Parenting with an Eternal Perspective

I Am ALIVE!!! - Just had trouble logging ON!!!

2010-12-06T15:45:00.005+11:00

Dear Loyal followers... Are there any out there?

I remembered my log on & now I am here again...

I will try to post more now...

SO Here is what I have been doing:

We have launched our church plant! www.sovgrace.org.au

I turned 40.

I am a chaplain for a Christian School.

My sister came from the USA for a month!

My parents are coming just after Christmas...

We moved to Mount Colah, NSW

We have an amazing God!

SOOOO much has happened and we are continually grateful to God! The kids are all doing well and loving the park & friends... God has been so very good to us! Thanks for praying for me and my family!

Drop a line if you are a follower, and I would love to hear how you are.

God Bless...

Patrick

Can't sleep

2010-05-17T03:18:00.004+10:00

I have been awake since 2:00 AM and am unable to get back to sleep. As I have wrestled around in my bed praying, I thought I should just get up and have some time to pray and read. Then I think to myself, I have to go to work today and the enormity of what needs to be done is playing on my mind - just stay in bed.

I don't know about you and if this happens to you - but I want to testify that a lack of sleep can be something wonderful!

Something wonderful? Yea, something wonderful! Let me share...

So out of bed I fall, and stumble up the stairs. I check emails and facebook to wake myself, and then I open my bible. Here are the words that I have been greatly encouraged and effected by!

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say, "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for
the blessed hope - the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us, to redeem us from all wickedness and to purifyfor himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

The grace (undeserved gift) of God that brings salvation has appeared to each
and every man, woman and child! - How amazing and staggering to ponder and
meditate on this.

What is salvation you ask? Salvation is the work of God to rescue sinners (you & I) from death and separation from Him!

But this undeserved gift not only rescues us, it teaches us to say, "NO" to ungodliness and worldly passions and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age...

So what is ungodliness and worldly passions?

Let's quickly look at what godliness is and then see if we can define what ungodliness means. When God said let us make man in our own image it did not mean that we would be god-like. I think it meant that we were created with a make-up and capacity that would allow us to have things in common with God. In other words, we would be like God in very specific ways. So let me give you three ways I think we could be like God. 1) We would be able to think like God. 2) We would be able to do things God's way. 3) We would be able to work with God in His plans and purposes.

So if these three fundamental components of godliness are right then the opposite of them would be 1) not thinking like God does. 2) not doing things Gods way. 3) not working with God in His plans and purposes.

And what is strikingly confronting is that ungodliness can be the practice of the believer as well. God's people can think differently than God thinks. They can do things their own way & refuse to work with God and attempt to work independently from God. Not convinced? Have a read of the Exodus. Have a look at the Israelites history. Ask your pastor. It's true.

Now what are worldly passions?

Galatians 5:16-26 is helpful to understanding what these passions are. But in short they are the desires that are contrary (in conflict or opposite) to how we have been instructed/created to live.

So this grace teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.

I find that so incredible. This grace enables us to live opposite to what we are being encouraged to participate in. So, for example - when I am seeking material security, which we are at all times pushed to seek after, I can preach to myself that God's Word says, "but keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; neither will I forsake you." Heb. 13:5 But conversely, when I am tempted to be lazy, which I can fall into sometimes. I can preach to myself that God's Word says, "Make it your ambition to live a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependant on anyone." 1 Timothy 4:11,12

This grace of God that brings salvation is AMAZING. I'll share more about verses 13 & 14 soon!

I need to get ready for work - but before I go - time with God rejuvenates the soul and enables you to do all that God requires of you. If you are awake & can't sleep, get up and read God's Word! You will be refreshed and encouraged!

A wonderful place to live

2010-05-07T21:50:00.004+10:00

Today we went to say goodbye to Merewether Beach. A place where we have celebrated b-day's, went to refresh ourselves on hot days, learnt to surf, learnt to swim, had breakfast, came for an early dip, came for exercise, came to just admire God's creation. We are so grateful to the Lord for this time. We will truly miss it - but we are so excited about what is ahead!

One happy man (husband / father) with his AMAZING family!!!

I love this picture!!!

How special do I feel, that my wife captured this great picture!

What a blessed man to have such a great wife and beautiful baby girl!

We have been living in a beautiful spot the last year and a bit. It has been wonderful and challenging! But we want to thank God for allowing us to live here for a season. As you can see, we were truly blessed!!!

Won't it be amazing one day when the roll is called up yonder?

What an amazing God to create such beauty!

What will heaven be like?

Discipline! Do not despise it...

2010-04-13T22:34:00.004+10:00

Proverbs 3:11-12 states: "My son, do not despise the Lord's discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the Lord reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights."

Can I ask you a question? Are you delighting in your son/daughter before you are disciplining them?

It's a pretty good question to consider, don't you think?

Here's what I think it means practically. I think it means that we as dads would be keen to spend most of our time enjoying our children, encouraging our children, laughing with our children, being affectionate with our children, and dare I say, enjoying our children so that there is a deep bond of love and joy between us & our child(ren).

So why do we discipline?

So that we can keep them on the path of wisdom and righteousness (Prov 20:7). Not because we are embarrassed, frutsrated or angry, but so that we can train them in wisdom and righteousness.

Frankly dads, this has to be modeled to our children. Our wife and children need to see us submitting to authority and welcoming correction from those whom we love and respect (friends, family members, colleagues, our church family). They also need to see us repenting of our own sin, receiving forgiveness, and walking in restoration with God the Father by empowering grace. In other words, - "a good father will live out the gospel every day in fellowship with God and his child, and he knows what to do about sin in his child's life because he's been dealing with his own sin in his own life first". (Driscoll, Pastor Dad, pg. 8)

This is a big call men. Just the other night I had the opportunity to discipline my son, but I had to ask myself, have I delighted in him lately? I need to change in this too men, but I wanted to share with you what I am learning... May we as men rise up and walk in the role we have been entrusted with. To parent with an eternal perspective, by the grace of God!

My Bride is on a Personal Retreat...

2010-04-08T22:07:00.010+10:00

After 13 years of marriage, my wife has gone on her first personal retreat. Boy does she need more of these! It's really a pretty sad reflection of my care for my wife, boys. Something I confess here, so you hopefully will not make the same choice I did and regret it - like I am...

So, 7 kids in bed. All washed, fed & sleeping. But now the house is silent, but for the dish washer whirling and my thoughts of what a legend my bride is.

Here is what I have learnt about my wife today while she has been away.

1) the laundry is a big job... washing, drying, folding, ironing, putting away. That's if there are no stains to be removed, soaked, sown or repaired.

2) the kitchen is never closed... breakfast, lunch, dinner, morning tea, afternoon tea & dessert. That's if there are no other requests for: extras & bottles to be washed and sterilised. Food to be prepped, pots and pans to be washed up and stove to be cleaned. Menu's to be prepared as well as shopping list to be made & most importantly, sticking to a budget at that.

3) there is ALWAYS someone to spend time with... any one of the 7 children, a phone call, an email, skype request, facebook request, relatives, friends & of course when my wife's husband comes home... he wants time too and most importantly, time with the Savior of the world. That's not to mention anyone who comes to the door for a surprise visit.

4) there is always something to tidy up or clean... dusting, vacuuming, cleaning the toilets, the bedrooms, the lounge room, the windows, mopping the floor, polishing the mirrors, the silver, removing cob webs around the place & just general tidying the place. That's if no one has spilt something or wee'd on the floor or spewed after you cleaned it up in the first place...

5) there is always someone to hold & hug... the kids, each other, a neighbor in need, a friend who pops around for fellowship, a friend on the phone or over the email... that's if we can stop what we are doing in order to hold and hug someone...

I have so much respect and appreciation for you, my love. Thank you for all you do. Let me know when you want your next retreat... I owe you many!!!

I am so grateful to my Savior that He has revealed this to me. Guys - book your wife a personal retreat - SOON!!!

5 Reasons why ... the Bible is inspired:

2010-04-07T21:49:00.004+10:00

Do you ever question the inspiration of the Bible? If I am honest, I have had to address this question in my own thinking. I am often asked on the validity of the Bible, so when I read this explanation in a book, I thought I should share it.

The book is written by Corrie Ten Boom, who is known around the world for her work for the Lord.

Miss Ten Boom spent the first 50 years of her life living peacefully with her father and sister above the watch shop in Haarlem, Holland. When World War II broke out, her family instinctively began providing 'hiding places' for persecuted Jews. Miss Ten Boom and her family spent several months in concentration camps as a result of these illegal activities, but their faith sustained them during these times. Since Corries release, she has traveled the world captivating audiences with her inspiring story.

In her book, 'Tramp for the Lord' she writes out these 5 reasons why she believes the Bible is inspired.

1) It says so. "... holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit" 2 Peter 1:21

2) The effect it has upon all who believe and follow it.

3) Though some of it was written more than two thousand years before Jesus arrived on earth, yet all the writers agree.

4) The authors do not offer any excuses for their own faults and sins.

5) The writers record some of the most harrowing scenes which affected them greatly, yet they never express one word of emotion. The Holy Spirit wanted the facts recorded, and not their feelings about the facts.

How refreshing to read these thought out convictions on the inspiration of Scripture. What about you? Have you thought about how to answer the question, 'Are the Scriptures truly inspired by God'? I challenge you to think this through...

I also want to encourage you to add this book to your library. If you are able to get your hands on a copy of this book, it will serve you and your wife & perhaps your older children would appreciate the book as well. You can get yourself a copy by clicking on the title, which is highlighted.

May we grow in our understanding of the power and wonder of the INSPIRED Word of God!

WARNING, WARNING - what are your kids listening to?

2010-04-02T05:02:00.007+11:00

Yesterday, I drove home 11 kids from a year 9 camp. Holy smokes! Have you ever heard of Lady GaGa? I was shocked by the words she sang. I at one stage turned the music down to ask the kids, "did she just say, 'she wants your diseases'"? The kids all laughed and looked stunned I would be shocked by that. Then they hollered, "yes, turn it back up"!

As I reflected on the music that I allowed to be played in my car, I was quite disappointed in myself. Why did I let them play that rubbish? But then I thought, I am quiet glad I did let them listen to it, because it gave me a better glimpse into their world.

Dads, the music industry is out to influence our kids, and it is not for the good, in my opinion. You know, every song was about sex and drugs. I kept thinking to myself about the people who wrote those songs, it exposes such a revelation of their hearts. Hurting, broken, hopeless, wanting out, wanting a cure for their pain. Here's the thing - dad's, listen to your kids, and ask them questions. They are being influenced by what they hear on the radio.

What's interesting to me is that, Lady GaGa speaks of wanting your disease, in quite a grotesque way, but in another way, someone else is able to take our diseases and cure them. In reality, Jesus Christ died for our diseases so we could have life (1 Cor. 15:3).

The pain that is trying to be subsided through sex, drugs, money and alcohol will only make things worse. Dad's, I encourage you to speak to your children and your friends children. Ask them specific questions as to where they are at. And help them sift through some of the lyrics they are listening to. Challenge them on what they are listening to & most importantly, share with them how Christ died for our sins & will cure the disease in our hearts!

30 House Rules

2010-03-21T13:30:00.006+11:00

Hey Guys - Can I share with you 30 house rules I came across? They are gold!

1. Be at peace with each other (Mark 9:50)

2. Love one another (John 13:34)

3. Be joined ot one another (Romans 12:5)

4. Be devoted to one another (Romans 12:10)

5. Honour one another (Romans 12:10)

6. Rejoice with one another (Romans 12:15)

7. Weep with one another (Romans 12:15)

8. Live in harmony with one another (Romans 12:16)

9. Accept one another (Romans 15:7)

10. Counsel one another (Romans 15:14)

11. Greet one another (Romans 16:16)

12. Agree with each other (1 Corinthians 1:10)

13. Wait for one another ( 1 Corinthians 11:33)

14. Care for one another (1 Corinthians 12:25)

15. Serve one another (Galatians 5:13)

16. Carry one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2)

17. Be kind to one another (Ephesians 4:32)

18. Forgive one another (Ephesians 4:32)

19. Submit to one another (Ephesians 5:21)

20. Bear with one another (Colossians 3:13)

21. Teach and admonish each other (Colossians 3:16)

22. Encourage one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

23. Build up one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

24. Spur one another on (Hebrews 10:24)

25. Offer hsopitality ot one another (1 Peter 4:9)

26. Minister gifts to one another (1 Peter 4:10)

27. Be humble toward one another (1 Peter 5:5)

28. Confess your sins to one another (James 5:16)

29. Pray for one another (James 5:16)

30. Fellowship with one another (1 John 1:7)

Trust this serves you as you read over them. I am humbled and encouraged...

Mum's - Do What You Can

2010-03-09T04:35:00.004+11:00

Hey Guys - our experience has been that when you have little ones in the house, quite times, devotions, time to read God's Word can be quite minimal, especially for mum.

This can often bring discouragement and frustration. Yet how can we serve our wife in this?

Here is a great article, written to encourage mum's not to beat themselves up but 'doing what they can' when it comes to reading the word.

One mum says she has a bible in several rooms. Like in the baby's room, in the lounge room, in the kitchen. She finds that when she has just a minute, while the baby bottle heats up, she can read just a verse and think about that.

The important message is, you are not loved any less because you don't get to read God's Word. You are loved greatly & are fulfilling a wonderful role. Thank you!

Accountability

2010-03-08T20:45:00.009+11:00

When you think of accountability, what sort of thoughts race into your mind?

I think accountability is a good thing. It is something that I need in my life and it is something I want in my life. But sometimes as guys we fear accountability. Especially when we read something like this:

These guys meant business!

Early in the 18th century, Samuel Wesley (brother of John Wesley) formed a religious society with regular small-group meetings. Called "Band Societies," these single sex groups were designed to facilitate mutual accountability. All who wished to join were required to answer the following questions as evidence of justification and an accompanying desire to grow in God:

Have you peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ?

Do you desire to be told of your faults?

Do you desire that every one of us should tell you, from time to time, whatsoever is in his heart concerning you?

Consider! Do you desire that we should tell you whatsoever we think, whatsoever we fear, whatsoever we hear, concerning you?

Do you desire that, in doing this, we should come as close as possible, that we should cut to the quick, and search your heart to the bottom?

Is it your desire and design to be on this, and all other occasions, entirely open, so as to speak everything that is in your heart without exception, without disguise, and without reserve?

After joining, group members could be asked the preceding questions "as often as occasion offers," while the following questions were asked at every meeting:
What known sin have you committed since our last meeting?
What temptations have you met with?
How were you delivered?
What have you thought, said, or done, of which you doubt whether it be sin or not?

Now, I would have at one time dodged this sort of accountability, but for some reason I long for this kind of accountability. Why? Because I don't have anything to hide. You see, I hid many things from people I loved and it bound me up so badly. Then Jesus revealed to me that He died for my sins and would change me if I would put my trust in Him. You see, I need/want others looking and watching at how I am living my life. I know in my heart that I avoid accountability when I am doing something that I am ashamed of or in fear of being rebuked or found out for... Oh brothers - learn from my mistakes and make yourself accountable. Many of us are living like this man pictured below. And it ought not be!
Brothers I urge you, make yourself accountable. It will serve you as you seek to lead your wife and children.

Noah turns 8

2010-02-23T06:31:00.005+11:00

Happy Birthday Noah

Today my third child is 8! It's amazing how you relive the actual day they came into the world. We were living in the Blue Mountains of Australia. My wife and I went to have dinner after we dropped the older two off at a friends house. This was the first time my wife's mum was able to witness the birth. It was incredible & special.

Today, 8 years later, we are so grateful for this little guy. Full of energy, life & joy! He makes us laugh. He likes a good rumble. Most importantly, he is growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

We love you Lord, for this gift of Noah in our family!

Setting an Example

2010-02-21T10:00:00.006+11:00

As a father, I sometimes read instructions from God's Word and want to pass them on to my children. Much like Paul did with Timothy. Paul instructs Timothy - 'Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity' (1 Tim. 4:12).

My oldest is going to be 13 later this year & I want to be creative in helping him apply this passage to his life now & remind him of it until I'm taken to glory. No he's not going to be a pastor, that I know of, but I want to equip with him some wonderful Scriptures that he can be applying to his life now. I want to encourage him on how he can live in such a way as to be an example to others. However, I don't think it is just about instructing him but actually setting and example for him. This instruction from Paul to Timothy is a pretty big ask when you think about it. And yet, Paul is not asking Timothy to do something that he is not carrying out himself - aye?

In my great desire to serve my son & instruct him with what Scripture says, I think I need to begin to evaluate how am I going in my own life.

So - How am I setting an example to my wife and children in:

speech: What am I talking about? What is my tone? How's my vocabulary? Am I being vulgar & unhelpful? Is my speech full of grace & gratitude or complaining and negative?

life (conduct): Am I lazy? Am I disciplined in personal area's of study, health, finances, work? Is there evidence of righteous living?

love: Does my son see me loving my wife the way Christ loved the Church? Am I loving my son by talking about the difficult things - not just the easy things? Am I loving my Savior more & more each day? Am I sacrificially loving others.

faith: Am I modeling how to be a faithful husband and father to my family? Am I showing them how to be a faithful member to the body of Christ? Faith is not unbelief, but faithfulness & commitment.

purity: Am I being sexually pure? Am I bringing things into my home that are going to cause my kids to stumble or be unhelpful to my bride? More importantly to my Savior?

You know, there are area's that I am not doing so well in. Area's that I desire to repent of and change. And you know, having this little reflection brings me such hope. Why? Because my salvation is secure! Yea, God loves me just the same as He did yesterday. I can win no more of His favor by addressing these issues. I can however know He is gently changing me to be more like His Son! I am so grateful for His loving conviction. Oh what a Savior!

Hey dads, fathers, husbands, grandpas, uncles - men of God - let's set an example for our children!

A Prayer You Can Pray In The Midst Of Conflict...

2010-02-19T04:42:00.004+11:00

Have you ever considered what it means to obey Paul's command to, "rejoice in the Lord always: (Philippians 4:4)? Does it mean to rejoice even in the midst of conflict? You might be asking, "What on earth is there to rejoice about when you are involved in a dispute"? Well my friend, if we open our eyes and consider God's lavish goodness to us, here is the joyful kind of worship we could offer Him, even in the most horrendous types of conflict.

Oh Lord, you are so amazingly good to me! You sent your only Son to die for my sins, including those I have committed in this conflict. Because of Jesus I am forgiven, and my name is written in the Book of Life! You do not treat me as I deserve, but you are patient, kind, gentle, and forgiving with me. Please help me to do the same with others.

In your great mercy, you are also kind to my opponent. Although he has wronged me repeatedly, you hold out your forgiveness to him as you do for me. Even if he and I never reconcile in this life, which I still hope we will, you have already done the work for us to reconcile forever in heaven. This conflict is so insignificant compared to the wonderful hope we have in you!

This conflict is so small compared to the many other things you are
watching over at this moment, yet you still want to walk beside me as
I seek to resolve it. Why would you stoop down to pay such attention
to me? It is too wonderful for me to understand. You are extravagant in your gifts to me. You offer me the comfort of your Spirit,
the wisdom of your Word, and the support of your church. Forgive me
for neglecting these powerful treasures until now, and help me to use them to please and honor you.

I rejoice that these same resources are available to my opponent.
Please enable us to draw on them together so that we see our own sins,
remember the gospel, find common ground in the light of your truth, come to one mind with you and each other, and restore peace and unity between us.

Finally, Lord, I rejoice that this conflict has not happened by accident.
You are sovereign and you are good, so I know that you are working through this situation for your glory and my good. No matter what my opponent does, you are working to conform me to the likeness of your Son. Please help me to cooperate with you in every possible way and give you the glory for what you have done and are doing .

(The Peacemaker, pages 84-85)

Read & Study God's Word

2010-02-10T22:18:00.005+11:00

I was reading the intro to a book I recently bought. I found these provoking and stirring words: "Much of what we learned has come from studying the Bible - the Answer Book". What a wonderful, humble and transparent confession.

It got me thinking about how I am reading the Bible. Do I view it as a chore, or as a delight? Do I read because I have committed to it or am I studying it because it has Answers. Good questions to consider.

How about you? How are you going with reading your Bible?

If your not doing so well - today is a new day. Pick it up and be encouraged and refreshed. It is the Answer Book!

If you are new to Bible reading you may wonder, how much should I be reading? Well it doesn't really matter how long - just read... Though, I recently was challenged by a colleague at work. He was sharing that some of the leaders at his church challenged them to remember, when they wrote the date 2010 - to let that be a reminder to spend 20 minutes reading God's Word and 10 minutes praying. That's a helpful idea. But if you don't do 20 minutes that doesn't mean you are not acceptable. It's just a suggestion. So - pick up the Bible and learn about the greatest Answer to Life: J-E-S-U-S!

You know, its one of the disciplines I want my children to see my wife and I doing. Why? Because God's Word is full of wisdom. Mostly importantly, it tells us the Gospel of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

I challenge you - to read & study the Bible... You will learn so much about our wonderful Lord, as well as be guided as you seek to parent with an eternal perspective.

Assuming can get you into trouble!

2010-02-06T22:21:00.004+11:00

Have you ever learned about the danger of assuming? Fortunately, I learned an important lesson at a young age.

I remember as a young man, working in a Bible Book Store in Modesto, California. The owner of the Book Store was very professional and taught me heaps.

One of the most important things he taught me was the danger of assuming anything.

There was an order of books that I had marked at the wrong price. The previous lot of books were marked at a different price & I assumed that these books would be marked the same. I was wrong in assuming that.

I remember my boss came to me and asking me why I did what I did. I told him that "I assumed that these books would be the same price." He asked me if I new what assuming does. I said, "no, I don't." He informed me that, 'when I assume things it makes an "ass" out of "u" and "me".'

I have never forgotten that... It was a hard way to learn an important lesson & it has stuck with me.

I hope you are not assuming anything of your wife, children, or friends. Things like, assuming that they know you love them. You are glad that God has given them to you. I also trust that you are not assuming that your colleagues, relatives, neighbours or strangers know who Jesus is. They need to know & someone needs to tell them. Will it be you?

Don't do like I did and assume things...

Another Book For Your Library

2010-02-05T22:25:00.006+11:00

You gotta -- gotta -- gotta get yourself a copy of this book!

My son's have enjoyed it so much. Actually, I have enjoyed it as well. How to make paper airplanes, make a battery, learning the rules of chess & poker, learning how to build a catapult, learning the rules of grammar... the book is a must! It will serve you and your boys... Gets em off the Wii, off the computer, away from the TV & out doing stuff with their hands...

Dad's once you get it - go through it with your boys! I've been loven it & I want to do it more...

You can pick up a copy from any of the following places: just click here!

Danger Danger - gotta let your kids try this at home!

2010-02-03T03:34:00.005+11:00

Over protective parents can sometimes take the fun out of kids having a go at some "dangerous" activities. It ought not be!

I'm sure you don't want your boys growing up as wimps and we don't want our girls unaware of fun activities that create a bit of danger. They'll have fun - for sure!

There's a book you can purchase with some ideas of dangerous fun for kids. Just click on the highlighted area... but the pictures around, offer few examples of exciting, supervisable, & relatively risk free dangerous things we should let our children do... Have fun with it - I know I will!

No Hope...

2010-02-01T21:52:00.006+11:00

I sat with three young men on Friday. I asked each one of them to give me some goals that they would like to achieve this year. One goal in four areas of life. Financially, physically, spiritually & academically.

Out of the three guys - not one of them could offer a goal. So I began to feed them with some ideas on goals that they could attempt to achieve. Still, they refused to dream of what could be.

Where has the dream in young men to do something with their life gone?

I finished the day reflecting on these three boys. Each one healthy, each one capable, each one a man of the future, but with no hope.

Proverbs 13:12 reads: Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.

In the old testament a woman by the name of Rachel wanted to have babies but could not. She became jealous of her sister just as Jacob (her husband) was of his older brother. This jealousy made their hearts sick.

These young men can look at what others are doing & be jealous which makes their hearts very sick. And yet, they could aim for something & find fulfillment by achieving what God has enabled them to do.

Isaiah 40:31 reads: but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Those who hope in the Lord are described as, "trusting in or looking expectantly to." You see, I want nothing more than these young men to hope in the Lord. Not in money. Not in good grades. Not in physical abilities or musical abilities. There hope must be in the Lord! And when they are trusting in the Lord, He will renew (exchange) their weaknesses which will give way to God's strength.

The Hebrew word used in this passage for this verb is used of changes of clothes which can symbolize strength and beauty. Paul, an Apostle of Jesus Christ instructs us to clothe ourselves with Christ (Ephesians 4:24).

Well dads, there are alot of young men who need a male role model. They need to be encouraged to hope. How do you help a young man hope?

Here's four ways...

Holler praise

Offer to model obedience.

Patience will be required

Encourage often

Perhaps you can practice this with your own children, I know I need to.

You know - we can often be tempted to think we need to do more. But the Gospel is our HOPE... have a look at Romans 4:18-25 & rejoice in the finished work of the cross...

A great addition for your Library: Do Hard Things

2010-01-30T21:18:00.003+11:00

If you have kids that are between the ages of 8-10 you want to get this book and read it before they get to the next age bracket. That way you can prepare yourself for how to encourage your child, and put into practice 'Do(ing) Hard Things'.

If you have kids that are 10-12 you want to get a copy for yourself and a copy for them. Then you can work through the book together and encourage each other to put your mind to 'Do Hard Things'

If you have a child between the ages of 13 - 18 you want to buy yourself a copy, your wife a copy & your child a copy as well as all of their friends...

You can buy copies of the book by clicking on the title: DO HARD THINGS

I trust this resource will help you in your role of parenting with an eternal perspective...

2010 Begins...

2010-01-16T19:17:00.003+11:00

Hello - Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all! I trust you have had a wonderful season of celebration with family & friends! I trust you are ready to get cracken into 2010 with new vigor! I trust you have thought through some plans & purposes for the year. My mother always said, "if you aim for nothing - you hit nothing"! How true is that...

Well, even though my entries have been scarce thus far, it doesn't mean that I have given up on this blog. In fact I am trying to marinade in all that I am being taught, and considering what is appropriate to share and what not to share...

As I continue to work through this, let me share just a few random articles/entries I have been chewing over lately...

Haiti crisis : please read this article. Click 'Haiti crisis' to read the article.

Tattoos: a great entry by a mate of mine who has thought through reasons why others get tatted! Well written, comical & provoking. Click on 'Tattoos' to have a sticky beak.

Be back soon with more!

Following the "Godly Man's Picture" Series

2009-12-12T22:57:00.004+11:00

Over at the CBMW (The Council on Biblical Manhood & Womanhood) they are running a series on 'The Godly Man's Picture'. I have found this to be a really helpful read. (If you click on the title of the series you can read the post in full.)

Jeff Robinson has done a brilliant job helping us see that there is more to our role as men/husbands/fathers than to lead, protect & provide. He mentions that part of our role has to do with sanctification. And this is rarely mentioned when we are attempting to lead, protect & provide for our family.

In this article, Robinson is committed to reminding himself as well as others of the God given task we have been called to, in leading our homes & churches. But not only what we have been called to - but what we must be first. This list is challenging and yet exciting.

Let me share with you the six attributes that Robinson has borrowed from the Puritan Pastor, Watson and what he says a godly man is: (you can read the article to read the explanation of each attribute)

1) A man of knowledge.
2) A man moved by faith.
3) A man fired with love.
4) A man like God.
5) A man careful about the worship of God. (challenged afresh by this one)
6) A man who serves God, not men.

Lord may we experience YOUR grace as we attempt to apply these attributes to our lives & then in our leadership.

You gotta see this...

2009-12-12T04:31:00.004+11:00

When you find something that is awesome, don't you want to tell everyone about it? I do!

Look what I found: CLICK on VERSE CARD MAKER...

This is a wonderful way for us to serve our families and lead them in Scripture memory! A great initiative for 2010 - to have your family meditating on God's Word.

Men Loving Each Other? A Helpful Place To Start

2009-12-10T04:00:00.000+11:00

I'm learning that there are alot of guys out there who love Jesus and want to serve others. This is greatly encouraging and exciting, to say the least!

I have only read this blog a few times, but each time I do I find wonderful encouragement. Hope you will enjoy this article. It' is called Men Loving Each Other? A Helpful Place To Start. I think these three suggestions offered will serve all of us in our quest to provoke others to godliness.

It will definitely serve our sons when they see their daddy's putting this into practice.

OK - You GOTTA read this...

2009-12-07T15:48:00.006+11:00

Brothers - This article/post that I am recommending, really ministered to me today! It hit me right between the eyes! In fact it wounded me to the cross & I pray it will do the same for you.

This guy, Erik Raymond has been used by God to encourage me several times & today was one of those days that I wanted to be encouraged and boy did I get it.

Erik's Blog is called Irish Calvinist. Here is a picture from his blog that he says, sums him up: I reckon this is way cool!

Anyway, CLICK on the bold typing: to read this encouraging post about what true theology is... - IRISH CALVINIST

I trust you will be encouraged. If it does, encourage Erik with his ministry!

What's your perpective in times of trials?

2009-12-05T05:22:00.005+11:00

What kind of perspective do you keep when you are going through a trial? Ashamedly, my perspective can sometimes depend on how I am feeling. Am I tired, irritated, frustrated or lethargic.

So what is a trial? When I speak of a trial I am meaning: the act of trying, testing or putting to the proof. (a trial of one's faith). an attempt of effort to do something. a trying, distressing or annoying thing or person.

Trials are very testing, are they not? They can discourage us, frustrate us, tempt us to sin and for some become to much and we give up hope. If you are facing trials of many kinds can I remind you of what James 1:2-4 says? "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

Listen to this insightful reflections from Milton Vincent on Perspective in Trials:

"More than anything else could ever do, the gospel

enables me to embrace my tribulations and thereby

position myself to gain full benefit from them. For the

gospel is the one great permanent circumstance in

which I live and move; and every hardship in my life

is allowed by God only because it serves His gospel

purposes in me.When I view my circumstances in this

light, I realize that the gospel is not just in piece of

good news that fits into my life somewhere among all

the bad . I realize that the gospel makes

genuinely good news out of every other aspect of my

life, including my severest trials. The good news

about my trials is that God is forcing them to bow to

His gospel purposes and do good unto me by

improving my character and making me more

conformed to the image of Christ.

Preaching the gospel to myself each day provides a

lens through which I can view my trials in this way and

see the true cause for intelligent rejoicing that exists in

them. I can then embrace them as friends and allow

them to do God's good work in me."

This is of great encouragement to me & helps me remember that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purposes. I trust it will serve and encourage you in your current trial or future trial...

Is God glorious in our eyes?

2009-12-03T22:30:00.005+11:00

Psalms 24:8 says, 'Who is the King of glory? The LORD, strong and mighty, the LORD, mighty in battle!'

Is the Lord seen as glorious in your eyes?

If not, may I persuade you to consider what the Lord has done on our behalf?

Jesus, upon Calvary defeated and conquered every enemy, breaking every weapon of the enemy into pieces by His finished work of complete obedience. Not only that but He triumphantly rose from the dead and ascended. CH Spurgeon comments that, "when this happened He completely overturned the hopes of hell leading captivity captive, making a show of our enemies openly, triumphing over them by His cross." How mighty & glorious is our Lord!

You know, every arrow of guilt that Satan might have shot at us is broken, because who can charge us? Our Lord is mighty!

What victories has grace won in our evil hearts? Can you rejoice when Jesus' work in your life has subdued your will, and sin is dethroned? What a mighty Lord!

Brothers, the name of Jesus is great beyond compare! For we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us. Through Him, we shall cast down the powers of darkness which are in the world. Spurgeon writes that "by our faith, and zeal, and holiness; we shall win sinners to Jesus, we shall overturn false systems, we shall convert nations, for God is with us, and none shall stand before us." Praise HIS HOLY NAME!

What a Mighty LORD!!! He is GLORIOUS!!!

'Obedience Borne of Romance'

2009-12-02T22:40:00.004+11:00

I have often heard the question, "How do I love God with all my heart, soul and mind?" If you are interested in an answer: I want you to do me a favor. Read the following:

"To love God with all my heart, soul, mind and

strength is the greatest commandment in the Law.

If I could simply fulfill this one commandment, I

would gladly fulfill all others as a natural matter

of course.

So how can I come to love God with all of my

being ? The Bible teaches that genuine love in my

heart for God is generated by an awareness of His love

for me, and nowhere is the love of God more clearly

revealed than in the gospel. Therefore, preaching the

gospel to myself is a great way to keep God's amazing

love before my eyes, so that I might experience its

power to produce in me a passionate love for Him in

return . Romanced by His love in this way , my

increasingly smitten heart will burn to do His will and

will feast itself on doing so."

I reckon that is a helpful response! Thank you Milton Vincent.

Encouraging Our Children WHEN They Attempt To Share Their Faith

2009-11-26T21:58:00.013+11:00

I came home from work the other day and my son filled me in on his day. He said, "Dad, I need to talk to you about something that happened today when we were out." My first thought was, uh-oh, he's got a sex question. "No worries son" I replied, and promised we would catch up before bed.

I went to see my wife and she filled me in on her day and then gave me a heads up about what Caleb was going to be speaking to me about. To my great delight it was not about sex, but it was about how to share the gospel with other kids more effectively.

My son shared with me how he met a boy, who was a couple years younger than him, who asked him if he believed in God. My son quickly confirmed his belief in God and then asked the boy if he believed in God. The other boy readily confessed that he did not believe in God and did not believe that Jesus was God's Son.

As I was drawing my son out he said to me, "dad, if only I could have remembered the verses you taught me about sharing my faith. I just couldn't remember anything", he said disappointingly.

It was then, that I was able to care for my son and remind my son that it is the Holy Spirit that draws all men to Himself. I was also able to encourage him that it is important to memorise God's Word so that we can share them with others. Yet, I wanted to caution him about his disappointment.

You see, some of that disappointment is good and right. I think it served him to sit with it and be discontented with his effort. My prayer is that God will use this to stir my son into becoming a better evangelist.

However, I thought it appropriate to share with my son that his dad has struggled and fumbled when sharing his faith too. You see, I myself have felt as though my tongue has been tied, or my words were incoherent, but I attempted to give an account for the hope that lies within me. So I encouraged my boy that God uses our words even though we don't think He could, because we shared so poorly. And sometimes when we feel disappointed, this disappointment makes us feel as though, because we can't articulate our thoughts properly, we shouldn't, so we stop.

This can only be a ploy from the evil one. I encouraged my son that we must work hard (together) and practice sharing our faith, and practice giving an account for the HOPE that lies within us!

Not sure if you have thought about equipping your 12 or 10 year old children how to share their faith... but if not - please do!

Another Gift Idea

2009-11-25T22:46:00.006+11:00

Hey - here's another fantastic book that you can purchase for yourself or for a friend. The book is called, 'War of Words' Getting To The Heart Of Your Communication Struggles. The book has been written by Paul David Tripp and you can purchase a copy by clicking on the title of the book.

If you are unsure about the book's content, have a read of these questions at the end of chapter 1. I trust it whets your appetite!

1. Does your talk with others lead to biblical problem solving?

2. Does your talk have a "stand together" or a "me against him/her/them" posture?

3. Do your words encourage others to be open and honest about their thoughts and feelings?

4. Are you approachable and teachable or defensive and self-protective when talking with others?

5. Is your communication healthy in the principal relationships in your life?

* parent - child

* husband - wife

* extended family

* sibling relationships

* employer - employee

* friend - friend

* body of Christ

* neighbor - neighbor

6. Does your talk encourage faith and personal spiritual growth in those around you?

7. Do you talk with others to develop relationships with them, or do you only talk to solve problems during times of trouble?

8. Do you speak humble and honest words of confession when you sin and words of sincere forgiveness when others sin against you?

9. Do your words reflect a willingness to serve others or a demand that they serve you?

10. As you face the struggles of talk, do you do so with a recognition of the gospel - God's forgiveness, his enabling grace, and the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit?

As you can see, some powerful questions and if you want to have a look at Galatians 5:22-23 (click on it) and evaluate yourself, it may serve you well. This will be something I go through with my wife and kids. I am sure it will serve us well!

A CD You Gotta Buy!

2009-11-24T21:06:00.007+11:00

Hey, if you are looking for a present to buy someone that will encourage them in their everyday walk with the Lord, could I recommend this:
If you click here: Sons & Daughters - you will be able to purchase this albulm for $12.00 US + a bit of postage. The Aus dollar is very good against the 'Green Back'! Good time to shop like this...

There is a song on this albulm called: God Delights in You! WOW - written by Eric Grover and composed by George Romanacce. It is a wonderful song with a great melody but what's great are the lyrics. I have been hitting repeat, repeat, repeat!

Let me share the words with you:

Calling every daughter
Calling every son
All who've been adopted
Through a sacrafice of love
There's no need for you to fear
Your debts have been cleared

Calling all the downcast
Who feel like they're alone
Anyone who's longing
For a family of their own
God's prepared a place for you
He's calling you to

CHORUS:
Come and sing, come and dance
The Father's singing over you
Come rejoice and be glad
For God delights in you, in you
Calling all who've wandered
Gone off on their own
Anyone who wonders
If they're welcome back at home
The God of grace makes all things new
He's calling you to

BRIDGE
You choose us to be the objects of your love
In spite of what we have done
You gave your beloved Son to die for us
To make us daugters and sons

c. 2009 Sovereign Grace Worship (ASCAP)

Boy these words humble me! I am grateful for some blokes who worked to serve their brothers and sisters in Christ, all over the world, to reflect on the God of Grace who makes all things new & calls us to come and sing and come and dance...

Got 5 or 10 Minutes? Read this about NOT going to Church...

2009-11-23T18:20:00.005+11:00

Have you observed or heard how not being apart of a church is an acceptable idea these days? The 'Jesus & Me' idea has been adopted instead of the 'Jesus & We' instruction. Are you with me? Perhaps you yourself are beginning to entertain this ideology? Could you read this article?

A man that I greatly respect and have alot of time for, is a guy by the name of Jeff Purswell. He is a Dean of the Pastor's College and a pastor at Covenant Life in Gaithersburg Maryland.

He has written a humbling and exciting article entitled, 'Don't Go to Church?'. If you click on the title of this article you will be able to read the article for yourself. I trust you will, it oughta take you about 5-10 minutes!

Friend, I trust this encourages you and challenges you to pray for family & friends who are disillusioned, discouraged, disgruntled or who find no time for the Church. If you yourself find yourself in one of the categories mentioned above, please speak to a trusted Christian friend or a pastor. If you don't know of one, please leave a message & I will seek to serve you any way I can!

What's an Eternal Perspective? Part 2

2009-11-20T22:26:00.010+11:00

Glad you came back to check about getting a vision for your family! It's a way we as father's can serve our family! So, before we can put a vision in place perhaps it may serve us to quickly consider what is eternal:

Eternity is a mystery that is very profound. This topic can really do your head in. Especially if you read some of the great minds who attempt to dumb it down for us. And there are many and varied views about this topic, but in any case, because we find it difficult to understand, we shouldn't just put it in the 'too hard basket'. I think we ought to wrestle with this idea because frankly, whether we like it or not, eternity is real!

How do I know this? Well because I believe what the Bible says. The Bible makes several references to heaven, judgement, eternal life (Jn. 3:16). The Bible also talks about being absent from the body and being present with the Lord. In fact, when Jesus left the earth He said, "I am going to prepare a place for you... that where I am there you may be also..." (Jn. 14). This confirms that something happens after we die. What happens? Well according to the Bible it's either heaven or hell.

Don't know where you are at, but for me, it helps me to live with eternity in mind. And yet, this also begs the question, how do we do this?

As a father I am learning more and more. I am responsible to equip my wife and children with the truth. If I don't do this, then I am not loving them or caring for them. Even if I don't understand the topic or the consequences, I don't think this releases me from my responsibility. I need not abdicate my role as a husband and father, however I need to be diligent and intentional about equipping my wife and children with truth. Now here's the catch: I need and want to serve my family with Biblical truth not worldly wisdom. There is a difference. And I think that right there is how you put into place a vision that has an eternal perspective for your family.

Let me offer you where I would start - I would start with the "GOOD NEWS" = the GOSPEL! Can I offer you this warning? Never grow comfortable or familiar with this story, but rehearse its' mysteries and truths daily! It's a temptation I face and you may too, so I offer this warning! But in saying that, if you do this, you will find it will help you put into place a vision for your family that seeks to glorify God and will, in turn, bless your wife and kids socks off!

I think it would be appropriate for me to remind myself of this amazing Good NEWS!!! Jesus (what a Savior) is born of a virgin, living a perfect/sinless life. Healing and delivering many people, as well as teaching thousands the ways of God. He is later falsely accused, lied about, misrepresented and yet never sinning or retaliating (staggering to consider), is nailed to a cross and dies on our behalf. Then 3 days later He raises from the dead, conquering death! Praise His Holy Name! After He rose from the dead, He then reveals himself to approximately 500 witnesses and ascends to heaven many days later, and took His rightful place at the right hand of the Father, interceding for us! Wow & Hallelujah!

Brothers, putting a vision together for your family will look different than mine because my wife and children will be different than yours. Your wife's temptations and weaknesses will be different as will your children's. But here's where the hard work is required. You must listen and observe your wife and children... and after you have done that for a few weeks, and spent some time praying and asking God for wisdom, then I reckon you will have come up with a wonderful vision for your family that will glorify the God who gave you life, a wife & those kids...

May you plan & parent with an eternal perspective, for the glory of our Great GOD & King!

What's an Eternal Perspective? Part 1

2009-11-20T21:54:00.005+11:00

Hey Guys -

Do you know what an eternal perspective is?

When I speak of an eternal perspective, I am speaking of a vision or view that goes way beyond this life time.

Eternal means: "without beginning or end; lasting forever; always existing; enduring; immutable; perpetual; ceaseless; endless."

Whereas perspective means: "a view or vista; a mental view or outlook; a point of view" (definitions courtesy of dictionary.com).

So guys - whats your vision for your family? To be rich, healthy, smart, popular, athletic, chic magnet, ladies man, "nice guy", a beauty, school captain? What is the vision you have for your family?

What? You don't have a vision?

Ahhhh - join the crowd! Many don't! In fact, I didn't either. I was just letting life pass me by. Unaware of who was influencing my children and telling them what they should become. TV adds, magazines, teachers, peers, sports stars, movie stars, radio commentators, adds at the shops! You know what I'm talken about - aye? Our kids are getting it every which way they go.

SO here we must first of all get a vision for our family. OK -now how do I do that you ask?

Glad you asked - cause I want to share with you how to get an vision that has an eternal perspective -

so come back soon and let's look at what is eternal!

Preparing for your daughters to Marry...

2009-11-15T23:39:00.003+11:00

Hey Dads...

Do you remember when you saw your wife walking down the isle? I do, almost like it was yesterday. My bride to be took my breath away... I must find a picture to show you all how stunning she looked - One day, I will do that!

Anyway - my wife has been culling and attempting to down-size some of the things we have. So it's a perfect time for us to be going through boxes and trying to rid ourselves of more "stuff" and in the process many memories and things have been found, one being her wedding veil. So my wife sent out Keziah in her wedding veil and I was dumb founded!

She (Keziah) said, "daddy, I'm getting married!"

Of course then she asks if "I think she looks pretty?" I readily affirm her beauty as I am still trying to get over the shock of seeing my little girl in her mummy's wedding veil.

What a special thing when you consider your daughter one day marrying a godly guy who will lead her and spend his life with her... I hope he will do a better job that I have done with my bride - but that's another story...

All I know is... I need to go and pray - because I have five daughters and that means I will have 5 son in laws, poor dudes! LOL

I must say - what a responsibility parenting 5 daughters with an eternal perspective... Grace - we need Grace!!!

Preaching vs. Worship?

2009-11-09T09:53:00.000+11:00

WOW - have you ever read something that you really agree with, and yet there is this tinge of barb that comes with it? That 'barb' actually stings as you read it. You want to argue it - you want to excuse it & yet you know that what you are reading is right, however it requires adjusting your thinking and also perhaps your practises. In fact as you ponder the truth a bit longer you realise that it is going to cost? Cost? Yea, cost when some of your closest and dearest won't agree with your conviction.

This is what I experienced when I read Jeff Purswells article: 'Preaching vs. Worship? '

I trust this article challenges you and serves you too...

Church Planting

2009-11-08T09:41:00.003+11:00

Here is a really helpful article by Dave Harvey - who explains why Sovereign Grace seek to plant churches...

I hope this serves you and encourages you...

Here is the article 'Why Plant Churches?' by: Dave Harvey

Have you ever had someone speak so rudely to you?

2009-11-06T21:04:00.007+11:00

Have you ever had someone speak to you so rudely you wanted to clock them? Well if so, read on!

This week was really difficult for me. Why? Because I have never been spoken to so disrespectfully! This week I was assisting some senior high kids with their end of year assessments. It was like extracting teeth or something. I was totally unprepared for what I was thrown into, however, God in His kindness revealed so much to me.

Here's what I learned in a big nut-shell: When I was spoken rudely too by these young kids - I totally got angry! I wanted to yell and swear back at them. Why? because I don't deserve to be spoken to like that! Yet when I was driving home from work, that night, I thought about my Savior walking down the Via Dolarosa... It was a long walk ! - He has just been beaten bloody. And yet He walked this long path to Golgotha, and on the way, insults were hurled at Him. He was spat upon, His hair pulled, His beard yanked, & face slapped - and HE
N-E-V-E-R - retaliated!!! - WHY NOT???? He had every right!!!

You know as I sat in the car and thought, I was so humbled! These kids have no idea who the Savior of the world is. They have no idea the cost that has been paid for them - or they don't understand. They don't understand why Jesus Christ died for us and yet I was there once. Not caring and blinded by my own pride, selfishness and anger.

Then this morning, I read Ephesians chapter 2 and it was verses 4&5 that caught my attention: "But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ - by grace you have been saved -"

Brothers, God is so amazingly rich in mercy it truly is indescribable. That's why Jesus never retaliated! Because being God, He is rich in mercy and He knew we were dead in our trespasses and He was about His Father's business!

As I reflected on this I thought about my lack of mercy to others when they speak in a way that is harsh, rude or degrading. You see, here's the thing, I don't deserve the grace I have been given and when I go down that track of thinking about what I deserve - that's asking for trouble, because what I deserve is, hell! Yet God in His great love, loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses... For it is truly by grace that I have been saved...

Once we truly understand this & continue to preach the truth to ourselves instead of buying into worldly thinking, we will be able to be about our Father's business praying for those we work with to have an encounter with our mighty Savior, Jesus Christ.

Brothers, if you have a boss or colleague that is rude, demanding, unkind, hurtful or sarcastic: let me encourage you to shower them with grace - the same grace that God extended to you when you were once in darkness, because perhaps they are in darkness and don't know what the Savior has done for them!

Visiting our new Church Family

2009-11-05T10:00:00.000+11:00

Some of you may know that I am part of a team of people who are planting a church called Sovereign Grace Ministries Australia. Well this past week we were in Sydney with folk who are going to be apart of this process.

It was truly humbling and amazing. In fact we are so excited about this, though it has been a tough process, and yet, as one friend put it, "First and foremost just give God some serious praise for the way He has provided for me and blessed my socks off throughout my time here", and that is something my family and I have experienced over the past 11 months of being where we are.

You know, we are so grateful to God for His kindness and goodness to us - especially in sending this dear couple to us from Wales!

Dave & Emma Taylor... We thank God for you!

We are excited about what lies ahead! But also about doing life with this fine group of men and women! YEEOW!!!

Prayer

2009-11-04T19:58:00.002+11:00

Today I want to share some thoughts with you from my hero: CH Spurgeon.

He writes, "Prayer is instantly noticed in heaven." How incredible to consider that. Think with me for a moment, how many times do our childen come to us and call our name, but we are doing something different and we don't quite give the child our full attention? And yet, when we pray there is an instant notice from God to us, His children!

Spurgeon goes on to state that, "Our God not only hears our prayers but also loves to hear it." Doesn't that just make you want to pray now? God not only hears our prayers but He loves to hear our prayers! That is so amazing...

As I have thought about this today, and today has been challenging for me, I think of how often I don't pray but just think about things instead of talking to God and asking for wisdom, or love or insight...

I am reminded today :

"Faith asks no signal from skies,

To show that prayers accepted rise,

Our Priest is in His holy place,

And answers from the throne of grace."

Jesus says, "I Am the True Vine"

2009-10-15T23:16:00.004+11:00

In the Bible, there are many books with many great and amazing truths. Lately I have been reviewing and studying and meditating on John 15:1-11.

Jesus says that we are to "abide" in Him and He in us (vs. 4).

What does abiding look like? Well... here's what I am discovering:

Abide means to: remain; continue; stay. It can mean to dwell or reside with, to continue with, to put up with, to tolerate, to stand with, to endure, sustain, to wait for, to accept without opposition or question, to remain steadfast or faithful to.

Let me tell you, abiding is not easy. Oh, I want to abide with Him and I sure want Him to abide in me...

Abide my brother... Abide in Him because as verse 5 promises, "whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is who bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing."

May we see fruit in our wife & children as we abide in HIM...

Fathers & Sons, Stand Fast

2009-09-19T21:09:00.005+10:00

I am reading another great book. It's called, 'Fathers & Sons, Stand Fast'. It is written by Douglas Bond (you can pick up a copy of it, by clicking on the title).

In reading this book, I have been refreshed, challenged, encouraged & rebuked. And I must add, I am so grateful for a read like this. As a father, I want to glean as much as I can, from those who have been where I am going. We have so much to learn from others, who have gone before us.

Mr Bond, in his book, has served us fathers well! He has selected relevant & key issues to address with our sons. And yet while raising these issues, he uses lots of biblical truths, stories, examples and experiences and explains them thoroughly and clearly. One of my favorite bits of his book is at the conclusion of each chapter, because he offers some 'Resolves', a scripture memory verse, some questions for discussion, a hymn & some further study options.

I have worked through a few of the chapters with my son & have walked away refreshed and excited. I must confess that it is quite humbling as a father, when you are able to discuss and learn from God's Word with your son. While discussing a few of the chapters, my son and I have been freshly reminded by the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, to save sinners like us, as well has having some transparent and honest conversations about the issues in the book that have been raised.

One topic, which I want to blog about later, is respect for women, girls, & our elders...

Anyway - get a copy! It's a great $22.95 investment...

Memorizing Scripture

2009-09-16T21:02:00.004+10:00

I want to keep this brief ...

Dad's, teach your kids to memorize scripture!

Here are a few ideas: Commit to doing a verse a week or a month. You pick the verse and then discuss it with your children. Have an incentive to memorize it. I did, and it worked a treat!

Here's some verse ideas to start with:

Proverbs 16:24 - "Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones."
Psalms 119:9 - "How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word."
Isaiah 6:3 - "And they were calling to one another: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.""

Now these verses can work for your family for either three weeks or three months, depending on what will serve your family best!

Where do you go after that? Well that's really up to you, but here is a suggestion. Psalms 119:11 says, "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you." - If your family are struggling in an area of sin or are unfamiliar with an area of doctrine, perhaps you could pick a verse that might serve them to grow in that area (?)...

What ever you do, teach your children to memorize scripture.

It's another way we can, 'parent with an eternal perspective...'

Don't Be Ordinary - by John Younts

2009-09-07T20:18:00.003+10:00

Parenting is a big job, especially as they get older. I am discovering that it becomes a little more serious to address issues of the heart.

Younts, in his book 'everyday talk' challenges parent's to consider how we will talk to our children when they disobey our directions. Great challenge, Mr Younts!

So when I did a hurried evaluation, I recognized a need for grace in the way I respond to my children when they disobey. Younts is right when he writes, "they ([y]our children) will be stubborn, deceitful, manipulative and rebellious. They will complain, whine and grumble. Your job (as parent's)is to recognize their sin for what it is and teach them how to deal with it God's way."

Wow - what a powerful and grace motivated truth. We do have an amazing job that God has called us to. But more than calling us to this task, He has provided us with loving instructions in His Word on how to be the parent He wants us to be. Younts encourages parent's by calling us to "remember, Christ loved you when you were unlovely." Oh how true that is. When I read this I laughed, because I am so aware of the deficiencies I carry as a husband and father. I am often amazed that God would have me on His team. When I remember this, I am reminded that if He can be that patient with me, then He can equip me to be patient with my wife and children, just as He has ALWAYS been with me.

I trust you will not quit or give up in your calling of parenting with an eternal perspective...

Wait on the Lord - Psalms 27:14

2009-08-31T10:53:00.003+10:00

"Wait for the Lord;
be strong and take heart
and wait for the Lord."

Do you find it easy to wait?

Not long ago I posted about, 'waiting on the Lord'. Brothers the lesson was once again put to the test.

Spurgeon says that waiting is "one of the postures a Christian soldier learns not without years of teaching".

If you think about it, that is so true. Doing something, even if it is not going to produce anything, helps us feel better. It's hard not to think like this when you hear the likes of Oprah Winfrey explaining that 'God helps those who help themselves'. This is so untrue!

The thing that we need to do is W-A-I-T. How can we wait?

Three suggestions: 1) Wait in prayer! 2) Wait in faith! 3) Wait in quiet patience!

What does that look like? My hero, Spurgeon explains it like this:

1) Wait in prayer - "Call upon God, and spread the case before Him; tell Him your difficulty, and plead His promise of aid."

2) Wait in faith - "Express your unstaggering confidence in Him; for unfaithful, untrusting waiting, is but an insult to the Lord. Believe that if He keep you tarrying even till midnight, yet He will come at the right time; the vision shall come and shall not tarry."

3) Wait in quite Patience - "not rebelling because you are under the affliction, but blessing your God for it." Spurgeon goes on to instruct us not to "murmur against the second cause, as the children of Israel did against Moses; never wish(ing) you could go back to the world (Egypt) again, but accept the case as it is and put it as it stands, simply and with your whole heart, without any self will, into the hand of your covenant God, saying, 'Now, Lord, not my will, but Thine be done'. I know not what to do; I am brought to extremities, but I will wait until Thou will do."

I am in no way advocating we aren't to "do" anything - I am saying that it can be hard to wait on the Lord & when we are required to wait on the Lord - I wanted to suggest these three ideas that Spurgeon so wisely offers. I found them helpful and I trust you will too!

ManUp

2009-08-21T20:24:00.003+10:00

Thought of a way to describe what a man, who Man'sUp, would look like. I'm thinking that a ManUp man would be the following:

1) Man of God

2) Accountable

3) Nuts about his families - Church family and biological family

4) Ultimate servant

5) Purposefully planning

Would you think this is a good summary?

What would you say?

2009-08-20T21:04:00.006+10:00

What would you say to 75 young men, in 45 minutes, about 'growing into fatherhood'?

I'm thinking of encouraging them that it is good for single men to aspire to marriage and fatherhood - and if they are not aspiring to this - I want to ask them, "why not"? This should grab their attention! Not so sure they would have been challenged like this, especially at this age. I think they are thinking about how to satisfy the desires of their flesh and living in the moment instead of guarding their hearts and seizing the opportunities that lie ahead to assist them in preparing themselves for a wife and children.

Oh, I can hear the arguments - shouldn't you be talking to them about college & careers and sports and setting themselves up before you begin talking to them about becoming a father?

Actually, I think this is perfect to talk to them about marriage and fatherhood, because I am trusting that this will help them focus on manning up and becoming a man who follows God instead of following their fleshly desires.

Mark Driscoll correctly, I think, asks, "Is it not right that men aspiring to be fathers should, AFTER cultivating their own souls and being lovers of God, be instructed by the older men in their church to pursue a godly woman as a wife and mother?" He then concedes that, he knows "this is totally different than a good time, girlfriend, or date: however, wise young men will pursue a woman they can both love as a wife and see as the mother of their children."

I remember, as a young man in my own pursuit of marriage, I totally thought about my potential wife as a lover, friend, wife & then mother to our children. Even at 16! When I was courageous enough to pursue Meg, I asked her many questions about her ideas of family and the way she felt about ministry and God and the church. Thankfully, her answers confirmed that she was someone I wanted to be my wife. And by God's AMAZING GRACE - this remarkable & beautiful woman - that I truly do NOT deserve said, "yes" to me!

I think it will serve these young men to add a bit of history about the decline of male leadership. According to Carolyn Gragilia, author of Domestic Tranquility, she writes that in the 1950's, men were not doing a good job of leading and loving their families, but that the wives did not have the power and authority to overthrow their husbands and rule the families as they desired. So the wives simply recruited their children as allies against their husbands. If they could undermine the father's authority and respect in the home, then the wife and children could control and manipulate and drive out the husbands and rule over the family. Amazingly, in Proverbs 19:13 we discover how we got from the 1950's to the anarchy of the 1960's - namely, foolish men married godless woman who recruited their own children to overthrow their fathers and usher in anarchy.

If you doubt this statement or question this idea - simply watch one of the countless sitcoms on T.V. where the husband is portrayed as an inconvenience, an idiot, the butt end of the joke and the wife trash-talks him in front of the kids. This humor is viewed by millions and leaves impressions on countless young ladies and young boys.

Let me ask you - how is this funny?

Yet - whose fault is it? I can't help but think that it's men's fault. Why? Because men have not manned up and loved God first.

What are your thoughts?

Sovereign Grace, Australia!!!

2009-08-19T10:10:00.006+10:00

After years of praying, we are so excited to see a Sovereign Grace Church ready to come to Sydney, Australia in 2010. Check out the website here, or join the Facebook group to keep up to date on the latest developments & news. Please join us in praying for this church plant & the further spread of the Gospel throughout Sydney & Australia.

Mercy

2009-08-17T20:09:00.005+10:00

The Mercy of God!

What is the mercy of God? In Psalms 52:8 mercy is described as, "God's unfailing love"!

I reckon that if we dared to meditate on the mercy of God we would recall the tenderness of His mercies. We would recall that it is with a gentle, loving touch that He heals the broken hearted, and binds up their wounds. It truly is a great mercy, for as Spurgeon reminds us, "There is nothing little in God; His mercy is like Himself - it is infinite." That means that God's mercy is unable to be measured.

Consider with me how great this mercy is:

His mercy forgives great sins and great sinners, and I am one of them. Amazingly, even after great lengths of time, He then gives great favors and great privileges. For example, - allowing us access to the Father, eternity with Him; feasting at the royal banquet, to be called, 'sons of God'!

Truly His mercy is undeserved mercy.

I dare you to meditate on His mercies - for they are new every morning...

Children Learning About Biblical Manhood and Womanhood

2009-08-13T21:15:00.008+10:00

Courtney Reissig has written a very thoughtful article on Children's Ministry. 'The Training Ground for Biblical Manhood and Womanhood'! You can read the article in its entirety by clicking on the title.

As I read this article and continue to reflect on it, I must confess I wonder how committed we really are to living out Biblical Manhood and Womanhood as well as instructing our children about Biblical Manhood and Womanhood.

So let me ask you: How do you view this topic? Archaic, relevant, something to be applied or debated and studied - what are your thoughts?

I truly believe that our sons and daughters need to know that God made man and woman equal in value but different in their roles. This is not something to be ashamed of, but celebrated. It is not to be seen that men are superior and women are inferior: however, I think that a correct teaching of Biblical Manhood and Womanhood ought to begin at an early age...

Have a read of the article and let me know your thoughts...

Comedy in Devotions

2009-08-11T21:29:00.006+10:00

Today in our family devotions I spent some time with the younger 5 equipping them with how to answer a friend who may ask them, how they can know and follow God.

I borrowed three simple ideas, and was attempting to train Noah, Beth & Belle, in particular, to learn them.

So I shared that they may want to tell their friend, that in order for them to know and follow God they can pray and 1) thank God for His Son Jesus. 2) seek forgiveness from God for the sins they have committed. 3) ask God to live in their hearts.

Fairly basic and simple, I thought! So we reviewed and reviewed and then thought we could do a role play.

So Caleb, Abigail & Noah were reporters following the famous Chavez twins who were out shopping. News had hit the press that the Chavez twins were now followers of God and the reporters wanted to know how they could know and follow God as well.

As Caleb, Abigail & Noah are spitting out their introduction and finally ask the question of the twins, out shopping, how they could know and follow God, Bella answers:

She says: "You have to die and go to heaven"

We erupted in laughs and poor Bella cried... but then after a few cuddles - was all smiles again & wanted to see the pictures...

Welcome Tabitha Grace Chavez

2009-08-06T17:06:00.003+10:00

WELCOME

- Tabitha Grace Chavez...

I am so thrilled to raise another young lady - for the Lord!

She weighed 7.8 pounds

Her Length was 21 inches or 51 cm

Tabitha and Mother are doing so well!

And so are the grandparents...

To this and for this - we thank our Heavenly Father - who is the best Father of all!

Training Your Son...

2009-08-03T20:14:00.005+10:00

I share this with you because - it is real!

Lately I have been struggling with how to train my son. Do you know what I am talking about? You know, when you think you are being clear about something - but then your son does not seem to be "getting" it - even though he nods in agreement - that he understands what you are asking of him or telling him - but the actions are not following?

Yesterday I was really shocked by something that happened. And to be honest, I had been overlooking other offences and when this happened, I unleashed my fury which was ashamedly quite ungodly! Have you had one of those moments?

As I was "training" (ie lecturing) my son, I could hear accusation after accusation escape from my lips: "how can you be so irresponsible"? "don't you think before you do"? "are you kidding me - have you ever seen your mum or I do anything so stupid"? - That right there is a stupid question in and of itself! Of course he has not seen us do anything so stupid - because he was not around when we were 11 years old!

Finally it hit me - square between the eyes - Patrick, STOP! Stop with the accusations and let's recall all your failures and inconsistencies for a moment. And by the way - who has trained your son in this area? Have you ever told him not to do what you are "lecturing" him about?

There was this horrible sinking feeling! YOU, Patrick are condemning your son instead of showing grace. The grace that you want to be shown - you are not showing!

Oh brothers - the reality of that moment was priceless.

You see - I can expect my son to know what to do - but why should I expect that of him if I have not trained him in it?

For quite some time now, I have sensed the leading of the Holy Spirit to be going through Proverbs with my son. Together! Not just sending him to read Proverbs and hoping he gets it. But together!

I already know that I am going to have to fight and protect this time, but I believe it is going to serve him and myself to be reading through this wonderful book together!

You see Proverbs 1:7 says: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction".

My son does not want to be a fool, and I don't want him to be one either, however I need to train him with what God's Word says. And by doing this - do you know what I find? When you "TRAIN" your children with the Gospel - you can't help but remember what a sinner you yourself are - but also the hope of God's correction. God is faithful to discipline those whom He loves. And His discipline is for our good - not for our harm! And most importantly - God's forgiveness to us when we confess our sins! How can we not be amazed and rejoice? Discipline then becomes some wierd and joyous occassion!

Us men need this sort of correction and care from our Heavenly Father! We then in turn, need to model this sort of forgiveness and care to our families - so they get a true representation of their Heavenly Father!

I wanted to keep this post brief - but I want to let you dads know - that training our children is such a great investment! It is hard work - but what a joy to train our children in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

I just love parenting with an eternal perspective! What about you?

Baby 7

2009-07-25T07:59:00.002+10:00

JULY 31st is fastly approaching! In fact it is in just a few more sleeps and that is when our 7th baby is due!

We value your prayers...

"Blessed is the man who's quiver is full"!

We are so looking forward to this baby coming & I need to be extra vigilant in leading my wife and children because we can get stuck on a date and forget that this baby's days are numbered and have been ordered by the Lord.

It's not our timing - but His!

We wait on you Lord...

Poorly Dressed Beggar...

2009-07-15T08:59:00.003+10:00

Check out this site: Of First Importance - living each day in the good of the gospel...

Imagine that your prayer is a poorly dressed beggar!

"Imagine that your prayer is a poorly dressed beggar reeking of alcohol and body odor, stumbling toward the palace of the great king. You have become your prayer. As you shuffle toward the barred gate, the guards stiffen. Your smell has preceded you. You stammer out a message for the great king: " I want to see the king".

Your words are barely intelligible, but you whisper one final word , 'Jesus , I come in the name of Jesus.' At the name of Jesus, as if by magic, the palace comes alive. The guards snap to attention, bowing low in front of you. Lights come on, and the door flies open. You are ushered into the palace and down a long hallway into the throne room of the great king, who comes running to you and wraps you in his arms.

The name of Jesus gives my prayers royal access. They get through. Jesus isn't just the Savior of my soul. He's also the Savior of my prayers. My prayers come before the throne of God as the prayers of Jesus, 'Asking in Jesus' name' isn't another thing I have to get right so my prayers are perfect. It is one more gift of God because my prayers are so imperfect. "

by: Paul Miller 'A Prayer Life'

Godward Orientation

2009-07-14T21:13:00.003+10:00

Godward Orientation! Have you ever thought about it?

Tedd Tripp illustrates Godward orientation like "the set of the sail in a child's life". I get what he is describing. If the sail (influence), in our child's life, is set to head south - it's going to go south. Likewise if the sail (influence) is set to move towards the north, it will head north.

So with that being said, take some time with your bride to consider the influences that are shaping your child(ren)'s life - and then evaluate the Godward orientation.

You see parenting is not just providing good input. In fact it is not just creating a good green house effect, though I do like the concept of a greenhouse, however: As parent's we are to be teaching our children the truths in Scripture. Psalms 58:3 tells us, "Even from birth the wicked go astray, from the womb they are wayward and speak lies." Consider Psalms 51:5 "Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me." These verses clearly tell us that our children, are never morally neutral. You see, our children will either respond to God by faith or they will suppress the truth in unrighteousness. Tripp writes, "If they respond to God by faith, they will find fulfillment in knowing and serving God. If they suppress the truth in unrighteousness, they will ultimately worship and serve the creation rather than the Creator."

Ultimately, God is sovereignly in control over our children's eternal destination. With that being said, I can't imagine standing before my Heavenly Father justifying my lack of Godward orienteering with my children.

My children / Your children - are going to worship something, and we have been given a short time to parent them with an eternal perspective...

Peace in Trials

2009-07-13T15:35:00.004+10:00

So many I know, are going through really challenging and difficult times. We too experience some of those times - but what do we do when we are faced with these difficult times.

Do we grow afraid? Do we get angry? Do we run to friends, food, alcohol, porn or TV? I know of some who get angry with God. Some look for something else to do to distract their minds from the ensuing problems. Others find themselves "depressed".

In James 1:2-18 we read that our faith will be tested, and here is the instructions: "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete lacking nothing."

Many people are facing trials due to the economic crisis that the world finds itself in. What would you do? Would you count it all joy or would you be mad at God?

Hard to say, isn't it.

Here's what I imagine would help me & possibly others.

I would want to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ to myself. Then I would need to preach to my wife and children the truth of God's Word. I would want encouragement from my pastor & mates around me - to help me run this leg of the race set before me.

Another thing I like to do is listen to music. Music that throws my mind on Christ. Here is a song that I think does just that. It is called: "Peace". It has been written by a guy names Bob Kauflin. Let me share the words with you:

Peace, You give me peace
When the storms come and I'm afraid
Peace, You give me peace
When I trust in the words You say
You give me peace

Verse 1
If You can calm the sea
Then You can comfort me
If winds obey Your voice
Why should I fear the noise
And though my eyes can't see
I know You're with me

Verse 2
When someone starts to fight
And does things I don't like
I hear Your gentle voice
Saying I have a choice
To make an enemy
Or to spread Your peace

Peace, You give me peace
When the storm comes and I'm afraid
Peace, You give me peace
When I trust in the words You say
You give me peace

Brother's in Christ - Peace, is found inside the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Because of the Gospel...

2009-07-11T22:57:00.004+10:00

So often the Gospel can be assumed. A colleague of mine once informed me that there are three stages of Gospel phases. 1) Faithful to the Gospel 2) Assuming the Gospel 3) Rejecting the Gospel.

It made me think about how others would say they apply the Gospel in their marriage. I know when I have thought about it for myself, I honestly could not say that I was entirely faithful to applying the Gospel in my marriage

Let me ask you: are you faithfully rehearsing the Gospel for yourself and with your wife? Do you assume the Gospel in your marriage? That would be thinking something like: 'Oh yea, I know Jesus died for my sins'. Or have you rejected the Gospel in your marriage? So you think you just need to work harder on your marriage.

In the book I recommended yesterday, I gleaned 9 reasons why the Gospel is so important for our marriages (found on pg 22 & 23).

1) Because of the gospel, Christians have become new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17). Therefore in our marriage, our past does not define us, confine us, or determine our future.

2) Because of the gospel, we are forgiven (Ephesians 1:7). Therefore we can live free of all guilt and condemnation for every sin, and we can trust that God, in His mercy, will be gracious to us.

3) Because of the gospel, we can forgive, just as Christ forgave us (Ephesians 4:32). Nothing done against us compares to our sin against God. Therefore all offenses, hostility, and bitterness between Christians can be completely forgiven and removed.

4) Because of the gospel, we are accepted by God (Romans 15:7). Therefore we are not dependent on a spouse for who we are or what we need.

5) Because of the gospel, sin's ruling power over us is broken (Romans 6:6,14). Therefore we can truly obey all that God calls us to do in our marriage, regardless of any circumstances or situation.

6) Because of the gospel, we have access to God through Christ (Hebrews 4:14-16). Therefore we can at any time take any need in our marriage to the One who can do all things.

7) Because of the gospel, we have hope (Romans 5:1-4). Therefore we can endure any marital difficulty, hardship, or suffering, with the assurance that God is working all to our greatest good (Romans 8:28).

8) Because of the gospel, Christ dwells in us by his Holy Spirit (Galatians 3:13-14). Therefore we are confident that God is always with us and is always at work in our marriage, even when progress is imperceptible (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24).

9) Because of the gospel, we have power to fight and overcome remaining sin, which continues to swell and war within us (Romans 7:19-21; Galatians 5:16-17). This indwelling enemy represents the essence of what is called the doctrine of sin.

Do these 9 'because fo the gospel's' not encourage you? Boy I have been thinking about them all day! I am encouraged by these truths....

Love That Lasts, When Marriage Meets Grace

2009-07-10T23:29:00.008+10:00

Have you heard of this book? Love That Lasts, When Marriage Meets Grace! (click on the title and you can purchase your own copy) Now I have been reading the preface of this book that I once read and am going to be rereading, because I want to refresh myself with the truths that are provided in this book!

Anyway, as I read the following statement I was freshly encouraged by this explanation for the remake of this book.

"Anyone familiar with the original book will notice the changes, beginning with the cover. Both books share the same title, but the original subtitle, "Making a Magnificent Marriage," while certainly a worthwhile goal, seemed to put the emphasis on human effort, for human ends. The new subtitle, "When Marriage Meets Grace," reminds us that it is God and his glorious power revealed in the gospel of Jesus Christ that are the beginning, the means, and the goal of marriage. What infinite help and hope that can bring to any and every marriage!"

I don't know about you but I want all the help I can get to have a rich marriage. Here's the key. I believe, as husbands, it's our responsibility to be seeking the Lord to have "Love That Lasts".

If you purchase this book you will find 8 very helpful chapters with questions for discussion, evaluation and application at the end of the book. Following are the chapters you can be prepared to read about... Let me tell you - Chapter 2 alone is worth the $9.00 USD ... It is gold...

* The Journey of a Lifetime (Where it all begins)

* Leading with Love (The Role of the husband)

* Walking in Wisdom (The Role of the wife)

* Relational Intimacy (The Goal of our communication)

* Grace to Those Who Hear (The content of our communication)

* The Heart of Conflict (Restoring communication)

* It Never Has to Get Old (The soul of romance)

* Just The Two Of You (The wonder of sexual intimacy)

Anyway guys - we all want great marriages, great sex, Godly children etc... This is a helpful read to help you Parent with an eternal perspective - I promise you...

Teach em to Pray for their PASTOR

2009-07-09T21:10:00.005+10:00

I was freshly reminded the other day of an instruction given to us that I have not been doing. In the Bible, in 1 Thessalonians 5:25 we read; 'Brothers, pray for us.' - what a request from Paul to the Thessalonians. Paul knew that those who had been called, by God, into minsitry had a serious position and they needed prayer. So, he asked for it! Not only were the Thessalonians to be praying for Paul, but we today, ought to be praying for our own pastor's.

I don't know about you, but I have not been setting a good example of this or modelling this for my family. Nor have I spent alot of time discussing and teaching them about the God given responsibility of a pastor either.

Consider with me for a brief moment the major responsibility that rests upon those who have been anointed and appointed for such a task. These officers in Christ's army are observers of very sad backsliding, and it wounds their souls. They see millions perishing and their spirit's sink. They have temptations which we may never experience, they labor over the words to speak so that they are useful to sinners as well as saints. These tasks are some eternally significant responsibilities.

Here are some things that we have begun to be praying for our pastor:

1) His own walk with Christ
2) His marriage
3) His leadership in the home
4) His children
5) The health of his family
6) Favor with other pastor's & people in the community
7) Wisdom to lead those he has been entrusted to lead
8) Faithfulness to the Lord
9) Friendships that will build him up and encourage him
10) Humility

Husbands, fathers, brothers in Christ - You can make your own list but I encourage you to please: PRAY for your pastor & teach your children to do this to...

Smelly Pigs!!!

2009-07-07T22:15:00.004+10:00

John Owen is quoted as saying: "He that hath slight thoughts of sin, never had great thoughts of God."

These are some words worth wrestling with. In other words, if you don't think much of sin - you wouldn't of thought, at any length of the greatness of God. You see - God is so much greater than sin. He is so much bigger than all our sins. And yet, we grow complacent with our sinful state.

I recently read of a man who in the late 1980's lived in the farm country of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. This would be a beautiful part of the world, for sure! Anyway, he tells of life being pleasant in all respects but one. He never got used to the smell of manure. That's right, the smell of manure was the one down side. He claimed that it was the pig manure that was the worst. However interestingly though was the fact that he found the pig odor disgusting, and yet he never noticed the pigs being disgusted by their own smell.

J.C. Ryle once put it, "The very animals whose smell is most offensive to us have no idea they are offensive and are not offensive to one another."

Robin Boisvert rightly points out that "Fallen man, it seems, can have no adequate idea what a vile thing sin is in the sight of a holy and perfect God."

How true! I wonder if you have grown complacent or comfortable with your sins? Are you justifying or rationalizing your sin away, instead of repenting or confessing sin?

Brother, the Gospel tells us that God loved us so much He sent His Son, Jesus who was born of a virgin; who lived a sinless life; who was crucified; buried & rose again 3 days later, then revealing Himself to many witnesses; ascended into heaven and now at the right hand of the Father, interceding for us - so that we might find forgiveness and freedom. What love is this? He loves us very much. Though He, God cannot tolerate sin, He sent His Son to pay the price that we might have life. He paid the debt!

What a Savior...

This is just a tiny glimpse at how Great God is in comparison to sin. Do your kids know this?

Serving your Bride when a baby comes...

2009-07-06T00:06:00.000+10:00

Hey Guys -

Found a great read for you to either read yourself or pass on to your bride...

As we ourselves approach another baby coming - I am thinking how I will provide time for my bride to read her Bible and have personal time alone with the Lord? It is very important that this happens...

Check this out: Our friend, Nichole Starling over at 168 Hours has provided testimony and helpful websites for your wife to view and be encouraged... however I strongly suggest you have a look yourself too - so you can be leading your wife and not leaving her to fend for herself... Perhaps you could recommend some helpful things you saw there... if not, it hopefully raises your awareness that your bride needs time alone with God & this time has to be fought for, during the early days, months & even years of a baby coming home...

Real Freedom in Jesus :: Desiring God

2009-07-04T23:58:00.001+10:00

Real Freedom in Jesus :: Desiring God

Shared via AddThis

Battles of the Flesh...

2009-07-04T23:08:00.005+10:00

How often do you struggle with your fleshly desires? How often are you overcome by your fleshly desires? Are you winning the battle of the flesh?

I am challenged, encouraged and rebuked when I read verses like these in Galatians 5: 16-26

Walk by the Spirit

"But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other to keep you from doing the things you want to do. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another envying one another."

Thankfully brothers our Great High Priest, Jesus, knows our temptations. He was tempted in every way and yet NEVER succumbed to any of them. Hence our justification, Oh praise His holy name! You see, Jesus did what we cannot do. We are going to fail. We are going to fall yet in the same breath, by His Spirit, we can live by the Spirit, instead of fulfilling the desires of the flesh. However when we fall, quickly run to the cross and find forgiveness there. 1 John 1:9 and Romans 8:1 are powerful verses in helping us biblically deal with sin.

I find it such a good reminder that we are in a battle. In order to win this battle of the flesh I/we need the full armor of God. By putting on the full armor of God - this is a way that we can protect ourselves from the temptations that can lure us to feed our flesh:

In fact, I have a friend who has a picture on his refrigerator at home, and he and his wife stand together, while they are waiting for their morning coffee , and they pray for each other and help each other assemble themselves for the day with these wonderful spiritual garments. You can read about them here in Ephesians 6: 13-18.

What a great way to equip yourself each day for battles of the flesh, but also what a great way to lead your family...

The Importance of Theology - from some wise men...

2009-07-04T05:55:00.007+10:00

" A wise man has said that your Christian life is like a three-legged stool. The legs are doctrine, experience, and practice. In recent years many Christian people have not kept these three together". J.I. Packer

"You have heard the adage, 'Ignorance is the mother of superstition.' Unfortunately, many people's theology is the crystallizing of ignorance more than the systematizing of God's revelation. They wander about in the theological dark, formulating doctrines that belong in the world of witch doctors. Therefore, we need to say more than that everyone has a theology when asked, Why theology? We need to distinguish between right theology and wrong theology. For theology is like a backbone. Right theology will have you walking straight and fit. Wrong theology will have you hunchbacked and paralyzed." James Cantelon

"The conviction that Christian doctrine matters for Christian living is one of the most important growth points of the Christian life." Sinclair Ferguson

Wesley & Camella

2009-07-02T21:50:00.004+10:00

We have (had) two sponsor children from Brazil. They were a brother and sister and we were so excited when they became part of our family. We began sponsoring them, through Compassion, about 5 years ago. We loved getting their letters and updated photo's. It was especially fun when the kids would draw pictures and tell us what they have been doing and what they had been learning about God.

Well today we learned that they are no longer part of Compassion. Their mum has pulled them out of Compassion and enrolled them in another organisation that provides aide there in Brazil.

I must say, I am a bit disappointed. I have had dreams of one day meeting this brother and sister - but never mind.

When sharing this news with my children tonight - I must confess, I wanted to air my disgust and disappointment, but that would not have served them in any way. Instead I ensured them that, Lord willing, one day we would be able to meet them in heaven. I was also able to encourage them that even though we won't be providing them with finical support, we sure can be a spiritual support by remembering them in our prayers.

They were disappointed as well but seemed excited by the thought of being a spiritual support to this dear brother and sister in Brazil...

I must admit - I was once again reminded of my duty as a dad to teach my children how to view things with an eternal perspective... these opportunities present themselves so many times...

Heberws 12:2

2009-06-27T20:18:00.003+10:00

What is your hope built on?

If you are a Christian - you might say, my hope is built on Christ. However let me ask you - if we were to ask your wife or your children - what would they say? Would they say, 'yea, dad's hope is on Christ and he lives that out in every way'?

You know men, we can't do this on our own. It is the work of the Holy Spirit to turn our eyes off ourselves and onto Jesus, but Satan's work is the opposite. He is constantly attempting to make us prefer ourselves instead of what Christ calls us to. Sometimes we can hear in our minds thoughts like this: 'your sins are too great for forgiveness; look, you don't have faith; you never ask for forgiveness; your a quitter, you won't make it; your not a joyful soul, aren't you suppose to be joyful; who could ever tell you are a Christian by the way you act'? Notice how all of these thoughts are about ourselves? Guys, we will NEVER find comfort looking within. The Holy Spirit turns our eyes away from self, entirely. The Holy Spirit tells us that we are nothing, but that Christ is all in all. Remember brother, it is not our hold of Christ that saves us - it is Christ; it is not our joy in Christ that saves us - it is Christ; it is not even our faith in Christ, though it is the instrument - it is Christ's blood and merits. So let's not look so much to our hand that is holding onto Christ, look to Christ! Don't look at your hope, look to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.

Oh, I'm telling you dad, father, brother - We will never find happiness by looking at our prayers, our accomplishments, or our feelings. It is what Jesus is, not what we are, that gives rest to the soul. Truly, if we were to overcome the enemy and have peace with God, it must be by looking unto Jesus.

My hero Charles Spurgeon writes: "Keep thine eye simply on Him; let His death, His sufferings, His merits, His glories, His intercession, be fresh upon thy mind; when thou wakes in the morning look to Him; when thou liest down at night look to Him. Oh! let not they hopes or fears come between thee and Jesus; follow hard after Him, and he will never fail thee".

'My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus' blood and righteousness:
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly lean on Jesus' name.'

OZ Lotto goes to 90 Million Dollars

2009-06-25T20:38:00.006+10:00

Some of you may have been tempted.

Some of you would never think of wasting your money on a lotto ticket.

I on the other hand, I bought into the frenzy - when OZ Lotto was at 50 million dollars.

The dreamers imagined themselves spending a mere $136,000.00 a day for a year. Crazy aye?

Well imagine you did buy into the frenzy. You purchase the ticket, justifying that it's just a one off. You hope that you might be the lucky recipient, but then what would you do with the money. It's a crazy and bizarre exercise.

After learning that you haven't won, you feel really deflated and bummed. 'Why did I buy that ticket?' 'What a waste of money', you may think. I did!

Then you learn that no one won the prize. Instead the jackpot has increased to 90 million dollars. Surely purchasing another ticket won't harm anything... Maybe my luck will be better next time. Well, instead of $136,000.00 a day you could spend almost $250,000.00 a day, for a year, I'll just try my luck one more time!

STOP!!! do you see the way we can get sucked into the frenzy? What's even more concerning is the way the mind can justify your behaviour?

In actual fact, this has been a crazy exercise for me. I have seen how my heart wants to have money so that I can be self sufficient. Oh sure I can justify my reasons to also include that I want the money so that I can provide for my children, I can help others etc... But I also know how I long to buy a huge house with all the extras for my large family. I could also buy a new van and a motorbike and a holiday home and a trip to America to visit my family there and a ....

What a discovery of my heart! A desire to not have to wait on God for my daily bread. Oh Lord, forgive this heart of mine...

Please know, those things that I have listed that I want, are not wrong in and of themselves. But I know my heart motive is to not have to wait for these things - but to have them NOW! To not have to ask God for help for these items.

Dad's we are tempted everyday to be self sufficient. To be independent. To be reliant on no one. Oh God help us to be dependant upon you. Especially when we are parenting our children with an eternal perspective...

Encouraging your kids in... ART(?)

2009-06-24T21:37:00.006+10:00

Hey Dads - I am not always good at showing admiration of my kids efforts. Not a great admission! However, I am learning and growing in this area, which I am grateful to God for His patience and kindness in helping me.

For some reason I find it easier to be really excited and encouraging when the kids are younger, but as the kids get older my praise turns from words of affirmation to grunts or nods... My kids should be given more than that, I reckon!
This picture (above) was done by my oldest daughter who is very artsy...

Following are a few pictures my kids have been doing on the computer.

This football picture is done by my oldest son, Caleb - who loves AFL (Australian Football League). His teams colours are black and white!

To be frank - I think these pictures rock! I would not have been able to make these master pieces...

This one of the family was done by Bella. She is 5!

This one was done by my son Noah, who is 7. He likes dinosaurs. "Dad, it's a T-Rex"! Pretty good huh???

It's amazing how we can bless our children and encourage them, even in art. May I do this more, may I do this better, may I do this often and may I do this well!

The Sacraments

2009-06-23T16:51:00.004+10:00

A mate sent me this today and I am so grateful for the thought provoking questions: Peruse through them and perhaps consider how you could teach your child about, The Sacraments:

1. What is a sacrament?
2. What is baptism?
3. When should a child be baptised?
4. What is a believable profession of faith?
5. Does God save young children?
6. What is the role of the parent in evaluating a child's readiness to be baptised?
7. If my child said a prayer and invited Jesus into his heart, isn't that enough to be baptised?
8. What is the Lord's Supper?
9. How do baptism and the Lord's Supper differ?
10. When should a child receive the Lord's Supper?
11. Should unbaptised children take the Lord's Supper?
12. What do I say to a child who thinks he is converted if I don't think he is ready for baptism or the Lord's Supper?
13. Are there any problems with waiting too long to baptise a truly converted child?
14. If I have a child who is unbaptised but receiving the Lord's Supper, how do I go about removing this privilege?
15. Why not baptise infants?
16. What do I do if my child was baptised as an infant?
17. What if my child was baptised at an early age, and now I don't think he was really converted until later; should he be baptised again?
18. What is the role of the church in evaluating a child's readiness to be baptised and receive the Lord's Supper?

If you want some help on how to answer these questions look here! When you click on this link it will provide you with more resources and a wonderful blog to bookmark. Have a look around and be encouraged!

Now I reckon that by providing your children with this sort of biblical truth will clearly serve them. I also believe that by having these sorts of conversations is another way that you can be parenting with an eternal perspective...

Fathers Day in USA

2009-06-21T18:05:00.005+10:00

Today, in USA, it is Father's Day!

... an event that brings gladness to some - sadness to others. For me it's a mix of both!

Gladness, that I recently got to see my dad... Sadness, that I don't see him very often! However, I am grateful for where I am and where my dad is.

You know, my dad has taught me alot! He taught me how to work, he taught me how to interact with people, he taught me how to fish, which to this day, I hate fishing! He taught me how to provide care for others, and he taught me how to call a mechanic, gardner, electrician, plumber, carpenter, banker & most importantly my Heavenly Father.

You see my dad taught me that everyone has abilities. We can't all do everything, but "what you oughta do is" call someone or find someone who has the answer... Ain't that right Peco's? Perhaps I need to call you a bit more - our phone ain't worken to well... LOL

Well dad, from across the Pacific, Happy Father's Day!

Our Church

2009-06-21T11:58:00.005+10:00

For the past 6 months I have been leading my family on Sunday mornings, in our home, for church. This is not something that I highly recommend: however, it has served us.

You see, I am apart of a group of couples who are going to be planting a Sovereign Grace Church in Australia. If you click HERE: you can read about what is happening & more of the history of what is going on.

We live up in Newcastle, NSW and have been exploring the area and prayerfully awaiting on the Lord and the leadership of Sovereign Grace to confirm that this is where we sense the Lord leading us to plant a church.

In all of this, we are so excited and really appreciate the care and leadership provided to us during this precarious stage. It really has been wonderful, which has only confirmed that we really want to be apart of this ministry.

Well this week we received an exciting update about our church that we are going to be apart of.

I have so wanted to put this on here - so officially - here it is:

So you are Newcastle, this says Sydney... That's right - we are relocating to Sydney as we sense that this is where the Lord is leading us. If you are a regular reader of this blog, I could really use your prayers. I will need a new job, a new home, and resources to make this happen!

This morning in home church we looked at Luke 12:22-34, which encouraged us all!

This is an opportunity to lead our children and model, with joy in our hearts, the "cost" of following Christ. Truly an opportunity to parent with an eternal perspective...

Preview Songs from Our New Kid’s CD: To Be Like Jesus

2009-06-18T06:18:00.001+10:00

Preview Songs from Our New Kid’s CD: To Be Like Jesus

Don't know about you - but I appreciate music with great lyrics. The song's stick in your head and begin to influence your thinking. I am very excited about this new album and I hope many kids and parent's will be singing these songs too!

Just another resource to help you as you, parent with an eternal perspective...

Everyday Talk About Music

2009-06-14T21:19:00.007+10:00

Got another wonderful resource for you father's out there. It's called, 'everyday talk' "Talking Freely and Naturally about God with Your Children". The book is written by John A. Younts. If you click HERE you can order one direct from Amazon. Such a great investment!

I learned about this book when I was at a workshop about parenting older teens. I don't yet have older teens, but I wanted to get a head start on equipping myself with some information on how to serve my children as they get older and face "different" situations.

I have 3 chapters to go before I have completed the book but I was reading this last night and thought, I want to share this with you now!

The chapter is called: Everyday Talk About Music. It's chapter 11 in this fantastic book and what he addresses is so crucial for us as father's.

Let me just back track with you for a moment. When I was a younger man, I had a guy who was fairly influential in my life. He had a great understanding of the power of music. In fact he lead the music at our church and did it well. He had me read alot about music and it's power and influence on others. One of the most helpful exercises we did was look at the Bible. There he showed me how important music was and then he showed me the role of the three different arch angels. Gabriel, Michael & Lucifer. It was there I began to understand that caution and care needed to be exercised when listening to music, personally.

Prior to this, as a kid growing up, my parent's did not allow us to listen to secular music. We were allowed to listen to the Christian station, but if we were caught listening to secular music we would be grounded. And because I ALWAYS did what my parent's told me to do - (NOT) - I noticed that I was affected by music. In fact I would say I was super sensitive to music. The words played on my brain and affected my mood. Now some guys aren't like this, to them, it's just noise in the back ground. So I think Younts is right in getting us as father's to ask the question, what role does music play in people's lives? I mean if we ask our kids this, and listened to their answer, it would be quite insightful for us. It would be quite interesting to hear how these artists words are shaping our sons and daughter's thinking.

I don't think we should be alarmed (yet), but I think we should begin the discussions and hence, why I am recommending the book! I highly recommend it because there are many other issues that he raises that will give us as father's insight into where our kids are at and who is shaping our children's thinking. But in light of music here are a few other question we could be asking our kids: "What defines music as good or bad? What is the potential negative impact of bad music? What is the potential positive impact of good music? What should be the focus of our everyday talk about music?"

Now can I just throw some caution to you? Please listen and ask questions when you do this with your kids. One helpful warning that Younts provides is to be careful that we don't rouse or antagonize our kids about their style of music. This will only tempt them to want to listen to that music more, he suggests. However, we want to equip them with the skills to sift through the messages being communicated in the music that they are listening to.

Here's the reality guys: Most musicians are not out to "get" our kids - they are out to communicate a message, which will influence our kids to think as these "artists" think! In some cases this may be good - but in others - perhaps not! Here's what we are listening for by asking these questions: what is the message the artist is communicating and how is it effecting or infecting our children? That's what you want to source out, I reckon!

I trust you will get a copy of everyday talk - it will help you in parenting with an eternal perspective!

Needing Help with Praying?

2009-06-11T20:10:00.006+10:00

This morning I woke up and wanted to pray - but my tongue seemed tied. You know when you want to say something, but can't seem to find the right words?

Well, you may not have that problem - but if you do, I have come across a wonderful tool to assist you. Especially in your prayer life. There is a wonderful and helpful book entitled: 'The Valley of Vision" 'A collection of Puritan Prayers and Devotions'. Click HERE and you can order yourself a copy.

This is the prayer I audibly prayed this morning:

O Thou that hearest my prayer,
Teach me to pray,

I confess that in religious exercises
the language of my lips and the feelings of my heart
have not always agreed,
that I have frequently taken carelessly upon my tongue
a name never pronounced above without reverence and
humility,
that I have often desired things which would have injured me,
that I have depreciated some of my chief mercies,
that I have erred both on the side of my hopes and also of my
fears,
that I am unfit to choose for myself,
for it is not in me to direct my steps.

Let thy Spirit help my infirmities,
for I know not what to pray for as I ought.

Let him produce in me wise desires by which I may ask right things,
then I shall know thou hearest me.

May I never be importunate for temporal blessings,
but always refer them to thy fatherly goodness,
for thou knowest what I need before I ask;

May I never think I prosper unless my soul prospers,
or that I am rich unless rich toward thee,
or that I am wise unless wise unto salvation.

May I seek first thy kingdom and its righteousness.

May I value things in relation to eternity.

May my spiritual welfare be my chief solicitude.
May I be poor, afflicted, despised and have thy blessing,
rather than be successful in enterprise,
or have more than my heart can wish,
or be admired by my fellow-men,
if thereby these things make me forget thee.

May I regard the world as dreams, lies, vanities, vexation of spirit,
and desire to depart from it.

And may I see my happiness in thy favour, image, presence, service.

In Jesus' name, AMEN!

TIMING! TIMING! TIMING!

2009-06-10T21:08:00.004+10:00

Timing - Timing - Timing...

It happened again this morning. I was presented with an opportunity to serve my wife, but instead I looked at the clock and thought - 'why now God, I'm about to walk out the door'.

Here's the setting...

My pregnant wife is sitting on the bed with a note pad and pen and I notice dollar figures are being written down. Budget stuff! I am thinking, I need to go but I also need to serve my wife. So my wife updates me about a promised present that we have not been able to provide yet, and tells me about a conversation she has overheard the kids having about a hopeful outing they are expecting to go on.

Well, in my godly way I address the hopeful outing in a very non gracious and mater of fact way. This then tempts my wife to fear I will execute this sort of tone with my children which will hurt them deeply.

In the mean time, kids are coming in and out of our bedroom as we are trying to have one of those important, whispering/parent discussions and the time has clicked over to 8:11. I need to leave by 8:00 to be at work on time - So what do I do? I grab my bag and walk out of the house, throwing a good bye to one daughter and waving to another who is waving to me from her bedroom window, sadly.

I'm sure you may have experienced an event like this in your home? It's not pleasant is it? You kinda want to yell and go , ARGGGGG?????

As I am undertaking the 25 minute drive to work I am thinking of how unrighteous my behaviour is and what I just modeled for my children. I think Lord I need to make this right. Please forgive me! After that I called the kids and apologised for not saying goodbye to them and asked for their forgiveness.

What about your wife you ask? Great question!

I have learned that my wife needs abit of cooling down time when discussions like this happen. So I got to work and sent her an email to apologise and explain my thinking abit better. Thankfully by God's gracious kindness my wife forgave me and we kissed and made up!

Here's the issue - there are several - But the biggest one I think is this: TIMING is so important!

WHY is timing important? Because these sort of conversations need time and discussion. You see, if I am not providing proper leadership for my wife, then she is going to feel fearful or anxious. Why would she get like this? Well in my case, it's because I am not taking the time to lead her and care for her. I need to ask her how her day is? How are things in the home going? What sort of needs are there? For her and the children... Which is why date nights/planning nights/family nights are so important!

I share this with you to encourage you! Timing is important! Now I know that sometimes these sort of conversations will happen even if you have lead well - but as I reevaluated what took place in my home this morning, it was as a result of my poor leadership to my wife!

So if you can learn from my mistakes - that's good! I reckon timing is important - ESPECIALLY TIME WITH YOUR BRIDE -

it will only help you better parent with an eternal perspective...

Laziness

2009-06-08T22:41:00.005+10:00

Hey - here I am! I have not fallen off the face of the earth, though I have not been well... But no real good excuse as to why I have not been blogging, other than laziness!

Do you ever evaluate what you are doing? Do you ever wonder if your life is passing you by? Do you ask yourself what effect you are having on those around you?

Over the past few months I have been reflecting on areas of my life that have been unproductive. There are many, much to my disappointment, however I don't want to stay in this state.

Funny you know, I have been reading a book called 'Manhood' An action plan for changing men's lives. It has been a helpful book for me to read. The chapters go like this.
1) The Problem 2) Seven Steps to Manhood 3) Liberation for the Rest of Us! 4) You and Your Father 5) Sex and Spirit 6) Men and Women 7) Being a Real Father 8) Making School Good for Boys 9) Finding a Job with Heart 10) Real Male Friends 11) The Wild Spirit of Man 12) Men's Groups.

All topics that men think about and want to learn about - but don't really talk about with each other. This author has really researched and studied these area's and serves his reader well.
The guy who has written this book is Australian. His name is Steve Biddulph. He is more known for his book 'Raising Boys', perhaps? Nevertheless, this is a great read.

Now the book is not written from a Christian perspective, however there is some truth in this book that is rather confronting. Here is a big one! We as dads are more influential on our children than we think we are.

So often we think that by chatting with our kids and telling them what they oughta do, is going to be enough. Sadly it's not what we tell them, rather it's how they see us living that speaks a hundred times louder that anything we say.

That truth is so hard hitting and confronting I can feel like an absolute failure and think to myself - why bother? But rather than thinking like that and living in condemnation or defeat, I need to take my thoughts captive and pray. You see, because I believe in Jesus I can run to the cross! I can cry out and ask God to help me! I can read God's Word that reminds me that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me! You see brothers, I am able to confess my sinful ways to my Heavenly Father and receive forgiveness. I don't have to live in a defeated state, because I am not defeated. I am convicted but not defeated. The Bible reminds us that there is therefore now NO condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. So we can repent of our sin, whether its being lazy, harsh with our wife or children, being dishonest, viewing porn whatever the sin is, we must repent and ask for help.

After asking God for help, another helpful idea is finding a mate you can talk with and ask him to hold you accountable for how you are using your time. Invite your mate's accountability as you seek to lead and serve your wife and children better. Remember that if your sinfulness is effecting your wife and children (which it will be), remember to humble yourself before them and apologise. That is something you can model for your children, if your wondering where to start!

This is something that I am working on - because I know this will help me as I parent with an eternal perspective...

Mothers Day - in Australia

2009-05-09T22:57:00.003+10:00

God has been kind to me! He has given me a mother, mother-in-law & a mother to my children. So today is quite a special one! An opportunity to reflect on the women who have been put in my life. The women who God chose to put in my life - for such a time as this ... AND what's even more significant is - THIS IS NOT A MISTAKE!!!

God in HIS Sovereign & Perfect plan put us together & I am blessed!

So firstly, for my own mother - Happy Mother's Day!

Secondly, to my mother-in-law - WOW! Thank you for your extended grace and acceptance of a guy like me. Thanks AGAIN, for letting me marry your daughter!

Thirdly, to the mother of my children - Oh how I love you and thank you for all that you do! I am blessed among men! TRULY, I AM!!!

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!

60 Years AND Counting...

2009-05-08T05:01:00.002+10:00

The man in this picture is someone quite speacial and dear to us as a family!

He just turned 60!

60 years here on plantet earth!

It is humbling to recall what a gracious guy he has been to me!
It is humbling to recall what an evangelist he is and has been!
It is humbling to recall what he said when I asked him if I could marry his daughter!
It is humbling to recall what he did when I confessed struggles of sin.
It is humbling to recall what an an example he is for me!

I am blessed to have a guy in my life that is living out Romans 1:16

For truly,

"You are not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes..."

Thank you Heavenly Father for putting this man in my life!

Happy Birthday man! Your a great father-n-law and a wonderful brother in Christ!
Phil. 1:6

Being a Father of Twin Girls is Different!

2009-04-23T20:42:00.006+10:00

You know, there is something special about having twin girls in your family! It's not that they are more special than your other children. It's that they are unique and bring a different experience and excitement.

I think it was before we left for America, Bella asked me if she and her sister could get hair cuts. I assured her that they would get a hair cut when we returned from the US. So every conversation we had with her, via phone, was "daddy, don't forget about our hair-a-cut when you get home"!

We have been home just over a week and today was the big day to go and get their hair cuts. 6:00 AM Bethy comes and jumps in my lap, grabbing my neck, "daddy, I am so excited about going to get my hair cut today". It was about every 30 minutes after that both Beth & Belle were asking - "are we going yet", "are we going now?" "Should we go get in the car?"

It was a fun date with my girls! We got their hair cut & then went and enjoyed a doughnut & drink!

You know, I have to be honest and say, I felt a bit weird sitting there in a hair salon taking pictures while my girls got their hair cut, but when I got over myself, I really enjoyed being with my girls - and them wanting me to be around!

I hope you will take time to do special things with your girls - dads - even when they are young!

'Just Do Something' by: Kevin DeYoung

2009-04-20T19:50:00.007+10:00

Kevin DeYoung has written a helpful book called, 'Just Do something'. It is only 122 pgs, 10 chapters and farily easy reading! I strongly encourage you to pick up this book. You can buy it here for about $9.00 USD + shipping.

Now I am only on chapter 3, but chapters 1 & 2 are so insightful and helpful, I could not help but think that some of you dad's might be served reading this. Especially if you have kids who are concerned about what God want's them to do with their life.

Let me try to encourage you to purchase or get your hands on a copy of this book by sharing this bit with you from chapter 3. DeYoung starts the chapter asking, "why are so many Christians desperate to find out God's plan for their lives?' Then he goes on to say that he is going to provide 5 reasons and explain them. I will give you the five reasons and then you have to purchase the book to get the explanation. Cheeky - aye?!

Reason 1: Because we want to please God!

Reason 2: Because some of us are to timid!

Reason 3: Becase we want perfect fulfillment!

Reason 4: Because we have too many choices!

Reason 5: Because we are cowards!

Sounds enticing I'm sure?!

I strongly encourage you to get this book in your library... It will serve you as you serve the Lord - parenting with an eternal perspective

Doing Things Right - In Matters of the Heart

2009-04-19T02:00:00.001+10:00

Guys - have you heard of this book?

'Doing Things Right in Matters of the Heart' by: John Ensor. Wow!

John Ensor has done a wonderful job with this book. You want to get your hands on it. Here is a link to it: Doing Things Right in Matters of the Heart just click on the title and you can get a copy from Crossway for about $12.00 USD.

Now I wanted to give you a review but Tim Challies gave this review of the book and it does not need me tampering with it - so let me provide you with his review:

"In the first part, "Matters of the Heart," Ensor defines biblical masculinity and femininity as they are presented to us in the Bible. He gets to the heart of manhood and womanhood asking what it means to be a man or a woman and what is distinctive about being one and not the other. He asks how men and women complement each other and fit together. Having answered these questions, he turns to "Doing Things Right," showing the way the Bible outlines how men are to live as men and women are to live as women. He shows how men and women are to relate to each other and are to interact with each other on the basis of their equality and symmetry but also on the basis of their differences.
The chapter titles tell the story.

* He Initiaties...She Responds"
* He Leads...She Guides
* He Works...She Waits
* He Protects...She Welcomes Protection
* He Abstains to Protect...She, to Test
* His Unmet Desire Drives Him toward Marriage...Hers Is Rewarded with Marriage
* He Displays Integrity...She, Inner Beauty
* He Loves by Sacrificing...She, by Submitting
* He Seeks His Happiness in Hers...She Seeks Hers in His
* His Is the Primary Provider for the Family...She, the Primary Nurturer

The book is written from a personal perspective and in such a way that he encourages the reader to benefit from his learning curve. While he leans on the Bible as his authority, what he teaches is often punctuated by words like, "What follows is what I honest think is the right thing to do..." and "I take this to mean..." He gives examples from his life, allowing the reader to learn and to laugh with him.

The sum is this: God has given us each gifts but, with our own reasoning and assumptions we've wasted them by doing things in the way we thought was best. This book is a call to go back to using those gifts, to go back to the guide that teaches us how to use those gifts, that we might do things right and do them in the way God intends.

In this book (and this quote is the blurb I provided for the book's cover) "John Ensor provides a radically biblical alternative to the supposed wisdom of our age. Though sometimes raw, frank, and frustrated, Ensor is always sanctified and often poetic. He celebrates differences, bringing into clear focus the oft-disputed fact that God created men and women to be equal and symmetrical but not identical. For all who are weary of our culture's assault on biblical manhood and womanhood, this book is a refreshing reminder of the Bible's simple wisdom governing love, relationships, marriage, and matters of the heart."

This is a good and important little book that serves as a strong introduction for teens and young adults to the Bible's teaching on manhood and womanhood. What is taught here can largely be found elsewhere but not in so accessible and so practical a form. It has the paternal feel of an older, wiser man writing a concerned letter to those who are younger and in need of counsel. Ensor's advice is good and those who heed it will be pleased that he wrote this book and that they took the time to read it. I recommend this book to teens, to young adults, to parents and to anyone who is concerned with doing things right in matters of the heart."

All I want to add is - Go GET it!

The Lord Is

2009-04-18T02:00:00.001+10:00

Following is a song that I sang at a conference recently... It sounded amazing with about 800 present. Nevertheless, these words effect my heart EVERY time I hear them. I want to ask you to read them, dwell on them, not to move on from them too quickly. Please, allow these words to stir you and challenge you. For TRULY The Lord IS!!!

The Lord Is

Item # M4235-06-51

Music by Pat Sczebel, Words by Pat Sczebel and Bob Kauflin

As recorded on Psalms

Listen to song sample

The depths of Your grace who can measure
You fully supply all I need
You restore my weary soul again and again
And lead me in Your righteousness and peace

You’re with me through every dark valley
There’s nothing that I have to fear
You are there to comfort me again and again
Protecting me, assuring me You’re near

The Lord is
The Lord is my shepherd
The Lord is
The Lord is my shepherd
I shall not want

You gave Your own life for my ransom
So I could rejoice at Your side
You have shown Your faithfulness again and again
There’s nothing good that You will not provide

I will dwell in Your house
All the days of my life
I will dwell in Your house
All the days of my life

© 2008 Sovereign Grace Worship (ASCAP)/Sovereign Grace Praise (BMI)

Nana & Keziah

2009-04-16T17:10:00.003+10:00

Just recently, we had the privilege of going to the USA and having my mother meet her grand-daughter. There was something special about that...

They don't look related - do they?

Psalms 22:1

2009-04-15T14:06:00.003+10:00

I was deeply effected this morning when I read from Spurgeon's Morning and Evening Readings. I trust you will be encouraged as well. I have tried to rewrite this without the Old style of English- but if you prefer that & you have your own copy of this helpful reading - you may want to go straight to it (pg. 226)- otherwise, you can read it here...

Psalms 22:1 'My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?'

When we read these words, we are reminded of the depth of the sorrows of our Savior. There really is no other place that shows the grief of Christ as Calvary, and no other moment at Calvary is so full of agony as that in which His cry fills the air - 'My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?'

It was in this moment on the cross that we see physical weakness being united with acute mental torture from the shame and infamy through which he had to pass; and to make His grief culminate with emphasis, He suffered spiritual agony surpassing all expression, resulting from the departure of His Father's presence. It is here, we see the great darkness of His horror; then it was that He descended the abyss of suffering. No one can enter into the full meaning of these words. Some of us think that sometimes we could cry out, 'My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?' And sure there are seasons when the brightness of our Father's smile is eclipsed my clouds and darkness; but let's remember that God never does really forsake us, but in Christ's case it was a real forsaking. We grieve at a little withdrawing of our Father's love; but the real turning away of God's face from His Son, who shall calculate how deep the agony which it caused Him?

In our case, our cry is often dictated by unbelief: in His case, it was the utterance of a dreadful fact, for God had really turned away from Him for a season. O you poor, distressed soul, who once lived in the sunshine of God's face, but is now in darkness, remember that He has not really forsaken you. God in the clouds is as much our God as when He shines forth in all the luster of His grace; but since even the thought that He has forsaken us gives us agony, what must the woe of the Savior have been when He exclaimed, 'My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?'

We can rejoice that He will never leave us, nor forsake us...

This surly causes your heart to rejoice?!

Confronted with writing a Will

2009-03-28T21:58:00.004+11:00

Have you had to think or have you been through the process of writing or drawing up a Will?

My wife and I have just gone through the process of prayerfully arranging what should happen to our children in the event of our death.

Let me tell you guys - I did not go about this the right way - so learn from my mistake.

Here's what I did.

"Hey honey, I have decided that if we die on our trip overseas, I am going to ask" so and so" to look after our kids.

My wife, "honey, I am not sure I am comfortable with that".

Me, "that's OK, I think it's the right thing to do, so we are going to do that".

My wife, "honey, I really am not sure about that."

Me, "I know your not babe, but it's the right thing to do and I will be held accountable if I got it wrong, so it's the way we need to go!"

You probably understand that I did not do a great job here! Here is where I went wrong, and what I learned, thanks to my wife's patient, loving and timely rebuke.

With tears in her eyes my wife humbly said, "Honey, I know that you are the leader of our home and I know that you have our kids best interest at heart but perhaps next time you could lead me differently." I'm like OK, LISTEN Patrick - this is gonna be gold. And it was...

She continued, "Honey, I am thinking that maybe you could tell me what you are thinking and then say, 'I know you may not agree with me, but I would like to pray with you about this and ask that you pray about this'".

I was like, baby that's brilliant! I'm gonna do that next time. Would you forgive me for messing this up...

Here's the great thing - We completely agree on what should happen to our children and we have a peace that - we make our plans but the Lord orders our steps! Our Will is written, signed & sealed...

I hope you will learn from my mistakes and talk to your wife about what should happen with the possessions you have been entrusted with!

Draw up that Will - having an eternal perspective in mind!

Art Exursion

2009-03-23T21:00:00.004+11:00

Today I was at the Sydney Art Museum. I need to make a confession. I was not that impressed! Some of the paintings seemed ridiculous. Please understand, I am no artist! However I did think, that my 2 year old could have come up with a better entry then some that were there. That's art though, hey?

Something happened while I was there that just surprised me. A teacher was walking around with her student's, and the passion and the emotion that exuded from her over these paintings was foreign to me. How could someone be brought to tears by paint? I just did not get it?

As I was riding home from the gallery, a thought hit me.

Some people don't "get" why I am moved to tears by the cross. That cross that represents blood, wrath, pain, indescribable pain, tears & more blood - but also freedom, forgiveness, love, mercy, kindness, grace - oh such grace and LOVE!

Galatians 6:14 has been doing circles in my memory today - "but far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ...

I am not saying that you can't have passion for art, sport, family, food, coffee, shopping, golf, cars, friends etc... I am saying, may they not proceed the passion for the cross...

Oh may you and I boast and be moved by the cross - it will truly effect my/our parenting with an eternal perspective...

Father's Abdicating

2009-03-18T21:46:00.004+11:00

I am disappointed because I am witnessing to many father's, who are abdicating their roles as fathers!

I have recently taken a position at a school and today I spent 2 class periods with a kid in year 10 who is facing terrible circumstances! TERRIBLE! He is not alone! There are many children who are missing thier father's instruction in their life... It would break your heart! But I had the wonderful opportunity to share the gospel with this young man, which I was so thankful for! I do pray that he will be able to recall the power of the Gospel and that he would have the grace to respond to it.

However, as I sat and listened to this young man tell me incident after incident of the way his father has negelected and compromised him, I was stunned. Not because I am any better. No I was stunned because I thought, without the Grace of God - there go I. There go I as a father! There go you as a father!

This father has not taken his role seriously! He is failing as a husband, and a father. In fact he failed so bad that his wife left him and has remarried! Now his son does not want anything to do with him.

As I come home to my family, I must consider how I am doing as a father.

Here's some questions I am considering - Perhaps you may want to consider these too?

How am I loving my wife in front of my kids?
Am I provoking my children to love and good works - or am I provoking the hell out of them?
Am I training them in the ways of the Lord - by words only - or are they seeing their daddy model a godly life to them?
Do my kids see me rejoicing in the GOSPEL - or just talking about it?
How am I showing my boys to treat their wife?
How am I showing my daughters that this is how a woman is to be treated by a man?
Am I teaching my children about grace or works?
How am I equipping them to be a future husband or wife?
Does my marriage reflect the way Christ laid down His life for the Church?

Yea... Not easy questions to answer - but I am not called to abidcate these massive responsibilities! What a privilege to model Christ to my wife and children!

Oh, I need Grace... because paretning with an eternal perspective is a massive and awesome job!

Promo of The Pilgrims Progress

2009-03-17T15:32:00.003+11:00

If you have never read -

PLEASE DO!!!

Here is a review for you:

by the celebrated minister John Bunyan of Bedfordshire.

The Pilgrim's Progress is, well, sui generis. Tradition holds that John Bunyan wrote it in Bedford Gaol, while imprisoned for the crime of holding a religious service not in conformity with the Church of England. Bunyan spent twelve years in Bedford Gaol for that offense, which helps to explain why nonconformists liked to emigrate to America when they could.

Anyone familiar with this extraordinary work will agree with Samuel Johnson's assessment of John Bunyan, made nearly 100 years after the first publication of Pilgim's Progress and reported by James Boswell in his Life of Samuel Johnson, LL.D.:

Johnson praised John Bunyan highly. "His Pilgrim's Progress has great merit, both for invention, imagination, and the conduct of the story; and it has had the best evidence of its merit, the general and continued approbation of mankind. Few books, I believe, have had a more extensive sale. It is remarkable, that it begins very much like the poem of Dante; yet there was no translation of Dante when Bunyan wrote. There is reason to think that he had read Spenser."

The illustrations below come from Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress, With Over One Hundred Illustrations Designed by Frederick Barnard and Others, Engraved by Dalziel Borthers (The John C. Winston Company, Philadelphia, Chicago, and Toronto, 1894). To download a larger .BMP version of the images below, just click the image.

John Bunyan in Bedford Gaol.

"As I slept, I dreamed a dream."

Christian tells his wife and children of his distress.

"At length he brake his mind to his wife and children."

Christian before the Cross.

"His burden fell off his back, and began to tumble."

Christian and the Angels.

"Behold, three Shining Ones came to him, and saluted him."

The Porter meets Christian and calls Discretion to the palace door.

"This man is on a journey from the City of Destruction to Mount Zion."

Discretion, Piety, Charity, and Prudence instruct Christian at the Palace Beautiful.

"Then they read him some of the worthy acts that some of His servants had done."

Pride, Arrogancy, Self-Conceit, and Wordly-Glory.

Christian enters the town of Vanity Fair.

"At the town there is a fair kept, called Vanity Fair."

Madam Bubble and Mr. Stand-Fast.

"I am mistress of the world, and men are made happy by me."

The King's Trumpeter.

Mr. Great-Heart

Prudence questions Christiana's children.

"Then she began at the youngest, whose name was James."

Mrs. Timorous's Neighbors.

Mrs. Bats-eyes, Mrs. Inconsiderate, Mrs. Light-mind, and Mrs. Know-nothing

Doctor Skill

Valiant-for-Truth

The Giant Despair

"Over this stile is the way to Doubting Castle, which is kept by the Giant Despair."

Christian and Hopeful in the Castle of Giant Despair [Doubting Castle]

"So they continued together in the dark that day, in their doleful condition"

I just finished reading this to my entire family. Actually two days ago & it has stimulated many conversations. I would strongly encourage you to get your hands on a copy of this and commit to reading it to your whole family... It will have an eternal effect on your parenting!

To Live As Christ

2009-03-08T00:00:00.000+11:00

Have you seen this?

This is challenging... but we need to remember the Gospel as we listen and allow the Holy Spirit to convict us...

I hope you will be encouraged, rebuked, motivated & humbled before God!

A Senior Saint Home with the Lord

2009-03-07T04:00:00.003+11:00

Death is a reality! A reality we all will face. Whether death comes unexpectedly or expectedly it still is real! Oh so very real.

Yesterday a celebration service was held for a senior saint from our previous church. This senior saint was first of all a believer! Some of the fruit of this loved one was that they were generous, hospitable, caring, thoughtful and prayerful!

Let me walk you through what took place. It is confronting!

They left home last Sunday to travel to church. Like most Sunday's this senior saint would make their way into the "cry room", at the church, to fold the bulletins. After that job was done, they would go and encourage the other believers present. Like any other Sunday, they were going about their duty when pain came upon them.

A brain hemorrhage!

They were taken to hospital, the family contacted, the senior saint was operated on, and then put on life support. The family then made the hard decision of shutting off the life support machine. This senior saint was then absent from their body & present with the Lord. Just like that!

This got me thinking...

Imagine leaving home, like any other day, either to work or to church and the Lord called you home. What state would your house be in? How would your family find things? I began to question myself. Have I considered what it would be like for my wife or children to come behind in a difficult time and sort things out? It gave me something to think about & perhaps you may want to too?!

You know, I spoke to this senior saint a few days before the Lord took them home! Oh, we as a family are going to miss them. I don't think their children will have any problem's coming behind them. In fact, I think what they will find, is a faithful parent! A faithful parent who loved and cherished their Savior as well as their family!

May those who come behind you find you faithful!

The Grace of the Cross

2009-03-03T11:05:00.003+11:00

Another prayer from 'The Valley of Vision'

This prayer helps you remember - because - we do forget...

'The Grace of the Cross'

O My Saviour,
I thank thee from the depths of my being
for thy wondrous grace and love
in bearing my sin in thing own body on th etree.
May thy cross be to me
as the tree that sweetens my bitter Marahs,
as the rod that blossoms with life and beauty,
as the brazen serpent that calls forth the look of faith.
By thy cross crucify my every sin;
Use it to increase my intimacy with thyself;
Make it the ground of all my comfort,
the liveliness of all my duties,
the sum of all thy gospel promises
thy comfort of all my afflictions,
the vigour of my love, thankfulness, graces,
the very essence of my religion;
And by it give me that rest without rest
the rest of ceaseless praise.

O My Lord and Saviour,
Thou hast also appointed a cross for me to take up and carry,
a cross before thou givest me a crown.
Thou hast appointed it to be my portion,
but self-love hates it,
carnal reason is unreconciled to it;
without the grace of patience I cannot bear it,
walk with it, profit by it.
O blessed cross, what mercies dost thou bring with thee!
Thou art only esteemed hateful by my rebel will,
heavy because I shirk thy load.
Teach me, gracious Lord and Saviour,
that with my cross thou sendest promised grace
so that I may bear it patiently,
that my cross is thy yoke which is easy,
and thy burden which is light.

A QUOTE from the Irish Calvanist

2009-02-26T16:25:00.004+11:00

"Too often guilt inhibits joy, but it should not be! The conviction of the Holy Spirit is to bring the awareness and hatred of our own sin. The subsequent guilt and feelings of unworthiness is not an end of themselves but rather a vehicle to drive us to see the prevailing beauty and efficacy of the righteousness of the Lamb that was slain."

My youngest son turns 7

2009-02-23T00:00:00.000+11:00

Noah turns 7 today!

I asked him this morning (the day before his birthday), "Noah, what's today" Without a beat he replied, "It's Noah's Eve", and off he ran to play.

This kid is something else. He is funny, quirky, the middle child, and growing in the Grace and Knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

I have made so many mistakes with him. Being too soft and then too hard, then too easy... But I am so glad that God has entrusted Meg and I with him. We truly are blessed!

HAPPY 7th BIRTHDAY SON!!!

Let the celebrations begin!!!

An Amazing Sermon

2009-02-18T19:06:00.005+11:00

Hey, I am not a 2 times a day post'er on this blog - but I couldn't wait to give this wonderful sermon to you...

Please listen to THIS it will serve you so well...

Ahhhhh, there is nothing like a "gifted" preacher!

Hope this serves you - as you parent with an eternal perspective...

Parenting with an Eternal Perspective Job Description

2009-02-18T16:48:00.003+11:00

Have you ever wished someone would spell out what is expected of a parent? Won't someone please just give us a job description. How do we raise godly children?

Well, I think I have discovered a helpful list. I have found it as I have been reading, 'The Duties of Parents' by J.C. Ryle...

If you are a believer in Jesus Christ - you would be familiar with the verse found in Proverbs 22:6 - It reads -

"Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart form it."

Sound's easy enough right?

Well, it's not...

However, let me provide 17 responsibilities that we as parent's can commit to in assisting us to train up a child...

BE WARNED!!!

NOT FOR THE FAINT HEARTED!!!

Here is a list - that at later dates, I want to attempt to expound upon... You Ready?

1) Start off by, training your child in the way they should go, NOT in the way they would go.

2) Train up your child with all tenderness, affection, and patience.

3) Train your children with an abiding persuasion on your mind - that much depends on you.

4) Train with this thought continually before your eyes - that the soul of your child is the first thing to be considered.

5) Train your child to a knowledge of the Bible.

6) Train them to a habit of prayer.

7) Train them to habits of diligence, and regularity about public means of grace.

8) Train them to a habit of faith.

9) Train them to a habit of obedience.

10) Train them to a habit of always speaking the truth.

11) Train them to a habit of always redeeming the time.

12) Train them with a constant fear of over - indulgence

13) Train them remembering continually how God trains His children.

14) Train them remembering continually the influence of your own example.

15) Train them remembering continually the power of sin.

16) Train them remembering continually the promises of Scripture.

17) Train them, lastly, with continual prayer for a blessing on all you do.

Ahhhh, isn't that a helpful list?

Now, I know some might be tempted to think - ugh - anything else? Don't grow negative - let's work at this - having an eternal perspective in mind!

A Puritan Prayer -

2009-02-17T14:36:00.005+11:00

How do you start your day? Do you start your day with thinking about all that needs to get done? Do you start your day off with a barrage of thoughts or ideas that then lead you to feeling overwhelmed and helpless?

I can suffer this sort of torment and so I have sought out some wise men and asked for their counsel to help me defeat this discouragement.

They recommend preaching to myself instead of listening to myself. To shut up my mind and begin to remind my mind of the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Let me tell you brother, it is a battle and before I get out of bed I can hear the voices of my brain & I have to audibly, sometimes, preach to myself...

Here's how I do it:

I might try to quote a verse of Scripture to myself, or pray the Lord's prayer or I may even hum an old gospel tune such as, 'Great is Thy Faithfulness', 'Amazing Grace' or 'The Old Rugged Cross'.

Another thing that I have enjoyed doing recently is reading a Puritan Prayer. I have typed it up for you to read & be encouraged with. It's Old English style, but don't rush over it... You will be so encouraged.

MORNING

Compassionate Lord,
Thy mercies have brought me to the dawn of another day,
Vain will be its gifts unless I grow in grace,
increase in knowledge,
ripen for spiritual harvest.
Let me this day know thee as thou art,
love thee supremely,
serve thee wholly,
admire thee fully.
Through grace let my will respond to thee,
Knowing that power to obey is not in me, but
that thy free love alone enables me to serve thee.
Here then is my empty heart,
overflow it with thy choicest gifts;
Here is my blind understanding,
chase away its mists of ignorance.
O ever watchful Shepherd,
lead, guide, tend me this day;
Without thy restraining rod I err and stray;
Hedge up my path lest I wander into unwholesome pleasure,
and drink its poisonous streams;
Direct my feet that I be not entangled in Satan's secret snares,
nor fall into his hidden traps.
Defend me from assailing foes,
from evil circumstances,
from myself.
My adversaries are part and parcel of my nature;
They cling to me as my very skin;
I cannot escape their contact.
In my rising up and sitting down they barnacle me;
They entice with constant baits;
My enemy is within the citadel;
Come with almighty power and cast him out, pierce him to death,
and abolish in me every particle of carnal life this day.

I trust this will help you men as you face new days.

"College of Content"

2009-02-16T09:12:00.003+11:00

Have you ever enrolled in the "College of Content" or would you be enrolled in the 'University of Discontentment'? - I am convicted that I am enrolled in the later. But I have hope and am finding encouragement through this conviction...

Paul tells us in Philippians 4:11 "Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content."

Paul seems to be aware that contentment is not a natural attitude of man. CLEARLY - this is so true...

My hero, Spurgeon writes, "Covetousness, discontent, and murmuring are as natural to man as thorns are to soil."

Can you agree with this. I see these traits in my life, and that it is a fight not to participate in these practices! However, it appears to me that the precious things of the earth must be cultivated. So, if I want flowers, I must plant them and care for them. Likewise, if I want crops, then I am going to need to plow and sow.

I would agree with Spurgeon that, "contentment is a flower of heaven". So, if you and I want these flowers in our garden, then they must be cultivated. They are not just going to appear because we wish them there either. The only way that these flowers can be cultivated is by the new nature that comes from Christ Alone. Paul says, I have learned... to be content! It is apparent, that at one time, Paul did not know how to do this, therefore he had to learn it and practice it. This learning comes from the conviction and instruction of the Holy Spirit through God's Word and His people.

I am sure that Paul failed many times, just as you and I will fail, however that does not mean we give up and not keep seeking to learn how to be content.

Let me encourage you to hush that murmur, natural though it be, and continue a diligent pupil in the College of Content...

This will bring glory to our Heavenly Father, as well as being an model to our wife and children, for remember, we are parenting with and enternal perspective...

Preparedness in Dating

2009-02-14T11:42:00.006+11:00

Do you prepare to take your bride out for a meal? Not just the babysitter, the reservations, the car washed, the bottle of grog, the details of going out, but do you prepare for the conversation when you are actually out on your date?

Now, I am a lazy bugger sometimes. If I am honest, my wife and I don't "date" as much because it takes so much work. Babysitter for 6 kids, picking a night that serves both of us, assuring that my wife has the time to have a nap, prepare a "easy" meal for 6 kids and have time to doll up to go out with her man. Those little steps can be enough for me not to make the plans. However, I am committed to making this work. And as I have thought about serving my wife on these date nights, the planning does not just stop when we get out the door.

Let me explain.

I want to think of how I can affirm my love and respect for my wife throughout the night. I want her to know that I want to be with her. I want to engage her in meaningful conversation. I want to hear what is on her heart & how she is feeling about being Mrs Chavez.

I have an ability to "check out". I will watch people, look for a TV, zone out and be interested in what other couples are doing and laughing about. Crazy aye?

Thankfully my wife get's my attention with a hand on my hand, a squeeze of my knee or a wink that brings my focus back onto her. Thankfully my wife, is aware of my ADD and knows how to get my attention... She does not brow beat me, or attempt to make me feel guilty, however she will express how it can tempt her to feel like I would rather be someplace else.

Listen guys, I don't want it to be like this. I desire it to be like I earlier mentioned. I think I am getting better but I don't always succeed, however I am going to keep working at it, so check in on me... it's a constant battle to be self absorbed, ain't it?!

So here is how I am preparing:

Exposing my weakness to mates:
Being held accountable:

ORGANIZING the FOLLOWING - Weekly -

Date Night:
Time to go out:
Who is Babysitting:
Reservation:
Is menu "easy":
What do I want to communicate to my bride on the night:

Easy & REWARDING!!!

Try it brothers - because it will help you to parent with an eternal significance...

Heaven or Hell - Myth or Reality

2009-02-12T05:35:00.002+11:00

Do you ever question if Heaven is a myth? What about Hell? Is Hell a reality? Can it be proved?

Please listen to this talk...

Just click here

I trust you will be served and encouraged!

ONLY because of the cross...

Some Personal Reading Recommendations

2009-02-05T11:28:00.004+11:00

I always appreciate being put on to a good read. Let me serve you with a couple of books that I have been enjoying.

1) 'Since Nobody's perfect... How Good is good enough?' by Andy Stanley

This book is asking some wonderful questions, but then providing some equally wonderful answers. It is a brief but concise book. I am still working through it, but I am finding great encouragement from it!

2) 'The Reason for God' Belief in an Age of Skepticism - by Timothy Keller

Another fantastic read. This one takes a bit longer to work through. I have found that the continual wisdom Mr. Keller pours out takes a bit of pondering. I am still working on this book as well.

3) 'The Prodigal God' Recovering the Heart of the Christian Faith - by Timothy Keller

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I read most of it in one night because I could not sleep. This book helped me in ways I really needed. The book is about the parable of the prodigal son. Mr Keller has done a fantastic job of explaining this parable and bringing to light the significance that each of the characters represents. This book has helped me readjust my understanding of God and His Grace - which is so rich and free!

4) 'The Invisible Hand' Do All Things Really Work for Good? - by R C Sproul

R C Sproul has written this book so well. I found it easy to digest and read. He has used great illustrations and brought through many truths that many Christians struggle with! Highly recommended.

5) 'Worldiness' Resisting the Seduction of a Fallen World - Edited by C J Mahaney

Love most things that Mr Mahaney has put his paws on. This book is confronting and challenging. Just what we as father's need. How are we protecting the door to our house and what we are allowing to come in and influence our wife and children. The grace and truth the is used to support these biblical idea's is powerful and humbling. I trust it will serve you as a man, husband, and father!

6) 'The Valley of Vision' A collection of Puritan Prayers and Devotions - by Arthur Bennett

This is a must have in your library! Boy have I enjoyed this book thoroughly. It is not a pick up and read cover to cover. It is a complimentary reading, with your own personal devotions. Reading one or two of these prayers a day is good for the soul!

Now I know allot of men say, "I am not a reader". Please brothers, these books will serve you to love your Saviour more, as well as assist you in being a husband and father. Who doesn't want that?