feedback we collect from you guys, the Life After Prison community, will help us to make Life After Prison the best that it can be for everyone.    It should take around 5 minutes to complete and your responses will be stored anonymously, and only used for the purposes that we've outlined.    We really appreciate you taking the time to complete this survey. Thank you!!  Contact us: If you've heard something today that's encouraged you to get some support around your mental health please let us know.

Minnesota's Direct Admissions program is centered on the belief that every student is college material and has a place in postsecondary education. Dr. Wendy Robinson and Aaron Salasek of the Minnesota Office of Higher Education share with CCA Strategy Director Janelle Jefferson how Direct Admissions connects high school students with the institutions eager to admit them and where they have a better chance of completing college.

* WARNING* Suicide is briefly mentioned in this episode. Guiding New Dance Teachers Hosted by: Anna Harsh Guest Debora Engerman shares her story of how and why she became a Ballet teacher. She offers tips and advice of how new teachers can be more confident and ways to cope with nervousness. Deborah Engerman trained under Wally Saunders in Pikesville, Maryland, from 1977 to 1979, and with the Baltimore Ballet School (formerly the Maryland Ballet School) under the direction of Wendy Robinson from 1979 to 1985, in the RAD (Royal Academy of Dance) tradition. Her classical studies also included training with Petrus Bosman, David Keener, and Christine Hennessy at National Academy of the Arts and Virginia School of the Arts. While pursuing her Bachelor of Arts in International Policy and Management Studies at Dickinson College from 1986 to 1990, she continued her study of classical ballet with the teachers of Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet. Her dance training includes Vaganova technique, French methodology, Martha Graham technique, and the Dance Education Program at Towson University. She has staged ballets including The Nutcracker and Swan Lake: Act II. For more than three decades, dancers under Engerman's tutelage have gone on to earn professional contracts and danced with companies including American Ballet Theatre, Ballet Inc., Boston Ballet, Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Nashville Ballet, Texture Ballet, Universal Ballet, the Vienna Opera Ballet, the Washington Ballet, and on Broadway. She has also coached dancers for numerous international competitions, such as the Prix de Lausanne, the Varna International Ballet Competition, and Youth America Grand Prix. Her student Adrienne Canterna took the Junior Gold Medal at the 1998 Jackson USA International Ballet Competition. For most of 2010, Engerman toured Europe as ballet mistress for Rock the Ballet, of Sweetbird Productions. Order Anna's Book: https://a.co/d/8QJa4I6 ORDER Let's Talk about Fifth: https://www.amazon.com/Lets-Talk-About-Fifth-Teaching/dp/B0CBT4YCSN/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_pl_foot_top?ie=UTF8 Deborah's website: https://www.deborahengerman.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anna-harsh/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anna-harsh/support

Evening teatime with returning guest from season one is Wendy Robinson, coming with strong T-E-A updates and how to get her book. Back in season one, Wendy shared her book, along with her mom's book on domestic violence abuse: A Mother's story and a Daughter's story have different perspectives of how they felt during that time. Join us tonight, November 6th, at 7 pm EST for updates. Let's make a difference together. LIVE STREAMING TO MULTIPLE PLATFORMS AND PODCASTS, STATIONS AND APPS. Live show on Miss Liz's YouTube channel below. Please give it a quick subscription and be notified when teatime is live. https://youtube.com/@misslizsteatimes?si=Q-jDZyTLDlPaNDyi#misslizstea#teatimewithmissliz#misslizsteatime#updates#domesticviolenceawareness#herstorymatters#personalstory#returningguest#joinus#LikeFollowShare#subscribetomychannel#youtubechannel

In this Healing 101 episode, I have the honor of speaking to Wendy Robinson, the Head of Services for Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM). Wendy's extensive experience in the field of mental health and her role at CALM have equipped her with a deep understanding of the pressing issue of suicide prevention. CALM is dedicated to helping individuals who are in the darkest depths of despair, feeling that suicide is their only escape. Wendy delves into the critical issue of rising suicide rates, shedding light on the socio-economic groups that are disproportionately affected. She emphasizes the importance of destigmatizing the word "suicide," dispelling the myth that discussing it may plant the idea in someone's mind. Instead, open dialogue can be a lifeline for those in crisis. Wendy also highlights a crucial point: suicide doesn't always manifest in an obvious manner, underlining the need for vigilant awareness and support in our communities.This episode reminds us of the importance of reaching out and fostering a culture of empathy, understanding, and support for those in need.Find more information on CALM: https://www.thecalmzone.net/Follow Hurt to Healing on Instagram: @hurttohealingpod--A big thank you our wonderful charity partner Shout. Shout is the UK's first 24/7 mental health text support service so if you're struggling or in need of someone to talk to, please remember to text Shout to 85258. Thank you to our corporate supporter, Brown Advisory, a global investment management firm which is passionate about raising awareness of mental health challenges in order to help people thrive in an ever-changing world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nuala McGovern is joined by one woman who has had a huge impact on the women's game over many years - Hope Powell - the former Lioness head coach will discuss England's chances, the growth of the game and how to continue building a legacy for women's sport. A fifth of young women suffering a mental health crisis were asked if they were on their period, a new survey has found. Research by the prevention charity Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) also found that women's calls for help were sometimes dismissed. We talk to Wendy Robinson, Head of Services at Suicide prevention charity, Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) Dr Gladys McGarey, cofounder of the American Holistic Medical Association, began her medical practice at a time when women couldn't even own their own bank accounts. Now a 102 and still practicing as a doctor, she was born in India in 1920. She started medical school just before the Second World War, married a fellow doctor, Bill and together they practised medicine, first in Ohio, then In Arizona. They also produced six children. Dr Gladys has now written a book, The Well-Lived Life. Deirdre O'Kane became a stand-up comic in 1996, getting to the finals of the BBC New Comedy Awards of that year. A co-founder of Comic Relief in Ireland, she also fronted her own talk shows, Deirdre O'Kane Talks Funny on RTÉ as well as a brand-new series, The Deirdre O'Kane Show on Sky Max. One of Ireland's favourite comedians, she is also known for acting roles such as Chris O'Dowd's Moone Boy and the biopic of philanthropist and children's rights stalwart Christina Noble called Noble, for which she received an IFTA Award. Deirdre joins Nuala to discuss her wide-ranging career and her new stand up show Demented, which is coming to London's Soho Theatre this week. Presenter: Nuala McGovern Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Studio Manager: Gayl Gordon

In this episode, Jules and Zak are joined by Wendy Robinson from CALM to talk about taking care of your mental health after you leave prison. We talk about how challenging it is when you first come out, and how reality can be different to what you expected. Wendy talks about how normal it is to struggle with your mental health after prison and the different ways you can get help.  If you're struggling with your mental health and you need support today, you can contact The Samaritans on 116 123 any time of the day or night. Please know that you are not alone, you matter and there are people out there who can help you. This podcast is also available as a video – just search Life After Prison on YouTube. Organisations mentioned:  CALM CALM helpline – 0800 58 58 58 (open 5pm-midnight) Samaritans Samaritans helpline – 116 123 (24 hours) MIND MIND Infoline number – 0300 123 3393 (provides an information and signposting service. Open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday except for bank holidays.) SHOUT – text for free any time on 85258 NHS Mental Health Services Together Turning Point Rethink If you're a woman, these orgs can help direct you to a women's centre which is a great place to find all kinds of support: Women In Prison Advance/Minerva Contact us: If you've heard something today that's encouraged you to get some support around your mental health please let us know.

Do you want a website that converts? Web designer Wendy Robinson of Wendy Jay Creatives joins Arnya and Fancy for Black Business Month to discuss websites that sell. Wendy walks her clients through her S.I.T.E. process before they start on their website. S.I.T.E: S.- Smart I.- Information T.-Technology E.-Engagement Wendy says, “You may not need a website, you may need a web presence.” Learn more about how to build the perfect website for your business. This Caught Our Attention: Irv Gotti talks about his relationship with singer Ashanti and why he does not plan to give her her masters because of his upcoming deal. TAT Question: Should you sit around and let your homeboy talk noise about your homegirl? About Wendy Wendy Robinson is the founder of Wendy Jay Creative, a business tech strategy and web design consultancy that teaches the “not-so-techy” solopreneur how to build and automate a business online. With an artistic eye for visuals and a brilliant mind for functionality, Wendy understands exactly what a solopreneur needs to present themselves like a pro so they can get paid like one. She earned her way into the male-dominated world of technology and information systems by being a self-taught developer, and then she pursued an IT degree to deepen her knowledge and expertise. Now a go-to tech guru for women in business, Wendy helps her female clients to uplevel their digital skills so they can handle their technology tools with ease. Website: wendyjaycreative.com IG: @wendyjaycreative Theories and Thoughts Podcast airs EVERY Tuesday on SwagHer's FB Live at 7 pm CST. Don't forget to follow on Instagram at @theoriesandthoughtsbrand. Connect w/ the Hostesses: Arnya T.M. Davis IG: @ladi.ceo FB: @LadiCEO Twitter: @Im_a_ladiceo YouTube: LadiCEO Media Website: www.ladiceo.com IG: @mzthangzboutique Francheska “Fancy” Felder IG: @fancyswagher FB: @fancythegogetta Twitter: @FancySwagHer SwagHer Magazine Website: http://swagher.net --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Homecoming details have been announced. The date for the next earnings call has been announced. Wendy Robinson writes about how Peloton deals with weight. Comics & Gaming Magazine reviews Lanebreak. Bicycling.com spotlights Marc Nevin who lost weight and fell in love with cycling because of Peloton. Dr. Jenn - How to delegate chores to find time for exercise. Daniel McKenna gets injured. Peloton continues Rock22 challenge with Women of Rock classes Tunde sets her book launch for Tysons Galleria. Jess Sims was on Good Day New York. Camila Ramon talks about body positivity with Mitu. Cody Rigsby speaks at NAB. Marcel Dinkins was part of the USO's Women's Empowerment Summit Panel. The Spruce talks to Hannah Corbin about her flair for interior design. Mariana Fernandez filmed new scenic content in Puerto Rico. Kirra Michel celebrates her first year at Peloton. Angelo joins us to discuss maintaining consistency when everyone in your house eats differently. Birthdays - Chelsea Jackson Roberts (4/30) All this plus our interview with David J. Miller, Phd!Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.theclipout.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Homecoming details have been announced. The date for the next earnings call has been announced. Wendy Robinson writes about how Peloton deals with weight. Comics & Gaming Magazine reviews Lanebreak. Bicycling.com spotlights Marc Nevin who lost weight and fell in love with cycling because of Peloton. Dr. Jenn - How to delegate chores to find time for exercise. Daniel McKenna gets injured. Peloton continues Rock22 challenge with Women of Rock classes Tunde sets her book launch for Tysons Galleria. Jess Sims was on Good Day New York. Camila Ramon talks about body positivity with Mitu. Cody Rigsby speaks at NAB. Marcel Dinkins was part of the USO's Women's Empowerment Summit Panel. The Spruce talks to Hannah Corbin about her flair for interior design. Mariana Fernandez filmed new scenic content in Puerto Rico. Kirra Michel celebrates her first year at Peloton. Angelo joins us to discuss maintaining consistency when everyone in your house eats differently. Birthdays - Chelsea Jackson Roberts (4/30) All this plus our interview with David J. Miller, Phd! Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.theclipout.com/

Spaces Unleashed is a live show from Twitter that we run Tuesday at 7:00 PM Mountain Time on Tuesday.  Our patrons get early access to the recordings, but we have now decided to share the fun and exciting conversations as bonus content for our podcast subscribers.Who is Dr. Samantha Wilson?From her website: https://swils6.github.io/Samantha-L-Wilson/I am a postdoctoral research fellow under Dr. Michael Hoffman at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre within the University Health Network (UHN). I previously completed my PhD in Medical Genetics at the University of British Columbia under Dr. Wendy Robinson.I am interested in omics data to understand the etiology of pregnancy and fetal pathologies and use that data to develop predictive models. Currently, I am working with bioinformatics and machine learning approaches to analyze DNA methylation data to give insights into pathogenesis and develop predictive signatures of preterm birth. I am using these data to build predictive signatures that will be usable in the clinical setting.I am interested in integrating omics data in many types of pregnancy complications to increase our understanding of placental development through gestation, understand how pregnancy complications arise, how each of these complications relate to each other and the heterogeneity present within each clinical class of complication.Signup For Our Newsletter!https://www.getrevue.co/profile/bunsenbernerbmd/issues/spaces-unleashed-and-more-check-out-the-times-929428Bunsen and Beaker Links:The Bunsen Website has adorable merch with hundreds of different combinations of designs and apparel- all with Printful- one of the highest quality companies we could find!www.bunsenbernerbmd.comGenius Lab Gear for 10% link!-10% off science dog bandanas, science stickers and science Pocket toolshttps://t.co/UIxKJ1uX8J?amp=1Bunsen and Beaker on Twitter:https://twitter.com/bunsenbernerbmdBunsen and Beaker on Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/bunsenberner.bmd/InstaBunsandBeakshttps://www.instagram.com/bunsenberner.bmd/?hl=enSupport the show

Happy Thursday! Please share this podcast with your friends so we may be an encouragement to them through the music and programming on Faith Music Radio. Featuring A Word of Encouragement with Vicky Mutchler, CW Today with Loretta Walker and Silhouettes with Shari House. During the first hour Wendy Robinson joins us to talk about her Ladies' Refresh at Landmark Baptist Church here in Evansville next Saturday, November 6, from 10am -2pm. Special speakers are Maegan Stewart from the group His Own and Leah Griffis. The cost is just $10. Lunch, coffee and chocolate are provided!! During the noon hour Janice talks about the book, Encouragement for Women: A 30 Day Devotional by Women for Women.   Music is brought to you by Faith Music Missions. Learn more here >>> https://www.faithmusicmissions.org Eleven2One Facebook  Eleven2One on Instagram

Welcome to Get Up in the Cool: Old Time Music with Cameron DeWhitt and Friends. This week's friends are Wendy Robinson and Phil Watson. We recorded this last month at the Harry Smith Frolic in Greenfield, Massachusetts. Tunes and songs in this episode: * What Made the Wildcat Wild (1:39) * Jon Bekoff's Little Birdie (15:09) * Cotton Baggin' (24:09) * Blackberry Waltz (35:03) * Crockett's Honeymoon (47:47) * Bonus track: Tanner's Reel Harry Smith Frolic's website: http://www.sacrasoft.com/HarrySmith/ Follow the Harry Smith Frolic on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Harry-Smith-Frolic-445886508842301/ Miss Moonshine V's youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/moonshineV Support Get Up in the Cool on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/getupinthecool Buy Get Up in the Cool merch like t-shirts, phone cases, and masks! https://teespring.com/new-get-up-in-the-cool-swag Sign up at https://www.pitchforkbanjo.com/ for my clawhammer instructional series! Check out Cameron's other podcast, Think Outside the Box Set: https://boxset.fireside.fm/

Episode 50In today's episode I'm joined by Wendy Robinson who is an artist and creator. Wendy had it all, a full time teaching job and owned her own home, but around the time she hit 40 she decided to sell all her things and run away in a van. Since then she has developed her art into her job, created a youtube channel, and brought together a community of creatives online. During this episode we'll discuss:Following what feels goodThe reality of leaving your full time job and how to sustain yourselfHow to become confident in your work as an artistThe importance of staying in your own laneBeing inspired by someone vs. losing yourself trying to emulate themThe realities of van life and living on the goThe power of routineConnect with WendyWendy's YouTube: The Unexpected GypsyWendy's Patreon: Find the community hereWendy's Instagram: @the.unexpected.gypsyConnect With ErinLife Styled Instagram: @lifestyledpodcastErin's Instagram: @erinelizabethhErin's Website

In 2011, Wendy Robinson and her husband received news that no parent wants to hear: their beautiful 3-year-old daughter, Victoria, was diagnosed with a brain tumour and would need a critical operation.  Wendy shares her daughter's inspiring story. Support the show: http://realfaith.org.au/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guests Ericka and Kristen from Georgia join us in our discussion of gender, boundaries, perfectionism, and other expectations involved in families, friendships, and romantic relationships. This episode reviews some pivotal scenes from the film "Something New" portrayed by actors Sanaa Lathan, Simon Baker, Blair Underwood, Mike Epps, Taraji P. Henson, Wendy Robinson, and Alfre Woodard. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

In my lifegroup we are studying Romans. What a wonderful time we are having getting greater revelation of God's grace, learning more about why and how Jesus set us right with God. Every week we are reminded that it's all about God. Not us. It's all about Who He is, and what He says about us. Our justification We are up to Chapter 4. Warren W. Wiersbe in his book, Be right - how to be right with God, yourself, and others, says the following about this section in Romans and our justification ... Paul's theme in the second section of his letter was salvation - righteousness declared. He proved that all people are sinners; so his next goal was to explain how sinners can be saved. The theological term for this salvation is justification by faith. Justification is the act of God whereby He declares the believing sinner righteous in Christ on the basis of the finished work of Christ on the cross. Each part of this definition is important, so we must consider it carefully. To begin with, justification is an act, not a process. There are no degrees of justification; each believer has the same standing before God. Also, justification is something God does, not man. No sinner can justify himself before God. Most important, justification does not mean that God makes us righteous, but that He declares us righteous. Justification is a legal matter. God puts the righteousness of Christ on our record in place of our own sinfulness. And nobody can change this record. Warren W. Wiersbe, Be right - how to be right with God, Page 45 God does it all What truth. How many times to do need to hear this to get the revelation that it is all God's doing, and nothing to do with us. He declares us righteous .... And nobody can change this record. Those words that God said about Abraham, "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness," apply to us too, as Romans Chapter 4:24, 25 tells us ... But [they were written] for our sakes too. [Righteousness, standing acceptable to God] will be granted and credited to us also who believe in (trust in, adhere to, and rely on) God, Who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead, Who was betrayed and put to death because of our misdeeds and was raised to secure our justification (our aquittal), [making our account balance and absolving us from all guilt before God]. Romans 4:24,25 AMPC Jesus set us right with God The Message Bible says it this way ... But it's not just Abraham, it's also us! The same thing gets said about us when we embrace and believe the One who brought Jesus to life when the conditions were equally hopeless. The sacrificed Jesus made us fit for God, set us right with God. Romans 4:24,25 The Message When I read this scripture, two songs came to mind ... Clean by Hillsong United Nothing but the blood by Hillsong I don't have much more to say today, other than that - that life-giving truth... The sacrificed Jesus made us fit for God, set us right with God. And that is more than enough. Thank you Jesus. Are you right with God? If you want to be set right with God, and accept what Jesus did you for you, making a way for you to be right with God, then simply say this prayer from your heart, surrendering your life to Jesus Christ. Then seek out a local bible-believing church and connect with other followers of Jesus who can help you on your journey. Lord Jesus, I believe that you are the Son of God. I believe that You became man and died on the cross for my sins. I believe that God raised You from the dead and made you the Saviour of the world.  I confess that I am a sinner and I ask you to forgive me, and to cleanse me of all my sins. I accept your forgiveness, and I receive You as my Lord and Saviour. In Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen. Please note, this prayer came from Gerald, K 1997, The Proving Ground - Nine tests that prove your personal potential,  Insight Publishing Group, Tulsa, OK, 106. To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

What does worship mean to you? Recently I read this statement about worship. It reminded me that worship is not about us. "Sometimes worship is difficult. We don’t want to praise God or hear God’s voice. Sometimes worship grabs us by the nape of the neck and shakes us up as we come face to face with an ineffable God. Sometimes worship is comforting as we bow down before a God who loves us and gave up everything for us. Sometimes worship is joyous as we praise God who does great things for our world. And sometimes worship is all those things at once. Worship should never be a passive experience, and it is never about us." Postmodern Children’s Ministry – Ministry to children in the 21st Century, Ivy Beckwith, Page 151. Let's consider this phrase again ...Worship should never be a passive experience, and it is never about us. What did Jesus say? When Jesus was being tested in the wilderness by the enemy Jesus reminded us of Who we are to focus our worship on. Then the devil, taking Him up on a high mountain, showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. And the devil said to Him, “All this authority I will give You, and their glory; for this has been delivered to me, and I give it to whomever I wish. Therefore, if You will worship before me, all will be Yours.” And Jesus answered and said to him, “Get behind Me, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.’ ” Luke 4:5-8 NKJV Jesus' words are very clear ... 'You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve.' The Message Bible says it this way, Jesus refused, again backing his refusal with Deuteronomy: “Worship the Lord your God and only the Lord your God. Serve him with absolute single-heartedness.” Luke 4:8 The Message What is worship? We can think about worship in many different ways. One of the ways we are probably most familiar with is the 'singing time' in church, which at the moment, due to COVID-19, has greatly dimished in the wake of social distancing rules. I'm so grateful that our church has been able to meet again, in smaller numbers, and have a time of worship, albeit quite differently to what we are used to, but still a beautiful time of worshipping Jesus. With the absence of the familiar corporate worship time during COVID, we have had to purposefully seek out and embrace alternatives to continue fellowshiping and drawing closer to God. So as with many aspects of our faith during this time of COVID, the small group gathering and our individual devotion time with Jesus has taken on a more central role. Worship in the small group For me, my early experiences of home-group / life-group involved a time of worship. While there was some singing during the worship, mostly it was a time of sitting in the presence of God, focusing on the words that declared truth about our Saviour. For example, Lord of All, Hillsong Worship 'Lord I long to see you glorified In everything I do All my heartfelt dreams I put aside To see your Spirit move with power in my life. Jesus, Lord of all eternity Your children rise in faith All the earth displays your glory And each word you speak brings life to all who hear.' I'm grateful for those experiences and what I learned. They were one aspect of the equipping that enabled me to start a life-group in 2019, where we normally include a time of worship, sitting in the presence of God, with our heart and mind focused on Jesus, Lord of All. God prepares the way How perfect is that for today's scenario of COVID-19 when singing has so many restrictions around it. I love how God goes before us, preparing us for what we need, before we know we need it. And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.” Deuteronomy 31:8 NKJV Despite the social distancing restrictions, we can still listen to some anointed worship songs, lay down our concerns from the day and turn our hearts and minds towards God. Here are a few of worship songs we play: Find me at the feet of Jesus- Christy Nockels What A Beautiful Name - Hillsong Worship Breathe/Rest (Spontaneous Worship) - Cory Ashbury Goodness of God - Bethel Music and Jenn Johnson You are for me - Kari Jobe Worshipping in Spirit and in Truth In these times though, when our experience of 'church' is a little different, I think it is important to pause and consider the wider definition of worship, and how we are living that out in our lives. CompellingTruth.org has an interesting article, How can I worship the Lord in Spirit and Truth, refering to our response to John 4:23-24. But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.” John 4:23-24 NLT And here is the same scripture in The Passion Translation ... From here on, worshiping the Father will not be a matter of the right place but with the right heart. For God is a Spirit*, and he longs to have sincere worshipers who worship and adore him in the realm of the Spirit and in truth.” John 4:23-24 TPT A side note, or perhaps the key note when it comes to worshipping Jesus, ... the footnote in The Passion Translation says, *Or “God is breath,” or “God is wind.” Jesus refers to “Spirit” more than one hundred times in the four Gospels. The transforming power of the Holy Spirit The power of the Holy Spirit transforms us, over time, into more sincere worshippers of Jesus. His power transforms our lives so we become a reflection of God's love - ie the fruit of the Spirit grows in us ... But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 NKJV Here is a more contemporary translation from The Message: But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely. Galatians 5:22-23 The Message Worship is not about us So we have meandered from that original statement by Ivy Beckwith .... Worship should never be a passive experience, and it is never about us." ... to Jesus' words in Luke 4:8 ... 'You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve.' Luke 4:8 NKJV ... to Jesus' words in John 4:24 ... For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.” John 4:24 NLT ... to Paul's words about what happens in us when we allow the Holy Spirit transforms us ... But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 NKJV We need to choose to engage in worship So yes, worship is not about us, but we need to choose to engage in worship. We need to fully engage and allow the Holy Spirit to transform us through worship. Fully engaging means we continually choose to put Jesus first in our lives, acknowledging that He is Lord of All. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:9-11 NKJV Today, let's choose to engage fully in worship, however that looks for us - singing, loving, serving, and through that worship allow the Holy Spirt to transform us to be more and more like Jesus in this place. To find out more, please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

During COVID-19 our business slowed down, so Ken and I took the opportunity to learn some new skills, specifically in relation to video recording. A week ago Ken told me about a one month challenge he was going to do with a group Live Streaming Pros, about telling stories and listening to stories. The 31 Day Challenge The challenge, 31 Days to being Youniquely you on camera, involves doing a live stream to a private Facebook group, speaking to a question/topic provided by Live Streaming Pros. For example, 'What is holding you back?' One of the important aspects of the group is the giving and receiving of encouragement to other group members, of which there is 543 globally. It is a fascinating environment with plenty of stories to listen to. There are lots of Christians in the group, learning how to tell their stories in a more effective way. Actually that's why I decided to join Ken in this challenge, to improve my communication skills on video so I can more effectively share stories about Jesus. However the other morning after I had completed a live stream, I was doing the dishes (because the mundane activities of life have to be done!) and was thinking about how interesting it was listening to people learning how to share their faith and their dreams etc in this group. And I felt God say to me, "I want you to listen to the other stories too and learn from them." Listen to the other stories By 'Other stories' I knew God was referring to the people in the group who were obviously from other cultures and religions - remember this group has 543 people from all over the world who want to tell their stories more effectively, mostly with the goal of helping others. This instruction from God about listening to the stories and learning from them, reminded me of recent messages I had heard at church in relation to The Stolen Generation (Donna Meehan) and Gender-related issues. How easy is it to only listen to the things that make us feel comfortable, rather than the stories that challenge our thinking and hopefully our actions. So my response to God was, "Okay God, I will listen to the other stories too. Give me insight to hear what is being said and understand more about people. Please help me to listen with my heart." Of course this 'listening' doesn't only apply to the videos in the lifestreaming group, it applies to all areas of our lives. Listening to my children As a mum I haven't always been a good listener, either because I have been too busy to listen, or I have already made assumptions about what I would hear from the mouth of my child, or about the scenario that has played out. Over the years though I have learned that when I hear the words, 'Mum' it is best to stop and completely shift my attention to the person. Even if sometimes only to say, 'I will just finish this job and then I can speak with you.' Of course I am not perfect at this and sometimes its a couple of hours until I 'finish the job!' But most times I do try to respond with that initial acknowledgement. Stopping making assumptions has been a little bit more challenging for me, especially as the children grow and change. Sometimes after my 'assumption response' they have had had to say to me, 'Mum, I'm not like that anymore. I don't do that now.' And I've had to say sorry, and make a mental note to myself that they have changed. We can all be better listeners, especially with those closest to us. But who is going to listen to me? On the flipside, have you ever felt like, 'Who is listening to me? I am listening to my husband, my children, etc, but who is taking time to listen to me?' There is One who is always available to listen to us, and doesn't make assumptions about what we are going to say. Yes, He knows us completely, but He listens graciously and loves us unconditionally. Lord, you know everything there is to know about me. You perceive every movement of my heart and soul, and you understand my every thought before it even enters my mind. You are so intimately aware of me, Lord. You read my heart like an open book And you know all the words I'm about to speak before I even start a sentence! You know every step I will take before my journey even begins. Psalm 139:1-4 TPT How wonderful is it to know that. Before I go to sleep I can chat with Him, leave my concerns with Him ... Pour out all your worries and stress upon him and leave them there, for he always tenderly cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7 TPT When I wake up I can ask Him for direction for the day ... Show me Your ways, O LORD; Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation; On You I wait all the day. Psalm 25:4-5 NKJV And then the onus is on me again - to listen to God's teaching and instructions. God, please help us to listen well I wonder how much have we missed about life and people because we haven't listened properly? At home? At school? At work? At church? In social settings? Are we listening to stories people want or need to tell us? Let's ask God today to help us to listen well, listen with our heart (bypassing all the assumptions), and listen for the actions God wants us to take in response to what we hear. To find out more visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

In these interesting days, how are you going with being content when things keep changing? Restrictions tighten and restrictions ease. We are unsure what tomorrow will look like. Memories and grief surfacing When the Coronavirus started impacting on Australia there was a few days where I struggled as grief surfaced from our daughter's cancer journey. The continual hand santising was the trigger, a familiar practice during her 15 months of receiving chemotherapy. And now when we are again on 'high alert' and restrictions are tightening, I am reminded of when we as a family were on 'high alert' or hypervigilant in relation to Victoria getting a high temperature (over 38 degrees) and having to go to hospital for at least three days. These emergency hospital visits happened many times and caused much anxiety and turmoil for each member of our family. Warning: unashamed promo - if you want to read more about this part of our story, and God's faithfulness throughout it, my book is available at wendyrobinson.com.au What does it take to be content? The current situation and memories of the past had me thinking about contentedness. How does one get to that state of contentedness regardless of what is going on in their lives or around them? The Apostle Paul seemed to have found that place, as he explains to the Philippians... But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity. Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:10-13 NKJV There is so much to meditate on in this passage of scripture. Let's not forget where Paul was when he wrote this letter - prison, with the exact location unknown. He himself was undergoing hardship, however he was still able to maintain his focus on Christ and on others. Keep focussed on the goal Paul was focussed on a goal, regardless of his circumstances. He explains this to Philippians earlier in his letter. I don't mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:12-14 NLT Remember, Paul is in prison when he wrote this letter. Plenty of restrictions and unknowns in his life at that time! But he keeps his focus on Christ and his mission. John Maxwell says, This letter proves that even while the apostle Paul sat in a foul Roman prison, he never lost his passion, his sense of mission, his sense of direction, or his command of the situation. While Paul remained an inmate of Rome, he couldn’t plant new churches as he felt called to do. Instead, he sat in chains, attached to a Praetorian guard, awaiting a trial that he thought could end his life (1:21). Yet even in the midst of all of this, he never abandoned his role of leadership. NKJV Maxwell Leadership Bible Page 1470) Rejoice in the Lord Not only is Paul focussed on the mission despite the apparent hindrances, he is encouraging others to maintain their joy. Always be joyful in the Lord! I’ll say it again: Be joyful! Let everyone know how considerate you are. The Lord is near. Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks. Then God’s peace, which goes beyond anything we can imagine, will guard your thoughts and emotions through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 GW A supernatural joy that only comes from knowing the Lord and trusting that He is in control. Remember the scripture, Nehemiah 8:10 The joy of the Lord will be your strength. Nehemiah 8:10 NIV Why was Paul content? So how is it that Paul could experience that joy and continue to exhort others, in the midst of this trial? Perhaps it had something to do with his first meeting with Jesus, which we read about in Acts 9. During those days, Saul, full of angry threats and rage, wanted to murder the disciples of the Lord Jesus. So he went to ask the high priest and requested a letter of authorization he could take to the Jewish leaders in Damascus, requesting their cooperation in finding and arresting any who were followers of the Way. Saul wanted to capture all of the believers he found, both men and women, and drag them as prisoners back to Jerusalem. So he obtained the authorization and left for Damascus. Just outside the city, a brilliant light flashing from heaven suddenly exploded all around him. Falling to the ground, he heard a booming voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” The men accompanying Saul were stunned and speechless, for they heard a heavenly voice but could see no one. Saul replied, “Who are you, Lord?” “I am Jesus, the Victorious, the one you are persecuting. Now, get up and go into the city, where you will be told what you are to do.” Saul stood to his feet, and even though his eyes were open he could see nothing—he was blind. So the men had to take him by the hand and lead him into Damascus. For three days he didn’t eat or drink and couldn’t see a thing. Acts 9:1-9 TPT Well Jesus certainly got Saul's attention. One moment Saul was on a mission to persecute the followers of Jesus. Then suddenly he has an interaction with Jesus and finds himself completely blind and having to be led by the men with him. Saul was in a very vulnerable position, and yet that encounter with Jesus was so powerful, he did exactly what Jesus told him to do. God the Mastermind Around this same time Jesus was preparing the way for Saul, to become one of his 'chosen vessels'. This preparation involved a disciple, Ananais. For completeness, and because it is a wonderful example of how God brings restoration, purpose (and perhaps contentment?) into our lives, we will read Acts 9:10-19. Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.” Then Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.” But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.” And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized. So when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent some days with the disciples at Damascus. Acts 9:10-19 NKJV Knowing Christ We know from the Bible that Saul, now Paul, went on to spread the Gospel throughout the known world at that time, experiencing many hardships including prison and shipwreck, but always staying focussed on the goal. Paul had met Jesus and experienced the power of forgiveness. He had been transformed by Jesus and knew His power and authority. Paul had been filled with the Holy Spirit and he knew what his mission was. These Christ centred experiences enabled Paul to be content, no matter what. He knew Jesus intimately and trusted Him completely. I’ve learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I’m just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I’ve found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am. Philippians 4:12-13 The Message So how about us? Are we content? Is our relationship with Jesus so intimate that we are content regardless of what is happening around us? This is a challenging question. And the answer probably involves a journey, some movement from where we are today, to a closer relationship with Jesus. How to do we do that? There are many ways, but perhaps the first step is talking to Jesus, asking Him to show you what your next step is. So why not ask Him now. To find out more visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

Are you a praying person? If not, perhaps today is a great day to start. Keep reading and hopefully, if I've communicated well, you will learn a little about prayer. If yes, then I really want to encourage you that prayer matters. But remember, the 'how', 'when', 'where' of prayer doesn't matter. Any-way, any-where and any-time is suitable for praying. Even the 'why' doesn't really matter, as God sees our heart. He knows our motives and will respond accordingly. God is gracious. But the 'who' does matter. Who are you praying to? John 14:6 tells us that we are to connect with God the Father, through Jesus Christ, his Son. Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6 NIV Hence we pray, 'In Jesus Name.' So a few thoughts on prayer ... Praying for our nation Now is the time to pray for our country, if you haven't been already. There is so much need, and so many hurting people, what do we pray for? Protection? Provision? Forgiveness? Yes, all of those things, and perhaps a prayer for everyone in this nation to have greater revelation of God's great love for them, because remember the Bible says, Our love for others is our grateful response to the love God first demonstrated to us. 1 John 4:19 TPT Imagine what our country would be like if we all loved each other as God loves us. To help me pray for our nation, I have set up a music playlist 'City and Country'. It includes God of this city (Chris Tomlin) Good Grace (Hillsong United) Revival's in the air (Bethel Music & Melissa Helser) Here is as in Heaven (Elevation Worship) The Blessing Australia (Churches UNITE to sing the blessing over Australia) Pray for our Governments A little story... since March 2020 when COVID-19 started to impact more and more on our life in Australia, I began my day with praying for our Prime Minister. Praying for things like wisdom, protection and rest. Then one morning God said to me, 'Why aren't you praying like that for your husband?' So now, I pray those things for Ken, and then our Prime Minister and State Premiers. But back to God's word and what it says about praying for our governments... 1 Timothy 2:1, in the NIV says, I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people - for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 1 Timothy 2:1 NIV The following verse then tells us that it is pleasing to God when we pray for people in authority. Here is The Passion Translation ... Most of all, I’m writing to encourage you to pray with gratitude to God. Pray for all men with all forms of prayers and requests as you intercede with intense passion. And pray for every political leader and representative, so that we would be able to live tranquil, undisturbed lives, as we worship the awe-inspiring God with pure hearts. It is pleasing to our Saviour-God to pray for them. He longs for everyone to embrace his life and return to the full knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4 TPT Yes, God wants hearts to return to Him and His truth. Praying for our Christian brothers and sisters We can also be praying for our Christian brothers and sisters. The Apostle Paul is a great example of praying regularly for those who love Jesus. We know this by what he writes in his letters. Here are a couple of examples. God knows how often I pray for you. Day and night I bring you and your needs in prayer to God, whom I serve with all my heart by spreading the Good News about his Son. Romans 1:9 NLT Ever since I first heard of your strong faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for God's people everywhere, I have not stopped thanking God for you. I pray for you constantly, asking God, the glorious Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to give you spiritual wisdom and insight so that you might grow in your knowledge of God. I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called - his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance. I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God's power for us who believe him. Ephesians 1:15-19 NLT AMEN! AMEN! AMEN! If the Holy Spirit prompts you to pray for someone and you don't know where to begin, perhaps Paul's prayer is a good starting place! With some churches still unable to practically meet for 'normal' Sunday services due to COVID-19, it is important that we pray for each other, encourage each other and keep finding ways to stay connected, just as Ephesians 6:18 reminds us. In the same way, prayer is essential in the ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out. Ephesians 6:18 The Message Another little story ... when our lifegroup (homegroup) meetings had to transition to online due to the COVID-19 social distancing restrictions, the Holy Spirit prompted me to invite a friend from church, who wasn't currently in a lifegroup, to join us. She doesn't live close to us, and it was too far for her to come to our home each fortnight for the meeting. However, the establishment of the online lifegroup provided an opportunity for her to join and connect regularly with other women from church. Now as the social distancing restrictions have eased we are using a hybird approach with both face to face and zoom meetings (as I am sure many other groups are too) so she, and others who are unable to physically attend, can be at the meeting. That's our God - always working things out for good. So let's be asking God to show us ways to keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out, especially in these interesting times! Praying for yourself There comes a time in life when we realise we can't do this life well alone. We need help, someone bigger than ourselves and our world. I recently watched the movies of the true story of Louis Zamperini in Unbroken and Unbroken - the path to redemption. They were a great reminder of this truth. I remember the day when I had that revelation, almost 24 years ago. And most days since, probably at least once a day, these words have come from my lips, 'God I need your help' for many different reasons, including relationships, finances, health and peace. We need to be honest in our prayers and ask God for His help. Because of Jesus, we have direct access to God, our Heavenly Father. Hebrews 4:16 says, Let us therefore come boldy to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace in the time of need. Hebrews 4:16 NKVJ The Psalms are full of examples of David telling God how he feels, oscilating between fear and faith, and acknowledging where his help comes from. Here is one of my favourites, Psalm 121:1-2 I look up to the mountains; does my strength come from mountains? No, my strength come from GOD, who made heaven, and earth, and mountains. Psalm 121:1-2 The Message. So if you are wondering if God really understands how you are feeling, I suggest that you take some quiet time to read through the Psalms. There will be at least one Psalm that will reasonates with you. If you are wondering where to start, here is a helpful resource from Jennifer Rothschild, Four Psalms to pray when you need God's help. And remember, Jesus is praying for you! Always remember, just as we are praying for others, there are people who are praying for us! And that includes Jesus. Romans 8:34 tells us, Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died - more than that, who was raised - who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. Romans 8:34 ESV Yes, Jesus is interceding for you and me. The Passion Translation says it this way, "Who then is left to condemn us? Certainly not Jesus, the Anointed One! For he gave his life for us, and even more than that, he has conquered death and is now risen, exalted, and enthroned by God at his right hand. So how could he possibly condemn us since he is continually praying for our triumph? Romans 8:34 TPT What a glorious thought, Jesus is praying for our triumph! The Holy Spirit is also praying for us, as The Passion Translation's footnote for Romans 8:34 reminds us ... Not only does the Holy Spirit pray for us, so does Jesus Christ. Two divine intercessors are praying for you each day. Two-thirds of the Trinity are actively engaged in intercession for us. This is typified by the incident of Moses interceding on the mountain for Israel’s victory with one hand held high by Aaron (the high priest, a type of Jesus, our High Priest) and Hur (or “light,” a metaphor for the Holy Spirit, who prays with divine illumination for our good). See Ex. 17:9-13; Heb. 7:25; 9:24. Are you feeling encouraged? I sure am. Are you a praying person? So I'll ask again, 'Are you a praying person?' If not, perhaps today is a great day to start. Begin by saying hello to Jesus and telling Him how you are feeling, and asking for His help. If yes, you know that there is no shortage of situations and people to pray for, so let's continue to pray feverently and be expectant that our God will answer. Let us hold strong to the confession of our hope, never wavering, since the One who promised it to us is faithful. Hebrews 10:23 The Voice To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

Have you experienced a time when you thought to yourself, "I wish Jesus was here with me." I remember a friend, who was having radiation treatment for cancer, saying to me, "Before I go into the treatment room, I stand at the door and say, 'Okay Jesus, in we go together.'" She was declaring that Jesus was going with her into that room, acknowledging that she was not going alone. Sometimes we need to remind ourselves that "I am not alone." Jesus walks with me That story reminds me of a song, "He walks with me" from Merle Haggard. The lyrics are simple but beautiful ... I come to the garden alone While the dew is still on the roses And the voice I hear falling on my ear The son of God discloses And he walks with me and he talks with me And he tells me I am his own And the joy we share as we tarry there None other has ever known He speaks and the sound of his voice is so sweet The birds hush their singing And the melody that he gave to me Within my heart is ringing And he walks with me and he talks with me And he tells me I am his own And the joy we share as we tarry there None other has ever known You know that feeling you have after spending time with someone who loves you. You feel heard, encouraged, safe and secure. Well that is how we can feel after spending time with Jesus. But first we have to recognise that He is with us and acknowledge Him. Recognising Jesus Let's take a look at a couple of stories where Jesus wasn't immediately recognised. At the empty tomb Firstly, at the empty tomb after Jesus' resurrection ... But Mary stood outside the tomb weeping. As she wept, she knelt to look into the tomb and saw two angels sitting there, dressed in white, one at the head, the other at the foot of where Jesus' body had been laid. They said to her, "Woman, why do you weep?" "They took my Master," she said, "and I don't know where they put him." After she said this, she turned away and saw Jesus standing there. But she didn't recognise him. Jesus spoke to her, "Woman, why do you weep? Who are you looking for?" She, thinking that he was the gardener, said, "Mister, if you took him, tell me where you put him so I can care for him." Jesus said, "Mary." Turning to face him, she said in Hebrew, "Rabboni!" meaning "Teacher!" John 20:11-16 The Message But she didn't recognise Him In regards to Mary not recognising Jesus, let's look at the way other translations say verse 14, The Passion Translation - Then she turned around to leave, and there was Jesus standing in front of her, but she didn't realise that it was him! The New King James Version - Now when she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, and did not know that it was Jesus. Recognise, realise and know According to the NIV Study Bible, we don't know why Mary didn't recognise Jesus, "He may have looked different or he may intentionally have prevented recognition." NIV Study Bible, Luke 20:14 Commentary, page 1633. What about us? I wonder how many times things have happened in our lives and Jesus has been there and we haven't recognised, realised or known. Or why we sometimes don't recognise Jesus, or realise what He is doing in our lives? Perhaps this is the moment to ask Him. Jesus calls us by name An aside, or maybe one of the main points ... notice that it is when Jesus calls Mary by her name that she recognises him. In the TV series about Jesus, The Chosen (available at the App Store or Google Play), there is a beautiful scene in Episode 1, when Jesus calls Mary by her name and she is redeemed. The road to Emmaus Let's have a look at another interaction on that same day, when Jesus was not recognised. He is walking with two of the disciples on the road to Emmaus. And behold, that very day two of [the disciples] were going to a village called Emmaus, [which is] about seven miles from Jerusalem. And they were talking about all these things that had occurred. And while they were conversing and discussing this together, Jesus Himself caught up with them and was already accompanying them. But their eyes were held, so that they did not recognise Him. Luke 24:13-16 AMPC In this story it is clear that the disciples did not recognise Jesus because of divine intervention. The Passion Translation says it this way ... They were unaware that it was Jesus walking alongside them, for God prevented them from recognising him. Luke 24:16 TPT Jesus is recognised when He broke the bread In fact, the disciples didn't recognise Jesus until that evening at supper... Joining them at the table for supper, he took bread and blessed it and broke it, then gave it to them. All at once their eyes were opened and they realised it was Jesus! Then suddenly, in a flash, Jesus vanished before from their eyes! Luke 24:30-31 TPT Oh my, there certainly was a lot of mysterious things going on at the time, and I don't pretend to understand any of them. But it is good to ask God what He wants to show us through these stories. Current events - what's going on? An interesting aside about the conversation on the road to Emmaus, the disciples were discussing the current events of the day ... And He said to them, "What kind of conversation is this that you have with one another as you walk and are sad?" Then the one whose name was Cleopas answered and said to Him, "Are You the only stranger in Jerusalem, and have You not known the things which happened in there in these days? And He said to them, "What things?" So they said to Him, "The things concerning Jesus of Nazareth, who was a Prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how the chief priests and our rulers delivered Him to be condemned to death, and crucified Him. But we were hoping that it was He who was going to redeem Israel....... ....Then He said to them, "O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken! Ought not the Christ have suffered these things to enter into His glory?" And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself." Luke 24:17-27 NKJV Jesus explains the bigger picture In our world today, there are certainly many interesting current events to discuss. But notice what happens in this conversation on the road to Emmaus, who brings the wisdom and explains what is going on? Jesus. John Maxwell comments on this conversation, "As two grieving men conversed about Jesus' crucifixion, they struggled to understand what it all meant. Jesus saw their confusion and could tell they needed someone to guide them. So He joined them and began to explain His resurrection in light of Scripture (Luke 24:27,45). By the end of their time together, it all made sense." John Maxwell, The Maxwell Leadership Bible, Page 1299. Listen to how The Passion Translation explains the disciples' response when they realised they had been walking with Jesus on the road to Emmaus, Stunned, they looked at each other and said, "Why didn't we recognise it was him? Didn't our hearts burn with the flames of holy passion while we walked beside him? He unveiled for us such profound revelation from the Scriptures!" Luke 24:32 TPT What is God showing us? So what profound revelation does God want to give us today through these stories from Scriptures? Possibly some of these things, and probably a whole lot more! Jesus will reveal himself when He chooses. When Jesus asks us questions, we need to search our heart and give an honest answer. If we spend time with Jesus and learn to know His voice as Mary did, we will recognise Him when He speaks to us. Jesus knows when we are struggling and will walk alongside us and help us, if we let Him. Sometimes Jesus will do the unexpected, like vanishing at the supper. We won't always understand what He does and that's okay. We have to trust that His plan is good. Only Jesus has the complete picture, understanding how each part of the puzzle fits together, so we need to listen when He speaks. Jesus walks and talks with us today To finish today, let's just revisit the words of that song again, knowing that Jesus is with us and we are not alone. And he walks with me and he talks with me And he tells me I am his own And the joy we share as we tarry there None other has ever known To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

Tonight I interview Wendy Robinson, author of 'Through My Eyes' about her heartbreaking story of domestic violence and sexual abuse. She broke free and healed, her mother and wrote a book to tell their story of courage. Tonight we look at all forms of emancipation and how to keep your survivor spirit alive and thrive. www.river-rain.com wendyrobinson1973@gmail.com.to buy the books --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/catharine-river-rain/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/catharine-river-rain/support

Have you had the experience of crying out to God for many years, and then as the busy-ness of life takes over, the cry is still there, but not so loud? Then one day you have this moment, where the Holy Spirit nudges you and says, 'Look.' You look and see that God is answering that prayer. A smile comes over your face, and your heart feels full. The blindness of busy-ness is lifted. The blindness of busy-ness When this recently happened to me, I started thinking about how we often get so focused on other things, that we miss what God is doing. Proverbs 29:18 in The Message Bible says ... If people can't see what God is doing, they stumble all over themselves; But when they attend to what he reveals, they are most blessed. Proverbs 29:18 The Message When I obeyed the prompting of the Holy Spirit, and looked and saw what God was doing, I did indeed feel and know that I was most blessed. The Amplified Bible says Proverbs 29:18 this way, Where there is no vision [no revelation of God and His word], the people are unrestrained; But happy and blessed is he who keeps the law [of God]. Proverbs 29:18 AMP Ummm ... No revelation of God and His word ... the people are unrestrained... The blindness in our thinking Let's look at this scripture for a moment in the context of our thought-life. That is, when our thoughts are not focused on God's truth they can wander wherever they desire. This happens when we are not actively taking our thoughts captive, as God says to do in 2 Corinthians 10:5. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV This is another blindness, not towards what God is doing, but in relation to what we are thinking! Negative thoughts causing blindness I experienced this type of blindness recently when I let negative thoughts overwhelm me. They caused me to lose sight of God's word. I couldn't see the good. I couldn't see a positive path forward. The story Over the past month our daughter has had nine medical appointments in relation to her left leg, and there are two more this coming week. Attending all these appointments brought back the memories of the multiple hospital visits from her time of having chemotherapy treatment. Late last week, both my daughter and I were at the point of sighing, crying and thinking, 'No, not another appointment,' and 'Will it always be like this?' So strong is the emotional pull of old memories and feelings of despair - grief. For our daughter during recent years the negative experiences around these ongoing appointments have been offset by the joy and excitement of swimming training and competing at sporting events. But due to COVID-19 restrictions and other factors beyond our control, those activities are currently not happening. So, the question she now often asks is, 'What is there to look forward to?' What is there to look forward to? What is there to look forward to? Yes, blindness can stop us looking forward and it can stop us looking to Jesus. The blind beggar These thoughts about blindness led me to reading the story of Jesus healing the blind beggar Bartimaeus, recounted in Mark 10 and Luke 18. Then they came to Jericho. And as He was leaving Jericho with His disciples and a great crowd, a blind beggar, Bartimaeus, a son of Timaeus, was sitting by the roadside. And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout, saying, Jesus, Son of David, have pity and mercy on me [now]! And many severely censured and reproved him, telling him to keep still, but he kept on shouting out all the more, You Son of David, have pity and mercy on me [now]!" And Jesus stopped and said, Call him. And they called the blind man, telling him, Take courage! Get up! He is calling you. And throwing off his outer garment, he leaped up and and came to Jesus. And Jesus said to him, What do you want Me to do for you? And the blind man said to Him, Master, let me receive my sight. And Jesus said to him, Go your way; your faith has healed you. And at once he receive his sight and accompanied Jesus on the road. Mark 10:46-52 AMPC What did God speak to you about as we read that story? For me, there were four things which I share below. But first, lets give thanks for the revelation God brings to us through His word. Remember Proverbs 29:18 that we read earlier, Where there is no vision [no revelation of God and His word], the people are unrestrained; But happy and blessed is he who keeps the law [of God]. Proverbs 29:18 AMP Keep asking. Don't give up Firstly, Bartimaeus called out to Jesus not once, but twice. He didn't give up. Interestingly when this story is recounted in Luke, earlier in Chapter 18, Jesus is teaching the disciples about prayer, saying, Don't you know that God, the true judge, will grant justice to all of his chosen ones who cry out to him night and day? He will pour out his Spirit upon them. He will not delay to answer you and give you what you ask for. God will give swift justice to those who don't give up. So be ever praying, ever expecting, just like the widow was with the judge. Luke 18:7-8a TPT Jesus finishes this teaching about prayer with this question, a challenge to me and you ... Yet when the Son of Man comes back, will he find this kind of persistent faithfulness in his people? Luke 18:8b TPT Revelation (or reminder) Keep calling out to Jesus. Let's be people of persistent faith.   Courage to respond Secondly, when Jesus responded to the blind beggar's call, it appears from the disciple's words that Bartimaeus was a little hesitant to go to Jesus. So they went to the blind man and said, "Have courage! Get up! Jesus is calling for you!" Mark 10:49 TPT As we know Bartimaeus did muster the courage, get up and go to Jesus. Imagine if he hadn't. He would have missed that opportunity to receive healing. The Message Bible says, They called him. "It's your lucky day! Get up! He's calling you to come!" Mark 10:49 The Message His lucky day indeed! Revelation (or reminder) Sometimes it takes courage to respond to what Jesus asks us to do, but that is part of the faith adventure. Note: there is a great song that reminds me to take courage: Take Courage by Kristine DiMarco.   Throw off the old cloak Thirdly, look what Bartimeaus did when he responded to Jesus ... And throwing off his outer garment, he leaped up and came to Jesus. Luke 10:50 AMPC It seems like, that to get up, Bartimeaus had to throw off something - his outer garment. The Passion Translation says, So he threw off his beggars' cloak, jumped up, and made his way to Jesus. Luke 10:50 TPT He had to throw off the cloak that represented his old life, before he could receive the new life Jesus had for him. Revelation (or reminder) This was one of the main points of the story God wanted me to understand. I had to throw off the old memories of years of medical appointments. I had to take those thoughts captive and remind myself that we are in a new season now. This is not the past. God is doing a new thing. Some serious talk to self, declaring God's truth and promises was required. For both me, but for our daughter.   Confidence in Jesus' power Finally, Bartimaeus had confidence that Jesus could make him well. Jesus said to him, "Go; your faith [and confident trust in My power] has made you well." Immediately he regained his sight and began following Jesus on the road. Mark 10:52 AMP So a question for us, "Who or what are we putting our confidence in today?" Revelation (or reminder) There is only one answer -> Jesus. Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth and the life." John 14:6 NKJV   The Blindness and Jesus So just remember to keep a look out for blindness in your life. The blindness of busy-ness can cause us to miss seeing what God is doing in our lives. The blindness of negative thinking can stop us looking to Jesus, the One we need to have our confidence in. The importance of confidence in Jesus Three final thoughts on the importance of confidence in Jesus, and accompanying scripture, because remember what the Amplified Bible says in Proverbs 29:18. Where there is no vision [no revelation of God and His word], the people are unrestrained; But happy and blessed is he who keeps the law [of God]. Proverbs 29:18 AMP 1. We need to have confidence that with Jesus we can do all things. I can do all things [which He has called me to do] through Him who strengthens and empowers me [to fulfil His purpose - I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency; I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace.] Philippians 4:13 AMP 2. We need to have confidence that with Jesus we can more than overcome. Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Romans 8:37 NKJV 3. And when we can't find that confidence, we need to remember. But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power my rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9-11 NIV To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

What has God put on your heart to do today? Is it something you regularly do, or is it a little 'out-of-the-box'? This is a story about having the courage to do what God says, no matter how 'weird' it seems, and then witnessing how God blesses others through that obedience. I pray this simple story encourages you to follow through on promptings from the Holy Spirit, trusting that your obedience will bring blessing to yourself and others. Walking and praying One of my weekly activities is twice a week walking and praying around the school grounds, normally with a couple of other mothers from school. Most of the time we have no idea how God uses our prayers. We just walk and pray in faith that He is at work in the supernatural. We may never know the outcomes of those prayers, but we trust that in this season it is what God has asked us to do. Plans change The presence of COVID-19 put a stop to the walking around the school grounds. But it did not stop us praying together, as we like many others around the world quickly worked out how to pray together online. No weapon that is formed against you shall prosper. Isaiah 54:17 NKJV And, again, as I'm sure many people found during this time, the stretching and having to do things a little differently, actually became a blessing. In our school prayer example, praying online enabled more mums to pray than could usually be present at school, which led to more conversation and deeper relationships. It's a bit like, the enemy had a plan, and God used it for good, sound familiar ... And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28 NKJV More changes Now as the restrictions from COVID-19 are slowly reducing, we can walk and pray at school again, albeit in a specified area, the school oval, and with a maximum of three prayers. We are just so grateful to be allowed to pray on school grounds again. Normally we commence our prayer walk by going around the boundary of the school. Our starting place is the oval. For the past couple of years we have done this on Friday afternoons when sport is on, so the children and teachers were used to seeing us walking and praying. Last Friday was my first time returning to pray at school, and I was by myself. When I completed my first lap of the oval I thought, "How silly is this going to look, when I walk around the oval again?" As I couldn't go on our normal route around the school due to the COVID-19 restrictions. It's not about me! But then, with the prompting of the Holy Spirit, I remembered that it wasn't about me! But rather it was about what God wanted to do in that moment. And I had no idea what that was, so I asked Him, "God, why is it that we are allowed only here, on the oval? I know from a COVID-19 safety perspective why we are here, but why have You got us only here? What is it that You want me to do?" Pause for a moment and picture this - a sports oval filled 7 classes of children and their teachers, and one woman walking around the perimeter of the oval praying. What do you think God wanted me to do? We have all been impacted by COVID-19 in different ways, especially teachers who had to completely re-think the way they deliver education very quickly, and implement new strategies effectively and efficiently. Pray for the teachers So God's answer to me was simply, "Pray for the teachers on the oval." So I started on my second prayer lap of the oval. As I walked past each teacher, God gave me a word of encouragement, very specific, which I madly scribbled on a piece of paper. As much as I wanted to, I knew it wasn't appropriate to walk up to them in the middle of their sports activities and say, 'Hi, I felt God wanted to say to you .... ' Previously I had received specific words of encouragement for teachers, normally one or two, but never seven during one prayer walk. This was a little unusual. What was God doing? What next God? As I drove home from school I asked God about those words of encouragement, and how specific they were, and what to with them. Do I email each teacher individually, or send a group email including everyone's word of encouragement? You may think, what does it matter how you deliver the words of encouragement? But more and more I am learning that God is interested in the details. It mattered to Him how they were delivered, because, as He was about to tell me, He had another message to deliver to these teachers. God's response to my question about the specificity was something like, "This is My body – each one with a role to play and a gift to bring." The diversity of the body of Christ I got it! God was wanting to not only deliver a word of encouragement to each teacher, but He wanted to send a message about the wonderful diversity of His body. It is the same Holy Spirit who continues to distribute many different varieties of gifts. The Lord Yahweh is one, and he is the one who apportions to believers different varieties of ministries. The same God distributes different kinds of miracles that accomplish different results through each believer's gift and ministry as he energises and activates them. Each believer is given continuous revelation by the Holy Spirit to benefit not just himself but all. 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 TPT God's response to the 'How' question was 'send as a group email' to illustrate the diversity of the body. Later in the afternoon I sent that group email with the words of encouragement and supporting scriptures. The responses I received confirmed that God's message had been delivered and understood. All glory to God, He knows what we need and when we need it. The 'takeaways' from this story So there are plenty of 'takeaways' from this simple story. I've listed them below with the supporting example. Make space in your life for God to speak to you (e.g. purposefully set aside time to pray and listen to God) Trust that God is at work in the unseen (e.g. praying for people, students and families, that we don't know) When seemingly barriers arise, be expectant that God will use it for God (e.g. temporary move to praying online) Take your eyes off yourself and put them on Jesus (e.g. worrying about what others will think about repeatedly walking around the oval). When plans change, ask God what He wants to bring from the change (e.g. What were God's plans for us praying only on the oval?) Be ready for God to do things differently (e.g. God's words of encouragement for each of the seven teachers on the oval) Keep asking God for the next step (e.g. how to deliver the words of encouragement to the teachers) God has a bigger plan (e.g. this was about more than words of encouragement, it was about giving a picture of Christ's body - unity through diversity) Obeying leads to blessing others (e.g. obeying God's call to take time to pray lead to His word of encouragement for others). Obedience will bring blessing This is a very simple story of how when we obey what God asks us to do, we can be a blessing to others. Just as God wanted to encourage these teachers that they all have gifts and are part of one body, it is the same for us. We all have gifts, gifts to bless others with, however sometimes we just need a little bit of encouragement to get out there and use them! So I pray that this story encourages you to do what God has put on your heart, and know that He has gifted you for a purpose, far greater than you could have imagined. And whatsmore, you may never know how far the blessing ripples will travel from your step of obedience. But God has carefully designed each member and placed it in the body to function as he desires. A diversity is required, for if the body consisted of one single part, there wouldn't be any body at all! So now we see that there are many differing parts and functions, but one body. 1 Corinthians 12:18-20 TPT To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

Do you remember your most recent dream? What was it about? What did it mean? I only remember a few of my dreams, mainly because they were delivering very clear messages from God. Messages that helped me to re-focus rather quickly! Dreams and messages - don't ignore them. One of my dreams that I remember most clearly came soon after Ken and I were married. One night we had an argument. Ken went for a walk. I was emotionally exhausted so went to bed, and promptly fell asleep. I had a very vivid dream, with one lasting image - our bed, Ken lying on one side, me on the other side, and a huge snake lying in between us. On seeing this image I woke up, phoned Ken asking him to come back immediately. He did. We apologised to each other, forgave each other and prayed. I believe that dream was from God, a warning that there needed to be unity in our marriage as the enemy was already planning on how to cause division, after only a few weeks of marriage. Yes, God can speak to us through dreams. And He wants us to listen. King Nebuchadnezzar's dream A friend recently shared a link to one of Ravi Zacharias' last sermons. In the sermon he illustrated the importance of seeking God's wisdom by recounting a story from the book of Daniel, King Nebuchadnezzar's request for the Chaldeans to make known to him his dream and its interpretation. It's a great story of how God delivers messages through dreams. In the second year of the reign of Nebuchadnezzar, Nebuchadnezzar had dreams by which his spirit was troubled and agitated and his sleep went from him. Then the king commanded to call the magicians, the enchanters or soothsayers, the sorcerers, and the Chaldeans [diviners], to tell the king his dreams. So they came and stood before the king. And the king said to them, I had a dream and my spirit is troubled to know the dream. Daniel 2:1-3 AMPC However, the Chaldeans wanted the king to tell them the dream first, and then they would respond with the interpretation. Then said the Chaldeans [diviners] to the king in Aramaic [the Syrian language], O king, live forever! Tell your servants the dream, and we will show the interpretation. Daniel 2:4 AMPC No man on earth can do that But Nebuchadnezzar insisted - both the dream and the interpretation. And the Chaldeans continued to resist. They knew they had no way of knowing what Nebuchadnezzar's dream was because, as they expressed, they had felt only the gods could reveal that to the king. The Chaldeans [diviners] answered before the king and said, There is not a man on earth who can show the king this matter, for no king, lord, or ruler has [ever] asked such a thing of any magician or enchanter or Chaldean. A rare and weighty thing indeed the king requires! None except the gods can reveal it to the king, and their dwelling is not with [human] flesh. Daniel 2:10-11 AMPC The Chaldeans did not have a relationship with the one true God, the living God. They didn't have access to His wisdom. The Message Bible says it like this, The fortunetellers said, "Nobody anywhere can do what you ask. And no king, great or small, has ever demanded anything like this from any magician, enchanter or fortuneteller. What you're asking is impossible unless some god or goddess should reveal it - and they don't hang around with people like us. Daniel 2:10-11 The Message Nebuchadnezzar wants answers Nebuchadnezzar obviously wasn't very happy with the response from the Chaldeans. He wanted answers! That set the king off. He lost his temper and ordered the whole company of Babylonian wise men killed. When the death warrant was issued, Daniel and his companions were included. They also were marked for execution. Daniel 2:12-13 The Message Daniel did have a relationship with the living God, and he had confidence that God would give him wisdom to respond correctly to the king's request - providing both the dream and the interpretation. So Daniel asked the king for a little extra time to provide an answer to his request. The mystery is solved Then Daniel went to his house, and made the decision known to Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, his companions, that they might seek mercies from the God of heaven concerning this secret, so that Daniel and his companions might not perish with the rest of the wise men of Babylon. Then the secret was revealed to Daniel that night in a vision So Daniel blessed the God of heaven. Daniel 2: 17-19 NKJV Daniel then went back to Nebuchadnezzar and gave him the answer. He prefaced his response with acknowledgement of where the wisdom came from. Daniel answered the king, "No mere human can solve the king's mystery, I don't care who it is - no wise man, enchanter, magician, diviner. But there is a God in heaven who solves mysteries, and he has solved this one. He is letting King Nebuchadnezzar in on what is going to happen in the days ahead. This is the dream you had when you were lying on your bed, the vision that filled your mind. Daniel 2:27-28 The Message Godly wisdom This story makes me think about James 1:5, a scripture I have posted on the wall near my desk, If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. James 1:5 NLT God speaks to us through dreams So dreams and messages ... God uses dreams to tell us about our future, just as He did with King Nebuchadnezzar. And God can give us wisdom regarding the interpretation of our dreams, just like He did for Daniel. We just need to ask Him for His wisdom. Sometimes God uses dreams to give us information about situations, to give us greater understanding and essentially encouraging us to trust that He has got the situation sorted. God did that for Joseph when he found out Mary was pregnant. Her fiance, Joseph, was a righteous man, full of integrity and he didn't want to disgrace her, but when he learned of her pregnancy he secretly planned to break the engagement. While he was still debating with himself about what to do, he fell asleep and had a supernatural dream. An angel from the Lord appeared to him in clear light and said, "Joseph, descendant of David, don't hesitate to take Mary into your home as your wife, because the power of the Holy Spirit has conceived a child in her womb. She will give birth to a son and you are to name him 'Saviour,' for he is destined to give his life to save his people from their sins." ... When Joseph awoke from his dream, he did all that the angel of the Lord instructed him to do. Matthew 1:19-21, 24 TPT God warns us through dreams Sometimes God uses dreams to give us warnings. Again He spoke to Joseph via a dream, warning him about Herod's plans to kill Jesus. Now when they had departed, behold an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, "Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young Child to destroy Him." When he arose, he took the young Child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt. Matthew 2:13-14 NKJV Note, the 'they' who had departed, were they wise men, who had also received a warning from God in a dream. Afterward they returned to their own country by another route because God had warned them in a dream not to go back to Herod. Matthew 2:12 TPT Note 2: What is it with these Kings who get angry, albiet for different reasons, frustration and fear, and then respond with killing - Nebuchadnezzar and all the wise men of Babylon; Herod kills every baby boy two years old and younger in Bethlehem. This is the fallen world we live in. God uses dreams to give us directions In Egypt God speaks to Joseph again in a dream, this time, to give Joseph clear direction on where to go next. Now when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, "Arise, take the young Child and His mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the young Child's life are dead. Then he arose, took the young Child and His mother, and came into the land of Israel. Matthew 3:19-21 NKJV But then Joseph is concerned because Herod's son is now in control in Judea, so in another dream God gives Joseph further instructions. But when he heard that Archelaus, Herod's son, had succeeded him as ruler over all the territory of Judah, he was afraid to go back. Then he had another dream from God, warning him to avoid that region and instructing him instead to go to the province of Galilee. So he settled his family in the village of Nazareth, fulfilling the prophecy that he would be known as the "Branch." Matthew 2:22-23 TPT God's instructions and our obedience How obedient is Joseph? After each of these dreams where he received the information, warnings and instructions from God, Joseph did what God asked of him. Furthermore, some of those actions fulfilled prophecy from the Old Testament. So how important is it that we consider our dreams, asking God if He is giving us a message in them. And how important is it, to do whatever He asks us to do. God has the big picture Remember God has the big picture. He has the plan and He will reveal our next step, maybe via a dream, at the right time. To finish, let's meditate on what Daniel said when God revealed the mystery of King Nebuchadnezzar's dream to him ... That night the answer to the mystery was given to Daniel in a vision. Daniel blessed the God of heaven, saying, "Blessed be the name of God, forever and ever. He knows all, does all: He changes the seasons and guides history, He raises up kings and also brings them down, he provides both intelligence and discernment, He opens up the depths, tells secrets, Sees in the dark - light spills out of him! God of all my ancestors, all thanks! all praise! You made me wise and strong. And now you've shown us what we asked for. You've solved the king's mystery." Daniel 2:19-23 The Message To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

More from our series that celebrates the women who get things done – the Troupers. They're very bad at blowing their own trumpets so we're doing it for them. Today we hear from Annie Taylor and Wendy Robinson the founders of the Profanity Embroidery Group in Whitstable. After building up credit card debt of £25,000 Clare Seal decided she had to do something drastic to deal with it. She set up an Instagram account to make herself accountable. Posting anonymously she shared her story and offered advice and solidarity to a growing community of people. She’s now written a book with tips and advice for others in a similar situation. It’s called Real Life Money: an honest guide to taking control of your finances Plus two midwives from Kent Kent midwives - Sally Sidhu and Jan Gatehouse - who've just an award for their work on promoting colostrum tell Jane all about the benefits of so called "liquid gold" especially for premature babies. And as some children in England return to school how do you deal with a child who still needs to be shielded. Presenter Jane Garvey Producer Beverley Purcell Guest; Annie Taylor Guest; Wendy Robinson Guest; Clare Seal Guest; Sally Sidhu Guest; Jan Gatehouse

When do you get impatient? I remember years ago someone saying that you know when you are in a hurry when you put a frozen meal in the microwave, turn it on, and then get impatient because it takes 4 minutes to defrost and cook a meal. When I heard that I gained some insight into myself!!!! Yes, it seems like I'm continually on the patience journey. I wonder if we did a little stock-take of our patience levels for one week what the results would show. For me I'm sure there would be some impatient moments related to technology, my husband and our children. Although by the grace of God, thankfully not as many as there used to be! If we let Him, God will continually transform us. But the moment one turns to the Lord with an open heart, the veil is lifted and they see. Now, the "Lord" I'm referring to is the Holy Spirit, and wherever he is Lord, there is freedom. We can draw close to him with the veil removed from our faces. And with no veil we all become like mirrors who brightly reflect the glory of the Lord Jesus. We are being transfigured into his very image as we move from one brighter level of glory to another. And this glorious transfiguration comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:16-18 TPT The Holy Spirit The New King James Version says it this way, But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed in to the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. 2 Corinthians 3:18 NKJV On this patience journey, there has been one scripture that the Holy Spirit often leads me to when I can feel myself getting frustrated and feeling like I want to step in and take control ... So he answered and said to me: “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ Says the LORD of hosts. Zechariah 4:6 NKJV This scripture always stops in me my tracks. And I am reminded of a situation a few years ago with an organisation I am connected with, where there was a lot of might and power happening, it was very ugly. After months the situation was resolved, not by the might and power, but by the Spirit. And I am reminded of situations in our family, where using my own resources and wisdom (my might and power) I have tried and tried and tried to resolve issues. But then one day, by the Spirit, change comes and the issue is resolved. Developing patience In this season with three teenagers and one pre-teen, patience is certainly a virtue, and one I am relying on the Holy Spirit to develop more within me. But the fruit produced by the Holy Spirit within you is divine love in all its varied expressions: joy that overflows, peace that subdues, patience that endures, kindness in action, a life full of virtue, faith that prevails, gentleness of heart, and strength of spirit. Never set the law above these qualities, for they are meant to be limitless. Galatians 5:22-23 TPT Mary, the mother of Jesus As a parent, I want patience that endures. I was thinking of a couple of parents we read about in the Scriptures, such as Mary the mother of Jesus. She knew before she became pregnant that the child she was carrying was the Son of God. But the angel reassured her, saying, "Do not yield to your fear; Mary, for the Lord has found delight in you and has chosen to surprise you with a wonderful gift. You will become pregnant with a baby boy, and you are to name him Jesus. He will be supreme and will be known as the Son of the Highest. And the Lord God will enthrone him as King on his ancestor David's throne. He will reign as King of Israel forever, and his reign will have no limit." Luke 1:30-33 TPT How patient would Mary have been, knowing that her son had this future ahead of Him, but having to wait on God's perfect timing. I'm sure I would have had many moments of impatience and frustration thinking, "Why don't you just get on with it and do your job now!" God's timing We know from John 2, that eventually Mary does ask Jesus to do a public miracle when the wine runs out at the wedding in Cana. And when Mary realised it, she came to him and asked, "They have no wine, can't you do something about it?' John 2:3 TPT The footnote from The Passion Translation says, "This is a dilemma that Mary is hoping Jesus will solve by performing a miracle. Mary has no doubt about the power and anointing of her Son." The story goes on ... Jesus replied, "My dear one, don't you understand that if I do this, it won't change anything for you, but it will change everything for me! My hour of unveiling my power has not yet come." John 2:4 TPT Again, lets read the footnote from The Passion Translation, "For Mary, it will change her very little, but for Jesus, this will be his first public miracle and will dramatically change his ministry from this moment on as the crowds see the power he possesses. Jesus knows his miracle ministry will "come out of hiding" by performing a miracle. Yet with Mary's encouragement, Jesus proceeds to do just that." God knows all the implications There is so much for us to learn from that story. In relation to patience it shows how important it is that we gain understanding that God's timing is perfect. He has the full picture, and knows all the implications for everyone involved. For me as a mum I am always learning that God is at work in our children's lives, even when I can't see the physical outworking. Not by my might or my power, but by His Spirit, the transformation is happening. My role is to love and encourage - often with no words, just actions, and sometimes no actions either, but just interceding for them in prayer. The father of the Prodigal Son Another story in Scripture that came to mind is the parable Jesus told about the prodigal son. I wonder how long the son was away from home, and how often the father thought to himself, "Come on son, why don't you just come home!" But the father knew the son had to make his own decision to return home. It was another 'not by might, not by power, but by My Spirit' time. I found this commentary from Oosterzee, regarding the father ... "The father has, however, been indirectly working for his recovery, by allowing him to bear all the consequences of his transgressions; he has, besides, been waiting patiently, and keeping both his heart and his house open to him." -Theological and Homiletical Commentary on the Gospel of St Luke, Volume 2. Johannes Jacobus van Oosterzee, edited by Johann Peter Lange and translated by Sophia Taylor. Edinburgh, 1867. The father in the parable is just like our Father in Heaven, who keeps His heart and house open to us. He allows us to make our own decision to return to Him, first through salvation, and then each day as we continually yield to Him in different areas of our lives. God is love, and love is patient. Love is ... I'm sure you know this scripture, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, often read at weddings (how interesting that Jesus did His first public miracle at a wedding, an event celebrating love) ... Love is large and incredibly patient. Love is gentle and consistently kind to all. It refuses to be jealous when blessing comes to someone else. Love does not brag about one's achievements nor inflate its own importance. Love does not traffic in shame and disrespect, nor selfishly seek its own honour. Love is not easily irritated or quick to take offense. Love joyfully celebrates honesty and finds no delight in what is wrong. Love is a safe place of shelter, for it never stops believing the best for others. Love never takes failure as defeat, it never gives up. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 TPT When I read this scripture and think about God, these are all the qualities I picture in Him. And these are the qualities He wants to develop in us, including patience, not by our might, not by our power, but by His Spirit. And when God is personally present, a living Spirit, that old, constricting legislation is recognised as obsolete. We're free of it! All of us! Nothing between us and God, our faces shining with the brightness of his face. And so we are transfigured much like the Messiah, our lives gradually becoming brighter and more beautiful as God enters our lives and we become like him. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 The Message The patience journey, only made truly possible when walking in His Spirit. Let's walk that way today. To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

Last week an editorial in the BMJ reported that before Covid-19 only one in five harmful and dependent drinkers got the help they needed, and now the proportion will be lower. There is concern for those struggling with dependence and those on the brink of dependence. How do you cope with an alcohol problem under lockdown? And what support is out there? We hear the experience of a listener, the journalist Catherine Renton who has been sober for over 3 years and from Julia Sinclair, professor of Addiction Psychiatry, University of Southampton and consultant in alcohol addiction. She’s also chair of the Royal College of Psychiatry’s addiction faculty. Jenny Colgan's latest novel is called Five Hundred Miles From You. It's about a nurse in London and a nurse in the Scottish Highlands. It explores everything they've seen in their careers and whether or not they can help each other. Coronavirus has made visible a group of people who were often invisible – volunteers. Thousands of people signed up to help the NHS as a volunteer. Local residents’ groups have got together to help those who can’t get to the shops, or to call people who might be experiencing severe isolation. Before lockdown, Woman’s Hour began interviewing women who volunteered in all sorts of areas – community cafes, at food banks, working with the homeless. Women who see a gap, or a problem to be solved, and just get on with it – Troopers. They told their stories to Laura Thomas. Today Annie Taylor and Wendy Robinson, the founders of the Profanity Embroidery Group in Whitstable. How do authors cope with the rejection of the books they are writing? Struggling after her latest novel was rejected by publishers Michèle Roberts decided to write down everything that had happened. In the resulting memoir of a year, Negative Capability, Michèle reckons with the hurt and depression caused by the rejection. She rewrites and edits her novel, reconnects with and loses treasured friends, ultimately finding acceptance and understanding. Presented by Jenni Murray Produced by Sarah Crawley Interviewed guest: Catherine Renton Interviewed guest: Julia Sinclair Interviewed guest: Jenny Colgan Interviewed guest: Annie Taylor Interviewed guest: Wendy Robinson Interviewed guest: Michèle Roberts Reporter: Laura Thomas

It is always worth taking the time to read The Bible. God constantly wants to show us something. Earlier this week I was reading about Jesus feeding the five thousand in Matthew 14:13-21. As I was reading God reminded me that often Jesus does the unexpected. Let’s take a look at the story. Getting bad news Jesus has just heard that his cousin, John the Baptist, has been beheaded, thanks to King Herod. Jesus is obviously upset by this news and seeks out some time alone. When Jesus heard it, He withdrew from there privately in a boat to a solitary place. Matthew 14:13a AMPC. I don’t know about you, but for me, when I hear some devastating news, I want to be by myself to process what I've just heard. I remember those first couple of days after Victoria was diagnosed with a brain tumour. In the hospital I'd often escape to a small room attached to the Ronald McDonald Family Room, and spent a lot of time there crying and praying. It was called ‘The Quiet Room.’ I was very grateful for that space. But Jesus didn’t have the luxury of that quiet processing space. Everyone wanted to see Him and speak with Him. But when the crowds heard of this, they followed Him on foot from the cities. Matthew 14:13b AMP. No time to process the grief The story goes on ... So when Jesus landed he had a huge crowd waiting for him. Seeing so many people, his heart was deeply moved with compassion toward them, so he healed all the sick who were in the crowd. Matthew 14:14 TPT Jesus barely had any time alone to start processing the grief of losing someone He loved, but He doesn’t appear to be bothered by it. Jesus does the unexpected. He continues to give practically to the people, meeting their needs. This is a wonderful example of Jesus' capacity to love others when He is in suffering. John Maxwell says an interesting thing about Jesus' actions, "One of the greatest remedies for our own suffering is serving others. Servant-leadership becomes a solution for both the one serving and the one being served." (The John Maxwell Leadership Bible, Page 1198) After Jesus had healed many people, the disciples thought it was time for the crowds to go so Jesus' could have some space and rest. Toward evening the disciples approached him. "We're out in the country and it's getting late. Dismiss the people so they can go to the villages and get some supper. Matthew 14:15 The Message The crowd is still on His mind But Jesus still has the crowd on His mind, and is ready once again to do the unexpected. "They don't need to leave," Jesus responded. "You can give them something to eat." Matthew 14:16 TPT The disciples are a little perplexed as they know they don't have enough food to feed the people, which we find out later in the story numbered more than 5000. And they said to Him, "We have here only five loaves and two fish." Matthew 14:17 NKJV The disciples, probably like me if I was in that situation, could only see what they had in the 'natural.' But Jesus saw the potential in the supernatural. Jesus said, "Bring them here." Then he had the people sit on the grass. He took the five loaves and two fish, lifted his face to heaven in prayer, blessed, broke, and gave the bread to the disciples. The disciples then gave the food to the congregation. They all ate their full. They gathered twelve baskets of leftovers. About five thousand were fed. Matthew 14:18-21 TPT Jesus does the unexpected Jesus does the unexpected. He feeds more than five thousand people from the starting ingredients of five loaves of bread and two fish. How? I don't really know, other than what the Scriptures tell us: He looked up to heaven (showing His complete reliance on His Father - God). Note; The Chosen a historical series, beautifully depicts Jesus looking up to heaven before He does a miracle. He gave thanks to God (acknowledged that everything He has comes from The Father). He broke the bread into pieces (Jesus took action with what was in His hand) Jesus is still doing the unexpected today Jesus does the unexpected in how He provides food the five thousand. He is still doing the unexpected today in our lives, especially in this season of living with COVID-19. For example, lets take a look at one of the things God values most, relationships. In my world, since the arrival of COVID-19, I have seen and experienced relationships that have deepened through shared experiences; relationships that have been restored as priorities shifted, and relationships that have become more authentic as pain surfaced and is processed. Jesus has done the unexpected. Once again. What have you seen Jesus do, unexpectedly, in your world in this season? Lets continue to keep our eyes on Jesus, trusting that He will carry on doing the unexpected, with provision, healing and restoration. I'll finish with these lyrics from Hillsong United's Song, Shadow Step. In every way, You never fail So have Your way, here God And I'll sing Your praise Fix my heart to Yours Ready for the unexpected Ready for what you will do next To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

When the COVID-19 social distancing restrictions were implemented in March 2020, in Australia, I asked God what He wanted me to do during this time. He simply said, 'Tend to your garden." I knew He meant literally, as our garden was long overdue some TLC. But I also knew He was speaking metaphorically about areas in my life, family relationships and other activities I'm involved in. What has God been saying to you during COVID-19? Tending the literal garden For me, tending to the literal garden wasn't going to be a complex activity. It just involved a plan - with achievable goals, time, a little money, and sunshine. Over the past six weeks we have transformed our front path, planting seeds to create a border of white cottage flowers. What a joy it has been each morning to walk out the front door and see the growth. Another section of the garden has been weeded and had turf laid. In the midst of those improvements a stunning white Camellia tree has bloomed, dropping petals white as snow on the newly laid turf. So beautiful. Our youngest daughter has planted seeds to create flower borders around two trees. The shoots are starting to come through now. Doing this gardening together with her is part of the other 'tend to your garden' that God was speaking to me about. Tending to relationships Through our journey of having four children and one with cancer who obviously required more attention, understanding the concept of love languages has been essential. They have helped immensely in working to restore relationships with our other children. For more information on love languages, see 'The Five Love Languages of Children by Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell.' Over the years we had purposefully implemented routines and strategies to increase the frequency that we 'spoke' each child's love language. Strategies that God used to bring healing into relationships. For example, for those with a love language of Quality Time, we identified specific times during the weekly schedule. They often happened in the car on the way to sporting activities. So guess what happened when the COVID-19 social distancing restrictions came in? Sport stopped, and along with it those precious Quality Time moments. The flow on-effect? Increased tension and frustration as the love tanks were suddenly running very low! How do we do this now? There was frustration for me as well as the children. I was so angry with the enemy for attempting to destroy what God had restored. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. John 10:10 NKJV However, I am grateful for all God has taught me over the years about the enemy's attempts to steal, kill and destroy. A couple of key scriptures that help me in these times of frustration - although sometimes only after I have loudly expressed my frustration! .... For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Ephesians 6:12-13 NKJV So he answered and said to me: “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ Says the Lord of hosts. Zechariah 4:6 NKJV God says, 'Do it this way.' So with the help of the Holy Spirit we have created new ways of 'speaking' each child's love language in this COVID-19 season and possibly beyond. And yes, for one child, that does include time in the garden. Praise God. He always has a plan and it is good. Another area that I knew God was referring to with the 'Tend to your garden' response was a ministry group I am involved with. In January this year God spoke to me about doing something new with the group. I was excited about what He had said, but did not know how to implement it. Sure I had ideas, but none of them seemed to be feasible, so I did nothing. Yesterday I was outside at sunrise preparing the ground for laying the turf before the forecasted rain came, when God spoke to me about that new thing. He said something like, 'Now is the time to do that, and do it this way.' The strategy was brillant, masterful! Thank you God. In January, how could I have known that COVID-19 would impact our country in this way? And that there would be a flow-on affect impacting the way our group operated? How could I have known that this would be the perfect time to implement what God had spoken to me about? The answer to all these questions is, 'I couldn't have known.' Only God knew. For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:8-9 NKJV Make space to hear what God wants to say So why am I sharing these stories? Because I really believe God has at least one thing, probably more, He wants to say to each of us during this time. And His words to us, as always, are critical for our future. They give us purpose and the strategies on how to achieve that purpose. How are you going to make space in your day to hear what God wants to say to you? For some more thoughts on hearing from God please visit these posts at https://wendyrobinson.com.au God hears our heart's cry God's timing and our patience God is listening - Day 22 - Drawing Closer to God devotion

Today is a fabulous day to draw closer to God. With so many unknowns in our world, how good is it to know that there is one constant, one that does not change - yesterday, today or tomorrow. Jesus, the Anointed One, is always the same—yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13:8 TPT It can be so easy to let our thoughts be consumed by the news reports and let the Word of God take a back-seat. But now is the time to be more purposeful about spending time reading the Bible, ensuring that it is the first thing we read each morning - not the news feed. In fact, we need to have our focus right from the moment we wake up, an immediate conversation with God - perhaps even before you get out of bed. A short prayer of, 'Thank you God for this day. Thank you that you are sovereign and you know what this day will bring. Thank you for your Godly wisdom for all leaders in this world, and courage to do as You ask them to do. Please help me to trust You in everything. Thank you for your peace and protection over those I love. Thank you that You have the victory, in Jesus Name.' Make your life a prayer. And in the midst of everything be always giving thanks, for this is God’s perfect plan for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18 TPT If you have a yearning to improve your relationship with God, this is a great opportunity - don't waste it, embrace it and go for it. Every time you feel fearful or anxious remind yourself that God is with you ... Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6 NKJV And that God has not given you a spirit of fear ... For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV The Passion Translation says ... For God will never give you the spirit of fear, but the Holy Spirit who gives you mighty power, love, and self-control. 2 Timothy 1:7 TPT Another way to daily draw closer to God is to make room in your day to have some time to worship God. Here are some worship songs that have helped me lift my eyes to Jesus when I have been struggling ... You're Gonna Be Okay - Brian and Jenn Johnson Be Still - Hillsong Worship Who can compare - Christy Nockels 10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord) - Matt Redman When we have our eyes on Jesus, and purposefully draw closer to Him we will find that through the love we receive from Him, we have greater capacity to help others in these challenging times. Look at how much encouragement you’ve found in your relationship with the Anointed One! You are filled to overflowing with his comforting love. You have experienced a deepening friendship with the Holy Spirit and have felt his tender affection and mercy. Philippians 2:1 TPT We will have a greater capacity to put others first - perhaps other family members or someone else in your world. So I’m asking you, my friends, that you be joined together in perfect unity—with one heart, one passion, and united in one love. Walk together with one harmonious purpose and you will fill my heart with unbounded joy. Be free from pride-filled opinions, for they will only harm your cherished unity. Don’t allow self-promotion to hide in your hearts, but in authentic humility put others first and view others as more important than yourselves. Abandon every display of selfishness. Possess a greater concern for what matters to others instead of your own interests. Philippians 1:2-4 TPT So I really really really want to encourage you in these 'unprecedented times' (a phrase that I have seen often recently in all the cancellation emails!), times that are not a surprise to our God - that every moment we choose to draw closer to God rather than focus on our circumstances, will give us the strength and peace to finish this season well. I'll finish up with a quick summary Have a conversation with God before you get out of bed. Remember to thank Him for something - your salvation is always a great place to start. Read your Bible before your news feed. Set aside time to pray and worship Seek out someone else you can help and encourage in these times. How great is our God!There’s absolutely nothing his power cannot accomplish,and he has infinite understanding of everything. Psalm 147:5 TPT For some more thoughts on the overcoming fear and having the courage to keep standing, please visit these posts ... Are you feeling fearful? Courage to keep standing In the Battle Be strong and of good courage Courage to do the little things To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

Are you feeling fearful today? There is so much going on in this world that can cause us to experience fear. But what is it that we are afraid of? And what does God's word say about those fears? Are you fearful of 'not having enough?' With all the media reports about our economy, are you feeling fearful about not having enough? God's word says ... The Lord is my best friend and my shepherd. I always have more than enough. Psalm 23:1 TPT And in Matthew 6:31-33 So then, forsake your worries! Why would you say, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear?’ For that is what the unbelievers chase after. Doesn’t your heavenly Father already know the things your bodies require? So above all, constantly chase after the realm of God’s kingdom and the righteousness that proceeds from him. Then all these less important things will be given to you abundantly. Matthew 6:31-33 TPT I know sometimes it can be really hard to believe the truth in this scripture, but I encourage you to meditate on it and ask God to give you faith to believe it. Are you fearful of anxiety overtaking you? Are you feeling fearful, that you are loosing your grip on reality, that anxiety is taking over? God's word says ... He offers a resting place for me in his luxurious love. His tracks take me to an oasis of peace, the quiet brook of bliss. That’s where he restores and revives my life. He opens before me pathways to God’s pleasure and leads me along in his footsteps of righteousness so that I can bring honor to his name. Psalm 23:2-3 TPT And remember Jesus left us with His peace ... Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27 NIV Are you fearful of loneliness? Are you fearful of being alone and having to face things by yourself? God's word says ... Lord, even when your path takes me through the valley of deepest darkness, fear will never conquer me, for you already have! You remain close to me and lead me through it all the way. Your authority is my strength and my peace. The comfort of your love takes away my fear. I’ll never be lonely, for you are near. Psalm 23:4 TPT God tells us He is always with us. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV Are you feeling fearful of the enemy? Are you feeling surrounded and powerless? God's word says ... You become my delicious feast even when my enemies dare to fight. You anoint me with the fragrance of your Holy Spirit; you give me all I can drink of you until my heart overflows. Psalm 23:5 TPT You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord, who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalem!’ Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the Lord is with you. 2 Chronicles 2:17 NKJV Just a note about 'positioning' ourselves. I can think of at least four ways we can position ourselves well today .... In God's Word In worship - having an attitude of worshipping God Having quiet time with God In the company of believers   Are you fearful about the future? Are you feeling fearful about the future? God's word says ... So why would I fear the future? For your goodness and love pursue me all the days of my life. Then afterward, when my life is through, I’ll return to your glorious presence to be forever with you! Psalm 23:6 TPT Our God has the victory, and we are more than overcomers in Jesus Name. Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Romans 8:37 NKJV No more fear in Jesus Name. Our eternal destiny is heaven. AMEN! So while it is important to be aware of what is happening in this world, let's always remember to keep reading God's word, meditating on it and declaring His promises. For some more thoughts on the overcoming fear and having the courage to keep standing, please visit these posts ... Courage to keep standing In the Battle Be strong and of good courage Courage to do the little things To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

Something wonderful has happened in our garden. After receiving the beautiful life-giving rain the plants are growing again! Thank you God. The boundary hedges are expanding upwards and outwards. So much so, that our gate had difficulty opening. The power from the protruding branches was almost too great for the electric motor. The gate shuddered as the electric motor pushed against the branches. Finally the breakthrough came and the gate continued on it's path. When I observed this struggle I realised some pruning was required to ensure with the longevity of the gate motor! So out came the pruning shears and off came the branches. The gate is running smoothly now. There are a few things we can draw from this gardening story ... God makes things grow Firstly, while we planted the hedge plants, it is God who makes them grow, just as it is God who makes us grow ... After all, who is Apollos? Who is Paul? We are only God’s servants through whom you believed the Good News. Each of us did the work the Lord gave us. I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow.  It’s not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What’s important is that God makes the seed grow. The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work. For we are both God’s workers. And you are God’s field. You are God’s building. 1 Corinthians 3:5-9 NLT We are God's workers, working together for His purposes. The Passion Translation says it this way, I was the one who planted the church and Apollos came and cared for it, but it was God who caused it to grow. This means the one who plants is not anybody special, nor the one who waters, for God is the one who brings the supernatural growth. 1 Corinthians 3:6-7 TPT And we always need to remember that truth and as Micah 6:8 says, Walk humbly in the company of your God. Micah 6:8 ISV God knows the pruning plan Secondly, God will discern when and how our pruning is required, and it will always be at the right time and in the right way. We need to trust Him. I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. John 15:1-2 NLT How important is that cutting off of the branches that don't produce fruit? In my garden example, if those branches hindering the gate's movement had not been chopped then we would not have been able to get into our property. In a spiritual sense, we need that tidying up - cleansing - so we can enter into all God has for us - a relationship with Him for now and all of eternity. Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Hebrews 10:19-22 NIV Jesus enables us to live again Yes, Jesus has done that cleansing for us. He enables us to live fully again, so we need to stay connected to Him. I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you’re joined with me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant. Separated, you can’t produce a thing. Anyone who separates from me is deadwood, gathered up and thrown on the bonfire. But if you make yourselves at home with me and my words are at home in you, you can be sure that whatever you ask will be listened to and acted upon. This is how my Father shows who he is—when you produce grapes, when you mature as my disciples. John 15:5-8 The Message As we stay connected to Jesus, and allow God to do the pruning, we can then confidently run the race set before us. Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3 NIV And that race may not be run quite as smoothly as my electric gate is running now, but with perseverance and the power of God, we will complete the race, in Jesus Name. For some more thoughts on the benefits of pruning please visit this post ... who likes pruning? To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

God has given me a scripture to start today's post, Proverbs 8:14. But I have no idea what will happen after that, so I am trusting the Holy Spirit will guide me and bring revelation. Let's see where He takes us. "You will find true success when you find me, For I have insight into wise plans that are designed just for you. I hold in my hands living-understanding, courage, and strength. They're all ready and waiting for you." Proverbs 8:14 TPT I read this scripture last week. It encouraged and challenged me. It encouraged me with the thought that God has a wise plan designed just for me. And He has a wise plan designed just for you too. It challenged me with "You will find true success when you find me" - what is "true success?" And what does it mean to "find God?" I don't have a succinct answer to what is 'true success,' but for me, I know that is has something to do with the closeness of my relationship with God. My heart is to keep drawing closer and closer to God. Move your heart closer and closer to God, and he will come even closer to you. But make sure you cleanse your life, you sinners, and keep your heart pure and stop doubting. James 4:8 TPT Oh look, there are another few challenges .... cleanse your life... keep your heart pure... stop doubting. I need some help with those actions. Thank you Holy Spirit that you are my helper. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. John 14:16-17 NIV And thank you God that your grace is sufficient for me every time I get it wrong. But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV Going back to Proverbs 8:14, God has a wise plan that is perfectly designed for each of us, and when we are weak and rely on God, we have more of Christ's power is us. The power that raises the dead to life. Here is Paul's prayer for the Ephesians, asking God to give them wisdom, revelation, and to experience the power of God. I pray that the Father of glory, the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, would impart to you the riches of the Spirit of wisdom and the Spirit of revelation to know him through your deepening intimacy with him. I pray that the light of God will illuminate the eyes of your imagination, flooding you with light, until you experience the full revelation of the hope of his calling—that is, the wealth of God’s glorious inheritances that he finds in us, his holy ones! I pray that you will continually experience the immeasurable greatness of God’s power made available to you through faith. Then your lives will be an advertisement of this immense power as it works through you! This is the mighty power that was released when God raised Christ from the dead and exalted him to the place of highest honor and supreme authority in the heavenly realm! And now he is exalted as first above every ruler, authority, government, and realm of power in existence! He is gloriously enthroned over every name that is ever praised, not only in this age, but in the age that is coming! And he alone is the leader and source of everything needed in the church. God has put everything beneath the authority of Jesus Christ and has given him the highest rank above all others. And now we, his church, are his body on the earth and that which fills him who is being filled by it! Ephesians 1:17-23 TPT AMEN! AMEN! AMEN! WOW! When I started writing this post, I had only two things, firstly the scripture from Proverbs 8:14, and secondly a prayer asking the Holy Spirit to guide in writing this post. And look where we ended up - with a declaration about Jesus and His power .... And now he is exalted as first above every ruler, authority, government, and realm of power in existence! He is gloriously enthroned over every name that is ever praised, not only in this age, but in the age that is coming! Ephesians 1:21 This is exactly where we need to be - focusing on Jesus - the author and perfecter of our faith. Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 NKJV So what is the purpose of this post? To encourage you, on occasions, to wander through the scriptures, don't stop at the first one you read, allow the Holy Spirit to guide you in where to go next. Let Him direct your time in the Word, and be open to what He wants to reveal to you. Time spent in God's Word, with an open heart, will always be a blessing to you. To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

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Have you ever thought 'Who am I?' Often we are identified by our relationship to other people. For me, some of those relationships are ... Ken's wife, Marshall's Mum, Charlotte's Mum, Victoria's Mum, Alexandra's Mum, Betty's daughter, etc. Or we can be defined by the roles we undertake ... the coach, the teacher, the doctor, the pastor, the writer, etc. Or by where we live, where we were born, what we eat, what we wear, what we didn't do and the list goes on and on and on. So many things in this world to define ourselves by. Sometimes the world defines us, and it doesn't always do it in ways that are empowering. There are some great examples in the movie The Greatest Showman. But if all those people and roles were stripped away, what then is the answer to 'Who am I?' I am Wendy. So what? Who is Wendy? For me, there is one simple answer to that question. God reminded me of it yesterday, when I had the blessing of sitting by myself in the shade of some trees. No other people, no other roles. Just me, the trees and God. He reminded me that when everything else is stripped away, there is only one answer to the 'Who am I?' I am a child of God. What peace there is in knowing that truth. Regardless of whatever happens or doesn't happen in my life, I am loved by my Heavenly Father and I have an eternal destiny in Heaven with Him. You can have that peace too. A simple prayer of surrender and accepting of Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour. Say the welcoming word to God—“Jesus is my Master”—embracing, body and soul, God’s work of doing in us what he did in raising Jesus from the dead. That’s it. You’re not “doing” anything; you’re simply calling out to God, trusting him to do it for you. That’s salvation. With your whole being you embrace God setting things right, and then you say it, right out loud: “God has set everything right between him and me!” Romans 10:9-10 The Message If you have prayed that prayer, don't stop there. Keep communicating with God, tell Him everything, and listen for His wisdom and direction. Don’t be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing. Be saturated in prayer throughout each day, offering your faith-filled requests before God with overflowing gratitude. Tell him every detail of your life,  then God’s wonderful peace that transcends human understanding, will make the answers known to you through Jesus Christ. Philippians 4:6-7 TPT No matter what you face each day always remember, 'I am a child of God and He chooses to lavish His love on me.' See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! 1 John 3:1 NIV To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

What do you believe God is capable of? Maybe your answer is, "Everything. In Luke 1:37, the angel Gabriel told Mary, 'For nothing will be impossible with God.' " That's a great answer. Now, let's write a list of all the things you would like the 'God of the impossible' to change in your life or the lives of those you love. What's on your list? Re-read it. Is the list complete? Is there anything you have subconsciously put in the 'That will never change' basket, so you haven't bothered to put it on the list? Things like ... ... the medical condition that doctors said would never improve or change? ... those areas of deep emotional pain that you don't dare to think about? This week I wrote a list with some of these 'This will never change' items, and it really challenged me. Yes, I believe God is the 'God of the impossible.' I have witnessed Him change many circumstances in our lives over the years. But perhaps now, with some of the things on my list I have become complacent, even apathetic, with the thinking that it will be okay if that doesn't change. And perhaps it will be okay. But is that how God wants us to live? in the okay? I'm not so sure. The apostle Paul tells us... I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.  I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:11-13 NIV Content - is that content for the status quo? Or is that content knowing that God is in control, He is at work in the unseen and that He has a plan? For me, I'm going with the second idea of contentment. I remember the time in 2015 when we found out the tumour in Victoria's brain had grown for the third time. We were devastated. During the following three months there were many tears, conversations with God, reading of His Word, declaring of His promises and building faith to once again believe His promises. Around that time a friend sent me a message with Ephesians 3:16-21 ... May He grant you out of the rich treasury of His glory to be strengthened and reinforced with mighty power in the inner man by the [Holy] Spirit [Himself indwelling your innermost being and personality]. May Christ through your faith [actually] dwell (settle down, abide, make His permanent home) in your hearts! May you be rooted deep in love and founded securely on love, That you may have the power and be strong to apprehend and grasp with all the saints [God's devoted people, the experience of that love] what is the breadth and length and height and depth [of it]; [That you may really come] to know [practically, through experience for yourselves] the love of Christ, which far surpasses mere knowledge [without experience]; That you may be filled [through all your being] unto all the fullness of God [may have the richest measure of the divine Presence, and become a body wholly filled and flooded with God Himself]! Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams] – To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever and ever. Amen (so be it). Ephesians 3:16-21 AMPC I had never read this scripture before. When I read it for the first time, I was in a place of absolute desperation, not knowing what would happen to our child. It was one of those moments when I knew without a doubt that God was speaking to me through His word, reminding me of His power and that He was indeed the 'God of the impossible.' That truth helped me to move back to a place of faith and that contentedness knowing that God was at work in the unseen. And indeed He was at work. The next routine scan showed the tumour had stabilised without any human intervention. And whatsmore it has remained stable for four years. Now we offer up to God all the glorious praise that rises from every church in every generation through Jesus Christ—and all that will yet be manifest through time and eternity. Amen! Ephesians 3:21 TPT So today let's take each of the supposedly 'unchangable' items on our list and declare that we will ... Never doubt God’s mighty power to work in you and accomplish all this. He will achieve infinitely more than your greatest request, your most unbelievable dream, and exceed your wildest imagination! He will outdo them all, for his miraculous power constantly energizes you. Ephesians 3:20 TPT Let's dare to dream the impossible, in JESUS Name. To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

We all have times when we struggle to stand strong in our faith. The times when we start to ask questions like, ‘God what are You doing?’ and ‘God, what do I need to do?' Paul, in his letter to the Romans, says he is longing to visit and equip them to keep standing in their faith. I yearn to come and be face-to-face with you and get to know you. For I long to impart to you the gift of the Spirit that will empower you to stand strong in your faith. Romans 1:11 TPT The Amplified Bible says it this way, For I long to see you so that I may share with you some spiritual gift, to strengthen and establish you. Romans 1:11 AMP The Message Bible says it this way, The longer this waiting goes on, the deeper the ache. I so want to be there to deliver God’s gift in person and watch you grow stronger right before my eyes! Romans 1:11 The Message Paul talks about the gift that will help the Romans to stand strong in their faith, and strengthen and establish them. What is this gift? I found this explanation in the MacArthur Study Bible …. Romans 1:11 Spiritual gift. The Greek word translated “gift” is charisma, which means “a gift of grace” – a spiritual enablement whose source is the Spirit of God. Romans use this same term to describe: 1) Christ Himself (5:15,16); 2) General blessings from God (11:29; 1 Timothy 6:17); and 3) specific spiritual gifts given to members of the body to minister to the whole (12:6-8; 1 Cor. 12:1-31; 1 Pet 4.10,11). Paul probably intends to encompass all 3. Going with the ‘encompass all 3’, let’s explore the concept of 'the spiritual enablement whose source is the Spirit of God.' Recently in a radio interview about our journey with a child with cancer I was asked about “Finding meaning when things don’t go the way you had dreamed.” "Finding meaning" could also be expressed as ‘How do you come to a place of standing strong and trusting in God when you are overwhelmed with disappointment and grief?” For me, the answer is about the processing of disappointment and grief. A processing, that to get the best outcome, must be facilitated by the Spirit of God.  In my experience that processing involves many aspects including: Having authentic conversations with God, expressing my inner most thoughts, heartaches and fears, and then giving Him time to speak and minister to me. Having authentic conversations with people God brought into my life, close friends, counsellors, support groups. Gaining an understanding of the stages of grief, which helped to normalise the process for me. I can  highly recommend a short but very informative book, Good Grief – By Granger E. Westberg. Regularly reading God’s Word, expecting that He would speak to me through it, helping me to understand that He did understand the pain I was in. The Psalms so often reflected all my emotions! When I was feeling overwhelmed and unsure what to do next, the declaring of this scripture brought peace. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV Constantly surrendering my plans, my dreams for me and my family to God. For me, this mostly happened during times of worship, usually when I was in my car by myself. Increasing the ‘closet’ time I spent with God by, at the prompting of the Holy Spirit, getting up earlier to have that daily quiet time with Him. That was truly a spiritual enablement whose source is the Spirit of God. Getting up an hour earlier, having a more focused time of worship, prayer, listening and reading God’s word transformed my relationship with God. So there are some of the key activities I did that enabled me to stand strong in my faith during challenging times. Easy! But no, it is far from easy. Mainly because we have our own thoughts and ways of doing of things, and processing disappointment and grief with the spiritual enablement whose source is the Spirit of God, is all about doing it God’s way. It is a continual surrendering of all we know and letting God have control. It is repeatedly choosing to say “Jesus, you are Lord of my life, all of it!” Every activity we undertake in this process must be accompanied by that desire to believe that God is good, He is faithful and that He has a plan. I say desire because sometimes the reality is we don’t believe that God is good, but we want to believe it. We need God’s help to get back to that place of belief. Remember the father’s prayer in Mark 9:24…. Jesus said to him, “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.” Immediately the father of the child cried out and said with tears, “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief.” Mark 9:23-24 NKJV. It is the spiritual enablement whose source is the Spirit of God, which really does enable us to process disappointment and grief well, bringing us back to that place where we can declare with certainty in our heart scriptures like Romans 8:37-39 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:37-39 NIV So today, if you are having trouble standing firm in your faith, I strongly encourage you to make the time to sit quietly with God, tell Him how you really feel, ask Him for His help to enable you to believe that He is at work in the unseen, declare His word and then choose to worship Him in faith. And we know that in all things God works for the good for those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 NIV To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

This morning I had no thoughts on what to write. My heart is heavy for the suffering this country is going through with the bushfires, and I have a great sense of helplessness. Last night I struggled to pray, 'Please bring rain God.' So my words shifted to 'Please make it not be as bad today as predicted. Please give the firefighters strength. Please protect people.' Earlier this morning I was frustrated by a technical issue with my PC. And then I remembered the people who will be wondering if they will have a home by the end of the day. And the people who have chosen to stay and protect their homes. Perspective came. But still the question is there, 'What do I write about today?' So I ask God, 'Please tell me what to write about today.' He simply responds, 'Me.' Start at the beginning .... In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1 NKJV The earth. Our temporary home. Heaven. Our eternal home. Then God said, 'Let us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth." So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Genesis 1:26-27 NKJV God forgive us for not taking care of all you have given us. And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.” Deuteronomy 31:8 NKJV When we are seemingly hemmed in, help us to trust that you have gone before us, you are with us and you will not leave us. God, you're such a safe and powerful place to find refuge! You're a proven help in times of trouble - more than enough and always available whenever I need you. Psalm 46:1 TPT Sometimes your help comes in ways we don't expect. You are always more than enough. Thank you. For this how much God loved the world - he gave his one and only, unique Son as a gift. So now everyone who believes in him will never perish but experience everlasting life. John 3:16 TPT Jesus Christ. Choose to believe in Him. And since we now have a magnificent King-Priest to welcome us into God's house, we come closer to God and approach him with an open heart, fully convinced by faith that nothing will keep us at a distance from him. Hebrews 10:21 TPT We open our hearts to you God. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts,     neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth,     so are my ways higher than your ways    and my thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV We choose to trust that your ways are higher than ours and that you are at work in the unseen. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes and eliminate death entirely. No one will mourn or weep any longer. The pain of wounds will no longer exist, for the old order has ceased. Revelation 21:4 TPT We know the end-game. Eternity with You, our Heavenly Father. Thank you. Let's finish with the prayer Jesus suggested we pray, from The Passion Translation .... Our Father, dwelling in heavenly realms, may the glory of your name be the centre on which our lives turn. Manifest your kingdom realm, and cause your every purpose to be fulfilled on earth, just as it is fulfilled in heaven. We acknowledge you as our Provider of all we need each day. Forgive us the wrongs we have done as we ourselves release forgiveness to those who have wronged us. Rescue us every time we face tribulation and set us free from evil. For you are the King who rules with power and glory forever. Amen. Matthew 6:9-13 TPT Today is a good day to 'pray without ceasing' for this nation. To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

"You love me as you find me ... Your love's too good to leave me here." These lyrics are from Hillsong United's recent song, "As you find me." The 'you' in these lyrics is Jesus. Jesus, who today, willingly lavishes us with His love - no matter where we are, what we are doing or not doing, what we are saying and thinking. A love that says, "I know you aren't perfect and that's okay." A love that says, "I'm standing in the gap between you and your Heavenly Father, so your relationship with Him is restored." A love that says, "I have plans for you. Let my love take you into your future." A love that has transformed my life, given me love, purpose, strength, healing, joy and peace. What a gift! What's on your gift list for this Christmas? Is love on your list? Is purpose on your list? Is strength on your list? Is healing on your list? Is joy on your list? Is peace on your list? Where do you start shopping for these gifts? On your knees. Confess that Jesus is Lord, believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. (Romans 10:9) You may say, "Oh, I can't do that, I'm not good enough." And I would reply, "Well, neither am I, and Jesus knows that. He loves us as He finds us. There is no checklist to see if we measure up, because we don't, and we never will without Him. He loves us as He finds us. We just need to respond to His love and choose to make Him Lord of our lives." You may say, "But if I do that, won't I need to change the way I live?" And I would reply, "You don't need to do the changing. Over time as you understand more of Jesus love for you, the changes will happen. His love's too good to leave you here. Just plan some one on one time with Jesus every day, and see what He will do in you." You may say, "Oh I'm still not sure this is for me." And I would reply, "There is a God in Heaven Who loves you. He knows your heart's desires. He knows your pain. He's made a way for you to be lavished with unconditional love, know your purpose, have strength, receive healing, live with joy and peace. That way is Jesus and He knows your name. Just talk to Him." Jesus ... "I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of." John 10:10 The Message The gift of love - Jesus. To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

So many sad things going on in this world we live in. It's so important that daily we look for things to be thankful for. For me every time I read about someone who has passed away from cancer, or more specifically a brain tumour, (this week it was Roxette singer, Marie Fredriksson), my heart aches for the ones who have lost someone they love, and at the same time I am so grateful to God that that was not our story. And I am grateful for the way that God has continued to bring healing and wholeness to our family over the past 9 years. We have grieved (and sometimes surprisingly find we are still grieving) the expectations of how we thought our family would be. For me every time the tears have surfaced the Holy Spirit has given comfort and restored peace. But the [Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name [in My place, to represent Me and act on My behalf], He will teach you all things. And He will help you remember everything that I have told you. John 14:26 AMP Over the last few years the ability to dream about the future has returned. What a blessing it to be able to dream again! Dreams for me, dreams for our marriage, dreams for our children, all wrapped in God's love and purposes. I didn't realise how important dreams were until I was in an emotional place of being unable to dream of the future. When there is no clear prophetic vision, people quickly wander astray. But when you follow the revelation of the word, heaven’s bliss fills your soul. Proverbs 29:18 TPT I am grateful for a God who doesn't abandon us, but rather carries us when we need to be carried. He is always there in the midst. God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, Even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; 3Though its waters roar and be troubled,Though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God, The holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High. God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God shall help her, just at the break of dawn. Psalm 46:1-5 NKJV I am grateful for a God that tells us He has plans to prosper us, give us a hope and a future. For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11 NIV I am grateful for a God who sacrificed His son Jesus, so we could have life to the full, and life eternally with Him in Heaven. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. John 10:10 I am grateful for a God that is no respecter of persons. His gift of eternal life is freely available to all of us when we confess with our mouths that Jesus is Lord. Say the welcoming word to God—“Jesus is my Master”—embracing, body and soul, God’s work of doing in us what he did in raising Jesus from the dead. That’s it. You’re not “doing” anything; you’re simply calling out to God, trusting him to do it for you. That’s salvation. With your whole being you embrace God setting things right, and then you say it, right out loud: “God has set everything right between him and me!” Romans 10:9-10 The Message So today, when you consider your life, what is that you are grateful for? To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

There is a scripture that the Holy Spirit often quickens to me when I am unsure what to do about a situation. I have some thoughts about the action I want I take - but often those actions are rooted in my own hurt and strong desire to see change. They are not necessarily the actions God wants me to take. That scripture is ... And he answered and said to me, “This is the word of Yahweh to Zerubbabel, saying, ‘Not by strength and not by power, but only by my Spirit,’ says Yahweh of hosts. Zechariah 4:6 LEB A recent example. Without getting too specific this week I was concerned about a situation and what it would mean for 2020. I didn't want a repeat of what had happened in 2019. I had a plan of action, but I wasn't entirely comfortable with it. Notice all the I's in those few sentences! That feeling of uncomfortableness made me stop and take a moment to speak with God, "God, please help me, I'm not sure if I should do this." And then this scripture came to mind, thank you Holy Spirit. So he said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty. Zechariah 4:6 NIV "Not by might Nor by power But by my Spirit," says the Lord Almighty My next words to God were something like this, "Okay God, by your Spirit. I will do nothing. I'm going to trust that if You want this conversation to happen, then you will orchestrate it." And within an hour I found myself with an opportunity to speak to the exact person, able to say what I wanted to say, knowing that I was being heard, and that 2020 would have a different outcome to 2019. Thank you Jesus. This was not the first time that God has used this Scripture to remind me that His ways are different to mine, and always much better! But it's more than a reminder, every time it has been a call to action. Actually it has been a series of actions that involve me: surrendering my plans examining my heart regarding my motives for wanting to take that action, repenting when necessary waiting on the Lord to see what He was going to do being ready for what God would ask me to do In every instance of this happening God has worked in His mysterious ways, resolved the situation and brought about the change - all glory to Him. Perhaps I need to add this scripture to my daily prayer ... "Thank you for this day Jesus. Thank you for loving me. Help me today to remember that it is not by might, not by power, but by Your Spirit, that all things will work together for good. ....." In our world today we are surrounded by the narrative, "You can do it. You can make it happen. You are in control of your destiny." I disagree with these statements, from the perspective that they are all relying on us - you and me to make it happen. We are imperfect. We don't have all the answers. We don't know what is going to happen in the future. We don't know all the intricacies of people's emotions and motives. But God does. And when we surrender our life to Jesus, and change the narrative and acknowledge that He is the one that empowers us to do it; He is the one who makes it happen; and that Jesus is the one who offers us an eternal destiny, only then we will live a fulfilling life here on earth. A life where we are not forcing change, we are not living by our inadequate efforts alone, but instead day by day we are becoming more dependent on our Heavenly Father and His ways. We are growing the fruits of the Spirit and becoming the blessing to others that He has called us to be. Only by His Spirit. Then he said to me, “This is what the Lord says to Zerubbabel: It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. Zechariah 4:6 NLT To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

Those who know me, know I love to pray, spending precious time with God, sometimes talking, sometimes listening; in the quiet of the early morning, in the hustle and bustle of life, in the office with my husband, in the car with my children, in the cafe with friends, walking and praying around the school, at church, well really wherever I am, for me it is always a good time to pray. Over the years I have seen God answer many of these prayers, in many different ways, and mostly not in the way I expected! God is faithful. But then there are the other sort of prayers. The prayers that come from that deep place in your heart, knowing that man cannot fix it, only God can bring the change. We leave the request at the foot of the Cross, genuinely believing that one day, God in His wisdom and timing will answer it. Life goes on and that prayer is no longer on our lips. It hasn't been forgotten, it just isn't the main focus anymore. Occasionally it is brought to the surface again, triggered by a situation or a conversation, and that cry of your heart comes out again, "God I am choosing to trust You, that You have heard the cry of my heart and You have got this sorted." Lord, you know and understand the hopes of the humble and will hear their cries and comfort their hearts, helping them all! Psalm 10:17 TPT And then that "one day" comes, and the prayer is answered. God is faithful. There is an overwhelming sense of God's love and a deeper understanding that He is always at work in the unseen. By His grace we move a step closer to the maturity that He is calling us to. He must increase, but I must decrease. John 3:30 NKJV To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

Have you found yourself saying that phrase, 'Where can I get some peace around here?' or, 'God I just need some peace, please!' Or perhaps you have been trying to go to sleep and that concern keeps going over and over in your mind, and you just want it to stop so you can get some peace and have a good night's sleep. Peace. We want it. We need it. I'm still on my sojourn through the Old Testament, now in Numbers, and I read this scripture this morning ... And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying: "Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying, 'This is the way you shall bless the children of Israel. Say to them: "The LORD bless you and keep you; The LORD make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; The LORD lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace." ' "So they shall put My name on the children of Israel, and I will bless them." Numbers 6:22-27 NKJV Reading it reminded me of a beautiful song by Matt Redman, Benediction, that starts with lyrics relating to this passage of scripture ... May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord smile on you, Shine His light upon you. May the Lord lift you, Turn His face towards you. Give you His peace, Give you His peace. Perhaps this is a song to play if you find yourself tossing and turning unable to sleep. I remember hearing this song at lifegroup. The Holy Spirit would minister to me every time it was played. With open hands and an open heart it was as if the Lord poured His peace in everytime it was played. Or maybe it was more that it reminded me that I already had His peace in me, as Jesus tells us ... I leave the gift of peace with you—my peace. Not the kind of fragile peace given by the world, but my perfect peace. Don’t yield to fear or be troubled in your hearts—instead, be courageous! John 14:27 TPT As I've said before I'm not a Bible scholar, but I do know this, there is a peace that Jesus gives that really does surpass all understanding. Don’t be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing. Be saturated in prayer throughout each day, offering your faith-filled requests before God with overflowing gratitude. Tell him every detail of your life,  then God’s wonderful peace that transcends human understanding, will make the answers known to you through Jesus Christ. Philippians 4:6-7 TPT Let's have another look at the first part of verse 6 .... The Passion Translation ... Don't be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing New King James Version ... Be anxious for nothing New Living Translation ... Don't worry about anything The Message ... Don't fret or worry The Amplified Bible ... Do not fret or have anxiety about anything Maybe your response to this command, is 'Yes, but you don't understand .....'   But God's response is still .... Don't be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing ... Be anxious for nothing ... Don't worry about anything ... Don't fret or worry ... Do not fret or have anxiety about anything   And whatsmore God doesn't just tell us what NOT to do, He tells us what to do ... The Passion Translation ... Be saturated in prayer throughout each day, offering your faith-filled requests before God with overflowing gratitude. New King James Version ... but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. New Living Translation ... instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. The Message ... Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. The Amplified Bible ... but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. Yes, God tells us to pray, but we need to pray with faith, not double-mindedness. And always give thanks for all He has done. And what happens when we do that? Philippians 4:7 tells us we will experience God's peace, as our focus shifts from our circumstance to Jesus and Who He is. then God’s wonderful peace that transcends human understanding, will make the answers known to you through Jesus Christ. The Passion Translation New King James Version ... and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. New Living Translation ... Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. The Message ... Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life The Amplified Bible ... And God’s peace [shall be yours, that [b]tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall [c]garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. I've had many opportunities in my life to fret and worry, and I have fretted and worried. But Philippians 4:6-7, one of the first scriptures I learnt when I became a Christian, has always been a 'go-to' scripture in those circumstances. Sometimes I haven't gone there immediately, but eventually I do get that place of petitioning God in prayer, thanking Him for what He has done, then experiencing His wonderful peace. And I am able to face the next day. You may be thinking, "I have prayed about this before and nothing has changed." Well, I really encourage you to pray again. There is an enemy who wants you to stop praying, as Jentezen Franklin says .. "The devil knows your greatest weapon against his kingdom is your voice, your prayer life. Prayer will usher you into the presence, power, and purpose of God." (The Spirit of the Python, page151) So today, if you are wanting peace, take some time, perhaps play that beautiful song, Benediction, offer up a heartfelt prayer to God, your Heavenly Father, remember to thank Him for what He has done, keep your eyes on Jesus and be expectant that you will experience His peace. To find out more please visit https://wendyrobinson.com.au

an AASA show EQUITY AND JUSTICE IN OUR PUBLIC SCHOOLS...When it comes to equity and justice in education, superintendents have a major role to play. Wendy Robinson, superintendent, Ft. Wayne Community Schools, Ft. Wayne, Ind. Bryan Joffe, project director, AASA 

an AASA show EQUITY AND JUSTICE IN OUR PUBLIC SCHOOLS...When it comes to equity and justice in education, superintendents have a major role to play. Wendy Robinson, superintendent, Ft. Wayne Community Schools, Ft. Wayne, Ind. Bryan Joffe, project director, AASA