Blended Not Shaken Ministries and Publications

Christian step/single parent and blended families ministry.

My journey of faith.. from now

A few days ago, my husband and I made the decision that, once and for all, I would no longer accept any relief teaching work but would follow what the Lord directed me to do nearly 4 years ago- not to use relief teaching as a form of income but to rely on God and His provision as I step out to strengthen my faith and see which direction He was leading me in. Not surprisingly, since the conception of Blended not Shaken Ministries and Publications in 2014, I have needed to exercise my faith ‘muscles’ and trust God for every opportunity, every piece of funding, every invitation to speak about the new ministry and to share my testimony and every form of support that’s needed to begin any new venture. But this occurred along side my teaching work and I was never at peace about it. I sensed my heart was divided and that I was clinging to the need to still be defined as a “teacher”. My mind said that by working as a teacher it ‘made sense’ in the natural and was sensible.But I was wrestling within. I believed deep down that I was not being completely obedient to what the Lord had said to me a few years before so that, in my mind along with what I’ve read about in scripture, equated to DIS-obedience. When I completed a Cert. IV in Christian Ministry and Theology 18 months ago, I sensed strongly then that I was to pursue the steps needed to become a pastor but had no idea what that would entail. Yet I was certain about 2 things:

1. Any pastoral work I did would be specialised towards those I was already ministering to, i.e single and step parents and their families and

2. Any pastor credentials would not be confined to one denomination and my local church but would also extend to other Christian contexts like education and counselling.

But when nothing tangible came my way directly after completing my studies (as I wrongly assumed it would), I did a Peter and “went back to fishing”. Any time that we take matters into our own hands, live in deliberate sin and make carnal and foolish assumptions,”the peace that the passes all understanding” alludes us. It really is the safest and most sensible to be in God’s will for you at all times. So, when the decision was finally made last Sunday night and that I was now released from the obligation of having to relief teach, I felt a burden lift and a peace return that for the past few days I have been cherishing. I still have NO idea what the future holds for me and the implications of such on my family and our future except that..

“Those who trust the Lord shall not lack any good thing.” (Psalm 34:10b) and “…will never be put to shame.” (Psalm 25:3)

I also know that “Without faith it is impossible to please Him”

(Hebrews 11:6) and “The righteous shall live by faith.” (Romans 1:17, Galatians 3:11, Hebrews 10:38)

And I desire that these scriptures define what my life looks like from now on. It’s not that I’ve been completely out of God’s will until this point nor lived by faith before because I have, but I am excited about deepening the faith I already possess and walk from teaching into pastoring. Now many may argue that they are one in the same and that you can minister to everyone anywhere you are and in whatever vocation you are in. That is true. Yet I used this valid argument for the past 18 months and it did not bring ME peace because it was not what God had told ME to do.

I pray for those reading this blog that you would seek the Lord for what is His will for your life in this current season and learn to grow deeper in your faith, enjoying to the fullest the safety of trusting God in every facet of your life and the peace of following Him wholeheartedly. It’s an amazing ride- that’s for sure!

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TESTIMONIALS

What people say?

My Two Houses was one of my favourite books as a younger person. It helped me understand how I was feeling about having two homes. I feel as though Karina’s books have simplified a confusing situation, in a way for all ages to understand.

Charlotte

There is affirmation and encouragement to single dads and mums through “Let’s shout out to single dads” and “Sing a song to single mums”, anchoring their value, peace and endurance in the Word of God.

Librarian

Clear, fun explanations in “My family bush” of hard to decipher terms like half-brother and half-sister, full brother or sister, step-parent and how they connect to the relationships within a family.  Relating that to Jesus’ own family could be a revelation to children that their own family structure is not so different after all, that families who love and care for each other are part of God’s plan, no matter how they are made up.

Librarian

One step at a time: a step family journal“ is an honest, humorous yet life and faith affirming read for those approaching and in middle years. The use of illustrations in the text make it appealing and engaging.

Librarian

Karina’s books are very helpful when you struggle to relate to a child of separated or divorced parents when you haven’t experienced this yourself. I have quietly read or given time for a child to read one of the books and then wait for their responses. I find Karina’s books extremely helpful in my ministry to children.

Chaplain

I am often in awe of God’s amazing timing! My morning began with feelings of despair over a family relationship that had broken down. I poured out my heart to the Lord, seeking His comfort and guidance. A short time later there was a knock on my door and the postie handed me a package. It was Karina’s book “Sing a Song to Single Mums”. As I read, I came across a page that spoke directly to my situation!

Even down to the illustration! My day ended with renewed hope in God’s promise that He works all things… good things and bad things… together, for the good of those who love Him. I am so thankful to Karina for writing such a beautiful book and for the Lord’s timing in delivering it into my hands precisely when I needed to read it!

Single Mum

Caught in the Middle is one of my favourite books because, whenever I read it, I feel close to God.

River

I read My Two Houses with my entire Year 5 class. They loved it! It began a wonderful conversation which allowed many students to be vulnerable enough to be open about their feelings and situations at home as well as to a better understanding of what some of their classmates go through with divorced parents.

Primary Teacher

I have used My Two Houses with a 13-year boy during one of my sessions with him. He loved that he could relate so well with the book, stating, “That’s just like me” and I could see a change in his demeanour and body language in his knowing that there are other kids out there, just like him.

School Counselor

As a nuclear family, we love that the books contain so much scripture in teaching our children God’s word.

Ces, Father of 5, Pastor

Karina’s books give children permission to have their feelings validated and provide comfort and healing to their souls.

Tania

When it comes to blending 2 families together or doing it by yourself there are a number of unique issues.  If you find yourself in a role as a single parent, stepparent or trying to help siblings navigate their new situation it can be very tough.   

We at Focus on the Family Australia, want to help relationships and families  be as healthy as they can be.  We know it is not an easy task unifying 2 families or doing it solo.  

We highly recommend Blended Not Shaken Ministries to help provide some tools to cultivate a loving, blended or single parent home to achieve a sense of unity in your new family. 

Brett Ryan, CEO Focus on the Family Australia