Never ever thought that counting down to the big day can be so nerve-wrecking, but exciting, and haha........I was thinking, what would it really be when we think about the day that we await the "TRUE BRIDEGROOM" to come and take the hands of the bride (the church)...???
I started counting down to the wedding day, about 20 weeks before. At that time, it feels like it will take quite a while before we reach the actual day. I almost never really bothered how many weeks we are up to. But as we got closer, when it was less than 10 weeks, i became clearer in my counting down, knowing that the 10 weeks can be counted with the 10 fingers on my hand. And it didn't feel too far away. Started getting nervous counting down, can't believe with my mind and eyes how time flies, and all of a sudden, we were down to 1 month. People were telling me left, right and centre how many days were left, and it was getting quite exciting.
Anyway, when I think about this whole experience of counting down to something great, and the preparation behind (though not a lot - thank you to the wonderful team of people who are helping out there :) ) ; It really reminded me of the preparation I should also get into to await the coming of Jesus - of course the huge difference is we do not know exactly when that day is, but the Word of God said that we should be ready for His return.
I don't want to be caught unprepared, and still having lots of blemishes and pimples on my face during my wedding (the sort of preparation the girl have to go through)......I never realise that I will do this much facial care on my face during this season, but wow.......if i'm willing to put in the time, money and efforts to prepare for an earthly wedding, how much more should I then be putting in to prepare for my "heavenly wedding".
Well, being a phlegmatic doesn't help when counting down. Despite the excitedness of everyone around you, the nature within you just wants to let it be, and "whatever will be, will be". People commented that I'm one of the most relaxed bride that they have seen, but I don't know if that's good or bad. However, it could just very well mean that even if the worst things is to happen in the wedding......maybe forgot the rings, or turn up at the wrong church, or wrong dates....you name it, I'll probabaly just let it be, and just say "let's just enjoy it still". I'm sure I'll forget something, somewhere, somehow...... haha........so my lovely bridesmaids, please just enjoy the experience. But this nature of mine, puts me on the alert that I should always be ready. It really challenges me not to "just let it be", but to actually giving my best in all, unto God. I pray that God, you'll really help me to be excellent in my spirit and heart when I'm awaiting for that heavenly wedding.
To all who's reading this, hope that you can also start counting down to the heavenly wedding, to await Jesus, and to keep preparing ourselves. Don't just do it for a season, but keep on doing it, because that is when you are ready in and out, any time.
"Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour" Matthew 25:13
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Step or Jump??? of Faith
How can i not blog this............
I did one of the best thing in the world ( i reckon) - skydiving. Will put up the video somewhere when I get it, but at this point, you'll just have to imagine with me.
Last weekend, with a few "crazy" and funloving friends, we decided to take this journey to jump out of a plane and land with a parachute behind us. It was an anxious yet looking forward type of thing. We had funny conversations before the jump, like taking motion sickness pills before jumping, or even writing our will. Well, all the anxiousness and all were silenced when we jumped out of the plane 14000 ft above ground. The feeling or word that can be used to describe it all is PHENOMENAL. I never thought that I would enjoy it so much that I would want to do it another time. I thought I would be so scared that this is my once in a lifetime sort of thing.
Anyway, enough of me saying too much, but more on what I have learnt. This jump of faith is very much a walk of faith for me. Just like Peter who had to step out in faith to walk on water, I felt I needed to challenge my faith to another level by jumping out of the plane. Not so much about testing whether God will catch me, but more so, what would I be willing to do for God, how much would I be willing to step out.
When I evaluated this whole jump, it showed me something really clear, if I willed myself to do it, I have a lot of sheer determination to complete it. It really reminded me of what was prophesied over me about me having a "bull-dogged" tenacity. However, it also showed me that if I can and have put my life on the line for a thrill of adrenalin rush, I'm sure I will be able to put my life on the line for Jesus. The question is whether "am I willing". This became a huge challenge, because it really make me realise that many times when God has called me, or asked me to take on something, I know that He knows I can. But He is testing my willingness to do it for Him, my willingness to give it all for Him. Sometimes, because of our sinful nature, the willingness to do it for yourself is far greater than the willingness to do it for Jesus.
Anyway, I think this challenge has taught me a very simple truth. God is waiting, are we willing to do it for heaven's sake. I have taken that first step to be out of the plane, why should I keep God waiting. How about you?
I did one of the best thing in the world ( i reckon) - skydiving. Will put up the video somewhere when I get it, but at this point, you'll just have to imagine with me.
Last weekend, with a few "crazy" and funloving friends, we decided to take this journey to jump out of a plane and land with a parachute behind us. It was an anxious yet looking forward type of thing. We had funny conversations before the jump, like taking motion sickness pills before jumping, or even writing our will. Well, all the anxiousness and all were silenced when we jumped out of the plane 14000 ft above ground. The feeling or word that can be used to describe it all is PHENOMENAL. I never thought that I would enjoy it so much that I would want to do it another time. I thought I would be so scared that this is my once in a lifetime sort of thing.
Anyway, enough of me saying too much, but more on what I have learnt. This jump of faith is very much a walk of faith for me. Just like Peter who had to step out in faith to walk on water, I felt I needed to challenge my faith to another level by jumping out of the plane. Not so much about testing whether God will catch me, but more so, what would I be willing to do for God, how much would I be willing to step out.
When I evaluated this whole jump, it showed me something really clear, if I willed myself to do it, I have a lot of sheer determination to complete it. It really reminded me of what was prophesied over me about me having a "bull-dogged" tenacity. However, it also showed me that if I can and have put my life on the line for a thrill of adrenalin rush, I'm sure I will be able to put my life on the line for Jesus. The question is whether "am I willing". This became a huge challenge, because it really make me realise that many times when God has called me, or asked me to take on something, I know that He knows I can. But He is testing my willingness to do it for Him, my willingness to give it all for Him. Sometimes, because of our sinful nature, the willingness to do it for yourself is far greater than the willingness to do it for Jesus.
Anyway, I think this challenge has taught me a very simple truth. God is waiting, are we willing to do it for heaven's sake. I have taken that first step to be out of the plane, why should I keep God waiting. How about you?
Thursday, June 25, 2009
The never changing God
Every day is different.
Situations arise.
Circumstances change.
Fluctuations of econonmy
Inflation of prices
Political decisions change
Policies made and re-made
Moods & emotions swing
Taste & cravings come and go
Choices and preferences are different.......
The list can go on and on. There is never a constant thing, it seems impossible to achieve "non-changing status" in anything or anyone, except of course the promise in Hebrews 13:8
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."
God achieves the impossible of being the same yesterday, today and forever. This does not just show us that we can then trust in His promises since the yester-years, but we can also come to see the omnipotent God that He can do the impossible to remain the same, in His character, goodness and promises.
When I contrast it, I am glad that God is changing me. I can't imagine myself being the same, it would be disastrous, and one can only realise that you do not need to change when you are perfect. But we'll not reach there yet, but that's what we're all working towards, and God working in us. Changes can be painful, but it need to happen so that we can be molded. Therefore if one is growing, one will have to go through changes, so that we can be perfected by God to be like Him - to become "never-changing". Again, only God can perfect us because only He is perfect and therefore never would have to change.
Situations arise.
Circumstances change.
Fluctuations of econonmy
Inflation of prices
Political decisions change
Policies made and re-made
Moods & emotions swing
Taste & cravings come and go
Choices and preferences are different.......
The list can go on and on. There is never a constant thing, it seems impossible to achieve "non-changing status" in anything or anyone, except of course the promise in Hebrews 13:8
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."
God achieves the impossible of being the same yesterday, today and forever. This does not just show us that we can then trust in His promises since the yester-years, but we can also come to see the omnipotent God that He can do the impossible to remain the same, in His character, goodness and promises.
When I contrast it, I am glad that God is changing me. I can't imagine myself being the same, it would be disastrous, and one can only realise that you do not need to change when you are perfect. But we'll not reach there yet, but that's what we're all working towards, and God working in us. Changes can be painful, but it need to happen so that we can be molded. Therefore if one is growing, one will have to go through changes, so that we can be perfected by God to be like Him - to become "never-changing". Again, only God can perfect us because only He is perfect and therefore never would have to change.
In your changing circumstances, are you being changed by an unchanging God?
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
A Season of Self Assessment
Got this from a book that I read recently "Leading on Empty". An alright book, but an awesome God that made the sharing in the book encouraging.
There was this part at the end of the book that gave a few questions to ask when we want to do some personal self reflection and assessment. Not fancy questions, but down to earth, bring you back to reality sort of questions. Thought to share it, so that if you like to, you can have a think about it.
The first question struck me most, as that has always been the question that I bring myself back to when I reflect upon where I am in God now, and things that have happened so far in my life. It is "my starting point", telling myself that my calling is where I need to start again every time I "trip and fall".
I realise that the questions above, your answers may differ as you go through different seasons of your life, but the 1st question, that answer, should be the same. It is God's call in your life. I am challenged to stick to the call of God in my life. Sometimes when the rubber hits the road, sticking to that call becomes almost so hard that you don't want to face up to it. Ask yourself, what is pushing and motivating you to keep doing the work that you do today? Whether it is your day to day job, or even your spiritual responsibilities in the house of God. I find that when I go through the great moments of my life, it is so easy to asnwer that question. But I also see that it is in the tough times in life that truly brings out the essence of one's motivation.
Can I encourage all out there, whatever seasons you are going through in your life, God's call on your life remains. What matters is our response to God.
There was this part at the end of the book that gave a few questions to ask when we want to do some personal self reflection and assessment. Not fancy questions, but down to earth, bring you back to reality sort of questions. Thought to share it, so that if you like to, you can have a think about it.
- What was my original calling from God?
- What activities that I am involved in do I love the most?
- What activities and people have been draining my tank?
- If i retired today with several million dollars and no debts, what would I do?
- What am I doing now that I cannot do anymore?
The first question struck me most, as that has always been the question that I bring myself back to when I reflect upon where I am in God now, and things that have happened so far in my life. It is "my starting point", telling myself that my calling is where I need to start again every time I "trip and fall".
I realise that the questions above, your answers may differ as you go through different seasons of your life, but the 1st question, that answer, should be the same. It is God's call in your life. I am challenged to stick to the call of God in my life. Sometimes when the rubber hits the road, sticking to that call becomes almost so hard that you don't want to face up to it. Ask yourself, what is pushing and motivating you to keep doing the work that you do today? Whether it is your day to day job, or even your spiritual responsibilities in the house of God. I find that when I go through the great moments of my life, it is so easy to asnwer that question. But I also see that it is in the tough times in life that truly brings out the essence of one's motivation.
Can I encourage all out there, whatever seasons you are going through in your life, God's call on your life remains. What matters is our response to God.
Monday, May 18, 2009
HOPE
Isa 40:29-31
29 He gives strength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak.
30 Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
31 but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
Hope that is in the Lord strengthens. This sort of hope can only come from God alone.
Hope that is found in anything else, work, studies, money, material things, friends, or even families, will not strengthen. This is what I have been experiencing over the last few weeks. Sometimes in some things in life, when you look at it with your human eyes, you feel that the hope of changing it for the better, seems really bleak.
Recently when I was working with some of my families, I realise that some of the situations they are in, seems really hopeless, and at times when I talk to them, I empathise with them so much that I feel "dragged in" into their hopelessness. And I have been just casually praying that God will help me to somehow be hopeful in the work that I do, so that it is hope that I can bring to the families, even in their hopelessness. Although I found it really hard to do it practically, I wanted to trust God for it. Amazingly then, with one family that I was supporting, they were in huge financial crisis, and I've been looking everywhere to see what more could be done to support them. I've been praying for God to bring Hope and strength to the family, and they recently received new funding, and hopefully with this new funding, it may help tide the family through. When I looked back at it, I realise that God's hand is upon it. This injected faith into my heart to start praying for all the families that I'm supporting, and trusting that God will bring the best to the families. Even though, I may not be able to openly encourage them to have hope in God, but that I can pray that God will bring hope into the situation.
Anyway, this challenge me to trust and have hope in God even for all that I am in. And truly, only when the hope is in God, then one will find that strength to keep going on. It is when my hope is placed in God, that I find the new strength to wake up every morning, and keep on doing what I would love to do for God. It is when my hope is upon God's heart, that I will understand how He will guide and lead me through my sufferings.
Hope in God.........what can i say, keep that hope always in the Lord, for when we are tired, stressed, overwhelmed, upset, disappointed, discouraged, hurt, that we know that God's hope is always strong and will always help us to arise in that new day, with new hope, that He will bring us through. Take heart, and continue to hope in our Lord.
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Tenacity
It is funny how I usually end up writing my blogs late into the night, when I know that I am suppose to be resting, but yet, some writing inspirations come at such a time.......
Just taking some time to browse through some close friends blogs, and felt to write something that is close to my heart. Not that it is my favourite topic, but it is a favourite lesson from God.
Tenacity.............holding fast, that's what it is.
Tenacity, perseverance, boldness, fearlessness, strength and courage are very closely linked words. It is almost like when you use any one of these words, the other words will come into play as well. When I was reading some articles, tenacity was brought through into my thoughts, and I realise this is what God is building in my life. I was brought back to a presbytery that was upon my life a number of years ago, and reading the transcript brought forth that God is building in me tenacity.
Of course, you will then ask yourself, how is tenacity built? What contributes to tenacity? What will help one to hold fast?
What is your marathon like today? Full of pains? of full of Joys?
Just taking some time to browse through some close friends blogs, and felt to write something that is close to my heart. Not that it is my favourite topic, but it is a favourite lesson from God.
Tenacity.............holding fast, that's what it is.
Tenacity, perseverance, boldness, fearlessness, strength and courage are very closely linked words. It is almost like when you use any one of these words, the other words will come into play as well. When I was reading some articles, tenacity was brought through into my thoughts, and I realise this is what God is building in my life. I was brought back to a presbytery that was upon my life a number of years ago, and reading the transcript brought forth that God is building in me tenacity.
Of course, you will then ask yourself, how is tenacity built? What contributes to tenacity? What will help one to hold fast?
- Yes of course, it is GOD .God will empower one to hold fast, but that's provided that one will learn to look to God, in the midst of everything they are doing.
- Then it's the "fearful" word - TESTS. All of us do not like to take tests or exams. When we need to do so, we usually have to put ourselves to some sort of preparation. When there is no tests, there is no preparation. Somehow, we, in our fleshly nature, need to have tests happening, so that we can prepare and grow in our faith. If not, we will never be ready for what is to come when Jesus returns.
- And finally, it is YOU, your choice, and decision, TO HOLD FAST. To hold, is an action word, and what will your action be. It's funny how the term "hold fast". Thinking through it more, it is clearer then before, that in times of "falling" or "failing" behind, one key thing is to learn to hold, and you need to be quick and fast about it, if not, you'll be falling deeper than you thought if you don't hold fast enough. Are you holding fast enough?
What is your marathon like today? Full of pains? of full of Joys?
Monday, March 02, 2009
Be Rooted Deeply
In this above picture, it's a plant that's growing in a pot, on my balcony........
Let me give you a bit of a history about the potted plants on my balcony. My very first housemate in this apartment bought some plants, and decided that we'll grow our very own cherry tomatoes (about 2.5 years ago), and it was really successful. We have our cherry tomatoes fresh from our plants on the balcony. But after my housemate moved out, i've never really continue any planting. I think i'm not that sort of person to be growing my own fruits.
But anyway, in the last 2-3 weeks, after about 1.5 years of not touching the dried up soil in the pots, a plant started to spring out of nowhere. I thought, perhaps it's just some weed, but amazingly, it kept growing, and there are flowers starting to develop. The best part is, I have not added any water or taken any particular care of it. I decided that I will have a look at it today. It has got pretty deep roots .......
Anyway, my thought was that it might die after a few days (plus such summery weather), but it didn't, but kept growing taller. Perhaps some will just take it as "it just happens", but I see this as a promise of God , like in Matthew 6 that talks about how God will care for the trees and birds, and provide.
25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his lifeb]">[b]?
28"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
When I look at this plant, I knew that it has gotten it's nourishment from the sun, and obviously the rain. And perhaps birds have come in to "fertilize" the pot of soil, and therefore, a plant has sprouted out. It is quite a sight.
But it really affirms my heart that if God will take care of the plants and birds of the air, how much God will care for us, because He loves us so much. Do you still have to worry. I read as well, that PROVIDENCE, comes from 2 Latin words - pro (Before) and video (to see). So when we talk about God's providence, it is saying that He sees all things beforehand and His sovereign arrangement of all things. Continue to trust in God's providence, even in our dryest moment, and at times when we can't see it. Look deep into your hearts and ask if your roots are rooted deep into God's promises and His Words.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Refuge......Where?
Ps 91:1-4, 9-12
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the Lord, He is my REFUGE and my FORTRESS
Surely he will save you from the fowler's snare and from the deadly pestilence.
He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart..................
If you make the Most High your dwelling - even the Lord, who is my refuge -
then no harm will befall you, no disaster will come near your tent.
For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways;
they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.
May you find refuge in the Lord
Draw near to Him, and He provides that refuge.
REFUGE
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the Lord, He is my REFUGE and my FORTRESS
Surely he will save you from the fowler's snare and from the deadly pestilence.
He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart..................
If you make the Most High your dwelling - even the Lord, who is my refuge -
then no harm will befall you, no disaster will come near your tent.
For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways;
they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.
May you find refuge in the Lord
Draw near to Him, and He provides that refuge.
REFUGE
Monday, February 16, 2009
Lost for words, Found in HIS hope
It has been a while. I've returned to this blog again and again, not knowing how to write the next blog, or maybe what to really write. So much has happened over the last month, but yet speechless (or wordless), not know how to really write down in words.
God has allowed certain things to happen for He knows the best for the situation. I have always taken on the promise of Jeremiah 29:11, and I thank God for this promise.
These are the words at the bottom of my heart....... which I find great delight in, because of the hope that it brings.
In my loneliness, YOU are there
In my loneliness, YOU draw me close to your heart
In the times of lost, YOU guided me
In the times of lost, YOU open the doors
In the midst of turmoil, YOU showed the way
In the midst of uncertainties, YOU gave me confidence
Most of all..........
In the midst of wanting to give up........
YOU encouraged me
YOU spoke to me
YOU held my hands
YOU held my tears
YOU wiped away the pain
YOU gave me hope
but I know that YOUR HOPE & CONFIDENCE is always there, it is ME that needs to make a decision. A decision to say ........
I am encouraged
I heard your voice
I hold your hands
I cry to you
I continued to carry on, because
YOU gave me HOPE.
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
God has allowed certain things to happen for He knows the best for the situation. I have always taken on the promise of Jeremiah 29:11, and I thank God for this promise.
These are the words at the bottom of my heart....... which I find great delight in, because of the hope that it brings.
In my loneliness, YOU are there
In my loneliness, YOU draw me close to your heart
In the times of lost, YOU guided me
In the times of lost, YOU open the doors
In the midst of turmoil, YOU showed the way
In the midst of uncertainties, YOU gave me confidence
Most of all..........
In the midst of wanting to give up........
YOU encouraged me
YOU spoke to me
YOU held my hands
YOU held my tears
YOU wiped away the pain
YOU gave me hope
but I know that YOUR HOPE & CONFIDENCE is always there, it is ME that needs to make a decision. A decision to say ........
I am encouraged
I heard your voice
I hold your hands
I cry to you
I continued to carry on, because
YOU gave me HOPE.
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Tonight's Dinner - Taste and see that it is good
It is interesting, but it's my first time blogging about food.........but still would like to share what I learn :) There is always something to learn.
3 days ago, I learned a new recipe from my work colleague to make quiche with egg & ricotta cheese. I have always made my quiche in the past, the chinese way (Egg & tofu). And me......being a cheese lover, could not resist the temptation to try.
That night, I made my first bacon and mushroom quiche.
It was so delicious that my housemate, another visitor to the house, finish about almost half the quiche, and i packed another quarter for my fiancé. for his lunch. It was so nice that the next day, he sms me after lunch to say that he wouldn't mind more of the quiche. The best part is that both my housemate and fiancé are both not quiche lovers. So now i've converted them to be quiche lovers :)
Anyway, being excited to want to try more different type of quiches, I decided that tonight's dinner will be quiche too. And below are the exciting faces as we try this prawn, mushroom and spinach quiche.
Alright......these are just the fun of cooking and eating.
But as I thought about it now, when it is so good, we remember the taste, and we'll go all way to try to re-create it, we'll put in all the efforts that is needed to make it. And I wondered, do we truly know and have tasted the goodness of God, that we remember it, and that we'll want to go all way to experience the goodness of God, and will make the effort to spend time so that we can truly experience His love and goodness.
I am not surprised that at times we can do all these just for food, but would we instead do it for God. I'm a food lover, but I want to be more of a God lover than food lover. I want to truly (a million times) taste the goodness of God that I will never forget, but will keep craving for it, to the extent that no matter what it takes to experience His love and goodness, I will do it.
Alright, just my little FOOD for thoughts :)
3 days ago, I learned a new recipe from my work colleague to make quiche with egg & ricotta cheese. I have always made my quiche in the past, the chinese way (Egg & tofu). And me......being a cheese lover, could not resist the temptation to try.
That night, I made my first bacon and mushroom quiche.
It was so delicious that my housemate, another visitor to the house, finish about almost half the quiche, and i packed another quarter for my fiancé. for his lunch. It was so nice that the next day, he sms me after lunch to say that he wouldn't mind more of the quiche. The best part is that both my housemate and fiancé are both not quiche lovers. So now i've converted them to be quiche lovers :)
Anyway, being excited to want to try more different type of quiches, I decided that tonight's dinner will be quiche too. And below are the exciting faces as we try this prawn, mushroom and spinach quiche.
Alright......these are just the fun of cooking and eating.
But as I thought about it now, when it is so good, we remember the taste, and we'll go all way to try to re-create it, we'll put in all the efforts that is needed to make it. And I wondered, do we truly know and have tasted the goodness of God, that we remember it, and that we'll want to go all way to experience the goodness of God, and will make the effort to spend time so that we can truly experience His love and goodness.
I am not surprised that at times we can do all these just for food, but would we instead do it for God. I'm a food lover, but I want to be more of a God lover than food lover. I want to truly (a million times) taste the goodness of God that I will never forget, but will keep craving for it, to the extent that no matter what it takes to experience His love and goodness, I will do it.
Alright, just my little FOOD for thoughts :)
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Am I a backslidder?
I'm sure at some stage of your life, you may have pondered over this question, and perhaps even wondered if you've already back-slided. I have, and many times, I have to come before God in repentance, because I have not grown. Someone once said to me and it is a challenge in my heart always ............ "from the time you stop growing in God, is the time you started to back slide in God."
The sermon on Sunday serves as a reminder for myself that I need to guard my life and heart, to make sure that I don't become complacent, and think that it won't happen to me.
Many years ago, when I was still a very young Christian, I remembered that I went through that stage of turning away from God. It started from "no desire" to get involved with God. I remembered I started to feel bored in life group, during worship, I fall asleep, I don't remember what's been taught in sermons or discussions. The best part is I can fall asleep, and wake up at the right time to say "AMEN" . Hmm........sounds familiar for some? Well, they were the signs of me falling away from God, and I thank God that at the end of that turning away, I choose to come back to God. I remembered that it was during one of the life group's worship session (in Singapore), I couldn't help myself but just kept crying, and there I had a vision.......I was falling off a cliff, and it felt like the falling was never ending, and then all of a sudden, I felt a thug on my hand, and something held me on. And I knew then, that God was and is holding on to me, and whether I will choose to hang on to God.
That was the question that stirred me to wake up from my back sliding. And that was when i made a decision "I will never want to walk away from God". This decision became a conviction. This conviction slowly got deepen over the years. I must say that constantly, in the earlier years, I still think a lot about turning away. But I am always reminded of this decision made, and the experience of that one night. Today, I still remember that very fateful and eventful night. It is amazing that God works in such a wonder. But it is still a learning process to keep strong in God. I do admit that in the difficult and challenging times, I did want to surrender and give in. But I thank God that I have always choosen to look to God. However, it is a reminder to myself again, I should never be complacent, but I need to turn back to God. It is God that I need to come back to. Never be hard hearted towards God; Man may fall and fail, but God can be trusted. That's the difference.
If you think you are slowly fading away, and drawing away from God. You (yes talking about you - who's reading this blog), need to take time to seek God, and allow God to speak to you. Jeremiah 29:13 " You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. "
The sermon on Sunday serves as a reminder for myself that I need to guard my life and heart, to make sure that I don't become complacent, and think that it won't happen to me.
Many years ago, when I was still a very young Christian, I remembered that I went through that stage of turning away from God. It started from "no desire" to get involved with God. I remembered I started to feel bored in life group, during worship, I fall asleep, I don't remember what's been taught in sermons or discussions. The best part is I can fall asleep, and wake up at the right time to say "AMEN" . Hmm........sounds familiar for some? Well, they were the signs of me falling away from God, and I thank God that at the end of that turning away, I choose to come back to God. I remembered that it was during one of the life group's worship session (in Singapore), I couldn't help myself but just kept crying, and there I had a vision.......I was falling off a cliff, and it felt like the falling was never ending, and then all of a sudden, I felt a thug on my hand, and something held me on. And I knew then, that God was and is holding on to me, and whether I will choose to hang on to God.
That was the question that stirred me to wake up from my back sliding. And that was when i made a decision "I will never want to walk away from God". This decision became a conviction. This conviction slowly got deepen over the years. I must say that constantly, in the earlier years, I still think a lot about turning away. But I am always reminded of this decision made, and the experience of that one night. Today, I still remember that very fateful and eventful night. It is amazing that God works in such a wonder. But it is still a learning process to keep strong in God. I do admit that in the difficult and challenging times, I did want to surrender and give in. But I thank God that I have always choosen to look to God. However, it is a reminder to myself again, I should never be complacent, but I need to turn back to God. It is God that I need to come back to. Never be hard hearted towards God; Man may fall and fail, but God can be trusted. That's the difference.
If you think you are slowly fading away, and drawing away from God. You (yes talking about you - who's reading this blog), need to take time to seek God, and allow God to speak to you. Jeremiah 29:13 " You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. "
Thursday, December 25, 2008
One Christmas day ...........
One Christmas day, in 1995...........the angels rejoice and danced, cos many came to know the Lord, i was one of the privileged one.
Christmas has a special place in my heart, because it is the day that I gave my heart and life to Jesus.It was the start of a new life, and a start of a change of life. As the bible says, the old is gone, and the new has come. Looking back, i could still remember the moment, when i lift up my hand to say "yes, i want to receive Jesus into my life". Never would i have imagine that at that point, my life would never be the same again.
Looking back, for the last 13 years, I realise that God's grace is upon my life, time after time. God has never failed me in the last 13 years - of course there were times of discouragement, and frustrations, but I have come to witness that God's love never fails during those times as well. Even when I go through the valleys of life, I know that God walks through it with me.
I don't think I can spell out and list out every single testimony ........... I will never finish writing this blog. But below is my gratitude and love unto God
Once without joy; now filled with JOY (Psalm 16:11)
Joy not from the world, but Joy from God (Nehemiah 8:10)
Joy is a Gift from God, and
Joy is a gift I want to give back to God
God's love is amazing, and unspeakable (Jeremiah 31:3)
His love covers over all my sin, and (1 Peter 4:8)
His love continues to cover over my life (1 John 4:10)
His love is everlasting, and like Romans 8 says,
"Nothing can separate us from the love of Christ" (Romans 8:38-39)
His love is experienced in every moment of my life (Psalm 121:2-3)
His grace is deeper than the oceans can reach (2 Corinthians 12:9)
His hope is higher than the skies (Isaiah 40:30-31)
His mercy is wider than the horizons of the earth (Isaiah 55:8-9)
There is nothing than can separate us from God (Psalm 125:1)
Because He is every where, and He chooses to be with us. (Joshua 1:9)
God's love is never limiting (1 Corinthians 13:1-8)
Think beyond, and you'll see God's love a bit more every day (Psalm 103:11-12)
The relationship that you have with God, is one that you can enjoy
Enjoy it and be filled with the Holy Ghost.
I cannot say enough .......
I love you Jesus
Christmas is not just a time of gifts, friends, food, and Jesus birthday.... it is a reminder for me that my life was changed because of God's love for me. I cannot imagine what my life will be like if I have not come to know God's love for myself. Above all ........ the gift I have received, is not just for me, but is for all of you as well.
Christmas has a special place in my heart, because it is the day that I gave my heart and life to Jesus.It was the start of a new life, and a start of a change of life. As the bible says, the old is gone, and the new has come. Looking back, i could still remember the moment, when i lift up my hand to say "yes, i want to receive Jesus into my life". Never would i have imagine that at that point, my life would never be the same again.
Looking back, for the last 13 years, I realise that God's grace is upon my life, time after time. God has never failed me in the last 13 years - of course there were times of discouragement, and frustrations, but I have come to witness that God's love never fails during those times as well. Even when I go through the valleys of life, I know that God walks through it with me.
I don't think I can spell out and list out every single testimony ........... I will never finish writing this blog. But below is my gratitude and love unto God
Once without joy; now filled with JOY (Psalm 16:11)
Joy not from the world, but Joy from God (Nehemiah 8:10)
Joy is a Gift from God, and
Joy is a gift I want to give back to God
God's love is amazing, and unspeakable (Jeremiah 31:3)
His love covers over all my sin, and (1 Peter 4:8)
His love continues to cover over my life (1 John 4:10)
His love is everlasting, and like Romans 8 says,
"Nothing can separate us from the love of Christ" (Romans 8:38-39)
His love is experienced in every moment of my life (Psalm 121:2-3)
His grace is deeper than the oceans can reach (2 Corinthians 12:9)
His hope is higher than the skies (Isaiah 40:30-31)
His mercy is wider than the horizons of the earth (Isaiah 55:8-9)
There is nothing than can separate us from God (Psalm 125:1)
Because He is every where, and He chooses to be with us. (Joshua 1:9)
God's love is never limiting (1 Corinthians 13:1-8)
Think beyond, and you'll see God's love a bit more every day (Psalm 103:11-12)
The relationship that you have with God, is one that you can enjoy
Enjoy it and be filled with the Holy Ghost.
I cannot say enough .......
I love you Jesus
Christmas is not just a time of gifts, friends, food, and Jesus birthday.... it is a reminder for me that my life was changed because of God's love for me. I cannot imagine what my life will be like if I have not come to know God's love for myself. Above all ........ the gift I have received, is not just for me, but is for all of you as well.
Monday, December 22, 2008
A Lifetime of LEARNING
After a night of tossing and turning, and trying to unblock my blocked nose, decided to wake up and spend some time in worship. After worshipping with the song "My hope", I was inspired to look at the goals I've set in 2008, and see what has been fulfilled, and what needs to be carried forward to 2009. As I started looking at all the goals of 2008, I realise that over the year, a lot has been achieved, but there's also a lot that still needs to be worked on.
As I started thinking through 2008, and planning for 2009, I came to a conclusion, that there is so much that has been learnt, and there is so much more to learn still. 2008 has been a year of steep learning. The climbing of the learning curve hasn't been easy, but it has been fruitful.
Let me spell out some learning curve, and what it has been for the year.......
Relationship with God - am never going to learn enough about who God is in my life. This year, it has been a humbling year to just come back to the basics to grow in a deeper relationship with God. There is so much more that I have to come to rely on God. It is so crucial, to keep understanding and pursuing the heart of God. It is because of this pursuing of His heart, that has kept me on through the trials of this year. One thing I know about the Heart of God for me ........ is that I need to be certain of His call upon my life, and be confident that as He has called, He will provide. It hasn't been an easy one, especially since there has been a few crisis point in my life this year that I have to keep coming back to be renewed of His call in my life.
Pastoral - this is always a growing challenge. To continue to love the people , and to continue to deepen the people's relationship with God. This year, it had been a year of stretching, running between life group, unit and sub-district leading. Coming up with innovative pastoral structure to challenge effectiveness. At the end of the day, I have to remind myself ............. it is people that I'm leading, not groups. Further, I am humbled by the very fact that everytime, it is by God's grace that I am still standing firm in God. This year of stretching has challenged me to continue to expand and continue to grow.
Operations Ministry - this has been one of the most exciting aspect. I've never been so involved in operations ministry until this year......... especially so with Events Mgt. Wow..... it's all i can say. Everything is new, everything is a learning point. All the events organised, whether good, bad, successful, or could be better.......... one thing that i gain, is that I have learnt another thing, and more so, I have learnt to rely and trust God. It is a joy to serve, and it has brought a deeper understanding of "the joy of the Lord is my strength". When you find the what the joy of the Lord is (pursuing the heart of God), it is such joy that brings you strength to keep doing what you do for God. Thanks to all the insightful thoughts and challenges from Mr C.Bee :)
Relationship - Been a challenge. A good one...........and a difficult one. But in all, a sweet one, after the painful process. That's why the Chinese saying "Go through the pain first, and you'll enjoy the sweetness of the pain after". Thanks to the humility and patience of the one who love me.
There is much more of course than what i've written here. But this is in a nutshell of 2008, so my point here is .......... don't stop learning. 2009 here we come, to learn, learn and LEARN.
As I started thinking through 2008, and planning for 2009, I came to a conclusion, that there is so much that has been learnt, and there is so much more to learn still. 2008 has been a year of steep learning. The climbing of the learning curve hasn't been easy, but it has been fruitful.
Let me spell out some learning curve, and what it has been for the year.......
Relationship with God - am never going to learn enough about who God is in my life. This year, it has been a humbling year to just come back to the basics to grow in a deeper relationship with God. There is so much more that I have to come to rely on God. It is so crucial, to keep understanding and pursuing the heart of God. It is because of this pursuing of His heart, that has kept me on through the trials of this year. One thing I know about the Heart of God for me ........ is that I need to be certain of His call upon my life, and be confident that as He has called, He will provide. It hasn't been an easy one, especially since there has been a few crisis point in my life this year that I have to keep coming back to be renewed of His call in my life.
Pastoral - this is always a growing challenge. To continue to love the people , and to continue to deepen the people's relationship with God. This year, it had been a year of stretching, running between life group, unit and sub-district leading. Coming up with innovative pastoral structure to challenge effectiveness. At the end of the day, I have to remind myself ............. it is people that I'm leading, not groups. Further, I am humbled by the very fact that everytime, it is by God's grace that I am still standing firm in God. This year of stretching has challenged me to continue to expand and continue to grow.
Operations Ministry - this has been one of the most exciting aspect. I've never been so involved in operations ministry until this year......... especially so with Events Mgt. Wow..... it's all i can say. Everything is new, everything is a learning point. All the events organised, whether good, bad, successful, or could be better.......... one thing that i gain, is that I have learnt another thing, and more so, I have learnt to rely and trust God. It is a joy to serve, and it has brought a deeper understanding of "the joy of the Lord is my strength". When you find the what the joy of the Lord is (pursuing the heart of God), it is such joy that brings you strength to keep doing what you do for God. Thanks to all the insightful thoughts and challenges from Mr C.Bee :)
Relationship - Been a challenge. A good one...........and a difficult one. But in all, a sweet one, after the painful process. That's why the Chinese saying "Go through the pain first, and you'll enjoy the sweetness of the pain after". Thanks to the humility and patience of the one who love me.
There is much more of course than what i've written here. But this is in a nutshell of 2008, so my point here is .......... don't stop learning. 2009 here we come, to learn, learn and LEARN.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Till Death Us Do Part
This is a very common phrase we hear in marriage vows, where the commitment of the husband and wife to each other is ........... only death will part our ways. Recently, I flew back to Singapore to attend a covenant sister's wedding, and it was a privilege to just witness the joining of a man and woman. What really struck me, time and time again, is the amount of preparation and work that gone in to make the bride the most beautiful bride; before the bride is presented to the groom. And in order for the bride to be made the most beautiful one, the bride has to go through a whole lot of things, which at times, comes at a price, and also suffering.
Thinking about that, brought me to once again see the price that we have to pay, in order to be ready to meet with our groom (Jesus), when He returns, I pray, not just me, but the church, will truly be the "most beautiful, without blemish" bride. The price and suffering is not for nothing, but it is to await the perfect coming of Christ.
If any girl would be willing to suffer to be the most beautiful bride on their wedding day, why should we as Christians not be willing to suffer to be the best for Jesus on the day of His coming. The same commitment that we say or will say unto our spouse, should be the same commitment, and even more, unto Jesus. Except to know that death will not separate us, because of the eternal life that God has promised.
What are you willing to pay for your "wedding" to Jesus? He's offering eternity, would you commit?
Anyway, enjoy the video below of "xiao mei" on her wedding day :)
Thinking about that, brought me to once again see the price that we have to pay, in order to be ready to meet with our groom (Jesus), when He returns, I pray, not just me, but the church, will truly be the "most beautiful, without blemish" bride. The price and suffering is not for nothing, but it is to await the perfect coming of Christ.
If any girl would be willing to suffer to be the most beautiful bride on their wedding day, why should we as Christians not be willing to suffer to be the best for Jesus on the day of His coming. The same commitment that we say or will say unto our spouse, should be the same commitment, and even more, unto Jesus. Except to know that death will not separate us, because of the eternal life that God has promised.
What are you willing to pay for your "wedding" to Jesus? He's offering eternity, would you commit?
Anyway, enjoy the video below of "xiao mei" on her wedding day :)
Friday, November 14, 2008
The Father & Son
Have you ever thought deeper about how a father truly demonstrates that they will back their son (or child) all the way to the end, despite the situations.
I know that my God will back me all the way, even if I come to the point of becoming invalid in my own capacities. God will take me all the way, just like how this father has done it for his son.
The video tells it all, I don't have much to say, and hope that this is a source of inspiration for you to do all that you want to do, in order to plant the Kingdom of God, no matter how challenging the situation is..........WHY???? HOW CAN I DO IT????? because God will back me up all the way to the end.
Demonstration of God's love & Support :)
A son says to his father: "Dad, would you be willing to run a marathon with me?"
The father, despite his age and heart disease, says "YES".
And they run that marathon together
The son asks: "Dad, can you run another marathon with me?" Again father says "Yes"/
They run another marathon, together.
One day the son asks his father:"Dad, would you please do the Iron Man with me?"
Now just in case you wouldn't know. "The Iron Man is the toughest triathlon in existance; 4km swimming, then 180km by bike, and finally another 42 km running in one stroke.
Again father says "Yes"
Maybe this doesn't touch you yet by heart, until you watch the video:
I know that my God will back me all the way, even if I come to the point of becoming invalid in my own capacities. God will take me all the way, just like how this father has done it for his son.
The video tells it all, I don't have much to say, and hope that this is a source of inspiration for you to do all that you want to do, in order to plant the Kingdom of God, no matter how challenging the situation is..........WHY???? HOW CAN I DO IT????? because God will back me up all the way to the end.
Demonstration of God's love & Support :)
A son says to his father: "Dad, would you be willing to run a marathon with me?"
The father, despite his age and heart disease, says "YES".
And they run that marathon together
The son asks: "Dad, can you run another marathon with me?" Again father says "Yes"/
They run another marathon, together.
One day the son asks his father:"Dad, would you please do the Iron Man with me?"
Now just in case you wouldn't know. "The Iron Man is the toughest triathlon in existance; 4km swimming, then 180km by bike, and finally another 42 km running in one stroke.
Again father says "Yes"
Maybe this doesn't touch you yet by heart, until you watch the video:
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
How big is your frying pan?
Interesting title? Yes, I'm inspired and challenged as I heard this.
Sat in the leaders conference "Planting the Kingdom", and was listening to Ps. Obaja (a pastor of the largest church in Solo - 20,000 in size and a friend of the hope movement.
One day, a man was fishing, and every fish he catches, he'll measure it against this particular ruler that he brings with him every time. Any fish that is longer than the ruler, he will throw it back into the river, and any fish that is of the same length as the ruler, or smaller, he'll put it into his basket.
After watching this man for a while, the man standing next to this man asked. Usually when people catches a big fish, they will be so happy and take it home, but instead he does the opposite and throws all the big fish back into the river. While when others catches the small fish they throws it back into the river, but yet he keeps them. What is his reason for doing so?
The man replied, bringing up his ruler at the same time. "The ruler is measured to his frying pan, anything that is bigger or longer than his ruler is bigger than the frying pan, and hence he will not be able to cook it.
Well.........I don't know what is your response to this man. But this story basically illustrates that sometimes in life, we tend to just look at it like a frying pan, we limit what we can do for God, according to our own abilities. I thought for a long time after listening to this story. The pastor who was sharing this said that we should never limit God in what He can do. Rather than asking the question, how big is your frying pan? which is equivalent to "how much can we do according to our abilities?"; It should be, "HOW BIG IS THE FISH". We should never limit the size of the "fish" to the size of the frying pan. Same, we should never limit the size of the things that God has called us to, to the size of our abilities.
God commanded in Gen 1:28, to be fruitful and multiply. God did not give us a limit as to how much we should be fruitful and how much to multiply. There is no end to the fruitfulness if we would have faith to believe that God will provide.
As well, the size of your pan will limit you to the size of the fish. Which is also saying that the amount of vision you receive from God will be limited if you only look according to your abilities. We need to ask God for his vision, not ask God according to our abilities.
Isa 54:2
2 "Enlarge the place of your tent,
stretch your tent curtains wide,
do not hold back;
lengthen your cords,
strengthen your stakes."
It says to lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes........... lengthen your cords - extend your capabilities to beyond; and strengthen your faith in the foundations of God, so that you will not be shaken. Do not hold back today, because God wants to spread you. Don't keep focusing on your frying pan, focus on God and the vision that He wants to give to you.
Sat in the leaders conference "Planting the Kingdom", and was listening to Ps. Obaja (a pastor of the largest church in Solo - 20,000 in size and a friend of the hope movement.
One day, a man was fishing, and every fish he catches, he'll measure it against this particular ruler that he brings with him every time. Any fish that is longer than the ruler, he will throw it back into the river, and any fish that is of the same length as the ruler, or smaller, he'll put it into his basket.
After watching this man for a while, the man standing next to this man asked. Usually when people catches a big fish, they will be so happy and take it home, but instead he does the opposite and throws all the big fish back into the river. While when others catches the small fish they throws it back into the river, but yet he keeps them. What is his reason for doing so?
The man replied, bringing up his ruler at the same time. "The ruler is measured to his frying pan, anything that is bigger or longer than his ruler is bigger than the frying pan, and hence he will not be able to cook it.
Well.........I don't know what is your response to this man. But this story basically illustrates that sometimes in life, we tend to just look at it like a frying pan, we limit what we can do for God, according to our own abilities. I thought for a long time after listening to this story. The pastor who was sharing this said that we should never limit God in what He can do. Rather than asking the question, how big is your frying pan? which is equivalent to "how much can we do according to our abilities?"; It should be, "HOW BIG IS THE FISH". We should never limit the size of the "fish" to the size of the frying pan. Same, we should never limit the size of the things that God has called us to, to the size of our abilities.
God commanded in Gen 1:28, to be fruitful and multiply. God did not give us a limit as to how much we should be fruitful and how much to multiply. There is no end to the fruitfulness if we would have faith to believe that God will provide.
As well, the size of your pan will limit you to the size of the fish. Which is also saying that the amount of vision you receive from God will be limited if you only look according to your abilities. We need to ask God for his vision, not ask God according to our abilities.
Isa 54:2
2 "Enlarge the place of your tent,
stretch your tent curtains wide,
do not hold back;
lengthen your cords,
strengthen your stakes."
It says to lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes........... lengthen your cords - extend your capabilities to beyond; and strengthen your faith in the foundations of God, so that you will not be shaken. Do not hold back today, because God wants to spread you. Don't keep focusing on your frying pan, focus on God and the vision that He wants to give to you.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Heart of Worship
It was an awesome worship night that we had. It is so true what was being shared........that if God's people would come every Sunday, prepared to meet with God, the atmosphere of worship would truly rock the earth. 6 days..........we are to prepare ourselves for that 1 day that we can meet with God. It really goes to show how much we should be spending that time to get ready.
But well, I can truly say that meeting with God is one of the best things that you can do in life.
Worship is such a beautiful thing, such a privilege to be able to just be in the presence of God to worship, and to enjoy Him. When we were worshipping with the song "Heart of Worship" one of my all time favourites, I was just awaken by the simple lyrics of this song, and had a gentle reminder.........that this day, it is all about Jesus, not about my work, my ministry, my people, my life, but it is about God. And when we can submit to God in this manner, worship wouldn't be a chore, but a joy.
Let's learn from the lyrics of the song:
When the music fades
All is stripped away
(When you choose to surrender all unto God, where there is the understanding that there is none left of you. Just as Paul puts it, that he considers all things rubbish, except the very fact of having Christ in Him; Philippians 3:8 "What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consdier them rubbish, that I may gain Christ." - there needs to be a heart of humility in this, a deep humility that is willing to come to the point of all being stripped of your life)
And I simply come
(and it's only when you can come to that point of humility, then you can SIMPLY COME)
Longing just to see
(when there is nothing left, I pray that we will only long to come and meet with God)
Something that's of worth
(because God is so precious that we know that we are willing to be stripped of all, so that we can come to be with God. It really brings out, are you willing to give of your all, so that you can come and meet with God - how much are you willing to sacrifice to come to God)
That will bless your heart
I'll bring you more than a song
For a song in itself
(it is not just a song of worship, but more than the words of the lyrics that we sing, it is the words from our hearts that we sing)
It's not what you have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You're looking into my heart
(God doesn't see the outward, but He looks into your heart. 1 Samuel 16:7 "The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart". I'm so glad that this is the case, but to remember to always search and examine our heart, that our heart is right before God, that our heart is true to God.)
I'm coming back to the heart of worship
When it's all about you
(We'll come back to the true place of worship, the true humility of worship when we know that worship is all about Jesus - it is about giving all unto Jesus, praising Jesus, thanking Him, adoring Him, loving Him. There is no point of worship when the focus is shifted from coming back to God. The reason that we existed is because God has created us to worship Him.)
It's all about you, Jesus
I'm sorry Lord for the things I've made it
(Come back to that heart of repentance, the heart of forgiveness. Know that God loves you for who you are; God forgives, and God accepts. Would we choose to come to that place of humility, to ask God to forgive of our sins, and times of unbelief and lack of faith, do we know that God accepts when we choose to turn back to Him - look at the story of the prodigal son - Luke 15:11-31)
When it's all about you
It's all about you, Jesus.
Well..........this is God's heart. Would we pursue after His heart when we worship Him. Minister unto Him, draw close to him, receive His grace and mercy............Enjoy the worship unto God. Let it spalsh forth from your heart as you sing praises and worship unto Him. One day in His courts is better than a thousand days elsewhere.
But well, I can truly say that meeting with God is one of the best things that you can do in life.
Worship is such a beautiful thing, such a privilege to be able to just be in the presence of God to worship, and to enjoy Him. When we were worshipping with the song "Heart of Worship" one of my all time favourites, I was just awaken by the simple lyrics of this song, and had a gentle reminder.........that this day, it is all about Jesus, not about my work, my ministry, my people, my life, but it is about God. And when we can submit to God in this manner, worship wouldn't be a chore, but a joy.
Let's learn from the lyrics of the song:
When the music fades
All is stripped away
(When you choose to surrender all unto God, where there is the understanding that there is none left of you. Just as Paul puts it, that he considers all things rubbish, except the very fact of having Christ in Him; Philippians 3:8 "What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consdier them rubbish, that I may gain Christ." - there needs to be a heart of humility in this, a deep humility that is willing to come to the point of all being stripped of your life)
And I simply come
(and it's only when you can come to that point of humility, then you can SIMPLY COME)
Longing just to see
(when there is nothing left, I pray that we will only long to come and meet with God)
Something that's of worth
(because God is so precious that we know that we are willing to be stripped of all, so that we can come to be with God. It really brings out, are you willing to give of your all, so that you can come and meet with God - how much are you willing to sacrifice to come to God)
That will bless your heart
I'll bring you more than a song
For a song in itself
(it is not just a song of worship, but more than the words of the lyrics that we sing, it is the words from our hearts that we sing)
It's not what you have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You're looking into my heart
(God doesn't see the outward, but He looks into your heart. 1 Samuel 16:7 "The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart". I'm so glad that this is the case, but to remember to always search and examine our heart, that our heart is right before God, that our heart is true to God.)
I'm coming back to the heart of worship
When it's all about you
(We'll come back to the true place of worship, the true humility of worship when we know that worship is all about Jesus - it is about giving all unto Jesus, praising Jesus, thanking Him, adoring Him, loving Him. There is no point of worship when the focus is shifted from coming back to God. The reason that we existed is because God has created us to worship Him.)
It's all about you, Jesus
I'm sorry Lord for the things I've made it
(Come back to that heart of repentance, the heart of forgiveness. Know that God loves you for who you are; God forgives, and God accepts. Would we choose to come to that place of humility, to ask God to forgive of our sins, and times of unbelief and lack of faith, do we know that God accepts when we choose to turn back to Him - look at the story of the prodigal son - Luke 15:11-31)
When it's all about you
It's all about you, Jesus.
Well..........this is God's heart. Would we pursue after His heart when we worship Him. Minister unto Him, draw close to him, receive His grace and mercy............Enjoy the worship unto God. Let it spalsh forth from your heart as you sing praises and worship unto Him. One day in His courts is better than a thousand days elsewhere.
Sunday, October 05, 2008
Amazing Grace
I just want to take this opportunity to truly thank God for all that He has done, not just in my life, for the last 10 years that I have been part of the church, Hope Brisbane. But as well, just for all that He has brought this church to.......just hearing all the different sharing from the different people just goes to show that this day it is the lives of people that matter. It is not just about what is working well, and what is a better method. But it is about a life. A life that God treasures, a life that matters to God
As we celebrate Hope Brisbane's 15th Anniversary, it brought back a lot of fond memories when I first came in to the church, and how God has blessed me, but more so, how God has brought so many people into our midst, and one question I was asking myself........whose life have I made a difference in today? When I go up to heaven, and meet God, and if God is to ask me...........whose life have i made a difference in, I hope I will be ready to answer that.
As i look back for these 10 years in the church, I just see how God has grown different ones, and also the church. Not just in numbers, but in our lives as well. When I listen to the song sang...........thanks choir (for the wonderful "thank you" song), and as I worshipped God, it just really brought a heart that could not express in words "thank you to God" and thank you to the church leadership team, and thank you to all who have been part of my life. I couldn't express that sense of gratitude, and that no matter how much I do, or will provide, it just seems like it is not enough, because all of you have done so much, not just for me, but for the church.
The celebration that we had, not just brought back fond memories, and lots of thank you, but it also demonstrates God's amazing love. Despite a church that is so not perfect, yet God is willing to keep loving and keep preparing. Looking at all the things that have past, and even just this whole organisation of the anniversary, I can only say that it is God's amazing love and grace that has driven us to where we are today. So what can I say..........but to ask you to join with me to THANK GOD for all.
And I just want to say thank you for all who has put in the hard work for the church
And as well, thank God for the whole events team for anniversary, who has been gracriously patience, helpful and willing to go the extra mile. You have made a difference :)
Saturday, September 20, 2008
When God says "No"
One by one He took them from me,
All the things I valued most,
Until I was empty-handed;
Every glittering toy was lost.
And I walked earth's highways, grieving,
In my rags and poverty.
Till I heard His voice inviting,
"Lift those empty hands to Me!"
So I held my hands towards Heaven,
And He filled them with a store
Of His own transcendent riches
Till they could contain no more.
And at last I comprehended
With my stupid mind and dull,
That God could not pour His riches
Into hands already full!
Not sure what this poem may mean to you, but it is a lesson that I am constantly learning as a Christian. As a child of God, we constantly seek God, and ask from Him, but yet we go to Him with so much in our hands, expecting that we can carry more, expecting more, not realising that God is asking us to drop and let go of somethings, so that He can bless us with the best.
I realise that when we come before God, seeking Him and praying to Him, asking Him to provide, asking Him to bless, we didn't do the part to first seek Him and His heart first. Because if we have, and when God says "no" to us, we'll understand. We'll not blame God when the things don't happen the way we plan it. We'll not be upset and disappointed with God, because we know that He has something greater in store for us.
I was reading about David; YES, David, my favourite character in the Bible....Again, learning from Him. I am sure His heart must have pained so much when God told Him, that it is not for Him to build the house for the ark of God, but it will be his son, Solomon. Imagine that, at that point, I'm sure David had thought through how he will want to so very much be the one to build the temple of God, probably even wanting to be that master builder, planning and thinking, and even strategising. And then at the point of seeking God, God gently says "no" (2 Samuel 7:12-13 & 2 Chronicles 6:7-9). I'm sure for many of us, we tend to wrestle so much with God, when He says "no" to your dream at that point. But do we realise the heart of God when He says no.
If we learn from David, we realise that there is so much humility in Him towards God, His response is one that is of surrender unto God, saying to God "Who am I" to say that it is me who will build Your temple. Wow........read 2 Samuel 7:18-20, and again verses 22-29. It brought up the deep humility of David to not just obey, but even support God, even when He did not fully understand. I'm sure we feel that at times, what we want to do for God........it is so great to be able to "build that temple for God". It is for God, but why did God say "no". I'm sure David did not fully understand, but he choose to support and run with God.
In the times of challenges, changes, we may resist it so much, thinking that God, what I want to do is to glorify your name, and to do something great for you. But ask yourself, what is truly the heart of God for you in this whole situation. Don't just have a mindset of God, I want to do this for you, but rather, God what would you want me to do. God will commend you for what you want to do, but God desires obedience more than sacrifices; so it's not just about what you will do for Him, but would we seek Him for what He wants us to do? That's obedience.
Sometimes I don't understand as well, why I did the things I did, but only know that it was directed by God. Of course as time goes, it came to being to realise that God knows the best :) Alright, let's learn to take God's "No" with great humility, and not great disappointment.
All the things I valued most,
Until I was empty-handed;
Every glittering toy was lost.
And I walked earth's highways, grieving,
In my rags and poverty.
Till I heard His voice inviting,
"Lift those empty hands to Me!"
So I held my hands towards Heaven,
And He filled them with a store
Of His own transcendent riches
Till they could contain no more.
And at last I comprehended
With my stupid mind and dull,
That God could not pour His riches
Into hands already full!
Not sure what this poem may mean to you, but it is a lesson that I am constantly learning as a Christian. As a child of God, we constantly seek God, and ask from Him, but yet we go to Him with so much in our hands, expecting that we can carry more, expecting more, not realising that God is asking us to drop and let go of somethings, so that He can bless us with the best.
I realise that when we come before God, seeking Him and praying to Him, asking Him to provide, asking Him to bless, we didn't do the part to first seek Him and His heart first. Because if we have, and when God says "no" to us, we'll understand. We'll not blame God when the things don't happen the way we plan it. We'll not be upset and disappointed with God, because we know that He has something greater in store for us.
I was reading about David; YES, David, my favourite character in the Bible....Again, learning from Him. I am sure His heart must have pained so much when God told Him, that it is not for Him to build the house for the ark of God, but it will be his son, Solomon. Imagine that, at that point, I'm sure David had thought through how he will want to so very much be the one to build the temple of God, probably even wanting to be that master builder, planning and thinking, and even strategising. And then at the point of seeking God, God gently says "no" (2 Samuel 7:12-13 & 2 Chronicles 6:7-9). I'm sure for many of us, we tend to wrestle so much with God, when He says "no" to your dream at that point. But do we realise the heart of God when He says no.
If we learn from David, we realise that there is so much humility in Him towards God, His response is one that is of surrender unto God, saying to God "Who am I" to say that it is me who will build Your temple. Wow........read 2 Samuel 7:18-20, and again verses 22-29. It brought up the deep humility of David to not just obey, but even support God, even when He did not fully understand. I'm sure we feel that at times, what we want to do for God........it is so great to be able to "build that temple for God". It is for God, but why did God say "no". I'm sure David did not fully understand, but he choose to support and run with God.
In the times of challenges, changes, we may resist it so much, thinking that God, what I want to do is to glorify your name, and to do something great for you. But ask yourself, what is truly the heart of God for you in this whole situation. Don't just have a mindset of God, I want to do this for you, but rather, God what would you want me to do. God will commend you for what you want to do, but God desires obedience more than sacrifices; so it's not just about what you will do for Him, but would we seek Him for what He wants us to do? That's obedience.
Sometimes I don't understand as well, why I did the things I did, but only know that it was directed by God. Of course as time goes, it came to being to realise that God knows the best :) Alright, let's learn to take God's "No" with great humility, and not great disappointment.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Communicating for Life Change
This is what I want to do .......... I want to be able to communicate and impart in a way, that will be life changing for people. Since young, when I hear speakers, the ones whom I will remember will be the ones who have spoken something that has "awaken" me that caused me to have a life changing experience. I'm not sure if that's for you, but it is for me. Even for teachers in my primary and secondary school. The ones who impacted me most, are not the ones who praise me and give me good marks. But they are the ones who have spoken LIFE into me, and spoken ENCOURAGEMENT into me, and have INSPIRED me to higher heights. They are the ones whom I remember distinctly because they have changed my life. Hahaha........but as I write this, I also realise that I remember clearly the hurting words of some teachers, even way back to Primary school. This goes to show that the words that we speak can build and change life for the better, or it can tear and change life for the worst.
Anyway, I have been reading this book by Andy Stanley and Lane Jones, on "Communicating for a Change". I am challenged to feel that I need to grow in my communication, not for the sake to be a better public speaker, but for the sake of God's Kingdom. I learn that when we communicate, especially the Word of God, it is teaching people about the Bible, not teaching the Bible to the people. (Leave you to ponder on this :) )
And as well............our goal of communication should be to see life change. I learn that it is easy to grow in communication, but it is not easy to be able to communicate and see life change. I realise that there is so much that we need to rely on God, that as we communicate, that we communicate His heart to the people, His heart for the people is something that God desires for His people to know. His love, his grace and His holiness is something that God desires for people to understand and relate. When we teach and share the Word of God, it is not just communicating a knowledge and principle, but it is about imparting the heart of God, so that there can be life change.
I have been pondering upon this for a couple of weeks (that's why I'm reading what I'm reading).....and have been asking God to show me how can I communicate and impart the Word of God that it will bring about life change. I don't just want people to remember what I share (in terms of the knowledge and principle), but I want people to become convicted through the Word that I share, and through that, people can respond to God, and not to me. That will bring life change then. It is not about how well I can "put flowers" into my sharing, but it is about God's spirit and convictions flowing through and into the lives of others.
One thing that truly still resonates in my heart, from the book, is "INTERNALIZE THE MESSAGE". That's when I realise that I need to internalize my message more, not just about memorizing it, but about relating and identifying with it, convicted about it that the sharing comes out like a heart-felt sharing. This brings me to a very clear message, that I need to grow deeper with God, I need to have those personal breakthroughs, that I need to deepen in all those personal convictions, and that comes through the personal time and relationship I have with God. The internalization does not come because I memorize the message. It comes because God brought it to life in you. That is how one can internalize it deeper.
When I look at it, I realise that every time I deliver a sharing or teaching, when the sharing was inspired by God, I found it a lot easier to impart. But when it is brought out through research and preparation, it is a lot harder to impart. And that's when I said to myself, "Joy, it is time to prepare your hearts before God, not before man." And that's when I pray and ask God to show me in those areas, what I need to grow in.
Anyway.......what I want to share with you all today is that even communication is not a skill in itself. It is an empowerment from God, and to communciate for life change, we need to be changed by God too.
Anyway, I have been reading this book by Andy Stanley and Lane Jones, on "Communicating for a Change". I am challenged to feel that I need to grow in my communication, not for the sake to be a better public speaker, but for the sake of God's Kingdom. I learn that when we communicate, especially the Word of God, it is teaching people about the Bible, not teaching the Bible to the people. (Leave you to ponder on this :) )
And as well............our goal of communication should be to see life change. I learn that it is easy to grow in communication, but it is not easy to be able to communicate and see life change. I realise that there is so much that we need to rely on God, that as we communicate, that we communicate His heart to the people, His heart for the people is something that God desires for His people to know. His love, his grace and His holiness is something that God desires for people to understand and relate. When we teach and share the Word of God, it is not just communicating a knowledge and principle, but it is about imparting the heart of God, so that there can be life change.
I have been pondering upon this for a couple of weeks (that's why I'm reading what I'm reading).....and have been asking God to show me how can I communicate and impart the Word of God that it will bring about life change. I don't just want people to remember what I share (in terms of the knowledge and principle), but I want people to become convicted through the Word that I share, and through that, people can respond to God, and not to me. That will bring life change then. It is not about how well I can "put flowers" into my sharing, but it is about God's spirit and convictions flowing through and into the lives of others.
One thing that truly still resonates in my heart, from the book, is "INTERNALIZE THE MESSAGE". That's when I realise that I need to internalize my message more, not just about memorizing it, but about relating and identifying with it, convicted about it that the sharing comes out like a heart-felt sharing. This brings me to a very clear message, that I need to grow deeper with God, I need to have those personal breakthroughs, that I need to deepen in all those personal convictions, and that comes through the personal time and relationship I have with God. The internalization does not come because I memorize the message. It comes because God brought it to life in you. That is how one can internalize it deeper.
When I look at it, I realise that every time I deliver a sharing or teaching, when the sharing was inspired by God, I found it a lot easier to impart. But when it is brought out through research and preparation, it is a lot harder to impart. And that's when I said to myself, "Joy, it is time to prepare your hearts before God, not before man." And that's when I pray and ask God to show me in those areas, what I need to grow in.
Anyway.......what I want to share with you all today is that even communication is not a skill in itself. It is an empowerment from God, and to communciate for life change, we need to be changed by God too.
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