Do you still remember your first love? Yes? Are you sure?
What is so important of first love? It is pure, natural and passionate.
First love was the sermon title in my church last Sunday. According to a research, love can only lasts for 1-2 years because human being gets bored easily. Love is like a plant, need to be fed, nurtured and fertilised in a right approach, otherwise it will be withered and tasteless.
In Revelation 2:1-7 God praised Ephesus as an ideal church because they were diligent, strong commitment and long suffering. On the other hand, God warned them because there was no longer joy, humility and love in serving God, they abandoned their first love.
This sermon hit me badly. I remembered how excited when I first fell in love with God. I read many Christian books, bible, attended many seminars, bible studies and sermons and shared my testimonies. I was over joy and zealous day and night. What happened to me now? I confessed to God and I am still learning to cut down some activities and setting my focus to God.
How you? Are you also too busy in activities and routine works hence forgetting about our first love to God? Let’s remember our first love!
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Sunday, December 27, 2009
X'mas Season
Christmas... most people know when Christmas is. What is Christmas? Party? Gift exchange? We are so busy with activities and worrying about buying right gifts to right people. Is this really what Christmas about?
On my way home from shopping gifts, someone approached me: “Ms, would you want to donate any amount from $4 for this Christmas card? I am helping my friend who is in need to raise fund.” Wow! I felt so proud for this young lady who helped her friend and the other hand I asked myself, did I do something for needy? Did I spend my money wisely? Ops!
What is Christmas really meant to you? What have you not done?
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. [Philippians 2:3-11]
There is no Christmas if there is no Christ! May Christ lives in our heart!
Let’s use everything we have truly and fully! Merry Christmas!
On my way home from shopping gifts, someone approached me: “Ms, would you want to donate any amount from $4 for this Christmas card? I am helping my friend who is in need to raise fund.” Wow! I felt so proud for this young lady who helped her friend and the other hand I asked myself, did I do something for needy? Did I spend my money wisely? Ops!
What is Christmas really meant to you? What have you not done?
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. [Philippians 2:3-11]
There is no Christmas if there is no Christ! May Christ lives in our heart!
Let’s use everything we have truly and fully! Merry Christmas!
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Candy Cane
Have you ever eaten candy cane before? It’s sweet.
Have you heard about the story? It's sweeter.
How about the song? It's even sweeter.
Candy Cane Poem
Look at the Candy Cane... What do you see?
Stripes that are red... Like the blood shed for me
White is for my Savior... Who's sinless and pure!
"J" is for Jesus My Lord, that's for sure!
Turn it around... And a staff you will see
Jesus my shepherd... Was born for Me!
Stripes that are red... Like the blood shed for me
White is for my Savior... Who's sinless and pure!
"J" is for Jesus My Lord, that's for sure!
Turn it around... And a staff you will see
Jesus my shepherd... Was born for Me!
Monday, December 21, 2009
Canticle of the Turning
Yesterday there was ‘Service of Lessons and Carols’ in ORPC. Every single scripture reading and carol is magnificent with choirs and mini orchestra setting. I love this old hymn I heard for the first time.
It was taken from Luke 1:46-55 (Mary's song when she visited Elizabeth her relative who was baring a son 'John the Baptist'). The lyric is very encouraging, beautiful and wonderful arrangement. You can hear it from YouTube.
Canticle of the Turning (Magnificat)
Lyrics: Rory Cooney
Music: Irish Traditional, Star of the County Down
My soul cries out with a joyful shout that the God of my heart is great. And my spirit sings of the wondrous things that you bring to the one who waits. You fixed your sight on the servant's plight, and my weakness you did not spurn. So from east to west shall my name be blest, could the world be about to turn?
Refrain:
My heart shall sing of the day you bring, let the fires of your justice burn. Wipe away all tears, for the dawn draws near, and the world is about to turn.
Though I am small, my God, my all, you work great things in me. And your mercy will last from the depths of the past to the end of the age to be. Your very name puts the proud to shame, and those who would for you yearn. You will show your might, put the strong to flight, for the world is about to turn. (Refrain)
From the halls of power to the fortress tower, not a stone will be left on stone. Let the king beware for your justice tears every tyrant from his throne. The hungry poor shall weep no more, for the food they can never earn; These are tables spread, every mouth be fed, for the world is about to turn. (Refrain)
Though the nations rage from age to age, we remember who holds us fast. God's mercy must deliver us from the conqueror's crushing grasp. This saving word that our forbears heard is the promise that holds us bound. Till the spear and rod be crushed by God, who is turning the world around. (Refrain)
It was taken from Luke 1:46-55 (Mary's song when she visited Elizabeth her relative who was baring a son 'John the Baptist'). The lyric is very encouraging, beautiful and wonderful arrangement. You can hear it from YouTube.
Canticle of the Turning (Magnificat)
Lyrics: Rory Cooney
Music: Irish Traditional, Star of the County Down
My soul cries out with a joyful shout that the God of my heart is great. And my spirit sings of the wondrous things that you bring to the one who waits. You fixed your sight on the servant's plight, and my weakness you did not spurn. So from east to west shall my name be blest, could the world be about to turn?
Refrain:
My heart shall sing of the day you bring, let the fires of your justice burn. Wipe away all tears, for the dawn draws near, and the world is about to turn.
Though I am small, my God, my all, you work great things in me. And your mercy will last from the depths of the past to the end of the age to be. Your very name puts the proud to shame, and those who would for you yearn. You will show your might, put the strong to flight, for the world is about to turn. (Refrain)
From the halls of power to the fortress tower, not a stone will be left on stone. Let the king beware for your justice tears every tyrant from his throne. The hungry poor shall weep no more, for the food they can never earn; These are tables spread, every mouth be fed, for the world is about to turn. (Refrain)
Though the nations rage from age to age, we remember who holds us fast. God's mercy must deliver us from the conqueror's crushing grasp. This saving word that our forbears heard is the promise that holds us bound. Till the spear and rod be crushed by God, who is turning the world around. (Refrain)
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
A Great Leader
According to Sacha Tarkovsky, there are 8 Key Character Traits That Make a Great Leader as followed:
1. Trust & Respect
2. Communication
3. Enthusiastic
4. Confidence
5. A Cool Head
6. Focus on Key Elements
7. Motivation & Innovation
8. Improve Their Skills
Do you have these key character traits?
Each of us is a leader one or another way. You may be a leader for your own or your family, friends, employees, etc.
If you study about the Life of Moses, you will amaze how God called Moses to lead Israelites out of slavery in Egypt to Promise Land Canaan (Israel).
Moses didn't have confident and communication skills. Moses rejected the offer many times, but God patiently ensured him and provided all resources and people to help him from nobody to become somebody (a great leader).
Moses was a very humble, faithful and obedience servant. He spoke to God face to face; he listened carefully and did according to God’s will.
This year BSF, we had a new TL (Teaching Leader), a new STL (Substitute Teaching Leader) and a few new DLs (Discussion Leaders). We could see clearly how God equipped those lovely and faithful people to be better leaders.
What is your calling in life? We have tasks to complete in our life. Ask God to show you each task and let Him lead you. Be humble, faithful and obedience to God, surely you can be a great leader because you have a great God!
Psalm 25:8-10: Good and upright is the LORD; therefore he instructs sinners in his ways. He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way. All the ways of the LORD are loving and faithful for those who keep the demands of his covenant.
1. Trust & Respect
2. Communication
3. Enthusiastic
4. Confidence
5. A Cool Head
6. Focus on Key Elements
7. Motivation & Innovation
8. Improve Their Skills
Do you have these key character traits?
Each of us is a leader one or another way. You may be a leader for your own or your family, friends, employees, etc.
If you study about the Life of Moses, you will amaze how God called Moses to lead Israelites out of slavery in Egypt to Promise Land Canaan (Israel).
Moses didn't have confident and communication skills. Moses rejected the offer many times, but God patiently ensured him and provided all resources and people to help him from nobody to become somebody (a great leader).
Moses was a very humble, faithful and obedience servant. He spoke to God face to face; he listened carefully and did according to God’s will.
This year BSF, we had a new TL (Teaching Leader), a new STL (Substitute Teaching Leader) and a few new DLs (Discussion Leaders). We could see clearly how God equipped those lovely and faithful people to be better leaders.
What is your calling in life? We have tasks to complete in our life. Ask God to show you each task and let Him lead you. Be humble, faithful and obedience to God, surely you can be a great leader because you have a great God!
Psalm 25:8-10: Good and upright is the LORD; therefore he instructs sinners in his ways. He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way. All the ways of the LORD are loving and faithful for those who keep the demands of his covenant.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Genuine wins
Did you watched the forth session of the The winner Kevin Skinner, was a simple country man who worked as chicken catcher in Mayfield at
Spectacularly he won the hearts of millions of Americans with his emotional and powerful voice. The judges commented that he was special, genuine and honest man and people believed every single word he sang.
Everyone has a talent, be it small or big. Use it or you will lose it.
Be genuine and sincere in everything you do, you may win the hearts of your enemies.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Two sides of a coin
What is your reaction when an accident happens to you?
Disappointed? Feeling unfortunate?
I had the same feeling like you when I got my accident in August. I tripped and fell when I ran after a public bus. To support my body I used my right elbow, right kneel and left wrist. My left wrist fractured and the upper bone moved down 3 mm, therefore my wrist required surgery.
In the beginning I grumbled a lot and cried out like a baby saying “why did this happen to me?” I blamed myself for wearing 7 centimeters high heel shoes and running after the bus. I even blamed my friend who ran before me. My left wrist pained, my heart pained, my pocket also pained because my money were flying away by pieces.
One fine Sunday I went to church and watched a video clip about Nick Vujicic who was born without arms or legs but the love he holds overcomes any physical limitation. He lives normally like you and I. He is happy and he can do things with what he has, not what he does not have.
It wasn’t my first time watching that video clip but it was my turning point. I told myself: “Look, you have two legs and two arms, one arm is just unable to move temporary” I should keep my chin up.
Then I started counting my blessings one by one. Here are the 3 main point blessings from this incident I am sharing with you now.
1. Being Creative
I had to think faster and act in different way. Despite the fact that I had only my right hand to use, I could open a 3-fold umbrella. At first I had to drink water from the tap instead of boiling water because I had difficulty opening my tight kettle’s cap. Later on I got the idea to hold the kettle using my 2 feet and open with my right hand.
2. Plenty of Time
After the surgery I was given 2 week leave to stay at home. I could sleep anytime as I like in day or night. A friend pointed out that my face looked radiant because I got plenty of time for my beauty sleep. I could spend time in Indonesia with my parents and siblings without applying my annual leave. I had more time to read books for my software test engineer recertification.
3. Give others opportunity to share and care
Basically people like to share if you give them the chance. They shared their knowledge about hospital, insurance, what to eat and what not to eat.
When my good friend came to visit me, she helped me to iron my clothes. During my trip to Korea with my parents and siblings, they helped me to carry my luggage from Singapore to my hotel room in Korea. I was just treated like a princess.
Isn’t that a privilege?
In conclusion, as Arthur Powell Davies saying, "Life is just a chance to grow a soul". There are day and night, ups and down, sad and happy. There are always two sides of the same coin. Look at the bright side!
Disappointed? Feeling unfortunate?
I had the same feeling like you when I got my accident in August. I tripped and fell when I ran after a public bus. To support my body I used my right elbow, right kneel and left wrist. My left wrist fractured and the upper bone moved down 3 mm, therefore my wrist required surgery.
In the beginning I grumbled a lot and cried out like a baby saying “why did this happen to me?” I blamed myself for wearing 7 centimeters high heel shoes and running after the bus. I even blamed my friend who ran before me. My left wrist pained, my heart pained, my pocket also pained because my money were flying away by pieces.
One fine Sunday I went to church and watched a video clip about Nick Vujicic who was born without arms or legs but the love he holds overcomes any physical limitation. He lives normally like you and I. He is happy and he can do things with what he has, not what he does not have.
It wasn’t my first time watching that video clip but it was my turning point. I told myself: “Look, you have two legs and two arms, one arm is just unable to move temporary” I should keep my chin up.
Then I started counting my blessings one by one. Here are the 3 main point blessings from this incident I am sharing with you now.
1. Being Creative
I had to think faster and act in different way. Despite the fact that I had only my right hand to use, I could open a 3-fold umbrella. At first I had to drink water from the tap instead of boiling water because I had difficulty opening my tight kettle’s cap. Later on I got the idea to hold the kettle using my 2 feet and open with my right hand.
2. Plenty of Time
After the surgery I was given 2 week leave to stay at home. I could sleep anytime as I like in day or night. A friend pointed out that my face looked radiant because I got plenty of time for my beauty sleep. I could spend time in Indonesia with my parents and siblings without applying my annual leave. I had more time to read books for my software test engineer recertification.
3. Give others opportunity to share and care
Basically people like to share if you give them the chance. They shared their knowledge about hospital, insurance, what to eat and what not to eat.
When my good friend came to visit me, she helped me to iron my clothes. During my trip to Korea with my parents and siblings, they helped me to carry my luggage from Singapore to my hotel room in Korea. I was just treated like a princess.
Isn’t that a privilege?
In conclusion, as Arthur Powell Davies saying, "Life is just a chance to grow a soul". There are day and night, ups and down, sad and happy. There are always two sides of the same coin. Look at the bright side!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Judging others
One fine day Roy complained about Don the gossiper.
The next day, Roy started gossiping about others.
When Liz learnt about it, Liz pointed it out loudly and made Roy furious and walked out banging the door.
It was so easy judging others.
Matthew 7: 1-5: "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye".
Later Liz realized herself was wrong she should have spoken to Roy nicely. Be careful what we say and what we do. Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. [Proverbs 12:18]
The next day, Roy started gossiping about others.
When Liz learnt about it, Liz pointed it out loudly and made Roy furious and walked out banging the door.
It was so easy judging others.
Matthew 7: 1-5: "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye".
Later Liz realized herself was wrong she should have spoken to Roy nicely. Be careful what we say and what we do. Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. [Proverbs 12:18]
Sunday, October 4, 2009
So Sweet 2 Trust in Jesus
After BSF class, this beautiful song was still in my mind burning like fire and reminded me to trust God.
Trully enough my simple prayer got answered immediately. :)
http://www.my.homewithgod.com/heavenlymidis2/trust.html
'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus
’Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to take Him at His Word;
Just to rest upon His promise,
Just to know, “Thus says the Lord!”
I’m so glad I learned to trust Thee,
Precious Jesus, Savior, Friend;
And I know that Thou art with me,
Wilt be with me to the end.
Chorus
Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him!
How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er
Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
O for grace to trust Him more!
Proverbs 3:5,6
"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
Trully enough my simple prayer got answered immediately. :)
http://www.my.homewithgod.com/heavenlymidis2/trust.html
'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus
’Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to take Him at His Word;
Just to rest upon His promise,
Just to know, “Thus says the Lord!”
I’m so glad I learned to trust Thee,
Precious Jesus, Savior, Friend;
And I know that Thou art with me,
Wilt be with me to the end.
Chorus
Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him!
How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er
Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
O for grace to trust Him more!
Proverbs 3:5,6
"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
Thing happens for a reason
My Korea trip was wonderful and fruitful as I spent the journey with my parents, siblings and their family members which are 10 of us in total.
As reaching home to Singapore, at the airport we could not find a luggage belonged to my sister in law. It took us a couple of hours to know that someone took a wrong luggage by mistake.
I volunteered to company with my brother and sister in law at Changi airport (lost & found counter) whereas the rest of my family members heading home to rest.
Later we realised that my brother's prepaid SIM card no longer has value hence he used my mobile to call the party to exchange the luggage.
It was a tiring and unpleasant experience at that moment.
Then when queuing for taxi home, we met my brother’s lost friend whom he met during his honeymoon trip to Japan. My brother & sister in law were happy and quickly forgot about the previous unpleasant event.
Life is unpredictable. We may be unhappy on the current incident we are facing now but behind the scene there may be a good will. Live a life blissfully!
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." [Romans 8:28]
As reaching home to Singapore, at the airport we could not find a luggage belonged to my sister in law. It took us a couple of hours to know that someone took a wrong luggage by mistake.
I volunteered to company with my brother and sister in law at Changi airport (lost & found counter) whereas the rest of my family members heading home to rest.
Later we realised that my brother's prepaid SIM card no longer has value hence he used my mobile to call the party to exchange the luggage.
It was a tiring and unpleasant experience at that moment.
Then when queuing for taxi home, we met my brother’s lost friend whom he met during his honeymoon trip to Japan. My brother & sister in law were happy and quickly forgot about the previous unpleasant event.
Life is unpredictable. We may be unhappy on the current incident we are facing now but behind the scene there may be a good will. Live a life blissfully!
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." [Romans 8:28]
In deed it was a magnificent experience & blessing. God blessed the trip and complete it with a bowl of cherries. Isn’t that sweet?
Saturday, August 22, 2009
When Bad Things Happen to God's People
It's a common question we ask "Why God allow bad things happen to His people?" We never realised that all of us are sinners. This CD by John Mac Arthur is good.
It gives you better understanding and knowledge.
Why bad things happen to God’s people?
1. Test the availability of their faith. Destroying or saving faith?
2. Win them from the world
3. Call them to heavenly home
4. Show us what we really love. This is proven what precious to us.
5. Teach us obedience
6. Show His compassion
7. Develop their spiritual
8. Enable us to help other in their trouble
After knowing this… what would be your response when bad things happen to you? I thank God as I know there’s always purpose for everything.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Compassion & Mercy
Jonah is story of a man who got swallowed by a big fish. He lived inside the fish for 3 days 3 nights. Jonah ran away from God because he did not want to convey a message to Nineveh (his enemy) that God would destroyed them unless they repented from their evil deeds. Jonah knew God would forgive Nineveh if they repented.
There are 2 characters in Jonah's story:
1. God was full of compassion & merciful to forgive anyone who was willingly to repent and accept God.
2. Jonah was a prophet yet he was unable to accept the fact that God forgive his enemy.
The Lord said: “.. (Jonah 4: 11) But Nineveh has more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left and many cattle as well. Should I not be concerned about that great city?"
What kind of person are you? Are you compassion & merciful or unreasonable? God has given each of us many chances. Can't we give others a second chance?
“Jonah Was A Prophet” (song from Jonah-Veggie Tales)
When I was a boy I went to church back home in Arizona
And that is where I heard the tale of a man whose name was Jonah
Now Jonah was a prophet, but that's not why he's remembered
They tell the tale, cause in a whale he nearly was dismembered!
CHORUS:
Jonah was a prophet (oo-ooh!)
But he really never got it (sad but true!)
And if you watch it you can spot it (a-doodley-doo!)
He did not get the point!
Compassion and mercy from me to you and you to me
Exactly what god wants to see and yes that is the point!
(CHORUS)
Now Jonah Set Sail on A Pirate ship. In a dreadful gale
Got eaten up by a giant whale. But then its not to be said
You think he would learn a lot. From being saved from an awful spot
But the second chance that he had got
He didn't want to be spread
Now poor old Jonah. And now he's all alone-ah
Gotta use a megaphone-ah to get it through to his head-HEY!
(CHORUS)
Now during your life you prob'ly don't ride on a camel
And you prob'ly won't wake up inside a large aquatic mammal
But all the same like Jonah there is something you can do
Everyone deserves to get a second chance from you!
Compassion and mercy from me to you and you to me
Exactly what god wants to see and yes that is the point!
(CHORUS X2)
Monday, August 17, 2009
Proclamation of Service
Proclamation of Service (By Joseph M. Martin)
As for those in this house, we will serve the Lord.
We will give our allegiance unto God.
With one voice we will offer up our song,
give our praise with voices strong, live our lives for God alone.
As for those in this house,we will serve the Lord.
This we pledge with our hearts in one accord.
Let the lives we bring give honor to the king.
As for those in this house we will serve the Lord
Founded on the Word of God, we have built this place.
Nurtured by the love of God, we proclaim his grace.
Challenged by the truth of God we break forth in praise.
We break forth in praise (Alleluia!) 2x
We will serve the Lord for all our days!
Take my live and let it be, consecrated Lord to thee.
Take my heart it us thine own, it shall be thy royal throne,
it shall be thy royal throne.
We will serve the Lord. 2x
When the choir sang this song after the service sermon “I no longer live, but Christ lives in me (Galatians 2:20). It’s truly a conviction! This is a strong statement of faith and commitment to service of the Lord.
It reminded of God’s provision for Israel from slavery to promise Land. Then Joshua challenged the Israel. "Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your forefathers worshiped beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD." (Joshua 24:14-15). And the people said to Joshua, "We will serve the LORD our God and obey him." (Joshua 24: 24)
Today 17-August is remembrance of Indonesia Independence Day. God’s provision is for everyone. Trust in the Lord! Indonesia Merdeka!
As for those in this house, we will serve the Lord.
We will give our allegiance unto God.
With one voice we will offer up our song,
give our praise with voices strong, live our lives for God alone.
As for those in this house,we will serve the Lord.
This we pledge with our hearts in one accord.
Let the lives we bring give honor to the king.
As for those in this house we will serve the Lord
Founded on the Word of God, we have built this place.
Nurtured by the love of God, we proclaim his grace.
Challenged by the truth of God we break forth in praise.
We break forth in praise (Alleluia!) 2x
We will serve the Lord for all our days!
Take my live and let it be, consecrated Lord to thee.
Take my heart it us thine own, it shall be thy royal throne,
it shall be thy royal throne.
We will serve the Lord. 2x
When the choir sang this song after the service sermon “I no longer live, but Christ lives in me (Galatians 2:20). It’s truly a conviction! This is a strong statement of faith and commitment to service of the Lord.
It reminded of God’s provision for Israel from slavery to promise Land. Then Joshua challenged the Israel. "Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your forefathers worshiped beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD." (Joshua 24:14-15). And the people said to Joshua, "We will serve the LORD our God and obey him." (Joshua 24: 24)
Today 17-August is remembrance of Indonesia Independence Day. God’s provision is for everyone. Trust in the Lord! Indonesia Merdeka!
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Holiness
"Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy" [Leviticus 19:2b]. Holiness is a theme of Leviticus. In the bible holiness means "set apart", "consecrated" or "dedicated" to God's use.
In the BSF class, we were challenged, "If you love God, be holy". Are you stealing? You are stealing when you spend office hour to check personal email or cheating in putting car park’s coupons. We are to set apart to do God's work.
My heart was bothered by the word ‘holiness’. When I was in the fellowship, there was a song about holiness, I skipped the words ‘holy, set apart’ in the song.
After sharing about my burden, a sister in Christ told me this verse [Philippians 4:13] I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Then I understand if i was holy I don't need God and I would be very proud person. Nobody is perfect hence to be holy I need God, I cannot do it myself.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. [1 John 1:9]
Let’s set apart our ears to listen carefully to God’s words, our hands to be devoted to God’s works and our feet to be directed constantly to walking in God’s ways.
In the BSF class, we were challenged, "If you love God, be holy". Are you stealing? You are stealing when you spend office hour to check personal email or cheating in putting car park’s coupons. We are to set apart to do God's work.
My heart was bothered by the word ‘holiness’. When I was in the fellowship, there was a song about holiness, I skipped the words ‘holy, set apart’ in the song.
After sharing about my burden, a sister in Christ told me this verse [Philippians 4:13] I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Then I understand if i was holy I don't need God and I would be very proud person. Nobody is perfect hence to be holy I need God, I cannot do it myself.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. [1 John 1:9]
Let’s set apart our ears to listen carefully to God’s words, our hands to be devoted to God’s works and our feet to be directed constantly to walking in God’s ways.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Her World
In a saloon, I enjoyed my world being served with a tea while having hair cut and holding a magazine called Her World.
This famous magazine is so closed to hearts of most women’s desire, dream, excitement and heartbreaking stories. A regretful story of a married woman bore a baby of her colleague after one night stand. A gloomy story of a young woman worked in night club for extra money in support of her obsessed of branded stuff.
Her world is real world things, everything under the sun and moon. There were many temptations under the roof or above it. I was sad as I read further, a song enlightened me and reminded me to whom I should turn to.
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet
And a light unto my path
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet
And a light unto my path
When I feel afraid
Think I've lost my way
Still You're there right beside me
And nothing will I fear
As long as You are near
Please be near me to the end
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet
And a light unto my path
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet
And a light unto my path
Now I will not forget Your love for me and yet
My heart forever is wandering
Please be my guide and hold me to Your side
And I will love You to the end
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. [Psalm 119:105]
This famous magazine is so closed to hearts of most women’s desire, dream, excitement and heartbreaking stories. A regretful story of a married woman bore a baby of her colleague after one night stand. A gloomy story of a young woman worked in night club for extra money in support of her obsessed of branded stuff.
Her world is real world things, everything under the sun and moon. There were many temptations under the roof or above it. I was sad as I read further, a song enlightened me and reminded me to whom I should turn to.
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet
And a light unto my path
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet
And a light unto my path
When I feel afraid
Think I've lost my way
Still You're there right beside me
And nothing will I fear
As long as You are near
Please be near me to the end
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet
And a light unto my path
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet
And a light unto my path
Now I will not forget Your love for me and yet
My heart forever is wandering
Please be my guide and hold me to Your side
And I will love You to the end
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. [Psalm 119:105]
Monday, July 13, 2009
Radiant
"Do you want to look radiant?" A salesgirl approached me in a shopping centre. "Sure! Every lady dreams to look radiant", I whispered in my heart. As she read my mind, she stepped forward offering me something on her hand and said firmly "Try our product, surely you look radiant everyday".
You might have heard about or encountered the similar situation. Do you really think the product can make you radiant? Well, each product may work differently for each person. If the product does work, can it possible prolong everyday, forever?
King David said in Psalm 34:4-5:" I sought the LORD, and he answered me, he delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.
When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the Testimony in his hands, he was not aware that his face was radiant because he had spoken with the LORD. [Exodus 34:29].
Do you want to be radiant? It’s easy and free! Speak to God! God is always there for you.
You might have heard about or encountered the similar situation. Do you really think the product can make you radiant? Well, each product may work differently for each person. If the product does work, can it possible prolong everyday, forever?
King David said in Psalm 34:4-5:" I sought the LORD, and he answered me, he delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.
When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the Testimony in his hands, he was not aware that his face was radiant because he had spoken with the LORD. [Exodus 34:29].
Do you want to be radiant? It’s easy and free! Speak to God! God is always there for you.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
God is Steadfast!
How do you know if God is steadfast? It is from the bible.
Bible is God’s inspired words for human kind. Bible divided into 2 parts: Old Testament (the creation of the world till 400 years before the birth of Jesus Christ) and New Testament (the birth (1st coming) of Jesus Christ till Revelation (of end of the world – 2nd coming of Jesus Christ)).
Some people said that in Old Testament books, God seems to be very strict because it contains the wrath and punishment of God. In another word God (Jesus Christ) in New Testament seems to be kind & loving God.
I chose to agree with it before I studied the book of Exodus (2nd book of OT). During BSF, we were asked about the characters of God for each lesson we learnt. Marvelously there are long lists on the characters of God (Awesome, Mighty, Holy, Powerful, Majesty, Glorious, Loving, Caring, Compassion, Provider, Helpful, Just, Understanding, Greatest, Patient, Merciful, Encourager, Saviour, Forgiveness, Slow to anger, Faithful, Redeemer, Promise keeper, Thoughtful, All knowing, Fast sighted, Detailed, Great Planner, Provider, Provident Sovereign, Unconditional Love, In Control, etc).Now I choose to believe God is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.
I was very amazed on how detailed the Moral law (Ten Commandment), Civil Law and Ceremonial Law. God’s Civil Law can be applied to ages and cultures today. For example: Exodus 23:8 "Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and twists the words of the righteous."
Let’s find out more about God from the bible! Happy reading and be blessed!
Bible is God’s inspired words for human kind. Bible divided into 2 parts: Old Testament (the creation of the world till 400 years before the birth of Jesus Christ) and New Testament (the birth (1st coming) of Jesus Christ till Revelation (of end of the world – 2nd coming of Jesus Christ)).
Some people said that in Old Testament books, God seems to be very strict because it contains the wrath and punishment of God. In another word God (Jesus Christ) in New Testament seems to be kind & loving God.
I chose to agree with it before I studied the book of Exodus (2nd book of OT). During BSF, we were asked about the characters of God for each lesson we learnt. Marvelously there are long lists on the characters of God (Awesome, Mighty, Holy, Powerful, Majesty, Glorious, Loving, Caring, Compassion, Provider, Helpful, Just, Understanding, Greatest, Patient, Merciful, Encourager, Saviour, Forgiveness, Slow to anger, Faithful, Redeemer, Promise keeper, Thoughtful, All knowing, Fast sighted, Detailed, Great Planner, Provider, Provident Sovereign, Unconditional Love, In Control, etc).Now I choose to believe God is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.
I was very amazed on how detailed the Moral law (Ten Commandment), Civil Law and Ceremonial Law. God’s Civil Law can be applied to ages and cultures today. For example: Exodus 23:8 "Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and twists the words of the righteous."
Let’s find out more about God from the bible! Happy reading and be blessed!
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Be Thankful
Faye was complaining about the bonus she got from the company she was working. "I got so little bonus this year and no increment in my salary" she told her good friend Sally.
Sally was enjoying her drink and smiled, "My dear Faye, don't be bother about this little thing." "Let me tell you about the company where our friend Tom is working. His company was exercising 3 rounds of retrenchments." Then Sally continued "Be thankful my dear friend!"
Faye was comforted by Sally's words and said "You are right, let's celebrate! Your drink is on me".
Let's be thankful and look at things we have NOT things we don't have.
Sally was enjoying her drink and smiled, "My dear Faye, don't be bother about this little thing." "Let me tell you about the company where our friend Tom is working. His company was exercising 3 rounds of retrenchments." Then Sally continued "Be thankful my dear friend!"
Faye was comforted by Sally's words and said "You are right, let's celebrate! Your drink is on me".
Let's be thankful and look at things we have NOT things we don't have.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
The Best Thing That Ever Could Have Happened
The title is from 'Desperate Housewives' TV series (Season 5, Episode no.13).
Eli Scruggs, a neighbourhood handy man is about to retire. Whilst fixing the shingle on Susan Mayer's house, he suffers a heart attack and suddenly dies. Then people start thinking through flashbacks how much he affected their lives.
At Eli's funeral Mary Alice herself recalls how she changed Eli's life. One morning before he had any steady work, he approached her and introduced himself. Initially commenting that she doesn't have any work for him Mary Alice changes her mind when she notices Eli is wearing worn shoes and had obviously fallen on hard times. She asks him if he will fix a vase she broke for her. Eli appreciates her sympathy and initially declines but Mary Alice is insistent. A few years later now that Eli has found steady work thanks to Mary Alice recommending him to the women of the neighbourhood, Eli walks in on Mary Alice reading a note.
Mary Alice tries to be upbeat despite the fact that something is obviously troubling her, and offers Eli the vase that he fixed for her a few years ago. Eli gratefully accepts and leaves, worried about Mary Alice's fragile state but thinking it best to leave her alone. It is then revealed that the note Mary Alice was reading is the one she was blackmailed with and that day is the one that she killed herself.
Eli regrets having done nothing to stop Mary Alice's suicide. From that day forward he makes a vow to not only fix people's belongings but their lives as much as he can as well.
Taken From http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Best_Thing_That_Ever_Could_Have_Happened
This is touching & meaningful message for all of us.
Can you think of anybody who has changed your life?
There are many people who changed my life but the one and only who gave his life to me was “Jesus Christ”.
We know how precious our lives are, how can we make the impact for others? Let's start from small thing to big things.
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the grave, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.
[Ecclesiastes 9:10]
Eli Scruggs, a neighbourhood handy man is about to retire. Whilst fixing the shingle on Susan Mayer's house, he suffers a heart attack and suddenly dies. Then people start thinking through flashbacks how much he affected their lives.
At Eli's funeral Mary Alice herself recalls how she changed Eli's life. One morning before he had any steady work, he approached her and introduced himself. Initially commenting that she doesn't have any work for him Mary Alice changes her mind when she notices Eli is wearing worn shoes and had obviously fallen on hard times. She asks him if he will fix a vase she broke for her. Eli appreciates her sympathy and initially declines but Mary Alice is insistent. A few years later now that Eli has found steady work thanks to Mary Alice recommending him to the women of the neighbourhood, Eli walks in on Mary Alice reading a note.
Mary Alice tries to be upbeat despite the fact that something is obviously troubling her, and offers Eli the vase that he fixed for her a few years ago. Eli gratefully accepts and leaves, worried about Mary Alice's fragile state but thinking it best to leave her alone. It is then revealed that the note Mary Alice was reading is the one she was blackmailed with and that day is the one that she killed herself.
Eli regrets having done nothing to stop Mary Alice's suicide. From that day forward he makes a vow to not only fix people's belongings but their lives as much as he can as well.
Taken From http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Best_Thing_That_Ever_Could_Have_Happened
This is touching & meaningful message for all of us.
Can you think of anybody who has changed your life?
There are many people who changed my life but the one and only who gave his life to me was “Jesus Christ”.
We know how precious our lives are, how can we make the impact for others? Let's start from small thing to big things.
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the grave, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.
[Ecclesiastes 9:10]
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Being Happy
Today when you read newspaper and watch news, the issues are retrenchment and H1N1 flu virus. Are you worried? Worrying may have positive effects if prompts you to take precautions like taking care of your health. Worrying will be negative if thinking something over and over again but do not resolve the situation or arrive at a solution to the problem.So why are you worrying? Don’t worries be happy! :) I’m sharing to you 3 points (S,M,L) from book called ‘being happy’, written by Andrew Matthews.
S-Self Image
Have you ever noticed that when you are feeling good about yourself, other people become very nice? Isn’t it funny how they change!
M-Mind
Living it the now
All you have is now. Regardless of what happened yesterday and what might happen tomorrow. Now is where you are. The present moment is the only time you have. Make something of this moment!
In conclusion, are you still worrying? Just remember S,M,L from 'being happy' book. You can read more from the book. It’s simple yet comprehensive and easy to apply. Happy reading…
S-Self Image
Have you ever noticed that when you are feeling good about yourself, other people become very nice? Isn’t it funny how they change!
The world is a reflection of us. When we hate ourselves, we hate everyone else. When we love being who we are, the rest of the world is wonderful.
If you want others to respect you, treat yourself well and so set an example to other people as to how you should be treated.
Loving your neighbour as your selves automatically assumes that we should love ourselves. We should maintain a balance between our needs and our neighbour’s needs, respect both parties.
M-Mind
Your mind affects your life. Do you ever say to yourself “I mustn’t forget that” then go and forget it? Your mind cannot move away from forgetting. It can move toward remembering but only if your thinking is I want to remember that.
Your conscious thoughts contribute to building of your subconscious mind. When you learnt to eat with chopsticks, it took a lot of conscious thought and efforts. Overtime it registered into our subconscious mind. Daily you create programs in your subconscious by thoughts. So watch what you think!
As our thoughts affect our circumstances, so do the words we say. What you say is what you get.
Our words affect how we think and how we feel.
What we think affect what we say and how we feel.
How we feel influences what we say and how we think.
Hence we have a vicious triangle.
Living it the now
All you have is now. Regardless of what happened yesterday and what might happen tomorrow. Now is where you are. The present moment is the only time you have. Make something of this moment!
Jump into life at every opportunity. While you are waiting for one thing to happen, do something else. If your friend is late in picking you for dinner, organise your photo album or bake a cake until he/she arrives. In doing so, you demonstrate a certain detachment from the result. Letting go of the situation, accelerates results.
To live in present moment, we may need to forgive others and ourselves. If forgiving other is difficult, forgiving ourselves is even harder. Blaming and feeling guilty are equally dangerous and destructive. We are avoiding the real issue which is to do something about the problem.
It is our choice whether to get on with our life in the now or whether we chain ourselves to grudges and upsets of the past.
Laughter is the best medicine. Life is not that serious. Let’s take humour more seriously.
In conclusion, are you still worrying? Just remember S,M,L from 'being happy' book. You can read more from the book. It’s simple yet comprehensive and easy to apply. Happy reading…
Monday, May 4, 2009
Grumble
How often do you grumble?
Last month I went through the discontented time and I grumbled a lot.
I grumbled about my office work, my church ministries, personal life and etc. Grumbling had become my bad habit in the month of April.
Grumbling is SIN against God! (BSF on Life of Moses)
God brought Israelites out of slavery in Egypt to lead them to promise land. During the journey, God protected them day & night. However when a difficulty came, they forgot about the past 2-3 days provision and started complaining and blaming.
But the people were thirsty for water there, and they grumbled against Moses. They said, "Why did you bring us up out of Egypt to make us and our children and livestock die of thirst?" [Exodus 17:3]
When we grumble, we complain and blame God indirectly. God is in full control of everything thus we blame God of putting us in such situation that we are not comfortable with. Hence, Grumbling is Sin and hatred to God!
We often forget on God’s past provision to us.
Let’s not grumbling but start remembering God’s goodness & provision to us and it helps to change our perspective of a thing we are encountering!
God bless!
Last month I went through the discontented time and I grumbled a lot.
I grumbled about my office work, my church ministries, personal life and etc. Grumbling had become my bad habit in the month of April.
Grumbling is SIN against God! (BSF on Life of Moses)
God brought Israelites out of slavery in Egypt to lead them to promise land. During the journey, God protected them day & night. However when a difficulty came, they forgot about the past 2-3 days provision and started complaining and blaming.
But the people were thirsty for water there, and they grumbled against Moses. They said, "Why did you bring us up out of Egypt to make us and our children and livestock die of thirst?" [Exodus 17:3]
When we grumble, we complain and blame God indirectly. God is in full control of everything thus we blame God of putting us in such situation that we are not comfortable with. Hence, Grumbling is Sin and hatred to God!
We often forget on God’s past provision to us.
Let’s not grumbling but start remembering God’s goodness & provision to us and it helps to change our perspective of a thing we are encountering!
God bless!
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Crisis
Are you facing Crisis in your work place, home and life?
Economy crisis will affect 3 aspect of our life: Financial, Ego and Faith.
Check out the seminar on "How Christians Overcome Economic Crisis" by Pastor Paul Gunadi (who served in USA).
No all problems become crisis. A problem becomes crisis when we cannot adapt into it and when we have no solution.
Crisis in Biblical perspective:
- Crisis can happen any time and to anyone including children of God
- Crisis appears from our own mistakes or outsides
- Crisis is used by God to fulfill His plan.
Understand How Crisis works:
- Crisis can happen spontaneous or gradually
- Crisis can contain sin or no sin
- If it contained sin but we did not admit and deal with it will grow and worse
Response to Crisis:
- Confession: Confess our contribution in Crisis
- Surrender: Accept what we have and learn to be humble. God hates egocentric person.
- Forgiveness: Ready to forget the past and regret and ready for future
- Restoration: do goodness to or for our love ones
Faith in Crisis:
- Faith is not running away but facing the reality and responsibilities
- Faith is daring
- Faith is leaning to way and will of God
- Faith is demanding us to do the right thing
- Faith is not always looking at instance result
- Faith is orientation to the process to make us perfect in Crisis
Christian Characteristic:
- Faith: whatever happens to us, God never leave us
- Faith: whatever happens to us, God can help
- Faith: whatever happens to us, God will fulfill His plan
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,who have been called according to his purpose. [Romans 8:28]
It is easy for Almighty God to give us a job or solution, but if it doesn’t happen, perhaps God wants to mold us, let’s lean on Him fully!
Economy crisis will affect 3 aspect of our life: Financial, Ego and Faith.
Check out the seminar on "How Christians Overcome Economic Crisis" by Pastor Paul Gunadi (who served in USA).
No all problems become crisis. A problem becomes crisis when we cannot adapt into it and when we have no solution.
Crisis in Biblical perspective:
- Crisis can happen any time and to anyone including children of God
- Crisis appears from our own mistakes or outsides
- Crisis is used by God to fulfill His plan.
Understand How Crisis works:
- Crisis can happen spontaneous or gradually
- Crisis can contain sin or no sin
- If it contained sin but we did not admit and deal with it will grow and worse
Response to Crisis:
- Confession: Confess our contribution in Crisis
- Surrender: Accept what we have and learn to be humble. God hates egocentric person.
- Forgiveness: Ready to forget the past and regret and ready for future
- Restoration: do goodness to or for our love ones
Faith in Crisis:
- Faith is not running away but facing the reality and responsibilities
- Faith is daring
- Faith is leaning to way and will of God
- Faith is demanding us to do the right thing
- Faith is not always looking at instance result
- Faith is orientation to the process to make us perfect in Crisis
Christian Characteristic:
- Faith: whatever happens to us, God never leave us
- Faith: whatever happens to us, God can help
- Faith: whatever happens to us, God will fulfill His plan
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,who have been called according to his purpose. [Romans 8:28]
It is easy for Almighty God to give us a job or solution, but if it doesn’t happen, perhaps God wants to mold us, let’s lean on Him fully!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Unanswered prayer
“Have you ever wondered what would have been if God answered all your prayers?
Let’s ponder … If God had answered your prayers on the excellent school you dreamed, the tempting job you could enjoyed or gorgeous partner you wished to have that you might thought it was great, what might have been? Aren’t you glad that God didn’t answer you?” BSF Teaching leader asked this question last night as we studied Exodus 5:1-6:27 – Moses’ First encounter with Pharaoh.
“Yes! I am glad that God did not answer all my prayers especially those ridiculous requests” I told myself. WOW! It was so true that sometimes when I prayed for something, it gets worse before it gets better.
Exodus 5:22-23 Moses returned to the LORD and said, "O Lord, why have you brought trouble upon this people? Is this why you sent me? Ever since I went to Pharaoh to speak in your name, he has brought trouble upon this people, and you have not rescued your people at all."
I am just like Moses by asking God “WHY?” I often judge the future with the current situation and focus on the problem instead of lesson God wants to teach me.
God did not answer Moses why He did that instead God told Moses His plans and promises. God reveals Himself and His plan through our disappointment and seeming failures.
I remembered Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane asking same request 3 times “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” [Matthew 26: 36-45] What would have been if the request was granted? I am thankful that Jesus took the cup (died of us) so that we who believe in Him are saved by His blood. Aren’t you glad now? To be personal with God is to involve with God!
We never satisfy till we empty ourselves! I like this clause from BSF notes “As long as we are full of ourselves, even in small things we are no use (useless) to God. When we die to self, we become vessels fit to God’s service.” Do you want to be God’s vessels? Let’s do it!
Let’s ponder … If God had answered your prayers on the excellent school you dreamed, the tempting job you could enjoyed or gorgeous partner you wished to have that you might thought it was great, what might have been? Aren’t you glad that God didn’t answer you?” BSF Teaching leader asked this question last night as we studied Exodus 5:1-6:27 – Moses’ First encounter with Pharaoh.
“Yes! I am glad that God did not answer all my prayers especially those ridiculous requests” I told myself. WOW! It was so true that sometimes when I prayed for something, it gets worse before it gets better.
Exodus 5:22-23 Moses returned to the LORD and said, "O Lord, why have you brought trouble upon this people? Is this why you sent me? Ever since I went to Pharaoh to speak in your name, he has brought trouble upon this people, and you have not rescued your people at all."
I am just like Moses by asking God “WHY?” I often judge the future with the current situation and focus on the problem instead of lesson God wants to teach me.
God did not answer Moses why He did that instead God told Moses His plans and promises. God reveals Himself and His plan through our disappointment and seeming failures.
I remembered Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane asking same request 3 times “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” [Matthew 26: 36-45] What would have been if the request was granted? I am thankful that Jesus took the cup (died of us) so that we who believe in Him are saved by His blood. Aren’t you glad now? To be personal with God is to involve with God!
We never satisfy till we empty ourselves! I like this clause from BSF notes “As long as we are full of ourselves, even in small things we are no use (useless) to God. When we die to self, we become vessels fit to God’s service.” Do you want to be God’s vessels? Let’s do it!
Saturday, March 14, 2009
3:16
The book 3:16 was written by Max Lucado.John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son,that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."
Using his own daily life story, the author described phrase by phrase of the passage John 3:16. It very light reading yet powerful message connecting to our life.
At the end of book, there are chapters of conclusion and Only Jesus: 40 days with the Son.
I like Only Jesus: 40 days with the Son, which brought us to Jesus' birth to His death. I felt the emotional touch as if I was one of characters in the story of Jesus. Yes! Jesus the King became a servant, God became a man to give hope for you and me. God loves. God gives. We believe. We live. Do you want to live?
Friday, March 13, 2009
An instrument of Thy peace
How can we be an instrument of God's peace?
My church choir is singing this song this week.
What a beautiful, meaningful and powerful message!
Prayer of St. Francis
Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love.
Where there is injury, pardon,
Where there is doubt, faith,
Where there is despair, hope,
Where there is darkness, light,
and where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled, as to console;
To be understood, as to understand;
To be loved, as to love;
For it is in giving that we receive
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Let's learn to be an instrument of Thy peace wherever we go... home, church, school, workplace, etc. Be blessing to others as you have been blessed by Thy peace!
Colossians 3:15
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
My church choir is singing this song this week.
What a beautiful, meaningful and powerful message!
Prayer of St. Francis
Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love.
Where there is injury, pardon,
Where there is doubt, faith,
Where there is despair, hope,
Where there is darkness, light,
and where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled, as to console;
To be understood, as to understand;
To be loved, as to love;
For it is in giving that we receive
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Let's learn to be an instrument of Thy peace wherever we go... home, church, school, workplace, etc. Be blessing to others as you have been blessed by Thy peace!
Colossians 3:15
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
It's Privilege!
Do you have privilege today?
If your answer is ‘No’, are you sure?
This week I started my BSF study, I was excited to find out my new DL (Discussion Leader) for this year. When I stepped into the worship hall my ex-DL greeted me and she told me "You're in privilege class".
Later I found out my new DL could not come hence SY who is STL (Substitute Teaching Leader) took over for 1st class. It's good that I got to know SY (gentle & friendly lady). SY told us what a privilege to be in BSF (learning the word of God, knowing more people & learning from one another).
"It's a privilege to see all of you here today to learn the life of Moses." we're greeted sweetly in the opening speech by TL. I really felt I was so privilege that night!
I learned about God's promise to Abraham, Moses, Joseph, and many more. What God promises, He fulfills! God never break His promise but man does. Suddenly I realised I’ve just broke my promise to my friend 15 minutes ago. At first I promised my colleague (who attending BSF) by saying “No matter whatever happens, I’ll go back with you after class. Then I met a friend and I decided to go with this friend, so I messaged my colleague that I could not go back with her 15 minutes ago. Oh… what a failure I am!
This tells me that I cannot even trust myself to keep the promise. So, who shall we trust? We can only trust God in our life! I have put my trust in the Lord, what a privilege, how about you?.
If your answer is ‘No’, are you sure?
This week I started my BSF study, I was excited to find out my new DL (Discussion Leader) for this year. When I stepped into the worship hall my ex-DL greeted me and she told me "You're in privilege class".
Later I found out my new DL could not come hence SY who is STL (Substitute Teaching Leader) took over for 1st class. It's good that I got to know SY (gentle & friendly lady). SY told us what a privilege to be in BSF (learning the word of God, knowing more people & learning from one another).
"It's a privilege to see all of you here today to learn the life of Moses." we're greeted sweetly in the opening speech by TL. I really felt I was so privilege that night!
I learned about God's promise to Abraham, Moses, Joseph, and many more. What God promises, He fulfills! God never break His promise but man does. Suddenly I realised I’ve just broke my promise to my friend 15 minutes ago. At first I promised my colleague (who attending BSF) by saying “No matter whatever happens, I’ll go back with you after class. Then I met a friend and I decided to go with this friend, so I messaged my colleague that I could not go back with her 15 minutes ago. Oh… what a failure I am!
This tells me that I cannot even trust myself to keep the promise. So, who shall we trust? We can only trust God in our life! I have put my trust in the Lord, what a privilege, how about you?.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Chinese New Year
How did you celebrate Chinese New Year?
This is how I celebrated my CNY in Indonesia.
Chinese Reunion Dinner
Reunion dinner is important for Chinese and it is celebrated on CNY eve . Unfortunately I went back to Indonesia on CNY eve (evening) hence I missed the reunion dinner with my parents & relatives. Instead I celebrated it at Burger King in the airport with my sister and all customers of Burger King :)
New Clothes
New clothes are significant for the start of New Year. I was happily wearing new clothes and shopping more new clothes :)
Yearly Visit
It was great to visit relatives and friends since I might only see them once a year. Besides getting updates, I also received red packets from those who were eligible to give. :)
I enjoyed my CNY a lot and gave thanks to the Lord, how about you?
Happy Chinese New Year!
This is how I celebrated my CNY in Indonesia.
Chinese Reunion Dinner
Reunion dinner is important for Chinese and it is celebrated on CNY eve . Unfortunately I went back to Indonesia on CNY eve (evening) hence I missed the reunion dinner with my parents & relatives. Instead I celebrated it at Burger King in the airport with my sister and all customers of Burger King :)
New Clothes
New clothes are significant for the start of New Year. I was happily wearing new clothes and shopping more new clothes :)
Yearly Visit
It was great to visit relatives and friends since I might only see them once a year. Besides getting updates, I also received red packets from those who were eligible to give. :)
I enjoyed my CNY a lot and gave thanks to the Lord, how about you?
Happy Chinese New Year!
Friday, January 9, 2009
Can Two Walk Together?
The encouragement for spiritually unbalanced marriages book is by Sabrina D. Black (Author). She wrote based on her own experience and her counseling expertise.This is helpful tool for those who face disappointments and difficulties in unequally yoked relationships. It is also good for anyone who is keen in knowing more about it just like me. I borrowed this book from my church library by chance but since then I made the efforts to read because I believed there should be a purpose of everything.
It is easy reading book and I agree with her points which I summarized them as followed:
1. Ministry starts from home. We need to put some efforts, time and etc for our home (with our loved ones). Nobody can fix our home except ourselves with God’s wisdom. I am learning to be more patient and understanding to people surrounding me :)
2. Think wisely before we share to others on personal issue related to our partner (loved one) otherwise we may regret. Because when we’ve forgiven & forgotten the issue (our loved one’s badly treatment to us), others may still remember everything we share to them hence it will affect on how others think of our partner (loved one). So before you share to others, we should talk to God. I remember this phase "You are not fit to talk to anyone before you talk to God". Occasionally I am trying to practice this to people I love. Actually we get to love everyone as God first loves us :)
There are more points you can learn from the book. Interested to know more? Just read the book.
1. Ministry starts from home. We need to put some efforts, time and etc for our home (with our loved ones). Nobody can fix our home except ourselves with God’s wisdom. I am learning to be more patient and understanding to people surrounding me :)
2. Think wisely before we share to others on personal issue related to our partner (loved one) otherwise we may regret. Because when we’ve forgiven & forgotten the issue (our loved one’s badly treatment to us), others may still remember everything we share to them hence it will affect on how others think of our partner (loved one). So before you share to others, we should talk to God. I remember this phase "You are not fit to talk to anyone before you talk to God". Occasionally I am trying to practice this to people I love. Actually we get to love everyone as God first loves us :)
There are more points you can learn from the book. Interested to know more? Just read the book.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
You are my hiding place
You (God) are my hiding place,
You always fill my heart with songs of deliverance.
Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.
I will trust in You.Let the weak say I am strong in the strength of my Lord.
I will trust in You! (3x)
The lovely song above was sung last night (new year eve). During our watchnight church service, we were called to reflect things happened in the past and to face the coming year. I started counting the big good events which happened in my life, yap! there were at least 10 but how about the bad events? There were not least... However during the bad events... I was not alone because God was there for me.
Yesterday, today and tomorrow, God is always with us.
Happy New Year 2009! Happy blessed year!
You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. Selah [Psalm 32:7]
You always fill my heart with songs of deliverance.
Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.
I will trust in You.Let the weak say I am strong in the strength of my Lord.
I will trust in You! (3x)
The lovely song above was sung last night (new year eve). During our watchnight church service, we were called to reflect things happened in the past and to face the coming year. I started counting the big good events which happened in my life, yap! there were at least 10 but how about the bad events? There were not least... However during the bad events... I was not alone because God was there for me.
Yesterday, today and tomorrow, God is always with us.
Happy New Year 2009! Happy blessed year!
You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. Selah [Psalm 32:7]
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