Why a Child’s First 1,000 Days Matter

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By: Bridget Hadfield

During her fourth pregnancy, Adjowa feared that she and her baby wouldn’t survive.

Her husband was unable to work after a serious accident and the family was living in extreme poverty in Togo, often only eating a meal every three or four days. 

With no income and no access to medical care, Adjowa was malnourished and desperate. As her due date approached, she feared giving birth at home, alone, with no trained support. 

“I thought my life was doomed and I would not survive,” she says. 

Everything changed when Adjowa was connected to a local Compassion centre running a Mums and Babies program. The staff stepped in immediately, providing food parcels, covering her medical costs and ensuring she had essential supplies for her baby. 

When she went into labour, the staff rushed her to the hospital. Her baby girl was born silent and unresponsive, but because the costs were covered and trained help was available, she could receive life-saving care. 

“My daughter and I would not have made it if the Compassion centre had not helped. I am sure I would be dead by this time and my baby too,” says Adjowa.

Adjowa’s story is confronting, yet sadly not rare. It reflects the challenges faced by millions of mothers living in poverty and highlights how much is at stake during pregnancy, birth and the earliest days of a child’s life. 

The first 1,000 days: a critical window

The first 1,000 days, from conception to a child’s second birthday, are a time of incredible vulnerability and immense potential. During this period, rapid brain and physical development occur. A child’s survival, immune system and long-term health are shaped by the nutrition, care and support they receive. 

For mothers living in poverty, limited access to healthcare, poor nutrition, harmful cultural beliefs and a lack of support can lead to serious consequences for maternal health. 

In 2023, sub-Saharan Africa recorded 454 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, compared with just 3 per 100,000 in Australia and New Zealand. According to UNICEF, sub-Saharan Africa alone accounted for 70 per cent of global maternal deaths, mostly from preventable causes. 

The risks for babies are equally stark. Babies born in sub-Saharan Africa are 11 times more likely to die than those born in Australia, and nearly one-third of births occur without a skilled birth attendant, according to the World Health Organisation. 

Yet early intervention for babies can change everything. With the right support, a child born in poverty has a far greater chance not only to survive, but to thrive. 

Why investing in a child’s earliest years changes everything

Kate Naliaka, Compassion International’s Global Health Advisor based in Kenya, has seen the impact of early intervention firsthand. 

“We understand the importance of starting early and investing in child survival and early childhood because it is the foundation of lifelong health,” she says. “If the foundation is strong, a child is more likely to withstand stress later in life. If we don’t start early, we don’t reduce the burden of poverty and allow these children to reach their God-given potential.” 

Poverty is multidimensional, affecting far more than a family’s income. It shapes every part of life. Without enough food, mothers become malnourished and babies are born underweight. Without support, harmful beliefs can take hold. In some communities, for example, mothers are told that the first breastmilk is dirty, so they delay breastfeeding and miss a vital source of early nutrition and immunity. 

These layers of physical, emotional and social barriers combine to make pregnancy, birth and early childhood even more vulnerable for families living in poverty. 

As Kate explains, that’s why Compassion’s intervention is holistic, supporting a mother and her baby physically, socio-emotionally, cognitively and spiritually. 

“An educated mother is an empowered mother, and an empowered mother translates to an empowered family, community and society at large.” 

Children who are nurtured holistically in their earliest years can grow up believing that change is possible and that they can break the cycle of poverty. 

How Compassion supports mothers and babies holistically

Compassion’s local church partners ensure mothers receive vital support during pregnancy and beyond, offering medical care, nutritional support, emotional and spiritual guidance, and a loving community. 

Through home visits, peer group activities and community networks, new mums are not left to face the journey alone. When a mum joins the program, she receives: 

  • Home‑based care: Perinatal and postpartum support delivered in her own home, helping with health, nutrition and wellbeing. 
  • Advocacy and resources: Assistance to access skilled birth attendants, healthcare services and fair treatment. 
  • Community networks: Monthly group activities where mothers share, learn and encourage one another. 
  • Practical and life skills: Guidance in literacy, numeracy and small income-generating activities to build self-reliance. 

Following the birth of her baby, the Compassion centre continues to be a place of refuge and joy for Adjowa. She has regained confidence and her faith has grown stronger. 

“I still can’t believe the centre paid for all the medical expenses. I thought they would be tired of me as I am always in need,” Adjowa says. 

“I will never forget what they have done for me. The centre workers and other mothers of the program have become my family. I’m so grateful to have them.” 

It’s this kind of holistic support that inspires long-time Compassion supporters like Dr Virginia McPherson. A consultant radiologist based in Melbourne, Virginia has sponsored multiple children and funded entire Mums and Babies projects. 

She has visited programs in the Philippines, Tanzania and Sri Lanka, seeing firsthand how they are transforming lives.

“I saw women receiving quality healthcare during pregnancy and guidance. They could go to hospital for safe deliveries, but it was more than that—each week, they gathered to connect, learn practical skills and build a community. They were no longer alone and their babies had regular check-ups. 

“I was impressed by the care from the staff. They visited each mother regularly at home and supported them at the centre. I simply could not imagine raising my children in the conditions many of these women live in. The program provides rich, holistic care, lifting women above the poverty line while slowly healing the trauma they’ve endured. It was a privilege to see,” Virginia says. 

A brighter future starts with survival

Every child, fearfully and wonderfully made, deserves the best possible start to life. As Psalm 139 reminds us, each of us is “knit together in our mother’s womb,” a reflection of God’s love from the very beginning. 

Through the support of Compassion’s global neighbourhood, we continue to invest in the first 1,000 days, knowing how crucial they are to infant survival, early childhood development and lifelong health. 

This is the measurable impact from the 2025 financial year: 

  • 37,841 babies and mums received care during pregnancy and the first year of life 
  • 14,228 babies were welcomed safely 
  • 93.2 per cent of babies were born at a healthy birthweight 
  • 80.3 per cent of women had a skilled birth attendant 
  • 90.6 per cent of mothers were able to breastfeed, helping prevent malnutrition

Article Supplied with Thanks to Compassion

Written by Bridget Hadfield, Compassion Australia, with local reporting by Akpene, Compassion Togo.

Feature image: Supplied

Deciphering Our Dreams Could be Key to Spiritual Insight

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By: Laura Bennett

Dreams are so bizarre. Our minds have these entire experiences that are worked out while we sleep, consolidating memories, processing the day and sometimes, giving us what feels like divine insight into the challenges of our waking hours.

But how do we distinguish between regular brain function and spiritual revelation?

For most of her life, media entrepreneur and filmmaker Paige Collins thought her vivid dreams were just part of how her mind worked.

“I dream almost every night,” Paige said.

“That’s been a very normal thing for me my entire life.”

Everything shifted about eight years ago, when she woke from a dream to the sound of her own voice praying.

“I was asking God to give me an interpretation for what it was that I had just dreamed [and] that was the moment that I realised my dreams might not just be mind-clutter,” Paige said.

That moment marked the beginning of what Paige now calls being “a God dreamer.” Before then, she hadn’t considered dreams as spiritual.

“I grew up in the church, but I didn’t grow up in a church community that really emphasised the supernatural,” Paige said.

“He’s going to give people business [ideas in dreams], he’s going to give them creative works, he’s going to speak into our personal lives as well as our professional lives in this way.

“I feel very strongly about that. And if we’re not listening, we might miss some things.”

Since Paige began journalling her dreams and praying through them, “God just began to take me through a season of training in my own dream language” using scripture as an anchor.

“God speaks in dreams throughout scripture,” Paige said.

“He gives warnings [and] He gives really beautiful prophetic images.”

Having that Biblical grounding is vital, so you know it’s God shaping how you interpret the dream.

“We have to allow the Lord to bring the ultimate revelation and clarity,” Paige said.

“We don’t need to jump to conclusions.”

Over time, Paige believes God teaches each person how He communicates with them, revealing things about calling and destiny, but also personal wellbeing.

“There are very personal conversations happening between us and Him,” Paige said.

“Some of the most important dreams in my life, although they were a bit uncomfortable, brought about healing.

“They showed me unknown things I needed to deal with, and I think anything that’s going to lead me into intimacy with the Lord is something I want to say yes to.”

Paige Collins’ Awaken Dream Journal is out now.

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

About the Author: Laura Bennett is a media professional, broadcaster and writer from Sydney, Australia.

Feature image: Supplied

5 Step Parenting Lessons I Learned the Long Way

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By: Lorrene McClymont

I have been a step-parent for close to twenty years. It’s a unique journey, and no person’s experience will be the same.

No family has a recipe for successfully combining relationships with the other family, adding to the blended family, or navigating the myriad complicated circumstances that can occur with family breakdown. My husband and I both brought children into our relationship. Due to infertility, we were unable to add to our family. When we married, we both became step-parents. I am sharing from my experience things that worked in our house, as well as things we learned from our own family. 

Give the Children Some Agency

If you are starting the blended family journey, something that worked really well for us was to work with our kids on the house rules and consequences. We included our children in the conversation, then made sure we had a couple of posters with the rules up. In a situation where both of them had very little control, it meant they could gain some buy-in.  It also helped with different rules at different homes.  Because the kids had a part in discussing our house rules, it removed ‘well, I can do it at the other house’ from the conversation. 

The Kids Need Time

The kids need time to readjust when they come back from the other family’s house. Even in the most amicable of situations, there are likely to be some different rules and expectations between homes. It can be challenging, confusing, and frustrating for kids to come back, and it takes a minute to adjust. We used to find it took the kids at least a couple of days to acclimatise, which definitely led to some challenging behaviour.

Avoid Being the Disciplinarian 

It may be a controversial take, but as much as humanly possible, for us, it worked to have discipline done by the primary parent. I am not talking about situations where the step-parent was the only one present; if my husband and I were both in the room and something happened with our respective children, we would try to discipline our own. Our role as step-parents was to build relationship. We didn’t always handle this well in our house, and it can quickly lead to resentment when the non-biological parent constantly steps in to discipline unnecessarily. 

Communication Between Partners is Key 

Communicate with your partner. I did not communicate some things that happened early on in our relationship.  It was while we were adjusting to being a blended family, and I was afraid to upset everyone. I was trying to make things work, and I didn’t want to hurt my husband’s feelings. We had already both had a failed relationship, and I was terrified of messing up our marriage, so I kept quiet instead of working through things together. I carried a lot of anxiety in the early days, trying to hold it all together. My husband also struggled with this. It took a while to find a good balance, but communication is key. 

Prioritise Your Marriage

Your relationship with your spouse is primary. My daughter is married now, and we have discussed this in detail a few times over the years.  I did not put my husband first in the early days of our relationship. It had been my daughter and me against the world for a few years, and I jumped too quickly to her defense, often without hearing his side. Sometimes it was necessary, because I understood her unique perspective on life better than he did. But sometimes it wasn’t. When we blended the families, I just wanted everyone to be happy, and at times, that came at the expense of the relationship.

They Are Not Adults

We always tried to keep in mind that the children in our family were just that, children. Children hear everything, even when you don’t think they are listening. There is no place for any bad mouthing, gossip, or abuse of the other parent in front of them. Yours or your partner’s fight with the other parent is not their fight. They, as children, should be able to be children for as long as they can, and part of that is not being dragged into their parents’ adult situation. Doing this is not easy.  Family breakdown comes with all sorts of tension and pain. As a step-parent, there is nothing to be gained by saying horrible things to a child about their other parent. All that will happen is they will resent you. 

Blending a family is tricky. Not only are you bringing the scars from your previous relationship into the new one, even if you have done some healing, the kids can be deeply affected by what has happened in their home. Every situation is completely unique, and step-parenting itself is a unique journey. I have found in my own life and family, it has been a gift. I have learned things about myself that surprised me a good way, but also found some areas that really needed some work. We have developed a strong family bond over time, but it was the insights developed through the ups and downs of the journey that led to this.

Article supplied with thanks to Lorrene McClymont.

About the Author: Lorrene McClymont is a writer and photographer from Hope Images. On her blog ‘Moments to Rest’, she shares about rest, faith, and family.

Feature image: Canva

Schoolies for Jesus Offers a Life-Giving Alternative for School Leavers

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By: Ruth Lewis-Jones

What if Schoolies wasn’t something young people had to recover from – but something that set them up for life? What if it could strengthen their faith, friendships and future?

That question sits at the heart of Schoolies for Jesus, a new Christ-centred Schoolies alternative launching in 2026, pioneered by Youth for Christ Australia.

For decades, Schoolies has been marketed as freedom, yet too often it leaves young people navigating pressure, regret, anxiety, and risk. After years of on-the-ground outreach at Schoolies hotspots, Youth for Christ leaders began asking a deeper question: Isn’t there a better way to celebrate this milestone?

“We’ve seen thousands of faith conversations, salvations, and baptisms during Schoolies,” says YFC National Director PJ Bedwell. “But we’ve also seen how many young people leave feeling empty. We believe this moment deserves something life-giving, not destructive. To celebrate with purpose, not regret.”

From that conviction, Schoolies for Jesus was born.

Rather than replacing traditional outreach, Schoolies for Jesus offers a new option: a week-long, joy-filled, Christ-centred getaway where school leavers can celebrate together with Jesus at the centre.

The inaugural Schoolies for Jesus Getaway will take place in 2026 at a beach-front holiday resort in Coffs Harbour, NSW, with capacity for hundreds of Year 12 graduates. The experience blends rest, fun, worship, community, and faith formation, all in a safe and supportive environment.

Event Director Ruth Lewis-Jones explains the heart behind the event:
“We want school leavers to celebrate well. To rest, have fun, and build memories together, while discovering who they are in Christ and that God’s way is better. Our prayer is that young people leave strengthened in their faith and excited about and equipped for the future God has for them.”

Throughout the week, participants will experience worship nights, clear and relevant Bible teaching, fun adventure, beach days, optional equipping workshops, prayer spaces, and faith-filled friendships- all intentionally designed to help young people encounter Jesus and step confidently into adulthood with Him.

Schoolies for Jesus exists to lead a generation out of destructive cultural patterns and into the presence, purpose, and freedom of Jesus. At a time when many young people walk away from faith between the ages of 17 and 21, the vision is bold: to see a generation ignited to live fully alive in Christ.

Participants can choose villas or camping, come with friends or meet new ones, and be surrounded by trusted leaders and ministries committed to championing the next generation.

Tickets for the 2026 Schoolies for Jesus Getaway are now available at schooliesforjesus.com.

Come away. Come alive. Come back changed and called in Christ.

Article Supplied with thanks to Youth for Christ

Feature image: Supplied

If the Spirit led the Church, the Law wouldn’t have to

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By: Tania Harris

Many of us have a solid theological understanding of the difference between living “by law” and living “by the Spirit.” We know Paul’s words to the Galatians: “If you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law” (Galatians 5:18, NIV).

But what does that look like in practice? Research suggests we are not entirely sure. From the perspective of those outside the church, Christian communities are often described as judgmental, shame-filled, and legalistic. For a faith that champions grace and the finished work of Christ, we need to be honest: we are not always doing this well.

So where do we get it wrong? And how do we cultivate churches that are genuinely led by the Spirit and facilitate true transformation?

To answer these questions, we start by looking more closely at the way the Spirit works in an individual’s life. Greg’s testimony provides a compelling example.

The Painful Grip of Pornography

Greg decided to follow Jesus as a young man. His life changed dramatically, yet one area remained untouched: pornography. The addiction began at thirteen, when his father left Playboy and Penthouse magazines openly around the house- on the coffee table, the kitchen bench, always within reach. Curiosity became habit, and by sixteen there was no turning back. In a pre-internet age, Greg’s home became a popular hangout for hormone-fuelled teenage friends.

After becoming a Christian, Greg resolved to stop. Each morning he tried to avert his eyes. After school he focused on textbooks instead of glossy centrefolds. But every Sunday night he found himself at the altar in shame-filled repentance. His church emphasised strict rule-keeping; one failure meant you needed to be “saved” all over again.

“I’m sorry, God. I’ll never do it again.”

Prayer brought brief relief and renewed resolve. But by midweek Greg’s willpower weakened. A “sin binge” followed, escalating toward the weekend, until he returned once more to the altar the following Sunday. Back and forth. Week after week. Greg was exhausted, saturated with guilt and shame.

After two years, Greg finally gave up. One Sunday night, he refused to go forward.

In the church carpark afterward, he erupted in anger toward God. “I can’t do this anymore! You gave me these hormones. You gave me this father. And now you’re going to condemn me because I can’t live by your rules? I’m done.”

His friend tried to calm him. “We must be missing something.”

In frustration, Greg grabbed his Bible and tossed it onto the boot of his car. It fell open to Romans. One verse caught his eye: “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1).

Greg froze. Is that what we’re missing?

But if there is no condemnation, why do I feel buried under it?

A Different Kind of Centrefold

Weeks later, God spoke again through a vivid inner vision. Greg saw a Penthouse centrefold with two women posed provocatively. As he watched, the image distorted. Their bodies became covered in filth, decay, and sores. Maggots crawled across their skin and their faces twisted in terror. In the background he heard a girl screaming.

In an instant, the image lost its appeal.

Greg was confronted with the reality of an industry that dehumanises women and profits from exploitation, often involving children. He realised that every “yes” to porn was a silent consent to that system. When he objectified women, he participated in their degradation.

From that moment on, porn lost its grip. When temptation arose, the imagery repulsed him. The lust faded, and then disappeared.

Greg was free.

Failure of the Law

Greg’s story reveals two approaches to change. Can you see the difference?

We understand where Greg’s church was coming from. We want lives transformed. We know God is holy and we are called to be holy. So we establish rules and reinforce them. We preach sermons that set the bar high and equate holiness with moral compliance.

And for a time, it appears to work. Sheer willpower motivated by law got Greg as far as Wednesday before he collapsed back into shame.

Yet Paul tells us that living by the law leads to death. Greg experienced its fruit every Sunday night.

Though well intentioned, the church had created a culture that produced the opposite effect of what they desired. Rather than setting Greg free, it bound him up more with its guilt and shame, spiralling him into a sin binge he couldn’t break free of. The only way to preserve his mental health was to walk away.

A Shift from the Inside Out

Thank God for the intervention of the Spirit!

It was the Spirit who reassured Greg that there was no condemnation. No threats. No punishment. Grace alone was on offer.

Then the Spirit led him to a higher way- the way of love. Instead of focusing on behaviour, the Spirit addressed Greg’s heart. Love became the appeal to change. There was no shaming, only revelation. Greg saw the destructive reality behind the sin and was moved to run from it. Condemnation had driven him backward; love propelled him forward.

The difference lies in the motivation. Law relies on external factors- shame and the avoidance of punishment. Fear becomes the key driver. In contrast, the Spirit relies on internal drivers- love and freedom. As Ezekiel promised, the Spirit gives us a new heart and moves us to follow God’s ways (Ezekiel 36:27). One produces behaviour modification; the other produces heart transformation.

The Spirit-Led Church

Greg’s story illustrates the difference between living under the law and living by the Spirit. The law produced striving, shame, and condemnation. The Spirit brought truth, transformation, and freedom. The law can modify behaviour for a time, but it cannot produce lasting change. The Spirit alone transforms from the inside out.

This understanding reorients our role as ministry leaders. Our task is not to police behaviour, but to facilitate the work of the Spirit in people’s lives. We create space for the Spirit to speak. We encourage people to listen and respond. We pray for conviction and guidance—and then we watch as the Spirit does the work only God can do.

Article supplied with thanks to God Conversations.

About the Author: Tania Harris is a pastor, speaker, author and the founder of God Conversations.

Feature image: Canva

Why Humanoid Robots Will Arrive Sooner Than You Think

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By: Michael McQueen

Not long ago, humanoid robots sat firmly in the category of “cool demo, wildly impractical.” They dazzled on conference stages, tripped over their own feet on YouTube, and then quietly disappeared back into research labs. That phase is ending fast.

Humanoid robots are moving from spectacle to systems. From factories and hospitals to aged care facilities and, eventually, our homes, they are inching closer to everyday life. Goldman Sachs estimates there could be more than 13 million humanoid robots in use globally by 2035. That’s less than a decade away. While most of these robots will appear in workplaces first, the ripple effects will be felt across households, cities and entire industries.

The drivers are converging rapidly. Advances in AI vision, balance and hand dexterity are accelerating. Labour shortages are intensifying as populations age and fewer people enter physically demanding roles. Cultural expectations are shifting around convenience, care and the value of time. And younger generations are far more comfortable sharing space with machines than any before them.

For leaders and professionals, the question is no longer whether humanoid robots will matter, but how quietly and quickly they will reshape expectations. 

1. From Sci‑Fi Spectacle to Quiet Utility 

The first major shift is psychological. Humanoid robots are not arriving with dramatic flair or cinematic ambition. They’re slipping in through side doors, doing the dull jobs no one wants to talk about at dinner parties.

We already live with robots, even if we don’t think of them that way. They vacuum our floors, mow our lawns and assist surgeons. In fact, more than 80 percent of prostate surgeries are now performed using robotic systems. COVID accelerated this trend, particularly in agriculture and logistics, where closed borders and labour shortages forced rapid adoption.

Humanoid robots represent the next logical step because they fit into environments built for humans. Factories, warehouses and hospitals don’t need to be redesigned when the robot has two legs, two arms and can use existing tools. That’s why companies like BMW, Hyundai and Tesla are already trialling humanoid robots on factory floors for repetitive and physically demanding tasks. Hyundai has publicly stated it plans to deploy humanoid robots in US factories from 2028.

China offers a glimpse of what early adoption looks like at scale. Humanoid robots are already working as tour guides, retail assistants, warehouse staff and service workers, with some even assisting in policing and security roles. Dedicated robot training centres allow machines to learn by observing humans rather than being painstakingly programmed line by line. 

The implication is clear. Early adoption will be quiet and practical rather than flashy. Organisations that treat humanoid robots as boring infrastructure rather than futuristic mascots will extract far more value from them. 

2. Cobots, Not Job Stealers 

It’s impossible to discuss humanoid robots without confronting workforce anxiety. Elon Musk has said Tesla aims to build up to 100,000 humanoid robots per month within five years. Numbers like that naturally raise concerns about job losses.

But the reality is more nuanced. Humanoid robots are particularly good at jobs humans increasingly struggle to fill. Dirty, dangerous and repetitive work. Heavy lifting. Night shifts. Tasks that lead to injury, burnout or high turnover.

Robots are already being used for warehouse picking, post‑surgery rehabilitation support and repetitive assembly. Deloitte predicts physical AI and humanoid robots will play a major role in addressing labour shortages, especially as populations age and healthcare demand grows. 

Rather than replacing humans, most experts expect robots to change the nature of work. This is where the idea of “cobots” becomes critical. Collaborative robots that work alongside humans, taking on physical or repetitive tasks while people move into supervision, creativity, problem‑solving and decision‑making roles.

For organisations, the real opportunity lies in redesigning jobs, not eliminating them. Professionals who focus on skills like judgement, empathy, oversight and systems thinking will become more valuable, not less.

3. Impressive, Fallible and Still Learning

The technology behind humanoid robots has advanced rapidly, particularly in vision systems, balance and hand dexterity. Some recent demonstrations have been so realistic that audiences questioned whether they were watching a robot or a human in disguise.

At the same time, viral clips of robots face‑planting, freezing mid‑task or dropping objects are not anomalies. They are part of the learning curve. This is what early‑stage intelligence looks like in physical form.

Robots perform best in controlled environments like factories and warehouses. Homes are far more challenging. Pets move unpredictably. Children run. Objects shift. Lighting changes. Most humanoid robots today still rely on some level of human supervision or remote assistance for complex tasks.

This phase closely mirrors the early days of self‑driving cars. Highly impressive in certain contexts, unreliable in others. The risk is not that robots will fail, but that humans will assume they won’t.

Organisations that succeed will design systems that assume occasional failure and build safeguards accordingly. 

4. The Home Robot Will Sell Time, Not Wow 

When humanoid robots enter homes, affordability and accessibility will dominate the conversation. Today, a humanoid robot like Neo costs around $20,000. By 2035, that figure is expected to fall closer to $10,000 as manufacturing scales and components become cheaper. 

But ownership won’t be the starting point for most people. Early home robots will be aimed at wealthy households, aged care facilities and people with mobility needs. LG has already demonstrated prototype home robots capable of folding laundry and preparing simple meals, while projects like Tombot, a robotic puppy designed to support people with dementia, show how emotionally intelligent design can support care settings. 

For most households, the first exposure will likely be shared robots in apartment buildings, hotels or assisted living environments rather than owning one outright. Leasing models and robot‑as‑a‑service offerings will play a significant role in improving accessibility.

The real appeal is not novelty. It’s time. Even saving 30 to 60 minutes a day by offloading repetitive tasks changes how people live, work and rest.

5. Trust Will Matter More Than Life-like Design

Safety, privacy and psychological trust will ultimately determine whether humanoid robots are accepted into daily life. Most are designed to be lightweight, slow and compliant, stopping when they encounter resistance.

Privacy is a genuine concern. Robots rely on cameras and sensors to navigate spaces, raising questions about data storage, access and ownership. There is also the risk of over‑trust. Robots that look human can trigger emotional responses even when people know they are machines.

Experts agree humans will remain in the loop for a long time, particularly in homes and healthcare settings. Acceptance will depend less on realism and more on whether people feel in control of the technology.

There is also a genuine fear response to consider. An estimated 20 percent of the population experiences some degree of robophobia. Ignoring that reality would be a mistake. 

What This All Adds Up To

Humanoid robots are not coming to replace us, impress us or entertain us. They’re coming to quietly reshape how work gets done, how care is delivered and how time is reclaimed.

The trends are clear. Practical utility over spectacle. Collaboration over replacement. Rapid progress with real limitations. Time as the killer feature at home. Trust as the deciding factor everywhere. 

The future won’t arrive with a dramatic unveiling. It will arrive task by task, shift by shift, home by home. The robots are learning fast. We should too.

Article supplied with thanks to Michael McQueen.

About the Author: Michael is a trends forecaster, business strategist and award-winning conference speaker. His most recent book Mindstuck explores the psychology of stubbornness and how to change minds – including your own.

Feature image: Canva

A Song for Every Storm 

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By: Kemy Ogendi

If your mind was a home, would you choose to live there? If your thoughts were visitors, would you let them in? Who would you ignore? Who would never make it through the door? 

Our brains are great at telling stories, again and again. Not all of them are helpful or true. We tend to stress over tomorrow or ruminate on yesterday, rehashing old arguments, fearing the hypothetical, obsessing over things that are out of our control. But it does not have to be this way. You can make your mind a better place in which to live. 

Recently, a friend of mine sent me a song by Ellie Holcomb. The words hit me like a flood of light into a dark, lonely room:

“Where can I go from Your Spirit? 
Where can I go from Your presence? 
If I go up to the heavens, You are there 
If I make my bed in the depths, You are there!”

These lyrics come straight from the Psalms, a book of songs and poetry in the Bible. This one says that God is everywhere, all the time. His presence is not restricted to a single place or state of mind. He is with me at church; He is with me at soccer training; He is with me on the drive to work. God is here when I am at my best, when I am my worst- and He is everywhere in between. He does not change and He never leaves. I knew this, cognitively, but my body had forgotten how close and how kind God really is. So, He used a song to remind me. 

There is a song in the Psalms for every situation: grief, joy, anger, gratitude, confusion—you name it. 

Several months ago, I sat down at the piano, feeling rejected after an awkward conversation. I opened my Bible to Psalm 57 and started singing the words.

“Be merciful to me, O God! 
Be merciful
For in You my soul takes refuge
In the shadow of Your wings
I will take refuge
‘Til the storms of destruction pass by.”

Within minutes, my heart was soothed.  

Another night, I found myself in a panic: tight chest, anxious mind. I picked up my guitar and started to sing Psalm 27: 

“The Lord is my light and my salvation: 
whom shall I fear? 
The Lord is the stronghold of my life;
Of whom shall I be afraid?”

That night, I sang and sang and sang and each word drove the fear further away. 

Another day, a Psalm caught me mid-spiral. I was feeling frustrated when a song from the Psalms started playing in the back of my mind. It felt like an invisible hand slowly turned up the music until my anger subsided. 

When we feel frozen, frazzled or frightened, music cuts through the fog in a way that words alone cannot. It is tempting to turn to temporary fixes when life becomes unbearable. We can numb ourselves by scrolling through our phones, swallowing whatever the algorithm offers. Some of us overwork, others overeat, others oversleep or rely on other vices. We have a cornucopia of distractions at our fingertips, ready to alleviate our suffering. But where do we go when the numbness fades and the ache returns? 

The Bible is not an anesthetic. The Psalms do not shy away from pain. These songs cut right into the human heart, their words full of questions, complaints and desperate cries. They are also full of gratitude and beauty. There is no shallow comfort here, only rich, hard-earned hope and tear-stained cheeks. God gives us joy through the ache, instead of an escape.

Some of my dearest friendships have been deepened through conflict and hard conversations. The Psalms constantly teach me how to talk with God like a friend. They give me words to pray when I do not have any of my own. Many were written to be sung, not read. I love reading the Psalms but singing them weaves each word right into the fabric of my mind. 

The first chapter in the Psalms promises a blessing to anyone who delights in God’s instruction, thinking about it “day and night”. That person will become like a tree planted by rivers of water that produces fruit in its season. Its leaves will not wither and whatever he does will prosper. That is a bold claim to make right at the start of the book—one worth testing out. 

Does your life feel dry? Fruitless? Like you are withering away? Get a Bible, choose a section and chew on it for a while. Let it run through your mind, again and again. The Psalms are a great place to start, they are honest and hopeful, rich in comfort. I cannot think of anything better to have stuck in my head. 

Article supplied with thanks to Signs Of the Times

Kemy Ogendi wries from Central Australia. She is currently working on a handful of music projects in Alice Springs, one including several Psalms. You can listen to her music here.

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Biblical Perspective On Wealth and Prosperity

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By: Alex Cook

As a person of faith, I have always been intrigued by the biblical perspective on wealth and prosperity. It is a topic that often sparks debates and misunderstandings. However, by delving into the pages of the Bible, we can uncover a profound understanding of God’s intentions for money and how it relates to our lives. In this article, we will explore the role of money in the Bible, God’s intentions for wealth and prosperity, and address common misconceptions about money.

The Role of Money in the Bible

Money has always played a significant role in human society, and it is no different in the Bible. In fact, the Bible contains numerous references to money, wealth, and financial matters. From the Old Testament to the New Testament, we find stories and teachings that illustrate the importance of money in the lives of God’s people.

One of the most well-known passages regarding money is found in 1 Timothy 6:10, which states, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” This verse highlights the potential dangers of money when it becomes an object of obsession and greed. However, it is crucial to understand that money itself is not inherently evil. It is the love and pursuit of money at the expense of one’s relationship with God and others that can lead to harmful consequences.

God’s Intentions for Wealth and Prosperity

Contrary to popular belief, God does not condemn wealth and prosperity. In fact, throughout the Bible, we see instances where God blesses His people with abundance and prosperity. However, it is essential to recognize that God’s intentions for wealth go beyond mere accumulation and personal gain.

God desires that His children use their wealth and prosperity to bring about positive change in the world. He calls us to be good stewards of the resources He has entrusted to us, using them to bless others and advance His kingdom on Earth. This means that wealth should never be viewed as an end in itself but rather as a means to fulfill God’s purposes and impact the lives of those around us.

Misconceptions About Money in the Bible

Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions about money in the Bible that have led to misunderstandings and even misinterpretations of scripture. One common misconception is the belief that poverty is a sign of godliness and that wealth is a sign of sinfulness. However, this view fails to consider the full counsel of the Bible.

While the Bible warns against the dangers of greed and the love of money, it also affirms the blessings that come from diligent work and wise stewardship. In Proverbs 10:4, we read, “Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.” This verse highlights the importance of hard work and responsible financial management in achieving prosperity.

Key Biblical Principles for Managing Wealth

To effectively manage wealth and embrace God’s intentions for prosperity, we must adhere to key biblical principles. These principles provide a foundation for wise financial stewardship and guide us in making sound decisions regarding our money.

1. Seek God’s Kingdom First: In Matthew 6:33, Jesus instructs us to seek God’s kingdom and His righteousness above all else, and He promises that all our needs will be provided. This principle reminds us to prioritize our relationship with God and align our financial decisions with His will.

2. Practice Contentment: Contentment is a vital principle in managing wealth. In Philippians 4:11-12, the Apostle Paul writes, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” This verse encourages us to find satisfaction in God and be content with what we have, rather than constantly striving for more.

3. Be a Generous Giver: The Bible consistently teaches the importance of generosity and giving. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, we are reminded that “God loves a cheerful giver.” By generously giving to others, we reflect God’s heart and demonstrate our trust in His provision.

Examples of Biblical Figures who Experienced Prosperity

Throughout the Bible, we find examples of individuals who experienced prosperity as a result of their faithfulness and obedience to God. These stories serve as powerful reminders that God is not opposed to blessing His people with wealth.

One notable example is King Solomon, who was known for his wisdom and wealth. In 1 Kings 10:23, it is recorded that “King Solomon was greater in riches and wisdom than all the other kings of the earth.” However, Solomon’s prosperity was not solely for his own benefit but also to fulfill God’s purposes for Israel and bring glory to His name.

Another example is Joseph, who went from being a slave to becoming the second-in-command of Egypt. Through his wisdom and godly character, Joseph was able to navigate a season of abundance and a season of famine, ultimately bringing blessing to his family and the Egyptian people.

These stories remind us that prosperity is not an end in itself but rather a tool that God can use to accomplish His purposes in our lives and the lives of others.

Biblical Teachings on Generosity and Giving

Generosity and giving are recurring themes throughout the Bible. In fact, the Bible contains numerous teachings and principles regarding the importance of giving to those in need.

In Proverbs 11:24-25, we read, “One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” These verses emphasize the principle of sowing and reaping, highlighting that as we give generously, we not only bless others but also open ourselves up to receive blessings from God.

Additionally, Jesus Himself taught about the significance of giving in Luke 6:38, saying, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” This verse emphasizes the principle of reciprocity, assuring us that our generosity will be rewarded.

Balancing Material Wealth and Spiritual Well-being

While wealth and prosperity are not inherently sinful, it is essential to maintain a healthy balance between material wealth and spiritual well-being. The pursuit of wealth should never take precedence over our relationship with God and our commitment to living according to His principles.

In Mark 8:36, Jesus poses a thought-provoking question, “What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” This verse serves as a reminder that true fulfillment and lasting joy cannot be found solely in material possessions. Our ultimate satisfaction and well-being come from knowing and walking in obedience to God.

Maintaining a proper perspective on wealth requires regular self-examination and a willingness to surrender our desires and ambitions to God. By prioritizing our spiritual well-being above material gain, we can experience true abundance and live in alignment with God’s intentions for our lives.

Practical Steps for Applying Biblical Principles to Personal Finance

Understanding the biblical perspective on wealth and prosperity is just the beginning. To truly embrace God’s intentions for our finances, we must take practical steps to apply these principles to our personal lives. Here are some practical suggestions for managing our finances in a way that aligns with God’s Word:

1. Develop a budget: Creating a budget allows us to allocate our financial resources wisely and prioritize what is essential. By planning and tracking our expenses, we can ensure that our money is being used in alignment with God’s principles.

2. Give generously: Actively seek opportunities to give generously to those in need. This can be through financial contributions, volunteering time and skills, or supporting charitable organizations. By giving, we reflect God’s heart of generosity and allow Him to use our resources to bless others.

3. Seek godly wisdom: Surround yourself with wise and godly individuals who can provide guidance and accountability in financial matters. Proverbs 15:22 tells us, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed.” Seeking wise counsel can help us make sound financial decisions and avoid unnecessary pitfalls.

Embracing God’s Intentions for Wealth and Prosperity

In conclusion, the biblical perspective on wealth and prosperity is a nuanced and multifaceted topic. While the Bible cautions against the love of money and the pursuit of wealth for selfish gain, it also affirms the blessings that come from diligent work, wise stewardship, and generous giving.

As followers of Christ, it is our responsibility to understand and embrace God’s intentions for wealth and prosperity. By aligning our financial decisions with biblical principles, we can experience the joy and fulfillment that come from living in alignment with God’s purposes.

Let us strive to be good stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us, using them to bring glory to His name and make a positive impact in the world. May we seek God’s kingdom first, practice contentment, and be generous givers, knowing that our true wealth lies not in material possessions, but in our relationship with Him.

For more articles and resources on managing wealth from a biblical perspective, sign up to our newsletter below and we’ll let you know as soon as we publish new content.

FAQs About Wealth and Prosperity in the Bible 

Does the Bible say money is evil?

No, the Bible does not say that money itself is evil. It teaches that the love of money can lead to harm, but wealth on its own is not sinful. What matters most is how money is used and where a person’s heart is focused.

Can Christians be wealthy and still follow God?

Yes, the Bible shows that God can bless people with wealth. At the same time, Scripture makes it clear that wealth should never replace God as our highest priority and must be handled with wisdom and faithful stewardship.

What does wealth and prosperity mean from a biblical perspective?

In the Bible, prosperity is not limited to financial gain. It includes spiritual growth, wise living, meaningful work, and the ability to bless others. Biblical prosperity focuses on using resources for God’s purposes rather than personal comfort alone.

Does the Bible promise prosperity to everyone who follows God?

No, the Bible does not promise that every believer will become wealthy. It promises God’s provision and guidance, but not guaranteed financial success. Prosperity is never presented as proof of spiritual maturity or God’s favor.

What warnings does the Bible give about wealth?

The Bible warns that wealth can lead people to trust money instead of God, distract them from spiritual priorities, and create imbalance in life. Scripture consistently teaches that dependence on material gain can weaken a person’s faith.

How should Christians view wealth according to the Bible?

Christians are called to view wealth as a trust from God. This means working diligently, practicing contentment, giving generously, and using financial resources to serve others and advance God’s kingdom. Faithful stewardship, not prosperity itself, is the biblical goal.

Article supplied with thanks to Wealth with Purpose.

About the Author: Alex is a licensed financial planner and the founder of Wealth with Purpose a Stewardship Ministry that helps Christians handle their money God’s way.

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Pokies, Sports Betting and Kids: How Gambling Is Harming Australians

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By: Bec Harris

Reverend Tim Costello, Chief Advocate for the Alliance for Gambling Reform, reveals the staggering scale of gambling harm in Australia. From pokies to sports betting, Australians are losing billions, and the consequences are devastating.

The Scale of Gambling Losses

Australia loses $32 billion each year to gambling, the highest per capita in the world. Tim explained: “The nation that comes second in gambling losses is 30% less than us. The world looks at us and asks, how did we allow this?”

Pokies account for $17 billion, sports betting $6 billion, with horse racing and greyhounds adding more. Even more shocking: “We have 20% of all the world’s pokies, but 75% are in pubs and clubs. Everywhere else, pokies are only in casinos.”

Unlike casinos, pokies are everywhere: in pubs, clubs, and even shopping areas. Australians often gamble unintentionally, with machines designed for predatory addiction.

The Impact on Families and Young People

The reach of gambling goes beyond adults. Tim highlighted a growing problem among youth: “Influencers are paid by the pokies industry to show how fun it is to feed cash into machines.”

Combined with 900 gambling ads a day on free-to-air TV, many children are absorbing adult gambling behaviours. “Eighty per cent of ten-year-olds now know the odds on AFL and NRL games,” Tim said. “The normalisation is devastating.”

What Can Be Done?

Advocacy is key. Tim outlined practical steps:

  • Pokies: Lobby state politicians. Each state has jurisdiction.
  • Sports betting: Contact federal representatives, especially the Communications Minister.

“Get boots on the ground. Send letters. Touch base with your politicians,” Tim urged. Western Australia sets a strong example, with no pokies in pubs or clubs and much lower gambling losses.

A Call for National Reform

Despite bipartisan support for a national gambling regulator, recommendations remain ignored. “We need to treat gambling as a health issue, not a sports issue,” Tim said. “Where there’s gambling in a family, there’s four times more domestic violence.”

Public support is overwhelming: 80% of Australians want gambling ads banned, yet action is lagging. “Politicians need to listen. The public has spoken,” Tim added.

Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.

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How to Choose Books That Match Your Mood and Emotional Needs

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By: Michelle Nortje

Choosing Books That Meet You Where You Are…

As an avid reader, I often catch myself scrolling through articles suggesting what I should read next:
“Top 10 books everyone must read,”
“Classics you can’t miss,”
“Books that will change your life.”

However, I sometimes find myself struggling to get into the book at that time, or not quite connecting to the characters. I’m sure you’ve also had the experience of picking up a highly recommended book and finding it hard to read, emotionally flat, or even overwhelming. I have been reflecting on this process for a while now, and I don’t think this means the book is bad, and it doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with me or you! It may simply mean that the book doesn’t fit where we are right now.

Reading is definitely not a neutral activity. When we open a book, we enter into a relationship with it. Books ask things of us: attention, imagination, emotional openness, and sometimes the willingness to sit with complexity or pain. Choosing a book thoughtfully can be a gentle way of practising self-reflection and self-attunement.

So I have decided that this year, rather than asking “What’s a good book?”, it might be more helpful to ask: “What kind of book would support me at this current moment in my life?”

Reading with emotional awareness

Before choosing your next book, I would therefore like to suggest taking a moment to pause and reflect on a few simple questions first.

1. How much capacity do I have right now?

Some books require emotional stamina. While others are more restful.

You might ask yourself:

  • Am I feeling overwhelmed or fairly resourced?
  • Do I have space for emotional depth and complexity?
  • Am I tired, grieving, stressed, or seeking comfort?

When our capacity is low, a demanding or emotionally heavy book can feel like too much, even if we would enjoy it at another time.

2. What emotional tone am I able to sit with?

Instead of focusing on genre or ratings, rather consider the feel of a book.

Do I want something that feels:

  • Gentle or reassuring?
  • Absorbing and immersive?
  • Dark but meaningful?
  • Hopeful or light?
  • Reflective and slow?

The descriptions or reader tags (like those on Goodreads and The StoryGraph) are helpful here, but because they give a descriptive sense of the emotional weather of a book.

3. What do I need from reading right now?

Different books offer different kinds of nourishment and can help fill up our cup in different ways.

You might be looking for:

  • Company — feeling less alone with your inner world
  • Escape — a break from your own concerns
  • Meaning — reflection, insight, or coherence
  • Soothing — something calming and predictable
  • Stretch — a gentle challenge or new perspective

There’s no “right” reason to read. Needs change, and so can reading choices. Attuning to your needs more intentionally can help you find a book that is a better fit.

4. Do I want familiarity or something new?

At times we long for:

  • familiar themes
  • a known author’s voice
  • a sense of safety and predictability

At other times, we may feel ready for:

  • new perspectives
  • ambiguity and questions
  • emotional or intellectual challenge

Both of these focuses are valid. Paying attention to this can prevent unnecessary frustration or self-criticism when you just can’t finish a book!

5. Permission to stop

One of the kindest things you can give yourself as a reader is permission to stop reading a book that no longer feels right. Putting a book down is not a failure. It may simply mean that this book doesn’t meet you where you are right now. You can always return to it later (or not at all!).

Reading as self-attunement

Choosing books in this more emotionally attuned way mirrors a broader emotional skill of noticing your internal state and responding with care. Just as we learn to pace ourselves emotionally, we can also learn to pace our reading lives. When we choose books with this kind of awareness, reading becomes less about achievement and more about our relationship with the story and with ourselves. In this way, reading becomes a quiet way of listening to ourselves.

In therapy, we often notice that the stories, books and poems people are drawn to can reflect emotional needs, unanswered questions, or a longing for understanding and connection. Bibliotherapy is one way of working with this process more intentionally, using books and stories to support self-awareness, emotional regulation, and meaning-making. If you’re curious about how therapy might help you better understand your inner world, develop greater self-attunement, or find steadier ways of caring for your wellbeing, you’re very welcome to enquire about seeing one of the psychologists here at The Centre for Effective Living. We’d be glad to explore what support might be most helpful for you.

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