The following are 22 questions the members of John and Charles Wesley’s “Holy Club” asked themselves each day in their private devotions over 250 years ago.
1. Am I consciously or unconsciously creating the impression that I am better than I really am? In other words, am I a hypocrite?
2. Am I honest in all my acts and words, or do I exaggerate?
3. Do I confidentially pass on to another what was told to me in confidence?
4. Can I be trusted?
5. Am I a slave to dress, friends, work, or habits?
6. Am I self-conscious, self-pitying, or self-justifying?
7. Did the Bible live in me today?
8. Do I give it time to speak to me everyday?
9. Am I enjoying prayer?
10. When did I last speak to someone else about my faith?
11. Do I pray about the money I spend?
12. Do I get to bed on time and get up on time?
13. Do I disobey God in anything?
14. Do I insist upon doing something about which my conscience is uneasy?
15. Am I defeated in any part of my life?
16. Am I jealous, impure, critical, irritable, touchy, or distrustful?
17. How do I spend my spare time?
18. Am I proud?
19. Do I thank God that I am not as other people, especially as the Pharisees who despised the publican?
20. Is there anyone whom I fear, dislike, disown, criticize, hold resentment toward or disregard? If so, what am I doing about it?
21. Do I grumble or complain constantly?
22. Is Christ real to me?
Short story of the Holy Club: http://www.ctlibrary.com/ch/1983/issue2/216.html
Monday, September 13, 2010
Friday, September 10, 2010
Run the Race with Endurance
Excerpt from "5 Minutes with K.P." in the GFA magazine, Send
"The writer of Hebrews said, "Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us" (Hebrews 12:1). He was very much aware that we are enlisted in a marathon race that can only be won if we have sufficient stamina to last the entire long distance.
As Westerners, we suffer from lack of endurance. Our society is very fluid-people move frequently and surveys show that 50 percent of engaged couples think at least once that if their marriage doesn't work out, they will have a chance on a second one.
It is much easier for us to change, walk away, close our hearts, become bitter or give up instead of enduring for the long haul. It is an uncommon thing to find-in our society and in the Church- the "stickability", permanency, endurance and commitment in the face of difficult that the Bible talks about when it comes to following Jesus.
Especially if you are a young person, I encourage you to embrace the word "endurance." Paul wrote to his young disciple Timothy, "You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ" (2 Tim 2:23). In other words, "Although enduring hardship is difficult, hold onto it, because through this you will grow and improve on the inside."
The best years of my life in terms of developing as a leader, and the most valuable lessons I learned, happened when I worked with a mission organization in northern India. One of my leaders was next to impossible to deal with. No matter what I did, he found fault with it. It was not easy at all to endure. I felt like I died a thousand deaths. But somehow my upbringing and my instruction about discipleship called for staying on and not giving up." - K.P. Yohannan
"The writer of Hebrews said, "Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us" (Hebrews 12:1). He was very much aware that we are enlisted in a marathon race that can only be won if we have sufficient stamina to last the entire long distance.
As Westerners, we suffer from lack of endurance. Our society is very fluid-people move frequently and surveys show that 50 percent of engaged couples think at least once that if their marriage doesn't work out, they will have a chance on a second one.
It is much easier for us to change, walk away, close our hearts, become bitter or give up instead of enduring for the long haul. It is an uncommon thing to find-in our society and in the Church- the "stickability", permanency, endurance and commitment in the face of difficult that the Bible talks about when it comes to following Jesus.
Especially if you are a young person, I encourage you to embrace the word "endurance." Paul wrote to his young disciple Timothy, "You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ" (2 Tim 2:23). In other words, "Although enduring hardship is difficult, hold onto it, because through this you will grow and improve on the inside."
The best years of my life in terms of developing as a leader, and the most valuable lessons I learned, happened when I worked with a mission organization in northern India. One of my leaders was next to impossible to deal with. No matter what I did, he found fault with it. It was not easy at all to endure. I felt like I died a thousand deaths. But somehow my upbringing and my instruction about discipleship called for staying on and not giving up." - K.P. Yohannan
A Christian's Response to Difficult Situations in Life
What will my response be when things turned against me in life?
What will my response be when man falsely accuse and persecute me?
What will my response be when Christian brothers betray, attack or desert me?
What will my response be when Christian leaders fail me?
What will my response be when I am hurting badly and seething with anger?
I am not sure how I will respond when times like this comes my way. Yet I have seen many lives destroyed or crushed by their response to these situations. It can be difficult to hold on to God and easy to let loose our hurts and fury in such situations. But if there is one thing that should govern our response, it must be God Himself - His very words. How then should a Christian respond to such situations in life?
In times when things turned against us, sometimes without reason, we must cling on to God. To believe that He is in control, He knows what's best, and He will make all things well someday; even though we cannot see it now and we are in tears. There is great Hope because of Jesus Christ. He has saved us, redeemed us, make us His very own and given us eternal and abundant life. (John 1:12; 3:16; 10:10) Our earthly life is but for a moment; then we shall have no more tears for eternity, and our troubles on earth will be nothing in light of our eternal glory in Him. (2 Cor 4:16-17)
In times when man falsely accuse you and attack you, even Christian brothers, be patient. For God will judge justly and bring about His righteous wrath. (Rom 12:19) It is not right for you and I to take matters into our own hands and repay evil for evil. (Rom 12:17; 1 Thess 5:15) Rather, we must overcome evil with good.(Rom 12:21) We must never sinned in our anger with the words we say and the actions we do. We must be wise not to play the devil's game and not to let him have a foothold in our lives through our response(Eph 4:26-27) Be patient and stand firm in the Lord.
In times when Christian leaders fail you, pray. This is a time when you could find yourself confused, disappointed, angry, upset, bitter or a mixture of everything. It is vital to pray at such times because this is when the devil will incite and deceive you and many in your church. Widespread rumours, misunderstandings, divisions and fights is the devil's gameplan. Let us not be deceived into becoming a tool for him but let us be self-controlled and alert; for the devil is taking such opportunities to devour people up in church. (1 Peter 5:8) Pray for your leaders, and ask the Lord to show you what is happening and how to deal with it wisely. (Rom 15:30; James 1:5)
And in all things, always pray and always give thanks to God in all circumstances. (1 Thess 5:17-18)
And to be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer. (Rom 12:12)
Let us therefore sing to the Lord in response!
"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever." (Ps 107:1) Amen.
What will my response be when man falsely accuse and persecute me?
What will my response be when Christian brothers betray, attack or desert me?
What will my response be when Christian leaders fail me?
What will my response be when I am hurting badly and seething with anger?
I am not sure how I will respond when times like this comes my way. Yet I have seen many lives destroyed or crushed by their response to these situations. It can be difficult to hold on to God and easy to let loose our hurts and fury in such situations. But if there is one thing that should govern our response, it must be God Himself - His very words. How then should a Christian respond to such situations in life?
In times when things turned against us, sometimes without reason, we must cling on to God. To believe that He is in control, He knows what's best, and He will make all things well someday; even though we cannot see it now and we are in tears. There is great Hope because of Jesus Christ. He has saved us, redeemed us, make us His very own and given us eternal and abundant life. (John 1:12; 3:16; 10:10) Our earthly life is but for a moment; then we shall have no more tears for eternity, and our troubles on earth will be nothing in light of our eternal glory in Him. (2 Cor 4:16-17)
In times when man falsely accuse you and attack you, even Christian brothers, be patient. For God will judge justly and bring about His righteous wrath. (Rom 12:19) It is not right for you and I to take matters into our own hands and repay evil for evil. (Rom 12:17; 1 Thess 5:15) Rather, we must overcome evil with good.(Rom 12:21) We must never sinned in our anger with the words we say and the actions we do. We must be wise not to play the devil's game and not to let him have a foothold in our lives through our response(Eph 4:26-27) Be patient and stand firm in the Lord.
In times when Christian leaders fail you, pray. This is a time when you could find yourself confused, disappointed, angry, upset, bitter or a mixture of everything. It is vital to pray at such times because this is when the devil will incite and deceive you and many in your church. Widespread rumours, misunderstandings, divisions and fights is the devil's gameplan. Let us not be deceived into becoming a tool for him but let us be self-controlled and alert; for the devil is taking such opportunities to devour people up in church. (1 Peter 5:8) Pray for your leaders, and ask the Lord to show you what is happening and how to deal with it wisely. (Rom 15:30; James 1:5)
And in all things, always pray and always give thanks to God in all circumstances. (1 Thess 5:17-18)
And to be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer. (Rom 12:12)
Let us therefore sing to the Lord in response!
"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever." (Ps 107:1) Amen.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Death, Hope and Christ
Two deaths in a week. One, an elderly man, and the other in his 50s.
No one can fathom death - it does not announce the time to go, it can happen to anyone, it can be unexpected, it does not state its reason.
One moment he is talking, and the next moment he is no more. Are not "our days like grass? Like a flower of the field where the wind blows over it and it is gone?"(Ps 103:15-16)
If our citizenship is not in heaven, we would have lost all hope. But praise be to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ who have gone ahead of us to prepare a place for us in heaven. (Phil 3:20; John 14:2)
And so even though death does always bring pain while we're still here, we know that death's pain do not last forever because we have a great hope in Jesus Christ. That one day we shall meet our Lord and Saviour face to face, and also all those we've missed on earth because they have gone ahead of us.
"Where, O death, is your victory?
Where, O death, is your sting?"
- 1 Cor 15:55
It is no more because of Jesus Christ. For "neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Rom 8:38-39
Yes. His love endures forever - over pain, over grief, over death. His love endures forever. (Ps 118:1)
May the peace of God be with those who are grieving now, and may the hope found in Christ strengthen them and comfort them. His love endures forever. Amen.
No one can fathom death - it does not announce the time to go, it can happen to anyone, it can be unexpected, it does not state its reason.
One moment he is talking, and the next moment he is no more. Are not "our days like grass? Like a flower of the field where the wind blows over it and it is gone?"(Ps 103:15-16)
If our citizenship is not in heaven, we would have lost all hope. But praise be to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ who have gone ahead of us to prepare a place for us in heaven. (Phil 3:20; John 14:2)
And so even though death does always bring pain while we're still here, we know that death's pain do not last forever because we have a great hope in Jesus Christ. That one day we shall meet our Lord and Saviour face to face, and also all those we've missed on earth because they have gone ahead of us.
"Where, O death, is your victory?
Where, O death, is your sting?"
- 1 Cor 15:55
It is no more because of Jesus Christ. For "neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Rom 8:38-39
Yes. His love endures forever - over pain, over grief, over death. His love endures forever. (Ps 118:1)
May the peace of God be with those who are grieving now, and may the hope found in Christ strengthen them and comfort them. His love endures forever. Amen.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Be Equipped in Evangelising - XEE
I just finished the XEE (www.xee.info) training a few days ago and it has been a great experience. Out of the days we've spent listening, discussing, laughing & sharing, 4 persons have come to know the Lord through connecting with them with the gospel. Isn't God wonderful?
XEE is a tool used for evangelism and to train others to do the same. What I really like about XEE is that it has a solid theological basis in sharing the gospel message (I am sure a lot of thoughts and prayer have gone into it) and it advocates evangelism as a process, a lifestyle. It helps believers to see that sharing the gospel is a very doable 'task' and that relationship/connection matters in the sharing process - significant conversations and dialogue as opposed to a "you listen to me only" method. This is especially helpful with modern city folks - especially the younger generation. Last but not least, the training is fueled by prayers - the host church got their folks involved by getting them to be prayer partners with the trainees. Isn't that awesome?
And oh, I've just shared the gospel with my mum (yea, you must be thinking what took me so long huh) in a way which I think is most complete and understandable.(though I've shared bits and pieces before). So you see my friends, getting yourself equipped is important. And always pray for your friends and family who have yet to know Jesus. Pray on.
"We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God" - 2 Cor 5:20
XEE is a tool used for evangelism and to train others to do the same. What I really like about XEE is that it has a solid theological basis in sharing the gospel message (I am sure a lot of thoughts and prayer have gone into it) and it advocates evangelism as a process, a lifestyle. It helps believers to see that sharing the gospel is a very doable 'task' and that relationship/connection matters in the sharing process - significant conversations and dialogue as opposed to a "you listen to me only" method. This is especially helpful with modern city folks - especially the younger generation. Last but not least, the training is fueled by prayers - the host church got their folks involved by getting them to be prayer partners with the trainees. Isn't that awesome?
And oh, I've just shared the gospel with my mum (yea, you must be thinking what took me so long huh) in a way which I think is most complete and understandable.(though I've shared bits and pieces before). So you see my friends, getting yourself equipped is important. And always pray for your friends and family who have yet to know Jesus. Pray on.
"We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God" - 2 Cor 5:20
Friday, May 21, 2010
Homosexuality and Faith
This is something I believe many Christians do not ask nor do many churches want to talk about other than to give an easy statement that "Homosexuality is a sin" and freely proclaimed that "God loves the sinner but hates the sin". But let's face the facts - most churches and Christians are ill-equipped to engage and help our homosexual friends through their faith journey. Okay, maybe that sounded too mechanical as if to convey that the heterosexuals are alright and the homosexuals are not and therefore the heterosexuals must do something to help the homosexuals. How about saying that most churches and Christians are prejudiced and suspicious of homosexuals? And to add to the list, they are ignorant as well.
I'm not a liberal nor a saint. All I am saying is that, we(the Christian community at large-the Church) who claimed to be Jesus' disciples are NOT listening (at least most of us are not) to Christian homosexuals with a spirit of patience, compassion, prayer and much needed wisdom. Is there such a thing(i.e. a Christian who is a homosexual) you asked? Yes, there is - in Singapore, as well as in the world. (the term "Christian" denotes anyone who believes Jesus as their Lord and Saviour) Whether you agree there is such a thing as a "Christian homosexual" is another thing. The fact is, they(Christians with a different sexual orientation and lifestyle) exist.
How do we view them? Have we tried to understand them? Are we willing to walk through their struggles in life? Is it possible to reconcile their faith and sexuality? What if they could not change their sexual orientation? I wonder if we have ever asked ourselves such questions, and reflect in light of Scriptures and other resources which may shed some light to these questions.
I'm not going into a research or debate on this. But if you happened to be a Christian or church leader reading this, I think it's high time God's community (His church) learn how to engage "different" people in the proper manner.
For more information,
1. Is the Homosexual my Neighbour? (Tony Campolo and his wife shares their different opinion on homosexuality. Audio files available here)
2. The Great Debate - are homosexual relationships sinful? (Read 2 different views from 2 homosexuals who believe in Jesus. One said yes to the question, one said no)
3. Exodus International: FAQ on homosexuality (Exodus is a nonprofit, interdenominational Christian organization promoting the message of Freedom from homosexuality through the power of Jesus Christ)
4. What is the definition of change? (Some definition by ex-gay movements of what it means when one said that a homosexual has changed)
5. Examining the Scientific Evidence for Homosexuality by Dr John Tay, Professor and Head of Department of Paediatrics, National University of Singapore (1973-1995) and Head of the Division of Human Genetics in Singapore.
6. Google, search the library and get to know your friends who are homosexuals. That'll help.
Perhaps I'll end with a cliche: WWJD - What Will Jesus Do?
Go figure it.
I'm not a liberal nor a saint. All I am saying is that, we(the Christian community at large-the Church) who claimed to be Jesus' disciples are NOT listening (at least most of us are not) to Christian homosexuals with a spirit of patience, compassion, prayer and much needed wisdom. Is there such a thing(i.e. a Christian who is a homosexual) you asked? Yes, there is - in Singapore, as well as in the world. (the term "Christian" denotes anyone who believes Jesus as their Lord and Saviour) Whether you agree there is such a thing as a "Christian homosexual" is another thing. The fact is, they(Christians with a different sexual orientation and lifestyle) exist.
How do we view them? Have we tried to understand them? Are we willing to walk through their struggles in life? Is it possible to reconcile their faith and sexuality? What if they could not change their sexual orientation? I wonder if we have ever asked ourselves such questions, and reflect in light of Scriptures and other resources which may shed some light to these questions.
I'm not going into a research or debate on this. But if you happened to be a Christian or church leader reading this, I think it's high time God's community (His church) learn how to engage "different" people in the proper manner.
For more information,
1. Is the Homosexual my Neighbour? (Tony Campolo and his wife shares their different opinion on homosexuality. Audio files available here)
2. The Great Debate - are homosexual relationships sinful? (Read 2 different views from 2 homosexuals who believe in Jesus. One said yes to the question, one said no)
3. Exodus International: FAQ on homosexuality (Exodus is a nonprofit, interdenominational Christian organization promoting the message of Freedom from homosexuality through the power of Jesus Christ)
4. What is the definition of change? (Some definition by ex-gay movements of what it means when one said that a homosexual has changed)
5. Examining the Scientific Evidence for Homosexuality by Dr John Tay, Professor and Head of Department of Paediatrics, National University of Singapore (1973-1995) and Head of the Division of Human Genetics in Singapore.
6. Google, search the library and get to know your friends who are homosexuals. That'll help.
Perhaps I'll end with a cliche: WWJD - What Will Jesus Do?
Go figure it.
Friday, May 07, 2010
Faithfulness is a Lifelong Journey. It doesn't stop.
Today's address by Dr Maak Hay Chun, who have served the Lord for over 60 years in missions and church planting, theological education and pastoral ministry, CCCOWE and other ministries, left a deep impression on me.
He admitted his health is not as good, his eyesight is failing and he wasn't as mobile as he would like to be. But when he speaks, my goodness, it didn't really matter that he couldn't see well anymore or that he has just turned 80; his words are alive, and he is still actively serving the Lord.
Faithfulness.
Faithfulness is when you receive your doctorate in Theology at age 81. That is Singapore Bible College's first principal, the late Rev.Dr.Moses Yu. Faithful in learning until the end.
Faithfulness is when you keep going, keep thinking and keep dreaming at age 82. "We would have heard him speak on any issue, but when he had been introduced Dr. Winter said, “If you have a burning question, I’d like to hear it; I may not be able to help, but I like to work on burning questions." Some people see things as they are and ask, “Why?”; Dr. Winter dreamed things that never were and said, “Why not?” That is the late Dr.Ralph Winter. Faithful in engaging until the end.
Faithfulness is when you keep working for His kingdom sake, never despising your age and lack of ability. We have no ability anyway, apart from what He had given us and using those abilities through His empowerment to carry out His task.
"Dr.Ralph Winter elaborated that if a person begins his ministry at the age of 30 and lives to the age of 90 he is only half through at the age of 60. He pointed out that some of the most significant work accomplished in ministry and in the secular world is accomplished by persons in their seventies and beyond. Dr. Donald McGavran, at the age of 80 with the Church Growth Movement, is an example."
Faithful in serving until the end.
Faithfulness is a lifelong journey. A journey until we see the Lord again and hear His joyous words, "Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your Master." Let's keep walking, even as age catches up. Amen.
Quotes and information from:
Rev.Dr. Moses Yu - http://www.gospelherald.net/article/ministries/46208/chinese-evangelist-rev-moses-yu-died-at-91.htm
Dr.Ralph Winter - http://www.missionfrontiers.org/pdf/2009/03/34-49%20Various%20Tributes.pdf (p39)
Dr.Donald McGravan - http://www.missionfrontiers.org/pdf/2009/03/34-49%20Various%20Tributes.pdf (p44)
He admitted his health is not as good, his eyesight is failing and he wasn't as mobile as he would like to be. But when he speaks, my goodness, it didn't really matter that he couldn't see well anymore or that he has just turned 80; his words are alive, and he is still actively serving the Lord.
Faithfulness.
Faithfulness is when you receive your doctorate in Theology at age 81. That is Singapore Bible College's first principal, the late Rev.Dr.Moses Yu. Faithful in learning until the end.
Faithfulness is when you keep going, keep thinking and keep dreaming at age 82. "We would have heard him speak on any issue, but when he had been introduced Dr. Winter said, “If you have a burning question, I’d like to hear it; I may not be able to help, but I like to work on burning questions." Some people see things as they are and ask, “Why?”; Dr. Winter dreamed things that never were and said, “Why not?” That is the late Dr.Ralph Winter. Faithful in engaging until the end.
Faithfulness is when you keep working for His kingdom sake, never despising your age and lack of ability. We have no ability anyway, apart from what He had given us and using those abilities through His empowerment to carry out His task.
"Dr.Ralph Winter elaborated that if a person begins his ministry at the age of 30 and lives to the age of 90 he is only half through at the age of 60. He pointed out that some of the most significant work accomplished in ministry and in the secular world is accomplished by persons in their seventies and beyond. Dr. Donald McGavran, at the age of 80 with the Church Growth Movement, is an example."
Faithful in serving until the end.
Faithfulness is a lifelong journey. A journey until we see the Lord again and hear His joyous words, "Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your Master." Let's keep walking, even as age catches up. Amen.
Quotes and information from:
Rev.Dr. Moses Yu - http://www.gospelherald.net/article/ministries/46208/chinese-evangelist-rev-moses-yu-died-at-91.htm
Dr.Ralph Winter - http://www.missionfrontiers.org/pdf/2009/03/34-49%20Various%20Tributes.pdf (p39)
Dr.Donald McGravan - http://www.missionfrontiers.org/pdf/2009/03/34-49%20Various%20Tributes.pdf (p44)
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Get Real
I think today's match sums up Arsenal's season. Isn't it plain for anyone to see their weaknesses? But what's frustrating is: Wenger's not buying players to fill up the big gaps Arsenal is having. Throughout the seasons(note: plural. that's how long we haven't touch something shiny), it is clear where Arsenal's weaknesses are. YET, there is little done to address the issues.
1. Goalkeeper: Fabianski??? (gimme a break!!!) Even Almunia, who is a decent shot-stopper, is not good enough. We NEED a SOLID international!!!! (Read: Van der Sar, Cech, Given, Reina)
2. Defence: Get one more solid defender who can be 1st team or a backup. Silvestre and Campbell is too slow for EPL. Remember that we don't have a Vieira to protect anymore!
3. Midfield: Get a solid DM. Song is improving but I don't see him in the class of Vieira, at least not yet. Other than that, we have lotsa midfielders who are all inconsistent barring Fab.
4. Forward: Besides RVP, the rest are underperforming. Bendtner misses too much and Eduardo has lost his form. Get a solid international will you?
sign,
Another miserable Arsenal fan.
1. Goalkeeper: Fabianski??? (gimme a break!!!) Even Almunia, who is a decent shot-stopper, is not good enough. We NEED a SOLID international!!!! (Read: Van der Sar, Cech, Given, Reina)
2. Defence: Get one more solid defender who can be 1st team or a backup. Silvestre and Campbell is too slow for EPL. Remember that we don't have a Vieira to protect anymore!
3. Midfield: Get a solid DM. Song is improving but I don't see him in the class of Vieira, at least not yet. Other than that, we have lotsa midfielders who are all inconsistent barring Fab.
4. Forward: Besides RVP, the rest are underperforming. Bendtner misses too much and Eduardo has lost his form. Get a solid international will you?
sign,
Another miserable Arsenal fan.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Be encouraged. The LORD is God.
Sometimes in life, you can't help but feel dejected and discouraged as you look at seemingly dire circumstances. Perhaps you feel like Elijah(2 Kings 19), utterly discouraged and even depressed by what you see.
But God is good. He is always on time to show us the truth - i.e. He is always at work - and just at the right moment, He reveals His work and encouraged us by His mighty acts. God told Elijah, "Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel-all whose knees have not bowed to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him."
Are there times when you feel an acute burden for God's people? And become discouraged by what you see? I have good news for you. God is not dead. He is the living God who has always been working in the lives of His people. Yes, some might be very cold, some might be only outwardly hot, but yet God has not left Himself without a people whose hearts are tender and who will seek His face.
The truth is:
I cannot do anything.
God can do all things.
Therefore I will stop lamenting,
come to Him in prayer
and meditate upon his truth.
"Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture." (Ps 100:3)
Amen.
But God is good. He is always on time to show us the truth - i.e. He is always at work - and just at the right moment, He reveals His work and encouraged us by His mighty acts. God told Elijah, "Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel-all whose knees have not bowed to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him."
Are there times when you feel an acute burden for God's people? And become discouraged by what you see? I have good news for you. God is not dead. He is the living God who has always been working in the lives of His people. Yes, some might be very cold, some might be only outwardly hot, but yet God has not left Himself without a people whose hearts are tender and who will seek His face.
The truth is:
I cannot do anything.
God can do all things.
Therefore I will stop lamenting,
come to Him in prayer
and meditate upon his truth.
"Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture." (Ps 100:3)
Amen.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Enjoying His Presence in Silence
"Eh, dear God. Can you tell me this... and this... and this..." (me)
Silence. (God)
Same questions on occasional moments. (me)
Same Silence. (God)
God spoke through Habbakuk. (me)
"Shhhh...come, let us enjoy this moment together" (God)
So we sat at the couch, savouring every moment of precious quality time together. (me and God)
"Ahhh... now I know what you desire Lord" (me)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
My dear friends. God is not hard of hearing nor is He far.
Even in silence, one can communicate a lot - not verbal but relishing the presence of each other. Perhaps God wants to teach you this too.
That many times, God just want you to enjoy His presence; spending that quiet time together. Your answer will come, but for now, savour that wonderful moment together with Him.
"Shhhh...come, let us enjoy this moment together"
Silence. (God)
Same questions on occasional moments. (me)
Same Silence. (God)
God spoke through Habbakuk. (me)
"Shhhh...come, let us enjoy this moment together" (God)
So we sat at the couch, savouring every moment of precious quality time together. (me and God)
"Ahhh... now I know what you desire Lord" (me)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
My dear friends. God is not hard of hearing nor is He far.
Even in silence, one can communicate a lot - not verbal but relishing the presence of each other. Perhaps God wants to teach you this too.
That many times, God just want you to enjoy His presence; spending that quiet time together. Your answer will come, but for now, savour that wonderful moment together with Him.
"Shhhh...come, let us enjoy this moment together"
Friday, February 12, 2010
Sound Doctrine
Excerpt from "A Revolution of Love" by George Verwer
"There is, I believe, a basic ingredient which is largely lacking in Christianity today, and the lack of it is the source of most of our problems. It is the cancer which is eating away at the church, but it is no secret. In fact, it is so non-secretive that it is written on almost every page of the New Testament. And yet, because the heart of man is deceitful and desperately wicked, and because we are so bent on our own way, we do not see (or seeing we do not believe) that the basic message of the New Testament is LOVE! It is my absolute conviction that most of us miss this most obvious and most repeated message, even while laying great emphasis on "sound doctrine".
Well, I would like to ask you, "What is sound doctrine?" We have long discussions on the Second Coming, on the Atoning Work of Christ, on the Church, the Holy Spirit, etc etc. But what about love and humility and brokenness? These usually go into a separate category, but I want to tell you that if your doctrine does not include love and humility and brokenness, then your doctrine is not sound.
Doctrine cannot be separated from practical living. He is not sound in doctrine if he does not love the brethren. What do we read in 1 John 4:8? "He that loveth not knoweth not God." There is no sounder doctrine than love, and apart from love there is no sound doctrine. This is the basis of all Bible doctrine. You take the base out and everything you build will eventually collapse."
May we love our enemies and love our neighbours as ourselves with the help of Christ. Amen.
"There is, I believe, a basic ingredient which is largely lacking in Christianity today, and the lack of it is the source of most of our problems. It is the cancer which is eating away at the church, but it is no secret. In fact, it is so non-secretive that it is written on almost every page of the New Testament. And yet, because the heart of man is deceitful and desperately wicked, and because we are so bent on our own way, we do not see (or seeing we do not believe) that the basic message of the New Testament is LOVE! It is my absolute conviction that most of us miss this most obvious and most repeated message, even while laying great emphasis on "sound doctrine".
Well, I would like to ask you, "What is sound doctrine?" We have long discussions on the Second Coming, on the Atoning Work of Christ, on the Church, the Holy Spirit, etc etc. But what about love and humility and brokenness? These usually go into a separate category, but I want to tell you that if your doctrine does not include love and humility and brokenness, then your doctrine is not sound.
Doctrine cannot be separated from practical living. He is not sound in doctrine if he does not love the brethren. What do we read in 1 John 4:8? "He that loveth not knoweth not God." There is no sounder doctrine than love, and apart from love there is no sound doctrine. This is the basis of all Bible doctrine. You take the base out and everything you build will eventually collapse."
May we love our enemies and love our neighbours as ourselves with the help of Christ. Amen.
Monday, February 08, 2010
Football and Spiritual Lessons
We're not into the 2nd half and Arsenal is already 2 goals down. By now, I've stopped watching because 1)I'm very frustrated 2)I don't have the faith to believe they'll equalize, let alone win. I'm very frustrated because they are making the same defensive mistakes. Can you equalize Arsenal? Can you prove me wrong Arsenal? It's too painful to continue watching. I'll know the result tomorrow.
On a sidetrack, there're many spiritual lessons we can learn from football. Examples:
1. I thank God that He is faithful and He will win the day - unlike the uncertainty of Arsenal winning every game. God always win. The result may be 2-0 but He'll win 2-3 or probably more. He'll win - that's for sure - cos He has already won on the cross.
2. Sometimes I wonder if God is feeling as frustrated as me when he watched our lives being played out on earth like a football match. Like Arsenal, we may be smart & having great potential but prone to repeating our mistakes and slow in changing our ways. Don't you think God gets frustrated? My pledge to Arsenal is that I'll remain its supporter no matter what - but I don't have full faith in believing they can win the title or beat Chelsea tonight. God is somewhat similar but very different. His pledge is that He'll remain our God no matter what - and unlike me - He is faithful even when we are faithless(2 Tim 2:13) And as much as He is frustrated and as much as it pains Him to see us fumble like Arsenal, He'll not let go and will cheer us on all the way. What a great God we serve.
Back to the topic, R.I.P Arsenal or prove me wrong.
On a sidetrack, there're many spiritual lessons we can learn from football. Examples:
1. I thank God that He is faithful and He will win the day - unlike the uncertainty of Arsenal winning every game. God always win. The result may be 2-0 but He'll win 2-3 or probably more. He'll win - that's for sure - cos He has already won on the cross.
2. Sometimes I wonder if God is feeling as frustrated as me when he watched our lives being played out on earth like a football match. Like Arsenal, we may be smart & having great potential but prone to repeating our mistakes and slow in changing our ways. Don't you think God gets frustrated? My pledge to Arsenal is that I'll remain its supporter no matter what - but I don't have full faith in believing they can win the title or beat Chelsea tonight. God is somewhat similar but very different. His pledge is that He'll remain our God no matter what - and unlike me - He is faithful even when we are faithless(2 Tim 2:13) And as much as He is frustrated and as much as it pains Him to see us fumble like Arsenal, He'll not let go and will cheer us on all the way. What a great God we serve.
Back to the topic, R.I.P Arsenal or prove me wrong.
Monday, February 01, 2010
Tactics & Players Mattered
I'm looking at Arsenal's loss against Man U. Fergie got his tactics spot on and crushed Arsenal. If you haven't notice, Arsenal's tactics are as predictable as a sunrise. The chief reason is the lack of players for them to change tactically, and secondly, they always play the same way!
1. Fergie changed his normal 4-4-2 to a 4-5-1(4-3-2-1) in order to cramp the midfield because that was Arsenal's main attack supply. Without a smooth midfield, Arsenal can't do anything. They suck at long balls, they're not direct enough and they don't depend on wingplay and crosses. So if their passing game is disrupted, Arsenal can hardly attack well.
2. Wenger had little options in attack. I'm sure he's still cursing the Dutch FA. Van Persie was such an integral part of the firing gunners early in the season. Arshavin was isolated up front and he's hardly an out-and-out striker. Notice what happened when Walcott burst down the right wing and whip in a cross? NO GUNNERS were near the box - I only saw 4 Man U defenders in a straight line. Sums up Arsenal's attack yesterday.
3. Fergie got Fletcher or Carrick to snap at Fabregas everytime he got the ball. Fab didn't have much manoeuvre space in the whole game. The man-to-man marking and pressing pushed him off his game and he wasn't really able to push up to attack.
4. Wenger likes denilson a lot. I don't know why. With Song(as acting DM) and Fab playmaking, there is really no space to put him into an already crammed midfield. While Bendtner is not a prolific striker, he can cause plenty of problems up front with his height and running. I would think putting him in(yes, it's a risk when he has just returned from injury) is a better option than putting in denilson. He seems lost in the whole game.
5. Fergie's use of Park Ji Sung in every Arsenal game whenever he's available. That's because Park can attack and runs back to defend with his unlimited stamina and power workrate. He's quick enough too for Arsenal.
6. We've seen enough how susceptible Arsenal is to counter attacks. Man City and Chelsea have shown that and now Man U too. The reason? Not enough protection for two surging fullbacks(wingbacks) and sometimes even surging centrebacks(Gallas and Vermaelen) who got really frustrated sometimes because the midfielders got stuck in their passing game when opponents mark man them. So time and again, Arsenal is badly exposed and not quick enough to recover. Against top teams(who are fast and make their chances really count), that spells doom.
It's really frustrating watching them repeat the same kind of defeats. I wish....
1. I have Van Der Sar, Cech or Given as goalkeepr. Why Wenger chose to stick with Almunia and not bought Given is a mystery. Our goalkeeper is not even good enough to be in a national team!
2. Van Persie is not injured. He would have balanced out Arsenal's lack of strikers.
3. We have more players like Arshavin. Experienced, skillful and top quality. A top class goalkeeper and winger/s would be very much appreciated. (I just don't see Rosicky and Nasri being able to fit into Arsenal. They're too similar to Fab's preference of a centre attacking role. Putting them on the left and right are not working out well)
I hope the next 2 big games would not be a repeat. Else, it's goodbye Arsenal again.
1. Fergie changed his normal 4-4-2 to a 4-5-1(4-3-2-1) in order to cramp the midfield because that was Arsenal's main attack supply. Without a smooth midfield, Arsenal can't do anything. They suck at long balls, they're not direct enough and they don't depend on wingplay and crosses. So if their passing game is disrupted, Arsenal can hardly attack well.
2. Wenger had little options in attack. I'm sure he's still cursing the Dutch FA. Van Persie was such an integral part of the firing gunners early in the season. Arshavin was isolated up front and he's hardly an out-and-out striker. Notice what happened when Walcott burst down the right wing and whip in a cross? NO GUNNERS were near the box - I only saw 4 Man U defenders in a straight line. Sums up Arsenal's attack yesterday.
3. Fergie got Fletcher or Carrick to snap at Fabregas everytime he got the ball. Fab didn't have much manoeuvre space in the whole game. The man-to-man marking and pressing pushed him off his game and he wasn't really able to push up to attack.
4. Wenger likes denilson a lot. I don't know why. With Song(as acting DM) and Fab playmaking, there is really no space to put him into an already crammed midfield. While Bendtner is not a prolific striker, he can cause plenty of problems up front with his height and running. I would think putting him in(yes, it's a risk when he has just returned from injury) is a better option than putting in denilson. He seems lost in the whole game.
5. Fergie's use of Park Ji Sung in every Arsenal game whenever he's available. That's because Park can attack and runs back to defend with his unlimited stamina and power workrate. He's quick enough too for Arsenal.
6. We've seen enough how susceptible Arsenal is to counter attacks. Man City and Chelsea have shown that and now Man U too. The reason? Not enough protection for two surging fullbacks(wingbacks) and sometimes even surging centrebacks(Gallas and Vermaelen) who got really frustrated sometimes because the midfielders got stuck in their passing game when opponents mark man them. So time and again, Arsenal is badly exposed and not quick enough to recover. Against top teams(who are fast and make their chances really count), that spells doom.
It's really frustrating watching them repeat the same kind of defeats. I wish....
1. I have Van Der Sar, Cech or Given as goalkeepr. Why Wenger chose to stick with Almunia and not bought Given is a mystery. Our goalkeeper is not even good enough to be in a national team!
2. Van Persie is not injured. He would have balanced out Arsenal's lack of strikers.
3. We have more players like Arshavin. Experienced, skillful and top quality. A top class goalkeeper and winger/s would be very much appreciated. (I just don't see Rosicky and Nasri being able to fit into Arsenal. They're too similar to Fab's preference of a centre attacking role. Putting them on the left and right are not working out well)
I hope the next 2 big games would not be a repeat. Else, it's goodbye Arsenal again.
Arsene's Fantasy
I like Arsenal's football but the dream(of winning with a weak defence) is way too flawed.
If you have noticed, Arsenal's defence is weak because:
1. They seldom press for the ball. They tend to have 2-3 players standing around an opponent while giving the opponent enough space to manoeuvre. If you've seen enough Arsenal's matches, many teams have bypassed 2-3 of their players at one go with good, direct passes.
2. They have no strong ball winners in the centre of the park. While I must say Song is getting better, he's hardly in the mould of Patrick Vieira or Flamini - players who not only deliver solid tackles, but wins the ball back with their energy, initiative and determination.
So now we're down 3-0 to Man U and the reasons?
1. Nani skipped past some static standing Arsenal players. The unfortunate Almunia scored an own goal. A repeated pattern of static standing Arsenal players letting opponents through way too easily.
2. Were Arsenal outnumbered at the back when Man U counter attack? NO. The reason was Denilson failed to follow through with Rooney. He ran back but slowed down towards the penalty area for no good reason. By the time Rooney got the ball, none of the Arsenal players was nowhere NEAR him!!! Utterly atrocious!
3. Another counter attack and this time, the defence gone missing. Arsenal is painfully slow in running back(did you notice Song slowing down his run??).
So again, Arsenal have summed up much of its season so far. Good potential, but not good enough. I don't believe a team with a weak defence can win titles. They can leak in goals, but they must be able to defend well. The reason for Arsenal's invincible win in 2003-2004? A solid attack and solid defence.
So Chelsea thrash them 3-0 at the Emirates and now Man U. Highbury used to be a fortress and the Emirates isn't really in the same class. The difference is not so much the place than the players(especially the defence). And Arsenal need a solid leader who can bark at his defence. I rest my case Wenger. You can continue your fantasy but I'm getting tired. So are Arsenal fans. Come on.
If you have noticed, Arsenal's defence is weak because:
1. They seldom press for the ball. They tend to have 2-3 players standing around an opponent while giving the opponent enough space to manoeuvre. If you've seen enough Arsenal's matches, many teams have bypassed 2-3 of their players at one go with good, direct passes.
2. They have no strong ball winners in the centre of the park. While I must say Song is getting better, he's hardly in the mould of Patrick Vieira or Flamini - players who not only deliver solid tackles, but wins the ball back with their energy, initiative and determination.
So now we're down 3-0 to Man U and the reasons?
1. Nani skipped past some static standing Arsenal players. The unfortunate Almunia scored an own goal. A repeated pattern of static standing Arsenal players letting opponents through way too easily.
2. Were Arsenal outnumbered at the back when Man U counter attack? NO. The reason was Denilson failed to follow through with Rooney. He ran back but slowed down towards the penalty area for no good reason. By the time Rooney got the ball, none of the Arsenal players was nowhere NEAR him!!! Utterly atrocious!
3. Another counter attack and this time, the defence gone missing. Arsenal is painfully slow in running back(did you notice Song slowing down his run??).
So again, Arsenal have summed up much of its season so far. Good potential, but not good enough. I don't believe a team with a weak defence can win titles. They can leak in goals, but they must be able to defend well. The reason for Arsenal's invincible win in 2003-2004? A solid attack and solid defence.
So Chelsea thrash them 3-0 at the Emirates and now Man U. Highbury used to be a fortress and the Emirates isn't really in the same class. The difference is not so much the place than the players(especially the defence). And Arsenal need a solid leader who can bark at his defence. I rest my case Wenger. You can continue your fantasy but I'm getting tired. So are Arsenal fans. Come on.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Kindred Spirit
Kindred Spirit - "A person whose interests are similar to one's own"
I've found more and more kindred spirits in school and I'm really blessed to learn from them and had the opportunity to share my life's experiences too. Some of them are waiting for God's direction in cross cultural work, some are struggling with institutional policies & structures that baffle, and some had the same passion in a certain area of ministry.
It's been a blessing to have kindred spirits. They encourage one to carry on walking with God in his journey because they understand, they affirm and they make one realised he's not alone.
Thank God for kindred spirits. It's wonderful.
I've found more and more kindred spirits in school and I'm really blessed to learn from them and had the opportunity to share my life's experiences too. Some of them are waiting for God's direction in cross cultural work, some are struggling with institutional policies & structures that baffle, and some had the same passion in a certain area of ministry.
It's been a blessing to have kindred spirits. They encourage one to carry on walking with God in his journey because they understand, they affirm and they make one realised he's not alone.
Thank God for kindred spirits. It's wonderful.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Movie: Legion - The Humanistic Message Behind It
Humanism: "An outlook or system of thought attaching prime importance to human rather than divine or supernatural matters."
Firstly, this movie is so boring I nearly fell asleep. Secondly, it conveys the message that God is not an immutable* being and is not all powerful. The movie tells the story of Michael, the Archangel, coming down to earth to save a baby who is supposed to save humanity. God had ordered the baby be killed because he has lost faith in human beings(as told by Michael). But Micheal disobeyed God because he said he believes there is still hope in human beings. So Michael fought against humans that have been possessed by 'angels' to save the baby.(the possessed humans looked like zombies and kill anyone indiscriminately - looked more like satan's work than God's)
It conveys the message that God is a being who can get depressed, and so affected by this condition that he changed his mind about redeeming people, and instead bend on destroying them. [This is not true because God has been working to redeem his creation from the beginning. God even send His son, Jesus, to die for our sake in order to redeem us. God is unchanging, he is not fickle like man.(Numbers 23:19, 1 Sam 15:29, Heb 13:8, James 1:17)]
When asked for the reason why Micheal decides to disobey and come, he said it was because he saw the resoluteness of human beings - that despite destroying themselves in wickedness, some never give up in living. He said he has not lost faith in humans, but God has. And he believes humans can be saved - by their own actions, by themselves, by giving birth this baby saviour of the human race. And the show attempts to prove this by showing how Michael and the protagonists won the day by winning against God supposedly. It tells us that God is not all powerful - humans can win God by their determined fight.[The bible will tell us this is not the case. God the creator is all powerful and He has power & authority over all things - because He created them. There are tons of stories in the bible to show us this. Even nature has shown us how frail human beings are. We are helpless against earthquakes, diseases and other disasters.]
The show end by showing a resurrected Michael rescuing the baby from Gabriel (Gabriel had supposedly killed him in an earlier fight). Gabriel asked him how is it possible for him to be resurrected. To which Michael replied, "You gave him(God) what he wants. But I gave him what he needs". As if to say - "I've proven to God that human beings can still be saved. I've restored God's faith. Therefore now he changes his mind(again) and have me protect the child."
God having an unstable mind, powerless and given up on the human race? That is NOT the God that I worship. The God I worship is full of grace and love; unchanging and all powerful, merciful and compassionate. So much so that He gave His only son, Jesus for our redemption; knowing that human hearts are deceitful and incapable of saving themselves. If we(human beings) could do it, there would be world peace by now. We couldn't because our hearts are sinful - we reject God, we have a marred self identity, we have broken relationships with others and we are even destroying nature(which is part of God's creation) - we have caused sufferings for ourselves and others one way or another. God has been working to redeem us since the Fall; and one day, it'll be all over. There'll be a new heaven and a new earth - where there will be no more suffering, no more tears, no more struggles and no more sins. There will be joy and peace and life everlasting.
So beware my friends. Do not be deceived into thinking that we can save ourselves. We know how frail we are, don't we? Let us admit that, and turn to God.
"I have love you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness" - Jeremiah 31:3
*immutable = unchanging over time
Firstly, this movie is so boring I nearly fell asleep. Secondly, it conveys the message that God is not an immutable* being and is not all powerful. The movie tells the story of Michael, the Archangel, coming down to earth to save a baby who is supposed to save humanity. God had ordered the baby be killed because he has lost faith in human beings(as told by Michael). But Micheal disobeyed God because he said he believes there is still hope in human beings. So Michael fought against humans that have been possessed by 'angels' to save the baby.(the possessed humans looked like zombies and kill anyone indiscriminately - looked more like satan's work than God's)
It conveys the message that God is a being who can get depressed, and so affected by this condition that he changed his mind about redeeming people, and instead bend on destroying them. [This is not true because God has been working to redeem his creation from the beginning. God even send His son, Jesus, to die for our sake in order to redeem us. God is unchanging, he is not fickle like man.(Numbers 23:19, 1 Sam 15:29, Heb 13:8, James 1:17)]
When asked for the reason why Micheal decides to disobey and come, he said it was because he saw the resoluteness of human beings - that despite destroying themselves in wickedness, some never give up in living. He said he has not lost faith in humans, but God has. And he believes humans can be saved - by their own actions, by themselves, by giving birth this baby saviour of the human race. And the show attempts to prove this by showing how Michael and the protagonists won the day by winning against God supposedly. It tells us that God is not all powerful - humans can win God by their determined fight.[The bible will tell us this is not the case. God the creator is all powerful and He has power & authority over all things - because He created them. There are tons of stories in the bible to show us this. Even nature has shown us how frail human beings are. We are helpless against earthquakes, diseases and other disasters.]
The show end by showing a resurrected Michael rescuing the baby from Gabriel (Gabriel had supposedly killed him in an earlier fight). Gabriel asked him how is it possible for him to be resurrected. To which Michael replied, "You gave him(God) what he wants. But I gave him what he needs". As if to say - "I've proven to God that human beings can still be saved. I've restored God's faith. Therefore now he changes his mind(again) and have me protect the child."
God having an unstable mind, powerless and given up on the human race? That is NOT the God that I worship. The God I worship is full of grace and love; unchanging and all powerful, merciful and compassionate. So much so that He gave His only son, Jesus for our redemption; knowing that human hearts are deceitful and incapable of saving themselves. If we(human beings) could do it, there would be world peace by now. We couldn't because our hearts are sinful - we reject God, we have a marred self identity, we have broken relationships with others and we are even destroying nature(which is part of God's creation) - we have caused sufferings for ourselves and others one way or another. God has been working to redeem us since the Fall; and one day, it'll be all over. There'll be a new heaven and a new earth - where there will be no more suffering, no more tears, no more struggles and no more sins. There will be joy and peace and life everlasting.
So beware my friends. Do not be deceived into thinking that we can save ourselves. We know how frail we are, don't we? Let us admit that, and turn to God.
"I have love you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness" - Jeremiah 31:3
*immutable = unchanging over time
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Set your sight on God, not man.
Excerpt from "Of The Imitation of Christ - Book 2, Admonitions Pertaining to Inward Things - Chapter 2: Humble Submission" by Thomas à Kempis.
"Count not of great importance who is for you or against you (Rom 8:31; 1 Cor 4:3), but let this be your aim and care, that God be with you in every thing you do. Have a good conscience and God will defend you (Ps 28:7).
For whom God wills to help, no man's perverseness shall be able to hurt. If you know how to be silent and suffer, without doubt you shall see the help of the Lord. He Himself knows the time and manner of delivering you, and therefore you ought to resign yourself unto Him. It belongs to God to help, and to deliver from confusion."
"Count not of great importance who is for you or against you (Rom 8:31; 1 Cor 4:3), but let this be your aim and care, that God be with you in every thing you do. Have a good conscience and God will defend you (Ps 28:7).
For whom God wills to help, no man's perverseness shall be able to hurt. If you know how to be silent and suffer, without doubt you shall see the help of the Lord. He Himself knows the time and manner of delivering you, and therefore you ought to resign yourself unto Him. It belongs to God to help, and to deliver from confusion."
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Attending Funerals
"To understand and appreciate more of life, attend more funerals" - Jason Lee
If you've never been to a wake or funeral before, you'll missing out something(plus you probably do not care much about comforting someone going through grief). Go and listen to the message, sermon and testimonies in a wake and you'll find yourself understanding and appreciating more of life.
If you've never been to a wake or funeral before, you'll missing out something(plus you probably do not care much about comforting someone going through grief). Go and listen to the message, sermon and testimonies in a wake and you'll find yourself understanding and appreciating more of life.
Friday, January 08, 2010
Overlooking Obvious Needs in Our Shallow "Christian" Worldview
Imagine this. You know of a poor family that lives down the road and they are hungry. The father of this family lost his job recently and has no more money to buy food. You know they need food and you have the capacity to meet this need. But you thought that as a ‘good Christian’, you ought to pray first and ‘confirm’ God’s call for you to provide for them. So you went down on your knees and pray this prayer, “Dear Lord, do you want me to buy Kentucky Fried Chicken for them or will fried rice do? I will wait and not buy anything for them until you showed me which to buy. Please confirm it. Amen”
Does this sound ridiculous to you? But it is exactly what many churches(and christians) are facing today! They do not seem to WANT to look at the real situation and real needs and asked themselves HARD questions like, “Okay. The need is obvious. So what should we do about it as followers of the Lord Jesus Christ?”
Do you need a calling to buy food for the hungry? Or a so-called confirmation to give them food? Or even to look spiritual by praying what to buy? No, you don’t. You just need to meet their needs like how the Lord met the needs of His days some two thousand years ago by healing the sick, touching the lepers and walking with the misfits and outcasts of society.
One of the most obvious needs that most churches in Singapore overlooked is the fact that there are about 15% M brothers & sisters waiting for us to tell them the good news. This amounts to about 750,000 based on 2009’s population estimate. I would say that mission work among them is negligible or perhaps even non-existent.
I thank God for churches and organizations engaging the Chinese, the Indians, other races and the many migrant blue-collar workers in Singapore. But we have neglected the 15% long enough. It is just not acceptable to neglect this work when the need is so obvious. It is inconceivable that no one is courageous enough to engage them; when all the talk about mission and missions conferences are held year after year and tons of resources are at the disposal of mega-churches and others alike.
I used to think I should not start a work among them because I might not be around in Singapore to see it through. I was wrong. God can and I believe, will get His people to carry on and take on His work when I’m gone. It is not me. It is all Him; His heart, His passion and His desire for all to know Him and worship Him. I do not need a calling to befriend them. I do not need to form a ministry for them. I just need to be willing and following my Master.
Are you still praying for this group of people(in other parts of the world) and planning to reach them? They are living right next to you. Time for the church to bring them the full, good news.
Does this sound ridiculous to you? But it is exactly what many churches(and christians) are facing today! They do not seem to WANT to look at the real situation and real needs and asked themselves HARD questions like, “Okay. The need is obvious. So what should we do about it as followers of the Lord Jesus Christ?”
Do you need a calling to buy food for the hungry? Or a so-called confirmation to give them food? Or even to look spiritual by praying what to buy? No, you don’t. You just need to meet their needs like how the Lord met the needs of His days some two thousand years ago by healing the sick, touching the lepers and walking with the misfits and outcasts of society.
One of the most obvious needs that most churches in Singapore overlooked is the fact that there are about 15% M brothers & sisters waiting for us to tell them the good news. This amounts to about 750,000 based on 2009’s population estimate. I would say that mission work among them is negligible or perhaps even non-existent.
I thank God for churches and organizations engaging the Chinese, the Indians, other races and the many migrant blue-collar workers in Singapore. But we have neglected the 15% long enough. It is just not acceptable to neglect this work when the need is so obvious. It is inconceivable that no one is courageous enough to engage them; when all the talk about mission and missions conferences are held year after year and tons of resources are at the disposal of mega-churches and others alike.
I used to think I should not start a work among them because I might not be around in Singapore to see it through. I was wrong. God can and I believe, will get His people to carry on and take on His work when I’m gone. It is not me. It is all Him; His heart, His passion and His desire for all to know Him and worship Him. I do not need a calling to befriend them. I do not need to form a ministry for them. I just need to be willing and following my Master.
Are you still praying for this group of people(in other parts of the world) and planning to reach them? They are living right next to you. Time for the church to bring them the full, good news.
Tuesday, January 05, 2010
The Mission of Jesus and the Kingdom of God
Excerpt from "When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor and Yourself" by Steve Corbett & Brian Fikkert.
"The mission of Jesus was and is to preach the good news of the kingdom of God (Luke 4:43), to say to one and all, "I am the King of kings and Lord of lords, and I am using My power to fix everything that sin had ruined." As pastor and theologian Tim Keller states, "The kingdom is the renewal of the whole world through the entrance of supernatural forces. As things are brought back under Christ's rule and authority, they are restored to health, beauty, and freedom."
Of course there is both a "now" and a "not yet" to the kingdom. The full manifestation of the kingdom will not occur until there is a new heaven and a new earth. Only then will every tear by wiped from our eyes (Rev 21:4). But two thousand years ago, Jesus clearly stated that there is a "now" to the kingdom, saying, "Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing" (Luke 4:21)"
Jesus preached the good news of the kingdom in word and in deed. His people, His church must do the same. Are you preaching the good news of the kingdom in word and in deed?
Read & Meditate: Luke 4:17-21
"The mission of Jesus was and is to preach the good news of the kingdom of God (Luke 4:43), to say to one and all, "I am the King of kings and Lord of lords, and I am using My power to fix everything that sin had ruined." As pastor and theologian Tim Keller states, "The kingdom is the renewal of the whole world through the entrance of supernatural forces. As things are brought back under Christ's rule and authority, they are restored to health, beauty, and freedom."
Of course there is both a "now" and a "not yet" to the kingdom. The full manifestation of the kingdom will not occur until there is a new heaven and a new earth. Only then will every tear by wiped from our eyes (Rev 21:4). But two thousand years ago, Jesus clearly stated that there is a "now" to the kingdom, saying, "Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing" (Luke 4:21)"
Jesus preached the good news of the kingdom in word and in deed. His people, His church must do the same. Are you preaching the good news of the kingdom in word and in deed?
Read & Meditate: Luke 4:17-21
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