Exercising Towards Godliness

Strangers?.!

2012-01-11T00:10:00.000+08:00

"The Next Story"

2011-10-27T20:17:00.000+08:00

And here it goes.

2011-08-08T00:31:00.000+08:00

Here I am staying in hall... for the 2nd night, with lessons start early tomorrow morning, pondering through my life this few months.

Time has indeed flew past since army,work and the long break. To be granted the chance to start studying again at a local university is indeed God's grace and I do think it's only right I stay mindful of this. Yet, with this I am somewhat overwhelmed with the challenges and pressure to even study. The anxiety and fear of not able to cope well seems to consume my thought life. My father was telling me awhile back of how I have been praying for a place to study these 2 years and then suddenly becoming so skeptical of even studying when the chance comes. Maybe because of who I am. I don't think I am disciplined enough for independent living. I don't think I can juggle studies with other things well. Maybe, just maybe.

People-pleasing and the likes of it. The 'new' series the youths are going through in Sunday School really set me thinking for abit. I do see myself being such a people-pleaser at times, sadly. It's quite a lesson for me to know why, who, when, what, how of people pleasing.

I shall not wallow in my seat anymore. Salvation seems so real to me recently, how the idea of 'working out' my salvation, sharing of my testimonies make me realise we all only can stand redeemed by the blood of the Lamb that was slain for own sin.

"Armed by faith and winged by prayer" Faith and prayer seems all the more essential in our journey upwards.

Keep me in prayers and pray for the many lost souls out there. (I have been meeting many old, new friends and many of them aren't really Christians so pray for my roommate, the new faces in church, friends, and many more). I know God is still in the business of saving souls.

A Race to Sunrise, and many other things

2011-06-24T01:28:00.000+08:00

Race
Sunrise.

I did a marathon (my first!) almost a month back and it's really God's goodness that I did manage to complete it. Just a few thoughts on this excruciating events which I thought really is worth sharing about. (You can always come ask me about the whole experience if you are interested)
1. How great a cloud of witnesses that I am surrounded with in this race. They sure did cheer me on and make me utterly embarrassed when I start to really slow down (walk) in front of them.
2. I'm sure the spiritual analogy of this whole experience cannot be not noticed. To be not ensnare by every possible 100plus drink station and fix our goal on the finish line. Lol. Probably stretching it a little but life's definitely an endurance race.

Now the many other things:

1. Settling the university applications... God has been really good with His timing. (there's quite abit of stuffs to do and how good it is to have my sister to help me in whatever way possible since she has done them before me)
2. Mixed on how to spent the remainder of my time before school starts. Go for orientation camp (which my mum says I should since I am so free). Take up another work. Go for a short trip (which is purely my own wishful thinking, lol)
3. Pondering over where God will put me in say 5, 10 years time. Catching up abit on reading some good books and some interesting sites via Google Reader. Many hard questions which demands much self-denial gets cooked up in my mind regarding this earthly struggle from the 'old' to the 'new'. It's definitely a mystery.
4. The June Camp had me thinking about how real mission work is. Really hope to be able to visit one next time. To really see Christ being proclaimed at the cost of losing your life. Pray that we will not get too indifferent about sharing Christ. It's never an argument, it's all about Jesus. And the only reason I think we don't point our lost friends to Him is because we are by nature still selfish.

That's quite a bit of things. And I have finally feel less distracted by other stuffs on the net to set time to continue and type out this post and kinda reflect on how badly/wisely I have spent my time thus. I'm quite sure time spent praying could be so much better than time spent on facebook (I am really thinking of another break from it really soon) when it comes to drawing close to God.

Joshua Harris and Self Control

2011-05-16T21:54:00.002+08:00

The P's

2011-05-06T23:20:00.001+08:00

The Lord had dealt tremendously well with me. Praise God.

Politics is personal, perhaps too personal that it draws back to.....

SELF

Maybe its time to focus on sight back on the one that is Perfect.

The Ambassador

2011-05-02T23:54:00.003+08:00

Is there any similar traits between a politician and a Christian?

In view of Election-

I just like his pose. RESPECT.

I hope to deliberate more on this hot issue at hand.
I think there needs to be presentation- personalities, looks, overall portrayal, persuasive talking, etc...

Then performance, which is of most importance- how well you worked, conduct, achievements, etc....

Yet it seems presentation is how we all start to look at people. Good presentation usually translates to good discipline which is good groundwork for good performance.

Are you seeing good ambassadors in Singapore?

What about us being ambassadors for Christ? I am quite sure that Christ will work in us to bring forth both performance and presentation, if we allow Him to.

(Anyway, no voting for me this time as I am not 21 as of 1 Jan)

Pictorial- Of POP, Tracting, and Work

2011-05-01T00:45:00.001+08:00

And so I reactivated Facebook... It's been a good break away from it.

Where I first saw...

2011-04-24T00:06:00.001+08:00

Restore unto me the joy of my salvation- Psalm 51:12

Been a long week. It's Easter and isn't it great news that Christ is risen! Looking forward to what God has in store for me.

Hear Thou my prayer

2011-04-11T00:03:00.001+08:00

Drained.

I wonder, who i am deep down inside, my family knows.

Desiring more time spent, as a family. I shall not go forth if my family stays.
Doing things alone just doesn't work.

On another note. Consider. Anything that doesn't edify or properly portray goodness and caused another to even question my doing , shall I not do?
Really hard question for the politicians, I must say.
To be seen maintaining a good example has become too easy. With social networks and Internet mobility, am I a Christian called to cast no doubt with whatever I am seen doing?
I highly think so, and that's wisdom that the world so need.

I need strength to face the nearer future.
With all the worries, I just don't even have the desire to further my studies.

Plea....

Quick thoughts

2011-04-01T23:37:00.000+08:00

Working is definitely different from school, army. Exposure to office life has given me fresh perspective of sort. (Picture of my workspace). Been quite free this week during working hours due to no real workload yet. (No emails to send that is) This had given me time to explore most of the government websites, time to read plus the time to do the daily soduku(s). Reminds me of the sneaky days in secondary school doing these puzzles during lessons.

I learnt through FBI really good stuffs. How living in God's specific will for me starts with obeying God's revealed will in the Bible- to be holy and set-apart. (1 Thess 4), for God's glory and honor.

The other thing which I am really thankful for is the wisdom my parents have in bringing us up through childhood. I was reminded and learn that "he who spares the rod, hates the child; but he who loves him is careful to discipline him." (Proverbs 13:24). Society seems to teach otherwise nowadays. Yet the Bible is so strong that the word hate is used instead of just spoil. Wow.

That should be the cane that most parents used. (Source online). I remembered how such caning had been so effective for my parents always follow it up with explanations and self-reflections. I remembered how I always hear words and actions which seems perplexing to me at that time. Words like "pain in my heart when I hit you", and my mum will sometimes get emotional and tear from from the corner of her eyes. What is done in true love definitely will bring forth obedient children of sort (at least it worked for me). Yet, the other extreme which I do know of, and I learnt is this: caning with the intention to hurt, for personal(selfish) reasons will breed a rebellious child. There will come a point where parent cannot subjugate them anymore. How tragic when I recently heard this young guy told me: 'you can keep me here for now, but that doesn't mean I cannot go (away) next time' The Bible's clear. And I intend to abide by these useful wisdom if I were to even have children.

Another thought to note is on the evolving text language used online. Besides acronym which gets really weird like ttyl, brb to i duuno what, there's also the purposely mistyped similar (or more personal, appopriate used to express) sound like nao(now), naise(nice). Yesterday I even read on news its even in the chinese community with words like 有木（沒）有，神马（什么), other more ridiculous ones like 偶（我）and
稀饭（喜欢). Really amusing.
Not long back I saw something on how flaws in handwriting things brings that personal touch and makes it more real. Probably this is also so on the use of these lingos, to add that bit of human in the mist of words with the same font, size colour. Which makes even more sense how CAPS is used to shout your view and emoticons are used to further bring forth feelings/emotions. All these definitely helped, as how the head of the department i am working at now commented at the sheer difficulty in getting the tone(mood) of the customer in an email. "We are still learning", she aptly pointed out.

Lastly, the upcoming youth activities are kinda important in a totally different scale. How much we value the comfort yet have forgotten the people outside this fellowship? It's high time to have the burden and act upon it (especially for myself that is). Let's do the great commission and win souls. Prayers, participation or both will be greatly felt as we labor.

That should be it.
Life's not fair when grace takes over, Grace upon Grace

Woes

2011-03-24T23:02:00.001+08:00

The main reason I have not been blogging is that I have deemed computer gaming as more important than anything else when I spend my time online. (in fact i have one or two drafts but just couldn't even concentrate to finish my thoughts. What a tragic to know that I still fall so easily to mismanagement of time as before. I must confess,
I wasn't using my time in the best way possible since I completed NS.

I've started working this week and things seems to be much better and in order in terms of my time management. Much better. Probably the routine keeps one going and organized.

One thing that keep troubling my mind is university application. In fact I think the worrying of getting to what with my not so good A level scores had me a lot of strange dreams.(a combination of regret, fear, pride are the besetting weights)
I think the best thing I can do now is to wait. I probably missed many opportunities these two years to appeal, retake...

Surely the arm of the LORD is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear.

I desire your prayers for me to be in the center of His will through this few months.

Praying praying praying, yielding, trusting. The time when 'i' don't come first in my thoughts is the time God will lead.

Hidden years spent praying, training and moulding of my character is probably something I really need.

A time to take stock

2011-01-01T16:36:00.000+08:00

It's 2011 before I could really come to terms with it.

Looking back, it has been two whole years spent out of the 'education system' and enrolled into the 'military system'. It was a good break of sort to consider life, or rather the direction I want in life.

HOW REAL IS CHRIST IN MY/YOUR LIFE?

So here the BIG decision I have to make- choose to live life in the center of God's will or not.

Sometimes its about going to Church. Why do we go church?- Church-goers sometimes also get confused about this. Is it for friends, obligations, on duties, to check out the opposite sex??? All seems secondary to the worship of God and the fellowship of the believers. It's interesting that I also sometimes forgot why I go to church. God did taught me about this. As I slowly gain that bit of independence, I come to realize coming to church seems not 'compulsory' anymore. That's why many my age seems to just stop coming to church. Christ becomes real when the encouragement and weekly reminders from others that are stronger in faith to be in church are there. But then the ultimate decision to live for Christ have to be personal.

This brings me to life and death. I vaguely remember reading or hearing something about being 'Graceless' if one refuses to cling, lean and trust totally in God and His promise when they are in the most desperate and weak of situations in life. Examples like being struck with a terminal illness sure warrant spiritual attention to the individual. I remember praying quite a bit during exam periods. Death is real, life is short and I do hope I can continue to remember God and His whole redemption story of me and everyone. I have learned quite a bit about, by the grace of God, regarding the vulnerability of life through my quite 'eventful' time spent in army. Just to know life being a vapor and God is in control of our lives require a lot of humbling on my part. All the knowledge I gain, all the talent I have in running/swimming comes to naught when I die.

It can also be my daily walk. I have learned that it's better to uphold daily discipline in doing things then to wait for my heart, attitude, health, life to get right. At least for me that is. Slothfulness and distractions are just easy temptations I fall often to. Learning that words of encouragement and edification goes a long way in making Christ real in another person's life. Telling a brother you prayed for him after you do prayed for him bless his soul and confirm the care you have for him. No doubt God knows we love Him and that why we love others. That's why I wrote cards this year (at least for some) to thank and hopefully encourage them in their walk. Really still learning for I don't really have the habit to show Love with words.

Last but not least, I wish to really thank God for the year that just past. Each blessing, big or small, each answered prayer, each experience went through shows His goodness still.

Some quick recaps (what I can remember) of the year 2010:

The year looked like it started strong, at least from the declining number of post in my blog towards the second half of the year.

I started FBI or faith bible institute, it was great and I enjoyed the good overview of many truths in the bible.

Did spent quite a bit of time in camp at the beginning of the year, doing guard duties etc. I must say I valued the time spent inside for it was a time where I really do have good discipline with my time.

Thanking God for opportunities to witness to people through this year. Be it when I do duty in camp, or that 1 time I went to a MLM company.

Thanking God for his blessing in keeping me "lucky" (how all the people in camp will call me) as I do receive many blessings. Be it the miraculous finding of my 'lost' camp pass, be it the 'privileges' I get when doing things in camp. Haha

Did managed to do quite a bit of running, to even represent the unit to run. It was great and I thank God for that.

For the many many days off I get towards the end, to even be the leader in the 'off record' is a really blessing from God.

Passed driving test on the first try and have it settled for the rest of my life is also another thing.

The overseas trip to thailand brings back many once-in-a-lifetime experiences. How God sustains and the time spent just reading sections of His word there is good.

Church and its changes. New name, new place of worship, new office. Thanking God.

June camp, children and youth camp. A time of learning and serving. Many more to learn and still learn.

Various ministries in church, how God has used each, whether in blessing or in service in my life.

Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. (Philippians 3:12)

To the consistent Christian life

2010-12-15T17:00:00.000+08:00

Reviewing and considering some of the points being preached by both Mike and Mark Herbster throughout camp.
"Doing life service, not lip service"
"Impact people, not impress people"
"Have hefty, not wimpy peer pressure"
"Work-less faith is a worthless faith"

Many others which are really interesting and really provide a fresh perspective to preaching and personal challenge.

Now I am in the hospital just continuing on this post as what I left off as draft a week back.
It's really kind of unexpected and weird to be admitted into the hospital since yesterday.The same nausea and discomfort. The environment with it's sight, smell and sound of it really calls for some form of depression of sort. Knowing that God is in control of this seems abit harder. It's always nice to have people visiting, dropping by, lifting my spirit and boredom a little in the most real of manner. It's interesting to note how i can spend the whole day at home last time without these strange thoughts.

It was somewhat impacted on me that to have the consistent Christian life means more than being than steady or in worse case stubborn guy.
Its's all about being humble, accepting that I can, do, will fall, and then, if I do fall, will from there sanctify myself and walk in God's goodness once again. Of course it's about choosing right each time a pitfall comes your way. Then don't all men/women come out stronger, more fired up when picked up from a fall as opposed to a path of all rights? I'm mixed about this when it comes to the sharing of such testimonies.

Truth vs Love. Truth often stings people because they are hard to accept. Yet the bible truth of love still stands. A good reminder in light of all the zeal of us young people in imposing truths while forgetting the love for the brother. A good read I had from the book Pastor Chung Howe got me yesterday. "Little exercise for young theologians"

Last thought for the youths in church. Is becoming a real Christian liken to becoming part of what the world does? Namely the more extreme activities. Praying about my role in the youth ministry in the coming years.

As I end off this post in my bed in the hospital, with a netbook, ipod, internet and books. For good or bad, in everything give thanks, to God.

Enjoying the simplicity and joy of children songs

2010-12-01T01:15:00.000+08:00

My God is so big,
So strong and so mighty,
There's nothing my God cannot do.
For you!

My God is so big,
So strong and so mighty,
There's nothing my God cannot do.
For you!

The mountains are His,
The valleys are His,
The stars are His handiwork too.

My God is so big,
So strong and so mighty,
There's nothing my God cannot do.
FOR YOU!

Forming Good Habits

2010-11-06T19:14:00.001+08:00

It seems habits are often a result of repetition in doing things. People do form all kinds of habitual behavior as they function in different stages of life. Circumstances and situation do mould and contort our life's choices and forced them into habits.

My point then: are we having/cultivating good spiritual habits?
In our quiet time,
Personal prayer time,
In our walk and testimony towards others,
Setting aside time for fellowship with believers.
What about desiring and filling our minds with the right stuff? Having the right kind of heart?

I find myself drifting from all this. It's kinda sneaky to be seen, but it's deadly at its core.

It's been long overdue since I posted. Thank God for His provision till now. Got a couple of days of mc (which means rest at home), managed to applied leave for youth camp despite some training that clashes. I passed my driving (the civilian one, haha) Thank God for buddies and relatively 'good' life I have in camp. Perhaps too comfortable that I am beginning to lose all the basic disciplines and habits.

Life sometimes leave us either too busy or too lazy, all the same excuses to just leave God out of the picture. In light of 1 John, I believe Christians should have that innate desire for Christ.

Been reading a bit here and there, and what a privilege that is.
Consider this:
"my UNION with Christ is so strong that nothing can break it; but my COMMUNION with Him is so fragile that the slightest sin shatters it."

Simple as that. OSAS. Yet, all that's in between any of us and God is our sin. Thinking abit about service- is it acceptable unto God?

Christmas musical presentation church is putting up: It is enough
Praying, hoping, inviting friends and buddies in camp to respond.

Ok, that's all for now.

Just that bit more

2010-10-15T20:50:00.000+08:00

Thank God for the run today, i did run although I was just recovering (partially recovered) from my nasty sore throat. The phlegm alone is gross enough even for such a dirty person like me.
As I was coughing and sneezing this few days in the comfort of my house (thank God), I was reminded of my social, moral, ethical and selfish behavior of not covering up my respiratory outlets when the urge comes. Haha. My brother was the one that was so scare that he ask me to wear a mask.
Anyway, it all goes down to how much you love others as yourself.
Some great music videos,

Haha, the point of blogging about it.

2010-10-04T21:47:00.001+08:00

"Do you want to keep your orthodoxy humble? Try to live it. Don't spend all your time theorizing about it, debating about it, or blogging about it. Spend more energy living the truth you know than worrying about what the next guy does or doesn't know. Don't measure yourself by what you know. Measure yourself by your practice of what you know." -Joshua Harris

Continued

2010-09-29T13:07:00.001+08:00

My strength comes from the God who created heavens and the earth. (Psalm 121, more remembered by the favorite chinese children song)

God is my strength, and in Him will I trust.

Back to blogging and it sort of is an indicative sign of my continued spiritual walk with God, after quite awhile, unfortunately.

This month or so has been a time of thinking and reading, after like a whole month of wandering of sort. Basically, God got kinda clouded out before I do come back to draw near to Him again. I must say, this once intimate relationship and closeness with God wouldn't and ain't as rich and full as before once fellowship is broken for that brief period of time.

So here are some thoughts, afterthoughts, which sort of stuck in my mind, or at least inside my notes.

Evaluating on my character, I was:
A 'moderate' guy, in my views, actions and words. I seek to be included by being 'moderate'. By that, I thought I wouldn't be missing out. I cannot be more wrong.
This past few months, I've believed I have grown much closer to my platoon mates in camp, to the extent of willingness to spent extra time together out of camp. And I really did. Be it watching movie, having a meal together or playing computer games together.
Despite all the 'harmless' fun I enjoy, I was quite troubled by this lifestyle. It is bothering me, and I conclude I have lost distinctiveness as a child of God. I have become blend in flavor and dimmed off in the process of being 'moderate'.
Being 'moderate' would had me compromised many values if say I had absolutely zero fellowship with good brothers and sisters in Christ whose testimonies outshine in their life. I would accept whatever I was taught by flippant, 'worldly' friends that was 'moderately' right. It would mould my character bit by bit towards a slippery downhill to the bottomless pit of compromises and sin.

On being a "I am missing out on something" man. Missing out on gatherings, meet-ups, especially with church folks, make me kind of uncomfortable. Say youth meetings, or sunday school outing. Although I value the fellowship with my brothers and sisters in Christ more, deep down inside I do know I am missing the whole point, if my focus is on fellowship and not God's will. Knowing that His will is perfect, means knowing that He has a better plan for me than fellowship. As how one book puts it, "I was missing out on God's best"
The worst scenario I could thought of would be the losing of a chance to save just one soul because I thought I was missing out on the good 'fun' I can get from my friends when I joined the BBQ get together instead of being in church to witness to this man who's heart is ready.

That's kinda farfetched in my thinkings though. But that's about it. Really hope to blog soon about 'REALITY' that shocks, and the real impacts, influences...... (A reminder and I am all the more encouraged)

Suggestions on links to good sites to read on? I didn't really found any, but do check up on 9marks official website in light of the upcoming sunday school lesson in church. Good simple questions on the site about church.

Tidying up and some quick updates

2010-09-12T20:19:00.000+08:00

I forgotten when did I last used a computer to post.

Alot of events transpired since the last proper post. I have went overseas for training and is back, have rested quite a bit from life in camp.

I've been somewhat down and up in my spiritual walk this past month, particularly regarding my faith.

Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God- Romans

Maybe it's selfishness on my part that was the cause.
Nonetheless, thank God for the testimonies and examples of friends, brothers, sisters in showing that Christianity is worth living for.

That's all for now.

Found a good site to download Chinese Chistian Songs.

http://music.kuanye.net/index/topmp3.htm

-

2010-08-09T16:31:00.001+08:00

Aiden Wilson Tozer:

There are areas of Christian thought, and because of thought then also of life, where likenesses and differences are so difficult to distinguish that we are often hard put to it to escape complete deception. Throughout the whole world error and truth travel the same highways, work in the same fields and factories, attend the same churches, fly in the same planes and shop in the same stores. So skilled is error at imitating truth that the two are constantly being mistaken for each other. It takes a sharp eye these days to know which brother is Cain and which Abel. We must never take for granted anything that touches our soul's welfare. Isaac felt Jacob's arms and thought they were the arms of Esau. Even the disciples failed to spot the traitor among them; the only one of them who knew who he was was Judas himself. That soft-spoken companion with whom we walk so comfortably and in whose company we take such delight may be an angel of Satan, whereas that rough, plain-spoken man whom we shun may be God's very prophet sent to warn us against danger and eternal loss.

Closure of swimming pool, opening of new opportunities.

2010-08-08T22:42:00.001+08:00

Just found out that the toa payoh swimming complex has been closed to the public since 1st July. That was ridiculously ill-informed on my part.
Haiz, just when I thought of going to swim again after this past month of running.

Thank God for the run on tuesday. Came in a miserable 8th, with the knowledge that 3 runners overtook me at the last stretch. Guess what, only top six runners are rewarded.
I could have gotten really sorrowful over this, yet to look on another side of things-
I ran my best time yet, not suffering from any major bumps during and after the run. That's not all, gotten myself a third place trophy in the overall team ranking.

So, my uncle asked if I want to run with him and as things turned out, come morning tomorrow, I will be going for a light morning jog, in place of the swim. What an opening despite the closure!

Sort of agree with Pastor message today on gratitude. I am more inclined to the attitude which is equivalence to character.

“Your attitude is like the aroma of your heart. If your attitude stinks, it means your heart’s not right.”- Facing the Giants

Having the right attitude toward Life continually shows a lot about one's faith.

In light of minor confusions along this transitional stage in Church, I believe with the right and biblical outlook in life, 'all things will work together for good'

Press on in Faith!

Flawed Beauty

2010-08-01T21:09:00.001+08:00

In continuation to the previous post, I wonder if it's common that we love new things. New clothes, new computers, new bags...... There's something good about new. In that, I do hope Christians do desire this New Earth when Christ comes again.

I've been kinda busy recently in camp, sort of caught up with the 'buzz' and activities. Not that it's of any importance, but I do realize I hadn't been thinking that deeply about spiritual issues as of recent.

A thought on sin being heavy. I do realize there is truth in describing sin as being heavy on us. So heavy that it totally makes us impossible to have fellowship with God. I believed David wrote in Psalm about this very feeling.
The cure: Confession and repentance.

God is good to me in my running. Completed 16km that day without really stopping and I believe that's the longest distance I had ever covered in one single run. Granted this 'talent' to run slightly faster than most people, I do hope that I be used to run to ultimately bring God the glory.

In our society, it's easy to look at the flaws, iniquity of others rather than their strengths, especially so in Singapore, known so well for their complaining culture.
I am more convinced, however to go and seek the capabilities of others and discover the true 'beauty' in their lives.

Halfway through re-reading the book on renewing of our mind. Many good interesting thoughts the author wrote about the verse on Romans 12:1-2. Also, had been reading and rewriting some of my notes which I had scribbled through the year, to look at some of the things I had learnt. Refreshing indeed to see the 'growth' in my life.

Ending off, I am kinda mixed about the 'sudden' changes in Church. It's kinda exciting yet kinda worrying. I think I am a person that had become very particular about little details. Thus, the shifting, the administrative procedures all seems somewhat lacking to me. Yet, thank God for unity and efforts of many.

Note: worship, fellowship, prayers, evangelizing. Equally important aspect in Christian living.

New Heaven, New Earth

2010-07-25T22:31:00.001+08:00

This week has me thinking of how much I have grown to love the present World and had totally no desire for that 'New Jerusalem' Christ had prepared for me.
Sometimes I wonder if I have become like one:
Pleasures I love more,
Pride I desire much,
Joy I seek not.

The second thought on my mind would be clutters in my life, people's life mentally, physically and spiritually. It's something I always remember as having shared in a Sunday school setting to my class for the first time- clearing up of spiritual clutters.

I will write in detail soon. So much for now.

I am the Church, 有一位神.

2010-07-11T21:44:00.001+08:00

Great song to remember in light of what is happening.

I am the church. You are the church. We are the church together. All who follow Jesus, all around the world, yes, we’re the church together.

The church is not a building, the church is not a steeple, the church is not a resting place, the church is the people.

I am the church. You are the church. We are the church together. All who follow Jesus, all around the world, yes, we’re the church together.

We’re many kinds of people with many kinds of faces, all colours and all ages, from all times and places.

I am the church. You are the church. We are the church together. All who follow Jesus, all around the world, yes, we’re the church together.

And when the people gather, there’s singing and there’s praying, there’s laughing and there’s crying, all of it saying:

I am the church. You are the church. We are the church together. All who follow Jesus, all around the world, yes, we’re the church together.

I count if I am ninety, or nine or just a baby; there’s one thing I am sure about and I don’t mean maybe.

I am the church. You are the church. We are the church together. All who follow Jesus, all around the world, yes, we’re the church together!

I do hope to blog more

2010-07-04T21:47:00.001+08:00

Peace unto you.
Shalom means peace, completeness.
Learning about
1. Peace with God
2. Peace with others
3. Peace with self
Rediscovering that collective testimony is equal, if not, more important than personal witness.
To glorify God means to live at peace, till people wants/desires the Peace in you.

Another topic of interest: God's will.
Knowing God's will, being in the center of God's will, and not in it.
How sure are you?
God's will and our will, what's the difference?
Of course there are guidelines.
Is the thing I am about to do wrong?
Does it glorify God?
Does it hinder service/ministry?
The list goes down with each more specific yet not as definitive as the precious.

Listened to a podcast on fellowship which sort of tied with the what is talked about today, peace, which bring forth unity, being one form of powerful witness to the world as a body in Christ. So a united Church is a Church that have people seeking peace with each other, setting aside differences, and lovingly settle and bring these differences to a right, by always examining self's faults. In real short summary that I have somewhat concluded.

Talking about God's will seems tricky to me. For it seems that it can be 'siamed' meaning avoided, like jonah, Abraham. Or submitted to, like Jesus.
Many like me sometimes find God's will 'unclear'.
Talking about future, it's hard to tell sometimes what you will be doing. Yet it is certain that every decision you made will always lead to the destiny.
It's the yes or no, this way or that way, doing or not doing, out of our free will, as God had sovereignly allowed.
God's will is that you glorify God as you. That's about the gist.
Not in flippant ignorance or indulgence in your fortè. Not also in over imitating of habits of others. To let God use each as a unique soul, fitting rightly where one should be.

That's about all. Can't believe all these months in army had causes me to almost lose the functionality of my brain. Can't seem to engage it in critical and quick succession nowadays.

The upcoming week and months gonna be busy. I guess I still have to dig a shellscrape next week, do route marches and all the really ARMY stuffs. Haha.
Hoping I can make it to youth camp this year. Heard I had to go for some dump(sounds like dumb) truck course this dec from 6-10th....

Oh well, God's will and God's soverign good again.

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Haaaaa.. I'm back

2010-06-27T19:02:00.001+08:00

Been awhile since I last even visit the blog and post something.
I guess this blog has become as a guage/pitstop of my 'spiritual walk', showing how often there's the 'renewing of my mind'.
Apparently I ain't a person that is consistent with his 'checkpoints'.

Some checkpoints since a few weeks back:?
Church's June camp went past. The sermons came with a good dose of encouragements and challenges. The fellowship with one another was cherished and enjoyed. I am really quite glad I was able to go.
Cycling with the younger guys was next. Fell down and suffered cuts and bruises since a long time.
Then, life back in army comes back to me with all the 'World'. "Satan always like to tempts us after our mountain-top experiences"- FBI stuff. For me, being a good testimony(compromising values) and still conscious of the eternal needs of the unsaved was a struggle.
Fiddling with the organ at home this few days, trying very hard to play a tune. Kinda hope I do know abit more on music.

Today the Church launches on the new series on 'Peacemaking'. I enjoyed how easily applicable it is to the life of me and many others. From daily relationships with family to friends and classmates/colleagues, to even church conflict(something our church knows very well of by now), to conflicts between nations. There is always some rubbing of interests, disagreement that turn nasty. It's nice to listen how everyone got their own stories of conflicts in their lifes.

Going to serve in the AV team (or rather help ze gang). Rather intriguing even before actually doing yet. Haha. Thank God for ze gang and yan howe serving all these years in this area, it's about time this area of service be recongnised and worked on.

Just to say one thing I do learn as a whole from these weeks, is the frequent occurences of pride(big or small) in my life. And how humbleness is all the more neccessary. To be really humble and having a clear conscience before God and man. Always regarding others better than self.

I ain't a saint. Just a sinner saved by Grace- quote.

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Within these walls

2010-06-09T12:22:00.001+08:00

This is the church theme song.
The thing to note is all the cannot be more direct scriptural reference in the chorus.

Be ye careful!

2010-06-06T23:59:00.001+08:00

Not only does media hinders communication, it also makes us subconsciously accept truths that ain't really the truth.

http://www.chunghow3.com/2010/05/under-the-radar/

Check out today's new about littering.
"How they explain away their action(littering) is similar for locals and foreigners- akin to how criminals rationalise their behaviour." said Prof Ganapathy.
'People are rationalising the irrational'

Staying grounded in God's word is the way to go.
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2010-06-03T22:12:00.001+08:00

Indeed, our life is clearly defined. Indeed living life is still a clouded mystery.

Some have life, they have complete mastery of life- with the destiny in their own hands, being a firm believer of reaping what one sow.
Some have life, they have it all to 'luck' and chance."- always banging on opportunities and fortune, trusting their well-being on 'luck'
Some have life, they are for predestination- almost convinced they are as good as they are borned to be, glorying in their advantages and toiling at their limitations.

Learning, I am one for all.

As the people around me, those in camp and those in church, got bothered and troubled over the dealings of people and relationships, I was obviously affected.

This had me thinking. No doubt the perils of it is that I will tend to 'lean on my understanding' (proverbs 3)

No problem on 'reaping what you sow' theory. It's that straight forward. Predestination works more on genetic, moral, social or spiritual make-up of a person. Not exactly easy to grasp, also not hard to understand.

What about 'luck' and chances? Interestingly, my friend in camp pointed out that 'luck' could be the closest thing to God (more specifically, God's will). When we can't possibly control the roll of a dice, when even the wisest don't know the outcome, that's when we see God is in control, literally. Yet such radical resorts are always the most difficult to accecpt.

Drawing of lots, leaving things to chance should always be the last resort, and solely for decsion-making only; we constantly need some overseer to do everything possible to avoid this resort-for it defies the law of 'sowing and reaping', it denies people of their 'assumed' destiny.

Seeing how my plantoon mate sort out matters regarding splits and how my chruch deals with things have many in similar. 'Luck' was the main actor in camp. Church is going to cling on Sovereignty.

My life this week seems rocky. With bumps here and there. Need to think (worry would be a better word) what exactly to study after army, given i was rejected by the local U's this year. Need to think (trust God should fit both) about the flaws, in my behavior, in my body, and dealings with life.

Thinking about taking stock even as half the year has already passed. A glance upwards and a reminder of the Cross sure put things in good perspective.

Life cannot be more complete and full, no matter how perplexing- when Christ is in the very center.

to love as He love,
in thoughts,
with words,
with actions......

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Dearest place

2010-05-21T20:26:00.000+08:00

Saw this post by someone on a place which I thought fit quite well the description of a once dear place, ie. Church. (taking that 'grown' out of as it is)
Before reading on, I would like to say my intention of this post is to establish my statement that sums up the recent bible study on loving the Church.

Is is then possible to grow out of places?
I would say yes. We can't be in school forever with the same group of classmates. We can't really stay committed to a particular hobby and its people for long. Sadly to say, some have also 'grown' out of Church.

It's interesting to note, however, that the Church remains a very dear place to many. It is the place where love is real, where there is real caring for each other. The church is the place where many found the greatest Love, recieved on the greatest Gift, and thereby committed their faith on the greatest Being.

To this place lasting friendship and lifelong partners are found.
To this place acceptance is almost instantly gained across age, race and wealth.
To this place do people willingly share and give of their 'five loaves and two fishes'.
To this place the ups and downs of life is always being accounted, often accompanied by others, there to share in blessings and there to encourage in sorrow.
Even upon death, to this place, as many have affectionately known, to which even He called her His bride, is there to provide the comfort, peace and remembrance.

I was thinking of how, where exactly do we placed Church in our life. Is Church another lifestyle place? A place where we would attend just like we would attend school, learning good and useful knowledge, ideas so that it makes us 'better' as a person?
For a moment in my life I was almost missing out on the whole purpose of Church. The place where Spurgeon described as 'the dearest place on earth'.

In order to get a better grasp of the place of Church as so distinctive from other places and gatherings. This distinction can only come from the many faithful and set-apart Christians whose life brings out the 'frangrance' of life. It is to these Christians that have so fully live out their lives for others that I do understand on a clearer note why Watchman Nee said, 'Christ, my life'.

Thus, if Christ is indeed our life, getting involved, committed to Church seems only natural. Just like how it's natural for us to consume food when it's mealtime. The difficult part is how to shift this delight and desire from a lifestyle to 'our life'.

The thing that compels me on is the examples of the many Faithfuls and the unity of His Word. It all goes down to choice and self-will in the battle between life 'in Christ' and life 'with Christ'.

Joshua Harris told us to start loving the Church because Christ loved the Church. This leads to each of us asking ourselves: 'Do we love God?'

Do we love God enough to be willing and able to give of our time and money?
Do we love God enough that we accept differences and can even show Love upon others?
Do we love God enough that we gather together to minister and do outreach?
Do we love God enough to get fully committed and Love His Church?

------------------------------------------

In case there is musunderstanding on my previous post. I do not advocate putting aside the fundamental Truths for the sake of reaching people. My heart was touched by how extensive and continual is the work of evangelising. God is glorified when we do His work. Notice it's every believer, myself all the more not excused.
God did not ask us to guard the Truth to the extend of condemnation, He told us to first Love, even speaking the truth in love.

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The ongoing process of Evangelising

2010-05-15T00:35:00.000+08:00

Article: Christianity's Surge in Indonesia

Christianity's Surge in Indonesia

Pentecostalism, New Age movement... What's important is the knowledge and acceptance of the truth which must leads to repentance.

Just Love

2010-05-08T23:21:00.000+08:00

Saw the following on one blog:

The story goes that somebody once asked a great theologian—nobody’s quite sure which theologian, but so the story goes—what was the most profound doctrinal statement he had ever heard. The theologian thought for a moment and replied:

“Jesus loves me; this I know
For the Bible tells me so.”

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Just some thoughts

2010-05-03T19:51:00.001+08:00

Went over to the popular bookstore just now and realised that the small little "Christian living" book section has been renamed to a broader category: "Inspirational", along with other kinds of books on "Self-improvement". Not that it is of any significance, since there ain't much good Christian books in these commercial bookstores.
Haven't brought a book from there till today. "Spiritual Maturity" by Sanders, surprised to find such books in this bookstore, nevertheless, this book completes the 2 books I already had on Leadership and Discipleship. Haha. The convenience of this bookstore nearest to my house less Campus Crusade, which I heard is shifting, had me popping in occasionally just to look at what are the 'bestsellers' around.

Read through FBI notes recently on how Satan tempts us by having us substitute sensationalism for true spirituality. Which leads me to some questions which are best answered with the end times.
Are Christians out there desiring sensualism more than actually living it out in their lives? Do we yearn more for the 'inspirations' to make us 'feel' better?

2 Timothy 3:1,7
But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come.

,always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.

Just some thoughts for the day.

Weak as I am

2010-05-02T23:51:00.000+08:00

Some areas of struggles:
Struggling to manage my finances properly given the fact that I do not watch my budget with the convenience of ATM.
Struggling to maintain disciplined time with God when time gets more occupied with other 'things'
Struggling to keep my pride and anger in check at times and in relationship with people.

I do know these aren't real struggles, they are more like excuses. It addresses something deeper with ever simple answers that I already know.

Anyway, I enjoyed the song 'In my weakness' this week.
Found the lyrics online in someone's blog and the words do make me see that I am nothing without Him- which in a not so direct way leads me to stay humble and not boast in any of my strengths.

In My Weakness by Mike Harland and Cary Schmidt

When living life for Jesus Christ become too hard a task,
When obedience means sacrifice that seems too much to ask;
That’s when I learn that my own strength isn’t really strength at all,
And I find rest in humbleness when I surrender all.

In my weakness He is strong;
In my need He leads me on.
When I come to the end of all I am,
And I place my trust in Him;
That’s when His strength begins –
In my weakness.

When failures in my human strength have weakened all my pride,
And ruined hopes in fallen dreams have crumbled me inside;
It’s then by grace I fin’lly see the strength of Jesus Christ,
His victory is real in me when weakness fills my life.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I was sharing with the guys in Sunday school today about setting aside time for God each day. Just realised the notes that Johnathan offered to our class last week was exactly about how to do exactly that. Oh well, that's so much for not reading.

The idea of your walk talks louder than your talk talks, being a hypocrite still rings in my ears as I sometimes examine my life. Perhaps I have seen many people who are such great talkers yet hugely inconsistent with their life.

Along with this this question links on: How then do one identify a mature believer? Answer: by its fruits. This is the outward growth that is brought forth by the inward growth. Many people see this by the worldly successes the Christian had amassed himself with. The better ones puts this gauge on the level of service/commitment in Church. I am in no way condemning this mindset,
in fact these are good gauges of God's blessings upon the Christian's life as he seeks and make choices that draw him closer to God.

Because of this reason, I do see myself disqualified in many occasions in telling people of the endurance in the Christian race, to even win when I am still in the (or even just started) the 'race'.

Humility cures worldliness. The book of James clearly shows that. Like many other commandments, it does comes with a promise. James 4:10- Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.

Sidenote: do check out this Christian organisation Statement of faith. Quite solid. I liked the one on Church. (since we are on the topic of loving the Church now)

A new Commandment

2010-04-25T22:20:00.000+08:00

John 13:34-35 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.

It's been a couple of weeks since I do come here to carefully share some thoughts worth thinking and contemplating about.

1 Corinthians 13: If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.

A timely reminder from His Word to Love.

Had been reading and chewing on the book "Spiritual Discipleship" by Oswald Sanders. Interesting, "Spiritual Leadership", another book from the same series was the first book I did blog about here. (if I remembered correctly)

The poem I posted last week I do realise has been made into hymns and songs by quite a few and I do like the version our church presented in the musical a few years back. It highlights quite well of the very harsh condition of discipleship, reminding me of being pilgrims and strangers.

There also the maturity of the disciple(r), for being a Christian is by right inseparable from being a disciple. I read about how discipline and disciple have the same root word. Another thing to note is how maturity takes place inwardly and outwardly in the form of growth of character and service respectively. The last fruit of the Spirit, self control can be rightly said to be the same as discipline. Concluding, a matured disciple is one that is disciplined.

There are many other topics in the book which is filled with truths. The disciple's Olympics (talking about the Christian race), disciple's Senior Partner (namely the Holy Spirit) and more.
I do wish to share but time (for the moment) forbids.

Talking and putting truths into action is only the next natural thing one ought to do. I do have my many struggles, with my words sometimes, with pride, with worldliness... claiming upon His promises and not only have faith and hope that it is true and will be, but also to love, to love one another. (1Cor 13:13)

Poem

2010-04-16T15:26:00.000+08:00

Jesus, I My Cross Have Taken by Henry Francis Lyte

Jesus, I my cross have taken, all to leave and follow Thee.
Destitute, despised, forsaken, Thou from hence my all shall be.
Perish every fond ambition, all I’ve sought or hoped or known.
Yet how rich is my condition! God and heaven are still mine own.

Let the world despise and leave me, they have left my Savior, too.
Human hearts and looks deceive me; Thou art not, like them, untrue.
And while Thou shalt smile upon me, God of wisdom, love and might,
Foes may hate and friends disown me, show Thy face and all is bright.

Go, then, earthly fame and treasure! Come, disaster, scorn and pain!
In Thy service, pain is pleasure; with Thy favor, loss is gain.
I have called Thee, “Abba, Father”; I have set my heart on Thee:
Storms may howl, and clouds may gather, all must work for good to me.

Man may trouble and distress me, ’twill but drive me to Thy breast.
Life with trials hard may press me; heaven will bring me sweeter rest.
Oh, ’tis not in grief to harm me while Thy love is left to me;
Oh, ’twere not in joy to charm me, were that joy unmixed with Thee.

Take, my soul, thy full salvation; rise o’er sin, and fear, and care;
Joy to find in every station something still to do or bear:
Think what Spirit dwells within thee; what a Father’s smile is thine;
What a Savior died to win thee, child of heaven, shouldst thou repine?

Haste then on from grace to glory, armed by faith, and winged by prayer,
Heaven’s eternal day’s before thee, God’s own hand shall guide thee there.
Soon shall close thy earthly mission, swift shall pass thy pilgrim days;
Hope soon change to glad fruition, faith to sight, and prayer to praise.

Big ideas, small me.

2010-04-11T18:53:00.000+08:00

"It is not OK to accept something that present, convey advocate sin as OK. This can be anything from the lyrics in your music to the games you play. Anything that makes your flesh have more control is not OK." Learning on how idolatry, temptations are being downplayed in our current world. Big idea on conviction here.

Thinking about the many other big central ideas that comes along with the Christian faith. Big ideas with big words.
-Legalism
-Justification
-Sanctification
-Righteousness
-Grace
-Love
I do not think the full ideas of these words and can be grasped. I do know and had been getting back the habit to go back to the Word of God and memorize them (word by word). With that I believe we are more armed to fight the daily battles of temptations, idolatry. We need to get practical, yet knowing the big ideas help us apply them to get practical about what, how, when, where we actually do the Christian 'walk' daily.

On the side-note: Shared the gospel with someone yesterday since like a long time. It came as a opportunity as we were sitted down talking about joining them in their MLM money-making 'empire'. I was skeptical and pointed out flaws and could have just engage in a endless debate on the structure of MLM. We were talking about the issue of pursuit of money bringing happiness and I sort of showed this guy of the eternal happiness we can have with Christ. Learning how to avoid arguments, I presented and asked for his decisions. He didn't accepted. Nevertheless, I was glad I planted that seed in his heart.

Lead me to the Cross

2010-04-02T17:31:00.002+08:00

Lead me to the cross | Upload Music

A time for everything

2010-03-28T17:49:00.001+08:00

There's a time to play, and a time to get serious.
A time to stay simple, and a time to think critically.
At this defining age or transition from childhood to adulthood, I do believe it is the time for me to be serious and just think critically about 'big' issues in life.

The past week and the coming week was, going to be hectic and long. (Should the long hours spent in the parade rehearsals). Gotten MC this tuesday, thank God I am recovering from my flu/cough/sore throat.
The recent days had taught me many, 'Being contented in whatever state I am' is one key value I learned and hope to continue to cultivate upon.

Now that I got my FBI materials, I should be reading them (especially when I am like 6-7 weeks behind), yet time seems not to permit. Still, FBI lessons has become so much more comprehensible thanks to the materials. I am slowly beginning to enjoy the really practical lessons learnt from each lesson. The eagle, man, ox, lion characteristic of the gospel and Cherubim are just some things I for the 1st time heard and learnt. Yet, amidst all the content, there always the beauty, harmony that comes with the central message of the Bible. It's about how 'every word' can be used and 'lived' out. Oswald just told me he is taking next semester :)

Praying for rest and strength, to stay humble and focused on the cross as Good Friday draws near. Thank God for all the guys in my GCSS, it's humbling to be able to 'teach' them. (The preparation and the accountability).
Getting the guys to memorise verses every week also makes me accountable in a way, haha.

To remind myself: This week verse: Romans 12:6 "Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith;"

Wait- what a beauty

2010-03-19T22:17:00.000+08:00

It seems anger and resentment has been getting the better of me these days. And I don't wish to turn this blog into a place I vent my complaints.
Saw this poem in one of those inspirational posters in Popular, and this really captures the beauty of WAIT.

Wait
by Russell Kelfer

Desperately, helplessly, longingly, I cried;
Quietly, patiently, lovingly, God replied.
I pled and I wept for a clue to my fate . . .
And the Master so gently said, "Wait."

"Wait? you say wait?" my indignant reply.
"Lord, I need answers, I need to know why!
Is your hand shortened? Or have you not heard?
By faith I have asked, and I'm claiming your Word.

"My future and all to which I relate
Hangs in the balance, and you tell me to wait?
I'm needing a 'yes', a go-ahead sign,
Or even a 'no' to which I can resign.

"You promised, dear Lord, that if we believe,
We need but to ask, and we shall receive.
And Lord I've been asking, and this is my cry:
I'm weary of asking! I need a reply."

Then quietly, softly, I learned of my fate,
As my Master replied again, "Wait."
So I slumped in my chair, defeated and taut,
And grumbled to God, "So, I'm waiting for what?"

He seemed then to kneel, and His eyes met with mine . . .
and He tenderly said, "I could give you a sign.
I could shake the heavens and darken the sun.
I could raise the dead and cause mountains to run.

"I could give all you seek and pleased you would be.
You'd have what you want, but you wouldn't know Me.
You'd not know the depth of my love for each saint.
You'd not know the power that I give to the faint.

"You'd not learn to see through clouds of despair;
You'd not learn to trust just by knowing I'm there.
You'd not know the joy of resting in Me
When darkness and silence are all you can see.

"You'd never experience the fullness of love
When the peace of My spirit descends like a dove.
You would know that I give, and I save, for a start,
But you'd not know the depth of the beat of My heart.

"The glow of my comfort late into the night,
The faith that I give when you walk without sight.
The depth that's beyond getting just what you ask
From an infinite God who makes what you have last.

"You'd never know, should your pain quickly flee,
What it means that My grace is sufficient for thee.
Yes, your dearest dreams overnight would come true,
But, oh, the loss, if you missed what I'm doing in you.

"So, be silent, my child, and in time you will see
That the greatest of gifts is to truly know me.
And though oft My answers seem terribly late,
My most precious answer of all is still . . . Wait."

'>.<'

2010-03-18T21:19:00.000+08:00

This two sites never fail to keep me thinking.

http://www.vincentcheung.com/
http://churchwhisperer.com/2010/03/09/feeding-the-dog-in-one-another/

Finally a looooonnnnngggg weekend, with one block leave on Monday.

What a week!

2010-03-14T21:52:00.000+08:00

This week could have been worse, I thank God for providing sufficiently.
The weather was kind this week, with rain
The pace started picking up on Tuesday night when our battalion when for a 2 days 2 nights exercise. That means sleeping outfield, eating combat ration, getting bites from mosquito.
Apparently things turn out so much better than expected. We got to sleep on different vehicles (for most of the time, in fact), had snacks and soft drinks with instant noodles as our meals. Mosquito bites were really rare, thanks to the mosquito coils and repellent sprays. Everything was good less the comfort of beds. Ha.
Friday marks the start of many parade rehearsals we are going in preparation for two major parades. Parade rehearsals is always under the merciless sun and just half a day of drills already left my skin slightly red and burnt.
Saturday was duty day. Thank God one of my friend swapped with me his sentry duty with my prowling duty. This means no prowling (walking around camp) which often can be real tiring after 4 shifts of it. Doing sentry is basically standing and even sitting down at the gate area.

Today was kinda tiring. I sort of taught the younger guys for the 1st time today. It definitely wasn't easy. No amount of preparation can remove the nervousness. Haha. Soccer in the afternoon was draining, especially when there wasn't adequate rest the night before.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
人在做，天在看 is one quote that somewhat talks about you reap what you sow. There somewhat this link to today's message which struck me on how God is the sole audience of your words and actions, not men.
The chorus of a song I heard also talks similarly.
"Is it gonna burn?
What you build in this life.
Is it gonna burn?
Will you lose it all?
When your work is tried.
Will you lose it all?"

I have been reading quite a bit of christian books recently (the book on the prayer of Jabez this week), yet I think nothing beats the truths found in the Bible. Have been trying to go back to reading some new testament books, praying for strength to do it despite the rather hectic weeks coming ahead.

Philippians 4:8 talks about mediating on things that edify, are loving....
2 Chronicles 16:9 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.

Too tired and clouded to continue with my chain of thoughts. Thats all for now.
Continue to seek God and ask just like Jabez.

SAM-yoo-el 's'

2010-03-07T19:52:00.000+08:00

I searched online and apparently my name is pronounced: SAM-yoo-el
I learnt also in FBI that the 'el' has the meaning of 'the strong one' which is of God.
Really interesting. And I am not the only Samuel around.

My parents had lunch just now with 2 wonderful ladies from our church. My brother and I joined them towards the end and that short session with them had me desiring to pray for the sons of these two ladies.
These 2 ladies who obviously are close friends, (auntie lilian and another auntie) are the mothers of Samuel(s). And surprise as it is, both of their sons are called samuel, with the same surname lee. What's more, I heard they got the same A level grades this time round. (something like 4A1B, which is insane, haha)
I do remember them coming to church, well, only a couple of years back. Not sure when, how and why they left, but it's been awhile and I am only reminded of their presence by the faithful attendance of their mothers.

I 'gathered' some information about how they're doing in life right now. Both finished A's' and are really brilliant. Both are enlisted to army not long ago. samuel lee, son of auntie lilian has a heart condition (something about irregular heartbeat), and it sounds quite serious. The other samuel, shirley's brother is in tekong. I am guessing fitness might be an obstacle for him.

NOW to why I am sharing all this. Of course I hope you will 'share this burden' of praying for them just as I am burdened to pray for them this week. Pray for their 'heart' condition to be right, health for auntie lilian's son, strength for the other samuel. Pray that they will come back to church really soon. Pray for God to work by providing opportunities to really interact, share with them and for His mercy (something I learnt) to withhold that 'hard knock' on them.

Do your best!

2010-03-06T15:44:00.000+08:00

Would like to share this little story (not exactly one though) I read on Jim George's book, 'a young man after God's own heart'. This story somewhat relates to me and brought me back to the simple task of just doing your best.

"A missionary from India told about an army officer who stopped by to have his shoes shined by a poor Indian boy on the street. The lad (boy) launched into his task with such enthusiasm and vigor that the man was utterly amazed. Instead of an ordinary, slipshod performance with an all-too-eagerly outstretched hand for a tip, the boy worked diligently until the leather sparkled with a brilliant luster.
The officer asked, 'Why are you taking so much time to polish my boots?'
'Well, sir,' was the reply, 'last week Jesus came into my heart and now I belong to Him. Since then, every time I shine someone's shoes, I keep thinking they're His, so I do the very best I can. I want Him to be pleased.'

As life gets routine and slothfulness and shortcuts seems ever so present, I am glad I am reminded to do my best as:
-We give God glory when we do our best.
-We represent the Lord Jesus, therefore we do our best.
-We serve the Lord and not men, so we do our best.
-We provide a living model of our risen Savior when we do our best.
-We fulfill God's purpose as we do our best.

To polish and shine a pair of boots ain't no easy task, I can assure you cause I don't like to do it and had never done it well.

I recently heard on my music player of the children song I had learnt a few years back. 'Faithful in little things, cause little things make big things. Great things are done by doing little things everyday. Small things make all things, tiny things make tall things, faithful in little things every day'

I liked the second stanza of this song,
'When I had a little job, I would always do it.
Never thinking it's too small but quickly hopping to it.
Though the job I'm told to do seems so small to me,
God can use a tiny seed and make a great big tree"

There's a video on youtube of the children of a local church presenting this song.
FBC Children's Choir - "Faithful In Little Things"

I figure it's all about being found faithful by doing your best in all the little daily activities in life. Sorting out the roles of fellowship and service as God leads.

People

2010-02-28T18:33:00.000+08:00

I do believe that God has placed many events/things in life to be that imperfect picture of the perfect picture of His glory and Majesty.

Quite abit of things that happened this week deserves me to get my mind 'working'.
I do realise I have been extremely 'draggy' in getting things done. Procrastinate would be a more suitable word. This definitely takes a toiling effect on me and others around me when I am not 'moving'. The wake-up call came from my dad who lovingly told me the few times this week as he drove me to camp.

This week had me 'exposed' to different people whom I am somewhat impressed, blessed, burdened for.
-My dear brother, Sebastian, whom I really need to spend more time with.
-The Yakult factory uncle who talked with such vigor about living 'life'.
-A tour guide who had such great stories to share about WW2 heroes.
-The countless soldiers that died so we can be 'free'
-Darren, how he had grown spiritually.
-The CO, his 'spirited' and authoritative character.
-Yann Howe, for his way of doing things.

All in all, I believed many people do make an impact on my life. In fact, I do believe these impacts that are make by these 'extraordinary' people do 'mould' and shape thinking and lifestyle.

I did read through the new GCSS material. Simple and relatively easy yet essential points to learn from this book. It's always the part when such reading needs to be 'applied' or 'lived out'. The most essential thing which I am still learning is doing with 'a pure and humble heart', clear of wrong motives.

Learning that it's always good to be mindful of Christ's birth, death, resurrection and His coming, to see myself as being redeemed rather than the redeemer, lest knowledge puffs up and pride takes over.

Hope God continue to work in each of the hearts of the believers and non-believers to the great knowledge of knowing Him, the great 'I AM'.

Getting the standards

2010-02-16T16:50:00.002+08:00

One of the worst things sin did for man was to make him selfish, and selfishness cannot love. -Andrew Murray
This quote struck me whenever I see how easily it is to become self-centered. Learning about selfishness and Love in 'Absolute Surrender' by Murray.

It's the 'new year', or the lunar new year season. This year seems different, (of course it's different every year) There's a dine-out reunion dinner, lesser visitation and a less enthusiastic me. Maybe it's the mental part which had me not getting into the mood of cny well enough this time.
There seems to be a more urgent need for reconciliation between Chinese customaries and Christian belief.

On another note, halfway through 'Purity Under Pressure' by Neil T. Anderson and Dave Park. This book talks about all the BGR and relationship issues. Many many scriptural quotation from this book that I have came across before. I would like to type a section out, on 'Who am I?', talking about our identity as a Christian. Notice many a times Christians are referred to being children of God.

Quote: Pg236-238

Because I am in Christ...

I am like salt for everyone on earth (Matthew 5:13)
I am like light for the whole world (Matthew 5:14)
I am a child of God (John 1:12)
I am part of the true vine, joined to Christ and able to produce lots of fruit (John 15:1, 5)
I am Christ's chosen friend (John 15:15)
I am chosen by Christ to bear fruit (John 15:16)
I am Christ's personal witness sent out to tell everybody about Jesus (Acts 1:8)
I am a slave of righteousness who pleases God (Romans 6:18)
I am enslaved to God; this makes me holy and gives me eternal life (Romans 6:22)
I am a son of God; I can call Him my father (Romans 8:14,15; Galatians 3:26; 4:6)
I am promised an inheritance and will share in Christ's glory (Romans 8:17)
I am a temple of the Holy Spirit. His Spirit and His life live in me (1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19)
I am united to the Lord and am one spirit with Him (1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19)
I am a part of Christ's Body and a member of His family (1 Corinthians 12:27)
I am a new person; my past is forgiven and everything is new (2 Corinthians 5:17)
I am at peace with God, and He has given me the work making peace between Himself and others (2 Corinthians 5:18-19)
I am a son of God through faith in Christ (Galatians 3:26,28)
I am God's child and will be given the inheritance He has promised. (Galatians 4:6-7)
I am a saint, a holy one (Ephesians 1:1; Philippians 1:1, Colossians 1:2)
I am God's building project- His handiwork- born anew in Christ to do His work (Ephesians 2:10)
I am a citizen of heaven with the rest of God's family (Ephesians 2:19)
I am a prisoner of Christ, so I can help others (Ephesians 3:1; 4:1)
I am righteous and holy (Ephesians 4:24)
I am a citizen of heaven seated in heaven right now (Philippians 3:20; Ephesians 2:6)
I am hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:3)
I am an expression of the life of Christ because He is my life. (Colossians 3:4)
I am chosen of God, holy and dearly loved, one of His special people (Colossians 3:12; 1 Thessalonians 1:4)
I am a son of the light and belong to the light and not to darkness (1 Thessalonians 5:5)
I am chosen to share in God's heavenly calling (Hebrews 3:1)
I am part of Christ; I share in His life (Hebrews 3:14)
I am one of God's living stones, being built up in Christ as a spiritual house (1 Peter 2:5)
I am a member of a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession (1 Peter 2:9)
I am a alien and a stranger to this world in which I temporarily live (1 Peter 2:11)
I am an enemy of the devil (1 Peter 5:8)
I am a child of God, and I will be like Christ when He returns (1 John 3:1,2)
I am born of God, and the evil one cannot touch me (1 John 5:18)
I am no the great "I AM" (Exodus 3:14; John 8:24,28,58), but by the grace of God, I am what I am (1 Corinthians 15:10)

Unquote

How often do people relate themselves to groups, cliques, schools, etc...?
My guess is that we often tend to conform to the image set forth by the group we represent, or remain unchanged to remain being identified. There nothing really wrong about this, but the danger is how this can lead to compromise in our 'base' identity.
Our 'base' identity should be in Christ as Christians. If that's too lofty an idea that seems unreachable, that's why we have many 'faithful men' who had 'run the race' before us, so that we can follow suit.

Another section from C.S Lewis book, Miracles. Addressing the idea of imagery of using this father/son relationship throughout scriptures.

Quote: 'Horrid red things'

"...... Christianity is not to be judged from the fancies of children any more than medicine from the ideas of the little girl who believed in horrid red things.
At this stage I must turn aside to deal with a rather simpleminded illusion. When we point out that what the Christian mean is not to be identified with their mental pictures, some people say, 'in that case, would it not be better to get rid of the mental pictures, and of the language which suggests them altogether?' But this is impossible. The people who recommend it have not noticed that when they try to get rid of man-like, or as they are called, 'anthropomorphic', images they merely succeed in substituting images of some other kind. ' I don't believe in a personal God', says one, 'but I do believe in a great spiritual force.' What he has not noticed is that the word 'force' has let in all sorts of images about winds and tides and electricity and gravitation.'I don't believe in a personal God', says another, 'but I do believe we are all parts of one great Being which moves and works through us all'- not noticing that he has merely exchanged the image of a fatherly and royal-looking man for the image of some widely extended gas or fluid. A girl I knew was brought up by 'higher thinking' parents to regard God as a perfect 'substance'; in later life she realised that this had actually led her to think of Him as something like a vast tapioca pudding. (To make matters worse, she dislike tapioca). We may feel ourselves quite safe from this degree of absurdity, but we are mistaken. If a man watches his own mind, I believe he will find that what profess to be specially advanced or philosophic conceptions of God are, in his thinking, always accompanied by vague images which, if inspected, would turn out to be even more absurd than the man-like images aroused by Christian theology. For man, after all, is the highest of the things we meet in sensuous experience. He has, at least, conquered the globe, honored (though not followed) virtue, achieved knowledge, made poetry, music and art. If God exists at all it is not unreasonable to suppose that we are less unlike Him than anything else we know. No doubt we are unspeakable different from Him; to that extent all man-like image are false. But those images of shapeless mists and irrational forces which, unacknowledged, haunt the mind when we think we are rising to the conception of impersonal and absolute Being, must be very much more so. For images, of the one kind or of the other, will come; we cannot jump off our own shadow."

Unquote

With this in mind, it's much easier to remember where we stand as redeemed ones in God's 'eye'.

~It seems my brain is slowly degenerating to conjure much logical and rational thinking. All these quotes from books had been read quite a while back.
I remember how hilarious it was last monday back in camp where we ordered 'yu sheng' in celebration of cny.
Whenever 'yu sheng' is 'lao', (messy affair no doubt), people is expected to say nice phrases and words to congratulate and bless each other of the season and the year to come. And guess what?
Only one phrase that didn't even contain a proper word rang consistent through the short and chaotic session : O.R.D lo.

Updates

2010-02-04T22:19:00.000+08:00

I intended to go on further to talk about 'Perfection'.... But its better to go back to the harsh reality of life, and with that 'renewing' of mind, being able to relate it to the big 'philosophies' in the Bible.

Some updates to my life:
Passed BTT. Meet many familiar faces during the test. It's back to the basics of driving. Haha.
My messenger account seems to have many computer generated 'people' adding me. The Internet is not really a safe place nowadays.
Doing FBI for the 1st time tomorrow. Only day I am free to take it for the week.
Guard duty on Sat. Again. Which translate to no time to complete and help in the cleaning/clearing of my house this weekend. Still can go Church on Sunday though.
Witnessed too many people who each has 'the world revolved around them'. And the ease of doing it is a real temptation.
Seen how a grassy patch opened to a path by continuous walking by many people.
Thinking of how God/Jesus is the First of Everything.

Shall come back to blog about something close to my heart.

Proverbs 27:5 Open rebuke is better than love carefully concealed.

"How do we really Love each other?" The daily struggles of husbands and wifes, the quarreling and disagreement of friends, that what many face each day.
The line of how, when to tenderly rebuke.

Grace, Unity and Perfection

2010-01-31T19:31:00.000+08:00

Reorganizing/tidying up my room yesterday. Threw away quite a number of study 'papers' away.

And I am not done with it. The problem is the endurance to do it into completion.

With somewhat great reluctance or struggle (the inner turmoil- temptation of games etc.) I have decided to come to my blog and evaluate on things that I had been impressed upon me through the week.

The 1st thing on my list would be Grace, that infinite, immeasurable Grace of God. I have learnt of the difference between Miracles and Providence reading on C.S Lewis book, but that would not be relevant to talk about here.

This Tuesday Night-out I had decided to stay in camp despite everyone from my bunk going out. I was basically alone in bunk after my dinner at the canteen. Hence I was able to spent some good Quiet Time reading and praying. And the temptation to 'doubt' came almost immediately, I was semi-asleep when I heard something about me doing Guard duty on CNY day. That alone greatly disturbed my sleep with my mind entertaining many unwholesome thoughts till I almost cried.

Yet, God is good and it turned out that it was not me after all. Apparently, they were drawing lots for duty on that day and since I wasn't present in the office as I did not went out of camp, the last lot for that duty was drawn even before I had to take the last lot. Thank God.

GOD IS FAITHFUL, WHAT ABOUT YOU?

Now onto Unity. These few weeks sermons is somewhere along the line of unity as a body of believers. There's this somewhat jerky and weird feeling. I have seen in camp this week the very problem of standing united as one group/platoon of people. This disunity had arose due to the issue of equality of treatment or fairness of work allocation. It's very interesting to note how we have become a generation of people that is so self-absorbed that the care for others have grown completely cold.

Army for one sense did not help us to work together, and that's purely my opinion. Sometimes I think it's that resentment or jealousy of others not working when I am working on something that deprives me of the comfort they have. It's easy to forgive once. I am beginning to understand the real difficulty to keep forgiving, to keep on showing that Love.

There's like this complain session among the few of us in camp that day about this particular issue of fairness. I expressed to them that unity is of more importance than fighting for equal distribution of work. And this seems very practical in light of how such unity is able to promote cohesion, openness, discouraging backstabbing, gossiping. The most stunning thing is that we will be eating, working, playing, sleeping together for at least one more year. Thus it's wiser to be for unity.

I wonder if each of us in Church is for Unity.

The final one: Perfection. Came across this verse today:

Matthew 5:48 'Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.'

I was wondering how our image of 'perfection' changed as we grow older. For me, it was somewhat drastic after I enlisted in army. An example will give a vague idea. (I dunno if it apply to all, at least it applied to me). When I was younger, I always have to 'consult' or get that confirmation from my parents regarding issues like the cleanliness of my clothes, often checking with them if close-to-expiry food, or food dropped on the table or floor can be eaten. It may sound somewhat foolish, but that how I view things then, when my parents showed me the 'green' about these concerns, there was no doubt on my part to see it as 'perfect' for my use/consumption.
As understanding of things sets in, along with the ability to reason for myself on this issues, there's this sudden bearing of responsibilities. The self washing of clothes and cleaning of my bed/cupboard in army in a way forces me to grow out of this misconception. What is 'perfect' is now 'perfect' by our own better judgement. Yet there this Perfection which was totally different.
We all need to be Perfect in our life. We cannot be on our own.
No one can boldly claim to have live a perfect life. Yet Jesus did. He was Perfect. And the Bible shows quite clearly that this Perfection only comes through Jesus. It's different in that there not really the responsibility to bear for Christ bore it for us on that Cross. There no need for judgement on our part for God is the Righteous Judge.

It seems there this somewhat rocky phrase in our walk during this period of time for many of our Church members. It may be the lack of genuine and quality fellowship between each of us in Church due to the absence of GCSS. I myself am very shocked as well. Today in Church I merely said something like 'tuck in your shirt' to Darren'. And the next time I will be seeing him will be a week later. Oh well.

I would like to end off with this stanza from the song the Choir presented today titled 'Grace Alone'

Every soul we long to reach

Every heart we hope to teach

Everywhere we share His Peace

Is only by His Grace.

Continue to press on!

Contemplation.

2010-01-30T14:24:00.001+08:00

1Co 9:27 But I keep under my body, and bring [it] into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

"Instruction, prayer ministry and spiritual disciplines are all important, but unless we have actual models of Christian life to copy, we are unlikely to be able to understand how these factors work out in the details of life."

Quote from miracles by C.S Lewis:
To shrink back from all that can be called Nature into negative spirituality is as if we ran away from horses instead of learning to ride.
There is in our present pilgrim condition plenty of room for abstinence and renunciation and mortifying our natural desires.
These small and perishable bodies we now have were given to us as ponies are given to schoolboys. We must learn to manage: not that we may someday be free of horse altogether but that someday we may ride bare-back, confident and rejoicing, those greater mounts, those winged, shining and world-shaking horses which perhaps even now expect us with impatience, pawing and snorting in the King's stables.

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Just thoughts.

2010-01-25T00:44:00.000+08:00

Good bonding session through dinner at my auntie's house tonight.
2 things that had me from tonight's charity show.

1. Its now 弟子规 instead of the San zi Jin they teaches in school. Wisdom adapted from the great sage, confusious. It might just be that flawed in it's truth. (lies always contain elements of truth, haha)

2. 新谣, singapore songs is really unique, that swing and carefree feeling. The style of music that truly reflects needs to run to it's intention. I am still in the midst of reconciling music of the 'world' and 'church'.
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'With pride I lead'

2010-01-23T19:24:00.000+08:00

It's been awhile since I had a proper post. I figured it's about time I do so.

Any sergeant in the army would have said the creed that pledged them in. 'with pride I lead' is one phrase inside this creed.
I am not going to comment on the creed or the use of the words (the officer's creed contains more gross phrases). My intention is to draw some illustration from 'pride' and 'service'.
The issue of 'pride' has been bothering me for quite awhile. It seems that maturity and increased understanding also builds up this egoistic bubble of 'pride'.
How then is it possible to stay humble instead of being proud (since pride often leads to haughtyness)?
The Bible teaches time and time again that true service is all about humility and 'submiting to one another'.
The problem now is how to handle the knowledge and wisdom. Many a times you might have heard pastors and leaders of the church praying for God to 'speak' instead of themselves. It is thus so, that we always remember it is God that gives wisdom.
The difficulty then is how to stay 'humble' and rooted as one starts serving and leading. I presume there's an even greater hurdle if the first is not dealt with.
I shall stop at here. There only this logicial solution to pride.

Had been quite busy with 'living my life' this few weeks. Kinda scary when I realize that I am slowly neglecting on the 'horizontal' relationships when my 'vertical' one is not been faithful. It seems the 'snorts' and 'grunts' of army is slowly finding it's way to my life. Praying for a more fruitful walk.

Discernment is the key

2010-01-16T13:52:00.002+08:00

This had me thinking for quite a bit about the presentation of the Gospel. This video apparently was created by Avanti Ministries. There seems to be many truths inside. Many watered-down gospels that appeals to the crowd is slowly sipping and finding their ways to dilute the Truth behind Salvation and strip God’s Word of it’s entirety.

So it better to be vigilant and keep watch.

The key take-away point which sort of goes in line with what has been in my mind these few days is:

"Are we getting too busy talking about God that has made us failed to actively engage God?"

Many many thoughts went through my mind as this week goes by. But I guessed I was humbled as I wrestled with knowing in my own understanding and God's wisdom.

It's amazing how things had turned out.

Book reading

2010-01-05T21:51:00.000+08:00

Had been embarking on this book which I borrowed from the library recently, and the many free time inside camp had also allowed me to really take time to go into the depths of it.

I must say that this book sure covers quite a great deal of things. There's this chapter about becoming God that I had just read that really was quite interesting and thought provoking. The rest of the chapters talk about virtue and the likes of it.
"The chapter starts by summing up what the different sections of the bible, sort of like the 10-step thing Ze gang was telling me that was taught in FBI. There's the 'creating space' talking about creation and God's plan for human., then there the 'fallen from grace' which dwells on how men have fallen because of the disobedience of Adam, then there the 'frail hope' talking about the story of how God had placed faithful men along the way, but yet none met up to the standards God wanted. The last section was 'Return of the King', (makes me think of Lotr), which basically shows how Jesus Christ came and became that Man, sort of like the second Adam.
The chapter then points to how we ought to grow in Christ-likeness as believers."

Many many more really good idea this writer wrote down on the book, just to share some:
"Disciples are made through disciplines" "There needs to be a dependence on the Holy Spirit. God likes to work through us"

"Instruction, prayer ministry and spiritual disciplines are all important, but unless we have actual models of Christian life to copy, we are unlikely to be able to understand how these factors work out in the details of life." For this statement, I like how the book talks about the ministry of Jesus with his Twelve. It's real and practical.

On fasting- "Occasional deliberate practice in saying no (to food) is a vital component of a focused life in an indulgent society".

On forgiveness- "To say that you have forgiven someone is not the same as excusing someone" "Forgiveness involves penitence, prayer and then personal contact"

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2 Peter 1:5-7
That's about all, great time to learn and grow by reading. Thank God for such time. I going to read C.s Lewis book after I am like quite done with this.

In prayer and in submission as to the plans God has for me this year, many things I hope I could accomplished, but I know it's not possible if God is not even in the picture.

Onwards to 2010

2010-01-01T08:00:00.000+08:00

It's funny but I am like still very alert mentally after like one whole night of thanksgiving, soccer, fellowship and eating.

There are just too many things in 2009 to talk about, to see that God has been part of it all, and to be thankful for Him enabling it.
Humbling to know that what I know in terms of 'spiritual depth' is this that small dent on the ground as compared to the deep wells many faithful men had.
Praying that I would get over this reluctance to get things done, to the point that people still have to 'push' you on in a sense. I guess it's about how 'active' my faith is, by actually exercising it on others and on my life. Things like going the extra mile to share 'Christ' with people, spending time to be in fellowship and encouraging brethren. These had been a very heavy burden on my heart as 2009 drew to a close.

2010 is a new year with the very same promises from God. "Exercising towards Godliness" still will remain as the title for my blog, for that to me is really a good reminder that I need to constantly strive to be more like Christ, only possible by discipline supplied by Love from Above, and supported by prayers and accountability of brethren. It's not going to be a lonely walk towards this pursuit, for God never meant it this way, I hope this new year will be one that I can bring people and be with them for this 'great workout' towards spiritual fitness.

Remembering to run with patience this race :) For Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith.

'Free play' and 'satisfaction'

2009-12-28T15:26:00.001+08:00

A superior man is modest in his speech, but exceeds in his actions.
Confucius

1 John 3:18
My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.

It has been awhile since I blogged and wrote about something pertaining to 'issues' in life.
It's only naturally for a person to feel pain when someone delivers a punch on the person. Then it has become a choice for him to keep mum about it or scream it out and be noticed. I guess I would choose to be silent this time.

Anyway, the title of this post came about as I ponder on liberalism and conservatives in the Christian faith. The word 'free play' in this case refers to the 'not so definite' areas which has been explored in the extremes of liberalism. I remember coming across this word when learning to drive, specifically talking about the free space of the release of the clutch pedal before reaching the 'biting' point.
I posted on my Facebook status not long ago on the Greek Mythology on the Sirens. I came across this illustration while reading that parenting book on relationship. The point is this, being a conservative means travelling on the safest and furthest route possible from the deadly coast, while liberalism explores areas as close as to the coast as possible.
Reading on a Church's welcome book on one Pastor's comment on their Church had me further thinking. "Being contemporary without compromise"
I am beginning to explore the dangers and benefits that can be arrived by following these two different routes, realizing that a balance with discernment is all the more essential in the Christian faith.

On to the point of 'satisfaction' or boasting as some would call it. It the idea of being proud of what you have achieved in the past and will always 'boast' about it to people when given a chance. My take is that boasting is excluded. Boasting that leads to pride is a NO no.

2 Corinthians 12:9
And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

However, the form of 'boasting' which I would like to talk about is different.
It's more like sharing your 'worth telling' life experiences. For many males out there, it would be the time spend in NS, sharing about their 'countless' days away from home.
Applying it up, I do realize its not wrong to talk about them, for to many, being through such experiences make them 'better' and most importantly, marvel at whoever or whichever factors or forces that had pulled them through.

I write this because many have found this in themselves, their willpower, their abilities, even on luck. Yet, I believe we can marvel at how God has pulled us through each of this 'wonderful' events in our life, and then sharing and telling it to others about the Christ that is in us.

Recently I watched on TV on Santa and Christmas. There's this boy whose dad was Santa Claus and he complaining to his dad when his dad didn't let him tell his friends about the secret of his dad.
"In class, everyone else is talking about how great their dad are. One is a banker, the other is a politician. I so want to tell them I have the 'greatest' dad of all." He lamented to his dad, "But I can't"

I know Christmas is over, and unlike Santa who hides around, Christ is proclaimed onto the world. Therefore let's talk about His Greatness every moment of our life, for He is truly the Greatest.
Amen?

I so need to make good use of my time this week as I take a short break from the monotonous routine of army life. Praying for wisdom and good choices made.

一件礼物

2009-12-19T16:46:00.000+08:00

One new Chinese song I've learnt while trying to find it online for my dad. Apparently he is planning to share it during his GCSS carolling.

Simple and sweet message that 主耶稣 is the 礼物.

有一件礼物，你收到没有，
眼睛看不到，你心会知道，
这一件礼物，心门外等候，
是为了你准备，别人不能收。

生命有限，时光也会走，
如果你不珍惜，机会难留，
礼物虽然好，如果你不要，
你怎么能够得到，怎么能得到？

亲爱的朋友，你是否想到，
马槽的婴孩是为你而来，
亲爱的朋友，你是否了解，
最好的朋友是人子主耶稣。

Answered

2009-12-16T20:20:00.001+08:00

There's always a time for everything. A time for prayer, and a time to be thankful for answered prayers.
I can only thank God for guiding me, throughout my driving test, granting the very desires of my heart.
In essence, I passed the driving test in camp this week, on the very 1st time. I believed it was His providence.

To elebrorate:
I am somewhat a 'cannot-make-it' driver, something that my instructor always affirmed by the not so wholesome remarks about my driving.
Becoming 'famous' by some silly accident I committed, where I hitted the mirror of another vehicle, merely added salt to the wound.
Many many other factors had me really doubting my ability to even pass the test.
My prayer to God as I came for this driving course was that I could pass my driving test ASAP. It was as though I was bargaining with God, 'if I pass, I will come serve in the Church camps.' (that's was on presumption that the course will end on time)
I was deeply humbled when God showed me otherwise. The course extended due to many reasons, to dates way past the camps dates. The 1st test for many started only this few days.
When I fail my parking test, I was further discouraged, yet things surely work together for good.
If I would to list how many obstacles I had to tackle, yet miraculously passed through each, this post would almost be endless.
I just want to give God the due thanks, glory and praise for this:)

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Rude awakening

2009-12-13T20:01:00.000+08:00

1 Peter 2:17

Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.

I somewhat got defeated and humbled by the simple sayings of my driving instructor this week. (It was a one hour intense lecture session as a punishment for being late for my lesson.) I sat inside the 3-tonner without even moving off, listening to him talk and share some of his life skills to me.
I'd learnt that it's better to learn by the good examples of others, as compared to the conventional "learning from the mistakes of others". For there is just that hint of temptation to fall into the same hole those before us had fallen into.
The Chinese had a proverb that says: 不见棺材不掉泪 which means 'no tears until one sees one's own coffin' That is one big problem many people face, in which I sometimes also wander off to grounds so dangerously near my grave.
Note: Just a search and this proverb appears with so many others that I had used to use for my Chinese essays.

I've also learnt to have that greater sense of urgency in doing things. Though my instructor often used a 'mixed array of languages' to talk to me, switching between Chinese, English, Hokkien... it was simple and the message was clear. I guess its a combination of factors that had caused me to fear yet respect my instructor for his fierceness and his boldness to share what he has learnt through life.

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This week went past really fast, at least in my perspective.
Testing of faith, 5 Tonners rides, 2nd hand smoke, reading 1 Peter, 'teaching true love in sex-at-13 generation' (Christian parenting book i picked up from the library that was really interesting and insightful), upcoming driving test with butterflies in stomach.

I liked the Greek mythology on the Sirens used and this quote in the parenting book:

Innocence is a practice field and training ground for inner maturity, and ultimately purity, to grow and develop.

1 Peter 1:13-16

Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance; but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy."

Thats all for now, shall get down to more edifying blog posts that are more thought over instead of just writing whatever that is in my mind. :)

Wisdom and choices.

2009-12-06T19:57:00.003+08:00

Managed to read through "My sister's keeper" this week in camp. I must say it was quite a good book, though I thought will be more suited for girls.
I do also realise this book was made into a movie recently.
The topic explored touch close to daily living. Anyway, I am quite impressed on how the the author had portrayed this ethical and moral issues through her characters.

morals always triumph ethics, and LOVE always triumph the law.

Yet, as I begin to see how such issues could have been handled more appropriately if God is put in the picture.

This had me to the point of how we are to desire WISDOM in choices we made.
King Solomon desired/ prayed for wisdom and God was pleased with his choice.

Someone once said " we are who we are because of the choices we made"
Though there is some truth in it, I am more inclined to see that wisdom needs to work hand in hand with choices. A wise man will build his house on the solid ground, whereas the foolish builds his on sandy ground.

My thoughts are somewhat unorganised and somewhat distorted. Pray for God to show me right choices through His wisdom.

Note: Pray that the driving course could be over as soon as possible.

Prayer is Warfare!

2009-11-29T19:01:00.001+08:00

It shocked me to realise how things in life link up.
I read through on chapter 5 of the book 'Praying effectively for the Lost', which I thought was like the very essence of the book, the heartbeat of the book.
The 'spiritual warfare' this chapter talks about is no doubt prayers. I like how he categorised the stronghold's in the mind of 'lost' people.
The primary stronghold is UNBELIEF, with many other smaller strongholds (greed, lust, selfishness) compounding up. This had made this stronghold almost infallible.

Prayer breaks this stronghold of UNBELIEF.

I somewhat witnessed how this stronghold was broken down in a person's life, how God was faithful and was greatly blessed by it.
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Remembering Prayer as an essential tool. Many things to pray for, and always remembering to start praying before I even start thinking on my own.
It's good to have praying partners, to pray together in one accord. Yet, that can't be an excuse for not praying alone. For I learnt that when I pray for others, Satan loses power over them. Satan engage in a losing war against the Almighty God whenever a prayer is made.

Note: It's good to keep a personal prayer list. :)

A season to reflect

2009-11-29T00:09:00.001+08:00

There's this ice skating event at novena square, which I chanced upon yesterday. This had me admiring the gracefulness and elegance of the act of combining dance with skating. Good to see many young and aspiring local skaters around.
The other form of ice skating I can think of is that of entertainment- those 'disney on ice' kind. These are the kind that can bring lots of excitement and thrill.
This also in a way reminds me of the Christmas season coming ahead.

Is Christmas meant to be joyous, or merry?
How then do people 'celebrate' Christmas?
It is because of Christ's birth that we can have Christmas. Only by knowing who He is and acknowledging His love and power, we can have Christmas with praise in our heart.

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Thankful still.

2009-11-22T20:43:00.000+08:00

Down with slight flu and sore throat. This has caused my voice to sound kinda muffled and weird. Haha.
I sort of got very tempted to go and see a doctor, or 'report sick' in army lingo. Yet, I guess it was not necessary after all.

Anyway, this week was indeed eventful. One thing that really got stucked in my head was the fragility of life. The images that are gathered from some videos our instructor show on traffic accidents involving deaths had me really gross out and in shock.
James 4:14 writes:

whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away

Human beings on the road have become like pins that are just easily knocked down and killed in the most gory of ways, just because of non-compliance to traffic rules and regulations.

I am beginning to appreciate the Driver's Creed we all pledge each day before going for our drive.
Driver's Creed:
I, as a Driver of the Singapore Armed Force,
Pledge to comply with all traffic rules and regulations,
To be courteous and considerate to all road users,
To drive safely and defensively,
To maintain my vehicle.

There's no need to end this off with the 'with my life' (as seen in the soldier's pledge), which is quite logical and make sense.

Looking forward to the end of this driving course and the activities as the year draws to an end. Learning to ask God for journey mercies and grace each day I am on the road.

His Grace is sufficient. (2 Cor 12:9)

Faith

2009-11-15T18:17:00.000+08:00

Amid all the uncertainty in my life in army now, I thought it will be appropriate to evaluate what the faith in which I had cling on to.
What does it really means to have faith?
For what is faith?
Hebrews 11:1 writes:

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

So how can we get this faith?
Romans 10:17 writes:

So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

In essence, someone needs to share their faith with us.

It's easy to say, "I believe in God". Faith comes in only when tasked to do something extra for that statement being made.

Someone once said something which I will paraphrase: "If you still do not act on your faith when life is at its worst, then you are graceless."
Salvation, though is free for all, needs to be act upon, that faith needs to be active, seeking and reaching out to redeem it.
I enjoyed the ending of the song 'Only faith',: "Only by Faith, only by faith, only by faith, the Grace applies."

Thus, its quite certain ONLY BY FAITH then can we get God's grace.

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That sort of sums up faith that amounts to salvation.
Now onto faith in the daily walk and life.
Some say our faith can increase or decrease, by how close we yearn ourselves to God in our quiet time, worship and prayers. It can also be affected by life's event, where God may seems silent, or He had answered prayers.
Can we measure faith? Or rather our Christian faith? The bible says that if we are to have faith as a mustard seed, we are able to move 'mountains'!

I believe that prayer is one means we can act upon our faith. In fact, prayer can be said to be the most strenuous exercise based on that act of faith.
To have faith in the Holy Spirit interceding for us,
To have faith in God answering them according to His riches and glory,
To have faith in Jesus, to love us enough to die and rise again on Calvary.

I think faith does changes, for God is faithful even when we lack faith.
Using the analogy of driving an automobile down a road, when our road of life gets bumpy, its easy to lose that faith in the captain driving the car. We thought we can never make it, often causing stalls and resulting in delay in the journey.

Our walk with God is one that is directly linked to our faith, and this faith I believe cannot be stagnant, it cannot remain status quo. Just like how our muscles will deteriorate if left unused, our faith needs to be exercised and worked out, always pumping even assisting others through your act of faith.

As the year draws to an end, I am indeed thankful for how God has increase and renewed my faith in Him. Though at time when the events in life seems bad, which had me almost doubting and losing faith, I do know He is still faithful.
Philippians 1:6

being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ

Outlining some thoughts

2009-11-08T18:52:00.001+08:00

A quick update on how my week has been (Joseph was telling me to get a timetable and follow it so that time can be wisely spent): The pace of learning driving inside seems real fast, I had already started travelling on public roads 3 times as this week draws to an end. Nevertheless, a scary and learning experience, which makes me appreciate more of my dad's driving skills.

I saw Jem Tay inside camp this week. What a pleasant surprise I will say. Apparently he is about to become a transport officer and is learning how to drive the landrover also.

Had been wondering on the idea of evangelism and parables.

Mark 4:13-20
And He said to them, “Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables? The sower sows the word. And these are the ones by the wayside where the word is sown. When they hear, Satan comes immediately and takes away the word that was sown in their hearts. These likewise are the ones sown on stony ground who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with gladness; and they have no root in themselves, and so endure only for a time. Afterward, when tribulation or persecution arises for the word’s sake, immediately they stumble. Now these are the ones sown among thorns; they are the ones who hear the word, and the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. But these are the ones sown on good ground, those who hear the word, accept it, and bear fruit: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred.”

This had me thinking of the use of parables, how different people responded differently to the gospel and how we are to avoid sowing such seeds on not so fruitful grounds.

I was reading through on how many people have avoided or turned away from the gospel because of ONE BIG AND IMPRESSIONABLE unpleasant experience that radiantly changed or impacted their life. This has often become the stumbling block whenever the gospel is shared to them.
Along with this thought, I was thinking of how we Christians have unknowingly excluded people from knowing the gospel, how we have grown complacent with life and not been sensitive to the real 'needs' of the lost ones. Only by knowing the 'inner man' in others can then we break the 'barrier', shine forth our 'light' in us onto them.

Charles Surgeons once said:

"It very often happens that the converts that are born in excitement die when the excitement is over."

Its often during tiring times, during times of great 'revival experiences' that people cling on more unto God, call upon Him more. This somewhat selfish mindset needs to be changed. May the word that is preached be rooted deep in them, bringing forth mighty and great fruit, just with faith as a mustard seed.

A quick update on how my week has been (Joseph was telling me to get a timetable and follow it so that time can be wisely spent): The pace of learning driving inside seems real fast, I had already started travelling on public roads 3 times as this week draws to an end. Nevertheless, a scary and learning experience, which makes me appreciate more of my dad's driving skills.

I saw Jem Tay inside camp this week. What a pleasant surprise I will say. Apparently he is about to become a transport officer and is learning how to drive the landrover also.

Will you be found?

2009-10-31T17:43:00.000+08:00

Psalm 100:5 For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations.

Would like to share a song which I thought touches more to the inward man in us. A somewhat evangelistic number I will say.

He is seeking you- A Quiet Heart
By Soundforth

For the lovest, darkness lowly night,
To your empty heart there shines a light.
Glorious Light of Love, for all to see,
Jesus Son of God, in Truth must be.

He is seeking you, with a tender voice,
He is calling you to make a choice,
Turn your ear to Him, this Quiet Sound.
He is seeking you, will you be found?

God has send His Son, through His right Hand.
To all people who in darkness dwell,
Giver of the Light, to all He sees,
In the face of Christ, His Glory see.

He is seeking you with a tender voice,
He is calling you to make a choice,
Turn your ear to Him, this Quiet Sound.
He is seeking you, will you be found?

He is seeking you with a tender voice,
He is calling you to make a choice,
Turn your ear to Him, this Quiet Sound.
He is seeking you, will you be found?

Been reading through the GCSS book on "Praying effectively for the lost", many I would say definite words which the writer used, the use of somewhat weird arguments to bring about his points, all are still been contemplated through my mind.

1 Thessalonians 5:21 Test all things; hold fast what is good.

Anyway, on a sidenote, started driving this week and things are getting really 'stressful', 'unmotivated' for many of us there, mostly by all the intense scolding by the driver instructors and nervous trainees ourselves. I guess it is the fear of getting into an accident and doing things wrongly more easily that had fortify the anxiety and strain.

Besides having lesser "allocated" sleeping time, I guess I can be thankful for time to read up, go to the gym, eat almost at anything at the evening times in camp.

Press Towards the mark

2009-10-25T18:52:00.000+08:00

Sort of getting busy in camp from now on learning driving.
On another note, have been quite a joy reading through the book of Philippians recently. Good to come back to familiar verses and mediating on them. Its always good to know God will reward us with that imperishable crown in the end if we are to focus on Him daily.

Philippians 3:7-16

But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith; that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, if, by any means, I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.
Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you. 16 Nevertheless, to the degree that we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us be of the same mind.

Trusting Jesus all the way :)

Quotes

2009-10-17T11:14:00.000+08:00

C.S Lewis:
We are members of one body, but differentiated members, each with his own vocation.

Our charity must be a real and costly love, with deep feeling for the sins in spite of which we love the sinner- no mere tolerance, or indulgence which parodies love as fippancy parodies merriment.

-A man's upbringing, his talents, his circumstances, are usually a tolerable index of his vocation

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In Christ Alone

2009-10-11T17:56:00.004+08:00

The bible and love

2009-10-06T17:47:00.002+08:00

"this book is like the bible, you ought to know it well, and then get it done as quickly as posisible"
Those were the words being told to me by one guy in the office as I struggled to fill up the book in/out book.
It may come as a casual remark, yet again this brings to me thoughts of how we know the bible (even verses in it) yet not let it become our authority.
This few days has me pondering on bible and it's authority. There are many verses in the bible that suggest it is God's word, being our final authority.
The final lesson my GCSS had on the book of colossians made me realize how Paul ended his letter, "The salutation by the hand of me Paul." Colossians 4:18
It's interesting to note that in fact Paul ended not only Colossians with this. He wrote it for some of his other letters also. I read that this was like a signature showing that it's Paul authentic letter, as a way of preventing false letters with false teachings to the believers then. That sort of provided the primary discernment the people needed then.
Similarily, applying it to us now, I believe God has left us with His complete Word- the bible. There may be many good books, better music and great preachers out there, yet the very minimum we can do is check it with God's word, exercising discernment.

Taking about such discernment may sometimes seems very diffcult and not easy especially when there is conflict in the interpretation and discernment level. This leads me on to love, which binds all to unity.
A comment I happen to see on Youtube on one of those Christian music videos somewhat reflects our adequacy.
"...... why do you Christians love some invisible God so much, yet have no love for one another?"
This comment was filled with quite indecent language which I had changed, not losing the essence of what this guy is trying to say. God has commanded us to show forth love, loving Him with everything, then loving each other.
Matthew 22:37-40 Jesus said to him, “ ‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”
Perhaps one of the better example who how we ought to show forth this love is found in the restoration of Simon Peter, where Jesus asked him thrice if he love Him. (John 21)

Ending off, there has to be that consistency in the Christian walk, to be consistent in your prayer life, to be consistent in your testimony, to be consistent in your sharing and to be consistent in God's word. All this, only by His love, and walking in His path.

God is Good.
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On prayer and discernment

2009-10-01T22:07:00.001+08:00

Thank God for being able to go for prayer meeting this week. I was really blessed to see all our church leaders come to church eariler in the middle of the week to pray for members in the church, just before the actual meeting. Similarily, thank God for folks that are so faithful in coming down for corporate prayers, hopefully on top of their personal prayers.

To discern and to discriminate the truth, I was just pondering as I read Macarthur's book- on how easily we have compromise the truth. One compromise leads to another. I guess I will blog more on this as God convicts me.

Ok, I believe prayer and physical support for our fellow brethren is of vital importance. Our missionary -The Lam family, came by yesterday for our prayer meeting as they prepare to set off for good to Iran jaya in Indonesia for good this saturday. My friend who had came along, together with me applaud at the family's willingness to serve God. Yet, I guess what they were looking for last night was a more strong support for their work in Iran jaya. By the relatively small number of people yesterday, and the somewhat unresponsive and uninterested people, of whom I am guilty, I think it's very easy for them to get discouraged. Besides keeping them in prayers, we also need to act out our faith by giving that extra 'pat on their shoulder'.
God has not provided us with a church so that we can heal our soul and get spiritual food, but I believe He has gather us together so that we can pray for each other.

Prayer has been said to move the hands of God, so let's be at the Lord's house at the hour of prayer.

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Forgiveness

2009-09-29T18:08:00.001+08:00

C.S Lewis rightly wrote:

To be a Christian means to forgive the inexcusable, because God has forgiven the inexcusable in you.

But to forgive the incessant provocations of daily life - to keep on forgiving the bossy mother-in-law, the bullying husband, the nagging wife, the selfish daughter, the deceitful son - How can we do it? Only, I think, by remembering where we stand, by meaning our words when we say in our prayers each night "Forgive our trespasses* as we forgive those that trespass against us." We are offered forgiveness on no other terms. To refuse it is to refuse God's mercy for ourselves. There is no hint of exceptions and God means what He says.

I was super late for church on Sunday, so kinda missed the sermon Pastor preached. Just downloaded the sermon. Really good topic to deal with for true forgiveness is not easy as it seems.

A catch-up on my life.

2009-09-27T00:33:00.003+08:00

It has been quite a while since I blogged. Probably because I cannot get myself to blog about anything that is worth sharing, till now.
Anyway, this few weeks my spiritual walk has been somewhat jerky. From the ending of course in Nee Soon, back to Seletar, I will say the transition has been somewhat sudden yet surprising with ease as compared to last time.
It's only right to thank God for His providence through these weeks in Nee Soon.
I must admit is not easy to be righteous without even seeking Him and loving Him, and I have not been actively seeking Him.

How easy it is for 'our mind' to conjure thoughts and agree with them? It's almost inherent in us.

This week back in camp has allowed more reading time, thus providing me the chance to revisit the book I read: "The Weight of Glory", study through the Gcss book, and seek more Truths from the Word.
Yet, the distraction and temptation also increases along with the free time. Music that satisfies the wrong desires, talks that revolves around perverted content, and the people that ever feel more comfortable with the environment.
One main problem I feel is the the lack of proper quiet places. Its almost impossible to find a quiet spot to do some reading once back in bunk.

Ending off this post, just to share something about swimming. I posted on my facebook: "How carefree can a swim get, only to be restricted by cramps." Not that I got too 'random' to talk about swimming all of a sudden,this comes along as I went for a swim in the evening today.
I will say I enjoyed swimming (I think its more cultivated through countless swimming trainings), the idea of water surrounding you throughout, weaving in and out of the water, with the slight occasional splashes forming ripples after ripples in the pool. Yet, such enjoyment only comes as we stay floated supported only by the water. The problem comes when a cramp on the leg comes along, in order to ease the pain from the cramp, there needs to be more 'firm' support, like the floors of the pool, the sides and ropes, such that proper stretching can be done.

I guess that can be seen in life, to stay grounded so that we can be prepared for 'cramps' in our life.

For what is lawful?

2009-09-13T16:32:00.000+08:00

What is not under law can be said is to be under grace. I guess its only appropriate to face the reality of life. Its not easy to live a 'perfect' and 'clean' Christian life.
As Paul mentioned:

Romans 7:7-24
What then shall we say? That the law is sin? By no means! Yet if it had not been for the law, I would not have known sin. For I would not have known what it is to covet if the law had not said, "You shall not covet." But sin, seizing an opportunity through the commandment, produced in me all kinds of covetousness. For apart from the law, sin lies dead. I was once alive apart from the law, but when the commandment came, sin came alive and I died. The very commandment that promised life proved to be death to me. For sin, seizing an opportunity through the commandment, deceived me and through it killed me. So the law is holy, and the commandment is holy and righteous and good.
Did that which is good, then, bring death to me? By no means! It was sin, producing death in me through what is good, in order that sin might be shown to be sin, and through the commandment might become sinful beyond measure. For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am of the flesh, sold under sin. For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. Now if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law, that it is good. So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me.
So I find it to be a law that when I want to do right, evil lies close at hand. For I delight in the law of God, in my inner being, but I see in my members another law waging war against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members. Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself serve the law of God with my mind, but with my flesh I serve the law of sin.

I guess its good to always keep in mind the doctrine of your salvation, knowing it with all your heart how it is 'Not I, but Christ that lives in you' (Gal 2:20)

1 Corinthians 10:23-24
All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify. Let no one seek his own, but each one the other’s well-being.

Christian liberty has put us in a very advantaged position I will say, yet many has abused it to the most immoral extent. Edifying and forbearing one other comes hand in hand, to build up and teach one other with patience, love, gentleness, joy, peace, kindness, goodness, faithfulness and self-control. Virtues we can so easily associate with in the fruit of the Spirit. (Gal 5:22-23)

Its dangerous to "seek, strive, then excel" (also the motto for the school of combat engineers in army) without first acknowledging, admitting you are nothing/dead to your old self and Christ is our life. (Col 3:4).

I will just end off with a quote from watchman nee, as a remainder if we are practicing our Christian life in the wrong way.

Many believers feel it is very hard to maintain the Christian life. Daily they try, yet daily they sigh. Daily they struggle, yet daily they fail. Everyday they try to maintain their testimony, yet every day they bring shame to the Lord. ...... Before they were saved, they had the burden of sin on their back. Now that they believed in the Lord, they have the burden of holiness on their back. They exchange one burden for another, and the new one is just as tiresome and burdensome as the old one. ......
If you live the Christian life by yourself, endurance will be a suffering to you, as will love, humility, and bearing the cross. But if Christ lives in you, endurance will be a joy, so will love, humility and bearing the cross.

Good to know how Christ once crucified me on that cross with Him.

(Wired) for God?

2009-09-07T18:59:00.000+08:00

I believe its exactly a week ago in camp, I was reading an article on Newsweek regarding how a specific part of our brain is more responsive to spiritual and religious matter.
Apparently this article is not explaining and informing us of this, but rather a writing cleverly explaining that we are in control of our mind. Read the full article here:
http://www.newsweek.com/id/211746

Another article worth reading which I also happen to take particular notice of is how "we" have become "Hindus". Read this here: http://www.newsweek.com/id/212155

Be it the neurobiological findings suggesting that the brain may indeed be wired for God, or how the parietal lobe, that detects where our body physically ends and the larger world begins, or how this circuitry can be silenced by intense prayer or meditation thus producing a sense of oneness with the cosmos or God. I think the point is that these findings are making us see on one side, how God has placed that eternity in our heart (or mind).
Ecclesiastes 3:11
He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, he has put eternity into man’s heart, yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end.

On the other side, I see how people understands that religion and spiritual matters are issues that really matters to them. The danger here is understanding God but not knowing the way to Him.
My point of concern is seen by reading through the second article.
"Truth is One, but the sages speak of it by many names. A Hindu believes there are many paths to God. Jesus is one way, the Qur'an is another, yoga practice is a third. None is better than any other; all are equal."

A sovereign and mighty God I serve. One who is faithful to forgive and love. The week before God has put me through distressing time, on how we have been so compromised to lie, on how we have been so easily to complain and grumble when things do not go well, on how we have been so controlled by whatever our humane mind try to logic things out. So tempted was I that I wanted to hide myself off man and God.
This has made me come to see how the deeds of man had taken a turn downhill towards destruction, with their actions, thoughts and words. Not that I am pessimistic or anything, but I think its only right we keep in mind of the coming end-times, for it is near.

To end things off, we do have the software and hardware for God, its all about making that right connection.

He is still on His Throne

2009-08-30T16:36:00.002+08:00

What a comfort to know that God is still over all in the very chaos of life. Had a really eventful week. With bunk mates falling ill, treading in muddy ground and almost sinking into it, to going with my friends to another's church anniversary and more...
I think I had become more skeptical of life and man. Maybe its time to seek peace in God, somewhat troubled by how events happened or rather God's sovereignty.
John 14:27
Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

For the way to life is so narrow as opposed to the way to destruction. The real hard to direct to this path is those that are just besides and parallel to this path, yet never in it.
I thank God for teaching me through Colossians 3, particularly how to have that longsuffering and forbearance. My position among those in my course in army is interesting. To learn to take humiliation and to offer help when possible, I thank God for people inside that has stood by me or are willing to stand by me.

Remember God being High and lifted up, I can only bow on my knees.

For the Glory of the Lord

2009-08-23T19:04:00.001+08:00

For the Glory of the Lord | Upload Music

On our mind and discipline.

2009-08-22T21:39:00.000+08:00

Discipline is something that I am giving more thought on this few days.
I am somewhat compelled to share on how interesting it is as I read through the Thursday's newspaper on on mind being good or evil.
Basically the article explains and logically help us understand how our mind function such that it determines our moral decisions. The idea of conscience within each one of us is also explored.
Are we mere humans that besides personal discernment of what is right and wrong, are affected by
circumstances and influenced by people we interact with?
As much as I can see how I can know as-a-matter-of-fact what is right and wrong, even the bible do suggest about everyone having that conscience in us.
This brings me to the point on discipline. I believe that God wants all Christians to live a disciplined life on earth physically, mentally and spiritually.
The newspaper this few days are having write-up on the life's of criminals and convicts that committed various crimes. I was reading the write-up on the life of a serial burglar. This guy almost got a degree yet because of circumstances and also lack of self-control, he resort to breaking in to people's house again and again to make ends meet. What he really lack is love, no doubt, but discipline in this case also is very much needed.
To apply it to life as a Christian, I believe Christians are just as easily exposed to different temptations and situations where we easily compromise our stand as any other person living on earth. Discipline now comes into the picture. This discipline, in my understanding, does not comes from our self, but from drawing near to God and 'dying' to Him daily.
Of course, when seen from the more tangible point of view, it can be of disciplined daily routine living, which translates to disciplined prayer time, quiet time, etc...
Knowing that God is faithful in leading us away from various temptations in our life (1 Corinthians 10:13), we ought also to be careful and stay clear from obvious spots where temptations to do wrong is aplenty. That can be part of discipline.
For me, lazying around and not spending time wisely can be a discipline problem, which is something that can be worked on by the grace of God.

Its always good to remember how God has lead you through each stage in life, and on to how He has provided for you each day. After all, it is always good to be thankful.

Truth always remain as it is: Truth

2009-08-10T17:53:00.000+08:00

"I have decided to follow Jesus, I have decided to follow Him. No turning back, no turning back"

Always a joy to see Christians take that step in baptism, was so glad to go to the baptism service yesterday. I always remembered the day of my baptism, singing that very same song.

"The cross before me, the world behind me. No turning back, no turning back"

Now I want to share on my thought on truth. I remembered yann howe telling me once that you can find all the truths of Christianity in the children's songs sung in Church. I thought that was quite rightly said.
One song that has been more memorable and remembered by me was 'Calvary's blood' Somehow the words spoke to me during that period of time during the Children's camp then.
Lyrics:
I carried a burden, a staggering weight
And struggled for freedom but could not escape
I trembled and cried at the thought of my fate
What must I do to be saved?

I desp’rately searched for release from my pain
But found that man’s wisdom was useless and vain
Is there not a pow’r that can break ev’ry chain?
What must I do to be saved?

Chorus:
Jesus’ blood flows from Calvary
Breaking Satan’s pow’r,
Setting captives free
Greatest gift of the greatest love
Heaven paid the price with Calvary’s blood
Heaven paid the price with Calvary’s blood

I saw Jesus bleeding, the cross bore His stain
The men standing by were all mocking His pain
But then yes, I heard it, He called out my name
“Kneel at the cross and be saved”.

I fell at the feet of the one hanging there
“Oh Savior, forgive me”, I cried in despair
My burden fell off Jesus answered my prayer
Kneel at the cross and be saved.

Actually I think the gospel message is indeed a very simple message. The problem I believe is innocence, the degree of exposure to the filthiness of the world. To bring this on to an analogy- imagine the truths found in the bible to be a key, and the heart being the keyhole, if the keyhole is dirty, filled with dirt, how can the key be fitted in to open up the heart?

Therefore, know the truth, accept the truth and apply the truth now. Only then can you live that victorious Christian life.

Pointing Fingers

2009-08-09T21:22:00.000+08:00

Sometimes I wonder if its in human nature to point fingers, criticize people whenever they do something wrong. This somewhat harmless move sometimes may have that condescending effect.
Applying onto Christians, I sometimes see myself very quick in forming negative and somewhat 'doubts' on other Christians for their conduct or/and actions. Sometimes such thoughts in the mind translate to words which will eventually spread like "wildfire" throughout the Church in the subtle form of gossip. That may result in some serious stumbling for that particular Christian.
Today's message (Col 2:16-23) to me seems to stand out in that there should be a case for working on what is inside so that your outside is right. Legalism imposed standards and 'laws' that are to be adhered to, in an attempt to ensure or make sure their people are all 'one'.(I guess the differences in standard set up with or without that inward manifestation of that righteousness is because of changing values and culture, from the very conservative Chinese to the somewhat more liberal Westerners. Globalisation has make us see and 'judge' on what is an acceptable standard.)
Mysticism and the extreme act of self-denial are other points that are false outward showing or mark of believers.

God is teaching me that although we are in no ground to make any judgement at all. We are to show love to Christians by showing them their mistakes in the most humble of way. Its never about looking down on people because they do many not so right things, while you are better off because you do not do this things. (etc. a brethren pick up smoking, you rebuke him on grounds that you think smoking is not right and to the extent you question on his 'salvation')
Of course, the pre-requisite of showing a brethren his mistakes is that you yourself is right with God. Approach him with the most humble of spirit, show him his mistakes by pointing them out (I think its better to do it in private), and then lead him to know that God is faithful in forgiving.

I always remember that each time you point a finger at someone, 4 other fingers is pointed back at yourself. Read up on 'Resisting the devil' by Watchman Nee. 1 Peter 5 sort of shows how if we are to humble and submit to one another, God will lift us up.
The devil is lurking, planting many evil thoughts in our mind. If we are to stand by the truth, this truth shall surely set us free from Satan's grip. (John 8:32)

Rest in God

2009-08-07T22:30:00.001+08:00

James 1:2-3
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.

Reading through the book of James inside camp this week. Sort of revisited many verses inside but this time to read the whole book gives me a better understanding. To count it joy when temptation strikes, that is something that strikes me more.

As much as I am in wanting to put myself close to God's word, I am as subjected to temptations and wrongdoing, for me I guess slothfulness and negligence is still quite a issue, as any other. This week has been quite a challenge to me as responsibilty falls on me to get some administrative things done amid tight timing and unfavorable conditions. At the same time, with daily outfield training in some hot barren land really drains me physically also, to the extent that I suffered sigh sore throat now.
This section of Isaiah has been quite an encouragement to me as I go through this somewhat tiring week.

Isaiah 40:28-31
Have you not known? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He does not faint or grow weary;
his understanding is unsearchable.
He gives power to the faint,
and to him who has no might he increases strength.
Even youths shall faint and be weary,
and young men shall fall exhausted;
but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint

Nevertheless, God be praised for leading me through. Continue to pray for His Word that is sharp and powerful to slowly go into the hardened hearts of the many non-believers out there. (Softening of the hearts of my bunk mates, wisdom in sharing and to put God always in front as God is preached)

Relating events

2009-07-26T23:01:00.002+08:00

Psalm 19:7-9
The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul;
The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple;
The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart;
The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes;
The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever;
The judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.

I somewhat realise I had somewhat blogged nowadays without much serious thoughts and thinking through.
I guess I do not have that discipline to even organise my thoughts and put them down in a manner that can both edify and encourage, at the same time sharing where God stands in my life.

I will say God has provided many opportunities to seek Him on a more personal level. As much as I am impressed and moved by great authors and speakers in their service for the Lord by conveying truths through their published work and speech respectively, I am more in awe of God's word and the understanding it gives of our life in the general and deeper sense.

To quote from C.S lewis in his concluding statement in his speech on theology and poetry. "I believe in Christianity as I believe that the Sun has risen, not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else"

I believed I mentioned it before, our Christian life is meant to be a disciplined and faithful "walk". I am once again reminded of the so straight-forward yet so easily neglected and often compromised requirements God wants from us by Mark Herbster.
Micah 6:8
He has shown you, O man, what is good;
And what does the LORD require of you
But to do justly,
To love mercy,
And to walk humbly with your God?

To add on further, the only sign to show that this "walk" is a genuine, humble walk is by the "fruits". (Matthew 7:16)

Spiritual principles are much clearer when seen them lived out in people instead of merely stating them in the abstract.

As Christians lived out their faith, I am convicted that they count all things loss as gain for Christ (Phil 3:7-9). The idea of being brought into God's kingdom in splendor and glory-

"For Glory means good report with God, acceptance by God, response acknowledgement, and welcome into the heart of things. The door on which we have been knocking all our lives will open at last."
The Glory of God, to be brought into Glory, that supreme and indescirbable blessing.

Psalm 19:10-11
They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb.
By them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward.

Sharing-

2009-07-17T23:38:00.003+08:00

I will say that my week was filled with many things/activities, thoughts processes and ideas.
I guess there is that certain extent of mundane routine which can be drawn out from this mess of stuff. Work (really manual labor), rest(just sitting around for long period of time), real short naps(the result of such long rest) and eat.

Just to share on some things I read inside during the rest times.
No point boasting about the time I spend reading the bible/books etc, for I believe I could have spent much more of my time to read more and understand.
Anyway, I read the book of John and that surely serves as a reminder and refresher of my mind of some the verses I have seen before.
A verse that to me captures what John is conveying in his book: John 13:34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.

Came across this book inside by C.S Lewis titled: The Weight of Glory
C.S Lewis is a Christian apologetic- Meaning he belongs to a field of Christian theology that aims to present a rational basis for the Christian faith, defend the faith against objections, and expose the perceived flaws of other world views.
C.S Lewis sure is a deep thinker and his way of thinking brings about an idea critically, beyond the rational mind of the human. Read a small portion in the book... I say its a book that surely keeps you thinking.
Reminded of a verse in the bible when reading one of the chapters on forgiveness.
Matthew 6:14-15 For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
This forgiving is of the daily santification where we need to have with God.

Read up a few more chapter on Spiritual Leadership. Learnt up on the issue of discipline. Discipline surely needs to be enforced and adhere to so that the Christian walk can be achieved better. Leaders need to lead a disciplined physically, mental and spiritual life. They also needs to have the vision and 'foresight' that is grounded on the Word of God. Always to lead by example. The biblical model that can be follow is found in 1 Timothy 3:1-7.

Just came across the idea of Calvinism on the net. Really interesting to note authors like John Macarthur are somewhat Calvinistic. Going to read up more on the different group of Christians around. -I guess there alot to know about the history of Churches in the 10-19th century.

Something extra to add: A good experience I had alone in the middle of some route inside a forested area in the early dawn of friday (2am onwards). I was stationed there as a marshal for a run in the morning. Its during such time that I realise I could spend time just leaning on God, no matter how tired I was given the real lack of sleep.

Pondering and really seeking what is good and pleasing music. Been quite awhile since I last listened to music through any means.
Philippians 4:8
Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.

To be very careful of where to tread

2009-07-12T23:05:00.004+08:00

These past few days was kinda filled with 'noise' in a sense.
I spent friday catching Ice Age 3 in 3D (part of some coy cohesion thing) and shopping with my mum. A real experience for me as I realize how far away I had gotten from all the things of this world as I went to all the shopping centres.
The whole of Saturday was spent at home. Its either in front of the computer just playing games or sleeping. Felt really weak physically and feverish the whole day.
Really considering if the time spent on the computer is good time spent.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I guess the title for this post starts from here: (my thoughts abit jumble up)
Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Not really that a deep thinker yet. I have been thinking about the issue of intent and sin at the heart level. Along with it ties the issue of self-righteousness or righteousness of God, and if it is necessary to condemn or judge another.

I learnt that the bible(esp Paul's letter) is filled with truths(wisdom) and applications to these truths(consequences).

On to intent and sin at the heart level, or rather all the hidden sin. I am starting to realize and discover for myself that as I go older, there is a greater tendency to hide your sin up. I believe the world plays a crucial part in this. John sums it up best in 1 John 2:15-17.

It kinda scary to have this thought that I sometimes do do right not because I loved God but because I love myself more. Its not exactly easy to live righteously, but it is easy to act as though you are a good Christian. Its all down to the heart.

The last part on judging. I guess the concept of judging needs to be better defined. To confront someone that is obviously doing wrong. This is not judging, but rather pointing out the truth in hope—and with the ultimate goal—of bringing repentance in the other person and restoration to the fellowship. Judge "sin", not the person.

The line between what is right and wrong has become ever more so thin. I guess the ultimate guiding principle needs to be what God wants us to know through His Word. As changes, new ideas and thinkings comes, cling on to that unwavering vine of God, and be very careful of where to step, for the pit holes of death gets more in the walk towards life in Christ.

Going to seek and rest in His word.
Thank God for everything in my life.

Back to the heart

2009-07-09T22:16:00.003+08:00

Proverbs 3:5
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding;

Psalms 31:24
Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart, All you who hope in the LORD.

Different verses/parts of the Bible does speaks to different people in a more relevant manner in different time of their life. Just wanted to share this short devotion I read about waiting on God, which I think somewhat speaks to me.

"... because very many Christians have no sense of the great difference between the Christianity of the mind and the Christianity of the heart, and the former is far more diligently cultivated than the latter. It is this that causes much of the feebleness of our Christian walk"

"It is the heart that man believes and comes into touch with God. It is the heart that God has given His spirit to be the presence of and the power of God working in us. In all our faith, it is the heart that must trust and love and worship and obey."

As I read this, I am reminded once again that in the seeking of wisdom and understanding, it it always good to guard your heart. (Proverbs 4:23)

Thank God for all the little opportunities, to read, to pray, to share and most importantly to be an example throughout this week amid all the changes in my army life.

Renew the mind

2009-06-28T19:34:00.002+08:00

Romans 12:1-2
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Enjoyed reading a book by James Montgomery Boice which provided real good insights to these two verses. These book breaks the verses to various parts and explains them in depth.

Just one of the things I learnt: To think Christianly or secularly in every aspect of your life. Be it the time spent in front of the computer, time spent doing your daily work or routine, even to time of worship and service in Church.

Learning to live a life for Him. "Learning to think and act biblically"
I shall be bringing this book to camp. :)

God is showing me-

2009-06-27T17:11:00.013+08:00

His mercies and grace,
His love,
His power and sovereignty,
The hope of His glory,
His will.

Many many things day by day, moment by moment.

Yet I seek not, run away and even show that lost in faith.
From selfish plans to God's grand plan is like from the very east to the very west, split apart by that never crossable pit of despair when things do not go well.

Its interesting how God placed people whom He thinks I am not done with back to my life. I guess I have been somewhat "hiding" behind my ever finite human thinking of "why I am who I am now?", when in fact I should be searching for answers in His word.
When such "hiding" behind this smokescreen and empty wall gets me nowhere, I proceed to try to "sleep" my way through, foolishly hoping that things will straighten up by itself.

I am thankful for the all the little verses in the bible that I have "hid" in my heart. I thought it will be much better talking off to God alone and for Him to just grant me that wisdom and discernment in His word, through His spirit working and going by faith.

I guess its all about God, not man. His will, not mine.
Many ideas have been contemplated in my mind, still seeking and looking for His kind and gracious revelation on how life can be lived for God's Glory and His alone.

When the going gets tough... go on.

2009-06-21T22:03:00.006+08:00

Psalm 91:1-2
He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.”

Had a good time of fellowship and learning in Church today. GCSS lesson for since a long time was on again. GCSS now has moved to become more dynamic and touches on to issues much more closer and how it can be applied to our life. I can say that this change such makes me think more and be more on the ball during and after lessons.

This few days I see myself being intimidated by the many things going on around my life. I am comforted only when I come to realise God is much BIGGER than life itself and I can take refuge in His word.
Many prayer burdens and requests is beginning to burden my heart. Clinging on to God's love through faith in the hope of Him is both a struggle and commitment. Knowing that God has a plan and will for my life that is revealed in the most wondrous of ways and time is what I really look to with that anticipation.

I somewhat must agree man alone succumb to the various pressures in life and very soon live a life that is of their own, not of God. Thats why man need a good friend or someone whom man can share his burdens with. The idea of accountability partner, serving its role as a "double-check" of each other's life, always encouraging and helping one another.

For God is faithful to those that are faithful. Stay good and close to God. Claim on His very promise.

Money, Power and Influence- I desire not.

2009-06-20T18:13:00.003+08:00

Went back for guard duty yesterday afternoon. It was both a rewarding and a memorable experience for me.
Memorable for guard duty through the night with 2-3 hours sleep in between somewhat cranks up your body system. The guards' parade was also an experience for we no need to perform a very different set of drills repeatedly.
Anyway just to share a witty conversation that I had with my guard buddy as we are doing our "patrol" at 3 plus in the morning or something. (Not the exact words, from what I remember as the whole convo was about)

buddy: "would you oblige and give 2 dollars to a boy if he asks from you so that he can have afford a ride home?"
me: "well I dunno, but I do know that giving the 2 dollars will not solve the immediate need of that boy"
buddy: "at least his problem is solved for now, with money, power and influence, I believe I can do so much more for this child"
me: "so exactly how much of such money, power and influence is needed for you to do much more?"
buddy: "I think we must always strive to have as much as possible, when we have enough for ourselves, I will use it for the good of others."
me: "doing good to others means reaching out to their "true" needs"
buddy: "so what is that need?, helping others can always begin small"
me: "by solving one's immediate need, his overall or fundamental need is not met. So I think what many people need is a Saviour, which is Jesus Christ."
buddy: "so how does God provides for their daily needs?"
me: "I believe God will always take care of His children, their daily needs can be met through offerings and gifts by other Christians, through Divine appointment in a way."
buddy: "so ultimately the immediate need of people still has to be met, and money is something that has to be part of this whole equation."
me: "true, I think money is something that is that material and empty"
buddy: "yet so useful and helpful"

And to continue on seems rather pointless and fruitless. I didn't really go on to talk to my guard buddy about Christianity and his religion- Sikhism. The point that is impressed on me is that we are not to seek glory in things we are good at.
(Jeremiah 9:23-24)

The Lord's prayer in Chinese

2009-06-19T01:01:00.002+08:00

我们在天上的父：
愿人都尊你的名为圣。
愿你的国降临；
愿你的旨意行在地上，
如同行在天上。
我们日用的饮食，
今日赐给我们。
免我们的债，
如同我们免了人的债。
不叫我们遇见试探；
救我们脱离凶恶。
因为国度、
权柄、
荣耀，
全是你的，
直到永远。
阿们！

I enjoy the impact of Chinese words and how God has preserved His word in its very essence in different languages. May God continue to work and encourage all those Chinese Christians out there.

Walk in Wisdom

2009-06-18T23:13:00.003+08:00

See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. (Ephesians 5:15-16)

I believe we all need to be good stewards of our own time and good managers of it. I am one guy that had not been making good use of my time.
These few days have been quite eventful and had me thinking. The thoughts that are inside me on the many issues in life in a way has been somewhat revealing and also somewhat self-crafted. My prayer is that I do have the wisdom and discernment to see and decide what is God's plan and will, and to act upon it.

I thank God for the time spend with brethren over this two days. I believe it is well time spent praying together in church yesterday. I do believe "prayers move the hand of God". Praying in your quiet time and praying together as a church are prayers that that in a way compliment and support each other.

I am thankful in a way for how God has provided and work in His ways. Thank God for the time of fellowship, something I had miss out on for a long time. God has given me a verse- James 1:19. I think the right thing to do even when I have this weird and uneasy feeling about things is just to look upwards to God.

Ending things off, I am learning to listen to that quiet, still voice of God calling....to walk in the footsteps of Jesus Christ.

Jesus, my very best friend- He can be yours too!

2009-06-15T17:36:00.003+08:00

As I begin to question on why so many not so pleasant events or difficult situations that I get myself into, I remember that God, while He is that High and Lofty One, the Holy One, the one whom I need to fear and surrender to, is also a very close friend.
All grievances and unhappiness, along with everything else, I am comforted because I can tell it all to Jesus.
Remembered singing this hymn in church, searched for it online and what a blessing those words are.

What a friend we have in Jesus by Joseph M. Scriven

What a friend we have in Jesus,
all our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit,
O what needless pain we bear,
all because we do not carry
everything to God in prayer.

Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged;
take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful
who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness;
take it to the Lord in prayer.

Are we weak and heavy laden,
cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge;
take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In his arms he'll take and shield thee;
thou wilt find a solace there.

Humming to the tune of this hymn and taking everything to Jesus in prayer.

Spiritual Leadership Part 3

2009-06-12T11:38:00.004+08:00

Being quite a while since the last time I read up on this book on spiritual leadership. Thank God for the chance to read it up yesterday again during this short break after my BMT course.

Just wanted to share some key points and things worth pondering over in the fourth chapter of this book.

Titled "Natural and Spiritual Leadership", I got quite a good insight as to the qualities of a good Christian leader.
First off, Leadership as a whole can be quite rightly defined as having the character to inspire confidence, to move others, and something that is both natural and/or bestowed to an individual.
To quote on to explain what it means of natural and spiritual leadership: "Spiritual leadership blends natural and spiritual qualities. ... Both natural and spiritual qualities reach their greatest effectiveness when employed in the service of God and for His glory."
I liked the contrast the book gives of natural and spiritual leadership.

Natural: Self-confident, Knows men, Makes own decisions, Ambitious, Creates methods, Enjoys command, Seeks personal reward, Independent.
Spiritual: Confident in God, Also knows God, Seeks God's will, Humble, Follows God's example, Delights in obedience to God, Loves God and others, Depends on God.

One thing I noted is that even without the natural part of leadership, God still choose many to become leaders through crisis or circumstances, together with the conviction of the Spirit.
Last point to talk about, quoting off "Spirituality is not easy to define, but you can tell when it is present. It is the fragrance of the Lord, the power to change the atmosphere around you, the influence that makes Christ real to others. ... The secular mind and heart, however gifted and personally charming, has no place in the leadership of the Church."

"Spiritual goals can be achieved only by spiritual people who use spiritual methods."

1 Corinthians 2:1-5
And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.

God is my song

2009-06-07T16:11:00.002+08:00

Isaiah 12:2
Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; ‘ For YAH, the LORD, is my strength and song; He also has become my salvation.’

Read this encouraging text on the 5min bible workout for men.

Billy Graham stated: "Being a Christian is more than just an instantaneous conversion- it is a daily process whereby you grow to be more and more like Christ."
Many men want to know God as a fire insurance policy, but they aren't willing to make Him their Lord. When Jesus becomes our salvation, we receive His courage, strength, and song. It all doesn't happen overnight; it is a lifelong process to become more and more like Christ.
There is a plaque on a cathedral which reads: (I like the style it is written and the truths in it)
Go on your way to peace.
Be of good courage.
Hold fast that which is good.
Render to no man evil for evil.
Strengthen the faint-hearted.
Support the weak.
Help and cheer the sick.
Honor all men.
Love and serve the Lord.
May the blessing of God be upon you and remain with you forever.

The action to be taken: Trust God for your strength, courage and song.

POP- Passing Out Parade on wednesday 10/6

2009-06-07T00:07:00.004+08:00

Varied feelings and emotions for this.
To start off with there is just this slight disappointment as my parents will not be able to make it for this parade. (Going China to visit relatives)
Although its kinda fast how these 9 weeks has passed, there is still this sense of accomplishment that I would like to share with my family and friends.
No doubt there is surely a growth in mental and physically strength, I still see myself drawing my strength from God for quite a number of occasions. Army is a time I really spend "quiet time" with God every night.
Looking back, I think I could have suffered very badly inside army with my ill-discipline and lack of perseverance. To me that is somewhat mentally weak, the desire to just fall out and sloth off when the going gets tough comes too easily.
Yet from the very start, with God leading me, I have tried my best as often as possible, failing only on the issue of alertness and vigilance.

Happy in a sense for the short break coming ahead. Sometimes the restriction of freedom and the military lifestyle really makes me disorientated and disjointed from the people and life outside.

The passage from youth to adulthood proves to be a trying time for the Christian walk, that I have come to understand and acknowledged. Even for me I see myself slowly drifting off from people in Church. I personally also know so many Christians stop going to Churches during this transition age. Not that I can understand what may be the cause(s).

Living a Christian life while you are still under the very wings of your parents, compared with living life under God's invisible wings. It takes faith and faith must be built up. Remember Romans 10:17 So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Practical Christian living or applying God's word in its very essence has to be done, one step at a time. I realized the bible contain such a wealth of information on how to live life on earth that is glorifying and well pleasing to God.
Proverbs 4:23 Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.

My prayer goes out to many of the people going through this transition age from dependency to self-reliance. Draw strength from God with the assurance from His word.

Ending this, Thank You God for leading me through this quite trying time in army inside palau tekong.

Psalm62:6-7
6 He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be moved. 7 In God is my salvation and my glory; The rock of my strength, And my refuge, is in God.

Going back to His way

2009-05-23T18:27:00.002+08:00

With aching knees, ankles and blisters on my palms I am back for a short time of rest.

These past week had really set me thinking, seeking, asking...
Drilled inside me are quite a handful of pockets of biblical truths and knowledge I had grasped somehow or another. These have been my source of comfort and guide whenever life get rocky.
With these limited and on my own strength, I managed to talk to a few people inside army about their take on religion and Christianity. I was somewhat stumbled.
As I ponder and look at people around in this very world we are in, this sudden surge of selfishness that is in me seems to come out. Are all the things that I do for myself? What does it really means to live a genuine Christian life from now till death?

At the back of my mind this hymn rings to me the very answer. I always remember the sweetness of the melody and my salvation and the joy inside all of us believers

There is a way by Frank Garlock

There is a way for sin to be forgiven;
There is a way prepared for you and me.
There is a way that leads a soul to heaven;
That way is Christ the sinner's perfect plea.

Refrain:
Look unto Him whose pow'r can cleanse and save your soul;
Look unto Him whose blood can set you free.
Look unto Him whose sacrifice can make you whole;
Then you will know the love of Calvary.

There is a love that passes human measure;
There is a love that's brighter than the day.
There is a love that's richer than all treasure;
The love of Christ excels in ev'ry way.

There is a place that Jesus is preparing;
There is a place where sin will be no more.
There is a place of promise we'll be sharing;
That place is heav'n, eternity's fair shore.

Jesus has promised a heaven right for me and for all believers, the very act of worship and service unto God starts from the point of salvation, and it should be a good and fruitful "walk", not bumpy and nosediving sprints up and down the tracks of spirituality. Army is like a very good preview of what life on earth is all about as a Singapore man. The very reality of it seems to make living life as a true believer all the more difficult. My prayer is that I want to walk with God, know God and do His will in every moment of my life.

So That He have the supremacy/preeminence

2009-05-16T00:24:00.003+08:00

I was really thankful last week for being able to spend my birthday in church with many brethren and family members.
Thank God for even showing forth His Love to me through His children, by having a short celebration for my birthday, and the gifts my GCSS class got for me.

This past week passes by quite easily inside army. Partly because there was not much activities except cleaning the rifle and range. The other possible reason I could think of is because I am already used to the notion and lifestyle of a soldier.

It was during range that God led me to read back on the book of Colossians. I somewhat memorise col 1:15-18 during the free time between the shootings.
It's interesting to note the NIV translation writes in v18 "...so that in everything he might have the supremacy." while NKJV writes: "that in all things He may have the preeminence."
NIV binds v19-20 inside to further explain this while the "preeminence" in NKJV seems more accurate and complete in its meaning.
I am not trying to say the NIV is lousy or not useful. I still thank God so opportunities like this to continue to hide His Word in my Heart.

The next two weeks will be much longer than expected for me due to confinement. In fact I will need to go back tomorrow night. Reason: My platoon commander took my rifle/ stole it during field camp.
My point of blogging all this is that I wan to learn to trust in God's sovereignty that is part of His will for me.

Sometimes life inside army just isn't fair and the temptation to get selfish, take shortcuts is really great. Even on the giving of punishment, I can easily complain and grumble why must it be me when others who commit the same mistake do not get punished.
Yet His way is perfect, day by day I seek His grace and mercies. Now as I typed this down, I had this mixture of feelings inside me: partly grievances addressed mainly to God and partly anticipation of how and what He is to led me on this path.

Paul was in prison while he wrote the letter to the colossians. An army camp can never be compared to a prison, in terms of the treatment received and living conditions. Yet Paul still give thanks to God.

God, teach me how to thank and praise You every moment of my life, for God is first and last among us all, having the preeminence.

Listen to the People

2009-05-09T17:20:00.003+08:00

Listen to the people, crying everywhere.
Groping in the darkness, with a load of care.
Listen to the homeless, living in despair.
Is there none to help them,
And the Gospel share?

Oh thou Holy Father, listen to thy prayer.
Heal this selfish servant, from thy worldly care.
Help me spread the message, that the world may see-
Jesus's Love in me
Now to every creature, a proclaimer be.

Thank You for thy Spirit, working in my heart.
I see my transgression, cleanse thou every part.
Where I been so blinded by thy vanity,
Grant me Heavenly vision, to win the lost to Thee.

Oh thou Holy Father, listen to thy prayer.
Heal this selfish servant, from thy worldly care.
Help me spread the message, that the world may see-
Jesus's Love in me
Now to every creature, a proclaimer be.

The lyrics of the first stanza of this song rings in my head as I learnt of a particular song in army that have somewhat similar lyrics.
As the song plays on my computer, the urgency to win souls for God gets more real to me.

God's Will

2009-04-30T19:15:00.003+08:00

The computer, internet sure can be a boom or a bane. To me, I still thank God for its usefulness. Missing church for the past two weeks, I decided to check on the church's website to see how far ahead the sermons are.(with the thought of pastor still doing the book of colossians) Last week sermon caught my attention and through a series of little events, I listened to the sermon.
Titled "How we should live" and spoken by bro chung howe. I am to an extend moved inside by what is spoken. Maybe its through God's word, the internet and bro chung howe that God has spoken to me.
James 4:13-17
Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit”; whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.” But now you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.
Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.
I have been praying everyday inside of army, asking God for all the care, comfort and rest, even to the extend of asking Him to reveal His will to me. Yet, I must say I am not abiding by His will all the time.

One very good example will be on a cold I caught inside. I was given a chance to read God's word and happen to chance upon something Paul wrote about "For when I am weak, then I am strong." I fell sick the next day I woke up, for some reason or another, only went to see the medical officer the next day.
I was given two days of rest which ended on the day before a 6km route march (a must-do in order to progress to the next march). Knowing that missing such a march bears consequences like extra trainings, I do not want to miss it and I really thought I could go for it.
But God has other plans for me. For some safety and health reason, one of the commanders in charge of my platoon did not allow me to participate, despite me asking him repeated times. (To the extend where I have gotten everything ready in the morning just before the march -field pack, helmet and everything). The 'No' really just wipe the smile off my face.

Looking back now, I think me not going is God's will. I was given a chance to stay and chit-chat with some other that are also physically not well. My point is, my planning of how things should work out is never right.

To be in God's will means to act accordingly, not for God to show you and then ignore it and walk my own way. This is something I had learn.

Thats all for now, my confidence to be in His will, to submit and act accordingly, all for His glory and His alone. My prayer for the days ahead.

Short Rest

2009-04-30T11:22:00.004+08:00

Back from Tekong island. Thank God for guiding me through, sending all the people to encourage me, and most importantly, for His mercies and grace.

Two full long weeks in rocky hill camp. I must confess I kinda miss home and the freedom outside. Have not touched the computer since then. Even now typing on the keyboard has become a clumsy and uneasy task for me.
This two weeks inside seems like a real long time. I've seen myself being 'forced' into a very monotonous life of discipline.
Knowing how army is like and experiencing it is two different story. I learned of what it means to have that discipline, discipline that translates to orderliness in the whole group and organization of the army. Army to me is also a time where I really see myself being restricted to such little freedom of time.

Praying to God in all the little pockets of time I get has been a comfort. Waking up everyday at 5plus always makes me want to praise and thank God. (something I had taken for granted everyday last time)
Army to me is like a more clear exposure of the vulnerability of life. Death being more real to soldiers in the battlefront allows for soldiers to be more conscious of their faith/religion. I penned down some of my thoughts along this area on a notebook inside, an opportunity I believed God has given me.

God has indeed shown Himself to me through this two weeks. As God leads, I will post on the many events that happened, how God has worked, and how I have responded. The last been something I am still working on.

Sidenote: A picture of the day I went in, Tze gang was there to send me off.