Saturday 30 September 2006

God Has His Way

I've been sensing that the Lord wants me to have some further involvement with the Greek church in Brisbane. I committed this unto Him, but I didn't know how it would come about. Then my phone rang. It was Pati, inviting me to join her and and two of her friends from Sydney, with Alex and George and their families as well as pastor Arthur and Ruth, in Surfers Paradise. That evening, pastor George said to Alex, "We should get John up again to speak at our Bible Study". God has his way of getting us together again, when He wants it!
God Has His Way

I've been sensing that the Lord wants me to have some further involvement with the Greek church in Brisbane. I committed this unto Him, but I didn't know how it would come about. Then my phone rang. It was Pati, inviting me to join her and and two of her friends from Sydney, with Alex and George and their families as well as pastor Arthur and Ruth, in Surfers Paradise. That evening, pastor George said to Alex, "We should get John up again to speak at our Bible Study". God has his way of getting us together again, when He wants it!
God Has His Way

I've been sensing that the Lord wants me to have some further involvement with the Greek church in Brisbane. I committed this unto Him, but I didn't know how it would come about. Then my phone rang. It was Pati, inviting me to join her and and two of her friends from Sydney, with Alex and George and their families as well as pastor Arthur and Ruth, in Surfers Paradise. That evening, pastor George said to Alex, "We should get John up again to speak at our Bible Study". God has his way of getting us together again, when He wants it!

Monday 25 September 2006

They've Come a Long Way

Today when I dropped my youngest nephew PJ at King's Vacation Care, I noticed the nice landscaping surrounding the many buildings of King's Christian Centre.

I remember the day many years ago when Pastor Kindah Greening announced that he had started a Christian school in a back room of the church, with six students!
They've Come a Long Way

Today when I dropped my youngest nephew PJ at King's Vacation Care, I noticed the nice landscaping surrounding the many buildings of King's Christian Centre.

I remember the day many years ago when Pastor Kindah Greening announced that he had started a Christian school in a back room of the church, with six students!
They've Come a Long Way

Today when I dropped my youngest nephew PJ at King's Vacation Care, I noticed the nice landscaping surrounding the many buildings of King's Christian Centre.

I remember the day many years ago when Pastor Kindah Greening announced that he had started a Christian school in a back room of the church, with six students!
Celebrations

It occurred to me that the time I was recently led of the Spirit to visit the Heritage City Community Church, was actually the time of the anniversary of our moving onto the premises of the Old Suttons Foundry to turn the buildings into the new home for the church. So without realizing it, the Spirit was actually making me part of Jesus' celebrations!
Celebrations

It occurred to me that the time I was recently led of the Spirit to visit the Heritage City Community Church, was actually the time of the anniversary of our moving onto the premises of the Old Suttons Foundry to turn the buildings into the new home for the church. So without realizing it, the Spirit was actually making me part of Jesus' celebrations!
Celebrations

It occurred to me that the time I was recently led of the Spirit to visit the Heritage City Community Church, was actually the time of the anniversary of our moving onto the premises of the Old Suttons Foundry to turn the buildings into the new home for the church. So without realizing it, the Spirit was actually making me part of Jesus' celebrations!
The Way They've Always Done It

I noticed that the Greek Evangelical Church where I preached in Brisbane also has a box for offerings, placed in the sanctuary near the foyer. As I watched one of the deacons, I presume, unlocking the lid to collect the money after the meeting, it was explained to me, "That's the way we've always done it here - we couldn't imagine passing a bag around to collect the offering". And looking at the freshly painted walls and the polished wooden floor in this piece of prize real estate, they obviously haven't done too badly by using this approach.
The Way They've Always Done It

I noticed that the Greek Evangelical Church where I preached in Brisbane also has a box for offerings, placed in the sanctuary near the foyer. As I watched one of the deacons, I presume, unlocking the lid to collect the money after the meeting, it was explained to me, "That's the way we've always done it here - we couldn't imagine passing a bag around to collect the offering". And looking at the freshly painted walls and the polished wooden floor in this piece of prize real estate, they obviously haven't done too badly by using this approach.
The Way They've Always Done It

I noticed that the Greek Evangelical Church where I preached in Brisbane also has a box for offerings, placed in the sanctuary near the foyer. As I watched one of the deacons, I presume, unlocking the lid to collect the money after the meeting, it was explained to me, "That's the way we've always done it here - we couldn't imagine passing a bag around to collect the offering". And looking at the freshly painted walls and the polished wooden floor in this piece of prize real estate, they obviously haven't done too badly by using this approach.

Sunday 24 September 2006

The Pastors Were Amazed

When Ron Surtees took me for a tour of the recent developments at Heritage City Community Church, I noticed in the foyer of the auditorium two slots: one entitled, "Tithes and Offerings"; the other entitled, "Missions".

Ron explained that Pastor Phillip felt it was taking up too much time to collect offerings during the services - so they no longer do so. Instead, the congregation is free to place whatever offering they want to give as they enter or leave the building.

Ron commented that ever since the change in procedure, the weekly offering immediately rose dramatically, including the missions offering, and it has stayed consistently at the higher level.

Pastor Carl Mutzelburg said that he shared this at a recent Pastors' meeting, much to the amazement of the other pastors present.
The Pastors Were Amazed

When Ron Surtees took me for a tour of the recent developments at Heritage City Community Church, I noticed in the foyer of the auditorium two slots: one entitled, "Tithes and Offerings"; the other entitled, "Missions".

Ron explained that Pastor Phillip felt it was taking up too much time to collect offerings during the services - so they no longer do so. Instead, the congregation is free to place whatever offering they want to give as they enter or leave the building.

Ron commented that ever since the change in procedure, the weekly offering immediately rose dramatically, including the missions offering, and it has stayed consistently at the higher level.

Pastor Carl Mutzelburg said that he shared this at a recent Pastors' meeting, much to the amazement of the other pastors present.
The Pastors Were Amazed

When Ron Surtees took me for a tour of the recent developments at Heritage City Community Church, I noticed in the foyer of the auditorium two slots: one entitled, "Tithes and Offerings"; the other entitled, "Missions".

Ron explained that Pastor Phillip felt it was taking up too much time to collect offerings during the services - so they no longer do so. Instead, the congregation is free to place whatever offering they want to give as they enter or leave the building.

Ron commented that ever since the change in procedure, the weekly offering immediately rose dramatically, including the missions offering, and it has stayed consistently at the higher level.

Pastor Carl Mutzelburg said that he shared this at a recent Pastors' meeting, much to the amazement of the other pastors present.
Just When You Thought It Was Over...



Tonight at the Surfcity Christian Church Pastor Richard preached a Gospel message, and one person repented. Then the Pastor asked the whole church forward to commit ourselves seriously to our task of preaching the Gospel to a lost world. Then the Pastor said, "Just when you thought the meeting was over..." and the Holy Spirit's anointing started to manifest. With that the Pastor began to lay hands on the people, many of whom fell to the floor under the power of the Spirit, laughing or crying as the Spirit touched their lives. An hour or more after the meeting was formally closed, two people were still under a special anointing of the Holy Spirit, and through them, a greater anointing was spread to others. As we were leaving the church, one young man was heard to say, "This is the best church service we've had in a long time".
Just When You Thought It Was Over...



Tonight at the Surfcity Christian Church Pastor Richard preached a Gospel message, and one person repented. Then the Pastor asked the whole church forward to commit ourselves seriously to our task of preaching the Gospel to a lost world. Then the Pastor said, "Just when you thought the meeting was over..." and the Holy Spirit's anointing started to manifest. With that the Pastor began to lay hands on the people, many of whom fell to the floor under the power of the Spirit, laughing or crying as the Spirit touched their lives. An hour or more after the meeting was formally closed, two people were still under a special anointing of the Holy Spirit, and through them, a greater anointing was spread to others. As we were leaving the church, one young man was heard to say, "This is the best church service we've had in a long time".
Just When You Thought It Was Over...



Tonight at the Surfcity Christian Church Pastor Richard preached a Gospel message, and one person repented. Then the Pastor asked the whole church forward to commit ourselves seriously to our task of preaching the Gospel to a lost world. Then the Pastor said, "Just when you thought the meeting was over..." and the Holy Spirit's anointing started to manifest. With that the Pastor began to lay hands on the people, many of whom fell to the floor under the power of the Spirit, laughing or crying as the Spirit touched their lives. An hour or more after the meeting was formally closed, two people were still under a special anointing of the Holy Spirit, and through them, a greater anointing was spread to others. As we were leaving the church, one young man was heard to say, "This is the best church service we've had in a long time".

Thursday 21 September 2006

New Surfcity Centre

New Surfcity Centre
Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia


The former Hoyts Cinema complex has recently been carpeted, painted and tiled. The road outside was blocked at 4am so a crane could hoist the new airconditioning units onto the roof, which were provided for the church at an incredibly good price. The middle wall between two cinemas has been removed, making room for the new 700-seat auditorium - right in the heart of Queensland's Surfers Paradise.
New Surfcity Centre

New Surfcity Centre
Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia


The former Hoyts Cinema complex has recently been carpeted, painted and tiled. The road outside was blocked at 4am so a crane could hoist the new airconditioning units onto the roof, which were provided for the church at an incredibly good price. The middle wall between two cinemas has been removed, making room for the new 700-seat auditorium - right in the heart of Queensland's Surfers Paradise.
New Surfcity Centre

New Surfcity Centre
Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia


The former Hoyts Cinema complex has recently been carpeted, painted and tiled. The road outside was blocked at 4am so a crane could hoist the new airconditioning units onto the roof, which were provided for the church at an incredibly good price. The middle wall between two cinemas has been removed, making room for the new 700-seat auditorium - right in the heart of Queensland's Surfers Paradise.

Wednesday 20 September 2006

Trust the Inner Witness

Someone informed me that Scott would be returning to China on the Friday. I wondered about this because in my spirit I sensed that I was to do a few days work for him and to spend about a week-and-a-half in Ipswich. It didn't seem to fit.

Then I felt released by the Spirit to phone Scott. I learned that he wasn't able to get flights and his departure was delayed.

And the next day Scott phoned me back and asked me to work for him and told me that he'd arranged accomodation at his mother's place.

I stayed in Ipswich until the day before he left for China. I was there nearly a week-and-a-half. It all turned-out exactly as I'd sensed in my spirit from the start.

Truly we can safely make our plans based not on appearances, but on the inner witness.
Trust the Inner Witness

Someone informed me that Scott would be returning to China on the Friday. I wondered about this because in my spirit I sensed that I was to do a few days work for him and to spend about a week-and-a-half in Ipswich. It didn't seem to fit.

Then I felt released by the Spirit to phone Scott. I learned that he wasn't able to get flights and his departure was delayed.

And the next day Scott phoned me back and asked me to work for him and told me that he'd arranged accomodation at his mother's place.

I stayed in Ipswich until the day before he left for China. I was there nearly a week-and-a-half. It all turned-out exactly as I'd sensed in my spirit from the start.

Truly we can safely make our plans based not on appearances, but on the inner witness.
Trust the Inner Witness

Someone informed me that Scott would be returning to China on the Friday. I wondered about this because in my spirit I sensed that I was to do a few days work for him and to spend about a week-and-a-half in Ipswich. It didn't seem to fit.

Then I felt released by the Spirit to phone Scott. I learned that he wasn't able to get flights and his departure was delayed.

And the next day Scott phoned me back and asked me to work for him and told me that he'd arranged accomodation at his mother's place.

I stayed in Ipswich until the day before he left for China. I was there nearly a week-and-a-half. It all turned-out exactly as I'd sensed in my spirit from the start.

Truly we can safely make our plans based not on appearances, but on the inner witness.
He Leadeth Me

When Beryl and I arrived at Jeff & Shirley Lloyd's place at Karalee, we had a conversation that ministered to Shirley in a way that I perceived to be the beginning of the type of contribution which the Lord had ordained for me to make during this trip to Ipswich.

Then I went for a drive into Ipswich-proper when the Lord clearly influenced me to visit Heritage City Community Church, even though this wasn't something I had in mind. Just as I was talking with the receptionist, Ron Surtees walked by, and offered to take me for a tour of the property's recent development. Then his wife Lyn saw me and said, "We were just talking about you last week", and she invited me to have lunch with the staff. I saw Pastor Phillip, and Mandy made me a delicious sandwich; Larry and Chris Cummins were there; as were Kevin and Anne Thomas, and others. What a heart-warming blessing to have been able to see so many of the people I know in my old church in one hour.

I went away feeling delighted and full in my heart, thinking that contrary to apparent likelihood, God is able to prepare a lavish welcome-table for us in the place to which He leads us by His Spirit.
He Leadeth Me

When Beryl and I arrived at Jeff & Shirley Lloyd's place at Karalee, we had a conversation that ministered to Shirley in a way that I perceived to be the beginning of the type of contribution which the Lord had ordained for me to make during this trip to Ipswich.

Then I went for a drive into Ipswich-proper when the Lord clearly influenced me to visit Heritage City Community Church, even though this wasn't something I had in mind. Just as I was talking with the receptionist, Ron Surtees walked by, and offered to take me for a tour of the property's recent development. Then his wife Lyn saw me and said, "We were just talking about you last week", and she invited me to have lunch with the staff. I saw Pastor Phillip, and Mandy made me a delicious sandwich; Larry and Chris Cummins were there; as were Kevin and Anne Thomas, and others. What a heart-warming blessing to have been able to see so many of the people I know in my old church in one hour.

I went away feeling delighted and full in my heart, thinking that contrary to apparent likelihood, God is able to prepare a lavish welcome-table for us in the place to which He leads us by His Spirit.
He Leadeth Me

When Beryl and I arrived at Jeff & Shirley Lloyd's place at Karalee, we had a conversation that ministered to Shirley in a way that I perceived to be the beginning of the type of contribution which the Lord had ordained for me to make during this trip to Ipswich.

Then I went for a drive into Ipswich-proper when the Lord clearly influenced me to visit Heritage City Community Church, even though this wasn't something I had in mind. Just as I was talking with the receptionist, Ron Surtees walked by, and offered to take me for a tour of the property's recent development. Then his wife Lyn saw me and said, "We were just talking about you last week", and she invited me to have lunch with the staff. I saw Pastor Phillip, and Mandy made me a delicious sandwich; Larry and Chris Cummins were there; as were Kevin and Anne Thomas, and others. What a heart-warming blessing to have been able to see so many of the people I know in my old church in one hour.

I went away feeling delighted and full in my heart, thinking that contrary to apparent likelihood, God is able to prepare a lavish welcome-table for us in the place to which He leads us by His Spirit.
The Lord Helped Me To Go

When I began to feel that the Lord wanted me to go to Ipswich, I asked Him to confirm it at the Soak. Michael Barrett prophesied a confirming word. So did Jolon. Then Zion prophesied that God is sending me out again, and that like a boomerang, I will come back. He also prophetically addressed exactly the issue that could potentially have caused me to hesitate going.

Then Beryl phoned and asked if I would be available to drive her to Ipswich one day. In my spirit I sensed "Tuesday". A couple of days later, she phoned back and asked, "Would Tuesday be okay?"

God has his ways of getting us to where He wants us!
The Lord Helped Me To Go

When I began to feel that the Lord wanted me to go to Ipswich, I asked Him to confirm it at the Soak. Michael Barrett prophesied a confirming word. So did Jolon. Then Zion prophesied that God is sending me out again, and that like a boomerang, I will come back. He also prophetically addressed exactly the issue that could potentially have caused me to hesitate going.

Then Beryl phoned and asked if I would be available to drive her to Ipswich one day. In my spirit I sensed "Tuesday". A couple of days later, she phoned back and asked, "Would Tuesday be okay?"

God has his ways of getting us to where He wants us!
The Lord Helped Me To Go

When I began to feel that the Lord wanted me to go to Ipswich, I asked Him to confirm it at the Soak. Michael Barrett prophesied a confirming word. So did Jolon. Then Zion prophesied that God is sending me out again, and that like a boomerang, I will come back. He also prophetically addressed exactly the issue that could potentially have caused me to hesitate going.

Then Beryl phoned and asked if I would be available to drive her to Ipswich one day. In my spirit I sensed "Tuesday". A couple of days later, she phoned back and asked, "Would Tuesday be okay?"

God has his ways of getting us to where He wants us!
God's Provision

I was thinking of travelling to Lismore for the weekend, but in my spirit I instead had a picture of myself travelling for one day only, to the south-west part of Brisbane.

I said to the Lord that whenever I step out in faith like what I thought of doing with regards to Lismore, doors open for me to preach.

He answered me that He can arrange somewhere for me to preach on Sunday.

Then a couple of days later I received an unexpected phone call from Alex Glykidis, inviting me to preach at the Greek Evangelical Church in Brisbane on Sunday night. Alex had invited me once before, but at the time I didn't quite feel right about accepting. This time, however, I gladly accepted.

So on Sunday 17th September 2006 I drove to Alex's house in the southern suburbs of Brisbane, then together we drove to the church at Highgate Hill in western Brisbane.

This was just the location and duration that I'd sensed.

"Howbeit when He the Spirit of truth is come, He will show you things to come".
All Nations Christian Fellowship

After the service that night, the Greek Evangelical Church was to be voting on a new name for their Sunday evening services. The morning services are performed in Greek, whilst the night services are in English and are aimed to reach people of any nationality.

Alex Glykidis carries an air of authority, as well as being a true inspiration and encouragement to everyone he meets. I am reminded of having said to him many years ago through the Spirit, that God will use him as a Pastor. Today, observing his strong role as one of the church's three elders, we are seeing the fulfilment of that word, which he said had also been spoken through others. Although Alex is not the senior Pastor, in many ways he appears to be the visionary, the bulwark of the church. Arthur and Ruth are the young senior Pastors.

I woke-up that Sunday morning singing the song, "Jesus, What a Wonder You Are", and felt instructed of the Lord that I should begin my contribution to the meeting at night by singing that song and then take it from there.

I followed the song by declaring Jesus to be the only bridge to eternal life; telling the stories of my salvation on Sunday night the 16th December 1979; of the salvation of the Debabawon Tribe in Agusan del Sur, Philippines; and of our early days at Bremer State High School after we received power, including the vision I'd had of the Lord.

The children were gathered in a back room during the meeting. So when I finished speaking, I offered to share a word with the children also. Pastor Arthur seemed to like the idea, so I did so after communion, at the conclusion of the meeting, whilst the voting was taking place.

With the children we talked about the glories of heaven; that Jesus has gone to prepare a place for us; of the one way to be guaranteed our place in heaven; I shared examples of answered prayer, such as finding my lost colouring-pens as a child; receiving a silver watch; and the miraculous catch of fish; and I described in detail about the time I saw the Lord, when He answered my prayer to change my High School Principal's mind. It was a delightful time with the children. (I heard one of Alex's daughters comment afterwards that she had never before seen the children so attentive!)

Meanwhile, the likeable new name All Nations Christian Fellowship was adopted for the night meetings, after which we all enjoyed a fellowship supper together.

During supper, a gentleman who had been visiting from Melbourne told me that Jesus What a Wonder You Are happens to also be his favourite song.

This particular church happens to be the only evangelical Greek church in Brisbane - making their presence and work all the more important!
God's Provision

I was thinking of travelling to Lismore for the weekend, but in my spirit I instead had a picture of myself travelling for one day only, to the south-west part of Brisbane.

I said to the Lord that whenever I step out in faith like what I thought of doing with regards to Lismore, doors open for me to preach.

He answered me that He can arrange somewhere for me to preach on Sunday.

Then a couple of days later I received an unexpected phone call from Alex Glykidis, inviting me to preach at the Greek Evangelical Church in Brisbane on Sunday night. Alex had invited me once before, but at the time I didn't quite feel right about accepting. This time, however, I gladly accepted.

So on Sunday 17th September 2006 I drove to Alex's house in the southern suburbs of Brisbane, then together we drove to the church at Highgate Hill in western Brisbane.

This was just the location and duration that I'd sensed.

"Howbeit when He the Spirit of truth is come, He will show you things to come".
All Nations Christian Fellowship

After the service that night, the Greek Evangelical Church was to be voting on a new name for their Sunday evening services. The morning services are performed in Greek, whilst the night services are in English and are aimed to reach people of any nationality.

Alex Glykidis carries an air of authority, as well as being a true inspiration and encouragement to everyone he meets. I am reminded of having said to him many years ago through the Spirit, that God will use him as a Pastor. Today, observing his strong role as one of the church's three elders, we are seeing the fulfilment of that word, which he said had also been spoken through others. Although Alex is not the senior Pastor, in many ways he appears to be the visionary, the bulwark of the church. Arthur and Ruth are the young senior Pastors.

I woke-up that Sunday morning singing the song, "Jesus, What a Wonder You Are", and felt instructed of the Lord that I should begin my contribution to the meeting at night by singing that song and then take it from there.

I followed the song by declaring Jesus to be the only bridge to eternal life; telling the stories of my salvation on Sunday night the 16th December 1979; of the salvation of the Debabawon Tribe in Agusan del Sur, Philippines; and of our early days at Bremer State High School after we received power, including the vision I'd had of the Lord.

The children were gathered in a back room during the meeting. So when I finished speaking, I offered to share a word with the children also. Pastor Arthur seemed to like the idea, so I did so after communion, at the conclusion of the meeting, whilst the voting was taking place.

With the children we talked about the glories of heaven; that Jesus has gone to prepare a place for us; of the one way to be guaranteed our place in heaven; I shared examples of answered prayer, such as finding my lost colouring-pens as a child; receiving a silver watch; and the miraculous catch of fish; and I described in detail about the time I saw the Lord, when He answered my prayer to change my High School Principal's mind. It was a delightful time with the children. (I heard one of Alex's daughters comment afterwards that she had never before seen the children so attentive!)

Meanwhile, the likeable new name All Nations Christian Fellowship was adopted for the night meetings, after which we all enjoyed a fellowship supper together.

During supper, a gentleman who had been visiting from Melbourne told me that Jesus What a Wonder You Are happens to also be his favourite song.

This particular church happens to be the only evangelical Greek church in Brisbane - making their presence and work all the more important!
God's Provision

I was thinking of travelling to Lismore for the weekend, but in my spirit I instead had a picture of myself travelling for one day only, to the south-west part of Brisbane.

I said to the Lord that whenever I step out in faith like what I thought of doing with regards to Lismore, doors open for me to preach.

He answered me that He can arrange somewhere for me to preach on Sunday.

Then a couple of days later I received an unexpected phone call from Alex Glykidis, inviting me to preach at the Greek Evangelical Church in Brisbane on Sunday night. Alex had invited me once before, but at the time I didn't quite feel right about accepting. This time, however, I gladly accepted.

So on Sunday 17th September 2006 I drove to Alex's house in the southern suburbs of Brisbane, then together we drove to the church at Highgate Hill in western Brisbane.

This was just the location and duration that I'd sensed.

"Howbeit when He the Spirit of truth is come, He will show you things to come".
All Nations Christian Fellowship

After the service that night, the Greek Evangelical Church was to be voting on a new name for their Sunday evening services. The morning services are performed in Greek, whilst the night services are in English and are aimed to reach people of any nationality.

Alex Glykidis carries an air of authority, as well as being a true inspiration and encouragement to everyone he meets. I am reminded of having said to him many years ago through the Spirit, that God will use him as a Pastor. Today, observing his strong role as one of the church's three elders, we are seeing the fulfilment of that word, which he said had also been spoken through others. Although Alex is not the senior Pastor, in many ways he appears to be the visionary, the bulwark of the church. Arthur and Ruth are the young senior Pastors.

I woke-up that Sunday morning singing the song, "Jesus, What a Wonder You Are", and felt instructed of the Lord that I should begin my contribution to the meeting at night by singing that song and then take it from there.

I followed the song by declaring Jesus to be the only bridge to eternal life; telling the stories of my salvation on Sunday night the 16th December 1979; of the salvation of the Debabawon Tribe in Agusan del Sur, Philippines; and of our early days at Bremer State High School after we received power, including the vision I'd had of the Lord.

The children were gathered in a back room during the meeting. So when I finished speaking, I offered to share a word with the children also. Pastor Arthur seemed to like the idea, so I did so after communion, at the conclusion of the meeting, whilst the voting was taking place.

With the children we talked about the glories of heaven; that Jesus has gone to prepare a place for us; of the one way to be guaranteed our place in heaven; I shared examples of answered prayer, such as finding my lost colouring-pens as a child; receiving a silver watch; and the miraculous catch of fish; and I described in detail about the time I saw the Lord, when He answered my prayer to change my High School Principal's mind. It was a delightful time with the children. (I heard one of Alex's daughters comment afterwards that she had never before seen the children so attentive!)

Meanwhile, the likeable new name All Nations Christian Fellowship was adopted for the night meetings, after which we all enjoyed a fellowship supper together.

During supper, a gentleman who had been visiting from Melbourne told me that Jesus What a Wonder You Are happens to also be his favourite song.

This particular church happens to be the only evangelical Greek church in Brisbane - making their presence and work all the more important!
Answered Prayer


Whilst waiting for an Ipswich train at Roma Street Station, I asked the Lord for a good conversation with somebody on the way. Before I even finished praying, a young man came and sat beside me on the platform.

I held the tract, "Where Will You Spend Eternity" in my hand, so I asked him, "Do you like reading?" He glanced at the title in my hand, thought about it, then said, "I'll give it a go". So I handed him the tract.

After the first paragraph, I could tell he was beginning to lose attention. He accidentally dropped the tract. Then he picked it up and, without continuing to read any more, he asked me, "Do you want me to give this back to you so you can give it to somebody else?"

Then began one of the best witnessing times I've had in a long time. He was interested enough to want to sit with me and continue our conversation when our train arrived. All the way until Indooroopilly Station, I shared Jesus with him. I could tell he was being really impacted by the truth of what I was sharing. When the time came where he had to get off the train, he said he felt sorry that we weren't able to continue our conversation.
Answered Prayer


Whilst waiting for an Ipswich train at Roma Street Station, I asked the Lord for a good conversation with somebody on the way. Before I even finished praying, a young man came and sat beside me on the platform.

I held the tract, "Where Will You Spend Eternity" in my hand, so I asked him, "Do you like reading?" He glanced at the title in my hand, thought about it, then said, "I'll give it a go". So I handed him the tract.

After the first paragraph, I could tell he was beginning to lose attention. He accidentally dropped the tract. Then he picked it up and, without continuing to read any more, he asked me, "Do you want me to give this back to you so you can give it to somebody else?"

Then began one of the best witnessing times I've had in a long time. He was interested enough to want to sit with me and continue our conversation when our train arrived. All the way until Indooroopilly Station, I shared Jesus with him. I could tell he was being really impacted by the truth of what I was sharing. When the time came where he had to get off the train, he said he felt sorry that we weren't able to continue our conversation.
Answered Prayer


Whilst waiting for an Ipswich train at Roma Street Station, I asked the Lord for a good conversation with somebody on the way. Before I even finished praying, a young man came and sat beside me on the platform.

I held the tract, "Where Will You Spend Eternity" in my hand, so I asked him, "Do you like reading?" He glanced at the title in my hand, thought about it, then said, "I'll give it a go". So I handed him the tract.

After the first paragraph, I could tell he was beginning to lose attention. He accidentally dropped the tract. Then he picked it up and, without continuing to read any more, he asked me, "Do you want me to give this back to you so you can give it to somebody else?"

Then began one of the best witnessing times I've had in a long time. He was interested enough to want to sit with me and continue our conversation when our train arrived. All the way until Indooroopilly Station, I shared Jesus with him. I could tell he was being really impacted by the truth of what I was sharing. When the time came where he had to get off the train, he said he felt sorry that we weren't able to continue our conversation.
$2 Worth of Hot Chips & A Divine Appointment



After alighting at Yeerongpilly, I saw a corner store across the road from the Station, and even though Paul would be offering me dinner, I felt led to go in and order $2 worth of hot chips.

So I walked in and asked the lady if they have any hot chips. She replied, "The minimum order is two dollars".

Whilst she was serving me, I gained the impression she was so hospitable, that I wondered whether she might be a Christian. She answered that she is a Baptist, from a plateau region of Vietnam.

Having always had an interest in the well-being of believers in remote situations, I found the fellowship with her quite heart-gladdening. I left promising to pray for the plight of her relatives back in Vietnam who, she said, are not really experiencing religious freedom.
Mr Murphy

Paul and his sons didn't come home for ages, and Gina was at work. But this was providential, for it gave me exclusive time with Mr Murphy, who was to go into hospital the following day for his third operation for cancer.

We talked extensively about salvation, the new birth, forgiveness, repentance, faith, heaven, hell, healing and eternal life through faith in the blood of the cross of Jesus.

It was good to be able to have had this time with Paul's dad before his major operation.

And those $2 worth of hot chips came in handy too, since Paul was so late coming home!
Going Back to Ipswich


Whilst sitting in Paul's house, I wondered whether I should phone the Transinfo Line to see what time I'd be able to get a train at Yeerongpilly back into the City, then back to Ipswich, where I was staying with Scott's mum, Mrs Joan Donald. But rather than make a phone call, on the inside of me I just knew to leave Paul's house at 8:20pm.

I wondered why I shouldn't just get a lift with Paul into the City when he would be driving there to fetch his wife from work at 10pm, rather than go to Yeerongpilly Station. Presently Paul's phone rang - it was his wife telling him not to come and pick him up because she'd decided to get the bus home.

The time came where I felt I'd accomplished all the conversation I was purposed to have at Paul's that night, so I prepared to leave. Paul offered to drive me as far as Yeerongpilly Station. I glanced at the time - it was 8:20pm.

Paul accompanied me to the platform, knowing how long and lonely the wait can be for a train sometimes. But only a minute later came the announcement, "The Brisbane Train, stopping at all stations, will arrive in approximately two minutes". Paul looked at me in admiration of the Spirit's timing and leading.
$2 Worth of Hot Chips & A Divine Appointment



After alighting at Yeerongpilly, I saw a corner store across the road from the Station, and even though Paul would be offering me dinner, I felt led to go in and order $2 worth of hot chips.

So I walked in and asked the lady if they have any hot chips. She replied, "The minimum order is two dollars".

Whilst she was serving me, I gained the impression she was so hospitable, that I wondered whether she might be a Christian. She answered that she is a Baptist, from a plateau region of Vietnam.

Having always had an interest in the well-being of believers in remote situations, I found the fellowship with her quite heart-gladdening. I left promising to pray for the plight of her relatives back in Vietnam who, she said, are not really experiencing religious freedom.
Mr Murphy

Paul and his sons didn't come home for ages, and Gina was at work. But this was providential, for it gave me exclusive time with Mr Murphy, who was to go into hospital the following day for his third operation for cancer.

We talked extensively about salvation, the new birth, forgiveness, repentance, faith, heaven, hell, healing and eternal life through faith in the blood of the cross of Jesus.

It was good to be able to have had this time with Paul's dad before his major operation.

And those $2 worth of hot chips came in handy too, since Paul was so late coming home!
Going Back to Ipswich


Whilst sitting in Paul's house, I wondered whether I should phone the Transinfo Line to see what time I'd be able to get a train at Yeerongpilly back into the City, then back to Ipswich, where I was staying with Scott's mum, Mrs Joan Donald. But rather than make a phone call, on the inside of me I just knew to leave Paul's house at 8:20pm.

I wondered why I shouldn't just get a lift with Paul into the City when he would be driving there to fetch his wife from work at 10pm, rather than go to Yeerongpilly Station. Presently Paul's phone rang - it was his wife telling him not to come and pick him up because she'd decided to get the bus home.

The time came where I felt I'd accomplished all the conversation I was purposed to have at Paul's that night, so I prepared to leave. Paul offered to drive me as far as Yeerongpilly Station. I glanced at the time - it was 8:20pm.

Paul accompanied me to the platform, knowing how long and lonely the wait can be for a train sometimes. But only a minute later came the announcement, "The Brisbane Train, stopping at all stations, will arrive in approximately two minutes". Paul looked at me in admiration of the Spirit's timing and leading.
$2 Worth of Hot Chips & A Divine Appointment



After alighting at Yeerongpilly, I saw a corner store across the road from the Station, and even though Paul would be offering me dinner, I felt led to go in and order $2 worth of hot chips.

So I walked in and asked the lady if they have any hot chips. She replied, "The minimum order is two dollars".

Whilst she was serving me, I gained the impression she was so hospitable, that I wondered whether she might be a Christian. She answered that she is a Baptist, from a plateau region of Vietnam.

Having always had an interest in the well-being of believers in remote situations, I found the fellowship with her quite heart-gladdening. I left promising to pray for the plight of her relatives back in Vietnam who, she said, are not really experiencing religious freedom.
Mr Murphy

Paul and his sons didn't come home for ages, and Gina was at work. But this was providential, for it gave me exclusive time with Mr Murphy, who was to go into hospital the following day for his third operation for cancer.

We talked extensively about salvation, the new birth, forgiveness, repentance, faith, heaven, hell, healing and eternal life through faith in the blood of the cross of Jesus.

It was good to be able to have had this time with Paul's dad before his major operation.

And those $2 worth of hot chips came in handy too, since Paul was so late coming home!
Going Back to Ipswich


Whilst sitting in Paul's house, I wondered whether I should phone the Transinfo Line to see what time I'd be able to get a train at Yeerongpilly back into the City, then back to Ipswich, where I was staying with Scott's mum, Mrs Joan Donald. But rather than make a phone call, on the inside of me I just knew to leave Paul's house at 8:20pm.

I wondered why I shouldn't just get a lift with Paul into the City when he would be driving there to fetch his wife from work at 10pm, rather than go to Yeerongpilly Station. Presently Paul's phone rang - it was his wife telling him not to come and pick him up because she'd decided to get the bus home.

The time came where I felt I'd accomplished all the conversation I was purposed to have at Paul's that night, so I prepared to leave. Paul offered to drive me as far as Yeerongpilly Station. I glanced at the time - it was 8:20pm.

Paul accompanied me to the platform, knowing how long and lonely the wait can be for a train sometimes. But only a minute later came the announcement, "The Brisbane Train, stopping at all stations, will arrive in approximately two minutes". Paul looked at me in admiration of the Spirit's timing and leading.
The Wind Bloweth Where it Listeth

When I arrived in the City, I walked around a bit, but I started to feel like I had no purpose being there. The thought occurred to me that if someone was to observe the way I was moving around, it wouldn't be clear to them where I'd come from or where I was going! I started to question why I sometimes feel led in such manner.

But God, who comforts us in our trouble, caused an SMS from Jolon to arrive just in time, saying, "The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit". Jolon has a habit of sending prophetic encouragement just on time, for which I'm ever grateful to God.

Having received consolation, I immediately felt a peace about visiting Paul Murphy's household that evening, even though it was planned that I should go the following night. I caught the train to South Brisbane, then decided to take a leisurely stroll through to Southbank Station.
The Insignificant Things

At one point I felt led to stop walking and make a right turn. In my mind however, I argued, "But the Station is further ahead." This time I managed to suppress what turned-out to be an inner prompting. I came to the end of the parkland, and the Station was not to be found. I asked directions, only to discover that the Station was indeed further back, adjacent to the very spot where I'd earlier felt led to stop and make a right turn.

Fortunately it didn't matter too much, except that I'd walked a few hundred metres unnecessarily - it's just that the Holy Spirit is interested in helping us with the seemingly small, insignificant things too!
The Wind Bloweth Where it Listeth

When I arrived in the City, I walked around a bit, but I started to feel like I had no purpose being there. The thought occurred to me that if someone was to observe the way I was moving around, it wouldn't be clear to them where I'd come from or where I was going! I started to question why I sometimes feel led in such manner.

But God, who comforts us in our trouble, caused an SMS from Jolon to arrive just in time, saying, "The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit". Jolon has a habit of sending prophetic encouragement just on time, for which I'm ever grateful to God.

Having received consolation, I immediately felt a peace about visiting Paul Murphy's household that evening, even though it was planned that I should go the following night. I caught the train to South Brisbane, then decided to take a leisurely stroll through to Southbank Station.
The Insignificant Things

At one point I felt led to stop walking and make a right turn. In my mind however, I argued, "But the Station is further ahead." This time I managed to suppress what turned-out to be an inner prompting. I came to the end of the parkland, and the Station was not to be found. I asked directions, only to discover that the Station was indeed further back, adjacent to the very spot where I'd earlier felt led to stop and make a right turn.

Fortunately it didn't matter too much, except that I'd walked a few hundred metres unnecessarily - it's just that the Holy Spirit is interested in helping us with the seemingly small, insignificant things too!
The Wind Bloweth Where it Listeth

When I arrived in the City, I walked around a bit, but I started to feel like I had no purpose being there. The thought occurred to me that if someone was to observe the way I was moving around, it wouldn't be clear to them where I'd come from or where I was going! I started to question why I sometimes feel led in such manner.

But God, who comforts us in our trouble, caused an SMS from Jolon to arrive just in time, saying, "The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit". Jolon has a habit of sending prophetic encouragement just on time, for which I'm ever grateful to God.

Having received consolation, I immediately felt a peace about visiting Paul Murphy's household that evening, even though it was planned that I should go the following night. I caught the train to South Brisbane, then decided to take a leisurely stroll through to Southbank Station.
The Insignificant Things

At one point I felt led to stop walking and make a right turn. In my mind however, I argued, "But the Station is further ahead." This time I managed to suppress what turned-out to be an inner prompting. I came to the end of the parkland, and the Station was not to be found. I asked directions, only to discover that the Station was indeed further back, adjacent to the very spot where I'd earlier felt led to stop and make a right turn.

Fortunately it didn't matter too much, except that I'd walked a few hundred metres unnecessarily - it's just that the Holy Spirit is interested in helping us with the seemingly small, insignificant things too!
Led by the Spirit



One day whilst I was in Ipswich I felt led to spend a day in Brisbane. I preferred to drive, but I felt led to take the train instead. I was about to board the train, when the Holy Spirit led me to a carriage a little further down the platform. A few stops later, my cousin Bridson boarded the train right where I was sitting. I don't think I've seen him since Christmas! So we talked all the way to Brisbane. That in itself would have been enough, but later in the day I was to discover other reasons why the Lord had me take the train instead of to drive.
Led by the Spirit



One day whilst I was in Ipswich I felt led to spend a day in Brisbane. I preferred to drive, but I felt led to take the train instead. I was about to board the train, when the Holy Spirit led me to a carriage a little further down the platform. A few stops later, my cousin Bridson boarded the train right where I was sitting. I don't think I've seen him since Christmas! So we talked all the way to Brisbane. That in itself would have been enough, but later in the day I was to discover other reasons why the Lord had me take the train instead of to drive.
Led by the Spirit



One day whilst I was in Ipswich I felt led to spend a day in Brisbane. I preferred to drive, but I felt led to take the train instead. I was about to board the train, when the Holy Spirit led me to a carriage a little further down the platform. A few stops later, my cousin Bridson boarded the train right where I was sitting. I don't think I've seen him since Christmas! So we talked all the way to Brisbane. That in itself would have been enough, but later in the day I was to discover other reasons why the Lord had me take the train instead of to drive.

Tuesday 19 September 2006

Good Timing Again


On the way to Paul and Gina's house, I wanted to stop by the Trinity Theological College Library to read some journals and letters of John Wesley and George Whitefield.

Whilst I was enjoying my reading, the Holy Spirit said, "Go now" - even though there was some time left before the library would be closing for the day.

So I left, and drove over to Paul and Gina's. When I knocked on the door, Gerald said, "We only just got home one minute ago ourselves".

Then I was able to offer Paul's mother and sister a lift home, after they visited Paul's father.

It seems during this nine-day trip to Ipswich, the Lord wanted to surround me with all the people whom I'd led to the Lord, to encourage me.

Scott Donald even told me that I would be amazed to know the fruit that has come from our witness at Bremer State High School. He said that he himself would easily be touching 10,000 lives in China.
Good Timing Again


On the way to Paul and Gina's house, I wanted to stop by the Trinity Theological College Library to read some journals and letters of John Wesley and George Whitefield.

Whilst I was enjoying my reading, the Holy Spirit said, "Go now" - even though there was some time left before the library would be closing for the day.

So I left, and drove over to Paul and Gina's. When I knocked on the door, Gerald said, "We only just got home one minute ago ourselves".

Then I was able to offer Paul's mother and sister a lift home, after they visited Paul's father.

It seems during this nine-day trip to Ipswich, the Lord wanted to surround me with all the people whom I'd led to the Lord, to encourage me.

Scott Donald even told me that I would be amazed to know the fruit that has come from our witness at Bremer State High School. He said that he himself would easily be touching 10,000 lives in China.
Good Timing Again


On the way to Paul and Gina's house, I wanted to stop by the Trinity Theological College Library to read some journals and letters of John Wesley and George Whitefield.

Whilst I was enjoying my reading, the Holy Spirit said, "Go now" - even though there was some time left before the library would be closing for the day.

So I left, and drove over to Paul and Gina's. When I knocked on the door, Gerald said, "We only just got home one minute ago ourselves".

Then I was able to offer Paul's mother and sister a lift home, after they visited Paul's father.

It seems during this nine-day trip to Ipswich, the Lord wanted to surround me with all the people whom I'd led to the Lord, to encourage me.

Scott Donald even told me that I would be amazed to know the fruit that has come from our witness at Bremer State High School. He said that he himself would easily be touching 10,000 lives in China.
Divine Clockwork

Elphie asked me to accompany him to visit a brother in the Lord at Redbank Plains. I sensed in spirit that 1pm would be the right time, so I booked it in.

This meant I would need to leave the Tivoli Miracle Centre by 12:40 to make it to Elphie's by 1pm - but I was determined not to interrupt my time with Pastor Fred Muiys. I just left it with the Lord.

And at 12:39, Pastor Fred suddenly brought our conversation to a close, therefore I arrived at Elphie's at exactly the appointed time.
Divine Clockwork

Elphie asked me to accompany him to visit a brother in the Lord at Redbank Plains. I sensed in spirit that 1pm would be the right time, so I booked it in.

This meant I would need to leave the Tivoli Miracle Centre by 12:40 to make it to Elphie's by 1pm - but I was determined not to interrupt my time with Pastor Fred Muiys. I just left it with the Lord.

And at 12:39, Pastor Fred suddenly brought our conversation to a close, therefore I arrived at Elphie's at exactly the appointed time.
Divine Clockwork

Elphie asked me to accompany him to visit a brother in the Lord at Redbank Plains. I sensed in spirit that 1pm would be the right time, so I booked it in.

This meant I would need to leave the Tivoli Miracle Centre by 12:40 to make it to Elphie's by 1pm - but I was determined not to interrupt my time with Pastor Fred Muiys. I just left it with the Lord.

And at 12:39, Pastor Fred suddenly brought our conversation to a close, therefore I arrived at Elphie's at exactly the appointed time.
Good Timing

When I was in Ipswich, I got in my car to visit someone whom I had in mind. But once I started driving, I felt the Holy Spirit divert me to instead visit John Coyle at Bundamba.

When I knocked on their door, John told me it was amazing I'd caught them, because they'd only just walked in the door a minute earlier themselves.

Not only that, but whilst I was there, it seemed everyone I wanted to see turned-up, including Cheryl, Cathleen, Elphie, his fiance, and even Paul and Gina and their two sons arrived.

John recounted the story of how we had led him to Christ years ago. The first time he read the Gospel of John, he thought, "Why isn't this being shouted from the rooftops? This is amazing stuff!"

Elphie also introduced me to his fiance as "the man who led me to the Lord".

John told me that a lump has returned on his neck, so I prayed with him after a certain manner. I asked him what it is we can agree together to ask in prayer. Then we believed together.
Good Timing

When I was in Ipswich, I got in my car to visit someone whom I had in mind. But once I started driving, I felt the Holy Spirit divert me to instead visit John Coyle at Bundamba.

When I knocked on their door, John told me it was amazing I'd caught them, because they'd only just walked in the door a minute earlier themselves.

Not only that, but whilst I was there, it seemed everyone I wanted to see turned-up, including Cheryl, Cathleen, Elphie, his fiance, and even Paul and Gina and their two sons arrived.

John recounted the story of how we had led him to Christ years ago. The first time he read the Gospel of John, he thought, "Why isn't this being shouted from the rooftops? This is amazing stuff!"

Elphie also introduced me to his fiance as "the man who led me to the Lord".

John told me that a lump has returned on his neck, so I prayed with him after a certain manner. I asked him what it is we can agree together to ask in prayer. Then we believed together.
Good Timing

When I was in Ipswich, I got in my car to visit someone whom I had in mind. But once I started driving, I felt the Holy Spirit divert me to instead visit John Coyle at Bundamba.

When I knocked on their door, John told me it was amazing I'd caught them, because they'd only just walked in the door a minute earlier themselves.

Not only that, but whilst I was there, it seemed everyone I wanted to see turned-up, including Cheryl, Cathleen, Elphie, his fiance, and even Paul and Gina and their two sons arrived.

John recounted the story of how we had led him to Christ years ago. The first time he read the Gospel of John, he thought, "Why isn't this being shouted from the rooftops? This is amazing stuff!"

Elphie also introduced me to his fiance as "the man who led me to the Lord".

John told me that a lump has returned on his neck, so I prayed with him after a certain manner. I asked him what it is we can agree together to ask in prayer. Then we believed together.
The D-House

After helping dad and Robert Clarke for an hour-and-a-half today, I felt led to visit the D-House. It was good to see Mark Lambert, Ben Radel, Paul Riley and Trent, among others. When Trent, Ben and I had a prayer time, the Holy Spirit came so powerfully upon Trent that he fell backwards into his seat, as he spoke with another tongue, without anyone even laying hands on him.
The D-House

After helping dad and Robert Clarke for an hour-and-a-half today, I felt led to visit the D-House. It was good to see Mark Lambert, Ben Radel, Paul Riley and Trent, among others. When Trent, Ben and I had a prayer time, the Holy Spirit came so powerfully upon Trent that he fell backwards into his seat, as he spoke with another tongue, without anyone even laying hands on him.
The D-House

After helping dad and Robert Clarke for an hour-and-a-half today, I felt led to visit the D-House. It was good to see Mark Lambert, Ben Radel, Paul Riley and Trent, among others. When Trent, Ben and I had a prayer time, the Holy Spirit came so powerfully upon Trent that he fell backwards into his seat, as he spoke with another tongue, without anyone even laying hands on him.

Friday 15 September 2006

Fruitful Endeavour

Whilst I was in Ipswich, it was difficult to be away from the Gold Coast because I knew that Pastor Eugene Balbon of Pagadian, the Philippines was visiting the Coast. But the day after I arrived home at the Coast, Pastor Eugene telephoned. It also happened to be the day that my brother and his wife and all our families were to gather at my parents' home for dinner - perfect timing! I invited him along.

Pastor Eugene is a man faithful to his calling, despite being offered many times to immigrate to a more affluent life in Australia. Last week he came close to being kidnapped by muslims. His vehicle was commandeered and it's occupants kidnapped. He was spared only because he'd been providentially delayed along the way.

He said that he made a twenty-year commitment to the pastorate at Pagadian when he first arrived there as a young man with nothing. There are only a few years left of that twenty-year commitment, but he said God has already begun to speak to him about an expansion of his ministry. It includes a vision for cities beyond Pagadian; a ministry to the wider body. He said that since he has accepted this development of his calling, his joy in the Lord has been restored; and blessings have been received such as he has always desired - including the outright donation of a relatively large lot of land in Manila, for a new church.

God has brought good people around him to work with him in this vision, including his sister and brother. He said that many nation-impacting ministries in the Philippines have their bases in the Provinces rather than in Manila, and he intends being no different - he will maintain his base in Pagadian.

A church has already been build on donated land in Pagadian. And land has been donated and architectural drawings made for a proposed, large building to serve as headquarters, if God wills.

He is also involved with Intercessors for the Philippines, and a national feeding program, and also desires to launch into a radio or television ministry.

He gave a good report about the results of the Au$100 which my mother, Adam Briffa and I transferred to him several months ago for Pastor Lando in the mountains of Mindanao, Philippines.

My instructions to Pastor Eugene at the time were:

1) To also receive an offering from his own church in the city, to add to our offering; and

2) Not to hand over any cash to the worker in the mountains, but rather use the money to buy breeding goats or chickens for their future livelihood.

That was several months ago. Now Pastor Eugene reports that the goats have now multiplied. His goal is to provide a pair of breeding goats for each family in the mountain. He has instructed the people to build fences and shelters for chickens. He said it will now be easy to obtain financial support from the Filipino Governement, now that a visible start has been made on the work. I advised him to start a farm. Everyone involved is excited about it. The Pastor in the mountain is happy to know that people in a faraway country are mindful of him in his remote place.

The young people from the city church operate a regular feeding program there, and they never return without having led people to Christ. And Pastor Lando is planning to take the Gospel to the surrounding villages also.

Originally it was suggested that the money be used to buy pigs instead of goats, which are more popular in the Philippines. So I asked the Lord recently if there is a reason why I sensed goats instead of pigs, aside from the fact that goats have a more sophisticated digestive system. I since discovered through Pastor Eugene that the surrounding villages are predominantly Muslim.

This means that if the farm develops and they want to sell meat, their neighbours won't be in the market, if it is pork. But if it is venison that they produce, their neighbours will accept it! Or atleast this will prevent from offending their neighbours whom they want to win to the Lord.
Fruitful Endeavour

Whilst I was in Ipswich, it was difficult to be away from the Gold Coast because I knew that Pastor Eugene Balbon of Pagadian, the Philippines was visiting the Coast. But the day after I arrived home at the Coast, Pastor Eugene telephoned. It also happened to be the day that my brother and his wife and all our families were to gather at my parents' home for dinner - perfect timing! I invited him along.

Pastor Eugene is a man faithful to his calling, despite being offered many times to immigrate to a more affluent life in Australia. Last week he came close to being kidnapped by muslims. His vehicle was commandeered and it's occupants kidnapped. He was spared only because he'd been providentially delayed along the way.

He said that he made a twenty-year commitment to the pastorate at Pagadian when he first arrived there as a young man with nothing. There are only a few years left of that twenty-year commitment, but he said God has already begun to speak to him about an expansion of his ministry. It includes a vision for cities beyond Pagadian; a ministry to the wider body. He said that since he has accepted this development of his calling, his joy in the Lord has been restored; and blessings have been received such as he has always desired - including the outright donation of a relatively large lot of land in Manila, for a new church.

God has brought good people around him to work with him in this vision, including his sister and brother. He said that many nation-impacting ministries in the Philippines have their bases in the Provinces rather than in Manila, and he intends being no different - he will maintain his base in Pagadian.

A church has already been build on donated land in Pagadian. And land has been donated and architectural drawings made for a proposed, large building to serve as headquarters, if God wills.

He is also involved with Intercessors for the Philippines, and a national feeding program, and also desires to launch into a radio or television ministry.

He gave a good report about the results of the Au$100 which my mother, Adam Briffa and I transferred to him several months ago for Pastor Lando in the mountains of Mindanao, Philippines.

My instructions to Pastor Eugene at the time were:

1) To also receive an offering from his own church in the city, to add to our offering; and

2) Not to hand over any cash to the worker in the mountains, but rather use the money to buy breeding goats or chickens for their future livelihood.

That was several months ago. Now Pastor Eugene reports that the goats have now multiplied. His goal is to provide a pair of breeding goats for each family in the mountain. He has instructed the people to build fences and shelters for chickens. He said it will now be easy to obtain financial support from the Filipino Governement, now that a visible start has been made on the work. I advised him to start a farm. Everyone involved is excited about it. The Pastor in the mountain is happy to know that people in a faraway country are mindful of him in his remote place.

The young people from the city church operate a regular feeding program there, and they never return without having led people to Christ. And Pastor Lando is planning to take the Gospel to the surrounding villages also.

Originally it was suggested that the money be used to buy pigs instead of goats, which are more popular in the Philippines. So I asked the Lord recently if there is a reason why I sensed goats instead of pigs, aside from the fact that goats have a more sophisticated digestive system. I since discovered through Pastor Eugene that the surrounding villages are predominantly Muslim.

This means that if the farm develops and they want to sell meat, their neighbours won't be in the market, if it is pork. But if it is venison that they produce, their neighbours will accept it! Or atleast this will prevent from offending their neighbours whom they want to win to the Lord.
Fruitful Endeavour

Whilst I was in Ipswich, it was difficult to be away from the Gold Coast because I knew that Pastor Eugene Balbon of Pagadian, the Philippines was visiting the Coast. But the day after I arrived home at the Coast, Pastor Eugene telephoned. It also happened to be the day that my brother and his wife and all our families were to gather at my parents' home for dinner - perfect timing! I invited him along.

Pastor Eugene is a man faithful to his calling, despite being offered many times to immigrate to a more affluent life in Australia. Last week he came close to being kidnapped by muslims. His vehicle was commandeered and it's occupants kidnapped. He was spared only because he'd been providentially delayed along the way.

He said that he made a twenty-year commitment to the pastorate at Pagadian when he first arrived there as a young man with nothing. There are only a few years left of that twenty-year commitment, but he said God has already begun to speak to him about an expansion of his ministry. It includes a vision for cities beyond Pagadian; a ministry to the wider body. He said that since he has accepted this development of his calling, his joy in the Lord has been restored; and blessings have been received such as he has always desired - including the outright donation of a relatively large lot of land in Manila, for a new church.

God has brought good people around him to work with him in this vision, including his sister and brother. He said that many nation-impacting ministries in the Philippines have their bases in the Provinces rather than in Manila, and he intends being no different - he will maintain his base in Pagadian.

A church has already been build on donated land in Pagadian. And land has been donated and architectural drawings made for a proposed, large building to serve as headquarters, if God wills.

He is also involved with Intercessors for the Philippines, and a national feeding program, and also desires to launch into a radio or television ministry.

He gave a good report about the results of the Au$100 which my mother, Adam Briffa and I transferred to him several months ago for Pastor Lando in the mountains of Mindanao, Philippines.

My instructions to Pastor Eugene at the time were:

1) To also receive an offering from his own church in the city, to add to our offering; and

2) Not to hand over any cash to the worker in the mountains, but rather use the money to buy breeding goats or chickens for their future livelihood.

That was several months ago. Now Pastor Eugene reports that the goats have now multiplied. His goal is to provide a pair of breeding goats for each family in the mountain. He has instructed the people to build fences and shelters for chickens. He said it will now be easy to obtain financial support from the Filipino Governement, now that a visible start has been made on the work. I advised him to start a farm. Everyone involved is excited about it. The Pastor in the mountain is happy to know that people in a faraway country are mindful of him in his remote place.

The young people from the city church operate a regular feeding program there, and they never return without having led people to Christ. And Pastor Lando is planning to take the Gospel to the surrounding villages also.

Originally it was suggested that the money be used to buy pigs instead of goats, which are more popular in the Philippines. So I asked the Lord recently if there is a reason why I sensed goats instead of pigs, aside from the fact that goats have a more sophisticated digestive system. I since discovered through Pastor Eugene that the surrounding villages are predominantly Muslim.

This means that if the farm develops and they want to sell meat, their neighbours won't be in the market, if it is pork. But if it is venison that they produce, their neighbours will accept it! Or atleast this will prevent from offending their neighbours whom they want to win to the Lord.
Good News Fellowship

Last Sunday I felt led to drop-by the Good News Fellowship (Riverview) in the afternoon, even though their usual sevice is held on Sunday mornings.

I telephoned Paulo's house first, whereupon his wife Lorinda said that I could see Paulo rightaway at the Centre, as he was running their children's program, followed by a special Bbq, at that very moment.

Soon after I arrived, Pastor Paulo asked me if I would like to share a word with the children. I followed him inside, and immediately began to share Jesus with the children. I talked about answered prayer; about heaven; about my vision of Jesus and about my school days - and we opened-up the time for Jesus to touch their lives in a real way.

I thought of singing the song, "Into my heart, into my heart, come into my heart, Lord Jesus", but I first asked if one of the leaders could suggest a suitable song. Steve answered, "There is a song called 'Into my heart'."

I could see that one of the parents in particular was also being touched by the word as well as by the Lord. Afterwards he approached me to say, "I was really touched. I haven't been involved in church much for a long time - things happened - but now I really need to get back into it".

Paulo invited me home for a roast dinner with his wonderful family. He said it was really good timing when I turned-up, because due to interruptions, he'd been unable to prepare a message for the children.

On the way, I had asked the Lord to give me a personal word for Paulo and Lorinda. As we sat around the table, they shared the good news regarding the growth of their work in Riverview (they now have 40 in regular attendance, including children).

I said, "I see a vision that the growth of the branches has begun to be above the wall". Lorinda said, "That's really encouraging". You could sense their delight in many of their people whom God has sent to them to shepherd.

Paulo and Lorinda have been faithful. Their time of reward shall surely come.

The church is blessed with the use of an excellent facility on acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. (This is the building that was originally, superbly built by Evangelist Geoff Ramsay of Harvest Rain Ministries).
Good News Fellowship

Last Sunday I felt led to drop-by the Good News Fellowship (Riverview) in the afternoon, even though their usual sevice is held on Sunday mornings.

I telephoned Paulo's house first, whereupon his wife Lorinda said that I could see Paulo rightaway at the Centre, as he was running their children's program, followed by a special Bbq, at that very moment.

Soon after I arrived, Pastor Paulo asked me if I would like to share a word with the children. I followed him inside, and immediately began to share Jesus with the children. I talked about answered prayer; about heaven; about my vision of Jesus and about my school days - and we opened-up the time for Jesus to touch their lives in a real way.

I thought of singing the song, "Into my heart, into my heart, come into my heart, Lord Jesus", but I first asked if one of the leaders could suggest a suitable song. Steve answered, "There is a song called 'Into my heart'."

I could see that one of the parents in particular was also being touched by the word as well as by the Lord. Afterwards he approached me to say, "I was really touched. I haven't been involved in church much for a long time - things happened - but now I really need to get back into it".

Paulo invited me home for a roast dinner with his wonderful family. He said it was really good timing when I turned-up, because due to interruptions, he'd been unable to prepare a message for the children.

On the way, I had asked the Lord to give me a personal word for Paulo and Lorinda. As we sat around the table, they shared the good news regarding the growth of their work in Riverview (they now have 40 in regular attendance, including children).

I said, "I see a vision that the growth of the branches has begun to be above the wall". Lorinda said, "That's really encouraging". You could sense their delight in many of their people whom God has sent to them to shepherd.

Paulo and Lorinda have been faithful. Their time of reward shall surely come.

The church is blessed with the use of an excellent facility on acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. (This is the building that was originally, superbly built by Evangelist Geoff Ramsay of Harvest Rain Ministries).
Good News Fellowship

Last Sunday I felt led to drop-by the Good News Fellowship (Riverview) in the afternoon, even though their usual sevice is held on Sunday mornings.

I telephoned Paulo's house first, whereupon his wife Lorinda said that I could see Paulo rightaway at the Centre, as he was running their children's program, followed by a special Bbq, at that very moment.

Soon after I arrived, Pastor Paulo asked me if I would like to share a word with the children. I followed him inside, and immediately began to share Jesus with the children. I talked about answered prayer; about heaven; about my vision of Jesus and about my school days - and we opened-up the time for Jesus to touch their lives in a real way.

I thought of singing the song, "Into my heart, into my heart, come into my heart, Lord Jesus", but I first asked if one of the leaders could suggest a suitable song. Steve answered, "There is a song called 'Into my heart'."

I could see that one of the parents in particular was also being touched by the word as well as by the Lord. Afterwards he approached me to say, "I was really touched. I haven't been involved in church much for a long time - things happened - but now I really need to get back into it".

Paulo invited me home for a roast dinner with his wonderful family. He said it was really good timing when I turned-up, because due to interruptions, he'd been unable to prepare a message for the children.

On the way, I had asked the Lord to give me a personal word for Paulo and Lorinda. As we sat around the table, they shared the good news regarding the growth of their work in Riverview (they now have 40 in regular attendance, including children).

I said, "I see a vision that the growth of the branches has begun to be above the wall". Lorinda said, "That's really encouraging". You could sense their delight in many of their people whom God has sent to them to shepherd.

Paulo and Lorinda have been faithful. Their time of reward shall surely come.

The church is blessed with the use of an excellent facility on acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. (This is the building that was originally, superbly built by Evangelist Geoff Ramsay of Harvest Rain Ministries).

Wednesday 13 September 2006

Tivoli Miracle Centre

Whilst I was in Ipswich, I desired to catch-up with Pastor Fred Muiys of the Rivers of Life Christian Church (for whom I'd preached some ten years ago). In my spirit I saw a vision of he and I standing on a property looking at development and construction, and in my spirit I sensed this would take place at 11:30 on Tuesday.

I tried phoning on Monday, but his office was closed. So on Tuesday morning I phoned, and Fred said that he intended being on-site at 11:30, exactly like I'd sensed, so I arranged to meet.

When I first met Fred he was pastoring at Karana Downs, and still working full-time in the secular arena. He had plans to purchase two-and-a-half acres of land on which to build a sanctuary seating some 150 people. That was considered a fairly sizeable faith-step for a congregation their size.

But one day a visiting prophet said to Fred through the Spirit:

"You have a building plan, but your plans are too small - God's plans are ten times bigger. And God wants you on the other side of the river."

Some time afterwards Fred was invited by his denomination to combine his church with the Karalee church, and to assume the leadership over both.

As he drove over the Brisbane River from Karana Downs into Karalee, he remembered the prophecy that God wants you on the other side of the river - so he accepted the proposal.

Today I stood with Pastor Fred on the twenty-two acre former Tivoli Drive-In, which his congregation has recently purchased. They have obtained Council approval to build a 1500-seater auditorium, along with many other buildings and features including 200 landscaped carparks. Everything is exactly ten times bigger than his original plan, just as God said.

He feels commissioned to emphasize the healing ministry, therefore he is calling his church the Tivoli Miracle Centre. Since the church is to become a place for miracles, Pastor Fred said its very foundation needs to be miraculous. Consequently, they have achieved all of the development and construction so far without even seeing a bank.