Storm the Forts!

How deep the Father's love for us!

2008-09-06T21:55:00.003+10:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!!

It's been awhile since I have blogged, so here goes!

Life is amazing! Everyday I wake I count it such a privilege to serve God with my life. I'm still enjoying college, am loving the study and am just absolutely excited about what God is doing in my life, and in the lives of those around me. God is giving me a great vision for The Salvation Army South Barwon and it's which a heart full of praise that I proclaim that God is the LORD of ALL!

Last night I was at a friends 21st birthday party. It was a great night, and the party went on for a long time which was great. I was able to catch up with some old friends, teachers and school friends. It was wonderful. I was able to share about how God created us, and loves us etc to some friends of mine. It was great, and I was able to hear what they believed. I am thankful that God gives me these times to share my story and to hear other peoples stories.

I'm preaching tomorrow at South Barwon, and the title of my message is 'How deep the Father's love for us' and it is based on Romans 5:1-11. I believe that this is a message for the people who will be in attendance at the meeting tomorrow. Prepare their hearts Lord!

It's almost my 21st birthday! WOOHOO! I'm really excited! I can't wait to see my family and friends, and look forward to celebrating with them!

Tomorrow is Father's day! Happy Father's day to all the Dad's out there. Have a wonderful day of sharing with with your family and friends. I am thankful to God for my Dad! He is second to none! I love you Dad!

I want to testify that God is changing my heart. He is making me more like Him. I'm spending more time with Him in prayer, reading more of His Word and sharing more with His people. We worship a loving God. A God who created all things and who, in love sent His Son, Jesus to die on a cross, so that we might be reconciled with the Father. That we might be able to be in a loving relationship with Him. That our sins would be forgive and that we would be set free from the things that entangle us.

Go to the multitudes and tell them of this great love! Hallelujah!

MSS & SSS!

2008-07-27T19:33:00.002+10:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

I had THE most amazing weekend this weekend!

It was the 21st birthday of the Melbourne Staff Songsters, and to help them celebrate, their friends the Sydney Staff Songsters came down to Melbourne for the weekend to share in God-glorifying worship that stirred, encouraged and motivated the troops!!

Saturday night there was a concert at the Waverley Temple Corps! It was amazing! At one stage there was the MSS, SSS and past members of the MSB singing and it was the fullest songster brigade sound I have ever heard.

Songs included 'I am not ashamed', 'For the beauty of the earth', 'You are not alone', 'I'm gonna rise (when the Son comes down)', 'How great is our God', 'The Hallelujah Chorus' and many, many more!

Graeme Press (Sydney Staff Songster leader) mentioned a number of times that singing to God is their love language. Can I say that, that really resonated with me. I believe that singing is my love language. It's one of the ways I worship, and one of the ways I hear God. He inspires me through it, and He challenges and encourages me through singing!

I love You Lord,
And I lift my voice.
To worship You,
O my soul, rejoice.
Take joy my King,
In what You hear.
May I be a sweet, sweet sound.
In Your ear!

The prayer of my heart!

YHWH is KING!

2008-06-27T14:08:00.002+10:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

So many things have happened since I last blogged. Apologies for my lack of blogging, it's been a bit hectic being back at College. Let me fill you in...

I came back to Melbourne and it was great to see my family and friends. I got back on the Friday, spent Sat with family and then Sunday we had College commitments. Since then I've done a two-week intensive on Social Mission and today was the final day in a week of Salvo Distinctives. The distinctives have included presentations from the Corps Programme Dept, Planned Giving, The Appointment Process, the Role and function of DHQ and a visit to The Salvation Heritage Centre.

I also had my 'Welcome & Induction' meeting at South Barwon. It was a beautiful time of worship, and right at the very start people from the Corps surrounded me at the Mercy Seat and prayed as we all sang "We are standing on Holy Ground" Major David Eldridge preached on a verse that I believe God spoke very deeply into my life, and told me that this is my calling. This is what He created me to do. It's Isaiah 61. Major Eldridge got me to lead the final song, which just happened to be my favourite song - STORM THE FORTS OF DARKNESS! There were flags flying, band playing, voices singing and people worshipping the LORD! There was also a 'HALLELUJAH Wind-up' Where one of the Corps folk got the Corps Falg and marched around the hall while singing 'Storm the Forts'. The Spirit of God was moving in an extremely powerful way! I had a strong feeling of peace and just felt that at that very moment in time I was where God wanted me to be. God Bless South Barwon! I started there 3 days a week in mid-July, which is very exciting.

On the 23rd of June, my Dad and Step-Mum celebrated their first year anniversary of Marriage! God continues to pour out His blessing and anointing on my wonderful parents and family! Hallelujah!

I start 2 weeks of furlough (holidays)tomorrow, and I am really looking forward to it. I'm staying in Victoria, but am staying in the country with some family and friends. This is significant for me, because I am very well known for not taking a 'break' and normally filling my holiday's with lots of things, where I'm not relaxed, and certainly not taking a break!

I love the Lord Jesus, and asl that by His Holy Spirit that He would continue to reveal to me, areas of my life that I need to alter. God is Abundantly able to do great things.

All praise, glory and honour to the Lamp who sits on the throne! Hallelujah!

I did an assignment on the Old Testament - Here's a thought from that... "We don't need earthly kings - we have YHWH! He is our King!" WOOHOO Praise YHWH!!!

Blessings Abundant to you all!!!!

Rockingham to Melbourne!

2008-06-09T00:46:00.003+10:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

This last week and a half have been a bit crazy! Now, don't get me wrong, I love crazy, I'm a crazy kinda guy. But this has been a bit of an emotional crazy! Let me explain...

Last Sunday was my final Sunday at The Salvation Army, Rockingham Corps. We had a combined meeting, and it was fantastic. The Spirit was moving, and hearts were open to hearing God's Word. We had a lunch after church and this was a 'farewell lunch' for me. So, people got up and gave speeches, and I shared, I got some gifts, and we were shedding tears. I was really sad to be leaving. I had this really bizarre feeling, because I was really looking forward to coming back to Melbourne and seeing my family and friends, but I was really sad to be leaving my new friends in Rockingham, as we had formed some really great relationships.

Monday morning about 43 people gathered for a 'farewell breakfast' down at a local cafe' on the foreshore, just down from my house! Then we went out sailing and fishing. I'm very pleased to report that I caught 23 fish!

There were some other farewells during the week, with the fianl one being at the airport, and that was fairly emotional. Had some lovely folk come to say farewell, it was really special.

I arrived in Melb (finally, crazy delayed flight) and Dibbie picked me up, it was SOO good to see her. After I spent a bit of time at the college, I went to see my family. That was really, really good to see them! Also spent the day on Saturday with them. We had an 'In-Sunday' at College today in the morning and then at night, I went to my old Corps. That was great as well.

I start at South Barwon on Sunday, which is very exciting! God is so good! I am so thankful and full of praise to God for my experiences in Perth.

I look forward to the blessings, challenges and experiences that God has in store for my!

Can you believe there is only 6 months of college to go!!?? Where has the time gone?

All of God's Abundant Blessings!!

He's alive! Hallelujah!

P.S - This is a special note to a wonderful friend of mine - Linda! You're amazing, and I can't wait until we catch up! Blessings Galore! xoxox

My last week!!!

2008-05-29T23:56:00.002+10:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

Life has been pretty busy lately!

The Red Shield Appeal has come and gone. There have been college (in Melbourne) assignments, College (In Perth) assignments. Sermons, meeting leads etc... But I've loved it all!

Here in Rockingham we raised in excess of $36,000 for the Red Shield Appeal, which is phenominal! The people are so generous and God is so good!

This has been my last week at the Rockingham Corps of The Salvation Army. It's been sad doing things at the corps for the 'last time'. It's been an immense blessing to serve here for these last 2 months.

This coming Sunday is my last at the corps. I'm preaching and leading. I'm preaching on Psalm 139. There's gonna be lots of people coming who are Pre-Christians. Pray that God would speak to and challenge their hearts.

It's gonna be a packed meeting, and there's gonna be a HUGE lunch afterwards!

I'm really excited to be heading back to Melb, But I am also incredibly sad to be leaving Rockingham. I have made some friends here that will be friends for life.

I'll blog more about my final Sunday after it happens!

8 more sleeps 'til I'm back....are you ready? HAHA!

Blessings Abundant!

Mum

2008-05-16T17:37:00.002+10:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

Today we remember the life of a dearly loved wife, mother, sister, daughter, aunty, nana, cousin, friend and fellow Christian. My Mum - Rhonda Stobie.

It's hard to believe that it's been four years since Mum passed away. It's gone so quickly. She suffered for a number of years with cancer, until God called her home to glory on the 16th of May, 2004.

She was a beautiful woman who loved the Lord and her family dearly. She was, and continues to be an inspiration to many. Her passion for God was contagious. You couldn't help but become passionate because of her.

She was very brave right through her illness and continued to rely on our God for strength. She was a mighty prayer warrior who prayed for absolutely everything. I miss her dearly. We were very close, more than just a mother and son, but best friends and she was amazingly instrumental in my journey with God.

I have very fond memories of my Mum, memories that I will cherish forever. I'm thankful for the time I got to have her for and I look forward to the day when we will be reunited in glory with our great God.

I love you Mum! Miss you heaps! xoxox

15th of May 1990

2008-05-14T16:10:00.003+10:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

The 15th of May is a very special day in the Stobie calender!

It's a date we celebrate each year, and a time of great celebration and joy!

Let me tell you why....

On the 15th of May, 1990 (18 years ago), in the Melbourne suburb of Footscray, a wonderful event happened..... My baby brother, Ronald George Morris Stobie was born!!!!!

HAPPY 18TH BIRTHDAY RONNIE!!

Today we celebrate the coming of age of a fine young man who loves the Lord with all his heart. Ronnie, along with his wonderful girlfriend, Amy soldier at the Wyndham City Corps of The Salvation Army (formally known as Werribee). They are a wonderful asset to the family at Wyndham City and seek to serve God with all they have. They are inspirational and gifted in all they do. They are a wonderful team, a powerful team for God, and I suspect that one day, they may enter into full-time ministry! Hallelujah!

Ronald, You are amazing! I admire your ability to connect with people and care for them. You are loving and genuine, and you're an awesome listener. You are there when your friends and family need you, and you have such a servant heart. God bless you heaps!

Thanks for all the wonderful memories of growing up together. Memories, I will never forget.

You're an inspiration, and I love you heaps!

If you see Ron, give him a hug, say happy birhtday and thank him for dedication to God and to others!

All of God's blessings be yours on this special day Ron!!

xoxoxox

Balga Songsters

2008-05-05T13:09:00.002+10:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

We had a wonderful time of worship yesterday at The Rockingham Corps! We were blessed and challenged by our guest leaders, the Ba;ga Songsters.

It was a time where the Holy Spirit convicted the hearts of those in attendance! Glory to God!

After the meeting, we had a shared lunch and that was a wonderful time of fellowship. Then from there, the band, timbrels and other corps members went to the home of one of our soldiers who has been unwell and we had an Open Air/Street Party on her front lawn! It was fantastic!

We took the emergency services trailor, had tea, coffee, cake, War Cry, Kidzone, Brass band, timbrels and lots of singing. People were shouting out Gospel Shots and giving Testimonies! Praise the Lord!

I had dinner with one of the corps families, which was wonderful. And then, I went fishing. I didn't catch anything this tiem, but felt really connected with God as I relaxed and rested in Him.

This past week has been pretty busy, we're getting closer and closer to The Red Shield Appeal, so there's lots to do. Only four more weeks to go until I head back to Melb. I'm feeling mixed emotions about it. I'm sure you could imagine!

It's less than a month now until my Appointment as the Assistant Corps Officer @ The South Barwon Corps becomes effective! VERY exciting!

I've been really encouraged and challenged by the words of Isaiah this last week. "We are oaks of righteousness, made for the display of His splendour..." Amazing!

May all of our Great God's richest blessings be yours today!

Will you jump?

2008-04-27T18:06:00.002+10:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

We had an amazing time of worship at The Rockingham Corps this morning. The Spirit was moving in a powerful way. I thank God for His ministry to us all today.

I put together the lead for the meeting and was preaching. The theme of the service was 'A Soldier bound for glory', so we had a lot of Warfare/Soldier songs which really stirred and challenged the troops.

One of my roles, since starting at Rockingham is that of Acting Bandmaster, which I am enjoying immensley and am learning heaps from.

We started off the service with the band playing the prelude, which was Storm the forts of darkness. It was different to how we normally play it. I wrote a 4 bar fanfare to begin the song and each band member were standing around the worship hall. The congregation had no idea what was happening, but when they realised they started singing and praising God. It was amazing!

In the message, I spoke about being strong and courageous warriors! I used Scripture found in Joshua and I also spoke about the Founders vision of the lost. For the Altar call I felt a strong sense to do a call for Soldiers to re-commit and re-dedicate their lives to God. This also included a call for Soldiership and Adherency. There was a Soldier's Re-dedication certificate thing that we made up, with our doctrines and some other pledges on it that are found on the articles of war. I asked to Soldiers if they would 'Jump into the water' and save the multitudes that are perishing.

The Holy Spirit was moving in a powerful way! We celebrate God's presences!
We had 25 public responses made. 21 of those were Soldiers saying 'Yes, we will jump in again and again and we desire to re-dedicate ourselves to God Almighty'. 3 were members of the congregation saying 'We want to be Soldiers... We will jump and save the multitudes perishing'. And there was another guy who came up asking for prayer.

All glory to our Great, Holy and Living God! I trust you are rejoicing with me in this great victory!

Ohhh...How could I forget...I lead an Army Chorus time and asked for testimony's in between each chorus. People were sharing their testimony's and one guy said "I need to share a miracle that happend!!" Hallelujah!!!!

Glory, Honour, praise and power to our Great God!

Fire a volley!!! Hallelujah!!!

A Soldier Bound for Glory!

2008-04-23T16:12:00.002+10:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

I want to start off this blog by shouting three words....

are you ready?

Here goes.....I LOVE JESUS!

Would you shout it out load wherever you are?

God has been pouring the blessings on me during ministry at the Rockingham Corps in Western Australia! God is working in a powerful way and people's lives are being changed!

I preached and led last week in 2 different services and I'm preaching again this week. The the whole meeting is called 'A Soldier bound for glory' and there will be a call for new soldiers as well as a call for present soldiers to renew and re-dedicate themselves to the LORD! I believe that it is going to be an incredibly powerful meeting where we will see people stand and say 'I'll stand for Christ'. Soldiers it's time to arise and march on to battle!!

Would you please pray for the meeting, pray that people's hearts will be open and that the Spirit of God will move in an incredibly powerful way! God is ABLE! Yes!!!

Will write another blog in the next day or so!

Blessings Abundant!

A continual Conversation!

2008-04-12T20:46:00.002+10:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

What a fabulous week I've had serving the Lord! What a privilege, what a blessing, what an honour it is to serve our Great King.

I love the Lord Jesus Christ and I absolutely love to serve Him. This week has been my first week at Rockingham and I am so, so blessed by the amazingly faithful work that is carried out here.

I've been able to serve God in the kitchen, serve God through the playing of instruments, serve God by cleaning, serve God by working welfare, serve God by doing stats/finances/admin work. And there is so much more!

You see friends, We have the amazing opportunity to serve God with whatever we are doing. Last year Major Daniels leant me a devotional book based on 'The Practise of the presence of God' by Brother Lawrence. The concept of this book is quite an amazing thing to grasp. Brother Lawrence talks about a CONTINUAL CONVERSATION with God. AMAZING! We believe that we're always in His presence, and He tells us in Joshua that He'll NEVER leave us, nor forsake us. So, doesn't it make sense to be always in conversation with Him? Continually! It means we can converse with God whether we are in Corporate worship, or private worship, whether we're gardening or cleaning or serving others. We can be in continaul conversation with God. What a HUGE privilege!

I love to serve God and I look forward to all He has in store for me, here in Rockingham. May I serve Him faithfully, in every situation and at every time. My God is so BIG, so STRONG and so MIGHTY and He is able! Hallelujah!

I'm praying that God would anoint me afresh with His mighty Holy Spirit, that I may bo totally, wholly and wholeheartedly focused on Him. Yes Lord, let it be so!

Amazing Rockingham!!!!

2008-04-08T17:40:00.003+10:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

Rockingham is amazing! I had my first experience on Sunday of how church is done here. We have 2 services on a Sunday. A traditional one a 9am and then a cafe style church called 24/7 at 10:30. Both of these are wonderful expressions of Salvationism.

The people here are very welcoming and very open to the Spirit's leading. Tonight we have a Boundaries course starting up, and I'll definatetly be there for that. Boundaries is certainly something that I need to work on, for my own benefit and for the benefit of others. It's my desire to have strong and clear boundaries. It's essential for good, effective leadership.

I'm enjoying having my own unit! I've been cooking for myself which has been great. I've enjoyed going for walks along the beach at night and just being in complete awe of God's beautiful creation.

I went out for breakfast yesterday with Anne & Lance, and some friends and we walked along the pier and were blessed to see about 7 dolphins. Absolutely breathtaking! Lance is gonna take me out on his boat, and we might even manage to make some time for a bit of fishing and crabbing! Bless the Lord O my soul!

I love Jesus! And I rejoice in His great victory and I'm living in His victory! What a wonderful Lord He is. He loves us, cares for us, guides us, shows us great compassion and He sees all that we can be. I long to be who Jesus wants me to be, what He created me to be! Mould me Lord, to be more like you!!! Hallelujah!

Hello Rockingham!!!

2008-04-05T16:15:00.002+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

I'm in Rockingham and it is an absolutely beautiful place. My unit that I'm staying at is right on the beach, and on Monday I'll start having my morning devos on the beach - Bless the Lord O my soul!

Captains Lance and Anne Jeffrey are the Corps Officers here, and it really is an honour to be serving under then at Rockingham. They have a heart for the community and for God. It's amazing to see all that God is doing through them. Please pray for God's Spirit to continue to move in a powerful way in Rockingham.

I don't have a phone in my unit, so my main communication with be internet (when I'm at the hall) and my mobile phone. So give me a call sometime!

This weekend we have a huge mussel festival on the foreshores. So you know where I'll be going after church on Sunday. haha - My Dad LOVES mussels....I'll try not to tease him about it!

Yesterday was my first day in Rockingham and it was a jam-packed day! The Salvos here were involved in helping a man from the community by doing a garden make-over. They did this with a substantial amount of help from Bunnings Warehouse. They went to Bunnings and started the ball rolling and Bunnings then ran the project. It was a great experience...Do you need grass laid? Give me a call...

Then we had about 30 kids at Kids Club in the afternoon. Most of you know that I LOVE kids ministry, so this was really exciting to see all that is going on with the kids in Rockingham. Then Lance, Mavis and I went collecting at 6 pubs. It was wonderful!

And I finished the night, sitting down with Lance watching the Doggies vs. the Saints. And the Bulldogs were victorious!! I'm an avid Bulldogs supporter!!! Go the Doggies!!!

I'm really excited about what God is doing and I'm getting a growing sense that it's really only the beginning! Lord, use us to do Your will! Hallelujah!

Hope you're all doing well and going strong in the Lord!!

All of God's abundant blessings to you!!!

Shalom!

Farewell Harry Hunter!

2008-04-02T01:46:00.002+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

Well, here I am on the eve of my last day at the Harry Hunter Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation centre. There are many thoughts going through my head as I reflect on my time here.

I have witnessed first-hand the amazing power of God as He is the strength of many who enter and go through the program. I have seen the shackles of drug and alcohol addiction be completely abliterated by the power of God. I have people's lives changed by the Gospel of Christ. I have seen people making positive decisions in their recovery. I have seen people become more Christ-like. I have seen people saved and seen them hand over their whole lives completely to God! Hallelujah!

I have seen some people be dismissed from the program for various reasons. I have seen people decide to leave, again for various reasons. I've seen people move on to greater things, to continue in their recovery.

I've seen people graduate the program! I have seen people who have completed the program moving on and doing great things. I have built relationships with people. I have shared Jesus with people. I've been involved in the lives of those doing the program, and have had them be a significant part of my life.

I have learnt so much. I've grown so much in my awareness of addictions. I've learnt about the program. I've learnt more about God. I've learnt more about myself.

Saying goodbye is always going to be hard. Especially because I love people and have built such great relationships with those here, so it will be sad to say goodbye. However, with every goodbye, is a hello, and in a matter of days I will be saying hello to my new family in Rockingham. God is good!

God is able! He is able to do more than we could ever ask or imagine! My prayer for the whole of my time in WA has been that God would 'exceed my expectations'. My expectations have been very high and God has well and truly exceeded them, and I believe He'll continue to exceed them. He is faithful!

Facebook

2008-03-28T00:16:00.003+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

I spend time catching up with people via FACEBOOK. It's a great way to communicate when you're not close to loved ones and it's a great way to re-connect with people. I've got people on my friends list whom I went to primary school with, lost contact with and the re-connected with them via FACEBOOK. It's an interesting thing..

This is FACEBOOK's marketing slogan: "Facebook is a social utility that connects you with the people around you.."

Does that sound familiar to you? Perhaps your familiarity isn't word for word, but the concept and main theme/idea of FACEBOOK definately sounds familiar to me.

Scripture tells us that we are broken people. We are sinners. The Hebrew word for sin is 'Hamartia' and that means 'to miss the target' or to 'fall short'. So our target is to be more and more like our Holy God and we miss that target and fall short of it. Because of this it can be easy to become 'disconnected' with God.

However, God sent His only Son Jesus to re-connect us with God. He sent Jesus to be that bridge, that connection between us and God. Because of what Jesus did on the cross we can be connected and be in a relationship with God. Hallelujah!

Perhaps a slogan for Jesus could be.....

Jesus is a loving, supernatural man who by His sacrificial death on the cross and miraculous resurrection makes it possible for us to connect and be in a relationship with a holy and perfect God.

Day - Night!

2008-03-27T13:39:00.002+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

I had a great discussion with my lecturer recently and we were talking about creation, and the main part of our discussion was based on Genesis 1.

Now my lecturer is an incredible man of God. He has been studying Scripture for many years and is a very experienced Senior Pastor and lecturer.

We were talking about how God created light and darkness and how He called light; day and darkness: night. Now this is where the absolutely mind-blowing part comes in. Picture yourself standing and to the left is light and to the right was dark. It's suggested that the Biblical Hebrew translation of this suggests that God turned to the light and literally called out "DAY" and to the dark, He literally called out "NIGHT".....Isn't that amazing!? I was absolutely blown away to imagine God calling out to light and dark.

It got me thinking about how God calls out to us. He does it through people. He does it through His Word. He does it through prayer. He does it when we least expect it, and sometimes when we do expect it. I believe that God is continually calling out to us. However, I feel that, at times we miss that call because of things that are blocking our connection to Him.

What is it in your life that is blocking you from stepping into a fuller and closer relationship with God? What is it in your life that is blocking your ears, eyes and heart, so that you don't hear God calling?

What is it in your life that you have to hand over to God?

Do it today! He'll give you the strength! He promises it!

Good Friday!

2008-03-22T19:45:00.001+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

Yesterday was a powerful day!

We had Chapel yesterday morning at Harry Hunter and it was an incredibly moving time. At the entrance of tha chapel we had a huge Cross that you couldn't walk in without noticing, infact you had to walk around it to get it.

I then shared the journey of Jesus from praying in Gethsemane to Jesus' crucifixion. We sang here I am to worship and Above all. Leanne did a monologue called 'The Ragman' and at the end of that I went down the back, picked up the big cross and proceeded to the front. As the cross passed people by the Spirit of God began to really speak to to everyone and convict their hearts, He was doing this all along, but I believe that everyone at chapel was starting to respond.

I laid the cross down at the front of the chapel and invited all present to close their eyes and reflect what the cross meant to them. After about 30 seconds with everyone's eyes still closed I began to hit the cross with a hammer, as if I was nailing Jesus to the cross myself. It was a loud sound, a brutal sound. This startled people, it moved people, it made people uncomfortable, but most of all, it made it real to people.

Ken then shared a powerful message about how Jesus did what He did out of love. God was speaking powerfully through Ken, and Ken was listening very intently to the Spirit's lead.

Ken challenged all present asking "What are YOU bringing to the cross?". We had the opportunity to write down what we were bringing to the cross on some paper and then nail it to the cross. I had lots of thoughts going through my head with each nail I heard being hit into the cross. I was thinking how it was our sins that nailed Jesus to the cross and I was thinking that with each bang, it was the sound of victory.

Everyone at chapel was moved, challenged and convicted. It was a truly powerful time. Ken, Leanne and I prayed afterwards, and we were brought to tears when we reflected on and thanked God for moving so powerfully, we also asked that He would contine to move in a powerful way and that He would continue to exceed our expectations.

Later that day I had one of the clients come and ask me for a Bible. Hallelujah! She told me she wanted to read it to better understand it, because she is a Muslim. God continue to move in a powerful way! HALLELUJAH!!!

Jesus!

2008-03-20T00:33:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

Would you believe me if I said that Jesus died for you? Would you say 'Yes, I believe Jesus died for me'. Or would you say 'Don't start that again Stobes, you know I don't believe in that rubbish'. Or maybe you would say something different. Think about it!

God freely sent His only Son, Jesus, to die for the sins of the world. Not just for me, not just for Christians but for every person in the whole entire world. He sent Jesus so that we might be able to have a personal and meaningful relationship with Him.

God watched on as Jesus was brutally whipped, as the shreds of skins were ripped off His body. He watched as they mocked Jesus. God watched as they made Jesus carry a heavy wooden cross on a journey that He knew would lead to His crucifixion. He watched as the nails pierced His skin, as the nails were driven through the Saviour's hands. As He cried out in agony and unexplainable pain, God watched. God watched His one and only Son die. How it must have absolutely and completely broken His heart.

Some of you could possibly be thinking 'I would never ever allow that to happen to my children'. God sacrificed His Son, Jesus so that we might have life. That we might be free from bondage and opression. That we might choose to have a relationship with Him. He sacrificed His Son, so that our sins could be washed away and so we could be made new in Christ, And so that we could live with Him in eternity!

God showed us this divine love through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus. He did it for you. He did it for me. Come to Jesus. He loves you. Nothing you have done, or could ever do, could ever separate you from the love of God (Romans 8). Speak to God, even right now, where you are. Confess your sins to Him. Tell Him you are sorry. Tell Him that you believe that Jesus died for your sins. Tell Him you want to live a life devoted to Him. That you want to honour Him with your life. Ask Him for His help and guidance. Tell Him you want the Holy Spirit to dwell within you. Ask Him for it - He is faithful. Ask Him to provide good, Christian people around you, who will be positive influences on you. Hallelujah!

Jesus would rather go to hell for you, than Heaven without you!

Wednesday Night Chapel!!!!

2008-03-12T16:34:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

Shalom!

I'm really excited about tonight! I'm bouncing all over the place - you can all just imagine it can't you?

Every Wednesday night at Harry Hunter is Chapel night. We all meet together to share in worship and praise to our Great God. We hear from the Word, sing songs to God and share together in fellowship.

I'm excited because tonight I am preaching a message that I believe the Lord has strongly laid pon my heart. The message is titled 'Where have you come from, and where are you going?'. It's based on Genesis 19, the story of Lot and Sodom & Gommorah. I'm really excited because I feel that God has given me these words to give to all the people who will be in attendance at chapel tonight.

Tonight we have three clients graduations from the program. They have each completed 13 weeks at Harry Hunter, which has included counselling, therapy, classes and other activities. This is an exciting part of the program and is something that really is worth celebrating. Would you pray for all the clients here? That God would give them strength and wisdom to make the right choices and healthy decisions.

I thank God for all the transformation that takes place in the lives of the clients here at Harry Hunter. It's amazing to see God working through the people here. It's a daily thing. Hallelujah!

May you experience all of our Great God's abundant blessings!

South Barwon!!!

2008-03-06T14:50:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of the Lord!

It became official yesterday that as of the 3rd of June, 2008, I will take up an appointment as the Assistant Corps Officer, South Barwon Corps. Western Victoria Division.

I will still live at college and will continue in my study.

I am INCREDIBLY excited about this appointment and have been completely blown away by it at the same time. I had absolutely no idea that it would happen, so it's taken my by surprise.

I had a phone call today from Major Gloria Eldridge, the Corps Officer @ South Barwon. She rang to welcome me to the team and to South Barwon. I've known since last Friday and had to keep it confidential until I got confirmation from Major Frank Daniels.

Please pray for all involved in this appointment, the Corps Officer, the Corps folk, the college community, my family and friends and for me. That God would continue to guide and show Himself to us all.

On another note, I just got a call from my Dad, telling me that our family pet dog, Rocky had died. It's very sad. We've had Rocky since we came back from New Zealand, many years ago now. Pray that God would comfort my family.

God is constantly amazing me and surprising me. It's a wonderful relationship! Would love to hear from you guys! Keep going strong in the Lord!

Loads of Love, Prayers & Blessings Abundant!!

Cadet Stobielicious!!! XOXOXOXOXOX

Harry Hunter Rehab Centre!

2008-02-29T22:11:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

I am loving my time here at The Harry Hunter Rehabiliation Centre. God is really opening my eyes and giving me some great experiences and opportunities.

I am under the very capable leadership of Captains Ken & Leanne Smith. Their leadership is well respected and highly effective in what they do here. They have a heart for the centre and for all that goes on here. They love the clients and treat them as if they were family. They encourage, love, discipline where needed and they have this ability to effectively live out the Gospel of Christ. They are fina examples of what it means to be and live like Jesus! It's my honour to be working alongside them and being mentored and empowered by them.

It's been quite hot here, so I'm still getting used to it, but on the whole I am absolutely loving it.

God continues to amaze me and take me by surprise, even today He sent a HUGE and unexpected blessing my way, but I'll blog about that next time.

Next week is going to be a jam-packed week and all I have to say is bring it on!!!!

I miss you each and look forward to catching up when I get back to Melbourne!

Loads of Love, Prayers & Blessings Abundant!!!

Family

2008-02-22T12:22:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

Yesterday (Thursday) I had a day off before starting today at the Harry Hunter Rehabilitation Centre.

To cut a long story short, recently we made contact with some extended family on my Dad's side. Dad has a cousin who lives in South Australia and some other relatives in Bunbury, WA. I got their numbers and emails and began contact and found out that my relatives from South Australia were going to be in WA for 10 days while I am over here.

So yesterday, I headed on a 2 and a bit hour drive to Bunbury and for the very first time I met a Great Uncle, 2 Great Aunties, 2 2nd Cousins and their partners and 6 3rd cousins. It was such a beautiful day. We all went out on a speed boat in the ocean and we went crabbing and it was just such a blessing to meet family, we will keep in much closer contact from now on.

Today I'm heading off to Camp in Busselton, I come back Monday. It will be a great oppurtunity for me to get to know all the clients at H.H. I'm praying for you and miss you all lots!

God, I thank You so much for family! I thank You that You gave me the oppurtunity to meet some of my family for the first time. Lord would You bless them immensley. I love them and I love You! Please bless the time at camp and may I form some great friendships! Hallelujah! Amen.

Western Australia!!!

2008-02-19T23:32:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

Well, here I am - In Western Australia!

I had a brilliant flight, the views were amazing and I was unexpectedly blessed by the food on the plane. God is good.

Captains Ken & Leanne Smith picked me up from the airport, so that was great to have some familiar faces. My unit is fabulous and the weather is just fantastic. Perhaps I'll come back with a tan?

I'm excited about what God is going to do during my time here. I'm praying that God will positively exceed my expectations, and I'm believing that He will be faithful in doing that! Hallelujah!

Tomorrow I've got orientation day at the Baptist Theological College (BTC). It should be great fun. For those who don't know, while I'm in W.A. I'll be studying Biblical Hebrew, so learning the language that the Old Testament was written in. I'm so excited at the idea of getting right down to understanding and reading the fullness of the Old Testament in it's original form and am interested in seeing just how much of the original form we lose when we read it in and translate it to english.

Thursday is a day off before I officially start @ Harry Hunter on Friday. We're going on a camp for the weekend, so that's awesome. It will be a great way to get to know the guys.

It's my prayer that you're all going strong in the Lord and that He is blessing you abundantly! Would love to hear from you all, so email, msg, call etc. It'd be great!

God, remind us that we are ALWAYS in your presence because You are everywhere! Thank you for Your promise in the book of Joshua where you encourage us to be strong and courageous and to not be terrified because You are will us wherever we go! We love You God the Father, We love You God the Son, We love You God the Holy Spirit. We give You praise and glory! Hallelujah! Amen.

GraceWorks!!!!

2008-02-16T17:12:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

It was my privilege today to serve some of the greatest people in the world - women!

Today was the second and final day of the Territorial Women's Conference, GraceWorks. I'm terrible with numbers, but I estimate that there were more than 300 women who attended GraceWorks to experience God and to seek His will. They were women of all ages from all works of life, joining together, unified in their praise and gratitude to our great God.

I was out the back for most of the day and then had the honour of serving the women morning tea and lunch. So whilst I did not hear a lot of what was said during the sessions, I am confident that they were blessed immensely. The worship was amazing! It was lead confidently and capably by Michelle Kay and a lot of the teaching was taught by Commissioner Nancy Moretz. Along with her husband, they are Territorial Commanders in a division within America. When I got the chance to hear the singing, I was blessed. More than 300 women singing their hearts out to the Lord - What an amazing blessing! It was truly amazing! Some of the special musical items were the women from the MSS (Melbourne Staff Songsters) worshipped the Lord through the singing of a number of songs.

Another musical item was the fabulous Pho girls! Miriam, Naomi & Hannah sang and Phoebe played beautifully on the keyboard. These four girls love the Lord and they are four of the most talented people I have ever met. The women were truly blessed as the Pho sisters sang their praises to God. Hallelujah!

There was a certain buzz around the place and it really was exciting. The guys that served the women got to wear pink ties..haha I even wore my black and white rock 'n' roll shoes! It truly was an honour to serve the women in this way. While it blessed me immensely, I pray that it was a special blessing to the women. I pray that they felt incredibly special as they were all the guests of honour! All glory and honour and praise goes to our great God!

Women of the Territory and the World - Thank you SO much for all you do. For all your love, support, guidance and leadership. We celebrate you everyday and we reap the blessings of your faithfulness to God. I pray that God blesses you all richly! Congratulations to God and all the women in the various women's ministries that organized this day! I thank God for you each!

These women are transformed by the Gospel of Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit and are always celebrating God! HALLELUJAH!!!

Storm the Forts of Darkness!!!

2008-02-10T19:51:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

Today was an awesome time, where we celebrated all God is and testified to His working in our lives.

The College community had a field day @ the Doncaster Corps and it was a fun, Spirit-filled, God-glorifying and Son-soaked day! Cadet Leah Ellery preached powerfully about us all having vistory in Christ. The victory is ours, claim it! It was also the world premier of the Prayer Warriors sessional song 'You are my light'. I had the honour of conducting the sessions through this, which was an immense blessing for me. The whole meeting was fabulous and every aspect of it, pointed us to our great Triune God.

This afternoon was the welcome meeting to the Prayer Warriors and it's where the 2nd year Cadets found out their out-placements. Newly installed Chief Secretary, Lt. Col. Raymond Finger preached powerfully and with conviction, asking all present the question 'Will you go...?'. Straight after the preach, Lt. Col. Finger led the congregation in the great SASB soon declaring the power and victory over the enemy. Some of you know this is my FAVOURITE song....STORM THE FORTS OF DARKNESS! This was amazingly powerful as the congregation sang their hearts out and straight up to the Lord. I got my little flag out and was boldly worshipping God by waving it. During this time, people who were considering full time service were asked to come forward..I had tears in my eyes looking at each person coming forward...Hallelujah!! Praise the Lord!!!

You see friends, God has NOT finished the The Salvation Army. We've been called to bind the broken hearted, to set the captives free and to have great victory over the enemy. God hasn't called me into something that will cease to exist. No, He has called me to serve Him through this powerful, international movement that was raised up by the very hand of God. I am passionate about The Salvation Army!!! God has not finished! The Salvation Army have not finished....Therefore.....WE SHOULD NOT BE FINISHED!!! But rather we should be fighting for the King! To the front line soldiers immediately....STORM THE FORTS OF DARKNESS BRING THEM DOWN!!!!!!!!!!!! HALLELUJAH!!!!

Lord, equip us to be Warriors in the fight against the enemy, clothe us with the very armour of God. May we be truly repentant to you, seeking out holiness. We want to be holy because YOU are holy. Sovereign God - Strengthen us with Your strength for the battle. Protect us we pray, in and through Your name. Hallelujah! Amen.

Ohhhh......I forgot to tell you where I'm going.....

I'm going to Western Australia. My Social is at the Harry Hunter Rehabilitation centre and my Corps is The Rockingham Corps. They both have amazingly inspiring and empowering leaders and both ministries have HUGE potential to see many, MANY people get saved...Hallelujah!! Please pray for me!!....I leave for W.A. on the 19th of Feb....which is Tuesday week....VERY exciting!!

LAB1

2008-02-09T13:35:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

I've had a fabulous week of studying. I've been doing LAB1 as a two week study intensive, and we've completed the first week. It's a unit of study that equips us to be more effective in our communication with others. It empowers us to lead others to delve into a conversation so that it becomes more than just a surface level conversation. I love people (Hard to believe for some, I know) and LAB1 is really helping me to be more effective in how I communicate with people, it helps me to be more intentional about what I'm doing. If you ever get the oppurtunity to do the unit, I would highly recommend it!

Tomorrow the College community is brigading in the morning at The Salvation Army Doncastor Corps. This is the first time this year that we are brigading somewhere other than The Training College.

Then in the afternoon it's the welcome meeting for the Prayer Warriors Session of Cadets @ The Waverley Temple Corps. This is an important part in the journey of a Cadet, it's a very significant ceremony that marks the beginning of their College journey. If you're free, come along, it's @ 3pm. Also, tomorrow at the welcome meeting, I will find out where I'm doing for Out-Placement, I leave on the 19th of Feb and return on the 6th of June...I'll blog tomorrow to let you all know where I'm going!

I love the Lord Jesus with all my heart and long to please and honour Him in all I do. Let's celebrate all that God is and fill our hearts with His Word. Meditate on it day and night, know His Word and live out His Word. Lord - Give us Your strength, so we can be all You long for us to be! We praise You Lord Jesus! Hallelujah! Amen.

Prayer Warriors!

2008-01-30T21:16:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

What a fabulous day the Lord blessed me with today. It started off this morning when I lead Community Prayers at College. I did it on Psalm 72, which was one of the lexionary readings for today.

Today also saw the first official day for the Cadets of the Prayer Warriors session! What a fantastic group of people they are! I've spent some time with them each and am definately blessed to be sharing part of our journeys together. I went up for dinner @ 5pm, and came back to my room at about 7:15pm - haha we were having heaps of fun! There was even some piano playing too.

I was also blessed to share some time with a wonderful Lieutenant by the name of Richard Parker. Richard is a great man of God and I admire his passion and love, both for God and for people. He would probably deny it, but he is incredibly smart and blessed immensley with the gift of great leadership. Pray for him, his wife Katie and their 2 beautiful girls, asking God to continually bless their ministry and that they would see rich fruit from their labours. It's an honour to be Richard & Katie's friend.

Would you please remember The Training College in your prayers at the moment...here as some topics to guide you in your praying...
- Prayer Warriors - That they would transition smoothly into College and that you would protect them from any attacks from the enemy.
- Witnesses for Christ as we prepare to head off on our Mission & Ministry Outplacements at the end of Feb. Pray that God would open our eyes and would challenge us and take us out of our comfort zones.
- Our Training principal, Captain Stephen Court and all the staff at the TC pray for God's continual guidance as they serve Him in this great and powerful way!
- Cadet's kids as they start back at school, college life and for some childcare...God give them a special touch of your love at this time.

Sovereign God - We bring you our lives. Would you continue to use us in your mission in this world. May we be always bringing people to you. Masy your light shine so brightly in us that people can't help but notice something is different. Give us a boldness in our faith, may we be holy and more like you Jesus. Draw nearer to us as we draw nearer to you. Hallelujah! Amen!

Kids Ministry

2008-01-26T23:14:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

College has started back for 2008 - Praise the Lord! All the first year cadets have started moving in and it's very exciting. I love meeting new people and hearing about their journey and getting to know them better.

On Wednesday we had some Officers come in and we shared in Prophetic prayer for each other. I was prophesied over by a Senior Officer, and it was an amazing prophecy. I'll share more on that soon, once I chew on it some more. Prayer is so vital for Christians. We need to stay in constant relationship with our Great God, in order to see what His will is for us, for our ministries and for our movement.

While I was at Summer Camp - God really spoke to me. Some might think it's funny that God might speak to a leader at a kids summer camp, but He did. This will probably come as no surprise to some of you. But I believe Kids and family ministries will be a huge part of future ministry for me. I'm passionate about kids coming to know Jesus as their Lord, Saviour and Special Friend. I'm passionate about kids relying on God in everything they go through. I'm passionate about kids telling their friends about Jesus and how much they love Him. I'm passionate about discipling kids and teaching them more about our Triune God. I'm passionate about Kids reaching their potential in Christ. It gets me SO excited!

God give me oppurtunity to disciple kids! Continue to grow this passion with in me to see kids come to know you. Train me in this area. Help me in this area. Anoint me in this area. You are faithful! I love You Lord! Hallelujah! Amen.

Summer Camp & More!

2008-01-22T15:18:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

The last week of my holidays were absolutely amazing! I was at a Kids Summer Camp in Healesville. There, I joined a magnificant team of capable leaders to share and sow in the lives of 62 kids referred from our Social centres around Eastern Victoria Division.

These kids were beautiful. They were energetic. They (mostly) loved life and they all had a fabulous time at camp.

I can only imagine what some of these kids have gone through in their very short lives and my heart goes out to them still, even now. I miss them already.

I've been praying for a little while now, the line "God, break my heart with what breaks yours..." I want a pure heart, a clean heart, a heart like God's. He is faithful. Your prayers for this would be appreciated.

But now, Holidays are over and I'm officially a Second Year Cadet. In the early Salvos, they used to call Second year Cadets, Senior Cadets....well I'm hardly senior, but found that amusing. I'm looking forward to wlecoming all of the Prayer Warriors Session into College. I'm excited about their obedience to God and His call on their life.

I'm in College for about a month, until they send me interstate on Out-Placement for 3 months. I find out on the 10th of Feb where they are sending me, and then leave in the last week of Feb.

Exciting times ahead!

God, we praise You for all You are! You are all we need, let us trust continually in You. We're an Army, bound for Glory. Lord You reign! Hallelujah! Amen!

Worship God.... Not William & Catherine Booth

2008-01-05T15:04:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

I love The Salvation Army! I’m the first to declare my passion and love for the Army that God raised up to be a strong Christian movement and force in this sinful world. I love The Salvation Army’s ethos and what it stands for. I love the doctrines; I love the Army’s quirkiness. I love the founders of The Salvation Army, William & Catherine Booth, for they were obedient to God’s call and stepped into His will for their lives and in doing so, by God’s guidance and leading started The Salvation Army. But I am utterly convinced that we must not worship our founders, but instead, worship God.

At times, it appears that within the Army, instead of the letters W.W.J.D? (What would Jesus do?) Some tend to ask W.W.W.B.D? (What would William Booth do?) I read it in the OnFire when people write in asking “What would Jesus or even William Booth think about this?” How could we possibly put God and William Booth of the same level? I’m all for looking back on our past and celebrating all that God has done for those in The Salvation Army who have fought the fight before us, but I’m confident that God has much more in store for us today and that He would want us to be looking ahead for all that He will do. I believe that His blessings for His Army today and for the future will be too numerous to count. I believe that this is a new day for The Salvation Army. We’re called to serve a new world, a new generation. We believe we are called to the poor and the marginalised, but we’re also called to claim the world for God. Do you believe it?

We must not fall into the trap of placing our founders above our Creator, God.

I believe we need to continually ask ourselves ‘what does God want us to be doing? We need to seek out His face and His will, so that we may continually be in line with it and in doing so, we honour God. We must seek out and do what God wants His Army, The Salvation Army to be doing.

O God, You raised up Your Army to be a mighty force in this world. May we continually be obedient to You. May our worship honour You, may our offerings honour You. May you be pleased with all that we bring. Holy God, would You convict the heart of every person that sees themselves as apart of The Salvation Army to seek out what You want them to be doing. May The Salvation Army bring You glory and honour, now and forever. Hallelujah! Amen.

Pakistan

2008-01-02T06:57:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

My heart has been deeply burdened with all that has been happening in Pakistan this last week or so. If you are not aware the opposition leader Benazir Bhutto was killed on Thursday shortly after a campaign rally. There were reportedly shots fired. We know there was a suicide bomber and that the vehicle Benazir Bhutto was in was the target. There are different speculations, by different people on how she died, I’m not sure what the answer is, but it’s my conviction that we must support Pakistan and her people in prayer.

We believe that our God is a God of peace and that He gives divine peace. Specific areas to guide us in our prayers are:

Troops in Pakistan have been given authority to shoot on sight.

Pakistan is erupting with violence.

The husband, children and extended family of Benazir Bhutto as they grieve and mourn and could we also prayerfully remember all the Australian’s in Pakistan at the moment. I think Particularly of Major Geoff & Major Kalie Webb & their daughter, Kelsie. The Webb’s have only been there a few months upon their appointments at the Training College. The Foreign Affairs minister is strongly encouraging all Australian’s to come home, so for the Webb’s we pray for a safe journey home if they choose to return and if they choose to stay, we pray God’s protection over them at this time.

Pray that people would feel God at this time, that they would feel His comfort and peace and that God would not only physically heal people and heal their hearts, but that God would heal the land of Pakistan.

I'm confident that you're praying for Pakistan and her people!

O Lord, break our hearts with what breaks Yours. We pray that in the midst of all of this that people would be saved and come to know You. We pray for peace, dear Lord! Peace in our time, to ALL the people's peace. Your divine peace God, Peace, perfect peace! We're believing it AND desperately expecting it! Hallelujah! Amen.

You know you're a nerd when...

2007-12-29T22:11:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

You know you're a nerd when... You go to Koorong (Christian Bookstore) and are absolutely ecstatic when you find an Interlinear Hebrew-Greek-English Bible at a heavily discounted price!

You know you're a nerd when... At your first youth meeting you enthusiastically encourage your youth group by saying ..."Let's play Salvo Trivia!!!"

You know you're a nerd when... You are extremely excited at the idea of finding a Bible College that can teach you BIBLICAL HEBREW in Semester 1, 2008!! WOOOHOOO!!!!!

You know you're a nerd when... you check your iNotes (Salvo mail) each day awaiting the possibility of Australian & International Appointments coming out.

You know you're a nerd when... Every year when the field change comes out you play over and over again the song 'O Boundless Salvation' on your old record player.

You know you're a nerd when... you get extremely excited when people say "Oh, I've got some books for you!.."

And finally...

You know you're a nerd when... you can list every General of The Salvation Army in order AND know a whole heap of very random Salvo facts!

Well, I guess I'm a nerd.....BUT! I'm a nerd for Jesus! Hallelujah!

Who am I?

2007-12-27T01:25:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

When I meet new people they often ask me to share some of who I am. The reality is that I haven't met every single person that reads this blog, so I thought I'd share some things about myself.

My name is Aaron Scott MacDonald Stobie, my birthdate is the 24/09/1987, which makes me currently 20 years old. I love, worship and serve the Triune God - that is, God the Father, God the Son and God, the Holy Spirit. I am currently a Cadet in The Salvation Army Training College in Melbourne, Australia. I have completed my first year and in a matter of weeks, enter in to my 2nd and final year before becoming and Salvation Army Officer.

In my family are my Mum (Rhonda) 'Promoted to Glory (passed away) on the 16th of May, 2004. Dad (Brett), Step-Mum (Susuan) and I have 4 sisters - Kim, 35 (Married to Bill with 3 children, Deon (13), Leilani (One) & Neva (3 weeks old), Bernadette, 29 (Married to Kevin, with one child, Harley (2), Rachael is eight & Sarah is five. I also have two younger brothers, Ronald, 17 & Stephen 14. I love my family immensley.

I've lived in New Zealand as well as all over Melbourne. We lived in Hoppers Crossing which is where I was invited to come along to The Salvation Army SAGALA sectionn (A Salvo version of Scouts). This started my hunger for God. My brother and my parents became Christians during this time. Hallelujah! As well as SAGALA I also started going to Sunday School,Church and then was enrolled as a Junior Soldier, and then that lead onto being enrolled as a Senior Soldier at the age of 15. As I continued to journey with God and with those around I felt very strongly called to be an Officer. I followed God's will and am now in the Training College.

I love Rock 'n' Roll dancing, I love music and singing and anything to do with music. I especially love composing music. I'm loud and extraverted, I get my energy from God and others. I love people, I love journeying with them and hearing their stories. I love learning news things and I love serving God and those around me.

I'm passionate about God and doing His will. God has created me and I'm working at being WHO He created me to be, cause if I don't then I actually dishonour Him, and that's not something that I want to be doing. God give me Your strength to be all You've made, intended and want me to be. Hallelujah!

Got any questions? Want to know more? Send them through the blog!!

All of God's blessings!!

God, give us strength to be who You've made us to be! May we honour You, by doing that! I love You and need You. Spirit of the Living God, fall afresh on me! Hallelujah! Amen!

Disciples in training, NOT in waiting!

2007-12-17T21:40:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

The last few weeks, I believe God has been placing something very strongly on my heart. I know when He's placed things on my heart in the past, and so because of that I discern that this is of God this time also.

You may know them from their laughter, or their cheekiness or even, at times, their naughtiness. They have so much joy and are absolutely full of life. They appear to be fearless and willing to do anything. They are wonderful gifts from God.

I am talking about Children!

We need to be effective in our children's ministries. We need to disciple them well. We need to love them, care for them, support them, encourage them and empower them. They are not Disciples in waiting, No! They are Disciples in training! Jesus loves the children, they are apart of His Kingdom. Hallelujah!

We must disciple our kids wherever we are! For parents, disciple your kids, teach them the ways of the Lord. It's a Biblical instruction! (Check our Proverbs 22:6)For all of us, disciple the kids we come into contact with!

I had a conversation on Saturday night with a very good and close friend of mine. She is a faithful woman and has such a great heart for God, Children and Cross-Cultural ministries. We were discussing the importance of valuing children. No longer can we be half-hearted about kids ministries. We need to be doing it with our whole heart!

Sunday night I was @ The Salvation Army - Waverley Temple Corps and it was the YP (Young People's) Christmas Concert. Kids are being discipled there, and not just in spiritual things. It was an amazing night, that bought with it huge blessing.

God, we thank You for the gift of children. May You empower us to love them more, teach them more, support them more and empower them more. May the kids ministries in Your Army - The Salvation Army be covered in Your anointing and absolutely EXPLODE - Growing from strength to strength. In Your name, for Your glory! Hallelujah! Amen!

Hallelujah!!!!

2007-12-14T08:06:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

With a song of praise and a grateful heart, Lord we magnify Your holy Name - Lord, come and fill us once again.

THIS is the cry of Your people!

Holy Spirit come and reign down Your mercy. We are here to worship You.

When was the last time you asked the Holy Spirit to reign down on you and fill you afresh and anew? God is always willing and wanting to fill us again and again.

Do you know Jesus as your personal Saviour? If you don't, then leave a message or email me and we'll talk more.

God is worthy of all honour and praise! He is wonderful loving and powerful! I give testimony to this! He has done amazing things in my life. And I'm confident that He has done some amazing things in your lives to. But friends, can I let you in on something?..... It's not gonna stop! He cares about us and loves us too much to ever leave us, and just being in His presence is an amazing blessing!!!

Lord, let it be so! Reign down Your Holy Spirit on us all!! Hallelujah! Amen!

There's no escaping!

2007-12-11T09:30:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

I've been reminded recently that there is no escaping God! He is everywhere! Everywhere you go, He is there. For those who have decided to turn away from God - There is no escaping God. Even if you don't call Him your Lord - He is there with you. You can't escape His love or His presence.

Scripture confirms that we cannot escape from His presence. Because He is everywhere!

Psalm 139 says:

1 O LORD, you have searched me
and you know me.
2 You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
3 You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
4 Before a word is on my tongue
you know it completely, O LORD.
5 You hem me in—behind and before;
you have laid your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too lofty for me to attain.
7 Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, [a] you are there.
9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,
10 even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast.
11 If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me
and the light become night around me,"
12 even the darkness will not be dark to you;
the night will shine like the day,
for darkness is as light to you.
13 For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
16 your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
17 How precious to [b] me are your thoughts, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!
18 Were I to count them,
they would outnumber the grains of sand.
When I awake,
I am still with you.
19 If only you would slay the wicked, O God!
Away from me, you bloodthirsty men!
20 They speak of you with evil intent;
your adversaries misuse your name.
21 Do I not hate those who hate you, O LORD,
and abhor those who rise up against you?
22 I have nothing but hatred for them;
I count them my enemies.
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24 See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.

For those who are called to Officership - God is with you. Ask Him to give you the time He wants you to enter College. He is very faithful. Trust Him!

For those reading this.... Are you running?

Christmas Time!

2007-12-09T21:52:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

It's Christmas time! So far, I've carolled 5 times, wrapped thousands of presents, tested Christmas food and have been to 4 Christmas carol services...AND it's only the 9th of December! I love Christmas time. It's a great opportunity to share a great message of hope, love and peace. For unto us a child was born - a child that is the Saviour of the world! While for many Christmas is a wonderful time of joy and celebration with families and friends, there are those who do not enjoy Christmas. I learnt this week that for clients in courts and prisons this time of year has the highest suicide rate. I was immensley sad when I found out that. A time where we celebrate the great hope found in Christ is also the time when some consider ending it all. Would you make some time each day to pray for those who are not seeing any hope this Christmas. Oh Lord give them hope, may they come to know you - the Eternal Love and Hope.

For a number of years now some friends and I have had this little tradition where we go to the big carols service at the Werribee Mansion and sing really loud and dance and eat lots of food. Well last night was our night. It was the Wyndham City Carols @ the Werribee Mansion. There was an estimated 9,000/10,000 or so people coming to the carols service. My very good friends, Bree & Kym (and some others) and I went to the carols. I praise God that my friends and I spoke about Him alot and about what I've been learning at the Training College. This carol service is outdoors and organised by the local Ministers Network. Completely focused on God. There was great singing, a live Nativity scene and lots of people. I thank God for my friends and for the source of inspiration they are to me.

There is only a week and a half left of College and then the first year is completed. For all those who have journeyed with me for the whole year - where has the year gone? I praise God for this year and for all that has taken place. He is faithful.

Just a prayer request - Could you please pray for my older sister Bernadette, her husband and their 3year old son, Harley. Bernadette lost her Dad on Saturday. Please pray for comfort, peace and strength. And pray that they would come to know Christ and be in relationship with Him!

God we thank you for the great gift you gave us - Jesus. We praise You because You still love us and You continually give us gifts. We pray that all people would know the hope that is found in Jesus this Christmas. May You use us to be that hope to the people around us. We are Your children. Hallelujah! Amen.

Magistrates Court

2007-12-06T22:20:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

As part of my placement, I had the immense privilege and eye-opening experience of the work of The Salvation Army Chaplains in the Magistrates Court. The Chaplains that work there are Majors Dennis & Thelma McMillan & Captain Alison Platt. They are quite an extraordinary team who love God with a passion and with that same passion love people. It's inspiring!

One of the things that really amazed me was how much TSA is respected in the Courts & Prisons. The people knew the Chaplains by name and even shared in many jokes with them. It was refreshing and such a great blessing to be apart of and experience. We must pay tribute to Chaplains, who are often overlooked. But, they play an integrel part and have such a powerful ministry. They need our prayers. Pray for them regularly.

Over the past four days I have come into contact with many, if not most of the Courts & Prisons Chaplains and have been incredibly encouraged and inspired by their wealth of knowledge and their practical application of God's Word. It really is amazing! I have learnt from them, and am confident that I will continue to learn from them well into the future - whatever, or where ever my appointment may be.

Tonight I went carolling with TSA - Brunswick Corps. It was great fun. Good people, good music, good ministry and good (extremely funny) experiences! We played for a couple of hours whike others collected from door to door and then on the way home, we sang all our parts. Praise God for the gift of music!

Today I also celebrate a good friend of mine giving her life to Jesus! All of heaven is rejoicing! We took her through the prayer and she's loving the Lord! God we give you ALL the glory. We thank You for all You have done, all You are doing and all that You will do. Give us strength to be all You've made us to be. Empower us by Your Spirit and lead us in Your love. May we be more and more like You. This is our prayer. You are faithful and we celebrate You. Hallelujah! Amen!

Missy Higgins

2007-12-05T23:55:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

I had a wonderful night tonight! Cadets Kim & Rach, our friend Jodes & I went to see the fabulous Missy Higgins concert at the Rod Laver Arena. She was in amazing form, to say the least, performing many of her well loved songs. People sang and cheered, clapped their hands and stomped their feet. Kim, Jodes and I even stood up and danced for the last song. It was a great time! I believe that it's important to be social, with Christians and those who are not yet Christians. There is something about hanging out with friends that really deepens the relationship and offers a great opportunity to share with one another. God longs to be in a relationship with us and to deepen that also. We should be in relationships with others. It's a healthy and a whole lot of fun!

In Kneedrill on Monday morning I prayed that God would give me opporunity to speak with people while I was on placement, particularly when I was on Public Transport. I got off the tram at the Victoria Market, and was a little bit confused about where the street was that I need to get to, so I asked a lady and she said "I'm walking there.." and we walked there together. She was asking many questions and it was a great time of sharing with her about my faith and how my family came to faith. She encouraged me in what TSA is doing around Australia and she had a great excitement about where things are heading. Please pray for her, that God would put someone, or something in her life that would draw her unto Him.

God I thank you SO much for relationships. May we all be blessed with good, healthy relationships that bring you glory. We celebrate our relationship with You and thank you heaps for sending Your Son, Jesus to die for us, so that a relationship with you could be made possible! Hallelujah!!! Amen!

Court & Prison Chaplains

2007-12-04T22:52:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

My day on Monday started much earlier than usual. Our new TP, Captain Stephen Court introduced Kneedrill (prayer meeting) to go from 5:30am - 6:00am. It was great! Then I headed off to the Victorian Office for Court & Prison Chaplains. It was the start of my placement. What a brilliant day. I am incredibly blessed to be under the leadership of Major David Brunt, who is the state co-ordinater of the court and prison chaplains. Major Brunt has a wealth of knowledge and experience. I count it a true honour to be able to learn from him - I'm soaking up his knowledge.

My elective for the Second Semester was at the Eastern Victoria Division's Sports ministries (SABAV). Last night was the presentation dinner. It was great. I didn't get a trophy, but I did get a napkin and a little sticker celebrate my great achievement of being the best benchwarmer in the league. I did play almost every game, but as you are all probably aware, I was far from being the best player. But it was fun and it was a great time to celebrate all that I had learnt from the Sports ministries.

Today saw most of the Court & Prison chaplains, Business people, school students and other helpers come together to make up 3000 showbag type things to be distributed to all the prisoners across the state. We also wrapped HEAPS of presents for their children. It was a long day, but it was a really good day too. It was lots of fun, especially seeing as though, Cassie, Kimmi, Brit, Caitlyn and Mel were there. They worship @ Waverley Temple and they love the Lord with all their heart. It's was an honour to work together for the Lord in this way. The Victorian chaplains are second to none and are absolutely amazing. They love their work, they love God, they love the people they work with. They have much compassion and a huge amount of knowledge and experience. I thank God for them each!

Major Brunt shared with me that for a lot of prisoners, Christmas time is far from being a happy and fun time. Infact, it's the complete opposite. Christmas time has the highest rate of suicide. I almost cried when Major Brunt shared that with me. This time where most of us have great joy and happiness, is for others a great time of loneliness and sadness. This Christmas, may we all share to Hope of Jesus! Will you pray for those prisoners during this time? I know you will! God we thank you for all you have done for us. Thanks for sending Jesus so that we may have an eternal hope, that hope of a lifetime spent with you. We give you praise. We love you. Hallelujah! Amen!

Sunday Blessings!

2007-12-03T06:20:00.001+11:00

Greetings in the name of Jesus!

Sunday was an amazing day! Thank You God, for the great gift!

Sunday morning, Cadet Dibbie Wilson and I attended the Box Hill Chinese Corps. The Corps is under the very capable leadership of Majors Sam & Donnie Pho. God is there and we could feel a real sense of good, healthy community. We didnt understand a thing apart from two VERY important words.....HALLELUJAH and AMEN! It was an amazing experience. Major Sam Pho even spoke a couple of sentences in English, just for us - Hallelujah! If you get a chance, you should go there and experience the amazing blessing. I thank God for the Box Hill Chinese Corps and for all who attend there.

Sunday night I helped out at TSA in Torquay. What an amazing night. I believe that they have a dinner on the first Sunday of each month....and Hallelujah, that just happened to be last night! There were so many people there. The newly commissioner, Captains Phil & Catherine Abram, and their leadership team are amazing! God is really working there in a powerful way.

Would you suuport out friends and comrades in prayer as they do God's work? I know you will.

I've got some more exciting news - Thursday saw me become an Uncle, for the fourth time. My eldest siser, Kim, along with her husband Bill welcomed a beautiful little girl into the world. She is gorgeous! Her name is Neva (pronounced 'Neeva') Trinity. God I thank you SO much for the safe arrival of Neva, may she come to know you in a real and special way. Bless her Mum and Dad and her older brother and sister - May they call you their Lord.

Maybe you can find someone to pray for regularly. Someone who doesn't yet know God. Be faithful in prayer. God is faithful.

This week I'm @ a Social Placement with Major David Brunt. I'll fill you in more about that later.

I read Ephesians 3:19 today and I found a line that really resonated with me. This is in the context of Paul's letter to God's people who live in Ephesus. We're told they are faithful followers of God. 3:19 says: "I want you to know all about Christ's love, although it is too wonderful to be measured. Then your lives will be filled with all that God is" (CEV) That last line there. Are you filled with all that God is? Isn't that awesome!? God today, and everyday may we be filled with all that you are. Bring it on Lord! Hallelujah!

New Beginnings!

2007-12-01T20:32:00.000+11:00

Greetings in the Name of Jesus!

So here we are on the first of December, 2007. Today brings new beginnings and is a day of change.

I think particularly of TSA and all the new beginnings that have begun today. Today has seen Lt. Cols. John & Judith Jeffrey step into retirement after many years of faithful service to God. I trust that this time will bring great blessing as they celebrate God. I am confident that they will continue to be faithful and hard working for God and His Kingdom. We celebrate with the Jeffrey's and constantly thank God for them! Hallelujah!

Today has also seen the promotion of Majors Raymond & Aylene Finger to the rank of Lt.Col. as they take up their new roles as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women's ministries. We celebrate all that God is doing in their lives and look forward with great anticipation as to how God will continue to use them in the future. I am sure that Lt. Cols Raymond & Aylene Finger would appreciate our prayers at this time.

Major Frank Daniels has also stepped into a new role as the Secretary for Personnel. Major Daniels loves God and he loves people. He will be a great blessing to this Territory and I am certain that God will continue to use him greatly in this role. He is a great mentor, leader, Spiritual Director and friend. We praise God for Major Daniels and for all he will achieve in the power of Jesus!

This day also has seen Captain Stephen Court take up a new appointment as Training Principal. We have seen him around the place over these last few days and look forward to all that God will do over these coming day, weeks, months and year(s) at the Training College.

The first of December also brings another new beginning or change. It's SUMMER! And what a beautiful day to start summer on. The weather is amazing. I praise God for His creation and for all that He gives us. I know that you celebrate with me!

It's important and Biblical that we support our leaders in prayer. So as our leaders and friends start their new appointments let's pray for peace, wisdom, strength and grace.
God we celebrate you today and ask your blessing of divine peace, divine wisdom, divine strength and divine grace be with our friends mentioned above. May they work in Your name, for Your Kingdom and to bring You glory. Hallelujah! Amen!