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The Jesus Code: Part Three

Living the Jesus Code—Scriptural Foundations for Transformation

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will." – Romans 12:2 (NIV)

If you’ve been journeying with us through the Jesus Code Challenge, you’ll know this isn’t about religion—it’s about radical inner transformation. Romans 12:2 lays the foundation: the Jesus life is one of mind renewal, not worldly conformity. It’s about aligning our thoughts, habits, decisions, and responses with the heart of Christ.
In this blog, we’ll anchor the Jesus Code with Scripture, giving you a solid foundation for each mindset shift. These verses are not for memorization alone—they're for meditation, application, and practice.
Let’s walk through the Code with God’s Word as our guide.

Introduction:

The Jesus Code isn’t just a feel-good motto—it’s a spiritual lifestyle, rooted deeply in Scripture. If you’ve ever wondered how to move from just believing in Jesus to becoming like Jesus, then this blog is your fuel. This is for those who love the Word and who know that transformation happens not just by inspiration but through the Spirit-empowered discipline of applying Scripture to our daily lives.

Why Scripture?

Jesus lived by Scripture. He quoted it in the wilderness (Matthew 4), taught from it in the synagogue (Luke 4), and fulfilled it through his life and death (Luke 24:44). If we are to walk like Jesus, we must walk in the Word.

Romans 12:2 reminds us that real transformation happens when our minds are renewed. This renewal doesn’t happen passively—it happens as we soak in the Word, meditate on it, and put it into practice.

Jesus Code Values with Supporting Scripture:

Here are core values from the Jesus Code, paired with scriptural anchors to help guide you on your journey:

Love radically.
“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” – Matthew 5:44
Live humbly.
“He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” – Philippians 2:8
Speak truthfully.
“Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’...” – Matthew 5:37
Serve sacrificially.
“The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve...” – Matthew 20:28
Forgive quickly.
“Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” – Luke 6:37
Stay pure-hearted.
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” – Matthew 5:8
Pray consistently.
“Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” – Luke 5:16
Walk in integrity.
“Whoever claims to live in Him must live as Jesus did.” – 1 John 2:6
Persevere through trials.
“Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete...” – James 1:4
Live with joy and peace.
“My peace I give you... Do not let your hearts be troubled.” – John 14:27

The Jesus Code Challenge (Scripture Edition):

Use these verses not just to memorize but to internalize. Over the next 7 weeks, take on the challenge of living out one or more of these values intentionally. At the end of each week, return to the Jesus Code Self-Assessment, reflect on your progress, and recommit for the next round.

Remember: spiritual transformation is a journey, and every step you take counts.

A Final Word to Our Mavericks:

The Word of God is living and active (Hebrews 4:12). When you begin to live it—not just read it—you become a walking Bible, a living letter, and a reflection of Christ to the world.

This challenge is not about perfection—it’s about direction. It’s about progress, not performance.

So Mavericks, open your Bibles, open your hearts, and let’s write the Jesus Code into our lives—one verse, one day, one challenge at a time.

Shalom!

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In loving Memory of Harold Samuel Nicholls (1931-2019), Love you Dad!

The Jesus Code: Part Two

The Jesus Code Challenge

Living Like Jesus. One Week at a Time.

Live the Jesus Code: a simple conduct guide rooted in scripture. Practice compassion, honesty, and courage daily—start the 7-day challenge today.

INTRODUCTION

We live in a world full of noise—podcasts, influencers, sermons, debates, and endless online opinions about what it means to be Christian. But in the middle of it all, we often forget the most important part: Jesus himself.

What if we paused the debates, stripped away the distractions, and simply looked at how Jesus lived—his attitude, habits, mindset, and how he treated people?

Welcome to The Jesus Code Challenge—a 7-week invitation to live more intentionally, more kindly, and more courageously—just like Jesus did.

This isn't about religion. It’s about real alignment with the life of the one we say we follow. Not just belief—but behavior. Not just Sunday—but every day.

This challenge is for Mavericks—bold people who are done with fake faith and are ready for a radical, honest look in the mirror.

BASELINE: The Jesus Code Self-Assessment

Before you dive in, take a few minutes to reflect on your last 7 days. How closely did your mindset, actions, and interactions mirror the way Jesus lived?

Rate each of the 12 statements below on a scale of 1 to 5:

(1 = Rarely true · 5 = Always true)

MINDSET

1. I respond to stress and conflict with peace, not panic.

2. I regularly make time to reflect, rest, or pray.

3. I practice forgiveness—even when it’s hard.

4. I’m open to truth, even when it challenges me.

RELATIONSHIPS

5. I treat people with compassion—especially the overlooked.

6. I speak with kindness, even when I disagree.

7. I listen more than I judge.

8. I serve others, even when it’s inconvenient.

DAILY LIFE

9. I spend time with people others often ignore.

10. I handle money and success with humility and generosity.

11. I care about justice without being self-righteous.

12. I love others the way I want to be loved.

SCORING

48–60 | 🌟 Living the Jesus Code — You're walking the talk. Keep going.

36–47 | ✨ Growing in the Code — You’re on the journey. Stay intentional.

24–35 | 🌱 Awakening — You’re beginning to see. Lean in.

12–23 | 🔍 Reconnecting—A perfect time to reset and realign.

THE 7-WEEK JESUS CODE CHALLENGE

Now that you’ve got a baseline, here’s the challenge:

Over the next 7 weeks, revisit this assessment every 7 days. Don’t just score yourself—live it. Choose one or two Jesus Code principles to work on each week.

✔️ Reflect.

✔️ Adjust.

✔️ Try again.

✔️ Grow forward.

You can retake the test as many times as you want. Growth isn’t linear—but it is powerful.

SHARE + CONNECT

This journey is even better in community. Once you've taken the assessment, share your score or your reflection in the comments with your fellow Mavericks. You’re not alone.

Encourage one another. Share your wins. Be honest about your struggles. This is how transformation happens—together.

FINAL THOUGHT

The world doesn't need more people saying they follow Jesus. It needs people who live like he did—radically loving, deeply grounded, and full of grace and truth.

So here’s the challenge, Maverick:

Live it. Reflect it. Be it.

Are you in?

The Jesus Code starts now.

Shalom!

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It Was Good: Loving This Day

“Blessing” in Genesis 1 comes from the Hebrew word “barak,” meaning to kneel, praise, or empower with favour. In the blog ‘Was Good: Loving This Day,’ we explore the creation story not as a timeline debate, but as a guide to creativity, self-recognition, and inner value. Becoming Maverick means knowing that your progress—even unfinished—is already good.

It Was Good: Loving This Day

Regardless of your beliefs about God or your views on the timeline of creation, Genesis chapter one contains a powerful narrative filled with timeless wisdom. While theologians speak of a 6,000-year-old earth and scientists present a much longer timeline, this debate often becomes a distraction. What truly matters is the spirit of the story — and the Creator's attitude toward His work.

Whether you're building a business, writing a book, developing a website, or simply shaping your life, Genesis 1 offers a pattern and a mindset worth studying. One detail that stood out to me recently is this: after each stage of creation, God looked at what He had made and declared, “It was good.” And when He created humankind, He said, “It was very good.”

This practice of pausing, observing, and affirming progress holds deep meaning. It tells us that it's not only okay—it's wise—to stop and appreciate the work you've done so far. You may not be finished, and you may be far from your goal, but it is good. Give yourself that encouragement, especially when no one else sees what you’ve poured into your vision.

When God created Adam and Eve, they had no money, no wardrobe, and no worldly status—yet He blessed them. This reveals something profound: blessing is not about material wealth. You are not blessed because of what you own, but because of who you are. You are the blessing. Your life, your gifts, your presence—these are answers to someone’s prayer.

This truth must be believed aggressively: your value is within you. Unleash it with confidence and purpose.

Maverick, be encouraged. The journey of becoming who you were made to be is not always easy. It can be lonely. But remember: “The end of a thing is better than its beginning.” (Ecclesiastes 7:8) And don’t long for the “good old days.” As Ecclesiastes 7:10 says, “It is not wise to ask, ‘Why were the old days better than these?’”

You are not done yet. You are still being formed. And already—it is good.

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The Genesis Moment

The Genesis Moment: Forming Order During Chaos

Genesis means “beginning,” teaching us to create order from chaos. Instead of fearing disorder, we can establish structure, embrace responsibility, and build a foundation for growth. Becoming Maverick means transforming through challenges and stepping into stewardship over your life. Let's apply the Genesis Mindset today.

Genesis—it means "beginning."

I often find myself returning to the first few chapters of Genesis, especially when life feels out of control and chaotic or when I'm facing things I don’t fully understand. There’s something about these opening words of the Bible that carries profound wisdom—wisdom we often overlook. Becoming Maverick is about stepping back, recognizing the principles that govern life, and applying them with intention.

Too often, we get caught up in religious or scientific debates about Genesis and miss the principles it offers for how life on earth actually works. But if we take a step back and simply look at the pattern of creation, we begin to see powerful truths that apply to our daily lives, our struggles, and our growth.

In life, we often find ourselves in a state of chaos—formless and void, just like the earth in the beginning (Genesis 1:2). We tend to interpret these moments as the end—the death of something great, the failure of a dream, or the unraveling of what we once built. But what if chaos isn’t the end?

What if chaos is actually the beginning of something new?

What if the discomfort, uncertainty, and confusion we experience are not signs of destruction, but rather signs of creation in progress?

I like to compare this to the process of decomposition. It doesn’t happen at the end of life—it happens at the beginning. It’s nature’s way of breaking down former life structures into their simplest components, making them available to become something entirely new.

This is the Genesis Mindset—a way of seeing our lives through the same lens as the creation story, recognizing that every great transformation begins with chaos, is shaped by order, and is sustained by stewardship.

Let’s break it down.

1. Chaos Precedes Creation

Genesis 1:2 describes the earth as "formless and void"—a place of darkness and uncertainty. And yet, this is exactly where God begins His work.

Principle: If your life feels chaotic, that doesn’t mean it’s over. It means something new is about to take shape.

Practical Takeaway:

Instead of resisting chaos, ask what it’s making room for.
What needs to be cleared away so that something better can emerge?
Instead of seeing confusion as failure, see it as a transition into something new.

2. Order is the First Step

God’s first creative act was not making things but bringing order—He separated light from darkness, land from water, day from night. Before He created living things, He structured the environment.

Principle: The first step to any breakthrough is creating order.

Practical Takeaway:

When life feels overwhelming, don’t try to "fix everything at once"—start by creating structure.
Identify what’s out of alignment. Is it your finances? Your relationships? Your habits?
Small, consistent steps toward order set the foundation for growth. The first step could be as simple as cleaning the room you are in.

3. Systems Sustain Growth

Once order was established, God created systems—the cycle of seasons, the balance between sky, sea, and land. Creation is about designing self-sustaining ecosystems rather than just making new things.

Principle: True growth is about building systems that make success inevitable rather than just working harder.

Practical Takeaway:

Whether in business, health, or relationships, ask yourself: Do I have a system in place?
Want financial freedom? You need a budgeting and investing system.
Want spiritual growth? You need a consistent practice of learning, prayer, and reflection.
Success isn’t just about willpower—it’s about designing a system that naturally leads to results.

4. Stewardship Determines Reward

When mankind was created, they were given dominion. But dominion meant responsibility and stewardship over the earth (Genesis 1:26-28). We often view dominion as ruling by force, but this is a deeply flawed way of thinking.

Principle: Don’t be demanding—be commanding. You get more by managing well what you already have, not by demanding more.

Practical Takeaway:

If you want to be trusted with more, manage what you already have with excellence.
Take care of the relationships, opportunities, and resources you have now, and more will come.
If you say, "I can't manage with this," or "I’m not coping," it means you’re not yet ready for more. This truth is hard to swallow, especially when facing financial distress, but growth follows good stewardship.

5. Respect the System, or Face the Consequences

The same system that allowed humanity to thrive also had boundaries. When those boundaries were violated (Genesis 3), destruction followed.

Principle: Every system has rules. If you violate them, you set yourself up for failure.

Practical Takeaway:

Success in any area of life is about understanding the principles that govern it.
There are principles and laws that govern life on earth—ignoring them doesn’t exempt you from their effects.
There’s a saying: "You will learn the lesson until you LEARN the lesson." Often, we suffer because we are violating laws we aren’t even aware of.

Neglect your health? It deteriorates.
Ignore financial discipline? You struggle.
Disrespect relationships? They break down.

Living wisely means understanding the laws that create success and choosing to align with them.

The Genesis Mindset: A New Way to See Your Life

Take your Genesis moment and develop a Genesis Mindset. Genesis isn’t just a story about the world’s creation—it’s a pattern for how all things are created:

Chaos isn’t the end—it’s the starting point.
Order comes first—before growth, before success.
Systems create sustainability—random effort doesn’t.
Stewardship determines expansion—you manage well before you get more.
Disregard systems, and you destroy yourself.

So, when life feels chaotic, don’t see it as destruction. See it as a Genesis Moment.

A new beginning.

A chance to bring order, implement systems, and step into a new level of growth.

Because the Genesis Mindset teaches us that every great transformation begins in the dark, takes shape through structure, and thrives through stewardship.

Mavericks, I know the journey isn’t always easy. We all face moments where everything seems to be falling apart. But what if, instead of resisting the chaos, we embraced it as the birthplace of transformation?

Forming order out of chaos is the pattern of creation. When life feels overwhelming, ask yourself: What systems do I need to establish? What structures will allow me to grow? What internal shifts will move me from disorder to clarity?

The Genesis Mindset will guide you through any new beginning. Not all new beginnings are forced upon us—sometimes, we willingly take on new challenges, a new job, a new house, a new relationship. These principles still apply.

Your inner work will lead to outward transformation.

So, Mavericks, don’t fear the chaos—build within it. Grow through it. Becoming Maverick means learning how to create order, embrace responsibility, and step into the role of a steward over your own life.

Let’s move forward with intention—one step at a time.

Join the Conversation

Thank you for reading to the end. What is your strategy for the New Year? Let’s start a conversation—leave a comment below!

Shalom!

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Feeling inspired? If my content has brought a smile to your face, a R35 treat of coffee and a cupcake would do the same for me! Your kindness adds a touch of sweetness to my day and reminds me that my work is valued. Every sip and bite will be a delicious reminder of your support. Thank you for spreading joy and making my creative process even sweeter!

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Love what you see? Whether it’s a tiny espresso shot or a grand dessert feast, your surprise gift of any amount fills my heart with excitement and keeps my creativity bubbling! Your generosity, in whatever form it takes, brings unexpected joy to my day and propels me forward.

Thank you for your support and for making this journey so much more fun and rewarding!

New Beginnings: New Year, New Growth

Mark 2:1–12, “Let us begin this new year with these words of wisdom as motivation: speak up, reach out, and carry your friends toward healing. Together, we are stronger.”

Happy New Year, Mavericks!

What I’m about to share has been brewing inside me for months. I started putting pen to paper about a month ago, but I discarded several drafts before settling on this version. Now, as the new year gets underway, I find myself reflecting more deeply on what it means to face challenges head-on and come out stronger—what it means to embrace the journey of Becoming Maverick.

For many, the new year is a time for quick resolutions and goal-setting. For me, this process has evolved into something longer and more intentional over the past few years. My annual reflection and goal-setting now begins in mid-December and stretches over 30 to 60 days, sometimes ending in February. It’s not just about ticking items off a list—it’s about taking the time to honestly assess where I’ve been, what I’ve faced, and where I’m headed. It’s about identifying the changes I need to make to get there. This could include upgrading beliefs that no longer serve me, acquiring new skills or resources, or even building or ending personal or business relationships. It’s about understanding myself, the world, and making the necessary edits to my game plan.

This year, I had to confront the truth that 2024 was incredibly tough. There were long stretches—50 to 60% of the time—where I felt like I was walking around with a hole in my heart. A heaviness I couldn’t shake. Have you ever felt like you wanted to cry but couldn’t find the tears? That’s where I was. Anxiety was constantly in the red zone, and I didn’t know where to turn. I couldn’t even put into words what was wrong, and I felt my friends were tired of hearing the same sad stories. So, I kept it to myself.

In the middle of all this, one Bible story kept coming to mind: the paralyzed man and his friends in Mark 2:1–12. These friends carried their lame companion to Jesus, even breaking open a roof to ensure he got the healing he needed. That story has stayed with me because I realized—I was the lame man.

As an introvert leaning toward ambivert tendencies, I deeply value my alone time. But this year reinforced something important: we were not designed to live in isolation. Having time to recharge is necessary, but prolonged isolation can be dangerous—it can drive a person to despair. My friend Sam and I often discuss this: introverts need balance. We need alone time, but we also need connection. The truth is, that introverts love and need people, just in a different manner than extroverts.

I am filled with gratitude because, despite the challenges, I had a special group of friends and family who carried me through. At times, I felt paralyzed by my struggles—financially, emotionally, spiritually, and even physically unable to move forward. Like the lame man in the story, I was dependent on others to get me to a place of healing. And I can honestly say I wouldn’t have made it without them.

Even now, there are days when life doesn’t go the way I want, and I relapse into moments of stress or depression. But I’ve come a long way, thanks to those who stayed with me when I couldn’t carry myself.

Like the paralyzed man’s friends, they didn’t let me struggle alone. They reminded me of an important truth: we were not designed to live in isolation. Healing and breakthroughs happen in the context of connection and support.

Mavericks, I know how hard it can be to reach out for help—especially for men. Society often tells us to “tough it out,” to hide our struggles, and to see vulnerability as weakness. But let me encourage you: speak up when you need help. Don’t let pride or fear silence you. Healing begins when we allow others to walk with us.

And to those who see a friend struggling—don’t let go too soon. Sometimes we assume someone is “fine” and move on, leaving them to struggle alone when they still need us. Healing takes time, and your presence might make all the difference.

In the early 2000s, the singer-songwriter Stacie Orrico released a song called I Promise. The lyrics ask:

"Will I take tender, tender care of you?
Take your darkest night and make it bright for you?
Will I be there to make you strong and to lean on?
When this world has turned so cold, will I be the one that’s there to hold?"

This is the kind of friendship we all need—and the kind we can offer to others.

Ask your friends, “How are you, really?” And when you do, be thoughtful. Men and women open up differently; often, men open up better shoulder-to-shoulder rather than face-to-face. Whether it’s through a shared activity, a quiet moment, or simply listening without judgment or solutions, your support matters. Sometimes, all someone needs is a listening ear.

Mavericks, we were designed to be connected. So carry your friends when they can’t carry themselves. Break through the “roof” of silence and stigma. Don’t let anyone be left struggling alone. Be the friend who stays, who listens, and who lifts others toward healing. Too often, we don’t look deeply enough at a problem to find the root that would resolve it. We regard most of our troubles as externally generated, but in reality, most are internally generated—even the financial ones. There are deep internal wounds that require healing before our external reality can change. In other words, we need to heal. So we must learn how to heal, and how to bring ourselves to a point of healing.

And that, my friends, is what Becoming Maverick is all about: leaning into community, embracing vulnerability, and choosing connection over isolation. Let’s step boldly into this new year with courage, compassion, and the commitment to be there for each other when it matters most. Together, we are stronger.

Join the Conversation

Thank you for reading to the end. What is your strategy for the New Year? Let’s start a conversation—leave a comment below!

Shalom!

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What are my rights?

Human rights are the basic freedoms and protections every individual is entitled to, ensuring dignity, equality, and justice. However, without personal responsibility, the pursuit of rights can become harmful, leading to conflict. True freedom arises when rights are balanced with accountability for our actions.

Once Again, It’s About Rights… Or Is It?

Once again, the issue of "rights" came up in a conversation with my teenage daughter. It got me thinking about how our education system and ultra-liberal culture place too much emphasis on rights. Now, don’t get me wrong—rights are important—but focusing solely on rights, especially when we demand them at the expense of everything else, can devalue us. When people become obsessed with asserting their rights, they often end up hurting themselves or others. Consider the many wars fought and countless lives lost in the name of "rights."

Look at the language used in political discourse today. Phrases like "The State of Israel has the right to defend itself" are often true but at what cost? How many innocent lives must be lost for that right to be enforced?

In some workplaces, individuals demand their "right" to speak freely, without any concern for their colleagues. While freedom of speech is essential, using it to tear others down can destroy morale, create divisions, and cause job losses.

Our culture's obsession with rights often pulls us away from true happiness and fulfillment. Imagine a world where, instead of always asserting our rights, we embraced responsibility. Responsibility empowers us—it is the key to building strong families, thriving workplaces, and peaceful communities. When we focus on what we can give, rather than what we can get, we elevate ourselves and those around us.

What If We Focused on Responsibility?

Imagine a world where, instead of everyone clamoring for their rights, people embraced responsibility. What if we were more focused on improving ourselves, protecting our well-being, and contributing to the greater good? Reflecting on this, I asked ChatGPT to help me craft a Bill of Responsibilities to complement South Africa's Bill of Rights. Below is what we came up with:

Personal Bill of Responsibilities

Equality

It is my responsibility to treat myself with fairness and respect. I will not allow others to limit me based on my race, gender, or other personal characteristics.

Human Dignity

I am responsible for maintaining my self-respect and protecting my dignity through actions that uplift me.

Life

I am responsible for my health, safety, and happiness, making decisions that preserve my well-being.

Freedom and Security of the Person

It is my responsibility to ensure my personal freedom by avoiding harmful situations and standing up for myself when necessary.

Privacy

I am responsible for protecting my personal space and safeguarding my personal information.

Freedom of Expression

I will express myself with integrity, ensuring that my words and actions reflect my values and truth.

Freedom of Association

It is my responsibility to choose associations wisely, aligning with people and groups that promote my well-being and goals.

Political Rights

I will use my political rights to contribute to society in ways that reflect my values and aspirations.

Environment

I am responsible for making sustainable choices that reduce my ecological impact and contribute to a better future.

Responsibility Over Rights

What would our world look like if we embraced responsibility over rights? By taking responsibility for our actions and choices, we cultivate lives rooted in personal accountability, integrity, and growth. This approach empowers us to create the life we desire, while honoring respect, fairness, and self-care.

Reflect & Act

Today, I encourage you to reflect on this idea: instead of focusing on rights, adopt an attitude of responsibility. In Genesis, after God created humans, He gave them responsibilities, not rights. The lesson is clear—rights without responsibility can be dangerous.

Let’s shift our focus from what we deserve to what we can do. We are Becoming Mavericks, changing the world through personal accountability.

Scriptures for reflection:

Genesis 2:15: "The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it."
Luke 12:48: "To whom much is given, much will be required."

Join the Conversation

Thank you for reading to the end. I invite you to reflect on your personal responsibilities. How are you embracing responsibility in your life? Let’s start a conversation—leave a comment below!

Shalom!

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How Much Does God Love Me?

The Hidden Secrets in Nature Revealed

God's love for you is immeasurable, demonstrated through the intricate and purposeful design of nature, which reflects His care, wisdom, and provision for all aspects of your life. From the changing seasons to the instincts of animals, and even the complexities of human biology, God's love and presence are evident, showing His desire for your well-being and deep connection with Him.

The journey of Becoming Maverick is a journey of faith, and it is essential to recognize the profound ways God reveals Himself to us through His creation. The foundation for this understanding can be found in Romans 1:19-20: "Since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse." This scripture tells us that God has embedded wisdom within nature, making His presence and love evident to all. I am passionate about nature, which led me to study Nature Conservation at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology. My love for people kicked off my career as an environmental educator, and now I am a social entrepreneur. I firmly believe that the wisdom of God is stored in nature, patiently waiting for us to unpack it.

God’s Love Manifested in Creation

God's creation is not just a display of His power and creativity; it is also a testament to His love for humanity. When we look at the intricate design and balance in nature, we see a clear reflection of God's care and provision for our needs. The beauty and functionality of the natural world around us are constant reminders of His love and the wisdom He provides.

Consider the example of the changing seasons. Each season brings unique beauty and purpose. Spring, with its blossoming flowers and new life, reminds us of renewal and hope. Summer's warmth and abundance speak of growth and fulfillment. Autumn's harvest and vibrant colors symbolize maturity and preparation. Winter, though cold and seemingly lifeless, is a period of rest and reflection. Through these seasons, God teaches us about the cycles of life and the importance of patience, perseverance, and trust in His timing.

Nature as a Source of Wisdom

God has designed nature to be a source of wisdom, guiding us in all aspects of life. For instance, the ant teaches us about diligence and hard work (Proverbs 6:6-8), while the Eagle's ability to soar high and renew its strength (Isaiah 40:31) illustrates the power of rising above challenges and finding strength in God. The interconnectedness of ecosystems reflects the importance of community and mutual support.

In the animal kingdom, we see examples of God’s love and care. A mother Lion fiercely protects her cubs from danger and patiently trains them to hunt and survive, demonstrating a powerful love that mirrors God’s protective and nurturing nature. Similarly, the African Rock Python cares for its eggs until they hatch, showcasing a deep level of commitment and care.

Moreover, human biology is a testament to God’s wisdom and love. God loved us so much that He gave us full control over certain functions, like moving our limbs, while automating crucial functions like our heartbeat. Imagine the disaster if we had to consciously control our heart rate—we might forget or regulate it incorrectly, leading to dire consequences. This design reflects God’s care in ensuring our survival and well-being without burdening us with tasks that could overwhelm us.

Nature as a Reflection of God’s Love

God's love is further evident in the way nature provides for our existence. The air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat—all are meticulously designed to sustain us. This provision extends beyond physical needs to encompass emotional and spiritual nourishment. The tranquility of a forest, the majesty of mountains, and the soothing rhythm of ocean waves all speak to God’s desire for us to find peace and solace in His creation.

Psalm 19:1-4 eloquently expresses this idea: "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world." Nature continuously communicates God’s presence and His love for us, inviting us to deepen our relationship with Him and with each other.

Embracing God’s Love and Wisdom

As we reflect on the ways God reveals His love and wisdom through creation, let us strive to embrace these truths in our lives. By appreciating the beauty and lessons found in nature, we can grow closer to God and develop a deeper understanding of His character. Let us also learn to love each other as He loves us, recognizing that the same God who created the vast universe also cares intimately for each one of us.

In conclusion, God's creation is a powerful testimony of His eternal power and divine nature. Through the natural world, He reveals His wisdom and love, guiding us in our journey of faith. Fellow mavericks, let us open our hearts and minds to the lessons He has woven into the fabric of creation, and may we live in a way that reflects His love and grace to those around us.

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Shalom!

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A Living Sacrifice: Renewing the Mind

Introduction:

In our recent discussions about being relevant and undergoing transformation, it's crucial to acknowledge the spiritual dimensions of these concepts. Turning to scripture can offer valuable insights. In the hustle of our daily lives, it's easy to lose sight of our spiritual well-being. Today, let's delve into Romans 12:1-2 for a devotional journey that explores the transformative power of renewing our minds.

Scripture:

Romans 12:1-2 (NIV):

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."

Reflection:

Given the devotional nature of this blog, let's take it slow and consider each concept. Over the next three days, focus on three subtopics. During your reflection, write a short note to God. This note should not be a prayer request, so be creative.

Day 1 - Offering Ourselves as a Living Sacrifice:

The verse urges us to offer our bodies as living sacrifices. In a world that often encourages self-centeredness, this act of sacrifice is a counter-cultural devotion. Reflect on what it means to present your life as an offering to God. Action point: Identify one area in your life where you can sacrificially serve others.

Day 2 - Transformation Through Mind Renewal:

The key to transformation lies in the renewal of the mind. Consider your thought patterns, perspectives, and beliefs. How can intentional mind renewal align your thinking with God's will? Action point: Choose one negative thought pattern to actively challenge and replace with a positive, godly perspective.

Day 3 - Non-Conformity to the World:

The call to non-conformity challenges us to resist being molded by the world's values. How can you actively resist conformity to societal pressures and instead embrace God's transformative work? Action point: Identify one societal pressure you will intentionally resist this week.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, as we offer ourselves as living sacrifices, help us renew our minds daily. Grant us the strength to resist conformity to worldly patterns, and guide us in aligning our thoughts with Your perfect will. Amen.

Closing

Carry the essence of this devotional with you each day. May the renewal of your mind be a daily progress essential to your journey of Becoming Mavericks. Remember, consistent small changes in your life add up and become exponential on the transformative journey of becoming Maverick.

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Enjoy the remainder of your day.

Shalom!

Learn to Heal

In our previous blog, we explored the concept of relevance, a worthy pursuit for 2024. Now, let's delve into another vital aspect of our journey – healing and healthy living. Brace yourself; my perspective might challenge some preconceived notions, but I invite you to read this blog devotionally.

Approaching this topic, I wear my hat as a Bible-reading believer in God. One of my favorite principles from the Bible lies in Romans 12 – the principle of transformation. In Romans 12:2 (NIV), we find guidance: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." But what does it mean to renew the mind, especially in the year 2024, the age of information? Mind renewal is an educational process. In our exploration of health, we can't ignore the basics of biology. What does science have to do with healing, you may ask? Well, God is the original Scientist, the inventor of every biological process. Healing is, fundamentally, a biological process. Whether physical or emotional, when a biological being is injured, the body requires healing. Psalm 147:3 (NIV) reminds us: "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Now, let's delve into the scientific realm of healing.

The key requirement for healing (transformation within the body) is the correct environment, and that environment is created in the mind. The mind releases a cocktail of chemicals and processes that restore the body to homeostasis. Proverbs 4:23 (NIV) guides us: "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.

" In our journey, let's explore two significant terms: "autophagy" and "homeostasis." Autophagy is one of God's designed healing processes, highlighting the intricate wisdom in our body's design. It's the body's way of cleaning out damaged cells and regenerating new, healthy ones. So, is healing in church real? Yes, but the frequency has changed. The environment, or the mindset, plays a crucial role.

Returning to the book of Romans, mind renewal is an active process, not passive waiting for outside intervention. Learn to create an environment that restores your body to a healthy state. This doesn't diminish your belief in God; it enhances your appreciation for His wisdom and love. If there's something about your body you're not happy with, learn about it. Understanding how your body works improves your quality of life and may extend your lifespan.

Embrace the process of healing; love and take care of yourself – you are valuable. The Bible states clearly, 'we perish due to a lack of knowledge.' Hosea 4:6 (NIV) emphasizes: "my people are destroyed from lack of knowledge." Our bodies were designed to function in a specific way. Learning about God's design for your body can bring you closer to Him. Healthy living is a noble pursuit, and getting it right provides a better opportunity to serve the Kingdom of God well.

Pursue knowledge, embrace wisdom, and journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. In understanding the science behind healing, we acknowledge that our body is a marvel of creation, intricately designed by God. The healing processes, such as autophagy, reveal the divine wisdom in the way our bodies regenerate and maintain balance. As we explore the realms of faith and science, we find a harmonious melody guiding us toward a healthier, purposeful life.

Conclusion:

As we conclude this exploration into the realms of healing and healthy living on the journey of "Becoming Maverick," I extend my heartfelt gratitude to you, dear readers. The intricacies of this topic are vast, and this blog only scratches the surface.

The year 2024 presents an opportunity for each of us to delve deeper into the understanding of human biology, a fascinating journey that aligns with the principles of "Becoming Maverick." Challenge yourself to explore the wonders of the body, the divine intricacies that God designed, and the scientific marvels that continue to unfold.

Your quest for knowledge is not merely a personal endeavor but a contribution to a healthier, more informed community. As we navigate the nexus of faith and science, let us marvel at the wisdom encapsulated in our bodies and be inspired to live lives that honor the intricate design bestowed upon us. Thank you for being part of the evolving narrative of "Becoming Maverick" on Blogger.com.

May your journey be filled with discovery, growth, and a deepening understanding of the incredible vessel that is your body. Until the next exploration, keep embracing your uniqueness, seeking relevance, and venturing into the uncharted territories of knowledge.

Shalom!

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