Blended Not Shaken Ministries and Publications

Christian step/single parent and blended families ministry.

Our Treasure – the Scriptures

On my 12th birthday, I received from my parents my first Bible. It was brown, hard covered and the New King James version. Inside, Mum had written in calligraphy the year I was born again (1980), baptised in the Holy Spirit (1983) and baptised in water (1986). I remember cherishing that gift and reading it often. I would highlight favourite or relevant passages of scripture with different coloured highlighter pens. I would write notes in the margins; some my own thoughts and some of the main points of sermons I would listen to. I wrote prayers in blank sections. I also embellished the blank pages with scrap pictures of flowers and other pretty things. Even though I’ve now used two more bibles since this first one, the version has remained the same (as I love how the NKJV has remained true and as close to the Hebrew scriptures as a translation can). The pages have almost completely come away from the spine and I do not use it daily any longer. Obviously though, I have kept it in a special place and look through it from time to time.

I’m not sure why the Lord has instilled in me a love for His Word and from a young age. I came to the Lord at the age of 8 and re dedicated my life at the age of 12. (not sure about the whole re-dedication ritual. It seemed to be the thing to do in the 80’s in Pentecostal churches :))

I’m certainly an avid reader. Reading is one of my favourite past times and a great way to relax. But I also enjoy reading to study and learn new things, to be aware of what’s going on in the world and in art of Christian apologetics -to be equipped to share the ‘reason for the hope that is in me’. 1 Peter 3:17

My current Bible is a compact one. It fits well into any bag I am carrying. I often take it with me. Although I have memorised alot of scripture over the 38 years I’ve been a Christian, I’m not completely accurate with specific references. Plus, you will never know when an opportunity might present itself where having a copy of the scriptures on you is needed. I’m not a fan of the Bible on your smart device. I’m not sure how ‘smart’ it actually is to run the high risk of being interrupted with some ‘notification’ or an actual phone call. There are also other distractions on your device that are crying out for attention (social media, news reports and other articles). We are inundated with many and varied excuses to neglect reading our bibles. Satan would love the fact that biblical illiteracy in 21st Christianity is at an all time high.

Here are some sobering results from recent research conducted by the Bible Society in Australia:

These findings are not at all encouraging. To me, they are both alarming and sad.

From these results, it would be safe to conclude that the majority of Christians have no idea of the treasure that is theirs in the Scriptures. Not only that, but subsequent generations are in danger of disregarding the Word of God altogether ! The amount of Christians I hear complaining that they wish they could win the lottery, that they never have enough, that carry on about wanting to tick off items from their bucket list and wish they earned more or had property for investment, or more properties for investing, or are generally very materialistic (And I am honest enough to admit I have carried on in the same way and idolize materialism as well)…

What does God say about His Word?

Both the passages in Matthew and Isaiah make it very clear that God’s word will remain forever and has the power to accomplish what God pleases. The Bible also tells us the Word of God is a sword, which is a weapon that is to be used by Christians to counter attack opposition from our enemy.

Colossians 3:16 says “Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs..”

Jesus said “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God'”. (Matt. 4:4) and “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.”(John 6:63)

David said in Psalm 119 “I have stored up Your word in my heart, that I might sin against you.”

His son Solomon, well known to be the wisest man who ever lived wrote of His word this way- “My son, be attentive to my words;incline your ear to my sayings. Let them not escape from your sight;keep them within your heart.For they are life to those who find them and healing to all their flesh.” (Prov. 4:20-22)

The scriptures are for Christians to use daily and often and for every area of our lives. His word contains rich treasure that offers us many benefits for this life and for life to come. It’s far better than the richest treasure the world has to offer and will remain forever, unlike earthly ‘treasure’. This will only fade, wear out, lose value and perhaps be stolen anyway.

I encourage you to invest more time during 2018 and into the future in discovering the treasures that are yours in the Scriptures. It will be time well spent and you will not be disappointed.

Blessings.

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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