Blended Not Shaken Ministries and Publications

Christian step/single parent and blended families ministry.

The best compliment ever!

What is the nicest thing anyone has ever said to you? The best compliment you have ever received? For me, a number of compliments spring to mind.

“You are so like your mum.”
“Aren’t you your father’s daughter?”
“I like your honesty.”

But I believe that the best compliment that can be paid to a Christian person is that they are godly.

Godliness is devotion to God which results in a life that is pleasing to God. (J.Bridges, “The Practice of Godliness”)

“For physical training is of some value, but GODLINESS has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” 1 Tim. 4:8

We find in God’s word that we are to train ourselves to be godly, that the’knowledge of the truth leads to godliness’ (Titus 1:1) and that we are to ‘pursue’ godliness; this verb itself indicating a relentless, persevering effort. The Bible also tells us that godliness with contentment is great gain and that godly people pray for those in authority over them. To live a godly life, as it says in 1 Timothy has value for ALL things.

The scriptures do not allude to godliness happening by chance or osmosis but rather is a partnership with the Holy Spirit after our conversion as well as a responsibility on our part. It is both a privilege and a duty of every Christian to pursue, to train themselves to be GODLY.

So, a Christian person is not necessarily a godly person- unfortunately.. and we see this tragic reality played out in our churches, communities and homes. Of course it is important to clarify at this point that each of us are fallen human beings with our lives not pleasing to God all the time but rather it is a state of our hearts and a motivation of our minds as to whether we desire to become godly people.

If we truly are motivated to pursue godliness, we will desire to become close to the One who embodies righteousness and holiness- GOD Himself.

Godliness is not an accessory we adorn when it suits a particular outfit we are wearing but rather is a necessary and daily, integral part of who we are and what we are becoming.

When our lives are devoted to God, where we attempt to place Him first in every sphere of our lives, He is glorified and we are blessed.The atmosphere of our homes and churches change. Our relationships with each other improves and deepens.

Godly people pursuing godly ways is a beautiful thing to witness. We see in ourselves responses rather than reactions to adverse circumstances, greater patience for those who grieve us and further extensions of grace in all our dealings. The fragrance of God will permeate everywhere we tread and in all we do because we have a deep awareness of Whose we are and to Whom we are representing.

And please remember a most important fact- The Bible says that ‘GOD HAS ALREADY GIVEN US ALL WE NEED FOR LIFE AND GODLINESS’. That same power that raised Jesus from the dead dwells within all who are Christ’s followers and living a godly life is attainable this side of eternity.

So let us seek after godliness in a deeper way like never before as we embark into 2017 and as we do, I believe we will see breakthroughs in areas where there have been blockages, strained and poor relationships restored or improved and further evidence of God’s favour in our lives.

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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