Honey & Gold - Honey & Gold Blog

Blessing

2022-07-26T09:00:00+10:00

Remember two years ago when there was that song we all loved (and I posted I think nearly every version on my Facebook page)?! #theblessing

And about 15 years ago my mum wrote this ‘Blessing’ in a card as Dave and I left Brisbane to live in Uganda.

While that song about Gods blessing is only two years old, and my mums words were a tad older than that, Gods original promise and blessings have been around much much longer than that.

We hear often that Gods word - the Bible, is “living and active”, which just means it’s not static words on a page, but it can take on nuance, new meaning and speak personally to our spirit, life and circumstances. So good right?

I think this verse is one of those ‘always’ verses.

It’s such a life giving verse and I hope it brings peace and hope to and your family. Gods word on your walls is so powerful.

(And tell me I wasn’t the only one obsessed with that song! )

God's Whisper

2022-07-16T08:30:00+10:00

I always want to hear that still, small voice.

I love the Bible verse from James 4:8

“Come near to God and he will come near to you.”

We only need to take a small step. Lean in. He is so close.

Psalm 91

2022-05-15T08:30:00+10:00

Psalm 91 - often known as the ‘fear psalm’ it has been a regular reminder and anchor in my life. A gift of peace in the valleys and storms.

Through miscarriages, death of a sister and heart breaking disappointments and dashed dreams, this Psalm has been the reminder of Gods care, protection, provision and love.

And I don’t say those things lightly. I have needed to know and be reminded of those characteristics of God many many times in different ways.

In those seasons of hardship, worry or heartbreak, there are some verses from this chapter of the Bible that have been a lifeline and on repeat in my head throughout a day. That is what Hope means to me - my circumstances might say one thing but my God says something else.

I know who’s voice I want to be the loudest.

This wall print has my heart because this Psalm has my heart. There is so much encouragement I find in it.

Jordan xo

Finding Joy Podcast - Ep. 10 with Amanda Viviers

2022-03-24T08:30:00+10:00

This Finding Joy episode with @amandaviviers released yesterday, so if you follow the show you’ve probably seen it come through, but if not…

This conversation is all about creativity (true creativity not necessarily a paintbrush in your hand) and just encourages my own creative spirit to get back to hobbies, outdoors, things that are tangible and bring joy.

We talk about her books Dear Single Self and Dear Creative Self in particular- the story of the singleness challenges are fun!

We talk lots about living a life-story that you love. She is calmly inspiring and my prayer it you will be encouraged to go get out there and live your life to the full!

Amanda is an author of many books and resources and also leads a creative team at @compassionau

I think you’ll love the conversation. Have a listen HERE or search 'Finding Joy' wherever you listen to podcasts. And don’t forget to follow the show and share with a friend!

Jordan xo

Finding Joy Podcast - Ep. 9 with Amy Zschech-Hood

2022-03-16T08:30:00+10:00

This episode…I think you’re gonna love it!
It’s hard but beautifully encouraging at the same time.

@amyjhood shares some of her journey parenting a child with special needs. We cover future hopes and fears, siblings of a special needs child, and how the church can play a part in bringing hope and reprieve to those who also walk this journey, through things like @championsclubs

So much hope and laughter even with sleepless nights. It was an honour to hear Amy's story.

Jordan xo

You can listen to this episode HERE, or search 'Finding Joy' in Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Prayers of a Righteous Person

2022-03-11T08:00:00+10:00

If you wonder if your prayers even make a difference…

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” James 5:16

Go grab your Bible and read it for yourself in black and white. I read it this morning in my daily reading and it jumped off the page!

Prayer is powerful, even when we don’t feel it.
Prayer is effective, even when we don’t see it.

Pray about it…whatever ‘it’ is for you.

Jordan x

Finding Joy Podcast - Ep. 8 with Julia A'bell

2022-03-03T08:00:00+10:00

I had nothing to do with the timing of todays episode, but even though we recorded it over a week ago, it just so happens to tie in with the flood emergency’s happening down the Qld and NSW coasts.

I talk with @julesabell on the show and we cover all things; following Gods promptings, church leadership, women in decision making positions and yes, bringing hope to those in crisis.

Jules and her husband Joel head up @convoyofhopeau in Australia and have boots on the ground through disaster recovery, and bringing Jesus’ light and love to those hurting.

I personally found this conversation so encouraging as I grew up in church life and love the potential of the church as we bring Gods light to an often dark world.

And a question Jules leaves us all with is, If our churches closed, would we even be missed in the community??
I wanna be part of THAT kind of church that if it was to close its doors, the community would grieve its disappearance….Lots of gold!
It’s really worth a listen!

Jordan xo

You can listen HERE or search 'finding Joy' in Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts.

When we Feel Helpless...

2022-03-02T08:00:00+10:00

There a lot going on right?! Conflict overseas, floods, loss, grief. It can leave us wondering where the joy is, what the purpose is and what we’re meant to do about everything we see around us. Right?!

It can be downright overwhelming.
And sometimes we can feel overwhelmed by what we can do to help.

We can feel helpless.

If you’re like me, you wish you could just make it all better for everyone.
We wish we could do everything. But there’s only one saviour…And we definitely aren’t it!

But…
Can I encourage you to pray?
Yes pray for the situations themselves.
For those most affected by these circumstances and dire situations.

But also pray for how God would like you to help. He will create opportunities if we seek him.
Is that to donate?
Is that to Write a letter to a politician?
Physically help with cleaning up flooded homes?
Baking something to drop off at an evacuation shelter?
Make a meal for someone?
Babysit for someone so they can put together an insurance claim…
So many small things we can do.

But ask God.
He’ll bring along an opportunity to say yes to. He’ll plant an idea in your mind or a conviction to follow.

Seek him first friends…
If you have a heart to love, help and be a carrier of Hope, God will give you an idea and an opportunity. We don’t need to carry the burdens of the world.
We’re not that strong, but He is!

Finding Joy Podcast - Ep. 7 with Mim Davis

2022-02-23T08:00:00+10:00

Todays Finding Joy Podcast episode I’m talking with @_mim_davis_ about her long distance swimming (and shark adventures!) her recovery from an eating disorder, and becoming a new mum to the very cute Rory, with THE bluest eyes!

I think you’ll find our conversation, while confronting, filled with hope that Jesus never lets us go!

Jordan xo

*Disclaimer, on todays show that we do talk about eating disorders and suicide.

You can listen HERE or search 'Finding Joy' wherever you listen to podcasts. and leave a comment on what you resonated in this episode. I’d love to hear!

Prayers for Our Kids - Luke 11

2022-02-22T08:00:00+10:00

I thought the hard parenting years were behind me when I stopped carrying nappies around with me and scheduling my days around naps and bad nights. (I see you mums of babies and toddlers!)

The hard just changes.

There is a shift that has been happening for me as we move into parenting pre/teenagers. And I am realising again how important praying for our kids is.

My hope & prayer for each of our kids would have their own personal experiences of Jesus.

That they would know, that they know, that Jesus is real, is personal and is their saviour.

I can take them to church, drop them off to youth group, pay for Christian influence and education, but unless they know Jesus for themselves, it’s still my faith and my desire for them.

I pray for each of my kids each day that they will know & love Jesus more and have real undeniable experiences of him. An experience that can’t be shaken.

Luke 11:5-13 was one of my Bible readings this morning and it really encouraged me in this area. Praying audaciously. Praying consistently. Praying for good gifts from our Heavenly Father.
‘ yet because of your shameless audacity he will surely get up and give you as much as you need.’ (v8)

Praying salvation, courage and conviction for my kids everyday.

Much love. Jordan xo

Finding Joy Podcast - Ep. 6 with Stacey Miller

2022-02-16T07:30:00+10:00

On todays' Finding Joy Podcast episode I chat with Stacey from @feather_and_oak

She has a fun business story starting a business literally by accident and I have loved seeing her direction change and grow as she keeps designing and stocking things she loves.
She also shares about her journey suffering with RRV and the sweet times she had with Jesus in that season.

Todays show is one for everyone! Jordan xo

You can listen HERE or search 'Finding Joy' on Spotify or Apple podcasts and don’t forget to tag a friend who you think would be encouraged by giving it a listen too!

Finding Joy Podcast - Ep. 5 with Rachael Willey

2022-02-09T07:30:00+10:00

Today on the Finding Joy podcast I chatted with one of my oldest friends, Rachael.
We have travelled together many times, and share many amazing memories over our decades of friendship.

However, on the show today Rachael shares her heart and journey through infant loss and honours the life of her son Zachariah.

She speaks vulnerably but also with such a faith-filled heart that points us all to the hope we have in Jesus and eternity.

This would be a great episode to share with a friend, but honestly, if you are going through any kind of suffering this episode is for you.

Jordan xo

Have a listen HERE, or search 'Finding Joy' on Spotify or you fave podcast app and tag a friend who you think would be encouraged by todays episode.

Finding Joy Podcast - Ep. 4 with Justine Flynn

2022-02-02T08:00:00+10:00

How does buying body wash or hand sanitiser help end extreme poverty?

Well, you’ll hear all about how that happens and the story behind @thankyouaus on the podcast today! Justine Flynn @justflynn is my guest today and she shares of some the thank you story and also how Covid has impacted their giving to end extreme poverty (spoiler alert there’s a million dollar miracle!)

Justine also shares openly about the season of burnout she experienced and how that affected work and being a hands on mum for a season. It’s real but also so encouraging to not fight hard seasons.

You can listen to the Finding Joy podcast HERE, or by searching Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or in your favourite podcast app. Search ‘Finding Joy’ and follow so you don’t miss an episode!

Love One Another

2022-01-30T08:30:00+10:00

What would the world look like if we really were known for how we love each other?

What if the community of Jesus followers that we are a part of, was so full of love & care, it made others long to be a part of it?

We are actually all lonely. Longing for this love and connection. What if our simple actions of love and practical care shouted to the world of of a much greater love…

Been pondering on John 13:35 and reminded again of Gods plan for His church, His people and those who haven’t yet experienced Jesus personal love…

Finding Joy Podcast - Ep. 3 with Angela Bourne

2022-01-26T08:00:00+10:00

Angela Bourne from @cherishedhomeforyoungmums shares her story on the podcast today!

I love hearing how God spoke to Ange on a trip to Cambodia, which changed the trajectory of her life, from hairdresser, to helping young mums break the cycle of domestic and family violence.

I hope you are equally encouraged, inspired and challenged by todays show.

Jordan xo

You can listen to the Finding Joy podcast HERE or by searching on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. And don’t forget to follow the podcast, in your favourite player or app so you don’t miss an episode!

Finding Joy Podcast - Ep. 2 with Laryssa Schleussler

2022-01-19T08:00:00+10:00

Podcast day!!

On todays episode I chat with Laryssa from @___thehouse @___esomovement all about church planting, obeying God dreams (even when they feel too big!) and coffee for all!

It was a great conversation and I hope you are equally encouraged, challenged and inspired.

Follow @laryssarenee and check out the show notes for all the links to things we talk about.

You can listen to the Finding Joy podcast HERE or by searching on Spotify. Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Finding Joy Podcast - Ep. 1 with Emma Tabacaru

2022-01-12T07:30:00+10:00

Ok drumroll….

First episode of the Finding Joy podcast is here!
Listen in to my conversation with Emma Tabacaru from Pippin Girl.
Designing a creating conversations around puberty, value and beauty for our next generation of girls!

I loved hearing this snippet of Emma’s story and I hope there’s something in the conversation that encourages, challenges and inspires!

You can listen to the Finding Joy podcast HERE, or by searching on Spotify. Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts.

And let me know below what jumped out at you from this episode of the show!

Jordan xo

Do Not be Afraid

2021-12-18T12:00:00+10:00

“Do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged.”
Read that last bit again…”do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged.”

Why & How? Why does the Bible say that? How is it we can live without fear? How can we move past discouragement?

Because JESUS IS WITH YOU!

I don’t know about you, but being afraid or discouraged can actually happen pretty easily.

But…If we get that first part of this verse. If we can grasp that promise as true, that he will never leave you, it makes the last part easier.

The reason we don’t need to afraid or be discouraged is because he is with us!

So next time you feel afraid or discouraged, I hope you will remember the promise that comes before the command.

He will never leave you.

He is with you right there in the middle of everything that’s going on for you.

Don’t be afraid.
Don’t be discouraged.

He’s not going anywhere.

He will never leave you. Ever.

Jordan x

Trusting in the Hard

2021-12-09T12:00:00+10:00

I heard a mum, say on her feed the other day that she “wouldn’t change a thing” about her child with a disability.

We’ll…I am definitely not at that place.

If I’m honest, I would change it.
I would change this hard for something else.
I have no idea why God thought Dave and I would be the best parents for this child.

Having a child who looks so capable but actually isn’t, is really hard in this world.
Having to play translator, excuser of behaviour, thinking 10 steps ahead and still be left wanting is exhausting.
Being different is hard.

Looking 1, 5, 10 years into the future, Not knowing how your child will function without you. Will they be able to read? Grocery shop? Have their desires of ‘being a mum’ fulfilled? It’s heartbreaking.

I have known grief. I have walked through loss, death, but this…this is different. There is never closure.
It’s like tiny little deaths every day.
Death of expectations
Death of hopes
Death of dreams
Death of the picture you thought your life would be.
Death of a child not being normal at every stage of their lives compared to those around them.
Deaths everyday over and over again you’re reminded she lives in a world that she will most likely never ‘catch up’ to.

I have said before, that l love school holidays with my kids more and more as they get older but, there is also a more intensely felt awareness of a child’s ability (or lack thereof), when rubbing up against so many different activities, people and new rhythms. A constant.

This photo looks blissful, and yes it was one of those ‘I’m thankful for life right now’ moments. That’s what’s good about this space and having cameras in our pockets right?!
But…It’s really hard.
I’m gonna need Jesus to give me extra patience these holidays.

I know I’m not alone. Maybe it’s not a child with a disability for you, but There are so many circumstances we find ourselves in that are just downright hard and disappointing. Maybe you’re like me and are wondering how someone can say “I wouldn’t change a thing”.
Coz right now you’d change a heck of a lot!

But you know what, I know that I have an anchor in Jesus. I know that he has always walked beside me; even carrying me at times when my feet don’t work, and he will never leave me.

He has a plan when I don’t see it often.
I have to trust because not trusting feels like not even an option. He does make all things beautiful in his time. When you’ve seen Jesus do it before, you have faith he can do it again.

Jordan x

Perfect Peace

2021-12-07T12:00:00+10:00

He will keep you in perfect peace as you trust in Him.
A prayer for tonight:

Lord, help us trust you. In the unknown. In the new directions our lives take. In the end of year tired. In the moving goal posts and change. I Trust you for provision. Trust you are still in control. Trust that we can let go and enjoy this season. Trust that you have us in the palm of your hand. Trust that with you, there is always hope and a future!
Amen.

Hoping you find peace in Jesus tonight.
Jordan xo

Never Tire of Doing Good...

2021-11-11T12:00:00+10:00

Keep on doing good!

“…brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.” 2 Thessalonians 3:13

Lift your eyes. Turn to the one who gives strength to the weary and the broken hearted.

Growing up, my mum use to tell us, (and still now as we are parenting in the trenches) to: …”Keep on keeping on!”

Also Dory from Finding Nemo has a translation: “just keep swimming”

The first one is the original and best of course but Regardless, don’t give up!

Be encouraged to persevere and keep doing good today!

Jordan x

Strong and Courageous

2021-11-10T11:30:00+10:00

I have a friend who has 3 boys and her prayers for them as they grow to be men, is to be ‘strong & kind’.

It has stayed with me a long time. That’s exactly what we need in this world - More strong and kind guys (and of course girls)!

Our Strong & Courageous pennant has that as the thought and is then grounded in the verse from Joshua 1:9 which says:

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

I don’t think it’s just for the boys of course, (who am I kidding, we ALL need this reminder!) but after our very feminine ‘God Keeps His promises’ collection, we definitely needed something a little more masculine!

I hope every time your son, nephew or grandson sees this, they are reminded that God is with them wherever they go, and THAT is how they can be strong & Courageous!

Do you have a constant prayer you pray over your kids?

Strong and Courageous pennant available HERE

God Keeps His promises print available HERE

Bruised Reed

2021-11-09T11:30:00+10:00

He will not break you. Even if you feel bruised and beaten. He will not break you.

If you are struggling to keep your hope lit, he will not snuff it out. He is there with you even if you’re hanging by a thread.

Oh man we need Gods word and truth. We need the hope reminders. The reminders of his faithfulness and promise of eternal life when we believe in Him.

Be encouraged tonight. He will not let you break.

Jordan Xo

Hope Bible Verse Packs available HERE

Keep Seeking

2021-11-05T11:30:00+10:00

Needing this reminder myself today. Been a massive week.

Keep seeking. Keeping Hope alive.

So important to have scripture around us but also WITHIN us. To KNOW what Jesus says. To have the comfort and truth of Gods promises within us.

I heard this week that ‘the average western Christian has 4-5 Bibles within reach, but we very rarely reach for them.’ That’s my paraphrase, but it really can be so true of our lives.

I always want to be a woman reaching for my Bible everyday in some capacity. And reaching up to heaven with prayer constantly.

Having Bible Quote cards around me really helps. The encouragement of what I might have read before or an old truth for a new season.

Such a practical easy way to consume Gods truth.

Perseverance Bible Verse Packs available HERE

Psalm 34

2021-09-26T10:30:00+10:00

Encouragement for the downcast from Psalm 34

There are so many promises, encouragement and hope in this Psalm. Can I encourage you to open up your Bible and read through it.

This really encouraged me this week as I see the pain of many, the turmoil and unrest in parts of our nation and the unknown of life.

He is deliverer
He hears our prayers
He provides all we need
He is good
He is close
He saves those ‘crushed in spirit’
He protects
He will rescue

What an amazing hope we have in a God who is all these things and more!

Nothing is too much for him!!

Jordan xo

Light of the World

2021-09-20T10:30:00+10:00

We don't have to look too far to see how 'dark' and broken our world feels right now. There's frustration, hopelessness and just an exhaustion that is over everyone. I'm sure you feel it.
And, I don't know about you, but I just want the world to be better. To be light and fun and bright again!

I don't pretend to have all the answers but recently, while preparing to speak at a women's event, this verse above just hit me again. Have a read again... “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John8:12) I hope it encourages you in your life right now.

We don't have to walk in darkness. We have the light of the world as our Saviour. We have his spirit within us. I was challenged all over again to bring that light to the world. To cut through the darkness of the world with Jesus' hope.

The hope that I have within me isn't just for me. It's not for my own comfort, even though Jesus does give me comfort, but, it is to bring Jesus' light to the world. It's to shine His light and love.

It is HIS love that will change things. My prayer for us tonight is:

“Lord help us remember it is YOU that is the light of the world. That we have your spirit within us giving us hope and joy. Help us overcome the darkness in our world with your light. Give us ideas to help those in our communities and lives. Give us comfort that we can pass on to others. May friends and family see your light within us and may they be drawn to you.” Amen.

Yes, it can feel dark, but the Jesus is the light of the world!

Be encouraged! Keep shining, keep finding the joy! :)

Much love,
Jordan xo
P.S. Why not share this message and verse with a friend who needs some encouragement to keep shining, this week! x

Arise

2021-09-13T10:30:00+10:00

Growing up, I was definitely full of wonder and options, opportunity and dreams. Career dreams. Travel plans. Big purposes to walk in.

Funny how adult life, disappointments, pandemics etc really knock some of that wonder out of us!

But God calls us to ‘Arise’!
To ‘Rise up’. (Song of Songs 2:10)

I had the privilege of speaking at a Brisbane women's conference this past weekend.

Encouraging all of us to:
1. Arise to what God has put inside us.
and
2. Arise to be the light of the world!

The world is dark. Our ‘wonder-meter’ might be lower than we’d like but John 10:10 says that Jesus came so we can have life - life to the full!

We have the hope, love and light people are looking for. Now is the time…

Bring your God-given gifts, talents, your hope, your peace, and purpose to those in your world. We need you!! Jesus filled you with his Holy Spirit and light for such a time as this! Arise!!

Jordan xo

Choice

2021-08-15T10:30:00+10:00

Choice.
I’ve been thinking a lot about choice lately.

So much we don’t have a choice about right now. It can bring a sense of hopelessness.
But in the midst of feeling out of control, there are still choices we do have control over:

Choose what you listen to
Choose to turn off the news
Choose fresh air & sunshine
Choose to do something that brings you joy - find a hobby!! :)
Choose to make the first move and call a friend.
Choose to make a stand
Choose to speak up
Choose to sleep
Choose to take the first step
Choose unity over division
Choose to not be offended
Choose to find the joy
Choose…
What would you add to the list?

What is something positive you can choose right now?

Leave a comment and share, I’d love to hear!
Jordan xo

My Grace is Sufficient

2021-07-25T10:30:00+10:00

When we had our daughter diagnosed with a life-altering disability, this was the verse that was whispered into my spirit. When I felt so inadequate to deal with what lay before me, it was this reminder from 2 Corinthians 12:9 ~

‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness’

God doesn’t do mistakes, and He promises he’ll provide all we need. That is the reminder I need every day. Maybe you do too…

Jordan x

Be Strong, Take Heart

2021-06-29T21:31:56+10:00

Oh man, this world at the moment…it can really bum a girl out, right?! I had so many fun things planned for the next couple of weeks and it seems they’ve been knocked over, yet again, by another snap lock down.

Here in Brisbane, we have just hit first week of holidays and my two youngest girls were involved in a creative holiday program for the week. (Yes, you know where this is going…) today was the second and last day of said program as we head into a snap 3 day lock down #thanksCOVID.

I am writing this literally minutes before I send this out to you. I had another email planned for tonight, but it just feels ‘blah' compared to what is really going on in all our lives right now.

I don’t know your situation. Maybe it’s frustration at plans changing. Maybe it’s heartbreaking disappointment at not seeing loved ones or family. Maybe you’re wondering how God will provide yet again. Maybe you’re wondering where the good is in all of this. Maybe you’re wondering where Jesus is in all of this. Maybe life feels like a desert.

Tonight I want to encourage you (and me) to ‘take heart’. Like this Bible verse from Psalm 31:24 says: “Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.”

We have an eternal hope yes, but we also have a God who provides right in the midst of the desert.

We’ve been going through the book of Exodus at church and it talks a lot about the desert. (Kinda 40yrs of desert really!) I keep coming back to this Old vs New Testament parallel of God providing. He provided for the Israelites in the Old Testament, and his followers in the New.

In Exodus, God provided daily bread, or Manna, for this massive group of his people. Each new day there it was, on the ground, ready for them to pick up and use for their food. Daily. For the whole time they were traveling the desert, their basic needs were served up daily. Their daily sustenance, just provided so routinely and faithfully.

But, I can’t ignore the parallels from this Old Testament account, to the New Testament account where Jesus is saying to his followers, He is the ‘bread of life’ (John 6:25-59).
Just as God provided for his people in the desert, he provides ‘bread’ to those who believe in him today. God still provides.

Instead of Manna, it is Jesus.
Instead of raining down flakes, he sent down His son.
Instead of the daily gift of Manna, Jesus is the CONSTANT gift of sustenance, through the presence of the Holy Spirit.

This kind of ‘Bread of life’ is new, not only every morning, but every moment of every day. Day in and day out. On this earth and everlasting.

This is the hope-filled good news, at the end of what might feel like a disheartening day.

So, if you believe in Jesus, then we CAN take heart. We can remember all Jesus has done for us and the promise we have in our salvation. The promise that he will provide for all our needs. That is our hope.

Be strong friends. Take heart. Jesus is our Hope.

Much love,
Jordan