Report Back

J-City BELT 3 Seminar Report Back

I returned on Thursday night from J-City where I conducted a follow up BELT Seminar to the one Sarah and I led back in March. Each night saw between 10 - 15 participants. All of the participants had been to the seminar back in March, with the exception of a couple of pastors wives! We also had some young women there that were educators and had a vision to see a generation of "Daniels and Esthers" raised up in the city.

All of them commented on how they were impacted by the last seminar and thus were excited that BELT came back. I was so touched by their faithful attendance. It was like seeing old friends again and I really believe that I got a taste of what it was like for Paul to return to the churches he visited on his journeys.

The topics we covered were:
- Key To Discipling Nations (Discipling Individuals)
- Biblical Self-Government (Choosing to Live According to God's Ways)
- Overview of the Biblical World View of the Spheres of Society (What does the Bible say about Government, Economics/Business, Health/Science, Media/Communication, Arts & Entertainment)
- Biblical Worldview of Education (Mark Brokenshire from YWAM Melbourne)
- Biblical Worldview of the Family
- Biblical Worldview of the Foundations of the Church

God really showed up and brought the words each night! The Seminar was well received and the thinking of these men and women were definitely challenged. They walked away challenged to consider their own world views in each of these areas and to align them with the Bible. We also spent some time praying and seeing what God had to say about what their "transformed or discipled" city would look like as well as how they (the church/body of believers) could get there. We also spent time sharing with God what was holding each of them back and declaring to move past fear and in obedience.

This truely is an amazing city. I saw many friends and met many new ones. I even caught up with an old friend from high school who is now living there. I saw some of the most beautiful malls as well as some of the most detestable slums. God is definitely moving there, but there is much work to be done both in the church and where the knowledge of God is nonexistent. It's so exciting to think about the largest Is*lam*ic nation the world on the verge of revival and transformation by God and His Holy Spirit.

I thank you all for your prayers and giving. The pastors and people of J-city are blessed because of you. On behalf of them, I thank you.

In Him,
Joshua

josh leaves for south east asia

Tomorrow I fly to j-city in south east asia for a week of teaching. As you know, this is a follow up seminar to the one we did back in March. It is a great opportunity to go back and visit those we ministered to and see how they are going. The vision of BELT is to see people groups transformed by the Word of God. The method is to equip, and see God empower, church and community leaders through & with the Word of God. Many pastors in j-city have churches in the slum and desperately are hungry for biblical training. After talking for some time with one Pastor, back in March, we are priveleged to ride the coat-tails of a group of believers who have been praying for over 20 years to see transformation come to j-city. I consider it a joy and great opportunity to go and help equip them. I can only share what I have learned from God and His Word and have applied in my own life. Revelation will come from the Holy Spirit and His annointing of my teachings.

I go in great expectancy of God to move and bring revelation.

Your prayers are needed and appreciated.

1. Pray for discernment from the Lord and Holy Spirit during my teaching and as I spend time with Him in preparation.

2. Pray that the hearts of the participants would be soft and open to hear from God as it relates to world view, Discipling nations, education, family, church and the other spheres of society.

3. Pray for good health and safety not only for myself, but also for Sarah and Noah as I am away. Over the past year as YWAM Perth has sent many teams to this city, there has been a battle over sickness that has come with it. Take authority and bind the enemy’s actions in the area of safety and health.

4. Pray for the translators who carry a large responsibility that is often wearisome. They too need to be led by God and the Holy Spirit to get God’s heart for the teaching and the right words to use.

I look forward to being able to share with you all God has done in this great city of the world.

Happy Thanksgiving! If you would like any more specific information in this outreach please email us directly.

For His Kingdom and His Glory,

Joshua

to Tanzania in February

When most people think of Africa, they are actually thinking of Tanzania! It is the poster child of Africa. We will be leading the team to Tanzania. The focus of this outreach is two-fold: 1) To expose and mobilize YWAM in East Africa to join BELT & SIL in reaching the DRC with discipleship and biblical training over the next few years. 2) To give training to pastors in Tanzania who do not have access to biblical training (This will be in a region near Dar Es Salam that is 98% Muslim).

We will be in Tanzania from the beginning of Feburary until March 15th. On this trip we will continue to partner with Wycliffe/SIL from the DRC as well as YWAM in Kilimanjaro and Arusha. We hope this trip will inspire others to join us when first BELT Seminar is done in Kiliba, DRC in July 2009. We hope to take a short trip to Kiliba, DRC as well. The opportunity to run a BSN in East Africa is also a close reality in the near future.


Prayer & Finances
These outreaches are a huge blessing to the nations we go. There is a constant need for prayer and financial partnership. If you feel you would like to give, please contact us immediately. The $7,000 AUD needed for our family to go to Tanzania are due December 4th, 2008.

noah is six months old!

being challenged... growing daily

YWAM Perth Staff retreat was a good time with friends and God! Josh enjoyed celebrating his birthday and playing afternoon games of Rugby. Sarah got in a good long game of soccer and Noah enjoyed making people smile and laugh with his cuteness!

Each day we had a long morning teaching session. The words were challenging and really good reminders for us. Some of thoughts that we were challenged with...

... Is the vision of our ministry more of a focus over intimacy with God?
... Do I allow human reasoning to take over instead of just acting on God's word?
... Are there anything that are preventing God from moving through me?
... Do I tend to get frustrated with God's process in the context of vision? Is it robing me of gratitude, causing disapointment, and robbing me of fire for the Lord?
... In regards to humility, am I "Smiley and Defiant"
... So I see myself with sober judgement and have a contrite heart?
... If I am going to grab my inheritance, there are things about me that need to die, what things am I hanging on to and what things need to 'die'?
... Am I audacious in my faith? (1 Kings 18)

These are just a few things that God challenged us with this past week. We are happy to share more in-depth for those of you who may be interested.

Praise the Lord that he is always teaching us, may we continue to have soft teachable hearts so we can continue to grow into His likeness and know Him even more!

thanking God for his provision of a vehicle

Thanks be to God for giving us favor with a used car dealership! Get this... the dealer drove it to our apartment for us to check it out! Who does that?! It was like God brought it right to our doorstep. There are a few minor fixings that the car needs, but the dealer came down in price so we could afford to get them fixed! Could it get any better?! Yes, it has air conditioning (a real blessing in hot aussie summers) and a large trunk to fit Noah's pram. =) Thanks to all of you who have given and prayed to this happen. We really appreciate it.

Confidence in Despair

This past Friday the YWAM Regional Director of Australia, SE Asia & Pacific, Tom Hallas, spoke at YWAM Perth’s Friday Night Meeting (FNM). FNM is our weekly worship service open to the public. I would like to share with you the message Tom brought to us.

The so labeled “Word Wide Economic Crisis”, the upcoming USA Presidential and Federal Elections, Terrorism… It all seems to point to a season of despair and uncertainty. What has brought us to this point? Irresponsibility? The government? Or was it greed, selfishness, corruption, ignorance and even stupidity? It’s a time of uncertainty, as the “experts” say, and even despair. It is a great opportunity for the church to care and stand with confidence.

Exodus 34:6-7 (NASU) reads:
“Then the Lord passed by in front of him and proclaimed, ‘The Lord, the Lord God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in loving-kindness and truth; who keeps loving-kindness for thousands, who forgives iniquity, transgression and sin; yet He will by no means leave the guilty unpunished, visiting the iniquity of fathers on the children and on the grandchildren to the third and fourth generations.’ “

This came just after Moses asked God to show him all his glory. It is God’s accurate opinion of Himself, the Truth of Who He is, and becomes the lens through which we view the world and all circumstances. God is saying seven things about Himself, He is:
1. Compassionate
2. Gracious
3. Longsuffering (slow to anger, patient)
4. Merciful (Loving-kindness)
5. Good (NKJV)
6. Truth
7. Forgiving
Other translations also use the words love and faithfulness. Is God’s opinion of Himself to be reasonably accurate? God has nothing to hide. This is where confidence and comfort are found. As you look at your personal history, ask yourself this question, “Do I affirm the character of God in my life or do I have questions? Do I misrepresent His character?”

How do you respond when life gets hard or uncertain? Do you give into emotions or do you let this statement of God be the guiding arrow in your life? Do you view these despairing circumstances through this lens – the accurate description of God’s nature and character – or view God through the lens of your circumstances?

Many people have questions about the last part of Exodus 34:7 where it says God “will by no means leave the guilty unpunished, visiting the iniquity of fathers on the children and on the grandchildren to the third and fourth generations." It could sound like God carries an unfair grudge. However, this word “visiting” is the Hebrew word “paqad” and carries the meaning “to visit or oversee with friendly or hostile intent.” In fact the world “guilty” is a word added by the translators for better reading and is not even in the original text. Letting context guide the interpretation, then we can see that in the context of God describing Himself as compassionate, good, merciful, etc that this could indicate something else than a vindictive God (which goes against His character). Fathers who misrepresent God will bear the consequences of transgression, but God will visit those children to watch over them with love, compassion, and kindness. Remember, God desires that none be lost (Ezekiel 18:32) and all come to the knowledge of Him (2 Peter 3:9)! In fact, Ezekiel 18 clears up any misunderstanding of who bears the judgment of sin – and it is the sinner and not the children.

Proverbs 18:10 says “The name of the Lord is a strong tower, the righteous run into it and are safe.” His name is personal. We can call on the name of the Lord and find security in Him. King David used this lens of God (Exodus 34:6, 7) by running into the name of the Lord (Psalm 103:8) and rehearsing his understanding of God (Psalm 3) in times of trouble. He viewed his dire circumstances through the lens of who God is and says He is.

I encourage you to do the same. God’s testimony of Himself in Exodus 34:6, 7 completes the description of the strong tower into which we can run during these days of uncertainty. One of the current DTS students gave this testimony about the revelation he got from God during this same teaching in his training school, “These qualities are the best news I have ever heard. It is exactly what I was looking for to hear in my life!”

In the last couple of years, as I have leaned into God to learn more about His nature and character, I have made the decision to see Him first, and then my circumstances. I do not let circumstances dictate how I feel or respond. Is this always easy? Heavens no! I still am tempted to react and let my emotions lead me and this often leads to despair and frustration. But as I choose to use this truth of God to be my lens, I find peace and confidence and safety in the name of the One whom I serve. It’s brought amazing freedom in my life, no matter how dire the circumstances are. He is the One in whom I have confidence.

Ask yourself, “Am I going to be loyal to God’s character in these days?” or “Am I going to misrepresent Him?”

As believers, being a Christian also means thinking Christianly. We can view and think about the economic crisis, terrorism, and even politics Christianly. We can apply this way of thinking to every sphere of society (Education, Family, Communication, Religion, Government, Economics, and The Arts) and view each through the lens of who God is. We can look at the question of who to vote for through this lens. We must begin with the correct view of who God is. He has told us this and, in Christ Jesus, He has shown us.

He is the Lord, the Lord your God, gracious, loving, faithful, slow to anger, merciful, and ever forgiving. He is the strong tower into which the righteous run and are safe.

Beloved, have confidence during these days in Him.

-Joshua

Answered Prayers!

Thank you for your prayers. We are happy to share what God has been doing...

1. The BSN is off to a great start. Both Sarah and Josh have taught so far. Joshua taught on "the Pursuit of Truth" and Sarah taught on "Literary Context". The students are on fire for learning the Bible and have already gotten much revelation about how important it is to find the single intended meaning of the scripture and how things make much more sense when the context is studied.

2. We have our new visas! Praise the Lord that he has provided with no problems at all, our visas until November of 2010. Yes, we have felt we will stay in Perth at least until then (maybe longer?), and the granting of our visas have proven that possible. Josh is on a student vias, as he is taking on a course called, The Basic Leadership Training School (BLS) for the next two years. Sarah & Noah are dependents on his visa. Josh will write a little of what he has been learning this past month in the course.

3. We feel we have just about enough for a used trustworthy vehicle. Thank you to those of you who have given, blessings on you! Please still pray for a few more hundred dollars and also for the us to find the right vehicle. We have done a lot of searching and test driven quite a few, but not found something that we trust yet.

4. As mentioned in previous postings, Sarah has decided to join Media. Thank you for your prayers for a smooth transition. This week brought real break-through in communication with leaders and clarity about what the transition should look like. It's underway! This new role will have it's challenges, please pray specifically for unity in the department and to see vision realized.

5. Finances, we have not had any new monthly partnerships, but we can tell you that the US dollar is doing extremely well here in Australia. -Which is working in our favor. The cost of living in Perth is extremely high due to Perth being the most isolated city in the world. Thank you for your prayers for our finaces. We continue to ask for God to bring aboard more financial partnerships. Thank you again to those of you who have faithfully given. BLESS YOU!

P.U.S.H

Pray Until Something Happens!

That's our motto! We need REALLY NEED your prayers. We realize it's easy to say "sure I'll pray for you" and then be too busy to follow through. We have been there, but God has really challenged us over the years to committ to prayer! We are asking you, our prayer partners to please remember to pray for us. Numerous times we see in the Bible ferverent, wholhearted, crying out to God! We ask for you to intercede on our behalf before the Father for the following...

1. Praise God for discernment for Sarah regarding taking on the Media position.

2. We have not seen much movement in our finances. We understand it's a tough time in the economic status in the US. We trust that God will continue to provide for our every need through generous, faith filled giving. Please pray for us to see a monthly increase for Noah, money towards upcoming outreaches, VISA health check & insurance fees and for a used vehicle.

3. We are still in need of a vehicle. Join us in praising God for the money that we have been given (thank you!), but we still need another $500. Please P.U.S.H with us in prayer so we can see breakthrough in this area. Pray for favor with used car dealers and for the right vehicle to suit our family's needs to come along!

4. Spiritual Warefare. We are really feeling the 'heat' these days. The Bible is quite clear that we are in a spiritual battle and we feel it! Please pray for us to be rooted in prayer, the word, and for us to 'wear our armor each day'. Pray for our health, and bind up the enemy in prayer over our health.

5. Pray for Josh as he teaches this week in the BSN. He teaches on "The Importance of Knowing Truth" for 2 hours. Please pray for clarity in organizing his thoughts and for it to be motivational for the students.

6. VISAS. We are applying for a two year student VISA. Josh will be taking a course while he is on staff called, The Basic Leadership School. We started this course a year ago, but due to visas and planning, we post-poned it until we were officially under the student visa. We have health checks for this visa this week. Our current visa is up in a week. Please pray for a smooth process in submitting all paperwork, favor with the Australian government and for finances to cover the school and health checks.

media, media, media

After four grueling months of discerning and praying through the invitation to help lead the media department, I have finally reached a decision! Yup, that's right, I have decided to no longer be official staff of the BSN and BELT. I will still teach on the BSN on occasion and be involved with BELT outreaches (with Josh), but the majority of my time will be spend co-leading the media department here at YWAM Perth. It's a big change, but a great fit. The media department supports all ministries and training schools within YWAM Perth. From web, to print, to video, Media is equip to develop pieces in all forms of 'media'. I will be helping cast vision, oversee creative direction on projects, teach, and take on a few projects from time to time.

What about Noah?! Great question! I will only be working in Media about 14 hours each week, and it's the 'family' style of YWAM Perth that allows for the kids to be around. From time to time Noah will come along with and other time's he'll be at home with Daddy. Pray for us as we find this balance! If you have any other questions about this new role please let us know, we are happy to answer any questions. Be sure to check out the YWAM Perth Website for a flavor of the 'creative' style of YWAM Perth (see links on the right below).

BSN is underway!

Sunday officially marked the beginning of the Bible School for the Nations. This year we have 11 students. The overall word for the school this year comes from Daniel 11:32. See the image below for a visual. It's our hope that this year paradims are shifted, new revelation comes and that each student falls deeper in love with thee incredible God who is so worthy of glory! They are excited to learn the word better so they can better communicate it to others, whahoooo!!!!

Current Prayer Requests

Upon our return back to Perth we have many prayer needs. Thank you for being our support and lifting us up before the Lord, we need it! If you need any further details about anything mentioned below just let us know and we are happy to share.

1. Finances. We are still about $640 short of our monthly budget and we desire to see money come in for our trip to Uganda in October.

2. Car. We are trusting God for money to get a used car. Please pray for this to happen soon. We are currently borrowing a car (that isn't always working) until the end of this month. Pray for favor to find something reliable and affordable. If you would like to contribute to this we would be so blessed!

3. Noah. He's still a bit off in his days and nights due to jet lag. Please pray for him to start sleeping longer hours at night again.

4. Sarah's ministry position. Sarah is praying about taking a new role with YWAM Perth. She hopes to make a decision asap. Please pray for her to see clearly where God is leading her and to use wisdom as she discerns what is best. She will only be 'working' part time, as she is the primary care taker of Noah. We are glad that which ever position she chooses there is a great amount of flexabilty to meet Noah's needs.

5. Josh's ministry position. Josh has been asked to take on additional leadership roles within the BSN & BELT. This has implications of staying here with YWAM Perth longer, which is a big decision. Please pray for wisdom in hearing God's voice and following his leading.

6. Visas. Our visa's are up in October. Yup, that's right, just a month to go and we need to re-apply. We have limited options and need to make a decision within the next few days. Please pray for finances and wisdom to apply for the correct type.

7. BSN. The Bible School for the Nations starts next month. Pray for more students. We are hoping for 10 students. Pray also for a fruitful staff retreat at the end of this month - we'll be planning and seeking God's direction for the school and some BELT ministry things as well.

8. Family. It's hard for us and for our families with us being so far from home. Please pray for peace for all of us and for good, consistent communication through web cams and phone calls.

From one side of the world to the other...

Noah meets his Grandpas (see photo to the left)!!!!

Thanks to all of you for your prayers and visits during our time in the US. Our travels went really well, and Noah was a great little bundle. - Clearly the Lord was helping him! It was such a blessing to be able to come home and see most of you. Thank you to those of you who have re-committed to partnering with us during this next year, we certainly appreciate it!

We will continue to keep you posted on how we are doing and new prayer requests will be out shortly. Meanwhile, pray for our adjustment back here... to get over jet lag quickly & to stay healthy.

We love you!

Home to the US

Our God is amazing. He has moved and we are able to come home. Hallelujah. We thank God for providing a way. Please continue to pray for finances to help cover our trip. We trust he will continue to provide.

Our Tentative Schedule:
Depart Perth Sunday, July 27 via Tokyo, Seattle and arrive in Minneapolis
Madison, WI: Tuesday, July 29 - Tuesday, August 5th
Owatonna, MN: Wednesday, August 6th - Thursday, August 21st
San Francisco, CA: Thursday, August 21 - Tuesday, August 26th
Depart San Francisco Tuesday, August 26th and arrive in Perth, via Tokyo, on Thursday, August 28th

While we are home we will primarily be doing the following:
1. Introducing Noah to our families!
2. Meeting with as many of you as possible
3. Visiting our partnering Churches
4. Continue to share the vision of the ministry we are involved in (Including our BELT Ministry projects in the Congo and Nepal as well as the greater vision of YWAM Perth as a whole that we are involved in).
5. Continue to Fundraise to meet our budget as well as plan for upcoming outreaches
6. Josh will also be working with his father in Owatonna, as a means to fund this great trip home.

Answers to your Prayers!!! Thank you!!!!
1. Josh's teaching is going well this week in the Discipleship Training School. The students are challenged on having a Godly/Biblical wordlview as well as understanding attributes of God's Nature and Character.

2. We have been blessed by many offers to use baby items while we are home! Thank you to all of you who have offerred. We have a car seat, and pack-n-plays for Noah to sleep in each location he's going to! Wow! We also have been given a car to borrow! This is a major blessing! Praise the Lord!

3. We are having much success in scheduling meeting with Church family as well as individual partners! Yeah!

Please see "current prayer requests" and continue to lift us up as we prepare to come home. Thank you!

Bless you all - We look forward to seeing you very soon!

Serving alongside you,
Joshua, Sarah & Noah

Current Prayer Points

1. Pray for us as we travel for the first time as a family. This includes favor with the airlines, making our connections, and that Noah will be calm, healthy and able to sleep, feed, and that jet lag will not affect him! Pray that Mama and Daddy will be patient, calm and not stressed.

2. Pray for discernment and clarity as we plan our time in the states. Pray also for wisdom and peace for our families as we juggle our time between them.

3. For rest and good health before we leave.

4. For Joshua as he will be teaching all this week in the Discipleship Training School (DTS) on the Nature & Character of God. So far the students are very challenged. Pray for revelation and a solid time of application on Friday.

5. God's continued financial provision for this trip

6. Please be praying for our staff. Currently 3 out of the 5 familes we work with has all had a baby in the last two months! Pray for strength and wisdom for all of us as we transition into parenthood and ministry! We are also trusting for more students to join the BSN in October. Pray for people to respond to the call God is laying on their hearts (more info to come later).

Please give a PUSH in Prayer!

PUSH stands for Pray Until Something Happens!!!!! We are asking all of you to please pray today for us regarding coming home to see family and raise up more partnerships. We need favor with the travel agent/airlines and we also need to see more money come in. Family has been generous in giving, but it is not enough! Josh has been offerred the opportunity to work with his Father for two weeks to pay for the ticket. As much as Josh enjoys working with his Father, we would love to see more gifted money come in so we can enjoy a 'non working'(in a sense)vacation and partnership raising time. Please PUSH in prayer for us over the next 12 or so hours. We will be sure to keep you posted. Thank you!

Thrusday Night City Evangelism

Tonight kicks off the next quarter of reaching out to the people of Perth! Josh will be leading a team of people in the downtown area of Perth during the evenings. This team will be literally following the Holy Spirit as he leads and guides us to reach out to the people. Pray for divine appointments and great conversations, and wisdom for Josh's leadership. Time and time again this time is a fruitful one and we pray that this quarter is just that, fruitful. Pray for boldness in the new YWAM Perth students... for many of them this is the first time they have gone out and talked to strangers. We love seeing this city transformed, one person at a time! Pray for Perth, the most isolated city in the world! We need more of Jesus here!

your prayers matter, please pray for...

1. Finances for us to come home. We desire to be in America the last week in July through mid August. At this time, in light of our current ministry committments, we do not have any finances to afford to come home. Our need is approximately $6,000 for flights.

2. Adjusting to Parenting. The learning curve is tremendous! Pray for Godly wisdom and patience in raising Noah. You can also pray for Noah to sleep through the night and for healthy development of his eyes (focusing).

3. Our Grandmothers. Sarah's grandmother, Patricia, recently had a 1/2 shoulder replance and bone graphs in her shoulder after a hard fall at home. The recover will be long and take patience and hard work. Pray for full use of her shoulder once she is healed.

4. Josh's teaching. Josh will be teaching for one week in the DTS here at YWAM Perth. Pray for wisdome has he seeks the Lord on content and prepares each days teachings.

5. Sarah's adjustment & ministry involvement. As you can imagine, motherhood takes time. Sarah will still be involved in ministry to the degree which she can balance with Noah. Please pray for wisdom for her on finding the balance and for diligence to seek the Lord for daily expectation.

6. Ongoing projects for BELT. Josh continues to work on writing materials for the BELT website and also for BELT translator notes. Sarah continues to head up the design of the BELT website as well as a few other communication needs for the ministry. Please pray for diligence, wisdom and creativity.

Noah Jason Seykora is born!

Noah was born in Western Australia at Perth’s King Edward Birthing Centre at 8:13 AM on Friday May 9th, 2008 - 11 days ahead of his expected due date. Noah weighed in at 2.97 kilos (about 6.5 lbs) and was 19 inches long. Noah made a name for himself and his mother in the birth centre after having us all wait about 38 hours during Sarah’s labor for his arrival. Mum was a bit tired as she celebrated Mother’s Day, but so excited to do so with a healthy little boy. We are grateful to God and the prayers of many to see Noah safely enter into the world. We are truly amazed and blessed.

Noah - traditionally the name means “comforter, rest.”
It is the character of Noah in the Bible that led us to this name. We pray our little Noah will resemble that of the old testament times (Genesis 6:9 & 7:1) - A man of great faith, righteousness, and set apart in a corrrupt world. Noah was the first in a new generation of God’s people.

Jason means “healer” and also has the same meaning as Joshua (his father!); “the Lord is Salvation.” Jason, friend of Paul in the new testatment (Acts 17: 1-9) was uncompromising when it came to standing for what was right. He did not give into fear and stood firm for the Kingdom of God amidst persecution.

a note from Sarah...

I can honestly say I'm learning now more than ever what it means to trust in the Lord. My whole being is completely relying on him to adjust to providing for Noah. I realize that as Noah relays on me for food and comfort etc... that I need the Lord to provide all the more. Each time Noah nurses, we thank the Lord for the food he is providing!

I could try to mother without the Lord, but my provision and love for Noah would be incomplete. It is the Lord who is perfect love, and it's in that where I put my gaze. It is in his perfect love that all my fear about motherhood is driven away. Just as the Bible says, "Perfect Love drives out fear". It's amazing to me how the Holy Spirit is so near, guiding me along this journey. I also stand in awe of strength and grace the Father has extended to me over the last 7 weeks.

During Noah's birth the Lord was ministering to me about the suffering of Christ. Incredible. With the intense pain and 'labor' I was experiencing, our Father was reminding me how Jesus suffered willingly as a sacrifice for my life. He died so that I may live. It's amazing, the parallelism to giving birth. Although I am here, alive and healthy, just a Christ is alive, part of me really 'died' to myself during the labor. The focus and determination it took to bring an amazing life into the world was more than I had imagined. They don't call it labor for nothing! I remember at one point thinking, "How can I go on... I need drugs... I can't do this." Then, I remember the Lord speaking to me in His gentle whisper, "I am with you, do not fear," and he reminded me that His heart ached as well for the pain I was in, but that the suffering would go on for just a while longer. It was then when I had revelation of the sacrifice of Jesus. Wow. After many more long hours, there was such intense joy as Noah was layed upon me immediately after he was delivered. The immediate love for him was beyond describable... and it continues to grow each day.

Thank you to all of you who have prayed for me, Noah and Joshua. Your prayers made a difference. Thank you to those of you who have showered us with gifts, your generousity has blessed all three of us. We look forward to the day when many of you can meet him. Thank you for you continued prayers as we learn to parent and for his development.

current prayer requests

1. Finances The cost of living here in Perth is on the rise, infact, it is much higher than mid-western America. Our staff fees are increasing due to housing and food costs rising in the city and our little baby will soon add to our family living expenses. Please pray for more monthly partnerships and for God to provide for all of our increased needs. If you would like to give financially or know someone who would like to join our team please see the bottom of this page for more information and contact us via email. Thank you to all of you who have been faithfully and generously giving, we really appreciate it. Bless you!

2. Baby We are very excited for the little bub (as the aussies say) to come in just 5 and 1/2 weeks. The official due date is May 20th. We are so happy to report that health wise things are going great! We also praise the Lord for providing for our mothers to come for the birth! Yeah! Would you join us in praying for the little guy to come on time, as our mothers will only be here for two weeks?! Please also pray for parenting preparation on our part. We know that this will be a new learning experience and our desire to follow the Lord's leads every step of the way, we can hardly wait! Please also pray for the material needs that come along with having a baby, things are expensive here in Perth... join us in trusting for God to add to our monthly financial partnerships and one time gifts. Please also pray for clarity in Sarah's role within the ministry once the baby comes.

3. Current ministry projects Josh is currently working on BELT translators notes. Pray for wisdom as he defines terms in teaching outlines and refines them for ease of future translations. Sarah continues to work on BELT creative communications (new brochures, etc...). One of the biggest projects is coordinating the design of the new BELT website. Pray for wisdom, diligence and completion of these projects before the baby comes. Both of us continue to take part in regular prayer/intercession for issues around the world and also local street evangelism.

4. Future BELT outreaches this year Please join us in praying for God's direction regarding some opportunities on the horizen. First, going back to Uganda to promote the Congo BELT vision in July for a week. Secondly, Jakarta, to do another seminar in November.

South East Asia BELT recap

Overall, our time in this large city of such a precious nation went well. Their were about 25 graduates from the BELT course. Many of the pastors and leaders were challenged to see transformation in their personal lives in order to be more effective in their ministries. For a few pastors, this was their first formal Biblical education and they learned heaps! For a full recap of our time there, please email us and we will be happy to send you a PDF file with more detailed information.

A Pastor's quote below:
“[The BELT Seminar] encouraged me to be exited more in ministry. Fortunately, I minister in slum areas. After teaching their topics, they also involved in the ministry yesterday. They really do what they teach about. At that time all the congregation in the slum area really rejoice and [were] excited because the BELT team visited them. I really appreciate the BELT team to visit the slum community because they [slums] didn’t expect they [BELT Team] wanted to come and visit them. Thank you for teaching us, and you are not only teaching, but you are doing what you teach.” - Tumbur, Volunteer Associate Pastor in Slum

Southeast Asia BELT seminar

Thanks for your continued partnership for Southeast Asia. For security reasons we will not be to specific here on our blog, but we do covet your prayers for the following:

1. Please pray for good relationships to be built with the local church leaders.

2. Pray for the participants to have open and humble hearts towards the teachings - soft hearts to recieve what the Lord has in store for them through our seminar.

3. Pray for our translator - diligence, strength, good health, wisdom and time

4. Pray for our team - unity, wisdom in preparing and delivering teachings, rest, LOVE for the participants and for us to have a real heart for this nation.

5. Health - please pray a covering over us (especially Sarah, Maj-Britt and Maj-Britt's 6th month old baby) for Dengue Fever. There is no prevention medicane and no known treatment for this illness and it is prevalent in the area we will be in. Pray for the health of our unborn baby.

6. Pray for the bigger picture - Lasting transformation over this city and all of this nation! Pray that it will be a nation transformed into the likeness of Him!

7. Saftey. The work we are doing is legal (working along side the local church), but please pray against attacks from the powers of darkness over our team and the work we are doing. Let the Lord lead you in praying for spiritual strongholds over where we will be.

8. Please pray for more financial partnerships in our ministry. Our staff fee's are increasing and the baby will also impact our budget substantially. We have been living about 60% below our current budget as it is. Thanks!!!

Update on the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Scouting Trip

The meetings are going well with leaders in the different regions outside of the DREC. Today they cross the northern Uganda boarder into the DRC (Democratic Republic of the Congo). There is a lot of passion from YWAM Arua (Northern Uganda) about seeing these 32 people groups in the DRC reached. So far, from their dicusssions, to see thural disciplship they think this project could take 5-6 years and we continue to cry out for more workers.

Josh asks for prayer for the following:

1. For God to be speaking to both Josh and I about our involvement in this project.
2. They will be doing a 'mini' 2 Day BELT course to give a sense of what it is like while in the DRC. Please pray for wisdom in choosing teachings and for God to really move through his word. Pray for key people to participate.
3. Continued good communication and team unity (its been good so far, thanks for praying)
4. Clean food and God's protection over everything they eat
5. Pray for our finances. We desperately need more monthly partnerships.

God continues to really burden his heart for urgency to bring the Lords Truth to people who need it and who have litttle access to it. He is also being burdened for the oppressed. And I must agree that I totally feel the same way. Everyday I'm faced with the harsh reality of the strongholds over regions of this world as we pray and strategize in our ministries. The great news is that God has a plan and He has NOT given up on his beloved people. God is incredible how he positions people in places... even if it's just a few, God will use them if they are willing! Yeah!!! And thank you Lord for your Holy Spirit!!!!!

Josh Leaves for Africa

Dear Partners - Friends & Family-

It is hard to believe that tonight myself and two others leave for central Africa today. I ask for your daily committed prayers during this trip. You have played a vital role in making this trip a reality by your prayers and faithful giving. Thank you! This could be the first of many trips to the DRC area that BELT makes as we look to bring discipleship and empowerment of leaders and pastors in this region so that they in turn can effectively lead their people and see thier and communities transformed for God’s glory. The recent violence and killing in Kenya has shed a very real light in the region.

You can change the governments, but unless God and His Son Jesus, are Lord of all
and His Word is put into practice, then there will not be lasting transformation.
Only God, through His power, brings true and lasting transformation.
His Word is truly the Book that transforms nations.

For His Glory, Joshua

current prayer requests

1. Pray for diligence and passion in the local African Pastors & leaders. Pray they would really catch onto the the purpose and vision of BELT and see the need for studying and applying the Bible to their lives so they can be a light in their communities.

2. Please pray for saftey and protection. The schedule is quite intense, as they are only in one place for about 2 days before moving. Please pray for protection from criminal activity on the roads/waters as they travel. Pray against general infirmities as well as yellow fever and malaria. Pray Psalm 91.

3. Pray for team unity between Mark (our ministry leader), Josh, Louise (new BELT staff member) & Betina (a local african misisonary). Pray for good communication and love to flow in and through them. Pray that they would recieve wisdom on strategies for seeing these people groups reached with BELT.

4. Please pray for Sarah as she stays home to finish preparing to lead a team with Josh to Indonesia. There are many details to take care of including the BELT teaching schedule. Please pray God's wisdom over all her discisions. Pray for the Indonesians to hear about BELT and committ to coming to the seminar. Pray for release of accomodations and for the release of a facility to hold the seminar.

5. Please also pray for our finances. Our staff fees go up 20% next month, and as it is, we are currently living on very little income each month. Please pray for more monthly partnerships and for joy and blessings for those that are giving sacraficially.

BSN student's testimony

It's been a great year for the BSN Students. The last day of lecture is Wednesday, January 31st. Teams begin leaving for their BELT outreaches on Thursday. Here is what one of our students, Clinton is saying. Clinton, age 32, is married with a beautiful little girl.

"For the past 4 months I have been sitting in lectures learning about the most amazing book in the world, written by the most amazing person out of this world. I have fallen in love with God and the bible more than ever. For 14 years now I have been waiting for the very thing that I am doing right now. For the past 14 years I have always felt there was more to Christianity. I was unsure and insecure in my understanding of God and what he had called me to. I was serving the Lord out of loyalty and obedience, but now I am serving out of understanding and love. The BSN has opened my eyes to the Lord, His plans for the earth, and the wealth of TRUTH that is available or me to find in the bible. This training has also given me the tools to dig deep into the word. Have you ever had the old "light blub go on"? Well, I feel like I am sitting in a room full of floodlights. So many thoughts and ideas, presuppositions and beliefs of mine have been challenged and are now in line with what the bible really says. I am eternally grateful to the BSN staff and to my Father for leading me into such an awakening. I am really looking forward to giving what I now know to those who may not know."

We are happy to share with anyone interested more specific content and teachings from the school. Please let us know if you are interested in learning more for your own personal growth.

Sarah's Mom makes jewelry to help raise money

Dear Seykora Ministry Team,

pictures.aol.com/galleries/kf51504
The above link is a gallery of pictures of the jewelry I've made. I'm selling this jewelry to support Josh and Sarah in the work God has called them to do.

Please feel free to take a look at the jewelry - which by the way, is everchanging. You may view "each picture" or you can view in a slide show. In the slide show, you can stop and start again anytime you want. Information and cost is below each picture. You may email me with any orders - email address is listed in the profile at the top of the gallery and on each picture. If I can hand deliver any orders I will, if not, I can mail by first class or priority mail only.

Remember, any thing you purchase is a gift to further God's kingdom!
Thanks for your consideration.

Kathryn Fields
(Sarah's Mom)

africa and indonesia update

Thanks to all of you who have been praying. We are so pleased to report that things are really coming together for these two trips. We are also fully funded thanks to many of you for praying and giving to God's dreams over these nations! For more details on these trips we wish to communicate with you directly so the detail of information on our site is limited.

Indonesia BELT Course: Transformation Series 1 & 2We are happy that our time in Indonesia looks fruitful and they are excited about us coming. We are partnering with another ministry on base who has been key in getting us organized with the local church over there. Please pray for continued diligence in communication in the city over there so that many pasters and leaders of the churches will get connected into our seminar. Pray for unity of our team and for wisdom as we prepare and organize teachings.

Central/Eastern Africa Scouting TripTickets and itnerary is being planned. Due to political situations in a few of these nations, we are looking at the safest and wisest way to cross borders etc. Please pray for wisdom and for God to really pave the road (literally) with the power of the Holy Spirit. Pray for diligence for Pasters and key individuals to be able to meet at the schedule is tight. Josh and the team leaves in about three weeks.