A Letter

My dearest Jesus,

Just wanna let you know how precious You are to me. I don't think I say it often enough. And sometimes I forget. Thank you for Your grace this season, for showing me more of Yourself, and re-affirming me in so many ways.

I look back and realise that many times You were there with me, faithfully guarding my heart, even as I was unawares. Sometimes, I sought You not knowing You were there already. I am so grateful to You Lord. Thank you for that confidence You've given me, to continually desire to rest in Your presence. Thank you for the gifts you have already given, in love and even anticipation!

O Jesus! How much You love me! You love me so much that You gave. You desired me and came for me. Had a wonderful time with You last Sunday service. I never get tired of hearing You say how much You love me.

And in many ways Lord, I still fall. But there is such security because You are not there to condemn me. You just love me. It's so tempting to look to myself and see how unworthy I am, how undeserving of Your death I am. And I know these thoughts are lies. I remind myself (I suppose that's why You tell me to gird my mind, and bring every thought into the obedience of Christ) that it is not what I do. It is who I am. I am born-again. Washed by Your blood. Declared the righteousness OF GOD in Christ Jesus.

Daily, I pray Jesus, to know You more and more. Give me more revelation of Your worth, Your deity, Your insurpassable love for me. I'm learning to just look to You more and more. And to behold Your glory and beauty. I know You are doing a good work in me, transforming me from glory to glory, even as I behold the face of my beloved.

You are faithful my Jesus. And You love me passionately. Do you know how reassured I am that I know these truths? It is through Your grace that You have rooted me in these. Thank you for Pastor Prince Lord. For bringing me to NCC and giving me a Pastor who is courageous to preach the gospel in all its glory! Surely You have restored the years the locusts have eaten, and restored it all the more! You have given me the spirit of faith and revelation! You have taught me, in all things, to look to You and not circumstances.

Even now, You're still teaching me, loving me into the revelation of Your shalom that You have given me. Giving me a daily revelation of my identity and power in You. You have given me boldness and love, authority and power on earth as in heaven. I will be bold to declare Your name, to wield the power of the victory purchased for me at the cross. I'll never want to let Your death for me be in vain by being cowed by what I see. Set Your reality in my heart. Set eternity in my heart. Let everything I experience be filtered through Your cross Lord. Show me more of Yourself in the Word, in my life.

Until I am lost in Your love, till I am found in Your presence, worshipping before Your throne. Found by Your glory, entering into Your flow. How precious this moment, Lord I want You to know.

It's You, You who have won my heart
Taken me into Your arms
Comforted me like a friend...
Your love, surrounded me from the start
I'll never want to be apart
From You ever again.


Your beloved :)

Blessed Hokkien Christmas!

For God so loved the world,
that He gave His only begotten Son

Let's celebrate and cheer and make merry and sing! To remember the birth of our Messiah!

Merry Christmas!

The Passover

"It was Jehovah's feast, an expression of His own peculiar joy in the great event of which it was a shadow, and His redeemed people were gathered around Him to share that joy in His presence. What a wonderful thought is this! Jehovah keeping a feast in anticipation of the death of Christ! This passes our finite thought: we cannot comprehend it. What that death in all its fullness was to Him, no saint or angel can ever know. There were communications between Golgotha and the highest heaven, unknown and unknowable to man. That dying Sufferer was Jehovah's only son. That obedient, submissive Victim was the Lamb of God. That melted, tender heart, was the only heart on earth that ever and always beat true to God. Even in the hour of His darkest, deepest woe, He trusted in His God. 'He became obedient unto death, even the death of the Cross,' and that in a world where disobedience to God had reigned supreme. That perfect obedience unto death; that complete surrender; that unswerving devotion, was a 'sweet savour' unto God. The Cross was a feast to Jehovah. It gave Him back more than sin had robbed Him of. Yes, blessed be God, there was that in the death of God's perfect, spotless Lamb which satisfied all His desires, and brought eternal salvation to all His people."


excerpt from "Feast of Jehovah - Foreshadows of Chrst in the calendar of Israel" by John Ritchie



A hymn for thought....

"To Calvary, Lord, in spirit now
Our joyful souls repair,
To dwell upon Thy dying love,
And taste its sweetness there."


and another...


"No longer far from Him, but now
By precious blood made nigh;
Accepted in the Well-Beloved,
Near to God's heart we lie."

A Twist of Fate

Today, I went to watch "A Twist of Fate" by the SRT. Excellent show! It's a murder mystery musical. There were many comic moments, laced with tragic elements. The sets was beautiful. It was a Peranakan house set on a rotating stage. Wished they had did a DVD of the show for posterity purposes. :) Bravo!

And I love Dick Lee's music. Bought the music album during the interval. These are two of the songs that was sung. The first is called "Who am I". But I've extracted certain parts of the lyrics - which changes somewhat the content and context of the song - but there's a point why I extracted it this way. Think you'll understand when you read it. It's a cry of the heart...before.. remember? How blessed and loved we are now! His!



Music by Dick Lee; Lyrics by Anthony Drewe


Who am I

So many years without a word
Only rumours I pretend I haven't heard
I can't go on living in the dark
When I write my name
There's a question mark that's asking..

Who am I?
I'm asking from the heart
What does it really change?
Nothing will fall apart
Yet to live this lie
Means that I can't move on
How can I turn the page
Until all my doubts have gone?



The second song is called "Everytime you look into my eyes" I'm putting it down here simply because it's romantic. Sigh... yar, you can tell.. I'm a romantic.. :) This song is a duet. I have highlighted the phrases I liked.


Everytime you look into my eyes

He:

You'll see the love reflected in my eyes
A mirror of the heart that never lies
They sparkle in the way you do
And show the warmth I feel for you

It's clear
When you are near

You'll see the love reflected in my eyes
The feelings that I have
and can't disguise
The tears of joy are there to show
All you ever need to know
Everytime you look into my eyes

Her:

You'll see the love reflected in my eyes
The way in which my foolish heart replies
The secrets that we hide away
A fleeting glance can still betray
It's true
When I'm with you

You'll see the love reflected in my eyes
Far brighter than the stars in all the skies
I feel I can forget the past
Start to live my life at last
Everytime you look into my eyes

Both:

Doesn't it seem strange
How situations change
Far away from home and farther from my mind
Suddenly standing there in front of me
Is more than I had every dreamed I'd find

You'll see the love reflected in my eyes
So wide awake for now they realise
That even when I'm on my own
I won't feel that I'm alone again
On the darkest day the sun will rise
Everytime you look into my eyes

Suddenly standing there in front of me
Is more than I had ever dreamed I'd find
You'll see the love reflected in my eyes
So wide awake for now they realise
That even when I'm on my own
I won't feel that I'm alone again
On the darkest day the sun will rise
Everytime you look into my eyes

MTV dedication

Hmm.. I like science, but I definitely like the arts too. :) I like to express myself through music - personalisation.

Even personalisation of somewhat secular music can make holy spirit sense. :D I love it when I'm able to read the music in such a way that it ministers to me. And why not? Every good thing is from above. And God loves music!

So anyway, I'm preparing for a performance at my teacher's.. it's a small gathering of about 20. If you're interested to hmm.. hear me sing, let me know :D It's on the evening of the 3rd of December.

I'm singing "Just the way you are". And have been rehearsing it in my mind. I see it like a mini-MTV. You'll know what's running through my mind when I sing this song. :)

(You'll have to have heard the song before to make any sense of what's coming up next. I'm singing a shortened version of the song.)


Opening scene: A girl (it's me when I personalised it) is sitting on a window seat, looking rather forlornly out. It is night outside. The window is one of those old arched windows, framed with curtains of a sheer white, gently moving to a soft breeze. The room is rather bare and dark, though there is a shimmering of moonlight at the back.

From the corner, we see a shadow of a man (JC), looking at her. Music starts.

JC: Don't go changing, to try to please me,
You never let me down before (He starts walking towards her. She's determined to look out of the window, and not look at Him. He continues..)
Don't imagine, you're too familiar (He goes down on one knee and looks at her)
and I don't see you anymore.

as He continues, He takes both her hands in His. She's still not looking at Him

JC: I wouldn't leave you, in times of trouble,
we never could have come this far (She finally looks at Him)
I took the good times, (He looks into her eyes calmly) I'll take the bad times (a tear rolls down her cheek 'cos she knows what the next line is)
I love you just the way you are.

She finally looks at Him and speaks to Him, almost urgently, a little desperately

Girl: I need to know that You will always be
That same old Someone, that I knew

There's a hint of a sad laugh as He answers her, holds her hands a little tighter

JC: What would it take till you believe in Me?
The way that I believe in you.

There's a little silence. She's comforted that despite everything, He believes in her. She wants to reassure Him...

Girl: I said I love You (but at the back of her mind, she wonders whether she can really... He reads her mind and reassures her instead.. that it is not her love, but His love that sustains them. He continues for her with a smile)
JC: and that's forever (she is relieved that He knew what she was trying to say, thankful for His reassurance, that it is with a lighter heart that she continues...
Girl: and this I promised from the heart ('I love You' she quietly reiterates from her heart)

He looks into her eyes

JC: I couldn't love you...

she looks into His and continues for Him

Girl: ... any better

Together: (because it's an intimate two-way relationship) I love you/You just the way you/You are....



My Beloved is mine, and I am His.. (Song of Solomon)

A baby's hug

A sister sent this story to me. Hope it ministers to you as it did me. :)


We were the only family with children in the restaurant. I sat Erik in a high chair and noticed everyone was quietly eating and talking. Suddenly, Erik squealed with glee and said, "Hi there." He pounded his fat baby hands on the highchair tray.

His eyes were crinkled in laughter and his mouth was bared in a toothless grin, as he wriggled and giggled with merriment. I looked around and saw the source of his merriment. It was a man whose pants were baggy with a zipper at half-mast and his toes poked out of would-be shoes. His shirt was dirty and his hair was uncombed and unwashed. His whiskers were too short to be called a beard and his nose was so varicose it looked like a road map. We were too far from him to smell, but I was sure he smelled. His hands waved and flapped on loose wrists.

"Hi there, baby; Hi there, big boy. I see ya, buster," the man said to Erik.

My husband and I exchanged looks, "What do we do?" Erik continued to laugh and answer, "Hi, hi there." Everyone in the restaurant noticed and looked at us and then at the man. The old geezer was creating a nuisance with my beautiful baby.

Our meal came and the man began shouting from across the room, "Do ya patty cake? Do you know peek-a-boo? Hey, look, he knows peek-a-boo."

Nobody thought the old man was cute. He was obviously drunk. My husband and I were embarrassed. We ate in silence; all except for Erik, who was running through his repertoire for the admiring skidrow bum, who in turn, reciprocated with his cute comments. We finally got through the meal and headed for the door. My husband went to pay the check and told me to meet him in the parking lot. The old man sat poised between me and the door.

"Lord, just let me out of here before he speaks to me or Erik," I prayed.

As I drew closer to the man, I turned my back trying to sidestep him and avoid any air he might be breathing. As I did, Erik leaned over my arm, reaching with both arms in a baby's "pick-me-up" position.

Before I could stop him, Erik had propelled himself from my arms to the man's.
Suddenly a very old smelly man and a very young baby consummated their love relationship. Erik in an act of total trust, love, and submission laid his tiny head upon the man's ragged shoulder. The man's eyes closed, and I saw tears hover beneath his lashes. His aged hands full of grime, pain, and hard labor, cradled my baby's bottom and stroked his back. No two beings have ever loved so deeply for so short a time. I stood awestruck.

The old man rocked and cradled Erik in his arms and his eyes opened and set squarely on mine. He said in a firm commanding voice, "You take care of this baby." Somehow I managed, "I will," from a throat that contained a stone. He pried Erik from his chest unwillingly, longingly, as though he were in pain.

I received my baby, and the man said, "God bless you, ma'am, you've given me my Christmas gift." I said nothing more than a muttered thanks. With Erik in my arms, I ran for the car. My husband was wondering why I was crying and holding Erik so tightly, and why I was saying, "My God, my God, forgive me." I had just witnessed Christ's love shown through the innocence of a tiny child who saw no sin, who made no judgment; a child who saw a soul, and a mother who saw a suit of clothes.
I am a Christian who was blind, holding a child who was not. I felt it was God asking, "Are you willing to share your son for a moment?" when He shared His for all eternity. The ragged old man, unwittingly, had reminded me, "...unless you change and become like little children, you will not enter the kingdom of God." (Matthew 18:3)

"You can tell the true character of a man by the way he treats someone who can do absolutely nothing for him"

Footnote: It is so true, we are all guilty of judging others by their appearance at times, I know I would have reacted like the lady in the story. Lord, please forgive us for our shortcoming!

Thank you Lord for Romans 8:1....Amen!

Someone

Today: 12 Nov 2005, Oasis meeting

Topic: Finding a life partner

Hmm... a reminder

Nowadays, I feel that the messages confirm my 'life lessons'. I'm a little bemused. God usually teaches me something and then that particular lesson will be preached.

But I'm determined to chew on it - though it's tempting to say I know all this. Because it's really head knowledge I suppose. And the reason Abba is speaking to me through the Pastor Chin is that He wants me to know it in my heart.

I choose to believe that in EVERY sermon that I go to, because He loves me so much, He will always give Pastor a word for me, regardless of what is preached.

I took down notes (habit :)) But the two important things I took away from the meeting today was:-

1. Being the one for Him first

Last time I listened to this message by Pastor Prince, I was paying more attention to the qualities to look for in a life partner.

This time, I believe that He wants to set in me, to give me a picture of how He already sees me - His sakal and chayil woman

Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a prudent (sakal) wife is from the LORD.(Prov 19:14)

sakal {saw-kal'} [07919]

to be prudent, be circumspect, wisely understand, prosper

to be prudent, be circumspect

to look at or upon, have insight

to give attention to, consider, ponder, be prudent

to have insight, have comprehension

insight, comprehension

to cause to consider, give insight, teach

to act circumspectly, act prudently, act wisely

to prosper, have success

to cause to prosper

An excellent (chayil) wife is the crown of her husband,
But she who causes shame is like rottenness in his bones. (Proverbs 12:4)

chayil {khah'-yil}

strength, might, efficiency, wealth, army

a) strength

b) ability, efficiency

c) wealth

d) force, army


2. Quoting what Pastor Chin said at the end of the meeting... "When your sight is on Jesus, you'll find love"

It's not about know more, studying more about Him then He will give you someone.

It's about an intimate relationship with Him alone.


Tonight, I went a concert. Enjoyed the Yellow River Extravaganza! by the Singapore Chinese Orchestral. For moi, I like to enjoy certain things alone but at the same time, it gets too quiet. Yet if one goes with friends, then one is not alone...

So tonight, as I settled into my seat waiting for the music to start, I had mixed feelings. And I remembered, hey, call Jesus along. It'll be like a date!

It's practising the consciousness of His presence.

There were many thoughts running through my mind - too long to go into detail.

Was recalling what Pastor Chin shared about not being too 'idealistic', searching for the 'perfect' one. Personally, I'm not the kind who says my life partner must be this, must be that and all. At the end of the day, the only 2 things that's a must is the hesad love and faithfulness with money. But I also don't believe in giving people 'a chance' where there is no chemistry in the first place - so is that being too 'idealistic'?

Anyway, I don't think Pastor meant what I thought. One thing stuck to me though - what Pastor Prince shared, never settle.

So at that point of time in the hall, and I was so enjoying the music - I just felt so comfortable and satisfied and suddenly so aware and clear that He is indeed my all. And suddenly, feeling that looking for a life partner is such a non-issue, like it was so strange to even consider the issue 'cos do I need that someone since He is already my all in all?

I guess this moment was an example of "when your sight is on Jesus" :D When the prospect of having a boyfriend or life partner seem like such a unnecessary messy hassle! haha.. Had such moments before.. they come and go. They go 'cos we are earthern vessels, and sometimes we go back to the flesh and our worries and insecurities. But at other times, when I'm just rejoicing in His love, these "things of the world, grow stranger dim, in the light of His glory and grace."

At Your feet

Down, at Your feet O Lord
is the most high place
At Your feet O Lord
I see Your face
I see Your face

There is no higher calling
No greater honour
than to come, and bow before Your throne
I'm amazed at Your glory
embraced by Your mercy
O Lord, I live to worship You!

Reality shows

I've a new hobby in watching reality shows...

Anyway, the two that I'm really keen on at the moment is Project Runway and The Apprentice 3.

Well, The Apprentice has already finished its run in the States, its on its last two episodes here in Singapore. Haven't been following it that closely except in the last 3 weeks. But I remembered when I casually watched it - I think it was when there were about 8-10 contestants in the amusement park episode, I was already impressed with Kendra. From the get-go, it was clear to me she was a marketing whiz.

Anyway, have been really inspired by her. Here's her website and this is an interesting article for "The Apprentice 3" fans.

Project Runway just aired last Monday over channel 5. I love fashion and Project Runway is not only about designing them - but I think it's fascinating to have an insight on the process of design. Well, after episode 1, there's a intriguing designer called Austin Scarlett. Was really impressed with his creativity since for the first challenge ("Innovation"), the designers could only use materials bought from a supermarket to design their clothes. And to use the fresh lush corn husks was a great idea! He just set up his website, so you can check it out here (Don't agree with his lifestyle but I'm not here to judge..)

Conceiving a miracle (Sunday service)

Hebrews 11:11

By faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a childwhen she was past the age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised.

strength=dunamis

Sarah received a miracle child

Genesis 18:1-15

Then the LORD appeared to him by the terebinth trees of Mamre, as he was sitting in the tent door in the heat of the day. So he lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, three men were standing by him; and when he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them, and bowed himself to the ground, and said, “My Lord, if I have now found favor in Your sight, do not pass on by Your servant. Please let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree. And I will bring a morsel of bread, that you may refresh your hearts. After that you may pass by, inasmuch as you have come to your servant.” They said, “Do as you have said.”


a little water - the water of the word

to wash your feet - using the Word to wash off the dustiness in our walk with life

rest under the tree - rest under the tree of calvary - rest under the sure promises bought by Jesus' work on the cross

morsel of bread - man does not live by bread alone, but every Word of Christ - Jesus is the true bread of life - eating of the finished work

refresh your hearts - rest, shalom peace in my heart

So Abraham hurried into the tent to Sarah and said, “Quickly, make ready three measures of fine meal; knead it and make cakes.” And Abraham ran to the herd, took a tender and good calf, gave it to a young man, and he hastened to prepare it. So he took butter and milk and the calf which he had prepared, and set it before them; and he stood by them under the tree as they ate. Then they said to him, “Where is Sarah your wife?” So he said, “Here, in the tent.”

And He said, “I will certainly return to you according to the time of life, and behold, Sarah your wife shall have a son.” (Sarah was listening in the tent door which was behind him.) Now Abraham and Sarah were old, well advanced in age; and Sarah had passed the age of childbearing.

Therefore Sarah laughed within herself, saying, “After I have grown old, shall I have pleasure, my lord being old also?”

And the LORD said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh, saying, ‘Shall I surely bear a child, since I am old?’ Is anything too hard for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.” But Sarah denied it, saying, “I did not laugh,” for she was afraid. And He said, “No, but you did laugh!”


1 Peter 3:3-6

Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel— rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God. For in this manner, in former times, the holy women who trusted in God also adorned themselves, being submissive to their own husbands, as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, whose daughters you are if you do good and are not afraid with any terror.

Even God is taken by the inner charm of a woman - how wonderful it is to have the beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, precious in His sight. Good reminder that what is pleasing and beautiful to Him is not only outward, but the hidden person of the heart.

I have seen beautiful ladies, and their beauty is from an inner glow, contentment and joy in the Lord. It supercedes the physical.

What is 'doing good'? (if we want to be daughters of Sarah, able to conceive a miracle, let's 'do good'? How? Read in context..

"as Sarah obeyed Abraham" - refer to Genesis.. an inner attitude (called Him Lord within herself) but more importantly,

looking at genesis, she said "shall I have pleasure" rather than "shall I have a baby"?

It was a response that God loved.. it's not about having the baby (the product) but God loves us so much, and what He is pleased with regarding Sarah, is her pleasure (the process)

Don't forget the fun and the pleasure in your Lord. Rejoicing in the Lord keeps me. The result/product is a by-product.

"When you enjoy your husband, there is seed conceived"

1 Timothy 6:17

Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy.

Psalm 127:1-3

Unless the LORD builds the house,
They labor in vain who build it;
Unless the LORD guards the city,
The watchman stays awake in vain.

It is vain for you to rise up early,
To sit up late,
To eat the bread of sorrows;
For so He gives His beloved sleep.

Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD,
The fruit of the womb is a reward.

bread of sorrows = painful labour

"For so He gives His beloved sleep" - I agree with Pastor that it can be read both ways.

Firstly, He gives His beloved sleep.

Secondly, He gives His beloved in his sleep - reading in context, I'm more inclined to read it as the latter.

Proverbs 10:22

The blessing of the LORD makes one rich,
And He adds no sorrow with it.

Jesus was too beautiful to resist, too lovely to work away

I'm always blessed by this sister's sharing. :) Feed on it here It is about "The woman at the well"

For You alone

You are the peace that guards my heart
My help in time of need
You are the hope that leads me on
and brings me to my knees

For there I'll find You waiting
and there I find release
so with all my heart I worship
and unto You I sing

For You alone deserve all glory
For You alone deserve all praise
Father, I worship and adore You
Father, I love to sing Your praise

For You alone deserve all glory
For You alone deserve all praise
Father, I love You
and I worship You this day

Thank You for the cross

Thank you for the cross
the mighty cross
that God Himself should die for such as us

and everyday we're changed into Your image more and more
yes by the cross we've truely been transformed

And we're so amazed
And we give You praise
that You would save us at such a cost

And we're so amazed
And we give You praise
for the power of the cross

In Your presence

In Your presence, I am content
In Your presence, I am content

In Your presence, there is light
Expressions of Your life
Revelations of Your power and might

In Your presence I can bring
my love song offering
I'm in the presence of my king

Misconceptions

I got this article from the paper "Today" (21 Oct 2005).


'During the question-answer round of the recent Miss International pageant, Miss Philippines Lara Quigaman was asked what she felt about people typecasting Filipinos as nanies.

She replid, "I take no offence in being typecast as a nanny. But I do take offence that the educated people of the world have somehow degraded the true sense and meaning of what a nanny is. Let me tell you what it is.

She is someone who gives more than she takes. She is someone you trust to look after the people most precious to you - your child, the elderly and yourself. She is the one who has made a living out of caring for and loving other people." '


It's true.. as I reflect on this article. I realised how different the same words are to us people today. At times, we (a general societal 'we', not necessary my view) take unconscious glee in putting down words, whilst expanding the meaning of certain words to justify the rather grey values of civilization today.

For example, words that modern yuppies tend to put down are "virginity" "submission" "honour" "God" "patriotism" "politician" and

words that are twisted and meanings expanded in order to justify the "me, myself and I" values are words like "freedom" "choice" "sex" "liberty"


Actually, when one thinks historically about it. The golden age of the Roman civilization and it's decline - it's decline being precepted by debauchery etc.. I just wonder whether we are now experiencing it. So much has changed, in the way we think and act and perceive, since just a century ago. What has once been taboo, is now being glorified as hip. And values that once has been treasured, is now deemed as dull and unattractive and 'won't you get on with the times?'

I've since learnt and even delight in an aversion of being common with "the rest" of the world. There is nothing to boast about if one is as common as mud. (The Word says our righteousness is as filthy rags) I've taken pride in not being and being lumped together with the masses - a one in the crowd. It's boring! Get a life, the world does not revolve around one's pleasure only.

Some people like to be cynical - it makes them feel wise. I suppose I'll rather keep my ideals and be a wide-eyed child to the beauties of the world, and the positive in every situation. I pray that I'll be like that by His grace. Jesus did tell us to be "as wise as serpents and as gentle as doves"

Some shows like to portray Christians as goody-two-shoes.. like it's something bad. It doesn't mean that just because we don't sting means we can't. It's not about being nice, having a good image.. it's because knowing how much God is for us, we don't have to step on people, play office politics, in order to succeed. But don't mistake inaction for ignorance. Don't mistake a desire to see the good as being naive.

The love that we are called to love others with is NOT the feely-good type of love. "The love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the holy spirit." It is not simply compassion. It is love with wisdom. (so we don't get swindled by con-artist touting sob stories) We are led forth by the peace and love in our hearts.

Human compassion and human love is limited - and one has to struggle to sustain it. Divine love is unlimited and unconditional. It is the kind of love that enables us to experience joy and peace in the midst of tribulations. It is beyond comprehension.

We are made to be loved, called to love - but do not make the mistake of thinking love is weak. It is the most powerful force in the universe (not the world). For God is love. And it is God who created earth and man. Post-fall, it was man who shaped the world today as we know it.

To be sanctified and set apart, called by Him, into a royal priesthood, adopted as His own.. to be sanctified, meaning, uncommon and set apart; to be unique and His. That is something to boast about.

The Gift of Work

I'm still 'in the midst' of repenting (if that's possible). But came across a really good article on work from Elizabeth Elliot's Devotional. Click here to take a look. It ministered to me. Hope it refreshes you! :)


The Gift of Work

The principal cause of boredom is the hatred of work. People are trained from childhood to hate it. Parents often feel guilty about making children do anything but the merest gestures toward work. Perhaps the children are required to make their beds and, in a feeble and half-hearted fashion, tidy up their rooms once a month or so. But take full responsibility to clear the table, load the dishwasher, scrub the pots, wipe the counters? How many have the courage to ask this of a ten-year-old? It would be too much to ask of many ten-year-olds because parents have seriously asked nothing of them when they were two or three. Children quickly pick up the parents' negative attitudes toward work and think of it as something most sedulously to be avoided.

Our Lord and Savior worked. There is little doubt that He served in the carpenter shop under the instruction of His earthly father Joseph, putting in long hours, learning skill, care, responsibility, and above all, the glory of work as a gift to glorify His heavenly Father. He did always those things that please the Father. Later He chose almost all His disciples from those who labored with their hands. Even the apostle Paul, a man of brilliant intellect, made tents. . . .

Booker T. Washington, an African-American who grew up in the South when members of his race were expected to do the hardest and dirtiest jobs, learned his greatest lesson from the example of a Christian woman. A New Englander, the founder of the Hampton Institute, she herself washed the windows the day before school started, so it would be nice for those children who had been born slaves.

Is work a necessary evil, even a curse? A Christian who spent many years in Soviet work camps, learning to know work at its most brutal, its most degrading and dehumanizing, testified that he took pride in it, did the best he could, worked to the limit of his strength each day. Why? Because he saw it as a gift from God, coming to him from the hand of God, the very will of God for him. He remembered that Jesus did not make benches and roofbeams and plow handles by means of miracles, but by means of saw, axe, and adze.

Wouldn't it make an astounding difference, not only in the quality of the work we do (in office, schoolroom, factory, kitchen, or backyard), but also in our satisfaction, even our joy, if we recognized God's gracious gift in every single task, from making a bed or bathing a baby to drawing a blueprint or selling a computer? If our children saw us doing "heartily as unto the Lord" all the work we do, they would learn true happiness. Instead of feeling that they must be allowed to do what they like, they would learn to like what they do.

St. Ignatius Loyola prayed, "Teach us, Good Lord, to labor and to ask for no reward save that of knowing that we do Thy will." As I learn to pray that prayer, I find that there are many more rewards that come along as fringe benefits. As we make an offering of our work, we find the truth of a principle Jesus taught: Fulfillment is not a goal to achieve, but always the by-product of sacrifice.

Just for laughs!

A sister sent me this e-mail. It's a little cheeky.. that's why 'tis fun! haha :D (Italics, my thoughts)


Humourous Christian pick-up lines


Nice Bible. You know Jesus?! Me, too!

God told me to come talk to you.

I know a church where we could go and talk.

How about a hug, sister? (no thanks)

Do you need help carrying your Bible? It looks heavy. (why not?)

What are your plans for tonight? Feel like a Bible study? (testing)

The Word says, "Give drink to those who are thirsty, and feed the hungry." So how about dinner? (nice style)

You don't have an accountability partner? Me neither!

You want to come over and watch "The 10 Commandments" tonight? (and sit under the ministry of death? 2 Corin 3:7, no thanks!)

Is it a sin that you stole my heart? (haha.. guy must have charm to say this or it'll fall flat)

Would you happen to know a Christian woman that I could love with all my heart and wait on hand and foot? (Hmm... I want a man though, not a snag)

"You know, I'm really into relationship evangelism."

Do you believe in divine appointment? (I do, are you sure you have one?)

Have you ever tried praying at a drive-in movie before? (toeing the line)

Excuse me, I believe one of your ribs belongs to me. (please..)

Christians don't shake hands, Christians gotta hug! (desperate)

Oh, you're cold? Maybe we should read Ecclesiastes 4:11 (roll of eyes)

Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
But how can one keep warm alone?

"I hear there's going to be a love offering tonight." (don't understand)

My friend told me to come and meet you, he said that you are a really nice person. I think you know him. Jesus, yeah that's his name. (cute)

Songs that soothe

There's nothing like music, a tender reminder to soothe the soul. I was looking through the song list we had for our last CG.

Looking through the lyrics of "Blessed Jesus", I was reminded of what Pastor said. When we are thirsty for Him, it's not about reading the bible, listening to sermons, but what does the Word say?

On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. (John 7:37)

It's about coming to Jesus. Him alone. Not the bible. Not doing the christian things. When we open the bible, we ought to pray, "Abba, open the eyes of my heart to see Jesus" so that the bible becomes a medium of connection to Him - not just read for the sake of reading. How I needed to be reminded of that!


Blessed Jesus

Blessed Jesus come to me
Soothe my soul with songs of peace
As I look to You alone
Fill me with Your love

Mountains high and valleys low
You will never let me go
By Your fountain let me drink
Fill my thirsty soul

Glorious marvellous grace that rescued me
Holy worthy is the Lamb who died for me!


When circumstances around me distract, when my emotions become confused - when I'm searching for an anchor to hang on to, I struggle to keep my heart and my mind on Him.

Sometimes it's a flow, there's a yearning and a want, and it's easy as I turn, relieved to find Him.

Sometimes it seems difficult because it's easy to let go and get tossed about in the currents - becoming angsty seems so normal in the world, a common indulgence. And I have to struggle to be still and be reminded that it's better, safer, in His arms. Here's a stanza.. :)

Find rest my soul
In Christ alone
Know His power
in quietness and trust

Sometimes, I search God with a desperation. I know He'll never leave nor forsake me. But I'm desperate for a sense of His presence. I wish I have that sense about me all the time. But I know by faith, that He is with me every moment of every day. His is the only unconditional love - a tidal wave of love. A mighty love that I can hang my confidence on. Why then am I desperate for the sense, the emotional quality of it?

I want to sing until I am lost in Your love
Til I'm found in Your presence
Worshipping before Your throne
Filled by Your Spirit
entering into Your flow
Oh, how precious this moment
Lord, I want You to know

It's You, You who have won my heart
Taken me into Your arms
Comforted me like a friend
Your love surrounded me from the start
I never want to be apart
from You ever again


Perhaps, in terms of His love, I'll always want to be Abba's beautiful beloved child. And yet in other ways, I want to grow up faster! Be an adult - to be more mature spiritually! Hmm.. what is spiritual maturity? I think it's not about bible knowledge or going to bible school.. but to have that revelation of the width, length, depth and height of His love for me - that beautiful revelation of Jesus! Oh Abba, show me more!

Whoosh!

I went rollerblading yesterday morning. When I started off, I was petrified with the fear of falling. No amount of tongues could help.

In the end, I fell down on my rear-end three times! Praise God the fall was cushioned! :D

The first was a big one! One moment I was standing, the next, I was falling backwards and landed hard on my bum. I had the breath knocked out of me. The last time I had a hard fall was when I fell off a horse! :)

When I fell the next 2 times, I had gotten 'used' to it. The fear became lesser and lesser.. so I guess something good did come out of me falling! :)

When I fell, there was a song track repeating itself in my mind - Toby Mac's "Whoopsi Daisy" hahaha.. you can check it out here here

To keep Your lovely face

To keep your lovely face
Ever before my eyes
This is my prayer
Make it my strong desire

That in my secret heart
No other love competes
No rival throne survives
And I serve only You

Every new day

This song is by Hillsong. It is actually titled "My Greatest Love" But I love to sing this song, especially at the start of the day. It reminds me that every sunrise is a miracle. It reminds me to come to him when I thirst.

I was watching this song on VCD just now. And the camera zoomed in on one of the lead worshippers. I remembered the testimony that he shared. Both his parents are deaf - growing up, there didn't seem to be opportunities to enjoy music, yet it is through God's grace that he has the love and heart to use music to worship and enjoy Him. I could see that he was moved during worship, perhaps remembering all the times when He has been faithful.

And I'm just reminded that He is the author of our lives, the alpha and the omega - we are living epistles, our names engraved on His hands - and He's still writing, He isn't finished with me yet, He's still writing a love story on my life. :)


Every new day
Your glory unfolds
Filling my eyes
with Your treasures untold
The beauty of holiness
brings worship anew
My greatest love is You

Draw me deeper
into Your grace
The river that flows
from the holy place
Wash over me
Cleansing me through
My greatest love is You

Brains matter

I was watching the comedy Friends yesterday. Anyway, there was this scene whereby Ross was telling his friends that years ago, he had come up with this comic character called "Science boy" whose superpower was his insatiable thirst for knowledge. The audience laughed, presumerably 'cos that was such a 'geeky' thing to think up.

I was thinking, was it that funny?

In a way, Friends is quite an adult comedy, not because it tells dirty jokes or anything like that, but of the implicit presumptions that it shares with the audience. Most people are unawares because it is very subtle. It is for a mature audience because younger people (I'm thinking about teenagers) may not be able to discern the values it promotes.

Just a short scene described above, was a subtle put-down for a hardworking bookish child - perhaps the effects are far ranging precisely because it is not obvious.

That's so sad. A hunger for knowledge is mocked at. Perhaps because we are in a civil society, it is not expressed as uglily as say, racism. But titters and little snide remarks are just as devastating, all the more so because it's insidious.

It seems with modern technology and better education, we are so focused on the physical (looks, clothes, body) and the material (cash, car, condo). Trying to find joy and happiness in the things and people that surround us rather than being content and joyful with ourselves first.

There's a difference between being alone and being lonely. One can be with a group of friends, be married, and still be lonely. It is not a matter of numbers.

I think sometimes, people are afraid to be by themselves so they surround themselves with a buzz of activities.

Have we ever taken time to cultivate the soul and the spirit? To reflect, to think and to appreciate? To cultivate the faculties of the mind in reflective contemplation. To cultivate the soul with music, art, sound, observation.

It is only when our inner man is filled that we can appreciate the world and people around us, rather than to take from them; to serve others rather than to let our happiness and self-esteem depend on them.


Have you ever heard this term called "renaissance man"? Think Leonardo da Vinci..

A renaissance man is a philosopher, an artist, a scientist, a painter, a musician.. etc. And I'm just thinking, where does he get all the time to be all these? And this being about three to four hundred years ago? With the opportunities and technology and the vast amount of knowledge we have today, where's the renaissance man of the 21st century?

They had time.

How do we spend our time today?

Time in the present - gobbled away in front of the telly, reading the newspaper, dazed on the bus to work, stoned after clubbing on the way home. And then to come home, empty, drained on resources, too busy then, too tired now to realise loneliness. But as the head touch the pillow, and eyes stare at the ceiling, and the heart ask, "is there all there is"?

My experience once upon a time, praise God, never again!


They say that people only use 10% of their brain in their lifetime.

I believe that it'll be more than that for us.

Various reasons. But in short,

1. mind of Christ
2. observation on cranial activities when praying in tongues
3. long life, days of heaven on earth - mind needs to store years of knowledge and experience


Oh, there's something noble, exciting and thrilling to thirst for knowledge! It's the anticipation, about being lost, the thrill of discovery, the journey to find the answer - it is in the debates, the theory, practical application - it is in the realization of bringing an intangible idea into tangible fruition.

Falling in love

Have you fell in love before?

I had crushes before and a fling once. But I knew that wasn't love. So how does falling in love feel?

And I've been thinking about this question for the past 2 weeks. Does love come with heart pounding or a logical discussion? How do I differentiate between attraction and love? Is it love when it doesn't 'measure up' to one's romantic ideals?

So I sighed, 'cos never having fallen in love before, I wouldn't know right? Just follow the peace in my heart when it comes.

Yesterday, one of the songs we sang for worship was "First Love". It was so apt 'cos I was thinking about this song a few days ago. Click here for the lyrics.

Sometimes, I think I know the song.. but during worship, it's a two-way thing. It's not me singing of my love for Him, it's also feeling His embrace.

As I was singing the song, it was like looking through a journal of our times together. Perhaps much like during a wedding, where they would show a photojournal of the happy couple's courtship.

And I realised, falling in love with Jesus - well, He's not just God and my Beloved, He's also that somebody. Sometimes we think that there's my God and then, there's also physical man. Someone that I can see, touch and love.

The song reminded me. I felt like Jesus was tenderly saying, "Don't say you've never fallen in love before. Remember falling in love with me? The first time we met?" And then the past came back as sweet memories.

First love is the most precious. I think it's impossible to know love unless one has been loved by Him.

Because You first loved me, Jesus I want You to be.
I want You to be, my first love.

Perhaps, after that first love, knowing that I am loved and precious in His eyes, I treasure myself.

Before, I asked myself whether it was too idealistic to harbour romantic feelings or to dream of a certain type of love. Some people call it high expectations. Better to be realistic and down-to-earth. Love is not a giddy feeling.

Perhaps true. Love is not simply romance. Love is a decision. And the beauty of time is that love becomes passion. I just recall the title of this book I had. Never read it 'cos it was too thick. But it was a ficticious story with religious elements involved. And the title was, "The Agony and the Ectasy".

I never thought about love in those terms. But what a brother mentioned got me thinking. When we talk about the Passion of Christ and of the love that would send His son down as a living sacrifice. That love is not about an emotionally, feeling-good sensation. That love goes beyond feelings, reaching past the soul (the realm of the mind and understanding) into the spirit.

And the beauty of marriage and growing deeper into love is like that.

Of course, romance is still involved. How often does my Jesus affirm me wash me with His Word! When I worshipped with that song yesterday, I'm reminded to keep my ideals and romance - what lady doesn't have dreams? :) When I see how precious I am in His eyes, so I was in my own sight.

Having high expectations is not about having the 5Cs. (Is it still called the 5 Cs?) Nope, high expectations is about valuing yourself. I read an interesting quote from a book once. Paraphrasing here, "So many women want to be treated as princesses, but they resist and refuse to treat their husbands as kings." It's not about one upmanship but mutual submission. Only secure people are able to be humble and submit.

I don't have to worry about falling in love or not. Oh, to have that fresh reminder that He's my first love.. I don't have to worry 'cos I've already fallen in love. If it's true love, how can one love 2 different persons at the same time?

That is why, what would draw me to a person (be it as a brother or life partner) would be the hesad love of God in his heart. (I suppose that's how one chooses one's closer friends too.)

Is love that complicated? Financial maturity and responsibility is the only other criteria for me. The 'must-haves'. :) (yes, I'm following Pastor's message - which I believe is practical wisdom from God)

Is love complicated in a materialistic world? In Singapore, it is said that the men propose here by saying, "let's get a flat" (I'm sure this is an over-exaggeration. haha :D) Let's not reduce marriage to a financial partnership. argh! where's the romance, love and passion in that?!

I'm wondering whether I should have a post on "Courtship - letting her fall in love with you" hmmm... most of my conclusions would come from the interaction of my observations on my relationship with Him and my relationship with friends.. then again, perhaps not.

Like to end this post with what Jesus sang to me yesterday. :)

Sally, you are, more precious than silver
Sally, you are, most costly than gold
Sally, you are, more beautiful than diamonds
And nothing I desire, compares to you.

And He's singing this song to you. Not to the world. It is a song personally to you. Just listen to your heart.. :)

Thanksgiving!

The kingdom of God is righteousness, peace and joy. Pastor has been preaching on righteousness and peace for the past two years.. and today, joy!

Joy stems from thanksgiving! It seems so simple isn't it? And yet we don't realise, don't give thanks for the here and now. Sometimes, I hanker for the past, the if-onlys and worry for the future what-ifs.

Truely, there are things here and now that I am blessed with that I am not thankful for. I guess its human nature to think the grass is greener on the other side; to think, if only I have this gadget, earn this salary, get this degree, be with this person, I will be happy, I will be satisfied.

If we can't be happy and joyful and be thankful for the blessings we have now, what makes us think we'll be happy after?

I have been looking at my deficiencies and other people's blessings and have forgotten what I have. I look at the material, the money earned, the clothes worn and forgetto value my own.

I've forgotten that I have everything already. I have Jesus.


Have I given thanks today?

Thank You Abba, that You are with me always.

Thank You Abba, that Your love is unconditional. You'll never leave me, nor forsake me, even when I disappoint You.

Thank You Abba, that You are my encourager. You'll not let me be disappointed with myself nor even let self-condemnation touch me. Your acceptance and love embraces me at all times.

Thank You Lord, for my family who have been so patient with me, so undemanding and faithful.

Thank You Lord, for my friends who have been source of inspiration and joy. That I may learn from each and everyone of them.

Thank You Lord, for setting me in families. You answered my prayer even after I've forgotten all about it.

Thank You Lord, that You are always faithful, even when I am faithless.

Thank You Lord for sunshine and rain.. I love the rain especially! When it's night and I feel so safe and comfortable.

Thank You Lord for revealing Your presence through the wonders of nature.. it's in the details, how marvellously creative You are!

Thank You Lord for children! They are beautiful and they are gifts and reminders of how gently You have crafted me too.. known me.. living demonstrations of what love is.

Thank You Abba, for sending down Jesus, Your only son to die on the cross for me whilst I was still in my sins.

Thank You Jesus, for giving yourself. For knowing the cost, and counting it worthwhile. You lived to die, rejected and alone. You took the fall, and thought of me, above all.

Thank You Lord, for a curious mind and aesthetic sense. hahaha :D

Thank You Abba, for placing me in Singapore with all those marvellous food!

Thank You Lord, for this sexy cool white notebook that I'm currently typing on! It's hip man!

Thank You Lord for revealing Your truths in my heart.. for feeding my soul.

Thank You Lord, for being the light of my life!

Thank You Lord, for an awesome life partner, a glorious marriage and beautiful children!

Thank You Lord, for life and life more abundantly!

Thank You Abba for Your favour! For your double portion! For making me a king priest. For your abundance of grace and the gift of righteousness through Your sacrifice!

Thank You Lord for my senses, to enjoy colour, relish taste, decipher sounds, sniff and convey feelings through touch.

There're so many other things to thank you for. And as I'm typing this, that smile on my face is getting broader. Thank You Lord, You are my joy!

I shall remember. The day that Jesus was crucified as a living sacrifice - that was the day that You have made. And by his death, we are victorious! Thank You Jesus..


Psalm 118:22-29

The stone which the builders rejected
Has become the chief cornerstone.
This was the LORD’s doing;
It is marvelous in our eyes.
This is the day the LORD has made;
We will rejoice and be glad in it.

Save now, I pray, O LORD;
O LORD, I pray, send now prosperity.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD!
We have blessed you from the house of the LORD.
God is the LORD,
And He has given us light;
Bind the sacrifice with cords to the horns of the altar.
You are my God, and I will praise You;
You are my God, I will exalt You.

Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!
For His mercy endures forever.

Snap decisions

Okay, my dear readers, this post may seem a little in the abstract 'cos it's a public blog :D But I think you'll get the principles of it...


It's strange how it's sometimes possible to turn on and off one's emotional valve. To be able to make a logical decision on an 'emotional' issue well, emotionlessly. These could be issues relating to job and in particular, relationships.

Some may deem it 'ruthless'(??) but I enjoy the clarity that comes with it. I believe that it's His peace that guards our hearts. It's becomes easier to cut ourselves away from issues that are potentially emotional. I guess when all that matter is Christ, compassion and love flows where it should, where there is life. And where there is no life, and because I know that all my passions are vested in Christ, nothing else and no one else matters as much as Him. When I recognise the relative value of what I am currently holding dear and what Jesus is to me, the former becomes like dust.

In the last fortnight, I've made 'snap' decisions on 3 potentially emotional issues. It was quite painless. Except for the latest, probably 'cos it's only yesterday, so there's still the twinge of nostalgia. But I have that confidence that whatever decisions I make, my God, my Abba is so jealous of me, He'll never let me get hurt.

The decisions are easy to make (hence 'snap' haha) 'cos if what I see now seems good but I know it's not the best for me, how much more the real thing - the unshakeable promise and plans that He has already laid for me in my future. I mean, what I see is already good and I am already willing to take it - if I'm already satisfied at this level and it's the 'wrong' one, how much more the 'right' one! How much more glorious is my hope in Him and His promise! Hallelujah!

23

Read slowly.


The LORD is my shepherd,
I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside quiet waters.
He restores my soul;
He guides me in the paths of righteousness
For His name's sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I fear no evil, for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You have anointed my head with oil;
My cup overflows.
Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life,
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

Psalm 23

Dare to let God loose in you

E.W. Kenyon said that! The above title. I'm flipping through the pages of "The Blood Covenant" lent to me by a beloved sister. Below is a few paragraphs extracted from a chapter:-

"Do you know what hinders our faith toay?

We go before the Lord, BUT we listen to the devil before we go there. We go there with a sense of inferiority, the devil's message ringing in our ears!

Christians as a whole are afraid of Satan, dare not say they are free, dare not face Satan.

God's Righteousness makes you fearless in Satan's presence.

We rob the work of Jesus Christ of its efficacy, and we stand pwoerless before the adversary because we have doubted the integrity of the Word of God.

God's righteousness has been imparted to you, not as an "experience," but as a legal fact.

This is the most tremendous truth that God has given us in the Pauline REvelation, and this is the very heart of the New Covenant, that God makes us like Himself.

Weren't you made in His image and likeness?

That image is an image of righteousness.

If God declares that you are righteous, what business have you to condemn yourself?

Are you a partner of Christ? Do you dwell in Christ? Does Christ dwell in you?

Paul said, "It is no longer I that live, but Christ liveth in me" Gal 2:20

The Incarnation was God becoming one with us.

The Blood Covenant made Paul disown himself and utterly own Christ as his life. It made Christ leave Glory and come here to be one with us.

Now you can stand asf earlessly in the presence of hell, in the presence of the devil, as you would inthe presence of some little inferior thing.

Didn't Jesus meet him and conquer him for us? Didn't He strip him of his authority? Didn't He take his armor from him, and didn't He leave him paralyzed?

Greater is He that is in us than the devil.

Why should we be afraid of him?

Why not stand before the world as a conqueror?

You are in blood covenant relationship with God Almighty.

Are you a partaker of the Divine nature? Yes.

Are you a son of God? Yes.

Has God given you His righteousness? Yes

Is God your righteousness? Certainly.

Then, has He given you a legal right to the use of Jesus' name? Certainly.

Do you see what kind of man you are?

You are not a weakling. You stand like the Son of God. You are a son of God.

I say it reverently, if I understand the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, this is the vision He has given me of it: that all of heaven's ability and heaven's glory and heaven's strength are at the dispoal of the believer.

This is the most miraculous thing the world ever saw.

I believe that in the last days there is going to be an unveiling of the power of God, and multitudes will arise and live.

If you believe on Jesus Christ, He IS your righteousness.

Then go out and act it. Dare to let God loose in you."

The Way You are

I heard about Christian rock group "The Afters" from our church magazine. I'm new to their music and not really a fan yet. But I've been reading through the lyrics. In particular, the chorus of this song, "The Way You are"


It's like the sun swallowed up by the earth
Like atomics bombs in reverse
As if a glass could contain the sea
That's the way You are in me
That's the way You are

First Love

Was flipping through the notes and thoughts I've written down during Ben-gen camp. Realised I have taken down the lyrics to a song we sang.

I think part of my heart is crying out, to stay true to Him. To the One who loves me. No relationship with man can ever replace His love. I cling to Him because He is unchangeable, His love, unconditional, dependable. My rock, my love!

It's a beautiful song. Even if you don't know the melody, read the lyrics, close your eyes and imagine yourself speaking to Him, your Beloved. :) How wonderful He is!

First love, my first love
My soul longs after You
First love, my first love
I want my heart to stay true

Because You first love me
Jesus, I want You to be
I want You to be
my first love

Taking a break from blogging!

Hey all!

I'm taking a break from blogging. Why? Hmm... think it's 'cos I want to take some quiet time to grow inwardly, like a tree branching her roots deep into the soil.. poetic license.. haha :D I guess I want a little more 'me-time' just Abba and myself. Hmm.. perhaps not enough overflow to share... shall go and drink more deeply of the living waters...

Isaiah 58:11

The LORD will guide you continually,
And satisfy your soul in drought,
And strengthen your bones;
You shall be like a watered garden
And like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.

Don't take enough time to think and meditate on God's Word... just feel quite hungry.

See ya all.. perhaps next year! :)

Where is Jesus in the bible?

In Genesis Jesus is the Ram at Abraham's altar.
In Exodus He's the Passover Lamb.
In Leviticus He's the High Priest.
In Numbers He's the Cloud by day and pillar of fire by night.
In Deuteronomy He's the City of our refuge.
In Joshua He's the Scarlet Thread out Rahab's window.
In Judges He is our Judge.
In Ruth He is our Kinsman redeemer.
In 1st & 2nd Samuel He's our Trusted Prophet.
And in Kings and Chronicles He's our Reigning King.
In Ezra He is our Faithful Scribe.
In Nehemiah He's the Rebuilder of everything that is broken.
And in Esther He is the Mordecai sitting faithful at the gate.
In Job He's our redeemer that ever liveth.
In Psalms He is my Shepherd and I shall not want.
In Proverbs and Ecclesiastes He's our Wisdom.
And in the Song of Solomon He's the Beautiful Bridegroom.
In Isaiah He's the Suffering Servant.
In Jeremiah and Lamentations it is Jesus that is the Weeping Prophet.
In Ezekiel He's the Wonderful Four-Faced Man.
And in Daniel He is the Fourth Man in the midst of a fiery furnace.
In Hosea He is my Love that is forever faithful.
In Joel He baptizes us with the Holy Spirit.
In Amos He's our Burden Bearer.
In Obadiah our Savior.
And in Jonah He is the Great Foreign Missionary that takes the Word of God into all of the world.
You go on and you see in Micah He is the Messenger with beautiful feet.
In Nahum He is the Avenger.
In Habakkuk He is the Watchman that is ever praying for revival.
In Zephaniah He is the Lord mighty to save.
In Haggai He is the Restorer of our lost heritage.
In Zechariah He is our Fountain.
And in Malachi He is the Son of Righteousness with healing in His wings.

In Matthew Thou art the Christ the Son of the Living God.
In Mark He is the Miracle Worker.
In Luke He's the Son of Man.
And in John He is the Door by which everyone of us must enter.
In Acts He is the Shining Light that appears to Saul on the road to Damascus.
In Romans He is our Justifier.
In 1st Corinthians our Resurrection.
In 2nd Corinthians our Sin Bearer.
In Galatians He redeems us from the law.
In Ephesians He is our Unsearchable Riches.
In Philippians He supplies our every need.
And in Colossians He's the Fullness of the Godhead Bodily.
In 1st and 2nd Thessalonians He is our Soon Coming King.
In 1st and 2nd Timothy He is the Mediator between God and man.
In Titus He is our Blessed Hope.
In Philemon He is a Friend that sticks closer than a brother.
And in Hebrews He's the Blood of the everlasting covenant.
In James it is the Lord that heals the sick.
In 1st and 2nd Peter He is the Chief Shepherd.
In 1st, 2nd and 3rd John it is Jesus who has the tenderness of love.
In Jude He is the Lord coming with 10,000 saints.
And in Revelation..... He is Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending.

Be responsible. Buy insurance.

Just read this whilst surfing today.

But he didn't have life insurance

Makan time!

Makan time!

O food, glorious food!

I'm referring both to the spiritual and physical. :D

Yesterday, Oasis ministry - wow, excellent! It's not the kind of prosperity message I expected.

And then the dinner later.. well with bro CW, you can be sure it'll be very cerebral! Praise Jesus! I'm so fascinated by the conversations.. definitely have a teaching anointing over him :) We looked at the Word, culturally, geographically and historically... Revelations come through the heart, but we get renewed in our mind as well.. and it's wonderful when someone comes along and fits the puzzle for you, the places and names and it makes sense and you go... "oh..wow..oh..I see" Excellent!

Then today, Pastor said something I didn't really see before.. anyway, let me 'assimilate' the revelation first. Feel sometimes like it's boiling soup, take time slowly to boil all the nutrients and goodies out...

Wow, fellowship over makan is ze best! Especially with fellow brethren who are as excited about the Word. Wow, so much life! And it's like the washing of the Word and building each other up. :D

Today, got to serve in nursery. And really felt the presence of God today. Such peace and confidence. Very shiok! Abba is good!

When I am dry
You fill my cup
You are my all in all...

King of Heaven

Who is there like you Lord?
Clothed in strength and beauty
Marvellous, so wonderful in deeds

You who calmed the tempest
You who made the blind see
Mighty is Your hand to deliver me

King of Heaven
Exalted above all
My victory, my song
Great in majesty and glory

King of Heaven
You're worthy to be praised
All honour to Your name
Jesus reigned forevermore


This song is written by Karen from our music ministry. She's the Lucy Liu look-alike playing the keyboard during worship.

The first time I heard this song, it just touched me. Because it is a song that I am singing to Him. It is not a song we're singing. And when I am singing to Him, I just feel that Jesus is mine. "Who is there like you Lord? Clothed in strength and beauty."

And in the next verse, I can just see Him walking alone the shores of Galilee. That's my Jesus. That's my God.

What is worship? As I was singing "Exalted above all; My victory, my song, Great in majesty and glory" I was just reminded of this verse from John 3:14

And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up,

Exalted - lifted high.. at what price our victory? And yet, through the cross, through His death, we are victorious. And so we sing, Jesus, great in majesty and glory. O worthy to be praised! Jesus, reign forevermore!

Just for fun!

You are Ephesians.


Which book of the Bible are you?
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Quote from Smith Wigglesworth

Tongues and Interpretation; "The living God has chosen us for His divine inheritance, and He it is who is preparing us for our ministry, that it may be of God and not of man."


It is a blessed thing to learn that God's word can never fail. Never hearken to human plans. God can work mightily when you persist in believing Him in spite of discouragements from the human standpoint.

I am not moved by what I see. I am moved only by what I believe. I know this-no man looks at appearances if he believes. No man considers how he feels if he believes. The man who believes God has it. Every man who comes into the Pentecostal condition can laugh at all things and believe God. There is something in the Pentecostal work that is different from anything else in the world. Somehow, in Pentecost, you know that God is a reality. Wherever the Holy Ghost has right of way, the gifts of the Spirit will be in manifestation; and where these gifts are never in manifestation, I question whether He is present. Pentecostal people are spoiled for anything else than Pentecostal meetings. We want none of the entertainments that the churches are offering. When God comes in He entertains us Himself. Entertained by the King of kings and Lord of lords! O, it is wonderful.

A man and a woman

I have been thinking about what Pastor Prince and Pastor Mark mentioned..

Pastor Prince observed that in the bible, it talks many times about the husband loving the wife, but not about the wife loving the husband... and he asked the congregation 'why?' (of course rhetorical :))

Because when a man loves a woman, she will love him back. Women are made that way.

The bible talks about the relationship between Christ and the church, as between a husband and his wife. But also in our own personal relationship with Him... ask yourself when and why you fell in love with Jesus? You'll have the same answer as me :) When I found out how much He loved me, that's when I fell for Him.

Is it the same between a man and a woman? Does it not work the other way round too? hmmm... well, the bible did not mention, wife love thy husband. And I'm just reminded, a book I read concluded that men spell love as 'r-e-s-p-e-c-t'. I partly summarised it here: For women only Way before this book was written, the bible talks about women submitting to the husband, as to the Lord.

There's something awesome about the observation that Pastor Prince made. He said God gave woman to man so that man would understand Jesus' love for the church. I think it's a very special revelation that perhaps only a man would understand?

It takes a secure woman to submit, to a man, as to the Lord. I would venture to say true submission in the heart is only possible through a revelation of His love.

Interesting observation Pastor Mark made.. actually about his wife. Some time back, he said "when a man loves a woman, she just blossoms."

There's just something about love.

I suppose that's why some people, whether they are Christians or not, have that inner glow. They know they're loved.

Sensory perceptions

Personal definition...

Carnality - using sense-knowledge to determine the Word of God.

I know that the truth of His Word, is simply because He says so. Circumstances do not determine nor dictate the truth and reality of His Word. And to be honest, I distrusted the senses.. waiting for the redemption of this mortal body, to put on incorruptible.

But I have since started this past week, not to despise the senses. You see, what I did was to have a blanket distrust of sensory perception. Yet when one thinks about it, it is the Lord who created colour, texture, aroma and sound. Before the fall, God created the earth and all it's beautities for us to enjoy.

Hmm.. how did I come up with this conclusion? The strangest thing...

Cologne! hahaha :D

Personally, I don't wear perfume. Just not used to it I guess. And generally, I don't enjoy perfume. But strangely, I kinda of like cologne. Is it an opposite sex kind of thing?

Well, not all cologne! Anyway, someone I knew was wearing this cologne that I really liked... it was well, very pleasing :D Hmm.. does cologne then makes the man? :D

It kinda of reminded me that Jesus was presented as a sweet smelling aroma to God, pleasing to Him. It's just the way the bible describes it.. linking the sense of smell and pleasure...

and hence, it also reminded me to take the time, to enjoy creation. To enjoy my senses. After all, God gave man the 5 senses to enjoy creation before the fall. Hmm.. taking the time to enjoy the texture of a leaf, to admire the redness of a rose, to feel the brush of the wind, to smell rain, the whisper of a breath...

Take my life and let it be

by Frances Ridley Havergal

Take my life and let it be, consecrated, Lord, to Thee
Take my hands and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love
At the impulse of Thy love

Take my feet and let them be, swift and beautiful for Thee
Take my voice, and let me sing
Always, only, for my King
Always, only, for my King

Take my silver and my gold: Not a mite would I withhold
Take my moments and my days
Let them flow in ceaseless praise
Let them flow in ceaseless praise

Take my will and make it Thine, it shall be no longer mine
Take my heart, it is Thine own
It shall be Thy royal throne
It shall be Thy royal throne

People

People - can you figure them out? 'cos I can't! :D

At times loving, at times petty...

At the end of the day, I suppose it's the companionship.

It's the conversation and the presence.

Communication and conversation.. hmm.. words are a powerful thing. It can build a person, it can turn vicious.

A long time back, I read this poster that went straight to my heart 'cos I was guilty of it... I told myself then, that I shall watch my tongue, for it holds the power of life and death.. and out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.

Of course, I'm quoting scripture now. But back then, I wasn't a Christian. Still, God gives a certain amount of wisdom to the world.

And I believe it's applicable today.


The poster read:-

Big minds discuss ideas

Average minds discuss events

Small minds discuss people


I'm writing this down 'cos well, honestly, I'm taking the coward's way out. It's difficult to tell people directly. But it's not so much the person speaking, I'm finally writing this down 'cos I've been witnessing its deterioriating effect, not only on the person itself, but friends who are around as well.

Well, I'm speaking this in abstract. Take it if you feel there's life in this correction. Reject it if you feel it doesn't apply. :)

On the other hand, I've been around environment where there's absolutely no politics. And it's wonderful! It's liberating!

God loved people. People are meant to be enjoyed, to be loved. I'm still learning! God knows! But where it proves to be a tough challenge, like how a saying goes, "when you have nothing good to say, don't say."

The tongue, the tongue - "even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity." (James 3)

Yet praise God! He has given us today a new language! A new heart! Love bears all thing. Beloved, I pray that you build yourself up on your most holy faith. Use your words to cleanse, to build each other, to edify, to encourage and to love. For in so doing, you too are able to experience the love Abba has for each and every one of us.

Pursuit

I will follow after you as long as my soul lives
I will lift up my hands unto thy name O Lord
My mouth shall praise You
because You have been my help

In the shadow of Your wings will I rejoice my Lord
Your loving kindness overwhelms my soul O Lord
and I will bless You
I will love You all my life


I was just thinking this afternoon of taking a break from blogging.. 'cos recently have no flow to blog. Because this is a public blog, I don't really share the real, intimate and personal aspects of my relationship with Jesus.

And really, intimacy is what I missed most. I missed journelling... there's something about writing it down, pen on paper, something very physical and tangible that's just different from typing it up. And also, I don't refer to Him in the third person. It's not "the Lord", it becomes "You". And when He becomes "You", I become "me". And isn't that what a relationship is about? Just two people having a personal one-on-one time.

The pursuit of God.. I missed that. During worship, I feel Him loving me, in His embrace. I love being still in His presence, to simply meditate and think on His love. But I also love it when He reminds me of His presence in the nitty gritty of my life.

Part of my job involves calling. Well, I was calling for over an hour and the stats were against me. Didn't get an appointment. I suppose by this time, some people may be psyching themselves up like "every no brings me closer to a yes" etc etc..

Well, naturally, part of me was wondering, hey Lord, where's the favour? But you know, there was no sense of rejection or feeling down. I felt that deep within me, a gentle voice asked, "Do you still believe?"

It's like that ball that refuses to sink, but is still buoyant, bouncing, floating on top of the rough waters.. except it doesn't seem rough to me. And I said, "yes" to the truth that my supply came from the Lord; "yes" to the truth that God is faithful even when circumstances don't seem good; "yes" to what the Word says, that His favour surrounds me as a shield even when I don't seem to see it.

And as I answered that voice, I just felt His love and His joy come gently around, His peace settling in my heart. I just felt Him love me. And I feel, wow, even when I doing this mundane thing like calling, He shows Himself to me. Not even leaving me alone. He reminds me that He is there. Abba is just so good, so good to me.

And I realise, that He's calling me to drink more deeply from Him. To come and refresh myself again. It's not in going to church, in worship only... it's to feed and feed on His Word as bread, to be still and enjoy Him. Enjoy Him.. wow. To sit at His feet and look at Him, in His beauty, in His goodness, in His glory.

Wow, work is wonderful when God reveals Himself in the things we do. I guess that's why work can be worship.

I remind myself not to get distracted, and I have been for the past few weeks. It's not about doing other things. I can still have an active life. But it's to gird my mind, to focus my energies, to labour to enter the rest by actively partaking of the manna from heaven. O Abba, even this hunger in my heart Lord, this unspeakable yearning in my soul is from You. O give me more of You!

Today was so wonderful! My boss' sister was in critical life-threatening condition in the hospital. But praise God! He wrought a miracle. When she showed me the sms giving the good news, I had good shivers just reading it.. wow, God is so good! And my boss, she was 'stubborn'. She refused to give up on her sister, even when bad reports are all around. As she was telling me this testimony, I just feel the love that Abba had for her sister. He loves her so much, so much. And I think God yearns too. And He hates sickness and disease. And He is the great "I AM" Jehovah Repheka, He is still the Lord that healeth. O isn't He great! His name is Wonderful! Praise Jesus! Praise Jesus! Lovely, wonderful Saviour! Almighty God!

Just the way you are

Easy listening...


Just the way you are (Billy Joel)


Don't go changing, to try and please me
You never let me down before
Don't imagine you're too familiar
And I don't see you anymore
I wouldn't leave you in times of trouble
We never could have come this far
I took the good times, I'll take the bad times
I'll take you just the way you are

I don't want clever conversation
I never want to work that hard
I just want someone that I can talk to
I want you just the way you are.

I need to know that you will always be
The same old someone that I knew
What will it take till you believe in me
The way that I believe in you.

I said I love you and that's forever
And this I promise from the heart
I could not love you any better
I love you just the way you are.

A prayer

Abba, today's a new day. A day that You have made. But it seems like any other day. And 'any other' seems so dull...

Abba, Daddy, be with me today Lord. In every moment, let my mind settle at rest on You. Remind me of Your presence with me Father, in the little details of my life. Sometimes, I need the tangible feel of your love to feel loved, even though I know that You already love me so.

My Jesus, my saviour, my Lord and friend. Embrace me again, speak loving words in my heart and refresh me. Life isn't in the activities and the busyness of the day. Neither is it in the dull, lingering, merry-go-round coach potato moments of life. Life my love, I believe, is continuous prayer with You, to be continuously aware of Your loving presence in my life.

Not even as a 'feel good' Kodak moment. Sometimes, I have to remind myself that You are my God too. Ready to move in might and power on my behalf. To show Yourself strong before Your people, that You may be feared and glorified. That You may be loved, in reverence and awe.

What is intensity Lord? What is your love Lord? Just when I thought I felt it all, there's more to discover isn't there? Of Your goodness and Your love and Your power. You are so immense and still... yet so intimate and real. How do I know You more Jesus? Just by letting You draw me near and loving me?

But Abba, sometimes I want to do something for You too - to love as You love me. But even then, it's not how much I can love, my capacity is so limited. Sometimes, I admit, I'm afraid to draw near You, because before You, I'm reduced to tears, by Your goodness and Your mercy. Yet You continuously call me to yourself.

Abba, sometimes I feel like I'm receiving so much from You but not doing enough. I look at myself and have to remind myself to look back to You. Teach me simply Lord, more and more, just to rest, really rest in Your love. And be unashamed to have You love me again and again...

I love You Lord. Because You first loved me. And gave Yourself for me.

No. 14

If thou must love me, let it be for nought
Except for love's sake only. Do not say
I love her for her smile--her look--her way
Of speaking gently,--for a trick of thought
That falls in well with mine, and certes brought
A sense of ease on such a day--
For these things in themselves, Belovèd, may
Be changed, or change for thee,--and love, so wrought,
May be unwrought so. Neither love me for
Thine own dear pity's wiping my cheek dry,--
A creature might forget to weep, who bore
Thy comfort long, and lose thy love thereby!
But love me for love's sake, that evermore
Thou may'st love on, through love's eternity.


Sonnet XIV, Elizabeth Barrett Browning

Divine lover

He will rejoice over you with singing (Zephaniah 3:17)

Excerpted from "A Divine Invitation" by Steve Mcvey.

'I was teaching from this verse one day when Helena came to me afterward and said, "I was reading that verse not long ago and noticed that it says the Lord sings over us with joy. 'Lord,' I asked, 'Do you really sing over me? What could you possibly sing about me?' Immediately," she said, "one of my favourite old songs from years gone by popped into my mind, word for word.At first I tried to dismiss it, thinking, "This can't be the Lord.' but the song wouldn't stop and shortly I knew it was indeed the Lord singing a song to me."

Helena continued, "I heard Him sing to me, 'You are my sunshine, My only sunshine. You make me happy when skies are gray. You'll never know dear, how much I love you. Please don't take my sunshine away!' I realized then," Helena said, "just how much He loves me! To think that I am the sunshine of His life absolutely overwhelmed me!"

Someone might protest, "Why would the Lord sing a song to her like that one?" Don't think the only songs your Prince Charming knows are religious songs. He sang the song to Helena that He knew would thrill her heart. He wasn't singing to Himself, but to her. That's how wonderful our Divine Lover is. He knows your favourite songs, your favourite places, your favourite everything. Every good thing you enjoy in life is His love song to you.'


Earths crammed with heaven,
And every common bush afire with God;
But only he who sees, takes off his shoes,
The rest sit around it and pluck blackberries.

Elizabeth Barrett Browning in her poem "Aurora Leigh"

And finally, a gentle invitation....


Arise, my darling, my beautiful one,
And come along.
For behold, the winter is past,
The rain is over and gone.
The flowers have already appeared in the land;
The time has arrived for pruning the vines,
And the voice of the turtledove has been heard in our land.
The fig tree has ripened its figs
And the vines in blossom have given forth their fragrance.
Arise, my darling, my beautiful one,
And come along....


Song of Solomon 2:10-13

Growing gloriously

Have you ever thought about physical growth and the passing of time?

I saw a little girl today, draped comfortably over daddy's arms.

A few days ago, I saw a picture of the world's oldest recorded human being, a lady, age 117, all wrinkled but full of smiles.

Today, I met a classmate I haven't seen for some time, beautiful, sexy, vivacious and young.

I had the impression that 33 years young is the peak, the fullness of manhood or womanhood as the case may be 'cos Christ died when He was 33. Thereafter, "with long life He satisfies me."

But a thought ocurred to me today.

When God made man, He crowned him with glory and honour. Even when man sinned and died spiritually, he physically lived for over 900 years. How wonderful, how youthful they must be!

It was what Eve said that caught my attention today.

"I have acquired a man from the Lord" (Genesis 4:1)

To me, babies are fresh from heaven. In this world though, they are 'taught' fear and worry. Then sin creeps in and the body grows and ages. But is this necessarily true for those of us in Christ today?

Adam and Eve were never babies. So it must have been quite strange when she gave birth. And she said, "a man" In their near perfect physical state, just after the fall, (man had to be taught to speak words of death and learn to die then 'cos sin was so alien in the beginning) - a full grown man and a babe must have been both glorious, both 'fresh from heaven.'

I don't know. But a baby is born with foolishness in its heart (Proverbs 22:15) and needs to learn to eat from the tree of life. But usually, it is taught to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. (The law = ministry of death [2 Corin 3:7])

Instead of growing old and dying, shouldn't we in Christ be growing glorious and living?

What does it mean when the Word says that we are being transformed from glory to glory? Is it only inner transformation? Or is it physical as well?


Romans 8:11

But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.

"quicken" in greek

1) to produce alive, begat or bear living young

2) to cause to live, make alive, give life

a) by spiritual power to arouse and invigorate

b) to restore to life

c) to give increase of life: thus of physical life

d) of the spirit, quickening as respects the spirit, endued with new and greater powers of life

3) metaph., of seeds quickened into life, i.e. germinating, springing up, growing


Whoa! I tell you what I think!

Forget about 'peaking' at 33 years young.

God's way of restoring us is not restoring us like Adam. Nope! Abba does it lavishly! Restoring us from sinners to adoption into His family, found in Christ!

So imagine, babies are so beautiful right? So what am I like now? An aging babe?! hahaha :D No way! According to His Word, the Holy Spirit within me zoefies my mortal body.

Eve equated Caine with Adam ('cos the only man she had reference to was Adam) - and man was still physically beautiful and young after the fall. How much more us today!

In Christ, we are transformed from glory to glory. So in the natural, if a baby is so beautiful to behold, in a family showered by the love of God, a believing family speaking life to it, it grows to become more glorious, not old.

It's a promise of the here and now! We are the generation that will not see death. I truely believe that I will see Him face to face!

There is still sin in the flesh.. yet we are dead to it - I believe it's through a continual renewal of the spirit of the mind, meditating day and night on His Word. Not scripture memorising! But just, R&R in His love for moi - allowing Him to love me deeply!

Wonderful to be daughters of Sarah! Her youth was renewed in her 'old' age!

Wonderful to have the promise of Abraham (for guys as well). You know he had many children by another lady after Isaac? Praise God!

Hey, take God's orders seriously. Be fruitful and multiply! I was telling my client that I wanted 5 children. His eyes opened a little bigger and he observed wryly that I am a supporter of the government, "get married, don't stop at 2 policy." hahahaha :D

Well, Abba did give man a mandate to populate the earth! Hallelujah! I want to surround myself with a family I love too! And children are blessings BLESSINGS from the Lord!

Whatever

Is there a way whereby whatever you do prospers?

Wouldn't that be great? If you're a teacher, you're a great one! If you're a security consultant, you're a great one! So since I'm a financial advisor, I'm a great one! :D


Psalm 1

Blessed is the man
Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,
Nor stands in the path of sinners,
Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;

But his delight is in the law of the LORD,
And in His law he meditates day and night.

He shall be like a tree
Planted by the rivers of water,
That brings forth its fruit in its season,
Whose leaf also shall not wither;
And whatever he does shall prosper.