Prayer is an opportunity to bring our will into line with God's plan - Our prayers won’t change God’s mind, but they may change ours. Prayer helps us better understand the mind of God.
Prayer is an opportunity to demonstrate our trust in God - Why did God let Abraham question his justice and intercede for a wicked city? Abraham knew that God must punish sin, but he also knew from experience that God is merciful to sinners. God knew there were not ten righteous people in the city, but he was merciful enough to allow Abraham to intercede. He was also merciful enough to help Lot, Abraham’s nephew, get out of Sodom before it was destroyed. God does not take pleasure in destroying the wicked, but he must punish sin. He is both just and merciful. We should be thankful that God’s mercy extends to us.
Prayer is speaking with God - The godly are those who are faithful and devoted to God. We too can be confident that God listens to our prayers and answers when we call on him. Sometimes we think that God will not hear us because we have fallen short of his high standards for holy living. But if we have trusted Christ for salvation, God has forgiven us, and he will listen to us. When you feel as though your prayers are bouncing off the ceiling, remember that as a believer, you have been set apart by God-and he loves you. He hears and answers, although his answers may not be what you expect. Look at your problems in the light of God’s power instead of looking at God in the shadow of your problems.
Prayer is an awesome privilege - Prayer is our approach to God, and we are to come boldly. Some Christians approach God meekly with heads hung low, afraid to ask him to meet their needs. Others pray flippantly, giving little thought to what they say. Come with reverence because he is your King. But also come with bold assurance because he is your Friend and Counselor.
Prayer reflects our dependence on God - As Isaac pleaded with God for children, so the Bible encourages us to ask-and even plead-for our most personal and important requests. God wants to grant our requests, but he wants us to ask him. Even then, as Isaac learned, God may decide to withhold his answer for a while in order to (1) deepen our insight into what we really need, (2) broaden our appreciation for his answers, or (3) allow us to mature so we can use his gifts more wisely.
Prayer can restore relationship with God - One of the effects of sin in our life is to keep us from feeling like praying. But perfect moral behavior is not a condition for prayer. Don’t let guilt feelings over sin keep you from your only means of restoration. No matter how long you have been away from God, he is ready to hear from you and restore you to a right relationship. Every situation can be salvaged if you are willing to turn again to him. In spite of Samson's past, God still answered his prayer. If God could still work in Samson’s situation, he can certainly make something worthwhile out of yours.
So what are you waiting for? God's communication line is always on for 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 12 months a year and as long as you're still alive and kicking! So, be a Man! Get down on your knees and pray!
23.6.06
GDOP
What is it like to have 30000 believers coming together to pray? Awesome man! With that number of people, we can call out to God to shake His nations.
Seriously, numbers do indicate strength. Imagine GDOP with a few hundred people responding to the call to pray, occupying a small corner of the stadium. Shake the nation? Can't even shake the stadium! The loud speaker can do that job.
When people gather to pray, they don't say, "we need x number of people to come before we can pray." They are going to pray like they never prayed before, they are going to hold on to God until He respond to their requests.
I was there. God is preparing His people to cry out to Him, to plead for His grace and mercy upon His people. He is showing us what it means to stand in the gap, people for people, nations to nations. God is showing us the way to His heart, the Father heart of God, to intercede for His people.
Yes, the 40 days of fasting and prayer is here again. This time, the spiritual warfare will intensified. Will you come alongside with me to pray? You and I with God makes the majority!
GDOP - A Great Day Of Prayer, isn't it?
Seriously, numbers do indicate strength. Imagine GDOP with a few hundred people responding to the call to pray, occupying a small corner of the stadium. Shake the nation? Can't even shake the stadium! The loud speaker can do that job.
When people gather to pray, they don't say, "we need x number of people to come before we can pray." They are going to pray like they never prayed before, they are going to hold on to God until He respond to their requests.
I was there. God is preparing His people to cry out to Him, to plead for His grace and mercy upon His people. He is showing us what it means to stand in the gap, people for people, nations to nations. God is showing us the way to His heart, the Father heart of God, to intercede for His people.
Yes, the 40 days of fasting and prayer is here again. This time, the spiritual warfare will intensified. Will you come alongside with me to pray? You and I with God makes the majority!
GDOP - A Great Day Of Prayer, isn't it?
25.5.06
I'm Watching You!
I was driving near my neighbourhood recently when I chanced upon something up on the overhead pedestrian bridge. Two traffic policemen were filming a sequel to the blockbuster movie, "I Got 'Cha, Babe!" They were very intensed shooting every scene of the impending vehicle that broke the speed limit for that particular road, especially vans, lorries, and slow speed-retarded creepy crawlers doing a F1 impersonation.
You may say, "Hey! There's no such movies?" Well, that's what they are thinking right now. It will be a blockbuster when you want to contest that summons you've received for speeding. Where in the world did they catch me speeding? Look up, guys when you're driving. It happens too often for you to ignore it. Somehow I feel that this is really like a punch below the belt. Ouch! Catching you unaware and having clueless idea of how it happened.
Overhead bridge, pedestrian pavements, I wonder what's the next innovative idea of catching us doing a third sequel to the blockbuster?
Look up, or be sorry!
You may say, "Hey! There's no such movies?" Well, that's what they are thinking right now. It will be a blockbuster when you want to contest that summons you've received for speeding. Where in the world did they catch me speeding? Look up, guys when you're driving. It happens too often for you to ignore it. Somehow I feel that this is really like a punch below the belt. Ouch! Catching you unaware and having clueless idea of how it happened.
Overhead bridge, pedestrian pavements, I wonder what's the next innovative idea of catching us doing a third sequel to the blockbuster?
Look up, or be sorry!
11.5.06
CCTV
Heard of the latest spoof about the CCTV? Even the Bak Chor Mee man has one. Make sure you order correctly. No chilli means no chilli. And make sure you tell him not to put pig liver when you don't want it, or else you not only have to apologize, but also explain why you never tell him not to put pig liver. Scary to believe that even in small establishment, there's a CCTV watching your every move and decision. I think I'll have bak Chor Mee tonight and see if it's true! As the song from The Police goes, "Every move you make, I'll be watching you."
21.4.06
More Cruel Jokes!
CHURCH
A church service at a little town always include a group reading of the Twenty-Third Psalm. One Palm Sunday a visitor with a shrill, penetrating voice got about ten words ahead of the rest of the congregation at the beginning and resolutely maintained her lead to the very end.
At the end of the service, one longtime member asked another, "Who was that irritating lady who was always by the still waters while the rest of us were lying down in gren pastures?"
The following Sunday, Mr. Walters got up and walked out right in the middle of my sermon. I asked his wife if I had somehow offended him. Her reply: "It was nothing personal, Reverend. He was just sleepwalking."
COMMUNICATION
An American visiting England walked into a hotel lobby and pushed a button for elevator service. "The lift will be down presently," said a nearby clerk.
"The lift?" said the American. "Oh, you mean the elevator."
"No, I mean the lift," replied the Englishman, annoyed by the American's arrogance.
"I think I should know what it's called," said the American. "After all, elevators were invented in the United States."
"Perhaps," retorted the Englishman. "But the language was invented here."
A church service at a little town always include a group reading of the Twenty-Third Psalm. One Palm Sunday a visitor with a shrill, penetrating voice got about ten words ahead of the rest of the congregation at the beginning and resolutely maintained her lead to the very end.
At the end of the service, one longtime member asked another, "Who was that irritating lady who was always by the still waters while the rest of us were lying down in gren pastures?"
The following Sunday, Mr. Walters got up and walked out right in the middle of my sermon. I asked his wife if I had somehow offended him. Her reply: "It was nothing personal, Reverend. He was just sleepwalking."
COMMUNICATION
An American visiting England walked into a hotel lobby and pushed a button for elevator service. "The lift will be down presently," said a nearby clerk.
"The lift?" said the American. "Oh, you mean the elevator."
"No, I mean the lift," replied the Englishman, annoyed by the American's arrogance.
"I think I should know what it's called," said the American. "After all, elevators were invented in the United States."
"Perhaps," retorted the Englishman. "But the language was invented here."
Jokes Are Cruel!
PROCRASTINATION
Procrastination is like a credit card: it's a lot of fun until you get the bill.
I have not yet begun to procrastinate!
PSYCHIATRY
A psychiatrist is a fellow who asks you a lot of expensive questions that your wife asks you for free.
OREO PSYCHO-PERSONALITY TEST
Psychiatrists have discovered that the manner in which people eat Oreo cookies provides great insight into their personalities. Which method best describes your favourite approach?
1. The whole thing in one bite.
2. One bite at a time.
3. Slow and methodical nibbles, examining the results of each bite.
4. In little feverish nibbles.
5. Dunked in some liquid (milk, coffee, hot chocolate...)
6. The inside first.
7. The inside only.
8. The outside only.
9. Just lick them, not eat them.
10. Don't have a favourite way, because I don't like Oreos.
Your personality
1. The whole thing in one bite
This means you consume life with abandon, you are fun to be with, exciting, carefree with some hint of recklessness. You are totally irresponsible. No one should trust you with their children.
2. One bite at a time
You are lucky to be one of the 5.4 billion other people who eat their Oreos this very same way. Just like them, you lack imagination, but that's ok, not to worry, you're normal.
3. Slow and Methodical
You follow the rules. You're very tidy and orderly. You're very meticulous in every detail with everything you do to the point of being anal retentive and irritating to others. Stay out of the fast lane if you're only going to the speed limit.
4. Little feverish nibbles
Your boss likes you because you get your work done quickly. You always have a million things to do and never enough time to do them. Mental breakdowns and suicides run in your family. Valium and Retalin would do you good.
5. Dunked
Everyone likes you because you are always upbeat. You like to sugar coat unpleasant experiences and rationalize bad situations into good ones. You are in total denial about the shambles you call your life. You have propensity towards narcotic addition.
6. The inside first
You have a highly curious nature. You take pleasure in breaking things apart to find out how they work, though you're not always able to put them back together, so you destroy the evidence of your activities. You deny your involvement when things go wrong. You are a compulsive liar and exhibit deviant, if not criminal, behaviour.
7. The inside only
You are good at business and take risks that pay of. You take what you want and throw the rest away. You are greedy, selfish, mean, and lack feelings for others. You should be ashamed of yourself, but that's okay. You don't care, you got yours.
8. The outside only
You enjoy pain.
9. Just like to lick them, not eat them
Stay away from small furry animals and seek professional medical help - immediately.
10. Don't have a favourite way because I don't like Oreo cookies
You probably come from a richly family and like to wear nice things and go to upscale restaurants. You are particular and fussy about the things you buy, own and wear. Things have to be just right. You like to be pampered. You are a prima donna. there's just no pleasing you.
Procrastination is like a credit card: it's a lot of fun until you get the bill.
I have not yet begun to procrastinate!
PSYCHIATRY
A psychiatrist is a fellow who asks you a lot of expensive questions that your wife asks you for free.
OREO PSYCHO-PERSONALITY TEST
Psychiatrists have discovered that the manner in which people eat Oreo cookies provides great insight into their personalities. Which method best describes your favourite approach?
1. The whole thing in one bite.
2. One bite at a time.
3. Slow and methodical nibbles, examining the results of each bite.
4. In little feverish nibbles.
5. Dunked in some liquid (milk, coffee, hot chocolate...)
6. The inside first.
7. The inside only.
8. The outside only.
9. Just lick them, not eat them.
10. Don't have a favourite way, because I don't like Oreos.
Your personality
1. The whole thing in one bite
This means you consume life with abandon, you are fun to be with, exciting, carefree with some hint of recklessness. You are totally irresponsible. No one should trust you with their children.
2. One bite at a time
You are lucky to be one of the 5.4 billion other people who eat their Oreos this very same way. Just like them, you lack imagination, but that's ok, not to worry, you're normal.
3. Slow and Methodical
You follow the rules. You're very tidy and orderly. You're very meticulous in every detail with everything you do to the point of being anal retentive and irritating to others. Stay out of the fast lane if you're only going to the speed limit.
4. Little feverish nibbles
Your boss likes you because you get your work done quickly. You always have a million things to do and never enough time to do them. Mental breakdowns and suicides run in your family. Valium and Retalin would do you good.
5. Dunked
Everyone likes you because you are always upbeat. You like to sugar coat unpleasant experiences and rationalize bad situations into good ones. You are in total denial about the shambles you call your life. You have propensity towards narcotic addition.
6. The inside first
You have a highly curious nature. You take pleasure in breaking things apart to find out how they work, though you're not always able to put them back together, so you destroy the evidence of your activities. You deny your involvement when things go wrong. You are a compulsive liar and exhibit deviant, if not criminal, behaviour.
7. The inside only
You are good at business and take risks that pay of. You take what you want and throw the rest away. You are greedy, selfish, mean, and lack feelings for others. You should be ashamed of yourself, but that's okay. You don't care, you got yours.
8. The outside only
You enjoy pain.
9. Just like to lick them, not eat them
Stay away from small furry animals and seek professional medical help - immediately.
10. Don't have a favourite way because I don't like Oreo cookies
You probably come from a richly family and like to wear nice things and go to upscale restaurants. You are particular and fussy about the things you buy, own and wear. Things have to be just right. You like to be pampered. You are a prima donna. there's just no pleasing you.
20.4.06
God Loves Doubters Too!
I don't think God is intimidated by our questions. I don't even think He has much trouble with our doubts. He said in Isaiah, "Come, Let us reason together." Wow, can you imagine trying to reason with God? Have you ever talked with someone who is infinitely smarter and wiser than you are, yet they consider your puny ideas and words important? Think of it: Almighty God invites us to reason with Him, and He is willing to condescend to entertain our ideas and comments and to discuss our questions and doubts.
I'm fascinated when I meet someone who is so sure of everything and thinks they have all the big issues in life figured out. They are either a supersaint, or they are superstupid. On a good day, I'm right there with them, believing in the face of my doubts. But, some days are tough, and you have to walk by faith rather than feelings. I prefer seeing to believing. But seeing wasn't God's choice for us. He chose faith; He knew that would be a lot more interesting.
Jesus didn't reject Thomas because He was a doubter. Ten disciples told Thomas they'd seen the Master. This was AFTER Christ had been executed, buried, and dead for three days.
Thomas told them, "Unless I see the nail holes in His hands ....and stick my hand in His side, I won't believe it" (John 20:25). Now, this boy was having some serious doubts.
And you know what? If I'd been there, I probably would have said the same thing. I have tried to imagine, if Jesus had been crucified in my lifetime, would I need to see Him to believe He'd risen?
I believe Christ is alive because I actually seen Him working in my heart and life. Thomas didn't believe until he had his own encounter with Christ. But neither did the other disciples. Everybody needs to have his or her own encounter with Jesus. We have to meet Him for ourselves. We can't believe in something with such eternal consequences or just hearsay.
How about you? Do you have a personal encounter with Jesus?
I'm fascinated when I meet someone who is so sure of everything and thinks they have all the big issues in life figured out. They are either a supersaint, or they are superstupid. On a good day, I'm right there with them, believing in the face of my doubts. But, some days are tough, and you have to walk by faith rather than feelings. I prefer seeing to believing. But seeing wasn't God's choice for us. He chose faith; He knew that would be a lot more interesting.
Jesus didn't reject Thomas because He was a doubter. Ten disciples told Thomas they'd seen the Master. This was AFTER Christ had been executed, buried, and dead for three days.
Thomas told them, "Unless I see the nail holes in His hands ....and stick my hand in His side, I won't believe it" (John 20:25). Now, this boy was having some serious doubts.
And you know what? If I'd been there, I probably would have said the same thing. I have tried to imagine, if Jesus had been crucified in my lifetime, would I need to see Him to believe He'd risen?
I believe Christ is alive because I actually seen Him working in my heart and life. Thomas didn't believe until he had his own encounter with Christ. But neither did the other disciples. Everybody needs to have his or her own encounter with Jesus. We have to meet Him for ourselves. We can't believe in something with such eternal consequences or just hearsay.
How about you? Do you have a personal encounter with Jesus?
17.4.06
You Are What You Speak!
I've seen some of those youth's blog site. It really is no surprise when they can blurt out those four letter words with great ease. Every sentence is peppered with words to maim and shock the reader. It's like stepping onto mine field.
What's this? blogging to outdo somebody else with colourful words, to stumble and kill? It really is scary to learn that young people are putting something on the internet to boost their ego and make them stand out from the rest. Competition to see who can spew out more dangerous looking words? Whatever happened to the discipline of mind and thoughts? It's even worst to hear them say that it is part of their youth culture to think and behave like this. I guess they haven't heard of soap in the mouth treatment before.
What can we do about it? Well, for one, I will not patronise their blogs. The thoughts that are translated to actions can be very real for such young minds. The Bible says in Proverbs 15:4, "A soothing tongue is a tree of life, but perversion in it crushes the spirit." Yes, you are what you speak. What spews from your mouth is a combination of thoughts and actions in your life. You need Jesus to do a thorough clean-up. Young people, do it now before it crushes your spirit. Let no unwholesome thoughts and words be even associated with your fragile mind. Get it out before it's too late.
So, clean up your thoughts and be filled with what 2 Timothy 2:22 says, to call out to young people to "flee from youthful lusts, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart."
What's this? blogging to outdo somebody else with colourful words, to stumble and kill? It really is scary to learn that young people are putting something on the internet to boost their ego and make them stand out from the rest. Competition to see who can spew out more dangerous looking words? Whatever happened to the discipline of mind and thoughts? It's even worst to hear them say that it is part of their youth culture to think and behave like this. I guess they haven't heard of soap in the mouth treatment before.
What can we do about it? Well, for one, I will not patronise their blogs. The thoughts that are translated to actions can be very real for such young minds. The Bible says in Proverbs 15:4, "A soothing tongue is a tree of life, but perversion in it crushes the spirit." Yes, you are what you speak. What spews from your mouth is a combination of thoughts and actions in your life. You need Jesus to do a thorough clean-up. Young people, do it now before it crushes your spirit. Let no unwholesome thoughts and words be even associated with your fragile mind. Get it out before it's too late.
So, clean up your thoughts and be filled with what 2 Timothy 2:22 says, to call out to young people to "flee from youthful lusts, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart."
7.4.06
Now That I'm in it, might as well!
Let me give you a very brief capsule course in human relations:
- 5 most important words: "I am proud of you."
- 4 most important words: "What is your opinion?"
- 3 most important words: "If you please."
- 2 most important words: "Thank you."
- Least important word: "I."
Yes, "I" is the least important word that you can ever have.
Are We Rush-ians?
Recently, I haven't got time to blog. It is one of those things I really couldn't spare time to do it. Life has been hectic and fast pace. When someone tells you to stop by the roadside to smell the roses..........ahhhhhh choooooo! Well, I'll move on. There's more things to worry about than being allergic to roses.
When people stop to appreciate things in life, there will always be a chasm in their pursuit of things that really matters. Sometimes, it makes me wonder why I'm going through this cycle, not putting things in priority. Well, I guess it must be the ability of managing my time for every conceivable things that you want to accomplish.
Yes, I think I must go now. Taking too much time to blog already. Ciao!
When people stop to appreciate things in life, there will always be a chasm in their pursuit of things that really matters. Sometimes, it makes me wonder why I'm going through this cycle, not putting things in priority. Well, I guess it must be the ability of managing my time for every conceivable things that you want to accomplish.
Yes, I think I must go now. Taking too much time to blog already. Ciao!
5.4.06
Famous Last Words
1)"Ha! They couldn't hit an elephant at this dist....."
2)"Don't unplug it, it will only take a moment to fix it."
3)"Let's take the shortcut, he can't see us from there."
4)"What happens if you touch these two wires togeth........."
5)"Give me a match, I think my gas tank is empty."
6)"Wife, these biscuits are tough."
7)Step on her, boy, we're only going seventy-five."
8)"Just watch me dive from that bridge."
9)"If you knew anything, you wouldn't be a traffic police."
10)"What? Your mother is going to stay for another month?"
11)"Luke, I lied. Bill Shatner is your real father." - Darth Vader
12)"And now I'm running my life support equipment through Windows 95, I'll never have to worry about........" beeeeeeep.......
2)"Don't unplug it, it will only take a moment to fix it."
3)"Let's take the shortcut, he can't see us from there."
4)"What happens if you touch these two wires togeth........."
5)"Give me a match, I think my gas tank is empty."
6)"Wife, these biscuits are tough."
7)Step on her, boy, we're only going seventy-five."
8)"Just watch me dive from that bridge."
9)"If you knew anything, you wouldn't be a traffic police."
10)"What? Your mother is going to stay for another month?"
11)"Luke, I lied. Bill Shatner is your real father." - Darth Vader
12)"And now I'm running my life support equipment through Windows 95, I'll never have to worry about........" beeeeeeep.......
6.3.06
In Christ Alone
How many of us have sung this worship song "In Christ Alone" in church worship service before? I think many of us are familiar with it, right? Frankly, we have been singing the chorus only all this while. Here, I would like to print the whole song for the benefit of those who are reading it and to draw everyone to the beautiful verses that speaks of what I'm going through at this point of my life.
In Christ alone will I glory
Though I could pride myself in battles won
For I've been blessed beyond measure
And by His strength alone I overcome
Oh, I could stop and count successes
Like diamonds in my hand
But those trophies could not equal
To the grace by which I stand
In Christ alone
I place my trust
And find my glory in the power of the cross
In every victory, let it be said of me
My source of strength
My source of hope
Is Christ alone
In Christ alone will I glory
For only by His grace I am redeemed
And only His tender mercy
Could reach beyond my weakness to my need
Now I seek no greater honor
Than just to know Him more
And to count my gains but losses
And to the glory of my Lord
A song by Shawn Craig & Don Koch
I hope you will be blessed by the words of this song as much as I do. Yes, let us not glory in the flesh, but count our gains lost and put all our strength and hope In Christ Alone
In Christ alone will I glory
Though I could pride myself in battles won
For I've been blessed beyond measure
And by His strength alone I overcome
Oh, I could stop and count successes
Like diamonds in my hand
But those trophies could not equal
To the grace by which I stand
In Christ alone
I place my trust
And find my glory in the power of the cross
In every victory, let it be said of me
My source of strength
My source of hope
Is Christ alone
In Christ alone will I glory
For only by His grace I am redeemed
And only His tender mercy
Could reach beyond my weakness to my need
Now I seek no greater honor
Than just to know Him more
And to count my gains but losses
And to the glory of my Lord
A song by Shawn Craig & Don Koch
I hope you will be blessed by the words of this song as much as I do. Yes, let us not glory in the flesh, but count our gains lost and put all our strength and hope In Christ Alone
19.2.06
14.11.05
Passing the baton
News spread very fast when you keep your lips tight shut. It is such irony that people get to know it before you can even tell them. Well, I guess life is such that you don't even bother what it will come out to be and let nature take it's course.
Well, I guess by now, the cat is really out of the bag...no more hiding and running round about, I'm taking over the youth ministry mantleship. Its a mixed feeling. I felt my heart tugging and fretting over it ever since the bomb exploded in my face 2 weeks ago. I don't know if I'm ready for it. I tread this ground with trepidation.
The youth leaders had a meeting with the church leaders over this matter and I remember one of the church leader telling me this, "Well James, you do have a choice. You either take it up with fear and trembling or you rise up to the occassion." Am I ready to rise up to their expectations? Surely if I say I want to do His work, He will provide that necessary resources to build me up. Wah, so many things to think about and so little neurons to decipher what's next. It seems like a data-overload on my inconspicuous bean-shape brain.
But I'm determined to let God have the last say, even though people have the facts. I will always remember that in ministry, it is people first, then the place and then the programs.
God, I leave it all to you now!
Well, I guess by now, the cat is really out of the bag...no more hiding and running round about, I'm taking over the youth ministry mantleship. Its a mixed feeling. I felt my heart tugging and fretting over it ever since the bomb exploded in my face 2 weeks ago. I don't know if I'm ready for it. I tread this ground with trepidation.
The youth leaders had a meeting with the church leaders over this matter and I remember one of the church leader telling me this, "Well James, you do have a choice. You either take it up with fear and trembling or you rise up to the occassion." Am I ready to rise up to their expectations? Surely if I say I want to do His work, He will provide that necessary resources to build me up. Wah, so many things to think about and so little neurons to decipher what's next. It seems like a data-overload on my inconspicuous bean-shape brain.
But I'm determined to let God have the last say, even though people have the facts. I will always remember that in ministry, it is people first, then the place and then the programs.
God, I leave it all to you now!
6.10.05
What's with you lately?
Me, myself and I. The centrality of me versus the world. What absolute rubbish! Lately, I've been hit with this 'Me' mentality. Sad to say, sometimes we succumbed to it too often that we don't see the pitfalls of mankind. It is the 'me first and the rest later' syndrome that is a bit too hard to swallow.
Jesus said that we if we want to be first, the we will shall be last. What's that, you may ask. You see, the kingdom of heaven is such that whoever wants to be great and first in the kingdom of heaven must serve others and thus become last for the sake of others. There is no room for egos display and the carnal trinity, Me, Myself and I. Jesus said that we need to humble ourselves before Him. And whatever self that we have, we are to crucify that flesh and come broken and contrite before Him. Simple said then done, but then it takes a lot for us to lay down whatever we don't want to give up.
So what's with you lately? Full of yourself or do you want to empty yourself and come before God to say, "Lord, I'm nothing without You."
Jesus said that we if we want to be first, the we will shall be last. What's that, you may ask. You see, the kingdom of heaven is such that whoever wants to be great and first in the kingdom of heaven must serve others and thus become last for the sake of others. There is no room for egos display and the carnal trinity, Me, Myself and I. Jesus said that we need to humble ourselves before Him. And whatever self that we have, we are to crucify that flesh and come broken and contrite before Him. Simple said then done, but then it takes a lot for us to lay down whatever we don't want to give up.
So what's with you lately? Full of yourself or do you want to empty yourself and come before God to say, "Lord, I'm nothing without You."
5.10.05
Losing The Battle To Win The War
What does it mean to be chastened by God? When God chasten us, he is not trying to get even with us for our sin. Sometimes, we hastily conclude that God must be angry for something we did. The Bible says that God 'hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us with according to our iniquities.....As far as the east is from the west, so far hath He removed our transgressions from us' (Psalms 103:10,12). God's chastening is not God's way of getting even: God got even at the cross.
In fact, it is God's way of preparing us for something better, more valuable and worthwhile. God chastens us 'for profit, that we might be partakers of His holiness' (Hebrews 12:10). Sometimes, God chastens the very one that at that point of time don't deserve it or need it. Take the case of Job. He was a perfect and upright person (Job 1:1). Seriously, you don't have to do anything wrong for God to decide to chasten you! And that is a very sobering fact!
When God chastens you because you have done right - and you take it well - then you can be trusted. Not everyone who is chastened can find an immediate reason why. God could have vindicated us on the spot, but He has chosen not to. I tell you why, because it is better to lose a battle in order to win the war. God had a lot in mind for the kingdom of God than our own personal vindication.
Are you suffering right now because somebody has said something about you that is not nice? Has somebody done something to you that is not very kind? Do you yearn for some vengeance, for the moment where everybody can see the truth? Of course, you do. But if you can't keep quiet about it and you begin instead to act as a busybody, trying to protect yourself and your self-esteem, God will back off the whole situation. He will let you handle it and you will lose the war. The wisest thinng one can ever do when mistreated is to be quiet. God want us to lose the battle so that He might win the war for us.
In fact, it is God's way of preparing us for something better, more valuable and worthwhile. God chastens us 'for profit, that we might be partakers of His holiness' (Hebrews 12:10). Sometimes, God chastens the very one that at that point of time don't deserve it or need it. Take the case of Job. He was a perfect and upright person (Job 1:1). Seriously, you don't have to do anything wrong for God to decide to chasten you! And that is a very sobering fact!
When God chastens you because you have done right - and you take it well - then you can be trusted. Not everyone who is chastened can find an immediate reason why. God could have vindicated us on the spot, but He has chosen not to. I tell you why, because it is better to lose a battle in order to win the war. God had a lot in mind for the kingdom of God than our own personal vindication.
Are you suffering right now because somebody has said something about you that is not nice? Has somebody done something to you that is not very kind? Do you yearn for some vengeance, for the moment where everybody can see the truth? Of course, you do. But if you can't keep quiet about it and you begin instead to act as a busybody, trying to protect yourself and your self-esteem, God will back off the whole situation. He will let you handle it and you will lose the war. The wisest thinng one can ever do when mistreated is to be quiet. God want us to lose the battle so that He might win the war for us.
29.9.05
A Good Break!
Holidays are good. Do you feel that you need a break from the mundanes, routines and the dulls? I do. That's why I went for a short break overseas. It's good to know that your senses needs to feel, taste, hear, smell and see the different myriads of new things which you can only experience once you are out of this concrete jungle call Singapore. And once you come back from the break, you are a totally different person that will just exudes that changed in you. You'll be able to handle things in a different way, have a changed mindset, and most important thing, not take people and things for granted. If you feel like going for that holiday break, tell you what, don't let anything stop you from going. Go and be refreshed. You'd be dying for that change. Time to go smell that rose! What are you waiting for?
12.9.05
Why Some People Cannot Wait
The topic was wait. And people just can't wait for the sermon to finish. Where do you think they are hurrying to? It beats me to think that they are not even interested in whatever we say.
Had an interesting thing happened to me recently. A young guy came out responding to my senior pastor's message on waiting upon the Lord. He was crying and told me to pray for him as he just broke off with his girlfriend. He was asking me to pray that his girlfriend will go back to him and he would like to start all over again with her, on her terms. What pride! Man, this sounds like he's desperate to have her back in his life! When young people get into a relationship, they just loose their mind and character. Don't they ever think before they jump? Imagine having young people coming to me and say, "Hi James, I need to inform you that we just got hitched." Sorry lor, am I an information counter? Which comes first, accountability or the adage, "Just Do It?" As I see it, I'm going to be overwhelmed by such things. It's not new to young people to feel love and to be loved. What I really need is, "hey, give me some time to react lah!" I can listen. I can advice, but would you want to commit yourself to God first, then seriously think through what you might get yourself into.
Human love is definitely selfish. In a relationship, you pay the price for the commitment and the responsibilities towards each other. Don't diminish that. If you can't even achieve these two objectives.....don't celebrate. Looks like celibate is more for you. So please, please, look before you jump into it. Otherwise, don't say I never warn you.
WAIT! It will do you more good than harm! trust me.
Had an interesting thing happened to me recently. A young guy came out responding to my senior pastor's message on waiting upon the Lord. He was crying and told me to pray for him as he just broke off with his girlfriend. He was asking me to pray that his girlfriend will go back to him and he would like to start all over again with her, on her terms. What pride! Man, this sounds like he's desperate to have her back in his life! When young people get into a relationship, they just loose their mind and character. Don't they ever think before they jump? Imagine having young people coming to me and say, "Hi James, I need to inform you that we just got hitched." Sorry lor, am I an information counter? Which comes first, accountability or the adage, "Just Do It?" As I see it, I'm going to be overwhelmed by such things. It's not new to young people to feel love and to be loved. What I really need is, "hey, give me some time to react lah!" I can listen. I can advice, but would you want to commit yourself to God first, then seriously think through what you might get yourself into.
Human love is definitely selfish. In a relationship, you pay the price for the commitment and the responsibilities towards each other. Don't diminish that. If you can't even achieve these two objectives.....don't celebrate. Looks like celibate is more for you. So please, please, look before you jump into it. Otherwise, don't say I never warn you.
WAIT! It will do you more good than harm! trust me.
19.8.05
You Want A Blank Cheque?
If God will to say that He's going to give you a blank cheque, what would you do?
a) Write the biggest amount and bank in.
b) Reject it because you think it's a hoax.
c) Don't know what to do with it and probably will sit on it for a long while.
d) Cannot imagine because you have never received such blessings before.
If your answer is (a), good for you. God's intention is always to bless us bountifully, beyond what we can ever imagine. If your answer is (b) and (c), you probably never experienced God's love in a tangible way. Where have you been when God is already here! God's promise has been spoken in John 3:16, God love us so much that He allowed Jesus to die for the sake of redeeming us. isn't that a blank cheque? Guess what, God is the owner of the biggest bank in the universe. God has no other ulterior motives when He wants to bless us. If your answer is (d), then I recommend that you check His words out. He said in Jeremiah 29:11-14, Malachi 3:10 & 11, Matthew 7:7 & 8, Matthew 5:3-12, James 1:12 and many more. I haven't even scratch the surface! The Bible contains so much blessings that not even the whole world can contain.....so what are you waiting for?
God is not going to give us a blank cheque, He's going to give us more than a blank cheque! Received with thanksgiving. Amen!
a) Write the biggest amount and bank in.
b) Reject it because you think it's a hoax.
c) Don't know what to do with it and probably will sit on it for a long while.
d) Cannot imagine because you have never received such blessings before.
If your answer is (a), good for you. God's intention is always to bless us bountifully, beyond what we can ever imagine. If your answer is (b) and (c), you probably never experienced God's love in a tangible way. Where have you been when God is already here! God's promise has been spoken in John 3:16, God love us so much that He allowed Jesus to die for the sake of redeeming us. isn't that a blank cheque? Guess what, God is the owner of the biggest bank in the universe. God has no other ulterior motives when He wants to bless us. If your answer is (d), then I recommend that you check His words out. He said in Jeremiah 29:11-14, Malachi 3:10 & 11, Matthew 7:7 & 8, Matthew 5:3-12, James 1:12 and many more. I haven't even scratch the surface! The Bible contains so much blessings that not even the whole world can contain.....so what are you waiting for?
God is not going to give us a blank cheque, He's going to give us more than a blank cheque! Received with thanksgiving. Amen!
10.8.05
You don't stand a chance in hell!
Where would I be if I have never been told of God's love for me? Have you ever consider this question at all? Life will still go on, but I've been told that it will go on to another level in heaven! Have you got a passport to heaven? God's purpose for us is to enjoy Him forever.
When I think about the number of BB Boys that came and went and not knowing who Jesus is, it got me wanting to do something. Surely, these Boys are precious in His eyes. As much as I've received His Christ when I was in BB, I knew that these Boys needed Him just as much.
Hell is a terrible place. I don't mean to scare you into God's kingdom, but that's the truth, hell is indeed a place you don't want to be in.
So look into the eyes of the person who has yet to know Jesus, do you see confusion and dejection. Let's put on a heart of compassion and usher them into God's kingdom. Do it now!
When I think about the number of BB Boys that came and went and not knowing who Jesus is, it got me wanting to do something. Surely, these Boys are precious in His eyes. As much as I've received His Christ when I was in BB, I knew that these Boys needed Him just as much.
Hell is a terrible place. I don't mean to scare you into God's kingdom, but that's the truth, hell is indeed a place you don't want to be in.
So look into the eyes of the person who has yet to know Jesus, do you see confusion and dejection. Let's put on a heart of compassion and usher them into God's kingdom. Do it now!
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