Kate Walsh

Kate is the current owner and editor of Cup of Faith. She is a blogger who loves Jesus, loves to read, and currently lives in Johannesburg with her husband.

The post Interview with Author Sister K: “Blessed with Laughter: Journey to Seeing Her Eyes” appeared first on Cup of Faith.

by Roxanne Goodchild

With Palm Sunday approaching, I’ve been reflecting on what this moment must’ve been like for Jesus. He knew the events and feelings that would transpire… the pain, betrayal, bitter grief… and he walked toward it.

From a human perspective, it can be seen as the perfect mix of courage and vulnerability; after all, we can’t separate the two. How would I have ridden down that road, knowing the events that were going to take place? Probably with disbelief at the fickle people celebrating, anguish, and self-pity for what was about to go down, and most definitely not willingly.
Except we know this road was not taken in sheer human willpower for us to emulate. In a marvelous and mysterious way, this was Jesus’ divinity on full display, and the perfect example of laying down our wills: what we want and so stubbornly cling to. He rode into town with an abundance of humility, grace, steadfast resolve, and pity for the people singing Hosanna.

Was he feeling apprehension; was there fear yet? (And how do we think about the God of the universe experiencing these feelings?)
What motivated Jesus to ride into Jerusalem knowing what was to come?

Love. Love for those who would be chanting for his crucifixion in a few days.
This act of riding toward tragedy is a perfect picture of a love that doesn’t turn away; a love that shows up.

The book of Hebrews gives us further insight into what Jesus’ mindset and motivation would have been: “… For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:2).

The event that kick-starts Holy week is a celebration, yes, but for a very different reason the palm-waving people, cheering children and celebratory crowd could fathom.

The next time God is riding into His Kingdom, it will be a very different picture: one of glory, victory and everlasting power. What beautiful contrasting images. Praise the Lord that both are true and, in Him and what was accomplished in the events following Palm Sunday, we’re able to endure unspeakable hardship and experience profound and everlasting joy.

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
His love endures forever. – Psalm 136:1.

_____________________

Roxanne lives in Johannesburg and works as a counsellor. She enjoys listening to podcasts, coffee & cake, and is an enthusiastic proponent of hope.

Kate Walsh

Kate is the current owner and editor of Cup of Faith. She is a blogger who loves Jesus, loves to read, and currently lives in Johannesburg with her husband.

The post Reflections on Palm Sunday appeared first on Cup of Faith.

by Tianette van Staden

About a year ago, I audibly heard doors closing in my house—not in a creepy way, but in a way that gave me peace. I wondered what it meant. Now, looking back, I realize that 2024, which aligns with the Hebrew year 5784—the year of the open door—has actually been a year of closed doors for me. I didn’t piece it together at first, but as the months passed, doors continued to shut in my life: opportunities I had prayed for, dreams I had confidently believed in, and desires I thought were within reach.

When Doors Close Without Explanation

One example stands out clearly. Most of my family lives about three hours away, and I considered moving closer by renting a house next to my dad. That house had been empty for four years, and my dad had never agreed to rent it out. Yet, as soon as I seriously started contemplating the move, new renters moved in. Just like that, the door closed.
This happened repeatedly—things I prayed about, believed for, and expected to unfold were suddenly shut off from me. With every closed door, I felt more overwhelmed, and honestly, I struggled with disappointment.

Then, one evening as I was driving home, it hit me. I had said months before, “I don’t know how to deal with disappointment.” My whole life, I had struggled with handling setbacks. And suddenly, I realized that maybe this was my lesson to learn. Even when things don’t go as I planned, God is still in control. He is still working everything out for His glory.

Seasons of Refinement and Trust

I don’t see any new doors opening yet, but I remind myself of Job. Doors close for a reason, and even when I don’t understand why, I trust that bigger and better things are ahead. Maybe this is a season of testing or refinement. My relationship with God is deepening in ways I never imagined. I see now that when you ask God to grow you in a certain area, He gives you opportunities to develop in that area.

For instance, when I asked God to help me love others more, He sent difficult people into my life so I could learn to love beyond what was comfortable. Now, I am asking to be God’s friend, like Abraham was (James 2:23). And how can you be someone’s friend without opening up to them? This season has pushed me to be brutally honest with God, something I wasn’t always comfortable doing before.

Biblical Encouragement: The Stories of Joseph and Job

Joseph’s story in Genesis is a reminder that sometimes painful detours are part of God’s plan. If Joseph had not been thrown into the pit and falsely accused, he would never have become the ruler of Egypt. Job lost everything—his wealth, his health, even his family—yet God restored him in the end. I am incredibly blessed to still have my support system. When I look at these examples, I find peace knowing that even when I don’t understand, God’s plans are always good (Proverbs 3:5-6).

How I’m Learning to Handle Disappointment

I won’t lie, I didn’t handle disappointment well at first. But I’m learning. Just like training in anything, you don’t become strong overnight; you need repeated experience to build endurance.
For me, coping has looked like:

• Prayer – Constantly talking to God, even silently in my head.
• Worship – Focusing on who God is, rather than on what I feel I lack.
• Scripture – Reminding myself of God’s promises, like Romans 8:28: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”

God’s Small Confirmations

Looking back, I now see that God was preparing me. The fact that I physically heard doors close was symbolic of what was coming. The urgency I felt to learn about our identity in Christ was another sign. God was grounding me in truth before this season of closed doors. One verse that stood out to me in this time was Daniel 3:18: “But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods.” This verse, spoken by Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego before they were thrown into the fire, reminds me that even if things don’t turn out the way I want, God is still good. I didn’t recognize all of this right away, but I see now that He was giving me hints all along. Now, I ask God to help me recognize His guidance earlier so I can walk in peace, even when doors close.

Drawing Closer to God Through It All

This season has brought me closer to God in ways I never imagined. I never thought I would cry in His presence the way I have. But let me tell you—God is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18). He is there when you weep, when you feel lost, and when your dreams shatter. And He is still good.

Final Encouragement

When life doesn’t go as planned, we have two choices:
Pull away from God in frustration.
Draw closer to Him and surrender our pain.
Being a Christian doesn’t mean life will always be easy or that you won’t feel sadness or disappointment. But I want to encourage you—you are not alone. When doors close, God is still there, guiding, refining, and preparing you for what’s next. Trust Him, even in the silence.

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Tianette is a child of God. Through sharing her personal experiences and lessons learned, she hopes to encourage others in their walk with God. She desires to bring people closer to Him, not through perfection but through her real and honest journey. Her blog is called Hope and Healing and you can also find her on Facebook.

Guest Author

From time to time, Cup of Faith receives guest posts from people who would prefer to contribute to the blog once-off. These authors may choose to stay anonymous or may have their name featured in the post itself.

The post When God Closes Doors appeared first on Cup of Faith.

by Valmarie Bester

The Bible reminds us in 2 Corinthians 12:9: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” These words have carried me through one of the most challenging seasons of my life. When I began losing my vision, it felt like my world was unraveling. As a creative person, sight was everything. The fear of losing it completely was overwhelming. But in my weakness, God’s grace shone through. He used this trial to redirect my focus and open my heart to a new purpose.

Lily Grace Design, my home decor and design business, was born from this journey—a celebration of His sufficient grace. My vision may have faded, but He gave me new sight, not through my eyes, but through my heart. Instead of focusing on what I was losing, I began seeing what I could create. Each design reflects beauty, resilience, and hope. The vibrant colors and patterns remind me that even when life seems uncertain, God is still creating something beautiful in the midst of it all.

A Journey of Faith and Creativity

I never imagined that losing something as vital as my eyesight would lead to something as fulfilling as my business. Every piece I create is a reflection of God’s goodness, proof that even in weakness, His power is perfect. The designs that flow from my hands are not just patterns and colors; they are prayers, testimonies, and reminders of His unwavering grace.

I want my business to be more than just a brand. I want it to be a message. A message that says, no matter what challenges you face, God’s grace is enough. He can take your brokenness and turn it into something beautiful. He did it for me, and He can do it for you too.

A Heart of Gratitude

Through this journey, I have never walked alone. The Lord has placed people around me who have lifted me, encouraged me, and believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself. At the center of this support has been my husband.

Words cannot fully express my gratitude for the man God has given me. A husband who stands beside me, prays with me, and leads with wisdom and faith. When my world became darker, he became my light, reminding me daily that God’s plans are greater than our fears. His unwavering support has been a testament to God’s love in my life. I thank the Lord for blessing me with a God-fearing man, a partner with whom I can serve Him, grow in faith, and walk this journey of grace together.

Grace Upon Grace

Losing my vision could have been the end of my creative journey. Instead, it was the beginning of something far greater than I could have ever imagined. God’s grace took what felt like a loss and turned it into a purpose.

Every design, every cushion cover, every fabric I create carries a piece of that testimony. My prayer is that these items don’t just bring beauty into homes but also remind each person who encounters them that no matter what you face, His grace is sufficient. His power is made perfect in our weakness.

So if you’re going through a season of uncertainty, know this: God is still at work. He is taking your story and weaving something beautiful, even if you can’t see it yet. Just as He did for me, He will do for you. Because in the end, His grace is more than enough.

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9

Valmarie Bester is the founder of Lily Grace Design, a brand born from faith and resilience. Despite vision loss, she continues creating vibrant, meaningful designs that reflect God’s grace. Her work inspires beauty, hope, and a deep trust in His person. You can find out more about her on her Facebook page.

Guest Author

From time to time, Cup of Faith receives guest posts from people who would prefer to contribute to the blog once-off. These authors may choose to stay anonymous or may have their name featured in the post itself.

The post When Vision Fades, Grace Remains appeared first on Cup of Faith.

by Lisa-Mare Brown

When my son was about 2 and half years old, our family decided that it was time for me to quit my job, and for my son and I to stay at home. It was a big decision, due to our lifestyle choices: we were living in Malta and traveling to Europe frequently. We also made another major lifestyle adjustment in moving back home to South Africa.

I honestly had no idea how big the adjustment would be… I was giving up my independence, and so many people asked me, “But why?” It made me think how messed up capitalism really is. Both parents must work and pay a proportion of their income to someone else to look after their child who will in turn need to find someone else to look after his (or her) own child.

In the end, no one gets to raise their own children. Some moms would literally tell me that they have more patience when they work, or how they would rather work as they are not up for it.

I must admit, I used to feel the same. I would look forward to Mondays and going on holiday was hard work. But I was listening to a podcast by “M is for Mama” and I can’t even remember what exactly she said but man oh man did the Holy Spirit grab my heart! I felt convinced that it was time for my son to come home.

It was really strange as I was struggling with guilt but convinced myself it’s better for my family this way. “It’s only guilt!” I told myself. Meanwhile, God was preparing my heart for a new season. I couldn’t deny it anymore and I remember saying to God: “OK God, but this needs to happen in South Africa.” At the same time, my husband had in his heart to move to South Africa too.

Now it is special how God prepared the way but I had no idea how hard the adjustment would be, and also how much I would learn. I am beginning to think that this journey was just as much for me as it was for my son.

So let’s speak about the hard… It is hard to give every minute of every day to your offspring, although it might sound like a natural thing to do. It is in fact not natural to us anymore. Society has taught us to hustle, to always scrape for more, to live for entertainment and to always be searching for the next big thing.

Spending time with a toddler demands you to slow down, to live in the second, to literally smell the roses, to invent ways of entertaining yourself, to seek adventure and fun in everyday things. No amount of toys, crafts, educational materials, “tik-tok” videos can teach you how to be in the moment with your child. Only the Holy Spirit can.

It is in the moments when I want to hustle for the next thing even if it is just to start cleaning or cooking when God shows me: this is it. This is what it is all about. This moment. In the dirt, on the ground, making growling sounds and pretending you can speak dinosaur. It forces you to slow down and just be. We are not able to just be any more.

Think about it, is it possible for you to just sit for five minutes without reverting to browsing on your phone?

It is really hard for us to just be and I believe it’s a discipline we need to practice to experience more of Jesus. That is why He lets the children come to him. That is why he requires a child like faith and that the Kingdom belongs to them. It is because what a child is: the opposite of our society. A child can just be.

Today’s society wants us to chase educational milestones in our children since infancy. But it’s not just what our children can learn from us. We can learn from them. That is an unseen treasure not everyone can acknowledge and see. It’s a hidden treasure and God reveals it to those who seek it.

So sit down… Get on the ground with them. And let them teach you how to just be.

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Hi, I’m Lisa. I’m a stay-at-home mom to a lively toddler boy. Following God is an exciting adventure through the highs and the lows. As long as we seek him, there’s a treasure in every season, so let’s learn how to seek him together. See Lisa’s blog here.

Guest Author

From time to time, Cup of Faith receives guest posts from people who would prefer to contribute to the blog once-off. These authors may choose to stay anonymous or may have their name featured in the post itself.

The post How to just be… appeared first on Cup of Faith.

by Zeeva Usman

Life is a journey full of ups and downs, but it’s often in the lowest moments—when we feel as though we’re walking through a valley—that we discover our true strength. The Bible is filled with stories of individuals who found their purpose and power not on mountaintops, but in the valleys of hardship, loss, and trial.

As Christians, we can be assured that these valleys, though painful, are not without meaning. They are the places where God’s transformative power is often most evident.

Understanding the Valley

In scripture, the valley is a place of testing. It represents times of difficulty, challenge, and sometimes, overwhelming despair. The valley of the shadow of death from Psalm 23 is perhaps the most well-known symbol of such a trial. David writes, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me” (Psalm 23:4, ESV). David’s words remind us that while the valley is dark and threatening, it is also a place where God’s presence is most felt.

We may not always choose to enter the valley, but we are often led there for a purpose greater than we can see at the moment. In the valley, distractions are stripped away, and we are forced to rely on God in ways we might not have before. It is here, in this place of vulnerability, that our spiritual eyes are opened.

Strength in Weakness

When we think of strength, we often picture someone who is physically or emotionally resilient, someone who can stand tall no matter what comes their way. But the Bible teaches a different kind of strength, one that is found in our weakness. The apostle Paul experienced this paradox when he pleaded with God to remove a thorn in his flesh, a persistent struggle that caused him great discomfort. God’s response? “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV)

Paul learned that true strength doesn’t come from our ability to endure hardship on our own. Instead, it comes from surrendering to God and allowing His power to work through us. The valley, though it may seem like a place of weakness, is where we discover that God’s strength is more than enough to carry us through.

Seeing Through the Eyes of Faith

When we walk through difficult seasons, our natural tendency is to focus on what we can see—the problems, the pain, the confusion. But as Christians, we are called to look beyond the visible and to see with eyes of faith. This is what Paul meant when he wrote, “For we walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7, NKJV)

Faith is like a new set of eyes that allows us to see God’s hand at work, even during our struggles. It gives us the perspective to recognize that the valley is not the end of the story. Instead, it is a chapter in the larger narrative of redemption that God is writing in our lives. While the valley may feel like a place of loss, it is often where God is preparing us for something greater.

The Valley as a Place of Growth

One of the most profound truths about the valley is that it is a place of growth. Just as valleys in nature are rich with nutrients and water, so too are our spiritual valleys rich with growth opportunities. It is in these moments of trial that we learn perseverance, patience, and trust in God’s timing.

James 1:2-4 tells us to “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything” (NIV). The valleys of life are not random or purposeless; they are part of God’s process of refining and strengthening us.

Finding Strength in Community

In the valley, it’s easy to feel alone. The struggles we face can seem overwhelming, and we may be tempted to isolate ourselves from others. But one of the ways God strengthens us in the valley is through the support of the Christian community. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 says, “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls, one can help the other up.” (NIV)

We were never meant to walk through the valleys of life alone. God has placed people around us to encourage, uplift, and remind us of His promises. In moments when our strength feels depleted, we can lean on the prayers and support of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Emerging from the Valley Stronger

Though the valley may feel like a place of defeat, it is actually where victory begins. It is in the valley that our character is forged, our faith is deepened, and our dependence on God is strengthened. When we emerge from the valley, we do so not as the same person who entered it, but as someone who has been transformed by God’s grace.

The valley is a crucible of sorts—a place where impurities are burned away, leaving behind a heart that is purer and more aligned with God’s will. The strength we find in the valley is not our own; it is the strength that comes from knowing that God is with us, that His power is made perfect in our weakness, and that He will never leave or forsake us.

Conclusion: Strength for the Journey

I found my strength in the valley—not because I could endure on my own, but because God met me there. The valleys of life are inevitable, but they are also necessary. They remind us of our need for God and His sustaining power. Through the eyes of faith, we can see that these valleys are not dead ends, but places of preparation and growth.

As we walk through the valleys, let us remember the words of Psalm 121:1-2: “I lift my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth” (NIV). Our help, our strength, and our victory are found in the One who walks with us through every valley and leads us into the light of His presence.

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Zeeva Usman is a songwriter, and a worship leader at her local church. She is dedicated to learning all musical instruments to play to praise Jesus for His priceless sacrifice on the cross. When she is not working she plays with her two dogs, Palm and Oreo.

Guest Author

From time to time, Cup of Faith receives guest posts from people who would prefer to contribute to the blog once-off. These authors may choose to stay anonymous or may have their name featured in the post itself.

The post In the Valley, I Found My Strength appeared first on Cup of Faith.

by Marthe Badibanga

Life can be overwhelming, even for those of us who try to keep everything together. At some point, we all face moments when the weight of our responsibilities, emotions, or circumstances becomes too much to carry on our own. Whether it’s the daily grind that wears us down or significant life events like the breakdown of a marriage or a serious illness, it can feel like there’s no end in sight. During these times, finding refreshment feels impossible. Yet, as believers, we have a constant source of rest and peace in Jesus Christ, our Shepherd.

Jesus, Our Rest in the Storm

When Jesus says in John 10:11, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep,” (ESV) He’s telling us something deeply profound. He is the One who protects us, guides us, and nurtures us—often in ways we don’t even recognize until we’re out of the storm. Unlike any worldly source of comfort or temporary escape, Jesus knows exactly what our hearts need, and He offers lasting refreshment that goes beyond just physical rest.

This truth became more real to me than ever during one of the most difficult seasons of my life: a combination of divorce and a serious illness, which left me unable to keep my employment. For years, I had prided myself on being able to handle anything life threw at me. But when my marriage unravelled quite dramatically and I was diagnosed with a debilitating illness at the same time, I felt crushed. The emotional pain of a failing relationship, coupled with the physical toll of the illness, left me feeling like I was drowning in chaos.

The Shepherd Leads Us to Still Waters

Psalm 23 is one of the most well-known and loved passages in the Bible, and for good reason. It speaks to the way Jesus, our Shepherd, leads us through the darkest valleys and brings us to places of peace and refreshment. Psalm 23:1-2 says, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.” (ESV)

This picture of the Shepherd leading us to green pastures and still waters isn’t just poetic imagery—it’s a promise. During that difficult season, I felt anything but rested. It seemed like my mind was constantly racing, my heart was heavy with grief, and my body was weary from the strain of illness. But Jesus kept reminding me to come to Him for rest. He would gently pull me back to His Word, where I found verses like Ps 23:4: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me” (ESV). Or Isaiah 40:31: “But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” (ESV)

Even when I couldn’t see a way out of the storm, I knew that I was in the hands of the Good Shepherd. Jesus didn’t promise to take away the pain instantly or cure the illness overnight, but He did promise to walk with me through it. And in those moments when I was intentional about spending time in prayer and in His Word, I experienced a kind of peace that surpassed all understanding (Philippians 4:7). He was the still waters in my storm.

Finding Peace in Chaos

Going through a divorce is like watching the foundation of your life crumble. Everything you thought was stable and permanent suddenly feels fragile and uncertain. When you add an illness into the mix, it’s easy to feel like you’re trapped in an inescapable storm. During those long nights when the pain—both emotional and physical—kept me awake, I found myself crying out to God in desperation. It was hard to believe that peace was possible, but in those darkest moments, I began to see Jesus as my Shepherd in a new way.

Instead of trying to control the uncontrollable, I began to learn how to surrender. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites us: “Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (ESV)

This verse took on new meaning as I realized that Jesus wasn’t asking me to pretend I was okay or to push through in my own strength. He was inviting me to let Him carry the burden with me, to rest in His care, and to find refreshment in His presence. It didn’t happen all at once, but slowly, as I gave my pain, my fears, and my uncertainties over to Him, I started to feel lighter.

There were still tough days—moments when the divorce felt too painful to bear and the illness too draining to fight—but I began to lean on Jesus in those times instead of trying to power through on my own. The more I trusted Him as my Shepherd, the more I experienced His peace. I came to understand that real refreshment isn’t about escaping our circumstances, but about finding rest in the middle of them, knowing we are safe in His care.

Finding Daily Refreshment in Jesus

The refreshment that Jesus offers isn’t a one-time fix. Just like sheep need constant care from their shepherd, we need to continually come back to Jesus for daily renewal. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of life and forget to rest in His presence, but Jesus is always inviting us to come to Him.

One way I’ve learned to do this is by ending my day with quiet time in God’s Word and in prayer. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, I simply sit in silence, asking the Holy Spirit to speak to my heart. Other times, I pour out my worries and fears to God and ask for His peace. Every time, I’m reminded of Jesus’ promise in John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (ESV)

Even in the midst of life’s storms, we can find true refreshment in Jesus. He doesn’t promise a life without hardship, but He does promise to walk with us, guide us, and bring us to places of peace. When we trust Him as our Shepherd, we find rest for our souls that the world cannot offer. As we navigate these tumultuous waters together—leaning on Scripture and each other—let us remember that we are never alone. Our Shepherd walks beside us every step of the way, leading us toward still waters where our souls can be restored.

The Shepherd’s Refreshment Is Always Available

If you’re feeling weary today—whether from the daily stresses of life or from a more significant storm like I faced—know that Jesus, your Shepherd, is ready to lead you to still waters. His invitation stands: Come to Him, find rest in His presence, and let Him refresh your soul. When we place our burdens in His hands, we discover that He is more than enough to carry us through, bringing us peace even in the most chaotic seasons of life.

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I have a love for writing, dedicated to sharing inspiring words to uplift others and I have a drive to make a difference. I long to see fellow Christians become all that God wants them to be. – Marthe Badibanga

Marthe Badibanga

A volunteer blogger whose passion is to see the people of God become all that the LORD intended them to be in their personal relationships with Him that overflow into their daily lives.

The post Finding Refreshment in Our Shepherd, Jesus Christ appeared first on Cup of Faith.

by Lea Peters

I’m in His pocket

Play it safe.

Don’t push too far.

Be careful.

Should we chose to follow all safety precautions on every product we buy or activity we take part in, there are still bound to be unforeseen, unplanned, and unexpected complications that will meet us along the way. We simply can’t avoid trouble, it comes with the territory of life.

I’ve said it many times and still hold to this: the safest place to be is in God’s will. There, I find protection, provision, joy, and comfort. There’s nothing that can reach me there; I’m in His pocket ( 1 Sam. 25:29) as it were, close to His heartbeat. From that place, I hear what stirs His heart and I find the courage to reach for things I never dreamt of before, because things aren’t what they seem to be when you’re in the will of God.

Things aren’t as they appear

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” John 14:27 ESV

It would appear that Jesus was coaching His disciples to really open their eyes to the possibility of things not being as they would appear when He said, “Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” At the time being described above in John 14, Jesus had entered into Jerusalem and was preparing His followers to understand that in the days to come, events would unfold that would appear to say, “It’s over.”

The crucifixion was on the horizon, Jesus knew it – but He also knew that the Resurrection was soon to follow on the heels of what would appear to be His end. He knew things weren’t going to be at all as they seemed. Jesus also knew everyone would flee and that He would be left alone to face the cross, yet He did it anyway.

Born for something more

Why would He suffer and die when all would leave Him? He also knew that after His Resurrection, no one would believe in Him right away. It took quite a bit of work after He rose to convince those who had fled, that He was really alive. If it had been me making the choice at that juncture, those who had fled would not have been in the running for those chosen to be the leaders of the early church. Yet, by grace, Jesus chose to look beyond what the rest of us would call “the obvious” because He knew that nothing in His Kingdom is as it seems. Jesus knew that those who had fled weren’t at all as they appeared. They were born for something more, they were meant to turn the world “upside down.”

“These men who have turned the world upside down have come here also.” Acts 17:6 ESV

Never played it safe

I see a pattern throughout Scripture where those who dared to live close to the Father’s heartbeat never played it safe. They understood that being led where God took them was the only truly safe place to be – even if that path lead them to a place where it would seem their end was imminent.

Daniel chose the lions.

Paul chose to go to Rome.

Joseph chose to take Mary.

Each one (and many others) could have chosen to follow an easier route, but they didn’t. They knew the worst that could happen would have meant losing their lives, which would only put them in the presence of God; where would the loss in that have been? They chose His safe place, and as they did, they lived amazing lives of adventure, seeing impossible dreams come true that they didn’t even know they had.

Unsafe, unreasonable, and even foolish

This life and all of its trimmings would have us to believe that living a life of adventure for God is unsafe, unreasonable, and even foolish. For those who don’t know the Father, I can understand those feelings. Still, there’s a thirst in me to see more than a life colored safely in the lines of what seems to be safe places, for in reality nothing is safe apart from God.

My choice is to live far from what seems to be safe; I want to live close to Him and far from things as they seem to be.

“The worship of God is not a rule of safety; it’s an adventure of the spirit.” – Alfred North Whitehead

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Lea Peters has been a pastor’s wife and missionary since 1987. She has served alongside her husband Jamie planting churches and establishing faith-based community outreaches in Africa. She has four children and two grandchildren.

Lea Peters

Lea Peters has been a pastor’s wife and missionary since 1987. She has served alongside her husband, Jamie, planting churches and establishing faith-based community outreaches in Africa. She has four children and two grandchildren.

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One of my favourite places to be is the bi-annual Tierlandtynkies market festival in Pretoria. Every inch of space is filled with delightful treasures for my magpie eyes, handmade or curated by fun, smart and engaging entrepreneurs. Most of them are female, including the events’ brain-moms: Ronel and Lorette (who happen to also be two of the kindest people you will ever meet). The market is held on church property but it’s far from the stereotypical koeksister and secondhand book market we’ve come to expect from church fetes. I know because I assist my husband with his stall there for the past few years and have come to expect to be pleasantly surprised with the jewellery, fashion, accessories, decor and more from small businesses.

We are one week away from the next market and so I simply must write a piece I’ve been keeping from you for a while! At the last market, I spoke to some of the vendors about what it takes to run their businesses. Our conversations reminded me of the creative industry demonstrated by the Proverbs 31 woman. Reading over my notes, I am amazed at the depth of wisdom experience has taught them. I’ve distilled their advice into ten important ingredients for the modern day female entrepreneur:

1. Excellence

Give her of the fruit of her hands,
and let her works praise her in the gates. (Proverbs 31:31 NKJV)

There can be no entrepreneurship without excellence. Cutting corners is a big no-no and will catch up with you at some point. Customers are not easily fooled by shoddy work so a thriving small business requires that one always puts the best foot forward.

2. Leadership

She rises while it is yet night
and provides food for her household
and portions for her maidens. (Proverbs 31:15)

A good leader sacrifices for staff: one entrepreneur admitted that she would take money from her personal accounts to pay her staff if the business had bad months. But becoming a good leader also requires learning how to follow. Ronel recommended finding a mentor and meeting once a month to learn from.

3. Unique Solutions

She considers a field and buys it (Proverbs 31:16a)

One of the most competitive genres for small businesses is jewellry. Amorique from Mark of A explained to me how her desire to create beautiful items was partly born from the frustration of not being able to find rings that fit her fingers. She encourages anyone with new ideas to never ever try to fit in as building your business on the basis of comparison will only yield flat and boring results. If you’re someone interested in creative ideas, I highly recommend the ‘Made to Create’ 6 week Bible Study.

Kies is where I met the awesome Purpose & Proverbs team. What kind and inspirational ladies!

4. Godly Direction

Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain,
but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. (Proverbs 31:30)

Pray, pray and pray for inspiration and direction from God. One lady shared with me how, in the difficulty of navigating her sales through the COVID pandemic, she and her business partner waited on God for a word in prayer. Once they felt that they had received direction, they acted on it in faith and continued to repeat it to themselves throughout challenges. Another lady shared that her desire to pivot her business started deep within her heart. Once she followed that inspiration, things quickly fell into place from her which she interprets as evidence of God’s grace and direction.

One of my first Tierlandtynkies markets as a barista back in 2014

5. Boldness

She is not afraid of snow for her household (Proverbs 31:21a)

Fear of failure is one of the largest barriers to success for anything, entrepreneurship included. Owning and running a small business takes a stomach for risk.

6. Attention to Detail

She looks well to the ways of her household (Proverbs 31:27a)

Toni, owner of Toni’s Pizza, emphasised that attention to detail is key. Know where every single cent is going. Ronel affirmed that being hands-on is vital for the health of your business.

7. Communication

She opens her mouth with wisdom (Proverbs 31:26a)

Clarity in branding helps customers to understand what you are offering them. Nini of Eat-a-bit shared that rebranding resulted in an increase in sales! Same business, same product, same owner, but improved communication! She went on to explain that she loves to chat with her customers and get a feel for what they do and don’t like. She uses this valuable information to improve her products and even as a place to find free ideas for new products.

8. Flexibility

Strength and dignity are her clothing,
and she laughs at the time to come. (Proverbs 31:25)

One just cannot prepare for every eventuality. Wisdom and planning are great but when things go wrong, good entrepreneurs think on their feet to solve the problem. There’s nothing wrong with having a little cry of course! But never allow despair to prevent you from tackling unforeseen challenges.

9. Family

Her children rise up and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her (Proverbs 31:28)

A couple of the ladies I spoke to mentioned how important family support is. It reminded me of how supportive my husband has been of my vision for this blog, Cup of Faith. One lady had her baby with her at her stand. She explained that she wants her daughter to be included into her life and so, with the support of parents and her husband, she bravely chooses to combine childcare with running her stand. Now that’s one advantage of being your own boss: autonomous parenting!

Helping Kendrick running his stall at Kies in April 2024

10. Hard Work

She rises while it is yet night (Proverbs 31:15a)
She … does not eat the bread of idleness. (Proverbs 31:27b)

There is no substitute for hard work. A common theme with all the women I spoke to was grit: giving it all and willingly giving up time to invest into nurturing the business into what you envision it to be. These women are not afraid to wake up early and go to bed late – something they share with the Proverbs 31 woman!

If you are around Pretoria next week I encourage you to come by and meet some of the incredible vendors!

You can find details about the market on Facebook.

Kate Walsh

Kate is the current owner and editor of Cup of Faith. She is a blogger who loves Jesus, loves to read, and currently lives in Johannesburg with her husband.

The post What Makes a Female Entrepreneur? 10 Essential Attributes appeared first on Cup of Faith.

There’s no getting through this Christian journey without addressing the question, what does God want me to do with my life? Trevor Hudson tackles this topic with the book written under the bold title, Discovering God’s Will For Your Life: A User’s Guide to Discernment.

This short but impactful book has three main outcomes: latching into God’s vision for your life, defining discernment, and taking action on what we learn. Hudson encourages individual application of his points with short exercises found in the book. 

Discovering God’s Will for Your Life (Trevor Hudson): Published by Struik Christian Media. Available wherever books are sold.

Discernment involves recognising God’s active presence and voice so that we can respond to what God is doing and saying, and bring our lives into more harmony with God’s dream for our world. Quote p. 51

Hudson deftly explores discernment of God’s personal will through our lives through scripture, circumstances, the Holy Spirit, our giftings and conversations with those who know us well. He draws from personal experience and decades of pastoral experience. The pages of this book almost radiate with the sage and gentleness you would expect from a seventy-year-plus old pastor who is still pouring out his life for the Father and his children. Expect less ‘name it and claim it’ type ra-ra moments and more slower, head-nodding ‘a-ha!’ moments.

Our personal calling is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet. – Trevor Hudson

One of Hudson’s key principles to discerning God’s personal will for your life is to reflect on what you have learnt in your life experiences. The wisdom of experience is only unlocked, he explains, when one takes the time to reflect on the success and failure of circumstances. This is probably why the book is laden with ‘discernment exercises’ to put the knowledge found in these pages into immediate action.

What I loved most about this book was its simple practicality. It is straightforward and easy to understand but acts a teaser to go deeper with God for oneself. I personally loved Hudson’s reflection on spiritual consolation and spiritual desolation, a principle I have used since in trying to discern next steps in decisions.

This book is not for anyone who is looking for an easy way to hear God’s voice for themselves. It is rather a book for those looking to forge spiritual ‘tools’ for their lifelong ‘discernment toolbox’. 

I hope you will pick up a copy of this book and be encouraged to seek out God’s personal will for your life!

This book was kindly sent to me by Struik Christian Media for review. All views expressed are my own.

Kate Walsh

Kate is the current owner and editor of Cup of Faith. She is a blogger who loves Jesus, loves to read, and currently lives in Johannesburg with her husband.

The post Book Review: Discovering God’s Will For Your Life: A User’s Guide To Discernment By Trevor Hudson appeared first on Cup of Faith.