Thursday, May 31, 2018
BUILDING ON THE FOUNDATION
So we have laid our foundation, and it is secure – purely anchored in the Word of God. We therefore intentionally choose God’s Word as the standard, the yardstick and the sieve for all that we embrace in our daily lives – in our lifestyles. This Word is none other than Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 3:11).
Let us now focus on the actual building - what materials should we use to build lives of faith (listening and obeying) the Lord Jesus?
In the construction industry, there are many materials that are used for building. Some buildings are constructed using stone, others using timber, while still others are constructed using iron sheets as well as grass. The quality and longevity of these buildings depend on the material used. Their ability to withstand calamities such as floods, fire and theft will also depend on the material used.
Any human being, and in this case a believer is a spiritual being, with a soul, and living in the body. This reveals 3 critical facets of our lives i.e.
Spirit
Soul (Mind, Will and Emotions)
Body
Taking the whole believer, what materials are we currently using to build considering the 3 facets? What materials do we use for the spirit? What materials do we use for the mind, the will and the emotions? How about our bodies?
The Sprit – We thank God that He has created us in His image and likeness. The spirit of man is what looks like God, (Genesis 2:7). So we have only one type of material to build the spirit – God’s Word! But are we adequately building the spiritual man? Are we reading the word of God as we ought to? Or, have we malnourished the Spirit? Have we empowered the spiritual man to take charge of our souls and bodies? Proverb 18:14 notes that “The strong spirit of a man sustains him in bodily pain or trouble, but a weak and broken spirit who can raise up or bear?”
Whereas man is consistently known to take periodic meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) to feed the body, is there a consistency in feeding the spirit? How does a 2-hour Sunday service once a week compare to 3 meals x 7 days a week? What becomes and remains strong – the body or the spirit? You may object and tell me that you do your devotions once a day – what is the effect of these devotions to your spirit? Are they a form of ritual or are you intentional in developing your spirit?
The Soul – This is a powerful part of the whole person. It comprises one’s mind, will and emotions. How long does it take to develop one’s intellectualism? In the current 8:4:4 Education System in Kenya, (which is being phased out), a learner has 3 years of pre-school, 8 years of primary, 4 years of secondary school and 4 years of university. In total, these are 19 years of developing one’s mind. These have not considered the time taken for any other additional learning such as a second or third degree. If anyone spends all this time developing just the intellect, how much more should the spiritual man be developed?
Without any intentionality to develop the spiritual man, an intellectual person, will have an empowered mind that subjects the spirit to it. The mind becomes the standard, the yard stick and the sieve that one uses to filter information in life.
One’s will and emotions flow freely with either the mind or the spirit, depending on which one has been built more. If one’s spirit is built and equipped in the word of God, the emotions and will thereof, will be subjected to the word. It will be easy to say, “Lord, not my will but yours”, it will be easy to control anger; and it will be easy to look at other people from God’s lens. On the other hand, it will be easily to rationalize things based on one’s
that is not founded and sieved through the light of the word of God, if the mind is developed more than the spirit.
Minds cannot think beyond what one’s spirit allows, nor will one’s will or emotions be exercised freely outside their spiritual power. However, if the spiritual man is not empowered through the Word of God, then, the other 2 aspects will rise above the spiritual and take charge.
Friend, I would like you to note that intellectualism is a great tool for not only development but advancing the gospel. But it cannot be looked into in isolation of God’s word.
The bible in Colossians 2:8 admonishes us not to be “led astray with empty philosophy and high sounding nonsense that come from HUMAN THINKING (mind) and from the evil powers of this world and not from Christ.” (NLT). The same verse reads as follows in the Amplified Version:
“See to it that no one carries you off as spoil or makes you yourselves captive by his so-called philosophy and intellectualism and vain deceit (idle fancies and plain nonsense), following human tradition (men’s ideas of the material rather than the spiritual world), just crude notions following the rudimentary and elemental teachings of the universe and disregarding (the teachings of) Christ (the Messiah).”
The Body – Our bodies are tents, they are vehicles that facilitate our living here on earth. They enable us to connect from point ‘A’ to ‘B’, and they will aid us in communicating with each other, whether in verbal or non-verbal modes. They are also the temples of the Holy Spirit. How then, should we build them to facilitate a lifestyle that fits in the spiritual life that we have been called into through Christ Jesus?
I am thinking of a believer’s eating habits, dressing, communication, relationships, areas we visit and many more aspects of our lives that exclusively involve our bodies. Looking at relationships, for instance, we see the bible warning us that “… bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33). It further warns us not to “team up with those who are unbelievers” (2 Corinthians 6:14). This does not mean that we eliminate non-believers from our lives – Paul says that we would have to leave this world to do that. But it means that we don’t have deals together – partnerships such as businesses. This is because light cannot live in darkness (see verses 14-16). How will you convince your non-believer partner that you need to give tithe? What will be your reaction when they have to bribe? How about a little lies here and there… so as to survive in business? Light cannot live in darkness!!!
How about communication – Look at Proverbs 15:1, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but harsh words stir up anger”.
What do we allow our eyes to see? What do we allow our ears to hear? Getting a little closer – what TV programmes/movies do you watch and of course listen to? What music do you listen to? What are you feeding the soul, the body and the spirit with that you consume through these media?
I submit to you dear reader that you are a product of what you see and hear; you are a product of your associations (relationships). You are a product of what you think on (whatsoever a man thinketh, so is he). Are you happy with the product you have become? Especially as you use the mirror of the word of God?
A Closer look at our Building Materials (TBC)
Wednesday, May 30, 2018
LAYING A FIRM FOUNDATION
Precisely a week ago, I was invited to join a “Christian Writers and Bloggers” WhatsApp Group. In my one week membership to the group, we have exchanged/shared so much to the extent that I feel like the group has existed for more than a year. Earlier, a close friend had asked me if I could open a blog where I could share some of the inspiration messages that I have been sharing occasionally with her and other friends in my network. My friend did not know that I had opened a blog over 5 years ago, but it had been inactive for some time. Whereas this message is meant to bless and minister to all who access it, it is dedicated to Anne Mureithi, my dear friend and, Jane & Mugure, the administrators to the “Christian Writers and Bloggers” WhatsApp Group. Thank you dear ones for stirring me up to activate my Blog – Karibuni! Let’s be refreshed by the word of God together.
I am currently reading the book of Job in the Bible. What stands out for me from the beginning of this book is the importance of a strong foundation. Whether one is building a house, going through an education programme or starting a family, the foundation they lay for the undertaking determines its permanence and longevity as well as the ability to bear roughness of whatever sort.
Our Christian foundation is no different. What informs our foundation as believers – is it the prestige of the church (assembly) that we go to every Sunday? Is it the Pastor or Bishop? Is it material blessing? What are the materials that constitute the foundation of a believer? Job in the bible was a “blameless man of complete integrity. He feared God and stayed away from evil” (Job 1:1). Besides, he was a very wealthy man. He however had calamity befall him and in a very short span of time, he lost all his children and all the wealth. Yet, “In all this, Job did not sin by blaming God” (Job 1:22). In fact when his wife asked him to curse God and die, Job replied to her, “Should we accept only good things from the hand of God and never anything bad?” (Job 2:10).
What is it that Job held on that his wife didn’t know that which caused him not to curse God even after the loss of his children and his wealth? Whereas we later learn that Job asked many hard questions as a result of his suffering, he never cursed God. He never doubted God. He believed in God. His foundation in faith was God – He was blameless, a man of complete integrity, and he feared and stayed away from evil. This was a constant for Job, whether he had children or not, whether he had wealth or not. He was still a man of integrity. He still feared God. Is it a wonder then that God himself had such faith in him to the extent of allowing Satan to test him? Is it a wonder that God restored to Job all that He had lost in double portions?
Let us consider our foundations as believers – what have we anchored our faith in? What truths do we embrace that cannot be faltered whether in good or bad times? Truths that can cause us to be identified as men and women of integrity, men and women who fear God and stay away from evil.
In this era of microwave “stuff”, there are many fake materials that can be used to lay foundations. And still even when some are not fake, they are not robust, nor are they long lasting. In Luke 6:46-49, Jesus taught about a solid foundation. Essentially his main point was that if anyone calls him (Jesus), Lord of his/her life, then he/she ought to listen and obey his commands. This way, his/her foundation as a believer is firm and can withstand any amount of pressure from whatever source – may it be relationships, finances, work related or any other kind of pressure.
When a believer listens and obeys the Lord, their foundation is secure. This listening and obedience is based purely on the word of God. This is the core material, the core ingredient that forms our foundation as believers. So, lets us intentionally and confidently search the word of God and align ourselves with the incorruptible truths and promises therein. Let us embrace these as anchors that secure our lives at all times. Let us lay a firm foundation for our faith in God.
Great blessings,
Rose Kainda.
Monday, April 16, 2012
PARENTING IN THE 21ST CENTURY; ROSE KAINDA - A BOOK
What a joy to see what the Lord can do when we trust in him! May he increase you and position you for Godly change in this generation and those to come. To acquire a copy, please contact me on: fbm011@gmail.com or betoo.kiki@gmail.com; tel. +254 723 710 552 or 254 736 189 631.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Date: 14 April 2012.
Time: 9.00 am – 1.00 pm.
Venue: Faith Christian Academy, Ongata Rongai – between Total Petrol Station and Laiser Hill Academy.
Overview:
The training focuses different aspects embraced in parenting that for a long time, have been taken for granted or neglected. The training enables parents to reflect on their God given responsibilities given that they are accountable for the children until such a time as when they grow to make their own decisions. Sometimes we are not able to think through this critically due to the fast-paced life that we are in. We are not able to set our priorities to reflect this truth.
Key driver: Mathew 18:6 thus:
“But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in and
acknowledge and cleave to Me to stumble and sin [that is,
who entices him or hinders him in right conduct or
thought], it would be better (more expedient
and profitable or advantageous) for him to
have a great millstone fastened around
his neck and to be sunk in the
depth of the sea”.
For further details, please contact us on:
Email: fbm011@gmail.comTel. 0723 710 552/0736 189 631
Thursday, March 15, 2012
From the Paper, to the Heart to ACTION: James 1:22
A couple of weeks ago, I took my boys out for lunch as we prepared for our family monthly meeting. We enjoyed our meal and as it was threatening to rain, we had to hurry so as to start our meeting and finish in time to get back home.
As we started our meeting, which I had slotted in my diary like three weeks before, i realised that I didnt have an agenda, and this time round, I wanted us to approach it differently. As I sat there, the boys looked at me and I wondered what to tell them. Suddenly, i whispered a prayer and asked for the Lords guidance. There and then, I decided to ask each of them to review our previous meetings, learnings etc and evaluate themselves. I was shocked at how far this went! My eyes were opened beyond imagination ... the results were amazing!
To guide the evaluation, I asked the boys to share our family principles so that each of them would evaluate himself on given each of the principles. I further shared the use of a "scale" - 0 - 100%, that they were to use! As I explained this, I was not sure that we would really yield the results we did - remembering that I had not prepared for this meeting. As it turned out to be, the Lord had good plans for us in store.
So, each of the boys would pick each principle and rate himself. For example one of our family principles is "faithfulness". In this regard, each would assess himself on how faithful he has been not only at home with us but out there - at school, in church and all around them. I further asked each of them to rate each other. Given how this went. I asked them to rate "mum" as well. I was yet to be elated by the results of the meeting.
As I sat down and took the notes, I was amazed at how these young ones thoughtfully considered every % that they wld rate themselves and I.
Back at home, I compiled each person's evaluation into small cards and kept aside. After a day or two, I shared these cards with them and asked them to copy each of the results into their own cares and use them to improve on the areas reviewed weak by the evaluation. In a different meeting, we shared and said that "the contents of the cards were now to be removed from the pockets - or bags, or wherever they had been stored, stored into the hearts and thereafter put into practice!
It is amazing how this process has worked out for our good! Besides, knowing in heart that "I ought to be faithful", "I ought to respect all in authority" etc, we are transferring this knowledge now into practice! Go ahead and respect! Be faithful, be loving, be courageous! Yes act now! Its action time!
So what is it that you and I tell our children that they ought to know, and we also know it, it is deep sitted in our hearts and we do not activate it! The Bible tells us in James 1:22 that: "But be doers of the Word [obey the message], and not merely listeners to it, betraying yourselves [into deception by reasoning contrary to the Truth]. Be doers and not hearers! Only that way are we able to transform ourselves and others around us!
Act now and live!
As we started our meeting, which I had slotted in my diary like three weeks before, i realised that I didnt have an agenda, and this time round, I wanted us to approach it differently. As I sat there, the boys looked at me and I wondered what to tell them. Suddenly, i whispered a prayer and asked for the Lords guidance. There and then, I decided to ask each of them to review our previous meetings, learnings etc and evaluate themselves. I was shocked at how far this went! My eyes were opened beyond imagination ... the results were amazing!
To guide the evaluation, I asked the boys to share our family principles so that each of them would evaluate himself on given each of the principles. I further shared the use of a "scale" - 0 - 100%, that they were to use! As I explained this, I was not sure that we would really yield the results we did - remembering that I had not prepared for this meeting. As it turned out to be, the Lord had good plans for us in store.
So, each of the boys would pick each principle and rate himself. For example one of our family principles is "faithfulness". In this regard, each would assess himself on how faithful he has been not only at home with us but out there - at school, in church and all around them. I further asked each of them to rate each other. Given how this went. I asked them to rate "mum" as well. I was yet to be elated by the results of the meeting.
As I sat down and took the notes, I was amazed at how these young ones thoughtfully considered every % that they wld rate themselves and I.
Back at home, I compiled each person's evaluation into small cards and kept aside. After a day or two, I shared these cards with them and asked them to copy each of the results into their own cares and use them to improve on the areas reviewed weak by the evaluation. In a different meeting, we shared and said that "the contents of the cards were now to be removed from the pockets - or bags, or wherever they had been stored, stored into the hearts and thereafter put into practice!
It is amazing how this process has worked out for our good! Besides, knowing in heart that "I ought to be faithful", "I ought to respect all in authority" etc, we are transferring this knowledge now into practice! Go ahead and respect! Be faithful, be loving, be courageous! Yes act now! Its action time!
So what is it that you and I tell our children that they ought to know, and we also know it, it is deep sitted in our hearts and we do not activate it! The Bible tells us in James 1:22 that: "But be doers of the Word [obey the message], and not merely listeners to it, betraying yourselves [into deception by reasoning contrary to the Truth]. Be doers and not hearers! Only that way are we able to transform ourselves and others around us!
Act now and live!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Proverbs 28:14 ... Ps 51:17
"Blessed is the one who always trembles before God, but whoever hardens their heart falls into trouble" Prov 28:14; NIV
Last night I changed my approach of carrying out our family devotion. I was promted to do this as I felt that I did not have enough time, nor was I fully prepared to lead the devotion after along working day.
So it thought - hey - let everyone share with us a new verse learnt within the course of the week. My son Victor started and as I keenly listened, I was elated at how he could explain the word of God and what it really meant to him. I later gave my feedback emphasising on what God would really have us learn and do from the scripture.
I was yet to get excited, blessing the Lord all the more. Shaldan, my second born shared from Proverbs 28:14 and another verse I cannot remember right now. He read from the Good News Bible and the scripture if I could paraphrase was something like "Always obey the Lord and you will be happy but if you are stubborn your life will be ruined". As he read that, I asked him to repeat twice so I could be sure that it was actually the bible, and not his own words. I even read it thro just to confirm.
After reading, he also explained what he understood it to mean and what God would want us to learn and do. As I share this msg, I am more that excited to see that God has put it so explicitly that obedience to God (and all that he has given authority over our lives) is the underlying factor for joy, happiness and all that we look for in life. When we obey our rulers, parents, bosses, teachers, pastors - the end result is happiness. When the fear of God trembles our hearts, causes us to be fragile before God, then we are trully blessed. And this reminded According to verse 14, the contrary is also true - when we are stubborn, strong willed, cannot and do not want to listen to what others have to say, then we are destined for destruction. This struck me especially when as a parent, I have to tell the same boys who shared these verses to do something over and over again. Sometimes, they are stubborn, other times, pretty good. But besides, us - the grown ups - how many times are we stubborn with God. We want things done our way and not Gods way. And we stick on that. We are doomed to fail.
I was so humbled and really taught as Shaldan shared on that scripture, and this further reminded me of what the bible says in Ps 51:17 thus: "My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise". If we always allow ourselves to have this kind of spirit, then, we are assured of Victory in our christian lives. So obedience, brokenness are key... Be broken today before God, pour yourself out. Let him search you in and out as you surrender totally to him. Blessings.
Rose Kainda
Last night I changed my approach of carrying out our family devotion. I was promted to do this as I felt that I did not have enough time, nor was I fully prepared to lead the devotion after along working day.
So it thought - hey - let everyone share with us a new verse learnt within the course of the week. My son Victor started and as I keenly listened, I was elated at how he could explain the word of God and what it really meant to him. I later gave my feedback emphasising on what God would really have us learn and do from the scripture.
I was yet to get excited, blessing the Lord all the more. Shaldan, my second born shared from Proverbs 28:14 and another verse I cannot remember right now. He read from the Good News Bible and the scripture if I could paraphrase was something like "Always obey the Lord and you will be happy but if you are stubborn your life will be ruined". As he read that, I asked him to repeat twice so I could be sure that it was actually the bible, and not his own words. I even read it thro just to confirm.
After reading, he also explained what he understood it to mean and what God would want us to learn and do. As I share this msg, I am more that excited to see that God has put it so explicitly that obedience to God (and all that he has given authority over our lives) is the underlying factor for joy, happiness and all that we look for in life. When we obey our rulers, parents, bosses, teachers, pastors - the end result is happiness. When the fear of God trembles our hearts, causes us to be fragile before God, then we are trully blessed. And this reminded According to verse 14, the contrary is also true - when we are stubborn, strong willed, cannot and do not want to listen to what others have to say, then we are destined for destruction. This struck me especially when as a parent, I have to tell the same boys who shared these verses to do something over and over again. Sometimes, they are stubborn, other times, pretty good. But besides, us - the grown ups - how many times are we stubborn with God. We want things done our way and not Gods way. And we stick on that. We are doomed to fail.
I was so humbled and really taught as Shaldan shared on that scripture, and this further reminded me of what the bible says in Ps 51:17 thus: "My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise". If we always allow ourselves to have this kind of spirit, then, we are assured of Victory in our christian lives. So obedience, brokenness are key... Be broken today before God, pour yourself out. Let him search you in and out as you surrender totally to him. Blessings.
Rose Kainda
BEYOND THE STORM
It was evening as I climbed aboard the jumbo jet. I was tired.
It had been a hectic, emotionally stormy week. I had endured more than the usual schedule changes, telephone calls, interruptions, children's activities, and arguments.
I settled into my seat, relieved to see the plane was nearly empty.
Maybe I could get some much needed rest. The giant plane took off and climbed up over the condominium complexes hugging the white stretch of beach bordering the deep blue sea of the Atlantic Ocean.
I settled down, grateful for the quiet. Suddenly I noticed dark, ominous clouds off the left side of the wing. Soon, bolts of lightning began to streak across the dark clouds.
I sat mesmerized by this vicious storm only a few miles away. It was frightening, yet fascinating. It brought to mind many of the tempests I had experienced in my life. Financial storms, physical storms, emotional storms, relational storms, So many different types of storms with varying degrees of intensity. Some had been as fearful and terrifying as this large thunderhead, others had been sudden. Some storms had resembled a weather front that moves in and won't go away.
As I sat there contemplating the severity of the weather outside the window, and the storm that had raged within my own life, I suddenly saw beyond the storm.
There, along the horizon, was one of the most magnificent sunsets I had ever been privileged to witness. Brilliant gold, blending with deep crimson, fading into multiple shades of yellow, peach, apricot, and rose. What absolute, breathtaking beauty. I watched with wonder and awe.
From the vantage point of 42,000 feet up, I knew that at any moment this formidable thunderstorm would probably hit our home. But I could also see beyond the storm, and knew that in just a short space of time, those who would be hit by the storm, would also experience incredible beauty.
I was suddenly aware of how God must look upon the storms that hit our lives.
Often I have been in the midst of a fearful squall, and like the disciples, cried out, "Lord don't you care? Don't you see that I can't take any more?" Of course He cares. In 1Peter, He reminds us that He cares for us, that we are His personal concern. But, from His vantage point, He also sees the glory that is to follow.
His message?
Don't be discouraged in the midst of life's storms.
Be assured that God cares and that His plans for us include a future and a hope.
--author unknown
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
A Child's Simple Prayer
My son Gilbert was eight years old and had been in Cub Scouts only a short time. During one of his meetings, he was handed a sheet of paper, a block of wood and four tires and told to return home and give all to "dad".
That was not an easy task for Gilbert to do. Dad was not receptive to doing things with his son. But Gilbert tried. Dad read the paper and scoffed at the idea of making a pine wood derby car with his young, eager son. The block of wood remained untouched as the weeks passed.
Finally, mom stepped in to see if I could figure this all out. The project began.
Having no carpentry skills, I decided it would be best if I simply read the directions and le Gilbert do the work. And he did. I read aloud the measurements, the rules of what we could do and what we couldn't do.
Within days his block of wood was turning into a pinewood derby car. A little lopsided, but looking great (at least through the eyes of mom). Gilbert had not seen any of the other kids cars and was feeling pretty proud of his "Blue Lightning", the pride that comes with knowing you did something on your own.
Then the big night came.
With his blue pinewood derby in his hand and pride in his heart we headed to the big race. Once there my little one's pride turned to humility. Gilbert's car was obviously the only car made entirely on his own. All the other cars were a father-son partnership, with cool paint jobs and sleek body styles made for speed.
A few of the boys giggled as they looked at Gilbert's, lopsided, wobbly, unattractive vehicle. To add to the humility, Gilbert was the only boy without a man at his side. A couple of the boys who were from single parent homes at least had an uncle or grandfather by their side. Gilbert had "mom".
As the race began, it was done in elimination fashion. You kept racing as long as you were the winner. One by one, the cars raced down the finely sanded ramp. Finally, it was between Gilbert and the sleekest, fastest
looking car there.
As the last race was about to begin, my wide eyed, shy eight year old ask if they could stop the race for a minute, because he wanted to pray. The race stopped.
Gilbert hit his knees clutching his funny looking block of wood between his hands. With a wrinkled brow he set to converse with his Father. He prayed in earnest for a very long minute and a half.
Then he stood, smile on his face and announced, 'Okay, I am ready."
As the crowd cheered, a boy named Tommy stood with his father as their car sped down the ramp. Gilbert stood with his Father within his heart and watched his block of wood wobble down the ramp with surprisingly great speed and rushed over the finish line a fraction of a second before Tommy's car.
Gilbert leaped into the air with a loud "Thank you" as the crowd roared in approval. The Scout Master came up to Gilbert with microphone in hand and asked the obvious question, "So you prayed to win, huh, Gilbert?"
To which my young son answered, "Oh, no sir. That wouldn't be fair to ask God to help you beat someone else. I just asked Him to make it so I don't cry when I lose."
Children seem to have a wisdom far beyond us. Gilbert didn't ask God to win the race, he didn't ask God to fix the outcome.
Gilbert asked God to give him strength in the outcome. When Gilbert first saw the other cars he didn't cry out to God, "No fair, they had a fathers help".
No, he went to his Father for strength. Perhaps we spend too much of our prayer time asking God to rig the race, to make us number one, or too much time asking God to remove us from the struggle, when we should be seeking God's strength to get through the struggle. "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13
Gilbert's simple prayer spoke volumes to those present that night. He never doubted that God would indeed answer his request. He didn't pray to win, thus hurt someone else. He prayed that God supply the grace to lose with dignity. Gilbert, by his stopping the race to speak to his Father, also showed the crowd that he wasn't there without a "dad", but His Father was most definitely there with him.
Yes, Gilbert walked away a winner that night, with his Father at his side.
Courtesy - All Worship
That was not an easy task for Gilbert to do. Dad was not receptive to doing things with his son. But Gilbert tried. Dad read the paper and scoffed at the idea of making a pine wood derby car with his young, eager son. The block of wood remained untouched as the weeks passed.
Finally, mom stepped in to see if I could figure this all out. The project began.
Having no carpentry skills, I decided it would be best if I simply read the directions and le Gilbert do the work. And he did. I read aloud the measurements, the rules of what we could do and what we couldn't do.
Within days his block of wood was turning into a pinewood derby car. A little lopsided, but looking great (at least through the eyes of mom). Gilbert had not seen any of the other kids cars and was feeling pretty proud of his "Blue Lightning", the pride that comes with knowing you did something on your own.
Then the big night came.
With his blue pinewood derby in his hand and pride in his heart we headed to the big race. Once there my little one's pride turned to humility. Gilbert's car was obviously the only car made entirely on his own. All the other cars were a father-son partnership, with cool paint jobs and sleek body styles made for speed.
A few of the boys giggled as they looked at Gilbert's, lopsided, wobbly, unattractive vehicle. To add to the humility, Gilbert was the only boy without a man at his side. A couple of the boys who were from single parent homes at least had an uncle or grandfather by their side. Gilbert had "mom".
As the race began, it was done in elimination fashion. You kept racing as long as you were the winner. One by one, the cars raced down the finely sanded ramp. Finally, it was between Gilbert and the sleekest, fastest
looking car there.
As the last race was about to begin, my wide eyed, shy eight year old ask if they could stop the race for a minute, because he wanted to pray. The race stopped.
Gilbert hit his knees clutching his funny looking block of wood between his hands. With a wrinkled brow he set to converse with his Father. He prayed in earnest for a very long minute and a half.
Then he stood, smile on his face and announced, 'Okay, I am ready."
As the crowd cheered, a boy named Tommy stood with his father as their car sped down the ramp. Gilbert stood with his Father within his heart and watched his block of wood wobble down the ramp with surprisingly great speed and rushed over the finish line a fraction of a second before Tommy's car.
Gilbert leaped into the air with a loud "Thank you" as the crowd roared in approval. The Scout Master came up to Gilbert with microphone in hand and asked the obvious question, "So you prayed to win, huh, Gilbert?"
To which my young son answered, "Oh, no sir. That wouldn't be fair to ask God to help you beat someone else. I just asked Him to make it so I don't cry when I lose."
Children seem to have a wisdom far beyond us. Gilbert didn't ask God to win the race, he didn't ask God to fix the outcome.
Gilbert asked God to give him strength in the outcome. When Gilbert first saw the other cars he didn't cry out to God, "No fair, they had a fathers help".
No, he went to his Father for strength. Perhaps we spend too much of our prayer time asking God to rig the race, to make us number one, or too much time asking God to remove us from the struggle, when we should be seeking God's strength to get through the struggle. "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13
Gilbert's simple prayer spoke volumes to those present that night. He never doubted that God would indeed answer his request. He didn't pray to win, thus hurt someone else. He prayed that God supply the grace to lose with dignity. Gilbert, by his stopping the race to speak to his Father, also showed the crowd that he wasn't there without a "dad", but His Father was most definitely there with him.
Yes, Gilbert walked away a winner that night, with his Father at his side.
Courtesy - All Worship
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Parenting
Discipline in growing up children!! Many a parent will bear me witness tht discipline is not easily achievable especially without consistency by the parent. But this is not more of a challenge as it is when as a parent you do all that it takes - all that you know, and yet according to you, you do not achieve your objective.
This last week, I have been struggling with an aspect of discipline with one of my boys. One week ago, I sat down with him and talked, counselled, prayed, laughed and cried together!!! And after that, I was so elated, deep settled in my heart that, that talk was trully penetrating to his heart and whatever he had done, he could not repeat. That he understood the consequences and besides, with Christ, he would have the strength, not to conform to the world, but be transformed by the word of God.
My excitement didnt last for two days. On the second day, not only did he repeate exactly what he had done, but also did something else different which was not completely acceptable. You can start imagining what I felt - down, almost broken, and I was wondering - my God, what and how do you want to deal with this young man. I felt like I could give him a thorough beat, and I resolved that would not do. I sat down with him and after another talk, forgave him. In two more days, something else was done, this time round, I denied him his best programme on tv - no anything thing could he watch and he could also not go out to play. After sometime, he cooled down and with his hyperactivity, I could see that he was struggling between obedience and throwing the towel.
After a number of observations, I decided (and since this is something I have learnt of him over a time now), that the best measure of discipline is to deny him a trip which was forthcoming. He did not seem to mind this, but the only question was, are you also doing this to bro? He however later one came and apologized, though I had made up my mind that he would not take up the trip.
As I write this piece, I know many parents out there have faced something like it or close. Where you feel you have varied all forms of discipline you know of. You even know the temperaments of your child and how he responds to different situations and circumstance and yet, you are trully caught off guard by the turn out of events.
It is upon this that I conclude that, besides all the measures we take, lets learn to surrender our children fully to God. Dedicate and re-dedicate them to God. God knows them better than we do. He has a good plan for them. As a parent, do the best you can and leave the rest in the arms of God. It can be discouraging but do not give up especially because children can very easily be used of the devil to torment you and bring you down. They use the spirit of manipulation and as a parent you might feel worn out. Do not give up. Discipline (character and virtues) are not acquaired in a day. This is a process. Be patient and ask the Lord for his divine guidance. Let me have your thoughts and experiences on the same.
Bless you.
Rose Kainda
This last week, I have been struggling with an aspect of discipline with one of my boys. One week ago, I sat down with him and talked, counselled, prayed, laughed and cried together!!! And after that, I was so elated, deep settled in my heart that, that talk was trully penetrating to his heart and whatever he had done, he could not repeat. That he understood the consequences and besides, with Christ, he would have the strength, not to conform to the world, but be transformed by the word of God.
My excitement didnt last for two days. On the second day, not only did he repeate exactly what he had done, but also did something else different which was not completely acceptable. You can start imagining what I felt - down, almost broken, and I was wondering - my God, what and how do you want to deal with this young man. I felt like I could give him a thorough beat, and I resolved that would not do. I sat down with him and after another talk, forgave him. In two more days, something else was done, this time round, I denied him his best programme on tv - no anything thing could he watch and he could also not go out to play. After sometime, he cooled down and with his hyperactivity, I could see that he was struggling between obedience and throwing the towel.
After a number of observations, I decided (and since this is something I have learnt of him over a time now), that the best measure of discipline is to deny him a trip which was forthcoming. He did not seem to mind this, but the only question was, are you also doing this to bro? He however later one came and apologized, though I had made up my mind that he would not take up the trip.
As I write this piece, I know many parents out there have faced something like it or close. Where you feel you have varied all forms of discipline you know of. You even know the temperaments of your child and how he responds to different situations and circumstance and yet, you are trully caught off guard by the turn out of events.
It is upon this that I conclude that, besides all the measures we take, lets learn to surrender our children fully to God. Dedicate and re-dedicate them to God. God knows them better than we do. He has a good plan for them. As a parent, do the best you can and leave the rest in the arms of God. It can be discouraging but do not give up especially because children can very easily be used of the devil to torment you and bring you down. They use the spirit of manipulation and as a parent you might feel worn out. Do not give up. Discipline (character and virtues) are not acquaired in a day. This is a process. Be patient and ask the Lord for his divine guidance. Let me have your thoughts and experiences on the same.
Bless you.
Rose Kainda
I HAVE VICTORY IN CHRIST
Bless the Lord for the weekend that is gone! And beyond his love endures for ever and Yes!!! His mercies are new today - for the week they are new, for the remaining part of the month and the year, they will be new too! You can hold on firmly to the new mercies of the Lord, and do not forget his faithfulness! Its your rampart and Protection. Wont you proclaim with me today of the faithfulness of God! Of the victory that lies ahead this day, week, month and year, and all the days of our lives.
Might there be anything that happened over the wkend and you feel discouraged and down trodden, lift up your eyes and your heart unto the Lord for he trully cares for you. Cast all your cares and burdens unto Him. Let him be the soother and lover of your soul. I am blessed for I am triumphant through the precious blood of Christ Jesus at Calvary. Amen.
Might there be anything that happened over the wkend and you feel discouraged and down trodden, lift up your eyes and your heart unto the Lord for he trully cares for you. Cast all your cares and burdens unto Him. Let him be the soother and lover of your soul. I am blessed for I am triumphant through the precious blood of Christ Jesus at Calvary. Amen.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Fish in a Flood
Where do fish go in a flood?
Are they swept away to sure destruction? How do they survive?
One conservation specialist says that many fish go deep into the river to sit on the bottom where the current is least strong--the muddy, opaque water concealing them.
Some simply adjust to go with the flow, enduring the stress but with only short-term storm effects.
While not everyone experiences a watery flood in his or her lifetime, similar devastation comes into the lives of everyone.
A previously healthy, active child is suddenly diagnosed with cancer. The well-planned career is snatched away without warning. An executive found helpless against a stroke attack. Divorce unexpectedly shatters a family.
Where does the Christian go in a flood?
Many of us have learned to go "deep into the river to sit on the bottom."
We cannot avoid the swirling tempest, but we get into the quiet space with God where we can hear His whispers.
Life demands that in one respect we "go with the flow," tending to the demands of everyday responsibilities, but because of that deep place with God, the storm only alters us, but does not destroy.
--author unknown
Courtesy - All Worship
__________________________
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
PARENTING IN THE 21ST CENTURY
Have you considered and wondered what the focus and direction of your child is?
What are your thoughts and plans for him/her as he grows up?
In a society that morality (values and virtues) erosion is the order of the day, what steps as a parent, have you taken to lay a firm foundation as well as safeguard it in your child?
So, “when the foundations of law and order have collapsed, what can the righteous do?” Ps 11:3.
This is an eye-opening and empowering parenting class aimed at cementing your parenting skills and ability.
For more details, please contact us on:
Blog: http://rokaja.blogspot.com
Email: fbm011@gmail.com
Tel. +254 723 710 552
+254 720 907 225
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
MOTIVATION/PASSION
"Recent surveys indicate unprecedented dissatisfaction with work. As many as 80 percent of employees at any given time are looking for a new job. Why? Maybe they need more money, or perhaps they don't like the location, their coworkers, or their bosses. For most, however, the discontent isn't a matter of location or benefits. It is a matter of meaning. If we don't find meaning in our jobs, we find motivation difficult. Lack of motivation gets us behind in our work, which leads to stress, which leads to less motivation. It's a vicious cycle.
God created work.
Somehow, we got the impression that it's a result of Adam and Eve's sin, but God has the couple tending the Garden of Eden long before they were tempted and cast out. Work became more difficult, but work had already been ordained. God means for his people to be productive and to enjoy the fruits of their labor. He wants us to be content in what we do, whether it's at home with children, in an office with coworkers, or elsewhere. Even when we know God's plan, we often miss out on His ultimate purposes.
The surveys that indicate massive job dissatisfaction invariably have Christians among their respondents. Believers can be as dissatisfied as the secular world.
How can we be more content in our work? There are two simple steps to meaningful labor.
(1) Ephesians tells us to work "as if you were serving the Lord, not men" (6:7). If we who love Jesus have it firmly fixed in our minds that our labor somehow honors Him, we will be more interested in our labor.
(2) We can pray. It's acceptable to pray for a new job or role, but it's even better to ask God to build meaning into your current work until His timing for something new is right. He can show you how your work relationships honor Him, or how your godly service reflects His character. That sort of satisfaction is a gift God longs to give". Courtesy: All Worship Mail.
God created work.
Somehow, we got the impression that it's a result of Adam and Eve's sin, but God has the couple tending the Garden of Eden long before they were tempted and cast out. Work became more difficult, but work had already been ordained. God means for his people to be productive and to enjoy the fruits of their labor. He wants us to be content in what we do, whether it's at home with children, in an office with coworkers, or elsewhere. Even when we know God's plan, we often miss out on His ultimate purposes.
The surveys that indicate massive job dissatisfaction invariably have Christians among their respondents. Believers can be as dissatisfied as the secular world.
How can we be more content in our work? There are two simple steps to meaningful labor.
(1) Ephesians tells us to work "as if you were serving the Lord, not men" (6:7). If we who love Jesus have it firmly fixed in our minds that our labor somehow honors Him, we will be more interested in our labor.
(2) We can pray. It's acceptable to pray for a new job or role, but it's even better to ask God to build meaning into your current work until His timing for something new is right. He can show you how your work relationships honor Him, or how your godly service reflects His character. That sort of satisfaction is a gift God longs to give". Courtesy: All Worship Mail.
In addition to the above, it is important to note that each individual is wired with a certain and very specific purpose in life. Unless in life one finds what this purpose is, all our toiling and moiling will never bring satisfaction. But by the grace of God, if you get to trully understand your purpose and concentrate all your efforts in this, you will not need to look for motivation anywhere, it will automatically be there. Internal motivation is what I am talking about - the drive "the inner gratification, not for success or winning, but for the fulfilment that comes from having accomplished your purpose" - your work. It is a lasting motivation.
To be continued.
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