Jesus 4 Generations

Revealing our loving God to generations

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  • Find solace in faith

    Photo by Uday Mittal on Unsplash

    If you would like to listen to this blog instead of reading it, please copy and paste the link into your browser and listen on Podbean for free. Alternatively, you can search for The Jesus 4 Generations Podcast on your favourite platform, e.g. Spotify and Apple Podcasts, etc.

    https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-bm2d2-16043d7

    It is very easy to succumb to the narrative of this world. The media – news and social media proclaim death, destruction and hopelessness, 24 hours a day. They detail horrendous acts perpetrated by human beings, revealing individuals’ weaknesses (real or imagined), and report the worst accidents and natural disasters that have occurred all over the world. Our family, friends, and colleagues often repeat what they have heard, broadcasting the suffering that has occurred. This is often an attempt by people to understand the truly inexplicable.

    Listening to or watching these horrifying tales and events leads to discouragement and fear. Discouragement breeds hopelessness and fear unchecked may lead to panic.

    Hopelessness cripples our joy and faith in the Lord leaving us locked in a prison of desperation. Fear causes our minds to worry about the unknown outcomes in our future – what if such and such happens? Followed closely by and what would I do then, etc. Countless minutes, hours and days can be lost to imagining the worst possible scenario and how to handle it if it occurs. This kind of thinking may leave us paralyzed and incapable of functioning in day-to-day life.

    Many years ago, I became so worried about things that had unfolded in my life and trying to manage the what ifs that I suffered panic attacks. At this time I was not following Jesus or practicing my faith. I was put on an antidepressant, however, still felt down and anxious. I was desperate to avoid anything that might trigger extreme anxiety. I discovered I had to move away from the things that made me fearful. I had an unhealthy work environment and therefore, I found work elsewhere. I also stopped watching the news as it increased the fear of the future I had been experiencing. These things all helped, however, they did not solve the issue.

    I realise now that true freedom from anxiety and depression come from God.

    Rejoice always, pray without ceasing. Give thanks in all circumstances for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

    1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (ESV)

    Keith Ferrin speaks about these verses and says the only way to practice our faith is to allow the truths of God’s word to be louder than the messages the world is proclaiming. When we internalize God’s word and remind ourselves of who God is, what He has done and who we are in Christ Jesus then hope, faith, joy, love and peace will blossom in our lives.

    When my husband and I returned to the Lord in 2019, I found the answer – faith in God. I spent more time in God’s Word (the bible), praising and worshiping Him and chatting to Him (praying). I joined my church and started fellowshipping in a Christian community, linking in with a prayer group and a connect group. Soon I was able to cease my anti-depressants with no ill-effect. Around a year later I signed up for School of Faith and began learning more about our amazing God, His ways and my identity in Christ Jesus. I spent more time pursuing God than I did on social media, listening to the news or watching TV. I decreed God’s truths daily. I refused to agree with people speaking about the ills of this world and declared God’s promises over the world and myself. I kept my eyes on Jesus and my faith in the Lord has grown larger than anything being broadcast in the natural world.

    I was healed. I have not experienced severe anxiety since. In fact, I am filled with unshakeable faith in a God who is bigger than any possible calamity or catastrophic event. I live with incredible hope, love, joy and the peace that surpasses all understanding. My prayer is for you to experience this also.

    I hope this blog has blessed you. If you would like to comment or subscribe, please click on the link below. Alternatively, you could message me directly at admin@jesus4generations.com. Please pass this on to anyone you think would benefit from reading or listening to it. God bless you and your family!

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  • 6. Loving Family Well

    https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-84jiw-15de10b

    Demonstrating the love of Jesus is the best way to love our family and friends. 

  • What’s your testimony?

    https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-knn9f-15c9c46

    Are we living lives that inspire people to come to know Jesus? Or are we behaving in ways that cause them to turn away from him?

  • Leaving a Legacy of Love

    https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-sjxdg-15d46a3

    What is the legacy we are leaving our family, our friends and our community? Is it a legacy of caring, peace and joy?

  • A Legacy of Love

    Photo by Julia Kadel on Unsplash

    If you would like to listen to this blog rather than read it, copy and paste the link below into your browser and listen to in on Podbean for free. Alternatively, you can search for The Jesus 4 Generations Podcast and listen on your favourite platform, e.g. Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

    https://ozsazzles.podbean.com/e/leaving-a-legacy-of-love/

    Recently, a favourite Auntie of mine passed away. She had always been a lot of fun and very caring. Her family lived with us at times and settled up the street from us and she was like a second mum.

    She was blessed with loving parents, nine siblings, two marriages, three children, five grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. Not to mention nieces and nephews.

    My cousin delivered a beautiful eulogy. During the funeral each generation had an opportunity to speak. Her daughters had written a poem and chose an Auntie to read it out. Their children also spoke about their Nanny, and one read a poem she had created. Finally, the great grandchildren recited poetry they had both individually written. Some poems were funny, some were so very touching, and all captured the different facets of her nature.

    The youngest grandchild who shared said he still said his prayers nightly as she had taught him and read it out:

    Now I lay me down to sleep. I pray my Lord my soul to keep. If I die before I wake. I pray my Lord my soul to take.

    George Wheler

    It was a touching funeral. So intimate. So personal. They shared her love of music and reading. They mentioned her sense of humour and most of all they spoke of her immense love for her family.

    This has made me keenly aware of the impact I can have on the world around me.

    What are the messages we are sending to others? Are we fun to be around and joyful? Or are we too serious and grumpy? Are we approachable, or standoffish? Are we present when people are with us or speak to us? Or are we distracted? Do the members of our family, our friends and our colleagues feel valued or an inconvenience?

    Family is the mission field that many feel the most uncomfortable in. We may fear rejection or ridicule. However, we need to consider how we are going about it. Our actions will speak louder than words. The people who love us will notice the difference in us without us even speaking a word. Our selfless kind and caring behaviours and servant heart, will demonstrate God’s kingdom realm in a way that words never could.

    We may have the fear of man and shrink from sharing the truth with friends and colleagues. I’m not suggesting you give a sermon or great oration worthy of Billy Graham.

    It’s simpler than we think. We can display the fruits of the spirit in our actions and words.

    But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,  gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

    Galations 5:22-23 (ESV)

    We can honestly answer when asked what we did on the weekend, sharing that we went to church. If asked how we cope with the pressures of life, we can say our loving God is with us always and helps us through everything. If the opportunity arises, we can pray for them and/or invite them to come to church with us.

    We must take the time to consider the legacy we are leaving our family, our community and the world. When we graduate to heaven, what will our family and friends be saying at our funeral about us?

    I hope you’ve enjoyed this blog. If you’d like to leave a comment or subscribe, please click on the link below. I’d love to hear how your journey with God is going. If you’d like to message me directly, you can email me at admin@jesus4generations.com. God bless you and your family.

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  • The Jesus 4 Generations Podcast – 3. The Power of Prayer

    https://www.podbean.com/pu/pbblog-b4ecj-1159953

    Our prayers to God are powerful and He hears us. Pray at all times, believing our prayers are answered!

  • The Jesus 4 Generations Podcast – 2. Am I too weak or flawed

    www.podbean.com/wlei/pb-hn2d9-15be590

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  • The Jesus 4 GenerationsPodcast – 1. Why Jesus 4 Generations

    www.podbean.com/wlpi/pbblog-b4ecj-1159953

    Legacy of Light: Unveiling Jesus 4 Generations

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  • Reaching out #2

    Photo by David Clode on Unsplash

    And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.

    Mark 16:15 (NKJV)

    As I said in my last blog, there is no denying what Jesus asks of all of us. We are to share the Good News, regardless of our fears and trepidation.

    There are many ways to do this, and each of us will approach it differently. Some may cook a meal for a neighbour, mow their lawn or take care of their children while they attend an appointment or have a break.

    Random acts of kindness can open doors to a conversation. And we must be ready to explain why we do these things –

    but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,

    1 Peter 3:15 (ESV)

    A number are called to teach. We may teach one on one in small conversations. Or alternatively, in a home group, or men’s or ladies bible session. We may preach in a podcast, VLOG or in church. Possibly we are to preach in stadiums. Whatever we have been called to do, we must not hide our gifts, but stand up and move in the calling God gave us. Jesus says:

    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.

    Matthew 5:15-16 (NIV)

    Many of us may be called to do outreach in public places. Where we set out with a plan to spread the love of Jesus and reach the lost. We may head out as a group or as an individual. Possibly we do a treasure hunt (see Kevin Dedman’s book below). This is when we pray first for the Holy Spirit to give us a name, vision or direction prior to going out. Then we look for the person who fits that description and open a conversation.

    I am not talking about standing on street corners and calling down fire and brimstone on all who are unfortunate enough to walk past. That’s more likely to turn people away from God.

    We can consider having a respectful conversation that doesn’t embarrass the other party. We might open with just asking about them and how they are going. We must listen and listen well. Then we ask the Holy Spirit when to speak and what to say. Usually, He will create an opening to ask if we can pray for them, or perhaps raise the question Do you know Jesus? We can follow this up by asking if we can share our testimony. If they agree, share, if not tell them that Jesus loves them and move on.

    …For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.

    Revelation 19:10 (NKJV)

    When people hear what has happened in our lives it gives them hope for the same for themselves.

    To share our testimony effectively we must be prepared. We need to sit down well beforehand and write out our testimony.

    • What was happening before we met Jesus.
    • How we met him.
    • What’s different since.

    Have several versions of your testimony available. The best for street ministry is a concise one-minute testimony. It is powerful. Don’t underestimate it.

    If we are unsure of how to do this or nervous about it, we may go with a group and shadow them. We will learn a lot by listening in and experiencing it. Surprisingly, it is invigorating and enjoyable once the nerves pass.

    Your church may disciple you in outreach. My husband and I have found School of Faith invaluable in teaching and providing experiential training in the gifts of the Holy Spirit and evangelism. In the last year and a half, our confidence has grown exponentially. Check out the link below about this online school available in many countries.

    Please remember we don’t have to be Reinhard Bonnke. We have our own unique gifts and style and God made us this way to reach people. It is imperative that we remember that Jesus is with us. He will not leave us orphaned. We only need to make a start. He provides the rest. We have a good God looking for willing hearts.

    Also, it’s not rocket science! It is simple. A blessing, a prayer for healing, a 3 to 5 minute conversation about Jesus, a cup of hot coffee on a cold day.

    I hope you have enjoyed this blog. If you have any comments or suggestions you can fill out the section below or email me at admin@jesus4generations.com. Also, I’d love to hear about your journey with Jesus. God bless you and your family.

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  • Everyday Missionaries: How to Share Jesus Right Where You Are

    https://unsplash.com/photos/grayscale-photography-of-man-sitting-on-chair-lQ2BzDNmnHE

    If you’d prefer to listen to this blog rather than read it, please click on the link below and listen for free on Podbean. Alternatively, you can listen to The Jesus 4 Generations Podcast on your favourite streaming platform, e.g. Spotify, Apple Podcasts, etc.

    https://ozsazzles.podbean.com/e/everyday-missionaries-how-to-share-jesus-right-where-you-are/

    It’s so easy to complicate the things of God. We tend to overthink the how and concentrate on our fears and inadequacies. We tell ourselves we are too shy, and we might embarrass ourselves. That outreach is for specific people and extroverts with a special anointing. Alternatively, we think certain organisations are the ones taking care of it all.

    Jesus said

    Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.  Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.

    Matthew 28:16-20 (NIV)

    We cannot deny that this is what Jesus asks of each and every one of us. We have all been called to The Great Commission. If us Christians don’t share the love of Jesus, how will the lost and hurting in this world ever hear about Him? Every one of us has been uniquely made for such a time as this. We will each have a distinctive way of carrying out our commission.

    Some may demonstrate Christlike behaviour while carrying out their daily tasks at home, work and in the community. They may be doing ordinary things in extraordinary ways. Looking at situations from a kingdom perspective and demonstrating exceptional mercy and understanding. This creates curiosity in people and causes them to wonder why this person is different. It leads to a desire to grasp what they have seen for themselves. I like to call this being salt to the earth. Our behaviour can and does make people thirsty for the things above.

    Others may be involved in helping the disadvantaged. When people receive encouragement and the basic necessities of life, they are grateful and usually want to know who provided for them and why. Many years ago, we received a care package from a church just prior to Christmas with gifts for our children. I have always remembered how helpful that was at a difficult time in our lives. This type of support for the needy is effective and won’t be forgotten easily. Ben Fitzgerald from Awakening Europe calls it bringing the goods and the gospel. Gabby Conlan from Melbourne Lights church has added –

    The goods are good but they’re not good enough. We must leave people with Jesus.

    Gabby Conlan – Melbourne Lights Church

    Helping those who are suffering is an example of the ‘goods’. If we don’t lead in with practical support, e.g. a blanket, or food, why would a desperate person, requiring the essentials of life listen to us? Many churches and church organisations support the disadvantaged. Perhaps we can volunteer to join them on their mission to care for those in adverse circumstances in our community. Maybe Jesus has shown us a need that has not yet been met by the available charities. Are we being called to remedy that issue? As Jesus said:

    Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.”

    Luke 6:38 (NKJV)

    Perhaps we have the gift of creativity. We may be called to produce art and literature or compose music. Christian art, music and writings, etc have reached the most unlikely places. I read recently where a young Muslim woman had heard a contemporary Christian song and, suddenly, met Jesus. She told her husband about it, and he listened also. They both heard and believed yet would be put to death in their own country if they admitted this. All they knew was Jesus and they escaped to the west to follow Him.

    If we are creatives, we need to stop procrastinating and start using our God given gifts, not for our own glory, but for the glory of God. With the aid of modern technology all these creative pursuits can be broadcast to the world and reach thousands if not more, via YouTube, Apple Music, Spotify, etc.

    Regardless of how you step out with Jesus, remember to share that Jesus loves you.

    Please join me next time for Part 2 of Reaching Out.

    I hope you have enjoyed this blog. I’d love to know if you give any of the suggestions above a try. If you would like to leave a comment or subscribe, please fill out the section below or email me at admin@jesus4generations.com. God bless you and your family.

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