Built on Rock – (Dawie) 25/09/09

It is nine months since we left Windhoek for our around the world tour. I am writing this blog in the mountains in the north of Italy in a former priest house, built in the twelfth century. The walls of the priest house and the next-door church are almost a meter thick. Despite being built in an earthquake-prone are, they've stood firm for more than 800 years... They are built on solid rock...

It let me think of early one morning when my father-in-law woke us up, so excited; " The Lord gave me a name for your lodge! It has to be 'The Rock Lodge', it has to!" Approved! As the French traffic officer told me in his typical accent: "No discuszioon". There was also no discussion on Charles Ralph Brockelbank von Gericke's suggestion...because through him the Lord has spoken. "Rock lodge" it was.

Since that day more than 13 years ago, we held more than 500 training days of seminars to help people to build their lives, marriages, families, businesses, churches, schools, organizations, governments, countries etc. on the Rock.

More than 2000 years ago Jesus asked his disciples who do they think He is. Matthew 16:15-18 (NLT)
¹⁵ Then he asked them, "Who do you say I am?"
¹⁶ Simon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." ¹⁷ Jesus replied, "You are blessed, Simon son of John, because my Father in heaven has revealed this to you. You did not learn this from any human being.
¹⁸ Now I say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it.

We all know that the "rock" Jesus referred to, is not Peter himself, but more his testimony that Jesus is the Messiah, the savior of the world.

Everyone of us is building something. We all would like to build things that will last...that will stand the test of time...like the priest house and the church I am writing of. Like the Church of Jesus.

Jesus is aware of our desires. That is why he gave us guidelines on how to build.

Matthew 7:24-28 (NIV)
²⁴ "Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.
²⁵ The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.
²⁶ But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand.
²⁷ The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash."
²⁸ When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching,

The lesson is clear after the "therefore" in vers 24: those who have heard Jesus' words AND put them into practice, they are building on rock, only their "buildings" will stand against the trails of this world and the storms of life.

Joshua said after a successful life as a leader in difficult circumstances, as recorded in Joshua 24:15 (NLT):
¹⁵ But if you are unwilling to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve...But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord."

After 47 years, more than 500 training days at the Rock Lodge and a nine months around-the-world-tour, I am more convinced than ever before that if we would like to leave worthwhile legacies or want to build buildings that will last, then we should build on rock...that is to seek God's guidance through His Word and Spirit AND put His ways into practice.

Therefore if you are unwilling to serve the Lord His way, you can choose today who and how you will serve, but for me and my family, we will serve the Lord in His ways. We will build on the rock...

Its seems to me that it is not only the confession and commitment that is important, but also the outcome...because the quality of our building work will be tested.

1 Corinthians 3:10-15 (GNT)
¹⁰ Using the gift that God gave me, I did the work of an expert builder and laid the foundation, and someone else is building on it. But each one must be careful how he builds. ¹¹ For God has already placed Jesus Christ as the one and only foundation, and no other foundation can be laid. ¹² Some will use gold or silver or precious stones in building on the foundation; others will use wood or grass or straw. ¹³ And the quality of each person's work will be seen when the Day of Christ exposes it. For on that Day fire will reveal everyone's work; the fire will test it and show its real quality. ¹⁴ If what was built on the foundation survives the fire, the builder will receive a reward. ¹⁵ But if anyone's work is burnt up, then he will lose it; but he himself will be saved, as if he had escaped through the fire.

I believed that through God's grace, some of our building work will stand the test of time and the storms of life. I further believe that through God's grace, this world tour will bear much fruit for God's Kingdom. When my words proved to be right, may our Lord Jesus get all the glory, because all the glory is due to Him and Him alone.

Therefore, our Heavenly Father, please guide us through the powerful work of your Holy Spirit to know how we should build once we put our feet back into our wonderful country, Namibia...the land of the brave!

How I kept myself busy – Italy (Dawie) 23 September 09

For the board of the African Leadership Institute ("ALI") , our family trust's trustees, my mentors, friends and for myself, I thought it would be useful if I try to summarize the 25 things that I have devoted most of my time to over the previous nine months:

1. Travelling the world with my whole family: I have visited more than 30 major cities in 10 countries on 5 different continents.
   
2. Planning the trip and keeping tight control over our tour and personal finances.
   
3. Leading our capable teams back home and maintaining precious relationships (via Skype and more than 20 emails per day).
   
4. Meeting with various influential world class leaders. (I also made special new friends.)
   
5. Visiting various churches of different denominations and sizes.
   
6. Being exposed to places of leadership interest, such as the museums of Martin Luther King and Abraham Lincoln.
   
7. Reducing the cost of training material for ALI through sponsorships and discount on training books.
   
8. Completing the English translation of the book, "Wie steel my geluk?".
   
9. Acting on instructions of of our family trust's trustees of, amongst others, increasing our passive income.
   
10. Advising and guiding Chrisna's book on "Forgiveness".
    
11. Improving and extending our marriage seminar curriculum (workbook and follow-up seminar).
    
12. Improving the curriculum of ALI (I revised existing sessions and developed new ones).
    
13. Reading through the whole Bible (twice in 18 months).
    
14. Reading nine carefully selected books.
    
15. Resting well in body and spirit (we spoiled ourselves with two weeklong pleasure cruises).
    
16. Keeping my physical body healthy and ready for a new season.
    
17. Finalizing the monthly financial management accounts of 5 different entities.
    
18. Completing the financial yearend procedures of more than 7 entities and preparing for their board meetings.
    
19. Spending time with God (in walk, journaling and prayer).
    
20. Investing plenty of quality time in my wife and three sons.
    
21. Writing more than 20 blog posts and finalizing two newsletters.
    
22. Selling (including negotiations and contracts) the TurnTheTide coffee shop on behalf of their board.
    
23. Improving my own skills and capabilities by attending leadership seminars, computer and technology training.
    
24. Reflecting on the previous 47 years of my life, dreaming and strategizing for the next season.
    
25. "Wasting time" in the Lord's presense and with my family.
    

Psalm 16 (NLT)
¹ A psalm of David. Keep me safe, O God, for I have come to you for refuge. ² I said to the Lord, "You are my Master! All the good things I have are from you." ³ The godly people in the land are my true heroes! I take pleasure in them! ⁴ Those who chase after other gods will be filled with sorrow. I will not take part in their sacrifices or even speak the names of their gods. ⁵ Lord, you alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing. You guard all that is mine. ⁶ The land you have given me is a pleasant land. What a wonderful inheritance! ⁷ I will bless the Lord who guides me; even at night my heart instructs me. ⁸ I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. ⁹ No wonder my heart is filled with joy, and my mouth shouts his praises! My body rests in safety. ¹⁰ For you will not leave my soul among the dead or allow your godly one to rot in the grave. ¹¹ You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.

AMEN

Will I do a world tour again? 21/09/09, Italy (Dawie)

The practical circumstances around our family will most probably not allow us to do such a world tour again, but if I had to make the decision again, I would have no doubt what so ever to take the trip!

Through God's grace I have made a few good decisions in my life...like to accept Jesus as my Savior, to marry Chrisna, to become a chartered accountant and to join GJ Hanekom & co (which later became part of PricewaterhouseCoopers), to have three children, to start the Rock Ministries - partnered with Transformation/TurntheTide in Namibia, to found the African Leadership Institute AND to take my family on a world tour for nine months.

Surely, there are things that I will do different if I can start all over, but they will be minor. For that I can only give God all the honor and glory. Minor things I would have done differently on this tour, would be to include the more difficult parts in the world to travel (like France and Italy), first, and the easier countries (like New Zealand, Australia, America), last.

Things that we got right were the open communication channels with our capable team back home and among ourselves, the good budget and the management thereof, the fine balance between work and travel (experience and leisure), the fantastic churches, places and people we visited, the slower pace, the more time with God and his Word and the soft & broken hearts inside us. Again all honour and glory to Jesus, Our Lord.

We have shared so many good and joyful stories on our blogs. The impression may be that we had only highlights and we are a perfect family who had a perfect time...not true! I lost part of my finger in Phuket, spent time in hospital, got a traffic fine in France, made a huge car accident in Italy, had conflict with all my family members and had to deal with tough travel and language challenges to mention only a few. I had asked my family members more for their forgiveness than ever before – just because there were so many things to forgive me for!

I am extremely proud of all of them. Chrisna as tour manager, "homemaker", doctor, principal and wife did a great job. She allowed the Holy Spirit to prepare her for a new season of more fruit in ministry. Tinus as head of technical and communication division was an exceptional servant (in various fields) throughout the period. He is now ready to leave my home for further studies and for a next phase of preparation. I have no doubt that God will use him to make a huge impact in this world. Charlie brought joy and life to the tour. He was a good friend to all four of us. He really started to read the Bible more. He is a very gifted individual and will develop into a great leader of his time. Dawie J travelled well with four adults around him all the time. He was stretched in many ways, but developed from a small little boy into a young man with unlimited potential.

The memories of the tour are awesome, the impact immeasurable and the thankfulness in our hearts towards God (and all the friends who made it possible for us to go) overwhelming.

At this time while I write this blog, my emotions are so full that the only way I can end is with Paul's words in Romans 11:33-36 (NLT):
³³ Oh, what a wonderful God we have! How great are his riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his methods! ³⁴ For who can know what the Lord is thinking? Who knows enough to be his counselor? ³⁵ And who could ever give him so much that he would have to pay it back? ³⁶ For everything comes from him; everything exists by his power and is intended for his glory. To him be glory evermore. Amen.

New York – the giant and 9/11 (Dawie) – 26 August 2009

I have seen most of the places in America we have included in our world tour before. New York I have never been to. I therefore had some strange kind of expectancy to visit this "giant" in magnitude and significance, especially in the financial world.

The planning was tough, because we could not find a home exchange and the city is expensive compared to other American cities (By the way; our experience is that Europe is more expensive than America).

The Lord blessed our visit in an unique way. A few weeks before our arrival in NY, a woman who read our blog mailed us and offered their home (though palace would describe it better) to us...for free. They were going to Namibia during the same period and, allthough all their accomodation was completely arranged allready, just wanted to bless us.

Their neighbors took us for dinner, their friends brought us American pie and offer us the most precious visits and friendship. From our "palace" we had the most beautiful view of New York. There was a pool table, swimming pool and a separate room & working space for each one! And those are just the highlights... We spent a week in their house and two days in New York city itself, walking for tens of kilometers and visiting numerous places of interest. A truly memorable week. My family will elaborate more on the detail.

Let me share a different thought and an expression or two with you. But, before I start, let me just add a quick disclaimer. I respect America as a nation tremendously and would choose to immigrate there if I was to leave Namibia. My comments are thus born from a deep respect and love.

Ten million people in one city are a lot. Everything is massive and excessive: buildings, accommodation, public transport, number of cars and feet on the streets, shops, number of police vehicles, etc. It is amazing how they manage to create some kind of "slower pace" in the chaos created by the numbers, by having numerous parks and relaxing chairs and tables beside the streets.

We walked the Mecca of the financial world...Wall street and Broadway. We walked past the American Stock Exchange, New York Stock Exchange and massive financial institutions' buildings (all of whom received billions of US$ as "bail out" money very recently). We also visited the site where they are constructing the new building where the twin towers stood. We spent a long time in the Trinity Church – less than 100 meters from all of this!

I reflected deeply on 9/11, when terrorists brought the capitalistic world's icons down. Churches, I have been told, were full for a few weeks after that day. Just to decline in numbers soon afterwards.

Last year, Wall street recorded it's worse "bear trend" ever and millions of Americans lost their houses, jobs and the majority of their pension.

Although annalists speculate on a possible recovery and even a "little bull run", others pointed out that the average American owes more than N$ 60 000 on their credit cards. The possible "write offs" imbedded in the latter, may force the American government to extent it's U$700 billion "bail out" package to the private sector. Not good news, baring in mind that their newly elected President, who just rent an island for his family's vacation at a rate of only N$ 350 000 per week, is in the process of extending/improving the health care options for 50 million Americans (while very little is being done about the two thirds af Americans who are obese) and extending the war in Afghanistan. These initiatives will most probably not be funded from "their trading account!" Will America borrow from the Chinese again?

If an individual spent more than he earns, he will have to sell assets to fund the deficit or borrow more from someone else to finance it. The same principle applies to businesses and governments. Is it possible that the leaders of the free economic system twisted it so far that their rights and comfort, through their own money, became their own god? Meaning that they are turning away from the Father, Son and Holy Spirit to worship something else...Interesting that Jesus said in Matthew 6:24 (NIV)
²⁴ "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.

As I read through the Old Testament again, I was struck by how an "abundantly loving-kind Heavenly Father" tried to do everything possible that His people will not turned away from Him. But, it seems to me, this is exactly what happened all over the years, again and again...for 6000 years. Is it possibly true that this very special American nation who wrote in their constitution and even today on their money that "in God we trust," is turning away from their God?

Often on long roadtrips, Tinus plays us a "podcast" or message from one of his favorite preachers. In one of these, Louie Giglio said that we are all worshippers. We will worship what we value the most. Period. What we value the most will consume us and what will consume us, will conform us. What we will be conformed to, will determine our destiny. Is it possible that this nation, once fully devoted to God, started to value "money" more than God? Is it possible that it conformed them to materialistic self-centric human beings with legio of rights and to the love of money, which will determine there destiny? Hard words...but what about Europe, did that not happen with them first? It is easy to criticize other countries...where are we, as Namibians, in this process?

Are we still worshipping God and Him alone?

The warning lights are red in Europe, orange in America and between green and orange in Africa...

Scripture is clear on this:

Psalm 115:1-8 (NIV)
¹ Not to us, O Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness. ² Why do the nations say, "Where is their God?" ³ Our God is in heaven; he does whatever pleases him. ⁴ But their idols are silver and gold, made by the hands of men. ⁵ They have mouths, but cannot speak, eyes, but they cannot see; ⁶ they have ears, but cannot hear, noses, but they cannot smell; ⁷ they have hands, but cannot feel, feet, but they cannot walk; nor can they utter a sound with their throats. ⁸ Those who make them will be like them, and so will all who trust in them.

One of the signs you will see the most in New York City is: "I love New York", on t-shirts, glasses, keyrings, etc. A truly remarkable city with the most wonderful people, but I felt a sense of hopelessness due to who they worship. The Sunday before we left we visited the Brooklyn Tabernacle Church of Jim Cymbala (he is the author of two wonderful books I have read "Fresh Wind Fresh Fire" and "Fresh Faith"). Again, it was here, in church, that I received hope! Every time during our American leg of our trip; after reading newspapers, watching news channels, talking to people, my hope was fading. But every time it was in the local church that my hope was restored. That happened in LA (Fred Price and Rick Warren's churches), Whitefish (Paul and Angelita's church), Atlanta (Bruce Wilkinson, Phil Tuttle, Louie Giglio), Chicago (Bill Hybel's church) and now in New York (Jim Cymbala's church)!

That reminded me of Scripture; 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)
¹⁴ if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

There is hope because God is faithful, abundantly loving-kind and full of forgiveness... and his local church is still there...but then the church in America's voice should be heard! Can you hear that prophetic voice?...(Remember, the church is not only those few prophets I mentioned ...the church are all those who is carrying Christ Name!) Does that prophetic voice change the direction of businesses, the Government, the Nation? If the silence continues (voice or efforts not being effective)... America will become who they worship!

Maybe this is why the follow up book of Jim Cymbala of New York (Brooklyn), is called "Fresh Power". Churches (individuals, businesses and the Government) will need the Holy Spirit's presense and power to turn this around...

What about you and me? Are we still salt and light? Are we worthy of Christ Name? Are we faithful to our calling?

Ephesians 4:1 (NIV)
¹ As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.

^{Dawie Fourie - 9/11 from New York}

Chicago –our number one? (Dawie) 23 Aug 2009

Chicago has been our number one choice in several categories. It was the first city we identified to include in our world tour. The family voted the skyline as the most beautiful one in the world. Tinus and Charlie completed their first half marathon there. The best local church we have visited is there. The best car we had on the tour, we drove there. It's the location in which we made the most new friends. It's the most innovated city we have visited. It's Tinus' first choice for after graduate studies. It's the city in which we have exercised the most. And the list continues...

The innovative and architectural buildings and structures, 1000+ km running/bicycle tracks, numerous parks, cleanliness, various famous educational institutions, museums, art festivals, etc. contributed to my gaining respect for the city. The pace against which the city and it's people develop are remarkable. Chicago for example, produced the most Noble price winners ever. (I am sure some other family members will elaborate more on Chicago and the friends we made here)

Chicago was indeed very special.

But so were all the other places and all the other wonderful people and churches we have visited.

We had the most remarkable eight months as a family, but believe me, it is here in Chicago that I felt our relationships matured and grew in depths, more than ever before. I once again realized that I am very proud of my wife and three godly sons.

The visits to the Willow Creek Community Church and the Global Leadership Summit ("GLS") surely contributed to make Chicago even more special.

The church is relevant, innovative and lead by people with the spiritual gift of leadership. The focus on God's Word and Jesus is real, which ensure that they are practical and sensitive to the needs of their people and of the world. The GLS was once again a world class event; excellently organized and executed. It was full of practical information for leaders in today's changing world. It is "a must" for every leader who desires to glorify God through his or her church/organization.

My meetings with Bill Hybels and Gary Schammlein were fruitful and inspiring. There are so many win-win opportunities in Africa if the Willow Creek Association and the African Leadership Institute can work closer together in the future. Something , I think, which will develop.

Something I once again realized on this trip is that if one desires to make a difference you need to do the following:

• Be willing to learn from everybody and be sensitive for opportunities to gain knowledge, experience and wisdom.
• Never think that you are better than other people
• Work hard, with excellence, and in unity with teams
• Actively and innovatively seek new solutions for challenges and be willing to take risk for a Kingdom reward
• Your own abilities will take you only so far...we all need the power of God's hand on our lives.

It is not fair to all the other very special places, people and churches to give Chicago the official "no 1 -Fouries-around-the-world-prize"...Lets just conclude with the statement that it was an truly amazing and blessed visit!

Psalm 127 (NIV)
¹ Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain. ² In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat— for he grants sleep to those he loves. ³ Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from him. ⁴ Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one's youth. ⁵ Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their enemies in the gate.

Not too shabby – The first 30 weeks (Dawie – 27 July 2009)

Our blog producer, Dr. Chrisna von Gericke-Fourie, instructed me to do a blog on our world tour with the theme: " Not too shabby". She said I may not preach or thank the "soldiers back home" ...again. I should do an ordinary blog: like a normal person...

On this very special world tour we use the term "Not too shabby" when we really enjoy something. When we feel spoiled or blessed!

I always thought I was as normal as can be -but according to my wife, apparently I am not - so let me try to write a "normal" blog this time.

Unspeakable, precious memories of London, Paris, Orcierres (France), Switzerland, Germany, Phuket, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, Seattle, Vancouver, Alaskan Cruise, Whitefish (Montana), Toronto, Red Stone Lake (in Canada), Atlanta, Blue Ridge (mountain cabin in Georgia) and a Southern-Lake-Michigan-region-roudtrip are behind our backs. Chicago, New York, Southern France, Mediteranean Cruise and Italy to follow. Of the 40 weeks-trip, 30 have already passed. We do not want to go home yet! Our relationship with our Lord Jesus and with each other have been strengthened. To God all honor and glory for this unique opportunity.

We saw some of the most beautiful God created places, we experienced some of the most thriving churches, we met some of the most precious people on earth, we visited some of the most effective cities and institutions, we attended specific selected training seminars, we flew on numerous airlines, we went on a cruise, we rode on ferries, trains, buses, drove 10 different cars, stayed in more than 10 different houses, ate all kinds of food...

We talked a lot with other people, with one another, with God...we followed the news back home, local news and international news. We read newspapers, visited websites, watched CNN and local news channels. We have met with godly world leaders and closely followed President Obama's first 200 days in the White house.

We spent time planning the rest of our tour, kept communication channels open through Skype and about 30 emails per day. (I am hands on ALL the time...let me just add...it's easy to be hands on if there are capable and passionate people back home who are called and committed to lead in an agreed upon direction). We read books, hundreds of pages in the Bible and various documents on other religions. We wrote blogs, wrote various chapters of books to be published in the future, adjusted the curriculum of African Leadership Institute ("ALI"), developed new material for ALI , did presentations for various board meetings and actively manage the financial performances of all the ministries/businesses we represent (including the world tour finances) very closely and timely on a monthly basis.

We helped our children with their school work, upgraded their educational electronic equipment, visited various points of educational interest and played with them (board games, hiking, skiing, bicycle rides, gym, river rafting, golf, tennis, shuffle board, chess, table tennis, cricket, soccer, wrestling, base ball, etc.). We took them to some of the worlds most spectacular natural wonderss, to museums, science institutions, aquariums, buildings, Imax, base ball games, businesses, churches ( all kinds!), zoos, wilderness parks, water parks and lots more. And we enjoyed it very much. We continued with our regular "house meetings" and we took communion several times.

We prayed...a lot...for ourselves, for our trip, for the "soldiers back home", for ALI, for all our interests in Namibia, for the political process in our country and for individual leaders who we knew need to play an important role. We prayed for our president, his leadership, oposition leaders and for the transformation process in our country. We prayed for the leadership of the countries we visited, we pray for former president Bush' legacy, for wisdom for President Obama for the situations in Irak, Iran, Afganistan, North Korea, for Israel, etc.

Throughout the trip I was very aware of the of the Chrisna von Gericke Family Trust, which partially paid for our trip, trustees' instructions: we therefore stayed focused on new opportunities for ALI, the trust and the other interests we represent. We realized that these investments should not only be for the short term benefit of the country and the beneficiaries but also for the financial sustainability of the trust and those ministries we represent. To make sure we all stayed on course we had to list our goals and evaluated them every fourteen days...during a family meeting.

What a unique opportunity to see, to experience, to learn, to observe, to be stimulated the whole time and to make new investments - and all of that at a slower pace - with those who you love the most at your side ALL the time...not too shabby! Or what do you think?

Let me conclude with a passage in Scripture which summarized it the best for me:

( you need to reflect deeply to understand why I have chosen this passage)

2 Timothy 2 (NIV)
¹ You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. ² And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others. ³ Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. ⁴ No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs—he wants to please his commanding officer. ⁵ Similarly, if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor's crown unless he competes according to the rules. ⁶ The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops. ⁷ Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this. ⁸ Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel, ⁹ for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God's word is not chained. ¹⁰ Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory. ¹¹ Here is a trustworthy saying: If we died with him, we will also live with him; ¹² if we endure, we will also reign with him. If we disown him, he will also disown us; ¹³ if we are faithless, he will remain faithful, for he cannot disown himself. ^14...19 Nevertheless, God's solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: "The Lord knows those who are his," and, "Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness." ²⁰ In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble. ²¹ If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work. ²² Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

Faith, Family, Friends...a true story ( Dawie, Atlanta, 26 July 2009)

This is a true story following my two previous blogs on Faith, Family and Friends...

Another miracle story on our tour around the world!

We bought a projector and an extra bulb while we were in the mountain cabin in Georgia over the internet. It was to be delivered to Peter's home ( Peter is our very friendly home exchange host in Atlanta). The bulb was delivered and his Australian guests (who stayed in his Atlanta home and was so kind and helpful through out!) put it in the BBQ where we collected it on our way from the cabin to the airport. Unfortunately the projector was not there yet. We connected to Peter's Internet from his backyard. UPS' tracking system reflected it as "in transit". We called the whole family together and we prayed. We decided that we had an hour to spare and we should try and trace it.

First we phoned...unsuccessfully: only a computer voice. We then left Charlie and Dawie J at Peter's front door and drove via our GPS instructions to the nearest UPS outlet. Unsuccessful once more...they're only a retail store and had nothing to do with the delivery. Then back to Peter's home. Nothing delivered. Again we prayed! Peter's neighbor was in her garden, so we gave her our telephone number and asked her to phone us if they deliver within the next 45 minutes. Then we drove to the airport while everyone was on the lookout for a UPS delivery van. Within 7 minutes we spotted one and stopped it.

The friendly driver looked in his computer. No such delivery in his van, but he will phone his colleague. Phone...not available. He phoned his head office to "sent an urgent message" to his colleague to call him. Call came within 3 minutes, the projector was in that van. We slotted that van's next delivery address into our GPS and collected the projector at that delivery point after presenting the invoice and my passport. We were still in time for our flight to Chicago...just in time... (Chrisna did not walk to the closing gates...she ran!)

The whole month of July I had it in the back of my mind that I should still write a blog on faith. It was only just last week that I completed a new presentation for the leadership school on "God's part vs My part in life". What a true story to tell! God is so good! He still performs miracles today for ordinary people like you and me!

Is there possibly a lesson to be learned on faith? It is more than a cheap confession of our lips...it's about a walk of faith... Remember we said it's a walk with God. Only He could have helped us to find that projector in a delivery van between 5 million people in less than an hour... It pleased Him that we as a family wholeheartedly trusted Him.

O Heavenly Father, please help us all, in Jesus Name, to trust You more!

Faith, Family and Friends...Forever (Dawie, 23 July 2009)

As promised here is the follow up on my blog of 22 June 2009.

I tried to cover the family and friends part...so now is the time to share one or two things on Faith.

My palm dictionary explains it as: " loyalty to a cause or person" or "complete confidence in a person or plan".

The most prominent chapter in the Bible on this subject is possibly Hebrew 11. The first verse sets the tone of the whole chapter:

¹ Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.(NIV)

My Libronix Digital Library uses English words like believe, trust, rely, confident, feel sure, etc. Interesting to note that the word "faithfulness" is used most of the times. At the Haggai Institute a lecturer told us that there is no word like "faith" or "believe" in the Hebrew language. Remember that the first language of Jesus' disciples, who wrote most of the New Testament, was Hebrew, although they wrote the Bible in their second language namely Greek. In Hebrew apparently the only word they use is "faithfulness".

Every time we are in the car traveling somewhere Tinus will make us listen to a sermon or speech (podcasts of one of the world's best, or should I say one of his favorite teachers). In one of them Louie Giglio made a strong case that we all worship something or somebody. We were made to be worshippers. The same is true of faith...we all believe in someone or something. We all are loyal to someone or something. We all rely on someone or something. We all put our trust, confidence or assurance in someone or something.

The point I'm trying to make is this: whether we say we believe or not, is not the point, because we all have faith in something or somebody. The real question is who is "faithful"?

This is where, in my opinion, God proved Himself all over and over again through who He really is as the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. He is the only one who proved Himself as being 100% faithful, ALL the time! The Father as Almighty, the Creator and Sustainer of it all, Jesus our Savior who died on the cross and conquered death, and the Holy Spirit who comforts us on a daily basis.

Once this question has been answered I think the next one should be: "What about you and me...are we faithful?" Can others rely on us, put their trust/confidence/assurance in us? An even more difficult question will be: can God trust us?

I think this is where grace and mercy come. Again...God was faithful in His plan to save the world through His only son, Jesus Christ. Question: Do we trust Him completely?

It seems to me that when we talk about "faith in Jesus" or " believe in Jesus" we should talk of a "walk with Jesus".

To walk with Jesus, hand in hand, wholeheartedly trusting Him alone. Because He is faithful we should not be afraid that He will let our hand go, we should just keep on walking with Him in confidence that He knows the way...such a walk will please Him.

The Hebrew writer later continues: "Without faith it is impossible to please God" (Hebr. 11:6).

A walk on our own will never make it. As Paul puts it in Romans 3:10-12 (NIV)
¹⁰ As it is written: "There is no one righteous, not even one; ¹¹ there is no one who understands, no one who seeks God. ¹² All have turned away, they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one."

But a walk with Jesus is something different:

Romans 8:1-2 (NIV)
¹ Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, ² because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death.

Faith, believe, faithfulness...we all are walking with something or someone...with whom do you share your walk?

John 3:15-17 (NIV)
¹⁵ [T]hat everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.
¹⁶ "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
¹⁷ For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.

Faith, Family, Friends – (Dawie) Toronto – 22 June 2009

After traveling more than halfway around the world for 25 weeks, seeing the most significant places all over and having more time to reflect, I decided that these three words are more dear to me than ever before...faith, family and friends.

Friends:

As I read through the Bible, once again the well known friendship between David and Jonathan was fresh to me. Jonathan was the king's son, the next one in line for the rulership of his nation and David the beloved soldier who killed Goliath, who was anointed king by God. One should expect jealousy in Jonathan's heart but, there was love, compassion and justice.

1 Samuel 18:1-3 (NIV)
¹ After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself. ² From that day Saul kept David with him and did not let him return to his father's house. ³ And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself.

1 Samuel 23:16-18 (NIV)
¹⁶ And Saul's son Jonathan went to David at Horesh and helped him find strength in God. ¹⁷ "Don't be afraid," he said. "My father Saul will not lay a hand on you. You will be king over Israel, and I will be second to you. Even my father Saul knows this." ¹⁸ The two of them made a covenant before the Lord. Then Jonathan went home, but David remained at Horesh.

I tried to thank all our friends back home via email, newsletters and in a blog, but words just seem to fall short in acknowledging who they are and what they do. May our prayers of blessing follow them and all the new friends we have made on this trip :

Numbers 6:24-26 (NIV)
²⁴"'The Lord bless you and keep you; ²⁵ the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; ²⁶ the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace."

Family:

This whole trip was taken due to the relationships we had amongst each other. Special, unique, loving, respectful...but not perfect. Since 30 Dec 2008 our relationship grew even more, became more special, more unique, more loving, more respectful...but unfortunately remains "not perfect".

James 3:2 (NIV)
² We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man..."

So what works for us? Spending time together, honesty, open communication channels, regular "house meetings", forgiveness asked and given, soft hearts, shared responsibility, quiet time with the Lord, following only Jesus example, God's written Word, being real (not trying to be over spiritual or faked holy), being ourselves, giving room for our diversity, God's nature, more exercise, experiencing God's wonderful creation, praying together, going through conflict with an expectation that God will bring something good from it, making new friends together, visiting churches where God was present, staying focused to agreed upon goals, etc. to mention a few.

What about the imperfect part? The only things I can think of are negative assumptions and selfishness...that is not working and never will....not for us and also not for any other family!

Genesis 1:26-28 (NIV)
²⁶ Then God said, "Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground." ²⁷ So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. ²⁸ God blessed them and said to them, "Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature that moves on the ground."

Genesis 2:24 (NIV)
²⁴ For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.

Malachi 2:15-16 (NIV)
¹⁵ Has not the Lord made them one? In flesh and spirit they are his. And why one? Because he was seeking godly offspring. So guard yourself in your spirit, and do not break faith with the wife of your youth. ¹⁶ "I hate divorce," says the Lord God of Israel, "and I hate a man's covering himself with violence as well as with his garment," says the Lord Almighty. So guard yourself in your spirit, and do not break faith.

God's plan for this world runs through the family. The restoration and well being of this well thought through strategy should be high on any government, business and church leadership's agenda. I quote one of out great leaders:

Joshua 24:14-15 (NIV)
¹⁴ "Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your forefathers worshiped beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. ¹⁵ But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord."

To follow God's plan will bring His blessings forth:

Psalm 1 (NIV)
¹ Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. ² But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. ³ He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers. ⁴ Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away. ⁵ Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. ⁶ For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.

Psalm 127 (NIV)
¹ Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain. ² In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat— for he grants sleep to those he loves. ³ Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from him. ⁴ Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one's youth. ⁵ Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their enemies in the gate.

Psalm 128 (NIV)
¹
Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in his ways. ² You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours. ³ Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your sons will be like olive shoots around your table. ⁴ Thus is the man blessed who fears the Lord. ⁵ May the Lord bless you from Zion all the days of your life; may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem, ⁶ and may you live to see your children's children. Peace be upon Israel.

All I can add is AMEN!

...

Yesterday was fathers day...we celebrated it here in Canada, two hours from Toronto, in a cabin by a lake. It was one of the best days of my life. The three sons gave handmade presents, written and verbal notes...precious. But to prove my point I made above they also gave me a special present: their mother had to sauna with me for an hour and thereafter swim in the lake with clothes of their (the boys) choice...guess what they have chosen...and their mother and I enjoyed it more than words can express!

Faith

I will share on this third (or first) part of my slogan faith, family and friends, on a separate blog.

Let me conclude this blog on family and friends with what one of the wisest men who walked planet earth said:

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NIV)
⁹ Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: ¹⁰ If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! ¹¹ Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? ¹² Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

Frequently Asked Questions (Dawie) - 30 May 2009

Today we are exactly 5 months away from home on our journey around the world. I wish it was possible to share the appreciation and thankfulness in our hearts. Just as that is impossible, so too is my ability to use words to describe our journey and experiences. Luckily I have a talented family who will share in different ways our tour with you. Some will do it in perfect British English, other in charismatic American English and others in passionate Namlish.

It does not matter how these words will be put together, I am convinced that the Holy Spirit will use our words to feed your soft hearts to encourage, to edify, to equip and to reprimand for His glory.

I thought to share my heart today with you by answering (some of) the questions most frequently asked, apart from: "Where is Namibia?":

Where do you come from, which places have you visited, where will you still go and when will your tour end?

We come from Namibia in Africa, left home on 30 Dec '08 and already built precious memories in London, Paris, Orcierre (France), Switzerland, Germany, Phuket, Singapore, Australia, New Zeeland, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, Grand Canyon, Seattle, Vancouver, Alaska and Whitefish (Montana). We plan, amongst others, to visit Toronto, Atlanta, Chicago, New York, Southern France, Italy and Greece. We plan to be home on the 5^th of October 2009.

How did you come up with the idea like this?

Difficult to pin point and give 1 reason, but I guess it was birthed because of a family habit of regularly having family meetings. During one of those meetings Tinus challenged us to do a Cape to Cairo trip. In another meeting he shared his heart that he is close to finishing school but did not want to leave our house yet, but, also do not want to waste a valuable year of his life. If there was only one reason why we do this tour , it was to say thank you to Tinus who :"got it right for 18 years in our home". We dreamed ,talked, discussed, prayed and laughed, and over time, the around-the-world-idea unfolded right before us.

What was the highlight of the tour so far?

For Tinus: Sydney (because of the Hillsong church) and the Cruise to Alaska. For Dawie J: The many new places (or watching rugby in Sydney). For Charlie: the isolation in the snow in Switzerland and joining the family after playing rugby back home for two months. For Chrisna: Impossible to say...every place is a highlight, but if she had to say..."the bonus family time". For myself: the slower pace, being more with my family and our Lord Jesus, the visits to the many special churches and their leadership, losing part of my finger and ending in hospital in Phuket, the Alaska cruise and the many times I was hearing God's crystal clear voice.

How could you afford it?

Live a life of simplicity over many years, save according to a plan which has measureable goals, pray, plan, study and work hard, prioritize, budget, assign responsibilities, be accountable, measure progress, be disciplined, be obedient, adjust timely, find cheaper options (live on specials), do home exchanges, do not make mistakes, operate in faith and communicate well (if you need more detail...read my blog dated 20^th Jan 09: http://fourieworldtour.blogspot.com/2009/01/our-trips-finances-20-january-2009.html)

What would you have done differently?

Very few things, it was as close to perfect as can be! But maybe to sin less and walk to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and sleep in it for at least one night.

Are you not tired of traveling, foreign food, suitcases and not to have a place of your own? Are you not considering it to go home earlier?

Not at all, we are enjoying every moment. We are continuing with our family meetings. I am putting the above question on the table on a regular basis, and the answer remains the same: no one wants to go home yet!

When we are reading your blog it seems that you are enjoying it so much. Are you considering it not to go back at all?

There are so many beautiful place on earth. We have discussed it several times. We are sure that there are many different places where we will be able to stay and be very happy. Although we are blindly loyal to Namibia, we are, for the first time in our lives, honest enough to acknowledge that there may be other places on earth, which on a scale may "weight better" than our home town/country. However, the decision where to live is driven, in our opinion, by God and his calling for your life. For what the latter is, we will remain in a close walk with our Lord Jesus.

Can you, as a family, remember special "wow moments " that you will never forget?

Chrisna: Seeing and touching a Koala Bear , experiencing God's Greatness in the Grand Canyon and Alaska's glaciers. Charlie: Seeing my family after two months. Tinus: God's special gifts during the Alaska cruise. DawieJ: Receiving a word from the Lord from strangers in Australia and NZ. For myself: Seeing a banner with the three words on it: "Family , Faith, Friends"...when I saw it I thought: "this is IT, this is me! That is why I will devote my life to leadership development and the local church so that people will reach their full potential , enjoy life to its fullest and God's glory will shine!" But there were many more...seeing the Grand Canyon, the majestic snow covered mountain tops in Alaska, the many prayer times as a family, the special people we have met, etc. etc.

The whole trip sounds so exciting with so many wow's and so many highlights - were there any disappointments as well?

When you travel so much and so far as a family with a limited budget, there will always be numerous challenges. But through God's grace we could turn them all around into great learning experiences. (Like to walk in the snow for kilometers after our car could not go further one night in Germany to mention only one). I think it is very true that the only real disappointments were when we as individuals sinned and we did not reflect God's glory through our characters, thoughts, words and conduct.

What have you learned so far?

So many things. Read my blog comment on the 9th March 09. (http://fourieworldtour.blogspot.com/2009/03/ali-newsletter-9-march-dawie.html) Maybe I can add: God is GOOD and GREAT. There is no one like Him! The needs in this wonderful Godly created earth are growing. We have to press harder for the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. We have to pursue in love and faith. We should not try to do it alone. We need family, friends, a local church, a strategy and above all the power of the risen Jesus Christ inside us.

Will you do such a tour again?

I seriously doubt if such a tour is possible more than once in one lifetime. The circumstances around our children will also never be the same again. But if it is God's will, I most definitely will.

Is there any last message you have for the people reading this blog?

God created this earth in its splendor and beauty. He saw that it was good. Then He made you and me and He said it was VERY GOOD. (Ps119) We have one life...let us make it count for the King of all kings, for the Lord of all lords. Accept Jesus' forgiveness, give forgiveness yourself: quickly and in abundance, live with a soft heart, do not judge others, treasure your family, diligently pursue your purpose, get actively involved in a local church within your area of gifts, never stop learning, keep your passions burning hot and finish your calling. While you are on this journey... laugh a lot and walk intimately with Jesus!

Dawie Fourie - 30 May 2009 - Whitefish, Montana, USA

Thank you to our heroes back home – 19/04/09 (Dawie)

To travel the world for close to a year, you need a few heroes in your life. It's the same with everything in life. Like a good sports team (or business, government or church) more than just the players on the field are important. The support team is crucial and it is often these people who really make the difference.

That is why I would like to dedicate this blog post to those heroes back home…those who really make the difference!

Those who know me will be familiar with my view of Jesus' relationships. He had the crowds, the 72, the 12, the 3 and the Father.

Thank you to the crowds:

Thank you to each and everyone who pray for us, who carry extra responsibility because we are away and who support in whichever way - including the teams within our family, our church, in transformation ("T"), in Turn the Tide("TTT"), in Rock Lodge & Rock Ministries("RL"), in Trip, in African Leadership Institute ("ALI"), at WHS, etc. - but who are not separately mentioned in this blog.

Thank you to the 72 and the 12:

Iain Erasmus for his leadership and spirit filled management of ALI

Herbert Burmeister for faithfully and successfully managing the RL

Piet du Plooy for his exceptional dedication towards Trip, myself and our family

Tinie Johr for her loyalty in managing TTT as an effective unit

Paul Smit in the professional manner he chairs ALI's board (and the responsibilities attached to it)

Andre & Hanria Fourie for lovingly looking after our family "business"

Luitha von Gericke for her unmatchable servanthood and love

Renata Solomons for professionally running the ALI office (and our personal affairs) in Whk

Gideon & Louise Potgieter for their unique demonstration of support and love

Bertus Gous for his commitment towards the training of principals and inspectors through ALI

Louis en Rinette van der Riet for making the difference where it is most needed

Albert Strydom for carrying us and our dreams very deep in his heart

Ilsje du Plooy for (amongst many other things) providing financial management info of all ministries so timely

Serge Solomons for his support to Iain and Herbert (but also as lecturer and board member)

Immanuel Dumeni for filling my shoes at board level and as lecturer

Dr Goody and Stephan Nell for carrying extra loads as lecturers

Esmarie Nel for her most effective administrative support to ALI at the RL

Petrus Anton for taking on more responsibilities on RL

Gerson, Katrina, Nerine, and Altino for their support to Anton/Herbert/Iain and loyalty towards me

Neeltjie van Vuuren for the difference she makes in STEP, marketing activities, youth ministry, RL

Melanie Julius for sorting out all the TTT coffee shop challenges

Nangula & Lazarus Uaandja for their friendship and valuable contributions (financially and at board level)

Schalk Walters, Theo Claassen, Stefan Hugo for their friendship & financial support

Fritz Weinrebe for website and software support

Pierre Joubert for IT and so many other practical acts of service that make a difference

Louis & Theresé Conradie for being the "extentions of our arms"

Roland & Denise Engel for building the church and serving there where God is working already

Stephan & Caryn Feldmann for their support to Roland

Chris & Elna de Jager for love and acts of servanthood

Ronel & Japie van Vuuren for their prayers and prophetic hands and voice

Nangula Kathindi, Patric Brits, Sackey Aipengi, Sakkie Kaulinge, Zack Pienaar, Lee Helling for their wisdom at board level

Renier, Liart, Gideon, Willem for their prayer support

Lynn Nederloff for all the travel arrangements and caring

Rodrick Engelbrecht for his exceptional support to Piet and Trip

Gert Burmeister for his true friendship and being a special partner in RL

Martin, Betsie and Herbie for being such unique partners for Chrisna

Martin de Man, Cathy Reyneke and Marina Diedericks for looking after Chrisna's patients (344 Ind Ave rooms)

Luitha's support team (Hetta, Urtha, Christine, Lina, Suzette)

Johan Swanepoel and Eric Knouwds for providing long-term "tentmaking income"

Basie Buitendag and Christo Davids for being so much more than financial advisors

Tony Edmunds (Pointbreak) and Ockert Zeelie (Bank Whk) for looking after our investments and banking activities

Faffa Knoetze, Dirkie van der Spuy, Cassie Carstens, Claude Moller, Johan Deysel for wisdom and adding value to my live

Piet Coetzee, Jaco Venter and Ernst Coetzee for looking after the development of my 36 sons (WHS u/15 rugby team)

Frans van Sittert, Wikkie Hough and Suzette van Vuuren at WHS for building the Nation and their support to Charlie

Thank you to the 3:

To those closest to us, the 3 (they were mentioned above and they will know who they are), a special word of appreciation, thanks and love: "Your reward is in heaven!"

In conclusion:

For we, as the players on the world tour, the experience is beyond the expression of words. We honour our Heavenly Father, who through you all made it possible for us to experience such a blessing on this side of the grave.

Ps 16:5-7 (NIV)
⁵ Lord, you have assigned me my portion and my cup; you have made my lot secure. ⁶ The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance. ⁷ I will praise the Lord, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me.

Singapore 27 March 09 (Dawie)

For years now I have had this desire to compare Namibia on a number of selected criteria with a few other countries. In discussions with friends in business, church and government circles we reflected that good comparable countries will be Switzerland, Botswana and Singapore. I have visited Botswana years ago and spent seven weeks in the other two on this trip. Those who know me well, can witness that I am extremely passionate and loyal to Namibia and her people! But…there is so much room for improvement.

In my previous blog, I already suggested that business, government and church leaders can do so much more in our country. I pleaded that we , as leaders, should let more things happen!

In a certain sense this tour is giving me so much hope in what is achievable, but for the first time ever I doubt if my dreams for our country are realistic ...we are, in many instances, just so far behind. (But, as a dear friend recently pointed out, dreams are by definition unrealistic. We only need to make sure they are in line with God's picture of the future.)

As with many challenges the place to start is in a different "way of thinking"

The church should earnestly seek God's presence and His holiness. Fear (reverence) for Him and His righteousness should return…and we, as church, should play a life changing role in the challenges (poverty mindset, passivity, idolatry, immorality, lack of integrity, etc). The market place (government and business) should completely rethink the way in which we are going to create wealth, approach technology, demonstrate our integrity and unity. Yes, I know for many, these will just be empty words, especially if it is not explained in detail with practical accompanied examples. For the time being I think I should leave these "empty words" there and just tell you what I, due to personal experience, appreciated about Singapore.

* Their extremely efficient and professional airport, harbor and public transport system

* Their highly affordable and effective internet connections.

* Their positive approach towards technology , skills and development.

* Their hundreds of well looked after public parks (gardens) and the cleanness of the city

* The way in which they embrace their vast diversity (cultural and religion)

* The way in which government, business and church make lots of money in a country with no natural resources

* Their hunger for more knowledge, professionalism, quality and improvement

* Their high levels of integrity and respect for God, fellow human beings and God's creation

* The high priority they connect to the family as a unit (their families are small because they only have children when they can afford them).

* Their ability to work extremely hard ( long, fast and effective)

* Their good habits ( not addicted to TV, sport, drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, etc.)

* The hundreds of people being saved every Sunday (where after they immediately form part of small discipleship groups)

These are just a few things that I appreciate about Singapore after we stayed here for a month. No wonder the country is prospering...no wonder the whole country is literally been build up and developed in one generation...no wonder Tinus said he would love to come back and study here...no wonder Chrisna is saying that to come and stay here will not even be out of our comfort zone.

So what am I saying...

" I think God called me to go back to Africa"

Ps If there are volunteers who will help with that comparrison study please let me know.

The Church is the hope of the world –Singapore - 16 March 09 (Dawie)

When we arrived in Singapore I asked the Lord to direct as to a Spirit led Church. I was tired after two months of travel in Europe only visiting churches as museums and not representatives of the risen Christ. Paul said to Timothy to stay away from those who have "a form of godliness but denying its power" (2 Tim 3:5)

I visited the websites of various different churches, but this story caught my attention:

(I made a copy of it for you from the website…you can read so much more on the website yourselves)

"THE CITY HARVEST STORY

The Call of God In 1989, Kong felt the call of God to enter into full-time Christian service. Kong had, by then, graduated with a degree in Computer Science from the National University of Singapore and was working for a publishing house. Having held several small, but successful, evangelistic campaigns in Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines, Kong wanted to become an itinerant evangelist to assist the churches in Southeast Asia. In April that year, he left the Anglican church he was attending since he was a child and set out to become a staff evangelist with "Christ for Asia," a Singapore-based missions organization. The Birth of CHC After leaving his local congregation and embarking on a walk of faith in the mission field, a group of young people that Kong had previously ministered to gathered around him. They wanted him to be their shepherd, to pastor and lead them. With the support and encouragement of numerous senior pastors in the city, Kong decided to pioneer a new work, and hence, put aside his desire of becoming a traveling minister. Today, City Harvest Church has more than 25,000 attendees in its weekend services and is still steadily growing. Locally, the church has 36 ministries for its members to volunteer actively in. Overseas, CHC has 27 affiliate churches and 10 Bible schools in the Far East. The Malaysian Harvest Fellowship Kong co-founded has another 17 affiliate churches in East and West Malaysia. In 2001, CHC built a 2,300-seater, titanium-clad church complex in Jurong West Street 91 for S$48,000,000. Apart from that, it has offices and schools in five different locations. CHC is effectively a multi-site church with worship services at multiple sites, conducted at various times. Its main English language services are held every Saturday and Sunday at the 8,100-seater Singapore Expo Hall 8. The Vision of Our Pastor Kong is known throughout Asia as a dynamic speaker, communicating the message of faith in a very relevant and contemporary way. He has a strong vision to train 21st century leaders who would plant strong local churches everywhere in Asia. Each week, his half-hour television program "Harvest Time" is broadcasted many times in 145 countries through 13 television networks. With effect from 1 November 2005, Kong has asked to be taken off the church payroll indefinitely. He is now officially a pastor strictly on an honorary and volunteer basis. These days, he travels around the world as an entrepreneur, educator and conference speaker."

For the past two weeks we had the privilege to visit the City Harvest Church, three times, here in Singapore. Let me just highlight a few aspects we have learned from the church: Kong Hee founded the church with a few youngsters in 1989 Their current membership is more than 25 000 people Just less than a 1 000 active small groups are functional On weekends up to 50 000 people attend their services Their yearly income from donations are more than N$200 million They have more than N$180 million in the bank They spend more than 50% of their total income on ministries "to the outside" More than 1000 people are in the process of signing up for their yearly Bible School (extensive discipleship training) In 2008 they recorded more than 10 000 new (from the street) salvations They currently focus (as I see it) on spirit led weekend services, small group participation, strong families, discipleship, leadership development, cultural diversity, being relevant in a recession and a technical world, being involved in the need around them and to fulfill the great commission Their weekend services are well planned, transferring lots of biblical knowledge and the application thereof, strongly supported by drama, music, technical (audio, video, DVD), worship and fellowship. What can I add? They are not playing church. They ARE church..and they are changing lives and impacting their city and country.To Jesus all honour and glory. Bill Hybels said: "there is nothing like the local church ,if the local church is working right!" But then the local church should work right! Paul said in 1 Cor 4:20 "For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power" Leadership and to see God's glory shine in Namibia and Africa is my passion, but every time when I see the local church that is working well (or not),something strange is happening in my deep inner being…some day , maybe some day….