“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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How Much Does God Love Me? The Hidden Secrets in Creation

What Is Love?

Love is often described as deep affection, care, or devotion, but God’s love goes beyond human understanding. It’s unconditional, sacrificial, and ever-present—reflected in the beauty and wisdom of nature, from the changing seasons to the care of animals. Discover how creation reveals the depth of God’s love for you.

How Much Does God Love Me?

The Hidden Secrets in Nature Revealed

God's love for you is immeasurable, visible in the intricate and purposeful design of nature. Every detail—from the changing seasons to the instincts of animals, and even the complexities of our own biology—reflects His care, wisdom, and provision. These signs show His desire for your well-being and His deep connection with you.

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God Loves Me

The journey of Becoming Maverick is a journey of faith, and one of the most profound ways God reveals Himself is through His creation. Romans 1:19-20 reminds us:

"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 shows that God has embedded wisdom within nature, making His presence and love evident to all. My own passion for nature led me to study Nature Conservation at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, while my love for people began my career as an environmental educator. Today, as a social entrepreneur, I firmly believe that God’s wisdom is patiently stored in nature, waiting for us to discover and learn from it.

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God’s Love Manifested in Creation

God's creation is more than a display of His power and creativity—it is a testament to His love. Every detail, every balance in the natural world, reflects His care and provision.

Take the changing seasons, for example:

• Spring brings blossoming flowers and new life, reminding us of renewal and hope.

• Summer offers warmth and abundance, speaking of growth and fulfillment.

• Autumn provides harvest and vibrant colors, symbolizing maturity and preparation.

• Winter, though cold and seemingly lifeless, invites rest and reflection.

Through these cycles, God teaches patience, perseverance, and trust in His timing.

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Nature as a Source of Wisdom

God designed nature to teach and guide us. The ant shows diligence and hard work (Proverbs 6:6-8), while the eagle demonstrates how to rise above challenges and find strength in God (Isaiah 40:31). Ecosystems remind us of the importance of community and mutual support.

Animals also reflect God’s love:

• A lioness fiercely protects her cubs, mirroring God’s protective nature.

• The African Rock Python carefully tends its eggs, showcasing patience and care.

Even human biology is a testament to God’s wisdom. He gave us control over certain functions, like moving our limbs, while automating vital processes like our heartbeat. Imagine the disaster if we had to consciously regulate our hearts! This design shows His thoughtful care for our survival and well-being.

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Nature as a Reflection of God’s Love

God’s love is evident in how nature provides for us. The air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat are all meticulously designed. Beyond physical needs, nature nourishes us emotionally and spiritually—the serenity of forests, the majesty of mountains, and the rhythm of ocean waves all remind us of His desire for peace in our lives.

Psalm 19:1-4 expresses this beautifully:

"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 continually speaks of God’s presence and invites us to grow closer to Him.

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Embracing God’s Love and Wisdom

As we reflect on the ways God reveals His love and wisdom through creation, let us embrace these truths. By appreciating the lessons and beauty in nature, we deepen our understanding of God and learn to love each other as He loves us. The same God who crafted the universe also cares intimately for each of us.

In conclusion, God’s creation is a powerful testament to His eternal power and divine nature. Fellow mavericks, let us open our hearts to the lessons woven into the fabric of creation and live in a way that reflects His love and grace.

I’d love to hear from you! Say Hi in the comments and click Follow so you don’t miss any part of the Becoming Maverick journey.

Shalom!

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A Living Sacrifice: Renewing the Mind

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.

Follow the link for the Jepg download of the devotional booklet.

Click to get the Free Devotion Here

And there is more

Here is a video you can use to share with friends that need some encouragement...

Watch on YouTube

Enjoy the remainder of your day.

Shalom!

Learn to Heal

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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Understand the Power in Your Name | Identity, Calling & Purpose

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Power

/ˈpaʊə/ noun

Power is the capacity or ability to influence outcomes, shape identity, and produce change—whether through action, authority, or meaning. At its deepest level, power is not merely force, but the ability to define reality.

Understand the Power in Your Name

Power is often misunderstood. We associate it with control, status, or dominance. But some of the most profound power we will ever encounter is far quieter—and far more personal.

One of the earliest demonstrations of power recorded in Scripture is not an act of strength, conquest, or command. It is an act of naming.

Before Adam planted, ruled, or built anything, his first responsibility was to name the animals. This detail is not accidental. Naming was not admin work—it was authority. To name something was to recognise its essence, define its identity, and establish its place in the world.

That same principle is still at work today.

Naming Is an Act of Creation

Whenever you name something—a child, a business, a vision, even a problem—you are doing more than assigning a label. You are shaping perception. You are setting boundaries. You are releasing expectation.

Names carry meaning.

Meaning shapes identity.

Identity determines potential.

This is why words spoken over us in childhood linger long into adulthood. This is why labels—good or bad—stick. And this is why the names we answer to matter far more than we realise.

Your Name Is Your Calling

I am convinced of this: your name is your calling.

It is not merely tied to it—it is what you have and are being called.

Some people need to step more confidently into their name, to fully inhabit it rather than minimise it, mock it, or shrink from it. Others may need to seriously consider a name change—not as rejection of their past, but as an act of alignment with who they are becoming.

Either way, the truth remains:

What you consistently allow people to call you is what you begin to become.

We live in a world saturated with language, yet remarkably careless with words. We underestimate how deeply they embed themselves in the human soul.

The Weight of Words

There’s a widely referenced idea in psychology and communication that it takes significantly more positive input to override a single negative word. Some suggest it can take up to 17 affirming statements to counteract one negative label.

Let that sink in.

If one person repeatedly calls you weak, useless, difficult, or not enough, that word doesn’t just pass through you—it settles. And undoing that damage takes intentional, repeated truth spoken over time.

This is why joking labels, careless criticism, and “that’s just how they are” language can be so destructive. Words don’t just describe reality—they reinforce it.

The Inheritance Hidden in Names

Some people carry names rich with history, intention, and strength. Others carry names given without thought, or worse, spoken under pressure, pain, or limitation.

That’s not about blame—it’s about awareness.

Reclaiming identity sometimes means redefining what your name means to you. Other times, it means courageously changing it—legally, symbolically, or relationally.

Becoming Maverick begins when you stop living under names that were never meant to define you.

My Name, My Story

When I reflect on my own journey, I can’t ignore the connection between my name and my lived experience.

My surname, Nicholls, is rooted in meaning associated with conqueror or victory of the people. For most of my life, I didn’t think much of it. But looking back, I can see a clear pattern: resilience, endurance, and an almost stubborn refusal to quit—even when quitting would have made sense.

I’ve faced an unbelievable number of challenges. Some external. Some deeply personal. Yet overcoming has always been part of the story. In hindsight, I believe that identity—to conquer—has been quietly reinforcing my posture toward life all along.

For years, I disliked my middle name, Wayne. It felt awkward, unnecessary. But once I understood how names shape behaviour and daily posture, I began to view it differently.

And then there’s Steven—a name historically associated with leadership and responsibility. Perhaps that explains why leadership roles have so often found me, even when I didn’t go looking for them.

Coincidence? Maybe.

Pattern? Without question.

Becoming Maverick Means Choosing What You Answer To

An Everyday Maverick does not passively accept the labels handed down by society, culture, family, or history. We examine them. We challenge them. We decide which names we will answer to—and which ones we will no longer carry.

Because once you understand the power in your name, you begin to live with intention. You speak differently. You allow different voices access to your life. And you stop shrinking under words that were never meant to define you.

So here’s the real question:

What are you called—and who decided that?

Some of us need to step boldly into our name.

Others need to lay one down and choose a new one.

Either way, reclaiming your name is reclaiming your power.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, experiences, and stories around names, identity, and calling. Let’s keep the conversation going.

Shalom!

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Photo by RDNE Stock project: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-arranging-name-tags-with-laces-on-a-desk-7648472/