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Biblical Perspective On Wealth and Prosperity

February 2, 2026/in Articles, Lifestyle/by Rhema Central Coast

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.

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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

February 1, 2026/in Articles, Lifestyle/by Rhema Central Coast

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

January 31, 2026/in Articles, Entertainment and Arts/by Rhema Central Coast

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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What Does It Mean to be a Man, Really?

January 31, 2026/in Articles, Lifestyle/by Rhema Central Coast

By: Joshua Newbegin

Recently I was at my friend Brendan’s house preparing for a camping trip. One of my favourite things is getting away for the weekend—escaping the hustle and bustle of modern life, immersing myself in nature and exploring new places with friends—with the boys!

We had a few jobs to do with the vehicles and equipment before we hit the road. As we headed out to the shed, Brendan said to his three-year-old son, “Jonty, do you want to come out to the shed with Josh and I to help us?” Without hesitation Jonty threw his arms in the air, sprinting flat-stick towards the shed, and shouted with delight, “Maaaan stuff!”

That memory brings a smile to my face as I think about Jonty’s joy. But it also makes me wonder—what exactly is “man stuff”? More importantly, what does it really mean to be a man?

Defining Masculinity

This question can seem somewhat provocative in our current cultural moment. What is a man? Is it merely the possession of an X and Y chromosome? And perhaps more importantly, what is it that makes a man great?

Sometimes it can help to define what something is by looking at what it’s not. It’s easy to recognise when men fall short of the mark, when they fail to meet society’s expectations. The term “toxic masculinity” is used to describe when a man sinks beneath the ideal. But are all forms of masculinity toxic? Is there an ideal version that’s missing from the world today?

First, Failure

How do we know when men have failed? Throughout history there have been numerous great men that we have looked up to as ideals. And yet, even the greatest among them were imperfect. Perhaps you can recall a public scandal—a presidential affair or an elite athlete brought down by substance abuse.

These are public examples, but many failures happen in private: fathers who abandon their families; boyfriends who physically or emotionally abuse their partner; men who use strength or power to dominate or manipulate.

At their core, these failings come down to a lack of self-control—abusing power and strength at the expense of others, typically the vulnerable. That’s what I mean when I use the term toxic masculinity: dominating those who can’t fight back.

But to be clear, it’s not just a male problem—it’s a human problem. Toxic humanity. The depravity of the human heart. Ultimately it boils down to self-centredness, self-preservation, anti-love—or as we Christians call it, sin. This problem plays out in our natural makeup of either masculine or feminine, but the root issue is the same.

To dig deeper would be beyond the scope of this article so I’m going to focus on the masculine side, which raises the question: why does this happen? What leads to the downfall of men?

Peter Pan Syndrome

One reason many men struggle is because of a lack of solid masculine role models in their lives. Psychologist Jordan Peterson refers to this as the “Peter Pan” syndrome. Peter Pan is an eternal child—full of potential—and that’s the problem. Peter Pan never grows up. You can hardly blame him, though. His model of manhood is none other than Captain Hook—a dangerous man, driven by fear of his impending demise, spiralling into chaotic and violent madness. Hook is hardly a role model worth aspiring to.

And so, Peter’s potential remains unrealised. Sure, he’s king of the Lost Boys, but that’s hardly something to strive for. He has the opportunity to connect with a real girl, Wendy, yet instead prefers the company of Tinkerbell, the fairy. Sadly, that’s not far from reality today—a generation of young men who’d rather stay home with the comforts of OnlyFans than take the risk of pursuing something meaningful—and risky—with a real woman. After all, a woman on OnlyFans is always available and won’t reject your advances.

Where Do I Look?

The best example I’ve found of healthy masculinity is none other than Jesus of Nazareth. This might surprise some, especially because of effeminate artistic depictions of Him throughout history. Despite this, I would argue that Jesus is the epitome of what it truly means to be a man.

Jesus was a first-century Middle Eastern tradesman, a countercultural revolutionary and a fearless man full of passion and empathy. He was a teacher, but also a voice for the voiceless and oppressed. He wasn’t petty. He was humble and patient, able to absorb cruelty without retaliation. Yet when it came to the oppressed, He was relentless—a defender of the defenceless and a liberator of the burdened.

Jesus was a man in the truest sense of the word. So, what empowered Him to be the man He was?

He Who Has A Why

One of the defining features of Jesus’ life was His purpose. Holocaust survivor Viktor Frankl once wrote, “He who has a why can push through any what.” In other words, having a clear purpose is vital for men to thrive—especially when navigating the inevitable obstacles and difficulties of life. Frankl observed that in the Nazi concentration camps, men who lost their sense of purpose were the first to crawl up in the corner and literally die.

You may not be immediately threatened with death but without purpose, you’ll likely pursue pleasure—pleasure to distract yourself from the pain that comes from a meaningless life. Without purpose, you remain a boy, attempting to avoid the challenges of becoming like the men you once admired or have come to despise.

Throughout history, men have taken a stand when they had a clear “why”. Purpose enabled and transformed boys into men. From that foundation of a clear purpose flow courage, bravery and service.

Power Under Control

Being a man isn’t just about strength—it’s about strength under control. In the words of author Ty Gibson, “True masculinity is power under (self) control. It can then flash forward when it’s needed to defend the defenceless, but always under the control of righteousness and love.”

That’s true masculinity. It takes far more strength to control our temper than to fly off the handle in a fit of rage. It takes far more strength to serve than to be served. True masculinity is power under control—power to protect, power to serve, power to empower. When that power becomes self-serving and self-centred, it crosses into the realm of toxicity.

In the words of 19th-century writer Ellen Write, “The greatest want of the world is the want of men—men who will not be bought or sold . . . men who will stand for the right though the heavens fall.”

Throughout history great men have stood against tyranny, liberated the oppressed, defended the powerless and sacrificed themselves for the good of others.

Strength in Numbers

One of the most detrimental misconceptions I held growing up was the belief that being a man meant going at it alone—suffering in silence. As I’ve matured, I’ve learned how detrimental that idea is. The truth is, it’s a sign of strength to ask for help. Motivational speaker Les Brown once said, “We ask for help, not because we are weak, but so that we can remain strong.”

In a world full of chaos, we need men who will stand—men willing to grow up, who will move on from Neverland and step into a life of purpose. The world needs men who not only live up to their potential but empower others to live up to theirs—not for their own glory, but for the greater good of everyone they encounter.

It’s time for men to become more like Jesus.

This article is supplied with thanks to Signs of The Times

Joshua Newbegin is a coach, minister and communicator passionate about helping people grow through clarity, courage and connection. He is the founder of Kaizen Coaching Solutions and host of the Unchained Brotherhood podcast.

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Genetics & Mental Health Issues: What’s the Link?

January 29, 2026/in Articles, Health and Wellbeing/by Rhema Central Coast

By: Laura Bennett

We know social and environmental factors can influence symptoms of depression, but what about genetics? Does our ancestry play into how we process life’s stressful events?

This article discusses mental health topics. If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. Contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.

A recent study from McGill University and the Douglas Institute looked at the effects of depression on the brain and, after examining post-mortem brain tissue from individuals who died during an episode of major depressive disorder. Researchers found that certain neurons and microglia may function differently in people living with depression – disrupting systems related to mood, stress and inflammation.

“Our genetic makeup can influence how sensitive we are to stress and how we respond to it,” Clarity Health Care Psychologist Enzo Somosi said.

“For some people, that heightened sensitivity can make them more vulnerable to mental health struggles, but it doesn’t mean those challenges are inevitable.”

Enzo explained on a physical level, depression can influence the way different areas of the brain “talk” to each other – some regions may show inflammation or thinning, while hormones such as cortisol can become irregular – and while genetics also play a part, it’s not in a deterministic way.

“It’s best to think of mental health issues as the result of a gene–environment interaction,” Enzo said.

The “dandelion-orchid” theory created by Dr. W. Thomas Boyce is often used by mental health practitioners to assess how sensitive a person is to their environment.

“The dandelion–orchid idea is a really helpful way to understand how our genes and our environment work together,” Enzo said.

“Some people are a bit like dandelions – they can grow almost anywhere.

“They feel emotions, of course, but they tend to move through things more quickly and cope well across a range of circumstances.

“Others are more like orchids. They’re equally beautiful, but they’re more sensitive to what’s happening around them.

“A bit of stress or a difficult patch in life can hit harder and take longer to recover from.

“But the important part is that, just like real orchids, with the right care and the right conditions, they can thrive.

“This perspective helps us understand a person’s temperament and how we can best support them, rather than assuming everyone responds to life in the same way,” he said.

To safeguard mental wellbeing Enzo encouraged simple, caring steps: regular exercise, a balanced diet, healthy sleep rhythms and staying socially connected.

“One of the biggest [helps] is recognising that you can improve in these areas and that your wellbeing isn’t fixed,” Enzo said.

“Staying connected with your community also makes a difference, even if it feels a bit tedious at times. Pushing through to meet up with friends and having a yarn about whatever’s going on can really help protect against developing more chronic mental health issues.”

If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. Contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

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

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A 16-Year-Old Aussie Teen Is Spreading Faith Through Fragrance

January 28, 2026/in Articles, Faith/by Rhema Central Coast

By: Bec Harris

At just 16 years old, Ryan Oosthuizen is doing something remarkable. He’s not just starting a business, he’s starting a ministry.

Ryan is the founder of BoTL – Blessings of the Lord, a Christian fragrance brand based in Perth. What began as a prayer, when he was just 15, has become a purpose-driven business designed to spread faith in a subtle but powerful way.

From Prayer to Purpose

Ryan didn’t wake up one day with a business plan. Instead, he started with a question.

“What am I meant to do with my life?”

Like many young people, he felt uncertain about the future. So he did something simple but bold. He prayed. He asked God for direction. According to Ryan, the answer was clear.

God gave him a vision. That vision became BoTL.

With support from his parents and a strong Christian upbringing, Ryan stepped out in faith. His goal was not profit alone, it was impact.

Turning Pain Into Purpose

Ryan Oosthuizen’s journey has not been easy. He lost his brother, and the grief was deep. The questions were heavy. Yet, instead of stopping, Ryan chose to move forward.

He decided to honour his brother by living with purpose. He committed to showing others that no matter what happens, faith can carry you through. With God at the centre, Ryan believes nothing is impossible.

That belief now fuels everything BoTL stands for.

What Does BoTL Mean?

BoTL stands for Blessings of the Lord. But it is more than a name.

Ryan describes BoTL as a message in a bottle. Each fragrance is designed to spark curiosity, start conversations, and gently introduce people to faith.

It is not about preaching, it’s about presence. “It’s a subtle way to help people encounter God,” Ryan says. “Even through something as simple as smelling good.”

Why Fragrance?

The answer is practical and personal. Ryan loves fragrance – he always has. He also knows that first impressions matter. People respond to scent – it opens doors. More importantly, Ryan believes God can use anything, even perfume.

By combining passion with purpose, Ryan found a way to grow God’s Kingdom through something he genuinely loves.

Building a Fragrance Brand at 15

Starting a fragrance business is no small task. Especially at 15. Ryan learned quickly. He researched online, watched videos, studied scent profiles and fragrance notes. Eventually, he partnered with a fragrance manufacturer in Dubai.

Ryan selected specific accords and notes. From 14 fragrance samples, he narrowed the range down to four signature scents. Those four are now in production, with 1,000 bottles arriving in Perth.

The BoTL Fragrance Range

Each BoTL fragrance carries its own identity:

Aroma Day – A fresh, uplifting men’s scent with citrus notes
The Chosen – A deeper men’s fragrance with sandalwood and vanilla
Jubilation – A sweet women’s scent featuring rum and caramel
Perfection – A youthful floral blend with grapefruit and spice

The fragrances were tested by more than 50 people. The favourites rose quickly and the choice was clear.

Marketing With Meaning

BoTL’s marketing strategy focuses on social media. Ryan uses TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook to share his story, his faith, and his fragrances. He shares short videos, honest conversations and has a clear purpose.

Some Christian influencers have already partnered with him. The goal is simple. Reach people where they are and let the story speak for itself.

Distribution From a Garage

Ryan Oosthuizen’s operation is hands-on – very hands-on. The stock is being stored in his family garage. Ryan packs every order himself. He labels the boxes. He even sprays fragrance inside so the package smells great on arrival.

Customers can choose local pickup in Mandurah or Australia Post shipping across Australia and New Zealand. International shipping is planned for the future.

A Business With an Eternal Vision

Ryan doesn’t see BoTL as just a brand – he sees it as a ministry.

His long-term vision is global. He hopes the business will fund mission work around the world, from the poorest communities to the wealthiest cities, Ryan wants to share the love of Jesus with anyone willing to listen.

A Message to Young Dreamers

Ryan Oosthuizen’s advice is simple. If God puts something on your heart, do it.

Don’t wait, don’t overthink it. Pray, talk to people, take the step. Ryan believes that if God is behind it, nothing can stop it.

Age doesn’t matter. Background doesn’t matter. Faith does.

Supporting Young Faith-Filled Entrepreneurs

Ryan’s story is a reminder that God can work through anyone, at any age, in any industry.

From loss came purpose. From prayer came vision. BoTL is more than perfume, it is proof that when faith leads, impact follows. Check out the BoTL range here.

Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.

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Supporting a Child with Separation Anxiety

January 27, 2026/in Articles, Parenting/by Rhema Central Coast

By: Sabrina Peters

It’s one thing to drop your child off at school or daycare and see them wave goodbye. It’s another thing entirely when that goodbye comes with tears, clinging, and pleas not to leave.

Building Resilient Kids as We Head Into a New Year

January 21, 2026/in Articles, Parenting/by Rhema Central Coast

By: Bec Harris

As we head into a new year, many parents are reflecting on family routines and goals for 2026. One common challenge is helping children take responsibility for everyday tasks – like putting away school bags, picking up towels, or tidying toys – without constant reminders. While it may seem like children are acting deliberately, understanding what’s happening in their brains can completely change how we respond.

Learning Intervention Specialist, Natalie Nicholls from PLECS Learning, shared insights about resilient kids and how parents can take a compassionate, brain-based approach to executive functioning as they head into the new year.

Understanding the “See and Do” Approach

Natalie explained that expecting children to automatically complete tasks often overlooks how their brains process information. For example, a child may ignore a school bag left in the hallway, not out of defiance, but because their brain is overwhelmed with other priorities or sensory input.

“When we delve into the why underneath, it helps us get more action and the results we’re actually looking for,” Natalie said.

As we start a new year, parents can shift their perception. Instead of assuming a child is being difficult, ask: What else is going on in their brain right now? Recognising that each child – and adult – is wired differently is a crucial first step toward effective, compassionate guidance.

How Brain Chemistry Influences Behaviour

Natalie highlighted the role of dopamine, a chemical that influences motivation, task initiation, and attention. Low dopamine levels, often seen in children with ADHD traits, can make it harder for kids to start tasks or notice what needs to be done.

Parents can support their children in the new year by:

Exploring ways to increase dopamine naturally
Using structured strategies to teach children how to see and act on tasks

“We cannot expect a child’s behaviour to exceed the brain’s capacity,” Natalie explained. “This applies to adults too – when expectations exceed capacity, we get stressed, anxious, and overwhelmed.”

Understanding this principle allows parents to approach children with more compassion and less frustration in 2026 and beyond.

Trauma and Neurodiversity: Seeing the Bigger Picture

Natalie also addressed the impact of trauma and neurodiversity. Children who have experienced trauma may react based on the age at which the trauma occurred. Similarly, children with ADHD or other neurodiverse traits may appear hyperactive or withdrawn.

“The brain will go into protective mode,” Natalie said. “When parents are stressed too, their child’s nervous system mirrors that stress.”

Recognising these patterns ensures that teaching moments occur when both parent and child have the capacity to engage, rather than in moments of heightened emotion – a crucial approach to begin the year with calm and clarity.

Practical Steps for “See and Do”

Natalie outlined practical ways to implement this approach as families start fresh in the new year:

Check Your Capacity First – Ensure you’re calm before addressing tasks. Teaching when triggered is ineffective.
Start Small – Use micro-moments in everyday life. Speak out loud about what you see, e.g., “I see the dishwasher is full. What could we do?”
Ask Questions, Don’t Command – Invite participation rather than issuing orders. For example: “Can you help me with the groceries?” instead of “Put the groceries away.”
Praise the Action, Not the Person – Focus feedback on specific behaviour rather than personal traits: “You noticed the gate needed opening and did it – great work!”
Build Life Skills – These micro-moments teach children to notice and act on tasks independently, a skill that extends to school, work, and life beyond the home.

“This isn’t just about a tidy house,” Natalie emphasised. “It’s about equipping children with a skill for life.”

A Kinder Approach for a Fresh Start

By focusing on compassion, brain capacity, and micro-teaching moments, parents can reduce frustration and help children develop independence as we head into 2026. Natalie’s approach encourages parents to shift perception, ask questions, and provide structured support, rather than relying on repeated commands or criticism.

“The goal is not a perfect house, but resilient kids who can see, decide, and act,” Natalie concluded.

Key Takeaways for Parents This New Year

Recognise your child’s brain capacity before setting expectations
Use questions and observation instead of commands
Praise specific actions, not personal traits
Focus on micro-moments to teach life-long skills

Implementing these strategies can help families start the new year with calmer routines, stronger bonds, and resilient, capable children ready to face the year ahead.

Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.

Feature image: Canva