Devoted Magazine Issue 24

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE – MindBodySpirit Discover real life From mighty men to mighty families We stay A day in the Dream PATMOS, I SSN2223- 473X COMMITTED life of a Holy Island Big Issue 24 twin otter www.dewvwowt.ededvmotaedgm.caog..zcao.za

Vision. Dare to Dream … BIG! The story of the Eduplex School T Review by Gerda Potgieter his book is all about his journey in It is said that one of the big signs of life and the amazing Eduplex story. visionaries is their willingness to share their It is a book that will inspire and vision with us. They simply cannot keep it to I just love to curl up on the encourage you with its uplifting themselves and we have the benefit of this couch with a good book and if it is an inspirational book that messages and positive life-affirming quality of Nico also. provides you with simple truths concepts. It is full of practical tips on how – so much better. This book, written by Nico van der Merwe, to grow in faith and deal with self-doubt Note from the editor: well-known businessman and and arrogance. The many scriptures and What does God know about quotes from other inspiring writers help to founder of Eduplex School is such a book. put it all into perspective and will warm your business? Making the right decisions heart and help you to believe in yourself. in tough times is Nico’s first book. It is written in a down-to-earth style with Both his books are available practical advice based on biblical principles. It will inspire you to take positive action. for sale online at Woven into this book are people close to www.amazon.com, the writer and acknowledgements for the www.godandbusiness.co.za and roles they played in his life, and in helping him realise the Eduplex dream. Nico is always also at Ear Institutes throughout the first to acknowledge on his journey that South Africa. he cannot get to the destination alone. Sign up for Nico’s Blog: www.nicovandermerwe.com/category/blog/ Vision will encourage every reader to follow their dream. Nico van der Merwe It’s a true story of success and failure, obedience The amazing Eduplex Story and, at times, disobedience. You will stand amazed at how God leads, provides and blesses the author as he Nico van der Merwe shares important lessons learnt along his journey. Miracle upon miracle testifies to the fact that God is still at work today. Nowhere can you do so much, for so many, with so little, as in Africa. Nico van der Merwe is the founder of the H.A.S.S. Group, specialising in hearing healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa. He was awarded the Ernst- Young Business Mover of the Year Award in 1996 and in 2009 he was awarded the prestigious Chancellor’s Medal by the Council and Senate of the University of Pretoria. Nico is the author of the best-seller “What does God know about Business?”. ISBN 978-0-620-76576-3

5 12 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE – MindBodySpirit Discover real life In this issue When going through tough times, it sometimes help to slow down for a EDS LETTER 2 bit and look at the situation again to We stay committed look for new opportunities. FROM THE DESK OF ANGUS BUCHAN 3 God requires ordinary people “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it and it will be yours.” TRAVEL WITH A PURPOSE 5 (Mark 11:24) Patmos, the island of the Revelation of Jesus Christ Credits INSPIRATION 6 MANAGING EDITOR Everyone goes through something 7 Gerda Potgieter • E-mail: [email protected] From mighty men to mighty families LANGUAGE EDITOR OUTREACH 9 Mignionette Fair A day in the life of a Twin Otter ASSISTANT EDITOR NEWS SNIPPETS 11 Jeannie Millington Christianity in action CREATIVE AND DESIGN TEAM FAIR FLAIR 12 Annerine Lubbe (Square d’zign studio) Dream big CONTRIBUTORS Content disclaimer: Devoted is published by DeVine Publishers. All rights reserved. While every precaution has been taken to ensure Elizabeth Bekker; Mignionette Flair accuracy of information, the managing editor, Devoted and the publisher cannot accept liability of whatever nature arising out or in connection with the contents of this magazine. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of any of the Devoted SALES AND MARKETING Gerda Potgieter • E-mail: [email protected] team and remains the sole responsibility of the writers. Plagiarism disclaimer: It was confirmed by our writers and contributors that no part of the written submissions has been copied from WEBSITE DEVELOPER either a book or any other source, including the Internet, except where such sections are clearly shown as quotations and the sources Tony Hendricks have been correctly identified within the text or in the list of references. SOCIAL MEDIA Annerine Lubbe (Square d’zign studio) 071 897 6240 • [email protected] • www.squaredesign.co.za

Ed’s Letter We stay committed! Welcome to this issue of Devoted, friends. It is so nice to be back! It has been a while since the previous issue. When going through tough times, it sometimes helps to slow down for a bit and to look at the situation again to see new opportunities. Like most people and businesses out there, Devoted has its fair share of financial (and other) challenges, but we stay committed to our calling. The next issue will only be in digital format until we find the resources to go bigger and in print again. As you know we distribute Devoted free of charge and without the needed resources, it remains a challenge to produce a high quality magazine! I s it only me or do the challenges and obstacles indeed and I truly hope that families will make the effort to attend. multiply as soon as one makes a commitment (or re- By the time you read this issue I would be back from a commitment) to move closer to the Lord? Since the April event in Bloemfontein (Its Time!) it seems that I have more wonderful trip where I was privileged to visit Patmos, the Holy mountains to climb – some of them I have not noticed before! Island. I had a joyous stay in the Delfini Hotel, a family-owned On top of it all I had over the past few months to emotionally hotel in Skala with a friendly management team. Read about work through the devastating effect of the brutal murder of not Patmos and what it has to offer in this issue. less than four dear people that I knew personally. It is so easy to fall into depression and to stop doing your part in building the God needs ordinary people to do extra-ordinary things, as Kingdom…. Angus Buchan says, and you and I have a place in the bigger scheme of things. This is why I stay devoted to continue with this But, we cannot allow the devil to get the best of us – there is so magazine, regardless… much work to do and we are running out of time. The Its Time!- event has birthed the From Mighty Men to Mighty Families event, With love, until next time. Gerda Like us on Facebook: Follow us on Twitter Follow us on Instagram: www.facebook.com/devotedmagazine @DevotedMagazine devoted_magazine www.devotedmag.co.za 2 www.devotedmag.co.za

From the desk of Angus Buchan ordGinoad rreyqupireeos ple Possibly the greatest moment in my ministry took place on 22 April 2017 when I had the privilege of praying the sinner’s prayer with one million plus people. To see people from different cultures, race groups and languages kneeling together on the grass, under the open sky, holding hands and acknowledging Jesus Christ as the sovereign Lord of their lives and our nation, is something I will truly take to heaven with me. G od has shown me one Jesus is looking for servants in these last all He is alive and secondly that He hears important thing for days who will just do what He tells them to the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous Christians, we need to hear do. The consequences are not our concern man/woman and thirdly that He means clearly from Him. Remember because we are merely servants. well for all people. “A good idea is not always a God idea” and “A need does not justify a call.” God requires Robert Murray M’Cheyne was a young If you want a fulfilled life, I would like faith and obedience from us. That is all! preacher from Scotland who was used to encourage you to start working on He doesn’t require eloquent speakers by God to start a major revival in the city your prayer life, spending time with Jesus or charismatic personalities. He requires of Dundee. He was 29 years old when his Christ every day and He will start to direct ordinary people, like you reading this mission was completed, and God took him your path. The beautiful scripture found magazine and me writing this article, to home to Heaven, but when he was asked in Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV) says: “Trust in the first of all have the faith to believe and about the revival, he said: “Rather than Lord with all your heart, and lean not on secondly to obey what He has called us have been an instrument of the Lord, all I your own understanding; In all your ways to do without question. I think of the was, was an adoring spectator.” acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your instance in the Bible when the servants paths.” This is the answer for our beloved came to Mary, the mother of Jesus, at the In South Africa today, God is looking South Africa. wedding and asked her what they should for men and women, old and young who do. Mary told them they should just do will simply take their two fish and five God bless whatever Jesus tells them to do. With that, barley loaves and give them to the miracle they filled the jars full of water, and Jesus worker Jesus Christ. He will take it, multiply Angus Buchan turned the water into the finest wine at it and feed a multitude. the wedding of Cana. I always thought and believed I knew my Redeemer, but after 22 April 2017 there is no doubt whatsoever, that first of Subscribe to Angus Buchans’ newsletter. Sign up with your email address to receive the periodic newsletter. www.angusbuchan.co.za www.devotedmag.co.za 3

Travel with a Purpose By Gerda Potgieter Patmos Jesus ChristThe island of the Revelation of There are many reasons why Mystic Patmos is an island of in the Spirit on the Lord’s day and I people travel, and for the wonders! I planned to stay there heard behind me a loud voice, as of a for only two days (during my trumpet, saying, I am the Alpha and disciples of Jesus, spreading recent trip to Greece and its the Omega, the First and the Last,” and the Good News was their main islands) but ended up staying for a week. This should say something about the influence purpose. Apostle Paul travelled this island has on its first-time visitors. “What you see, write it in a book and thousands of miles in his It is not easy to put the effect Patmos send it to the seven churches which has on its visitors in writing, but words that lifetime to spread the Gospel come to mind include mystical, beautiful are in Asia.” (Revelation, 1:11) and plant churches. Others, like waters and beaches, pleasant, laid-back, cosmopolitan, excellent cuisine, friendly Patmos has significance for the Christian John, were exiled because of people… the list is endless. The island is visitor. Affectionately known as the “Holy their belief to places far away relatively small, but it has more to offer than Island”, the Holy Cave of Apocalypse, its famous Biblical, historic sites. situated in Chora, is the most visited place from their homes and they used “I, John, both your brother and on the island. It is widely accepted that the opportunity to tell others companion in the tribulation and the beloved disciple of Jesus, John the about Jesus kingdom and patience of Jesus Evangelist, received his visions in this cave. Christ, was on the island that is called It is also in this cave that he, with the help of his student, Prochoros, wrote about the Apocalypse. Today, the Saint Anna’s Patmos for the word of God and for Church within the Holy Cave celebrates this the testimony of Jesus Christ. I was magnificent Christian event and it is a must-see. 4 www.devotedmag.co.za

Travel with a Purpose A total of 43 steps will take you to the secluded. However, if you make an low season when bus (and other) services 1 000-year-old Saint John the Theologian effort to reach them by using the many are not as frequent, but I had a joyous time Monastery. Majestic in its appearance, this mysterious paths, you will be surprised nonetheless. I stayed in a beautiful family- impressive landmark can be seen from by the beautiful landscapes on the way owned hotel in Skala, is the main village pretty much all angles on the islands. It is to the beaches. Make a plan to visit the and port of entry. The port is also the no surprise that property in Chora, where beaches of Psilli Ammos, Aspri, Agrio set-off point for daily excursions to nearby the above two places are situated, is Livadi, Kampos, Liginou (or Twins) and islands. regarded as the most expensive in Europe. Grikos. Even the names suggest something magical! If it is peace and tranquillity that you are But Patmos is worth a visit for many after, Patmos is a laid-back, picturesque other reasons. The Greek islands are The island is an easy-to-visit island. island with beautiful blue waters. It is only famous for its crystal clear waters, and The language is not a problem purely 34 kilometres big with a maximum length beautiful beaches and Patmos most because the inhabitants understand the of 25 kilometres and it offers a welcome definitely has some of the best to offer, value of the universal language called alternative to the touristy other Greek even though some of them are somewhat friendliness. I visited the island during the islands. www.devotedmag.co.za 5

ISnasmpiprlaetiTonext somethingEveryone goes through By Elizabeth Bekker There is one thing we will Life is hard, life is cruel, and sometimes However, you should not let it get you never be able to deny, it gets one over on you. You try so down, don’t let your thoughts or the actions no matter how hard we hard to stay strong and positive, of other people remove you from your ability heaven knows you try so hard, to have a good and positive life. Positivity try or how hard we fight but then something strikes, and your doesn’t happen overnight; it doesn’t even against it. The best and whole house of cards and positivity comes happen in a week or a month. However, if worst part is that it doesn’t crumbling down. Pastor At Boshoff always you decide every day to be more positive, matter where we are in life, said that if you live long enough, you will you will see a difference in a week or a where we are in this world, go through stuff, bad stuff, and happy stuff. month. No doubt. everyone is going through Things that make you wish you can freeze something. Something that that moment for the rest of your life. Other There’s a quote I came across that explains changes them personally times, things happen and you just want to this so well: “Baby,” she says in a harsh and challenges them. But delete it from your life. You want to never, whisper, “In this world, lots of people will it is more than that - it ever think about it again. try to grind you down. They need you to be challenges their attitude, small, so they can be big. You let them think their mindset, and their We get so zoned into our own lives, and whatever they want, but you make sure you just trying to overcome our obstacles and get yours. You get yours.” Holly Black, Red circumstances. challenges that we forget everyone we Glove. meet is facing a battle. We just don’t see it anymore; we don’t have the time in the rush People will do everything to bring you of today’s life to look at someone and see the down. Not just your circumstances. People pain in their eyes. will use your circumstances to bring you down even further, but it is up to you to cast A moment can pass where someone would them out, ignore their voices and focus on cross your mind or you go onto a social the truth, on what you know, on what you media website and read about other people’s can fight for. trials and tribulations. Some of them are so horrible that you feel a moment of relief The world may try to get you down, but that you aren’t going through it. You can be the world and your life are not dependant on stuck in traffic and see a homeless man and their opinion. You will live your life regardless for a moment imagine a story of a way they and once you accept that, and rise above it, could’ve ended up like that. Then the light nothing will be able to stand in your way, turns green and with that, your momentarily except you of course. thought about others disappears. The challenge lies with us to cast them Statistics show that 75% of the world’s out of our lives, push that aside and “go get population hate their jobs or the situation yours”, whatever you are fighting for. Whether they are in. That is more than half of the it is a promotion, a degree, an overseas world, so it makes sense that people are holiday… all of us are working and fighting more distant, angry, and frustrated with their to do or accomplish something, it is within life and the lives of others and therefore, they us. We just have to go out and get it. It will are more likely to take it out on someone take a lot of sacrifice and effort on your end; else. it will not fall in your lap, you have to work for it, sweat for it. There is a saying, “Hurt people hurt people”. When you are hurting, you are more So, whatever it is you are fighting, likely to hurt someone else, maybe out of anger, maybe out of frustration. No one aiming or working for, make sure makes good decisions out of anger, pain, and if we are in a constant state of negativity, you get it. “Go get yours.” surely it would expand into every area of our lives? 6 www.devotedmag.co.za

Inspiration From mighty men to mighty families It feels like yesterday when “The media launch for the first Mighty Families Devoted would like to encourage its readers to a million people united in Conference took place on 14 August 2017 in attend this event. It is no secret that families are Bloemfontein. in danger and attacks from the devil to destroy Bloemfontein on After the It’s Time event, many people asked this unity is on the rise. It is also our prayer that 22 April to pray to God for what is next for South. Now, the Mighty Families Mighty Families makes a huge contribution to a range of social and other Conference promises to be a special experience the much-needed miracles in our country. ills. Did this event change in the Lord’s presence – an event where families from different segments of society will The following are just a few of the highlights anything dramatically be ministered to. South Africa is experiencing of the event that you can look forward to: in our country since the a worrying time of family structures gradually • Children ministry and a safe playground for mass gathering? No, it did falling apart. And so, the heartbeat of Mighty not. However, the prayer Families is to create an opportunity for healing children while parents enjoy ministry and gathering was the catalyst in our families, for marriages on the brink of worship; that encouraged all of us, divorce to be saved, and the hearts of children • 24-hour counselling tent; each individual, Christian and their parents to be united as it states in • Inclusive and devoted worship throughout and non-Christians alike Malachi 4:6. the weekend led by Heinz Winckler and his to practice responsibility. The event is planned to take place on the same wife, amongst others; The mass prayer event also farm (Wilde Als, Bloemfontein) where the It’s • A whole weekend where the focus will be on gave birth to an initiative Time event took on 16-18 March 2018. The the family (16-18 March 2018); to unite families – yet event will place specific emphasis on diversity • Camping facilities for at least 20 000 families another historic South to welcome everyone to enjoy a weekend of are available on site; African event inspired strong, Word-based ministry, wholehearted • The event is free of charge – registration worship led by Heinz Winckler and his wife, is only required for the numbers – only by the beloved Angus Aletté-Johanni, and devoted counselling and those who will be camping will have to Buchan. This is an account prayer. Nationally recognised speakers has pay R150 per space (because of additional partnered with Mighty Families, and the names and outsourced facilities being provided to of what is happening in will be announced at a later stage. The Vision of them). Bloemfontein. Mighty Families is to inspire the people of South Africa to place the emphasis back on good, Important details of the event: Biblical values, and to rebuild the country with strong families. • Date: 16-18 March 2018. The event will start The Motto is Strong Families. Strong Nation. at 6 pm on the Friday evening and end after It will be an event where Jesus will be at the the Sunday morning service where the main centre as we believe Jesus Christ is the Saviour speaker will minister; of South Africa and change will only come once families reconnect with one another and build • Event costs: FREE (camping costs: R150); on the Rock. Ultimately, Mighty Families aims to • Where: Wilde Als Farm, Bloemfontein (where make a meaningful contribution to the healing of South Africa between different racial groups, the It’s Time event took place); within the family context and specifically in • Registration: Required for numbers and marriages. The team is led by Dr Arno van Niekerk logistics on the website; (chairman and author of the book Enough! • Where can I obtain more info/detail: What is the plan?); co-chairman, Klaas Els (marketing); Ollie le Roux (owner of the farm www.mightyfamilies.co.za OR info@ Wilde Als); Nolan van Wyk (involving Heidedal); mightyfamilies.co.za OR phone 0711419215 William Porotloane (involving Rocklands and OR join the Mighty Families Facebook page Botshabelo); and Emmerentia Muller (media for regular updates. and liaison). Apart from the abovementioned members, the organising committee is “The family unit is absolutely crucial if supported by various skilled men and woman. a country is to succeed. You can get the The organising team hopes this event will be economy, the politics, and everything else the blueprint for several similar events to follow right, but if there is no unity in the family, throughout South Africa.” if the hearts of the fathers are not turned to their children and the children to their fathers, you are wasting your time. If ever we needed to pray for our children, for our families, for our nation, it is now.” (Angus Buchan, The Bible With Grassroots reflections, 2015:33) www.devotedmag.co.za 7

Outreach Twin OtterA Day in the Life of a By LuAnne Cadd It’s my third flight of the day on “It’s her first time. I’ve flown before,” Hitton explained with an obvious bit of pride. Mission Aviation Fellowship’s It’s his second flight with MAF. (MAF’s) Twin Otter in the As the plane jerked in a pocket of turbulence, Galcie grabbed her brother’s wrist highlands of Papua New Guinea. in a death-grip, squeezed her eyes as tight as she can and cried, “Oh Jesus, Jesus, The two propellers dissolved Jesus!” I could tell it was a prayer, not a swear. into a blur as the plane began Since our family moved to the Philippines when I was just four, I’ve sat in more to rapidly move down the grassy planes than I could ever count, from the largest modern airliners to tiny two-seaters. I love the differences in each aircraft model, and I love seeing the unique way MAF airstrip, lifting off the ground uses their planes for ministry, humanitarian assistance, and community support in in a steep climb. Suddenly, the particular. Mission Aviation Fellowship flies to remote communities around the world to bring people practical help, spiritual hope, and physical healing. girl sitting next to me on the back row doubled over. I look at But it’s my first time flying in a Twin Otter, and I have to confess: I’m a nervous her brother with an expression small plane passenger. I just hide it better than Galcie. I especially don’t like of concern. “Is she sick? What’s mountain flying for which I blame my bush-pilot brother. He loves to tell crash stories and they mostly take place in mountains. There are dangers inherent to wrong?” He leaned over and these particular mountains of Papua New Guinea, and MAF goes to extreme lengths shouted above the noise of the to make sure the pilots are experienced and able to make the right decisions each step of the way. It must be a safe flight or there is no flight. I would not be doing this engines. with anyone else. 8 www.devotedmag.co.za

Outreach My “day” actually began the night before when the two pilots, Jason flew above the clouds and mountain tops until Wobagen Jason Marsh and Brad Venter (MAF South African Pilot), Caravan was below us then made a sharp turn and dove through a pilot Mike Dupuis and I, stayed overnight in Telefomin, a hole in the clouds. At least that’s what it felt like. Several loops medium-sized community in an isolated valley where MAF has toward the ground later and we landed at the grassy Wobagen a base they call an ‘outstation’. Jason and Brad live with their airstrip where a crowd of men and women converged on the families on the opposite side of the country, but this area has a plane to help unload the heavy materials and replaced them huge demand for Twin Otter flights. MAF has since placed two with bags of produce to sell in the town. At Wobagen, I met to three permanent pilots and their families here, which reduces Freddie Taran, a primary school teacher who was instrumental the need for long-distance commutes or overnights for Jason in starting the church and inspiring the community to build and Brad. a better structure. “We have this convenient aviation service provided by MAF, and we are so pleased that it can bring a We left early the following morning, walking the kilometre maximum load per flight,” he said. from the MAF houses to the airstrip. Knowing that it was my first time on a Twin Otter, Brad informed me that it will look like he This is where Galcie and brother Hitton joined me. It was not and Jason are holding hands at take-off but assured me they are only Galcie’s first time flying but her first time, at 19, to leave her not. Many jokes followed village. She was not enjoying the experience. Jason and Brad not holding hands at take-off. The first flight took cargo from Telefomin to the larger town of Tabubil. It is connected by a road, thanks to nearby gold and copper mining, and is the main stop for picking up building supplies to take to remote communities. As the plane was loaded with heavy corrugated roofing sheets and metal pipes for Wobagen, Francis, MAF’s traffic officer, based in Tabubil, told me Wobagen is his home. The community raised the money to buy these materials to build a church as the current one is old and made from bush materials. “There’s no road to Wobagen. The only way is by aeroplane,” he tells me. “To walk to Wobagen from Tabubil takes one week, depending on how fast you walk or how heavy your load is.” I looked at the heavy pipes being loaded onto the plane again and could only imagine how many people it would take to carry the load for a week through the mountains. www.devotedmag.co.za 9

News Snippets Christianity in action Christian Action Network OGOD COURT CASE they create a space where Christians regularly sends us media JUDGEMENT IS CONCERNING can read the Bible together, and releases that contain important BUT NOT YET THE END OF Muslims can read their Quran together, information for the Christian RELIGIOUS FREEDOM FOR simultaneously, but separately. Each reader. What follows are the school must work it out for themselves, highlights that we feel you should SCHOOLS taking the imperative of diversity into take note of. International account, but also doing what works for Co-ordinator of the Christian The judgement handed down by Judge them. Action Network, Taryn Lourens van der Linde on 28 August, in the South Gauteng High Court, the OGOD Even though the judgement seems can be contacted on vs six public schools case, stated, in to undermine the authority of parents 021-689 4480, Email: info@ short, that School Governing Bodies to decide the religious ethos of their christianaction.org.za. Website: (SGBs) must amend their policies to not school, it should benefit Christian favour or promote only one religion at parents who have children at a Muslim www.christianaction.org.za. their school. The judge rejected most of ethos school or even a completely OGOD’s demands and asserted religious secular school with no religious convictions must be respected. observances in school assemblies. This judgement is concerning for Should the respondents choose to parents who wish to send their child appeal this case (which is likely), it will to a school with a single faith ethos. be appealed to the Supreme Court of Parents should be able to decide the Appeal and then to the Constitutional religious ethos of the school through Court, and thus school governing the SGBs, which has mostly been the bodies will not be legally bound by case up until now. this decision until such appeals are concluded. In the interim, they will be An advocate who studied the able to continue as before. judgement believes that the court order does not necessarily mean multi- The following should also be noted faith school assemblies. What the court about the judgement: said is that it is for SGBs to go back • Current Religious Practices at State to the drawing board and work out how they will create an environment Schools Remain Unchanged where everybody’s rights are respected. • Voluntary Christian Associations Must For some, it may mean they have readings from the Bible or the Quran, Be Respected etc. sequentially in the same school • Threats to Religious Freedom Need to assembly. For others it may mean that be Resisted and Opposed For a more comprehensive analysis of the judgement, please read Freedom of Religion SA’s article: BREAKING NEWS: Court Says Public Schools May Not Promote A Particular Religion. 10 www.devotedmag.co.za

News Snippets PRO-LIFERS CONVERGED IN abortions in state hospitals. clearly communicate the Gospel to a needy DURBAN FOR NATIONAL MARCH “The war against the pre-born is world. FOR LIFE compounded by the illegal abortionists Are you equipped to fight the battle of who are ensnaring vulnerable young the mind in the media? Sunday, 1 October is International Life women in every town and city in this While claiming to be neutral, secular Chain Sunday. As many as a million country to use abortion as a contraceptive, newspaper journalists and TV presenters Christians in approximately 1 800 locations for as little as R150,” says Lourens. often report the news from an anti- worldwide have previously participated Christian point of view. At one time, in Life Chains. This year, a National March “The Christian Action Network urges especially in the 19th century, most leading for Life organised by the National Alliance everyone to scrape off illegal abortion posters newspapers were Christian. However, there for Life (NAL) saw thousands in Durban, whenever possible. You could potentially be has been a major shift in the news media Tembisa, Bloemfontein, East London and saving the lives of two people – both the pre- on what is covered and how it is covered. Cape Town marching for the cause. born baby and the mother (as many women The NAL is a loose affiliation of churches die from these backstreet abortions). We It is essential that radio presenters, and organisations, which was formed in also urge you to lay charges against illegal journalists and editors be trained in a 1995. The Christian pro-life stance is based abortionists at your local police station. A Biblical worldview in all areas of life but on the fact that the Bible and medical form detailing how illegal abortions violate especially Biblical principles for politics, science make it clear: life begins at both the Termination of Pregnancy Act economics, education and entertainment. conception. The Life Chains recognise the and Medicines Act has been drafted for this abortion holocaust as one of the greatest purpose.” evils being committed in the world today. The programme The Life Chain is an international prayer NEW WAY OF THE MASTER FILM This summit will be the best investment rally and peaceful placard protest against EXIT – THE APPEAL OF SUICIDE you have ever made. The subjects covered the abortion holocaust. include: Thursday, 3 August saw the South Africa • The Battle for the Mind in the Media “In stark contrast to pro-abortion groups, premiere of the new film by Ray Comfort • Understanding the Ideas that Rule the who have proclaimed today (28 September) and Way of the Master – Exit: The Appeal of as the Global Day of Access for Safe and Suicide. Other films by Ray Comfort include: World Legal Abortion, pro-lifers proclaim that Evolution vs God, The Atheist Delusion and • Creation vs Evolution no abortion is ever safe – a helpless pre- Audacity. • Christian Apologetics and Effective born baby is killed, and the mother is often Before you finish reading this, one physically, but always psychologically, individual will have ended their life Evangelism wounded (as numerous peer-reviewed through suicide because they think they • Dealing with Guilt Manipulation studies on Post Abortion Syndrome testify. have no other choice. According to the • Leadership and Conflict Resolution Skills Abortion is also the violation of the most World Health Organization, 800 000 people • Exposing Lies We Have Believed basic Constitutional right – the Right to Life take their lives every year — that is one • Free Market Economics vs Socialism of innocent and defenceless citizens – the death every 40 seconds or 3 000 a day. For • Public Speaking and Debating Skills pre-born,” says Taryn Lourens, International millions who suffer from depression and • The Message in the Music Co-ordinator of the Christian Action Network. despair, Exit points to a better way. This • Love, Courtship and Marriage compelling movie shines a powerful light • Reformation and Revival “Pro-life groups uphold the sanctity of life – into the darkness and offers true hope to • Heroes of the Faith that every life is valuable to God. We provide those who think they have none. Someone • Hunger for Reality women with real choices (alternatives) and you know may be secretly considering loving support, not just one choice – abortion their final exit. Watch Exit, and share it with “Do not conform any longer to the – that pro-abortionists coerce women into those you love. patterns of this world, but be transformed choosing.” “Exit is powerful and effective... I hope by the renewing of your mind.” “Life begins at conception. The pre-born this reaches a wide audience and Romans 12:2 baby is then genetically, physiologically and organically a distinct person. At about three turns many to the hope of the Gospel.” The Biblical Worldview Summit helps weeks after conception, the baby’s heartbeat Alex Kendrick, filmmaker: War Room, you realise your God-given potential can be detected. Six weeks after conception to take positive action to change your the baby has its own lifelong brainwave.” Fireproof, Facing the Giants. world for Christ. This is accomplished through a unique programme of guest “When a nation devalues it’s most helpless “See to it that no one takes you captive lecturers, international speakers, authors and innocent citizens and allows them to be through hollow and deceptive philosophy, and key leaders in their fields, special film slaughtered in their millions, it is no wonder presentations from all over the world, that all other life is treated as cheap. It is which depends on human tradition and discussion groups, practicals, outreaches, an urgent priority for the Church to expose, the basic principles of this world rather outdoor activities, projects and interaction oppose and end this genocide of children with others determined to make an impact made in the image of God.” than on Christ.” Colossians 2:8 on the world for Christ. Detailed manuals, The Christian Action Network estimates the textbooks and lecture notes are provided number of babies killed by legal abortions SUMMIT TO RECLAIM OUR as part of the course. since 1997 to be well over 1,4 million. The HERITAGE Christian Action Network believes that the The cost per person: R950 (Includes number of legal abortions is higher than It is time to reclaim our Christian heritage accommodation, activities, meals, the official amount - due to outstanding and demonstrate to the world that the textbooks, manual and data DVD). 10% statistics from some provinces in previous Bible has the best answers to society’s discount is available for families and years and a possible failure of some most pressing problems. To do this, we groups. hospital officials to accurately record need to understand the times in which we Venue: Amana Conference Centre, near live and learn to effectively defend and Hermanus, Western Cape. Datum: 5-10 January 2018 www.devotedmag.co.za 11

Fair Flair DreamBig By Mignionette Fair Have you noticed that are very good that what you say about it’s a lot easier to say I’ve also noticed that ladies seem to yourself has also changed. You have to something good about struggle even more to acknowledge change your confession. And you have to someone else than yourself? their accomplishments and their best declare it out loud so you can hear yourself! People struggle to put qualities. Why do we minimise ourselves, “I am unable” has to change to “I can do all the proverbial best foot our businesses or our families? Why do we things through Him who strengthens me”. forward when talking about struggle to admit that we have good (even “My business is surviving” has to change to themselves and they often great) qualities? “My business is thriving”. have the most amazing Do we have inferiority complexes? Change what you say and watch how stories! Perhaps. But maybe it goes deeper than that. things will start improving! Maybe we don’t believe we are capable/ 12 www.devotedmag.co.za beautiful/smart/successful. Margaret Proverbs 18:21 “Death and life are in the Thatcher said, “Watch your thoughts for they power of the tongue and those who love it will become words. Watch your words for they eat its fruits.” become actions. Watch your actions for they become habits. Watch your habits, for they Numbers 14:28 “Just as you have spoken in become your character. And watch your My hearing, so I will surely do to you.” character, for it becomes your destiny! What we think we become.” Be How powerful and scary is that? What you Once your thoughts and your words have think, you become. If you think your business changed, you need to be. Be strong. Be is successful, it will become successful. If innovative. Be creative. Be courageous. Be you think you are not good enough, you will bold. Be positive. Just be. become that also. And that is just no good! The good news is, you don’t have to figure So, how do we stop minimising and this out on your own. Surround yourself with start increasing ourselves? Here are some people who can think and speak life over suggestions: you and your situation at all times. Surround yourself with people who can help you be. Renew your mind Ask God to show you who you are in Him because I promise you; He does not see you We all have thoughts of insecurity or as insignificant! inferiority at some point in our life. However, the trick is not to dwell on those thoughts. As Joshua 1:9 “Be strong and courageous… soon as those lies enter your mind, you have Only be strong and very courageous.” two choices: Dwell or dispel. Easy as that. You are strong. You are able. Romans 12:2 “Do not conform to the pattern You are creative. You are of this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind…” successful. You are beautiful. You are smart. It’s about time Ephesians 4:23 “Instead, let the Spirit renew you start telling yourself that! your thoughts and attitudes.” (ESV) Change your confession Your words have power. If you have dwelled on some minimising thoughts, the chances

Sample Text We pray for … • Rape and abuse of women and children • Murders and hijackings • Robbery with aggravating circumstances • Gang violence • Alcoholism and drug abuse • Corruption and mismanagement of taxpayers’ money • State capturing • Human trafficking and slavery • Hatred, racism and all forms of discrimination • Violent killing of our farmers and their workers • Poverty and suffering ... to STOP!!!• Drought South Africans - It is time to reconcile and build a nation The Motsepe Foundation, in partnership with various religious groups, will be staging a National Day of Prayer. All South Africans are welcome to join in praying for our country. DATE: 26th November 2017 PLACE: FNB Stadium, Johannesburg, TIME: 08:00 to 16:00 We will pray for … • the unity of all South Africans of all races and languages; • the poor, unemployed and marginalised; and • for God’s guidance, leadership and blessings for a bright future for all South Africans. LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE – MindBodySpirit Discover real life www.devotedmag.co.za 13

Rock oSf aHmoppelPerTofeilxet Needs List Devoted supports the Rock of Hope Place of Safety. Rock of Hope is registered as a transition home under management of the Tshwane Place of Safety Association that focuses on the needs of especially babies and toddlers in crisis since 2003. Registration number: 031-809-NPO If you want to support them and reach out to the children in need, please contact the nursery manager, Wouter Prozesky on: Cell: 079 4234799 Email: [email protected] BANKING DETAILS: Name: Tshwane Place of Safety Association Bank: Standard Bank Branch Code: 012345 Swift code: SBZAZAJJ Branch: Menlyn Branch Bank Account Number: 012781282 14 www.devotedmag.co.za