THIRTY ONE: Issue 3 by Victory Church

ISSUE THREE \ ME2 MAGAZINE P E O P L E W E M E E T: T E R R Y S PA N J A A R D POWERNOTE FROM EDNA BE THE CHANGE WOMEN WHO INSPIRE MOM’S THE WORD E AT + W E A R ME2 GIRLS GETTING OUT THERE C R E AT I V E C O L L E CT I V E

CONTENTS P O W E R N O T E F R O M E D N A

WOMEN WHO INSPIRE

- Marilyn Fitzgerald

A N O T E F R O M L I Z E T T E

P E O P L E W E M E E T

- Terry Spanjaard

M A R I K E V O N M O L L E N D O R F F

- Our adoption story E AT A N D W E A R 2 7 H E A LT H A N D B E A U T Y

ME2 GIRLS

-What if I fail? 3 1 G E T T I N G O U T T H E R E

-Natalie de Bruin

B E T H E C H A N G E

- Rosa Nel

M O M ’ S T H E W O R D

- Heather Strydom

C R E AT I V E C O L L E C T I V E

- What no one tells you about creativity

M E 2 M E N T O R I N G R E S O U R C E

© This publication is produced by Victory Media for me2 M e n t o r i n g J e ff re y s B a y. A l l a rt i c l e s a re w r i tt e n b y m e m b e r s o f Victory Church unless otherwise stated. This magazine is not f o r s a l e . Fo r f u r t h e r i n f o r m a t i o n o n a n y o f t h e a r t i c l e s , d o n o t hesitate to email us at me2@victorychurch.org.za w w w. m e 2 m e n t o r i n g . c o m / / w w w. v i c t o r y c h u rc h . o rg . z a

>>POWERNOTE<<

IT’S TIME FOR BREAKTHROUGH! It sounds like an announcement for a Broadway show... or a sermon topic for a Woman’s Conference (one that you probably wouldn’t mind NOT attending)! According to the dictionar y, a full definition of BREAK THROUGH is: 1. a n of fensive thrust that penetrates and carries beyond a defensive line in war fare. 2. a n act or instance of breaking through an obstacle. 3. a : a sudden advance, especially in knowledge or technique. b: a person’s first notable success. Does that help you gauge your area of challenge and resistance where you need to break through? Countless times you’ve ended up with your nose against the window or your back against the wall… knowing fully that the only way for ward is to break through the limitations, frustrations and circumstances that have caused your progress to come to a sudden halt! FULL STOP. The only problem is, you have no idea how you’re going to get through THIS one. It doesn’t look like a wall; it’s more like a mountain! And the more you inspect this

obstacle, the more it grows. IMPOSSIBLE… INSURMOUNTABLE… Those are just some of the words that aptly describe the degree or intensity of the problem! Myth: Camping at the foot of the mountain is an option. Of course, it’s an attractive, comfor table alternative. Let’s just call it “glamping”… camping in style! It’s basically making friends with the enemy that we know, rather than pushing through to ‘who knows where?’ We cope by covering up the cracks in our relationships with a little more distance, and anesthetizing the pain in our hear ts with a lot more retail therapy, exercise, comfor t eating, watching television, etc. Select your drug of choice. That is, until we get desperate enough to call on our God and face our enemy. Fact: My breakthrough is not found in a dictionary! It is found in the Presence of God! Mountains melt like wax in the Presence of the Lord. Micah 1:4 (NIV) says it this way, “The mountains melt beneath him and the valleys split apar t, like wax before the fire, like water rushing down a slope.”

Latin scholars, however, debate that the word “sincere” actually comes from a Medieval Latin word, “sincerus,” which means CLEAN, UNADULTERATED, PURE OF COMPOSITION!

Even more so!

Well, one way of testing the authenticity of a statue would probably have been to apply some heat to it for an extended period of time! Imagine your newly acquired masterpiece melting all over the mantle on your fireplace. It’s a bit like that when the heat gets turned

When I lose myself in worship, when I start to Magnify Him, I get lost in His Presence. Then, when I tr y to orientate myself again and I instinctively look for ‘my mountain,’ all I find is a melted puddle of wax! You may be familiar with the stor y of ancient times when the Romans would buy highly-sought-af ter old Greek statues. The scheming vendors would disguise cracks and flaws in the marble by pouring liquid wax into it and then polishing it. The only problem was that, af ter a while, that wax would discolor and become yellowish, and it would soon become clear that the statue was not original marble. In order to authenticate a statue of pure marble, honest vendors would mark it with the Latin words “sine,” meaning “without,” and “cera,” meaning “wax.” According to folklore, this is where the word “sincere” comes from. 3

up in our lives. We invite the Presence of God into our lives, and then we’re surprised when His fire doesn’t only deal with the enemy surrounding us, but it also FIRST deals with the enemy within us! Psalm 97:3 (NKJV) says “A fire goes before Him, and burns up His enemies round about.” We may have a meltdown if we’re tr ying to handle things in our own strength, but if we step into His Presence, His consuming fire, we’re stripped of all pretense and we emerge “wax free!” The Real Deal! “The mountains melt like wax at the presence of the LORD, at the presence of the Lord of the whole ear th.” Psalm 97:5 (NKJV) I rest my case...

Eds

WOMEN WHO INSPIRE

MY GOD IS FAITHFUL

Marilyn Fitzgerald

Through all of the twists and turns, ups and downs, of my life, this I know, without a shadow of a doubt… my God, my Heavenly Father has always been faithful! As a young girl, after leaving England to relocate to Australia with my family, I used to say that I would one day return to England as a

girls beside us, we boarded a plane bound for

missionary. I’m sure at the age I was, I didn’t have

England and began a journey of understanding

a clue what this meant. For sure, I didn’t have

this truth. Some told us it would not work, but

any understanding of Father’s faithfulness, and

we knew that God was leading us and He had

I certainly had no idea of the plan and destiny

already demonstrated His faithfulness of provision

He had for my life. But as I grew, I always felt a

in many ways.

nudging somewhere deep down when the subject of overseas mission or

It’s been over 40 years ago now,

missionaries was mentioned in

and there are still days when I

church. Of course, I now know

find myself remembering the

this was the work of the Holy

early days of this journey. I

Spirit in me, leading me in the

remember how I began to

way I should go. The Message

grasp the faithful aspect

Bible says “The One who called

of God’s character as He

you is completely dependable. If he said it, he’ll do it!” (1 Thessalonians 5:24)

revealed it to me in the small details of my life. Like the day I stood at my kitchen sink and the tears flowed because I had received a gift of money

A man I know well teaches that ‘transition is

and could go buy a new dishcloth and detergent!

repositioning for God’s provision.’ So in 1975,

Or when my husband, Tony, would be able to buy

married to my best friend Tony and with two little

two flowers, one for each of my girls, Rachel and Emma, to bring home to me and tell me that I was the ‘best mummy in the world!’ It still brings tears to my eyes when I reflect on those early days of experiencing Father’s faithfulness. There were many occasions like this, and there would be many more now that we were living on another continent. Never doubt, girls, that our Father truly cares about the little things in our life as well as the big things! His provision will be seen! 6

As I am writing this article, a few of my dearest friends are walking through valleys of darkness. Through my own experience, I am confident that our Father will be faithful to their needs. I have never been deserted by the Lord in a time of trial and pain. He has taught me that there are green pastures and still waters in the valley, with places to rest and be refreshed. Nothing is impossible to God! He always makes a way for us! When I was pregnant with our third daughter, I was fast tracked into a discovery of physical healing, and into a realization of how little I knew of what the Bible taught about it. I was told by my doctor that I had had a miscarriage. A month or so later, I was still pregnant and baby was doing okay. Another month on, and baby didn’t have a heart beat and I wasn’t feeling movement. I was searching God’s Word and hanging on to His faithfulness like never before, pinning up Scriptures all over my home to memorize. Through those 9 months, I was constantly aware of my utter dependence upon Him, and of His faithfulness to show up and be present in so many ways. After the doctors had said that she would only be 1lb and dead, Baby Abigail was born 7 weeks premature, 4lb 6oz, and she even had a tooth! What a faithful God!

In our first 20 years of marriage, we lived in 19 homes. Our 20th home was to be on yet another continent. Time to pack again and await God’s amazing provision! That was 24 years ago and the USA is now home. We have seen our 3 precious girls be married to wonderful men, and they have given us 12 delightful grandchildren who have filled our lives with much fun, laughter and activity. After leaving our natural family in Australia, God gave us the most precious extended family of friends around the world. They are friends who have shown and expressed so much of the Father’s faithfulness by their love and support. There are far too many to mention here, but they are friends who hold precious places in our hearts. Our delight, as we travel the world, is connecting with this family and hearing again and again the stories of transformation in lives and communities as God’s kingdom continues to increase. The above is only a small part of my discovery and experience of God’s faithfulness. My desire is that you will be inspired to reflect upon your own story. Our Father is reliable. He can be trusted and believed. He is true to His Word and promises. He is faithful!!

WOMEN WHO INSPIRE

AFTER L E AV I N G OUR N AT U R A L FA M I LY I N AU S T R A L I A , G O D GAV E US THE MOST PRECIOUS EXTENDED FA M I LY O F FRIENDS AROUND THE WORLD.

Photography: Jana Engelbrecht

A note from Lizette Hi beautiful girls.

very functional in my mind. I saw them as our “oversight,” and time with them translated into

I thought long and hard about what I would

“work” for me.

share on today. I even wrote a note and threw it away. Thankfully, Holy Spirit gave me some

I remember once visiting with them in the

inspiration and I believe, as I am writing, He will

beginning years. I had a list of questions and

be preaching right back at me!

topics in my handbag which I wanted us to discuss with them. Louis Els just sat there chatting

For years, before and after being saved,

away. At first I thought “Ok… this is just the small

I struggled with inferiority, insecurity,

talk before we get to the shop-talk.” But after an

worthlessness… you name it. Like many of

hour, we were still just chatting. I started giving

us, I would swing from a pathetic, self-pitying,

my husband, who is also named Louis, ‘The

comfort-eating, Loserville queen, to prideful,

Eye’… You know, the subtle reminder that we

performance-driven, power-hungry tigress!

have a list to discuss! “Do something!”

These cycles would come and go, and had

My Louis just gave me that ‘NOT NOW’ look.

a really bad influence on my relationships.

Yes, I was annoyed, and I spoke to God

Struggles in this area make you self-focused.

about it afterward. God told me that He puts

Presumption will be your main source of

relationships before my To Do list, just like Pastor

information. “I think she’s thinking I am…” It’s

Louis (Els) had. Thus started my education about

like living in a monologue; you being the main

relationships and a long road to recovery.

character, imitating all of the other characters. Edna intimidated me, not because of who My relationship with Louis & Edna Els started out

she was, but because of who I was. I even 10

suggested to her that I should get another

Over time, I have started seeing Edna for who

mentor who lives closer to me, but that just

she really is, and I’ve thanked God, over and

exposed my ‘orphaned, independent heart!’

over, that He helped me to not lose her as a mentor and spiritual mother.

I wish I could tell you that everything changed overnight for me, but I can’t.

Why am I telling you all of this?

I struggled to learn about relationships. I

My point is this… relationships in the Kingdom

struggled with presumption towards Louis &

of God are a process! They are a process YOU

Edna. Small incidents caused me to experience

need to engage in. We have to fight for our

rejection, and I had to work hard against taking

relationships. They are all we will have when the

offense. Louis & Edna stayed consistent in this

physical world falls away.

journey with me and loved me through it.

I have found that some wounds take time, patience, and constant, unconditional love in order to heal.

If I had given up, or settled for a superficial relationship with Louis & Edna, I would never be where I am today. Today, I am loved, and I have people to give me wisdom and insight. I understand how to relate to my Father better. I am able to love. I am able to walk stuff out with people. I am whole. Don’t give up on relationships when it gets tough! That’s the place where you will find your greatest breakthrough! By Lizette Du Piesanie

Photography: Jana Engelbrecht

F E AT U R E

PEOPLE WE MEET > > T H I S I S T E R R Y S PA N J A A R D < < L I K E S : N O U G A T, C Y C L I N G AND THE DOGS D I S L I K E S : B E I N G C O L D, B A D TA B L E M A N N E R S A N D R O WA N AT K I N S O N M O V I E S

F E AT U R E T H E P OW E R O F G O D When I turned thirty, I wondered what the Lord still had in store for me. Where was my life going? I had finished having children; James was five and Sarah four. So, what was the next season in my life going to be like? Little did I realize how radically my life was going to change. Within six months of asking myself that question, I had had a miscarriage, followed by my daughter, Sarah, and I getting Hepatitis A (yellow jaundice). She recovered rapidly, but I ended up with stage-four liver failure. After being hospitalized and then sent home, my condition continued to worsen and I was hospitalized again. After much blood work and scans of every kind, the doctors still couldn’t diagnose the problem. I continued to weaken and was eventually unconscious.

The church was still driven to prayer and fasting. A church in Port Alfred even held an all-night prayer meeting. Our church in Port Elizabeth had ten people praying at any given time, day and night.

Many years later, I continued to meet people whom I had never met but would tell me that they’d prayed for me. A church conference in East London and Montagu prayed. A church in the U.S. had their

The church then began to pray. All over the

intercession team praying. My husband, Rob,

world, the church prayed for a woman most

said that one night, as my parents, brother and

people didn’t even know. Was the Father

sister-in-law and he were praying at the hospital,

teaching His bride to pray in a new way? As

the power of God was so tangible and heavy.

my family stood watch at the hospital, day and night, the words of love and encouragement

The doctor then said that because my liver was

poured into them. The church continued to pray

breaking down and disintegrating, I was too sick

and fast in earnest.

for a liver transplant… which meant that I was probably going to die. Rob had to struggle with

One of the doctors felt that I needed to have

the fact that maybe it was God’s plan to take

my gall bladder removed as it was swollen and

me home. It really looked like that. He then

about to burst, but the surgeon said he wouldn’t

came to the place where he could say, “God, if

operate because I wouldn’t survive an operation.

You are going to take her, I submit to Your will.” As he said that, two things happened. Firstly, he had tremendous peace. And then, he felt the Lord say clearly, “I have healed her.” It was then time to “walk by faith and not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7)

I WAS HEALED FROM WHAT WAS A ‘CERTAIN DEATH’ DIAGNOSIS. 17

F E AT U R E

After telling the doctors that evening that the Lord was going to heal me, he went home feeling very peaceful. That is, until 4:30am, when he was called back to the hospital because my situation had deteriorated and I was having trouble breathing. “Get here quickly!” Thankfully, by the time Rob got to the hospital, the medical team and specialists announced that I had actually stabilized. It could have just been Satan’s parting shot. The specialist decided that it would be better for me to be immediately transferred to the Liver Unit in Cape Town, and that the Red Cross Air ambulance would take me. Doctors there wanted further tests. I was semi-conscious at this stage. However, as the test results came back that morning, the doctors words were,

“She has turned the corner,” and the ambulance was stopped on the runway. God had been true to His Word from the night before when the medical prognosis was very grim. Within a few days after regaining consciousness, I was able to recount two dreams that I had had while I was critically ill. To this day, they are the only things that I still remember of the ordeal. One dream that impacted me deeply was of a man who said he would sit outside my ward, standing on guard because the Satanists were

trying to kill me. I was unconscious at that time and none of my family saw anyone. It had to have been an angel. I was healed from what was a ‘certain death’ diagnosis. Doctors told us that it was preferable not to have any more children, and I was content with that. Little did I know that I was already pregnant with our third child, David! The Lord really healed my body completely! Two years later, I fell pregnant again but sadly I miscarried that baby and the three pregnancies after that. But we knew about the power of prayer! I fell pregnant again, and the doctor told us that I was losing that baby too. That was on a Friday, and we had to go back to see him on Monday. We wept and prayed that weekend, pleading for that baby’s life. When we went to see the doctor again, he couldn’t understand how my levels had gone up and the baby was fine and well. That was Daniel! What a testimony my life has been to see the power of God working His plan and purposes out for my and my family’s lives. There is power in prayer and He is a powerful God! “You who are far away, hear what I have done; You who are near, acknowledge My power!” Isaiah 33:13 20

OUR ADOPTION STORY - Marike von Mollendorff -

Photography: Heidi Knowles

Adoption was Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plan from the beginning! The fact is, there are even more spiritual orphans than physical orphans. Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heart is for family.

Our adoption story starts with “Long long ago there was a baby girl...” Ever since I can remember, I knew that I was adopted as a baby. I have always felt extremely grateful that God had given me the opportunity to have both a Mom and a Dad, and grow up in the security of a stable, loving family.

than physical orphans. God’s heart is for family.

Despite the fact that I had an amazing family

it out on earth with our physical and spiritual

and upbringing, in my heart I still felt like an orphan. I feared rejection and failure. I battled to receive God’s love and the love of those close to me. I was insecure and didn’t believe that

He makes us part of His family, and then we walk families. The Bible says it this way, “He takes the lonely and puts them into families.” (Psalm 68:6) Even before we got married, Andre and I were

God could do anything significant with my life.

certain that we would ‘one day’ like to adopt a

God took me through a process of healing

biological children, we felt slightly overwhelmed,

and deliverance. This started when I got planted into a spiritual family where I had to walk out relationships. This was wonderful and life changing, but also very hard at times as I was confronted with myself! Throughout all of the challenges, I realized that Jesus is truly THE ANSWER! He took me from my pit and placed my feet on solid rock!

I discovered this amazing truth: Each and every one of us, whether raised by our biological family or not, are orphans! The Bible is very clear that we have all rejected the love of the Father and have become orphans. Jesus paid a price for us so that we can

child. The R E A L I T Y was... after having three and the idea of adoption seemed a bit crazy!!! Just in case you wondered: 1. No, I’m not an Angelina Jolie fan! 2. Yes, we do love children, but we don’t feel ‘specifically’ or ‘especially anointed’ to have numerous children! 3. N o, unfortunately, we don’t have a hidden inheritance stored up somewhere (pity!!) that would explain this irresponsible financial decision we made in the times we’re living in! The truth is: We have such gratitude towards our Father for what He has done for us, that it feels impossible to keep it all to ourselves! We felt compelled to open up our hearts to a child that needed that same opportunity to know God and

be adopted into God’s family.

be part of a loving family!

Adoption was God’s plan from the beginning!

About two years ago, God started stirring our

The fact is, there are even more spiritual orphans

hearts again to begin the process of adoption. During this time (which seemed like forever!), we really prepared our hearts, and that of our family, for the season ahead. We visited a number of orphanages and spent time talking to our kids about God’s heart for the orphan. 24

In the beginning, we wondered “How will we ever know which child is ours?” We truly believed that God had the right child for us at the right time, and we waited for such ‘confirmation.’ Well, the grace to obey almost started running out! We realized in the process, that it’s NOT always so ‘spiritual.’ Sometimes, you just wish there would be a voice from heaven saying, “THIS IS

ever give. Children are a gift from God and He

THE ONE!” But as we took a step of faith and said

chooses how we receive these gifts, whether by

“Yes, Lord!” everything else followed.

natural birth or through adoption.

The big day finally arrived. We got the phone

Adoption is one of the most wonderful illustrations

call to say that we could fetch our sweet baby

of the love of God. We would really like to

girl! We were all so excited! Finally, after such

encourage all Christian families that feel a

a long wait, that which we’d been hoping and

prompting in their hearts to do this, not to delay!

trusting for became a reality!

We believe it is time for the Church to RISE UP

I’ll end by sharing this… My 10 year old son came

in South Africa, but also in the world!

AND BE THE ANSWER to our orphan crisis, not only to me the other day and said, “You know mom, I will have to find a wife one day that will want to

Be the answer. Get involved. You might feel

adopt, because I’m definitely adopting! Every

that adoption is not possible for you as a family,

child should have a mom and a dad, and our

but there are other options. You can become a

sister is just perfect!” Enough said!

place of safety by becoming a foster family. Or maybe you can support families that want to

As mothers, we are always concerned about

adopt. Get involved in programs in your area

our children and how things will affect them,

that are reaching out to vulnerable children.

because we want the best for them. To teach

Let’s not get overwhelmed with the enormity

our children to love and enlarge their hearts

of the problem, but do that ONE thing that

is never a sacrifice, but rather a wonderful

you CAN do! TOGETHER, WE CAN MAKE A BIG

privilege. Their capacity to love and accept is

DIFFERENCE!

often bigger than that of most adults! Yes, the Message Bible says it so accurately: People say to us, “This little girl is so blessed to

“LONG before He laid down earth’s foundations,

have a family like yours!” But we truly feel we

He had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus

have received far more than what we could

of His love, to be made whole and holy by His love. LONG, LONG ago He decided to adopt us into His Family through Jesus Christ. What pleasure He took in planning this!” (Ephesians 1:4-5 MSG) May His pleasure overflow in and through our lives!

EAT

LIFE CHANGING LOA F O F B R E A D BY CARMEN BURGER

I found this recipe on www.mynewroots.com. This amazing little loaf contains whole grains, nuts, and seeds. It is high in protein. It is incredibly high in fiber. It is gluten-free and vegan. Everything gets soaked for optimal nutrition and digestion. I will go so far as to say that this bread is good for you. INGREDIENTS: 1 cup / 135g sunflower seeds

until the dough is manageable). Smooth out

½ cup / 90g flax seeds

the top with the back of a spoon. Let sit out

½ cup / 65g almonds

on the counter for at least 2 hours, or all day

1 ½ cups / 145g rolled oats

or overnight. To ensure the dough is ready, it

2 Tbsp. chia seeds

should retain its shape even when you pull the

4 Tbsp. psyllium seed husks

sides of the loaf pan away from it.

1 tsp. fine grain sea salt (add ½ tsp. if using coarse salt)

2. Preheat oven to 175°C.

1 Tbsp. maple/xylitol syrup (for sugar-free diets, use a pinch of stevia)

3. P lace loaf pan in the oven on the middle rack,

3 Tbsp. melted coconut oil

and bake for 20 minutes. Remove bread from

1 ½ cups / 350ml water

loaf pan, place it upside down directly on the rack and bake for another 30-40 minutes.

1. In a flexible, silicon loaf pan combine all dry

Bread is done when it sounds hollow when

ingredients, stirring well. Whisk maple syrup,

tapped. Let cool completely before slicing

oil and water together in a measuring cup.

(difficult, but important).

Add this to the dry ingredients and mix very well until everything is completely soaked and

4. S tore bread in a tightly sealed container for

dough becomes very thick (if the dough is too

up to five days. Freezes well too – slice before

thick to stir, add one or two teaspoons of water

freezing for quick and easy toast.

SPRING INTO SIMPLICIT Y Life is busy and we are often overwelmed visually by everything and anything that demands our attention. This is why we celebrate simplicity. SImplictiy is calming, it’s less distracting and lets your eyes be free to look at the person more than the clothes. So it doesn’t matter weather you are diving into spring, like all of us in the Southern Hemisphere or cautiously tip-toeing into winter, there’s something serene about a classic white tshirt or that fresh grey coat cut with clean lines. So when you feel bombarded with too many colours of everyday life, let your clothes add a touch of calmness to you day. Photography: we are JONA

WEAR C E L E B R AT I N G SIMPLICITY WITH WE ARE JONA

But me he caught reached all the way from sky to sea; he pulled me out Of that ocean of hate, that enemy chaos, the void in which I was drowning. They hit me when I was down, but God stuck by me. He stood me up on a wide-open field; I stood there saved surprised to be loved! 2 Samuel 22:17-20

EA LT H

AND BE A

DIY AVOCADO MASK Even though it’s probably best on toast, it’s great

Mash or puree the avocado and set aside.

for your skin too. Avocado, we love you so. So

Dissolve the honey and coconut oil in the water

much that we’re happy to smear you all over our

and stir the liquid into the avocado base. Mix

faces (primarily for your moisturizing and anti-

well. Clense the face, pat dry, and then massage

aging capabilities), (seriously, avocados will help

the mask onto your skin – be careful to avoid

delay wrinkles and give that glow).

eyes and lips (no matter how tempting it is to take a bite). Let the mask dry for 10 – 15 minutes

I was talking to some of my friends at Banyan

before wiping clean with a warm, damp cloth

Botanicals, who are experts in all things natural,

and then patting dry.

about the easiest home recipe for an all-natural avocado face mask:

It feels great on the skin, but my warning: go for the green homemade face mask when you’re

Ingredients:

home alone and there’s no one around to see

1/2 avocado (soft and ripe)

you covered in goop.

1 tablespoon hot water 1 teaspoon coconut oil

Blog post from garancedore.fr

1 teaspoon honey

W H AT I F I FA I L ? When I was in high school, the biggest paralyzing thought I had was not “What if I fail?” It was “What if I try incredibly hard, and STILL end up failing?” Unfortunately, I was always a below-average student at school. I lived up to my own fears, but not because I wasn’t smart or because I didn’t have good support at home. I was an average student because of the few times at the beginning of my high school career, when I really tried and put in all my efforts to do well but I only scraped through with a “pass.” It was very discouraging! It was then that I developed a terrible thought pattern in my life. I began to believe that “Regardless of whether I try or not, I will still be average, so I’d rather not try.” That became my excuse. “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he” - Proverbs 23:7a (AMP) The way we think will determine the outcome of our lives. Do not listen to the lies of the enemy. If only I had known this verse in Colossians 3:23 (MSG) “... And don’t just do the minimum that will get you by. Do your best. Work from the heart for your real Master, for God, confident that you’ll get paid in full when you come into your inheritance” What if I had given it everything I had, my best work? What if I had worked for God and not for the praises of people? What if I wasn’t so afraid to fail? Keep you heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. - Proverbs 4:23 (KJV) My thought patterns had created a self-fulfilling prophesy in my life. Thankfully, Jesus found me in my apathy and told me it doesn’t have to be like this! I have learnt to trust God, and have discovered that He will multiply whatever I offer up to Him! So when I work from the heart for God, I know that He will turn anything I put my hand to for my good and for good of the kingdom. So, the next time when you feel like giving up because of that crazy fear of failing, remember WHO you are doing it for!. By Anne Huang

GETTING OUT THERE

One of our local Beauty Therapists gives us a glimpse into what motivates her and what she loves about her work.

NATALIE DE BRUIN My name is Natalie de Bruin, and I’m a Beauty

whom I will never see again. I share both their

Therapist and aspiring Make-up Artist.

hardships and their celebrations. I cry with them

Even from a young age, I had a passion for beauty. Without realizing it back then, God

I’ve learned a lot during my 5 years in the beauty

had gifted me with skill and creativity, not just to

industry. My husband has taught me so much

make women look and feel their best, but even

about Kingdom business and finances, and he

more importantly, to advance His Kingdom.

continues to support and encourage me in my

When I got born again, my whole approach

love for beauty.

to therapy changed. My heart’s desire as a

Here’s what I’ve really learned… People are all

beauty therapist became to love my clients

different, but everyone has the same basic need

as Jesus loves them. To pray for them and

for love and acceptance. Talk was cheap to

encourage them, regardless of their situation or

Jesus. He didn’t waste time talking about how

their standing with Him. My aim is for them to

compassionate and loving He was. Ultimately,

leave feeling refreshed and relaxed physically,

His actions showed His care and His love for

but also with a sense of hope and acceptance

people.

emotionally.

I want to reflect Him in that!

Today, God has given me the opportunity to work

Jesus continues to be my greatest source of

with women from different walks of life, some of 33

and I laugh with them.

inspiration for living life and doing therapy the way I do!

ROSA NEL THE RAINBOW SCHOOL / VICTORY4ALL

Hello, my name is Rosa Nel and I am the principal of the Rainbows Day Care Centre in Humansdorp, South Africa. I have been married to a wonderful, kind-hearted man for 22 years, and we have two children.

How did you start this journey and why?

Tell me about The Rainbow School and your role in it Approximately 6 years ago, Johan Vos, the founder and director of Victory4All, asked me if I

When I was 7 years old, I went to visit my

would evaluate the children at the Rainbow Day

grandparents on their farm. One of the sheep had

Care Centre. The moment I met the children,

given birth to a blind lamb; the eyes had never

I knew that this was what God had prepared

developed and the face was malformed. My

me for! I stopped with my private practise and

grandfather wanted to kill the lamb, but I cried

became the principal of the Rainbow Day Care

and refused! I begged him to allow me to take

Centre for Intellectually Disabled children.

care of the lamb. 106 students are enrolled at the centre, from the I spent all of my days in the sheep pen. In the

ages of 7 to 18 years old. We provide 2 meals a

beginning, I fed the lamb with a bottle, but as

day for all of the children. We have a curriculum

it grew stronger, instinct took over and the lamb

that teaches basic reading, writing and

could suckle by herself. I called her “Rosie” and

arithmetic, drama, art, woodwork, needlework,

we formed a beautiful bond. She eventually

cooking and gardening.

became part of the herd. This is where my passion for disabled people started, and I knew then that I wanted to make a difference in their lives.

• Some of the children have Cerebral Palsy and are physically disabled as well. • 70% of our children have Foetal Alcohol

Years later, I completed an honours degree in

Syndrome. It’s so heart-breaking to see how

Remedial Teaching and a Diploma in Special

they suffer because of the poverty, abuse, and

Needs Education. I started working with hearing impaired children at the Tygerberg Hospital at the Carel du Toit Centre, and I loved it! We

neglect that is associated with alcohol abuse. • Many of the children are also in foster care because of sexual and physical abuse.

had a multi-disciplinary approach and I worked with occupational therapists, physiotherapists,

The teachers at the centre have become the

speech therapists and a paediatrician. All of the

“mother bears” who stand in front of the cave to

knowledge that I gained during that time helps

protect, love and teach values to the children. We

me so much in working at the Rainbow Day Care

are the only stability and “safe place” for many of

Centre today.

these children. 36

â&#x20AC;&#x153; We tell them daily that God has made them for a purpose and that they are worthy citizens.â&#x20AC;? To p a r t n e r w i t h R o s a a n d t h e wo r k o f t h e T H E R A I N B O W S C H O O L v i s i t w w w. v i c t o r y 4 a l l . c o m , p r a y for the dif ferent aspects of the organisation, sign u p t o vo l u n t e e r o r d o n a t e a n d p a r t n e r f i n a n c i a l l y.

As the buildings have expanded over these past six years, and the number of students have also grown, so have I experienced how God can mould and change my heart. In the beginning, I was overwhelmed by how neglectful some of the mothers can be. I tended to look at them with unkind, judgemental eyes. But when I heard their stories and knew about their broken backgrounds, I was so ashamed of my arrogance. In my heart, I felt God remove layer after layer of ‘conditional love’ and replace it with a ‘cord of kindness.’ Now, He ties me to them with a ‘knot of love.’

What are your biggest challenges? We teach the children Godly principles and Biblical values at school, but many of the children go home to parents that abuse alcohol, use crude language, and are violent towards each other. These children witness all of this, and it’s hard to stop the behavioural patterns passed down from generation to generation. The teachers visit these homes weekly to try to mentor, assist, and evangelize the parents. We realise that they need guidance, love, and someone who can hold them accountable. The heart of Victory4All is to reach out to children and families in need.

What do you see in the future? Woodlands Dairy and Elmo’s Furniture have both employed some of our children who are older than 18 years of age. We trust that we will have a type of Skills Development Centre that will enable the older children to do work in a protected environment when they are finished with school at the age of eighteen.

What keeps you going? I experience daily how Jesus provides for every need we have! We do not get any government subsidies, and there is no other facility for disabled learners in the region. Without the Rainbows School, most of these children would have to stay at home. And yet, just looking at the buildings that have been erected over the last 6 years is living proof that Our God is above all earthly kingdoms, municipalities, and economic recessions! It is wonderful to see how a child gains confidence and self-worth, and how much better their health becomes because of the good nutrition at school. We tell them daily that God has made them for a purpose and that they are worthy citizens! I am so privilege to work with committed staff who are prayer warriors and intercessors! I really need to rely on God for wisdom, strength and hope. I have the academic background to do this job, but that is not enough to keep me standing or motivated! In my daily struggles, God has shown Himself faithful as The Counsellor, The Healer, Our Teacher, and The Bright Morningstar who brings new hope and direction every day! Above all, He has shown Himself faithful as Our Mighty God for whom ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE! 38

H E AT H E R S T RY D O M

{ mom’s the word} TIPS AND THOUGHTS ON MOTHERHOOD MOTHER WIFE GRANDMOTHER BUSINESS OWNER.

Photography: Heidi Knowles

As a wife, mother, grandmother and business owner, there are many times when I am faced with the challenge of multi-faceted situations. Let me explain. I am a wife to a wonderful man, a mom to a married 22 year old daughter who has an adorable and busy 3 year old son. Add to this mix, I have a 7 year old son and a 16 month old baby girl. And along with all that, for good measure, a finger in the pie with business. HECTIC!! Many times, life throws me curve balls that must be dealt with. This can require different thinking caps to be worn at the same time, depending on what needs to be answered. For instance… •

the office is having a meltdown with difficult situations faced,

•

my 16 month old is sick,

•

my 22 year old daughter needs advice for the running of her home,

•

my son wants the soccer team to come play at the house,

•

and my grandson arrives, just to add a few more sprinkles of colour to the already stretched day.

HELP! Over the years, I have always prayed for wisdom

Sacrifice is making the extra cup of coffee

to be part of my life… allowing God to whittle

for your loved one, listening to the biggest

away at me, bit by bit, and letting Him place

adventure your 7 year old can come up with,

little nuggets of truth in my heart. I have learned

picking up the spilt popcorn your 3 year old

that “Balance and Sacrifice” is very vital.

grandson threw all over the floor, having a heart to heart with your 22 year old daughter while

Family is very important in God’s eyes. Everything

balancing your one year old daughter on your

He teaches revolves around the Father heart of

hip. “PHEW!”

God, His children, how He sees us, how He takes care of us, and how He has made a way for us.

In all situations, wisdom has taught us that

In this, He has taught us “Sacrifice.”

“Balance is key!” Jesus, after feeding the 5,000, retreated away from the crowds to be alone.

How many times as parents have we found

Search your heart and truly find the moments

ourselves saying:

that keep you “sane.” It is ok…

“Later… not now.”

•

to take time out,

“I’m too tired.”

•

to read a book,

“Can I cancel?”

•

to be alone,

• Many times, we turn the people we love dearly

or to simply retreat to the quietness of your bedroom.

into “a fixture,” and not who they deserve to be. We take situations for granted and don’t fully

Even though life is a constant learning curve,

understanding the negative impact our actions

God will enable us through wisdom to cope

have on the other person. They can easily feel

with life’s multi-faceted situations that we face

that:

each day. He will help us keep control of the

•

I’m not worth it.

•

I’m neglected.

•

I’m not important.

Of course, this was clearly not your intention.

frustrations and embrace the

WHAT NO ONE TELLS YOU ABOUT CREATIVITY Photography: Catherine Swayde

My mother is one of the most creative people

Creativity doesn’t need to be limited to the

you’ll ever meet. Whether she’s hosting a

artist’s studio. It’s something you can experience

function, or simply making dinner, she can come

for yourself in everyday life. Everything you do

up with the most innovative ideas at the ‘drop

is a work of art. For some reason, most people

of a hat.’ That’s why I’ve always believed that I

believe they are not creative. But that is flawed

have inherited my creativity from her… that it’s in

thinking, and we need to fix our mindsets and

my genes.

belief-systems so that they line up with what God has already said and done for us.

But it turns out, that’s not quite the case. Before we look at what creativity is, let’s first look This might be a slightly revolutionary idea to

at what it is NOT. Creativity is not waiting for

some, but we are ALL creative. We were ALL

inspiration to strike. Nor is it expecting that such

created by a Creative God who lovingly made

inspiration will somehow effortlessly turns into

everything around us, including ourselves, and

a masterpiece. It’s also not some special gift

He made us in His perfect and creative image.

which only certain people have.

That means that we have the Creator’s creativity within us.

So then, what IS creativity? The Oxford Dictionary defines creativity as “the use of imagination or

Think about that for a second… Let it sink in

original ideas to create something.” Merriam

deep. We’re created in the image of the Ultimate

Webster defines it as “the ability to make new

Creator. It means that we’re ALL creative!

things or think of new ideas.” But perhaps, Albert Einstein said it best when he said,

This is something everyone needs to realise and take to heart.

“CREATIVITY IS INTELLIGENCE HAVING FUN!”

So if creativity is a quality that we all possess,

Remember, creativity is not limited to poetry,

then what is keeping us from being creative?

photography, art, music, etc. Just like my mother

One reason is fear. Fear of failure. Fear of

who creates a masterpiece in the kitchen by

rejection. And fear of being wrong.

simply being inventive and risky, you can be creative in everyday life. She dares to do the

We tend to blend-in, because we’re afraid of

unexpected with the unexpected. As a result,

what others may say. We tend not to take risks,

she exercises her creativity which enables her to

because we’re afraid of making mistakes. We

become more creative in all areas of her life.

tend not to voice our opinions or ideas, because we’re afraid that we might be wrong. So… what

Do this daily and ask God how you might change

is so wrong with being wrong once in a while

your perspective on everyday activities. Exercise

anyway? We need to take risks, in spite of our

your creativity. Find people or artists who inspire

fear, so that we can exercise our creative muscles.

you and research their work. Have side projects

If creativity is left stagnant for long enough, we

and hobbies that inspire and excite you.

start to believe that we are not creative. Don’t wait until you know who you are before Romans 12:2 reminds us to “renew our minds.”

you start being yourself.

We need to speak God’s will over us and believe that we were created in the image of a creative

Dare to take risks. Dare to be bold.

Father. Creativity is God’s gift to us, and using our creativity is our gift back to God! We need

And for the sake of the good of the world, dare

to become aware of the beauty around us.

to be different!

The beauty within others. The beauty within ourselves. The fact is, creativity is everywhere if we learn to recognise it. 45

By Lise-Mari Coetzee

DARE TO TAKE RISKS. DARE TO BE BOLD. 46

>>MENTORING RESOURCE

RESOURCE

Dear Friend, As we examine our hearts, in the light of the Word and with the help of God’s Spirit, we do so through the eyes of GRACE. We cannot know our own hearts unless God reveals it to us, and we cannot change our own hearts (spirits) if God does not do it for us. We are wholly and utterly dependent upon His Grace in our lives. We are saved only through the cross and cannot begin to earn our rightstanding with God. Here are some links to a powerful teaching by Pastor Brian Houston from the Hillsongs Church in Sydney, Australia, called “My Spirit, My Responsibility.” Our resource for the next two months is a simple summary of this teaching, with some questions included to help you apply these principles in your life. We trust that it will be life-changing for you! Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OmcRxw1iuM Part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehGtPQsBKQs

PART 1 What is a right spirit and what is a wrong spirit? Proverbs 25:28 (Amplified) “He who has no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down and without walls.” Walls are for protection, keeping out harm and protecting what is within. Without it, I will be open to attack, poor judgement and emotionalism. You have a choice as to what you allow into your spirit or not. You are in control of whom or what leaves its mark on your spirit. Daniel 6:13 (Amplified) “Then this Daniel was distinguished above the presidents and the satraps because an excellent spirit was in him, and the king thought to set him over the whole realm.” Psalm 51:10-12 “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and uphold me by Your generous Spirit.”

RESOURCE

David called God’s spirit generous. A generous spirit is a spirit that has nothing holding it back. We often think that everybody and everything else around us are ‘holding us back.’ And yet, we can actually take charge of our own spirit and ensure that it is free. The right spirit inside you will make a way for you. It is the condition of your spirit that determines what God can accomplish through you. A RIGHT SPIRIT AND….. 1. Obedience You can live a life of apparent sacrifice on the outside, but refuse to allow anybody to speak into your life because of an unteachable spirit. Pride and arrogance cannot be taught, whereas humility is teachable. We need the right people to speak into our lives, otherwise we stop growing. Examples: • T he rich young ruler - Mark10:21 - He left sorrowful, not knowing what God could have done in and through his life. • Moses - Exodus 18:17-24 - A ruler over millions, he heeded the voice of his father-in-law. • S aul – 1 Samuel 15 - Saul interpreted God’s clear instructions to suit his own agenda, and he lost his position as king. Inaccurate obedience is disobedience. 1 Samuel 15:22-23 (Message) “Do you think all God wants are sacrifices - empty rituals just for show? He wants you to listen to him! Plain listening is the thing, not staging a lavish religious production. Not doing what God tells you is far worse than fooling around in the occult. Getting self-important around God is far worse than making deals with your dead ancestors. Because you said No to God’s command, he says No to your kingship.” When we do not have the right spirit in us, we will often ‘interpret’ and bend things according to our own agenda, instead of living in humble obedience to God.

RESOURCE

•

Who do you have in your life that will love you, look you in the eye, and tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear?

•

What is your instinctive response when somebody points out a fault or mistake in your life?

•

Do you have the kind of spirit that invites and welcomes instruction?

•

Are there areas in your life where you are ‘interpreting’ God’s clear instruction to suit yourself?

2. Position Psalm 75:6 (Amplified) “For not from the east nor from the west nor from the south come promotion and lifting up.” If you trust God, promotion comes from heaven. No amount of striving can obtain and ensure what God does not give. If God puts something in your life, no one can take it away. Guard your spirit against living according to what you feel you deserve or do not deserve. Everything we have or achieve is by the GRACE of God! 2 Corinthians 10:12-13 “Not that we have the audacity to venture to class or even to compare ourselves with some who exalt and furnish testimonials for themselves! However, when they measure themselves with themselves and compare themselves with one another, they are without understanding and behave unwisely. We, on the other hand, will not boast beyond our legitimate province and proper limit, but will keep within the limits of our commission which God has allotted us as our measuring line and which reaches and includes even you.” •

What promotion or position are you striving for, instead of trusting God and guarding your spirit?

•

How are you influenced when you compare yourself with 1. People you consider ‘higher class’ (e.g. rich, educated, good people) or 2. People you consider ‘lower class’ (poor, uneducated, bad people)?

•

Do you find yourself weeping over someone else’s blessing?

•

Do you find yourself rejoicing over someone else’s misfortune?

•

How do you respond to promotion? Can you accept it with humility or do you reject it as undeserving?

RESOURCE

It is your spirit that will make a way and open doors for you. 3. Partnership There are people that we are called to ‘do life’ with in different areas, situations and phases of our lives. Do not underestimate the value of being ‘called together’ with other people to do His work. Guard your heart against an independent spirit that takes the credit for success. You are in a church because God planted you there as part of your destiny, not because you like the music or because Christians should go to church! Leaving your church because of a wrong spirit that harbours jealousy or offence and criticism will close doors and prevent you from walking in what God intended for you. Keep a right spirit towards your partnerships. Acts 13:2 (NKJV) “As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Now, separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’” 2 Corinthians 6:14 (NKJV) “Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?” Do not partner with unbelievers. Do not partner with Christians when the fruit of their lives is contrary to what they confess to believe. Make sure you are not dragging and holding back your partnerships with unbelief or lack of commitment. • •

Who are the “THEM” that you are called to walk with? Are there unequally yoked partnerships in your life, and what can you do about it?

•

Are there partnerships with Christians in your life that are detrimental?

•

Are you honouring your partnerships by walking with faith and integrity, or are there areas where you need to adjust and correct your spirit so that the partnership may benefit from you being there?

Let’s align with His grace!!!

Edna and Team

RESOURCE

Dear Friend, Welcome to Part 2 of the video series: “My Spirit, My Responsibility” from Pastor Brian Houston. We trust that you have enjoyed working through and applying Part 1 this past month, and are ready to press on! Here we go! 4. Failure The person who never made a mistake, never made anything! Failing is a part of life and when you keep a right spirit in failure, God can use it to teach you and ultimately bless you… even through your failure. The wrong spirit blames, and the right spirit takes responsibility. Do not give someone else power over your success or failure by blaming them for your circumstances. Give heed to Godly wisdom. Proverbs 11:15 (AMP) “He who becomes security for an outsider shall smart for it, but he who hates suretyship is secure [from its penalties].” If you can’t afford to lose it, don’t loan it! SOMETIMES YOU WIN AND SOMETIMES YOU LEARN! •

Are there failures in your past that you need to own and learn from before you can move on? Part of this process may be forgiving someone else or even yourself.

•

When something goes wrong, do you blame others, or are you able to take responsibility? Give an example if the latter is true.

•

Fear of failure or past failures can keep you from living the life God intended for you. How is this true in your life?

5. Success Success can be measured in different ways for different people. But whatever form of success you walk in, do you wear it well?

RESOURCE

“Wearing it well” means: 1. Always giving God all of the honour. 2. Never forgetting where you came from! 3. Don’t change when it comes to the important things in life (loyalty to people, honesty, humility etc). Stay authentic. Success cannot ruin you, but it will reveal what is in your heart. Criticism, as well as accolades, can change you. You do not wear success well when you become unteachable, when you start living as though you deserve your success, when you isolate yourself from the people God gave you to walk with, and when you surround yourself with those who will only stroke your ego. Success “worn well” will give generously with no strings attached and without the need to control. The momentum of success may create the illusion that everything is perfect, leading you to ignore cracks and faults that could ultimately lead to your ruin. Joshua 1:8 (AMP) “This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.” Bad success comes from dishonest gain. Good success is when everything in your life brings honour to God. •

Who do you know or have you heard of that wore their success well or not? Discuss how you saw this.

•

Have you been on the receiving end of someone that did not wear their success well and that you need to forgive?

•

Are there instances where you allowed success to corrupt your spirit? Please elaborate.

•

If you answered ‘yes’ to the above, you need to repent and receive forgiveness. Who can you pray with about this? Do you need to make restitution and are there relationships that need restoration?

RESOURCE

6. Sabotage Who or what will you allow to sabotage God’s blessing in your life? Would you take on someone else’s offence, negativity, cynicism or critical spirit? There are times you need to say goodbye to people who have the wrong spirit inside them in order to prevent your spirit from being contaminated by their spirit. Psalm 101:3-4 (NKJV) “I will set nothing wicked before my eyes; I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me. A perverse heart shall depart from me; I will not know wickedness.” Perverse means twisted. When you expose yourself to gossip and slander, other people’s offence and negativity, it contaminates your spirit and something shifts in the way you look and perceive as you start seeing through the eyes of this other person. As you let your guard down, you open yourself up to attack from the enemy.

•

Are there relationships that you allowed to sabotage your spirit with negativity and criticism and that you need to end?

•

How do you guard your spirit against the bad news of the day and the cynicism that goes with it?

•

Do you need to repent for sabotaging other people’s spirits through your negativity, cynicism etc?

•

Are you aware of a shift in your heart towards something or someone because you allowed your spirit to be defiled by someone else’s spirit?

•

Find someone who you can talk to and pray with in order to ‘renew a right spirit’ in you.

7. Opposition John 16:33 (AMP) “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.]”

RESOURCE

Jesus warned that opposition, offenses, trials and tribulations will come, but that we mustn’t grow discouraged because He has overcome the world! It may be natural opposition from people or major spiritual opposition. Remember, it is never just about people’s behaviour; don’t fight the person - fight the spirit behind the behaviour. Battle in the spirit. Ephesians 6:12 (AMP) “For we are not wrestling with flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the despotisms, against the powers, against [the master spirits who are] the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spirit forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) sphere.” Deal with the stuff! Do not let someone else’s spirit sabotage your spirit. Why would you give someone else that kind of power? What God wants to do in your life is far too important to allow someone else’s opposition to anchor you to mediocrity. Guard your spirit, for it is the engine room of your life. It is the part of you where God lives. Make sure there is room for the Holy Spirit. No mature Christian who is seasoned in the Word has any reasonable excuse to live their life offended. Keep going to God and deal with what’s in your own spirit. Offense keeps you tied to the past while you need to live your life for God in the ‘now.’ •

No one else’s spirit is going to sabotage my spirit. Who have you given that power to?

•

Who do you need to forgive?

•

What do you need to let go of?

By the grace of God and the leading of His Spirit, may we take charge of our own spirit!

Edna and Team

>> YOU ARE LOVED