The temptation will always be there.
Honestly i'm still learning to deal with it.
And often I find myself so caught up in it,
I have to move away and center myself in Him, and constantly reminding myself that Love is unconditional; Love does not demand; Love is God's heartbeat.
So for the idea of caring less,
is thrown right out of the window.
Even if it seems unnecessary or bothersome to others, I'll keep things unchanged since I know it's my gifting.
This break away from home comes with a mixture of UPs and DOWNs and certainly I'm thankful for mostly being the UPs and in the DOWNs, I get to process them with Him and just figuring out what I can pick up or learn about Jesus.
It is less than 12hours to a brand new year and I look forward to the next season, one that is undeserving. I thank God for preparing another verse-for-the-year and I know He does not reveal the verses each year without letting it sum up that particular year of experience and takeaways.
"For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light." ~ Colossians 1:9-12 NIV
So this year I know He has something greater for me as He desires for me to live a life worthy of Him. Easy to say but I will try. I'm just thankful that from my baby steps, He has placed guardians and angels along the way to point me in the right direction, the only direction - Jesus.
"Hence my closing prayer to 2012 in loving the Lord God with all my passion, prayer, intelligence and energy, is entering into 2013 and undergoing further refinement of my life, my faith that I may live a life worthy of Him."
_______________________
I know we've talked about this. I hope you find that a verse-for-the-year is of Him and not just another program created by Man. And as you find Him releasing His Word to you, you'll just go into a whole new level of intimacy with Jesus :)
Monday, December 31, 2012
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Memories
And You led me to peek into it.
I flipped to the first page as the settled dust scatters.
As I turned page by page, the memories return.
Memories that I wished never return.
The greatest irony would be me. Myself.
Count on the saving grace of God, yet I remain trapped in the past.
Regard myself in Him and a new creation, yet time and again I question myself.
So end of the day, have I truly come to know who Jesus is?
If I really do, then there has to some form of indication.
It has barely been a week after the camp, I pity myself for fearing that
all the passion and rising of faith were only but of the moment.
That true living out of Faith in Christ Jesus being short lived,
That all the declarations and acclamations were nothing but lip service.
Surely the God we claim to worship cannot be mocked.
I pray, that our hearts come to true repentance.
Before it is all too late.
We need a greater dosage of Jesus.
We need to be injected and infected with Jesus.
We need to find ourselves so crazy about Jesus that the world is able to notice a change in us.
We need to throw off a lot of hindrance and stand up for our Faith.
I flipped to the first page as the settled dust scatters.
As I turned page by page, the memories return.
Memories that I wished never return.
The greatest irony would be me. Myself.
Count on the saving grace of God, yet I remain trapped in the past.
Regard myself in Him and a new creation, yet time and again I question myself.
So end of the day, have I truly come to know who Jesus is?
If I really do, then there has to some form of indication.
It has barely been a week after the camp, I pity myself for fearing that
all the passion and rising of faith were only but of the moment.
That true living out of Faith in Christ Jesus being short lived,
That all the declarations and acclamations were nothing but lip service.
Surely the God we claim to worship cannot be mocked.
I pray, that our hearts come to true repentance.
Before it is all too late.
We need a greater dosage of Jesus.
We need to be injected and infected with Jesus.
We need to find ourselves so crazy about Jesus that the world is able to notice a change in us.
We need to throw off a lot of hindrance and stand up for our Faith.
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Deal With It
It was an authentic struggle I faced.
Something additional this Christmas has taught me.
A lesson beyond the usual Christmas season brings with it.
And I thank God for it. What more, the double reminder and emphasis.
So I resolved.
I have only but minute wisdom on my own.
My plans are limited by my short foresight.
It is all about seeking His plans and timing.
Some say it's silly. Some disagree. Some can't be bothered anymore.
But if there is one thing I would choose to, is follow what the Bible tells me.
So God I want to surrender once more, even if I have to keep repeating it.
An act of surrender; an acknowledgement of Your Lordship; A heart of sonship.
My Heavenly Father loves me.
For that fact, He will only have what is best for me.
Till then, be it unto me.
As long as He wants it, I will desire the same.
Something additional this Christmas has taught me.
A lesson beyond the usual Christmas season brings with it.
And I thank God for it. What more, the double reminder and emphasis.
So I resolved.
I have only but minute wisdom on my own.
My plans are limited by my short foresight.
It is all about seeking His plans and timing.
Some say it's silly. Some disagree. Some can't be bothered anymore.
But if there is one thing I would choose to, is follow what the Bible tells me.
So God I want to surrender once more, even if I have to keep repeating it.
An act of surrender; an acknowledgement of Your Lordship; A heart of sonship.
My Heavenly Father loves me.
For that fact, He will only have what is best for me.
Till then, be it unto me.
As long as He wants it, I will desire the same.
The Imperfect Christmas
Yesterday I heard once of the best Christmas message ever delivered.
The imperfect wedding.
The adopted child.
It dawned on me that Christmas should really come along with a time of reflection, a time of remembering.
It scares me that at the end of the day when all the action dies down and the crowds disperse amidst the joyous celebration, Christ seemed to be sidelined as a reason for another public holiday marked down on our calendars.
Perhaps the 2 very similar gifts are a stern reminder from the Lord. Stop and reflect.
Stop. And reflect.
The imperfect wedding.
The adopted child.
It dawned on me that Christmas should really come along with a time of reflection, a time of remembering.
It scares me that at the end of the day when all the action dies down and the crowds disperse amidst the joyous celebration, Christ seemed to be sidelined as a reason for another public holiday marked down on our calendars.
Perhaps the 2 very similar gifts are a stern reminder from the Lord. Stop and reflect.
Stop. And reflect.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
The Least.
 |
| BEST FAMILY PORTRAIT EVER |
 |
| LOVE FROM ZAC |
 |
| DEBBIE! |
 |
| JAMES AKA MASTERCHEF |
 |
| D&J - DONNIE&JEAN ALSO NOW KNOWN AS THE SEETS |
 |
| HUI LE THE FUNNY DUDE |
 |
| JACOB THE COOL MUSCLE MAN |
 |
| WEN POR THE TURTLE DOVE MAN |
 |
| SIMONE |
 |
| DIONE |
 |
| ZAC. THE LITTLE BROTHER I NEVER HAD. |
 |
| ZEPH. FOREVER BITING. |
 |
| RACHEL. MY FELLA CAMP CHAIR. |
 |
| BRIAN. HEART OF GOLD. |
 |
| RAMESH. A BROTHER I'D DIE FOR. |
 |
| EUGENIA. TOOTTOOTZ LOL. |
 |
| JERALYN. OUR HIGH FLYING SISTER =) |
 |
| EVIE! |
 |
| ETHEL! MY LONGEST KNOWING SISTER IN WRPF! |
 |
| EUDORA. THE COOLEST ON THE BLOCK (OR HOUSE). |
 |
| SARAH. A FAITHFUL FRIEND. |
Some things in life just cannot be measured in value.
Things like these. Friends. Loved ones.
I put this up to remind myself each day, each moment of how blessed I am.
I put each one of these up to remind myself to never take things friends for granted.
Thinking back what happened yesterday just blows my mind.
Because 18 days later, celebrating my 25th birthday was the least I expected.
Receiving the BIGGEST card in my life was the least I expected.
Looking at the coolest licence plate ever existed and the waterproof bag was the least I expected.
I know I really don't deserve all these, least I don't feel that way.
But even if all these didn't happen, I wouldn't value each of you differently.
I'd still lay my life down for you.
I'd still drive you back at the way to the other end of the island.
So may I never forget the faithfulness of God.
For He so loved me that He placed each one of you in my life's path.
I pray a prayer for you tonight.
May our friendship last as long as the Lord deems.
--------------------------------------------------
I'm really not the kind of person who will tell you certain things in the face.
Like how grateful I am or how mad I may feel.
But if you do notice, really notice, you'd know how I really feel deep inside.
Just pause for a while, you'll see.
Thursday, December 13, 2012
???
Maybe I'm doing it all wrong.
But I fear more if I do nothing at all.
So I'll try, and trust as I might.
Cause I know God loves me,
And He'll know if the door is meant to stay
shut or wide open.
Against all the earthly opinions,
I'll choose the Divine.
I only ask that I will keep walking in Him, towards Him and for Him regardless.
God my First Love.
But I fear more if I do nothing at all.
So I'll try, and trust as I might.
Cause I know God loves me,
And He'll know if the door is meant to stay
shut or wide open.
Against all the earthly opinions,
I'll choose the Divine.
I only ask that I will keep walking in Him, towards Him and for Him regardless.
God my First Love.
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Know You More
And that should be one's goal in life.
If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him. ~ John 14:7
You won't know what you don't love. Furthermore, you can't love what you don't know.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Really thankful over how everything unfolded today from the bus ride to the availability of breakfast to the orientation in the office to the two-hour chat with my manager to the availability of lunch to the self-reading time in the afternoon to the bus ride that brings me to various locations that I will need to go to.
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. ~ Col 3:17
Seems like the coming workload may not be an easy one. Yet, a time of learning and going a on journey with Him excites me so much more. Perhaps it is the freedom and greater maneuvering space that comes with entering the working life. I won't deny there were little details that didn't fulfil my expectations and I had moments feeling bummed about it. Eventually, I got around it as I give thanks for the much that I don't deserve and how much more favor He has already given me.
The covering of prayer from Sunday's service has definitely come in handy and I have to remind myself time to time, why I do what I do and how to do what I do. Most importantly, who I do for in what I do. Coming into this company may seem random but I choose to believe God has planned for me. The company logo also reminds me of who the Center of my life is, the Trinity of God. There is a greater need for me to constantly re-align the center of life's focus; to re-calibrate what I aim for.
So I am officially into the next chapter of my life. Whatever is to come my way, I do pray that I find the wisdom and accountability along the way. It is a path for me to walk and in the unknown, to know Him more.
And not forgetting, thank you for sticking around; for being awesome; for listening; for the bits of wisdom.
This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! ~ 2 Cor 9:12-15
If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him. ~ John 14:7
You won't know what you don't love. Furthermore, you can't love what you don't know.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Really thankful over how everything unfolded today from the bus ride to the availability of breakfast to the orientation in the office to the two-hour chat with my manager to the availability of lunch to the self-reading time in the afternoon to the bus ride that brings me to various locations that I will need to go to.
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. ~ Col 3:17
Seems like the coming workload may not be an easy one. Yet, a time of learning and going a on journey with Him excites me so much more. Perhaps it is the freedom and greater maneuvering space that comes with entering the working life. I won't deny there were little details that didn't fulfil my expectations and I had moments feeling bummed about it. Eventually, I got around it as I give thanks for the much that I don't deserve and how much more favor He has already given me.
The covering of prayer from Sunday's service has definitely come in handy and I have to remind myself time to time, why I do what I do and how to do what I do. Most importantly, who I do for in what I do. Coming into this company may seem random but I choose to believe God has planned for me. The company logo also reminds me of who the Center of my life is, the Trinity of God. There is a greater need for me to constantly re-align the center of life's focus; to re-calibrate what I aim for.
So I am officially into the next chapter of my life. Whatever is to come my way, I do pray that I find the wisdom and accountability along the way. It is a path for me to walk and in the unknown, to know Him more.
And not forgetting, thank you for sticking around; for being awesome; for listening; for the bits of wisdom.
This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! ~ 2 Cor 9:12-15
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Truth
Maybe I'm afraid of the side of me that people hardly know of. 8 years and counting, surely this cannot go on forever.
Sunday, December 2, 2012
A Beautiful Exchange
Today we continued Part 3 of a 4-part sermon series in church: Song of Songs. Learning about Jesus as the Servant is a humbling experience. And I sometimes wonder if we truly appreciate the significance of this teaching in this season. As some in the days of Jesus were, we come with our own expectations and interpretation of who God should rightfully be.
A triumphant One. A mighty One. Unmatched powers and supernatural abilities. At the first sight of him, his opponents flee beyond the ends of the earth.
Yet in the past three Sundays, a different Jesus was portrayed.
A Jesus more concerned about His Father than His circumstances.
A Jesus desired to testify of His Father's Faithfulness over his own image and reputation.
A Jesus who knew what impact would follow the decisions and actions he made.
A common saying nowadays is Jesus is the Reason for the season.
And that can't be anymore true. This world may have rode on commercializing the significance of Christmas. Truly a season of giving. Yet, it stems from the very first Divine giving, the birth of Christ. Hence this Christmas, means more than just giving of presents; of writing letters and such. These are just forms and ways of expressing our appreciation for each other which is fine, except that one must never forget the Divine Giver. The Greatest Gift.
And so God, I thank You in this season. Of all the storms and gales I'm experiencing, I can still give You thanks and praise. There are certainly much that I do not deserve and yet You have freely given, so Lord may my heart remain in a posture of thanksgiving and waiting upon You.
The coming few days will be of one major transition, masked by the busyness of exams, of FYP, and of preparation for YAY! Camp. Thinking back how I came to the decision to extend my studies did not exactly find favor with people, yet God so graciously has opened doors and opportunities for me.
The wasted years (months in this case), was never wasted. The Lord is good and His faithfulness truly beyond our comprehension. How He closed the door and opened it only after a season of waiting and looking around. How He put me in a spot of choosing between a job or a commitment to the ministry. How He brought about the various Godly counsel who gave me bits of wisdom and their share of experience. How He ushered in different peoples to come forward and introduced me to various potential positions.
It seemed to be a repeat of how I went through each 'major' transition in the past years. The O's. The Diploma. The NS. The Uni. How in each season God has a vastly unique plan setup for me. And this coming season of transition definitely feels a whole lot more fearful than the previous ones. Perhaps because there are certain junctures of decision that I will have to make and steps of faith that will require me to be placed in a vulnerable position. Maybe it's the fear. Maybe it's the memories that hurt. Maybe it's the uncertainty that lies within.
But if God who has proven to never fail in His promises, perhaps it is also a season of change. A season of trusting wholly. A season of pure waiting and patience. A season of pressing God in prayer for a revelation. And I am excited as I put these thoughts down in writing. In the YESs and NOs, I can still give thanks to God for a gift in every experience. A learning curve and a knowing curve. A knowledge that what I know and how I feel is far from what God has already considered and planned out for me.
A Father's Love that is beyond measure. A Servant who cast aside His rightful position to do the Will of His father. How faithfulness triumphed unwillingness. Yet Christ gave Himself knowing that God would raise him up to glory as the price is paid in full.
Knowing He led a meaningful and purposeful life to impact others, how then shall I live?
Knowing He chose to bear a testimony of the Father's heart, how then shall I live?
Knowing He remained faithful in spite of all the odds against him, how then shall I live?
The end of the journey, the knowing of Christ, is just another step taken towards Him.
Faithfulness is a long obedience in the same direction.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Certain occurrences in recent weeks have really redefined Church for me.
The coming to service on Sundays. The attending of YAY! on Saturdays. The daily devotions with God. The constant mindfulness of God's presence in our lives.
Church has gone way beyond that, and I thank God for inviting along this journey. The different areas of help. The different situations I am exposed to. The unseen cries and hurts that never reaches the ears and eyes of the Church. As I consider my blessings, I am also prepared of greater things to come. Through ministries, is ultimately the goal of furthering the Kingdom of God, bringing the only true Hope to this World.
A triumphant One. A mighty One. Unmatched powers and supernatural abilities. At the first sight of him, his opponents flee beyond the ends of the earth.
Yet in the past three Sundays, a different Jesus was portrayed.
A Jesus more concerned about His Father than His circumstances.
A Jesus desired to testify of His Father's Faithfulness over his own image and reputation.
A Jesus who knew what impact would follow the decisions and actions he made.
A common saying nowadays is Jesus is the Reason for the season.
And that can't be anymore true. This world may have rode on commercializing the significance of Christmas. Truly a season of giving. Yet, it stems from the very first Divine giving, the birth of Christ. Hence this Christmas, means more than just giving of presents; of writing letters and such. These are just forms and ways of expressing our appreciation for each other which is fine, except that one must never forget the Divine Giver. The Greatest Gift.
And so God, I thank You in this season. Of all the storms and gales I'm experiencing, I can still give You thanks and praise. There are certainly much that I do not deserve and yet You have freely given, so Lord may my heart remain in a posture of thanksgiving and waiting upon You.
The coming few days will be of one major transition, masked by the busyness of exams, of FYP, and of preparation for YAY! Camp. Thinking back how I came to the decision to extend my studies did not exactly find favor with people, yet God so graciously has opened doors and opportunities for me.
The wasted years (months in this case), was never wasted. The Lord is good and His faithfulness truly beyond our comprehension. How He closed the door and opened it only after a season of waiting and looking around. How He put me in a spot of choosing between a job or a commitment to the ministry. How He brought about the various Godly counsel who gave me bits of wisdom and their share of experience. How He ushered in different peoples to come forward and introduced me to various potential positions.
It seemed to be a repeat of how I went through each 'major' transition in the past years. The O's. The Diploma. The NS. The Uni. How in each season God has a vastly unique plan setup for me. And this coming season of transition definitely feels a whole lot more fearful than the previous ones. Perhaps because there are certain junctures of decision that I will have to make and steps of faith that will require me to be placed in a vulnerable position. Maybe it's the fear. Maybe it's the memories that hurt. Maybe it's the uncertainty that lies within.
But if God who has proven to never fail in His promises, perhaps it is also a season of change. A season of trusting wholly. A season of pure waiting and patience. A season of pressing God in prayer for a revelation. And I am excited as I put these thoughts down in writing. In the YESs and NOs, I can still give thanks to God for a gift in every experience. A learning curve and a knowing curve. A knowledge that what I know and how I feel is far from what God has already considered and planned out for me.
A Father's Love that is beyond measure. A Servant who cast aside His rightful position to do the Will of His father. How faithfulness triumphed unwillingness. Yet Christ gave Himself knowing that God would raise him up to glory as the price is paid in full.
Knowing He led a meaningful and purposeful life to impact others, how then shall I live?
Knowing He chose to bear a testimony of the Father's heart, how then shall I live?
Knowing He remained faithful in spite of all the odds against him, how then shall I live?
The end of the journey, the knowing of Christ, is just another step taken towards Him.
Faithfulness is a long obedience in the same direction.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Certain occurrences in recent weeks have really redefined Church for me.
The coming to service on Sundays. The attending of YAY! on Saturdays. The daily devotions with God. The constant mindfulness of God's presence in our lives.
Church has gone way beyond that, and I thank God for inviting along this journey. The different areas of help. The different situations I am exposed to. The unseen cries and hurts that never reaches the ears and eyes of the Church. As I consider my blessings, I am also prepared of greater things to come. Through ministries, is ultimately the goal of furthering the Kingdom of God, bringing the only true Hope to this World.
Thursday, November 29, 2012
I'll Stand By You
So tonight I commemorate my Quarter of a Century Birthday.
As I gratefully think back through the day, how I spent the evening unexpectedly with the loveliest and closest bunch of people I know on earth, it struck me then.
How do I appreciate the very people who saw me through the life giving process? The painful years of raising me up despite all the burdens and pains. I mean I love babies and kids myself. Yet I am always reminded of the reality in raising a new life. Sure everyone loves playing with babies and toddlers. But how many are prepared and willing to go through the tough times, the responsibilities and the liabilities?
So for me, being 25 is more than just thankful for having lived "so long". It's about honoring. It's about loving unconditionally. It's a time of venturing forward perhaps. It's a season to prepare oneself of how great the love is for one's own child.
So thank you all for being a part of my being. God, family, friends...
Those of you who stayed close, those of you who lent out a shoulder.
And hence I look ahead into the new day. New month. New year =)
As I gratefully think back through the day, how I spent the evening unexpectedly with the loveliest and closest bunch of people I know on earth, it struck me then.
How do I appreciate the very people who saw me through the life giving process? The painful years of raising me up despite all the burdens and pains. I mean I love babies and kids myself. Yet I am always reminded of the reality in raising a new life. Sure everyone loves playing with babies and toddlers. But how many are prepared and willing to go through the tough times, the responsibilities and the liabilities?
So for me, being 25 is more than just thankful for having lived "so long". It's about honoring. It's about loving unconditionally. It's a time of venturing forward perhaps. It's a season to prepare oneself of how great the love is for one's own child.
So thank you all for being a part of my being. God, family, friends...
Those of you who stayed close, those of you who lent out a shoulder.
Friday, November 16, 2012
Post-post GLS Reflection
我将自己全然地委身在祢所委托于我的角色当中，去建立祢的教会，好叫她能够在这世界兴旺起来。今天我会把＂它＂带来。我会把我最好的带来。因为祢配得。祢的教会配得。这是世界的盼望。
I commit all of myself to the role you have assigned me in the building of your church so that it may thrive in this world. And I will "bring it" today. I will bring my best. You deserve it. Your church deserves it. It is the Hope of the World.
-------------
Unavoidably I feel at times that I can do much more and I'm just holding back. Maybe I really am. But I shall not let that put me down and I will give You more God, give You all. The best of me.
Christ alone, Cornerstone.
Weak made strong, in the Savior's Love.
Through the storm, He is Lord.
Lord of all.
I commit all of myself to the role you have assigned me in the building of your church so that it may thrive in this world. And I will "bring it" today. I will bring my best. You deserve it. Your church deserves it. It is the Hope of the World.
-------------
Unavoidably I feel at times that I can do much more and I'm just holding back. Maybe I really am. But I shall not let that put me down and I will give You more God, give You all. The best of me.
Christ alone, Cornerstone.
Weak made strong, in the Savior's Love.
Through the storm, He is Lord.
Lord of all.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
The Local Church is the Hope of the World
Tonight I conclude an enriching 2-day experience at GLS 2012. Yet I pray that it will not remain a mere experience but an ignition for something Greater.
The energizing. The re-calibration. The 20-mile marches. The giving of due honor. The going to the balcony. The gift in every experience. The confession that our lives are not our own to live. The movement of a man named Jesus. The greatest privilege in all of life is having Jesus to tap on me on the shoulder, inviting me to step into building His Church, the Hope of the World.
Words alone cannot express the overwhelming experience at GLS. One must be convinced by a personal experience and desire to be impacted by the conference speakers, to leave the auditorium with a refreshed mind and soul; a rekindled passion for His Kingdom and Purpose.
I know I have a great Fear. But I have a greater Faith, in the greatest Father.
The Lord of Lords, the King of Kings.
And Dr Bill Hybels has made it clear in his closing segment. The Church must rise to the occasion, to fulfil the very Calling she was given. We were all given a morning prayer card. It is really, more than just a card of prayer or motivation. It has to be, a reminder of why I rise to each new day, why I take the next breath.
------------------------------------
http://www.critiquebycreating.com/2011/04/the-most-eligible-christian-bachelor
Happened to be my dinner reading. I saw it appear on my news feed but never really got around to reading it. And tonight over dinner, I decided to go over it. The ultra-long write up on the perspective of singleness, of dating in the biblical perspective and of the Church's view on getting married, blew my mind away. The writer himself, obviously still single, has not just attempted to justify the role of singles in the Church but rather provide an objective take on remaining single from a biblical standpoint.
And possibly, a timely reminder for me. The DO's and the DON'Ts. A simple 4-point checklist for getting into a relationship. The skeletal outline for broaching the idea of dating/marriage to a girl of interest. The induced cultural concept of marriage versus the idea of marriage that God had in the very first place.
Given my very limited understanding, I would still like to recommend this read for anyone keen to find out about biblical view on 'dating' and marriage.
The energizing. The re-calibration. The 20-mile marches. The giving of due honor. The going to the balcony. The gift in every experience. The confession that our lives are not our own to live. The movement of a man named Jesus. The greatest privilege in all of life is having Jesus to tap on me on the shoulder, inviting me to step into building His Church, the Hope of the World.
Words alone cannot express the overwhelming experience at GLS. One must be convinced by a personal experience and desire to be impacted by the conference speakers, to leave the auditorium with a refreshed mind and soul; a rekindled passion for His Kingdom and Purpose.
I know I have a great Fear. But I have a greater Faith, in the greatest Father.
The Lord of Lords, the King of Kings.
And Dr Bill Hybels has made it clear in his closing segment. The Church must rise to the occasion, to fulfil the very Calling she was given. We were all given a morning prayer card. It is really, more than just a card of prayer or motivation. It has to be, a reminder of why I rise to each new day, why I take the next breath.
------------------------------------
http://www.critiquebycreating.com/2011/04/the-most-eligible-christian-bachelor
Happened to be my dinner reading. I saw it appear on my news feed but never really got around to reading it. And tonight over dinner, I decided to go over it. The ultra-long write up on the perspective of singleness, of dating in the biblical perspective and of the Church's view on getting married, blew my mind away. The writer himself, obviously still single, has not just attempted to justify the role of singles in the Church but rather provide an objective take on remaining single from a biblical standpoint.
And possibly, a timely reminder for me. The DO's and the DON'Ts. A simple 4-point checklist for getting into a relationship. The skeletal outline for broaching the idea of dating/marriage to a girl of interest. The induced cultural concept of marriage versus the idea of marriage that God had in the very first place.
Given my very limited understanding, I would still like to recommend this read for anyone keen to find out about biblical view on 'dating' and marriage.
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Marvel
I marvel at the little I can offer, and yet see the utmost God can make out of it. Exceedingly. Abundantly.
And God tonight, this post goes out to You. My utmost gratitude. In the times of steering the undeserving grace to drive a car I may never be able to afford, how You remind me that the things of this world are not to be sought after.
These are good to have, good to bless someone else. Yet these are the very things that could derail me from my very purpose You have called me to.
So may I never forget, the story of the 5 loaves 2 fish. The miracle thought impossible that blew a child's mind away in a simple offering.
Lord I desire to be that child, as I willingly give You my 5 loaves 2 fish. Whatever they may be.
Praise the Lord.
And God tonight, this post goes out to You. My utmost gratitude. In the times of steering the undeserving grace to drive a car I may never be able to afford, how You remind me that the things of this world are not to be sought after.
These are good to have, good to bless someone else. Yet these are the very things that could derail me from my very purpose You have called me to.
So may I never forget, the story of the 5 loaves 2 fish. The miracle thought impossible that blew a child's mind away in a simple offering.
Lord I desire to be that child, as I willingly give You my 5 loaves 2 fish. Whatever they may be.
Praise the Lord.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Push While You Pray
And I'll probably want to remember this quote he shared from Jim Cymbala,
I despaired at the thought that my life might slip by without seeing God show himself mightily on our behalf.
Reaching a point in my life that I probably have to make a "major" decision such as a starting job. Up till now, I always thought I had a grip, or a little understanding, of what it meant by Faith. And this book which I bought from my Down Under trip, surely didn't come at a time of coincidence. I believe God must have allowed this book to minister to me as I ponder some of the most difficult decisions.
Now that it is less than 2 months from me entering a new chapter of my life, I find myself being caught in the middle. On one hand, I really can't wait to enter the next phase yet at the same, I hold onto doubts and questions.
One thing for sure. Sun Stand Still has helped to with a motto.
Seize the Vision. Activate the Faith. Make the Move.
It has also given me a fresh perspective of Hope and Faith. How closely assimilated these two traits are, yet so vastly different in their nature. One can choose to stand firm on HOPE yet another finds himself choosing to move by FAITH. The very fact that characters from the Bible have lived out by that principle is likely a lesson God would want His people to comprehend. To know that beyond the Promise and Progress, there is a Process which His people undergoes.
As for myself, I do look forward to that Process.
The first job.
The next relationship.
The Calling in Life.
For sure and for real it may be tough, it may require endurance. But I have a Hope. A Hope given by the Most High. A Promise to those who seek after Him with all their hearts, to live out His Purpose, will find themselves living by it.
I may have little to offer, but God is more concerned about how much I am willing to offer out of the little.
Pray. Pray for a participation in His miracles and not just a speculation. Pray for fresh revelations constantly and as with any intimate relationship, in deeper love. Pray for a renewal of mind and strength as I face each new day's challenges. Pray for not just a changed life, but a channel for life-changing as well. Pray not for my desires alone, but through seeking His portion for me that I find my satisfaction.
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Forgiven much.
Jesus answered him, “Simon, I have something to tell you.”
“Tell me, teacher,” he said.
“Two people owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he forgave the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?”
Simon replied, “I suppose the one who had the bigger debt forgiven.”
“You have judged correctly,” Jesus said.
Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—as her great love has shown. But whoever has been forgiven little loves little.”
Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.”
The other guests began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?”
Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
“Tell me, teacher,” he said.
“Two people owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he forgave the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?”
Simon replied, “I suppose the one who had the bigger debt forgiven.”
“You have judged correctly,” Jesus said.
Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—as her great love has shown. But whoever has been forgiven little loves little.”
Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.”
The other guests began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?”
Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
Monday, October 22, 2012
Rule #32, enjoy the little things.
It has been a total energy draining 48hours, yet probably one of the best times I could recall.
1. Cause he's leaving on a jet plane.
It was a great time of fellowship on Friday (the entire day in fact despite the botched job interview I would say). And the evening time with the leaders of the worship ministry and teams just made it even better. The passing on of the vision cast earlier in the year. The heart to heart thoughts and sharing. The fei-lo-ship over steaming boats of veg and meat, well a lot of fishballs actually!
But for me, perhaps is the highlight of sending my brother in Christ off. Unknown to many, Joel was actually set to fly up north for 3-week reservist exercise. Unspoken of, yet I feel for him.
The time away from loved ones and friends, not forgetting cell and church.
The rising up to the occasion to lead a group of men who probably are all older than him by many years.
As for myself though I thank God I probably won't have to go through such situations, I'd always want to be there to see a brother off at the airport right up to the departure entrance. Aside from being there physically, I believe one's presence and willingness to show up at the airport really encourages the one leaving knowing a family left behind remembers him. Hence me making it a point as best as I can, to come down to the east despite its remoteness from the city. If you are reading this, pray for him. Pray for Joel as he goes through a high-key exercise because we don't want to take God's protection for granted.
2. In serving is giving back from a position of receiving
A thank point this week in preparation for cell duty in YAY! An honest concern that finding help with icebreakers and worship can seem to be a challenge. But surely my God is able to do all things, especially those that most glorifies Him. And I don't care who eventually gets the credit. Sure names can be brought up but I know one thing for sure, His Name is lifted high above all in my giving my all.
The willingness to step up and being the lead worshiper.
The willingness to stand on the supporting lines backing up the worship leader.
The willingness to coup up at the back, unnoticed yet faithfully moving the slides.
The willingness to move out of the comfort zone to bring Him due glory.
It proves beyond a willing heart to give. It reflects a receiving posture to give back to the rightful Lord and master. And yes, God came through amidst the united worship of the body of Christ and though the positive feedback of Man, I give my gratitude to the Audience of One whom all the praise and worship is given to. And I can trust my God to draw the members' hearts back to Him slowly but surely. That is my belief.
3.The 24th Birthday Girl
And so the weeks of planning, preparation and squabbling has finally come down to D-Day.
It was this. It was that.
To get this. To get that.
We thought we had it all covered, yet the Lord revealed to us how silly we were through a sudden downpour. The heavy rain caught everyone off guard and threw us off the original plan. We could not explicitly change the plan so with a little tweaking and a whole lot of Oscar-level acting, we staged the birthday surprise in a random location. Haha.
Thereafter things were back to original plan though slightly behind schedule. Nevertheless, I saw how the Grace of God provided for us.
The car when the rain came.
The market where we could take away dinner.
The NTUC where we got last minute items.
The willingness from all to chip in, in one way or another, especially for the big birthday present!
I believe this time, the birthday present meant more than just what one likes or justifies that a costlier gift has more significance. I believe the birthday present, at its cost, revealed just how much love everyone has for our birthday girl. It revealed how much more the Gift of Love from Jesus Christ our Lord is worth. And for that, the birthday present is only but a shadow of how much we cherish our birthday girl.
So now that the countless celebrations are finally over (I think!), a new season is here. To look back in gratitude of one's life in a year is good because one can then look ahead to better year with the Lord! So Happy BirthDAY Sarah (again)! and yes, the Lord be with you and make His face shine upon you! That the Lord grant you favors. That His goodness and mercy will follow you, all the days of your life as you dwell in the house of the Lord!
4. D & J
The Big Day is less than 3 weeks away! I'm pumped up for it really! Especially this coming week with stag/hen night. With cell outing on Sat. Yesterday's gathering of the wedding core helper team was a great time despite the "warm" reception! =D
So yes D&J, I said yes to helping you for your big day. And it will always be a yes for you guys! Both of you are my God-sent guardian angels in the family of Christ and it will be my joy to see you through the joyous day of your lives!
--------------------------------
So the dawning of a brand new day,
the setting in of a brand new week.
Lord I have worries and issues and challenges,
but I have You God.
Choosing between perhaps or Promise,
I know now it's not about me-conscious,
I know it's about GOD-conscious. =)
1. Cause he's leaving on a jet plane.
It was a great time of fellowship on Friday (the entire day in fact despite the botched job interview I would say). And the evening time with the leaders of the worship ministry and teams just made it even better. The passing on of the vision cast earlier in the year. The heart to heart thoughts and sharing. The fei-lo-ship over steaming boats of veg and meat, well a lot of fishballs actually!
But for me, perhaps is the highlight of sending my brother in Christ off. Unknown to many, Joel was actually set to fly up north for 3-week reservist exercise. Unspoken of, yet I feel for him.
The time away from loved ones and friends, not forgetting cell and church.
The rising up to the occasion to lead a group of men who probably are all older than him by many years.
As for myself though I thank God I probably won't have to go through such situations, I'd always want to be there to see a brother off at the airport right up to the departure entrance. Aside from being there physically, I believe one's presence and willingness to show up at the airport really encourages the one leaving knowing a family left behind remembers him. Hence me making it a point as best as I can, to come down to the east despite its remoteness from the city. If you are reading this, pray for him. Pray for Joel as he goes through a high-key exercise because we don't want to take God's protection for granted.
2. In serving is giving back from a position of receiving
A thank point this week in preparation for cell duty in YAY! An honest concern that finding help with icebreakers and worship can seem to be a challenge. But surely my God is able to do all things, especially those that most glorifies Him. And I don't care who eventually gets the credit. Sure names can be brought up but I know one thing for sure, His Name is lifted high above all in my giving my all.
The willingness to step up and being the lead worshiper.
The willingness to stand on the supporting lines backing up the worship leader.
The willingness to coup up at the back, unnoticed yet faithfully moving the slides.
The willingness to move out of the comfort zone to bring Him due glory.
It proves beyond a willing heart to give. It reflects a receiving posture to give back to the rightful Lord and master. And yes, God came through amidst the united worship of the body of Christ and though the positive feedback of Man, I give my gratitude to the Audience of One whom all the praise and worship is given to. And I can trust my God to draw the members' hearts back to Him slowly but surely. That is my belief.
3.The 24th Birthday Girl
And so the weeks of planning, preparation and squabbling has finally come down to D-Day.
It was this. It was that.
To get this. To get that.
We thought we had it all covered, yet the Lord revealed to us how silly we were through a sudden downpour. The heavy rain caught everyone off guard and threw us off the original plan. We could not explicitly change the plan so with a little tweaking and a whole lot of Oscar-level acting, we staged the birthday surprise in a random location. Haha.
Thereafter things were back to original plan though slightly behind schedule. Nevertheless, I saw how the Grace of God provided for us.
The car when the rain came.
The market where we could take away dinner.
The NTUC where we got last minute items.
The willingness from all to chip in, in one way or another, especially for the big birthday present!
I believe this time, the birthday present meant more than just what one likes or justifies that a costlier gift has more significance. I believe the birthday present, at its cost, revealed just how much love everyone has for our birthday girl. It revealed how much more the Gift of Love from Jesus Christ our Lord is worth. And for that, the birthday present is only but a shadow of how much we cherish our birthday girl.
So now that the countless celebrations are finally over (I think!), a new season is here. To look back in gratitude of one's life in a year is good because one can then look ahead to better year with the Lord! So Happy BirthDAY Sarah (again)! and yes, the Lord be with you and make His face shine upon you! That the Lord grant you favors. That His goodness and mercy will follow you, all the days of your life as you dwell in the house of the Lord!
4. D & J
The Big Day is less than 3 weeks away! I'm pumped up for it really! Especially this coming week with stag/hen night. With cell outing on Sat. Yesterday's gathering of the wedding core helper team was a great time despite the "warm" reception! =D
So yes D&J, I said yes to helping you for your big day. And it will always be a yes for you guys! Both of you are my God-sent guardian angels in the family of Christ and it will be my joy to see you through the joyous day of your lives!
--------------------------------
So the dawning of a brand new day,
the setting in of a brand new week.
Lord I have worries and issues and challenges,
but I have You God.
Choosing between perhaps or Promise,
I know now it's not about me-conscious,
I know it's about GOD-conscious. =)
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
This is Our God
Freely You gave it all for us
Surrendered Your life upon that Cross
Great is the love
Poured out for all
This is our God
Be lifted on high from death to life
Forever our God be glorified
Servant and King
Rescued the world
This is our God
Surrendered Your life upon that Cross
Great is the love
Poured out for all
This is our God
Be lifted on high from death to life
Forever our God be glorified
Servant and King
Rescued the world
This is our God
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
The Joy of going through Pain
Something I have been grappling with of late, the experiences of pain and failure.
Growing up in my first 17 years was not quite so much about failures or pain. In fact, it was a life I was getting used to. Comfortable without lack. Fun without restraints. It was a matter of time before I went full-blown on experiencing "life" at 18, at 21. Until that faithful day I stepped into a cell group; a church service, I have never left for anywhere else and gone to another.
Was it all pure fun and happy moments in the last 7 years? Sure NO. So call that a bad choice? I wouldn't think so. In fact, the numerous painful moments and failures cluttered mostly in my 8 years of walking in the Lord than my 17 years on my own. So why the pain and the failures?
I somewhat gathered that there are two facets in analyzing a failure or a painful experience. One would be the 'me' factor while the other, His agenda. The 'me' factor is simply nothing but a personal choice made at that point in time. No I have not always made the wise choices but each experience only serves to grow me further.
The God factor on the other hand, has always been something that intrigues me because the unique experiences I have received only served to allow me to minister to various people in the body of Christ. I would have looked back countless times in regret over the choices made but God has allowed me to look again, with a different set of eyes. A set of eyes that looked out for learning points, that chooses to keep the pain yet using them to relate to those going through a similar season.
It will always seem to be painful at the point of going through the season yet my Joy must always be in Him. To know that God will not allow any event to take place in my life without it benefiting me in time to come. Surely if God would go as far as giving His only Son for me, how much greater the limit of His love and mercy for me.
With each experience only serves to make me stronger, stronger in the Lord to know who holds my future in His hands and knows the plan He has for me. And I will live to remember these experiences will be used by Him one day to strengthen another in Christ, just as little David did in his life.
Father, help me hold fast to my faith in You. When someone is down, that I will be used by you to build them up and not be dragged down. Cause Your Name is greater and mighty to save. Amen.
Growing up in my first 17 years was not quite so much about failures or pain. In fact, it was a life I was getting used to. Comfortable without lack. Fun without restraints. It was a matter of time before I went full-blown on experiencing "life" at 18, at 21. Until that faithful day I stepped into a cell group; a church service, I have never left for anywhere else and gone to another.
Was it all pure fun and happy moments in the last 7 years? Sure NO. So call that a bad choice? I wouldn't think so. In fact, the numerous painful moments and failures cluttered mostly in my 8 years of walking in the Lord than my 17 years on my own. So why the pain and the failures?
I somewhat gathered that there are two facets in analyzing a failure or a painful experience. One would be the 'me' factor while the other, His agenda. The 'me' factor is simply nothing but a personal choice made at that point in time. No I have not always made the wise choices but each experience only serves to grow me further.
The God factor on the other hand, has always been something that intrigues me because the unique experiences I have received only served to allow me to minister to various people in the body of Christ. I would have looked back countless times in regret over the choices made but God has allowed me to look again, with a different set of eyes. A set of eyes that looked out for learning points, that chooses to keep the pain yet using them to relate to those going through a similar season.
It will always seem to be painful at the point of going through the season yet my Joy must always be in Him. To know that God will not allow any event to take place in my life without it benefiting me in time to come. Surely if God would go as far as giving His only Son for me, how much greater the limit of His love and mercy for me.
With each experience only serves to make me stronger, stronger in the Lord to know who holds my future in His hands and knows the plan He has for me. And I will live to remember these experiences will be used by Him one day to strengthen another in Christ, just as little David did in his life.
Father, help me hold fast to my faith in You. When someone is down, that I will be used by you to build them up and not be dragged down. Cause Your Name is greater and mighty to save. Amen.
It doesn't take much
As I journeyed to the west this morning, I wasn't expecting to think of David (the King).
But He just began revealing so much about this dude whom God strengthened him from young, especially in his faith.
Taken from 1 Samuel 17.
1. Know who you are. Identity. V8,26,36,45-47.
This perhaps was the game changer in the standoff between the Israelites and the Philistines. Sure I think anyone who is familiar with this passage knows that David the young boy did not take Goliath down on his own accord. Given the little odds of winning, David was not the least daunted. Call him ignorant or arrogant, I see him full of faith. Full of faith in a God who is more than able to deliver him.
Goliath saw the Israelites as servants of Saul.
King Saul and Israelites probably saw themselves against the odds in the face of Goliath.
David's brothers saw him as useless to the battle.
King Saul refuted David's request to take on Goliath in his judgement call based on battle experience.
What about David? He simply saw himself as a servant of God. He knew God is One who will deliver him. He wasn't full of pride, but full of faith. An authenticity that reveals itself in the light of a trial.
I suppose this is one of the lessons for me to learn as the camp draws nearer. With a number of tasks and roles unsettled, there are times that I do wonder if I had gone wrong somewhere or perhaps I'm not hearing Him clear enough. I suppose the challenges that come along the way are surely within the Lord's control and there is much more to learn out of them rather simply to resolve them. Admittedly, I wish things would have been gone smoothly. Yet I pray that if this is something God wants me to endure through, then His Will be done.
2. Keep track of what the Lord has done regardless if others are aware. V34-37.
This was probably the substance that gave David the confidence to stand up against Goliath's challenge, to stand before his own King Saul requesting for a go against Goliath.
David had not built a fantastic portfolio till he signed up himself for a job with "maximum life risk". His father and family saw his value as far as a shepherd and a bread runner. King Saul deemed David's odds of defeating Goliath as a sure nil. Goliath saw David as little more than a boy.
David needed no outstanding resume. He shed off all the battle gear that was placed on him for the caution of what if's. He knew well how the Lord had delivered him previously and will again deliver him this time. He was honed in the very tools and weapons he had from the beginning. He needed no insurance in the ways of Man. All he had in him was the Faith in an Almighty God. Though Goliath was armed to the teeth and even donning on a bronze helmet, David took him down with the sling of a stone right in the forehead. Bear in mind that Goliath had a shield bearer in front of him in addition to the helmet he wore.
David was either the biggest bragger in the world or he was sure of what the Lord can do for Him. Be it a lion or a bear, these episodes in his life served to prepare him for a greater calling. The Lord will finally be exalted in this young boy's fullness of faith and confidence in Him.
Sure I can whine over the seemingly meaningless tasks and chores each day, but could I be missing out what the Lord is doing and preparing me for? Without a doubt, He is able to use any and every event in my life to mould me for the unique purpose He has for me.
I have begun to see a glimpse of how He has been doing this and I pray that in time to come, may I be humble and submissive enough to allow Him to work deeper in me.
3. Known by God is far more important than being known by Man. V55.
David the young boy was the youngest of a father of 8 sons. His 3 older brothers served alongside King Saul in the Israelite army and all that was mentioned of David was his going back and forth to tend to his father's sheep.
During the times of peace, hardly anyone who have known or heard of David. He would either be on the move or far out in the pastures tending to the family livestock. Yet for sure, the Lord knew his heart and knew the plan He had for him. David was probably unaware of why the Lord had to put him through encounters with the bear or the lion, and a good chance that no one else knew about it. Yet the Lord had it all planned out perfectly.
David had a heart of humility. All the men of Israel were with King Saul at the battle front yet none of them spoke up about David's bravery against the beasts. I would attribute this to the fact that David had not spoken of these to anyone, not even his father or his brothers. Though unspoken, David remembered well these experiences and clearly, the Lord's hand was on him and delivered him.
The Shepherd's heart. As I pen(type) this down, the Lord just revealed this to me. David was tending to his father's sheep. I'm sure when the bear or lion comes along, David could have avoided a confrontation and allowed the beasts to have their way. But hey! No way David was going to let this happen. He could have gotten away with losing the sheep to the beasts but he had a heart for them. He did not fight the beasts because they turned on him. In fact, he went after the beasts to rescue the sheep.
What good would David be if he was the best slingshot shooter in the world? He could have chosen not to stand up to Goliath if the Lord had not shaped his heart. Seemingly, the battle between the Israelites and Philistines was no business of David's. Yet armed with a faith that is full in the Lord and a heart of a shepherd, David took it upon himself to fight for the Lord. Nope he wasn't coming against Goliath in the name of Israel or King Saul. Simply the Name of the Lord Almighty, the Living God.
Of late, things seemed to be piling up on my plate and it does not help to deal with people-issues at the same time. Having said that, I am reminded that we have our own portion from the Lord, our portion of work, our calling. The Lord knows every bit of work that I do whether I realize that I am doing it for Him or if anyone is even aware of.
The priority for me is to first incline my ears upon His heart, to outstretch my arms to receive His embracing love, to lift up my hands in surrendering my will to do His. And out of these, I believe, is how one's ministry will overflow to minister to people.
Thanks young David. Thanks for being a reminder from the Lord.
But He just began revealing so much about this dude whom God strengthened him from young, especially in his faith.
Taken from 1 Samuel 17.
1. Know who you are. Identity. V8,26,36,45-47.
This perhaps was the game changer in the standoff between the Israelites and the Philistines. Sure I think anyone who is familiar with this passage knows that David the young boy did not take Goliath down on his own accord. Given the little odds of winning, David was not the least daunted. Call him ignorant or arrogant, I see him full of faith. Full of faith in a God who is more than able to deliver him.
Goliath saw the Israelites as servants of Saul.
King Saul and Israelites probably saw themselves against the odds in the face of Goliath.
David's brothers saw him as useless to the battle.
King Saul refuted David's request to take on Goliath in his judgement call based on battle experience.
What about David? He simply saw himself as a servant of God. He knew God is One who will deliver him. He wasn't full of pride, but full of faith. An authenticity that reveals itself in the light of a trial.
I suppose this is one of the lessons for me to learn as the camp draws nearer. With a number of tasks and roles unsettled, there are times that I do wonder if I had gone wrong somewhere or perhaps I'm not hearing Him clear enough. I suppose the challenges that come along the way are surely within the Lord's control and there is much more to learn out of them rather simply to resolve them. Admittedly, I wish things would have been gone smoothly. Yet I pray that if this is something God wants me to endure through, then His Will be done.
2. Keep track of what the Lord has done regardless if others are aware. V34-37.
This was probably the substance that gave David the confidence to stand up against Goliath's challenge, to stand before his own King Saul requesting for a go against Goliath.
David had not built a fantastic portfolio till he signed up himself for a job with "maximum life risk". His father and family saw his value as far as a shepherd and a bread runner. King Saul deemed David's odds of defeating Goliath as a sure nil. Goliath saw David as little more than a boy.
David needed no outstanding resume. He shed off all the battle gear that was placed on him for the caution of what if's. He knew well how the Lord had delivered him previously and will again deliver him this time. He was honed in the very tools and weapons he had from the beginning. He needed no insurance in the ways of Man. All he had in him was the Faith in an Almighty God. Though Goliath was armed to the teeth and even donning on a bronze helmet, David took him down with the sling of a stone right in the forehead. Bear in mind that Goliath had a shield bearer in front of him in addition to the helmet he wore.
David was either the biggest bragger in the world or he was sure of what the Lord can do for Him. Be it a lion or a bear, these episodes in his life served to prepare him for a greater calling. The Lord will finally be exalted in this young boy's fullness of faith and confidence in Him.
Sure I can whine over the seemingly meaningless tasks and chores each day, but could I be missing out what the Lord is doing and preparing me for? Without a doubt, He is able to use any and every event in my life to mould me for the unique purpose He has for me.
I have begun to see a glimpse of how He has been doing this and I pray that in time to come, may I be humble and submissive enough to allow Him to work deeper in me.
3. Known by God is far more important than being known by Man. V55.
David the young boy was the youngest of a father of 8 sons. His 3 older brothers served alongside King Saul in the Israelite army and all that was mentioned of David was his going back and forth to tend to his father's sheep.
During the times of peace, hardly anyone who have known or heard of David. He would either be on the move or far out in the pastures tending to the family livestock. Yet for sure, the Lord knew his heart and knew the plan He had for him. David was probably unaware of why the Lord had to put him through encounters with the bear or the lion, and a good chance that no one else knew about it. Yet the Lord had it all planned out perfectly.
David had a heart of humility. All the men of Israel were with King Saul at the battle front yet none of them spoke up about David's bravery against the beasts. I would attribute this to the fact that David had not spoken of these to anyone, not even his father or his brothers. Though unspoken, David remembered well these experiences and clearly, the Lord's hand was on him and delivered him.
The Shepherd's heart. As I pen(type) this down, the Lord just revealed this to me. David was tending to his father's sheep. I'm sure when the bear or lion comes along, David could have avoided a confrontation and allowed the beasts to have their way. But hey! No way David was going to let this happen. He could have gotten away with losing the sheep to the beasts but he had a heart for them. He did not fight the beasts because they turned on him. In fact, he went after the beasts to rescue the sheep.
What good would David be if he was the best slingshot shooter in the world? He could have chosen not to stand up to Goliath if the Lord had not shaped his heart. Seemingly, the battle between the Israelites and Philistines was no business of David's. Yet armed with a faith that is full in the Lord and a heart of a shepherd, David took it upon himself to fight for the Lord. Nope he wasn't coming against Goliath in the name of Israel or King Saul. Simply the Name of the Lord Almighty, the Living God.
Of late, things seemed to be piling up on my plate and it does not help to deal with people-issues at the same time. Having said that, I am reminded that we have our own portion from the Lord, our portion of work, our calling. The Lord knows every bit of work that I do whether I realize that I am doing it for Him or if anyone is even aware of.
The priority for me is to first incline my ears upon His heart, to outstretch my arms to receive His embracing love, to lift up my hands in surrendering my will to do His. And out of these, I believe, is how one's ministry will overflow to minister to people.
Thanks young David. Thanks for being a reminder from the Lord.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Weary
Maybe it's due to the post-sleepless-night tiredness. Feels quite lethargic and out of focus.
On the other end, I start having qualms if I should do this. Hoped so much for cooperative effort and a slightly more positive response, but I guess it's something for me to learn. Perhaps everyone else is tired too. Perhaps everyone already has other agenda.
So maybe I'll just go with something small, something simple. After all, the point is that this is done for you right?
---------------------------------
I've actually said all these to someone else and I begin to see what it meant by "live what you preach". How timely a reminder from the Lord. Father, may I never ever miss what You are teaching or doing in me regardless of the situation. I'll still do this, cause I know it'll be better than nothing done =)
Cause it's easier to drop everything and walk away.
On the other end, I start having qualms if I should do this. Hoped so much for cooperative effort and a slightly more positive response, but I guess it's something for me to learn. Perhaps everyone else is tired too. Perhaps everyone already has other agenda.
So maybe I'll just go with something small, something simple. After all, the point is that this is done for you right?
---------------------------------
I've actually said all these to someone else and I begin to see what it meant by "live what you preach". How timely a reminder from the Lord. Father, may I never ever miss what You are teaching or doing in me regardless of the situation. I'll still do this, cause I know it'll be better than nothing done =)
Cause it's easier to drop everything and walk away.
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Lot of WHYs
If I claim to love Jesus, why do I show biased love?
If I claim His love as my anchor, why do I still fear the storms?
If I claim Jerm 29:11, why do I worry over and again over the future?
I am puzzled. If we claim not to be an eventful bunch, then why aren't we praying for revelation and yet squeezing activities out of perceived opportunities?
Too many, far too many whys to deal with. This sudden onslaught tonight must not be simply cast aside tonight as a spiritual attack. Surely and undoubtedly, the enemy is lurking around seeking any and every weakpoint in my life to bring me down.
Over and over, I've shared this point with many people. It's simply all in the mind. What we witness in the flesh, in the physical realm is the manifestation of the mind.
So yes Lord, I Have Decided.
But help me to keep my decision, and in my choices, help me make them out of reverence for You. It will be a fact that I have no spiritual parents at home but whether I will have spiritual parents, Lord God my Father You will always be my Daddy God.
My spiritual bottle seemed to have run dry almost instantly over the course of 12hours. Perhaps, it is so true that only those who are overflowing with His mercy and love are able to input the same manner of love.
It is the saddest thing in life to persistently hold onto what I think is best for me, so Lord help me to let go, and let You be God. In the season You have for me, let it be my portion as You deem best for me. But I pray that You keep me dwelling in Your House. Always.
"All my Hope is in You. With every breath, my soul will rest in You."
Love You Jesus, is all I can do.
Fill me I pray. Again.
If I claim His love as my anchor, why do I still fear the storms?
If I claim Jerm 29:11, why do I worry over and again over the future?
I am puzzled. If we claim not to be an eventful bunch, then why aren't we praying for revelation and yet squeezing activities out of perceived opportunities?
Too many, far too many whys to deal with. This sudden onslaught tonight must not be simply cast aside tonight as a spiritual attack. Surely and undoubtedly, the enemy is lurking around seeking any and every weakpoint in my life to bring me down.
Over and over, I've shared this point with many people. It's simply all in the mind. What we witness in the flesh, in the physical realm is the manifestation of the mind.
So yes Lord, I Have Decided.
But help me to keep my decision, and in my choices, help me make them out of reverence for You. It will be a fact that I have no spiritual parents at home but whether I will have spiritual parents, Lord God my Father You will always be my Daddy God.
My spiritual bottle seemed to have run dry almost instantly over the course of 12hours. Perhaps, it is so true that only those who are overflowing with His mercy and love are able to input the same manner of love.
It is the saddest thing in life to persistently hold onto what I think is best for me, so Lord help me to let go, and let You be God. In the season You have for me, let it be my portion as You deem best for me. But I pray that You keep me dwelling in Your House. Always.
"All my Hope is in You. With every breath, my soul will rest in You."
Love You Jesus, is all I can do.
Fill me I pray. Again.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Faith...Once again
I look forward to the end of 2012 yet at the same time, I sense fear inside of me.
Fear of the unknown thereafter;
Fear of how things will be like in this last quarter;
Fear of how things will unfold for YAY! Camp.
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. ~ Heb. 11:6
I gather that I must first choose to move on and charge into this unknown in Faith, by Faith. Sure it could be just another career like everyone else, or perhaps something else the Lord has prepared. Either way, it is a journey into the unknown and I can only pray that I look back at His faithfulness, give thanks for His grace and mercy and keep moving forward under His guidance.
Be it a 500-megaton nuclear missile or a hiker trekking across the Himalayan Mountains, one thing for sure. They all know where they're heading for, whether by choice or by input of another. I suppose the same goes for me. It is really not so much about planning or charting the path ahead, rather to download the coordinates from the Divine One, simply for the verse Jerm. 29:11.
From schoolwork to YAY! Camp to Worship Ministry to Cell. It can often threaten to break me down.
It has been a bumpy ride in the last couple of weeks. With all the storms threatening to overturn the boat, I'm glad to be reminded. The Lord of all is onboard the very same boat I am in.
Going through the worship ministry's calendar and schedule was really a challenge from the Lord as I responded to Him on the journey home today. Was reading Steven Furtick's Sun Stand Still and felt the challenge of the Lord so strongly. Ask AUDACIOUSLY IN FAITH. If my vision in life does not intimidate me, it is probably an insult to God. I wished there'll be a solution to the issues going around. Maybe God isn't as concerned in the problem being resolved. Maybe there is something He wants to say here.
So in the evening I received and opened the worship ministry update via email. And first up was the worship duties that couldn't have been allocated on a better date, the very period of my papers. As I synchronized the various dates and events, I can only say "woah".
And to have Faith facing the coming onslaught of 'doing'. Plus it doesn't help when there are still to-do's for the camp and my ministry head already placing much expectations on this event. I have been told umpteen times to distribute the work; always being mindful what God is doing/saying. In practice, it is really tough finding that someone who is willing. Decided to trust God to provide whichever area we're lacking. That's how this camp is going to be.
A camp that will be like none before and none after, a camp that uniquely serves God's agenda for this season. A chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation. God's SPECIAL POSSESSION.
Fear of the unknown thereafter;
Fear of how things will be like in this last quarter;
Fear of how things will unfold for YAY! Camp.
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. ~ Heb. 11:6
I gather that I must first choose to move on and charge into this unknown in Faith, by Faith. Sure it could be just another career like everyone else, or perhaps something else the Lord has prepared. Either way, it is a journey into the unknown and I can only pray that I look back at His faithfulness, give thanks for His grace and mercy and keep moving forward under His guidance.
Be it a 500-megaton nuclear missile or a hiker trekking across the Himalayan Mountains, one thing for sure. They all know where they're heading for, whether by choice or by input of another. I suppose the same goes for me. It is really not so much about planning or charting the path ahead, rather to download the coordinates from the Divine One, simply for the verse Jerm. 29:11.
From schoolwork to YAY! Camp to Worship Ministry to Cell. It can often threaten to break me down.
It has been a bumpy ride in the last couple of weeks. With all the storms threatening to overturn the boat, I'm glad to be reminded. The Lord of all is onboard the very same boat I am in.
Going through the worship ministry's calendar and schedule was really a challenge from the Lord as I responded to Him on the journey home today. Was reading Steven Furtick's Sun Stand Still and felt the challenge of the Lord so strongly. Ask AUDACIOUSLY IN FAITH. If my vision in life does not intimidate me, it is probably an insult to God. I wished there'll be a solution to the issues going around. Maybe God isn't as concerned in the problem being resolved. Maybe there is something He wants to say here.
So in the evening I received and opened the worship ministry update via email. And first up was the worship duties that couldn't have been allocated on a better date, the very period of my papers. As I synchronized the various dates and events, I can only say "woah".
And to have Faith facing the coming onslaught of 'doing'. Plus it doesn't help when there are still to-do's for the camp and my ministry head already placing much expectations on this event. I have been told umpteen times to distribute the work; always being mindful what God is doing/saying. In practice, it is really tough finding that someone who is willing. Decided to trust God to provide whichever area we're lacking. That's how this camp is going to be.
A camp that will be like none before and none after, a camp that uniquely serves God's agenda for this season. A chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation. God's SPECIAL POSSESSION.
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Because it's all about You
Thank You for everything and I know You have Your very plans for us.
May my heart be concerned with loving and serving You over what others think,
cause ultimately You're what matters.
May I not just be someone who is looked up to, but someone who can be turned to in Your Name.
Let me do all things to the praise of Your glory, I am but an instrument.
So Lord, steady my heart. Steady my heart.
May my heart be concerned with loving and serving You over what others think,
cause ultimately You're what matters.
May I not just be someone who is looked up to, but someone who can be turned to in Your Name.
Let me do all things to the praise of Your glory, I am but an instrument.
So Lord, steady my heart. Steady my heart.
Sunday, September 16, 2012
What ultimately matters?
Today's MTPS really hit home.
No doubt that UFS' sharing is as always close to the heart, all that has happened today really affirmed what Ethel and I believe in doing to walk with our dear members.
From the updates on how YAY! has been to the sharing on coming YAY! camp to the surveys right up to the end of the MTPS in prayer, I could feel His presence so strongly. Though I think I could have done better for the sharing on the camp, I believe it is given from the Lord on our stewardship of the next generationS to come and the urgency in doing so.
The highlight of the session must have been the acknowledgements coming from the parents. It is really heartening to hear testimonies from various families and personally, I was on the brink of breaking down/moved to tears when one of the mothers came to me encouraging about the change she has been seeing.
In my heart, I truly rejoice. Rejoicing in the knowledge that a beloved child of God is experiencing His Love and in the spiritual warfare, we are building up one another and be mindful of what is happening to us. Nothing really beats that feeling of knowing someone you care for is reciprocating and really, it is a joyous occasion to mark down.
I foresee the days ahead may/will just get tougher. Looking at the increasing rate the world demands of us in terms of time, energy and strength, it will be an uphill task. But it should never be daunt cause in the hardest times when we can't go on anymore, we can go on our knees for the Lord is our help.
Yes things must keep running and going daily but surely, our soul care is way much more important. How pitiful that we often overlook that. Time to come back to the Lord and sit at His feet again.
No doubt that UFS' sharing is as always close to the heart, all that has happened today really affirmed what Ethel and I believe in doing to walk with our dear members.
From the updates on how YAY! has been to the sharing on coming YAY! camp to the surveys right up to the end of the MTPS in prayer, I could feel His presence so strongly. Though I think I could have done better for the sharing on the camp, I believe it is given from the Lord on our stewardship of the next generationS to come and the urgency in doing so.
The highlight of the session must have been the acknowledgements coming from the parents. It is really heartening to hear testimonies from various families and personally, I was on the brink of breaking down/moved to tears when one of the mothers came to me encouraging about the change she has been seeing.
In my heart, I truly rejoice. Rejoicing in the knowledge that a beloved child of God is experiencing His Love and in the spiritual warfare, we are building up one another and be mindful of what is happening to us. Nothing really beats that feeling of knowing someone you care for is reciprocating and really, it is a joyous occasion to mark down.
I foresee the days ahead may/will just get tougher. Looking at the increasing rate the world demands of us in terms of time, energy and strength, it will be an uphill task. But it should never be daunt cause in the hardest times when we can't go on anymore, we can go on our knees for the Lord is our help.
Yes things must keep running and going daily but surely, our soul care is way much more important. How pitiful that we often overlook that. Time to come back to the Lord and sit at His feet again.
Sunday, September 2, 2012
Decoding Life
It has been a great weekend spent.
Especially after a week of case of dengue, I believe there's just much to be thankful for.
Looking back alone on the episode I had with this dengue fever has caused me to re-think again a number of facets of life, particularly the ones that I would take for granted.
Some experiences in life is priceless, it can only be taken in by the one who goes through it.
And this week during cell, one of the member took me by surprise with his perspective and inputs.
A viewpoint that I would never imagined him sharing about, but I found myself pleasantly surprised at the maturity of sharing. For sure, I know only God is able to move so mightily in his life and the Lord will continue to work in him.
I know He has placed in my hands a bunch of people He really loves. There is probably still a lifetime of a journey ahead together and it's also about the Lord working in me. I have to acknowledge there are areas that I really suck in and I think I ought to be doing better, I guess there's just something the Lord will have to deal with me about.
Every moment of the fellowship has been of significance to me and I do not take it for granted. But on top of the time being together, I'm also constantly trying to seek the Lord for wisdom. Wisdom to decode situations, wisdom to discern.
Strangely that certain things are becoming evident and increasingly obvious. And there is a growing sense of peace within me. Surely I must cherish all these, because ultimately God I want to live out Your Purpose for my life and I'm making it a point to make that the focal point of my life.
My Love for You must take precedence over all other love in my life.
Especially after a week of case of dengue, I believe there's just much to be thankful for.
Looking back alone on the episode I had with this dengue fever has caused me to re-think again a number of facets of life, particularly the ones that I would take for granted.
Some experiences in life is priceless, it can only be taken in by the one who goes through it.
And this week during cell, one of the member took me by surprise with his perspective and inputs.
A viewpoint that I would never imagined him sharing about, but I found myself pleasantly surprised at the maturity of sharing. For sure, I know only God is able to move so mightily in his life and the Lord will continue to work in him.
I know He has placed in my hands a bunch of people He really loves. There is probably still a lifetime of a journey ahead together and it's also about the Lord working in me. I have to acknowledge there are areas that I really suck in and I think I ought to be doing better, I guess there's just something the Lord will have to deal with me about.
Every moment of the fellowship has been of significance to me and I do not take it for granted. But on top of the time being together, I'm also constantly trying to seek the Lord for wisdom. Wisdom to decode situations, wisdom to discern.
Strangely that certain things are becoming evident and increasingly obvious. And there is a growing sense of peace within me. Surely I must cherish all these, because ultimately God I want to live out Your Purpose for my life and I'm making it a point to make that the focal point of my life.
My Love for You must take precedence over all other love in my life.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Death. So close.
Just yesterday, death itself became so real to me. I thought it'll be just a simple visit to the polyclinic for a specialist referral for my skin condition. I'd never imagine in my wildest thoughts that it could possibly be dengue fever.
A preliminary blood test confirmed that my blood count is a little too low and just to be sure that it's not dengue, i'll have to return to see the doctor tomorrow for another blood test.
As I returned home yesterday, I started googling up on dengue and reading all there is about it. Muscle aches. Rash outbreaks. High fever. All those symptoms that I had in the last couple of days.
Occurred to me once again how fragile life can be and like a chaff in the wind, so easily blown away into non-existence. Perhaps the Lord is saying something here. Perhaps.
A preliminary blood test confirmed that my blood count is a little too low and just to be sure that it's not dengue, i'll have to return to see the doctor tomorrow for another blood test.
As I returned home yesterday, I started googling up on dengue and reading all there is about it. Muscle aches. Rash outbreaks. High fever. All those symptoms that I had in the last couple of days.
Occurred to me once again how fragile life can be and like a chaff in the wind, so easily blown away into non-existence. Perhaps the Lord is saying something here. Perhaps.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Do not worry
I have hardly grew up worrying about it since I was born. I suppose the life before know Christ was pretty much similar. The Word of God advocates that it should not be case, probably just me not being able to identify.
Yet as I look back from time to time, the one lesson I'm learning to grasp is the very one that seems to be the struggle of most people. It transcends beyond the boundaries of time and factors of age and status.
i must put up milestones in my life; to build the spiritual altars of gratitude in worship. It scares me very often in my moments of reflection that the Word of God is slowly but surely revealing its credibility with all that is happening in the world today.
For a start, the Love of most that will grow cold but he who stands firm to the end will be saved. A good part of me is telling me that this verse implies a response to receiving my undeserved gift of salvation. On the other hand, it scares me that the very ones next to me Sundays after Sundays, could be the one falling away. Maybe, that One is me?
Against all that reasoning to "survive" in this economy, I pray that the Lord comes through and is the only Providence for me. There is really much to be done.
The harvest is plenty but the workers are few.
Yet a time is coming, the hour and place is unknown but surely, Christ my Lord is coming back again.
Why the need to worry?
Yet as I look back from time to time, the one lesson I'm learning to grasp is the very one that seems to be the struggle of most people. It transcends beyond the boundaries of time and factors of age and status.
i must put up milestones in my life; to build the spiritual altars of gratitude in worship. It scares me very often in my moments of reflection that the Word of God is slowly but surely revealing its credibility with all that is happening in the world today.
For a start, the Love of most that will grow cold but he who stands firm to the end will be saved. A good part of me is telling me that this verse implies a response to receiving my undeserved gift of salvation. On the other hand, it scares me that the very ones next to me Sundays after Sundays, could be the one falling away. Maybe, that One is me?
Against all that reasoning to "survive" in this economy, I pray that the Lord comes through and is the only Providence for me. There is really much to be done.
The harvest is plenty but the workers are few.
Yet a time is coming, the hour and place is unknown but surely, Christ my Lord is coming back again.
Why the need to worry?
Monday, August 13, 2012
Belonging-ness
As I open the final chapter of my education life, somehow the bugging thought is not on what I'm or will be doing. It really doesn't matter as much as who I am and will be in time to come.
Because if I do not give it much thought, I may well be conformed into an identity by what I'm doing regardless of whether I chose to or forced to.
Christ, the foundation of the Christian Faith, the Cornerstone of one's Confidence. Who is Christ to me, to my life? I think the question begets way more consideration than what I would like my coming future to be. It is no longer a matter of my desired charter but a submissive obedience to a Greater plan.
God is supposed to be evident in ALL aspects of one's life, of my life. The tabernacle of the Old Testament cannot over-emphasize this. In the same way, the Divine Architect who has His great plans in its most intricate detailed designs should and only take the highest place of my life.
JESUS. I belong wholly to You.
Because if I do not give it much thought, I may well be conformed into an identity by what I'm doing regardless of whether I chose to or forced to.
Christ, the foundation of the Christian Faith, the Cornerstone of one's Confidence. Who is Christ to me, to my life? I think the question begets way more consideration than what I would like my coming future to be. It is no longer a matter of my desired charter but a submissive obedience to a Greater plan.
God is supposed to be evident in ALL aspects of one's life, of my life. The tabernacle of the Old Testament cannot over-emphasize this. In the same way, the Divine Architect who has His great plans in its most intricate detailed designs should and only take the highest place of my life.
JESUS. I belong wholly to You.
Sunday, August 12, 2012
Grow Up
Tonight I noticed something about myself.
Was at Mark's place for his birthday party, also present were a number of his close friends from church and a number of family friends as well.
At the start of the evening, I was naturally sitting with the young ones having dinner. But somehow as the night passed, I found myself moving to the group of uncles sitting at the other end of the house!
OH DEAR!
Haha. But no doubt I think I enjoyed the time chatting and conversing with the wiser men. People from various walks of life, some whom I knew fairly well while others, well I barely knew! So yes, something I noticed about myself and I am going to go with the assuring thought that it is a good thing =S
Then again, something to ponder over from today. Growing up. What caused the Apostle Paul to advocate this thought to grow up spiritually? Why would he write to the Ephesian Church about this? Was there something he was trying to hint at?
As I dwelt on the passage a little longer, I find us doing injustice to the Word of God. Often we spend a limited time looking/studying the scripture/passage and we hope to uncover perhaps a couple of points to share. Then again, the Scripture is filled with so much gems and treasures that if we really looked hard enough (and wait upon the Holy Spirit for guidance), we would discover so much more that we could ever imagine.
So Much More.
Was at Mark's place for his birthday party, also present were a number of his close friends from church and a number of family friends as well.
At the start of the evening, I was naturally sitting with the young ones having dinner. But somehow as the night passed, I found myself moving to the group of uncles sitting at the other end of the house!
OH DEAR!
Haha. But no doubt I think I enjoyed the time chatting and conversing with the wiser men. People from various walks of life, some whom I knew fairly well while others, well I barely knew! So yes, something I noticed about myself and I am going to go with the assuring thought that it is a good thing =S
Then again, something to ponder over from today. Growing up. What caused the Apostle Paul to advocate this thought to grow up spiritually? Why would he write to the Ephesian Church about this? Was there something he was trying to hint at?
As I dwelt on the passage a little longer, I find us doing injustice to the Word of God. Often we spend a limited time looking/studying the scripture/passage and we hope to uncover perhaps a couple of points to share. Then again, the Scripture is filled with so much gems and treasures that if we really looked hard enough (and wait upon the Holy Spirit for guidance), we would discover so much more that we could ever imagine.
So Much More.
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
The Born Identity
Being reminded again this evening ~ Children of God.
The phrase came back to me, "A chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession..."
Often the thought would pop up "If only I was born..."
A truth here: With God, I believe there is no "accident". He had a choice, and He made it. He chose each and every single one who has been saved. The terms used revealed so much of God's perspective towards His people, even to the extent of being His "special possession". I mean God could have just declared us as His possession right? After all, He is God. Yet He calls us "special possession".
To even talk about having or needing to worship God is a shame. A soul that has truly accepted the undeserving gift of salvation, will desire to worship Him in acknowledgement of His Love. I believe that is the mark of true repentance, the transformation that needs no persuasion except the fact that one has freely received the forgiveness of Christ.
May it be a note to myself that it has never and should never be about my doing or abilities that I worship the Lord God. The desire to worship Him is automatic; it comes forth out of receiving Jesus. I was chosen to declare the praises of Him! And being a recipient of His mercy, I can now stand amongst the people of God.
Love so divine. If God chose to die for me, surely I can choose to live for Him.
Once again, a reminder to myself. Above all the things in life.
The phrase came back to me, "A chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession..."
Often the thought would pop up "If only I was born..."
A truth here: With God, I believe there is no "accident". He had a choice, and He made it. He chose each and every single one who has been saved. The terms used revealed so much of God's perspective towards His people, even to the extent of being His "special possession". I mean God could have just declared us as His possession right? After all, He is God. Yet He calls us "special possession".
To even talk about having or needing to worship God is a shame. A soul that has truly accepted the undeserving gift of salvation, will desire to worship Him in acknowledgement of His Love. I believe that is the mark of true repentance, the transformation that needs no persuasion except the fact that one has freely received the forgiveness of Christ.
May it be a note to myself that it has never and should never be about my doing or abilities that I worship the Lord God. The desire to worship Him is automatic; it comes forth out of receiving Jesus. I was chosen to declare the praises of Him! And being a recipient of His mercy, I can now stand amongst the people of God.
Love so divine. If God chose to die for me, surely I can choose to live for Him.
Once again, a reminder to myself. Above all the things in life.
Sunday, August 5, 2012
The days to come
But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. - Eph 4:7
So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
How can I be built up and become matured in Christ?
Just shortly after coming back, I've come to learn so much that has happened and I think I am still processing all of them. Each and every one of them, are a brother or a sister in Christ. Perhaps a call to go on my knees and intercede once more.
God is Love. If we seek to know God, then we seek to know Love.
What is it for me to learn as well in the meantime?
So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
How can I be built up and become matured in Christ?
Just shortly after coming back, I've come to learn so much that has happened and I think I am still processing all of them. Each and every one of them, are a brother or a sister in Christ. Perhaps a call to go on my knees and intercede once more.
God is Love. If we seek to know God, then we seek to know Love.
What is it for me to learn as well in the meantime?
Friday, August 3, 2012
Current Read
Don't really know why I picked this up in Sydney to read but yes I will finish it and really, I think finding out more of the significance of the Tabernacle enables one to appreciate one's salvation and faith.
Here we go!
Thursday, August 2, 2012
For the Better
Having been back "home" for just over 24 hours, I've spent this evening back in church after a day of running errands.
So life back to "normal"? I would think so.
But it begets the question, how do I then live differently now on?
Surely one of the highlights on this trip was His providence, His hand upon me. How from 2011 He provided us with early bird price for the Conference; right up to the day before my departure that He provided my finances more than what I needed; till the day I left ESM, He provided Jacqui to send me to the train station because she was going there too!
In the bigger and the little things, I have lived and witnessed how He blessed me. Seriously, I had to rethink God over the last weeks. I think I had barely knew Him though having been in the faith over 7 years now. Plus all the unexpected surprises and encounters over the weeks, I would say God wants me to really know Him for who He is.
Maybe the long trip and its "fragrance" has yet to wear off but I am sure that God is doing something anew. Tonight being in the midst of the leaders and committees again, I just have this unexplainable sense of assurance and peace within.
And if God is for us, who can be against us.
-------------------------
On an interesting side note, someone remarked that talking to me requires a pail. A pail to draw deep. Hmmm...
So life back to "normal"? I would think so.
But it begets the question, how do I then live differently now on?
Surely one of the highlights on this trip was His providence, His hand upon me. How from 2011 He provided us with early bird price for the Conference; right up to the day before my departure that He provided my finances more than what I needed; till the day I left ESM, He provided Jacqui to send me to the train station because she was going there too!
In the bigger and the little things, I have lived and witnessed how He blessed me. Seriously, I had to rethink God over the last weeks. I think I had barely knew Him though having been in the faith over 7 years now. Plus all the unexpected surprises and encounters over the weeks, I would say God wants me to really know Him for who He is.
Maybe the long trip and its "fragrance" has yet to wear off but I am sure that God is doing something anew. Tonight being in the midst of the leaders and committees again, I just have this unexplainable sense of assurance and peace within.
And if God is for us, who can be against us.
-------------------------
On an interesting side note, someone remarked that talking to me requires a pail. A pail to draw deep. Hmmm...
Monday, July 30, 2012
What makes you different?
Just 48 hours left to my returning to Singapore, back to what people term as normal life.
Now this may just well be the defining thought for me to wrap up the "season" of 40 days.
What is normal life?
For sure, I know God wants me to make the choice(s) personally. He will not choose for me and has given me the freedom to make that decision. 38 days ago, I resolved to embark on a journey to seek out answers from Him, thinking that Yes I want God's Will to be my way but that may not be the case anymore.
What makes the decision making ever more exciting, is going back to the start. It is an endless cycle, like an mp3 player that is left on repeat.
Know God, Love God. Know God more, Love God more.
Whether it is a calling to be "set apart" for the work of the Lord or a position in the market place, it has now become clear to me that BOTH choices are equal in calling and none should be higher than the other. The only comparison to be made is in the heart of the decision.
Is it pleasing to the Lord and according to His ways?
The occasional updates from the media on what has been happening back home is heartbreaking. Easily, almost every bit of reported news is juicy yet of worldliness, be it corruption or violence or implemented rules biased against a particular group of people. But over and all, one thing remains.
This world will continue to evolve and trends will ever be changing, possibly for the worse. Matthew 24, Jesus tells His disciples of the End of the Age to come and the signs. A sad truth (V12) - Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold. It has already begun if we pause for a moment from our busyness and truly open our eyes to look around us. Jesus encourage us to press on, (V13) but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.
Further in Mat 24 talks about the unknown time of Christ's return and in 25, talks about the parable of the ten virgins, the talents, and the sheep and the goats. As I put these thoughts down in writing, it only serves to remind me that the days ahead of my living ought to consider all these that Jesus has mentioned.
In every second spent in the office or at the pulpit, for every cent used for His Kingdom or in the market, remember the Lord my God always.
I acknowledge that this final semester is really not my cup of tea and often I question my going through the last couple of years. But in the things I do not (yet) understand, it's only right to trust Him and walk with Him through the process. What more in the uncertain future ahead, what more the things that life will throw at me.
A repeated message preached in Hillsong Church over the last 2 weeks at 2 very different campuses preached by one of the leaders from Brisbane only serves as a reminder from God.
1. Identity
2. Decision
3. Who I meet in life
I cannot change the circumstance that I was born into, but I definitely have the choice to decide how I can live out the next moment of life.
I cannot stop life from throwing unpredictable situations at me whether they are happy ones or not, but I can choose not to let it put me down and give it to God.
~ Deuteronomy 6:4 - 9:
Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
Now this may just well be the defining thought for me to wrap up the "season" of 40 days.
What is normal life?
For sure, I know God wants me to make the choice(s) personally. He will not choose for me and has given me the freedom to make that decision. 38 days ago, I resolved to embark on a journey to seek out answers from Him, thinking that Yes I want God's Will to be my way but that may not be the case anymore.
What makes the decision making ever more exciting, is going back to the start. It is an endless cycle, like an mp3 player that is left on repeat.
Know God, Love God. Know God more, Love God more.
Whether it is a calling to be "set apart" for the work of the Lord or a position in the market place, it has now become clear to me that BOTH choices are equal in calling and none should be higher than the other. The only comparison to be made is in the heart of the decision.
Is it pleasing to the Lord and according to His ways?
The occasional updates from the media on what has been happening back home is heartbreaking. Easily, almost every bit of reported news is juicy yet of worldliness, be it corruption or violence or implemented rules biased against a particular group of people. But over and all, one thing remains.
This world will continue to evolve and trends will ever be changing, possibly for the worse. Matthew 24, Jesus tells His disciples of the End of the Age to come and the signs. A sad truth (V12) - Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold. It has already begun if we pause for a moment from our busyness and truly open our eyes to look around us. Jesus encourage us to press on, (V13) but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.
Further in Mat 24 talks about the unknown time of Christ's return and in 25, talks about the parable of the ten virgins, the talents, and the sheep and the goats. As I put these thoughts down in writing, it only serves to remind me that the days ahead of my living ought to consider all these that Jesus has mentioned.
In every second spent in the office or at the pulpit, for every cent used for His Kingdom or in the market, remember the Lord my God always.
I acknowledge that this final semester is really not my cup of tea and often I question my going through the last couple of years. But in the things I do not (yet) understand, it's only right to trust Him and walk with Him through the process. What more in the uncertain future ahead, what more the things that life will throw at me.
A repeated message preached in Hillsong Church over the last 2 weeks at 2 very different campuses preached by one of the leaders from Brisbane only serves as a reminder from God.
1. Identity
2. Decision
3. Who I meet in life
I cannot change the circumstance that I was born into, but I definitely have the choice to decide how I can live out the next moment of life.
I cannot stop life from throwing unpredictable situations at me whether they are happy ones or not, but I can choose not to let it put me down and give it to God.
~ Deuteronomy 6:4 - 9:
Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
Monday, July 16, 2012
Man of Sorrow
It has been 10 days now and I'm just blown away by the numerous revelations and God-moments, usually in the quiet and alone times with Him.
Just this weekend, a prayed-over verse I picked up just shook me all over.
"Let there be stillness in your soul, so that I can speak to you."
And I thought I have always been spending time being still, but it is a difference of being physically still and being still inwardly. The mind is a whole realm in itself, even the greatest and positive thinking mind can be thrown off by the Devil, also less known as the Accuser. It is so apt that God reminds us, "love the Lord your God with all your heart and all your mind..."
For sure He has reasons for that sequence of desiring from us, first the heart and the mind and so on. God can be seen as legalistic or demanding if one cannot comprehend an authentic love relationship.
But for those who have truely fallen on love with Jesus and loving Him today through and in everyday living, we being single or married are never meant to be alone. Cause Christ is our Greatest Romance.
It's only a matter of being aware of it and immersing oneself into that revelation of a relationship with Jesus, who is coming back.
The last 10 days was spent wondering why every attendee in wrpf wants to return, now i've bought it. I'll come back again, symbolically to remind myself to give devoted (time and myself) to Christ.
Judging from updates and insta photos, cell seems to be bonded and bonding. This is the harvest of the Lord, and I know for sure He will take care of everyone of them. I just have to hear Him and avail myself to what He wants to do.
"Lord speak, for your servant is listening."
Just this weekend, a prayed-over verse I picked up just shook me all over.
"Let there be stillness in your soul, so that I can speak to you."
And I thought I have always been spending time being still, but it is a difference of being physically still and being still inwardly. The mind is a whole realm in itself, even the greatest and positive thinking mind can be thrown off by the Devil, also less known as the Accuser. It is so apt that God reminds us, "love the Lord your God with all your heart and all your mind..."
For sure He has reasons for that sequence of desiring from us, first the heart and the mind and so on. God can be seen as legalistic or demanding if one cannot comprehend an authentic love relationship.
But for those who have truely fallen on love with Jesus and loving Him today through and in everyday living, we being single or married are never meant to be alone. Cause Christ is our Greatest Romance.
It's only a matter of being aware of it and immersing oneself into that revelation of a relationship with Jesus, who is coming back.
The last 10 days was spent wondering why every attendee in wrpf wants to return, now i've bought it. I'll come back again, symbolically to remind myself to give devoted (time and myself) to Christ.
Judging from updates and insta photos, cell seems to be bonded and bonding. This is the harvest of the Lord, and I know for sure He will take care of everyone of them. I just have to hear Him and avail myself to what He wants to do.
"Lord speak, for your servant is listening."
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Thursday, July 5, 2012
Food for thought
This trip has been blessed so far. Nevertheless and sadly, this is probably my last time attending a live Hillsong Conference.
I admit the sermons and electives are a great blessing and life giving but being here in person teaches one so much more. I figure with resources available for sale, I could still receive His Word and avoid all that negativity.
Live out who we proclaim we are to be.
Being mindful of that, what else are You teaching me God?
I admit the sermons and electives are a great blessing and life giving but being here in person teaches one so much more. I figure with resources available for sale, I could still receive His Word and avoid all that negativity.
Live out who we proclaim we are to be.
Being mindful of that, what else are You teaching me God?
Monday, July 2, 2012
The truth about Grace
Tonight was the opening night of the conference. So far, things have been awesome and we are all so blessed along the way.
Just this morning on my run, I just feel so blessed and free being myself with the Lord in my run. But I guess there is really much for me to inquire of the Lord especially in this season.
I must be wary of why I came all the way here for the conference. Also, what I do.
Tonight so happened was Joseph Prince's sharing over the pulpit. I suppose he was really getting his point across especially to those who misunderstand his teachings. I for one believe that he has valuable stuff to share but at the same time, i must discern if every point that he shared is biblically sound.
Thank God for people who have the faith to run this conference. Thank Go for preachers who are willing to stand in the gap and bring God's word to the people.
Be thankful.
Just this morning on my run, I just feel so blessed and free being myself with the Lord in my run. But I guess there is really much for me to inquire of the Lord especially in this season.
I must be wary of why I came all the way here for the conference. Also, what I do.
Tonight so happened was Joseph Prince's sharing over the pulpit. I suppose he was really getting his point across especially to those who misunderstand his teachings. I for one believe that he has valuable stuff to share but at the same time, i must discern if every point that he shared is biblically sound.
Thank God for people who have the faith to run this conference. Thank Go for preachers who are willing to stand in the gap and bring God's word to the people.
Be thankful.
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Come and Go
Just sent off Yong En for his mission trip.
Come to think of it, I have been to the airport in the last few months more than I have had in the 24 years of my life. Seeing people off, receiving people or even flying off myself.
Coming and going has seem to be such a routine that I have to constantly remind myself that even if someone is leaving for a 3day trip, I should never take for granted that the person is leaving and able to come back safely. Also for myself, to acknowledge God's faithfulness and protection over me when I travel. Because we never know when the matchstick of our lives burns out and we're taken home in the blink of an eye.
It'll be 43 hours to my departure. My longest time away from Singapore, away from home, away from my family as well as my spiritual family. People I've been so used to seeing so often, people I may or may not have taken for granted. I'm still asking God my objective for this trip. I know I've signed up for Hillsong Conference. I know I've committed to stay in Sisterhood for 3 weeks thereafter. But time waits for no one (other than Joshua in the Bible). And I really don't want to miss out what the Lord has prepared for me.
I suppose the most vital thing for me is to constantly remain in the NOW-ness. Be it in the midst of a crowd of worshippers or by myself in the center of God's natural creation, I'll maintain a posture of being in the NOW with Him. I'm still afraid of penning down my expectations because I may blind myself to what He wants to reveal to me. In a way, I'm in a fix!
Nevertheless, I will simply go in faith and be in the NOW! =D
Side note: God has been really gracious to me and faithful in providing. Just when I settled in my mind to live with 500AUD for the time there, how You've provided at least 1000SGD for me. How every debt I have is cleared and every expense along the way has been met by Your grace. O Lord, teach me truly to live with no more or less but be satisfied in You. My heart gives thanks to You for Your Goodness and Kindness.
Thank You Abba.
Come to think of it, I have been to the airport in the last few months more than I have had in the 24 years of my life. Seeing people off, receiving people or even flying off myself.
Coming and going has seem to be such a routine that I have to constantly remind myself that even if someone is leaving for a 3day trip, I should never take for granted that the person is leaving and able to come back safely. Also for myself, to acknowledge God's faithfulness and protection over me when I travel. Because we never know when the matchstick of our lives burns out and we're taken home in the blink of an eye.
It'll be 43 hours to my departure. My longest time away from Singapore, away from home, away from my family as well as my spiritual family. People I've been so used to seeing so often, people I may or may not have taken for granted. I'm still asking God my objective for this trip. I know I've signed up for Hillsong Conference. I know I've committed to stay in Sisterhood for 3 weeks thereafter. But time waits for no one (other than Joshua in the Bible). And I really don't want to miss out what the Lord has prepared for me.
I suppose the most vital thing for me is to constantly remain in the NOW-ness. Be it in the midst of a crowd of worshippers or by myself in the center of God's natural creation, I'll maintain a posture of being in the NOW with Him. I'm still afraid of penning down my expectations because I may blind myself to what He wants to reveal to me. In a way, I'm in a fix!
Nevertheless, I will simply go in faith and be in the NOW! =D
Side note: God has been really gracious to me and faithful in providing. Just when I settled in my mind to live with 500AUD for the time there, how You've provided at least 1000SGD for me. How every debt I have is cleared and every expense along the way has been met by Your grace. O Lord, teach me truly to live with no more or less but be satisfied in You. My heart gives thanks to You for Your Goodness and Kindness.
Thank You Abba.
Friday, June 22, 2012
What the Lord can do
Joshua 6 (Fall of Jericho):
It only serves to remind me all the more that certain matters only God can deliver since often we try to take things into our own hands. In the case of taking Jericho, the Lord showed Himself strong before Israel. All it was needed on Israel's part was to obey in faith what was told of them to do and the Lord was with them.
The marching around the wall for 6 days.
The marching around the wall for 7 times on the 7th day.
The united shouting at the sound of the ram's horn.
I'm pretty sure the walls would never have collapsed without the intervention of a supernatural power.
Surely Israel had to trust in God again after what they have been through with Him all that years right? Even if those who were brought out of Egypt had died, this new generation had seen how God stopped the Jordan river, how He brought down the walls of Jericho!
*Having personally encountered God in our lives/generation, has there been any transformation in us? Has our faith in Him to do greater things increased?
Got me thinking about Rahab as well. How would she feel when her country is being captured by another? When her fellow countrymen are dying outside, when the fall of her country was solely because of her one lie.
Joshua and the spies remembered Rahab for what she had done for Israel. Likewise, things we do have lasting impact and consequence. In the case of Rahab and the spies, if Rahab chose not to believe in the spies' word of trust to spare her and her family, Joshua may never know the situation within Jericho. Yet the effects of Rahab's one lie and trusting the spies, an entire nation/city falls and burns to the ground.
*Our actions has consequences, perhaps even lasting effect on ourselves and people around us. How are you making decisions in life? Is God in the centre of your decisions?
Joshua 7 (Achan's Sin):
Seems to me the Lord has a perfect track record in winning battles and wars. Why do I say so? When the Israelites were struck down (36 out of 1000), their hearts melted and became like water. Which battle in our history has no casualties? Reading this just sets me thinking beyond the numbers. When the Israelites do not win, they knew immediately that the Lord was not with them. Surely they had sinned against Him in the process.
I was caught by verse 10, The Lord said to Joshua, "Stand up! What are you doing down on your face?..."
Joshua could not figure what they had done wrong to lose an 'easy battle' but the Lord clearly knows it all. He instructed Joshua to sieve out the culprit who had sinned against what the Lord had commanded. From tribe by tribe down to man by man, the culprit was pinpointed and there was no second chance. Achan and his children and all that he had was stoned and burned in the valley of Achor, as the Lord had instructed.
...for the Lord searches every heart and understands every desire and every thought, how important it is for us to remember that nothing is hidden from God. But if we have displeased the Lord in a certain decision or action, then the rightful thing to do is turn back to Him. The Israelites did not have Jesus as their Saviour back then, but they knew very well the need to live transparently before the Lord and in every part of their lives, devote to Him.
*Is there a (dark) area of our lives that we need to surrender to Him? Perhaps it has been hindering us from coming back into His arms?
Joshua 8 (Ai Destroyed):
*Power in raised hands*
The symbolic act of raising hands is traced back to the times of Joshua, even Moses. The more familiar story that we all know is that Moses parted the Red Sea through the raising of his staff (of course we know God was the One who did the parting!), Moses also kept his hands raised during the battles and when his arms were tired and his hands were down, they began to lose the war. So significant is the raising of hands as an outward expression of Faith. Raising of hands is a common sign in this world of Surrender. But as people of God, we surrender not to our enemies but to the Lord our God. We surrender ourselves to Him and allow Him to intervene.
Verse 18: Then the Lord said to Joshua, "Hold out toward Ai the javelin that is in your hand, for into your hand I will deliver the city." So Joshua held out his javelin toward Ai.
When we come together and worship God, often we see some people raising their hands in worship. No doubt it is a symbolic act of surrendering ourselves as a living sacrifice, it is a personal conviction to do so. For myself, it has been helpful because physically raising my hands brings about surrendering inside me. It cannot be described in words but when the Holy Spirit comes and takes over, you know you have entered into His presence with a surrendered heart.
*God desires a surrendered heart in those seek Him with all their heart. Have you surrendered to Him?
---------------------
Today marks a 40 day journey for myself even as I prepare myself for the coming Australia trip. I know what I am seeking the Lord about but more importantly, I want to seek Him about what He has for me, what He wish to say to me. Lord the future is uncertain but You are certain.
Your Love is sure. Your Faithfulness is sure. Your Grace is sure.
Let all of my hope be in You and You alone.
It only serves to remind me all the more that certain matters only God can deliver since often we try to take things into our own hands. In the case of taking Jericho, the Lord showed Himself strong before Israel. All it was needed on Israel's part was to obey in faith what was told of them to do and the Lord was with them.
The marching around the wall for 6 days.
The marching around the wall for 7 times on the 7th day.
The united shouting at the sound of the ram's horn.
I'm pretty sure the walls would never have collapsed without the intervention of a supernatural power.
Surely Israel had to trust in God again after what they have been through with Him all that years right? Even if those who were brought out of Egypt had died, this new generation had seen how God stopped the Jordan river, how He brought down the walls of Jericho!
*Having personally encountered God in our lives/generation, has there been any transformation in us? Has our faith in Him to do greater things increased?
Got me thinking about Rahab as well. How would she feel when her country is being captured by another? When her fellow countrymen are dying outside, when the fall of her country was solely because of her one lie.
Joshua and the spies remembered Rahab for what she had done for Israel. Likewise, things we do have lasting impact and consequence. In the case of Rahab and the spies, if Rahab chose not to believe in the spies' word of trust to spare her and her family, Joshua may never know the situation within Jericho. Yet the effects of Rahab's one lie and trusting the spies, an entire nation/city falls and burns to the ground.
*Our actions has consequences, perhaps even lasting effect on ourselves and people around us. How are you making decisions in life? Is God in the centre of your decisions?
Joshua 7 (Achan's Sin):
Seems to me the Lord has a perfect track record in winning battles and wars. Why do I say so? When the Israelites were struck down (36 out of 1000), their hearts melted and became like water. Which battle in our history has no casualties? Reading this just sets me thinking beyond the numbers. When the Israelites do not win, they knew immediately that the Lord was not with them. Surely they had sinned against Him in the process.
I was caught by verse 10, The Lord said to Joshua, "Stand up! What are you doing down on your face?..."
Joshua could not figure what they had done wrong to lose an 'easy battle' but the Lord clearly knows it all. He instructed Joshua to sieve out the culprit who had sinned against what the Lord had commanded. From tribe by tribe down to man by man, the culprit was pinpointed and there was no second chance. Achan and his children and all that he had was stoned and burned in the valley of Achor, as the Lord had instructed.
...for the Lord searches every heart and understands every desire and every thought, how important it is for us to remember that nothing is hidden from God. But if we have displeased the Lord in a certain decision or action, then the rightful thing to do is turn back to Him. The Israelites did not have Jesus as their Saviour back then, but they knew very well the need to live transparently before the Lord and in every part of their lives, devote to Him.
*Is there a (dark) area of our lives that we need to surrender to Him? Perhaps it has been hindering us from coming back into His arms?
Joshua 8 (Ai Destroyed):
*Power in raised hands*
The symbolic act of raising hands is traced back to the times of Joshua, even Moses. The more familiar story that we all know is that Moses parted the Red Sea through the raising of his staff (of course we know God was the One who did the parting!), Moses also kept his hands raised during the battles and when his arms were tired and his hands were down, they began to lose the war. So significant is the raising of hands as an outward expression of Faith. Raising of hands is a common sign in this world of Surrender. But as people of God, we surrender not to our enemies but to the Lord our God. We surrender ourselves to Him and allow Him to intervene.
Verse 18: Then the Lord said to Joshua, "Hold out toward Ai the javelin that is in your hand, for into your hand I will deliver the city." So Joshua held out his javelin toward Ai.
When we come together and worship God, often we see some people raising their hands in worship. No doubt it is a symbolic act of surrendering ourselves as a living sacrifice, it is a personal conviction to do so. For myself, it has been helpful because physically raising my hands brings about surrendering inside me. It cannot be described in words but when the Holy Spirit comes and takes over, you know you have entered into His presence with a surrendered heart.
*God desires a surrendered heart in those seek Him with all their heart. Have you surrendered to Him?
---------------------
Today marks a 40 day journey for myself even as I prepare myself for the coming Australia trip. I know what I am seeking the Lord about but more importantly, I want to seek Him about what He has for me, what He wish to say to me. Lord the future is uncertain but You are certain.
Your Love is sure. Your Faithfulness is sure. Your Grace is sure.
Let all of my hope be in You and You alone.
Your Love never fails, it never gives up. It never runs out on me.
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