Restoration Ministries

My Resolution

2012-02-10T18:25:00.000+02:00

My personal Resolution

I solemnly undertake before God that I will diligently pursue to be the women and daughter God created me to be.

I will be true and faithful to my husband and will honor the covenant God established between us.

I will lay down my life for him and will submit to his authority.

I will take full responsibility for myself and my children.

I will love them and teach them to love God with all their hearts.

I will train them to honor authority and live responsibly.

I will work diligently to live out my calling; to teach other women to live a holy life, to be homemakers and be women of virtue.

I will pray for others, treat them with kindness, respect and compassion.

I will pray for the sick, confront the evil and pursue justice.

I will forgive those who trespassed against me, and reconcile with those I have wronged.

I will pursue every opportunity to spread the Good News and announce the coming of the King.

I will repent of my sinful ways, seek for fogiveness and walk with integrity as a women answerable to God.

I will seek God’s forgiveness and mercy all the days of my life.

I will seek to honor God and live a Godly life that brings Glory to His Name.

signed: 10 February 2012

by Suzette van Eck

In the presence of my Almighty God

Some hearts are diamonds

2012-02-10T18:21:00.000+02:00

Open your heart to all of e years
that you've looked through a rainbow of tears.
You watched your dreams all fadin' away
This time you need to hold on tight.

Years may come and years may go
But I still love you and I want you to know:
Some days your heart’s like diamonds
some days like stones
Some days you're tired of being alone.
Some hearts are diamonds
some hearts are stone
But it takes only you to know

Illusions of love
they'll come and they'll go
Trust in your heart
surely your love will grow.

Your silent tears they're so full of pride
My beloved, I know that you can't run
You need a love like Mine
to heal and restore

the scars you tried to repair
Some hearts are diamonds
some hearts are stone
I reign on the Throne
you are never alone!

I danced with his addiction

2012-02-10T17:54:00.000+02:00

A true story of how a women survived her husband's adultery and pornography addiction and how it affected her.

The first time I laid my eyes on him, I was amazed by the strong tugging in my heart. I instantly denied the feeling, the longing, the want… the time was not right. Not yet.

We ran into each other again, after a couple of weeks since we first met, and I knew I cannot resist the feeling of wanting to be with him any longer. I wanted him. He made me feel like a women again… For many years I was dead. Merely existing.. Surviving.. I wanted to love again. I wanted to be loved so badly that ‘it’, this intense desire that was burning my flesh, burst forth like a volcano. And it made me desperate.

We both gave in to the desires of our hearts, rampantly going astray… not a care in the world; as long as we had each other. Just as long as we were together.

I was in a hazy bliss.

A year or so went by; when I first heard the repellent news… my beloved husband visited a whorehouse. [again and again]

I was devastated. Can this word really describes the pain, the shock, the confusion, the distraught I felt? How can I even try to convey the pain? Is there a word that can summarise my shattered dreams? The betrayal of my gorgeous prince?

How do I deal with this?

I confronted him. He denied it. I chose to believe him. I had to feel safe again!

We did what every married couple do, I suppose. We continued living our life as if nothing happened, ignoring the signs of stress and the shattered trust there once was.

Even though I chose to believe him, something inside me was crippled. Our marriage was not the same because deep down inside I knew he lied.

I so desperately held on to my dream, our dream… the one we dreamed when we were in each other’s arms, laughing and lovingly loving each other.

I then learned that he visited whorehouses more often than I thought… Can you feel hurt over old hurt that was the same hurt? Is it at all possible? Can one handle that kind of anguish? Did God design our organs to withstand such immense pain? How do you hold on to what feels like if your gut is gushing out of every opening in your body?

What was wrong with me?

What did I do wrong?

Was I not pretty enough?

Was I not good enough?

Was I not funny enough?

Was my breast to small?

Did it sag too much after the years?

Was I boring in bed?

Was he bored?

I didn’t know.

I was scared. Scared to give up on us. Scared that I have lost him. Scared that I will be alone with me, the children.

I did not know how to patch things up. I just didn’t. I wasn’t prepared for this. I did not know how to deal with ‘this’.

Our marriage was falling apart.

We drifted apart… two broken people…trying to make one whole.

I was often left alone by my husband who often went on a drinking spree’s with his friends and colleagues… and women with whom he had affairs... flings... My husband eventually became violent and hostile towards me.

What I did not know then, is that these spirit of addiction, violence and murder works closely together.

At first he would hit me when he was drunk. He was extremely aggressive and at times it was though as he was ‘looking for a reason’ to be violent towards me.

I struggled and fought back. I was not going to let a man… my once charming husband – humiliate me. But the more I fought back, the worse everything became.

I became an appalling wife. I have hurt him just as much, if not more. I did not honour God's word by submitting to his authority in our home.... I did not know God's word, I felt that he did not deserve my respect. I belittled him, spoke badly of him. I went against him and tried to challenge him on everything. Shouting, cursing, scaring our once sacred marriage with sickening words. I've began to go out with my friends, to ‘get back at him’. Try not to care. But I did care.

If only I could leave him. Why did I not pack up my things and go? Was I that desperate? I hated myself for being so pathetic? Good heavens! How can one be so pitiful?

Shameful, worthless, inferior, despicable… are sound words I described myself for not standing up for myself, for not leaving him.

Was it love that kept me by his side?

Did I still love him at all?

I can honestly say I don’t know. I have rummaged every area of my heart to find the truth.

Was I that financially depended on him that I could not leave?

No, I would have managed on my own.

Why, why oh why did I then stay?

I wanted to leave! So many times!

Then finally, it was in the early days of a new year, that the news came again... he was yet with another prostitute.

The very first time in all those years of his betrayal have I finally had the courage to take a firm stand against my husband. Finally I have proof! I was like a fuming lioness. Not only was I hungry for revenge, I wanted revenge and I was very ready for it. I was like an athlete who trained for months to win a race. I was focused. My mind made up. Every muscle in my body was set for action.

As I woke up the following morning, the day after my 'big discovery', my body just gave in under the years of betrayal and rejection. I broke down. For the first time in my life, I have allowed my body, my heart, to weap, to deal with the betrayal. I wept for hours, days.

Where did all the tears came from? I never knew that one’s body has the capacity to cry for hours on end, without drying up.

I decided I needed to cry. I needed to rid of all the poison and hatred that I allowed to build up inside of me, all these years. The more I cried the weaker I became. I felt like an old floor cloth. Wasted and ruined.

I have always considered myself to be strong. I can deal with any situation. Have, as a matter of fact dealt with so many heart aches, from my early childhood days, and I came through every single one of them.

Why was this time so different?

I thought about suicide. The mere thought of it scared me… I was always the one who spoke out against ‘weak’ people. Who selfishly committed suicide. How little did I know? How easy it is to speak about something you know so little off?

My spirit was crushed.

The only thing I instantly knew, that I needed to do, was to give my life to Jesus. Something inside my head and my heart told me that He was the only way out. The only solution to my brokenness...

My God, My God. My God… I called! He heard me. This Sovereign God, whom I have only heard off, heard me. He heard a wretch like me! I needed Him. I needed a Saviour so badly that I would do anything, anything to rid of this immense pain.

I had yet to learn how to become a women of God before I could become a submissive wife.

I had to learn first how to bow down before God in order to withstand the pressures and desires to bow down to the pleasures of the world.

I had to learn to be a women of virtue. To keep my mouth shut and not to react every time something happens or when things didn’t go my way.

I had to learn to be patient; patient with my husband’s faults, failures and bad habits; because I had just as many.

I had to crucify my independent spirit and allowed God to teach me how to be dependent on Him.

I learned the importance of capturing my thoughts…

I asked God to give me a desire to study and love His word. God showed me the importance of reading His word. Through His word I got to know Him.

I asked God to help me to want to be obedient to Him.

The desire to be obedient filled my heart and I willingly surrendered.

I asked God to show me how to love my husband…

He showed me the cross.

He taught me to love myself.

I learned to love Him.

I had to learn how to pray. Something I was never taught. Never practised. Never did.

I learned to wait in the river…

God always showed up.

God changed my heart in a matter of days. I decided against the divorce I have planned… A split both my husband and I welcomed at that stage. I've asked my husband to forgive me, for all the damage I have done, the part I have played in this mess. I also told him that I have surrendered my heart to Jesus. He was quite surprised.

We both chose to give our marriage another chance, a fresh start. I wish I could say the journey from there on was easy. It wasn’t.

We were two broken people. Each of us had to heal from the pain of the past;

Our feelings of insignificance

Low self esteem

Lack of confidence

Rejection

Pride

Humiliation

Addictions

We both tried very hard. Amidst of the pain and brokenness, we both wanted this to work.

I became in a certain sense very withdrawn from him, mostly during our intimate moments. The thought of him being with other women and prostitutes kept me awake at nights… many nights. I could not bear the thought of him loving another women, let alone a whore. I was uncertain of how he would want me to ‘behave’ in bed. I became shy, very self-conscience. How did he had sex with her, the prostitute, a professional? What did he fantasise about that I was not willing to give or perform, that he paid someone else for it? Does he want me to lay romantically still? Did he want me to be flexible like a gymnast? Does he want me to be rough and rude, or did he fantasise about me swinging from chandeliers?

I wanted to know why? I had to know. For the sake of myself I needed to know. What type of ‘look’ did he prefer? Did he prefer blonds with a double D breast size? A brunette with a firm buttocks or older women with more experience and little inhibitions. Or did he prefer them young?

I did a lot of praying. A lot of soul-searching... What could I have done, to prevent ‘this’. What did I do, to make him go ‘there’? Did I put too much pressure on him? Did I wanted to much from him and our marriage? Or did my independence drove him away? Throughout all this time, I prayed for God to heal my soul, my heart, my self-confidence, my pride. To lift this cloth of rejection that covered me. I prayed and begged God to restore my love for him. I have asked God to give me a renewed trust in him. Something so big, a marriage could not survive without.

I can honestly say, I have seen God performing many-many miracles in our marriage. He restored not just only my trust and love for my husband, but He gave me a ‘new love’ for him. God restored me. He healed my brokenness. And He did the same for my husband.

God taught me a very important thing, a phrase so significant, it kept me sane: That I must capture my thoughts… and not fix my mind on painful events of the past…

Hebrews3:1

Therefore, holy brothers and sisters, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus …

As the time went by, I have had yet to learn of his addiction. I was quite naïve by thinking that he only had a few encounters with prostitutes. I was not aware of him visiting strip clubs… and that he was addicted to pornography.

Only after a couple of years, we talked about this. I needed closure, so he allowed me to ask him all the questions that kept burning in my heart.

I realised as he revealed his innermost struggle with pornography, God truly healed me. I felt no pain as he disclosed it. I only felt an immense empathy towards him.

Even today I must still capture my thoughts as the enemy constantly beget negative thoughts that used to devastate me. I have decided that I will trust and believe him. No matter what! Am I yet being naïve? No, I trust God with my husband now.

I silently vowed that I would pray for him; to be free from all of this.

He still struggles with luring websites, to live a separate and holy life. The road to complete recovery is often long, lonely, a difficult journey for him.

Jesus wants us to be set free from our infirmities. Luke 13:12. He also said that we shall know the truth and the truth shall set us free. John 8:32

I will continue to pray for him. He is my husband, after all... The one I chose. I promised him that I would stand by him, through thick and thin…

Restoration Village

2012-02-07T14:10:00.000+02:00

~ a dream

Gone Fishing

2012-02-07T09:43:00.002+02:00

I'm born-again!

2012-02-07T09:18:00.000+02:00

We recently went to another church in our neighborhood, and as it is, walking into a new church takes you right our of your comfort zone...
The chairs are not as comfortable.
The people are not necessarily as friendly.
No familiar faces.
And when it comes to the worship... it is just as uncomfortable - you know your songs, you know the sound of the music, you are familiar with the band - and now all of a sudden everything is just... well different...

Until they sang this song -

All things have passed away
I'm a brand new man
I'm a new creation
I'm born-again!

... I felt right at home!

And I made a statement in the spiritual realm; to the heavenlies and to all who has ears.... I AM A NEW CREATION. I am born-again.

I want to live a life that honors Him

2012-02-07T09:10:00.000+02:00

Father, create in me a steadfast spirit - one that will always honor and adore You, one that wants to obey every whisper that comes from Your mouth.

Help me to abide in Your teachings. Allow me to quench my thirst from Your Holiness.

Help me to be the daughter after Your own heart.

I love You Father with everything that is within me. May my love for You be pleasing to Your ears.

You are indeed my love, my life and I bless You for who You are in me.

Fuel up

2012-02-01T14:48:00.002+02:00

Victims vs Victories

2012-01-31T11:55:00.001+02:00

People who consider themselves victims of their circumstances will always remain victims unless they develop a greater vision for their lives.

It reminds me of the scripture in Proverbs 29:18

Where there is no vision, the people perish.

Jy sal kan

2012-01-27T10:05:00.000+02:00

...jy sal kan doen wat jy moet doen en jy sal slaag' (Josua 1:8). 2)
God het vir Josua gesê, '...moenie bang wees nie...want jou God die Here sal by jou wees, oral waar jy gaan' (Josua 1:9).

when it hurts

2012-01-26T10:03:00.000+02:00

Authority over darkness

2012-01-18T10:27:00.000+02:00

Be reminded that I have given you authority and power over all the works of darkness. I have called you to rise up and defend your kingdom position against every attack of the enemy.

Do not hesitate to do all that is necessary to bring destruction to the destroyer. I have opened the way for you to move to a more productive level of spiritual warfare and victory. Go forth by My Spirit to do battle, says the Lord.

Luke 10:19 "Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you."

Hide me, keep me

2012-01-16T08:34:00.000+02:00

My Jesus!
keep my sane,
keep me close,
keep me clean,
keep me pure,
keep me holy,
keep me from temptations of this world!

hide me in Your truth
hide me in Your will
hide me in Your word
hide me in Your Spirit
hide me from the eyes of the wicked
hide me from the evil of the world!

Deliver me from the evil one!

2012-01-16T08:24:00.001+02:00

My Father in heaven - hear my prayer today:

I pray that Your name will always be kept holy.
I pray that Your kingdom will come -
that what You want will be done here on earth, as it is in heaven.
Give me the food I need for this day
and forgive me my sins
just as I have forgiven those who did me wrong
Don't let me be tempted today -
please save me and my family from the evil one!

~ Math 6:9-13

I am SAFE

2012-01-16T08:17:00.000+02:00

Habakkuk 3:19

The Sovereign LORD is my strength; He makes my feet like the feet of a deer, He enables me to tread on the heights.

Hy maak my voete soos die van 'n ribbok... op hoe plekke sal ek veilig loop.

Presumption

2012-01-12T10:27:00.000+02:00

Refuse to allow presumption to cloud your discernment. You should never act, react, respond, or take your next step based on what you assume is truth. If you are uncertain about an issue or circumstance, take the time to investigate and discover the facts. Just because your conclusion seems reasonable does not make it true. And, presumption will plunge you into the darkness of deception, says the Lord. Stay in the light and truth, and maintain confidence in My word as you follow My precepts.

Psalms 19:13 Keep back Your servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless, and I shall be innocent of great transgression.

SMALL STRAWS IN A SOFT WIND by Marsha Burns--01/12/12:

Genade

2012-01-07T09:32:00.000+02:00

Here, ek voel regtig nie elke dag ewe geloofsterk nie.

Male sonder tal wonder ek selfs of ek nog enigsins op die regte pad is.
Maar dankie my Here dat U my vandag weer wil verseker dat U getrou aan my bly... selfs wanneer ek nie is nie;
dat U my vooruitgan...
selfs wanneer ek nie die weg sien nie;
en dat U by my is;
veral wanneer ek U nie voel nie.

Meer en meer besef ek hoe afhanklik ek van U is, U nimmereindige genade.

Gaan ek in my leeftyd ooit die grootheid van U genade verstaan Here? Help my om dit nooit weer te misbruik nie, dat ek die krag en die werklikheid; die prys wat U daarvoor betaal het altyd sal verstaan, brand dit vas in my mense-hart Here.

Dankie dat ek weet dat die eindbestemming van my geloof nie vandag is nie.
Maar dat dit die ewigheid is.

I am in-love

2011-12-14T07:28:00.000+02:00

I am in-love with a beautiful man.
A man, who loved me first.

He has the most beautiful eyes
Everytime when I look into them
I see an ongoing depth, so inviting
so marvelously deep and full of
acceptance and desire for me, my love.

Whenever I look into His eyes
I find myself slipping away into a world
a place, so full of peace and understanding.
Jeus's love is so real, so true and honest.
So absolutely intense.

I just want to be in His love.
I love His Love. The way He loves me,
makes me wanting more of Him.
I have grown so fond of the way He smell
It has become so familiar to me.
He has allowed me
to see Him, to touch and to love Him
He is so part of me.
He is in me
Forever.

Petition against pornography on SA TV!

2011-12-13T10:57:00.001+02:00

Please participate in this petition against pornography on SA TV.

http://www.voelgoed.co.za/skryfin/?p=80

(copy above link and PLEASE take part in the petition)

42day

2011-12-12T07:32:00.000+02:00

In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evildoers and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.

But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

~ 2 Tim 3:13-17

Wat is geloof?

2011-12-12T07:28:00.000+02:00

Dit is die vaste versekering dat die dinge waarna ons uitsien, inderdaad sal gebeur....

conditions do not apply

2011-12-08T15:49:00.002+02:00

from a beloved friend

Moenie wegkruip nie

2011-12-08T14:26:00.000+02:00

God: Adam waar is jy?

Jy kan jouself vandag oof afvra: waar is ek...werklik?

As jy nie weet nie, of wel weet maar ontevrede daaroor is, is hierdie vir jou.

Adam: Ek het U hoor aankom en kruip nou weg. Ek was bang omdat ek sonder klere is (Gen. 3:9,10)

Dis verstommend wat ons alles sal doen ten einde te kan wegkruip. Ons sal onsself absoluut in werk verdiep, in 'n verhouding betrokke raak, 'n muur om ons bou - enigiets, solank ons tog net nie die waarheid in die oe hoef te kyk nie. God het goed geweet waar Adam was, maar God wou he dat Adam homself moes vind.

Jy is absoluut verlore totdat jy jouself vind. Die probleem is dat solank jy wegkruip, jy 'n front voorhou. Besef jy hoeveel emosionele energie jy verspil deur aan ander voor te gee jy is wat jy nie is nie?

Net 2 dinger is erger: om jouself en God oor jou ware self te probeer mislei. Jy sal dit moeilik vind om enigsins eerlik te wees omdat jy bang is mense deurgrond jou wese en vind die ware jy.

Is dit waar jy jouself vandag bevind?

Bang om in jou eie hart te kyk?

Die wonderlike nuus is dat Adam naak was, maar God het hom aangetrek; hy was skuldig, maar God het hom skoongewas, hy was angstig, maar God het hom getroos.

where do i run to?

2011-12-07T11:47:00.000+02:00

i want to run i want to hide
i want Jesus by my side
i want to laugh i want to cry
but 2day i wanna die

the road is too long
the mountain's too high
the journey is too tuff
i've realised i'm not that strong

my defenses are low
my body is weak
my mind is made up
this time i need to go

to find myself
to find Jesus
to search through my heart
to look for the truth
to look for me-i am lost
to retrace my steps
to find what i did wrong
to mend the broken pieces
to take care of myself

where am i ?
who am i ?

i need to be whole again
i wanna laugh more
i need to cry less
my life is a mess

i want to dance in the rain
i want to laugh until it hurts
will i ever be whole again
will i ever be whole again
will i ever be whole again

Tatoeëring

2011-12-07T07:56:00.000+02:00

Geskryf deur Jimi le Roux

Ek het onderneem om iets oor tatoeering te skryf, en het ook nou te lank uitgestel. Die saak is eintlik heeltemal eenvoudig, maar laat ek maar net eers die opinies stel:

1) die tradisionele beskouing is dat die Bybel tatoeering vir ons uitdruklik verbied in Lev 19: 28 en dit is die einde van argument - wat is eintlik dan nog te se na so 'n duidelike opdrag (Ou vertaling)

Julle mag ook terwille van 'n dooie geen snye in julle vlees maak nie en geen ingeprikte tekening in jul vel maak nie. Ek is die HERE.

Die Jose sit om hierdie rede ook geen tatoeering op nie, en die wat tatoeering op het, mag (tradisioneel) nie in die Joodse begraafplaas begrawe word nie.

2) die meer resente beskouing (onder sommige) is dat die bg. uitleg nie korrek is nie en oor tatoeering gaan nie maar oor iets anders, of nie op ons van toepassing nie, en dat tatoeering us OK is. Daar is dus ook Christene wat tatoeerings laat opsit.

Die agtergrond van tatoeering is natuurlik meer negatief. Let op die volgende:

* Heidene het hulleself getatoeer,

en het spesifiek hulle gode se naam op hulleself geker. Tatoeering is dus geassosieer met barbaarsheid (selfs deur die Romeine) en afgodediens. Die heidene het hulleself ook algemeen as rougebruik stukkend gesny - uit hartseer, maar ook as 'n offer. Selfs die Jode het op 'n stadium meegedoen. Die bg. vers verbied beide hierdie gebruike uitdruklik.

* Slawe en oortreders is natuurlik gebrandmerk,

nader na ons tyd was dit gewoontlik maar die rowwe ouens wat tatoeerings gedra het, matrose, gangsters, bikers, tronkvoels,... maw tatoeering was 'n teken van rebellie.

Tatoeering het tradisioneel dus aar 'n slegte naam. Konnotasies met tatoeering is dat dit steeds die rowwe ouens is wat tatoes dra, dat dit steeds uitdagend en onkonvensioneel is.

Kom ons keer terug na die Bybel.

1) Die teks is wel deeglik duidelik in Levitikus 19. Die Jode verstaan dit uitdruklik en is heeltemal reg as hulle dan nie tatoeer nie.

2) Kom ons lees egter net een vers terug (v 27)

Julle mag die rand van julle hoofhare nie wegskeer nie.

Ook mag jy die rand van jou baard nie skend nie.

Ortodokse Jode hou ook hier gebod nog net so - Joodse mans laat hulle baard groe en skeer dit nie eens netjies met 'n rand nie. Dis om hierdie vers gehoorsaam te wees.

As Christene volg ons egter nie hierdie gebod nie.

Hoekom ignoreer ons dan die een vers en gehoorsaam die volgende een?

3) Kom ons lees egter nog 'n een vers terug (v 26)

Julle mag niks met bloed en al eet nie.

Julle mag nie met verklaring van voortekens of goelery omgaan nie.

Die eerste gedeelte het te doen met die belangrike Kosher-reel, wat die Jode net so volg. Ons eie vleis is egter nie Kosher geslag nie, en geen Jood sal sy mond daaran sit nie. Hulle koop net by 'n Kosher slagtery, en nie by Checkers of Pick 'n Pay nie.

As Christene volg ons egter nie hierdie gebod nie.
Hoekom ignoreer ons dan die een vers en gehoorsaam die volgende een?

4) Kom ons lees egter nog 'n een vers terug (v 19)

sien ons 'n opdrag dat ons nie twee soorte saad in dieselfde land mag saai nie, dat ons nie twee soorte klere saam mag dra nie (bv. wol en linne)

As Christene volg ons egter nie hierdie gebod nie.

Hoekom ignoreer ons dan die een vers en gehoorsaam die volgende een?

Julle moet my sabbatte onderhou en my heiligdom ontsien. Ek is die HERE.

Ons hou as Christene ook nie die Joodse sabbat nie, en rig nie ons geloofslewe op die (Joodse) tempel nie. Lees maar self verder in daardie hoofstuk na dinge wat ons ook nie meer doen nie.

Hoe moet ons dan nou hierdie vers verstaan? Let op:

1) Ons is nie langer onder die Ou Testamentiese wet nie.

In Romeine en Galasiers maak Paulus dit duidelik dat Jesus ons losgekoop het vna die wet en dat Christene (ons) nie eers Jode hoef te wees (en die wet te hou, met offers, besnydenis, Sabbat, eetreels ens) te einde Christene te kan wees. Hy se dat ons die wet volkome nakom as ons deur die Gees gelei word.

Lees Romeine 7-8 en Galasiers 2-5

2) Hoe kan ons dan onderskei?

wat in die ou Testament van toepassing is en wat nie? Dit is inderdaad 'n gryserige area, maar ons onderskei tussen die kultiese wette en die morele wet. Die eersgenoemde is duidelik spesifieke sake bedoel vir Jode in hulle konteks, hulle hele kultiese stelsel (offers, tempel, feeste, ens) of dit is die toepassing van 'n algemene waarheid in hulle antieke kultuur en dieselfde waarheid sal in ons tyd 'n bietjie anders toegepas word. Die laasgenoemde is meer algemeen van aard - die Tien Gebooie is 'n goeie voorbeeld - en is duidelik geldige beginsels vir alle tye en mense. 'n Ander nuttige maatstaf is hoe Jesus dit hanteer, want Hy het klem gele op die essensie van die wet, en by ander geleentheid eenvoudig 'n streep getrek deur 'n Ou Testamentiese wet (bv. Mat 5:38). Sy eie wet is dat ons mekaar moet liefhe (Johm 13:34) - dit is die vervulling van die hele wet (Rom 13:10).

3) Die kwessie van tatoeering val duidelik onder die e.g. kultiese wette. Dit het te doen met spesifieke heidense gebruike waarvan die Jode hulleself moes weerhou (soos die hele hoofstuk ten het in die konteks). Dit het te doen met:

* afgodediens
* rougebruik

4) In die N.T. is daar geen verdere verwysing na tatoeering nie. Paulus se ons liggame is 'n tempel vd Heilige Gees (1 Kor 6:19-20) en dat ons God in ons liggame moet verheerlik. Dit is inderdaad 'n belangrike beginsel, maar Paulus bedoel daar dat ons nie seksuele sondes moet begaan nie. Dit is 'n vergryp aan ons liggaam, wat God se liggaam is. Dit is 'n ope vraag of die gedagte sou impliseer dat ons nie aan ons liggame mag 'verbeter' nie.

Wat dan van:
* kosemetiese operasies (ook 'n 'permanente verbetering' van die liggaam)
* ortodontiese handeling
* operasies om gebreke reg te stel
* hare kleur, mooi aantrek, gym to gaan, ens om ons liggame 'mooier' te maak?

Dis te betwyfel of Paulus sulke dinge bedoel - hy skryf teen ydelheid. Die NT se hele klem is eintlik weg van sulke tipe wettisisme af, en meer na 'n wander deur die Gees en 'n lewe van liefde. Daar is sekere dinge in die NT (bv, die eet van offervleis, die vier van 'n spesiale dag (Sabbat) wat Paulus oorlaat aan die gewete van die Christen (sien Rom 14) en tatoeering van heel waarskynlik onder sulke temas. In Openbaring lees ons interessant dat die Here SY NAAM op ons sal skryf (Openbaring 7:3, 14:1, 22:4) - aan die einde van die tyd is Hy dan die Groot Tatoeerder? Weereens sien ons dat tatoeering 'n geestelike konnotasie kry - getatoeer ('gemerk') nie vir die afgode nie, maar vir God.

lees meer hieroor by:
http://christianitytoday.com/ch/bytopic/missionsworldchristianity/tattoosofthecross/html

the women in me

2011-12-06T07:15:00.003+02:00

A strong women

works out every day 2 keep her body in shape

but a women of strength

kneels in prayer to keep her soul in shape

A strong women

is afraid of anything

but a women of strength

shows courage in the midst of her fear

A strong women

won’t let anyone get the best of her

but a women of strength

gives the best of her to everyone

A strong women

walks sure footedly

but a women of strength

knows god with catch her when she falls

A strong women

wears the look of confidence on her face

but a women of strength

wears grace

A strong women

has faith that she is strong enough for the journey

but a women of strength

has faith that it is in the journey that she will become strong

hope in the desert

2011-12-05T07:36:00.000+02:00

For I will pour... floods upon DRY land.
~ Isaiah 44:3

5/12/2011

morning has broken ... 4 me

2011-12-05T07:11:00.000+02:00

a brand new ending

2011-12-05T06:59:00.000+02:00

Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.

a storm

2011-12-05T06:50:00.000+02:00

wasted days and wasted nights
how many of those have i not had
wasted hours waisted times
is my life all that bad

i have been rejected and alone
afraid and misled
holding on to something that cannot be
desiring something, but i'm not free

waking up at night
dreaming of something i hoped i could have
desperately making it right
thinking this is what i want

searching and scanning the crowds
for a once beloved face
wishing and hoping for a brand new start
for a new light to shine in my heart

i'm a faker i'm a loser
i'm a lover i'm sinner
i'm a women i'm a friend
why am i following this trend

my sins caused me 2 b a disgrace
to the one i love by far the most
knowing this could have cost me his grace
it made me fell flat on my face

will i ever get it back
weeping and reaping from the choices i have made
how long will my journey in the desert last
i need to rid of the wrongs in my past

a storm is brewing on the horizon
i want to hide i want to run
how could i thought it 2 b fun
oh God I really need the 4giveness of Your Son

Yes He does

2011-12-04T19:10:00.000+02:00

Jesus loves me, this I know
4 the bible tells me so
little ones to Him belong
they are weak but He is strong

fallen from grace

2011-11-30T14:36:00.000+02:00

Is this me?
God I am so ashamed of the burning desires in my heart - my flesh aches for the fulfillment of it. I have fallen so hard, so fast!
Am I a disgrace to You Father?
Why do I long for more, for true happiness? Is there such a thing as true happiness Jesus?
Is it so wrong to crave that, to desire more, to long for something - something I am even ashamed to name, sometimes?
Father I cannot do this anymore - I have been true to You, for many a year - but this I can do no more.
Let this yearning in me subsides...

help me make it through the night

2011-11-30T14:31:00.000+02:00

when temptation came my way
i didn't look away
my need was so intense
is this my only defense?

my sin runs deep
will Your grace be more?
is this yet another thing that i will reap?
who is it that i really adore?

will Your mercy endure
the sins of my betraying flesh?
will this also pass?
help me out of this mess!

where grace is found, are You there?
and where You are Lord, am I really free?
or have i forfeited Your trust -
oh Lord, how can this be?

help me to rise to You
when temptation comes my way!
and when i cannot stand
help me to fall on You.

a clean heart

2011-11-30T10:49:00.000+02:00

Create in me a clean heart, O God! and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
~ Psalm 51:10

a sinners cry

2011-11-26T20:07:00.000+02:00

Jesus of all the people in this whole wide world... only You know me. Truly know me... the condition of my heart....I cannot hide this from You ~ I need to break away, break free. I need to recap. I need to save myself. I need to heal. Help me make a way....

Die liefde van 'n Pa

2011-10-31T07:20:00.000+02:00

My Liewe Kind

Ek staan langs jou bed en kyk hoe jy besig is om wakker te word. Soms het daar trane oor jou wange gerol, oor verkeerde besluite en soms sommer net omdat jy soos n mislukking gevoel het. Daar was dae wat jy seergekry het, dae wat mense jou nie verstaan het nie, dae wat jy moedeloos was, dae wat pyn jou wou vernietig het!! Ek het saam met jou gehuil, My hande gehou en jou kosbare trane opgevang. Ek ken jou seer, Ek ken jou pyn. Daar is tye wat mense My nie verstaan het nie, My verwerp het, daarom weet Ek hoe jy voel.

Daar was dae wat jy deurmekaar gevoel het en gewonder het wat, waar en hoekom. Ek wil vandag vir jou sê, nie een van die foute wat jy gemaak het, het My onkant gevang nie. Ek was nie verbaas nie. Ek weet alles. Ek verstaan alles. Ek sien alles.

En kyk nie na jou met oë wat oordeel nie. Ek kyk na jou met oë van liefde en Ek luister na jou met My hart, omdat Ek n Pa is wat uit liefde bestaan.

Soms het mense al n verkeerde prentjie van My vir jou geskilder, Ek wil jou nie straf nie. Ek is nie ver van jou af nie. Ek ken jou beter as enige iemand Anders. Ek weet wie jy werklik is, Ek is lief vir jou!

Jou hemelse Vader

A song and a prayer

2011-10-27T09:48:00.000+02:00

Lord I come, I confess
Bowing here I find my rest

Without You I fall apart
You're the one that guides my heart

Lord, I need You, oh I need You
Every hour I need You
My one defense, my righteousness
Oh God, how I need You

Where my sin runs deep, Your grace is more
Where grace is found is where You are
And where You are Lord I am free
Holiness is Christ in me
Yes where You are Lord I am free
Holiness is Christ in me

So teach my song to rise to You
When temptation comes my way
And when I cannot stand I'll fall on You
Jesus You're my hope and stay
And when I cannot stand I'll fall on You
Jesus You're my hope and stay

~ Chris Tomlin, ' Lord, I Need You'

Klein begin vs. Groot oes

2011-10-25T08:22:00.000+02:00

Alles begin klein, en jou gesindheid aan die begin bepaal dikwels jou sukses aan die einde. Die Bybel sê, 'Wie minag die dag van oënskynlik klein dingetjies?' Wees bly oor wat God aan jou gee om mee te begin, want Hý is!

Elia het 'n wolkie so groot (klein!) soos 'n man se hand gesien voor die reën begin het (1 Konings 18:44). Dis klein, maar Elia was bly want hy het geweet dis die begin van groot dinge. Moenie jou saad vernietig deur die potensiaal daarvan te misken nie. God gee aan jou 'n saadjie van hoop, iets klein - maar iets klein is beter as heeltemal niks. Plant die saadjie, bid daaroor en glo dat God dit sal vermeerder.

Baie mense gooi hulle saad weg. Wanneer ons iets 'verag', vernietig ons die potensiaal daarvan, ignoreer dit, verwaarloos dit. As ons dit wat God gee nie oppas nie, verloor ons dit. Sonder die saad sal ons nooit kan oes nie. Die Bybel sê wees tevrede met wat jy het, en, ...'Onthou dat God die versekering gegee het: "Ek sal jou nie los nie. Ek sal jou nie in die steek laat nie' (Hebreërs 13:5). Dis waarom jy tevrede moet wees met die klein begin. Jy weet dat wat God aanpak, Hy sal deursien.

Wees geduldig, verwag die beste en beur voort. 'Moenie hierdie vertroue in God deur julle vingers laat glip nie. Dit hou vir julle 'n groot beloning in. Wat julle nodig het, is om te volhard sodat julle kan voortgaan om God se wil te gehoorsaam. Dan sal julle ontvang wat God beloof het' (Hebreërs 10:35-36).

~ Geskryf deur Bob en Debby Gass

Your husband needs "Respect"

2011-10-24T14:25:00.001+02:00

When we treat someone as a valued gift and invest ourselves in his or her care, we build up that person’s feelings of self-worth and draw closer to them as well.

When a wife respects, nurtures, and affirms her husband, it deepens her love for him. On the other hand, when we don’t regard something as valuable and neglect it, our feelings for it begin to wane. At the top of any man’s list of needs is respect from his mate; God created men that way. He needs respect as much from his wife as he needs air to breathe. A man who doesn’t receive respect from his wife is a man who begins to wither on the inside.

That is exactly why God calls wives to respect their husbands (Ephesians 5:33). Some believe that respect is something we all must earn. But just like love, respect from spouse to spouse must be unconditional.

This is what Scripture teaches: “Show proper respect to everyone … not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh” (1 Peter 2:17-18).

How can a wife show respect for her husband

• Express faith in his decision and ability.

• Leave him notes that tell him how much you value who he is as a person.

• Make positive suggestions without demanding an immediate answer.

• Listen to his upsets and don’t take his anger personally.

• Let him vent when he needs to.

• Encourage him in areas where he doesn’t feel secure and let him know you stand behind him.

• When he makes a decision you’re not in favor of, listen.

• Talk about his positive strengths in front of the children.

• Praise him at least once a day.

• Discover the uniqueness of his personality and learn to understand him and communicate better with him.

Ask yourself which of these you did this past month in an effort to show your husband respect. Then ask yourself how you’ll find ways to do these things in the coming month and beyond. It might be difficult at first, especially if your husband is acting out towards you, not treating you with respect, who is maybe physically/emotionally abusive, who does not show love towards you, who does not love Jesus….

When I met Jesus a couple of years ago, my husband and I had serious marital problems. In fact we were on the verge of a divorce and it was in this challenging times when Jesus prompted me to behave and treat my husband with respect. I couldn’t. In fact, I haven’t for many years. And I [thought] had all the legit reasons for not treating him with respect; my husband was very violent towards me - physically and emotionally, drank excessively, had several affairs and often visited prostitutes.

But Jesus [lovingly] convinced me to obey His word, that I should respect my husband regardless… (1 Peter 2:17-18).

I chose to be obedient and started treating my husband the way God wanted me too… sometimes I had to force myself and there were times it really came naturally.

I was so desperate to save my marriage, to change, to serve and obey God that I sucked up [almost] everything from my husband. I wanted my husband to approve of the ‘new me’. I longed for him to see a renewed women of God and most of all I’ve hoped that he would change too. That the changes in me would spark a desire in him to accept Jesus Christ and that the 3 of us would start a new journey.

I am absolutely convinced that the changes in my behaviour, how I treated my husband, how I reacted to situations; together with my non-stop fervent prayers were the triggers that caused him to accept Jesus.

But this is an on-going process; and I do make mistakes, I fight hard against the desires [that so often rises] to be sarcastic, to ignore him, to insult him… sometimes I get it right, sometimes I don’t.

But I am a firm believer, that because I love Jesus and have a burning desire to be obedient, I will always try again, and again, and again.

Restorer

2011-10-21T12:23:00.000+02:00

And your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foundations of [buildings that have laid waste for] many generations; and you shall be called Repairer of the Breach, Restorer of Streets to Dwell In.
~ Isaiah 58:12

A word or 2

2011-10-21T12:06:00.000+02:00

You will find in praise; spiritual understanding and strength for my My Spirit saturates the soul that learns to pour itself out in worship and that one becomes the object of My love and instruction.

Impossibilities vanish when you and God confronts your mountains

2011-10-21T12:05:00.000+02:00

Post-It

2011-10-17T15:46:00.000+02:00

What is your prostitute?

2011-10-14T07:45:00.000+02:00

Do you remember the “great old bible stories” you heard as a child and how captivated you were by the greatness of it all?

Noah - the man of faith, building the ark, with all the different animals under one roof? How on earth did he get them in there? What methods did he use to get them to follow him?

What about Jonah and the Whale – What went through his mind exactly when he was in the stomach of the whale? I cannot - not even in my wildest dreams, [and in the comfort of my home] imagine what he must have felt like... thinking about? Or was he just praying and repenting - scared of drowning everytime the whale opened his mouth. Surely it must have smelled!!

Another old time favourite is the wonderful story of Moses. A story with so many hidden truths. And also a story of a mothers protective love for her child, how she decided to stand the chance of ‘loosing’ him by hiding him by the side of the River Nile, not knowing if she will ever see him again! But in the end, God’s merciful love, orchestrating events for her to still raise her own child whilst in the care of another women. And then this young man, who grew up as an Egyptian prince, never forgot that he was a Hebrew and that his God had a calling on his life: to free the Hebrews from slavery.

Then there was Samson! No ordinary man. A super human being. A real-world Superman. Who killed a lion with his bare hands! A man who's life story made me look deep and hard into my own life...

Samson. A captivating story of a man whom God miraculously brought into this world and whom He ordered to be put under a special consecration governed by the Nazirite vow.

Not only was Samson a man called to deliver Israel from the hand of the Philistines who were occupying the land and oppressing Israel, he was also a man who did not share God’s hatred of evil, a man who lacked a compelling zeal to see Israel freed of Philistine domination.

Samson didn’t think the Philistines were all that bad. He even made an attempt to blend into their lustful and perverted society. His first girlfriend was a Philistine from Timnath (chapter 14). He became so infatuated with her he pressured his parents to approve their marriage. It was on one of his trips to visit his girl that he was attacked by an Asian Lion. Whom he bare-handed grabbed and tored in two.

Samson married her but their marriage did not last a week. His wife betrayed him. He was angry and discouraged. Rejected and alone. And after a while when he got lonely he went back to get his wife - only to find that she had been given to another man (chapter 15).

He frequently visited prostitutes – giving in to the lustful desire of his flesh. Then he met Delilah. A [another] prostitute with whom he was besotted with. A prostitute – a wrong decision - that caused him to lose everything;

His strength.

His sight.

His honour.

His life.

And still didn’t he realise he was on a destructive path…

Samson and Delilah.

A true story with great lessons to be learnt and still very relevant in this day and age.

Just like all of us, Samson wanted love and happiness. Acceptance.

But he chose the wrong path.

He made bad choices.

He made mistakes.

He gave in to the luring of the evil --- Very relevant to me and you, as we too make wrong decisions. Bad choices. More often than we would admit.

What did I learn from Samson and Delilah?

To really look deep into my own life, and ask myself this one question:

What is the ‘prostitute’ in my life? [and in your life]

- Is it my longing for affection and acceptance?

- Rebellion perhaps?
- The internet?

- My marriage?

- Maybe your work?

- Friends?

- An affair?
- Pornography?

- Unforgiveness?

- Money?
- Not sowing?
- Swinger parties?
- An old flame?
- Strip Clubs

What is ‘it’ that cause you to go astray?
To not be obedient?

What is the ‘prostitute’ in your life that brings distance between you and Jesus?

and then finally.... Is it worth it to have this ‘prostitute’ on the side…..

Who's missing?

2011-10-13T07:02:00.002+02:00

Small Straws in a Soft Wind

2011-10-06T11:15:00.001+02:00

Beloved, I am creating opportunities in your life that will lead to greater unity with Me, says the Lord. I will reveal those things that create hindrances and distance between us. Let Me show you the way to restored innocence and purity, not as one who worships from outside, but as one who can enjoy spiritual intimacy with confidence in the reality of oneness.

Hebrews 13:20-21 Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

~ by Marsha Burns

Baptism

2011-10-05T12:27:00.001+02:00

Gentleness

2011-09-30T14:55:00.000+02:00

Nothing is so strong as gentleness
and nothing is so gentle as real strength

What my husbands pornography addiction did to me.

2011-09-28T07:34:00.002+02:00

Before I became a reborn Christian I use to watch pornography every now and then with my husband. I used to say there is no harm, but the fact was: I was not OK with it. Whenever we were intimate I always wondered if my husband fantasised about the women we saw in the movies. I always felt self-conscious because I was not able to do what the people in the movies could and I definitely did not look as good as the 20 year old in the movie who had never had children.

Intercourse was not intimate at all, but more of a race to try and live out something I saw in a movie. I did a lot of things just to please my husband. I didn't want to be boring in bed. I did some disgusting stuff in an effort to keep things interesting.

Later on in my marriage Jesus saved me from my sins and I devoted my life to Jesus. Shortly after that I found out that this was not the only extent of my husband’s pornography viewing. It was also books and websites that he viewed continuously. I found that anything with a dress was a potential fantasy, him wondering what is beneath it all, not able to keep his eyes off women. I felt so hurt, lied to, angry, ashamed, shocked, insecure, and heartbroken... the list goes on.

Let me tell you, your wife might say she is ok with watching pornography with you, but deep inside, she is not. You are hurting her, she feels that she will never be good enough to satisfy you. She is doing things that are against her will and morals. The perverse sex disgusts her, she cannot do the same things the people in the movies do, it is physically impossible.

This is something you should know... Your wife cannot fully respect you as she feels that you have no respect for her. She is afraid of denying because she is afraid you will reject her.

If you are not certain if it is wrong to watch pornography, masturbate, have perverse sex, feel free to 1st ask God’s blessing before you do it and see if you feel OK with it? I guess not.

My husband will never fully understand the impact his addiction had on me. With God’s grace I have forgiven him. Some scars take longer to heal, but Jesus is the only true Healer.

I beg of you to call on Jesus to heal you of your addictions, He is so faithful. He will restore your marriage and intimate relationship with your wife.

From a wife, a mother, a lover.

Men under construction

2011-09-27T10:41:00.000+02:00

A blog worth visiting:
http://men-under-construction.blogspot.com/

Jesus is alive!

2011-09-27T10:38:00.000+02:00

I spoke to Him this morning.

In who's shoes?

2011-09-27T07:40:00.000+02:00

Stop and ponder.....

In who's shoes are you walking?

In who's shoes do you desire to be in?

Are your shoes to big for you?

Does the shoe fit?

I found a Love greater than life

2011-09-27T07:35:00.000+02:00

Therefore the Lord will wait [silence, linger] that He may be gracious to you; And therefore He will be exalted, that He may have mercy [compassion, forgiveness, kindness, sympathy, understanding, bigheartedness] on you. For the Lord is a God of justice; Blessed are all those who wait [long, desire] for Him.

~ Isaiah 30:18

Dear God

2011-09-26T10:27:00.002+02:00

I love love love You Jesus

2011-09-26T09:20:00.002+02:00

In love with a man called Jesus

2011-09-23T09:33:00.001+02:00

New Blog

2011-09-21T13:37:00.002+02:00

Check out this new blog....
http://perswoorde.blogspot.com/

My Super Hero

2011-09-21T10:51:00.003+02:00

Walk with me through this fire

2011-09-19T10:09:00.000+02:00

Heavenly Father

If one's heart has been broken, over and over again... will it ever heal completely? Or will I always be reminded of the evil by the harsh scars that never seems to mend...

Abba Father help me not to hold on to yesterday, help me not to become bitter, or to take the easy way out... Father I need to let go but I don't know how anymore.

Why has it become so difficult to forget, to forgive?

Today, yet again I need Your healing mercy

Walk with me through this fire

I trust in You Jesus

Friends

2011-09-14T14:41:00.002+02:00

My addiction

2011-09-13T13:47:00.000+02:00

Conceived in Rape, Living With Purpose

2011-09-13T10:12:00.001+02:00

As I sat across from a social worker in 2003, ready to receive my adoption records, the women said, "since you're going to find your mother, you need to know about the father."

I hadn't given any thought to him, except that he might have been a hit and run. Without any preparation she bluntly said, "Your mother was raped."

Read more...
http://christianity.about.com/od/depressionandsuicide/a/Conceived-In-Rape.htm?nl=1

A Christian Testimony
By Mary Fairchild, About.com Guide
A website worth browsing: http://christianity.about.com/

Shall we dance, my Lord?

2011-09-09T14:20:00.000+02:00

Do You hear the music in the distance? Lord it is so all-around us, so real, so part of me and You that I cannot help but to fulfill the desire in my heart to just dance with You, again and again!

O my Lord, do You remember our first dance? The memories of that day is forever imprinted in my soul – a beautiful everlasting moment we had… You and I. You pulled me up from where I laid on the floor, buried in my grief. You knew that my crushed spirit needed You so desperately right then. I could hardly breathe... Jesus I will never ever forget the love and tenderness I have experienced in Your arms that day.

I was so overwhelmed by the immensity of Your love for me. I knew then that You would move mountains to protect me!

Together we waltz, following the rhythm of our hearts, the beating of Your healing mercy. I broke down at every turn we took, but You kept on dancing, kept on turning, knowing how much I needed to rid of the hurt that drenched my soul. You held me steady. You held me together. Lord, You never deserted me that day! You kept me close. Safe. I breathed Your Healing...

Looking back on the past 7 years… we have danced a bit, haven’t we Jesus?

I love dancing with You. I was born to dance with You my Lord. To be in Your immediate presence soothes my soul.

Whenever I needed comfort or protection, we danced! When I wanted You to love me; we danced! When I just wanted to love You, we danced! Oh Lord, we have had so much fun together.

Do You remember the day when You surprised me - in the middle of the traffic – You took me to the dance floor and we showed off our gum-boot moves! Oh Lord, we've laughed so much that day! You have this mind-blowing ability to just make my day!.

Thank you, Abba Father for being so nice to me. More than nice.

Lord, I love it when You romance me. Please Lord don’t ever stop doing it. You fill my heart with such joy and laughter I cannot get enough of it.

I want it. I need it so much. It makes me fall in love with You more and more and more. Is it possible? To fall deeper and deeper in-love with Someone that already holds your heart captive? I think so … because each time I look into Your eyes… I love You more and more. And more. And more.

Signed, Your dance partner...

xxx

My love

2011-09-09T14:12:00.000+02:00

When I first laid my eyes on you
You were quite shy
Soon after that I knew
I found a love so true.

Through thick and thin we vowed
Alone you and I
Our heads closely bowed...
until we die.

I promised I would be true, I would be faithful
I will be there when you need me
To lean on
To be strong.

Shaken over our past -
We fought for our love to last
The roads were very tough
Often thinking we won’t make it, it's just too rough

Until one glorious day, …
He seemed like an ordinary Man
He spoke one word and forgave our sins
He healed our broken hearts

Today I know you never gave up
each time you pulled us through
A strong tower... that's what you are
fighting like a lion...
soaring like an eagle.

My darling, I can honestly say
You are the best thing
that ever happened to me…

Out of darkness

2011-09-08T08:48:00.000+02:00

There's a fire starting in my heart
Reaching a fevered pitch and it's bringing me out the dark
Finally, I can see You crystal clear,
Hanging on the cross with Your soul laid bare

The scars of Your love remind me of my past
They keep me thinking of a Love that will last
The scars of Your love, they leave me breathless
Knowing I will make in times of distress

You have my hart inside Your hand
I gave You all of my love
Leaving my past behind
With a fire burning,
Reaching a fevered pitch that keeps me out the dark

Movie release: African Cats

2011-09-06T13:33:00.000+02:00

View Movie Review Page

Worthy is the Lamb

2011-09-05T09:09:00.000+02:00

Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, Holy, holy is He! Sing a new song to Him who sits on Heaven's mercy seat.

Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come. With all creation I sing praise to the King of kings. You are my everything and I will adore You.

Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder, at the mention of Your Name! Jesus Your name is Power, Breath and Living Water, such a marvelous mystery.

You are worthy Jesus!
You are worthy to be praised!
To You be the Glory!

I hear You say

2011-08-31T12:26:00.000+02:00

I know I need You
I need to love You Lord
I'd love to see You
but it's been so long
I long to feel you
I feel this need for You
and I need to hear You, is that so wrong?

Now You pull me near You
when we're close I fear You
still I'm afraid to tell You all that I've done
Are You done forgiving?
or can You look past my pretending?
I'm so tired defending what I've become..
what have I become?

I hear You say:
"My love is over, it's underneath
it's inside, it's in-between
In times that you doubted Me, when you can't feel
In times that you question, is this for real?
In times that you are broken, in times that you are mend
the times that you hate Me, in times that you bend
My love is over, it's underneath
it's inside, it's in-between
In times you are healing and when your heart breaks
the times that you feel like you have fallen from grace
the tines that you are hurting, the times that you heal
the times you go hungry and are tempted to steal
in times of confusion, chaos and pain
I am there in your sorrows under the weight of your shame
I am there through your heartache
I am there in your storms
My love I will keep you by My power alone
I don't care where you have fallen of where you have been
I will never forsake you, My love never ends,
it never ends!"

Wilderness

2011-08-24T09:00:00.000+02:00

This winter is really stretching me... in more than one way. I feel... almost... 'post-mortem-ish'. It feels as if I just cannot get past this roller-coaster-emotional-ride I am on!

I know that emotion and faith has nothing do with one another. It's a faith thing and that I should keep my focus on that.

But I am really struggling through all of this. The mountain is just toooo high this time; maybe my aging hormones plays a role, or another exam on its way, or my all-time-weight-battle, my summer clothes that doesn't fit anymore and the mere thought of going on another diet.... agh,! I just feel sick to my stomach.

So between all of my emotions I thought exercise would do me good; so I went surfing .. off course I took the easy route = Internet Surfing and that really did me gooooood.

The [ever loyal and my best Friend] Holy Spirit led me to a fabulous website on 'Wilderness' and thought I should copy this to the world!

That some of the people in the Bible's elite list; Jesus, Moses, David, Abraham, Elijah and Paul (etc.) experienced the same.

[some] Reasons for Wilderness Experiences:
So that you would decide in your deepest being to place God in exclusive control of your life.
So that you would decide on the deepest level of your life to trust God, no matter what you are facing.
So that you would understand the reason for your life.
So that God could equip you for greater service and usefulness.

What is Repentance?

2011-08-23T11:17:00.000+02:00

Repentance means a sincere turning away from sin and turn to God. A person must repent to receive eternal life in heaven, but this act does not earn salvation.

Ezekiel 18:30:
"Therefore,O house of Israel, I will judge you, each one according to his ways, declares the Sovereign LORD. Repent! Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall." (NIV)

Jesus also calls for repentance:
"The time has come," Jesus said. "The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!" (Mark 1:15, NIV)
Repentance is an essential part of salvation, requiring a turning away from the sin-ruled life to a life characterized by obedience to God. The Holy Spirit leads a person to repent, but repentance itself cannot be seen as a "good work" that adds to our salvation.

The Bible states that people are saved by faith alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). However, there can be no faith in Christ without repentance and no repentance without faith. The two are inseparable.

Rahab: Prostitute turned spy for God

2011-08-23T11:11:00.000+02:00

By her Profession, Rahab was known as a scandalous woman in the Old Testament, yet this prostitute turned spy was honored by God twice in the New Testament. Like Rahab, you may not have a spotless history, but that won't stop God from choosing to use you, and perhaps even recognizing the noble accomplishments He wants to perform through your life. If you feel unworthy or marked by the embarrassing mistakes of your past, let Rahab's example encourage you. Rahab turned from her pas to follow God, and her life was forever changed.

a Prophetic word

2011-08-03T15:55:00.001+02:00

Isn't it amazing that a prophetic word from God can make you feel airborne?

God must have known in His infinite wisdom, what His words, spoken in season will do to His children. Man oh Man oh Man.... how I love this Man!

But the one who prophesies speaks to people for their strengthening, encouraging and comfort.
1 Corinthians 14:3

Thank You Heavenly Father for the profound prophetic word
Thank You for trusting me
Thank You for expanding my territory
Thank You for Restoration ministries
Thank You for my new 'boots'
and Thank You for all the blessings You have promised to send to me and those who stood by me and supported me all these years
I receive it in Jesus Name

Weet jy waarom jy lewe?

2011-07-29T09:59:00.000+02:00

Jesus het presies geweet waarom Hy gelewe het. "Hiervoor is Ek gebore en hiervoor het Ek na die wereld gekom, met die doel om vir die waarheid getuienis af te le".

Hy het dit oordink, daarvoor gebid, beplan, gewerk, Sy lewe afgele, weer opgestaan en Sy roeping uiteindelik volbring.

Weet jy waarom jy lewe?

Wat doen jy om jou doel te bereik?

"Hy het ons gemaak dat ons die goeie werke wat Hy vir ons bestem het, kan uitlewe" - Efesiers 2:10

Die klink nie na 'n doellose rondwaal nie. Die bybel se " 'n mens beplan sy koers maar die Here bepaal sy bestemming "- Spreuke 16:9. Jy moet goed beplan, maar God se rigting inslaan.

~ Bob en Debby Gass

Never !

2011-07-28T09:44:00.002+02:00

The will of God will never take you where the grace of God will not protect you.

Character vs suffering

2011-07-28T09:25:00.000+02:00

Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls, the most massive characters are secreted with scars...

The desires of my heart

2011-07-28T08:29:00.000+02:00

What an amazing Father we serve in deed !

For so many years – in fact, for as long as I can remember, I have always wanted long hair but never could have - my hair is very fine and battles to grow. And for all these years – since I was a little girl, I have had this secret desire in my heart to one day being financially able to have human hair extensions weaved into my hair.

Then for the last couple of months I have been searching the web, getting the cheapest possible quotes and then… got one , then finally decided last week, I am going to do it!

My excitement knows no end, I dream long hair, I eat long hair… I am on top of the world. So I started praying, God let it look nice, let my husband fall in love with me all over again (nothing wrong with surprising my fabulous hubby with a ‘new wife’ hahaha), let me not struggle with it, help me to maintain it, oh God!

Then my wonderful Father even went one step ahead…. And surprised me BY PAYING FOR IT!

Oh Jesus thank-You-thank-You-thank-You!!

From a very thankful daughter J

How do I invite Jesus into my heart?

2011-07-27T14:29:00.001+02:00

Pray this simple prayer and believe ...

Jesus I have sinned against You and I ask You for Your forgiveness. I really need You in my life. I believe You are the Son of God. Please Lord, accept me as Your child.

In Jesus Name I pray

Amen

My brand-name clothes

2011-07-27T14:26:00.002+02:00

I will wear forgiveness like a crown

Every single morning is a new beginning

2011-07-27T14:09:00.000+02:00

No matter what wrong we did yesterday; the abortion we have had, the bad choices, the money we lost in gambling... no matter the wrong turn we made, the Word says, His Mercies are new every morning. Every single morning.

But we must apologize to our Father, repent of our sinful ways. And strive towards living a holy life...

God says that He is slow to anger... and rich in love.

And I believe Him.

If God says is, that settles it.

And therefore I know, when I sincerely apologize, and ask for His forgiveness, I know ~ without a shadow of doubt ~ that I am forgiven. And with that powerful knowledge in my mind and spirit I have full confidence again when I pray or just speak to my Father again.

I don't feel guilty because I believe every word He says.

Quotes

2011-07-20T08:31:00.000+02:00

Live Simply..

Love generously..
Care deeply..
Speak kindly..

Be kinder than necessary~
Everyone is fighting some kind of battle

Success is not a matter of being the best and winning the race,
Success is a matter of handling the worst and still finish the race...

If you run with wolves, you will learn how to howl. But, if you associate with eagles, you will learn how to soar to great heights.

A mirror reflects a man's face, but what he is really like is shown by the kind of friends he chooses.

do what makes u happy
b with who makes u smile
laugh as much as u breathe
& love as long as u live

if I have 2 choose between
love and breath
I would choose my last
breath 2 love

With some people you spend and evening; with others you invest it.

Ander mense maak jou nie wat jy is nie; hul ontmasker jou net vir wat jy is.

We don't change God's message
His message changes us

A Women's heart should be so hidden in Christ, that a man should have to seek HIM first to find her.

Stop and Ponder

2011-07-20T08:29:00.000+02:00

‘If you have never experienced the Glory of God... you have no motivation to worship.’

‘If you were to be killed for your faith... will there be enough evidence for you to be killed?’

‘To compromise is to deviate from the truth..’

‘The soul of the flesh is in the blood and that was what Jesus did. He poured out His soul for us through His blood.’

Love love love

2011-07-14T13:39:00.000+02:00

The surest way to find God is not to make Him a private possession, a problem solver, or an instant consolation in time of need, but rather by opening to love.

The Apostle John said that. He said: 'God is love, and anyone who lives in love is living with God and God is living in him.

Rev. John Powell, Professor, Loyola University, Chicago

Treatments vs the Beginning

2011-07-06T07:17:00.000+02:00

I have Just read an article about the various types of spa treatments for women… but not the relaxing, spoiling, ever fabulous spa treatments that immediately comes to mind. This is for your vagina.

Vajacial is a 50 minute ‘facial’. A certain Wax Bar describes it as ‘giving your crotch the best non-orgasmic experience you can image’. This Vajacial involves four steps: cleansing, exfoliation, extracting ingrown hairs and a calming, anti-freckle, anti-acne masking and lightening cream.

Another word that got my attention is Vattooing - a temporary tattoo for your vagina.

The more I kept thinking about this the more I felt a deep sense of sadness in my spirit. What has happened to women that we resort to extreme practices like these? Why are we buying into this at all?

Yes we are emotional and sexual beings, but it is almost as if we have triggered something – created a monster of some sort - where we not only accept but invite the most perverse and lustful spirits into our ourselves, our homes!

Why are we doing this? Allowing this? Taking part in this? Have women become so occupied with their sexuality that they need to ‘sell’ themselves by the means of their vaginas? Is this maybe the only way they are able to attract attention… and hold it?

Another phenomenon that the world clings to is sex toys. Vibrators, rubber penis’s, porn films… You need to understand that these little extras that you bring into your marriage are nothing less than a 3^rd person. God created men and women to have sex with one another. Not with one another and another thing… or another person.

When God created a wife for Adam, He only created one wife and called her Eve. Not Steve. Nor did He create two wives….with a little extra.

What happened to the good all days where your husband and the romance between you and him was more than enough to keep the love flame burning for 50 years? That the only “extra’s” you needed was maybe a candle and music to enrich the mood?

Go back to the beginning, and start building on the love and respect you have had for one another – invite Jesus into your marriage, and once that is in place the love flame will burn high again. Guaranteed.

You came into this world with a guarantee. The Bible. If anything goes wrong, or does not work anymore – like the dying fire in you, your marriage, your relationships, go back to the Guarantee and ask the Manufacturer to ‘fix’ you… like He created you in the Beginning. Same with your marriage… go back to the Beginning.

42day

2011-06-30T07:01:00.001+02:00

Thankfulness will cause you to rise above circumstances

- Your attitude determines your future.

Jesus Loves Families

2011-06-29T07:18:00.000+02:00

Dankie Here dat U praat in prentjies!

2011-06-27T10:13:00.000+02:00

Wanneer jy nie naby aan die Here leef, daagliks geanker en gewortel is in Hom nie - dis dan wanneer jy 'hurts' op tel.... dinge vinnig issues raak, maklik seerkry, maklik skaafplekke optel en oorsensitief is vir mense en hul dinge.

So ver

2011-06-24T07:08:00.000+02:00

Ek voel so ver van U af Here... Is dit omdat ek so lui geword het soos wat dit koud is? Hoekom het ek so 'n veradderlike hart wat U afskeep om eerder iets 'lekkerders' te doen - soos om opgekrul op die bank te le en 'n fliek te kyk - onder 'n warm kombers? U is werklik die belangrikste Mens Gees en Wese in my lewe - maar waarom dan is dit so maklik om aan U die minste tyd te bestee?

Vergewe my Vader - ek is so swak.

Revelation

2011-06-22T07:22:00.000+02:00

I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept My word and have not denied My name.

I will make those who are of the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews though they are not, but are liars—I will make them come and fall down at your feet and acknowledge that I have loved you.

Since you have kept My command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth.

I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.

Revelation 3:8-11

Father I pray

2011-06-22T07:10:00.000+02:00

Father it is my prayer today that You open my eyes to the works of the enemy operating in my immediate surroundings. My personal space…. My work‚ my family life‚ my friends and the Ministry You entrusted me with.

Father show me the people that I must be wary of. I pray that You will send Your angels to stand their guard against the evil doers‚ the gossipers and the backbiters‚ the mudslingers‚ and slanderers that surrounds me.

I am You beloved child. It is in You that I put my trust. Please guide me in my path‚ shine Your light upon the road that I need to walk on. And protect me from the evil one. I am really scared Jesus and I need Your Sovereign Protection.

I pray the blood of Your most Beloved Son Jesus upon me; my work‚ my family‚ my friends and the Ministry.

May no harm come to us. I proclaim in the Name of Jesus that no weapon formed against us shall prosper.

Lack of Knowledge

2011-06-22T07:06:00.000+02:00

My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge; because you [the priestly nation] have rejected knowledge, I will also reject you that you shall be no priest to Me; seeing you have forgotten the law of your God, I will also forget your children.

Hosea 4:6

FACE-iT!

2011-06-14T07:39:00.000+02:00

a united venture of Restoration Ministries and Daughters of the King SA.

These workshops are held at:

Doxa Deo Noord Kampus Kameeldrift, South Africa
Plot 229, Zambesi Ave, Derdepoort

Kindly contact us for more information:
Suzette – 083 391 3158
Leandri – 071 889 1012

Here leer my nederigheid

2011-06-13T08:07:00.002+02:00

'Here, maak ons gewillig om te verander wanneer ons verkeerd is, en maak ons maklik om mee saam te leef wanneer ons reg is.'

The World needs You Jesus

2011-06-07T11:47:00.000+02:00

Lord of the Armies! Ignite this fire in my spirit that wants to escape and burst forth to set the world on fire with Your Mercy and Grace and Everlasting Love. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen.

Elohim Hashivenu

2011-06-07T11:45:00.000+02:00

Oh Lord God, Restore Us
Ps 80:19

Abba Father Holy God

It is my cry today that You will make haste and restore Your beloved people - those whom You have created. Those whom You have chosen as Your people. You chose me Father, I was Your choice.

Restore this vessle of Yours so that I may go and sin no more. That I may live a life that will forever please You... My beloved King.

I stand before Your Mercy Throne. My Love. My Jesus.
You are all I have.
You are all I need.
You are my hearts desire.

Exit Lack

2011-05-19T19:31:00.000+02:00

A very long, long time ago, Adam and Eve lived in Eden (Eden symbolises abundance, paradise etc.) when satan entered their home of peace, liberty, abundance, paradise and stole their freedom with his deceitful lie. A curse came upon them (us) and they were ordered by God to leave (exit) abundance.

BUT ...!

Then God our Loving Father send Jesus to die on a cross and when Jesus' blood spilled God reversed the curse and everything changed!

in other words: (I just had a light-bulb moment) abundance has been released - back into our lives - when Jesus died on the cross.

Why did we not get this before; We so confidently and faithfully pray "by His stripes I am healed" why have we never confidently and faithfully pray "by His stripes [and all His blood] I am no longer under the curse of poverty and lack but rather accepted it as 'part of life'.

Jesus thank You for revealing your heart and word to me [and to those who want to hear]

I rebuke every form of lack and poverty and speak over my life: healing abundance love patience kindness selfcontrol liberty freedom blessing my cup runneth over peace faith and power. In Jesus Holy Name.

The power of His Glory shines upon me and my family.

19 May 2011

Signed: Suzette
His beloved daughter

Continue doing good

2011-05-19T11:56:00.000+02:00

Hebrews 6:10

God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them.

Travelling

2011-05-09T09:29:00.002+02:00

Remember that happiness is a way of travel, not a destination.

The luring of the evil

2011-04-19T15:05:00.001+02:00

17 million women watch pornography every week
1 out of 3 online pornography viewers are women

Abba Father please save us from this road we are on. Forgive us our sins and keep us from the evil one.
In Jesus Holy Name I pray. Amen.

Gospel Profiles

2011-04-07T08:40:00.000+02:00

Check out our latest artist profiles on

Louis Brittz and Retief Burger

http://face-it-ministry.blogspot.com/

compiled by Elsie Bornman.

Jou geestelike groei hang van jou af

2011-03-31T08:05:00.000+02:00

God gebruik Sy Woord, ander mense en moeilike omstandighede om ons meer soos Christus te laat word. God se Woord verskaf die waarheid wat ons moet ken, God se mense verskaf die ondersteuning wat ons nodig het om te groei en moeilike omstandighede verskaf die omgewing waarin ons Christelikheid moet wys. Jy sal meer soos Jesus word wanneer jy God se Woord toepas, gereeld kontak met ander gelowiges het en leer om God in elke situasie te vertrou.

Geestelike volwassenheid gebeur nie oornag nie en is nie gewaarborg nie. Dit is 'n geleidelike ontwikkeling wat toegewydheid en dissipline vereis. (Efesiërs 4:13 NLV). Selfs wanneer jy struikel en val, sal God getrou wees. Solank jy aan jou geestelike groei toegewyd is, sal Hy ook wees!

God is meer oor jou karakter as jou loopbaan begaan omdat jou karakter saam met jou die ewigheid in gaan. Die Bybel sê: '...Moenie julle leefstyl aanpas by die gedragspatrone van hierdie wêreld nie, maar laat God julle omvorm deurdat Hy julle denkpatrone vernuwe. Dan sal julle goed kan onderskei wat Hy wil hê dat julle moet doen, naamlik dit wat werklik goed en aanvaarbaar en volmaak is.' (Romeine 12:2 NLV).

Jy moet elke dag 'n besluit neem en daarop fokus om meer soos Jesus te word. God se inwonende Gees sal jou daarin help.

~ Geskryf deur Bob en Debby Gass~ Radio Kansel dagstuk