Luke 24:45 Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, 46 and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, 47 and that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”
The word that was used often in the passage as I read about Jesus converstation during His return is "Scriptures".
That is the word of God and Jesus has to empahsize that. Digging into the word means getting to know God more. That laid a foundation to understand this God. Of course, it is also the experience we need with Jesus - the walk and the talk with Him. Finally, embrace the intend of God and the purpose of Jesus dying - be the witness of these things, the repentence and forgiveness of sins should be proclaim..
Knowing God - is the theology and your allienace, knowing Jesus - is about finding your identity and your purpose, walking and talking with Him - is about setting your values and your prioirties and finding doing what Jesus ask - is about empowerment and laying your foundation to know Him more.
To comment lastly, one of the way God empowered us is through the Holy Spirit - the gift that Jesus promise.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Monday, April 28, 2008
28 Apr 2008
The story of Gideon was well known. 3 hundreds men routed the thouands men of Midean.
After the war, the story however was very different. Judges 8:23 Gideon said to them, “I will not rule over you, and my son will not rule over you; the Lord will rule over you.”
Well said, not the actions that followed was wrong - 27 And Gideon made an ephod of it and put it in his city, in Ophrah. And all Israel whored after it there, and it became a snare to Gideon and to his family.
Further sad story comes after his death. 33 As soon as Gideon died, the people of Israel turned again and whored after the Baals and made Baal-berith their god.
Moreover, one of his son Abimelech, killed Gideon other 70 sons.
By Gideon nature he was a weak fellow. Not a confident leader, but God lead him all the way. Because he knew waht he cannot do, he tested God and make sure God is with him. But soon after the war, when peace was all around, Gideon failed to seek God. He speech failed to equate with the actions and you don't see the word God anymore in the passage. Things god worse and worse, crumbling to a state a leader end should not be. Compare to the moment of death of Israel, where he bless his children and the forefathers when they make sure their children continue to know God.
In the same situation, Paster Chung Kai preach about not being disapoointed with God enough. We are not in a situation desperate enough to cry out to God and depend on Him. Worse still when we are out of the situation, we forget God. I pray, and want to rememeber God. In situation, when things seem fine, praise God. And when things is getting worse, depends on God. I pray for this dependency on God that I will contiune to reply on Him in every step that I take, that my feet are lead by Him and that my success is because of Him.
I pray for my family that they will continue to serve God and know God. I pray in particular for Josef that he will be well use by you. As for Deborah, let her come to know you in a early age.
As for Racahel, I pray that you continue to give her strength, God you handle the situation.
Give strength to my father. He is like Gideon who know how to need you when he is weak and when victory is gain, it became all about himself. I pray that he will be yolk through from knowing in his mind to knowing in his heart. That his speech and actions will reflect on his acknowledgment of Jesus.
After the war, the story however was very different. Judges 8:23 Gideon said to them, “I will not rule over you, and my son will not rule over you; the Lord will rule over you.”
Well said, not the actions that followed was wrong - 27 And Gideon made an ephod of it and put it in his city, in Ophrah. And all Israel whored after it there, and it became a snare to Gideon and to his family.
Further sad story comes after his death. 33 As soon as Gideon died, the people of Israel turned again and whored after the Baals and made Baal-berith their god.
Moreover, one of his son Abimelech, killed Gideon other 70 sons.
By Gideon nature he was a weak fellow. Not a confident leader, but God lead him all the way. Because he knew waht he cannot do, he tested God and make sure God is with him. But soon after the war, when peace was all around, Gideon failed to seek God. He speech failed to equate with the actions and you don't see the word God anymore in the passage. Things god worse and worse, crumbling to a state a leader end should not be. Compare to the moment of death of Israel, where he bless his children and the forefathers when they make sure their children continue to know God.
In the same situation, Paster Chung Kai preach about not being disapoointed with God enough. We are not in a situation desperate enough to cry out to God and depend on Him. Worse still when we are out of the situation, we forget God. I pray, and want to rememeber God. In situation, when things seem fine, praise God. And when things is getting worse, depends on God. I pray for this dependency on God that I will contiune to reply on Him in every step that I take, that my feet are lead by Him and that my success is because of Him.
I pray for my family that they will continue to serve God and know God. I pray in particular for Josef that he will be well use by you. As for Deborah, let her come to know you in a early age.
As for Racahel, I pray that you continue to give her strength, God you handle the situation.
Give strength to my father. He is like Gideon who know how to need you when he is weak and when victory is gain, it became all about himself. I pray that he will be yolk through from knowing in his mind to knowing in his heart. That his speech and actions will reflect on his acknowledgment of Jesus.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
the call of gideon
as i read about the call of gideon, i sensed that god will call ern and me and our children to a BIG purpose. But god says to me now ,"Love and obey me". "Step by step".
i am excited to see what god has in store for us. trust and obey. there is no other way but to believe in jesus and to trust and obey.
anyway it is god's business and we are the ones following him. he will blow his trumpet at his own time and he will mobilise his troops at his own time too. what we need to do is to prepare ourselves as soldiers. train our spiritual muscles and stretch our faith - like the same way we train for the triathlon so that we can participate in the competition.
we should now start our bible reading, evangelise to people, pray and fellowship so that we can respond swiftly when god calls us.
prepare ern and i and the children dear jesus.
i am encouraged by the way gideon made sure god's calling upon his life. it is not wrong to be very careful. the bigger the calling, the more we must make sure it is from god. simply cos we know if we go in our own strength, we will fail. the battle belongs to god.
dear god i pray for ern that he will have a humble heart before the lord. let him not exalt himself in anyway but let his heart always exalt the lord. give all glory to you cos he knows all glory belongs to you. you are a jealous god. do not allow him to use the talents you have given him to exalt himself.
in the presence of the god who created the whole universe, let ern bow down in adoration and submission. let him see his own smallness and take away his pride.
it is not him at all but all is about jesus. for without you we are nothing.
bring him to the point of brokeness before you. like paul who used to take so much pride in his own talents, paul has learnt to say "i count all things a loss compared to the surpassing knowledege of knowing christ." let ern 's heart be this too.
open ern's eyes to your creation. let him see your might. the Grand Canyon, the Niagara Falls, the intricate human body that even man now cannot understand. cause hime to "wow" at this god and say "who am i , that you care about me?"
Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving;let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!3 For the Lord is a great God,and a great King above all gods.4 In his hand are the depths of the earth;the heights of the mountains are his also.5 The sea is his, for he made it,and his hands formed the dry land.
psalm 95
during my devotion, i could be sometimes noisy too. instead of just quietly reading the bible and blogging. perhaps in the morning in future, i could turn on the music, put on ear plugs, sing and make a joyful noise to god in my heart and soft singing.
let us come into his presence with thanksgiving. remember always to give thanks to god.
why? our lord is a great god and king. he is above all gods. the biggest things on earh - the ocean and the mountains - are his.
what an awesome god.
bless us with a smooth transition in our moving house dear god. the renovation, the packing. help us to enjoy the process too.
we give thanks to you for blessing us with a good price of this house. help us to pack the house nicely for the new owner to take over. thank god that the new buyer is also a believer of christ. let this house continue to be one where your holy spirit reigns.
i pray for my dad in law that he will be open to your word even as i start to read the word to him. in your time and way, bless him lord.
he claims he does not fear. i do not believe. he is just being proud. where does his courage come from? he has no basis thus i do not believe. anyway, bring him to you god.
i pray for jo and deborah that they will have a sharp mind and a healthy curiostiy to learn about the things in life. help them to enjoy learning dear god.
i give thanks for their increased appetite. they are eating much more healthily now. thank you god.
thank you for ern jo ddebbie, dad in law, sis, parents. they are loving and supportive.
thank you for renna who frequently calls me to catch up with me.
thank you for providing ways for my new chapter in life.
thank you for my health and my family health too. thank you for protecting jo and debbie from HFM. protect jo and remind him to wash his hands regularly. there are 10 cases in nan hua primary school.
thank you for helping me complete my marking on time thus far.
thank you for bringing me through the last 2 months which were so tough for me, with so much work to do. i have survived cos god has brought me thru.
i love you jesus. i love you cos you first loved me. i love you cos you are good to me. i love you cos you have won me over with your love for me. nothing in this life is as wonderful as your love for me.
this is why i dedicate cai chunjia's song to you , jesus '" qin xin you ni ai wo"
i love you lord. let this love be true and genuine.
amen
i am excited to see what god has in store for us. trust and obey. there is no other way but to believe in jesus and to trust and obey.
anyway it is god's business and we are the ones following him. he will blow his trumpet at his own time and he will mobilise his troops at his own time too. what we need to do is to prepare ourselves as soldiers. train our spiritual muscles and stretch our faith - like the same way we train for the triathlon so that we can participate in the competition.
we should now start our bible reading, evangelise to people, pray and fellowship so that we can respond swiftly when god calls us.
prepare ern and i and the children dear jesus.
i am encouraged by the way gideon made sure god's calling upon his life. it is not wrong to be very careful. the bigger the calling, the more we must make sure it is from god. simply cos we know if we go in our own strength, we will fail. the battle belongs to god.
dear god i pray for ern that he will have a humble heart before the lord. let him not exalt himself in anyway but let his heart always exalt the lord. give all glory to you cos he knows all glory belongs to you. you are a jealous god. do not allow him to use the talents you have given him to exalt himself.
in the presence of the god who created the whole universe, let ern bow down in adoration and submission. let him see his own smallness and take away his pride.
it is not him at all but all is about jesus. for without you we are nothing.
bring him to the point of brokeness before you. like paul who used to take so much pride in his own talents, paul has learnt to say "i count all things a loss compared to the surpassing knowledege of knowing christ." let ern 's heart be this too.
open ern's eyes to your creation. let him see your might. the Grand Canyon, the Niagara Falls, the intricate human body that even man now cannot understand. cause hime to "wow" at this god and say "who am i , that you care about me?"
Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving;let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!3 For the Lord is a great God,and a great King above all gods.4 In his hand are the depths of the earth;the heights of the mountains are his also.5 The sea is his, for he made it,and his hands formed the dry land.
psalm 95
during my devotion, i could be sometimes noisy too. instead of just quietly reading the bible and blogging. perhaps in the morning in future, i could turn on the music, put on ear plugs, sing and make a joyful noise to god in my heart and soft singing.
let us come into his presence with thanksgiving. remember always to give thanks to god.
why? our lord is a great god and king. he is above all gods. the biggest things on earh - the ocean and the mountains - are his.
what an awesome god.
bless us with a smooth transition in our moving house dear god. the renovation, the packing. help us to enjoy the process too.
we give thanks to you for blessing us with a good price of this house. help us to pack the house nicely for the new owner to take over. thank god that the new buyer is also a believer of christ. let this house continue to be one where your holy spirit reigns.
i pray for my dad in law that he will be open to your word even as i start to read the word to him. in your time and way, bless him lord.
he claims he does not fear. i do not believe. he is just being proud. where does his courage come from? he has no basis thus i do not believe. anyway, bring him to you god.
i pray for jo and deborah that they will have a sharp mind and a healthy curiostiy to learn about the things in life. help them to enjoy learning dear god.
i give thanks for their increased appetite. they are eating much more healthily now. thank you god.
thank you for ern jo ddebbie, dad in law, sis, parents. they are loving and supportive.
thank you for renna who frequently calls me to catch up with me.
thank you for providing ways for my new chapter in life.
thank you for my health and my family health too. thank you for protecting jo and debbie from HFM. protect jo and remind him to wash his hands regularly. there are 10 cases in nan hua primary school.
thank you for helping me complete my marking on time thus far.
thank you for bringing me through the last 2 months which were so tough for me, with so much work to do. i have survived cos god has brought me thru.
i love you jesus. i love you cos you first loved me. i love you cos you are good to me. i love you cos you have won me over with your love for me. nothing in this life is as wonderful as your love for me.
this is why i dedicate cai chunjia's song to you , jesus '" qin xin you ni ai wo"
i love you lord. let this love be true and genuine.
amen
Friday, April 25, 2008
25 Apr 2008
Psalm 94:7 and they say, “The Lord does not see;the God of Jacob does not perceive.”
8 Understand, O dullest of the people!Fools, when will you be wise?9 He who planted the ear, does he not hear?He who formed the eye, does he not see?10 He who disciplines the nations, does he not rebuke?He who teaches man knowledge—11 the Lord—knows the thoughts of man,that they are but a breath.
You are not by yourself - the world was created and did not just come forth by itself. You don't just happen. You were created for a noble purpose.
Therefore do not be engulfed by the pleasures of this world. The seduction of power that you can do anything and eveything you like. The Lord does see and hear.
Come to your senses - seek the treasures of heaven, build the eternal treasures.
There are so many of my colleagues who pursue the pleasure and status of this world - seeking approval in the eyes of man, doing what they feel to obtain what is more treaures in material, status and pleasures.
Lord, let me see your heartbeat and discipline myself towards the goal in Christ Jesus. Forgive me for not doing the right thing and thereby, compromising the salvation of the people around me.
Thank you Lord, for blessing me with a lovely family - really more than enough. Thank you for blessing the works of my hand - after 3 years or 5 years, I see the fruit in the business venture. As I prepare to hand over this business, I pray that the Lord will prepare the work you have for me in China. Of course, purify my heart, my action and my speech that I can hear and act based on your Holy Spirit.
I pray for my father, who look well and eat well. I pray for his cancer and that Jesus will heal and that he may know that it is the Lord and let him know that the Lord loves him - not my will but yours.
Thank you for protecting my family, seeing that they are safe and healthy. I pray that as a family, we will be able to serve you and your people.
Lift Rachael up, Psa 94:19 When the cares of my heart are many,your consolations cheer my soul. The Lord cares and will take care.
8 Understand, O dullest of the people!Fools, when will you be wise?9 He who planted the ear, does he not hear?He who formed the eye, does he not see?10 He who disciplines the nations, does he not rebuke?He who teaches man knowledge—11 the Lord—knows the thoughts of man,that they are but a breath.
You are not by yourself - the world was created and did not just come forth by itself. You don't just happen. You were created for a noble purpose.
Therefore do not be engulfed by the pleasures of this world. The seduction of power that you can do anything and eveything you like. The Lord does see and hear.
Come to your senses - seek the treasures of heaven, build the eternal treasures.
There are so many of my colleagues who pursue the pleasure and status of this world - seeking approval in the eyes of man, doing what they feel to obtain what is more treaures in material, status and pleasures.
Lord, let me see your heartbeat and discipline myself towards the goal in Christ Jesus. Forgive me for not doing the right thing and thereby, compromising the salvation of the people around me.
Thank you Lord, for blessing me with a lovely family - really more than enough. Thank you for blessing the works of my hand - after 3 years or 5 years, I see the fruit in the business venture. As I prepare to hand over this business, I pray that the Lord will prepare the work you have for me in China. Of course, purify my heart, my action and my speech that I can hear and act based on your Holy Spirit.
I pray for my father, who look well and eat well. I pray for his cancer and that Jesus will heal and that he may know that it is the Lord and let him know that the Lord loves him - not my will but yours.
Thank you for protecting my family, seeing that they are safe and healthy. I pray that as a family, we will be able to serve you and your people.
Lift Rachael up, Psa 94:19 When the cares of my heart are many,your consolations cheer my soul. The Lord cares and will take care.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
24 Apr 2008
Judges 2:10-3:31, Luke 22:14-34, Psalms 92-93, Proverbs 14:1-2
Psalm 93
The Lord is firmly established - solid rock. Yet on the other side, not inmoveable and cannot flex His strength. He is also like the mighty waves and seas. The solid mass that is not moveable and yet flex with energy like the thounderous seas.
He is indeed, the creator of the ends of the earth, BUT do we not heard? and do we not known? Yes we have heard about this God, but how much we know Him?
We hear, we act and we understand.
Biblical foundation talks about building strong discipline - a discipline in engaging God each day - reading, praying ...
I do admit, I know about all these, but how much I really act. Lord, help me to continue to establish that discipline. I want to know you.
I pray for Rachael. This few days she just need a little catalyst and she will blow her top. The unhappiness that is within her is boiling. I pray that she will continue to press on towards this final lap. Control her anger, control her temper and I know that the Lord will do just that.
I also pray for the process of moving house and the sale of this house. I pray that we will have favour from all parties and the transaction and completion will be smooth. There is still a repair work to do and I pray that it will be done.
Even as I onder what next, I pray for my trip to Kunming. Lord bring me to the right peole and show me the plan and direction. What role am I to do next? How can I further your kingdom and being nearer to the vision you gave me? Prepare my heart for the trip and let me be obedient to the Holy Spirit.
Psalm 93
The Lord is firmly established - solid rock. Yet on the other side, not inmoveable and cannot flex His strength. He is also like the mighty waves and seas. The solid mass that is not moveable and yet flex with energy like the thounderous seas.
He is indeed, the creator of the ends of the earth, BUT do we not heard? and do we not known? Yes we have heard about this God, but how much we know Him?
We hear, we act and we understand.
Biblical foundation talks about building strong discipline - a discipline in engaging God each day - reading, praying ...
I do admit, I know about all these, but how much I really act. Lord, help me to continue to establish that discipline. I want to know you.
I pray for Rachael. This few days she just need a little catalyst and she will blow her top. The unhappiness that is within her is boiling. I pray that she will continue to press on towards this final lap. Control her anger, control her temper and I know that the Lord will do just that.
I also pray for the process of moving house and the sale of this house. I pray that we will have favour from all parties and the transaction and completion will be smooth. There is still a repair work to do and I pray that it will be done.
Even as I onder what next, I pray for my trip to Kunming. Lord bring me to the right peole and show me the plan and direction. What role am I to do next? How can I further your kingdom and being nearer to the vision you gave me? Prepare my heart for the trip and let me be obedient to the Holy Spirit.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
22 Apr 2008
Joshua 24; Luke 21:1-28; Psalm 89:38-52; Proverbs 13:20-23
Reading from Joshua 24
6 “‘Then I brought your fathers out of Egypt, and you came to the sea. And the Egyptians pursued your fathers with chariots and horsemen to the Red Sea. 7 And when they cried to the Lord, he put darkness between you and the Egyptians and made the sea come upon them and cover them; and your eyes saw what I did in Egypt. And you lived in the wilderness a long time. 8 Then I brought you to the land of the Amorites, who lived on the other side of the Jordan. They fought with you, and I gave them into your hand, and you took possession of their land, and I destroyed them before you. 9 Then Balak the son of Zippor, king of Moab, arose and fought against Israel. And he sent and invited Balaam the son of Beor to curse you, 10 but I would not listen to Balaam. Indeed, he blessed you. So I delivered you out of his hand. 11 And you went over the Jordan and came to Jericho, and the leaders of Jericho fought against you, and also the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Girgashites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites. And I gave them into your hand. 12 And I sent the hornet before you, which drove them out before you, the two kings of the Amorites; it was not by your sword or by your bow. 13 I gave you a land on which you had not labored and cities that you had not built, and you dwell in them. You eat the fruit of vineyards and olive orchards that you did not plant.’
The Lord did them and the Lord give and the Lord bless. Is He not real? Are you not satisfy? Indeed, this passsage soke to me about God providence, but more importantly - DO YOU REMEMBER THE PROMISE? God will deliver!
How then is my heart? Weary, burden? Why? Has not the Lord promise you the destiny and the intended rest?
Lord, I pray, indeed you have bless the works of my hand. Forex is not for beginners, but you have bless and you have delivery the result. You have honour your blessings and I have not forgotten to give back to you. I pray that the intented rest will follow, let me enjoy this period of crossing the Jordan and began the battle - the battle to claim the land, the battle that you have go before me to fight. I pray for an uplifted spirit and let this joy be shown and that the showing bring about a testimony to you.
I continue to pray for my family. Rachael is feeling stress up with the work place. It is not rewarding - I can understand because I was in the same situation, where I cannot see where am I going in the work place. Delivery her the joy and let this joy be her strength.
I pray for Josef, that you will open his eyes and that he will be careful in his homework. I thank you for his keeness in your words. Grow him spiritually, and physically and mentally. Let his talents and his ability in learning and understanding, be use as a glory for you.
I pray for my father, yoke and break him. I am lost. I pray that he will understand your love and that there is someone who love him. Melt his heart and change him. Save him not from cancer, but his soul from hell. I don't want his money, I want to see him coming to the Lord. Money I have, any additional from him cannot save his soul - except Jesus.
I pray for Deborah safety against HFMD. I thank you for keeping her safe during this period, from any virus and even from cough and flu! I pray that she can learn to love this God. Teach me as parent to sing, pray and tell story to her about you.
Reading from Joshua 24
6 “‘Then I brought your fathers out of Egypt, and you came to the sea. And the Egyptians pursued your fathers with chariots and horsemen to the Red Sea. 7 And when they cried to the Lord, he put darkness between you and the Egyptians and made the sea come upon them and cover them; and your eyes saw what I did in Egypt. And you lived in the wilderness a long time. 8 Then I brought you to the land of the Amorites, who lived on the other side of the Jordan. They fought with you, and I gave them into your hand, and you took possession of their land, and I destroyed them before you. 9 Then Balak the son of Zippor, king of Moab, arose and fought against Israel. And he sent and invited Balaam the son of Beor to curse you, 10 but I would not listen to Balaam. Indeed, he blessed you. So I delivered you out of his hand. 11 And you went over the Jordan and came to Jericho, and the leaders of Jericho fought against you, and also the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Girgashites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites. And I gave them into your hand. 12 And I sent the hornet before you, which drove them out before you, the two kings of the Amorites; it was not by your sword or by your bow. 13 I gave you a land on which you had not labored and cities that you had not built, and you dwell in them. You eat the fruit of vineyards and olive orchards that you did not plant.’
The Lord did them and the Lord give and the Lord bless. Is He not real? Are you not satisfy? Indeed, this passsage soke to me about God providence, but more importantly - DO YOU REMEMBER THE PROMISE? God will deliver!
How then is my heart? Weary, burden? Why? Has not the Lord promise you the destiny and the intended rest?
Lord, I pray, indeed you have bless the works of my hand. Forex is not for beginners, but you have bless and you have delivery the result. You have honour your blessings and I have not forgotten to give back to you. I pray that the intented rest will follow, let me enjoy this period of crossing the Jordan and began the battle - the battle to claim the land, the battle that you have go before me to fight. I pray for an uplifted spirit and let this joy be shown and that the showing bring about a testimony to you.
I continue to pray for my family. Rachael is feeling stress up with the work place. It is not rewarding - I can understand because I was in the same situation, where I cannot see where am I going in the work place. Delivery her the joy and let this joy be her strength.
I pray for Josef, that you will open his eyes and that he will be careful in his homework. I thank you for his keeness in your words. Grow him spiritually, and physically and mentally. Let his talents and his ability in learning and understanding, be use as a glory for you.
I pray for my father, yoke and break him. I am lost. I pray that he will understand your love and that there is someone who love him. Melt his heart and change him. Save him not from cancer, but his soul from hell. I don't want his money, I want to see him coming to the Lord. Money I have, any additional from him cannot save his soul - except Jesus.
I pray for Deborah safety against HFMD. I thank you for keeping her safe during this period, from any virus and even from cough and flu! I pray that she can learn to love this God. Teach me as parent to sing, pray and tell story to her about you.
Monday, April 21, 2008
21 Apr 2008
Luke 20:38 he is not God of the dead, but of the living, for all live to him
How many of us really think that the Lord that we served is a living God? Like my father, who simply choose death over life. Is life just a passing cloud, just go through, hopefully with no pain and let death take over everything. My father recent blood test did not showed a positive result, he might have a cancer replapse. Well I pray, that if there is really life after death, he would have placed a wrong bet. I pray for my father to rid of pride- break him down and that he may be so so down that he will accept Jesus. But keep his life, that he may have a chance to serve and testify for your goodness.
Forex is good - I thank God for the result. I pray for the continual stability and let me use it as really an alternate income. I want rest.
I too thank you for Rachael that you have used her to do nuturing, that you have too bring back her gifts. Use her and let her enjoy serving you. I too pray that my family including myself will start actively serving you. Give us a spiritual community that this family can grow together with.
I have intented to go to Woodland. I pray that this new place, this family will enjoy the new environment and be happy in settling there. I pary for a good spiritual community that we can have fellowship with. I too pray that we can serve you and grow.
I ray also for the house shifting and all the reapirs work that must be done. I pray for a smooth transaction.
How many of us really think that the Lord that we served is a living God? Like my father, who simply choose death over life. Is life just a passing cloud, just go through, hopefully with no pain and let death take over everything. My father recent blood test did not showed a positive result, he might have a cancer replapse. Well I pray, that if there is really life after death, he would have placed a wrong bet. I pray for my father to rid of pride- break him down and that he may be so so down that he will accept Jesus. But keep his life, that he may have a chance to serve and testify for your goodness.
Forex is good - I thank God for the result. I pray for the continual stability and let me use it as really an alternate income. I want rest.
I too thank you for Rachael that you have used her to do nuturing, that you have too bring back her gifts. Use her and let her enjoy serving you. I too pray that my family including myself will start actively serving you. Give us a spiritual community that this family can grow together with.
I have intented to go to Woodland. I pray that this new place, this family will enjoy the new environment and be happy in settling there. I pary for a good spiritual community that we can have fellowship with. I too pray that we can serve you and grow.
I ray also for the house shifting and all the reapirs work that must be done. I pray for a smooth transaction.
Friday, April 18, 2008
18 Apr 2008
It has been a while since I have blogged!
Luke chapter 18 told the parable of a rich ruler. He first addressed Jesus as a 'good teacher' and of course, he can and probably has the time and the energy to follow the commandments of God, but that did not bring him any closer to enter the kingdom of God.
The Kingdom of God is about Jesus REIGN, it is about His RULE, a RELATIONSHIP with Him and all about His RIGHTEOUSNESS.
How easy if it for a man to get rich and be able to enter the kingdom of God. BUT this is not the way - sell away all your wealth. When Jesus requested that - the rich ruler walked away.
A wholeheartedness that brings about a desire to discipline one to follow Christ is much required to enter the enter of God. I, included, fall into the category of the rich ruler. We are rich, comfortable in the material things we had - a easy life with little trials and testing. Yes we are Christian, but are filled with a lot of carnal desire that needs pleasure and treasures of this world to be satisfied.
Where is that wholeheartedness?
Compare the story of the blind man in Jerico - who has nothing and knew who Jesus is by calling Him 'Son of David'. It is his faith that healed his blindness.
I pray and ask that God wil enable me and filled me with your Spirit - like the way you make dry bones into flesh and with your breath - turned them into life. Let me put material pleasures and treasures not grip us like the way the rich ruler is. But focus with a spiritual discipline to seek you with a wholehearted faith. Amen.
Luke chapter 18 told the parable of a rich ruler. He first addressed Jesus as a 'good teacher' and of course, he can and probably has the time and the energy to follow the commandments of God, but that did not bring him any closer to enter the kingdom of God.
The Kingdom of God is about Jesus REIGN, it is about His RULE, a RELATIONSHIP with Him and all about His RIGHTEOUSNESS.
How easy if it for a man to get rich and be able to enter the kingdom of God. BUT this is not the way - sell away all your wealth. When Jesus requested that - the rich ruler walked away.
A wholeheartedness that brings about a desire to discipline one to follow Christ is much required to enter the enter of God. I, included, fall into the category of the rich ruler. We are rich, comfortable in the material things we had - a easy life with little trials and testing. Yes we are Christian, but are filled with a lot of carnal desire that needs pleasure and treasures of this world to be satisfied.
Where is that wholeheartedness?
Compare the story of the blind man in Jerico - who has nothing and knew who Jesus is by calling Him 'Son of David'. It is his faith that healed his blindness.
I pray and ask that God wil enable me and filled me with your Spirit - like the way you make dry bones into flesh and with your breath - turned them into life. Let me put material pleasures and treasures not grip us like the way the rich ruler is. But focus with a spiritual discipline to seek you with a wholehearted faith. Amen.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
9 Apr 2008
Pro 12:25 Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down,but a good word makes him glad.
To Rachael, God has given you the promise in Mosses' song. Count down - like God and Mosses who encourage the people before the crossing - 3 times and more - be strong and courageous. The time is fix - end of May, less than 2 months. Know not you own limitation but the limits Gos has for you.
As for me, keep close to God. After Rachael has crossed, it will be mine. Lord prepare me.
To Rachael, God has given you the promise in Mosses' song. Count down - like God and Mosses who encourage the people before the crossing - 3 times and more - be strong and courageous. The time is fix - end of May, less than 2 months. Know not you own limitation but the limits Gos has for you.
As for me, keep close to God. After Rachael has crossed, it will be mine. Lord prepare me.
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
8 Apr 2008
Living not for yourself.
Deu 32:46 “Take to heart all the words by which I am warning you today, that you may command them to your children, that they may be careful to do all the words of this law. 47 For it is no empty word for you, but your very life, and by this word you shall live long in the land that you are going over the Jordan to possess.”
We are accountable to GOd and the testimony that we bear reveal God to the people around us. But there is something more. When we teach our children or when we disciple, it is not the knowledge, but our lives. The integrity that comes along with it is important, else you are empty and teach with only a head knowledge.
2Tim 3:1 But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. 2 For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, 4 treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people. 6 For among them are those who creep into households and capture weak women, burdened with sins and led astray by various passions, 7 always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth.
We will be like having a form og godliness but denying its power. We have form, but no fire and its all fake.
I pray that I will bear truth and integrity when I teach and imparts knowledge to my children. I pray that I will be able to share the realness of God as rubber meets the road. The testimony that I share will be able to reveal the truth and Jesus.
I pray for Rachael that she will have the strength to continue this last stretch. Grant her the speed and the accuracy and correctness as she marks the papers and prepares for the tutorial. Let Rachael draw strength from you. Yes even youth shall faint and young men shall fall exhausted, but they who wait for the the Lord shall renew their strength. Let this time be a testimony to your name.
I pray for my children. I pray that Josef will not contact HFMD and that Deborah will be safe. Protect them and keep them safe. I give you thanks for Josef, who on Monday uses the evangecube to share the gosepel with his classmate. I also thank you that I managed to share with Josef this morning about my encounter with you and my quest in seeking you. I pray that the Holy Spirit to fill Josef and let him be use by you for your kingdom. Keep Josef for yourself.
Deu 32:46 “Take to heart all the words by which I am warning you today, that you may command them to your children, that they may be careful to do all the words of this law. 47 For it is no empty word for you, but your very life, and by this word you shall live long in the land that you are going over the Jordan to possess.”
We are accountable to GOd and the testimony that we bear reveal God to the people around us. But there is something more. When we teach our children or when we disciple, it is not the knowledge, but our lives. The integrity that comes along with it is important, else you are empty and teach with only a head knowledge.
2Tim 3:1 But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. 2 For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, 4 treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people. 6 For among them are those who creep into households and capture weak women, burdened with sins and led astray by various passions, 7 always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth.
We will be like having a form og godliness but denying its power. We have form, but no fire and its all fake.
I pray that I will bear truth and integrity when I teach and imparts knowledge to my children. I pray that I will be able to share the realness of God as rubber meets the road. The testimony that I share will be able to reveal the truth and Jesus.
I pray for Rachael that she will have the strength to continue this last stretch. Grant her the speed and the accuracy and correctness as she marks the papers and prepares for the tutorial. Let Rachael draw strength from you. Yes even youth shall faint and young men shall fall exhausted, but they who wait for the the Lord shall renew their strength. Let this time be a testimony to your name.
I pray for my children. I pray that Josef will not contact HFMD and that Deborah will be safe. Protect them and keep them safe. I give you thanks for Josef, who on Monday uses the evangecube to share the gosepel with his classmate. I also thank you that I managed to share with Josef this morning about my encounter with you and my quest in seeking you. I pray that the Holy Spirit to fill Josef and let him be use by you for your kingdom. Keep Josef for yourself.
Monday, April 07, 2008
Treasures of the Heart
7 Apr 2008
Is this a questions for the rich or for the poor?
The rich has much, so is the bible telling them not to go after treasures of the earth? Or is it because the poor has less and the bible is telling them, not to worry and anxious but God will provide?
Luke 12:16“The land of a rich man produced plentifully, 17 and he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’ 18 And he said, ‘I will do this: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.’ 20 But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ 21 So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.”
22 And he said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. 23 For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. 24 Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! 25 And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? [6] 26 If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest? 27 Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, [7] yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 28 But if God so clothes the grass, which is alive in the field today, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! 29 And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried. 30 For all the nations of the world seek after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. 31 Instead, seek his [8] kingdom, and these things will be added to you.
The Lord spoke to both group of people. It is not so much about having more or not having enough, but it is about going after the things that will last.
Ecc 1:5 Life is wearisome - is predictable boring - as in the sun
Ecc 1:4 Life is also temproal and brief - the generations come and the generations go.
Ecc 1:6 Life is unpredictable - as in the wind
Ecc 1:7 Life is puzzling - as in the rivers emptying into the seas and yet not full
Nothing really matters, really last and worth living for.
BUT trying speaking these to a child - what are you trying to teach - study so hard for what - nothing really matters, last nor worth!
Looking at the perspective of a child - there are a lot of things that is predictable and there are some that are not predictable. Regardless, the Lord has a hand in it - that we must face and that we must know.
It is then the attitude in gaining and with the end in mind. I work hard - because whatever I do I do it unto God. I gain the land, the treasures that God has for me - my purpose in God. I know that should I study hard and gain the result - the walking through the process is an experience to know God better and also for His glory.
I seek not of things to be better than others, because it is not about credit nor of paper qualifications but because of a goal towards the upward call in Christ Jesus my Lord.
I pray that I don't look at the many and the much that I have, because these are the talents God has bless me and these are the much and the many that God want to bless and for much is given, much is expected. The lesat that you do for your brother, you do it to me.
I pray that I will not be anxious about the little I gain, nor at the stress and the bad times that I am going through. I pray that I will be have a comapring attitude with my peer - I am losing out, because I seek the end and I seek the process of going through and holding fast the promises of God and thus growing in Him.
Luke 10:34 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
Is this a questions for the rich or for the poor?
The rich has much, so is the bible telling them not to go after treasures of the earth? Or is it because the poor has less and the bible is telling them, not to worry and anxious but God will provide?
Luke 12:16“The land of a rich man produced plentifully, 17 and he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’ 18 And he said, ‘I will do this: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.’ 20 But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ 21 So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.”
22 And he said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. 23 For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. 24 Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! 25 And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? [6] 26 If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest? 27 Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, [7] yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 28 But if God so clothes the grass, which is alive in the field today, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! 29 And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried. 30 For all the nations of the world seek after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. 31 Instead, seek his [8] kingdom, and these things will be added to you.
The Lord spoke to both group of people. It is not so much about having more or not having enough, but it is about going after the things that will last.
Ecc 1:5 Life is wearisome - is predictable boring - as in the sun
Ecc 1:4 Life is also temproal and brief - the generations come and the generations go.
Ecc 1:6 Life is unpredictable - as in the wind
Ecc 1:7 Life is puzzling - as in the rivers emptying into the seas and yet not full
Nothing really matters, really last and worth living for.
BUT trying speaking these to a child - what are you trying to teach - study so hard for what - nothing really matters, last nor worth!
Looking at the perspective of a child - there are a lot of things that is predictable and there are some that are not predictable. Regardless, the Lord has a hand in it - that we must face and that we must know.
It is then the attitude in gaining and with the end in mind. I work hard - because whatever I do I do it unto God. I gain the land, the treasures that God has for me - my purpose in God. I know that should I study hard and gain the result - the walking through the process is an experience to know God better and also for His glory.
I seek not of things to be better than others, because it is not about credit nor of paper qualifications but because of a goal towards the upward call in Christ Jesus my Lord.
I pray that I don't look at the many and the much that I have, because these are the talents God has bless me and these are the much and the many that God want to bless and for much is given, much is expected. The lesat that you do for your brother, you do it to me.
I pray that I will not be anxious about the little I gain, nor at the stress and the bad times that I am going through. I pray that I will be have a comapring attitude with my peer - I am losing out, because I seek the end and I seek the process of going through and holding fast the promises of God and thus growing in Him.
Luke 10:34 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
7 Apr 2008
Ithank God for allowing my father to go church. Let the love of your people touch him. I thank God for Rachael, who told him about the final destination of our soul. I pray and ask that the holy spirit soften his heart, remove all things concerning 'face' and allow him to know that the end matters.
The end matters. Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added to you.
What is the kingdom of God? It is about His reign - Jesus reign, His rules, Our relationship with Him and His righteousness reveal through us.
What is then righteousness that is to be seen in us? Not denying the work of the Holy Spirit, His righteousness reveal is about the life we live and our protray of Christ that glorify His name. The fruit is seen in the fellowship among Christian brothers and sisters. Our worship, our thankful heart and Spirit to God and finally our submission to authority above us.
Where we live, determine how we live.
Pastor Edmund spoke about things that we have to face. I know that there are tough times for Rachael, but that we must know is that God has an end for us, for Rachael. The tough times will be over and then looking back, we know saw the promises of God coming to pass.
Seek therefore not the stress and an end to it, but seek His kingdom and the end that comes along with stress.
I pray for Rachael, and with a thankful heart, reveal to her a promise of a bright ending.
The end matters. Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added to you.
What is the kingdom of God? It is about His reign - Jesus reign, His rules, Our relationship with Him and His righteousness reveal through us.
What is then righteousness that is to be seen in us? Not denying the work of the Holy Spirit, His righteousness reveal is about the life we live and our protray of Christ that glorify His name. The fruit is seen in the fellowship among Christian brothers and sisters. Our worship, our thankful heart and Spirit to God and finally our submission to authority above us.
Where we live, determine how we live.
Pastor Edmund spoke about things that we have to face. I know that there are tough times for Rachael, but that we must know is that God has an end for us, for Rachael. The tough times will be over and then looking back, we know saw the promises of God coming to pass.
Seek therefore not the stress and an end to it, but seek His kingdom and the end that comes along with stress.
I pray for Rachael, and with a thankful heart, reveal to her a promise of a bright ending.
Saturday, April 05, 2008
5 Apr 2008
Deuteronomy 28, Luke 11:14-36, Psalm 77, Proverbs 12:18
Deu 28:1 “And if you faithfully obey the voice of the Lord your God, being careful to do all his commandments that I command you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. 2 And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the Lord your God. 3 Blessed shall you be in the city, and blessed shall you be in the field. 4 Blessed shall be the fruit of your womb and the fruit of your ground and the fruit of your cattle, the increase of your herds and the young of your flock. 5 Blessed shall be your basket and your kneading bowl. 6 Blessed shall you be when you come in, and blessed shall you be when you go out.
Who switch the price tags? God wants to bless and He will bless, only if we faithfuly obey and love the Lord your God.
We switched the tags. We want God, we want his blessings, but we don't want to obey and the conditions that attached. We want the simple way out.
To an extend, we choose to get the blessings and leave God out of the equation. Yes, it may not be the best, but by my own strength, I still can get the blessings - my and not God.
What then is the most important thing? What is the thing that we want - a blessings, material wealth, power and status?
As a result we choose the things on earth, then the treasures in heaven - the things that last verus the things that don't.
We know this concept, but what makes us the refusal to change?
The radical change comes with the identity we have with Jesus. Our desire for Jesus reveal the desire to have Jesus as our Lord. Is Jesus our Lord?
What is the point of gaining the world, but yet losses your soul? Start with the end in mind. If you now that the treasures of the world cannot be brought out, why not gain Christ? In doing, so we not only gain Christ, gain the treasures in heaven, but also the blessings of God, which sometimes translate to material wealth, peace with others ...
I thank you Lord for this understanding and your revelation of your word. I pray that I will nt look to gain the pleasures of the world, the wealth of the world, the pride of the world, but choose to put you first.
I pray that my focus to be in you - your word, worship and prayer. Seek first the kingdom of God and His reighteousness and all these things shall be added to you. Amen
Deu 28:1 “And if you faithfully obey the voice of the Lord your God, being careful to do all his commandments that I command you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. 2 And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the Lord your God. 3 Blessed shall you be in the city, and blessed shall you be in the field. 4 Blessed shall be the fruit of your womb and the fruit of your ground and the fruit of your cattle, the increase of your herds and the young of your flock. 5 Blessed shall be your basket and your kneading bowl. 6 Blessed shall you be when you come in, and blessed shall you be when you go out.
Who switch the price tags? God wants to bless and He will bless, only if we faithfuly obey and love the Lord your God.
We switched the tags. We want God, we want his blessings, but we don't want to obey and the conditions that attached. We want the simple way out.
To an extend, we choose to get the blessings and leave God out of the equation. Yes, it may not be the best, but by my own strength, I still can get the blessings - my and not God.
What then is the most important thing? What is the thing that we want - a blessings, material wealth, power and status?
As a result we choose the things on earth, then the treasures in heaven - the things that last verus the things that don't.
We know this concept, but what makes us the refusal to change?
The radical change comes with the identity we have with Jesus. Our desire for Jesus reveal the desire to have Jesus as our Lord. Is Jesus our Lord?
What is the point of gaining the world, but yet losses your soul? Start with the end in mind. If you now that the treasures of the world cannot be brought out, why not gain Christ? In doing, so we not only gain Christ, gain the treasures in heaven, but also the blessings of God, which sometimes translate to material wealth, peace with others ...
I thank you Lord for this understanding and your revelation of your word. I pray that I will nt look to gain the pleasures of the world, the wealth of the world, the pride of the world, but choose to put you first.
I pray that my focus to be in you - your word, worship and prayer. Seek first the kingdom of God and His reighteousness and all these things shall be added to you. Amen
Friday, April 04, 2008
4 Apr 2008
Luke 10:38 Now as they went on their way, Jesus [4] entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. 40 But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” 41 But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, 42 but one thing is necessary. [5] Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”
So many time, I care about what is not important. I have failed to be still in the Lord. the things of this earth is temporal. They don't last, even so for how people think of you and the service you render.
Let me not be distracted and know how to be still in the Lord.
My flat is sold, but HDB want us to remove the two platform - a major job, which I do not know how the response of the buyer. Money is not the issue - the going through the task is.
Let it be smooth and let it be over with.
So many time, I care about what is not important. I have failed to be still in the Lord. the things of this earth is temporal. They don't last, even so for how people think of you and the service you render.
Let me not be distracted and know how to be still in the Lord.
My flat is sold, but HDB want us to remove the two platform - a major job, which I do not know how the response of the buyer. Money is not the issue - the going through the task is.
Let it be smooth and let it be over with.
Thursday, April 03, 2008
3 Apr 2008
As I read Deu 23-25 today, I see the righteousness of our God. He cares and remember the fatherless, the widows even the slave and sojourners.
He make such and control the spread of deseases.
But we are a people of a harden heart. We want a good God, and we want the best, but God is not enough, we want the world. As a such, we struggle, we compares with the others and see that we had not enough of the goodness of the world.
I pray for myself, I am constantly suck into the temptation of the world. Open my eyes, that I may see the big big prospect that God has for me.
I shared with Rachael on the preparation for the crossing of the Jordan River. God has prepare the heart of the people, and physically circumsize them to remind them of the temptation across the river. But God promise a land that is flowing with milk and honey. It will no longer be maner and quails.
I pray for both Rachael and myself. Prepare to cross the Jordan River. I pray that we will be able to leave the past behind - be strong and courageous. I pray that we will not carry the past along with us. The unhappy times we had at our work places, with the people, we will leave them behind.
I pray for joy to fill Rachael heart. As I visualise her standing in a big green pasture, she will breathe in the cool air that comes from the ice-cap mountain that is in front of her. She dance with joy in the Lord. The Lord provides and when she call, you answer.
I pray for the kids. Keep them safe. I pray for Josef - he has grown more mature, but he is still a boy - playful. I pray that you will lead him and lead us on how to settle Josef in Church. He needs to grow in you. Keep him for you and show him your heartbeat. Fill him Lord with your compassion for the lost and fill him with your spirit. Teach me, Lord, to guide him, to tell him about story and testimony that reveal your glory and your greatness.
I pray to have the chance to share the word with people, let me have divine appointment that I can share and testify your goodness. In doing so, I that may share your greatness to my family.
Deborah has grown. Keep her confidence not in her ability but yours. Let her be filled with your joy. Let her laughter bring joy to others that they may know that there is a God who loves them.
He make such and control the spread of deseases.
But we are a people of a harden heart. We want a good God, and we want the best, but God is not enough, we want the world. As a such, we struggle, we compares with the others and see that we had not enough of the goodness of the world.
I pray for myself, I am constantly suck into the temptation of the world. Open my eyes, that I may see the big big prospect that God has for me.
I shared with Rachael on the preparation for the crossing of the Jordan River. God has prepare the heart of the people, and physically circumsize them to remind them of the temptation across the river. But God promise a land that is flowing with milk and honey. It will no longer be maner and quails.
I pray for both Rachael and myself. Prepare to cross the Jordan River. I pray that we will be able to leave the past behind - be strong and courageous. I pray that we will not carry the past along with us. The unhappy times we had at our work places, with the people, we will leave them behind.
I pray for joy to fill Rachael heart. As I visualise her standing in a big green pasture, she will breathe in the cool air that comes from the ice-cap mountain that is in front of her. She dance with joy in the Lord. The Lord provides and when she call, you answer.
I pray for the kids. Keep them safe. I pray for Josef - he has grown more mature, but he is still a boy - playful. I pray that you will lead him and lead us on how to settle Josef in Church. He needs to grow in you. Keep him for you and show him your heartbeat. Fill him Lord with your compassion for the lost and fill him with your spirit. Teach me, Lord, to guide him, to tell him about story and testimony that reveal your glory and your greatness.
I pray to have the chance to share the word with people, let me have divine appointment that I can share and testify your goodness. In doing so, I that may share your greatness to my family.
Deborah has grown. Keep her confidence not in her ability but yours. Let her be filled with your joy. Let her laughter bring joy to others that they may know that there is a God who loves them.
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
1 Apr 2008
31 Mar 2008 was published but lost.
Anyway, it was a study on Luke 9:23-27 with Josef.
23 And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. 24 For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. 25 For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? 26 For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. 27 But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God.”
To a child, what is taking up the cross means - what is not gaining the world but seek Christ.
Simple - remember the Lord Jesus. It is not about not studying hard, but read the bible and seek God. Josef job is to study hard that is his role as a student. It is about doing it for Jesus. The good result, is not about him, but for the glory of God. Taking up the cross, simple to Josef, is about remembering Jesus, read the word and pray.
To adults, it is not about not working hard, the suceess because of the talents we are given, is for the glory of God - remember Jesus. Whatever we do, we remember Christ and do it all for Him.
Deu 20:1 “When you go out to war against your enemies, and see horses and chariots and an army larger than your own, you shall not be afraid of them, for the Lord your God is with you, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt. 2 And when you draw near to the battle, the priest shall come forward and speak to the people 3 and shall say to them, ‘Hear, O Israel, today you are drawing near for battle against your enemies: let not your heart faint. Do not fear or panic or be in dread of them, 4 for the Lord your God is he who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory.’ 5 Then the officers shall speak to the people, saying, ‘Is there any man who has built a new house and has not dedicated it? Let him go back to his house, lest he die in the battle and another man dedicate it. 6 And is there any man who has planted a vineyard and has not enjoyed its fruit? Let him go back to his house, lest he die in the battle and another man enjoy its fruit. 7 And is there any man who has betrothed a wife and has not taken her? Let him go back to his house, lest he die in the battle and another man take her.’ 8 And the officers shall speak further to the people, and say, ‘Is there any man who is fearful and fainthearted? Let him go back to his house, lest he make the heart of his fellows melt like his own.’ 9 And when the officers have finished speaking to the people, then commanders shall be appointed at the head of the people.
The battle belongs to the Lord. He wants His people to be focus, lest he make the heart of his fellows melt like his own. The Lord is with us - be not fearful and fainthearted. Do you not known, have you not heard, the Lord your God will go before you and level the exalted places! If you know, then be not be fearful nor be fainthearted.
On Sunday, Pastor Edmund spoke about Christ as everything and when Christ is everything - it is enough.
Lord, I want to remember Rachael. Bless her with the joy and recover her - just like a game - start again. I pray that she will began to look beyond the river and see the promise land the Lord is going to bless. Remember only what the Lord has done, remember the covenant the Lord has given, but do not bring the malpractice into the new land. New wine with new wineskins. I pray for that renew and having the new land clear with the inhabitants and have everything renew!
Anyway, it was a study on Luke 9:23-27 with Josef.
23 And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. 24 For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. 25 For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? 26 For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. 27 But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God.”
To a child, what is taking up the cross means - what is not gaining the world but seek Christ.
Simple - remember the Lord Jesus. It is not about not studying hard, but read the bible and seek God. Josef job is to study hard that is his role as a student. It is about doing it for Jesus. The good result, is not about him, but for the glory of God. Taking up the cross, simple to Josef, is about remembering Jesus, read the word and pray.
To adults, it is not about not working hard, the suceess because of the talents we are given, is for the glory of God - remember Jesus. Whatever we do, we remember Christ and do it all for Him.
Deu 20:1 “When you go out to war against your enemies, and see horses and chariots and an army larger than your own, you shall not be afraid of them, for the Lord your God is with you, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt. 2 And when you draw near to the battle, the priest shall come forward and speak to the people 3 and shall say to them, ‘Hear, O Israel, today you are drawing near for battle against your enemies: let not your heart faint. Do not fear or panic or be in dread of them, 4 for the Lord your God is he who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory.’ 5 Then the officers shall speak to the people, saying, ‘Is there any man who has built a new house and has not dedicated it? Let him go back to his house, lest he die in the battle and another man dedicate it. 6 And is there any man who has planted a vineyard and has not enjoyed its fruit? Let him go back to his house, lest he die in the battle and another man enjoy its fruit. 7 And is there any man who has betrothed a wife and has not taken her? Let him go back to his house, lest he die in the battle and another man take her.’ 8 And the officers shall speak further to the people, and say, ‘Is there any man who is fearful and fainthearted? Let him go back to his house, lest he make the heart of his fellows melt like his own.’ 9 And when the officers have finished speaking to the people, then commanders shall be appointed at the head of the people.
The battle belongs to the Lord. He wants His people to be focus, lest he make the heart of his fellows melt like his own. The Lord is with us - be not fearful and fainthearted. Do you not known, have you not heard, the Lord your God will go before you and level the exalted places! If you know, then be not be fearful nor be fainthearted.
On Sunday, Pastor Edmund spoke about Christ as everything and when Christ is everything - it is enough.
Lord, I want to remember Rachael. Bless her with the joy and recover her - just like a game - start again. I pray that she will began to look beyond the river and see the promise land the Lord is going to bless. Remember only what the Lord has done, remember the covenant the Lord has given, but do not bring the malpractice into the new land. New wine with new wineskins. I pray for that renew and having the new land clear with the inhabitants and have everything renew!
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