Blended Not Shaken Ministries and Publications

Christian step/single parent and blended families ministry.

God’s delightful comforts

Recently, it’s been tough. Life, that is. There has been a myriad of issues and difficulties confronting our family over the past few months, the results of which has been anxiety and stress. I can certainly relate to the psalmist’s words shown in this image… “In the multitude of my anxieties within me, your comforts delight my soul.”(Psalm 94:19) Last week, I needed to take stock of what’s been going on and spend a few hours of time dedicated to pondering on this passage and talking with the Lord.This passage of scripture has brought comfort to my soul. I see scripture as God’s best and most effective way He talks to me and reveals aspects of His character. Allow me to share my thoughts with you, trusting that you may be comforted as well.

The psalmist was obviously familiar with anxiety brought about by difficulties. He was no different to us in today’s world. He was a realist. In fact, all the authors of the psalms were. They didn’t hide or sugar coat the reality of life and it’s many and varied struggles and neither should we. It’s both unhealthy and unhelpful to do so. Yet, he does not remain wallowing in self pity but states what I will call the higher reality of the situation.

The psalmist states confidently that “Your comforts delight my soul.” I asked myself these questions.

What comforts can I think of off the top of my head ?

How do I define my ‘soul’?

What will I learn from marrying God’s comforts with my soul in light of my current anxieties?

The Comforts of God.

(This is certainly NOT an exhaustive list but what I could think of right away).

His Providence

By reminding ourselves of God’s sovereignty, that nothing escapes His attention and that He rules over all, should provide immense comfort.

The Lord told Noah after the Flood that:

“While the earth remains, seed time and harvest, cold and heat, Winter and Summer, and day and night shall not cease.” (Gen. 8:22)

Jesus told His disciples:

“Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will.But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore, you are more value than many sparrows.”

(Matthew 10:29-31)

His Peace

Having the peace of God permeating your soul is indeed a comfort. One of my favourite passages of scripture is found in Isaiah 26:3 and says

” You will keep them in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You because they trust in You.”

A part of our soul involves our mind. How interesting! If we fix our MIND (soul) on God, a consequence is peace! There are many, many scriptures about the peace of God but here is one more, found in 1 Peter 5:7. (The image is taken from my second book- CAUGHT IN THE MIDDLE.

His Protection How comforting is it to know that God protects us and our loved ones ?This protection or banner over us (Jehovah Nissi) can (and should) alleviate our fears. Another favourite scripture of mine that describes this well (and is also contained in CAUGHT IN THE MIDDLE) is from Isaiah 41:10..

The Lord promises that He will make us strong and help us through fearful situations.

2 Thessalonians 3:3 says to us that,

“The Lord is faithful and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.”

He WILL, not He ‘might’ or ‘may’ protect you. You can count on the fact that whenever you see the word ‘Will” in scripture according to the Lord’s character, it is a PROMISE we can claim. What reassurance that should bring to our souls!

His Presence

How comforting to know that, no matter where we are, God is there. He is with us-ALL THE TIME! The psalmist proclaimed,

“Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from your presence? If I ascend into heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in hell, behold, you are there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there Your hand shall lead me, And your right hand shall hold me.”

What a precious passage of scripture! I LOVE this! How comforting is the Lord’s never ending presence?

His Provision

Some of my anxieties stem from a concern we will not make ends meet financially or be able to acquire what we need. But the Lord shows us as a family time and time again that He is our Jehovah Jireh (provider) and we always have what we need at the right time.

Luke 12:24 says

“Consider the ravens, for they neither sow or reap and have neither storehouses and barns and God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than birds?

And Jesus goes on to add (from verse 27)

” Consider the lilies, how they grow; they neither toil or spin and yet I say to you, even Solomon and all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothes the grass, which today is in the field and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will He clothe you, O you of little faith?”

I have briefly outlined 5 delightful comforts from and of God- His Providence, Peace, Protection, Presence and Provision. Each of these characteristics of God are clearly shown in Passages of scripture! Each of these comforts-along with many others I haven’t even mentioned in this blog will, when intentionally thought upon using our minds, will have a positive effect on our emotions (another part of our soul) and our will. (the third part of our soul)

Our mind- what we think on, is key when working through anxieties. Scripture plainly tells us to be transformed by the renewing of our MIND (Romans 12:2).

I will leave you with one last scripture to meditate (or ponder) on which when read and better still, committed to memory, will place us in a healthier state of emotional well being during seasons of multiple anxieties within us. 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