Addictions

We just might have more addictions than we know. Not all addictions are destructive. Some are just distracting and others have a constructive aspect. Can we be addicted to Bible reading? It sounds a bit severe, but I suppose it's possible.

Mostly, addictions are thought as negative and harmful. At what point can a person be free from an addiction? Some will say that once a person is an alcoholic, they're always an alcoholic. Is it not possible for God to break such a stronghold? I know of many serious Christian counselors who believe that God will end an addiction to alcohol.

Now what about us? Can we muster enough forgiveness (and forgetness)to trust God in these ways? I wonder if our doubts negatively contribute to the insecurity of the former addict. Help us, Lord.

James 5:15 (MSG)
15 Believing-prayer will heal you, and Jesus will put you on your feet. And if you've sinned, you'll be forgiven—healed inside and out.

Thinking

Now here's a subject we're as familiar with as breathing. Sometimes we're accused of not thinking and sometimes people will actually say, without thinking, "What were you thinking?" The thought process is valuable to who we are and who we will become. It is essential in our prayer and practical in our service. Don't you think so?

What are you thinking right now? (Why am I reading this blog?)...or maybe something else? Can I suggest we keep our thoughts positive and bright? There are so many places we can go in our minds to escape our realities and to journey to our fantasies. There are dark places without light that may even accentuate our fears.

Thinking about Jesus and His love will be the best place our mind can go. The outcomes will prove better than you might think. I'll be there too.

Philippians 4:8 (NIV)
8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things.

Proving the grace of God

Lest we think our best plans are working and making the difference, I would suggest that the prevalence of the grace of God is the answer. He is leading us, helping us, providing for us, caring for us. God is. Hallelujah!

Let's continue to serve Him optimally and recognise the blessing of His grace in what we do. This is in the relationship we have with Him and is His desire and joy. A day doesn't pass without the demonstration of His love for us. Look for Him. See Him. Worship Him. Enjoy the life He gives today.

1 Timothy 1:15 (MSG)
15 Here's a word you can take to heart and depend on: Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners. I'm proof—Public Sinner Number One—

Swan Hill Sunday

We started the day at the corps with a gathering of the SAMIAC group to reconsider what we had learned the day before. Major John Farquharson led us capably and drew us to pray for our findings and for the events of the day. We returned to the "ten steps" on the Murray River for public worship of God.

The music was bright and engaging as was the testimonies and prayers. We looked to the Word of God from Isaiah 43 and listened to the voice of God among us. It was a beaut.

Altogether, we listened to the voices of the Indigenous People and the voice of God. What we gained, we are still processing and believe that it will be revealed in each of us in the days ahead. Hallelujah!

Isaiah 43:2 (NIV)
2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.

Swan Hill

On the Murray River, you'll find the community of Swan Hill, where the people are friendly and the weather just right. We met there together at the request of the Salvation Army Multicultural and Indigenous Australia Council to consider how we might better connect with Indigenous People. It has been a remarkable day.

Members of the Cabinet and the Council met with many Indigenous People on the banks of the Murray River. First we ate at the BBQ, then we actually did sit at the ten steps on the bank of the river. We listened and shared from the heart as God was glorified by such communication. By the end of the evening we were back at the corps hall celebrating and singing in sweet fellowship and harmony. Hallelujah!

This is where we belong.

Colossians 1:22 (NIV)
22 But now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation--

Lt. Colonel Milford McPherson

One of the privileges of the day, Friday, was to attend the memorial service for the life of Lt. Colonel Milford McPherson. It was at the Training College where the room was filled with those who know him and value his influence on their lives. The meeting was led by Lt. Colonel Edwin Hayes who represented all Salvationists with his pastoral support of the family and his deep respect for the Colonel.

Grandson, Tim, gave an inspirational message to us all in the recounting of his grandfather's life and incredible influence in his ministry. Serving in Australia and a few other countries, Lt. Colonel McPherson represented his Lord and Saviour, Jesus, throughout his life to the glory of God. From what I learned, we are fortunate to have known him. Hallelujah!

Revelation 14:12 (MSG)
12 Meanwhile, the saints stand passionately patient, keeping God's commands, staying faithful to Jesus.

Howard & Rudd

I was invited by the Australian Christian Lobby to attend an evening to meet both the Prime Minister John Howard and the opposition candidate Kevin Rudd. The format allowed for four sessions where twenty Christian leaders were in a room with each candidate to meet them personally and ask questions.

The second set of meetings was in a larger group where the candidates each spoke for 45-60 minutes followed by prepared questions from the audience.

Both men were prepared and respectful. Both were personal and engaging. Both of them have a high regard for TSA. It was in all, a good event.

As the choice goes forward for the election of the next Prime Minister, we need to carefully consider what we believe to be God's will for the country. I wouldn't suggest the choice to be easy.

1 Peter 2:17 (MSG)
17 Treat everyone you meet with dignity. Love your spiritual family. Revere God. Respect the government.

Eastern Victoria Division

Thank you, Lord, for a good day. We shared the day with the Eastern Victoria Division whilst doing their annual review. God is at work here in the fine ministry of Majors Ron and Robyn Clinch and their team.

We celebrate growth trends in the division and see God's hand in what is happening. It has required careful visioning, planning and implementation. There's strong evidence of prayer and faithfulness across the board.

Bring it on, Lord!

2 Thessalonians 1:3 (NIV)
3 We ought always to thank God for you, brothers, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love every one of you has for each other is increasing.

National Brengle Institute

At any reference to Commissioner Samuel Logan Brengle, one begins to think of holiness. His life and writings have taught and inspired many of us on our journey of faith. God raised him up to crystallize our thinking and understanding on this beaut experience for us all.

In the next week to ten days, delegates from all over Australia have joined together for an opportunity to explore the word of God on the subject of the "second blessing" and will draw near to the Lord in holy expectation and openness. It will be a most satisfying experience and one that will reveal God's powerful love in them. Hallelujah!

We met with them last night at the Geelong Conference Centre. I love how God sends the right people at the right time. As you kneel before the Father this week, think of these faithful ones and let's support their blessing.

1 Peter 1:16 (MSG)
16 God said, "I am holy; you be holy."

Music and Gospel Arts

You may have noticed that we are re-instituting the Territorial Music Department with a twist. It will soon exist as the Territorial Music and Gospel Arts Team. You will also know that Captains Mark and Tracey Bearcroft are taking up these appointments and will be leading us in these ways under the auspices of the Corps Programme Department.

What we are attempting to do is to facilitate and stimulate the wonderful gifts that God has given His people in TSA. We have composers, writers, set designers, musicians, instrumentalists, vocalists, conductors, videographers and more who are looking to glorify God in their area of giftedness. These are also an assortment of ways people will be attracted to God's love and grace. It's a winning combination...so we're going for it. Hallelujah!

2 Timothy 1:7 (MSG)
7 God doesn't want us to be shy with his gifts, but bold and loving and sensible.

MCD Youth Meeting

At the Keilor Corps tonight we met with a packed chapel of youth and some leaders to celebrate God's love and presence in our lives. The Keilor Youth Band brought the music and led us in worship capably and in the Spirit of God. Divisional Youth Leaders Major Sandra Maunder and Major Mim Adams organised a great night. Majors Rodney and Jenny Barnard. Divisional Leaders, were there supporting their youth and witnessing to the grace of God in their lives.

These gatherings are powerful and great opportunities for our youth to connect in the presence of God. Their worship is energetic and earnest. With who was in the room, I imagine we could win Melbourne for Christ. Why don't we?

Acts 3:6 (MSG)
6 Peter said, "I don't have a nickel to my name, but what I do have, I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk!"

Footy

There is a phenomenon in Australia known as Footy. That is Australian Rules Football...It's here where some would call it "no rules" football. Now deep into our second season of exposure, here in Melbourne, we are beginning to feel the excitement of the sport.

The game itself is nonstop. The play is only minimally influenced by referees and an abundance of rules that slow down and stop the game. In some other sports, the role of the referee is so strong, the figure into the strategy of the game. Then there are the team theme songs that have to be heard to be appreciated.

Living is nonstop and our lives are designed for excitement and energetic engagement. Can we focus that joy collectively and team up to celebrate the source of our hope? It's Jesus. Hallelujah!

Mark 9:15 (MSG)
15 As soon as the people in the crowd saw Jesus, admiring excitement stirred them. They ran and greeted him.

Authentic Holiness

Actually, the title of the book is "Authentic Holiness for ordinary Christians". It is written by Majors Geoff and Kalie Webb. They are corps officers at the Ingle Farm Corps in South Australia and are presently awaiting visas for appointments to Pakistan. Prayer on their behalf will be effectual.

The book is a good treatise as the title suggests on the joy of holiness for regular people. It's a good read and well worth the time. You can get it here in Australia and we are working on making it available on even a wider scale. It's recommended on the cover by Dr. Roger Green, Captain Dr. Stephen Court and Major Dr. Alan Harley, a formidable mob, for sure.

It's a book for today.

Hebrews 12:14 (NIV)
14 Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.

Transparency

I believe God calls us to openness when He saves us. We need to be open to Him and others in obedience to Him. If we're keeping secrets from Him, we're kidding ourselves and being inconsistent with a hope to be wholly given to Him.

The matter of transparency comes with trust. When we trust the Lord more, we are more open to Him. This would be known as spiritual growth. Our trust in each other is also marked by a willingness to be transparent. The lack of openness in our journey often translates as deception. There are a few matters in our lives that we ought not bother others with their knowledge. Apart from these, our openness can facilitate a freedom in Christ that has no need of a good memory for fear of getting our stories straight.

Jude 1:21 (MSG)
21 staying right at the center of God's love, keeping your arms open and outstretched, ready for the mercy of our Master, Jesus Christ. This is the unending life, the real life!

The Future

While not overlooking today, the future is very interesting. Have you heard a forecast lately? This morning I heard two forecasts before breakfast. First it was the weather. Now there's a job to have. They can almost say what they want and the weather just might come close. I guess they do pretty well. The second was a financial forecast where they said the Aussie dollar was going to continue to do well. He could be right.

Want a forecast that you can rely upon? It's in the Bible. As a matter of fact, it's all through the Bible. God knows what you will be facing tomorrow and into the future. His promises about the future are the most reliable forecasts you'll ever come across...and they're delivered with love.

Jeremiah 29:11 (MSG)
11 I know what I'm doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.

Y2O

That stands for Year Two Officers, which is to say those who have now been on the field for two years. We met with God today for a few minutes and shared in some important moments. One of the mates spoke of the significance of his ministry and his deep deep hopes to even be used more strategically. He ministered to us all. I'm glad I was there.

We've got to be passionate about our role in the Kingdom of God. It isn't a casual stroll in the park. It is life and death. Yes, let's be alive and measure the over arching importance of our witness and ministries. God is with us and will guide us in our efforts in His name. Let's not hold back, but go for it. Hallelujah!

Isaiah 16:5 (MSG)
5 A new government of love will be established in the venerable David tradition. A Ruler you can depend upon will head this government, A Ruler passionate for justice, a Ruler quick to set things right."

Technology

Increasingly, we are relying on technology and it is at the very least interesting. Often we are encouraged to take a technological route in order to save time, minimise effort, and keep our interest active. It certainly fits with the attention deficit world in which we live...or is it a cause?

So the technology assists us in communicating the gospel in incredible ways both in content and in overall exposure. We can reach so many more and in so many mediums. Hallelujah!

The message, however, is to a human heart from a divine heart. The technology is reduced to an instrument or vehicle by which the gospel can be shared. Use it for the glory of God. Explore the many new possibilities offered to us technologically. Know that it is a message of the heart to the heart.

2 John 1:12 (MSG)
12 I have a lot more things to tell you, but I'd rather not use paper and ink. I hope to be there soon in person and have a heart-to-heart talk. That will be far more satisfying to both you and me.

Retirement

Retirement for officers is not exactly what the term conveys. You don't retire from active service. You don't retire from officership. I see retirement as a gift to faithful officers who are freed to pursue the service of God on their own terms and to balance the later years with appropriate personal levels of effort.

The retired officers are a valuable asset in the territory. On a regular basis, they soldier with integrity and are available to fill in for officer roles when the need presents itself. They are great Salvos. Hallelujah!

Next time you see a retired officer, tell them how much we need them and how we thank God for them.

Matthew 25:21 (NIV)
21 "His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!'

Women and Ministry

We are regularly reminded of the role of women in TSA. There is no question as to their importance. Keep this in mind as we go forward. This is not an area in which we can afford to go back on. Hallelujah!

I'm very interested in ministry to women as well. We need more women in TSA to reach more women for Christ. We need women of all ages and we need to be strategic in our efforts to minister appropriately. I'm certain that we should take the lead from women as to how to most effectively attract and serve women.

Let us celebrate the incredible role women have had and are having in the movement.

Revelation 21:3 (MSG)
3 I heard a voice thunder from the Throne: "Look! Look! God has moved into the neighborhood, making his home with men and women! They're his people, he's their God.

St. Kilda Crisis Centre

The services at the St. Kilda Crisis Centre are straight out of the Salvo 101 manual. I'm not saying that they're basic courses in Salvoism, but rather right on the mark of incredible social programmes that reach out to the "least, the last, and the lost." I sensed their heart and compassion for the many people who need their services.

I met Ms. Jenny Plant and her professional team that are strong and competent. I have confidence in each of them from what they told me today about their ministries. Tonight I'm praying for them as the people they help need great support and they need Christ. The recidivism and long term addictions can be conquered through the grace of God. Hallelujah!

Thank you friends for your faithfulness. God is using you to His glory.

Matthew 25:40 (MSG)
40 Then the King will say, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me.'