Blended Not Shaken Ministries and Publications

Christian step/single parent and blended families ministry.

HE knows better than I

Who loves the story of Joseph? I certainly do. From knowing

of the love his parents had for him, his big blended family and his bigger dreams, I can relate in some ways to Joseph’s story. Although I grew up in a loving, nuclear home, I felt left out and unappreciated by most of my peers at school during my teenage years. Some of this was my own doing as I was never interested in following the crowd and liked my own company. However, I still felt the sting of being different and misunderstood. Joseph stood apart from his brothers in that God instilled dreams within him that he (probably unwisely and proudly) shared with his family that caused misunderstanding and further envy, the result of which was his brothers cruelly selling him to Egyptian traders where Joseph’s next 20 years was unfairly defined by slavery, abuse and imprisonment.

I cannot say that my brothers have ever sold me into slavery. I do not know what it would be like to be thrown into prison for years for a crime I did not commit. I cannot relate to being so far away from my family in a foreign country. But I have been falsely accused by people I called my friends. I have been lied about by ex spouses. I have been excommunicated from a church for failing to return to an abusive marriage. I have had pastors tell people not to associate with me because I am a divorcee. Although our stories are different in many ways, I can relate to how Joseph must of felt and thought many times. “Where are you God?” “Why are you allowing this mistreatment?” “Please vindicate me.”

Thankfully Joseph’s story has an amazing ending. In the Lord’s timing, he is released from prison, is able to use his God- given gift of interpreting dreams with Pharaoh who elevates him into the 2IC position, saves Egypt and surrounding countries from the 7 year famine and is eventually reconciled with his family.

I too can attest to God’s faithfulness, providence and restoration over my life. As Joseph was refined during his years of slavery and imprisonment in readiness for the immense plan God had for him, I can see that the Lord’s refinement of me is for plans He has in store that only He knows.

I came across a beautiful song recently from the animated movie ‘Joseph: King of Dreams’. “Better Than I”

Have a listen:

So…no matter what you’ve gone through in the past or are experiencing now, remember this truth- God knows better than you. Don’t try to work it out yourself or give up. Be like Joseph who grew better at trusting the Lord with his life and circumstances.

Joseph’s words to his brothers -“Do not be grieved or angry with yourselves because you sold me here….God sent me before you to preserve life….” Gen. 45:5, 6

You can read Joseph’s full story in Genesis 37- 50.

Other scriptures about God’s Providence:

Psalm 103:19
Job 11:7-9
Romans 8:28
Psalm 22:28
Matthew 6:26
Exodus 19:4
Isaiah 50:2
Psalm 145:15-16

Blessings,

Karina

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TESTIMONIALS

What people say?

My Two Houses was one of my favourite books as a younger person. It helped me understand how I was feeling about having two homes. I feel as though Karina’s books have simplified a confusing situation, in a way for all ages to understand.

Charlotte

There is affirmation and encouragement to single dads and mums through “Let’s shout out to single dads” and “Sing a song to single mums”, anchoring their value, peace and endurance in the Word of God.

Librarian

Clear, fun explanations in “My family bush” of hard to decipher terms like half-brother and half-sister, full brother or sister, step-parent and how they connect to the relationships within a family.  Relating that to Jesus’ own family could be a revelation to children that their own family structure is not so different after all, that families who love and care for each other are part of God’s plan, no matter how they are made up.

Librarian

One step at a time: a step family journal“ is an honest, humorous yet life and faith affirming read for those approaching and in middle years. The use of illustrations in the text make it appealing and engaging.

Librarian

Karina’s books are very helpful when you struggle to relate to a child of separated or divorced parents when you haven’t experienced this yourself. I have quietly read or given time for a child to read one of the books and then wait for their responses. I find Karina’s books extremely helpful in my ministry to children.

Chaplain

I am often in awe of God’s amazing timing! My morning began with feelings of despair over a family relationship that had broken down. I poured out my heart to the Lord, seeking His comfort and guidance. A short time later there was a knock on my door and the postie handed me a package. It was Karina’s book “Sing a Song to Single Mums”. As I read, I came across a page that spoke directly to my situation!

Even down to the illustration! My day ended with renewed hope in God’s promise that He works all things… good things and bad things… together, for the good of those who love Him. I am so thankful to Karina for writing such a beautiful book and for the Lord’s timing in delivering it into my hands precisely when I needed to read it!

Single Mum

Caught in the Middle is one of my favourite books because, whenever I read it, I feel close to God.

River

I read My Two Houses with my entire Year 5 class. They loved it! It began a wonderful conversation which allowed many students to be vulnerable enough to be open about their feelings and situations at home as well as to a better understanding of what some of their classmates go through with divorced parents.

Primary Teacher

I have used My Two Houses with a 13-year boy during one of my sessions with him. He loved that he could relate so well with the book, stating, “That’s just like me” and I could see a change in his demeanour and body language in his knowing that there are other kids out there, just like him.

School Counselor

As a nuclear family, we love that the books contain so much scripture in teaching our children God’s word.

Ces, Father of 5, Pastor

Karina’s books give children permission to have their feelings validated and provide comfort and healing to their souls.

Tania

When it comes to blending 2 families together or doing it by yourself there are a number of unique issues.  If you find yourself in a role as a single parent, stepparent or trying to help siblings navigate their new situation it can be very tough.   

We at Focus on the Family Australia, want to help relationships and families  be as healthy as they can be.  We know it is not an easy task unifying 2 families or doing it solo.  

We highly recommend Blended Not Shaken Ministries to help provide some tools to cultivate a loving, blended or single parent home to achieve a sense of unity in your new family. 

Brett Ryan, CEO Focus on the Family Australia