Year 2008 is near its end, and as i look back these past 12 months... i really want to affirm a few people in the family of SP unit...
I will go by caregroups... and the first on the firing squad.. sorry sorry, affirmation list... is SP.... 3!
I wanna affirm this caregroup of old men for being sacrificial and serving, for they have went down to nexus to prepare the decorations for yesterday's service! Even though u all are being chosen by Colin to participate in this ministry, i believe that without a strong will and burning desire to serve God, u all wont be there already loh.
I also wanna affirm you all for having the right attitude, when you all bring cardboards to nexus while travelling on public transport. In other people's eyes this seems embarassing, but you all showed the correct attitude and focus by putting God's work first! And another thing that i observed is that you all are patient and didnt flare up during arguments while doing the decorations. Its really, really a joy serving with all of you! Thank God for you, brothers!
Now lets get a bit more specific....
Firstly, i wan to affirm Shawn!
Even though you are having a busy time with your fyp and stuffs but you still manage to keep coming down to do decorations, no matter how tired you are. Your spirit and attitude in doing the decorations is indeed a motivation for the rest of us. And i can see how joyful you are when the decorations were finally completed! And our work is not in vain! See how much enjoyment the decorations bring to the visitors! And i also wan to thank you for stretching out a helping hand whenever you are being called to! Your regular initiativeness and humble serving is something that we should learn from! Thank God for your willingness to serve! Amen!
(Psalm 18:29)
With your help I can advance against a troop ; with my God I can scale a wall.
And next is Soh Yi Heng!
I will say that of all the rest in the caregroup, you are one of the most regular and punctual member of the decoration team! And that reflects your heart attitude and desire towards the work of the decorations. You are someone who can be avaliable and easily approachable for any kind of enquiries and questions, which makes you a good advisor and brother. Your word knowledge helps in giving advices and rebuking too. Even though you are the NO. 1 target for tricks and mischieves from the unit people, you are still tolerant and patient with us. And of cause, your initiative and courage (?) for starting the ball rolling every caregroup and meetings. Thank you for your heart, attitude and patience!
Next is Han hong!
The "silent killer"! Hahaha. I affirm you for being sacrificial, lending your home for caregroup sessions after we lost our SPHQ. Not to mention the guitar lessons too! You have also displayed hospitality while we were at your home, and i believed that we have much joy despite only a few times there. I also wan to affirm your mildness and following-ness, for you are easy to talk to, and always ok with anyone's decisions! You are also quite open with your life, and that helps us to grow as we look out for one another. Perhaps you can begin to offer more opinions, decisions and your own stand. Because when everyone puts in their thoughts and ideas together, a better plan will be formulated! Be courageous!
Now... Zhan hong!
Thank God for you in helping us with the decorations! And i really wan to affirm you for serving God using your creative talents! God equipped you with nimble hands and creative skills, and you have certainly showed us what you can do. I can remember the games session i planned with you and Lai teng, and the piece of instruction that you TYPED and PRINTED out! It just shows how much you value your work! Keep up with this spirit of excellence! I also want to affirm you for coming for service secretly even though it is risky for you. You have shown your desire to know God more, but take heart (Ai Zai), distractions and limitations are nothing compared to what Jesus can do! Pray for Him to show you a way out, and i am veri sure that you will be free! Take heart and Have Faith, brother!
(Matthew 5:14-15)
You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
And Vincent!
Hahaha. The little boy with the childlike faith in Christ! Indeed, your words and actions have often express your deep and strong faith in God! You always seem so cheerful and joyful, even when deep down you might be facing some problems. And also during testimony time, you will speak with such genuinity and excitement in your eyes that encourages the rest to experience God more! I wanna encourage you to use your influence to impart more faith in people around you! Continue to live the love of God in your life!
And lastly... Yong Xiang!
You have changed a lot ever since you accepted Christ and joined the SP unit! I believe many people can testify to that. And i wan to affirm you for being serving when you come to help out in decorations regularly! Also wan to thank you for your initiative in meeting up with Jorghi, and helping me to contact my sheep when he came back from overseas! Keep up the good work yea, and i believe God will pour more blessings unto you! On the other hand, you need to refocus and surrender that part of your life to God. There's time still for repentance, and i hope that you will make the right decisions soon, for time is an invaluable resource, once used or wasted you will never get it back. May God guide your ways. Amen.
Sunday 28 December 2008
Thursday 25 December 2008
Christmas Service!
Wahaha... just back from steamboat at chinatown and Christmas Service at The Rock Auditorium! It was a super fruitful time for me, cos i feel renewed in my relationship with Christ! The drama team put on a short performance, yet the power within the message is strong! It just reminds me of how much God loves me and everyone else. Indeed, God's love is the centre of everything that we are living for! Praise You O God!
Today is Christmas day, so i wish everyone a Merry Christmas! Even though times might not be so optimistic, but in God we have hope, we have faith, and we have trust in Him whose plans and promises will always hold true! That alone is enough for us to be joyful about.
(John 3:16)
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
I felt that something is going to happen. Something not nice, a period of testing and trials are awaiting me.... And then i remembered this incident in the Bible...
Jesus Calms the Storm
(Matthew 8:23-27)
Then he got into the boat and his disciples followed him. Without warning, a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him, saying, "Lord, save us! We're going to drown!"
He replied, "You of little faith, why are you so afraid?" Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm.
The men were amazed and asked, "What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!"
The storm here symbolises a problem; a major problem in life that you might face. As we follow God, problems still exist in life. Sometimes, they could brew into a widescale storm that threatens to bring down your life and everything that you hold dear for.
Yet, as this incident shows, when we call out to God, when we share and pray to God for deliverance, God will answer us. He will "calm our storm". Yet, when we ask God for deliverance, we must have faith in Him to answer our prayers. A prayer made without faith is meaningless mumblings.
O but we are only men! Sinners! Doubt always rise its ugly head whenever faith is in the picture; Especially when we are being struck right in the face by a big big problem. A big problem always test our level of faith.
Yet with a little faith, God still helps us. It is His promise.
(Matthew 17:20)
He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
See how much God loves us?
Even when we are far from Him, He is already extending His hand to reach us
Even when we, sinners, cry out to Him, He saves us.
Even when we sinners doubt about Him, He still delivers us, inspite of our little faith.
This is my God! He is the Most High, the One who create all things.
Yet He listens to the cries of a particular type of creation He created.
Us.
Today is Christmas day, so i wish everyone a Merry Christmas! Even though times might not be so optimistic, but in God we have hope, we have faith, and we have trust in Him whose plans and promises will always hold true! That alone is enough for us to be joyful about.
(John 3:16)
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
I felt that something is going to happen. Something not nice, a period of testing and trials are awaiting me.... And then i remembered this incident in the Bible...
Jesus Calms the Storm
(Matthew 8:23-27)
Then he got into the boat and his disciples followed him. Without warning, a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him, saying, "Lord, save us! We're going to drown!"
He replied, "You of little faith, why are you so afraid?" Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm.
The men were amazed and asked, "What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!"
The storm here symbolises a problem; a major problem in life that you might face. As we follow God, problems still exist in life. Sometimes, they could brew into a widescale storm that threatens to bring down your life and everything that you hold dear for.
Yet, as this incident shows, when we call out to God, when we share and pray to God for deliverance, God will answer us. He will "calm our storm". Yet, when we ask God for deliverance, we must have faith in Him to answer our prayers. A prayer made without faith is meaningless mumblings.
O but we are only men! Sinners! Doubt always rise its ugly head whenever faith is in the picture; Especially when we are being struck right in the face by a big big problem. A big problem always test our level of faith.
Yet with a little faith, God still helps us. It is His promise.
(Matthew 17:20)
He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
See how much God loves us?
Even when we are far from Him, He is already extending His hand to reach us
Even when we, sinners, cry out to Him, He saves us.
Even when we sinners doubt about Him, He still delivers us, inspite of our little faith.
This is my God! He is the Most High, the One who create all things.
Yet He listens to the cries of a particular type of creation He created.
Us.
Sunday 21 December 2008
24th Dec ESS
This is "The Gift" Christmas special service @ the Rock Auditorium in Suntec! It will be held on 24 December (which is this wednesday!) and SP unit will be there for the 5-7pm slot. Let us find out what the "gift" really is, this Christmas!A gift is something that can only to be received, or rejected. It is not by asking or procuring, but rather willingly given by someone to another person. Gifts can come in many forms, quality, price. Some are simple and not expensive, while others are expensive and striking. No matter what type of gifts they are, I believe everyone has received a gift that is memorable, or something that really strikes the core of the individual's heart. Now ask this question to yourself, what is the best gift you ever had.... until now?
Revived memories
Today was a fine day really... Spend some quality time in nexus for the special service preached by Michael. Indeed men can never be satisfied by possessions alone, and in the long run they will seek out much more material goods to curb their desires...
I personally wan to affirm my 2 sheeps! Both of you have done well, coming for service and being early for lunch... Really glad to see you all changing for the better! Keep it up! :)
After service the unit went to istana park for a round of fellowship and knowing our visitors. And that was when i saw a dragonfly on the ground, unable to get up. It suddenly reminded me of a sec 3 outing in malaysia...
It was a geography field trip which promises us to learn more about physical geog (Trees, forest, crops..) although all i can remember is the good times spent with classmates. And one interesting part of the trip was watching fireflies in a dark place wif no lights.
I remembered the atmosphere, the beauty of the fireflies in the dark, like shimmering sheet of tiny lights. But the thing that reminded me when i saw the dying dragonfly at istana park was one of a miracle, a miracle that a harden heart during that time wont acknowledge.
It was a dying firefly. The light in the firefly was burning out, and somehow u can see that it is near its lifespan. However, my geog teacher and some other chers went to pick it up, and noticing how jia lat the firefly's condition is, decided to 'revive' it. (i dunno wad they do, and when i was observing i was telling myself "sure die liao la, help also no use".
But moments later, the firefly's fire (get it?) somehow get back into its body, and it miraculously revived and fly again. My geog teacher was so excited that she came and told me how wonderful God is.
Too bad a hardened heart will never listen, even in the face of a impossible miracle.
Sometimes it is indeed wonderful to have a "rear-view" mirror, and look at the things that God did even when u have not come and acknowledge His sovereignity in your life. Rethink some of your past, and see how God has impacted your life until now. For me, its really amazing.
I personally wan to affirm my 2 sheeps! Both of you have done well, coming for service and being early for lunch... Really glad to see you all changing for the better! Keep it up! :)
After service the unit went to istana park for a round of fellowship and knowing our visitors. And that was when i saw a dragonfly on the ground, unable to get up. It suddenly reminded me of a sec 3 outing in malaysia...
It was a geography field trip which promises us to learn more about physical geog (Trees, forest, crops..) although all i can remember is the good times spent with classmates. And one interesting part of the trip was watching fireflies in a dark place wif no lights.
I remembered the atmosphere, the beauty of the fireflies in the dark, like shimmering sheet of tiny lights. But the thing that reminded me when i saw the dying dragonfly at istana park was one of a miracle, a miracle that a harden heart during that time wont acknowledge.
It was a dying firefly. The light in the firefly was burning out, and somehow u can see that it is near its lifespan. However, my geog teacher and some other chers went to pick it up, and noticing how jia lat the firefly's condition is, decided to 'revive' it. (i dunno wad they do, and when i was observing i was telling myself "sure die liao la, help also no use".
But moments later, the firefly's fire (get it?) somehow get back into its body, and it miraculously revived and fly again. My geog teacher was so excited that she came and told me how wonderful God is.
Too bad a hardened heart will never listen, even in the face of a impossible miracle.
Sometimes it is indeed wonderful to have a "rear-view" mirror, and look at the things that God did even when u have not come and acknowledge His sovereignity in your life. Rethink some of your past, and see how God has impacted your life until now. For me, its really amazing.
Thursday 18 December 2008
20 Dec Pre-Christmas Service!
Woohoo! This is the upcoming pre-Christmas special service in nexus auditorium! There will be a time of skit, carol and sermon preaching! The sermon will be talking about the "richness in life", as you can see from the poster (Key Pleasure Index). Does your joy and pleasure consist of money only? What else brings pleasure to you? Is the pleasure that you get from these things last for long? Find out more during this special service! :)
Thursday 11 December 2008
11 Dec 2008
Thank God for the blessed BBQ yesterday! Even though we don't have much visitors but God blessed us with quality contacts that we can really work upon! Thank God for all the things that He had done for us, and i pray that those contacts will come to know You Jesus!
And yesterday midnight, at exactly 00:00, we celebrated Randall's birthday! Happy birthday Randall! You have been a good sister-in-Christ to me, and thank you for ur sacrifices of ur time that you made for me while i was under your leadership at the earlier parts of this year. I pray that God will bless you greatly as you embark on pioneering in the Middle East, as well as fulfilling your personal goals and aims in life. Have a blessed year as a 2_ year old ya! haha.
Things are going busier for me this holiday, because i am involved in decorations for 2 post-Christmas services. Wah never do this before leh, so i hope to learn more things and know more people through this experience, and may God bless me with enough time and creativity to do something nice for the decorations! Praise You oh God, and may all people be blessed this Christmas! :)
And yesterday midnight, at exactly 00:00, we celebrated Randall's birthday! Happy birthday Randall! You have been a good sister-in-Christ to me, and thank you for ur sacrifices of ur time that you made for me while i was under your leadership at the earlier parts of this year. I pray that God will bless you greatly as you embark on pioneering in the Middle East, as well as fulfilling your personal goals and aims in life. Have a blessed year as a 2_ year old ya! haha.
Things are going busier for me this holiday, because i am involved in decorations for 2 post-Christmas services. Wah never do this before leh, so i hope to learn more things and know more people through this experience, and may God bless me with enough time and creativity to do something nice for the decorations! Praise You oh God, and may all people be blessed this Christmas! :)
Friday 5 December 2008
Dry,DRy,DRY
Though far as You may seem
I always know
You are here with me
Your watchful eyes look upon my life
and Your right hand rescues me
Dry as i may be
With patience waters will spring
In time i shall see
Your glorious appearing
Layer by layer
You clothe me with warmth liketh fire
Brick by brick
You build my foundations and bridge
Stone by stone
You made my refuge and home
Stroke by stroke
You took away the sins of my soul
I always know
You are here with me
Your watchful eyes look upon my life
and Your right hand rescues me
Dry as i may be
With patience waters will spring
In time i shall see
Your glorious appearing
Layer by layer
You clothe me with warmth liketh fire
Brick by brick
You build my foundations and bridge
Stone by stone
You made my refuge and home
Stroke by stroke
You took away the sins of my soul
Monday 1 December 2008
Most High
oh Lord my God,
How unfailing is Your Love for us!
You saved us from our sins,
our shame, and our fruit of transgressions.
Oh Lord,
Thank You for what You have done for us,
for we know in all our hearts
we do not deserve what Your Grace provides for us.
Let us consecrate on lives unto You,
And You only,
For You are great and mighty,
Righteous and Just,
You deserve our praise!
May we serve You with all our hearts, Lord,
And may You bless Your people.
Amen.
How unfailing is Your Love for us!
You saved us from our sins,
our shame, and our fruit of transgressions.
Oh Lord,
Thank You for what You have done for us,
for we know in all our hearts
we do not deserve what Your Grace provides for us.
Let us consecrate on lives unto You,
And You only,
For You are great and mighty,
Righteous and Just,
You deserve our praise!
May we serve You with all our hearts, Lord,
And may You bless Your people.
Amen.
Saturday 29 November 2008
Wednesday 26 November 2008
Perseverence in midst of Temptations
The dry period has gone, and now springs of water return to the desert land!
Hahaha... Yesterday was a fruitful day with the Lord! I ended class at 2pm, which was quite early.. and since i have nothing much to do on hand, i decided to spend my time serving God by doing survey in school. And while i was about to do it, i found out that i am alone since i ended class so early.
Wah.. Sian~ i never go do survey by myself one lor... and its kind of scary to go alone to talk to people u dunno and ask them do survey.. haha. But God provided me with courage and strength and coolness (the weather VERI hot ah!) and within half an hour there i am.. walking around SP from Main Lib to FC5 (the food there veri tempting ah.. i am fasting..) and back to main lib again.. And i found that there wasnt much people to approach... cos everyone was in groups either studying or playing games...
I retreated to Main Lib level 5... and stone there for a while thinking and at the same time enjoying air con.... Feel like going home and slp... or play game or watch tv...
And that's when God suddenly reminded me about persevering, and not letting the temptation of comforts at home... He told me to go out and try again... and in my heart there's this trust that assured me and strong enough to push me out of lib again... Trust, and be confident in the Lord your Jehovah Jireh!
And ya i was out of the lib.. the weather was still quite hot... and after a few steps away from the lib i spotted one guy sitting near the study area... and he's by himself...
i initially dont want to approach him.... he looks a bit old to me.. haha... but well... God reminded me again of why am i doing survey... and yes i do believe that every single soul is important to God! So i bucked up a bit.. and approach the guy to do survey...
he turned out to be a Year One Student! Wah! its really surprising at that time.. and i keep thanking God in my heart, for that person is responsive and open....
The Harvest is near
The farmer prepares his sickle
Workers! Get moving!
Your Master is ready to reap the earth
and new wineskins are badly in need
Will you join in the Harvest?
Praise the Lord for his mercy and grace! Amen!
Hahaha... Yesterday was a fruitful day with the Lord! I ended class at 2pm, which was quite early.. and since i have nothing much to do on hand, i decided to spend my time serving God by doing survey in school. And while i was about to do it, i found out that i am alone since i ended class so early.
Wah.. Sian~ i never go do survey by myself one lor... and its kind of scary to go alone to talk to people u dunno and ask them do survey.. haha. But God provided me with courage and strength and coolness (the weather VERI hot ah!) and within half an hour there i am.. walking around SP from Main Lib to FC5 (the food there veri tempting ah.. i am fasting..) and back to main lib again.. And i found that there wasnt much people to approach... cos everyone was in groups either studying or playing games...
I retreated to Main Lib level 5... and stone there for a while thinking and at the same time enjoying air con.... Feel like going home and slp... or play game or watch tv...
And that's when God suddenly reminded me about persevering, and not letting the temptation of comforts at home... He told me to go out and try again... and in my heart there's this trust that assured me and strong enough to push me out of lib again... Trust, and be confident in the Lord your Jehovah Jireh!
And ya i was out of the lib.. the weather was still quite hot... and after a few steps away from the lib i spotted one guy sitting near the study area... and he's by himself...
i initially dont want to approach him.... he looks a bit old to me.. haha... but well... God reminded me again of why am i doing survey... and yes i do believe that every single soul is important to God! So i bucked up a bit.. and approach the guy to do survey...
he turned out to be a Year One Student! Wah! its really surprising at that time.. and i keep thanking God in my heart, for that person is responsive and open....
The Harvest is near
The farmer prepares his sickle
Workers! Get moving!
Your Master is ready to reap the earth
and new wineskins are badly in need
Will you join in the Harvest?
Praise the Lord for his mercy and grace! Amen!
Monday 17 November 2008
Week-in-review
It was an interesting week last week...
First on the list is Saturday's service. We got a special guest speaker, Mr Brendan Kirby. He got a Ph.D in some chim chim science thing and currently working for the Australian Defence department. Wah the sermon that he delivers is indeed very chim, and just like what he admitted, it was like a science lecture. He went through the beginning of galaxy, to bio stuffs like formation of protein in the body. It was very scientific and technical, yet it shows that the world and everything that is in it is being CREATED rather then some 'evolution' theory. Praise God for his interesting sermon! Hope to see more such special sermons in church.
"Science is a finite way of defining an infinite God" - quote from John Paul "the pope"
Then on Sunday, some of the brothers went to play basketball in school. Not bad la, the weather was quite good, and i believed everyone enjoyed the time of fellowship there. Let's hope that during this coming December holiday, we can plan a mega game event! Perhaps in Sentosa? :)
First on the list is Saturday's service. We got a special guest speaker, Mr Brendan Kirby. He got a Ph.D in some chim chim science thing and currently working for the Australian Defence department. Wah the sermon that he delivers is indeed very chim, and just like what he admitted, it was like a science lecture. He went through the beginning of galaxy, to bio stuffs like formation of protein in the body. It was very scientific and technical, yet it shows that the world and everything that is in it is being CREATED rather then some 'evolution' theory. Praise God for his interesting sermon! Hope to see more such special sermons in church.
"Science is a finite way of defining an infinite God" - quote from John Paul "the pope"
Then on Sunday, some of the brothers went to play basketball in school. Not bad la, the weather was quite good, and i believed everyone enjoyed the time of fellowship there. Let's hope that during this coming December holiday, we can plan a mega game event! Perhaps in Sentosa? :)
Tuesday 11 November 2008
.............
Deliver me O Lord
I can't stand it any longer
You have shown me the consequences
Of my follyness
You have broken my heart
For what had broken yours
Yet the wrench of my heart
Is more than i can bear
Deliver me O Lord
From this consuming distress
Where thoughts come in swarms
And block out every source of light
Have mercy and grace upon me
O Lord
For you have promised good to me
Do not forsake me now
O God
Let my eyes not set on desires
And my heart turn towards you
And my memories remind me of Your love
Deliver me
O God...
I can't stand it any longer
You have shown me the consequences
Of my follyness
You have broken my heart
For what had broken yours
Yet the wrench of my heart
Is more than i can bear
Deliver me O Lord
From this consuming distress
Where thoughts come in swarms
And block out every source of light
Have mercy and grace upon me
O Lord
For you have promised good to me
Do not forsake me now
O God
Let my eyes not set on desires
And my heart turn towards you
And my memories remind me of Your love
Deliver me
O God...
Friday 7 November 2008
Rumblings? Maybe
Hmmm... nothing much happen this week.. just that things are piling up, and struggling with some stupid stuffs.. Haiz... Die ah, getting emo already sia..... ZZZzZzZzZZzzZ
Never mind... Let me share a story....................................
_________________________________________________________
A man saw a majestic mountain in the east, and said to his confidante: "i will climb that mountain in the fourth month on the thirtieth day. Do you have any advice to tell me?"
His confidante replied: "Do not climb the mountain. It is too much a risk for an attempt. You have been warned, fire and brimstone will soon come and consume the mountain and everything that is in it. If you lay a foot on its earth, you might regret it in time to come." His father also discourages him to do so, but the man always kept the idea in his mind.
After continual thoughts, he came to a conclusion, "Never mind what they say. I know myself best. I know that i am in control of myself. I will reach the mountain, and be enthralled by the splendid view on its top." Therefore, the man set forth on his journey on that designated day with full confidence.
The journey to the mountain top took the man a month to complete, and for the next 3 months he was in the mountain, being attracted to every sight and sound that the mountain offers to him, and he was pleased with what he saw. The mountain provided the man forms of sustainence, fruits from fruit-bearing trees, and honey from honeycombs, among many others. He was satisfied and joyful for what he experienced.
Just as the man prepares to stay for another month in the mountains, he noticed that several orange clouds have filled the skies above. The foreboding signs of what terrible things to come has crippled him with fear, and with a sense of emergency he evacuated from the mountain in a hurry.
He barely made it to the foot of the mountain when fire and brimstone fell and consumed the entire mountain and its surroundings. He did not escape unscathed; Some parts of his body were covered with burns. His left arm was wounded quite badly; the surrounding skin was charred and red. These will eventually be permanent reminders of his folly, as scars for the rest of his life.
The man fell into deep sadness and regretted being prideful and rebellious, and was prepared to face the bleakness of his life with a scarred left arm. His confidante tried to console him, but it wasn't effective.
His father, seeing the child returning with wounds, did not condemn him of being rebellious; nor did he rain questions on his son about his decision.
His heart breaks for what he has seen; the pathetic state of life of his own child.
One morning, the child awakes to find that his scarred left arm is being covered with a new layer of skin. But where did the skin come from?
He get up from his bed, and finds his father at the dining table. That's when he realised that the skin is actually from...................... the father's left arm. His father, not wanting to let his child live the remainder of his life with a badly scarred left arm, actually took his own skin to cover the ugliness of the child's arm. His compassion for his child drives him to sacrifice his own skin to cover the scars of the latter.
_________________________________________________________
Its true that we have to face consequences of our choices; sometimes good but mostly bad (that's why "consequences" is kind of negative). Yet we need to remember that we don't face it alone. There's someone out there who always share not only our pain and sadness, but also joy and happiness.
:)
Never mind... Let me share a story....................................
_________________________________________________________
A man saw a majestic mountain in the east, and said to his confidante: "i will climb that mountain in the fourth month on the thirtieth day. Do you have any advice to tell me?"
His confidante replied: "Do not climb the mountain. It is too much a risk for an attempt. You have been warned, fire and brimstone will soon come and consume the mountain and everything that is in it. If you lay a foot on its earth, you might regret it in time to come." His father also discourages him to do so, but the man always kept the idea in his mind.
After continual thoughts, he came to a conclusion, "Never mind what they say. I know myself best. I know that i am in control of myself. I will reach the mountain, and be enthralled by the splendid view on its top." Therefore, the man set forth on his journey on that designated day with full confidence.
The journey to the mountain top took the man a month to complete, and for the next 3 months he was in the mountain, being attracted to every sight and sound that the mountain offers to him, and he was pleased with what he saw. The mountain provided the man forms of sustainence, fruits from fruit-bearing trees, and honey from honeycombs, among many others. He was satisfied and joyful for what he experienced.
Just as the man prepares to stay for another month in the mountains, he noticed that several orange clouds have filled the skies above. The foreboding signs of what terrible things to come has crippled him with fear, and with a sense of emergency he evacuated from the mountain in a hurry.
He barely made it to the foot of the mountain when fire and brimstone fell and consumed the entire mountain and its surroundings. He did not escape unscathed; Some parts of his body were covered with burns. His left arm was wounded quite badly; the surrounding skin was charred and red. These will eventually be permanent reminders of his folly, as scars for the rest of his life.
The man fell into deep sadness and regretted being prideful and rebellious, and was prepared to face the bleakness of his life with a scarred left arm. His confidante tried to console him, but it wasn't effective.
His father, seeing the child returning with wounds, did not condemn him of being rebellious; nor did he rain questions on his son about his decision.
His heart breaks for what he has seen; the pathetic state of life of his own child.
One morning, the child awakes to find that his scarred left arm is being covered with a new layer of skin. But where did the skin come from?
He get up from his bed, and finds his father at the dining table. That's when he realised that the skin is actually from...................... the father's left arm. His father, not wanting to let his child live the remainder of his life with a badly scarred left arm, actually took his own skin to cover the ugliness of the child's arm. His compassion for his child drives him to sacrifice his own skin to cover the scars of the latter.
_________________________________________________________
Its true that we have to face consequences of our choices; sometimes good but mostly bad (that's why "consequences" is kind of negative). Yet we need to remember that we don't face it alone. There's someone out there who always share not only our pain and sadness, but also joy and happiness.
:)
Wednesday 29 October 2008
Updates!
These few days passed eventfully...
Let's start with sunday: Sports day in school. Kinda fun because quite a lot of people turned up for it, around 8 in all. Had a good time of fellowship and interaction. Thank God for everyone who turned up. :)
Share a testimony here. While i was on the way to school, the sky had darkened and it looked like it will rain. However, by the grace of God, He answered the prayers and the rain only fell by tiny droplets 2 hours after we started the games. Praise God for adjusting the weather in our favour!
When i reach home, i heard someone playing the song "The time has come" by planetshakers. Wah feel veri joyful about it sia, cos it shows more and more people are coming to acknowledge their identity in Christ! Some more its in my neighbourhood! Praise God for all that He had done, is doing, and will be doing in our lives!
The unit had steamboat on Monday. It was a great time of interaction between the two genders (possibly of a third) and thank God for the affirmations from the sisters. Really very creative and well done! And also wanna affirm the guys who put up a crazy show for the sisters, even though most of us are not completely willing in participating before the actual thing.
I lost some money while on the way home. At first kind of sian-ed, but God reminded me of someone in the Bible, his name is J-O-B, Mr Job. Job was Bill Gates of the Old Testament, he owned a lot of cattles and sheeps. When God allowed Satan to take away everything that Job possessed, Job replied, "Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised." (Job 1:21)
Indeed, sometimes we are sad, depressed or angry when certain problems befall upon us, and we may react like Job's wife, who asks Job to "curse God and die." But, we should always have this understanding that whatever possessions we have, it belonged to God. Even our lives, our souls. God is the sole Creator who gave so freely to us, even His own son. Do we offer thanksgiving to God for everything that He had provided us with? Moreover, do we give freely to others as well, when we are receiving freely from God Himself?
This week will continue to be a busy week. Randall and Joella are going Dubai this friday night, so let us do what we can to encourage and affirm them their decision on making the trip! After that, its someone's birthday this saturday, look out for it! :)
God bless!
Let's start with sunday: Sports day in school. Kinda fun because quite a lot of people turned up for it, around 8 in all. Had a good time of fellowship and interaction. Thank God for everyone who turned up. :)
Share a testimony here. While i was on the way to school, the sky had darkened and it looked like it will rain. However, by the grace of God, He answered the prayers and the rain only fell by tiny droplets 2 hours after we started the games. Praise God for adjusting the weather in our favour!
When i reach home, i heard someone playing the song "The time has come" by planetshakers. Wah feel veri joyful about it sia, cos it shows more and more people are coming to acknowledge their identity in Christ! Some more its in my neighbourhood! Praise God for all that He had done, is doing, and will be doing in our lives!
The unit had steamboat on Monday. It was a great time of interaction between the two genders (possibly of a third) and thank God for the affirmations from the sisters. Really very creative and well done! And also wanna affirm the guys who put up a crazy show for the sisters, even though most of us are not completely willing in participating before the actual thing.
I lost some money while on the way home. At first kind of sian-ed, but God reminded me of someone in the Bible, his name is J-O-B, Mr Job. Job was Bill Gates of the Old Testament, he owned a lot of cattles and sheeps. When God allowed Satan to take away everything that Job possessed, Job replied, "Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised." (Job 1:21)
Indeed, sometimes we are sad, depressed or angry when certain problems befall upon us, and we may react like Job's wife, who asks Job to "curse God and die." But, we should always have this understanding that whatever possessions we have, it belonged to God. Even our lives, our souls. God is the sole Creator who gave so freely to us, even His own son. Do we offer thanksgiving to God for everything that He had provided us with? Moreover, do we give freely to others as well, when we are receiving freely from God Himself?
This week will continue to be a busy week. Randall and Joella are going Dubai this friday night, so let us do what we can to encourage and affirm them their decision on making the trip! After that, its someone's birthday this saturday, look out for it! :)
God bless!
Saturday 25 October 2008
Shepherding!
I had shepherding today afternoon, at some ulu corner in fc1 with my dear shepherd. It was a fruitful one, as i learn quite a bit of things from her. Ya just to share a bit of stuffs that she told me to prepare and take note of...
1) Discouragement
We are currently in the harvest season. As we go around sowing or inviting in the campus, we might face some discouragement, and possibly from all sides as we continue to do our work. Discouragement has an adverse effect on the morale of the sowers; an army cannot fight well when their morale is low, and most probably they will end up losing as the battle drags on.
So, what should discouraged people do? As mentioned by Ps. Jeff last week, one way to stay encouraged despite facing discouragements is to stick with encouraging people. Encouraging people are not necessarily people who can identify with your problems/discouragements. They NEED to be able to offer proper advices and encouragements that will provide a way out for you during dire situations. Examples of such people include your spiritual buddies. Remember, we are being put into the same unit, same church by God. All of us are here for a reason, and i believe we can help each other grow and strengthen our faith in God, for the Lord encourages unity. Pick up anyone who has fallen, for we are not gonna leave anyone behind.
(2 Samuel 10:11-12)
(Proverbs 27:17)
As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.
(Ephesians 4:2-3, 15-16)
Another source, which is essentially more important in deterring discouragement for all believers, is God himself. There will be times in our spiritual walk when we find ourselves in distress, whether its from discouragements or emotions or bad experiences. We try to find someone to share, to divulge our pain and bitterness amidst the suffering we endure, but we couldn't find the right person, or anyone for that matter. It sounds like a double whammy, a perfect tragedy for such coincidence that all conditions form together and you are being left alone to endure your troubles in solitude. Indeed, those times were bad, and painful. But as children of God, we have an ultimate refuge in Jesus himself.
Imagine this: Little kids are enduring a thunderstorm. When they are overcome with fear, they will run to their parents and hide inside their parent's embrace. Did the storm go away immediately? No. But the kids run to their parents, because they knew they will find comfort and refuge inside their parent's arms. Just like us who may be weathering a storm in our lives right now, are we fearful? Do we feel oppressed? If we do, why don't we run to our Father's arms right now? Seek Him, and you shall find refuge and comfort amidst the loud storms.
(Psalm 18:2)
The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
(Psalm 36:7)
How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings.
(Nahum 1:7)
The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him,
1) Discouragement
We are currently in the harvest season. As we go around sowing or inviting in the campus, we might face some discouragement, and possibly from all sides as we continue to do our work. Discouragement has an adverse effect on the morale of the sowers; an army cannot fight well when their morale is low, and most probably they will end up losing as the battle drags on.
So, what should discouraged people do? As mentioned by Ps. Jeff last week, one way to stay encouraged despite facing discouragements is to stick with encouraging people. Encouraging people are not necessarily people who can identify with your problems/discouragements. They NEED to be able to offer proper advices and encouragements that will provide a way out for you during dire situations. Examples of such people include your spiritual buddies. Remember, we are being put into the same unit, same church by God. All of us are here for a reason, and i believe we can help each other grow and strengthen our faith in God, for the Lord encourages unity. Pick up anyone who has fallen, for we are not gonna leave anyone behind.
(2 Samuel 10:11-12)
(Proverbs 27:17)
As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.
(Ephesians 4:2-3, 15-16)
Another source, which is essentially more important in deterring discouragement for all believers, is God himself. There will be times in our spiritual walk when we find ourselves in distress, whether its from discouragements or emotions or bad experiences. We try to find someone to share, to divulge our pain and bitterness amidst the suffering we endure, but we couldn't find the right person, or anyone for that matter. It sounds like a double whammy, a perfect tragedy for such coincidence that all conditions form together and you are being left alone to endure your troubles in solitude. Indeed, those times were bad, and painful. But as children of God, we have an ultimate refuge in Jesus himself.
Imagine this: Little kids are enduring a thunderstorm. When they are overcome with fear, they will run to their parents and hide inside their parent's embrace. Did the storm go away immediately? No. But the kids run to their parents, because they knew they will find comfort and refuge inside their parent's arms. Just like us who may be weathering a storm in our lives right now, are we fearful? Do we feel oppressed? If we do, why don't we run to our Father's arms right now? Seek Him, and you shall find refuge and comfort amidst the loud storms.
(Psalm 18:2)
The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
(Psalm 36:7)
How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings.
(Nahum 1:7)
The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him,
Thursday 23 October 2008
Growth
Our spiritual growth is just like a thermometer, placed in a cold area where the surrounding temperature is 0 degree Celsius. As we commit ourselves in learning and understanding more about God, we experience spiritual growth, may it be in aspects of faith, trust or desire in God. As a result, our growth sprout upwards, rising just like how the mercury in the thermometer rises in conjunction with rising of surrounding temperature.
However, spiritual growth must be maintained, if not increasing. The moment we fall away, committing less time to God, our growth will stop and thus, becoming stagnant. This stagnancy in growth will bring about a drop in our growth, just like how the thermometer reacts when taken away from a high temperature source. The mercury level will continue to be lowered towards 0 degree Celsius. Therefore, it is important for us to keep growing constantly in the Lord, experiencing growth with Him. Let us always be prepared in serving Him, and guard our hearts towards anything that may distract us.
(Colossians 1:10-12)
And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may 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 joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.
Unit CG!
Wahahaha.... i start a blog liao leh! Ya very late la but that's because i suddenly have an epiphany about the benefits of having a blog. With a blog you can encourage your brothers and sisters-in Christ, as well as sharing some parts of your life with them. Not to mention also to expose some people's secrets and stuffs like that la... Hahaha. I try not to stumble people here ya. :p
Hmmm let's start off with what happened a few hours ago, the unit CG at exHQ carpark. It was a fruitful time of gathering and experiencing God as a unit, and certainly God's presence is there among us! I can feel a deep desire and burden to serve God to a greater extent, and to put nothing but the best efforts for Him! Indeed God has His plans for everyone, and what i am about to undertake in a few week's time will be challenging and tough. But just as what God has been telling me this past few days, HE WILL BE WITH ME. Nothing beats a promise from your father, especially when He is the Almighty. :)
Ya also want to take this time to affirm 2 'mad' people who is in the games planning team with me. Firstly, i will affirm Zhan Hong. Really want to thank God for your serving attitude. Other than making a professional soft copy of the plans for Jorris and the team, i want to thank you for sacrificing your time to meet me in the afternoon, even though you have things to print and fyp stuffs. The efforts you've put in really reflects in the game, which turns out to be fun and exciting. Continue to put God as your forefront priority, for you know that all that you do would not be in vain! You have changed a lot, really, and it is a positive change. Thank you for helping me out with creating this blog also ya.
Next on the firing squad, eh affirmation, is Lai teng. Hmmm... One element that you bring into the planning is your madness. Hahaha. No la, i mean, your creativity. Yup. You are creative in bringing out new and fresh ideas when we got stuck, and come up with some last minute changes to the game's final stage that hypes up the atmosphere of the game. Continue to use your talents and creativity in doing God's work, He will provide plenty of opportunities to let you maximise your fullest potentials de! And also wanna thank you for walking that long long trip from SB to meet us outside FC1, even though you just finished a long and tiring talk.
Its great to see more people getting committed, having the desire and wanting to serve God! To me, its a joyful and encouraging sight. Joyful because what they do shall not be in vain, and encouraging because God's love is spreading in hearts of man! Praise be to God, and i pray that You will bless the unit with an abundant harvest ahead! Let our hearts be prepared, may the serving desire burn strong and lasting in us, and always remember that You Are With Us!
For those who are troubled, or in distress:
(Deuteronomy 31:6)
(Job 23:8-10)
For those who are going to face something big big, may it be evax or any new roles:
(2 Chronicles 20:17)
Hmmm let's start off with what happened a few hours ago, the unit CG at exHQ carpark. It was a fruitful time of gathering and experiencing God as a unit, and certainly God's presence is there among us! I can feel a deep desire and burden to serve God to a greater extent, and to put nothing but the best efforts for Him! Indeed God has His plans for everyone, and what i am about to undertake in a few week's time will be challenging and tough. But just as what God has been telling me this past few days, HE WILL BE WITH ME. Nothing beats a promise from your father, especially when He is the Almighty. :)
Ya also want to take this time to affirm 2 'mad' people who is in the games planning team with me. Firstly, i will affirm Zhan Hong. Really want to thank God for your serving attitude. Other than making a professional soft copy of the plans for Jorris and the team, i want to thank you for sacrificing your time to meet me in the afternoon, even though you have things to print and fyp stuffs. The efforts you've put in really reflects in the game, which turns out to be fun and exciting. Continue to put God as your forefront priority, for you know that all that you do would not be in vain! You have changed a lot, really, and it is a positive change. Thank you for helping me out with creating this blog also ya.
Next on the firing squad, eh affirmation, is Lai teng. Hmmm... One element that you bring into the planning is your madness. Hahaha. No la, i mean, your creativity. Yup. You are creative in bringing out new and fresh ideas when we got stuck, and come up with some last minute changes to the game's final stage that hypes up the atmosphere of the game. Continue to use your talents and creativity in doing God's work, He will provide plenty of opportunities to let you maximise your fullest potentials de! And also wanna thank you for walking that long long trip from SB to meet us outside FC1, even though you just finished a long and tiring talk.
Its great to see more people getting committed, having the desire and wanting to serve God! To me, its a joyful and encouraging sight. Joyful because what they do shall not be in vain, and encouraging because God's love is spreading in hearts of man! Praise be to God, and i pray that You will bless the unit with an abundant harvest ahead! Let our hearts be prepared, may the serving desire burn strong and lasting in us, and always remember that You Are With Us!
For those who are troubled, or in distress:
(Deuteronomy 31:6)
(Job 23:8-10)
For those who are going to face something big big, may it be evax or any new roles:
(2 Chronicles 20:17)
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