Reflections Of A Church Intern

Psalm 1: 1-3
1 Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers.
2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.
3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.

Jeremiah 17:7-8
7 "But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him.
8 He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit."

I guess these two parallel verses above sums up my internship experience here in Trinity Methodist Church. Having just graduated from polytechnic, I was considering whether continue an internship in the media industry or to do something else. The Lord impressed upon me Psalms 1. It took me awhile to understand the meaning behind what was said and eventually that’s how I decided to do an internship in church.

I thank God for Ivan, Pastor Bernard and Pastor Dianna for closely supervising my time here and giving me opportunities to experience different areas of ministry. Also, the church staff has also been very nice to me, feeding me and helping me when I’m in need.

Here are some of the experiences I had and some thoughts I have about them:

Visiting the sick in hospital
Visiting the sick is one of the ways to express concern and care for them and at the same time, strengthen and develop social relationships with them and their family. Being ambassadors of Christ we put hope and optimism into their hearts as we encourage them to be strong and pray for their recovery.

Serving Communion to the homebound
This is about bringing Jesus to the people who are unable to go to church. It symbolizes the presence of God with them even if they were not able to worship together as a corporate body in church. I feel that this is one of the beautiful things in Christian ministry – being able to bring or share God’s love even to those who can’t make it to church.

The Connection
I’ve enjoyed attending the connection so far. I have gained many insights into the Lord’s Prayer in the past few sessions. Worship leading during the prayer meeting forces me to think of songs to fit the theme and also the congregation. This too helped me in improving my worship leading skills.

Youth Ministry Work
With more time at hand, I could look more into youth ministry stuff. I had a great time meeting up with the core group, with Pastor Bernard and also with some of the youths. Planning and developing plans for youth ministry and also fellowship and catching up with one another. I could also look more into my worship team and my worship leading skills. I also managed to have a feel of Contact 123 and the Alpha Course, both outreach programmes. I see that they have great potential with the youth ministry. Youth Ministry is definitely something I enjoy doing for now; after being so intimately involved with it. Let’s see how the Lord leads.

LMS Planning Retreat
Through this retreat and the many Wednesday morning meetings. I have come to learn more about the church and its ministries. I’ve learnt the way the church functions and of the big dreams and visions that we have. I also got to know the lay ministry staff and the pastors better.
Photo-taking Exercise
This was a difficult one. I learnt to put my trust in the youths. Knowing that if anything goes wrong, it would be hard to rectify. It has taught me several administrative skills and also how to manage and handle a team.

Church Camp
400+ people at camp was amazing. It is definitely God’s work. I thank God for the great youth “party” that was carried out on the second day. To see the happy faces and good response from the youths is definitely satisfying after the laborious planning with Eugene and Xiaorong. I also thank God for the opportunity to work with some of the adults leading worship and also a chance to lead a worship session. Leading a congregation of 300 is probably nerve-wrecking but surprisingly it wasn’t that bad. I got to work on my pitch. It was a great camp. I managed to “connect” with some youths which I have not had the chance to during YM. I thank also thank God for the powerful prayers of the Chinese ministry that really touch my heart.

In conclusion,

The fruit of the spirit – love. As I spoke about loving God with all our heart, with all our soul and with all our strength to the youths during one of the youth meetings, I mentioned that: “As I ponder upon this commandment and be honest to myself, I am humbled and broken, because I realize that,”I do not love him with all my heart, soul, and strength! My mind and feelings do not dwell completely in the Lord. My heart does not beat for God only, my subconscious is not filled with the love of God and my inner being is not directed toward the Creator alone. I do love God but I have not loved him with all my being.”

As I look at the church at work, as I see how God is moving in this church, I am beginning to appreciate the things that God has done. I’ve begin to give thanks more often and always praise Him for what He has done. I’ve begin to learn what it means to live from the inside out and what it means to be putting others before self. As I begin the next chapter of my youth, I look forward to see what God is going to do.

Is Enough Enough?

After a series of reflections... I asked myself have i been giving of my time to God out of comfort?
Do I lead worship, play the guitar, be a small group leader, plan events out of my own free time?

or do i like in Deuteronomy 6

4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. 5 Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.

ALL is the key word here.

Come, ye that love the Lord,
And let your joys be known;
Join in a song with sweet accord,
While ye surround his throne:
Let those refuse to sing
Who never knew our God;
But servants of the heavenly King
May speak their joys abroad

The God that rules on high,
That all the earth surveys
That rides upon the stormy sky,
And calms the roaring seas-
This awful God is ours,
Our Father and our love;
He will send down his heavenly powers,
To carry us above.

There we shall see his face,
And never, never sin;
There, from the rivers of his grace,
Drink endless pleasures in:
Yea, and before we rise
To that immortal state,
The thoughts of such amazing bliss
Should constant joys create.

The men of grace have found
Glory begun below;
Celestial fruit on earthly ground
From faith and hope may grow:
Then let our songs abound,
And every tear be dry;
We are marching through Immanuel's grounds
To fairer worlds on high.

John Wesley

Unbelievers in the Worship Team?!?

Can an unbeliever lead a believer in worship?

A REBELution

Luke 22:37 (New Living Translation)
37 For the time has come for this prophecy about me to be fulfilled:
‘He was counted among the rebels.’ Yes, everything written about me by the prophets will come true.”

Isaiah 53:12 (New Living Translation)
12 I will give him the honors of a victorious soldier, because he exposed himself to death. He was counted among the rebels. He bore the sins of many and interceded for rebels

WHY? AND I WILL ...

Why do people shy away, afraid to say your name?
What is it that scares them, for all things you are blamed?
Why is it that people talk, so low it's hard to hear..
Do you know precisely ... what do your people fear?
Does not every life created, breathing in your air..
want to get to know you and how you truly care?
Don't they want to know of you and how you're in their lives,
even though they can't see, the love that's in their eyes?
Don't they know you love them all, separate as they are,
and you're right beside them, never gone afar?
I will do my best, to tell them of your name.
I will always love you, and never be ashamed.
I will hold my head up high and try to make you proud.
I will talk about you, even in a crowd.
I will spread the gospel of your every single word.
I will let the others know, and pray it will be heard.
Never will I lose the hope, that all your people know,
You are a Loving Father, who will never let us go....

Ellen C. Doucette

Hymns of adoration sing

Hello!!

I'm back blogging once again. Its been great doing internship in church and God has been opening doors for me to experience His goodness and see His work. Thank You God.

Well, its been some time since habakkuk; here's what i did

A Walk through Habakkuk’s Prayer

Station 1 - Habakkuk 1, 2 - Asking God Questions

Write on the piece of paper provided questions you have about God, man, Christianity etc

Station 2 - Habakkuk 3:3-15 – A Proclamation of God’s Greatness in the past.

Because of our human tendency to worry, we often forget the times God has blessed us. Take a few moments to see if we can recall any time in our lives when we felt God’s goodness in our lives.

Activity: Write or draw one such event on the piece of paper provided as an act of proclamation of God’s grace.

Station 3 - Habakkuk 3:17 - “though the fig tree does not blossom…”

Habakkuk was thinking of the worst that could happen (famine and starvation).

Activity: Take a few minutes to think of one or more of your most significant fears. Write or draw it down on the piece of paper provided

Station 4 - Habakkuk 3:18-19 – A Pledge to God’s Praise Forever.

Habakkuk was not being morbid by thinking of the worst that could happen (famine and starvation). He was making a resolution to remain faithful to God and His righteousness no matter what.

Activity: Praying for one another

Meditate on the closing words of Habakkuk’s book:

Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls,

yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights.

Habbakuk's Prayer

Though the fig tree does not blossom
And there are no grapes on the vines
Though the olive tree is barren
And the fields produce no fruit
Though there are no sheep in the penfold
And no cattle in the stalls
I know the Sovereign Lord my Saviour
Is my strength and is my job

The Sovereign Lord is my strength
He makes my feet like those of deer
I can walk on my high places
Treading bravely without fear.

Chorus:
So I will exalt in the Lord
I will rejoice in the God of my salvation!
I will exalt in the Lord
I will rejoice in the God of my salvation!

As we come into His presence
Humbly bow before our King
As we bow our hearts to worship
Hymns of adoration sing
He has promised He will meet us
If we truly seek His face
As we come into His presence
Resting only in His grace
As we come into His presence
We will worship and adore
Christ our one and only Saviour
King of kings forevermore

Many of the youths responded to the challeng to live in faith and by whenever trials and tribulations come their way. I pray that whenever that is, you will remain faithful to the God who has always been so faithful to you :) Jesus Christ

Question the Question

Apologies for the lagg of posts. Been lazy and playing this new game Cabal. This kinda mmopg games really get you hooked on fast.

Anyways, i've been out visiting a few people in hospital in the past month. Brings back memories of when my mum was in hospital. Looking at the patient, looking at the family - i cannot help but try to figure out what is going on in their minds, especially with those whose family member is just on the verge of death. I've gone down this road before and i can empathise. And i'm going to ask this question - Why does God allow us to suffer? Isn't He the God of love, mercy and compassion? Surely He would not bear to see us suffer.

Do we suffer because, it is a test from God of our faith?
Do we suffer because, He wants us to draw near to Him?
Do we suffer because, He wants to teach us something?
Do we suffer because, God is using us as part of His plan?
Do we suffer because, we are sinful by nature?
Do we suffer because, we chose God?

To push the question further, Why does God allow the righteous/innocent to suffer? Look at the wars happening around the world, natural diseasters, violence, crimes. This is exactly the same question the prophet Habbakuk struggled with.

Habakkuk cried to God because the wicked people were treating the good people very badly. He wondered how God could allow the wicked people to do mean things for so long. After a "short dialouge" with God, the answer comes...

The final conclusion of Habakkuk is that we must allow God to be God, and allow Him to do things His way and in His own good time. Our job is to trust Him and to live by faith! "The righteous will live by his faith" (Habakkuk 2:4) --- the key verse of this entire book!! Although things do not always turn out as we would like, yet we will rejoice in the Lord anyway! (Habakkuk 3:17-19).

I have come to terms with this. Whenever we “wrestle” (which is actually what the name Habakkuk means) with such doubts or questions. Have this in the back of your head. Our job is to trust Him and to live by faith! Although things do not always turn out as we would like, yet we will rejoice in the Lord anyway. Faith, Hope and Love.

"And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away." - Revelation 21:4

The Case For Evangelism

Jesus, I believe in You

And I would go to the ends of the earth

To the ends of the earth

For You alone are the Son of God

And all the world will see

That You are God

You are God

2 Corinthians 2:14-17 – But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place. For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing; to the one an aroma from death to death, to the other an aroma from life to life. And who is adequate for these things? For we are not like many, peddling the word of God, but as from sincerity, but as from God, we speak in Christ in the sight of God.

The apostle Paul declares that our evangelism is always victorious… whether men submit to Christ in faith, or whether they reject Him… We triumph as God manifests through us the knowledge of Christ in every place. This witness is a sweet aroma to God… regardless of how men respond to it!

However, concern for the nobleman's soul was not the supreme motive that moved Christ to witness to this sinner. Running even deeper within His breast was a love of God. Though induced by a desire to save men, Christ was primarily motivated by a longing to glorify His Father. You cannot carefully read the Gospels and fail to see that our Lord's chief aim in every act was to do the will of His Father and to make His glory known to men.

-John Piper, Let the Nations be Glad!

Take The Lead

"Men draw a circle around themselves and vow to protect and care for all who fall within it. For some men, that circle includes their "woman" and children. For others, their extended family. For great men -- leaders like D'Leh -- it includes many, many people. A man must decide who falls in his circle of influence."

I just caught Leap Years and 10 000 BC in like a 5 hour span. Amazing but true. haha. Leap years is one of the best Singapore production ever made. Almost. Except for the overload on Corinne May songs says Ms Guo. I'm glad to have caught it otherwise, i would to wait another 4 years -.- ok not funny.

10 000 BC, thats' where the above quote is from is kinda like a Lord of the rings + 300 + Independence Day + Jurassic Park + Ice Age combined. You get my drift. Set in a time before Abraham, the film pictures a world in which different people groups worship varying gods. Every Tribe prophesise of a great leader who would deliver them, with everyone of the prophesies coming true.

I want a big circle. how bout you?

We Worship - Based on Psalm 24

Verse:
Open up the doors, lift up the gates
The King of Glory, take His rightful place
Let His power fall, may His glory fill
May thy Holy Spirit, come do as it will

Chorus:
We worship the Lord Almighty
We worship the King of Kings
We worship the one who saved me
Jesus, who died to set me free

Bridge:
Lift our hands
Lift our voices
Lift up our praise to thee

For the choir director: A psalm of David, to be accompanied by stringed instruments.

Psalm 4

1 Answer me when I call to you,
O God who declares me innocent.
Free me from my troubles.
Have mercy on me and hear my prayer.

2 How long will you people ruin my reputation?
How long will you make groundless accusations?
How long will you continue your lies?

Selah

3 You can be sure of this:
The Lord set apart the godly for himself.
The Lord will answer when I call to him.

4 Don’t sin by letting anger control you.
Think about it overnight and remain silent.

Selah

5 Offer sacrifices in the right spirit,
and trust the Lord.

6 Many people say, “Who will show us better times?”
Let your face smile on us, Lord.
7 You have given me greater joy
than those who have abundant harvests of grain and new wine.
8 In peace I will lie down and sleep,
for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe.

Don't you just love the Psalms :)

The Importance of Fellowship on the horizontal plane

I have for a while been pondering on the idea of “church” and why we meet every Sunday. I had many questions circulating in my mind about whether it is important for us to keep meeting and running services like this at a regular basis or not.

For me, a person who has pretty much been attending church "religiously" all my life, it is quite easy to just go through the routine without thinking twice or questioning why i'm doing what i'm doing.

If someone were to ask me about 4 years ago why I go to church, I’m pretty sure I would’ve said something naïve like “to meet with God, of course”, without thinking anything of the absurd statement I just made. First of all it would’ve been a completely dishonest thing for me to say, and secondly, why can’t we meet with God outside of church? Does God only dwell in the closed up space of this fellowship we call church?

The way a church service is run, it is designed in a way so that we are able to put God in the focal point – Singing songs to GOD, having someone share a testimony about GOD’s work in their life, and hear the word being preached about what we think GOD is saying to the church etc. This is the place where we are taught about the wondrous being of God and how we are able to take part in His ultimate plan, and the interaction with one another connects us to the greater body of Christ.

The constant exposure to God’s revelation of the Word and the unity that is achieved in taking part in the corporate worship, exaltation and adoration of God should fill us up to the point where our hearts are overflowing with compassion and love. When the community feels dry and unfulfilling, maybe it’s time we re-examined what our personal purposes are in going to church. Because I think that church is a place where we build each other up, edify and encourage one other.

Fellowship is not just being together but doing together. It is not just doing anything together but it is working together to accomplish God’s will.

42They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. 44All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. 46Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

- Acts 2:42-47 - The Fellowship of Believers.

Prison Break...

This is hilarious. Found this on “The way of the Ninja bomber”. Facebook. Well it seems that this guy is the hot topic here in Singapore. The guy who was accused of planning to slam a hijacked plane in Changi Airport and the apparent JI leader, Singapore arm.

The latest news is that Mas Selamat has fled to indonesia according to The Star. While Singapore authorities continue their extensive/intensive manhunt.

Many argue conspiracies to his escape, some cant be bothered. But still, i am baffled at the fact the limping man can escaped the various levels of security unnoticed. The explanation that he escaped due to a security laspe is not detailed enough and definitely does not suffice. Anyways.

He was last seen limping up a flight of steps on the hill slope which leads to the Bukit Brown Chinese cemetery. And not so nearby Toa Payoh Lor 1.

'The search for Mas Selamat Kastari is on-going. The police assure that all leads are thoroughly pursued.'

Members of public with any information on his whereabouts should call 999 immediately. They can also email police at spf_police_information@spf.gov.sg.

Mas Selamat if you happen to chance upon this blog. Jesus still loves you :) no matter how many times you run away.

As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth. For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more. But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him ... Psalm 103:15-17

Connecting To God.

I will worship You for who You are
I will worship You for who You are
I will worship You for who You are
Jesus...

[Christ speaking] "I came that they might have life, and might have it abundantly" [that it might be full and meaningful] (John 10:10).

Man is SINFUL and SEPARATED from God. Therefore, he cannot know and experience God's love and plan for his life. "The wages of sin is death" [spiritual separation from God] (Romans 6:23).

Jesus Christ is God's ONLY provision for man's sin. Through Him you can know and experience God's love and plan for your life. "Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me'" (John 14:6).

Receiving Christ involves turning to God from self (repentance) and trusting Christ to come into our lives to forgive our sins and to make us what He wants us to be.

It was great, to take some time, quiet before the Lord, listening, meditating upon His word. Though for some of them it was the first time, got quite scared and anxious about it. I thank the Lord for speaking to each and everyone in the group through the activity.

We meditated upon Psalms 1, it reads:

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.

The ungodly are not so,
But are like the chaff which the wind drives away.
Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment,
Nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.

For the LORD knows the way of the righteous,
But the way of the ungodly shall perish.

Through that God, placed upon my heart "things to do this holiday". I was to bear much fruit as a vision He gave me suggest. So i guess thats what i'm gonna do this holiday to NS. To meet up with more youths, spend time with them and maybe God willing outreach to others.

“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing." John 15:5

What does it mean to abide in God ?
Abiding in Jesus must be the central fact of your life.
Abiding in Jesus is the key to bearing fruit. .
Abiding in Jesus means spending quality time with Him.
Abiding in Jesus means having fellowship with other believers.
In essence: To love God and your neighbour.

And what fruit do we bear?
We bear the fruit of the spirit - Love.

...

After twenty years of shaving himself every morning, a man in a small Southern town decided he had enough. He told his wife that he intended to let the local barber shave him each day. He put on his hat and coat and went to the barber shop, which was owned by the pastor of the town's Baptist Church.

The barber's wife, Grace, was working that day, so she performed the task. Grace shaved him and sprayed him with lilac water, and said, "That will be $20." The man thought the price was a bit high, but he paid the bill and went to work. The next morning the man looked in the mirror, and his face was as smooth as it had been when he left the barber shop the day before. Not bad, he thought. At least I don't need to get a shave every day.

The next morning, the man's face was still smooth. Two weeks later, the man was still unable to find any trace of whiskers on his face. It was more than he could take, so he returned to the barber shop.

"I thought $20 was high for a shave", he told the barber's wife, "but you must have done a great job. It's been two weeks and my whiskers still haven't started growing back."

The expression on her face didn't even change, expecting his comment. She responded, "You were shaved by Grace. Once shaved, always shaved."

Mercy

I recently attended a wedding of one of the couples in church. And i must say it was great one. The message preached during the wedding was that of worship. Marriage as a form of worship. Never thought of it that way, so the theological sermon was an eye opening one. To Worship God by "loving" one another.

Love happens when you find responsibility in someone elses need.

What's The Point?

Ever asked yourself that question? Try it.

Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. - Psalm 43:5

When the sun shines, We'll shine together ...

"Blessed Are the Poor in Spirit, for Theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven"

She's back. Finally. And she was just telling me about her india trip. About how God has raised up a team of ministers and also about how happy the kids are even though they do not have much. As both sides said their last goodbyes, tears rolled down their cheeks. These tears I say, are not of sorrow but of the Love of God. Indeed the children there have been blessed by the team and I'm sure the team too have been blessed by them.

It brings to mind the first beatitude: Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Jesus began the famous sermon on the mount with "Blessed are", meaning " The happy". It is not the diluted word "happy" which we use to describe that which brings a smile to our face. It is more than that, it is a a joy beyond the surface emotions.

Then Jesus went on to say, Blessed are the 'poor in spirit'. How can someone who is poor in spirit be happy? One must have an attitude of humility to be poor in spirit. The word suggests utter spiritual destitution. It is the realization that we are not God and that God is God. It is an understanding of who we really are before Him. "I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. " - John 15:5

For Theirs is the kingdom of heaven. The Lord himself invites us to a meeting concerning our immediate and endless happiness. He desires the very best for us because He loves us.

It is the terrifying promise that when we lose our riches and poverty finally comes -- whether it be lost money or status or virtue or respect or confidence or health or security or job -- that the Kingdom of God will draw near. It's when hope gets broken and promises that are forever erode, that God's Kingdom becomes an option.

It is also talking about the times when people we cherish and love, revere and depend upon leave us -- when those whose energy, passion, wisdom and truth inspire, touch, enliven, gladden and gratify us, when those people are no longer here. The poverty truth is that most often it is only after they have left us by dying or departing in despair or abandoning us in anger that we are able, as never before, to discover what they never could be for us -- that is, the person you and I can only be and become without them. And I can personally testify to the latter.

Bringing it back to the kids in india, they have nothing except a few set of clothes, no parents, no shoes for school etc. Yet that smile on their face. Indeed they have been truly blessed by God. Realising that they have nothing, they are empty, and God filled them up.

Why is it that only when a sense of hopelessness and helplessness descends upon us that we look to God and depend on Him? Well, maybe thats why the Gospel is called GOOD NEWS.

Only when we humble ourselves and admit we are sin-filled and hopeless will we have the right heart and mindset to seek and enter the kingdom of heaven through Jesus Christ our Savior. "God gives grace to the humble."

So what is your be-attitude today?

Be Strong In Grace

2 Timothy 2:

1You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others. 3Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs—he wants to please his commanding officer. 5Similarly, if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor's crown unless he competes according to the rules. 6The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops. 7Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this.

8Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel, 9for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God's word is not chained. 10Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory

11Here is a trustworthy saying:

If we died with him,
we will also live with him;
12if we endure,
we will also reign with him.
If we disown him,
he will also disown us;
13if we are faithless,
he will remain faithful,
for he cannot disown himself.

The Lord encouraged me again today with the above preached during sermon. I'm feeling less down and more refreshed after today's sermon and small group. Thanks be to God.

Blessed Assurance

I've been feeling down recently due to several things. My mind is flustered by loads of things as well. Worry, disappointment etc. No doubt its not easy to try to forget this emotions as it keeps jumping back at you.

I thank the Lord always for encouraging me and prompting me to look to Him and He will be my refresher, the one who will pick me up, give me strength to carry on. This hymn came to mind, as I was just praying.

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!

O what a foretaste of glory divine!

Heir of salvation, purchase of God,

born of his Spirit, washed in his blood.

This is my story, this is my song,

praising my Savior all the day long;

this is my story, this is my song, p

raising my Savior all the day long.

Perfect submission, all is at rest;

I in my Savior am happy and blest,

watching and waiting, looking above,

filled with his goodness, lost in his love.

(try singing this like fast with a really joyous and happy tune)

I just came back having spent some time with my brothers in Christ. It's always have been a great time of fellowship with them. Catching up on stuffz and also getting to know one another a lil' betta. Alrights. This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long. lalalala

My Love, My Valentine

There are varying opinions as to the origin of Valentine's Day. Some experts state that it originated from St. Valentine, a Roman who was martyred for refusing to give up Christianity. He died on February 14, 269 A.D., the same day that had been devoted to love lotteries. Legend also says that St. Valentine left a farewell note for the jailer's daughter, who had become his friend, and signed it "From Your Valentine". Other aspects of the story say that Saint Valentine served as a priest at the temple during the reign of Emperor Claudius. Claudius then had Valentine jailed for defying him. In 496 A.D. Pope Gelasius set aside February 14 to honour St. Valentine.

Gradually, February 14 became the date for exchanging love messages and St. Valentine became the patron saint of lovers. The date was marked by sending poems and simple gifts such as flowers.

This year, I’m gonna spend Valentine’s Day …... She’s in India on a mission. Gal on a mission. Cool right. Haha. That means, I get to save money! WOOHOOO. Joking. But seriously, prices during Valentine’s Day is like 1000x more expensive. A stalk of rose which typically cost $0.80 on a normal day would cost a whooping $12 today. Not say its fresher or bigger or more beautiful. It’s the same. Maybe I should just go plant some roses in my garden.

I’m gonna celebrate today enjoying what I have instead of complaining and feeling sad about what I don’t. Though I may not have her with me today, but what I do have is the knowledge that she loves me, always there for me and will never fail me. I’m thinking, maybe I have taken her and other people for granted all too often, and its time for some appreciating to be done.

So it’s the same for our lives, we take too many things for granted; our family, friends, food, shelter, the things that we have etc.. Maybe its time we take some part of today; Valentine ’s Day (supposedly a Christian holiday) to exchange a love message with God. Giving thanks for all that He has done and about to do. It is by His grace that we are saved.

16"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 (New International Version)

You have received mercy, kindness, and unconditional love from our God...
Response: The gift I have received, I will give as a gift.

You have many physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual abilities that can be used to better the lives of others...
Response: The gift I have received, I will give as a gift.

You have people in your life who have believed in you when you did not believe in yourself, people who stood by you in your difficult times...
Response: The gift I have received, I will give as a gift.

Amen




Alrights. *Mushy Alert* not for the weak at heart. Do not look beyond this line if you don’t like those lovey dovey stuffz.


To my dearest:

What is love? Those who don’t like it call it responsibility
Those who play with it call it a game
Those who don’t have it call it a dream
Those who understand it call it destiny
And me? I call it you :)

I asked God for a Rose,
He gave me a garden
I asked God for a drop of water
He gave me an ocean
I asked God for a blessing

He gave me YOU:)

CNY is not over yet ...10 more days

According to legend, in ancient China, the Nián (年) was a man-eating beast from the mountains (in other versions from under the sea), which came out every 12 months somewhere close to winter to prey on humans. The people later believed that the Nian was sensitive to loud noises and the colour red, so they scared it away with explosions, fireworks and the liberal use of the colour red. These customs led to the first New Year celebrations. Guò nián (simplified Chinese: 过年; traditional Chinese: 過年), which means to celebrate the new year, literally means the passover of the Nian.

Well I manage to abstain from some of the new year goodies as I was leading worship last Sunday, and now that all the goodies are gone, I can continue to abstain from them till next year. Haha.

My bro and my beloved gf are away in India on mission. I’m glad that both of them had decided to go for TRACkers. Its evident that God is working in their lives and using them as instruments of His grace to the people around. I remember when I was in SERVE. People said that my face was glowing.

In the Old Testament (Numbers 6:24-26) we find this wonderful blessing, which most of us have heard:

The LORD bless you and keep you;
The LORD make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you;
The LORD lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace.

Sounds abit like stardust. When the women glows when I don’t know what happens. But I guess that’s the true meaning of being a reflector and walking in and with the Lord. To be radiating God’s Glory.

Missions, people often say, nahz you can do much. You’re only there for like a week or so. How much can your change? How much of an impact or help can you be to the people there?

Missions to me, is an experience that can be describe using this wonderful song:

Open the eyes of my heart - by paul baloche

open the eyes of my heart Lord
open the eyes of my heart
i want to see You
i want to see You

to see You high and lifted up
shining in the light of Your glory
pour out Your power and love
as we sing holy, holy, holy


To everyone going on a mission trip or is already on the mission field, here is a passage which a pastor gave me when i was going on my first trip. May it bless you and keep you.

Isaiah 55:10-13

As the rain and the snow
come down from heaven,
and do not return to it
without watering the earth
and making it bud and flourish,
so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater,

so is my word that goes out from my mouth:
It will not return to me empty,
but will accomplish what I desire
and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.

You will go out in joy
and be led forth in peace;
the mountains and hills
will burst into song before you,
and all the trees of the field
will clap their hands.

Instead of the thornbush will grow the pine tree,
and instead of briers the myrtle will grow.
This will be for the LORD's renown,
for an everlasting sign,
which will not be destroyed.

EXP GOD

Yesterday's youth ministry was on Chinese Customs and Traditions, particularly the upcoming Lunar New Year. I was enlightened by the various meanings of the different symbols of the new year and also how they originated. Well, we were reminded to keep a Christ-like perspective when it comes to the new year. New clothes represents being born again, the old is gone. Once we were yet sinners, now we are victorious in Christ.

The color Red represents the redemptive blood of Jesus Christ while the giving of oranges and red packets symbolises blessings.

We were reminded to God's ambassadors of peace, hope and love to our families and friends. To be friendly always and be different. I challenge my group to do away with their usual CNY routines and make the extra effort to approach an older family member or just to take care of their younger cousins or nieces nephews. Its really encouraging to see this bunch of sec 1 youths willingness to learn. And i pray that God will indeed work mightily in their lives and be real to them.

I just went with eugene to get our small group materials. Its called Experiencing God : Knowing and Doing the Will of God. The book is very comprehensive and intensive bible study material. I pray that this will be a challenge to the younger ones as well as a challenge to us leaders, to increase our level of commitment and desire to learn more about God's word and plan for us.

Ask, Seek, Knock

"I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot,[7] I will vomit you out of My mouth. Because you say, "I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing'--and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked-- (Revelation 3:15-17 NKJV)

Right next door to Laodicea was the city of Hierapolis, famous for its hot springs, which were said to have healing properties. And a short distance the other way in this arid environment was the city of Colossae, famous for its cold and crystal-clear springs of water, incredibly refreshing to anyone who was thirsty. And right between these two wonderful extremes we have the not-very appealing, lukewarm waters of Laodicea. They don’t bring healing to anyone with their minerals and their warmth but neither do they stimulate and refresh anyone with their coldness and clarity

And how was it for the church in Laodicea? They weren’t hot springs of healing, bringing forgiveness to those who were spiritually dead in their springs. And they weren’t bringing, as Jesus says in Matthew 10, a “cup of cold water” to anyone. (The only other time in the entire New Testament where “cold” is used…and used in a positive way). They were just “there,” comfortable in their church and not realizing that God saw them as, “wretched, pitiful, blind, and naked”

""18 I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. 19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. 20 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. 21 To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. 22 “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”’”

Today I was so encouraged by my group again. God is indeed working in the hearts of the youths. YM was a Bible Study Skills workshop and we were told to discuss and ask if there were any questions or difficulties we have about the bible. I must say that i was impressed at some of the thoughts that are going through the minds of my sec 1 group.

How were the books of the bible compiled?
Do good non-christians go to heaven?

and a few more other questions. I pray as the group and myself attempt to look for answers, God will reveal Himself, His majesty, glory and splendor to all of us who seek Him.

Ask, Seek, Knock

7"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. (Matthew 7:7-8)

Os

Well, the O level results came out yesterday and boy was it a stir of emotions. Joy with those who did well and disappointment and regret with the ones who didnt meet expectations.

Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1Thess. 5:18)

Easier said then done. Many a time we let our emotions climb over us. We allow negative thoughts to develop in our minds and sometimes our actions show our displeasure. I guess its just human nature, our sinful and fallen nature that tempts us into sin again and again. God has given us a choice, the freedom to choose. We have the power and authority over our emotions, actions etc. It is up to us to find that power, that authority to have victory over ourself in Christ.

God does not expect us to thank Him FOR all circumstances, but to thank Him IN all circumstances. Thank Him for sustaining us through the crisis that would drive us insane were it not for His abiding presence. Thank Him that we know that this world is not the last statement of what shall be. Thank Him for all that He is - LOVE.

His goodness is never-changing. His love for you is unbudging, and His plans for your life and the lives of your loved ones are far greater than your highest thoughts can reach.

Rejoice and be glad! Our God is larger than any circumstances in our lives. He is a mighty fortress and the only stronghold against any obstacles.

Open up my eyes to things unseen.

A collegue who recently came from overseas asked me this question today. If you were to name one social problem in Singapore today, what would it be?

I answered: that would be the lack of graciousness to one another (there was much hype about this in the newspapers recently). For example, not giving up seats to the people who need it more, slamming the door into people's faces ... ...

Well, she said. If you were to ask someone like this in my country, they would say poverty. I was like 0.0 ... ... and then to myself -;- ... ...

hmmm... I thought to myself. Is my life too sheltered? Am i oblivious to the things happening around me let alone around the world. Surely there are poor people here in Singapore.

I thank God for placing me in this place and in this time. I pray

Enable Your Servants (Give Me A Heart Of Compassion)
Jim Bailey

Verse 1:
Give me a heart of compassion
Give me a hope for the lost
Give me a passion for those
Who are broken and down
Lord, I am ready and willing
To serve the weak and the young
Help me to put into action
The words of this song

Chorus:
And enable Your servants
Enable Your servants
To preach good news
To preach good news
And enable Your servants
Enable Your servants
To preach good news
To preach good news

Verse 2:
I'll sing the songs of salvation
Boldly I'll speak out Your word
I'll let them know by my life
I will show You are Lord
I'll tell them all about Jesus
I'll tell them all about You
I'm not ashamed of the gospel
Or what it can do

Verse 3:
We're moving forward together
As one voice boldly proclaim
The old and the young will be strong
And we'll lift up Your name
On to the streets to the people
Every man, woman and child
And as we go You are with us
You've given Your power

Good Disciple, Good Steward

Today's YM lesson was on being a good steward .

Definition of Steward:

A steward is not the owner of something, but the manager of something, and that person then is accountable to the owner for how they do. God created this world and we are then managers, and trustees of this good thing that God has given. So, that means that home is not really ours. Our money isn't ours and even our very selves don't belong to us.

A good steward is someone then who lives in a way that pleases God, in the way they use their time, in the way they use their talents and the way they use their treasure. It's the whole of life.

Here are two instances where John Wesley teaches us something about stewardship:

John Wesley lived in the 1700's and he began the religious movement that became the Methodist church. And Wesley described something that happened probably about at the beginning of the 1730's. It was a cold bitter day and he had just come back to his apartment with all kinds of paintings that he had gotten, pictures for his room, to decorate it. And he was feeling good about that when his maid came, and even though it was an incredibly cold bitter day she comes in just wearing a linen gown. She does not have any coat on, and so he is immediately concerned about that and he wants to do something about it, so he reaches into his pocket to get out some money in order to give her some money so she can buy a coat and protect her health, and he realizes that he has just spent almost everything he has on those pictures. And he doesn't have the money at that moment to help. In his own words he describes what comes to mind. Will the master say, "Well done good and faithful steward. You've just adorned your walls with the money, which might have screened this poor creature from the cold. Are not the pictures the blood of this poor maid?" In this moment in Wesley's life all three things come together. He's got a concern for this person. He realizes that there is going to have to be some adjustment in his life. That way his contentment is not related to spending all that he has, and he realizes at that moment that he is accountable to someone. And someone will either be holding him accountable in a negative sense or be crediting something to him because he has done well.

In 1731 John Wesley made 30 pounds. He lived on 28 of them and he gave away 2. It's less than a tithe. The following year he made 60 pounds. He lived on 28 and he gave away 32. In the fourth year he made 120 pounds. He lived on 28 and he gave away 92 pounds. And finally, later in his career John Wesley became one of the best paid preachers in all of history.

John Wesley shows all three ingredients of good stewardship. He was concerned about the gospel and the needs around him. He was content to live at some level that wasn't 100% of what he owned. And he really believed that it was worth it to live in light of eternity. He really believed that God was going to credit this to his account.

God used my group of sec 1s to encourage me today. And i thank God for all that He have done in my life and in the lives of all these youths that He has given me to interact with.

We started discussion today with an activity. I got my group place any amount of money they have into this treasure chest and take one gold chocolate coin in exchange for the money they put in. (The gold coins represent our riches in heaven) We went on into our discussion, talking about stewardship, how we can use our time, money and talent for God's glory. At the end of our sharing, I challenged the group to give the money in the box to the tracker's mission team as an act of our stewardship to God today. Here's to my surprise. None of them said no, but in fact all of them wanted to give more. Some who didnt bring money felt quite bad. But I could see all their hearts, open and willing to render support and help. This is a big boost of encouragement for me to see the young and willing hearts of the youths.

I was just thinking through the week, how to effectively lead my group, how i can be a better leader or mentor to them. I may not have led a sec1 grp before, i may not be thorougly equipped, but through God everything's possible. He made me strong in my weakness and showed me that i've been doing a good job and walking in the right path. What an affirmation. Thank You Lord. I shall continue to grow to be a better leader to the youths and a good steward for the Lord/

"Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." (1Corinthians 15:58)

In Focus

“And let us run with endurance. . . . keeping our eyes on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from start to finish.” (Hebrews 12:1-2)

When I was in high school, I went out for track and field. I was a fairly decent short-distance runner, but I was horrible at long-distance runs. I hated to practice. But if I ever saw a pretty girl in the grandstands, I had new motivation for running.

As we run this race of life, we have a better motivation than I had in high school. We run for an audience of one: Jesus Christ. He is watching us. He is praying for us. In fact, the Bible tells us that He lives to intercede for us (see Hebrews 7:25).

This is what gave young Stephen courage when he stood before his accusers who were ready to put him to death. Full of the Holy Spirit, he was given a glimpse of Jesus in heaven and said, “Look, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing in the place of honor at God’s right hand”(Acts 7:56).

Seeing Jesus gave Stephen the ability to run the race and finish it.
Seeing Jesus also gave Simon Peter the ability to walk on the water. As he kept the Lord in sight, He did the impossible.

It is important to keep our eyes on Jesus. Why? Because circumstances will disappoint and, at times, devastate us. People will let us down and fall short of our expectations. Feelings will come and go. But Jesus will always be there to cheer us on.

He has run before you. He is the ultimate winner. He will show you how to run. But you have to keep looking to Him.

Copyright © 2008 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.

How much is that doggie at the window?

Today's YM lesson was on self-worth. Whilst preparing for it, I reflected on how much i am worth. As i begin to do so, i am reminded of the difference between how the world put a price tag on us and how God values us.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:16 KJV)

Self-esteem may go up or down depending upon what is happening to you. Get an "A" on a test and you feel great, but if you fail you feel terrible. Self-esteem is changeable. Self-worth however differs from self-esteem. Self-worth is what you are born with. As one of the creations of the universe you are worthwhile and have value, which cannot be taken from you. You can’t lose it.

I am a Child of God. ( John 1:12, Galatians 3:26, 28, Romans 8:14-16 )
God loves me and I am part of God’s family (Ephesians 1:4-5)
I am a heir with Christ ( Romans 8:17, Galatians 4:6,7)
I am God’s workmanship and I have a purpose ( Eph 2:10, philippians 1:6)
I have been bought with a price (1 Corin. 6:19-20)

So watcha gonna do about it? (Jeremiah 1 – The calling of Jeremiah)

“The book of Jeremiah depicts a remarkably introspective prophet, a prophet struggling with and often overwhelmed by the role into which he has been thrust. Jeremiah alternates efforts to warn the people with pleas for mercy until he is ordered to "pray no more for this people"

Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Believe in God’s Plan.
God told Jeremiah, “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you” (1:5). God designs us just as purposefully, with a specific mission in mind

Believe in God’s Presence.
2x God told Jeremiah, “Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you” (1:8,19) God is telling us the same thing. Jesus would never leave or forsake us. Hey, If God wanna hang out with you, you must be really important.

Believe in God’s Protection
God gave jeremiah 3 images of strength and protection. He said, “ I have made you a fortified city, an iron pillar and a bronze wall” (1:18). In other words, “You are invincible in me!” Problems would come, but Jeremiah would stand. In the same way, Jesus told us that in this world we would have trouble…”but take heart, I have overcome the world.

Behave like you’re worth it.Receiving all this assurances from God makes little difference unless we act on what he says. Jeremiah had to take what God said and live it. He obeyed.

Live to Love Life. Love to Live Life.

I asked God to take away my pride. And God said "No". He said it was not for Him to take away, but for me to give up.

I asked God to make my body whole. And God said "No". He said your spirit was whole, your body was only temporary.

I asked God to grant me patience. And God said "No". He said patience is a by-product of tribulations. It isn't granted, it is earned.

I asked God to give me happiness. And God said "No". He said He gives me blessings, happiness is up to me.

I asked God to spare me pain. And God said "No". He said suffering draws me apart from worldly cares and brings me closer to Him.

I asked God to make my spirit grow. And God said "No". He said I must grow on your own. But He will prune me to make me fruitful.

I asked for all things that I might enjoy life. And God said "No". He said He will give me life, that I may enjoy all things.

I ask God to help me love others, as much as he loves me. And God said "Ah, finally you have the idea!"

We love others because God loves us
(1 John 4:11)

Rain.

For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there until they have watered the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty,but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and succeed in the thing for which I sent it.For you shall go out in joy, and be led back in peace; the mountains and the hills before you shall burst into song, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.Instead of the thorn shall come up the cypress; instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle; and it shall be to the LORD for a memorial,for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.
- Isaiah, Chapter 55:10-13

Running in the Rain, from the Rain, to the Rain

Recently, its been raining alot. It comes and yet there is more than sound to it. There is power in those trillions of drops. The earth absorbs the rain and from that there is abundant growth. Rain sustains life. Rain sustains us. We would die without rain.

We use umbrellas to keep us from getting wet. We devise all sorts of ways to keep the rain at bay. I remember seeing a little boy running in the rain. He laughed as he ran and had his mouth open and his tongue out. He did not mind getting wet. In fact, he seemed to love it. He ran and ran through it, his mouth wide open, drinking the rain and laughing.

Isaiah writes of rain as the power and love of God. There is a purpose to God’s rain, God’s love. For we hide from love, for love can hurt us. If it rains real hard, when love comes to us hard and real, we even close our eyes because it hurts. If we are frightened, we may even cry tears from the rain that flows through our bodies.

Love asks a lot of us. We have all sorts of umbrellas to protect us from the exacting demands of love. Yet, love is the one thing in life that we can trust, for love is from God and there is a purpose to it. We do not always see that, and so we shield ourselves. But God still sends the rain, still sends his love. If we knew what it was that God sends us, we would run through it with each other and laugh and drink all the way. We would love getting drenched.

Think of it this way - for it was God on the far side of that crazy storm, drenching me with the rain of his love as I ran toward him.

Anyone wanna join me in the rain?

A Year Older

Thanks to all who wished me and thanks to all who didnt. As i look back, I am filled with much gratitude and appreciation to those who have found me worthy of their time and enery, for those who stand by me constantly and those who have taught me valuable lessons. I will not publicly name all of you, but you know. I thank God for all of you.

Today marks an increased in the number of days i have lived, but decrease the number of days i am to live.

Here's a story on my special day for that special you.


A sick man turned to his doctor, as he was preparing to leave the examination room and said, "Doctor, I am afraid to die. Tell me what lies on the other side."

Very quietly, the doctor said, "I don't know."

"You don't know? You, a Christian man, do not know what is on the other side?"

The doctor was holding the handle of the door; on the other side came a sound of scratching and whining, and as he opened the door, a dog sprang into the room and leaped on him with an eager show of gladness.

Turning to the patient, the doctor said, "Did you notice my dog? He's never been in this room before. He didn't know what was inside. He knew nothing except that his master was here, and when the door opened, he sprang in without fear. I know little of what is on the other side of death, but I do know one thing... I know my Master [the Creator of humankind] is there and that is enough."


1 Corinthians 1:8
He will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Nothing much ...

Grumpy old turtle.

I Adore

The universe is at Your feet
Gives You praise
Evermore
The stars will light the sky for You
Always
God be praised

And we sing
The Lord is on high
The Lord is on high

I adore You
I adore You
And there's none that compares
To Your majesty O Lord
I adore You
I adore You
And I stand
In wonder of Your love

We will crown You King forever
Living Saviour
Jesus Redeemer
Lord of Heaven
Robed in majesty
Crowned in glory
Creation adores You

Holy Holy
God almighty
And forever the Lord is exalted
Hear the angels
Shout His anthem
Ever-living
God we adore You.

Fitting In

Now Herod had arrested John and bound him and put him in prison because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, for John had been saying to him: “It is not lawful for you to have her.” Herod wanted to kill John, but he was afraid of the people, because they considered him a prophet. - Matthew 14:3-5

Today, many Christians are afraid to do the right thing, or to speak up when their friends do something they shouldn’t. Teenagers shop lift or tease others because they are told it is “Cool,” and if they don’t they will be “mocked” for being a goody-two-shoes. People do things because they want to fit in.

Just like Herod, who was afraid of what his people would think. He did not worry as much about whether it was right or wrong, but instead of pleasing other people. John the Baptist did the exact opposite! He stood up to the King, and told him, EVEN YOU KING, You are breaking God’s laws! He told Herod, a man who was not used to being corrected that he was acting as a criminal.

John corrected Herod, knowing that Herod would imprison him, and probably worse. And yet the fear of being beaten, imprisoned, or even killed did not stop John. How powerful is Gods word that a “lowly man” such as John would not be afraid of retribution, while the very Great King he spoke against was worried about what his people would think of him.

John knew that a Christians power does not come from man, but from God. Just as Herod knew that his power did not come from God, but from men. John knew that there was nothing that Herod could do to him that would separate him from God, but rather that by standing up for what was right, he was serving God.

My question today is, Why are Christians afraid of what people will think about us? Why are we more concerned with “fitting in” than we are with serving God, and sharing his truth with others? Why do we forget that God has more power than all men combined?

So today maybe we should try to do what is right, even if our friends might laugh at us… After all, I would rather fit in with God.

A New Year With The Lord

A new year is about to unfold

With new opportunities to explore

Doors will open for new experiences

New adventures with the Lord

Remember not the former things

The things of this past year

The Lord will do new things in us

Much more than we are aware

For He will make a way for us

As we put our trust in Him

And He will guide our every step

By His presence we have within

What God has placed within our hearts

We find we’ll be able to do

If we look for the opportunities

We’ll see the door to go through

We mustn’t let anything hold us back

But rise up and take our place

And be all that God wants us to be

With a fresh touch of His grace

© By M.S.Lowndes

Do not [earnestly] remember the former things; neither consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs forth; do you not perceive and know it and will you not give heed to it? I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. - Isaiah 43:18-19.