Need to Share the Excitement

I had to go to Koorong tonight and just happened to see this really cool book on the shelves.  Something about a very cute little boy with half a heart, and all of the awesome stuff God has done in his life.  I know the photo is blurry, but I had to take the picture quickly to avoid looking like a rival book store spy.  Check it out, it's on the New Releases section right next to other big sellers!  Can you spot it?

Amazing Heart Story to Share

Praise God!

I was so amazed when I read this story this morning that I just had to share it with you.

The woman in this story was born with a single ventricle heart, just like Sam (the article does not allude to whether or not it is the left or right).  When  Sam was diagnosed with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome before he was born,  this was one of the limitations that we were told our baby would have if she were female.  Females with HLHS were very strongly warned not to fall pregnant, because of the huge amount of strain it would put on their already loaded heart.  It was too dangerous, too higher risk.  This story s a miracle.  I suggest you read it. 


Woman with half a heart has her own child-Amazing :-)

What courage, what strength, what determination.

How blessed, how happy, how alive.

I love it!

This is the House that God Built

I have been reflecting on friendship recently. The word 'friend' has become a very flippant and overused term.  To be a friend is a blessing and an honour, one not taken on lightly, but nurtured through love and care.  The fruits of friendship are beautiful and are reflected in the fruits of the spirit, that I speak of so often (Galatians 5).

A friend does not run when trouble comes knocking...

A friend does not intentionally hurt or condemn...

A friend both laughs and cries with you...

A true friend is forever...

This last weekend God has been speaking to me much about friendship.

The first was at the ANZAC Day parade.

Holy Spirit whispered "This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you.  There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."(John 15:12)

 Look at these men.  Remember I look upon those that have died and are not with them.  They layed down their lives for their friends.  They layed down  their lives so that you may live today.  In the same way you must love your friends.  In this same way you must love me.

We then had the privilege of spending time with old friends.  Some of which we had not seen for over 4 years.  We have friends such as these, that we may see for short amounts of time, but they remain close to the heart.  When we meet together we are joined by one spirit; Holy Spirit.  When we spend time together it is akin to coming home to a safe, nurturing, loving environment.  Like when you go away on holiday and arrive back in your own home, a sense of belonging and warmth fills your heart.  Many soft words are spoken, ingrained on the canvas of your soul.  Many loud belly laughs are shared.  Many new memories are forged.

Down at the cotton farm with our friends

Our third experience this week was with relatively new friends.  Friends we have known for just over a year now, with whom we share a special connection.  We share new adventures, new conversations, learn about each other, pray for one and other and enjoy each other's company.  We are buiding with new bricks, a friendship wall that will stand the test of time.

Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself. (Ephesians 2:20)

I believe this was partly what God was talking about with the passage above.  As we love one another, as Jesus loves us, God is building his church.  We are his house.  And that is why when you gather together with longtime friends it feels just like you are coming home; home to the house that God built.

This is the home that God built.

This is the woman who danced in the home that God built.

This is the man that married the woman that danced in the home that God built.

These are the boys who play and grow strong, born to the man that married the woman, that danced in the home that God built...

Will you be a part of God's Home?

I Want To Glow!

I am the gate, the only way to have life. You will be saved, only because you came through me. You may come and go freely into my presence, and will find your spirit satisfied and at peace.  The thief's purpose is to steal and kill and destroy.  My purpose is to give you an abundant and satisfying life.  A life so filled with purpose and wonder that you praise me in great joy! (Spoken to Nicole from John 10:9-10)

When I say I love to be in the presence of God, it is a vast understatement.  I treasure, I long, I hunger... being in His presence.  As you spend more time with God, the more you want to be near him. 

A few years ago now, I didn't understand what it meant to be in God's presence.  There was a woman in our church that emanated God's glory, from the very soles of her feet to the silver gray hair on her head.  I used to physically love being next to her, talk to her , be with her.  When I looked into her eyes as we spoke she had a visible excitement and joy.  A glint in her eye, that seems to reflect from deep down in her heart.  I wanted what she had, and so I used to sit next to her and pray that I could have what she had.  I knew it was God's glory in her that I wanted.  I was frustrated that my own Christian walk did not reflect the glory of God.  So I began to look at what I did reflect.
My hearts reflection was not ugly, but it did contain many blemishes (and it still does), and the enemy wasted no time in pointing them out to me.  He came to steal my joy by tearing at what I did have, whispering words of negativity.  He came to kill any spark and desire to seek God's glory.  And he came to destroy the work God was doing in my heart.  I found shelter in the Word of God.  I devoured the Word of God.  I mean I drank of it, until I drowned out the enemies lies.
When I lifted my eyes to God and focused all of my attention on Him, the more I learned about being a new creation, a daughter of God, his little girl.  I used to spend many hours at night (and still do) curled up on his lap, listening to his words, filling my heart with his light.  The more time I spend with God the more I realise that I now no longer want to be like that woman at church, instead I rejoice with her.  We are one in heart, one in spirit, one with God.  Until this day, she is one of my closest sisters in God. 

When was the last time your curled up on your Heavenly Daddy's lap and let him stroke your hair, while you shared your heart?  Did He whisper 'I love you' and 'I am so glad you are mine'?  Did he take all of the hurt from your heart and the worries from your mind?  Did he replace them with his peace and a warm glow from the fire of his love? 

He is waiting, watching, adoring, beckoning...

Come and bask in the glow of his radiance...

Come and dance in the splendour of his royal courts...

Come and be drenched with perfect love...

Come and let peace flow unhindered through your bones...

Come and be free to worship him in spirit and truth...

Then...

Go and walk in obedience to His word...

Go and share the overflowing love...

Go and touch the heart of a hungry soul...

Go and reflect the wonder of his radiance...

Go and bring joy to the life of others.

A Father's Love

There is something truly beautiful about a Father's love for his children.  It is a quiet and deep seated adoration.  A love that shouts 'you are so precious' and 'I  would lay down my life for you'.  I watch this love grow and prosper between our children and my husband and I watch how they show their love.  It is different to how I show love.  It is more rugged, often unspoken, but so tangible and real that it fills the air like the aroma of a Summer barbecue. Love that is offered and affirmed many times over in a day.  Well watered and thriving.  Step by step raising boys to be men, that will hold love as their greatest priority.

I think of my heavenly Father and his unmatched love for us his children.  How his heart broke to be separated from his children and how he knew there was only one way to save them from death and bring them back into his arms.  He knew the cost was more than he could bare, but he knew he would lose them forever if he wavered.  And God doesn't waver, he always keeps his promises.  So as he promised all of those years before- he gave up his son.  He knew he had given him up, from the moment that he was born into flesh.

Imagine how his heart ached with both joy and profound sorrow as he watched his son grow and obey him out of love.  Like a Father teaching his son right and wrong and watching him learn.

Imagine his excitement as he watched Jesus perform miracles and teach his word to the people. Like a proud Dad watching his son's Saturday soccer match.  Go son, go!  I am so proud of you.  I love you son.

Imagine his love and heartbreak as he watched the very children he was trying to save arrest and torture his  son.  The one that was sent to save them.  Like a Father watching his son struggle with illness, or even a rare heart condition.  Holding him close...whispering his love... feeling his pain.

Imagine watching his son die, in the most hideous and hateful way, knowing it was only through his death that he could save all of his other children.  Like a Father that has lost a child in a burning house while saving the others.

Imagine his immeasurable joy in watching his son, restored to new glory. A new creation, the first of many new sons and daughters who would be saved by his sacrifice. Like a Father watching his son go through pain and trials all the days of his life and then meeting him in Heaven, where all things are new-forever.

Oh yes...there is something that is infinitely unique about a Father's love, it is beautiful.  Unbridled and yet perfectly planned, hard and full of vigour yet gentle and unwavering.  To think that Father God has this love for me, makes my heart and soul soar.  How does it make your heart feel?

Sam is Eating Weetbix!

Each day this week, Sam has been steadily increasing his morning intake of Weetbix.  Monday morning he ate about half, gradually increasing to one whole one. Then this morning he shocked me into next week, by eating almost two!
These are no normal Weetbix either.  This serving is laced with full cream milk, powdered milk sprinkled on top (lots of it, because he loves it) and sugar too!

And yes his weight is steadily increasing.  He now weighs 11.4kg!

Will you shout HALLELUJAH with me!

And of course there are photos:

(For those who have recently joined us in our adventures.  Sam's heart condition also means that he often has difficulty gaining weight and has a less than great appetite.  This is a huge step in the right direction for him!  Thank you God!  You see there is little you can do to stimulate appetite, it has to be God's work.)

Why is Jesus So Special?

Easter is fast approaching.  Did you know that the arrival of Jesus, and the finest details of his life, death, and resurrection were all spoken of, hundreds of years before he was born into the world.  Do you know how special that is? 

Here are 8 of the hundreds of prophecies that were spoken of, and fulfilled by Jesus, written in the books of the Bible, noted hundreds of years before his birth.

Be born in Bethlehem -Fulfilled (Matthew 2:1-6)
(Micah 5:2)

Be preceded by a messenger -Fulfilled (Matthew 3:1-3)
(Isaiah 40:3-5)

Ride on a donkey -Fulfilled (Matthew 21:6-11)
(Zechariah 9:9)

Be betrayed by a friend -Fulfilled (Matthew 26:20-25)
(Psalms- 41:9)

Be betrayed for 30 pieces of silver -Fulfilled (Matthew 26:14)
(Zechariah 11:12-13)

Be silent as a lamb-Fulfilled (Matthew 27:12-14)
(Isaiah 53:7)

Have his hands and feet pierced -Fulfilled (Luke 24:39)
(Psalm 22:16)

Rise from the dead - Fulfilled Matthew 28:5-6)
(Psalm 16:10)

There are hundreds of prophecies just like this in the Bible, many of which have already been fulfilled by Jesus, and a few which are still to be fulfilled when he returns. 

Just so you know, the odds of one man fitting just eight of these prophecies, such as the eight of these listed above, is 10 to the 18th power.  That is

1 000 000 000 000 000 000

(Reference to Inside the Mysteries of the Bible, American Bible Society Ministry, 2010)

This is some of what I know about Jesus in my head.  But I can tell you that I know him a whole lot better with my heart and spirit.  I have seen him at work in our life and in the lives of others again and again.  And when we celebrate Easter, we celebrate it full of joy because we know the Creator and Author of life and what he did that is remembered at Easter.  We celebrate having a brand new life in Him. 

So give your chocolate eggs and bunnies at Easter.  And as you do, remember who created new life and who wants to give you new life, if only you would ask.

Jack's Excitement

Only two minutes after I posted on Facebook that Jack had his first wobbly tooth, he has pulled it out. 

"It's out!  My tooth is come out!  Yahhooooo! Look Mum, look Mum, look!"

"I was brave like David, I pulled it and it didn't hurt."

I don't think you could get a bigger grin!

Holidays and Healing

Life is a little more relaxed for us on the school holidays.  Although we home school, routines are relaxed and much of what we do is unplanned and spontaneous.  Today we did some cooking and Jack got to use a sharp knife for the first time.  He was very careful and I was very proud of him.  He is certainly growing up quickly.  He will be 5 in just a few short weeks. 

The quiche turned out very well and both of the boys enjoyed eating knowing that they helped in preparing it.

During prayer time at church yesterday both Jack and Sam went up the front for prayer. Jack went by himself because he had a sore finger that needed to be fixed, and I carried Sam to pray for his new heart.  As we all gathered around and prayed together the boys joined in, and then at the end they let out a big 'Yeah Jesus, AMEN!"  It was awesome!  Then they were so involved, that they stayed up the front and prayed for all of the other people that needed healing too.  Close you eyes, and imagine Sam with his hand as high as he can go up someones leg, with his eyes closed praying for older men and women.  At the end the boys would clap and cheer, saying "Thank you Jesus."  I had returned to our seat, but they stayed.  As I sat there God spoke to me, "See how I live in their hearts.  They hear my voice and do what I say.  Look at the joy on their faces.  Look at the joy on my face."   

God does not look at age, experience or ability.  He looks deep into your heart and what he finds there he grows and nutures so that he can bring glory to himself. 

Just in case you are wondering.  Jack's finger is better, it no longer hurts.  And as for Sam's heart, I can trust and believe for that.  Can you?

Toddler Talk - Love and Snuggles

As I lay next to Sam tonight, he was all cuddly and excited as we snuggled in together.  Then he turned to me and said in a quiet whisper voice "You pretty, hey. Lush (love) you Mum"

Awww..as I lay there in my fluffy Winter dressing gown with unkempt hair.  Oh, the love in a little boys heart.

And today as I snuggled my big boy Jack, "Your so warm and so snuggly.  You're  my teddy Mum."

Little treasures of blessing today scattered on my rested path.  Love you, little ones. xx

Whispers To My Heart-One in Spirit

Remain true to what you have been taught from the beginning.  If you do this you will remain close to me and Father God.  And because we share this great love and are one in Spirit, you will enjoy eternal life. (Spoken to Nicole from 1 John 2:24-25)

The one you choose to live for now, in this life, will determine how and where you will live for eternity.

How beautiful to know that our eternal life has already begun.  Let's enjoy each precious moment, growing closer to each other and growing closer to God.

Living in the Light, Living in the Dark

Make sure your words and your actions line up with the Word of God. 

For false saviours and false teachers will rise up and perform great signs and wonders so as to deceive, if possible, even God’s chosen ones. (Matthew 24:24)

Let Holy Spirit be your teacher.  Do not judge yourself by the world's standards, but by the Word of God. 

When we live and walk according to God's word, as his children, signs and wonders follow us.  They become evident in our everyday lives as we allow Holy Spirit to work more openly in our lives. When he guides our decisions, guards our health, provides our needs and desires, he also changes us to be more like Christ, and the result is the good fruit talked about in Galatians 5:22, But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,  gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!  He changes us this impacts the people around us.

The same is also true for the enemy.  He also uses false signs and wonders to shock and awe people who are searching for truth.  You just have too look around at the huge number of tarot, mystic bookshops, palm readers, astrologists, crystal and aura peddlers, and the ever present vampire fascination, that are no longer in the back lots but popping up in your friendly neighbourhood shopping centre.  As people search for truth, they look for easy answers, a quick fix, a little look into the future, an affirmation for their circumstances, a little magic to brighten their days.  They then feel empowered and more confident at having been 'spiritual'.  Any one of us can be spiritual. We are all spiritual beings.  But the realm of spirits is very much two sided.  There is the Holy Spirit and God's angels, that come from being in close relationship with Jesus and then there is the enemies spirits who will even masquerade as angels of light to deceive.  You see the fruit of the enemy is the complete opposite to the fruit of Holy Spirit.
Instead of love there will be anger and frustration.
Instead of joy there will be depression.
Instead of peace and patience there will be fear and nervousness.
Instead of kindness there is malice and spite.
Instead of goodness there is decay and bitterness.
Instead of faithfulness, there is dishonesty.
Instead of gentleness, there will be harsh words and actions.
Instead of self control there is greed and self indulgence.

I am not judging anyone but myself by sharing these things.  The passage above is warning God's children that they too will be deceived if they are not careful.  You just have to look at the huge amount of so called 'Christian' teaching around that has absolutely nothing to do with God's Word.  Not wonder the rest of the world is confused!  Are you living in the light or the dark?

If you don't yet know Jesus, ask yourself why?  Is is because of something that someone has said?  Is it because you haven't really given it that much thought?  Is is because you have been there and tried that?  The bible says that if you truly seek God he will not hide from you.  He wants to know you.  If you have truly met him, you will never be the same again.

If you have a story to share about God, yourself or the spiritual realm, feel free to share it in the comments below.  I would love to hear from you.  You can even be anonymous if you like. 

Brave and Courageous

Publishing Sam's Heart has been the most courageous thing I have ever had to do.  It is true that our journey with Sam also requires bravery and endurance, but there is something soul baring, about sharing your heart with the world at large, and hoping and praying that it changes lives.  A big part of my heart is written in that book.  It puts out in the open, my walk with God, imperfect though it is, and asks others to trust him for their own lives. It asks people to close their eyes to the worlds lies and open their hearts to God, whom they may not know.  It encourages people to believe that God is who he says he is, and not doubt.  It shouts that God heals and restores and refines, if only we'll let him.  And it does these things using my family to tell the story.  My family that I love, adore and cherish. 
I risk being heckled and booed for my faith in Jesus, my blind faith that God is over all things.  I risk failing financially from the investment in the book and it's publication. 

but I will tell you this...

I will risk much more by not telling it! 

I will boldly share that God is mighty to save no matter what your circumstance may be.  He is the Alpha, Omega, Beginning and End.  He always has the last word.  He is full of love, and it pours out of my heart daily because I cannot contain all that he gives. He has the power to heal and restore and fix any part of your body, soul or spirit, if only you will ask him.  We live in his grace and by his power daily, and I believe there is no other way to truly live.  I have tried other ways.
So I will trust him with this book, as I have all along, and I will not fear.  He will not shame me, for his name is stamped on every page.
I trust him with my family and their complete health, healing and well being because he loves them even more than I.
And I delight in being called a fool for Jesus because I know who I am and where I am going and it's reward it unmatched. 
He emboldens me to stand firm.  He alone is my courage and my strength.  Of whom then shall I be afraid?

So I leap out in faith and trust him to catch me, because I know he planned this all along.

Whispers To My Heart-Welcome To My Chamber

I have brought you into my own presence, you are holy, clean and blameless.  You stand before me without fault no matter what the enemy may say to try and deceive you.  You are covered with the  pleasing aroma of my Son. I can't help but love you. (Spoken to Nicole from Colossians 1:22)

Book Launch Fun Day

This afternoon we had the most wonderful time celebrating the Community Fun Day with our Church. I was able to tell many people about Sam's Heart, some of them bought books, others didn't.  Two people in particular God sent for me to talk to, and I could see that God touched their hearts through our discussion.  I am always amazed that when we are obedient and do as God asks, there is always a reward. 
You see it all depends on the attitude in which we approach a task.  God asked me to share Sam's Heart at the Fun Day.  If I went out to try and sell a bunch of books and try and make money God would know that my heart was not right before him.  Because I went to speak into lives and touch hearts, my reward and treasure are laid up in heaven waiting for me.  The book will sell itself, God will take care of that.  It is my job to share a message with joy.  That is what has called me to do.  So that is what I do.

I guess in the eyes of many my sale of a handful of books would seem like a small reward for the time I invested.  Why then does my heart beat with the rhythm of peace, and a simple joy at having reached the hearts that needed hope.  I must be strange I guess.  I have been called worse things.  I delight in being called strange for the sake of Jesus!

Here are some more highlights from our day:

 Sam helping me tell people about the book.

 Hold on Sam...

The chicken in the animal petting zoo had to learn to like Sam, he rarely let her go.

 Jack didn't stop all afternoon.  And he had pirate face painting! 

My wonderful husband, who supports me every step of the way.  He is growing a beard for Winter.  I love it :)

Stay in Me

The wind blows wherever it wants.  Just as you can hear the wind but can't tell where it comes from or where it is going, so you can't explain how people are born of the Spirit. (John 3:8)

We had a fabulous time flying Jack's new kite  in the strong Autumn breezes that are blowing.  Sam and I watched as the kite would find the wind and then ride high in the air, darting and weaving every which way, as long as it stayed in the draft.  As soon as the kite moved out of the direction of the wind, down it would plummet, crashing to the ground.  At first Jack was frustrated because he hadn't learned how to keep the kite in the air, but with practice he was soon able to keep it flying high for longer periods of time. 

As I observed all that was happening with joy in my heart, Holy Spirit spoke to me:

This is what it means to live in the will of God.  I am like the wind and I go only where God directs.  If you are to remain in the will of God, you must remain in me and I in you, only then will you rise high on wings like eagles. You will soar and not grow weary because you are filled with the Spirit of the Living God and he does all things through you, by His power.
If you continually step out of God and into the world, you will plummet to the ground just like that kite.  You will become frustrated and tire easily from all of your effort.  You will be toiling in vain, because what you are doing is not in God's plan for your life. 
God's plan is not always tranquil.  At times there will be  great turbulence, ducking and weaving, diving and swooping, just like this kite.  And yet at other times, you will soar majestically, like this kite in full flight. 
There is only one way that you will know that you are in God's will-you will have his perfect peace.  Peace in rest, work, play, turmoil and laughter.  It will surpass all human understanding because it is supernatural and only comes from dwelling in God.
You will mesmerise others with your life if you remain in my will for you, because you catch the eye, you defy gravity by soaring when you should fall, just like this simple kite.
Soar daughter, soar like never before.  Let me fill you and direct your path. 

Whispers To My Heart - Victory Shout!

How I rejoice in your strength, O Lord,
I shout with joy because you give me victory.
For you have given me my heart's desire;
you have withheld nothing I have requested.

You welcome me with success and prosperity.
You place a crown of finest gold on my head.
I asked you to preserve my son's life,
and you granted my request.
The days of his life stretch on forever.

Your victory brings me great honour,
and you have clothed me with splendor and majesty.
You have endowed me with eternal blessings
and given me the joy of your presence.
For I trust in you Lord.
The unfailing love of the Most High
will keep me from stumbling.
(Spoken to God from Psalm 21:1-7)

It's Not About Money

Over the months that Sam's Heart has been published I have wrestled with the idea of 'selling' Sam's Heart (the book). 
God has called me to write this story and he has organised the publishing.  He knew what I needed.  I had no funds from which to fund the project-he provided it all in the form of my publisher Even Before Publishing.  Even Before publishing is a division of a small but growing Australian Publisher called Wombat Books.  It's Director, Rochelle Manners has a vision to see that quality Australasian Christian Literature has a voice.  And as such is keeping her eyes, ears and heart open to whoever God may send her way.  She and the company were an answer to my prayer.

I would love to provide the story of Sam's Heart free to everyone.  It shows the awesome power of God who is mighty to save.  Unfortunately I can't do that, it costs money to edit books, print them and promote them.  And so I wrestled with this for many weeks.  However through prayer God has shown me that this is all in his hands.

The book is $16.95 not a grand price by any means.  I have agreed to sell it as the same price as the publisher through our contract which is fair.  The $2.50 I charge for postage does not even cover the postage cost completely but I don't care.  I don't mind wearing some of that cost as long as people are reading the book. 
I guess what I want people to understand is that I haven't written this book to make money.  In fact we have  lost money in doing it.  I have written it so that others may be encouraged by our story and find hope when there seems to be none. 

If you would like to buy a copy of Sam's Heart it is available the following ways:

1. http://www.samsheart.com.au/ click on the book button and follow the prompts.  This is the quickest way to buy the book.  It is available now.

2. http://www.evenbeforepublishing.com/ and click on products to find my book.

3. http://www.lightthedark.com.au/ and follow the links.

4.  http://www.koorong.com.au/ or head instore and buy your copy from the beginning of May.  Books take a little while to get to bookshops once released.  That is why there is a delay.

5.  Christian Bookshops in your local area may stock it and if they don't they are able to order it in.

6.  All good bookshops will order it in for you if you ask, and one day it may be available on shelves if we pray :)

Sam Likes The Book

Just had to share.  Sam likes his book.  We just spent the last 15 minutes of so, looking through some of the pictures in there.  He thinks it was very funny that he was a baby. 

It's Here!

Sam's Heart (the book) has arrived!  I am so excited.  The boys and I have been happy dancing all around the house. 

When I opened the boxes and showed Sam, he reaced out and grabbed the book and said, "It's Sam, my book Mummy", holding it close to his chest.  Then I got out another and another, and he just smiled and laughed.  He thinks it's hilarious that his picture is on the front of so many books.

And here I am grinning from ear to ear holding the fulfilment of God's promise to me in my hands. "Write the book." He told me, over and over again. "I will see it through, my hand is upon it. Tell the world what I have done for you and your family. Glorify my name!"

I would be lying if I told you I wasn't nervous.  Our story is out there now for everyone to read.  Praise God with me that his faithfulness is unending.  Pray with me that our story will touch hearts and that God will be praised through it. 

Sam's Heart is available now through http://www.samsheart.com.au/

All pre orders will arrive in your letterbox soon.  If Sam's Heart speaks to you in some way, please send me an email at nicolewatson.livingfortheword@gmail.com or join us on Sam's Heart Facebook Page and leave a comment.  I would love to hear from you :)

xx

Nicole

Whispers To My Heart - I Fight For You!

...If Father God fights for you then who can ever be against you?  He gave me up, his only son, to save you. That is the ultimate expression of  love.  He will do whatever it takes to look after you and fulfil his purposes.  Who dares to condemn, mock and ridicule God's children?  No one-you have been declared guilt free, sons and daughters of God.  I died and was raised to life and I am sitting next to Father God reminding him of his great love for you. Smile and stand firm.  I too was rejected on earth, I know how you feel.  I love you. (spoken to Nicole from Romans 8:31-34).

Sam's Heart Book Launch

Usually when a book is released, the author/publisher organise some sort of gathering by which they can officially release the book.  I haven't organised a book launch for Sam's Heart.  I figured it was my first book and I don't have a lot of funds to organise a venue, many guests to invite etc.  I am not exactly a well known author.  

I am excited to tell you that God has provided a book launch for me.

I will receive my copies of Sam's Heart this week, and this coming Saturday our church is having a Family Fun Day which was organised months ago.  God has provided this event as an opportunity for me to share our story and promote the book!  This Saturday at Harvest New Life Church Pittsworth, I will have an opportunity to share with not only our church but also many from the local community, as we host a free Family Fun Day.  There will be rides, food and music as well as me sharing my story of God's amazing work in our lives.  I couldn't have planned this. I have been so blessed!

I saw my lack of credentials, lack of experience and lack of funds.  But I was willing, and I placed it all back in God's hands. 
He saw my faith, his book and a story that needs to be told, and said "Here is my gift to you.  Touch hearts for me.  Share your story.  I have organised it all for you.  Do not be afraid.  I have gone before you.  When I start a good work, I complete it.  I love you."

Excuse me while I cry.  I cry with joy because he is so faithful, so wonderful and holds everything in his hands.  Mine are not tears of sorrow but tears of joy.

Will you celebrate the release of Sam's Heart with me?  Praise God for all he has done and will do.  To God be the glory!

If you would like to come to the Family Fun Day:

Harvest New Life Church-Pittworth

Saturday 9th April, 2011

1pm-5pm

Have Peace and Joy

In trying times it can seem almost impossible to have peace and joy.  God's word tells us that there is only one way to have peace and joy, even in the hard times.

For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat and drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. If you serve Christ with this attitude, you will please God...(Romans 14:17-18)

Knowing God is not about what we eat, drink, wear, drive or where we live.  It is all about resting in his hands and letting him guide you, and when you do, his perfect peace and joy will fill your soul.  You cannot buy his peace, you cannot fake his joy, it is like nothing on this earth.  Many people try to attain joy by filling their lives with activities and keeping busy. Many try to attain peace chasing religion, health and rest.  Ultimately though, there is only one place you will find both of these, and it is by knowing God, through your new life in Jesus Christ.
Knowing Jesus is not a religion, in fact if you have ever read the bible you will find that Jesus hated religion with a passion.  What he did desire, is that he could bring people to know God and restore the relationship that was broken way back in the Garden of Eden.  He did that by dying on the cross for our sins so God could accept us once again.  God is just, he will not put up with sin.  When Jesus died, he took all of our sin to the grave with him, past, present and future.  He didn't stay there though.  He is alive and mighty!

In the times that are coming, it will be harder and harder to find peace and joy, if you don't know Jesus.  Spending time with him is what makes me free, lightens my heart, floods me with peace and makes me overflow with joy.

When was the last time that your heart and soul flooded over with joy?

Whispers To My Heart-True Beauty Lasts Forever

You have been given new life, one that will never end.  You will live forever with me because God has promised it .
'People are like grass; their beauty like a flower in the field.
The grass withers and dies and the flowers fade and fall but God's promises never end.'

You are my precious eternal flower, beautiful beyond compare.  I hold you gently in my hands for eternity.
(Spoken to Nicole from 1 Peter 2:23-25)