12 October 2026
Best laid plans
I will set him over my house and my kingdom forever; his throne will be established forever.
— 1 Chronicles 17:14
I am in the book of 1 Kings currently and I’m discovering it’s similarly as turbulent as the books of Samuel! Amongst the struggles for power, human ambition, disobedience and unexpected twists and turns, one thing continues to stand out to me: God’s purposes are never derailed by the limitations of human understanding.
I have been reading how Solomon was entrusted with building the temple of the Lord. His father David had requested this honour from the Lord. He had wanted to build a dwelling place for the ark of the covenant. However David was denied his request. The reason? God wanted a man of peace to build his temple rather than a man of war.
We are sometimes prevented from doing things we are passionate about, things we believe will bring honour and glory to God. We can take the rejection as a real knock, especially when we only want what we think is best for God’s Kingdom. Our heart can be in the right place. Surely David’s was. Herein lies the problem. There is a considerable difference between what we THINK is best and what God KNOWS is best.
In 1 Chronicles 17 God is speaking to Nathan the prophet.
7 “Now then, tell my servant David, ‘This is what the Lord Almighty says: I took you from the pasture, from tending the flock, and appointed you ruler over my people Israel. 8 I have been with you wherever you have gone, and I have cut off all your enemies from before you. Now I will make your name like the names of the greatest men on earth. 9 And I will provide a place for my people Israel and will plant them so that they can have a home of their own and no longer be disturbed. Wicked people will not oppress them anymore, as they did at the beginning 10 and have done ever since the time I appointed leaders over my people Israel. I will also subdue all your enemies.
“‘I declare to you that the Lord will build a house for you: 11 When your days are over and you go to be with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, one of your own sons, and I will establish his kingdom. 12 He is the one who will build a house for me, and I will establish his throne forever. 13 I will be his father, and he will be my son. I will never take my love away from him, as I took it away from your predecessor. 14 I will set him over my house and my kingdom forever; his throne will be established forever.’”
The second part of verse 10 struck me. “I declare to you that the Lord will build a house for you.” The message from God through the prophet Nathan to David is what sounds like the opposite of David’s request. Had something got lost in translation?
A commentator puts it beautifully: “Our relationship with God is always based upon what He does for us, never upon what we do for Him. If He wills that we build a Temple, it is ours to do it, but the doing of it creates no merit by which we may claim anything from Him.” (Morgan)
David’s offer to build God a house, a place of honour, while well-meaning and admirable, was not where God’s focus fell.
He did allow David’s request to be fulfilled through his son Solomon.
But what God had promised was pointing to something much greater.
I DECLARE TO YOU THAT THE LORD WILL BUILD A HOUSE… FOR YOU.
God was establishing “the house of David.” The dynasty of the line of David. Culminating in the coming of Jesus.
David was focused on a temple that would eventually crumble. God was establishing a kingdom that would endure forever through Jesus Christ.
I am constantly amazed at how limited our vision can be. We see the immediate opportunity, while God sees the eternal significance. We see what is directly in front of us and often, with the very best intentions, we begin to imagine how God might use US to accomplish something wonderful for His Kingdom.
But our perspective is restricted to what we know, what we understand and what we can imagine.
God's is not.
David could have resented Solomon for receiving the blessings and honour that may well have been his. Instead, David embraced the role God had given him and prepared the way for his son. His delight was in having an inner circle understanding of God’s bigger picture.
David’s desire to honour God through a physical structure was met with a promise that would ultimately bless the entire world.
But here is where I think we need to be careful.
Recognising that God's vision is infinitely greater than ours does not give us permission to sit back, fold our arms and wait for Him to do everything. If you have spent any time with me you would have heard me talk about the “rocking chair of salvation.” It is something that shouldn’t exist but does.
We are not called to passivity. We are called to obedience.
David didn't build the temple, but neither did he sit idly by while Solomon prepared to do so. He gathered materials, made preparations and invested in the next generation. He recognised that although the assignment was not his to complete, he still had a responsibility to participate in what God was doing.
And isn't that what we are called to do?
We may not understand the entirety of God's purposes, but we can respond faithfully to what He has revealed.
We can pray. We can serve. We can step out in faith. We can encourage, disciple, give generously, speak truth and love those God places before us. Encouragement and building others up is so underrated if you ask me!!
We can be willing to move when He calls us forward and equally willing to step aside when He calls someone else.
Surrender is not the absence of action. It is the surrender of our right to determine what that action must look like.
This is what it means to be Called Beyond.
Called beyond our own understanding. Beyond our carefully constructed plans. Beyond the limitations of what we can see and imagine.
But also called beyond complacency. Beyond the comfort of simply acknowledging that God is sovereign while neglecting the responsibility He has entrusted to us.
Perhaps the question we need to ask is not simply, "Lord, what are You doing?" but also, "Lord, what would You have me do in response?"
Because while the outcome belongs to God, our response to His calling still matters.
Be blessed friends
30 September 2026
But what if I can't do all things...
For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
— Hebrews 4:12
We are so incredibly blessed to have God’s Word faithfully preserved for us throughout every generation. Amen? It sure is a book unlike any other!
Hebrews 4:12 speaks of its power. For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
The gospels record that even the devil is familiar with scripture! He actually had the audacity to use it against Jesus, to try and make him fall into sin. He knew that if Jesus sinned by listening and responding to his words, it would disqualify him from doing the very thing he came to earth to do – to die as one who knew no sin, but who intentionally became sin to carry out the perfect plan of His Father; to win humanity back to himself.
The devil quoted scripture verbatim, but he used it not for its intended purpose, he used it for his own gain. Just as the devil unscrupulously used scripture against Jesus in an attempt to cause him to sin, we need be aware that he also uses scripture against us. He twists the very words of God and uses them to put doubts in our mind and even more alarmingly, to make us doubt Jesus.
Many Christians use the following verse as a mantra. An affirmation. When the task ahead is hard. I know I sure have.
Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (NKJV)
On the surface it’s affirming. It’s boundless. It’s like a super charged war cry. I’ve seen it on t-shirts, coffee mugs and journals.
Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (NKJV)
But can I? Really? If this verse is indeed true (and we know it is) why do some days feel hard? Really hard? Why is it that day after day, if we are honest, we discover we actually cannot do all things – even through Christ who is the source of our strength? How can this verse be both true and seemingly at times untrue?
We can be guilty of using scripture incorrectly, of interpreting it in a way that suits us. It is essential that we be on guard against doing such things. When we merely dip our toe in scripture, the devil can use it to his advantage and our detriment. We can cherry pick verses and use them as a mantra of sorts. So, what happens when we feel the mantra isn’t quite cutting it for us? Our faith can be shaken. Some can even walk away from God altogether.
Why then did Paul say this famous, much quoted verse? Let’s look at the context.
Where did Paul write it? In prison.
When did Paul write it? Towards the end of his life – a life spent facing many challenges. Misguided origins. Opposition, church planting, beatings, imprisonment, shipwrecks, seeing many converts. He was, while in a dark place, reflecting on his many years of service for the Lord.
The previous verse provides much clarity for the reader: Paul writes 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
So, Paul can say with all honesty he can do all things through Christ who strengthens him. He is making this statement as he reflects back on how Christ has provided him the way. He has learned the secret of contentment. Jesus.
We need to ask ourselves when we think of scripture: am I using it to see what I can get out of it? How it can boost my spirit and elevate my understanding? Not necessarily bad things, but not the best thing either.
It’s time we stop using God’s Word to soothe hurt feelings and as emotional Band-Aids. Scripture is of course an enormous source of comfort and encouragement, but what is its primary purpose?
2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness…
It is interesting upon re-reading this verse, that scripture has been given to us, the very words of God, largely not to affirm us, soothe us or placate us… but as a tool to teach us, rebuke us, correct us and train us in righteousness. Verse 17 goes on to give us the reason: so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Some lessons take a lifetime to learn. But reading God’s Word with the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit daily can absolutely fast track our learning. Sit with scripture, sit with the Holy Spirit. Ask God to reveal his truth to you as you read. Request discernment and understanding. He will provide it, maybe he is just waiting to be asked.
Is there a verse you have been looking at differently lately? Leave a comment below.
Be blessed.
Share your thoughts below.
19 September 2026
Never underestimate a child
Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
— Matthew 18:3
What a blessing children are! It amazes me that these miniature humans are dependant on others for survival, yet many also have the ability to speak words of profound honesty. Sometimes their words are inspiring and challenging – beyond their years, other times a little offensive and frankly… brutal! I once had a kindy student ask me why my face looked weird and why my teeth were so wonky!! Ouch… who says honesty is the best policy?!
That said, I think we can be at risk of underestimating the ability of children to be change makers. We need to empower and invest in them, to give them guidance, expose them to truth, and give them a voice.
If you haven’t signed up for email communications yet, please see the space at the end of this post, pop in your email address and come back to where you left off.
Jesus himself says in Matthew 19:14 “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
Just one chapter before – in Matthew 18:3 Jesus says to his disciples “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
He encourages His followers to take on a child-like faith. Curious, questioning, pure, trusting.
A friend of mine who is a relatively new believer shared the other day how her little girl has become enamoured with Jesus. I love that so much. She is five years old and yet in her tender young age she has already grasped the beauty of the love of Jesus. Her mum is doing her utmost to have her daughter brought up in the love and understanding of Jesus’ saving work on the cross and his heart for humanity.
This little girl understands that those who believe in Jesus and put their trust in him will be forgiven and spend eternity with him in heaven one day. She also understands that God does not force anyone to love him, or to live with him in heaven. If they don’t want him to be in their life on earth, they do not have to have him in their life after death.
But this grace, the granting of free will means we have a decision to make. Choose Jesus – heaven, choose life without Jesus – hell. This little girl’s Daddy doesn’t have a relationship with Jesus yet. She knows it. She knows the implications. She knows the gravity. And so, she is speaking truth to her Daddy. He reported to my friend after spending a few days together – “she kept telling me all weekend that if I wanna see her in another life I have to pray to God. I just say yea yea.” I say… You go girl!!!
And following on from that, she asked her Mumma “if Dad isn’t in heaven, can Jesus bring him back when he makes the new earth?” Love this kid! Mumma doesn’t even remember teaching her about the new earth, but there you go.
This precious child understands the importance of making the right decision and the cost of making the wrong one. At five.
Deuteronomy 11:19 directs the Israelites to teach God’s ways to the children. “Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you like down and when you get up.”
Seems to me this is pretty important. This Mumma is doing so well. There are many days she feels she is not. But she is. She is a good and faithful servant and a wonderful steward of the children God has blessed her with.
She reads Bible stories also with her younger daughter, who is delighting in the discovery of the compassionate and loving person of Jesus in the New Testament, and the protecting, providing nature of God revealed in the Old.
Have you noticed the emphasis on the unqualified? The uneducated, the weak, the ones who learn slowly, the timid? Those who may normally be picked last, his heart is to make the nobodies somebodies. So his glory shines brighter.
He picked little David over his strong brothers.
He picked a young woman to be the mother of Jesus.
What do they have in common? The were chosen for their humility and their ability to be teachable.
These beautiful girls have the opportunity to learn about Jesus, to know a life with Him as their Lord and King. Their protector. The source of their salvation. So many do not have this opportunity.
What if Jesus wants to use children for His glory? Isn’t that just his way? He uses the weak to humble the strong.
May we be motivated to champion the young to know Jesus and to make him known.
Be blessed.
16 September 2026
Language of Love
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
— Romans 12:2
I must admit, I quite enjoy a spot of people watching. My daughter and I are currently in Bali and have had many opportunities to observe others. It’s fascinating seeing people from different nationalities and demographics chatting over a meal or conversing while walking about the streets of Sanur.
This morning in a little café a short walk from our hotel, my daughter and I were discussing the different accents and way people shape their mouths in order to speak. Not surprising really, as my daughter is a very nearly almost graduated Speech Pathology student.
Bali attracts visitors from all over the world, and where we are staying there’s a combination of Aussies, French, Japanese and European travellers. Turns out that facial expressions and word formations when speaking are quite distinct and unique to your cultural heritage, and what you are exposed to.
Interestingly, babies are born with the remarkable ability to distinguish every sound in language, essentially, all sounds used in all languages worldwide! They can detect subtle variations in pitch, tone, and sounds, including differences that adults cannot. This phenomenon is known as universal phonetic discrimination, a vastly studied language development and neurological concept. Beth and I watched this play out as we observed a baby in a pram as it babbled, gurgled, cooed and squealed, having a delightful time discovering the sounds it could make. And of course, we can’t forget to mention the multitude of raspberries blown!!
As children are immersed in their particular language and environment, their brains begin to tune in to the sounds they hear most often. Similarly, sounds that aren't part of their everyday world are filtered out, becoming harder to distinguish and reproduce as time passes. Tuned in to what they hear, the sounds they don’t hear are eventually filtered out.
Essentially, words and sounds we are exposed to as babies and young children have a HUGE impact on growth, development and wellbeing.
Let’s dig a little deeper. Imagine the input.
A child who grows up hearing, “I love you,” “I'm proud of you,” “You are special,” begins to recognise those words as words that make them feel valued, safe and warm.
But what happens when those words are rarely spoken? Not spoken at all?
What happens when affection is absent, conditional or unpredictable? When a child learns that being vulnerable can lead to abuse or rejection?
Perhaps love can become like a sound they have rarely heard and so filtered out.
I was speaking to a Christian couple a few years ago who were foster parents. They were beautifully honest and open with me, and expressed the gut wrenching emotions that came with fostering. At that time the wife in particular was struggling with the family dynamic of parenting children removed from their birth parents. Along with their two older children, this lovely couple cared for two kids, aged three and five, whom they adored. Sadly the “feeling” wasn’t mutual. Regularly, attempts at showing the children Godly love was rejected, even at times returned with a punch or a kick. This couple desperately want a chance to help mend these children’s hearts, to love them to health and wellbeing.
But a child who hasn't experienced healthy often love struggles to recognise it when it arrives. They may feel uncomfortable receiving something they desperately long for. And sometimes, they may not know how to give what they never learned to receive. Just like sounds and words that are not required for use in their cultural vocabulary.
I would say most of us have some understanding of how this plays out in adulthood, either from our own life experience or from observing the negative effects on others.
It should break our hearts that some children, who through no fault of their own, have not been exposed to the love they need to thrive.
Children who are abused, neglected or unwanted by their parents.
Children who have been trafficked.
Children who have physical and intellectual disabilities.
Children living in poverty.
God must weep over his creation and their constant, disgraceful mistreatment of one another.
But I really love that God has created us with brains that are remarkably capable of learning.
Romans 12:2 says we can obtain transformation and renewal. It is available to us. We are not a lost cause.
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Nyoman, Eka, their church team, along with other Christian friends of theirs who facilitate an orphanage in Bali, teams at churches in the developing world who run Compassion projects… the global church, you and I. We all have a part to play. We can speak words of love and truth into the lives of others. We can support initiatives that champion child protection and growth.
Yes, it is hard for children to understand and accept love after initially not being exposed to it, but it’s not impossible. Gently, slowly, when shown the love Jesus has put in to our hearts to care for others, the love of Jesus himself, these children can be transformed and renewed.
Please pray for the children in your life, that they will have wonderful role models and people who truly see their potential and speak into their lives.
Pray for those who are awaiting sponsorship through Compassion.
Pray for those who are unseen by the world, yet seen by God.
May we not look away. May we look them in the eye, teach them a new language, so they can sing a new song, put in their heart by God himself.
Be blessed friends.
7 September 2026
Time Under the Sun
When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.
— John 8:12
I recently purchased a shampoo bar. Basically, instead of liquid shampoo it’s compressed into a solid bar, just like a cake of soap. I love it! It’s made with ginger and has made my hair feel amazing.
Along with the purchase of the shampoo bar, I bought a little bamboo disc - shampoo bar holder. It has little slots cut into it and allows the soap to dry with a little airflow underneath, so it doesn’t end up mushy. So far so good. No mushy shampoo bar.
*Oh, don’t forget to sign up for emails below if you haven’t already – you don’t want to miss my updates as the book launch approaches!*
I discovered yesterday that after about six weeks of use, the bamboo holder has become stained with black mould, even though it has been kept out of direct water. Grr. This morning I put the bamboo dish in boiling water, got an old toothbrush and gave it a good ol’ scrub. That helped a bit, but the mould wasn’t completely removed.
What to do, what to do?
Then I thought “it might benefit from some time under the sun.” So, I took it outside in a lovely sunny spot where it has been sitting all day.
Core memory unlocked.
On the days I felt unwell as a child (and even more recently as an adult), my mum would always say, “make sure you get some time under the sun. You will feel much better.” I would moan and mumble and drag myself out of bed with my blanket and lay on our trampoline in the backyard, “under the sun.” And yes, I did feel better.
A health specialist I have been seeing recently has been encouraging me to do the same thing to reset my circadian rhythm. Your circadian rhythm is your body's natural 24-hour internal clock that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and other vital biological processes. Apparently. The word circadian comes from the Latin words circa, meaning "about," and diem, meaning "day". Save that fun fact for your next quiz night! You’re welcome.
“Make sure you have 15 minutes under the sun every morning within an hour of waking” my health specialist told me. It has been quite difficult during winter, but I have managed to do this several times.
The benefits – Google tells me morning photons hit specialized retinal cells, causing a healthy spike in cortisol that boosts daytime focus and energy. This morning trigger starts a 14-16 hour timer for your body to naturally produce melatonin at night for better sleep.
Basically, time under the sun is good for our wake/sleep cycles and contributes to how productive we are during the day.
Have you ever sat in the morning sun for 10-15 minutes and felt WORSE for it? Me neither. Unless some bizarre unforeseen circumstance happens, totally unrelated to the sun, like you get stung by a bee, or your dog Basil goes off at the neighbour’s dog at the fence (love you Boo).
You probably know where I’m going with this thought process by now. Time under the sun led me to think of… time under the SON. *Sigh*
Time under the Son is arguably the most critical element to a healthy life, friends. We can have healthy minds and bodies, but if our soul is not healthy, we are in great trouble. Just as the sun is the source of light and heat, the Son is the source of peace and joy.
When did you last spend time under the Son?
When was the last time you felt the healing power of His Light?
John 8:12 says - When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
Jesus refers to himself as the light of the world. His followers will not be in darkness, if they follow him. The next words I found super interesting – but will have the light of life.
Will have.
Will possess.
We don’t just experience the light. We possess it. It becomes ours.
In terms of Christian living, this understanding makes the next passage about light profound. Jesus is speaking directly to his disciples here.
Matthew 5:14-16 says “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Two references, spoken by Jesus himself, referring to the source of light.
One claiming Jesus is the light of the world.
The other claiming his followers are the light of the world.
Which one is true?
Both.
Dear Christian, in our desire to give God the glory, honour and reverence he deserves, we can often be quick to dismiss that we too, as believers of Jesus, are called “the light of the world.” We can mistakenly reserve that position just for Him. I want us as believers to be challenged on this mindset. Yes, of course, Jesus is the light of the world. Yes, of course, Jesus deserves our honour and praise. Yes, of course, we are nothing without Him. BUT He gives us the responsibility to, just as He is, BE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD.
How well are we carrying this responsibility?
For much of my Christian walk I have struggled to live like Jesus because… well He’s Jesus and I’m Alana. It’s like telling a moose to live like an eagle. Only nothing at all like that, I couldn’t think of a better analogy…. Can you? Leave a comment below!
Lately God has been correcting and reshaping me. Like grapes are crushed to make wine. Sounds dramatic because it is. Sounds painful because it is.
He’s teaching me to reframe my thinking…
“I’m only the vessel.”
“I’m just a conduit.”
True statements but limiting. What happens when I remove the words only and just.
“I’m the vessel” – Yes!! I’m going to pour out to others what God in his love and kindness has poured in to me through His Holy Spirit.
“I’m the conduit” – Yes!! I’ve got an important message I’ve been chosen to carry, may I not only carry it but deliver it well.
This is the result of time under the Son. He has so, so much more for us than we could ever imagine.
I’d love to hear your thoughts, please leave a message below.
Where in your life do you need to reframe your thinking, for His glory?
Be blessed!
27 August 2026
Growing Pains
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
— Romans 8:28
Did you ever suffer growing pains as a child? Oh boy I sure did! I remember the back of my knees aching like mad at night, when I was primary school age. I needed to call on my mum for comfort. She would often put a record on the old record player that played soothing music - “Pipes of Pan.” She would come in, rub my legs, give me a hot water bottle and reassure me that the pain would pass, and everything would be okay. That in fact the pain was a sign of growth.
Let that sit for a second.
Who of us actually likes pain and thinks pain is good for us…?
Unless you are a hardcore gym junkie who enjoys feeling the burn of your muscles after pushing them to extremes, or an athlete who gets an endorphin rush when knocked around and pounded in a game of basketball… I think it’s fair to say that most of us wish there was less pain in life.
The theme for this reflection is similar to previous ones – “Greenhouse to Garden” and “Sculpted” – check them out if you haven’t already.
Many of you would have heard the saying “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.”
What if we retrain our thinking…
As followers of Christ, what if we hold to the truth, what doesn’t kill you makes you - more compassionate, more relatable, more dependent on God, more Christlike; and ultimately, more useful in His hands.
Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
May we as Believers be brave and step into our calling, knowing:
God, in his mercy, sought us out and called us to be His own.
He has given us individually tailored assignments of Kingdom work to do.
We don’t do it alone. We have the Holy Spirit ever present, we have our Christian communities to spur us on.
May we not allow the fear of pain stunt our growth. We may still need to close our eyes and wince through it, but just like those gym junkies and basketball players, after a while you see the positive outcomes. I don’t think it’s prideful to think “look at what I did through Christ who strengthens me!”
So be in God’s Word daily, ask Him what he wants you to do for Him. For his global church, for the spreading of His good news.
It might look like inviting someone to church, finding ways of sharing your faith at the supermarket, giving up a little money each month to sponsor a child through Compassion!
What doesn’t kill you makes you…. Add your comments below!
Be blessed friends. God’s got this. It’s all in his hands.
23 August 2026
Greenhouse to Garden
...be filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.
— Philippians 1:11
I’m in a reflective season right now. Gifted with the luxury of more time on my hands, God seems to be downloading so many different thoughts and ideas into my mind that share a similar thread. It’s the sense of forward movement, of establishing something more, of growth. For His glory.
When we are growing something for God, it can be accompanied by some unwanted tag-alongs: sickness, frustration, anxiety, a sense of being misunderstood.
My mind pictured a pot plant in a greenhouse. Now I really wish I was a gardener. I’m just not. So it’s kind of funny that this post is about plants! Before we go there together, if you haven’t already signed up for my email updates alerting you to new posts, please stop reading now, scroll to the bottom of the screen and pop in your email details. Thanks!
Ok – pot plant, greenhouse. Imagine a pot plant in a greenhouse. It’s grown from a seedling to an established plant. It’s outgrown its pot, and it’s now ready to be planted into the ground. A big transition is about to take place.
Now it’s out in the garden. It’s discovered a whole new world! It has room to grow and flourish; however, it has a plethora of issues to contend with that weren’t issues under the protection of the greenhouse. It might be the soil. Too acidic, not acidic enough, too much drainage, not enough drainage. It might be the pests – those pesky white moths, snails and other bugs. Could be the weather – too many days without rain. Too much direct sunlight.
If the pot plant knew the challenges ahead and could talk, what would it say?
“Gardener, please allow me to remain in my pot in the greenhouse. I like it here. I’ve already grown a fair bit. My pot is fitting a bit more snugly than I’d like, but that’s okay. I don’t want to be battered by the weather, nibbled on by pests. There’s already plenty of plants in the garden; surely you don’t need another one out there.”
So what if it stays in the greenhouse? Have you ever seen a potbound plant? It’s not in a good way.
Its roots grow out of the little drainage holes at the bottom of the pot.
Water runs straight through the soil without soaking in.
The plant dries out very fast after watering.
Growth slows down or stops completely.
Leaves turn yellow and drop off.
What if the plant were to say to the Gardener, “I’m happy here in the greenhouse; it’s warm and comfortable, but I think I’m trapped. Maybe if you cut this pot from me and trimmed my roots, I could be more. I know it will be cold without my pot, but if I had more space, I could produce more flowers, more fruit for people to enjoy. I know it’s scary, but I think I’m ready to be planted in the garden. Would you take me to the garden bed, Gardener and plant me where you think best?”
The plant knows the Gardener will lovingly tend it. The Gardener will pick off the snails, give the right amount of water, the most suitable fertilizer for optimal growth, and a spot in part sun or dappled shade.
There may be the odd snail that isn’t picked off. A week or two where the solenoid is broken, and the retic fails to fire up—a season of frost. But the faithful Gardener is always there. Helping the plant grow through it all. Each pest, dry patch and season of frost combine to strengthen the plant. To make it hardy so that these factors have less impact. So what if it bears the evidence of the odd bug nibble or burnt leaf edges? It’s the flowers and fruit produced that matter.
Where are you at? *Are you the seedling in the pot, tended by the Gardener in the safety of the greenhouse, at the beginning of your Christian walk? Are you the established plant, about to reach your full potential but rootbound if you remain in comfort? Are you the plant who has been freshly cut from its pot and about to face the challenges of the elements? Or are you the weather-beaten, bug-nibbled plant who, through it all, flourishes and fruits because you know it’s not actually about you and your strength, but the care of the loving Gardener?
Keep growing in your love of Jesus. Produce a bountiful harvest of fruit – the evidence of the Garden at work in your life. Bloom and blossom with love and beauty that others may be drawn to Christ through you.
Philippians 1:9-11
9 And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, 10 so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, 11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.
Points to ponder:
*What stage of plant development do you most relate to?
**What type of environment do you enjoy the most growth?
***What will it take for you to be brave and trust the Gardener to plant you where He can grow you even more?
As always, be blessed.
16 August 2026
Act Belong Commit
All those who were in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him, and he became their commander. About four hundred men were with him.
— 1 Samuel 22:2
My quiet time journey through 1 Samuel has brought me so much joy! I am getting so much out of it that I had glossed over in previous readings; I’ve discovered passages that are motivating, enlightening and even some that are rather humorous.
If you haven’t checked out my Instagram page – you can find it at calledbeyondbaliblog. If you’re not an instagramer – please sign up below for email updates to be informed of when I post articles.
One passage that made me LOL is in 1 Samuel 21:10-15. David was under attack by King Saul and, in a rather strategic move, fled to the Philistine city of Gath to hide out. He was pretty sure Saul would give up the chase when he crossed into enemy territory. Achish was the king of Gath at the time. David was afraid of the king so adopted a few questionable character traits to appear insane. I laughed out loud at Achish’s response. Saul was fully committed to his crazy man improv - drooling down his beard and making marks on the door of the gate.
14 Achish said to his servants, “Look at the man! He is insane! Why bring him to me? 15 Am I so short of madmen that you have to bring this fellow here to carry on like this in front of me? Must this man come into my house?”
Pure gold. It seems King Achish had his fair share of crazy guys in his town, and couldn’t possibly entertain the thought of another one. He reminds me of a parent who has just about had all they can take of their kids’ antics, and the doorbell rings… and there stands one of their ragamuffin mates! ARGH!
But that’s not the passage I want to share with you today, it’s in the following chapter.
David, realising that moonlighting as a madman wasn’t really his style, left Gath and escaped to the cave of Adullam, a place where those who were in distress or in debt or discontented hung out. David was on the run, and in their own ways, so were these men. The full verse reads 2 All those who were in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him, and he became their commander. About four hundred men were with him.
The cave of Adullam. Where people went to escape from the pressures of life, from hardships, from persecution, from commitment, from debt. Not the place you would think you’d find top notch men of outstanding character. And yet these four hundred men came under David’s leadership, were trained by him and went on to become mighty warriors who won countless battles for the Lord.
I wonder what they thought when they were headed to the cave of Adullam. Maybe they went there to gather their thoughts, to escape responsibility, to lament their hopeless state, or maybe even to die. Instead they found purpose and meaning.
It reminds me of the Act Belong Commit mental health and wellbeing campaign in Perth developed through Curtin University.
Staying emotionally healthy is as easy as ABC:
Act: Do something. Keeping yourself active physically, mentally, socially, spiritually or culturally.
Belong: Do something with someone. Maintain relationships and connections – family, friends, church, clubs, community groups.
Commit: Do something meaningful. Have something that gives you purpose and meaning. Volunteer, help someone, take on a challenge, learn a skill, contribute to a cause, or work towards a meaningful goal.
The cave of Adullam. Perhaps the original Act, Belong, Commit program.
There is so much depth in this passage. Outcasts, rejects, disillusioned, suicidal perhaps, those who had lost their way. I think most of us have felt one of those things at one stage of our lives. May we find our cave of Adullam. May we find our people. May we surrender to the leadership of God so that we may “grow and go” like these men did under the command of David. I especially love how they didn’t just meet, train and remain. It was the grow and go model. Because that’s how we mobilise for God’s Kingdom. We grow and we go.
Jesus had a crew similar to David didn’t he?
1 Corinthians 1:27 Reinforces the sentiment. “But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.”
We all have a part to play in the building of God’s Kingdom. Let’s act, belong, commit. Let’s grow and go. In the mighty name of Jesus for his glory!
Thanks for reading - please leave a comment below, I'd love to know your thoughts.
29 July 2026
Shaken not Stirred?
For as churning cream produces butter, and as twisting the nose produces blood, so stirring up anger produces strife.
— Proverbs 30:33
I can’t say I’m a huge 007 fan, but I have found myself on the couch the last few evenings watching James Bond’s No Time To Die.
While I did enjoy elements of it, (and no, this isn’t a movie review) I found myself getting distracted as I often do when I’m supposed to be concentrating on a movie. I started thinking about Bond’s smooth iconic catch phrase used to order his signature drink – Martini. He drawls to the bartender three words… shaken not stirred.
**Before you read on, scroll to the bottom and add your email address to receive updates if you’re not already registered. I would love you to follow me on Instagram at calledbeyondbaliblog. Leaving comments also helps share the Instagram page to a wider audience, so please give my entries a heart or a comment. Thanks for your support!**
That led me to think about the words shaken and stirred and what the difference would be to the Martini…. (a little window into my brain… maybe this is why I’m always so tired!) Anyhoo both shaken and stirred are words depicting an action. What does this actually mean for the Martini? I don’t know, I’d moved on by then.
As I sat and pondered these two words, my mind was redirected to the Bible (thank you Jesus!). They are, in their various forms, recorded as responses experienced by people. What I found interesting is that the same words can be used in either a positive or negative sense. Let’s take a look.
Proverbs 6:19 – one of the things God hates - a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community. -BAD-
Proverbs 30:33 For as churning cream produces butter, and as twisting the nose produces blood, so stirring up anger produces strife. -BAD- But a stellar Proverb don’t you agree?
2 Corinthians 9:2 For I know your eagerness to help, and I have been boasting about it to the Macedonians, telling them that since last year you in Achaia were ready to give; and your enthusiasm has stirred most of them to action. +GOOD+.
Haggai 1:14 - So the Lord stirred up the spirit of Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and the spirit of Joshua son of Jozadak, the high priest, and the spirit of the whole remnant of the people. They came and began to work on the house of the Lord Almighty, their God. +GOOD+.
Stirrings fuel action. They can ignite anger or compassion, fear or faith, selfish ambition or sacrificial love.
And shaken?
Isaiah 54:10 Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you. -BAD- and then +GOOD+
Hebrews 12:28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe. +GOOD+
Psalm 16:8 I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken. +GOOD+
Are you still with me? Take a minute to ponder on the following statements.
* Stirring suggests movement, shaking suggests disruption.
* Stirring changes our direction, shaking challenges our foundation.
* Stirring invites change, shaking demands it.
What shakes or stirs you? Leave a message below.
Thanks for your support. Be blessed.
9 July 2026
Team Master Weaver
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.
— Romans 8:28
I really, really love how God works. I think that’s one of the most understated sentences I’ve ever written… I’m at 25,000 words of my manuscript for my novel and to say I am enjoying the process is a massive understatement. I am constantly working back over the audio recordings from my recent interviews in Tabanan. Chats over cups of tea at my own kitchen table when Nyoman and Eka visited Perth a few years ago. Deep and meaningful discussions in the 4WD on the way to ministry outreach in Bali. I am countlessly reminded how good our God is. How powerful and mighty the name of Jesus is. How I have such a tiny grasp on who He is and what He is capable of doing for His glory and our good!
A quick little reminder, if you haven't subscribed for my email notifications, please scroll down to the bottom and pop in your email address. You can have your name removed at any time.
Just as He has woven together an amazing story for Nyoman and Eka, He has woven an amazing story for me. He does that for all who love Him, even if they don’t actually know it yet!! He is in the background. Sometimes He’s right in front of us, but we can have blurred vision. It has been poetically said God “weaves the tapestry of our life”. If you aren’t a believer yet, don’t doubt for a second God is not already weaving yours. He is sitting at the loom, the multi coloured yarn all laid out. He knows what colours He will use and where. He knows where He will add texture, perhaps even where a knotted, frayed piece of yarn will be placed (there will be lots of those). He knows the section of the tapestry where the colour will be dull and gloomy; grey, beige, grey, but then unexpectedly shifts to vibrant gold and magenta! Well not an unexpected shift for God, more so for us! If we learn to daily walk with Him, surrender our own will to be in step with His, you may even notice some sparkles sprinkled in.
When we learn to see our life as one controlled by the Master Weaver, the blurry parts seem less blurry.
We will see an overflowing cup of revelation and redirection, despair and delight, enlightenment and encouragement, providence and preparedness, rejoicing and refining. That is when we finally exhale, we get it. Romans 8:28 is a well known verse among Christians, you may be reading it for the first time. I hope it thrills your soul as it thrills mine.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
You will notice my overflowing cup mentioned earlier doesn’t contain just fairy floss and candy, it’s got the sour stuff too. God uses the sour stuff just as much, if not more, than the sweet stuff, at least in my experience. Is it the same for you? James, the brother of Jesus, got it. That’s why he could write with confidence in James 1:2-3:
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” The following verses are also incredibly encouraging, check them out when you’re having your next cuppa. Side note - Nyoman in his cheeky way likes to impersonate me... he says "Wannacubadee?" That's what he hears apparently when I ask if he wants tea!!
Where were we... oh yes...
When we are on team Master Weaver, things look different. There will be:
Less: Why is this happening? It's not fair!
More: I don’t understand it Lord, but I trust in you.
Less: When will you make it happen Lord?
More: You’re timing is perfect, help me worship you in the waiting.
Less: I don’t have the strength to go on!
More: Your power is made perfect in my weakness. Thank you that you’re carrying me! (2 Corinthians 12:9)
If the only things you feel are in your cup today are sour, it’s not so bad, we’re being refined. Why not give it a shake and look again. You may even find some blessings that were stuck to the bottom that you had forgotten about!
I'd love you to leave a comment, I get great encouragement out of them!
Bless you guys x
22 June 2026
Finding Refuge and Hesed
May the LORD repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.
— Ruth 2:12
My quiet time today found me in the early chapters of the book of Ruth. I have always been touched by Ruth’s faithfulness to her mother-in-law, staying by her side even though her husband and father-in-law had both passed. Distraught, the two returned to Naomi’s homeland – Bethlehem.
Ruth – Moabite woman, a foreigner and now young widow, denying herself to stay with her mother-in-law and start over with a new God and a new lifestyle.
Naomi - follower of God, grieving widow, desperately poor older woman. So raw was the pain of her circumstances, she requested to be called Mara (a name translating to bitter in Hebrew).
Two characters, both feeling the weight of their suffering.
Chapter 2 introduces someone new. Boaz. Boaz attends one of his fields where his harvesters were busy at work. “The LORD be with you” he greeted them. “They LORD bless you” came their reply. That interaction stood out to me in a way it hadn’t before. He was a man of both high integrity and status. A wealthy land owner. Not typically the kind you would expect to take the time to greet his lower class workers. I continued reading, this time looking more closely at Boaz than I had done in previous readings of Ruth.
As the story continues, Ruth had taken it upon herself to search out a field where she could “glean” – pick up what was dropped by the harvesters. It was an acceptable and common practice to enable the poor and vulnerable access to food. She did not know the owner of the field. Upon noticing her, Boaz inquired after her, and was informed after requesting permission to glean, she had been working hard all day only stopping briefly to rest. Receiving more details about Ruth’s background, Boaz was deeply moved, and ensured she had access to plenty of grain. He assured her of her safety (firmly telling his staff to make sure no harm fell on her).
Chapter 2:12 shares the words of Boaz to Ruth “May the LORD repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.” Boaz was a man who loved God.
A blessing. Kind, but not unusual. What stood out were the words …the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.
Did she know she had sought refuge under the LORD, the God of Israel’s wings? She was, after all, a foreign woman, descending from those who worshiped their false god in horrific and abominable ways.
Back a few verses in Chapter 1:16 Ruth makes a heartfelt plea to Naomi: “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.” Ruth’s statement is a declaration. She is abandoning the ways of her people and their gods, to follow Naomi. What devotion! I can see the similarities to Nyoman and Eka’s story. Leaving behind the gods of your heritage to follow the Living God.
Unfamiliar with how the story ends? Go ahead and read the book of Ruth for yourself. If you’re well versed in it, why not take another look? Like unwrapping a gift covered in multiple layers of beautiful paper, this redemption story will be unwrapped page by page. It’s a beautiful display of the steadfast, faithful love that God has for his own, and one which he calls us to reflect in our relationship with others (hesed).
Today I’m pondering on the beautiful qualities displayed in the character of both Ruth and Boaz. Qualities formed in their being by the very God of Israel, who is the perfect example of hesed love. *Sigh*
If you enjoyed reading this and haven’t yet signed up for email reminders, please scroll to the bottom and do so. You can also keep updated on my Instagram page by searching calledbeyondbaliblog.
12 June 2026
Sculpted
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
— Romans 12:2
In an attempt to get my body, mind and soul on track this year I have been implementing some small changes. I’m being a little more cautious with what I eat, spending more time with God and in His Word and moving my body more by going to the gym.
This week while at the gym, I was sitting on one of the pieces of exercise equipment and noticing the many and varied patrons of the gym. Just to be clear, I had actually used the equipment, I wasn’t just sitting on it!!
I love that there are a vast range of ages and body types represented at this particular gym. I feel quite comfortable there. Today there was a couple that stood out. They could have been models (and possibly were). Their carefully selected gym fits showed off perfectly just how sculpted their bodies were. The sharp definition in their muscles – emphasised by how lean they were - was really quite striking and I found myself admiring not only their physique (not in a creepy way, I was subtle) but the monumental effort it would have taken to get to that point, and maintain it.
I am middle aged, mildly unhealthy, and slightly overweight. I have been stuck in some bad habits and I used to lament over it quite often. Did the act of lamenting help me get fitter and stronger? No. Did the act of lamenting help shift my mindset in to doing something about my health? No.
The word “sculpted” played over and over in my mind as I continued my workout. It’s not something that happens without a great deal of effort and it certainly does not happen overnight. It’s intentional, disciplined, consistent hard work optimised with mindful nutrition and strict periods of rest and recovery.
I was thinking about the areas of my life that could be defined as “sculpted”. I didn’t have to think very long, there really weren’t many if any!!! It was a bit of a reality check.
I do NOT want to be physically sculpted like those gorgeous athletic specimens at the gym, however I see sculpting as vitally important and missing from other areas of my life. We are all created in the image of God, but we also require “sculpting” to become more like Jesus. I am so thankful for the gift and work of Holy Spirit to help in this process, but just like lamenting over my lack of physical health I can lament over my lack of spiritual health at times. Just like I needed to allocate time, lace up my sneakers and actually walk out the door and do a workout for the benefit of my physical health journey, I need to allocate time, open my bible and do a workout with the Lord for the benefit of my spiritual journey.
I want to be sculpted by wrestling with hard to comprehend truths, be fuelled, nourished and satiated by the life giving words of the Bible. I want to be sculpted in times of rest and recovery as I am reminded that I serve a God who sees every tear I cry and has a beautiful plan for my life for His Glory.
While I will still go to the gym and give it my best I will be focusing on a different kind of sculpting. The sculpting of my faith. If you enjoyed reading this and have not yet signed up for my email reminders, please do so now. I’d also love to know in the comments if this resonated with you. Many blessings to you friends!
PS the image I have used is not the actual couple at the gym.... just in case you were wondering :)
3 May 2026
A Misplaced Request
And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
— Philippians 4:19
My friend’s conversion story, details of which will be revealed in the book, was influenced in a powerful way by a spiritual dream. A dream that caused him to question his life and belief system and resulted in him choosing Jesus. Praise God!
As part of my “research” I have been looking in to spiritual dreams and visions. I read the book Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus: A Devout Muslim Encounters Christianity for the first time last month. The author Nabeel Qureshi describes his dramatic journey from Islam to Christianity, documenting along the way his examination of historical, textual, and theological evidence of Islam versus Christianity. Supernatural dreams and visions also featured strongly and influenced his conclusion that Jesus is indeed God. Praise his name!
I truly love how God uses dreams and visions as a tool to reveal Jesus. One night as I was praying I asked God if he would see fit to give ME a dream or a vision. Something special just for me to have a greater understanding of his love for me and his goodness. I prayed this prayer for the best part of a week, nothing happened. One morning when I awoke, I felt God speak to my soul kindly, gently but pointedly, in the way he often does to his children. His message was so clear it was as though he audibly whispered it into my ear “daughter I have given you my Son, I have given you my Word and I have given you Holy Spirit. What you are asking for is not required.” In that moment I realised I had no need for a dream or vision. His wise response was not one of denying me something I longed for, but in fact a reminder of what I had already been abundantly blessed with, realigning my mind to such things. I asked for his forgiveness. God gently but firmly redirected me to a state of gratitude, marvelling at the grace he has already bestowed upon me. Readying me to move forward with a greater sense of trust and intention.
It was an innocent, well-meaning prayer… I thought. I wanted more of him. But I was being a little lazy and maybe even a wee bit entitled.
Philippians 4:19 says: And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
How good it is to be known and loved by God!
22 April 2026
Pleasing Aroma or Scentless Fraud
For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. v15
— 2 Corinthians 2
This morning my quiet time Bible reading found me in 2 Corinthians 2.
v15 struck me "For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing."
Paul goes on to explain that we are an aroma – it depends on the audience as to how the scent is perceived – either life giving or announcing death. That's a pretty intense concept.
My mind then went to the idea of house candles. We recently had some plumbing work done in our kitchen and the aroma was very unpleasant to say the least. Feeling bad for the plumbers doing the work, I ended up lighting 5 candles and had them placed strategically around the kitchen. Their scent actually went a long way to masking the odour from the blocked drains. What I found interesting was that one of the candles, although beautiful in appearance with a fancy gold embossed label and a flame creating a lovely flickering light, when I bent to smell it, the scent was neutral… non-existent. I was disappointed.
It made me ponder how I can at times be like that candle. Fit for purpose, but a little… well… lacking. As his child and servant, I want God, when he inclines his face to me, to be filled with a sweet aroma.
We are Christ's representatives here on earth. May we represent him well. Just like my candles that are perfume infused and seemingly drenched in the sweet smelling aroma (that can be appreciated before the wick is even lit), brothers and sisters may our Christian witness be richly fragrant for God's glory!