11 “Who is like You, O LORD, among the gods?
Who is like You, glorious in holiness,
Fearful in praises, doing wonders?
12 You stretched out Your right hand;
The earth swallowed them.
13 You in Your mercy have led forth
The people whom You have redeemed;
You have guided them in Your strength
To Your holy habitation.
Exodus 15:11-13
Thank God for the year that has gone by. Countless blessing and this mere human just can't remember everything.
It has been a blessed year. God has taught me countless valuable lessons. I believe He has given me much grace, much wisdom in dealing with many issues.
Thank God for campus. Truly towards the end of the year, there has been glimpses of God's hand. And as such I look with anticipation of the new year ahead.
Thank God for the outreach 2 weeks ago. I do pray there are more. I pray that God will in His providence and sovereignity draw unbelievers into campus and bring them into His marvelous light.
Exodus 15 is the song of Moses, sang after the great conquest of the Eygptian army after the parting of the Red Sea and drowning them in one greatest act of nature's greatest miracle to date. The people of God greatly drew encouragement for this evident hand of God. On top of that no nation in recorded history have a mass migration of 2 million people. And God leads.
The mighty hand of God is the greatest encouragement to the greatest number of people. I pray in the new year ahead, may this be true of God in my life and in the lives of the people I know.
I look with great anticipation of what God can do and will do.
May His hand be greatly evident as we march in faith, trusting in God's inherent goodness.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Life is fragile
U walked in a dense forest and you stepped upon layers of leaves that are piled. Layers of decaying leaves.
These are lifeless leaves. Trampled on.
Life like the leaves are fragile.
I just read a blog, a christian girl, just 21...dignosed with cancer just this year in Apr and this morning, she passed away. She chose her orbituary photo just a few days before.
You read posts of hope of recovery to finally the despairing finale that death becomes imminent and a better end when the pain and suffering grew to its height.
The agony and hope, the despair and pain, the longing for healing and recovery, the road cannnot be described, only endured. The look that was once healthy to a sudden quicken degenerating to a sunken hollow due due to the ravages of chemotherapy.
I wonder why, does one have to suffer such intense pain and see the ultimate end as death.
Life is fragile. Suffering if I describe as transient seems to trivalise the pain this girl went through.
Sigh.
The pain and hurts she has endured is never something I can experience.
God as our end. That is what I feel gave her hope.
If it is not God as the end of her destination in this difficult journey, I cannot envision a hope that keeps her.
Life is fragile. Remember your Maker. There is no mistake.
These are lifeless leaves. Trampled on.
Life like the leaves are fragile.
I just read a blog, a christian girl, just 21...dignosed with cancer just this year in Apr and this morning, she passed away. She chose her orbituary photo just a few days before.
You read posts of hope of recovery to finally the despairing finale that death becomes imminent and a better end when the pain and suffering grew to its height.
The agony and hope, the despair and pain, the longing for healing and recovery, the road cannnot be described, only endured. The look that was once healthy to a sudden quicken degenerating to a sunken hollow due due to the ravages of chemotherapy.
I wonder why, does one have to suffer such intense pain and see the ultimate end as death.
Life is fragile. Suffering if I describe as transient seems to trivalise the pain this girl went through.
Sigh.
The pain and hurts she has endured is never something I can experience.
God as our end. That is what I feel gave her hope.
If it is not God as the end of her destination in this difficult journey, I cannot envision a hope that keeps her.
Life is fragile. Remember your Maker. There is no mistake.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Weakness for strength
We often doesn't recognise the sinfulness of sin. The flesh has an allurement that sits itself to overwhelm the whole faculties of human existance with its dominion and its subtle assaults are often steath and silent.
Paul says in him dwell no good thing, meaning he is filled everwhere within himself, the vast influence of sin.
Yet Paul had an evidence of life that is consistently Christ.
Obedience is his life and trust in His life.
This worship is essential for overcoming the flesh. A thirst for His righteousness and a call to holiness of life.
It is a call to mourning and battle. A battle to abandon this no good thing with the Christ's victory with the presence and power of God with you. What better motivation do you need? An exaltation of Christ above all is that key that you must consistently open by the grace of His spirit to allow that wrestling with sin to be conquered by His calvery work of mortifying sin.
Would you, would you allow that?
Paul says in him dwell no good thing, meaning he is filled everwhere within himself, the vast influence of sin.
Yet Paul had an evidence of life that is consistently Christ.
Obedience is his life and trust in His life.
This worship is essential for overcoming the flesh. A thirst for His righteousness and a call to holiness of life.
It is a call to mourning and battle. A battle to abandon this no good thing with the Christ's victory with the presence and power of God with you. What better motivation do you need? An exaltation of Christ above all is that key that you must consistently open by the grace of His spirit to allow that wrestling with sin to be conquered by His calvery work of mortifying sin.
Would you, would you allow that?
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Reflections - Tim Janis
I think this music piece is absolutely brilliant...there is grandeur, serenity and yes reflective...so aptly named as "Reflections"!
Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Monday, November 30, 2009
A new song
I am supposedly to be writing my thesis..but ended up writing a song. Been listening to the Rose a fair bit and reminded of some verses in Isaiah 42:2-4, which reads:
2 He will not shout or cry out,
or raise his voice in the streets.
3 A bruised reed he will not break,
and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out.
In faithfulness he will bring forth justice;
4 he will not falter or be discouraged
till he establishes justice on earth.
In his law the islands will put their hope."
The same text was spoken of by the Lord Jesus Christ in Matthew 12:19-21, which says:
19He will not quarrel or cry out;
no one will hear his voice in the streets.
20A bruised reed he will not break,
and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out,
till he leads justice to victory.
21In his name the nations will put their hope."[a]
After read these verses, I wrote down some words and thoughts and eventually it became a song as I put a tune to it. Thank God for this song coz it is truly a comfort especially in this trying time when I am rushing to complete writing my thesis in impossible time. Today I finally finished the required section and would be submitting to my supervisor later today. I am so glad and thank the Lord for His enduring grace and guidance. There is more to be written but I am grateful as it is now :)
I will do a recording when time permits...Here are the lyrics.
I Will Praise Him
His love can flood the gentle reed
The bruised soul He will uphold
He lights the smouldering wick
As we put our hope in Him
His strength can lead the weak
The blind was made to see
He wipes the tears of despair
As we put our trust in Him
Chorus
I will praise Him, I exalt Him
I will sing. His wondrous works
again
I will lift my voice, I will live
To show the Lord is my
love song
His Spirit searches my heart
The pain He comfort and heals
He leads every trial to victory
As we put our hope in Him
His wisdom commands my way
The path to take, He will lead
He is the beacon in the darkness
As we put our trust in Him
2 He will not shout or cry out,
or raise his voice in the streets.
3 A bruised reed he will not break,
and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out.
In faithfulness he will bring forth justice;
4 he will not falter or be discouraged
till he establishes justice on earth.
In his law the islands will put their hope."
The same text was spoken of by the Lord Jesus Christ in Matthew 12:19-21, which says:
19He will not quarrel or cry out;
no one will hear his voice in the streets.
20A bruised reed he will not break,
and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out,
till he leads justice to victory.
21In his name the nations will put their hope."[a]
After read these verses, I wrote down some words and thoughts and eventually it became a song as I put a tune to it. Thank God for this song coz it is truly a comfort especially in this trying time when I am rushing to complete writing my thesis in impossible time. Today I finally finished the required section and would be submitting to my supervisor later today. I am so glad and thank the Lord for His enduring grace and guidance. There is more to be written but I am grateful as it is now :)
I will do a recording when time permits...Here are the lyrics.
I Will Praise Him
His love can flood the gentle reed
The bruised soul He will uphold
He lights the smouldering wick
As we put our hope in Him
His strength can lead the weak
The blind was made to see
He wipes the tears of despair
As we put our trust in Him
Chorus
I will praise Him, I exalt Him
I will sing. His wondrous works
again
I will lift my voice, I will live
To show the Lord is my
love song
His Spirit searches my heart
The pain He comfort and heals
He leads every trial to victory
As we put our hope in Him
His wisdom commands my way
The path to take, He will lead
He is the beacon in the darkness
As we put our trust in Him
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
There is something more
The quest for joy. The quest for happiness.
The quest to be satisfied.
The journey of a road that I feel is coming to an end. Finally what has been a shadow casting over is coming to an end.
It is welcome. I have made many plans yet I realise that I haven't really resolve in fulfilling something I have set out to do many years ago.
That should be a priority.
When the yearning of the heart has once asked for One, now is subtle suggest a quiet rebellion, it is best to look and ask, whether my passion is all that genuine or it is a result of stress and now being delivered, the sinful, carnal aspiration takes its occasion to cast a seed of distraction.
Life is short.
Decision therefore come a long way.
There is something more to this life. I tell myself and I must I must by the grace of God walk that road which is less travelled yet a quest towards joy.
Only Christ Himself is the answer. Nothing else.
The quest to be satisfied.
The journey of a road that I feel is coming to an end. Finally what has been a shadow casting over is coming to an end.
It is welcome. I have made many plans yet I realise that I haven't really resolve in fulfilling something I have set out to do many years ago.
That should be a priority.
When the yearning of the heart has once asked for One, now is subtle suggest a quiet rebellion, it is best to look and ask, whether my passion is all that genuine or it is a result of stress and now being delivered, the sinful, carnal aspiration takes its occasion to cast a seed of distraction.
Life is short.
Decision therefore come a long way.
There is something more to this life. I tell myself and I must I must by the grace of God walk that road which is less travelled yet a quest towards joy.
Only Christ Himself is the answer. Nothing else.
Monday, November 16, 2009
A conversation with a older man
it is always refreshing..to talk to someone who has been through life's road simply longer.
u dun hear theology. u hear life. Wisdom and experience.
from a christian brother who been through and knows the struggles of life. the real pain than to tell you the ideals.
well, i saw the real need of prayer after that.
life is honestly so intensely difficult, and really there is no i think of it, so i do it, quick fix solution.
neither just a quote, a verse that will give you that immediate solution.
really all of life can only be upheld by that air of dependence in the midst of despondency, to trust in God. To trust is really to pray ever more unceasingly so that in the storms, in the billows, you are infinitely and definitely aware, and you gasp and grab, the reality that God is there.
thank God for a older brother's advice.
u dun hear theology. u hear life. Wisdom and experience.
from a christian brother who been through and knows the struggles of life. the real pain than to tell you the ideals.
well, i saw the real need of prayer after that.
life is honestly so intensely difficult, and really there is no i think of it, so i do it, quick fix solution.
neither just a quote, a verse that will give you that immediate solution.
really all of life can only be upheld by that air of dependence in the midst of despondency, to trust in God. To trust is really to pray ever more unceasingly so that in the storms, in the billows, you are infinitely and definitely aware, and you gasp and grab, the reality that God is there.
thank God for a older brother's advice.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
And Can it be that I should gain an interest in my Saviour's blood
Emmanuel's blood intrigues me. Emmanuel's rest inspired me. The load of life is getting heavier by the day and I look forward to that heavenly rest.
All is well so sing my soul. It is well with my soul.
The clutches that I think I hold are not worth its weight for the wing of righteousness we Lord give to those who seek to be under.
The day shall come where faith are all but turn to sight.
When glory shall not be what I desire to see, but I will be in His glory.
Some day, I would look back and say indeed grace has led me thus far and now has led me home.
Till then, now is hope that purifies my soul.
All is well so sing my soul. It is well with my soul.
The clutches that I think I hold are not worth its weight for the wing of righteousness we Lord give to those who seek to be under.
The day shall come where faith are all but turn to sight.
When glory shall not be what I desire to see, but I will be in His glory.
Some day, I would look back and say indeed grace has led me thus far and now has led me home.
Till then, now is hope that purifies my soul.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
A time for everthing
Mark 11:13
Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to find out if it had any fruit. When he reached it, he found nothing but leaves, because it was not the season for figs.
Ecclesiastes 3:1
[ A Time for Everything ] There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven:
Song of Solomon 2:12
Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land.
Proverbs 20:4
A sluggard does not plow in season; so at harvest time he looks but finds nothing
As I pour through verses to find out what the bible says about doing the right thing at the right time, I get a sense of the ability to know when to do the right thing is of paramount importance.
The outcome could be infinitely different if wisdom is applied. Right doing in right timing results in right outcome. Of course this wisdom must be of God, for in the book of James tells us to ask of wisdom from God. Especially timing. I believe time is in the abosolute control of God. His soveriegn arrangement is far more beautiful than any human conception of running ahead or behind yet the verses tell me this, lets discern the time for the days are evil. That is being able to see the hand and work of God when we enter into the plough in whatever we do. Be it be ministry, relationship, decision making, work....everything must be done at a time that is most apt for the season.
I cannot disagree more having seen seemingly right things done at wrong time. I may have patience but without wisdom it is still foolishness. And dun be fool when even everything seemingly looks right, but if readiness isn't, then it is wise to think wait and discern. A peaceful heart that is set on God moves upon the hand of God's moving.
Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to find out if it had any fruit. When he reached it, he found nothing but leaves, because it was not the season for figs.
Ecclesiastes 3:1
[ A Time for Everything ] There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven:
Song of Solomon 2:12
Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land.
Proverbs 20:4
A sluggard does not plow in season; so at harvest time he looks but finds nothing
As I pour through verses to find out what the bible says about doing the right thing at the right time, I get a sense of the ability to know when to do the right thing is of paramount importance.
The outcome could be infinitely different if wisdom is applied. Right doing in right timing results in right outcome. Of course this wisdom must be of God, for in the book of James tells us to ask of wisdom from God. Especially timing. I believe time is in the abosolute control of God. His soveriegn arrangement is far more beautiful than any human conception of running ahead or behind yet the verses tell me this, lets discern the time for the days are evil. That is being able to see the hand and work of God when we enter into the plough in whatever we do. Be it be ministry, relationship, decision making, work....everything must be done at a time that is most apt for the season.
I cannot disagree more having seen seemingly right things done at wrong time. I may have patience but without wisdom it is still foolishness. And dun be fool when even everything seemingly looks right, but if readiness isn't, then it is wise to think wait and discern. A peaceful heart that is set on God moves upon the hand of God's moving.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
The Rose (Guitar Instrumental)
The way this guy plays simply blows my mind away...and melts the listener's heart like a chocolate fondue...simply enchanting and amazing...
Saturday, October 31, 2009
The Rose
I heard this song for the first time on the plane which is the theme song for the
movie April's Bride...I only realise later it was originally sang by Bette Midler, and many artistes had sang this song..in fact I found it had been sang by 8 different artistes. It is a lovely song and I could only find one not sang by Bette Midler but by Emi Fujita, she sang beautifully. The lyrics itself is exceptionally lovely.
Love of such statue and beauty. If you reflect deeper, God made man in His image, if such is the capacity of man's love, we ought reflect the most perfect love God is. Love sacrifices.
Hope you enjoy the song :)
The Rose
Some say love it is a river
That drowns the tender reed.
Some say love it is a razor
That leaves your soul to bleed.
Some say love it is a hunger
An endless, aching need
I say love it is a flower,
And you it's only seed.
It's the heart afraid of breaking
That never learns to dance
It's the dream afraid of waking
That never takes the chance
It's the one who won't be taken,
Who cannot seem to give
And the soul afraid of dying
That never learns to live.
And the night has been too lonely
And the road has been too long.
And you think that love is only
For the lucky and the strong.
Just remember in the winter
Far beneath the bitter snow
Lies the seed that with the sun's love,
In the Spring becomes the Rose
The Rose - Emi Fujita
Hey got a Chinese translation..pretty cool..
The Rose ──若是爱。
有人说爱是一条河流，
带着甜蜜和苦涩怅然的流向往昔。
有人说爱是一把刃，
会在灵魂上，留下伤口。
有人说爱是需要，
无论何时何地。
我说，爱是一朵花，
而你，是唯一的种子。
心如此易碎，
却从未停歇。
这是一个关于成长的梦，
直到你学会包容和付出。
夜晚总是那么孤独，
这条路一直那么长。
但只要你相信，
爱，是唯一的救赎。
只有经历了痛苦，
才会懂得坚忍和珍惜。
谎言的种子，
会在阳光的照耀下，
成为，下一个春天。
movie April's Bride...I only realise later it was originally sang by Bette Midler, and many artistes had sang this song..in fact I found it had been sang by 8 different artistes. It is a lovely song and I could only find one not sang by Bette Midler but by Emi Fujita, she sang beautifully. The lyrics itself is exceptionally lovely.
Love of such statue and beauty. If you reflect deeper, God made man in His image, if such is the capacity of man's love, we ought reflect the most perfect love God is. Love sacrifices.
Hope you enjoy the song :)
The Rose
Some say love it is a river
That drowns the tender reed.
Some say love it is a razor
That leaves your soul to bleed.
Some say love it is a hunger
An endless, aching need
I say love it is a flower,
And you it's only seed.
It's the heart afraid of breaking
That never learns to dance
It's the dream afraid of waking
That never takes the chance
It's the one who won't be taken,
Who cannot seem to give
And the soul afraid of dying
That never learns to live.
And the night has been too lonely
And the road has been too long.
And you think that love is only
For the lucky and the strong.
Just remember in the winter
Far beneath the bitter snow
Lies the seed that with the sun's love,
In the Spring becomes the Rose
The Rose - Emi Fujita
Hey got a Chinese translation..pretty cool..
The Rose ──若是爱。
有人说爱是一条河流，
带着甜蜜和苦涩怅然的流向往昔。
有人说爱是一把刃，
会在灵魂上，留下伤口。
有人说爱是需要，
无论何时何地。
我说，爱是一朵花，
而你，是唯一的种子。
心如此易碎，
却从未停歇。
这是一个关于成长的梦，
直到你学会包容和付出。
夜晚总是那么孤独，
这条路一直那么长。
但只要你相信，
爱，是唯一的救赎。
只有经历了痛苦，
才会懂得坚忍和珍惜。
谎言的种子，
会在阳光的照耀下，
成为，下一个春天。
Sunday, October 25, 2009
To walk where you won't walk
Inertia is a bad thing.
Because even things are not right, to decide to change seems ardous.
Unless the change is forced upon becuase the way things are becoming are unbearable.
This is my current situation. And because of the need to know liberation from stress and all, I realise that unless I uprooted from 8 years of routineness, my life would be predictable and the doldrums of things would persist.
My desire to see change is weak. But the push to depart from this difficult circumstances is getting greater. Hence I have decided to move.
This is difficult but necessary.
To walk where you won't walk.
Because even things are not right, to decide to change seems ardous.
Unless the change is forced upon becuase the way things are becoming are unbearable.
This is my current situation. And because of the need to know liberation from stress and all, I realise that unless I uprooted from 8 years of routineness, my life would be predictable and the doldrums of things would persist.
My desire to see change is weak. But the push to depart from this difficult circumstances is getting greater. Hence I have decided to move.
This is difficult but necessary.
To walk where you won't walk.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Struggling with Faith
it is a strange things how strange thoughts could come about. I wanted to believe that is a spiritual attack and I believe it it.
Circumstances make you think in a certain direction.
Faith is not sight. I find that is the most amazing thought to have. When things are not happening right, when you do not see things right, your thoughts trickled to doubt. That is where I believe I have headed.
With every wrong direction, there is a need to gain back a right direction.
God points the sign and I must head the right way. The highway to faith again.
Hmm...It is a pertinent need. The necessary need. Struggling yet not despaired. Thank God for that.
It is in this doubt that the confidence in God will eventually bring me out of this.
I must understand all things work for good to those that love Him.
Though the devil commands all thoughts of evil, you shall worship God and Him alone. I will never turn stones to bread, for Christ is the bread of life. Listen to the devil, or succumb to the thoughts belonging to the flesh will reveal only a heart of stone. Eat of Christ's meat (bread) and drink His blood (salvation) and I shall He is risen in me. Hope is not far, hope is near in God.
Thank You.
Circumstances make you think in a certain direction.
Faith is not sight. I find that is the most amazing thought to have. When things are not happening right, when you do not see things right, your thoughts trickled to doubt. That is where I believe I have headed.
With every wrong direction, there is a need to gain back a right direction.
God points the sign and I must head the right way. The highway to faith again.
Hmm...It is a pertinent need. The necessary need. Struggling yet not despaired. Thank God for that.
It is in this doubt that the confidence in God will eventually bring me out of this.
I must understand all things work for good to those that love Him.
Though the devil commands all thoughts of evil, you shall worship God and Him alone. I will never turn stones to bread, for Christ is the bread of life. Listen to the devil, or succumb to the thoughts belonging to the flesh will reveal only a heart of stone. Eat of Christ's meat (bread) and drink His blood (salvation) and I shall He is risen in me. Hope is not far, hope is near in God.
Thank You.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
April's bride
I dun usually shed tears but watching this movie on the plane changed that. The movie was based on a true story.
Story line is simple. A normal couple who met thru' work got into dating and both fell in love with one another. Girl was diagnosed with breast cancer. Having saw what her mum who died of ovarian cancer went thru in the course of her treatment, she did not want her boyfriend to witness the ordeal. She broke off and run away.
Her cancer got worst to the point she has to cut away her diseased breast. Her boyfriend soon found her recuperating by the sea. The girl didn't want her boyfriend to see her go thru' her fight with cancer but soon was convinced by her boyfriend's sincerity.
They battled the disease together. In the course of her deterioration, she was soon diagnosed to have a month of her life left. She was slowly slipping away. Her usual smile turned into agony of pain as the cancer spred to her body. Her friends told her boyfriend her child-hood dream was to be a beautiful bride in Summer which happens in June. But knowing she would not be able to wait till June. It was April. Her boyfriend arranged a church wedding for her. Though weak, she was elated to being the bride. It was a day of joy and she was touched by her boyfriend's love for her. A few days later, after being a bride, she died.
Her character was one of strength. During her treatment, she got the TV crew to film her ordeal and made an appeal to people to go for constant medical screening for breast cancer. Even if one is young, they is no gurantee that you would be h the next vicitm. She made also a recording for her boyfriend, thanking him for his undying support for her. A recording that would only be passed to him after she has passed away.
It was teary. It was touching. The protrayal of the treatment, her detrioration, her family and friends support really displayed the ravages of what cancer can do. Above that was her boyfriend undying support for her. He stood by her and fulfil her every lifelong wish. She couldn't fulfil his, to be the lovely wife and mother. Yet her boyfriend didn't mind that. It was a love unconditional.
I wrote a song with the emotions that was etched. There is another side to it. It is a true story. I hope there isn't any dramatisation.
Love is to be celebrated. The ending is sad. But does anyone need to make an inquest of the power of love, I think this story showed it clearly.
Love can only be celebrated. Love brings hearts close. And with a test like this, only refines the love to be real. Like real gold, only through fire is the mire purged that whatever that stands become all the genuine, all the precious. Love is more precious than gold. Gold can be bought, love can't.
This indeed is a great movie.
For the record, I watched it again on my return flight.
The tears were no less.
Story line is simple. A normal couple who met thru' work got into dating and both fell in love with one another. Girl was diagnosed with breast cancer. Having saw what her mum who died of ovarian cancer went thru in the course of her treatment, she did not want her boyfriend to witness the ordeal. She broke off and run away.
Her cancer got worst to the point she has to cut away her diseased breast. Her boyfriend soon found her recuperating by the sea. The girl didn't want her boyfriend to see her go thru' her fight with cancer but soon was convinced by her boyfriend's sincerity.
They battled the disease together. In the course of her deterioration, she was soon diagnosed to have a month of her life left. She was slowly slipping away. Her usual smile turned into agony of pain as the cancer spred to her body. Her friends told her boyfriend her child-hood dream was to be a beautiful bride in Summer which happens in June. But knowing she would not be able to wait till June. It was April. Her boyfriend arranged a church wedding for her. Though weak, she was elated to being the bride. It was a day of joy and she was touched by her boyfriend's love for her. A few days later, after being a bride, she died.
Her character was one of strength. During her treatment, she got the TV crew to film her ordeal and made an appeal to people to go for constant medical screening for breast cancer. Even if one is young, they is no gurantee that you would be h the next vicitm. She made also a recording for her boyfriend, thanking him for his undying support for her. A recording that would only be passed to him after she has passed away.
It was teary. It was touching. The protrayal of the treatment, her detrioration, her family and friends support really displayed the ravages of what cancer can do. Above that was her boyfriend undying support for her. He stood by her and fulfil her every lifelong wish. She couldn't fulfil his, to be the lovely wife and mother. Yet her boyfriend didn't mind that. It was a love unconditional.
I wrote a song with the emotions that was etched. There is another side to it. It is a true story. I hope there isn't any dramatisation.
Love is to be celebrated. The ending is sad. But does anyone need to make an inquest of the power of love, I think this story showed it clearly.
Love can only be celebrated. Love brings hearts close. And with a test like this, only refines the love to be real. Like real gold, only through fire is the mire purged that whatever that stands become all the genuine, all the precious. Love is more precious than gold. Gold can be bought, love can't.
This indeed is a great movie.
For the record, I watched it again on my return flight.
The tears were no less.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Departure lounge
As I sit right in front of the plane, the nose of the plane facing me directly, perhaps by less than a hundred metres, I can't help but think of the amount of work that is still undone. Yet again the thought of flying away somehow alleviate that thought.
Going to US is never an enjoyable trip, simply it is long and arduous. The only comfort I can get is that it is a SQ flight.
I do miss Singapore. Perhaps it is the sights and sounds. But I think mostly, the people.
Japan is having typhoon. Thankfully or not thankfully, it struck the south coast not the north where the plane would be making a transit landing. A part of me wished I did not have to make this trip but another part says, go, take the rest. Bipolar disorder, is that a sign? Haha...dun think so, seems so exagerrating. But really, time always seem to press itself against what is available.
Liverpool has been on a losing streak recently. Rightfully so. Given the strength of squad. Its form also dismay. The team that gives its supporters a longsuffering feel. Dread bbut yet loyal. Why? I sometimes ask. Perhaps that dodgy spirit in them that keep tell me "Dun give up, they made it one day"
Supporting Liverpool has taught me something about life. Hope.
Hope keeps a person.
45 min more, I would be going. Hope will keep me.
And I believe that Hope places a person to live on no matter what life becomes or becomes not.
Hang on.
Going to US is never an enjoyable trip, simply it is long and arduous. The only comfort I can get is that it is a SQ flight.
I do miss Singapore. Perhaps it is the sights and sounds. But I think mostly, the people.
Japan is having typhoon. Thankfully or not thankfully, it struck the south coast not the north where the plane would be making a transit landing. A part of me wished I did not have to make this trip but another part says, go, take the rest. Bipolar disorder, is that a sign? Haha...dun think so, seems so exagerrating. But really, time always seem to press itself against what is available.
Liverpool has been on a losing streak recently. Rightfully so. Given the strength of squad. Its form also dismay. The team that gives its supporters a longsuffering feel. Dread bbut yet loyal. Why? I sometimes ask. Perhaps that dodgy spirit in them that keep tell me "Dun give up, they made it one day"
Supporting Liverpool has taught me something about life. Hope.
Hope keeps a person.
45 min more, I would be going. Hope will keep me.
And I believe that Hope places a person to live on no matter what life becomes or becomes not.
Hang on.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
The pride of life
13 Then one from the crowd said to Him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.”
14 But He said to him, “Man, who made Me a judge or an arbitrator over you?” 15 And He said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness,[b] for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”
16 Then He spoke a parable to them, saying: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded plentifully. 17 And he thought within himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no room to store my crops?’ 18 So he said, ‘I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry.”’ 20 But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?’
21 “So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.”
Luke 12:13-21
1Now there were some present at that time who told Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. 2Jesus answered, "Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? 3I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish. 4Or those eighteen who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them—do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem? 5I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish."
Luke 13:1-5
Jesus gave these 2 parables back to back. In my own opinion, it is a very sharp rebuke towards our very INDIFFERENT atitude towards God. Very indifferent. We will tomorow laid on a golden platter. We need to change that mindset.
Many disasters has struck in recent weeks and it seems like one huge tsunami, disasters one after another. Jesus had said when you see earthquakes...natural calamities, He says these are birth pangs that my return is imminent.
When Jesus returns, repentence would not be permissible but judgement.
My friend, if you would to see all the disasters around, scores of bodies dead, and you assume that life will go on, think again to the thousands who thought likewise would have their life snuff out suddenly abruptly.
Let not kid ourselves. Life is fragile. Face it.
Our hearts and mind are bent towards sin. So unless you press yourelf to believe, and have faith that indded we are in the very real LAST days. The stage seems set for Christ imminent return. Too many signs, and if God willing the rapture could come soon.
Meanwhile I hope you take a moment to reflect, is life all to it about festives, travels and being alive?
The soul seeks answer and till you reoncile God who is spirit, you will find that you act as a headless person, seeking but not finding becuause yo sought not God Himself. God deals with you spiritual and also physically in His provision. Yet a tthe end of us, we can experience the love of God and with grateful heart, say "Thank you My Lord."
14 But He said to him, “Man, who made Me a judge or an arbitrator over you?” 15 And He said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness,[b] for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”
16 Then He spoke a parable to them, saying: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded plentifully. 17 And he thought within himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no room to store my crops?’ 18 So he said, ‘I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry.”’ 20 But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?’
21 “So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.”
Luke 12:13-21
1Now there were some present at that time who told Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. 2Jesus answered, "Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? 3I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish. 4Or those eighteen who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them—do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem? 5I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish."
Luke 13:1-5
Jesus gave these 2 parables back to back. In my own opinion, it is a very sharp rebuke towards our very INDIFFERENT atitude towards God. Very indifferent. We will tomorow laid on a golden platter. We need to change that mindset.
Many disasters has struck in recent weeks and it seems like one huge tsunami, disasters one after another. Jesus had said when you see earthquakes...natural calamities, He says these are birth pangs that my return is imminent.
When Jesus returns, repentence would not be permissible but judgement.
My friend, if you would to see all the disasters around, scores of bodies dead, and you assume that life will go on, think again to the thousands who thought likewise would have their life snuff out suddenly abruptly.
Let not kid ourselves. Life is fragile. Face it.
Our hearts and mind are bent towards sin. So unless you press yourelf to believe, and have faith that indded we are in the very real LAST days. The stage seems set for Christ imminent return. Too many signs, and if God willing the rapture could come soon.
Meanwhile I hope you take a moment to reflect, is life all to it about festives, travels and being alive?
The soul seeks answer and till you reoncile God who is spirit, you will find that you act as a headless person, seeking but not finding becuause yo sought not God Himself. God deals with you spiritual and also physically in His provision. Yet a tthe end of us, we can experience the love of God and with grateful heart, say "Thank you My Lord."
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
我要学会怎么满足
Yesterday night, I pen a new song. And completed it. Something that I haven't done for a long time.
The lyrics were simple to write simply it just a reflection of what was in the heart and mind.
It has been an amazing 2 weeks. Surreal. But reality has finally reconciled itself.
Hence this song, written I hope is a monument to remember this 2 weeks and perhaps an advice to myself to be contented. To be appreciative just the way things are and not to yearn for beyond.
Simplicity itself has its beauty.
As the song say "我要学会怎么满足". Even as friends with friends, this song speaks about the most beautiful thing you can have for someone, is to wish the person the best and learn to be contented, no matter what the future may hold for each one of us.
I love this song. I really do...haha..
The lyrics were simple to write simply it just a reflection of what was in the heart and mind.
It has been an amazing 2 weeks. Surreal. But reality has finally reconciled itself.
Hence this song, written I hope is a monument to remember this 2 weeks and perhaps an advice to myself to be contented. To be appreciative just the way things are and not to yearn for beyond.
Simplicity itself has its beauty.
As the song say "我要学会怎么满足". Even as friends with friends, this song speaks about the most beautiful thing you can have for someone, is to wish the person the best and learn to be contented, no matter what the future may hold for each one of us.
I love this song. I really do...haha..
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Monday, September 28, 2009
If
If one's heart could be an open book, it would be easier to decipher what is going on? Or is that good?I probably can't reconcile honestly what I was thinking today but then again it is probably the most honest thing I did. A man who cannot control his spirit is like a city without his walls....What I think, what I feel, doesn't mean that I should do as a result of what I think or feel. But to curb is always the hardest thing to do.
Perhaps that is when the mind rule over the heart. Perhaps I have crossed the barrier.
If only my heart is an open book, then I can read and think of this book whether it is a good book. But is kept and close. And probably that is why I erred in many ways.
Well, another learning curve, admist a difficult one.
Editorial time.
Perhaps that is when the mind rule over the heart. Perhaps I have crossed the barrier.
If only my heart is an open book, then I can read and think of this book whether it is a good book. But is kept and close. And probably that is why I erred in many ways.
Well, another learning curve, admist a difficult one.
Editorial time.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
A hot coffee
this noon time, at lunch, having a cup of coffee..feeling rested...
the goodness of God is something worth meditating on...
too much internal turmoil recently...and just reflecting on the goodness of the Lord and having that thought that God still knows best is comforting.
When you want to think beyond what you can think, it dawns upon you that you are after all human and God's thoughts, God's ways are not our ways...
We return as dust but God made these dust that we are....definitely He is infinitely higher and greater than we are...
To be resting in His absolute wisdom is the peace that surpasses all understanding and the peace of God shall guard your heart...
Things will and can work out. I just have to keep trusting God...there isn't another way... for it will then be my way...
Thank God.
the goodness of God is something worth meditating on...
too much internal turmoil recently...and just reflecting on the goodness of the Lord and having that thought that God still knows best is comforting.
When you want to think beyond what you can think, it dawns upon you that you are after all human and God's thoughts, God's ways are not our ways...
We return as dust but God made these dust that we are....definitely He is infinitely higher and greater than we are...
To be resting in His absolute wisdom is the peace that surpasses all understanding and the peace of God shall guard your heart...
Things will and can work out. I just have to keep trusting God...there isn't another way... for it will then be my way...
Thank God.
Lifebook
As busy as I am, it dawned upon me this week with all clarity and starkness, the fraility of life...
and perhaps the apathy that we tend to be in or the cares of this world really consume us much..honestly I feel for the most of us, we have indeed build a very callous heart....
the way the world is heading, the whole culture has exalted self and the indifference towards things that are of utmost priority...
if I wake up one morning, not being alive, would I be able to regret I haven't live today...I realise I dun have such a resolve neither a charity to have others live with gladness, in the abode of love..
we care too much for ourselves than for others..I really wish and hope that a heart of charity would be the most beautiful life to live once for that charity brings warmth into the hearts of others and at the end of your life, have charity recognised as the gift of God, of Himself through you...
that is perhaps I think as I gone thru' this week with shock and soberness, a reflection I need seriously to consider...
God soften this heart..I need empathy and not apathy...
and perhaps the apathy that we tend to be in or the cares of this world really consume us much..honestly I feel for the most of us, we have indeed build a very callous heart....
the way the world is heading, the whole culture has exalted self and the indifference towards things that are of utmost priority...
if I wake up one morning, not being alive, would I be able to regret I haven't live today...I realise I dun have such a resolve neither a charity to have others live with gladness, in the abode of love..
we care too much for ourselves than for others..I really wish and hope that a heart of charity would be the most beautiful life to live once for that charity brings warmth into the hearts of others and at the end of your life, have charity recognised as the gift of God, of Himself through you...
that is perhaps I think as I gone thru' this week with shock and soberness, a reflection I need seriously to consider...
God soften this heart..I need empathy and not apathy...
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Departure
As I sit at the departure lounge, waiting for my flight boarding, I look at the waiting plane and am glad that I am going for a short break.
It is really a tough year for me. Personally and spiritually.
I recall Paul saying his life is like a tent that he will soon put away. I think I have been too tense, too unable to put things in the right perspective and allow too many things to trouble and complicate matters.
There are many things in my life. Many difficulties. Simplicity can be so beautiful.
As the final lap looms nearer, the welcome breeze of fresh air seems ever so nearer. I am hoping. Quietly hoping.
Things after the horizon, will be the rising sun, with each ray of light, brings hope to the despairing heart.
Thank God, He is always sustaining...
It is really a tough year for me. Personally and spiritually.
I recall Paul saying his life is like a tent that he will soon put away. I think I have been too tense, too unable to put things in the right perspective and allow too many things to trouble and complicate matters.
There are many things in my life. Many difficulties. Simplicity can be so beautiful.
As the final lap looms nearer, the welcome breeze of fresh air seems ever so nearer. I am hoping. Quietly hoping.
Things after the horizon, will be the rising sun, with each ray of light, brings hope to the despairing heart.
Thank God, He is always sustaining...
Monday, September 14, 2009
BSF
after almost 3 weeks of absence, thankfully with a one week break, finally manage to attend bsf tonight...
thank God manage to finish the bsf questions last night..in the wee hrs of the morning..couldn't sleep...double quick..finish in 30 min...never before so fast..
and could contribute to the class tonight...
glad all things worked well..
now finally a break after so much intense late nights...
thank God
thank God manage to finish the bsf questions last night..in the wee hrs of the morning..couldn't sleep...double quick..finish in 30 min...never before so fast..
and could contribute to the class tonight...
glad all things worked well..
now finally a break after so much intense late nights...
thank God
Sunday, September 13, 2009
finally
pursuing what I know I must do is the most satisfying...
when you know it is the right thing to do...
to deny what is right is to know that is wrong
to deny how to love is to regret what is true
there can be no denial....
when you know it is the right thing to do...
to deny what is right is to know that is wrong
to deny how to love is to regret what is true
there can be no denial....
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Afterburner
deifinitely not the namesake of an old game I am playing...
but describing an overly burn out old man..
haha
but describing an overly burn out old man..
haha
Monday, September 7, 2009
If I do not love Christ, I have nothing...
I count all things as loss, that I may gain Christ.
I believe anyone who holdfast to what Paul's conviction and life model is...he will be a remarkable man.
Gaining Christ.
Drawing to God can only get nearer and still near. And only still nearer. Jesus healed the man at John 5 so that as Christ puts "that he go and sin no more". This is what John Piper preached on last week.
Holiness, he says is not an option, it is a must. As he warned the man in John 5, "Lest something worse happen to you".
Sobering, doesn't it.
What God wants to say is this, that the pursuit of holiness is a necessity to every Christian. Gaining Christ is nothing more that loving God by setting yourself apart for God, that is to pursue holiness.
The pursuit of holiness is the "lifest" way of living.
If I do not love Christ, I have nothing. I think it is in Hebrews 12, that it reads a verse "Without holiness, nobody shall see the Lord".
So I believe apart from holiness..setting yourselves wholy and only to God is the surest pathway and the only pathway to gaining Christ. Or else you have nothing, this life or the life to come. It will all be burned up.
I believe anyone who holdfast to what Paul's conviction and life model is...he will be a remarkable man.
Gaining Christ.
Drawing to God can only get nearer and still near. And only still nearer. Jesus healed the man at John 5 so that as Christ puts "that he go and sin no more". This is what John Piper preached on last week.
Holiness, he says is not an option, it is a must. As he warned the man in John 5, "Lest something worse happen to you".
Sobering, doesn't it.
What God wants to say is this, that the pursuit of holiness is a necessity to every Christian. Gaining Christ is nothing more that loving God by setting yourself apart for God, that is to pursue holiness.
The pursuit of holiness is the "lifest" way of living.
If I do not love Christ, I have nothing. I think it is in Hebrews 12, that it reads a verse "Without holiness, nobody shall see the Lord".
So I believe apart from holiness..setting yourselves wholy and only to God is the surest pathway and the only pathway to gaining Christ. Or else you have nothing, this life or the life to come. It will all be burned up.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Morning comes
Unknowingly.
Just woke up exceptionally early today. Its 6.20am. Still thinking.
Arrgh. Things are clear but I believe we cloud our thoughts with our hearts.
Need wisdom and direction.
I shall go to the place where wisdom and direction is best found.
Just woke up exceptionally early today. Its 6.20am. Still thinking.
Arrgh. Things are clear but I believe we cloud our thoughts with our hearts.
Need wisdom and direction.
I shall go to the place where wisdom and direction is best found.
Going to that edge
It is hard often to concur reasoning with emotions. I heard a song on radio the other night that says "Follow your heart" Music and songs are powerful reflections of what is stirring the human heart.
There are only about 2 weeks left. Will reasoning or my heart rule?
I am in dilemma cause there are things I have considered. Rationally, I think a "No" should be more inclined. But if it is emotionally, I believe I would just follow what my heart says and do it.
There would be so many implications, so many complications if I would think hard rationally.
Yet if I go for the rule of heart, nothing of these would be par excellence in consideration.
Just which to choose?
There are only about 2 weeks left. Will reasoning or my heart rule?
I am in dilemma cause there are things I have considered. Rationally, I think a "No" should be more inclined. But if it is emotionally, I believe I would just follow what my heart says and do it.
There would be so many implications, so many complications if I would think hard rationally.
Yet if I go for the rule of heart, nothing of these would be par excellence in consideration.
Just which to choose?
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Bridge
In more than a month, I would be visiting the grand canyon.
Ever wonder, crossing the canyon without aid would be extremely difficult, consider the gap is not in centimetres, neither in metres..butin kilometres.
Tonight, I witness one cross-over. Been over a week, and finally at the 8th attempt, finally my experiment worked. Finally the protocol that I am trying desperately to work, worked without hitch.
The results are tremendous. They were fantastic. No voice have gladness can express how relieved I am.
Without aid, indeed would be extremely difficult. Thank God for guiding thru' this week.
Tired I am. Drained I am. But deep witihin, I am only glad that God has been leading all the way.
Thank God.
Ever wonder, crossing the canyon without aid would be extremely difficult, consider the gap is not in centimetres, neither in metres..butin kilometres.
Tonight, I witness one cross-over. Been over a week, and finally at the 8th attempt, finally my experiment worked. Finally the protocol that I am trying desperately to work, worked without hitch.
The results are tremendous. They were fantastic. No voice have gladness can express how relieved I am.
Without aid, indeed would be extremely difficult. Thank God for guiding thru' this week.
Tired I am. Drained I am. But deep witihin, I am only glad that God has been leading all the way.
Thank God.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
期待的“天堂”
我一向认为华语是我最能表答的语言。不是英语。
每一刻，感触最多时，都认为它能给我最深的明白。
最近写了一首歌，名为“天堂”。
词的内容已经想好，只是没有写下来。
人的情感路上，往往有一些幻想，有时只能盼望，不能祈求。
有时有缘却无份。
词里面，我有写，
“你在我的心里画上美丽彩虹，
我想为你写满每个云朵
你的名字。你的出现带来温暖的气息”
这也许是人间所期待的“天堂”。
只能盼望，不能祈求。
等吧。
每一刻，感触最多时，都认为它能给我最深的明白。
最近写了一首歌，名为“天堂”。
词的内容已经想好，只是没有写下来。
人的情感路上，往往有一些幻想，有时只能盼望，不能祈求。
有时有缘却无份。
词里面，我有写，
“你在我的心里画上美丽彩虹，
我想为你写满每个云朵
你的名字。你的出现带来温暖的气息”
这也许是人间所期待的“天堂”。
只能盼望，不能祈求。
等吧。
Timid Love
That hesistancy. That fear. That undecisiveness.
Sigh, all too familiar...all too fearful.
The outcome is all the same, the nervousness, the uncertainty.
Maybe that is my situation. Just overwhelmed by the weight of things.
Perfect love cast away all fears.
Alas for this love that is all too timid.
Sigh, all too familiar...all too fearful.
The outcome is all the same, the nervousness, the uncertainty.
Maybe that is my situation. Just overwhelmed by the weight of things.
Perfect love cast away all fears.
Alas for this love that is all too timid.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Torn
Life could have just been simpler. Simpler and simpler.
Today watched up. A line by the old man, "I remember all the things especially the boring ones." He spoke of the times he have had with his dear wife who have since departed.
This old man speaks wise words. Simple and simpler brings real contentment.
Personally I feel it takes one who have been through a thunderstorm in the big open sea to feel a calm habour enchanting. One who been through a turbulence in a plane would love the clear blue sky.
The gradient of contentment is less steep and gently requires only a little to be happy.
Three years isn't a short time but I am glad I learn to see contentment in the simplest of thing.
There are much dilemma. I feel I have always complicated things. Perhaps it is the stress, the frustrations with the outcome of certain, wrong decisions and perplexed siutation that have clouded my view of things.
Torn it is. Caught unawares it is. Stressed it is.
I have learnt. It would have been now that I see the simpler things in life is wonderful.
I must learn to be glad in all of life circumstances. Regardless. Rain or shine.
Paddling through life, perhaps a deep breath, a quiet thought, a brief moment to see the horizon and know tranquility and calmess of mind is all of itself glad. I must learn to be glad.
Let the yesteryears go. There are road ahead I haven't travelled.
God is right beside. The highest and deepest of fear. May His wisdom always be my sufficiency. Let me learn Your way as You make the way. You will lead Your people to still waters, finally.
Today watched up. A line by the old man, "I remember all the things especially the boring ones." He spoke of the times he have had with his dear wife who have since departed.
This old man speaks wise words. Simple and simpler brings real contentment.
Personally I feel it takes one who have been through a thunderstorm in the big open sea to feel a calm habour enchanting. One who been through a turbulence in a plane would love the clear blue sky.
The gradient of contentment is less steep and gently requires only a little to be happy.
Three years isn't a short time but I am glad I learn to see contentment in the simplest of thing.
There are much dilemma. I feel I have always complicated things. Perhaps it is the stress, the frustrations with the outcome of certain, wrong decisions and perplexed siutation that have clouded my view of things.
Torn it is. Caught unawares it is. Stressed it is.
I have learnt. It would have been now that I see the simpler things in life is wonderful.
I must learn to be glad in all of life circumstances. Regardless. Rain or shine.
Paddling through life, perhaps a deep breath, a quiet thought, a brief moment to see the horizon and know tranquility and calmess of mind is all of itself glad. I must learn to be glad.
Let the yesteryears go. There are road ahead I haven't travelled.
God is right beside. The highest and deepest of fear. May His wisdom always be my sufficiency. Let me learn Your way as You make the way. You will lead Your people to still waters, finally.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
The Peril of a Parole not coming
When I first attended the verdict court session of a murder case, I heard the verdict loud and clear. The judge in concluding his findings gave the verdict.
The accused was found to be guilty and the sentence reads, "On a appointed day, you should be brought to a penal instituition where you will have a noose hang around your neck, you shall be hanged till you die".
These words have no deviation. There lies the sentence of death.
A year ago, I read this particular accused is hanged and is dead.
Does life circumstances present in such a way that we find ourselves in a corner, finding it hard to manoveour, despair of hope and direction?
Somewhat I relate to this feeling especially this week.
I thought of the expression of "the peril of a parole not coming?" This is my heartfelt prayer cry this week. There is a need to trust that God is soveriegn. Deliverance will come.
It is strange that one week, things will going alright, the next everything can go into tatters. A roller coaster of ups and downs. The emotional turmoil is unbearable.
Not to experience a high followed by a abyss of low.
Extremes over a sharp short period isn't for any faint hearted ...let alone a fainting heart.
I suppose I can ask why God? But yet this question has a semblence of doubt. Why do I go from here? God often called us not to know, but to trust.
Perhaps I am learning what is the essence of faith.
Patience has its work. Hardship delivers endurance. Despair purges doubt.
We looked at Job, his suffering abound and for him after his trial of close to death would conclude that his ears used to hear but now they see....means a lot to me. Simple trust in God is never easy.
Simplicity can only come after complexity.
I am perplexed now but simplicity to trust God would come..with the time test run by God.
His clockwork precision would only mean He knows best.
Seem so insurmountable the tasks ahead. I could only mutter a simple prayer. "Help!"
And perhaps that is all that is ever needed to be said.
I trust God has heard.
The accused was found to be guilty and the sentence reads, "On a appointed day, you should be brought to a penal instituition where you will have a noose hang around your neck, you shall be hanged till you die".
These words have no deviation. There lies the sentence of death.
A year ago, I read this particular accused is hanged and is dead.
Does life circumstances present in such a way that we find ourselves in a corner, finding it hard to manoveour, despair of hope and direction?
Somewhat I relate to this feeling especially this week.
I thought of the expression of "the peril of a parole not coming?" This is my heartfelt prayer cry this week. There is a need to trust that God is soveriegn. Deliverance will come.
It is strange that one week, things will going alright, the next everything can go into tatters. A roller coaster of ups and downs. The emotional turmoil is unbearable.
Not to experience a high followed by a abyss of low.
Extremes over a sharp short period isn't for any faint hearted ...let alone a fainting heart.
I suppose I can ask why God? But yet this question has a semblence of doubt. Why do I go from here? God often called us not to know, but to trust.
Perhaps I am learning what is the essence of faith.
Patience has its work. Hardship delivers endurance. Despair purges doubt.
We looked at Job, his suffering abound and for him after his trial of close to death would conclude that his ears used to hear but now they see....means a lot to me. Simple trust in God is never easy.
Simplicity can only come after complexity.
I am perplexed now but simplicity to trust God would come..with the time test run by God.
His clockwork precision would only mean He knows best.
Seem so insurmountable the tasks ahead. I could only mutter a simple prayer. "Help!"
And perhaps that is all that is ever needed to be said.
I trust God has heard.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Thoughts
I haven't blog for a long time.
Guess too much thoughts drove me to pen down a few things. Felt terribly overwhelmed at work today. Not that I want to pen down specifics but rather a general sense of the torrents of recurring tidal stress.
I long for rest. I long for this to be over. Have been working incessently for the past 3 years. And as the turn of stress approach its billowing heights, loud reminders of the need to fulfil my responsbilities keep echoing.
I write down some verses from Habakkuk 3:17-19
17 Though the fig tree does not bud
and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails
and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
and no cattle in the stalls,
18 yet I will rejoice in the LORD,
I will be joyful in God my Savior.
19 The Sovereign LORD is my strength;
he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,
he enables me to go on the heights.
Though my situation seemingly look hopeless with the pressing deadline, with every day whizzing back, oozes away each ounce of remaining strength, the emotions draining and desperate, I wish for a silver lining...perhaps only a speck.
Yet that seem more distant than nearer.
And coupled with other thoughts that concerns the heart, I wonder why there is a prisms of problems arriving. Somethings I think this is self wrought but many thoughts and circumstances have arrived unnoticed, unprepared.
My recent trip to Malaysia though a short rest has brought new concerns. Not that I had invited it but it has.
I am in need of wisdom, much wisdom. Verses given in Habakkuk has given me understanding of the ways of God. I know my faith has been deeply wounded. Yet the healing and restoring power is never my own.
As in a pit of miry clay I am in now, I ask only for that divine help, to gain a dip into the still waters of God.
I ask. I seek and I wait. Which will come? None except that Christ provideds comfort.
How long? How long?
That longing of Christ hand. O that my Lord be found faithful. Somehow I know the reason why God is putting me thru all these except the dread and detestable thought I have, I wish for a sip again of that fountain of grace.
O God if you will allow to enter sooner than later, yet You will not relent till grace from you meets the comfort that is required.
A bruised reed, indeed, Thou will not break.
Guess too much thoughts drove me to pen down a few things. Felt terribly overwhelmed at work today. Not that I want to pen down specifics but rather a general sense of the torrents of recurring tidal stress.
I long for rest. I long for this to be over. Have been working incessently for the past 3 years. And as the turn of stress approach its billowing heights, loud reminders of the need to fulfil my responsbilities keep echoing.
I write down some verses from Habakkuk 3:17-19
17 Though the fig tree does not bud
and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails
and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
and no cattle in the stalls,
18 yet I will rejoice in the LORD,
I will be joyful in God my Savior.
19 The Sovereign LORD is my strength;
he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,
he enables me to go on the heights.
Though my situation seemingly look hopeless with the pressing deadline, with every day whizzing back, oozes away each ounce of remaining strength, the emotions draining and desperate, I wish for a silver lining...perhaps only a speck.
Yet that seem more distant than nearer.
And coupled with other thoughts that concerns the heart, I wonder why there is a prisms of problems arriving. Somethings I think this is self wrought but many thoughts and circumstances have arrived unnoticed, unprepared.
My recent trip to Malaysia though a short rest has brought new concerns. Not that I had invited it but it has.
I am in need of wisdom, much wisdom. Verses given in Habakkuk has given me understanding of the ways of God. I know my faith has been deeply wounded. Yet the healing and restoring power is never my own.
As in a pit of miry clay I am in now, I ask only for that divine help, to gain a dip into the still waters of God.
I ask. I seek and I wait. Which will come? None except that Christ provideds comfort.
How long? How long?
That longing of Christ hand. O that my Lord be found faithful. Somehow I know the reason why God is putting me thru all these except the dread and detestable thought I have, I wish for a sip again of that fountain of grace.
O God if you will allow to enter sooner than later, yet You will not relent till grace from you meets the comfort that is required.
A bruised reed, indeed, Thou will not break.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Change is sudden
That every breath is a sign of living.
Amazing it isn't it? The world still continues as it was. But change is sudden.
A passing shower of happiness can plummet into a sudden grip of grief. Nothing is steadfast on this earth. Change is everywhere and can be at any time.
Being human is fraility and fleeting. Wonder why ever our mind has no solace in its restlessness? Wonder why there is a longing for eternity and an answer.
Look at change and you wonder anything ever last?
I stand in awe of the universe so vast and distance, as I look into a cloudness sky and see the stars... I wonder what is out there?
I look at insurmountable problems of life and wonder what deliverance is all about? Just to overcome problems?
There is definitely eternity written in our hearts.
Ecclesiatis 3:11 says ,"He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end."
I realise a reconciled heart and mind with an unfanthomable God is what brings solace and peace to the heart. That reconcilation is the marvel of God's grace and mercy.
Wonder does anything last? Yes there is. When you find that God is the eternity that should be in the heart of men. Only then is the peace that surpasses all understanding will rule and guard your heart in Christ Jesus...
Amazing it isn't it? The world still continues as it was. But change is sudden.
A passing shower of happiness can plummet into a sudden grip of grief. Nothing is steadfast on this earth. Change is everywhere and can be at any time.
Being human is fraility and fleeting. Wonder why ever our mind has no solace in its restlessness? Wonder why there is a longing for eternity and an answer.
Look at change and you wonder anything ever last?
I stand in awe of the universe so vast and distance, as I look into a cloudness sky and see the stars... I wonder what is out there?
I look at insurmountable problems of life and wonder what deliverance is all about? Just to overcome problems?
There is definitely eternity written in our hearts.
Ecclesiatis 3:11 says ,"He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end."
I realise a reconciled heart and mind with an unfanthomable God is what brings solace and peace to the heart. That reconcilation is the marvel of God's grace and mercy.
Wonder does anything last? Yes there is. When you find that God is the eternity that should be in the heart of men. Only then is the peace that surpasses all understanding will rule and guard your heart in Christ Jesus...
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
A fountain of grace
I remembered going Merchant Court Hotel and had a buffet several years back. It was a huge chocolate fondue. It is massive. Alongside are sticks of marshmellows and strawberries. I remembered sticking the marshmellows in the overflowing liquid chocolate, and lacing it with the richness of the delicious chocolate, realishing the sight let alone the anitcipation of what is more inviting next. To eat it.
2 verses struck a chord when I remember this memories. James 5:11,"As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy." and 1 Pet 1:13"13Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed."
James speaks about preserverance under suffering. Peter writes about being holy and setting yourself apart for God, dedicating and consecreting.
I like both verses. They both speaks about our position in Christ. Full of 3 wonderious truth. We are bathing fully in the Lord's compassion, in His mercy and full of His grace. Therefore there can be delight in the fiercest of storm, in the most mystified of circumstances, in the waves of temptations that billows of pathways. We strive to perserve, to hold fast, to be holy because we are divine reciepients of God's grace, mercy and compassion that have an unending flow.
I do not mind being that strawberry though with a thorn, but still bathing in God's provision. What a thought. A sweet delight. I can set a banquet in the face of my enemies, that is what the Psalmist said in Psalm 23. Indeed. God is greater than any gods, His power never gets overturned, neither His affections, when He has set upon you before the foundation of this world.
My God, our Lord is good. Always and unchangeably so.
2 verses struck a chord when I remember this memories. James 5:11,"As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy." and 1 Pet 1:13"13Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed."
James speaks about preserverance under suffering. Peter writes about being holy and setting yourself apart for God, dedicating and consecreting.
I like both verses. They both speaks about our position in Christ. Full of 3 wonderious truth. We are bathing fully in the Lord's compassion, in His mercy and full of His grace. Therefore there can be delight in the fiercest of storm, in the most mystified of circumstances, in the waves of temptations that billows of pathways. We strive to perserve, to hold fast, to be holy because we are divine reciepients of God's grace, mercy and compassion that have an unending flow.
I do not mind being that strawberry though with a thorn, but still bathing in God's provision. What a thought. A sweet delight. I can set a banquet in the face of my enemies, that is what the Psalmist said in Psalm 23. Indeed. God is greater than any gods, His power never gets overturned, neither His affections, when He has set upon you before the foundation of this world.
My God, our Lord is good. Always and unchangeably so.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
A Sea of Red....to be continued
What a night..the day that Liverpool FC came to Kallang ..and the sea of red..and the red kallang wave...My brother brought his SLR camera..so more pics to follow...mine is just handphone pictures...but it was truly a SEA OF RED...go Liverpool go...
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Weather Change
Strange things have happened nowadays and more common. Weather is really hot.
I read in the papers that this is also the year of El Nino. And it would get worse.
Strange weather.
Doing research on agricultural production, I read more land getting more inarable, meaning, acute food shortage likely to arise in the next 30 years.
I read Matthew 24 just this morning. And I guess, woah...famine on a global scale is going to happen soon. Not Africa countries. But all over the world. Just in South East Asia alone, the padi fields would be badly affected due to rising sea level, more lands would be flooded and the the salt content of soil will also render these areas uncultivatable.
The fish in the world is also depleting at an alarming rate due to over-fishing. Animals are striken with diseases due to modern agricultural techniques of mono-pedigree cultivation.
Famine on a global scale haven't been witnessed. If we read the drastic climatic changes and the current mal-practice of modern agricultural teachniques (in contrast to God's prescribed farming teachinques), a global famine is not far away.
We have seen H1N1 as another testimony of global diseasae outbreak..a pestilence that Christ prophesied in Matthew 24...we haven't seen famine on a global level yet...with such fulfillment on the horizon, it is again another warning..time to be sober-minded. Ezra said, "look at the times" and Nehemiah says "look at the wall". Christians...look at this warning signs and use it as a sign of the end of the age. Be on your toes and point people to see these signs as evidence that what Christ says is true. But more than that, what He says, "He is the Saviour of the world". To a world that is only dying, the only hope is in Christ. Whatever Christ says will come to pass. He echoes these words, "Heaven and Earth will pass away, but the Word of God abides forever".
So abide in this promise of the only deliverer, Christ Jesus.
I read in the papers that this is also the year of El Nino. And it would get worse.
Strange weather.
Doing research on agricultural production, I read more land getting more inarable, meaning, acute food shortage likely to arise in the next 30 years.
I read Matthew 24 just this morning. And I guess, woah...famine on a global scale is going to happen soon. Not Africa countries. But all over the world. Just in South East Asia alone, the padi fields would be badly affected due to rising sea level, more lands would be flooded and the the salt content of soil will also render these areas uncultivatable.
The fish in the world is also depleting at an alarming rate due to over-fishing. Animals are striken with diseases due to modern agricultural techniques of mono-pedigree cultivation.
Famine on a global scale haven't been witnessed. If we read the drastic climatic changes and the current mal-practice of modern agricultural teachniques (in contrast to God's prescribed farming teachinques), a global famine is not far away.
We have seen H1N1 as another testimony of global diseasae outbreak..a pestilence that Christ prophesied in Matthew 24...we haven't seen famine on a global level yet...with such fulfillment on the horizon, it is again another warning..time to be sober-minded. Ezra said, "look at the times" and Nehemiah says "look at the wall". Christians...look at this warning signs and use it as a sign of the end of the age. Be on your toes and point people to see these signs as evidence that what Christ says is true. But more than that, what He says, "He is the Saviour of the world". To a world that is only dying, the only hope is in Christ. Whatever Christ says will come to pass. He echoes these words, "Heaven and Earth will pass away, but the Word of God abides forever".
So abide in this promise of the only deliverer, Christ Jesus.
Goodwood Park Durian Pastries
Legendary durians discovery. Yamashita's gold is finally found...
This is one durian of a burger...called a durian puff for most of the time. :)
5 cm at the side and 8 cm in the centre of pure durian delight. This is no ordinary durian strudel, it shudders and bathe you into a sea of durian puree...
This is one durian of a burger...called a durian puff for most of the time. :)
5 cm at the side and 8 cm in the centre of pure durian delight. This is no ordinary durian strudel, it shudders and bathe you into a sea of durian puree...
Monday, July 13, 2009
Frail is real
Tonight at BSF, we went through Leviticus. It is a book themed on the holiness of God. It strike deeply that God loves a moral upright, righteous people who adore and worship God.
The more I read the law, the more I realise we have grown to ignore, have not regard for God anymore.
In general, I think we have also distanced from reality. Take human existance being frail, we dun take it as real. Unless we face death, that thought is always distant.
I wonder how many of us are sober. I wonder.
The more I read the law, the more I realise we have grown to ignore, have not regard for God anymore.
In general, I think we have also distanced from reality. Take human existance being frail, we dun take it as real. Unless we face death, that thought is always distant.
I wonder how many of us are sober. I wonder.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Before I forget
When the days seem longer yet it is shorter.
Sometimes you consider that they are characters having suffered worse...Job with his boils, Jonah in the stomach of a big fish, Stephen stoned alive for the faith and you wonder how all these men could withstand such agonising death.
Death seemingly is cruel, but there are people who think also likewise living is cruel. Some may think death is a release others think that being alive is to be grateful. The key is still, where does your hope lies?
Living is cruel also because when all hope is dashed and death seems to suggest all will end. Hope is such a precious thing. Hope is light in darkness. Hope illuminates seemingly the darkness of days. Hope keeps one alive.
Hope is intangible. Hope gives rise to faith but faith also give rise to hope. Without faith, there can be no hope. Where there is no hope, there is no faith. The hope of gaining Christ. The hope of complete rest from the soldiering, the laboring, the gladness of the heart seems all so inviting.
Sometimes I think I weathered a lot of storm, seen alot of rain, awashed with much agonies, yet if I end of by thinking that the end of all that is for me to taste the curse of sin, then I am under a curse. I am but if that is all to life, then indeed it is a curse.
Curse will end. Hope never. Eternity with God is something I cannot comprehend neither have I seen. Invisbility remains invisible. And I am reminded the words of Paul who says we are by all men most pitiable if our hope is in vain. Our hope cannot be in vain, that is what Paul says. Assurance is the substance that guarantees our hope. So it must be God who keeps you and not the other way round. If my thought does stay on this, I know the only outcome, I will crumble and hope around will crumble and I will fall flat like a pack of cards.
A eternity with God never perishes. Before I forget. I am secure with Christ. God, help me to stay with you. Before I forget, You keep me, not I but Christ that keeps everyone with You. Before I forget. Help me to remember before I forget when I feel that there is a load that overwhelms. Help me to remember before I forget.
Sometimes you consider that they are characters having suffered worse...Job with his boils, Jonah in the stomach of a big fish, Stephen stoned alive for the faith and you wonder how all these men could withstand such agonising death.
Death seemingly is cruel, but there are people who think also likewise living is cruel. Some may think death is a release others think that being alive is to be grateful. The key is still, where does your hope lies?
Living is cruel also because when all hope is dashed and death seems to suggest all will end. Hope is such a precious thing. Hope is light in darkness. Hope illuminates seemingly the darkness of days. Hope keeps one alive.
Hope is intangible. Hope gives rise to faith but faith also give rise to hope. Without faith, there can be no hope. Where there is no hope, there is no faith. The hope of gaining Christ. The hope of complete rest from the soldiering, the laboring, the gladness of the heart seems all so inviting.
Sometimes I think I weathered a lot of storm, seen alot of rain, awashed with much agonies, yet if I end of by thinking that the end of all that is for me to taste the curse of sin, then I am under a curse. I am but if that is all to life, then indeed it is a curse.
Curse will end. Hope never. Eternity with God is something I cannot comprehend neither have I seen. Invisbility remains invisible. And I am reminded the words of Paul who says we are by all men most pitiable if our hope is in vain. Our hope cannot be in vain, that is what Paul says. Assurance is the substance that guarantees our hope. So it must be God who keeps you and not the other way round. If my thought does stay on this, I know the only outcome, I will crumble and hope around will crumble and I will fall flat like a pack of cards.
A eternity with God never perishes. Before I forget. I am secure with Christ. God, help me to stay with you. Before I forget, You keep me, not I but Christ that keeps everyone with You. Before I forget. Help me to remember before I forget when I feel that there is a load that overwhelms. Help me to remember before I forget.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Durians
Apperance can be deceiving. Smell can be as well. But what prevails is what is found in you.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Crisis
3 major things collapse all in one.
Health, work and studies. Amazing the depth of all these problems, each being deep itself could assemble together at the same time.
Going for the church camp was very amazing. It was as though after hearing every message, God knew a trial of unmet proportions is coming and He is preaparing the way.
This sovereignty is enshrouded with divine love to the highest degree. It has wisdom and mercy.
God's infinite grace extends to meet the most despairing of heart.
I dread going thru the tunnel of suffering, but I would not forget the suffering of Christ brought Christ to the Father. Perhaps that is why Pastor Jeff said, embrace suffering like a friend then you shall consider it all joy.
Health, work and studies. Amazing the depth of all these problems, each being deep itself could assemble together at the same time.
Going for the church camp was very amazing. It was as though after hearing every message, God knew a trial of unmet proportions is coming and He is preaparing the way.
This sovereignty is enshrouded with divine love to the highest degree. It has wisdom and mercy.
God's infinite grace extends to meet the most despairing of heart.
I dread going thru the tunnel of suffering, but I would not forget the suffering of Christ brought Christ to the Father. Perhaps that is why Pastor Jeff said, embrace suffering like a friend then you shall consider it all joy.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Big Blue
The feeling of insignifcance...and the lure of awe.
Everyday's routine is like a springboard..to be released and be free.
I remember being in the Secoia Giant Redwood forest in Yosemite Park. That lostness of the biggness of the tree. Yes for once, I felt small in comparison. These trees are huge. Really huge.
Watching a documentary of the blue whale swimming along the California coast brought back memories of the 39-mile drive I had along this stretch of coast that overlook the Pacific ocean. I wish to return to that stretch of road. It was a wonder. A wonder. A real wonder.
God is great. He is really great.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Crossroad
I have prayed and considered this grave matter.
There will be a day of reckoning. There will be a day when all of us MUST die.
I take it as fear. Time is never never on our side. I have lived as though it is. Day by day, moments passes by faster than the MRT train I take.
There will be a day when I will die. Consider this, I have lived feeling the abundance of time yet it is not a value or amount that I know. Yet I have not lived in a way of reckoning.
I must consider this seriously to take the right path as the road towards another crossroad unfolds.
There will be a day of reckoning. There will be a day when all of us MUST die.
I take it as fear. Time is never never on our side. I have lived as though it is. Day by day, moments passes by faster than the MRT train I take.
There will be a day when I will die. Consider this, I have lived feeling the abundance of time yet it is not a value or amount that I know. Yet I have not lived in a way of reckoning.
I must consider this seriously to take the right path as the road towards another crossroad unfolds.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Sometimes
Sometimes I do wish life would be quieter so that I can listen.
Sometimes I do wish life would be slower so that I can catch up.
Sometimes I do wish life would be more accomodating so that I can grow steadily.
Sometimes I do wish life would be paced so that I know time hasn't slipped by.
There are many sometimes, and sometimes I wish there isn't any sometimes.
Perhaps a laughter, a wink but sometimes I do wish that I would gain more than I lost.
Sometimes.
Sometimes I do wish life would be slower so that I can catch up.
Sometimes I do wish life would be more accomodating so that I can grow steadily.
Sometimes I do wish life would be paced so that I know time hasn't slipped by.
There are many sometimes, and sometimes I wish there isn't any sometimes.
Perhaps a laughter, a wink but sometimes I do wish that I would gain more than I lost.
Sometimes.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Is there anything?
Is there anything to implore? Is there anything to seek?
For life to stand unyielding and unmovable? What must move my heart?
Can I trust my heart that is decietful and corrupt from the days of my youth?
For I sow corruption and yield wickedness.
There is only beauty in one. Righteousness in one. Filth and corruption is not found in Him. Only a love that abides, that is everlasting, the blood drawn from Emmanuel's vein. Precious it is that no man can measure its worth.
Seek no further my friend.
Your ashes for His beauty. Look to the cross and see the Christ that saves. Look and be saved.
The world will only turn uglier if only your gaze look more intently on His beauty.
For life to stand unyielding and unmovable? What must move my heart?
Can I trust my heart that is decietful and corrupt from the days of my youth?
For I sow corruption and yield wickedness.
There is only beauty in one. Righteousness in one. Filth and corruption is not found in Him. Only a love that abides, that is everlasting, the blood drawn from Emmanuel's vein. Precious it is that no man can measure its worth.
Seek no further my friend.
Your ashes for His beauty. Look to the cross and see the Christ that saves. Look and be saved.
The world will only turn uglier if only your gaze look more intently on His beauty.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
The biggness of God
John Piper made these words ring a resonance, "If we imagine God for less than who He is, it is idolatory." "Right affections for God comes with a right view of God."
I agree with what John Piper said. He went on to say in America, there is an attempt to make God look small.
I heard from John MacArthur that we must believe God is able, that is the basis of faith (paraphrase). This is what we often lack.
Going back this reservist is quite an experience. Talking to my peers and hearing their talks, I observed something, people are hungry for success. They pit one another at their sucess stories, they ask how to be successful. Prosperity in material wealth is their goal. It may surprise you if you realise there were Christians engaging in this talk and showing great interest and desire to delve into how to be successful.
I just felt that we have dimmed our greater treasure in Christ. Shall I say the greater treasure we have is the greatest treasure. Christ. Christians not embracing Christ, Christian looking to Christ to be their success feeding their worldly pursuits. It is hard for anyone without Christ to see light that we shine, we live, we thirst, we love Jesus above all things. We engage people with their same thrist. It is no wonder that we have more similarities than differences to the world. When Christians engages the world, the world embraces him or her. Though it is told that friendship with the world is in enmity with God. The Christian's thirst is not wealth. It is righteousness. Christ is our righteousness.
Jesus made it clear, the world would hate you because they hated Him first. We don't show difference with the way we lived, the world would not resist. Christianity have dived low, simply we were taught that God is our aide to success. Perhaps we don't live by faith in God but a faith God who we idolize for His gifts, believing God is our genie, God is a dole-eyed empathising God that idolize our incapacity to be successful, that the centre of His worship is us.
What blamphemous idea is that? The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. We love Him because He first love us. Divine love is thought-out by God in whom He predestined, He foreknew, He justified, He also glorified through the slaying of His son. That is God's divine, highest and most gracious love. To degrade God's love to our own tool and not total worship is indeed idolatory. The love of God is unimaginably impossible, full of grace, mercy and power and if that dun implore us to love, what else will? It is a love that has glory all magnified.
I hope this experience would not make my heart shudder but strengthened. God's banner will always be held high. We need to know God. His highest good for us is that we hold Him highest in our life. The biggness of God never change. The only thing that needs changing is us. Our view of God must evolved to match who He really is. The transformed life will testify that. Our practise with our position in Christ.
The biggness of God. Sovereign, absolute soveriegn and all-conquering God. Nothing matters except He be worshipped. My life to give, yet He has taken into His everlasting love abode. Security in Christ, where shall I find my fear?
My Christ is all.
I agree with what John Piper said. He went on to say in America, there is an attempt to make God look small.
I heard from John MacArthur that we must believe God is able, that is the basis of faith (paraphrase). This is what we often lack.
Going back this reservist is quite an experience. Talking to my peers and hearing their talks, I observed something, people are hungry for success. They pit one another at their sucess stories, they ask how to be successful. Prosperity in material wealth is their goal. It may surprise you if you realise there were Christians engaging in this talk and showing great interest and desire to delve into how to be successful.
I just felt that we have dimmed our greater treasure in Christ. Shall I say the greater treasure we have is the greatest treasure. Christ. Christians not embracing Christ, Christian looking to Christ to be their success feeding their worldly pursuits. It is hard for anyone without Christ to see light that we shine, we live, we thirst, we love Jesus above all things. We engage people with their same thrist. It is no wonder that we have more similarities than differences to the world. When Christians engages the world, the world embraces him or her. Though it is told that friendship with the world is in enmity with God. The Christian's thirst is not wealth. It is righteousness. Christ is our righteousness.
Jesus made it clear, the world would hate you because they hated Him first. We don't show difference with the way we lived, the world would not resist. Christianity have dived low, simply we were taught that God is our aide to success. Perhaps we don't live by faith in God but a faith God who we idolize for His gifts, believing God is our genie, God is a dole-eyed empathising God that idolize our incapacity to be successful, that the centre of His worship is us.
What blamphemous idea is that? The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. We love Him because He first love us. Divine love is thought-out by God in whom He predestined, He foreknew, He justified, He also glorified through the slaying of His son. That is God's divine, highest and most gracious love. To degrade God's love to our own tool and not total worship is indeed idolatory. The love of God is unimaginably impossible, full of grace, mercy and power and if that dun implore us to love, what else will? It is a love that has glory all magnified.
I hope this experience would not make my heart shudder but strengthened. God's banner will always be held high. We need to know God. His highest good for us is that we hold Him highest in our life. The biggness of God never change. The only thing that needs changing is us. Our view of God must evolved to match who He really is. The transformed life will testify that. Our practise with our position in Christ.
The biggness of God. Sovereign, absolute soveriegn and all-conquering God. Nothing matters except He be worshipped. My life to give, yet He has taken into His everlasting love abode. Security in Christ, where shall I find my fear?
My Christ is all.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Day 04
It is day 04. We were moving towards our location. Surrounded by rubber trees and still rubber trees, our morales were depleted. Yet we continue to take stride.
We sought to position ourself in anticipation of the enemy attack. Hours lapsed. Still no sign. The occassional rasp from the trees brought reasons for us to fear. That we engage in comat and brings to a premature ends to our lives. We thought of our love ones.
Night fell. We havn't slept a wink. Some of us gave in. The snores was quickly amplified by the dead silence of the night. Yet, one by one, the symphony of snores became a ringing invitation that any attack now would mean instant annihilation.
Soon the night turned to day. It was comforting to see the first ray of light penetrating through the forest canopy or rather the plantation. A deep intake of relief breath soon followed by a slow tiring stride to my waiting car. Another day of war is over.
I shall rest another for tonight the hottest battle may ensue. There is no time for regrets only war. The battle must go on but at this point, this soldier must rest.
We sought to position ourself in anticipation of the enemy attack. Hours lapsed. Still no sign. The occassional rasp from the trees brought reasons for us to fear. That we engage in comat and brings to a premature ends to our lives. We thought of our love ones.
Night fell. We havn't slept a wink. Some of us gave in. The snores was quickly amplified by the dead silence of the night. Yet, one by one, the symphony of snores became a ringing invitation that any attack now would mean instant annihilation.
Soon the night turned to day. It was comforting to see the first ray of light penetrating through the forest canopy or rather the plantation. A deep intake of relief breath soon followed by a slow tiring stride to my waiting car. Another day of war is over.
I shall rest another for tonight the hottest battle may ensue. There is no time for regrets only war. The battle must go on but at this point, this soldier must rest.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Being green
Thank God for a very neat camp. Personally I felt the messages were very good coz the message is so bible-based and is so well explained. Felt light illumination in understanding and rather than a message that is applicative, it is implicative. Coz of my position in Christ, my response should grow towards Christ-likenes.
Thank God also for the workshop on "How to study the bible?"...at least it throws some light on my personal responsiblity to ensure I dun misquote scripture out of context or worse misunderstood scriptures for what it didn't intend to mean. Thank God. In a way, "Drawing Near" to me seems defined that I have through this camp, knew God deeper coz His Word was taught with such clarity. I guess I was green in a certain way.
Well from Campus retreat camp to army camp. Being green today certainly wasn't comfortable...HahaHa...It is going to be 12hr clockwork like shift work. Wow..can't believe this camp could be so shiong..haha...well being green certainly cause your life to change drastically...Guess this would be a very different 2 weeks. Serving the nation...still feeling green thinking of this nationalism thought...can't wait for the 2 weeks to be up, but meanwhile, to get use of being green once a year. Haha. The cookhouse do serve very good food, with greens that is..
Thank God also for the workshop on "How to study the bible?"...at least it throws some light on my personal responsiblity to ensure I dun misquote scripture out of context or worse misunderstood scriptures for what it didn't intend to mean. Thank God. In a way, "Drawing Near" to me seems defined that I have through this camp, knew God deeper coz His Word was taught with such clarity. I guess I was green in a certain way.
Well from Campus retreat camp to army camp. Being green today certainly wasn't comfortable...HahaHa...It is going to be 12hr clockwork like shift work. Wow..can't believe this camp could be so shiong..haha...well being green certainly cause your life to change drastically...Guess this would be a very different 2 weeks. Serving the nation...still feeling green thinking of this nationalism thought...can't wait for the 2 weeks to be up, but meanwhile, to get use of being green once a year. Haha. The cookhouse do serve very good food, with greens that is..
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Stepping up
"Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation,be constant in prayer." Roms 12:12
We often while our time in trivialities. While there are things we do to relax, to unwind, there are times where excessiveness creeps in.
The indulgence of rountineness dulls our mind or it creates a lack of God-interest. What I mean is not that we can't speak godliness but we do not live godliness.
In 1 Cor 9:27, Paul says ,"27No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize."
Paul says that his one and only singular purpose in life is to run to reach the upward call of Christ Jesus to bring people to Christ. Yet more amazing than that, he says he will subject his own body, his own life under the lordship of Christ so that he would not be disqualified in the reward. He meant that he is not being disqualifited from being a gospeliter. He preached the gospel of grace, so he must lived the life of grace that is evident by holiness.
A love for God. A zeal for God cannot be by speech alone. It cannot also be by action only. Paul proclaim in 1 Corinthians 9 something before he wrote this epistle very personal. He defend not himself but He wants to draw men to know the Lord he serves is worth everthing. Everything. If that is true, his life is the Lord's everything as well.
This is the gospel he lives and therefore the gospel he gives. I quote Romans 12:12 because simply the deepest most of person joy in God comes from the hope Christ gives that produces peace in suffering that comes when we are devoted in prayer. None of us apart a life of devotion of Christ, can live Christ and produce Christ-exalting life messages to others unless we first ourself is all in love with Christ.
God-interest predominates our life and not self-interest.
We often while our time in trivialities. While there are things we do to relax, to unwind, there are times where excessiveness creeps in.
The indulgence of rountineness dulls our mind or it creates a lack of God-interest. What I mean is not that we can't speak godliness but we do not live godliness.
In 1 Cor 9:27, Paul says ,"27No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize."
Paul says that his one and only singular purpose in life is to run to reach the upward call of Christ Jesus to bring people to Christ. Yet more amazing than that, he says he will subject his own body, his own life under the lordship of Christ so that he would not be disqualified in the reward. He meant that he is not being disqualifited from being a gospeliter. He preached the gospel of grace, so he must lived the life of grace that is evident by holiness.
A love for God. A zeal for God cannot be by speech alone. It cannot also be by action only. Paul proclaim in 1 Corinthians 9 something before he wrote this epistle very personal. He defend not himself but He wants to draw men to know the Lord he serves is worth everthing. Everything. If that is true, his life is the Lord's everything as well.
This is the gospel he lives and therefore the gospel he gives. I quote Romans 12:12 because simply the deepest most of person joy in God comes from the hope Christ gives that produces peace in suffering that comes when we are devoted in prayer. None of us apart a life of devotion of Christ, can live Christ and produce Christ-exalting life messages to others unless we first ourself is all in love with Christ.
God-interest predominates our life and not self-interest.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Clear or not
Some things when you do, you are unclear about why you are doing.
But as you do, things become clear.
Then it become unclear again.
Doubts seems to be easiest to creep in. While confidence is good, I think the better of all is still being mindful.
Things and circumstances do change and unless we are wise as serpents yet gentle as doves, we create strifes that does nobody any good except the name of Christ be shamed.
Emotions always run high and the hardest to put out. Yet truth must keep our mind focus on the road ahead. Take stock time and time again. Question yourself. Preach to yourself. Do whatever it takes but keep yourself remember the Lord's goodness and resolve still to do good in the midst of the worst of circumstances. This is the hardest yet the most essential.
But as you do, things become clear.
Then it become unclear again.
Doubts seems to be easiest to creep in. While confidence is good, I think the better of all is still being mindful.
Things and circumstances do change and unless we are wise as serpents yet gentle as doves, we create strifes that does nobody any good except the name of Christ be shamed.
Emotions always run high and the hardest to put out. Yet truth must keep our mind focus on the road ahead. Take stock time and time again. Question yourself. Preach to yourself. Do whatever it takes but keep yourself remember the Lord's goodness and resolve still to do good in the midst of the worst of circumstances. This is the hardest yet the most essential.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Psalm 104
Psalm 104 (New American Standard Bible)
Psalm 104
The LORD'S Care over All His Works.
1(A)Bless the LORD, O my soul!
O LORD my God, You are very great;
You are (B)clothed with splendor and majesty,
2Covering Yourself with (C)light as with a cloak,
(D)Stretching out heaven like a tent curtain.
3[a]He (E)lays the beams of His upper chambers in the waters;
He makes the (F)clouds His chariot;
He walks upon the (G)wings of the wind;
4He makes [b](H)the winds His messengers,
[c]Flaming (I)fire His ministers.
5He (J)established the earth upon its foundations,
So that it will not [d]totter forever and ever.
6You (K)covered it with the deep as with a garment;
The waters were standing above the mountains.
7At Your (L)rebuke they fled,
At the (M)sound of Your thunder they hurried away.
8The mountains rose; the valleys sank down
To the (N)place which You established for them.
9You set a (O)boundary that they may not pass over,
So that they will not return to cover the earth.
10He sends forth (P)springs in the valleys;
They flow between the mountains;
11They (Q)give drink to every beast of the field;
The (R)wild donkeys quench their thirst.
12Beside them the birds of the heavens (S)dwell;
They lift up their voices among the branches.
13He (T)waters the mountains from His upper chambers;
(U)The earth is satisfied with the fruit of His works.
14He causes the (V)grass to grow for the cattle,
And (W)vegetation for the labor of man,
So that he may bring forth food (X)from the earth,
15And (Y)wine which makes man's heart glad,
(Z)So that he may make his face glisten with oil,
And food which (AA)sustains man's heart.
16The trees of the LORD drink their fill,
The cedars of Lebanon which He planted,
17Where the (AB)birds build their nests,
And the (AC)stork, whose home is the fir trees.
18The high mountains are for the (AD)wild goats;
The (AE)cliffs are a refuge for the (AF)shephanim.
19He made the moon (AG)for the seasons;
The (AH)sun knows the place of its setting.
20You (AI)appoint darkness and it becomes night,
In which all the (AJ)beasts of the forest prowl about.
21The (AK)young lions roar after their prey
And (AL)seek their food from God.
22When the sun rises they withdraw
And lie down in their (AM)dens.
23Man goes forth to (AN)his work
And to his labor until evening.
24O LORD, how (AO)many are Your works!
In (AP)wisdom You have made them all;
The (AQ)earth is full of Your [e]possessions.
25There is the (AR)sea, great and broad,
In which are swarms without number,
Animals both small and great.
26There the (AS)ships move along,
And [f](AT)Leviathan, which You have formed to sport in it.
27They all (AU)wait for You
To (AV)give them their food in [g]due season.
28You give to them, they gather it up;
You (AW)open Your hand, they are satisfied with good.
29You (AX)hide Your face, they are dismayed;
You (AY)take away their [h]spirit, they expire
And (AZ)return to their dust.
30You send forth Your [i](BA)Spirit, they are created;
And You renew the face of the ground.
31Let the (BB)glory of the LORD endure forever;
Let the LORD (BC)be glad in His works;
32He (BD)looks at the earth, and it (BE)trembles;
He (BF)touches the mountains, and they smoke.
33I will sing to the LORD (BG)as long as I live;
I will (BH)sing praise to my God while I have my being.
34Let my (BI)meditation be pleasing to Him;
As for me, I shall (BJ)be glad in the LORD.
35Let sinners be (BK)consumed from the earth
And let the (BL)wicked be no more
(BM)Bless the LORD, O my soul
(BN)Praise the LORD!
8Finally, brethren, (A)whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. Phil 4:8
Good praise with good thoughts are pleasing to God and is health to your soul.
Reading this Psalm convinced me one thing.
Psalm 104
The LORD'S Care over All His Works.
1(A)Bless the LORD, O my soul!
O LORD my God, You are very great;
You are (B)clothed with splendor and majesty,
2Covering Yourself with (C)light as with a cloak,
(D)Stretching out heaven like a tent curtain.
3[a]He (E)lays the beams of His upper chambers in the waters;
He makes the (F)clouds His chariot;
He walks upon the (G)wings of the wind;
4He makes [b](H)the winds His messengers,
[c]Flaming (I)fire His ministers.
5He (J)established the earth upon its foundations,
So that it will not [d]totter forever and ever.
6You (K)covered it with the deep as with a garment;
The waters were standing above the mountains.
7At Your (L)rebuke they fled,
At the (M)sound of Your thunder they hurried away.
8The mountains rose; the valleys sank down
To the (N)place which You established for them.
9You set a (O)boundary that they may not pass over,
So that they will not return to cover the earth.
10He sends forth (P)springs in the valleys;
They flow between the mountains;
11They (Q)give drink to every beast of the field;
The (R)wild donkeys quench their thirst.
12Beside them the birds of the heavens (S)dwell;
They lift up their voices among the branches.
13He (T)waters the mountains from His upper chambers;
(U)The earth is satisfied with the fruit of His works.
14He causes the (V)grass to grow for the cattle,
And (W)vegetation for the labor of man,
So that he may bring forth food (X)from the earth,
15And (Y)wine which makes man's heart glad,
(Z)So that he may make his face glisten with oil,
And food which (AA)sustains man's heart.
16The trees of the LORD drink their fill,
The cedars of Lebanon which He planted,
17Where the (AB)birds build their nests,
And the (AC)stork, whose home is the fir trees.
18The high mountains are for the (AD)wild goats;
The (AE)cliffs are a refuge for the (AF)shephanim.
19He made the moon (AG)for the seasons;
The (AH)sun knows the place of its setting.
20You (AI)appoint darkness and it becomes night,
In which all the (AJ)beasts of the forest prowl about.
21The (AK)young lions roar after their prey
And (AL)seek their food from God.
22When the sun rises they withdraw
And lie down in their (AM)dens.
23Man goes forth to (AN)his work
And to his labor until evening.
24O LORD, how (AO)many are Your works!
In (AP)wisdom You have made them all;
The (AQ)earth is full of Your [e]possessions.
25There is the (AR)sea, great and broad,
In which are swarms without number,
Animals both small and great.
26There the (AS)ships move along,
And [f](AT)Leviathan, which You have formed to sport in it.
27They all (AU)wait for You
To (AV)give them their food in [g]due season.
28You give to them, they gather it up;
You (AW)open Your hand, they are satisfied with good.
29You (AX)hide Your face, they are dismayed;
You (AY)take away their [h]spirit, they expire
And (AZ)return to their dust.
30You send forth Your [i](BA)Spirit, they are created;
And You renew the face of the ground.
31Let the (BB)glory of the LORD endure forever;
Let the LORD (BC)be glad in His works;
32He (BD)looks at the earth, and it (BE)trembles;
He (BF)touches the mountains, and they smoke.
33I will sing to the LORD (BG)as long as I live;
I will (BH)sing praise to my God while I have my being.
34Let my (BI)meditation be pleasing to Him;
As for me, I shall (BJ)be glad in the LORD.
35Let sinners be (BK)consumed from the earth
And let the (BL)wicked be no more
(BM)Bless the LORD, O my soul
(BN)Praise the LORD!
8Finally, brethren, (A)whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. Phil 4:8
Good praise with good thoughts are pleasing to God and is health to your soul.
Reading this Psalm convinced me one thing.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
2 Songs
Composed these couple of songs several months ago. Thank God for Anne who arranged and sang. Thought I post it up. Hopefully it will encourage your heart just as it did for me. Indeed God's love is always so amazing. Thank God.
How Can I Deny
How can I deny - Anne Choo
Hanging on the Cross
Was my Redeemer
Cruel was the way He suffered
The anguish on His brow
The tears that He shed when the Father left Him all alone
Why bear such a burden
Why bear all my sins
Chorus
Oh how can I deny the Saviour’s love for me
It was on that cross He suffered and died for me
Oh how can I deny my Saviour’s love for me
It was by His blood that I know His love was true for me
Scourged and marred
The Son of God
Mocked, rejected and despised,
The cry He called out,
Father please forgive them for they know what they done
Why give such a pardon
Why pay such a price
Jesus, crucified
The Lamb of God
The crimson cross, the drops of blood
Hands held by the nails
He said It is finished and gave up His life
Why lay down your own life
Why you chose the cross
My Saviour's Song
My Saviors Song - Anne Choo
Christ alone, on cavalry hill
The noon day sun, was veiled away
The wrath of God was poured on Him
The anguish I can’t see
He suffered outside the gate
The Passover sacrifice
God’s love was Christ crucified
The lamb for my sins
Chorus
Christ came to this world He made
To redeem His very own
The Father’s heart was His chosen ones
Jesus came to save
The love of Christ so amazing
Sinners cleansed by His blood
God and I reconciled,
Christ ransomed me
Through His cross
Perfect righteousness in Christ,
Robed by His precious love
The glory of Christ my Lord
As Savior of the world
Heaven will be my eternal home
Angels will sing along
The dear face of Jesus Christ
Forever I’ll adore
How Can I Deny
How can I deny - Anne Choo
Hanging on the Cross
Was my Redeemer
Cruel was the way He suffered
The anguish on His brow
The tears that He shed when the Father left Him all alone
Why bear such a burden
Why bear all my sins
Chorus
Oh how can I deny the Saviour’s love for me
It was on that cross He suffered and died for me
Oh how can I deny my Saviour’s love for me
It was by His blood that I know His love was true for me
Scourged and marred
The Son of God
Mocked, rejected and despised,
The cry He called out,
Father please forgive them for they know what they done
Why give such a pardon
Why pay such a price
Jesus, crucified
The Lamb of God
The crimson cross, the drops of blood
Hands held by the nails
He said It is finished and gave up His life
Why lay down your own life
Why you chose the cross
My Saviour's Song
My Saviors Song - Anne Choo
Christ alone, on cavalry hill
The noon day sun, was veiled away
The wrath of God was poured on Him
The anguish I can’t see
He suffered outside the gate
The Passover sacrifice
God’s love was Christ crucified
The lamb for my sins
Chorus
Christ came to this world He made
To redeem His very own
The Father’s heart was His chosen ones
Jesus came to save
The love of Christ so amazing
Sinners cleansed by His blood
God and I reconciled,
Christ ransomed me
Through His cross
Perfect righteousness in Christ,
Robed by His precious love
The glory of Christ my Lord
As Savior of the world
Heaven will be my eternal home
Angels will sing along
The dear face of Jesus Christ
Forever I’ll adore
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Lifebook
Some things in life are normal and expected. Being a Christian doesn't change that reality.
But I think for myself and for many, being Christian make us distant towards that reality. We may gripe and be resent. In that aspect, I see non-believers more receptive to reality.
Being Christian I see is being the recepients of hope. This hope is unmovable and steadfast. It is the greatest gift for Christ Himself is the giver. To have the giver as your eternity is the assurance of having assail through this life yet none of the wounds will seperate us from the love of God. To find at the end of life, gain in abiding in the presence of God.
In a way, we often tell people God has promised good to you. God has a plan for you but we divert the attention not in the suffering or the trial but rather a focus on the outcome. Everyone loves a good story ending. None wants to be told about endurance. None wants to say God intended that pain and suffering for your eternal good. We excuse God and paint God as we intended He to be.
I see harshness as acceptable just as hope is acceptable. Because if the world promises hope, it is a lie. Only God, and in Christ alone has a hope that lasts forever.
This is the hope of the Christian and the life of the Christian. Paul told the Colossians and very aptly so, "Christ in you, the hope of glory."
But I think for myself and for many, being Christian make us distant towards that reality. We may gripe and be resent. In that aspect, I see non-believers more receptive to reality.
Being Christian I see is being the recepients of hope. This hope is unmovable and steadfast. It is the greatest gift for Christ Himself is the giver. To have the giver as your eternity is the assurance of having assail through this life yet none of the wounds will seperate us from the love of God. To find at the end of life, gain in abiding in the presence of God.
In a way, we often tell people God has promised good to you. God has a plan for you but we divert the attention not in the suffering or the trial but rather a focus on the outcome. Everyone loves a good story ending. None wants to be told about endurance. None wants to say God intended that pain and suffering for your eternal good. We excuse God and paint God as we intended He to be.
I see harshness as acceptable just as hope is acceptable. Because if the world promises hope, it is a lie. Only God, and in Christ alone has a hope that lasts forever.
This is the hope of the Christian and the life of the Christian. Paul told the Colossians and very aptly so, "Christ in you, the hope of glory."
Monday, April 20, 2009
Victory over Amalekites
Exodus 17:8-14
A battle with the Amalekites. Moses stood on the hill with the rod of God in his hand. Joshua fought the battle. Aaron and Hur held Moses tiring hand as he lifts the rod of God.
The battle was lost and won based on the lifting of hands.
When I read this text again. What really grip is the weaponary of our warfare. While Joshua fought, without the lifting of hands, there would be no victory.
Which is more important? The fighting or the lifting?
Without lifting, the fight is over.
We must pray for prayer is lifting the rod of God high. If our desire is for God's kingdom to advance, the spiritual means of prayer is to bloat the Amalek from genearation to generation. The Lord is our banner if only our battle for God's kingdom is first fought with the lifting of hands to ask of God to fight His battle by His servants.
I have seemingly lost sight a fair bit this few weeks. Thank God for this reminder again to lift His banner yet again.
A battle with the Amalekites. Moses stood on the hill with the rod of God in his hand. Joshua fought the battle. Aaron and Hur held Moses tiring hand as he lifts the rod of God.
The battle was lost and won based on the lifting of hands.
When I read this text again. What really grip is the weaponary of our warfare. While Joshua fought, without the lifting of hands, there would be no victory.
Which is more important? The fighting or the lifting?
Without lifting, the fight is over.
We must pray for prayer is lifting the rod of God high. If our desire is for God's kingdom to advance, the spiritual means of prayer is to bloat the Amalek from genearation to generation. The Lord is our banner if only our battle for God's kingdom is first fought with the lifting of hands to ask of God to fight His battle by His servants.
I have seemingly lost sight a fair bit this few weeks. Thank God for this reminder again to lift His banner yet again.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Time's up
I have just finished my jog. After months of non-activity on the track.
Reached home and saw my handphone. My colleague's dad has passed away. She has left an sms on my handphone. Just a month ago, her dad was diagnosed with kidney cancer and the cancer has spread to the liver and bone. He had trusted Christ soon after. Last week he was baptised. Today he is in paradise, in heaven with our Lord Jesus Christ.
Seems so surreal but it is reality. The strivings of life. The endless struggles of life. The torrents and waves of laments after laments,difficulties, when a lifeless state enters our body, none of these shall be of any material importance.
As I read the sms, I replied my friend to take comfort, "He is in a far better place, with Christ our Lord" Peace.
Peace indeed. The endless strivings cease. Enter now into the joy of the Lord, Christ will say to every believer. I can't fanthom how much joy and delight I must be feeling if I hear these words from Christ. When time is up. But I know if I truly desire that deepest joy and delight, I must, I must redeem the time for the day's are evil. Redeem, O love to proclaim it, redeem by the blood of the lamb.
I came across this blog which I felt so relevant to my thoughts that I thought it is of utmost necessity to share with you all.
Today, I’d like you to reflect on the gift of Time. In the KJV, Ephesians 5:15 reads “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,” and then verse 16 “Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” With the little time we have today, I’d like to hit a few high points in this last verse. Listen closely again to verse 16. The KJV translates the Greek literally here, as “Redeeming the time”. The NIV translates the same phrase as “Making the most of every opportunity”. The Greek word exagorazomenoi translated redeeming in the KJV is a compound word that combines ek(ex) “out of” with agora. The Agora was a public place where people gathered. At times, they even held trials there where it was possible that you could be plucked as a juror if you were nearby. Later, at the time of Paul’s writing, the Agora was known as the market place - a place to buy and sell, including slaves. Its connection to the buying of slaves is how this word can be translated “redeeming”. Therefore, the word in the New Testament basically means “out of the marketplace” or “to purchase out of the marketplace”. Paul is the only New Testament writer to use this word in connection with time. He uses it here in Ephesians 5:16 and also in Colossians 4:5. The Colossians verse reads, “Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.” You can see it is used in the same way and basically means making the most of every opportunity. (Note for you Septuagint gurus - this word is also combined with time and used in Daniel 2:8 where the magicians and astrologers are trying to buy, or gain, time from the King in order to interpret his dream and avoid his threat of death if they failed.)
Our time is precious. It is extremely precious. It is probably obvious, but here are four major reasons why our time is precious.
Counting down backwards:
4. Once time is past, it can not be recovered.
3. We are uncertain of its continuance.
2. Our time is very short - it is scarce - there never seems to be enough of it. And, most importantly,
1. Our eternity depends on how we use it.
So, paraphrased in verse 16, Paul basically says ‘Buy up that time out of the marketplace and make it yours.’ It sounds a lot like Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:19-20 of laying up treasures for heaven - because our eternity depends upon it.
Note that Paul does not use any of these 4 specific reasons in verse 16, but he says we should redeem the time - Why?, “Because the days are evil.” Obviously, the days aren’t evil. It is referring to what happens during those days if we don’t redeem the time. The word here is the same Greek word used in the Lord’s prayer when Jesus asks God to protect us from the evil one. So don’t take this phrase lightly. Paul is basically saying that if you don’t make wise choices, then the evil one will have won. We don’t have time to delve into this aspect, but I believe it ties in with what Jeff has been talking about on Sundays in First John and the worldly system run by Satan that opposes Christ. I’ll let you consider that on your own.
“Redeeming the time” - this theme is so prevalent in the Bible.
Remember the rich man in Luke 12 who built up huge barns to store his wealth. God said to him “You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’ “This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God.”
Or remember the Prodigal son (in Luke 15) he was the epitome of one who wasted his time.
As you read the Bible to get your Grapes this year, you are sure to see how often this theme is presented in Jesus’ parables and stories. In the stories of The Rich Man & Lazarus, the wise & foolish builders where one built on the rock and the other the sand, the parables of the talents and the 10 virgins, just to name a few more.
Paul also uses this word for Redeeming two other times, in Galations 3:13 and 4:4. These two verses are in reference to Jesus and his redeeming us from the curse of the law. Galations 4:4 reads, ”But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, 5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.” This Greek word often referred to the purchase of a slave out of the market place. I think here in Galations, Paul is trying to emphasize that we are no longer slaves and have been purchased with the blood of Christ.
Finally, as we finish up, here are three quick areas to focus on to help you with improving your time. I’m using the acronym son, S-O-N, to help you remember these three things.
S - Spiritual time: Ephesians 5:18-21 follows with Paul describing how we should be filled with spiritual things such as singing, praying and submitting to God. It should come as no surprise, as we know Jesus spent much of his time in solitude and in prayer to his Father.
O - Opportunities: Look for opportunities, make the most of your time. Ephesians 5:17 says to Understand what the Lord’s will is. Study, pray, meet with the saints. These will help you to make wise choices of your time. S - Spiritual time; O - Opportunities and
N - N stands for Now. There is no time like the present.
If any of you have delayed or are just hesitant to make a commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ, my dear brother or sister, Now is the time to act. If you have a need to ask God for forgiveness or to make better use of your time, or if you believe, and want to repent, confess and be buried in baptism, to be redeemed by Jesus’ precious blood and be God’s child forever - for all eternity, then please do not wait another moment. Buy up the time - today!
(Adapted from http://www.lcocebs.com/redeeming-the-time/)
Reached home and saw my handphone. My colleague's dad has passed away. She has left an sms on my handphone. Just a month ago, her dad was diagnosed with kidney cancer and the cancer has spread to the liver and bone. He had trusted Christ soon after. Last week he was baptised. Today he is in paradise, in heaven with our Lord Jesus Christ.
Seems so surreal but it is reality. The strivings of life. The endless struggles of life. The torrents and waves of laments after laments,difficulties, when a lifeless state enters our body, none of these shall be of any material importance.
As I read the sms, I replied my friend to take comfort, "He is in a far better place, with Christ our Lord" Peace.
Peace indeed. The endless strivings cease. Enter now into the joy of the Lord, Christ will say to every believer. I can't fanthom how much joy and delight I must be feeling if I hear these words from Christ. When time is up. But I know if I truly desire that deepest joy and delight, I must, I must redeem the time for the day's are evil. Redeem, O love to proclaim it, redeem by the blood of the lamb.
I came across this blog which I felt so relevant to my thoughts that I thought it is of utmost necessity to share with you all.
Today, I’d like you to reflect on the gift of Time. In the KJV, Ephesians 5:15 reads “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,” and then verse 16 “Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” With the little time we have today, I’d like to hit a few high points in this last verse. Listen closely again to verse 16. The KJV translates the Greek literally here, as “Redeeming the time”. The NIV translates the same phrase as “Making the most of every opportunity”. The Greek word exagorazomenoi translated redeeming in the KJV is a compound word that combines ek(ex) “out of” with agora. The Agora was a public place where people gathered. At times, they even held trials there where it was possible that you could be plucked as a juror if you were nearby. Later, at the time of Paul’s writing, the Agora was known as the market place - a place to buy and sell, including slaves. Its connection to the buying of slaves is how this word can be translated “redeeming”. Therefore, the word in the New Testament basically means “out of the marketplace” or “to purchase out of the marketplace”. Paul is the only New Testament writer to use this word in connection with time. He uses it here in Ephesians 5:16 and also in Colossians 4:5. The Colossians verse reads, “Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.” You can see it is used in the same way and basically means making the most of every opportunity. (Note for you Septuagint gurus - this word is also combined with time and used in Daniel 2:8 where the magicians and astrologers are trying to buy, or gain, time from the King in order to interpret his dream and avoid his threat of death if they failed.)
Our time is precious. It is extremely precious. It is probably obvious, but here are four major reasons why our time is precious.
Counting down backwards:
4. Once time is past, it can not be recovered.
3. We are uncertain of its continuance.
2. Our time is very short - it is scarce - there never seems to be enough of it. And, most importantly,
1. Our eternity depends on how we use it.
So, paraphrased in verse 16, Paul basically says ‘Buy up that time out of the marketplace and make it yours.’ It sounds a lot like Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:19-20 of laying up treasures for heaven - because our eternity depends upon it.
Note that Paul does not use any of these 4 specific reasons in verse 16, but he says we should redeem the time - Why?, “Because the days are evil.” Obviously, the days aren’t evil. It is referring to what happens during those days if we don’t redeem the time. The word here is the same Greek word used in the Lord’s prayer when Jesus asks God to protect us from the evil one. So don’t take this phrase lightly. Paul is basically saying that if you don’t make wise choices, then the evil one will have won. We don’t have time to delve into this aspect, but I believe it ties in with what Jeff has been talking about on Sundays in First John and the worldly system run by Satan that opposes Christ. I’ll let you consider that on your own.
“Redeeming the time” - this theme is so prevalent in the Bible.
Remember the rich man in Luke 12 who built up huge barns to store his wealth. God said to him “You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’ “This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God.”
Or remember the Prodigal son (in Luke 15) he was the epitome of one who wasted his time.
As you read the Bible to get your Grapes this year, you are sure to see how often this theme is presented in Jesus’ parables and stories. In the stories of The Rich Man & Lazarus, the wise & foolish builders where one built on the rock and the other the sand, the parables of the talents and the 10 virgins, just to name a few more.
Paul also uses this word for Redeeming two other times, in Galations 3:13 and 4:4. These two verses are in reference to Jesus and his redeeming us from the curse of the law. Galations 4:4 reads, ”But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, 5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.” This Greek word often referred to the purchase of a slave out of the market place. I think here in Galations, Paul is trying to emphasize that we are no longer slaves and have been purchased with the blood of Christ.
Finally, as we finish up, here are three quick areas to focus on to help you with improving your time. I’m using the acronym son, S-O-N, to help you remember these three things.
S - Spiritual time: Ephesians 5:18-21 follows with Paul describing how we should be filled with spiritual things such as singing, praying and submitting to God. It should come as no surprise, as we know Jesus spent much of his time in solitude and in prayer to his Father.
O - Opportunities: Look for opportunities, make the most of your time. Ephesians 5:17 says to Understand what the Lord’s will is. Study, pray, meet with the saints. These will help you to make wise choices of your time. S - Spiritual time; O - Opportunities and
N - N stands for Now. There is no time like the present.
If any of you have delayed or are just hesitant to make a commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ, my dear brother or sister, Now is the time to act. If you have a need to ask God for forgiveness or to make better use of your time, or if you believe, and want to repent, confess and be buried in baptism, to be redeemed by Jesus’ precious blood and be God’s child forever - for all eternity, then please do not wait another moment. Buy up the time - today!
(Adapted from http://www.lcocebs.com/redeeming-the-time/)
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Chronological study bible
Glad to pick up this bible. Heard about it from my friend before.
Glad to land a copy. It is a re-arranged study bible to log in the historical progress of the text of the bible. Suppose the Psalms that David wrote as his life unfolds from 1 and 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles..with the Psalms he wrote..simply a delight to let you read the bible with a timeline.
Hope to find time to start reading. If you are interested..go to this link to read more: http://www.chronologicalstudybible.com/
Thursday, April 16, 2009
God confidence.
For me to live is Christ and die is gain.
Can I say with the confidence that is true?
Can I say with the confidence that is true?
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Paradox
I may walk a long time with happiness but I learn little. But I walked a day with sorrow, I learnt much.
I seek for joy but found none till I know who is the joy-giver.
I wanted to seek things that won't last but my heart turned me round and told me to not to seek things that will burn up. For I am only, alone is eternal. He told me He is eternal.
I sought to drink at the fountain that purge my thirst. But if I never want to thirst, I must drink at the fount that washes away all my sin and makes crimson stains white as snow.
And so again, I walk a day with sorrow, and I have learnt much yet again.
I seek for joy but found none till I know who is the joy-giver.
I wanted to seek things that won't last but my heart turned me round and told me to not to seek things that will burn up. For I am only, alone is eternal. He told me He is eternal.
I sought to drink at the fountain that purge my thirst. But if I never want to thirst, I must drink at the fount that washes away all my sin and makes crimson stains white as snow.
And so again, I walk a day with sorrow, and I have learnt much yet again.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Listen to your father in law
Jethro said in Exodus 18:11 to Moses "Now I know that the LORD is greater than all other gods, for he did this to those who had treated Israel arrogantly."
Israel has just been led out from Eygpt. The land of bondage to Israel. Pharoh, the most powerful king on Earth in the days of Moses. Yet before God, no powers of this Earth can withstand an all mighty God.
The Eygptian hearts definitely waxed with fear for they knew they were fighting a God who would not be defeated for it is a battle of Yahweh. God's name.
This victory brought Moses' Father in law to a cocnlusion. God is great. God is real. God's favour is on His own people. Israel had suffered greatly under the hand of Israel but the hand of God that brought this complete delivery from Eygpt, stands true in every heart of every Israelite that day that witness the 10 plauges and the crossing of the Red Sea, my God is great. No heart can proclaim that unless the deliverer makes the deliverance great.
Life trouble, no matter how sinking deep it is cannot be more inviting towards God's rock solid foundation. On grace you stand. On love you stand. In Christ, you live.
That is the marvel of resurrection. You live Christ as Christ live in you. No earthly foe, setback and even death which the preultimate end of all men, can seperate you from a love that God has set upon you before the foundation of this world.
Listen to Jethro. Listen to this man's words and echo it through your life. Your God is great. God is with you. No enemies can win. Only God will. He is with you.
Israel has just been led out from Eygpt. The land of bondage to Israel. Pharoh, the most powerful king on Earth in the days of Moses. Yet before God, no powers of this Earth can withstand an all mighty God.
The Eygptian hearts definitely waxed with fear for they knew they were fighting a God who would not be defeated for it is a battle of Yahweh. God's name.
This victory brought Moses' Father in law to a cocnlusion. God is great. God is real. God's favour is on His own people. Israel had suffered greatly under the hand of Israel but the hand of God that brought this complete delivery from Eygpt, stands true in every heart of every Israelite that day that witness the 10 plauges and the crossing of the Red Sea, my God is great. No heart can proclaim that unless the deliverer makes the deliverance great.
Life trouble, no matter how sinking deep it is cannot be more inviting towards God's rock solid foundation. On grace you stand. On love you stand. In Christ, you live.
That is the marvel of resurrection. You live Christ as Christ live in you. No earthly foe, setback and even death which the preultimate end of all men, can seperate you from a love that God has set upon you before the foundation of this world.
Listen to Jethro. Listen to this man's words and echo it through your life. Your God is great. God is with you. No enemies can win. Only God will. He is with you.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Milestone
Manage to overcome a major obstacle in my project yesterday. Was really elated.
Hopefully more progress on the road ahead.
Thank You Lord :)
Hopefully more progress on the road ahead.
Thank You Lord :)
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
The look of the Saviour
Marred, scourged and despised.
There were no beauty in His visage. Anguish, grave agonising pain He endured that no man ever felt.
The only comfort He seems to suggest a returning glory, "Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit" and there Jesus gave up His life.
It is in this death that gave life. Seemingly it looks hope is all buried and gone but that is not the case. Overwhelmed with grief, the disciples gazed. Yet that look of the Saviour was one that would arised with a glorious voice, "I am risen"
To see the resurrected Christ governs hope. The look of Christ, my Saviour, our Saviour is a victory of overcoming the world.
This world has no path to victory. This world has only end. Death is our end.
However, when you looked to the bronze serpent, when you look at the risen Christ, when you see the look of the Saviour, my friend there is no end, there is only life, the life with Christ, the new birth, the resurrection that says, death has lost its sting.
What a delight to commend your spirit to Christ, our Shepherd who first commend His spirit to God the Father.
We can also find rest through Christ in commending our soul, our lives to God.
There were no beauty in His visage. Anguish, grave agonising pain He endured that no man ever felt.
The only comfort He seems to suggest a returning glory, "Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit" and there Jesus gave up His life.
It is in this death that gave life. Seemingly it looks hope is all buried and gone but that is not the case. Overwhelmed with grief, the disciples gazed. Yet that look of the Saviour was one that would arised with a glorious voice, "I am risen"
To see the resurrected Christ governs hope. The look of Christ, my Saviour, our Saviour is a victory of overcoming the world.
This world has no path to victory. This world has only end. Death is our end.
However, when you looked to the bronze serpent, when you look at the risen Christ, when you see the look of the Saviour, my friend there is no end, there is only life, the life with Christ, the new birth, the resurrection that says, death has lost its sting.
What a delight to commend your spirit to Christ, our Shepherd who first commend His spirit to God the Father.
We can also find rest through Christ in commending our soul, our lives to God.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Awake
Slept a fair bit in the afternoon.
Hardly could sleep now. Thank God today. Went to spurgeon website and read the old introduction of Spurgeon homepage for his sermons,
"I do not come into this pulpit hoping that perhaps somebody will of his own free will return to Christ. My hope lies in another quarter. I hope that my Master will lay hold of some of them and say, "You are mine, and you shall be mine. I claim you for myself." My hope arises from the freeness of grace, and not from the freedom of the will."
Charles Haddon Spurgeon
Spurgeon's conviction shaped his ministry. His belief on the absolute sovereignty of God. Few understand what I meant by this. God's foreknowledge predicates not on our freedom on will but by divine wisdom, every event of man's redemptive history will come to past because simply it is God's plan.
A load ease. Tough we must toil for the kingdom to advance, it is never the servant's work that can accomplish without the Master's decree.
I must understand I go about doing my Master's work and not mine. Only then, my hope lies on the freeness of grace. God's grace that is.
I am comforted by the quote from Surgeon.
Hardly could sleep now. Thank God today. Went to spurgeon website and read the old introduction of Spurgeon homepage for his sermons,
"I do not come into this pulpit hoping that perhaps somebody will of his own free will return to Christ. My hope lies in another quarter. I hope that my Master will lay hold of some of them and say, "You are mine, and you shall be mine. I claim you for myself." My hope arises from the freeness of grace, and not from the freedom of the will."
Charles Haddon Spurgeon
Spurgeon's conviction shaped his ministry. His belief on the absolute sovereignty of God. Few understand what I meant by this. God's foreknowledge predicates not on our freedom on will but by divine wisdom, every event of man's redemptive history will come to past because simply it is God's plan.
A load ease. Tough we must toil for the kingdom to advance, it is never the servant's work that can accomplish without the Master's decree.
I must understand I go about doing my Master's work and not mine. Only then, my hope lies on the freeness of grace. God's grace that is.
I am comforted by the quote from Surgeon.
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Sin is Cruel
A sudden grip of thought. Sin is indeed cruelty to God.
How violent a death would God have endure for sin? Friday is coming. The day to remember what our Lord has done. The day that stays as a day that sin was to be conquered by a cruel death.
That cruelty was God to bear. To adhor sin is right. Because sin to God is adhorable, it is cruel. Sin slayed God, in flesh, in Christ.
Its gripping. How would you see sin? See it through God's heart. May we never lose our guard towards sin, neither ignore its effect, neither it subtlety.
The sinfulness of sin breeds its beginning from temptation.
The cruelty to God forbids that we should allow sin to speak its lies. May we guard our heart with all diligence since Christ took that cruelty upon Himself.
Sin indeed is cruelty to God.
But the amazing thing is....Christ brought that sting of death to be dead that we can be alive in Christ.
We can rejoice this Friday and say that it is Good Friday. Christ is good to us.
How violent a death would God have endure for sin? Friday is coming. The day to remember what our Lord has done. The day that stays as a day that sin was to be conquered by a cruel death.
That cruelty was God to bear. To adhor sin is right. Because sin to God is adhorable, it is cruel. Sin slayed God, in flesh, in Christ.
Its gripping. How would you see sin? See it through God's heart. May we never lose our guard towards sin, neither ignore its effect, neither it subtlety.
The sinfulness of sin breeds its beginning from temptation.
The cruelty to God forbids that we should allow sin to speak its lies. May we guard our heart with all diligence since Christ took that cruelty upon Himself.
Sin indeed is cruelty to God.
But the amazing thing is....Christ brought that sting of death to be dead that we can be alive in Christ.
We can rejoice this Friday and say that it is Good Friday. Christ is good to us.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Who is the most important person on Earth?
Had a conversation with someone yesterday. Been knowing one another at least for 7 years I think. And thinking back and remembering the things we have gone through, it was sweet.
Comparing with the holidays I have been to, the physical beauty might be great, but if I ask myself, it is still the people that makes the memory fond.
I have been on holidays alone in US, seen the great heights and depths, felt particularly awe but these are so distant and in fact when I looked at the pics, it didn't really bring forth any smiles. But the places I have been, with the people I loved, it brought among the smiles with the fondest of memory.
Ultimately, I believe all of us are made for relationships. For kinships and friendships. Beacause that is sweetest.
Who then is the most important person on earth?
I know who is not definitely. It is not Barrak Obama. He is a man under law though powerful. It is not the economist, the militalists, the political, your school principal, your boss, your CEO, your Prime Minister, your President or even perhaps Bill Gates.
It is the one who brought you to Christ, the one who invited you to church that allows you to hear the gospel and be saved, the one who spoke to you in moments in times of discouragement, that made you strengthened again in God.
He or she who brings you into a loving relationship with Christ. This person is the most important person on earth.
Amazing isn't it? Simple but true.
Comparing with the holidays I have been to, the physical beauty might be great, but if I ask myself, it is still the people that makes the memory fond.
I have been on holidays alone in US, seen the great heights and depths, felt particularly awe but these are so distant and in fact when I looked at the pics, it didn't really bring forth any smiles. But the places I have been, with the people I loved, it brought among the smiles with the fondest of memory.
Ultimately, I believe all of us are made for relationships. For kinships and friendships. Beacause that is sweetest.
Who then is the most important person on earth?
I know who is not definitely. It is not Barrak Obama. He is a man under law though powerful. It is not the economist, the militalists, the political, your school principal, your boss, your CEO, your Prime Minister, your President or even perhaps Bill Gates.
It is the one who brought you to Christ, the one who invited you to church that allows you to hear the gospel and be saved, the one who spoke to you in moments in times of discouragement, that made you strengthened again in God.
He or she who brings you into a loving relationship with Christ. This person is the most important person on earth.
Amazing isn't it? Simple but true.
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