Hurricane Hormones

The storm was building last week with a weather forecast of bleak, touches of frustration, building to sever eruption on Sunday night. Saturday was a good indication it was getting close with the recommendation to family that they seek shelter. Take bread and water and bunker down for when it hits, it's not going to be pretty. Hurricane Hormones struck land around 7.30pm last night and the wave of destruction was instantly felt by those in the vacinity.

So what led to the impact? In the previous week, I had struggled with client meetings, trip to specialist, naturopath, doctor plus the usual school and home goodies. Throw in some extra concerns about health and you have the perfect storm. Last night came the eruption of a week of worry, frustration, angst and so much more. The tears poured after what felt like another struggle and I retreated to my bedroom saying I can't do this anymore. After a couple of minutes, I decided to head outside into the dark for some quiet time alone. As I sat outside looking at the moon, tear rolling down my cheeks, I asked God, "why?" I don't want to be like this, I don't want to be wound up and stressed - I have forgotten how to relax. The brain is always thinking of what I could, should, would, can and won't do.

Within a few minutes the moon disappeared and as I continued to sit there in the dark looking at the sky, a shadow appeared where the moon was. It was the outline of an angel. At the same time the song, "How can I keep from singing your praise" enters my head. It is then that I realise that I am not alone and that there is a peace to be found in amongst all this. This shadow was there for about 5 minutes or so and then slowly faded.

Today, is a new day. I must make changes within myself and find ways to relax and switch off. I don't have to save the world or build a global empire. I have to learn to let go, to say 'no' and let others find their own way without taking on their problems. It won't be easy but it is possible. So today, I am setting a new direction now that Hurricane Hormones has disappated into light rain. With help, the Hurricane will never reach the height that it did last night. With help, the Hurricanes will come and go but never tip the boat over again. With peace, the seas will remain calm and all will return to what they should be within myself.

If you have a hurricane heading your way, take a step back and make the changes you need to protect yourself and those you love. Sometimes its not easy to make the changes that are needed. I know for me, it is going to take effort and conscious decisions to change my mindset and refocus but it can be done because I am not the only one on the job. God is walking with me every step and I just have to let go and stay in the calm waters.

Regards,

Meltdown Moments

I will be the first to admit it.  Coffee is my friend.  It may not be my best friend but it sure comes close some days.  You know the ones, the days where simply opening your eyes is a chore.  The ones that you can feel from the moment your feet hit the floor that it is going to be like bootcamp for the next 16 hours until you're comfortably curled up in bed once again.

It is in these days that I find solace at the bottom of the cup.  Now sometimes it is not really days, perhaps mere moments where everything becomes too much.  Where rescuing just one more odd sock from the jaws of the dog is too much.  Days when the shop assistant really should have offered you a neck and shoulder massage rather than informing you that a carrier pidgeon would have a better chance of getting that urgent order here on time.

We all have meltdown moments where the smallest thing is disasterous, the world as you know it has no meaning and that rock in your backyard looks like the best place to crawl under and hide from the rest of the world.  It is easy to lose your cool and you pity the poor person who is in the wrong place at the wrong time, for they are on the receiving end of an outburst of frustration that would put you as a hot contender for an Oscar.

It's okay.  These moments happen and sometimes they are spectacular.  Whatever the reason, whatever the frustration, whatever the problem, while it may knock you down you need to get back up.   From one who has been there, accept that you have had your 'meltdown moment',  gather yourself and rise above.  Now, for my family it means pour mum a coffee, give her space and eventually she will be mum again.

Cheers,

Need a guest speaker?  Read more about how you can engage Lynnelle to speak at your next womens event www.lynnellerichardson.com.au

I need a plan...

As I open my eyes and greet another day, I struggle to feel excited or enthusiastic about what lies ahead.  In my head, there are ideas of what our future as a family could be full however, today I cannot visualise it happening.

I feel flat...defeated...disillusioned...trapped.  I cannot see a future of excitement. Instead all I see is a future of mediocre where nothing changes.  A world where life trundles along however we miss the opportunities because we fail to act.  It is too safe to stay 'as is' rather than step out of the comfort zone and go for something more.  My head cannot process the 'how can it work' to match in with the dream.  It just doesn't seem possible.

There are days when I wish that God could 'enlighten' me a little more.  Actually, a lot more.  Right now I need a step-by-step guide to the days and months ahead that lead me through the decision making.  If only I would wake up to find this guide sitting on the kitchen table.   My mind is tired of the constant thinking of the decisions to be made and not knowing which way to go.  The actions swing like a pendulum from side to side and with this comes indecision, confusion and frustration.

I know that God has this covered and that this season we are experiencing has a purpose.  However, the decisions that we have to make are not easy ones as they will affect our family and our future.  His timing is perfect.  The doors will open as they need to.  It is that 'Little Miss I Need A Plan" doesn't cope well when a firm direction is not available.  So it looks like stepping into faith mode needs to be activated.  

What about you?  Are there days when life is so confusing and overwhelming that you just cannot see what lies ahead?   

Cheers,

Need a guest speaker?  Read more about how you can engage Lynnelle to speak at your next womens event www.lynnellerichardson.com.au

Leap of Faith

That chasm is huge, the bottom unseen, the distance across too far for a mere mortal.  To even contemplate it is madness.  There is no reason to act and are plenty of reasons not to take that step.  It requires a leap of faith.

Image source: guardian.co.uk

In the past week we have seen Felix Baumgartner leap from the edge of space back to earth.  A feat that one would say is impossible, yet he has proved otherwise.  As he sat in the capsule for two hours, slowly rising to the desired height for the jump, I wonder what the conversations running through his mind were?  If it was me, it would have included, "What on earth possessed you?",   "You are going to die!",  "Next time you have a brilliant idea, ignore it!".

While in my life, I am not about to leap from the edge of space, change is coming and I am not sure how I feel about it.  This unexpected change, a scenario that had never played out in my head before, has presented itself leaving my husband and I have to make a decision regarding our future employment. 

It is hard to imagine at times life outside of what we have become comfortable with.  A life in a new town, new job, new school for our son - lots of new things.  Now the thought of moving had been discussed however, the way in which this has arisen was not discussed.  A sudden change in job security and here is an opportunity to make change.

For us, we are so uncertain as to the right decision to make as we look at the impact on our life and family that any move would have.  It feels like this giant chasm has opened up and we can choose to take that leap of faith into the unknown or we can stay on the edge looking over and always wondering what life would be like 'if '.  This one is going to require a whole lot of faith to achieve what at times feels like the impossible.  To make the leap, we feel as though there is so much that must fall into place.  Much that we would say would seem impossible but we all know that sometimes, the impossible becomes possible with faith.

Perhaps it is time.
Perhaps we should.
Perhaps we shouldn't.

A life of no regrets....will this be one?   We are looking at this with a positive mindset and searching for what amazing opportunity lies before us however, that ever so comfortable position of staying where you are is also appealing.

Will we leap across that chasm or will be still be standing at the edge wondering 'what if '?  Time will tell.

Worthy of Success

Tough day, negative thoughts and that ultimate question of why rings in your head.  The voices are speaking loud and clear and are determined to keep you down and put you back in the safe, little box that you have become comfortable with.   They taunt you with questions of...

"Who are you to have success",

"Why would anyone be interested in what you have to offer"

"You are just small and insignificant and there are others much better than you could ever be"

Are you hearing them?  Are you falling for the lies, deceit and propaganda that they are producing inside your mind?  I need you to do one thing...

STOP LISTENING TO THEM!

The truth is that you are uniquely and beautifully made.  You have a purpose which you need to find and when you do, look out world for you will rise up and become an awesome warrior for your cause.  People will listen to you, they will want to talk to you, they will want to join you.

You are worthy of every success that comes your way however, it will take perserverence and commitment as these 'voices' are determined too.  They are determined to stop you from achieving your fullest potential as they want to rob you of all the amazing goodness and greatness that will come from it for you, your family and your friends.

Today, join me and print out my mantra, pin it on your wall and say it loud and proud every day.

http://www.startupbusinesshelp.com.au/images/fromthismoment500.jpg

Wishing you were here

Dear Dad,


I was only 18 months old when you left.  One morning you were there, you went to work and then never came home.  For me, I didn't understand the why.  I was way too young to even realise what had happened.  All I knew as a child was that my Dad, was here one day and gone the next.  It wasn't by choice.  Your time here with us had to end.

Growing up and even now as an adult, I often wonder 'what if'?   What if you were still here?  What would you be doing with your grandchildren?  Would you be proud of me?  Would we spend time together?   There is so much I want to tell you, show you and share with you.

I want to show you my achievements.  I want to hear your laugh.  I want to see you spend time with your grandchildren and teach them what you know.  I want to hug you and tell you how much you meant to me.

Over the years there have been many tears shed and many moment spent in wishful thinking.  Reality is that it will never be.  My memories of you are made from stories told by family and recollections of your friends.  There is one precious memory though, that message you wrote when I was scribbling on a piece of paper.  You remember, you wrote... "I love you".

Life can seem so cruel to a young child.  One who grew up with no self-confidence and clinging to her mother's apron in fear of losing her too.

I do hope that one day I get to see you again.  I get to wrap my arms around you and share with you all the amazing things that have happened and how I have been blessed in this life.

Love,
Your Daughter

Need a guest speaker?  Read more about how you can engage Lynnelle to speak at your next womens event www.lynnellerichardson.com.au

Coffee warms the heart

If you know me you know I love coffee. From one who only started drinking coffee a few years ago, I now love the smell, taste and a good strong coffee is divine. Recently, I was blessed to spend some precious time with a long-time girlfriend over a cup of coffee. It was simply wonderful to sit, chat and then do a little retail therapy on a laid back Friday afternoon.

We live in the same town, our children have spent time together and our friendship goes back 25+ years. Yet our moments together are too few. The weeks of life trundle past and still no coffee and chat. It seems ridiculous to be so close and yet spend so little time together. I know we have families, work, house and everything else that makes up a busy life however, surely there is more catchup time available.

Looking back it was one of the best Friday afternoons I have had in a long time. NO rush, no work just a casual and relaxed cuppa with a friend. If you are feeling disconnected from life and needing more time with friends. Pick up the phone, text or phone and set that coffee time. It will warm the heart and the world can wait.

Love,

 

 

 

Need a guest speaker?  Read more about how you can engage Lynnelle to speak at your next womens event www.lynnellerichardson.com.au

Source: wallpaperpassion.com via Lynnelle on Pinterest

Light up the Room

Your smile lights up the room

It reaches every corner

Darkness is gone

And warmth enters

Smile more and share your joy

Bless those around you

My heart sings when you smile

And the world smiles too

Image: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Daily-Dose

Need a guest speaker?  Read more about how you can engage Lynnelle to speak at your next womens event www.lynnellerichardson.com.au

Tears of a mother

Breathe.  Regain composure and face the day ahead.  Today, is a tough one with a wave of emotions coming to the surface and struggling to keep them at bay.  Tears of a mother...one who is so concerned about the future of her child that it is constantly in her mind.  

He is finding his way and enduring the challenge of securing employment in a town where there is not much on offer for his age and skill set.  Today as I opened my devotion and searched for wisdom for this journey, the words were very clear.

"The privilege of motherhood", "Awesome responsibility" and "No greater ministry than that of being a mother".  Sounds pretty overwhelming and at this moment, it feels that way too.

If I didn't care so much, the tears wouldn't be there.  This precious child who has so much to offer this world, that has consumed 19 years of my life, has brought such joy to our lives...is bringing tears to my eyes.

I never expected in my wildest dreams that this age and stage of his life would be so hard.  You just want to share your knowledge and wisdom from years of living in an effort to help them come to their fullest potential.  However, they need to want to receive it.

My prayer... that my precious son finds the direction and opportunities that he needs to create a life that is full of love and laughter.  May he find happiness in relationships, fulfillment, confidence and a career that he just 'fits' into and feels passionate about.

As the tears fall once again, I will seek comfort in that God knows what lies ahead and that he will provide the wisdom and a guiding hand through these challenging days.

Cheers,

Need a guest speaker?  Read more about how you can engage Lynnelle to speak at your next womens event www.lynnellerichardson.com.au

Unconditionally

Frustration sets in and can be followed with anger and general unhappiness.  When we decided to have children, it would have been nice if  the 'a how-to guide to successful parenting' was provided and customised to each individual child.  While those toddler years were exhausting, the teenage ones are not much better.  Yes, I am not having to get up through the night to deal with feeding or crying children instead, my mind fills with worry about my children and every parents wish that they, the children, could see what we see after forty plus years of experience.  

As the mother of 19 and 15 year old boys, I find these past couple of years challenging as they are moving towards independence and of course, what would parents know.  At this age, they share their opinion, challenge authority and seek a carefree life away from rules.  Reality (as parents know), is that life is far from carefree.  There is always responsibility that comes with independence.  There is always a trade-off and decision made will bring either good or bad consequences.

I love my boys and thank God for them, the joy, the tears and the frustration that comes from being a parent.  Life would not be as full if they were not here.  This makes me think about God and his children.  How many times do you think he raises palm to forehead and says "Doh!", when we don't or won't listen to him. The frustration, the tears, the sadness when we forget to listen and instead go our own selfish way through this world.  His heart breaks every time we put him last, forget to have that devotion, leave him out of decisions and then make a poor choice that lands us in hot water.  I can see him sitting on his throne, shaking his head and saying, 'why don't they just listen for I know the answer".

The most amazing thing about being a parent is that no matter what your child does (or doesn't do), no matter how far they stray, no matter the hurt you feel, you will always love them - unconditionally.   God is the same.  He sacrificed his only son so that we could be his children and call him Father.  Never does he give up on us.  Never does he stop loving us.  Never will he leave us.  Never....never...never.

It doesn't mean that we should take him for granted for one day we have to answer to God just as we expect our children to answer to authority.  As a parent, I feel I  have missed the mark at times however, through his mercy, I can seek forgiveness.  That same forgiveness, needs to be applied to my children too. 

I remember when they were little I would sweep them up in my arms, smothering them with kisses - these are memories that will never be forgotten.  God is ready to sweep you up in his arms too.  To give you the warmest of cuddles and a kiss on the forehead that lets you know that all is okay and you are loved no matter what you have done.

Unconditional love.  It knows no boundaries, it never ceases, it never gives up.  I can only pray that I provide to my children the same level of unconditional love that my Father shows me.

Cheers,

 

Need a guest speaker?  Read more about how you can engage Lynnelle to speak at your next womens event www.lynnellerichardson.com.au

Days of Doubt

I'm not good enough for this!  Ever said that to yourself?  Have you ever doubted your abilities, potential, strength, courage?  I can tell you that I definately have and at times, still do.  I have my ups and downs - days of doubt - when you are convinced that you are working well outside your zone and just want to crawl back into that safe, comfortable spot where life just trundles along and you feel at ease with all that you have to do.

What I have come to realise is that with God, there is no safe zone.  He will challenge you and make you step into areas that are unfamiliar, uncomfortable and certainly at the time, unwanted.  Every aspect in you life he can choose to challenge you with.  These challenges are not to be feared but to be welcomed.  Why?  For it is through the tough, uncomfortable, unfamiliar times, that God teaches you to have self-belief, to have courage, to have strength, to have trust and most of all to have faith that he knows best.  

We cannot survive on our own.  Without faith, I would have crumbled some time ago and it is this faith that enables you to face the fiercest of battles, the strongest of foes and the days of doubt.  Faith that someone, bigger and stronger than you already knows the outcome.  He knows how long you will endure it, he knows the doubt you will feel, he knows that the tears will be there and with his strength, you will come out the other side.

For many the battle may be only beginning, for others you may be in the midst of it all and feeling overwhelmed.  Stand firm, believe, trust and have faith that God, the same God that calmed the seas and healed the sick, is standing beside you - he has your back!   Face those days of doubt head on and work through the challenge one day at a time.

Love,

Need a guest speaker?  Read more about how you can engage Lynnelle to speak at your next womens event www.lynnellerichardson.com.au

Need to Breathe

I recently took a few days away from my business to reset and refocus.  The world seemed to be spinning fast lately and I needed to slow down and chill - just for a moment.  I needed to breathe.  My head was full of questions and no answers.  Over the past few weeks, I have found myself questioning (again) my purpose, my path and my legacy.  I had been feeling like the weeks, months and years are flying by and I am not making progress but wasting hours.  

Perhaps it is the fresh, spring weather here that has prompted these thoughts.  I see such glorious days and feel that there is more to life than what I am experiencing.  My mind wanders back to what now feels like 'days of freedom'  where much time was spent hanging out with friends, slipping away for weekends and enjoying this magnificent world.  These days seem so far behind now.  Yes, our life changed, we had two beautiful sons and have enjoyed watching them grow up however, now the days are calling for more.

More of what?  I don't know.  I challenge my own thoughts - those of relocating and moving away in the hope of finding a fresh and exciting new life.  Dreams of having an amazing business that provides high levels of self-fulfillment and purpose.  A life where I find contentment, peace and one where I feel so richly blessed by the love of God, my family and feel 'at home'.   However, the more I think, the more confused I feel.  

In a devotion the other day, I told God that I needed  a big neon sign right about now that says, 'This Way' - just to confirm that I am on the right track.  About the same time, my devotion was talking about the importance of family - "Cherish the time in your home with the ones you love.  Your family - not your career, your hobby, your ministry, even your friends - is to be a top priority.....realise the importance of keeping your home safe and warm - a haven for your family."   Once again, God has stopped me in my steps and challenged my thoughts.  Gotta love him when he throws something complete random into the mix - staying at home was never on my to-do list.

What about you?  Are you struggling to breathe in this fast-paced, demanding world?  Take the time to ask God to show you where you need to be however, be prepared that the answer may not be what you are expecting.  His plan and his timing is perfect so if you are having the 'great debate' in your mind, have faith that while there may not be all the answers right now, the answers will come.

Love,

Need a guest speaker?  Read more about how you can engage Lynnelle to speak at your next womens event www.lynnellerichardson.com.au

Restless Soul

It is there. It does not leave. It taunts my mind, tests my patience, tosses my soul as though it is a feather in the breeze.  Continually challenging my thoughts and pushing me to seek more.  I am tired, exhausted from this constant searching to find my way.  After years of searching at times it feels as though I am no closer.  I feel just as far away as I have always been.  Who is me?  Why has God put me here?  What do I have to offer this world?

The problem is that I can do so much.  The ideas whiz around the head with a multitude of possible directions to take.   This morning I have prayed for this ongoing restlessness to cease.  The constant search is exhausting - mentally, emotionally and physically.

Today, I started the day differently.  I chose to start with fresh air and sunshine in the hope that I may be inspired by such glorious spring weather.  Clear the mind and renew the senses!  I returned home to a hot cuppa and devotion and as I opened my bible to Job here come these words...

Job  33:14 "For God does speak - now one way, now another - though man may not perceive it."

and then...

Job 33:  31 - 33 "Pay attention, Job and listen to me; be silent, and I will speak.  If you have anything to say, answer me, speak up, for I want you to be cleared.  But if not, then listen to me, be silent and I will teach you wisdom."

How often we feel the need to control our direction when perhaps what we need is simply to listen.  To stop analysing and searching and wait for the answer.  'Ask and you shall receive' we are told however, I probably often ask but then Little Miss Impatient shows up and forgets about the waiting to receive.  

This amazing God who knows so much more than I do, can handle so much more than I can and who is so loving, forgiving and generous.  I know that His plan is better than mine ever could be and that when I go off on my wild, outlandish dreams, he is there to reign me in and bring me back on track with gentle hands and love.  Perhaps this is my time to sit down, be quiet, listen and continue the rediscovery!

Cheers,

 

Worth the Fight

Life is tough...it's not what you had thought it would be. You are angry, you are frustrated, you are unhappy in some part or maybe all of your life. Ask yourself why? What changed?? It wasn't always this hard. There had been years of easy times, not perfect, just easier. Remember back to when you had a smile to share and laughter filled your soul. When the pressures and challenges were manageable and less often. Those days are still there you just can't see them at the moment.

As we grow older, the challenges appear to be more frequent and stronger. We look back to years of youth thinking how wonderful they were and wishing that life was that simple once again. However, we can't live in the past what we have to deal with is the now. The now may be hard, it may hurt but you have the power to rise to the challenge and fight for what you want in this life. Perhaps a relationship is breaking down, perhaps the job is coming to an end, perhaps the kids are screaming and you wonder how on earth you ever ended up in this mess. These times just seem to happen and can come from what appears to be nowhere. It could be a sudden, unexpected change or it could be a series of little niggles that has turned into a festering, ugly situation where there appears to be no hope.

You are worth the fight. Your relationship is worth the fight. Your children are worth the fight. Stand up and claim the goodness that God has for you. The happiness that awaits you once again. Grab hold of what brings joy to your heart or a smile to your face. One moment, every day - remember it, claim it. Fight.

Fight against the mindset that we are fed continually or that negativity that has crept in over the years. No more will you let heartache, anger, sorrow, worry or frustration rule your life. Perhaps you and your attitude needs to change to find that peace again. Our mind can control our hearts and we have to ensure that we are being reasonable in our expectations, accept that we are not always right, we are human, we have faults and that it takes compromise and compassion.

No matter what you are facing today, there is hope. God has the power and the strength to see this one through, even when you don't. God doesn't want you to live a miserable life - he wants only the best for you however it is up to us to accept this, embrace it and run with that belief in our hearts.

Rough Seas - Safe Harbour

The weather forecast is bleak - high winds and rough seas ahead. It starts ever so gently, a slight change in the wind, the swell gradually increasing and the radar indicates adversity lies ahead. Here you are in open seas at the mercy of mother nature and you know that you are heading into a difficult and potentially painful situation that will be require precise navigation to make it through. You will need to be vigilent, exact in your actions and ready for whatever challenge presents itself before you. Most of all, it's all hands on deck. This storm has the potential to be brutal and destructive - are you ready for it?

Three years ago, I was in the middle of that storm. I was experiencing emotional pain like never before. I was feeling as though everything I had done for the past 20 years of my working life was in vain. I questioned every facet of my being, wondering why I was the way I was. Trying to hang onto the faintest piece of self-worth after being pinned under the weight of doubt, fear and worthlessness that had seen my career shatter before my eyes.

At the time is was brutal and hard to understand why would my God, a God of love and mercy would put me through such an ordeal. What had I done that was so wrong that would see me endure an emotional turmoil that questioned my life, where I was going, why I was here and what the future may hold. There were days where I happily stayed inside with blinds closed to keep the pain that the world was throwing at me out.

Fast forward three years... I have not returned to the workplace. This is not because I am still pinned under that weight of worthlessness but because that adversity gave me a new direction. I recently shared this story with a beautiful woman of God, Grace Evans and with just a few words, I saw the trauma with a whole new perspective. I was being reborn for something new. Just as a woman endures hours of pain to give birth to her child, I had to endure the rough seas to realise that my life was about to find new purpose.

Perhaps you are experiencing adversity now and questioning what the past 5, 10, 20 or even more years have been about. Believe this - that none of the past was a waste and not one part of your life, be it joy or pain is without reason. Without it you could not be prepared for what lies ahead. God gives us storms so that we grow stronger and rely on him more. Throughout my storm, I cried, yelled and made it evidently clear to God how unfair I felt the adversity was. I told Him to stop it. I told Him enough. After doing that, I told Him I trusted Him and handed over control as I needed help to navigate a path to a safe harbour.

Whatever you are experiencing, don't see it as punishment. You need to accept that God is moving. Perhaps He has something so awesome in store for you that to make it happen, you need to grow stronger in an area of your life. Maybe He needs to get your attention (He certainly had mine) to be able to change your attitude, soften your heart, get your life in perspective and move you forward into an amazing opportunity that He has been waiting to give to you.

I know that I wasn't listening to God the way I should have. I know that I was too weak to make the decision I needed to so He made it for me. At the time I didn't understand why however now, I can see that it was to bring me to a point of submission and willingness to stop controlling my life and to let him take over.

Don't fight against the storm. Instead engage the Master of Navigation and let Him guide you through. The seas will still be rough, the storm may be fierce however, in the midst of it you will find the most amazing Captain at the helm who can guide and direct you to a safe harbour - one where the seas are calm and you are safe and securely tethered.

Another Cup fo Life Please

Every morning I enjoy a cup of coffee. The first one of the day is always the best and with my ever faithful Nespresso machine, I select the level of caffeine hit required, heat up some milk, then sit back and enjoy the end result.

In life, it isn't quite as simple. We cannot select our life, we have opportunties but not always choices. We do not choose to have cancer, heart attacks, forced transfers or even disabilities. We can however choose how we deal with the events as they unfold.

I remember when my husband had a heart attack (he was only 43) - it certainly wasn't what he chose nor was it my choice, we had no control over the situation. It was one that we had to deal with, face the fear, trust the doctors, trust God more and wait. In that situation we could have chosen to crumble or rise to the challenge. As I waited during his surgery, I prayed and I cried. It was a time that I will never forget and there were many beautiful and emotional moments with my God as I relied on him like never before.

If we could just brew up the perfect life, I believe it would be one of weakness. How many of us would actually welcome adversity. Not many I suspect. Yes, life can be tough but from adversity comes growth and from challenge comes strength. Be they life changing moments or coping with changes in life - it all has purpose. The challenges and adversity are our 'caffeine hit' that bring the deepest parts of our being to life.

As another year comes to a close and new one starts, lets remember that in life we need strength. So instead of another half strength flat white, let's make it full strength. My prayer for you is that you embrace the challenge, discover new strengths and become resilient and confident no matter what comes your way in 2012.

Cheers,
Lynnelle

Safely Home

It's 1am, I can't sleep and my son is yet to arrive home. Think there's a connection? Definately. I have tossed and turned for the past 3 hours waiting to hear him drive in. Waiting to hear the garage door slide open and shut, the back door to open and footsteps making their way through the house and down the hall. I am unsettled although not upset, just not able to find sleep or peace. As parents, this is natural. We will always worry about our children - are they eating well, looking after themselves, are they SAFE!

We are not the only ones who pace up and down in their heads or on their feet. God does too. How many nights has he sat up waiting for his children to arrive safely home. How many times has he wished we would call. How many times has he longed for us to open that door and walk in.

He wants to surround himself with his children, just like we as parents do. When we are worried and anxious - he feels this too. He felt pain like no one else. He actually knew his son would die from before he was born and he had to watch as life and death unfolded. All this so that he could welcome all of his children safely home. A sacrifice of mercy and love.

I hear a sound, the car rolls in, the door opens and the footsteps are light as they make their way down the hall. All is good in the house again. My son is safely home. Are you? Have you walked into the Father's house? He's waiting for you.

Cheers,
Lynnelle

Beautifully and purposely built

At times we all struggle to have self confidence and belief that we have a purpose. I struggle with this often and wonder why was I placed on this earth? I feel so small in this huge world and that I have nothing to offer. Today, I had the joy of listening to another brief message from Max Lucado and as he shared there is only one me. Many might say 'thank goodness for that'(my husband probably does!) however, it makes me unique, special and one of a kind.

The most wonderful thing is that there is only one you. Yes, you are beautifully designed with a purpose and once we accept that we are, who we are for a reason, we can find happiness that appears at times to elude us.

Love the fact that you are unique, embrace it, celebrate it!

Cheers,
Lynnelle


Click here to listen to Max Lucado's Message!

Jesus vs Religion

I just watched this video and it certainly made me think. I believe I am following the true Jesus Christ however, there are elements of religion that do concern me. Would we be so caught up in what we think our church should be that we wouldn't recognise Jesus when he turned up for the Sunday morning service? Would we turn him away? Would he be disappointed with what he found when he walked in the door?

As Christians we are not exempt from being mislead. With the best of intentions and a sometimes naive we can be led up the garden path and are so blinded by false promises that we fail to see the shortfalls. Be careful who you follow... ask questions and if it doesn't line up then rethink.

Cheers,
Lynnelle

Click here to view Video

Winds of Change

Change. Do you go with the flow or resist? Do you fight change with every breath in your body or do you accept and move on? Change is inevitable. It will happen today, tomorrow and always. Change sweeps through a workplace, a home, a life. It can be life changing, frustrating or motivating.

I read once that it is all about the Cheese. When the cheese moves we need to move too, just like the mouse. This little nose can sniff out the cheese no matter where it goes to. It acknowledges that the cheese is no longer where it was and that to find the cheese, one must move.

Change comes in many different forms and what initially can be upsetting for some can turn to opportunity. A few years ago my cheese moved. It was unplanned, unexpected and unwanted at the time. As a result I was shaken and stirred into action. An action that would not have happened if the cheese did not move. As I look back now I can see that the moving of the cheese brought opportunity not loss. It was a period of growth (however difficult at times) and has opened doors towards a future that would not be there had I stayed in the same place, doing the same thing. I was in a rut, I needed to escape but was unable to make that decision so God made the decision for me.

In the book "Fearless" written by Max Lucado (my absolute favourite author), he speaks of how God changes our assignments. In doing so he is preparing us to change the world. Isn't that exciting! If you are experiencing change or feel that change is in the wind...don't be afraid. Embrace it and enjoy it as the winds of change sweep through your life. While you may not see purpose at the time, remember that God has everything under control. Just sit back and wait for the new direction that is enfolding for your life.

Photo from: Dipity.com

Crown of Beauty

I am *cough* 43. My body is changing. My metabolism is slowing, menopause is coming and my mind, well, let's hope it hangs around for a while yet. On a physical level, I struggle to be comfortable in my body. When I look in the mirror, I see every bump, wrinkle and blemish. Every imperfection is seen. I have not been blessed with porcelain, perfect skin. My skin is sensitive and shows every mark. On one hand you will find a burn and a puncture wound - the permanent reminder of a poor choice as a child. This body lacks in height (just a couple more inches would have been great) and I fail to see any beauty in me. However, my husband says I'm beautiful and he is not the only one!

My God also says I am beautiful. Colossians 1:22 informs me of that I am "holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation." His eyes don't see what I see. His eyes see the beauty within and not that which is seen to the outside world. My physical attributes play no part in whether I am accepted by God. It is my heart that matters.

The world sees what the mirror sees. It focuses on the outside, full of imperfections and judges accordingly. From one who has wished for more height, less weight and better skin, take heart in that you are beautiful no matter what this world says. When you walk with Christ you wear a crown of beauty. You don't have to be perfect to be accepted. You are loved no matter your imperfections.

Stand tall and be confident as you wear your crown knowing that God has made you just the way you are and he loves you - every bump, wrinkle and blemish!

Year of Favour

I awoke early this morning and the brain kicked in as soon as the eyes opened. There is a stirring in my soul to rise, a small voice that says get up and share a cuppa with me. So, I grabbed my bible, a cuppa and sat in the stillness of the morning. As I opened my bible, the pages fell to Isaiah 61 and the words ring true to me as the morning sun rises to at the start of a new day.

This is the year. After three years of waiting, I feel that there is going to be something different this year. That gift that Jesus has promised - perhaps it is finally time to open it!

Isaiah tells me the it is the Year of the Lord's Favour. What a blessing to read this! I have felt that my journey is to motivate and inspire and have spent the last three years at times feeling like I am wandering around in the wilderness. Perhaps it wasn't the wilderness but more of a training ground. When I stop and think about what this means, I also hear the words "who are you to do this?"
I don't know the how, the where or the when but that doesn't matter. For what I do know is that if my God has said it, I believe it and it will be.

Are you heading into a year of favour? Are you listening to that small voice that talks softly, leading you and loving you. Take the time to spend a quiet cuppa with God and see what he reveals to you. Once the seed is planted, he will nourish it and prepare you for what he is calling you to do. Have patience and a year of favour will be upon you!

New Eyes To See

Often we fail to see what is right in front of us. We are so caught up in our own small part of the world that we lose sight of the struggles that surround us. In 2012, may I see the needs in those around me. Please Lord, give me new eyes to see!