31 July 2012; Prov 31
Of course, everyone knows that this Proverbs describe a super woman.
2 qualities -
She opens her hand to the poor
and reaches out her hands to the needy.
(Proverbs 31:20 ESV)
She considers a field and buys it;
with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.
(Proverbs 31:16 ESV)
The first is about character, something to do with the heart. Investing in others and storing treasures in heaven.
The second is about competent, something to do with abilities. Investing in self-gain and storing treasures on earth.
The proverbs expressed both as qualities of a woman.
I pray for Rach to be wise and capable in both.
My story
I pray for a girlfriend - then not knowing God. I was very alone and it was then I that my mum was in hospital and dying. I was 14 and I remembered sitting at the stairs overlooking the bus stop at the void deck at 329. It was not the gods that my mum pray to, as such, I believe such a prayer opens up search indirectly to the true and living God.
I found God first before I found Rach 14 years later. He gave the best fulfilling almost the 12 qualities I ask for a wife.
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Monday, July 30, 2012
30 July 2012; Luke 1:5-38
30 July 2012; Luke 1:5-38
The similarity
2 persons in this chapter the angle Gabriel spoke to - Zechariah and Mary
2 foretelling - the birth of a baby boy
2 impossibility - Zechariah and his wife were advance in age; Mary was a virgin
The contrast
2 answers - How shall I know this? How will it be?
Zechariah wanted a child, but when told he would have one, he has question.
Mary has question too.
But Zechariah answer has been known in the case of Abraham. Mary virgin birth was new. The former doubt (v20) and the later - v38 - let it be to me according to your words.
Similar situations, different reaction - God looks at the heart and regardless the birth took place.
But one chosen was righteous (v6) and the other favoured (v27). So how is the slection made?
It is God - chosen by His grace.
My Story
Have I met an angel and had a conservation? Probably no.
But do I doubt their existence? No
I have encountered with spirits. When I was still a secondary school student, I played this game called saucer spirit. A group of us each with a finger on the saucer will ask the spirit a question. the saucer is placed on a piece of paper with words, letters and numbers. The saucer moves and with an indicator on the saucer, it answer (quite accurate) the questions. Doubt? No, whoever suspect whoever moves the finger will be prompt to take away the finger. The saucer still moves. To an extend, we later proof it true using a blackboard duster! That was when I was still not a believer.
After I became a believer, there was this occassion that I was prompted to stand up. I was swept away by the river with a student grasping my hand pulling me along.
So, is it the holy spirit who prompt or an angel who speaks? Regardless - God chooses to save and I have no doubt about that.
The similarity
2 persons in this chapter the angle Gabriel spoke to - Zechariah and Mary
2 foretelling - the birth of a baby boy
2 impossibility - Zechariah and his wife were advance in age; Mary was a virgin
The contrast
2 answers - How shall I know this? How will it be?
Zechariah wanted a child, but when told he would have one, he has question.
Mary has question too.
But Zechariah answer has been known in the case of Abraham. Mary virgin birth was new. The former doubt (v20) and the later - v38 - let it be to me according to your words.
Similar situations, different reaction - God looks at the heart and regardless the birth took place.
But one chosen was righteous (v6) and the other favoured (v27). So how is the slection made?
It is God - chosen by His grace.
My Story
Have I met an angel and had a conservation? Probably no.
But do I doubt their existence? No
I have encountered with spirits. When I was still a secondary school student, I played this game called saucer spirit. A group of us each with a finger on the saucer will ask the spirit a question. the saucer is placed on a piece of paper with words, letters and numbers. The saucer moves and with an indicator on the saucer, it answer (quite accurate) the questions. Doubt? No, whoever suspect whoever moves the finger will be prompt to take away the finger. The saucer still moves. To an extend, we later proof it true using a blackboard duster! That was when I was still not a believer.
After I became a believer, there was this occassion that I was prompted to stand up. I was swept away by the river with a student grasping my hand pulling me along.
So, is it the holy spirit who prompt or an angel who speaks? Regardless - God chooses to save and I have no doubt about that.
Sunday, July 29, 2012
29 July; Luke 1
Luke 1:1-4
Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word have delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having followed all things closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught.
(Luke 1:1-4 ESV)
Luke opening writing to Theophilus was to explained to the later what is Christianity about, or who Jesus and his ministry is about.
It is based on
1. A compiled narrative of things that has been accomplished
2. Eye witnesses and ministers of the word
3. Himself to write an orderly account
The words or the bible is the compiled things of God, detailing the things of God and the works of Christ.
We and other fellow Christian who has taste and see that God is good and those who have seen His miracles are the eye witnesses and the minsters.
Writings, blog or as simple as speaking about God to others is giving an account.
Therefore, reading and seeking God through the words is first. How? study the word of God, but the second is about us bearing the witness for God. How?
The word of God is His story, when we encounter God, it is our story.
To the world, the personal story of our that compliment His story that make the account of and for Jesus.
So tell your story. How? I uses this blog, so I hope that I can share my story and His story so that this blog bears an account for Christ.
Lord, let your word speaks to me, let me be a witness so that my family and children will be able to read my account of you.
A visit to a Temple and My God has preserved
My mum is not a believer in God. She followed the taoist believe - the so call way and do a lot of routines on this and that occasion. I don't know why and just follow, it was kind of fun. The temple is near Pasir Panjang and the children will sneak to go Haw Paw Villa.
We visit the temple, like an outing to a zoo. It always start with a procedural routines to pray from chambers to chamber, because the gods and idols have rank.
There were fortunately 2 things that irks me. God has a plan then. The 2 things happened to have a particular young nun who showed favouritism - and that rank and hierarchy things turned me off the believe. The visit to Haw Par Villa is enjoyable, but the show case portrays that wrong doing has bad consequences. A bad person, after he.she died has to be sown into 2. That does not makes senses to me, die and die again? But it does strike fear to a young boy, who refuses to follow such a believe that offers no hope but fear because if you have tell a lie, how can that sin be taken away? As a result, wait to die have have your tongue cut off?!
Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word have delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having followed all things closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught.
(Luke 1:1-4 ESV)
Luke opening writing to Theophilus was to explained to the later what is Christianity about, or who Jesus and his ministry is about.
It is based on
1. A compiled narrative of things that has been accomplished
2. Eye witnesses and ministers of the word
3. Himself to write an orderly account
The words or the bible is the compiled things of God, detailing the things of God and the works of Christ.
We and other fellow Christian who has taste and see that God is good and those who have seen His miracles are the eye witnesses and the minsters.
Writings, blog or as simple as speaking about God to others is giving an account.
Therefore, reading and seeking God through the words is first. How? study the word of God, but the second is about us bearing the witness for God. How?
The word of God is His story, when we encounter God, it is our story.
To the world, the personal story of our that compliment His story that make the account of and for Jesus.
So tell your story. How? I uses this blog, so I hope that I can share my story and His story so that this blog bears an account for Christ.
Lord, let your word speaks to me, let me be a witness so that my family and children will be able to read my account of you.
A visit to a Temple and My God has preserved
My mum is not a believer in God. She followed the taoist believe - the so call way and do a lot of routines on this and that occasion. I don't know why and just follow, it was kind of fun. The temple is near Pasir Panjang and the children will sneak to go Haw Paw Villa.
We visit the temple, like an outing to a zoo. It always start with a procedural routines to pray from chambers to chamber, because the gods and idols have rank.
There were fortunately 2 things that irks me. God has a plan then. The 2 things happened to have a particular young nun who showed favouritism - and that rank and hierarchy things turned me off the believe. The visit to Haw Par Villa is enjoyable, but the show case portrays that wrong doing has bad consequences. A bad person, after he.she died has to be sown into 2. That does not makes senses to me, die and die again? But it does strike fear to a young boy, who refuses to follow such a believe that offers no hope but fear because if you have tell a lie, how can that sin be taken away? As a result, wait to die have have your tongue cut off?!
29 July; Prov 29
Proverbs 29: 11
A fool gives full vent to his spirit,
but a wise man quietly holds it back.
(Proverbs 29:11 ESV)
It is a differerence between one that can control and one who failed to control. Recently, the family has been shouting to each other, about fair and unfair. As such, I refuse to bring such a family to a holiday where the shouting continues across the borders. When there is peace and I can wait...
A fool gives full vent to his spirit,
but a wise man quietly holds it back.
(Proverbs 29:11 ESV)
It is a differerence between one that can control and one who failed to control. Recently, the family has been shouting to each other, about fair and unfair. As such, I refuse to bring such a family to a holiday where the shouting continues across the borders. When there is peace and I can wait...
Saturday, July 28, 2012
28 July; Prov 27
28 July; Proverbs 27
Wow this proverbs has a lot of good verse to remember.
In fact, the world has uses a number of them.
Do not boast about tomorrow,
for you do not know what a day may bring.
(Proverbs 27:1 ESV)
Do not forsake your friend and your father's friend,
and do not go to your brother's house in the day of your calamity.
Better is a neighbor who is near
than a brother who is far away.
(Proverbs 27:10 ESV)
Iron sharpens iron,
and one man sharpens another.
(Proverbs 27:17 ESV)
As in water face reflects face,
so the heart of man reflects the man.
(Proverbs 27:19 ESV)
for riches do not last forever;
and does a crown endure to all generations?
(Proverbs 27:24 ESV)
But I have this verse that probable make common sense, but is written in the wisdom of God through Solomon.
Whoever blesses his neighbor with a loud voice,
rising early in the morning,
will be counted as cursing.
(Proverbs 27:14 ESV)
Common sense.
Indeed, but when it become common sense, most people who has a logically thinking will not think much about - why?
Because, so simple and so expected. And it is in these cases they we should watch out - PRUDENT
Through the wisdom of God, knowing when, where and what to do. Some may sounds logical, some may not, but most important - is knowing what to do in the correct moment.
Blessing is good, but the moment is wrong.
As such, I pray for that holy spirit to be that guide - that guide to do the correct things at the right moment.
Wow this proverbs has a lot of good verse to remember.
In fact, the world has uses a number of them.
Do not boast about tomorrow,
for you do not know what a day may bring.
(Proverbs 27:1 ESV)
Do not forsake your friend and your father's friend,
and do not go to your brother's house in the day of your calamity.
Better is a neighbor who is near
than a brother who is far away.
(Proverbs 27:10 ESV)
Iron sharpens iron,
and one man sharpens another.
(Proverbs 27:17 ESV)
As in water face reflects face,
so the heart of man reflects the man.
(Proverbs 27:19 ESV)
for riches do not last forever;
and does a crown endure to all generations?
(Proverbs 27:24 ESV)
But I have this verse that probable make common sense, but is written in the wisdom of God through Solomon.
Whoever blesses his neighbor with a loud voice,
rising early in the morning,
will be counted as cursing.
(Proverbs 27:14 ESV)
Common sense.
Indeed, but when it become common sense, most people who has a logically thinking will not think much about - why?
Because, so simple and so expected. And it is in these cases they we should watch out - PRUDENT
Through the wisdom of God, knowing when, where and what to do. Some may sounds logical, some may not, but most important - is knowing what to do in the correct moment.
Blessing is good, but the moment is wrong.
As such, I pray for that holy spirit to be that guide - that guide to do the correct things at the right moment.
Thursday, July 26, 2012
26 July 2012; Prov 26
26 July 2012; Proverbs 26
Who is a fool?
v1 - not fitting for honour
v3 - needs discipline
v5-6 - talks rubbish
v7-8 - useless
v9-10 drunkard
Like a dog that returns to his vomit
is a fool who repeats his folly.
(Proverbs 26:11 ESV)
v12 - wise in his own eyes
v13-14 - sluggard, lazy
What speaks to me is v11 - a fool is someone who repeats his folly.
How we learn, and how we turn away from the evil of our hearts and so as not to repeat the undesire actions...
It is not the lips services, but a change of heart - that triggers the desire not to repeat the folly.
I pray for myself to learn - keep my heart pure. I pray for Josef - that he will learn discipline.
It is so nice to be comfortable in the lazy mode - do nothing. On the other hand, are we busy running tasks... Ultimately we do not want to be lazy for God and yet do not be wise in our own eyes.
Who is a fool?
v1 - not fitting for honour
v3 - needs discipline
v5-6 - talks rubbish
v7-8 - useless
v9-10 drunkard
Like a dog that returns to his vomit
is a fool who repeats his folly.
(Proverbs 26:11 ESV)
v12 - wise in his own eyes
v13-14 - sluggard, lazy
What speaks to me is v11 - a fool is someone who repeats his folly.
How we learn, and how we turn away from the evil of our hearts and so as not to repeat the undesire actions...
It is not the lips services, but a change of heart - that triggers the desire not to repeat the folly.
I pray for myself to learn - keep my heart pure. I pray for Josef - that he will learn discipline.
It is so nice to be comfortable in the lazy mode - do nothing. On the other hand, are we busy running tasks... Ultimately we do not want to be lazy for God and yet do not be wise in our own eyes.
25 July 2012; The danger
The greatest danger is when we do not know that we are in danger
The soul face the danger of the turning away (from the rights things of God) and the second is the complacency
For the simple (waywardness, or naive) are killed by their turning away,
and the complacency of fools destroys them;
(Proverbs 1:32 ESV)
Here the turning away is from God. Why - because of greed and pride.
Other version of this verse:
The soul face the danger of the turning away (from the rights things of God) and the second is the complacency
For the simple (waywardness, or naive) are killed by their turning away,
and the complacency of fools destroys them;
(Proverbs 1:32 ESV)
Here the turning away is from God. Why - because of greed and pride.
Other version of this verse:
| ||||
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
25 Jul 2012; Prov 25
25 Jul 2012; Prov 25
I gave Jo the verse from prov 21:31 to compliement what he reads from Isa 58
And the LORD will guide you continually
and satisfy your desire in scorched places
and make your bones strong;
and you shall be like a watered garden,
like a spring of water,
whose waters do not fail.
(Isaiah 58:11 ESV)
It is the Lord who guides,
The Lords gives, satisfy - your desire in SCORCHED places. Wow, in such an environment how can you be made satisfy?
The Lord make you like a watered garden - that's why you can be satisfy in the scorched places.
In addition, you a made a spring of water, whose waters do not fail - you don't run dry and it is because you have God, the center of source.
Compare
The horse is made ready for the day of battle,
but the victory belongs to the LORD.
(Proverbs 21:31 ESV)
The horse is made ready for battle - not once, but every day. A war can last many days, and the horse must be made ready for battle each day.
Victory belongs to God.
We do our part, God will make us the watered garden, whose source do not fail.
Again the application comes from reading Prov 25
Acknowledge that it all starts from God and end with God. We do what we need to guard - our spiritual walk, my family..
I pray for Jo and the last lap before his PSLE. You are the source of wisdom, let him be the horse, made ready for battle each day. Provides for him, the wise the insights, open his eyes that he may see careless mistake, depths in understanding and competent in working out the solutions...
As for my family, I pray for your spring-source of water, let this family be that garden source, watering the scorched places, where people will flock to us for water. amen.
Wisdom starts with God
It is the glory of God to conceal things,
but the glory of kings is to search things out.
(Proverbs 25:2 ESV)
Wisdom protects the heart
As the heavens for height, and the earth for depth,
so the heart of kings is unsearchable.
Take away the dross from the silver,
and the smith has material for a vessel;
take away the wicked from the presence of the king,
and his throne will be established in righteousness.
(Proverbs 25:3-5 ESV)
Wisdom uses words carefully
A word fitly spoken
is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.
(Proverbs 25:11 ESV)
Wisdom values the family
A word fitly spoken
is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.
(Proverbs 25:11 ESV)
Wisdom chooses wise company
Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold
is a wise reprover to a listening ear.
(Proverbs 25:12 ESV)
Trusting in a treacherous man in time of trouble
is like a bad tooth or a foot that slips.
(Proverbs 25:19 ESV)
Wisdom shines as stars
I gave Jo the verse from prov 21:31 to compliement what he reads from Isa 58
And the LORD will guide you continually
and satisfy your desire in scorched places
and make your bones strong;
and you shall be like a watered garden,
like a spring of water,
whose waters do not fail.
(Isaiah 58:11 ESV)
It is the Lord who guides,
The Lords gives, satisfy - your desire in SCORCHED places. Wow, in such an environment how can you be made satisfy?
The Lord make you like a watered garden - that's why you can be satisfy in the scorched places.
In addition, you a made a spring of water, whose waters do not fail - you don't run dry and it is because you have God, the center of source.
Compare
The horse is made ready for the day of battle,
but the victory belongs to the LORD.
(Proverbs 21:31 ESV)
The horse is made ready for battle - not once, but every day. A war can last many days, and the horse must be made ready for battle each day.
Victory belongs to God.
We do our part, God will make us the watered garden, whose source do not fail.
Again the application comes from reading Prov 25
Acknowledge that it all starts from God and end with God. We do what we need to guard - our spiritual walk, my family..
I pray for Jo and the last lap before his PSLE. You are the source of wisdom, let him be the horse, made ready for battle each day. Provides for him, the wise the insights, open his eyes that he may see careless mistake, depths in understanding and competent in working out the solutions...
As for my family, I pray for your spring-source of water, let this family be that garden source, watering the scorched places, where people will flock to us for water. amen.
Wisdom starts with God
It is the glory of God to conceal things,
but the glory of kings is to search things out.
(Proverbs 25:2 ESV)
Wisdom protects the heart
As the heavens for height, and the earth for depth,
so the heart of kings is unsearchable.
Take away the dross from the silver,
and the smith has material for a vessel;
take away the wicked from the presence of the king,
and his throne will be established in righteousness.
(Proverbs 25:3-5 ESV)
Wisdom uses words carefully
A word fitly spoken
is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.
(Proverbs 25:11 ESV)
Wisdom values the family
A word fitly spoken
is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.
(Proverbs 25:11 ESV)
Wisdom chooses wise company
Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold
is a wise reprover to a listening ear.
(Proverbs 25:12 ESV)
Trusting in a treacherous man in time of trouble
is like a bad tooth or a foot that slips.
(Proverbs 25:19 ESV)
Wisdom shines as stars
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
24 Jul 2012; Jude
24 Jul 2012; Jude 17-25
But you must remember, beloved, the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. They said to you, “In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.” It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit. But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. And have mercy on those who doubt; save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh.
(Jude 1:17-23 ESV)
Beware
It has been foretold - by Christ Himself that there will be scoffers. Beware of they?
These are people that cause division, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit
Beef up
How? In faith, pray, keep in the love of God, have mercy, save them.
Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.
(Jude 1:24-25 ESV)
Bestow
God, through Christ is the one who enable us.
I am in the world, so how to be not of the world? Keep away - the world has its sets of values, but we need not need to please them. Business ethics doing the right and proper way.
If I am want to be not of the world, then in in Christ. Love God, keep faith and be in His business. How? What is my heart yearns - what greed am I after, what fear I am afraid? I greed for Him? I fear God? It is the heart matters.
God will enable, but it is up to us to want to follow His will or your will.
But you must remember, beloved, the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. They said to you, “In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.” It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit. But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. And have mercy on those who doubt; save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh.
(Jude 1:17-23 ESV)
Beware
It has been foretold - by Christ Himself that there will be scoffers. Beware of they?
These are people that cause division, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit
Beef up
How? In faith, pray, keep in the love of God, have mercy, save them.
Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.
(Jude 1:24-25 ESV)
Bestow
God, through Christ is the one who enable us.
I am in the world, so how to be not of the world? Keep away - the world has its sets of values, but we need not need to please them. Business ethics doing the right and proper way.
If I am want to be not of the world, then in in Christ. Love God, keep faith and be in His business. How? What is my heart yearns - what greed am I after, what fear I am afraid? I greed for Him? I fear God? It is the heart matters.
God will enable, but it is up to us to want to follow His will or your will.
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
17 July; Jude:8-16
Jude 8-16
Jo said that Jesus loves us. I asked how do you know? It is that special encounter, the experience and the entrenched relationship and salvation we have in Christ.
Jude:11 showcase the 3 rebellions by Cain, Balaam and Korah.
Woe to them! For they walked in the way of Cain and abandoned themselves for the sake of gain to Balaam's error and perished in Korah's rebellion.
(Jude 1:11 ESV)
Cain give to God, but it is not the giving but the obedience. Jesus loves us, and it is not giving that show our love for God. It is obedience. How? Obey that holy spirit prompting and act accordingly.
Balaam refuse to curse God's people but suggest the enemies to do so. Jesus loves us, then watch our words and check our hearts.
Korah rebell against the authority of Mosses. Jesus loves us, and He has put authority over us. respect and obey.
These are hidden reefs at your love feasts, as they feast with you without fear, shepherds feeding themselves; waterless clouds, swept along by winds; fruitless trees in late autumn, twice dead, uprooted; wild waves of the sea, casting up the foam of their own shame; wandering stars, for whom the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved forever.
(Jude 1:12-13 ESV)
Hidden Reefs - danger , as contrast to Jesus - our refuge and our stronghold
shepherds feeding themselves - fail to take care, as contrast to Jesus our shepherd and our provider
waterless clouds - hopeless, as contrast to Jesus our hope and our eternal salvation
fruitless trees - barren, as contrast to Jesus who is our branch to which we produce much fruits
wild waves - untamed, as contrast to Jesus who calm the sea, our peace
wandering stars - useless, cannot be good for navigation, as contrast to Jesus who give us a purpose
We know who Jesus is when in contrast to Jude: 12-13. But are we acting like Cain, Balaam and Korah?
Our heart set the desire that brings about the action for us to grow deep, to want that encounter with Jesus.
I speak for myself. It is not the head knowledge, I pray that I will not be like Cain, do what the bible or God say so without obedience. Jesus, let my heart be right with you, saying and acting in sync, not the knowledge but the wow in you that I desire.
I pray, so that I know that Jesus loves me, not because the bible says so, but I know because I have taste and see that He is good. Amen.
Jo said that Jesus loves us. I asked how do you know? It is that special encounter, the experience and the entrenched relationship and salvation we have in Christ.
Jude:11 showcase the 3 rebellions by Cain, Balaam and Korah.
Woe to them! For they walked in the way of Cain and abandoned themselves for the sake of gain to Balaam's error and perished in Korah's rebellion.
(Jude 1:11 ESV)
Cain give to God, but it is not the giving but the obedience. Jesus loves us, and it is not giving that show our love for God. It is obedience. How? Obey that holy spirit prompting and act accordingly.
Balaam refuse to curse God's people but suggest the enemies to do so. Jesus loves us, then watch our words and check our hearts.
Korah rebell against the authority of Mosses. Jesus loves us, and He has put authority over us. respect and obey.
These are hidden reefs at your love feasts, as they feast with you without fear, shepherds feeding themselves; waterless clouds, swept along by winds; fruitless trees in late autumn, twice dead, uprooted; wild waves of the sea, casting up the foam of their own shame; wandering stars, for whom the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved forever.
(Jude 1:12-13 ESV)
Hidden Reefs - danger , as contrast to Jesus - our refuge and our stronghold
shepherds feeding themselves - fail to take care, as contrast to Jesus our shepherd and our provider
waterless clouds - hopeless, as contrast to Jesus our hope and our eternal salvation
fruitless trees - barren, as contrast to Jesus who is our branch to which we produce much fruits
wild waves - untamed, as contrast to Jesus who calm the sea, our peace
wandering stars - useless, cannot be good for navigation, as contrast to Jesus who give us a purpose
We know who Jesus is when in contrast to Jude: 12-13. But are we acting like Cain, Balaam and Korah?
Our heart set the desire that brings about the action for us to grow deep, to want that encounter with Jesus.
I speak for myself. It is not the head knowledge, I pray that I will not be like Cain, do what the bible or God say so without obedience. Jesus, let my heart be right with you, saying and acting in sync, not the knowledge but the wow in you that I desire.
I pray, so that I know that Jesus loves me, not because the bible says so, but I know because I have taste and see that He is good. Amen.
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
10 Jul 2012; Prov 10
Proverbs 10
The words that are associated with wise, righteous and diligent for the first 10 verses
v1: wise - glad
v2: righteous - delivers
v3: righteous - not go hungry
v4: diligent - rich
v5: gathers - prudent
v6:righteous - blessings
v7: righteous - blessings
v8:wise - receive commandments
v9:integrity - security
Jo is having his exam. I pray for wisdom and understandings. Like what rach says, let Jo go through a process whereby he met God, train to use his time wisely, work diligently.
The proverbs of Solomon.
A wise son makes a glad father,
but a foolish son is a sorrow to his mother.
(Proverbs 10:1 ESV)
Well, I pray for the best that God brings out of Jo. That he is wise in God as compare to the world competent in his studies. Let Jo be fearful of God rather than be foolish in his character.
Of corse, it will be nice to really see a wise and competent son, Fearful of God and of good character (righteous).
As a father, I therfore has to seek God in gaining his wisdom on how to teach my son how to walk in the way of the LORD. God open the way for me and teach me how.
In another matter, the trip year to China did not happen because of Jo exam. the trip next year in March to China was cancelled because of the long duration. I doubt that the trip to China in June will go ahead, so is the trip in Sep, because the slot is filled. It is going to be another long long 1.5 years... sigh. In your time, in your time...
The words that are associated with wise, righteous and diligent for the first 10 verses
v1: wise - glad
v2: righteous - delivers
v3: righteous - not go hungry
v4: diligent - rich
v5: gathers - prudent
v6:righteous - blessings
v7: righteous - blessings
v8:wise - receive commandments
v9:integrity - security
Jo is having his exam. I pray for wisdom and understandings. Like what rach says, let Jo go through a process whereby he met God, train to use his time wisely, work diligently.
The proverbs of Solomon.
A wise son makes a glad father,
but a foolish son is a sorrow to his mother.
(Proverbs 10:1 ESV)
Well, I pray for the best that God brings out of Jo. That he is wise in God as compare to the world competent in his studies. Let Jo be fearful of God rather than be foolish in his character.
Of corse, it will be nice to really see a wise and competent son, Fearful of God and of good character (righteous).
As a father, I therfore has to seek God in gaining his wisdom on how to teach my son how to walk in the way of the LORD. God open the way for me and teach me how.
In another matter, the trip year to China did not happen because of Jo exam. the trip next year in March to China was cancelled because of the long duration. I doubt that the trip to China in June will go ahead, so is the trip in Sep, because the slot is filled. It is going to be another long long 1.5 years... sigh. In your time, in your time...
Monday, July 09, 2012
9 July 2012; Prov 9
Proverbs 9: 10
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom,
and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.
(Proverbs 9:10 ESV)
Wisdom is not information.
Information does not necessary help us make the decisions we need.
Information influence competence.
Wisdom is divine insights, either through observations or experience.
That observations and experience has been process, so that there are precious lessons that can be learnt, and allow cohesive decision making process.
Insights influence character.
It gives prudence to the simple - so that he does not act on impulse.
God desire us to develop insights that influence character. Insights come from hindsights.
A fool is somebody that is unwilling.
Divine insights does not comes from human information, insights or hindsights. The world does not evolve round us, or the sun but the Son.
As such, much to the insights and hindsights does not comes from human or from us, but from God. It is not human who judge to decide what is wise or unwise.
Compare: Prov1: 7
The fear of the LORD is the begining of knowledge.
Wisdom is equate with knowledge and both comes from the fear of the LORD.
Therefore, whether wisdom or knowledge is comes from not self, but a reference to God and to a reverence for God. He is the one who judge and decide what is wise for us.
The fear of God is reverence for God. A wow or awe for Him.
If we fear Him, then keep His commandments. A reverence action for God. Therefore a test for us to which whether we fear God is how we walk in obedience to the commandments of God, even at times it does not make worldly or human sense.
Therefore, it is not the academic competent we can gain, or the human insights or hindsights we can seek to build our character, but God.
I pray for my family, that we will seek to fear God, to walk with Him and with Him to follow what is right - His commandments, that we will always make right decisions in the LORD. Amen.
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom,
and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.
(Proverbs 9:10 ESV)
Wisdom is not information.
Information does not necessary help us make the decisions we need.
Information influence competence.
Wisdom is divine insights, either through observations or experience.
That observations and experience has been process, so that there are precious lessons that can be learnt, and allow cohesive decision making process.
Insights influence character.
It gives prudence to the simple - so that he does not act on impulse.
God desire us to develop insights that influence character. Insights come from hindsights.
A fool is somebody that is unwilling.
Divine insights does not comes from human information, insights or hindsights. The world does not evolve round us, or the sun but the Son.
As such, much to the insights and hindsights does not comes from human or from us, but from God. It is not human who judge to decide what is wise or unwise.
Compare: Prov1: 7
The fear of the LORD is the begining of knowledge.
Wisdom is equate with knowledge and both comes from the fear of the LORD.
Therefore, whether wisdom or knowledge is comes from not self, but a reference to God and to a reverence for God. He is the one who judge and decide what is wise for us.
The fear of God is reverence for God. A wow or awe for Him.
If we fear Him, then keep His commandments. A reverence action for God. Therefore a test for us to which whether we fear God is how we walk in obedience to the commandments of God, even at times it does not make worldly or human sense.
Therefore, it is not the academic competent we can gain, or the human insights or hindsights we can seek to build our character, but God.
I pray for my family, that we will seek to fear God, to walk with Him and with Him to follow what is right - His commandments, that we will always make right decisions in the LORD. Amen.
Friday, July 06, 2012
6 Jul 2012; Jude, Prov 4,5
Proverbs 5 is on warning against adultery.
Drink water from your own cistern,
flowing water from your own well.
(Proverbs 5:15 ESV)
But don't get me wrong, especially those who read this blog and is close to me. I have not committed any adultery.
As I read Jude, a similar warning was called on the Christian.
Now I want to remind you, although you once fully knew it, that Jesus, who saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed those who did not believe. And the angels who did not stay within their own position of authority, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains under gloomy darkness until the judgment of the great day—just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities, which likewise indulged in sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire, serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire.
(Jude 1:5-7 ESV)
The verses are a reminder and a guard against
1. unbelieve
2. rebellion
3. sexual immorality
The world has no God. But as for me and my household, we will choose to serve God. I enjoyed the time with the young ones - taking opportunity to teach them that even if we don't see the things happening around us, our prayers are heard and we just have to believe God will do. When I ask Deb and Matty to pray for God to hold the rain and give us cloudy (no sun - not hot), with wind. Deb doubt. But when she saw that God did hold the rain and the sun, I took the opportunity to reinforce. I followed up the reading of the story of Joshua and the Israelites acrossing the Jordan river during her devotion. Likewise, the water did not stop immediately when the priest who carried te ark take step into the Jordan. But the water did stop - BELIEVE.
The world choose their own way of doing things. Rach was sharing about David and his giving to the Lord. It came as a reflection from the previous day time alone with God from Prov 3:9-10. The world horde wealth and store up treasures on earth. The world will do things in way to horde power as well. Evil is the word Proverbs use for those godless people who has no regard for God. I have come to a realization that building treasures on earth - where moth and rust will destroy. We are called. Likewise the angles in Jude are called to stay in position. Therefore I pray that my heart will pursue and in wild for the things of God, not the wealth or the status or the power.
The fall of man - one main cause - woman. The king David also fail to succumb.
As such, Jude and Proverbs 5 serve to remind me of the right way to live. Know and believe in my God - fear Him. Know my calling and serve Him - stay out of rebellion but in active obedience. Know you stand - be faithful to your wife - Prov 5:15 - lead your family.
Drink water from your own cistern,
flowing water from your own well.
(Proverbs 5:15 ESV)
But don't get me wrong, especially those who read this blog and is close to me. I have not committed any adultery.
As I read Jude, a similar warning was called on the Christian.
Now I want to remind you, although you once fully knew it, that Jesus, who saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed those who did not believe. And the angels who did not stay within their own position of authority, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains under gloomy darkness until the judgment of the great day—just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities, which likewise indulged in sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire, serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire.
(Jude 1:5-7 ESV)
The verses are a reminder and a guard against
1. unbelieve
2. rebellion
3. sexual immorality
The world has no God. But as for me and my household, we will choose to serve God. I enjoyed the time with the young ones - taking opportunity to teach them that even if we don't see the things happening around us, our prayers are heard and we just have to believe God will do. When I ask Deb and Matty to pray for God to hold the rain and give us cloudy (no sun - not hot), with wind. Deb doubt. But when she saw that God did hold the rain and the sun, I took the opportunity to reinforce. I followed up the reading of the story of Joshua and the Israelites acrossing the Jordan river during her devotion. Likewise, the water did not stop immediately when the priest who carried te ark take step into the Jordan. But the water did stop - BELIEVE.
The world choose their own way of doing things. Rach was sharing about David and his giving to the Lord. It came as a reflection from the previous day time alone with God from Prov 3:9-10. The world horde wealth and store up treasures on earth. The world will do things in way to horde power as well. Evil is the word Proverbs use for those godless people who has no regard for God. I have come to a realization that building treasures on earth - where moth and rust will destroy. We are called. Likewise the angles in Jude are called to stay in position. Therefore I pray that my heart will pursue and in wild for the things of God, not the wealth or the status or the power.
The fall of man - one main cause - woman. The king David also fail to succumb.
As such, Jude and Proverbs 5 serve to remind me of the right way to live. Know and believe in my God - fear Him. Know my calling and serve Him - stay out of rebellion but in active obedience. Know you stand - be faithful to your wife - Prov 5:15 - lead your family.
Wednesday, July 04, 2012
4 Jul 2012; Prov 3
Proverbs 3
Honor the LORD with your wealth
and with the firstfruits of all your produce;
then your barns will be filled with plenty,
and your vats will be bursting with wine.
(Proverbs 3:9-10 ESV)
It is not what I have, but what I have is what He has blessed me.
I have been speaking about leaving a legacy for the children.
Accumulation of wealth for them is one way.
But the verse in Proverbs, remind me that I am part of His kingdom, and what am I doing to further this Kingdom.
I can push for legacy, but I must also have it anchored, anchored in the Lord.
Lord, thank you for your blessings, so let me honor you back with it. Let me find way to use them for the extension of your kingdom. And least of all if there are not, bless the non-believer in a love out reach with the purpose of sharing God's blessings. Amen.
Honor the LORD with your wealth
and with the firstfruits of all your produce;
then your barns will be filled with plenty,
and your vats will be bursting with wine.
(Proverbs 3:9-10 ESV)
It is not what I have, but what I have is what He has blessed me.
I have been speaking about leaving a legacy for the children.
Accumulation of wealth for them is one way.
But the verse in Proverbs, remind me that I am part of His kingdom, and what am I doing to further this Kingdom.
I can push for legacy, but I must also have it anchored, anchored in the Lord.
Lord, thank you for your blessings, so let me honor you back with it. Let me find way to use them for the extension of your kingdom. And least of all if there are not, bless the non-believer in a love out reach with the purpose of sharing God's blessings. Amen.
Monday, July 02, 2012
2 Jul 2012; Jude
Our Master
Proverbs 2:21
For the upright will inhabit the land,
and those with integrity will remain in it,
(Proverbs 2:21 ESV)
Who is call the upright? What land and whose does it belongs to? What is integrity?
Our Lord is the one who called us upright. The land is given by God - promised land, or what the Lord has promised you. The integrity to walk in fear of God and away from evil or sins.
The Lord our master. That is the fundamental of our believe - our faith.
What is our faith? Answer: The living word of God - Jesus.
Through Christ he has given us salvation.
From this God, comes the salvation, through Christ we are made righteous or upright. It is these people whom God will choose to poccess the land.
From Jude 3, it too mentioned about our common salvation, which is for us to contend for the faith.
So what does all these say - Without God - Our master, proverbs 2:21 does not hold.
Who then is God to you, or to me? Is he the master or Master?
Jude 3
Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.
(Jude 1:3 ESV)
Our common salvation
We take take salvation is open to all, how much do we believe that salvation is once and for all. But what did we do about onus for all?
If God is for us and has done for us, what is my reaction? How did I conduct our faith?
Jude 4
For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.
(Jude 1:4 ESV)
Have I cheapen God's grace? Knowing that He will forgive and so it become ok to sin..
How to walk in integrity?
It is not how, but a desire to be so, for the fear of our God and the necessary right conduct of our faith.
As such, I pray for myself and for my family, because of what you have done, Lord help me to be proper in the conduct of my walk and faith in you. Keep me away from sins and obviously away from sins. The world has its big chunk of sins, keep them at bay and let me be reminded to stay away from them. Likewise for my family. Amen
If I acknowledge god as my Master, do a proper conduct of my faith - fear the Lord. Of ourse my desire is to inherite the land and walk in integrity to continue to poccess the land.
I want that land to be a legacy for my family, so let me walk in fear of the Lord and in intergity. I pray this in Jesus Name. Amen.
Proverbs 2:21
For the upright will inhabit the land,
and those with integrity will remain in it,
(Proverbs 2:21 ESV)
Who is call the upright? What land and whose does it belongs to? What is integrity?
Our Lord is the one who called us upright. The land is given by God - promised land, or what the Lord has promised you. The integrity to walk in fear of God and away from evil or sins.
The Lord our master. That is the fundamental of our believe - our faith.
What is our faith? Answer: The living word of God - Jesus.
Through Christ he has given us salvation.
From this God, comes the salvation, through Christ we are made righteous or upright. It is these people whom God will choose to poccess the land.
From Jude 3, it too mentioned about our common salvation, which is for us to contend for the faith.
So what does all these say - Without God - Our master, proverbs 2:21 does not hold.
Who then is God to you, or to me? Is he the master or Master?
Jude 3
Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.
(Jude 1:3 ESV)
Our common salvation
Three observations about “common salvation”:
• Open to all- A common invitation extended to all regardless of social, educational marital status.
• Once for all - A complete initiation solely based & absolutely decided by Jesus’ finished work of the Cross. God’s salvation’s plan cannot be added to, nor subtracted from.
• Onus on all (as saints) - A sacred trust and stewardship, to treasure, share and spread it.
We take take salvation is open to all, how much do we believe that salvation is once and for all. But what did we do about onus for all?
If God is for us and has done for us, what is my reaction? How did I conduct our faith?
Jude 4
For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.
(Jude 1:4 ESV)
Have I cheapen God's grace? Knowing that He will forgive and so it become ok to sin..
How to walk in integrity?
It is not how, but a desire to be so, for the fear of our God and the necessary right conduct of our faith.
As such, I pray for myself and for my family, because of what you have done, Lord help me to be proper in the conduct of my walk and faith in you. Keep me away from sins and obviously away from sins. The world has its big chunk of sins, keep them at bay and let me be reminded to stay away from them. Likewise for my family. Amen
If I acknowledge god as my Master, do a proper conduct of my faith - fear the Lord. Of ourse my desire is to inherite the land and walk in integrity to continue to poccess the land.
I want that land to be a legacy for my family, so let me walk in fear of the Lord and in intergity. I pray this in Jesus Name. Amen.
Sunday, July 01, 2012
1 Jul 2012; Jude
We have the bible. Some read it, some don't. Some read it because, they need to follow a routine.
For those who read, good - but what is the motivation? To know the bible and its contents? If there is no desire, then there is no need to expound the need to why you need to read the bible. For those who read, ask about the intent.
Ultimately, the real reason to read the bible is to know God. It is like reading a car manual and the reason is so that we can know all about the car, but more importantly, what beats knowing the car better than the experience of able to drive one.
It all begins with God through the word given for us. Today Proverbs 1:7
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge;
fools despise wisdom and instruction.
(Proverbs 1:7 ESV)
In Jude 1-2,
To those who are called, beloved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ:
May mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you.
We care called, loved and kept by God the Father. (CLK)
Called (identity)
It is God who first called us, identify us, divinely summoned by God as in Isa 43:1 -
I have called you by name, you are mine.
What have I been called into? It is the King, our God who called us. Who has he called? You and I, and that set the identity we that we have been set aside.
I have been called - as the head of my family, in my work place of influence. As such, it is my duty to response for that calling - take care of the sheep that is below you. From Sunday sermon, an bibilical application is to put a hedge of protection over them. Through putting on the full armour of God for yourself and be ready for battle. And in all
praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints,
(Ephesians 6:18 ESV)
Loved (intimacy)
We are not called into the business like a cold called, but is love by God. we are not going to walk alone. We have the intimacy with God the Father, who is our best source of guide. Isa 43:1, He knows us by name.
Without the passion, the intimacy, we are just doing and working for someone KPI, without knowing why are we called and what purpose.
It is my desire to leave a godly legacy for my family. Who is God? I know Him, but who is He to me? It is that intimacy and therefore, allow me in and into your love.
Kept (security)
It is His soveign power that kept us. Our secuity.
In yesterday Proverbs 30: Every word of God proves true;
he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.
(Proverbs 30:5 ESV)
In Him, the protection and the refuge. In does not matter to me the state I am in now. If I refuse to hide in Him and take that shelter, I am outside.
Conclusions
I am called, let that be the desire. I am loved by God. It does not matter that state I am in.
The Lord, my God has called me to raise up, to take that headship over my family and my work place. I am not alone and I will not walk alone. I need to grow in intimacy with the one who called me and knowing that the all powerful God is with me. Of who shall I fear.
I pray therefore for my self to continue a walk close with God, knowing Him. I pray as the head of the family to kept my family protected with prayers building a hedge over them, that they too may experience (caught that experience) with God through intimacy. Amen.
For those who read, good - but what is the motivation? To know the bible and its contents? If there is no desire, then there is no need to expound the need to why you need to read the bible. For those who read, ask about the intent.
Ultimately, the real reason to read the bible is to know God. It is like reading a car manual and the reason is so that we can know all about the car, but more importantly, what beats knowing the car better than the experience of able to drive one.
It all begins with God through the word given for us. Today Proverbs 1:7
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge;
fools despise wisdom and instruction.
(Proverbs 1:7 ESV)
In Jude 1-2,
To those who are called, beloved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ:
May mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you.
We care called, loved and kept by God the Father. (CLK)
Called (identity)
It is God who first called us, identify us, divinely summoned by God as in Isa 43:1 -
I have called you by name, you are mine.
What have I been called into? It is the King, our God who called us. Who has he called? You and I, and that set the identity we that we have been set aside.
I have been called - as the head of my family, in my work place of influence. As such, it is my duty to response for that calling - take care of the sheep that is below you. From Sunday sermon, an bibilical application is to put a hedge of protection over them. Through putting on the full armour of God for yourself and be ready for battle. And in all
praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints,
(Ephesians 6:18 ESV)
Loved (intimacy)
We are not called into the business like a cold called, but is love by God. we are not going to walk alone. We have the intimacy with God the Father, who is our best source of guide. Isa 43:1, He knows us by name.
Without the passion, the intimacy, we are just doing and working for someone KPI, without knowing why are we called and what purpose.
It is my desire to leave a godly legacy for my family. Who is God? I know Him, but who is He to me? It is that intimacy and therefore, allow me in and into your love.
Kept (security)
It is His soveign power that kept us. Our secuity.
In yesterday Proverbs 30: Every word of God proves true;
he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.
(Proverbs 30:5 ESV)
In Him, the protection and the refuge. In does not matter to me the state I am in now. If I refuse to hide in Him and take that shelter, I am outside.
Conclusions
I am called, let that be the desire. I am loved by God. It does not matter that state I am in.
The Lord, my God has called me to raise up, to take that headship over my family and my work place. I am not alone and I will not walk alone. I need to grow in intimacy with the one who called me and knowing that the all powerful God is with me. Of who shall I fear.
I pray therefore for my self to continue a walk close with God, knowing Him. I pray as the head of the family to kept my family protected with prayers building a hedge over them, that they too may experience (caught that experience) with God through intimacy. Amen.
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