Devoted

The power of one, meet Julie Steynberg

Thailand, land of smiles and friendships Did South Africans get what they deserve?

Does adversity make us stronger?

In conversation with

Dr Kenneth Meshoe Issue 25

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In this issue Start to make an effort to refrain from negative talk and join groups and organisations focussed on positive change.

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EDITOR’S NOTE Get your ducks in a row 2

The power of one, meet Julie Steynberg

PROFILE The power of one

Did South Africans get what they deserve?

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ACTUAL Did South Africans get what they deserve with their leadership?

INSPIRATION Does adversity make us stronger?

BOOK REVIEW Turn it around

6 “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it and it will be yours.”

(Mark 11:24)

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IN CONVERSATION Dr Kenneth Meshoe, President of the ACDP 4 TRAVEL WITH A PURPOSE Thailand, land of smiles and friendships

Thailand, land of smiles and friendships

Does adversity make us stronger?

In conversation with

Dr Kenneth Meshoe Issue 25

Photo: Statement of Faith; Auckland

CREDITS

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MANAGING EDITOR Gerda Potgieter LANGUAGE EDIT Mignionette Fair • Edita Services WEBSITE Tony Hendricks • Storm Tank

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DESIGN Anna • Creative Diversity The design of this issue was sponsored by:

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CONTACT DETAILS FOR DEVOTED Email: editor@devotedmag.co.za Website: www.devotedmag.co.za

Content disclaimer Devoted is published by Devine Publishers. All rights reserved. While every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of information, the managing editor, Devoted and the publisher cannot accept liability of whatever nature arising out or in connection with the contents of this magazine. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of any of the Devoted team and remains the sole responsibility of the writers.

It was confirmed by our writers and contributors that no part of the written submissions has been copied from either a book or any other source, including the internet, except where such sections are clearly shown as quotes and the sources have been correctly identified within the text or in the list of references.

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Editor’s Note

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Get your ducks in a row!

t has been a long time since our previous issue because, like many others around us, we are struggling with challenges that impact on our daily lives and resources. Devoted is distributed digitally now, which makes our distribution much wider – without the printing costs. This edition launches our new “look and feel!”.

The year 2018 was not a good year for many people, resulting in widescale negative thinking. We are in a new year now and with it comes new challenges, but we also have the opportunity for new initiatives and positive change. It is time to get our ducks in a row!

Negative self-talk affects us in devastating ways. The term ‘negative affectivity’ is a “personality variable that involves the continuous experience of negative emotions and a poor self-concept” (Wikipedia).

Consequently, it results in a wide range of negative emotions that include sadness, disgust, anger, contempt, guilt, fear, nervousness, anxiety…

There is a lot going on in our country just now and also much of complaining about the high levels of corruption, crime, mismanagement of people’s hard-earned tax monies, state capturing, … the list seems endless. You hear it everywhere and it has become the culture in South Africa to be negative and to complain. And, it is so easy to

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become one of the complainers. It is sometimes difficult to keep focused and positive with the high amounts of negativity we are bombarded with - it is a situation of garbage in, garbage out. And before we know it, we become one of the negative talkers who only see the bad things.

Does any of this sound familiar to you? Do you know negative people, or even worse, are you one of the negative thinkers and talkers? If so, this issue is for YOU, and also the book of Angelique du Toit, Turn it around, shift your perceptions in a changing world! Read my review on this inspirational book in this issue. The inspirational story of André Buckle, who – after a serious accident – did not allow for circumstances to get the best of him, is also a must read.

I agree with Julie Steynberg (page 3) when she points out that change starts with the individual - with each and every one of us! It takes guts to make a deliberate decision to stop complaining - to stop taking part in negative conversations and to rather ACT by joining people who want to see a positive change and who want to DO something positive. Even though it is not always easy, I started to make the effort to refrain from negative talk and to join groups and organisations focussed on positive change. Such an organisation is the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) with leaders who bring hope to South Africans in challenging times.

When you find a person or an organisation that speak to your ethical value system and uses the Bible as moral compass, it provides opportunities to work together to make an impact. Dr Kenneth Meshoe (President of the ACDP) honoured us to agree to be the patron of our In Conversation platform that we re-launched to provide opportunities for concerned people to explore a range of subjects that impact us all. The focus of this forum is on positive discussions aimed at seeking solutions.

I appeal to you and everyone you know to constructively speak out against the things that matter, and to start making a difference in your communities specifically and in our country as a whole. Now is the time to remind people that we all have a choice to make the right decisions and to be rewarded for that. We can also do the wrong thing or even worse, we can do NOTHING. Whichever way, we will suffer the consequences. What we choose to do is up to us, but others suffer the consequences with us… and sometimes because of us. Keep this in mind also during election time this year!

Until next time,

The Devoted team

Editor’s Note Profile

ONE

The power of

Meet Julie B Steynberg, a formidable woman who is enriching lives and encouraging others to do the same. She is on a journey to bring love to all the people of the world, and she believes in the power of one to make a difference. By starting the process of change within yourself, Julie believes you can encourage others to do the same, and the ripple effect eventually will have the desired impact.

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Julie Steynberg, sharing love and appreciation by giving a blue ribbon to Estelle Marx of the Red Hat Society (Pretoria) at a year-end event.

met Julie through the Pretoria branch of the Red Hat Society (The Red Cherries) where she inspired the women by sharing real-life experiences as the guest speaker.

Julie’s inspirational talk with the Red Hat ladies was spot on, and the effort she made to interact with all the ladies was appreciated and highlighted her caring spirit. She is surely going to leave a legacy of love and inspiration for others to follow.

Describing this woman of stature in one sentence is hard. She has been involved in a multitude of projects throughout her life, most of them focused on impacting lives. Apart from being a radio personality, she is well-known as a coach, mentor and counsellor, with the focus on helping people with their marriages.

To top it all, she is a motivational and inspirational speaker and writer.

In 2015 Julie was awarded the title Phenomenal African Woman, just one of many accolades bestowed on her over the years.

Julie also believes that a true leader sees the greatness in others.

She is therefore well-known for acknowledging and celebrating the greatness in people. She inspires others through various platforms to become the best version of themselves and she lives according to her motto, “Never stop believing in your dream”. For her, it means that to live that dream is to live a purposeful life, “driven by your thoughts and making your thoughts a reality”.

Julie is the founder of Difference Makers Institute SA (DMI-SA

Difference), a platform that focuses on empowering others. The main purpose of this NGO is to help spread the message of love and appreciation, and they are doing a great job, one precious soul at a time.

DMI-SA Difference is part of a global movement, and through this platform Julie is slowly but surely making her mark and changing lives.

She believes that women are the glue that keeps society together. In 2008, she created the Woman 2 Woman platform to empower women. With this platform she wants to inspire women to share their stories; to empower other women and to be united as a whole. Over the years she has met, and acknowledged, phenomenal women who are paying it forward to making society a better place for all who live in it in their own and unique way.

Julie is also the South African ambassador for the Blue Ribbon Ceremony, and so far more than 50 million people globally have received a blue ribbon. It is expected of the

recipient to pass a blue ribbon on to someone else, spreading love and appreciation further in the process. Julie had taken on this global movement responsibility because she beliefs that the country is ready for change. The Blue Ribbon Ceremony empowers South Africans to honour others and show their appreciation for the difference they make in society.

Julie’s roles as wife, mother and grandmother are the most important to her. She has been married to Francois for 20 years and is a proud mother Read more on and loving www.differencemakers.co.z grandmother a. of six - all girls. With If you want to get in touch with such a great Julie, you can e-mail her on role model in julie@differencemakers.co.z their lives, one a can just image how those little granddaughters will one day walk in Julie’s footsteps, making a difference to others, one person at a time! www.devotedmag.co.za

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In Conversation Dr Kenneth Meshoe, president of the

African Christian Democratic Party In Conversation is a platform that encourages people from all walks of life to explore a range of subjects, and opinions are sometimes published in Devoted.

Dr Kenneth Meshoe is the patron of this platform, and he shares his opinion on government issues.

Christianity and politics “My wife, Lydia, and I started the Hope of Glory Tabernacle in 1988 after years of working at Christ for all Nations under the leadership of Rev Reinhard Bonnke. My ministry took me to various African countries. The devastation and mismanagement I saw under African leadership hurt me dearly, and I turned to God for answers. God called me to politics but at first, I resisted as I did not see myself working in the political environment. After a few years of trying to avoid politics, I decided to honour God in taking up my calling.

“I founded the ACDP to be obedient to God to make a difference as a devout Christian in the world of politics. Since then I have been bold in the messages of hope and to remind people that God is in charge.

“Statistics have shown that most South Africans regard themselves as Christians. For His people, the Bible should be the moral compass that guides all of us in daily life and the political arena. For me, it is clear that my calling is to bring South Africa back to God.

“Failing to uphold Godly basic principles in government have serious consequences of corruption, thieving, loitering, state capturing, killing, raping, and every bad thing else we as South Africans are currently struggling to cope with.”

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His full name is Kenneth Raselabe Joseph Meshoe and he has a quality of authenticity. He stands out firmly from the crowd of political leaders. Dr Meshoe, President of the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), puts high regard on Biblical values and therefore stands out firmly from the crowd of political leaders.

In Conversation Giving South Africa to God

Vision for South Africa

“The Head of State is the father of the nation, and as such, he first must have a relationship with God to get South Africa right. A leader who believes in ancestral lordship will not take South Africa where it should be but will lead the citizens into deeper despair. God does not share His glory with anyone, including ancestral spirits.

“God calls on ordinary people to do extraordinary work. Followers of Jesus, therefore, have a pivotal role to play in the politics of the day as the salt and the light to positively influence the political environment. Even though I was not in agreement at first with God that I should play an active role in politics, I later obeyed and now strongly believe that politics is where God wants me to be in this point in time in the history of South Africa. But, I also believe that I cannot do it alone and need the help of other Christians to fulfil my calling.”

“John 10:10 provides guidance and forms the basis for what I believe South African leaders should do to get things right for the country: They have to have a godly relationship; government should work with God, and government - in principle - should have a relationship with Israel. I have found that the common denominator of prosperous African countries is that they have a relationship with Israel.

This is what the Bible instructs us to do, and this is what I and the ACDP stand for, among others”.

The issue of race “It is unfortunate that most political leaders now are playing the race card to win votes, but they divide our people through their actions.

Recently the media exposed a number of incidents where political leaders exploited situations to put the focus on minor incidents of racism to advance their political careers, rather than focusing on the real issues at hand. This is a dangerous situation that can easily explode in our faces.

Unfortunately, the media is not responsible enough when it comes to reporting. Media platforms should not be allowed as platforms for these politicians to be used to divide citizens and promote destruction.

“The eyes of the entire world are upon South Africa like never before to see what is becoming of the rainbow nation of Nelson Mandela. What they currently see cannot be to our advantage, in no way.

Fraud and corruption “It all starts with the family. The family is the most important unity created

by God, and it is within the family environment that principles like honesty, integrity and love for others are taught.

“As elected representatives, we are called to be servant leaders as ambassadors of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

As such we have to serve our people with honesty and with integrity. I do not compromise in my own life, and in our work through the ACDP on these principles. Therefore, there is no room for corruption or fraud of any kind.”

(Photo credit: Annerine Lubbe Photography)

Getting to know Dr Kenneth Meshoe His full name is Kenneth Raselabe Joseph Meshoe, and he has a quality of authenticity. He stands out firmly from the crowd of political leaders. Dr Kenneth Meshoe, President of the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), puts high regard on Biblical values and therefore stands out firmly from the crowd of political leaders. In him, South Africa has a leader who provides the ethical leadership that restores the trust of the citizens once they get to know him better. A closer look at his performance in the political arena reveals that he stands out because he walks the talk. In parliament and open platforms, he does not shy away from reminding us what the right thing to do is according to scriptures.

He is outspoken about why he became a political leader, and his vision flows first from God’s call to him. Since it was founded, the ACDP is the only political party that was constant in its values.

There are a few things that make him stand out: • Dr Meshoe started the Hope of Glory Tabernacle in 1988.

• He is Christ-centred. He is a godly leader who is quick to acknowledge that he cannot operate in his own strength and wisdom.

• He realised his calling and founded the ACDP in 1994, a political party that stands since its founding uncompromisingly in biblical values.

• He is a person with a strong character with qualities such

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as honesty, courage, humility and perseverance. He is an example of integrity and displays loyalty to the people he serves, and – as the Bible states – he is God’s steward “without reproach. He is not arrogant, quick-tempered, violent or greedy”.

He is competent. Not only does he have the attributes and skills required to be a leader in the political landscape, but he has the conscientiousness and ability to ask for help when he needs is.

He is concerned about the communities of all races and is responsive to social challenges, such as poverty, the right to owning property, the right to education and the right to a decent life in general.

His name was never linked to any fraud or corruption.

He is married to Lydia for over forty years and together they raised three children.

Visit www.acdp.org.za for more information. You can also download the following documents from the document library for your perusal: ACDP submission on expropriation of land without compensation; labour laws amendment bill; ACDP manifesto; ACDP constitution.

Contact detail of national office: Tel: 011 869 3941 Email: office@acdp.org.za / acdpnat@telkomsa.net

www.devotedmag.co.za

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Travel with a purpose

Thailand,

land of smiles and friendships

By Gerda Potgieter

It has been 25 years since South Africa and Thailand agreed on the establishment of diplomatic relations of which tourism is only one important aspect of interest. We celebrate the friendship with this article by traveling to Thailand to strengthen our relationship with this country of sunshine, authentic cuisine and smiling people!

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had the honour of meeting with Mr Paisit Boonparlit, Deputy Chief of Mission and Chargé d’affaires of the Royal Thai Embassy. He revealed some interesting facts: Are there any similarities between our two countries?

“Thais and South Africans do share various similarities. For instance, the people of both countries are fun-loving people, well-known for their hospitality and friendliness, and both possessed a genuine sense of creativity. Interestingly, the elephant serves as an important symbol of each country, with Thai elephants (or Asian elephants to be exact) figures prominently in various arts and tourist destinations.

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“Both countries have unique cultural heritages that can be seen everywhere in various aspects such as food, fashion, music and sports. Another element that they share is that both countries boast various tourist attractions, from unparalleled natural marvels such as crystal-clear water with breath-taking beaches to rugged mountains with unique flora and fauna, and metropolitan cities that serve as a shopping mecca in the region, which make both countries an ideal tourist destination.

Moreover, both Thailand and South Africa serve as a regional hub, providing unparalleled selections in terms of accommodation, transportation, and a rich embodiment of peoples of various ethnic backgrounds.”

What were the major achievements between Thailand and South Africa over the last 25 years of diplomatic relations, specifically regarding tourism?

one of the most popular tourist destinations for South Africans, with almost 100,000 South Africans visiting Thailand each year, South Africa remains an exotic destination for Thai tourists, with tourists’ number amounting to approximately 4,500 each year.

To increase the momentum of exchange, a further understanding between the people of the two countries must be fostered.”

How will Thailand continue to strengthen their relationship with South Africa going forward?

“South Africa, with strong infrastructure, business fundamental and diversified economy, remains the main hub for Thai businesses looking for opportunities.

“There are various achievements between the two countries, from the agreement to exempt visa requirements between the two countries, which signify mutual goodwill between the people of the two countries, to the everincreasing number of trade and tourism that have reached a new level last year.

“People-to-people exchanges are high on the agenda of the two countries. Although Thailand is

Mr Paisit Boonparlit, Deputy Chief of Mission and Chargé d’affaires of the Royal Thai Embassy

Travel with a purpose “A lesser known fact is that small businesses make up an important part of trade and investment between the two countries.

Pictures: Mai Thai Wellness Spa is located in De Waterkant Village, Cape Town. They are ranked the #1 Spa in South Africa on TripAdvisor

Currently, there are more than 150 Thai small businesses in South Africa, which contributes to more than 1,500 jobs for locals and

present an important window of exchanges between Thais and local people.

about the opportunities that Thailand could offer to South Africa in many areas.

“The main challenges remain the lack of knowledge and exchanges between the two countries, which represents a significant hurdle for businessmen and investors. The embassy, in collaboration with various sectors in South Africa, is trying to increase awareness

“It is important to maintain the momentum of exchanges between the two countries to ensure the amount of significant traffic of visitors between the two countries constantly increases every year.”

Thailand is a treasure with so much to do in one place.

It is no secret that South Africans are fascinated with Thailand. Our citizens are travelling to Thailand in greater numbers, and it does not seem to slow down in any way, especially with regular special offers that make it difficult not to visit this beautiful country and explore the hospitality of its people.

So, why are we so fascinated with Thailand? In short, it is a treasure with so much to do in one place.

Call me biased, but I can point out a few things that won me over: • Thailand boasts friendly, serving and smiling people.

• The breath-taking natural beauty and ancient ruins of the old kingdoms are a must-see.

• The robust and authentic cuisine is a must on any visit.

• It is cost-effective to travel to and in the country and they have excellent public transport.

• The awesome nightlife is a great plus.

• My personal favourite is the many spas and wellness centres that are well-known and well worth a visit.

Thailand offers its visitors great value for money. It is relatively easy to get around and explore all the different areas. My first-ever overseas trip was to Thailand, and since then I have been privileged to visit various areas on three different trips. I travelled from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, to wonderful beaches in Pattaya and then to my personal favourite, Kho Samui. Thailand is not just the wellknown island of Phuket – it is much, much more, and it will continue to fascinate South Africans for years to come!

Thai food is one of the most wellknown aspects of Thai culture, and many South African restaurants feature Thai food on their menus.

Thai cuisine is often associated with Thai chefs and natural ingredients and embedded in Thai culture and traditions.

Another well-known aspect of Thai culture is the Thai massage

establishments and spas, which reflect the strength of Thailand in global hospitality and wellness businesses. A Thai spa is a place of wellness and culture, and Thai massage is a therapeutic massage, which focuses on using pressure points to relieve sore muscles and various ailments.

The Thai government enacted a law that would ensure the quality and standard of Thai spas and Thai spa workers all over.

To this end, the embassy aims to promote further collaboration with the South African government to ensure that Thai spas in South Africa have the highest standard and present a unique choice for the South African consumers.

Visit: http://www.thaiembassy.org/pretoria/en/news/2307/86133-25th-Anniversaryof-Diplomatic-Relations-between-T.html#.Wz953IxABwU.email; www.dirco.gov.za>bilateralhistory; and www.thaiembassy.org for more information.

Travel information on Thailand can be obtained from www.tourismthailand.org.

www.devotedmag.co.za

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Actual

Did

South Africans

get what they deserve with their leadership?

By Wilhelmina Bekker

South Africans could deserve the leaders they have put into power, because they voted for them. If voters do not act more responsibly with their votes in future and continue to put those in power who deliberately destroy our country for their own gain, then they should know that they are in for a rougher ride after this year’s elections. And not all of us can or want to move to another country in search of a better life.

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he media has a responsibility to report on things that are not right like widespread corruption and unethical practices. This is truer for Christian publications, and that is why we will, despite being a good-news publication, join those who keep on writing about the current state of our government. As background to this article, I refer to a South African report on corruption on www. business-anti-corruption.com. It provides an overview of the current corrupt state of our government under different categories. It is a must read if you want to take an informed decision when you vote.

party that reflect our values and beliefs the most. If South Africa is regarded as a Christian country, and the statistics show that it is, we have a moral obligation to vote for a party that upholds biblical principles, the guidelines for Christians. And then the choices are not that many! It should be an easy one, but are we acting responsibly in this regard? I do not think so…

Corruption is the biggest threat to our democracy and finances. Our leaders often point out underdevelopment, poverty, lack of social justice and “legacies” of Apartheid as the reasons for their poor (if any) service delivery. The sad truth is that these challenges will continue to persist if we do not deal with corruption first, as well as the problems associated with it.

Our government has failed us and the media has exposed them in various ways – Nkandla, Bosasa, the Gupta scandals, failure of State Owned Enterprises (SEOs) – the list is endless. To steal from your own people, and especially the vulnerable and so blatantly, is NOT a biblical principle. The Word is clear about this. With the eighth commandment, God gave us clear instruction not to steal.

If our leaders steal from us, and they clearly do, it is even worse as they are under obligation to set the example for us to follow. We are trusting them with our votes … and our hard-earned money.

Voters play a huge role in shaping the government and their own future. For a vast majority of our people, the right to vote in this country came with huge sacrifices, and it is understandable that they are loyal and vote for the political party that helped them through the struggle.

But it should be clear to most voters that we are now in an even bigger struggle, one that could destroy our future and resources through the misuse of available resources, including taxpayer monies.

It seems that a small number of people really understand or appreciate the role they play in shaping governments.

Our responsibilities as eligible voters include casting a vote and making sure we vote for the right person and

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Our government fails us

South Africans have been experiencing more widespread corruption, money laundering and unethical practices over a wide spectrum since 1994. Ironically, our leaders still blame the leadership of as far back as the 1700s for their lack of good governance! The sad truth is that we can only fix something we acknowledge needs fixing. As long as we deny our challenges, and even worse, keep blaming others for them, we will not be able to move forward and make this country great again, as President Trump would put it!

Actual

“Corrup t i o must Fa n ll!

Financial damage to the country A report by the Auditor General, Kimi Makwethu, early in 2018 highlighted the extent of financial damage to the state coffers. He investigated and recorded that the ANC government stole and misappropriated R80 billion during the 2017 financial year. On top of that, it is estimated that South Africans have been looted from a staggering estimated R100-billion through state capture. It will be years, and it will take several generations before this economic damage of state capturing could be dealt with.

They say that a fish rots from its head down. There is no doubt that Jacob Zuma, with his unethical leadership style, has drawn attention to corruption in our country.

There is no doubt in the minds of ordinary South Africans that he left a legacy of corruption, economic malaise and high levels of misappropriation of tax monies.

News on corruption (read www.corruptionwatch.org.za), to quote just one example of many, highlighted that “there is evidence that the heart of the problem lies in the lack of accountability for maladministration and corruption.”

The website also states that this problem “starts with the president (referring to Zuma, then President) – while there are various efforts by the government to tackle corruption, these actions were countered by the continuing impunity on the part of those who were politically and financially powerful.”

It is very important to look at the leadership of the three biggest political parties and their history of corruption before deciding who to vote for in the next elections.

This year we have the opportunity to change the current state of corrupt affairs! It is my wish that all South Africans will empower themselves by doing much needed research on options available to them, open their eyes and be more responsible with their votes! Turning up at the voting stations remains a good start!

“The ANC has governed SA for 24 years – crime, violence, corruption, unemployment and poverty have increased. BEE was created and made only the ANC elite wealthy.

Stop making excuses for a corrupt, incompetent and failed ANC government.”

“Dr Kenneth Meshoe, President of the ACDP” www.devotedmag.co.za

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Inspiration

Does adversity make us stronger?

By Gerda Potgieter

It is not always easy to stay positive amidst adversity. However, identifying and learning from the habits of positive people help us to overcome adversity and grow stronger. André Buckle is a highly respected person who has the kind of positive outlook on life that we want to emulate. André rebounds from life’s challenges, coming out stronger on the other side. And this is his story...

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vercoming adversity is probably one of the biggest hurdles we face, but having a positive attitude and good support system in the form of family and friends helps a lot. And André Buckle can tell you all about weathering the storm. Last year, he found out for himself how important it is to have a good support system in place and a positive outlook on life when life turns it’s back on you.

André is one of the most positive people I know and has a very generous soul, always willing to lend a helping hand. He is fit, takes good care of himself, eats healthily and ensures that he gets enough exercise. He is a hard worker and runs a successful business, giving the best to his clients while balancing his successful business with family life. His balanced lifestyle, together with his strong faith in the Lord, paid off when he got hurt badly, and his life changed within a few seconds.

was both an awful and profound experience. As serious as it was, André realises that his experience does not compare to what could have happened – he could have been dead or paralysed permanently. He was one of the lucky ones, but it also came with a price. After many, many months of pain and suffering, rehabilitation and hard work he now walks with the help of a cane (sometimes) – slowly but surely.

There are good days and bad days. And it is especially during the bad days that the support of loved ones and a firm belief in our Healer help him to get through adversity.

One morning, early in 2018, he took a scary fall from his van which sent him flying, then landing on his upper back and neck. The trauma to his upper body resulted in his neck being fractured. The accident resulted in a neck operation and months of rehabilitation with its ups and downs. But hard work, as well as support and prayers from loved ones and friends helped heal him so that he has much to look forward to now, one year after the accident.

Neck injuries sometimes have dire consequences, and André’s injury left me wondering what it really means to break your neck and if one can fully recover from such an ordeal. An injury to the spinal cord may cause death or quadruplegia, and not many people can walk away (literally) from such a serious injury. Neck injuries, in general, are serious, and a good attitude is one of the many things that can determine a good outcome. And, of course, faith in the Healer has much to do with it.

In André’s case, his injuries were serious, and he had to learn to walk again weeks after the operation. For him, it

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Neck injuries, in general, are serious, and a good attitude is one of the many things that can determine a good outcome.

Inspiration

After many, many months of pain and suffering, rehabilitation and hard work he now walks with the help of a cane (sometimes) – slowly but surely.

Q&A

I asked André a few questions to help our readers get through some tough times that they are facing.

Q: When you were injured, what was the prognosis regarding your recovery?

A: In short, it was not good. Initially I had virtually no feeling in my legs, with only the faintest of a flicker in my right big toe. The physiotherapists at the rehab are amazing and got me doing things I never thought possible at the time. Eight months after the accident the biokineticist studied the x-rays, and he remarked that I must have had angels taking care of me as this type of injury normally ends in death or paraplegia. I am so grateful that I can walk now, even though I know that I still have a mountain in front of me to conquer.

Q: I visited you a few times after your accident and every time I was amazed (and very pleased) by your progress. Do you think that your healthy outlook on life helped you to overcome adversity?

A: I believe it helped me to stay positive. In general, despite all the challenges and the many ups and downs, it boiled down to me having a choice. We choose how we react to all things that happen to us. Like Charles R Swindoll once said: “Life is 40% what happens to us and 60% how we respond to it!” And then, I could also not have done it without the help of my wonderful wife and family. The experience, together with its many challenges, enriched our relationships.

Q: Do you believe that pain builds character?

A: Integrating and implementing sound principles in your life builds character, not pain and suffering. By that I mean that your relationship with the Lord should be healthy and on par with your belief system. Adversity does not build character; it reveals what your character is.

Q: What is the most important takeaway that you can share that could help others to overcome adversity?

A: The most important thing that I have learned from this experience is that, no matter what, you must believe in yourself and believe in the Lord. Anyone can apply these principles to their life. There is no avoiding bad things happening to you, but it is all about how you respond to those challenges. Will you fall apart when life happens, or will you look for ways to deal with the situation and make the best of it? Adversity does not define us, but how we deal with it does. It is important that we recognise it in our personal life, our careers and all other aspects of our being. Do not allow negative emotions (and thoughts) to get the better of you.

www.devotedmag.co.za

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TURN IT AROUND TURN IT AROUND

Book Review

Shift your perceptions in a changing world

By Angelique du Toit (review by Gerda Potgieter)

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received this book in a time I needed it the most and what a great read it is, from the first page to the last. It is indeed a book written for times such as this!

South Africans (and the rest of the world for that matter) are going through some tough times, and it is hard for individuals to stay positive amidst such general negativity.

Angelique reminds us that the two most important days of our lives are the day we are born, and the day we are reborn. To be born again means that you have gained faith in Jesus Christ and you develop a direct and personal relationship with the Lord.

So, if we claim that we are born again, and have faith in the Lord, why do we allow ourselves to be so negative, to lose hope and spread negative talk?

The title of the book is relevant, very meaningful and sets the tone for the content. You do not have to go further than the introduction to realise that this is a book of substance, a cut above the rest.

In essence, the title (and subtitle) implies that you reflect (you deeply re-think the situation); review (assess your situation from all angles with the intention to institute change); repent (a change of heart that will bring you closer to the Lord); and reverse (you turn away from the status quo).

The author deals with issues such as coping with the unexpected tides of life; rushing everywhere but going nowhere; how to harness energy for good and how to position yourself for a Higher Purpose, among others.

These are all issues that most of us struggle with. Angelique cleverly uses real life-lessons and experiences to demonstrate coping skills that we can easily apply to our own lives if we wish to do so.

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So, why do you need this book? The answer is simple: It is so easy to get stuck in the negativity that surrounds us. If we do not make an effort to change things around we will, as Angelique puts it, be stuck with “repetitive patterns that keep us ensnared, frustrated and unhappy”. A positive attitude helps you to cope better with life in general and once you start the process of turning away from a negative pattern or habit, “you create new capacity to receive love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and selfcontrol…”

Turn it around ends on a high note with Angelique’s personal invitation to readers to “turn away from the ties that bind and the things that easily ensnare and trap you and prevent you from reaching and fulfilling your highest purpose.” And, there cannot be a better time to take up this challenge as there is no time like the present.

More about the author: Angelique du Toit is no stranger to our readers. Not only did we profile her in a past issue, but I also had the privilege to review her first two books, Standing tall in a falling world (2015) and What in the world are you waiting for (2017) – both books are also must-reads. Turn it around (2018) is the latest book from the pen of

this gifted woman and I heard via the grapevine that she also has two very interesting devotionals coming out later this year. One is a joint project with five other authors on Women of the Bible in the modern day. The second is a 365 Day Devotional. She is currently authoring her 6th book.

Congratulations, Angelique, from the Devoted team.

Angelique du Toit is a businesswoman, inspirational speaker, author, mother, wife and has an inspirational real-life story to share and inspire. If you want to know more about Angelique, visit www.angeliquedutoit.co.za or email her on angeldt@iafrica.com.

Devoted supports Droogtehulp vir Boere (with Burre Burger) You are invited to join us!

Drought affects the environment and it affects all of us in many ways.

Food supply shrink and habitat is damaged. Animals suffer.

And, the farmers suffer the most!

B

urre Burger was obedient when God called him to help the farmers in drought affected areas. He founded Droogtehulp vir Boere, a worthy cause that helps farmers in drought stricken areas. Devoted supports this initiative.

This is a cause close to our hearts and we want to encourage our readers to support and help wherever they can.

Your donations can ease some of the burden. You can donate money or products.

Even the smallest actions can make a big difference! Look at some of the unique support received so far that surely made an impact, and see how YOU can assist:

• “Vandag is my verjaardag en gewoonlik hou ek .‘n goeie opskop.

Vanjaar het ek anders besluit, ek het die geld van die opskop in jou rekening gedeponeer. Dankie vir jou goeie werk..” (Marius Ehlers) • “Ek woon in Ficksburg in die Oos Vrystaat en het ‘n gastehuis. Ek sal graag help met akkommodasie vir die trokdrywers of enige persoon wat op pad is om droogtehulp aan te bied.” (Sandra Keeve Netherlands) • “Danksy die program ‘Tussen ons” en Spar het Joshua (Joshua se Sopkombuis) ‘n tjek ter waarde van R10,000 vir die droogtefonds gegee.” (Manda Roos) • “Ek daag alle plaasbestuurders uit reg oor die land om net R200 te skenk.” (Gampie Roux)

DROOGTEHULP MET BURRE (NPC) First National Bank Acc No: 62721858522 Type: Cheque Branch Nr: 200406 Vredendal Swift code: FIRNZAJJ Ref: DROOGTEHULP Email: burre@droogtehulp.co.za Paypal: burre@droogtehulp.co.za Devoted supports Droogtehulp met Burre, do you?

You cannot afford NOT TO! Visit: www.droogtehulp.co.za // Follow them on Facebook. // “Like” and “share”

Changing lives one precious soul at a time!

Eduplex

In Christo Omnia Possum

“I can do all things in Christ�

Schools play a major role in society, and the right school can make all the difference in the life of a young person.

The right school, with dedicated teachers, can enhance the experience of the interactions for learners. Eduplex, situated in Queenswood in

Pretoria, is such a school that changes lives, one precious soul at a time. Eduplex caters for both normal hearing and a small number of learners with hearing loss.

Read in our next issue why The Devoted Team think Eduplex is the best school in the country.

Visit http:// www.eduplex.co.za to learn more about the Eduplex pre-, primary and high shools and www.eduplextraining.com to learn more about the Eduplex training institute.

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Devoted supports Eduplex School

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