Tithing or giving tithe is to give a tenth of one's income as an offering to God. A very helpful article that explains Tithing is found at: Should a Christian pay tithes? The article explained from the Word that offering up to God part of what He has blessed us with is how we demonstrate and acknowledge His Lordship over us. And that tithing fulfills three needs in the Kingdom of God.
1. Supporting the work of God - Acts 4:32 - 35
2. Providing for the laborers and the work of the kingdom - 1 Corinthians 9:14, Galatians 6:6
3. To support the disadvantaged (strangers, homeless, fatherless e.t.c) - Romans 15:26, 1 Corinthians 16: 1-2, Acts 11: 27 - 30
Why the sudden topic of tithing? Well, you see, it is interesting how MANY of us Christians do not understand what tithing is all about. We may only know that we are supposed to do it but never really understood why we do it. My friends, it is a good time to understand what the Word of God said about tithing. Read the article I've linked above.
If you think tithing is a kind of membership fee similar to those that you pay in a country club, you are badly mistaken. In fact, that's quite an insult to the God who created and owns everything. And if you think tithing(the 10%) is only applicable to those under the Law(i.e. the Old Testament), you are also badly mistaken. When Jesus came, He told the crowds that He came to fulfill the law. In fact, when you read His sermon from Matthew chapter 5-7, Jesus gave a HIGHER standard requirement than the Law. If under the old covenant, it is a 10% offering unto the Lord, then what more when you are under the new covenant? Don't you feel that you ought to give even more than the required 10%(under the Law) since the Son of God has paid the greatest price to purchase you? Remember, you are not your own. You were bought at a price. And everything you possess belongs to Him.
"A man came to me and said, "I'm so glad the New Testament doesn't teach tithing. I think I'll prefer the Old Testament." I said, "That's interesting. My friend, in the Old Testament you give 10%. In the New Testament, you give everything." He wasn't very excited about that. :)" - in a sermon by Pastor Michael Ross Watson.
Forget about the various methods and styles of giving!!! Some people put their tithes into an envelope & write their names, some people used GIRO, some people give a tenth of their produce(Yes, in poorer farmlands, tithes are in the form of farm produce like chickens and eggs), some wants to give anonymously - whatever it is, it won't kill me to change a method. If I have to change the method, I adapt. What is most important is that I am doing right in the eyes of God by giving what is due Him as an act of worship, and for the extension of His Kingdom(the 3 reasons listed).
Do the right thing today.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Don't Forget How to Drive!
What happens when you have not driven for almost 10 years? I realized I can't even park a car properly!
Okay, to begin with, I had little driving experience after I passed my driving test but I was still shocked that I can't park a car(head in) in one simple move.
Moral of the story: If you've learned something and not practice it, you'll lose it sooner or later.
God has given you gifts and everything you need for life and godliness(1 Peter 4:10, 2 Peter 1:3) He has saved you and gave you new life and purpose. Use your gifts to honour Him and practice what He says. Otherwise, you might end up losing your gifts.(Matt 25:14-30)
Therefore, let us "continue to to work out our salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose"(Phil 2:12-13). Let's continue to walk the talk. :)
Okay, to begin with, I had little driving experience after I passed my driving test but I was still shocked that I can't park a car(head in) in one simple move.
Moral of the story: If you've learned something and not practice it, you'll lose it sooner or later.
God has given you gifts and everything you need for life and godliness(1 Peter 4:10, 2 Peter 1:3) He has saved you and gave you new life and purpose. Use your gifts to honour Him and practice what He says. Otherwise, you might end up losing your gifts.(Matt 25:14-30)
Therefore, let us "continue to to work out our salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose"(Phil 2:12-13). Let's continue to walk the talk. :)
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Be a Stranger for a Change
Taiwanese singer, A-Mei (Zhang Hui Mei), a World Vision ambassador had this to say after visiting 6 different groups of people helped by World Vision in New Delhi, India.
"We need people to stop talking, and to start doing. It's actually not hard at all. You just need to give that little extra you have.
A lot of us like to worry about our own problems first. But we have to remember, when we're having trouble, we'd be receiving help from others, even strangers sometimes. Maybe you could be that stranger for somebody else for a change?"
Source: The Star Newspaper, on page T3 of StarTwo section, 20 May 2009
Read Matthew 25:35-40 again.
"We need people to stop talking, and to start doing. It's actually not hard at all. You just need to give that little extra you have.
A lot of us like to worry about our own problems first. But we have to remember, when we're having trouble, we'd be receiving help from others, even strangers sometimes. Maybe you could be that stranger for somebody else for a change?"
Source: The Star Newspaper, on page T3 of StarTwo section, 20 May 2009
Read Matthew 25:35-40 again.
Saturday, May 02, 2009
I'll Gladly Carry Yours
"God tests your strength by having you lift burdens from another's shoulder."
Are you flexing your muscle? Or are you still asking, "Who is my neighbour?"
"Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ" - Gal 6:2
Are you flexing your muscle? Or are you still asking, "Who is my neighbour?"
"Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ" - Gal 6:2
Thursday, April 30, 2009
By His Grace
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God" - Eph 2:8
I wonder what the phrase "For it is by grace that you have been saved" meant to us. Was it just a nice memory verse? Or a reference for commonly defining grace as "unmerited favour"?
It makes me think again - Why am I doing the things I am doing?(Or wanted to do?) Is it because of a man's soul? Is it because it looked good on me? Is it because I am supposed to obey a commandment?
I realized what must truly inspire, propel and compel me to love is His grace that is embodied in His love. It was by grace we have been saved - we don't deserve it. What is more shocking is that Jesus, being God Himself, chose to reduce Himself to becoming a human being and endured injustice, humiliation and pain for our sake. So that our sins can be wiped away and our death sentence pardoned. We have all received His gracious gift of eternal life when we turned away from a self-ruled life to follow Him. And by His grace, He has given us abundant life on earth too.
When I think about His grace, how He gave Himself so willingly for me on the cross, I realized that His grace is the power and motivation for any loving action. It is because I have seen and understood His love for me, as demonstrated on the cross, that a desire to love flows out within me. It is because of His grace that I must love. For it is impossible not to love when I realized how undeservingly I have been saved because of Jesus' love.
Supposed a killer is about to kill you & your family and a stranger appeared from nowhere to rescue you(losing his arms and legs in the process), will you not swear to take care of him forever? Or even to lay down your life for him? How much more then should you feel within your soul what Jesus had done for you? Will you not climb the highest mountain and cross the deepest ocean for Him? Or even to lay down your life?
For it is by grace I have been saved. I have nothing at first. But by His grace, I have everything now. His overwhelming grace given in His immense love for me had warmed my heart again. I rejoice that He cared enough, that He would give up all things for me. I understood once again my basis for love, the power to love and the restfulness of love. It is by His grace.
1 Tim 1:14 -"The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus." Amen.
I wonder what the phrase "For it is by grace that you have been saved" meant to us. Was it just a nice memory verse? Or a reference for commonly defining grace as "unmerited favour"?
It makes me think again - Why am I doing the things I am doing?(Or wanted to do?) Is it because of a man's soul? Is it because it looked good on me? Is it because I am supposed to obey a commandment?
I realized what must truly inspire, propel and compel me to love is His grace that is embodied in His love. It was by grace we have been saved - we don't deserve it. What is more shocking is that Jesus, being God Himself, chose to reduce Himself to becoming a human being and endured injustice, humiliation and pain for our sake. So that our sins can be wiped away and our death sentence pardoned. We have all received His gracious gift of eternal life when we turned away from a self-ruled life to follow Him. And by His grace, He has given us abundant life on earth too.
When I think about His grace, how He gave Himself so willingly for me on the cross, I realized that His grace is the power and motivation for any loving action. It is because I have seen and understood His love for me, as demonstrated on the cross, that a desire to love flows out within me. It is because of His grace that I must love. For it is impossible not to love when I realized how undeservingly I have been saved because of Jesus' love.
Supposed a killer is about to kill you & your family and a stranger appeared from nowhere to rescue you(losing his arms and legs in the process), will you not swear to take care of him forever? Or even to lay down your life for him? How much more then should you feel within your soul what Jesus had done for you? Will you not climb the highest mountain and cross the deepest ocean for Him? Or even to lay down your life?
For it is by grace I have been saved. I have nothing at first. But by His grace, I have everything now. His overwhelming grace given in His immense love for me had warmed my heart again. I rejoice that He cared enough, that He would give up all things for me. I understood once again my basis for love, the power to love and the restfulness of love. It is by His grace.
1 Tim 1:14 -"The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus." Amen.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Rethinking Church Part 4 - The Community of Love
How about evangelism you ask? Well, if we are faithful in meeting up and engaging in our purpose for meeting up, evangelism comes naturally. We become what the church truly is - witnesses of Jesus Christ to the entire world. It becomes a community of love.
When the church becomes a community of love with loving actions, the gospel becomes very attractive. Paul tells Titus how he is to teach slaves to live 'so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Saviour attractive' (Titus 2:10) Make no mistake. Godly lives commend the gospel. So are good works of social action (1 Pet 2:12). The church is a living community with loving actions, and not a group of people who only talk but would not act.
Jesus said it very plainly in John 13:34-35 that all men will know we are His disciples if we love one another. Therefore, it cannot be helped that unbelievers refuse to believe the gospel and call Christians hypocrites when the community of God is not loving one another. They have every reason to say that, and rightly so. If we want the people of this world to see the good news at work, and to know that Jesus is from God, then the community of God - the Church - must live the way it is supposed to live.
This means we must ensure unbelievers experience the church as a caring and inclusive community. And that does not mean a warm handshake on the door - it means drawing people into the network of relationships that make up the church. It means ensuring that our unbelieving friends meet our Christian friends so they can observe how we relate to one another. Then the church becomes the church - a community of gospel people, not something you attend on Sunday.
No one sits around any longer and wait for someone to show any concern. They move about showing concern to each other, loving each other and so as they give, they also receive. Thus, the church becomes alive. It becomes a living organism as each member does his part in loving and caring. Things are no longer organized, ordered or forced; it now wells up from the innermost being of one where Christ dwells in. If you had met Christ, you will be such a person. Perhaps you have forgotten but you are one - and God's community, and the world is still waiting for you to love them. Start loving. And as each part does its work, the community grows and builds itself up in love which is in Christ. (Eph 4:16)
The church. The community of God. The community of love.
"In my experience, people are often attracted to the Christian community before they are attracted to the Christian message" - Tim Chester
When the church becomes a community of love with loving actions, the gospel becomes very attractive. Paul tells Titus how he is to teach slaves to live 'so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Saviour attractive' (Titus 2:10) Make no mistake. Godly lives commend the gospel. So are good works of social action (1 Pet 2:12). The church is a living community with loving actions, and not a group of people who only talk but would not act.
Jesus said it very plainly in John 13:34-35 that all men will know we are His disciples if we love one another. Therefore, it cannot be helped that unbelievers refuse to believe the gospel and call Christians hypocrites when the community of God is not loving one another. They have every reason to say that, and rightly so. If we want the people of this world to see the good news at work, and to know that Jesus is from God, then the community of God - the Church - must live the way it is supposed to live.
This means we must ensure unbelievers experience the church as a caring and inclusive community. And that does not mean a warm handshake on the door - it means drawing people into the network of relationships that make up the church. It means ensuring that our unbelieving friends meet our Christian friends so they can observe how we relate to one another. Then the church becomes the church - a community of gospel people, not something you attend on Sunday.
No one sits around any longer and wait for someone to show any concern. They move about showing concern to each other, loving each other and so as they give, they also receive. Thus, the church becomes alive. It becomes a living organism as each member does his part in loving and caring. Things are no longer organized, ordered or forced; it now wells up from the innermost being of one where Christ dwells in. If you had met Christ, you will be such a person. Perhaps you have forgotten but you are one - and God's community, and the world is still waiting for you to love them. Start loving. And as each part does its work, the community grows and builds itself up in love which is in Christ. (Eph 4:16)
The church. The community of God. The community of love.
"In my experience, people are often attracted to the Christian community before they are attracted to the Christian message" - Tim Chester
Rethinking Church Part 3 - The Purpose of Meeting Together
To continue the question from the previous post, "So why do we meet up? What is the purpose of going to 'church'? Why do we, followers of Jesus Christ, meet together?"
Acts 2:42-47 tells us quite clearly the primary reason for meeting up.
1. It is to learn about the Word of God(v42) which in our modern context seems to be listening to sermons and having bible study.
2. It is for fellowship(v42) - that means getting to really know each other, encourage each other, spur each other toward love and good deeds(Heb 10:24-25) and to carry each other's burden (Gal 6:2)
3. It is to break bread together(v42,46-47) - praising God together(our modern day praise & worship time), remembering Jesus (1 Cor 11:23-26 - partake in Holy Communion), and giving thanks together for His goodness & provision(v46. We do this in giving our public testimony, having a meal together)
4. It is to pray together(v42) - Praying together(Matt 18:19-20), and also for each other(James 5:16)
5. It is to share, give and bless each other(v44-45) - giving to those who are in need, sharing things together for the benefit of everyone, blessing one another (2 Cor 9:6-13)
So there you have it. Are you in some ways involved in all of the 5 points mentioned? Remember, you form the church. You are a part of it. The church is therefore you, and the rest of the people who meet together. The church cease to exist if all the parts of the body cease to engage in her purpose. It will then become just a hollow gathering of people who profess to follow Christ but are not doing anything that would demonstrate their following of Christ.
Acts 2:42-47 tells us quite clearly the primary reason for meeting up.
1. It is to learn about the Word of God(v42) which in our modern context seems to be listening to sermons and having bible study.
2. It is for fellowship(v42) - that means getting to really know each other, encourage each other, spur each other toward love and good deeds(Heb 10:24-25) and to carry each other's burden (Gal 6:2)
3. It is to break bread together(v42,46-47) - praising God together(our modern day praise & worship time), remembering Jesus (1 Cor 11:23-26 - partake in Holy Communion), and giving thanks together for His goodness & provision(v46. We do this in giving our public testimony, having a meal together)
4. It is to pray together(v42) - Praying together(Matt 18:19-20), and also for each other(James 5:16)
5. It is to share, give and bless each other(v44-45) - giving to those who are in need, sharing things together for the benefit of everyone, blessing one another (2 Cor 9:6-13)
So there you have it. Are you in some ways involved in all of the 5 points mentioned? Remember, you form the church. You are a part of it. The church is therefore you, and the rest of the people who meet together. The church cease to exist if all the parts of the body cease to engage in her purpose. It will then become just a hollow gathering of people who profess to follow Christ but are not doing anything that would demonstrate their following of Christ.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Rethinking Church Part 2 - Why Meet Together?
If you've read the story in my previous post below, you would realized that going to 'church' could mean something more than just singing a few songs, listening to a sermon and then going for lunch together.
Now don't get me wrong. I am not saying going for church service is wrong or unnecessary. However, have you really thought about why you faithfully go to 'church' every Sat/Sunday? I put church in quotation because church in essence is a community of people belonging to Christ, not a building. So why do we meet up? What is the purpose? Are you fulfilling that purpose?
The previous story mentioned that the young believer(after having read the book of John), "mistakenly" thought that when believers got together, they went to do the things Jesus did. Was he mistaken? I didn't think so.
So am I saying that from now on, all Christians should go pray for the sick, share his faith, and go wherever there is a need on every Sunday? We will find that out from Acts 2:42-47. But to be sure, even if the answer is a yes, any change will take time and it starts from the heart of one person. No one should expect the church(the whole congregation that is) to change overnight or to change their mindsets together. Granted this is possible in view of God's power, most often than not, God works on the heart of each individual and causes their hearts to respond to Him, and to be used by Him to influence others for His cause.
So why do we, followers of Jesus Christ, meet together? Have you thought about that?
Now don't get me wrong. I am not saying going for church service is wrong or unnecessary. However, have you really thought about why you faithfully go to 'church' every Sat/Sunday? I put church in quotation because church in essence is a community of people belonging to Christ, not a building. So why do we meet up? What is the purpose? Are you fulfilling that purpose?
The previous story mentioned that the young believer(after having read the book of John), "mistakenly" thought that when believers got together, they went to do the things Jesus did. Was he mistaken? I didn't think so.
So am I saying that from now on, all Christians should go pray for the sick, share his faith, and go wherever there is a need on every Sunday? We will find that out from Acts 2:42-47. But to be sure, even if the answer is a yes, any change will take time and it starts from the heart of one person. No one should expect the church(the whole congregation that is) to change overnight or to change their mindsets together. Granted this is possible in view of God's power, most often than not, God works on the heart of each individual and causes their hearts to respond to Him, and to be used by Him to influence others for His cause.
So why do we, followers of Jesus Christ, meet together? Have you thought about that?
Rethinking Church Part 1
What does going to 'church' mean to you? Is it like going to some social club, function or a building? Or is there a wonderful purpose for Christians to meet together? I want to share with you through a series of my thoughts on how Jesus would want his church to look like, and how it should really be. This is the "Rethinking Church" series - a get real in our walk 'provocation'.
Excerpt from "Goodbye Generation" by David Sawler (*emphasis mine)
"A young man listened intently to what was being said. He has been invited to a Christian outreach event by his good friend and it was more than he expected. Something was happening and God began to work on his heart. At the end of the night, people were invited to come forward to pray and accept Christ, which he did. During a follow up time, someone gave him a small 'Book of John' so he could learn more about Jesus. His friend that brought him was ecstatic that he had made a decision to follow Christ. He told him to make sure he read the book of John and that he would pick hi up for church the next day.
That night he did just that. he was hungry to find out more about what this decision he just made meant. He read the whole book and couldn't wait to go to church for the first time in his life.
His friend came to get him and they went to the morning service. They were welcomed and quickly grabbed a seat before the service began. They sang a few songs that he didn't know but he tried his best to be a part. When they sat down, he turned and asked, 'Is it time?' The friend said, 'No, the service isn't done yet.', not quite understanding.
Then came the announcements, a special song, and then the preaching. He thought all were quite good but kept asking, 'Is it time?' The friend who brought him was getting a bit annoyed and kept reassuring him, 'soon it will be time'.
The pastor asked everyone to stand, said a prayer and dismissed everyone. 'Finally, he thought, 'it is time.' He turned to his friend and said, 'let's go.' His friend, not realizing what he meant, thought that he was hungry and wanted to go out for lunch, a common ritual for many Christians after a morning Sunday service. He too was getting hungry and couldn't wait for the Swiss Chalet dinner that had awaited him. The friend however soon realized that they each had something different in mind.
All this young believer knew about Christianity was what he read the night before about he life of Jesus and his disciples. He had mistakenly thought that when believers got together, they went to do the things that Jesus did. That morning, he had come fully prepared to go pray for the sick, to share his faith, and to go wherever there was a need.
Excerpt from "Goodbye Generation" by David Sawler (*emphasis mine)
"A young man listened intently to what was being said. He has been invited to a Christian outreach event by his good friend and it was more than he expected. Something was happening and God began to work on his heart. At the end of the night, people were invited to come forward to pray and accept Christ, which he did. During a follow up time, someone gave him a small 'Book of John' so he could learn more about Jesus. His friend that brought him was ecstatic that he had made a decision to follow Christ. He told him to make sure he read the book of John and that he would pick hi up for church the next day.
That night he did just that. he was hungry to find out more about what this decision he just made meant. He read the whole book and couldn't wait to go to church for the first time in his life.
His friend came to get him and they went to the morning service. They were welcomed and quickly grabbed a seat before the service began. They sang a few songs that he didn't know but he tried his best to be a part. When they sat down, he turned and asked, 'Is it time?' The friend said, 'No, the service isn't done yet.', not quite understanding.
Then came the announcements, a special song, and then the preaching. He thought all were quite good but kept asking, 'Is it time?' The friend who brought him was getting a bit annoyed and kept reassuring him, 'soon it will be time'.
The pastor asked everyone to stand, said a prayer and dismissed everyone. 'Finally, he thought, 'it is time.' He turned to his friend and said, 'let's go.' His friend, not realizing what he meant, thought that he was hungry and wanted to go out for lunch, a common ritual for many Christians after a morning Sunday service. He too was getting hungry and couldn't wait for the Swiss Chalet dinner that had awaited him. The friend however soon realized that they each had something different in mind.
All this young believer knew about Christianity was what he read the night before about he life of Jesus and his disciples. He had mistakenly thought that when believers got together, they went to do the things that Jesus did. That morning, he had come fully prepared to go pray for the sick, to share his faith, and to go wherever there was a need.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
What are you fighting for?
For anyone who is fighting in any way in a church, a cell group or a parachurch organization, may I you ask the following questions:
"What are you fighting for? Is it really worth the fight?"
"For whom are you fighting for? For God's name or for man's pride?"
"What are your actions? Silent Bitterness or Prudent Communication?"
"What do you wish to achieve? Angry dejection or hopeful reconciliation?"
You will know if you are fighting right once you honestly answer the questions above.
Many a times, fights are unnecessary because the issues are not worth fighting for. Prudent communication with a spirit of humility is most effective, even if at times the devil has got the better of the other person such that peaceful communication becomes almost impossible.
Therefore, let us not be ignorant of the devil's schemes (2 Cor 2:11, Eph 6:11) and allow him to divide the house. For a house that is divided will not stand at all (Mt 12:25).
"So what are you really fighting for? In the light of eternity, is it really that important?" Time to think again my friend. Time to bring your fight and issue to the Lord again. "Is it really that important to the Lord that you think He would have you fight it out?" You will have your answer by now. Shalom.
"What are you fighting for? Is it really worth the fight?"
"For whom are you fighting for? For God's name or for man's pride?"
"What are your actions? Silent Bitterness or Prudent Communication?"
"What do you wish to achieve? Angry dejection or hopeful reconciliation?"
You will know if you are fighting right once you honestly answer the questions above.
Many a times, fights are unnecessary because the issues are not worth fighting for. Prudent communication with a spirit of humility is most effective, even if at times the devil has got the better of the other person such that peaceful communication becomes almost impossible.
Therefore, let us not be ignorant of the devil's schemes (2 Cor 2:11, Eph 6:11) and allow him to divide the house. For a house that is divided will not stand at all (Mt 12:25).
"So what are you really fighting for? In the light of eternity, is it really that important?" Time to think again my friend. Time to bring your fight and issue to the Lord again. "Is it really that important to the Lord that you think He would have you fight it out?" You will have your answer by now. Shalom.
Friday, April 03, 2009
Get Real & Follow
Excerpt from "Men Who Met God" by A.W.Tozer (emphasis mine)
"A great number of believers have set a limitation on what they are willing to do for the Lord, for His Church and for His people. Such an attitude only underscores the contemporary unwillingness of professing Christians to take the Word of God seriously. Their difficulty is NOT in understanding the Bible but in persuading their untamed hearts to accept its plain instructions.
The question we face, therefore, is NOT theological. We know what the Scriptures teach. Rather, our problem is moral: Have we the courage to stand up for what we know to be true and right? Can we bring ourselves to take up the cross with its blood and death and reproach?"
This is just so familiar isn't it? We all know. I mean, come on. Singapore have all the Christian resources you ever need - CDs, DVDs, Books, Seminars, Conferences, Bible Study Classes, Courses, Bible colleges, Libraries, Churches - everything! But how is it that what Tozer(1897-1963) said so many years ago still sound so true today? May our untamed hearts accept the Word's plain instruction. Amen.
We know, but we refuse to accept.
We understood, but we refuse to follow.
We hear, but we never see.
We saw, but we never do.
O! That God may forgive us!
We want to feel good, but we forgot there is a cross.
We want to look good, but we forgot there is a death.
we want to do good, but we forgot there is a sacrifice.
We want to be good, but we forgot there is a price.
O! That God may forgive us!
"A great number of believers have set a limitation on what they are willing to do for the Lord, for His Church and for His people. Such an attitude only underscores the contemporary unwillingness of professing Christians to take the Word of God seriously. Their difficulty is NOT in understanding the Bible but in persuading their untamed hearts to accept its plain instructions.
The question we face, therefore, is NOT theological. We know what the Scriptures teach. Rather, our problem is moral: Have we the courage to stand up for what we know to be true and right? Can we bring ourselves to take up the cross with its blood and death and reproach?"
This is just so familiar isn't it? We all know. I mean, come on. Singapore have all the Christian resources you ever need - CDs, DVDs, Books, Seminars, Conferences, Bible Study Classes, Courses, Bible colleges, Libraries, Churches - everything! But how is it that what Tozer(1897-1963) said so many years ago still sound so true today? May our untamed hearts accept the Word's plain instruction. Amen.
We know, but we refuse to accept.
We understood, but we refuse to follow.
We hear, but we never see.
We saw, but we never do.
O! That God may forgive us!
We want to feel good, but we forgot there is a cross.
We want to look good, but we forgot there is a death.
we want to do good, but we forgot there is a sacrifice.
We want to be good, but we forgot there is a price.
O! That God may forgive us!
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Who is your God?
Whatever your heart clings to and confides in,
that is really your God.
—Martin Luther (1483-1546)
that is really your God.
—Martin Luther (1483-1546)
Friday, March 20, 2009
Strong Faith and Great Trials
"To learn strong faith is to endure great trials.
I have learned my faith by standing firm amid severe testings." ~George Mueller
Does this ring a bell to you my friend? Perhaps you might have an idea now as to why you're going through such an 'unpleasant' season. But don't worry. Say this loudly every morning - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" - Phil 4:13
Believe it. It works. åŠ æ²¹！
I have learned my faith by standing firm amid severe testings." ~George Mueller
Does this ring a bell to you my friend? Perhaps you might have an idea now as to why you're going through such an 'unpleasant' season. But don't worry. Say this loudly every morning - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" - Phil 4:13
Believe it. It works. åŠ æ²¹！
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Speaking for Who?
"He who speaks on his own does so to gain honor for himself, but he who works for the honor of the one who sent him is a man of truth; there is nothing false about him" ~ John 7:18
How do we know if a man speaks on his own or that his message comes from God? The verse above will be a good check. Is the person gaining honor for himself? Or is he zealous for the honor of God? Think about it.
How do we know if a man speaks on his own or that his message comes from God? The verse above will be a good check. Is the person gaining honor for himself? Or is he zealous for the honor of God? Think about it.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Rejoice in the Lord always!!!
I remembered clearly what I told my friends in September 2006 when we were onboard the Doulos.
"My favourite verse? Hmmm. I don't have any. But I would say that the verse which I will use to describe my situation now is Philippians 4:4" What is Phil 4:4? It says, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!"
There was such a freedom even in those times of uncertainty. There was joy. Joy from the Lord and of the Lord residing in my heart. As I look back, I realised that freedom came about because of His given joy. That joy diminished all uncertainties. His joy was so much greater than all my worries and trouble. It did wonders to my soul. I was happy - even when I had "nothing". No career-path written out, no big sums of money, no next-step to take, no one to guide me in my particular work, no place to truly call my home. But I was happy. I was full of His joy. I exhort my friends - "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!"
Oh, but how I sank into my lows some time later in the years ahead. But thanks be to God who have never left me nor forsaken me. His joy is but a breath away. If we would go near to Him, He will come near to us; for He has always been beside us. Everything we ever need has been promised and guaranteed in His Word - and joy is one of them. You can have it!
Oh Lord! Let me bask in your presence and be filled with your joy always. Then everything else will surely fade into the background and your joy will surely cure every disease, heal every hurt, restore every brokenness, strengthen every weakness, refresh every tiredness and lift every gloom. May the joy of the Lord be with you!
George Mueller: "It has pleased the Lord to teach me a truth, the benefit of which I have not lost, for more than fourteen years. The point is this: I saw more clearly than ever that the first great and primary business to which I ought to attend every day was to have my soul happy in the Lord. The first thing to be concerned about was not how much I might serve the Lord, or how I might glorify the Lord; but how I might get my soul into a happy state, and how my inner man might be nourished.
For though I might seek to witness to the lost, or to benefit other believers, or to relieve the distressed, or in other ways seek to behave myself as it becomes a child of God in this world; nevertheless, if I myself am not happy in the Lord, and have not been nourished and strengthened in my inner man day by day, all of these other things might not be done in the right spirit."
"My favourite verse? Hmmm. I don't have any. But I would say that the verse which I will use to describe my situation now is Philippians 4:4" What is Phil 4:4? It says, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!"
There was such a freedom even in those times of uncertainty. There was joy. Joy from the Lord and of the Lord residing in my heart. As I look back, I realised that freedom came about because of His given joy. That joy diminished all uncertainties. His joy was so much greater than all my worries and trouble. It did wonders to my soul. I was happy - even when I had "nothing". No career-path written out, no big sums of money, no next-step to take, no one to guide me in my particular work, no place to truly call my home. But I was happy. I was full of His joy. I exhort my friends - "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!"
Oh, but how I sank into my lows some time later in the years ahead. But thanks be to God who have never left me nor forsaken me. His joy is but a breath away. If we would go near to Him, He will come near to us; for He has always been beside us. Everything we ever need has been promised and guaranteed in His Word - and joy is one of them. You can have it!
Oh Lord! Let me bask in your presence and be filled with your joy always. Then everything else will surely fade into the background and your joy will surely cure every disease, heal every hurt, restore every brokenness, strengthen every weakness, refresh every tiredness and lift every gloom. May the joy of the Lord be with you!
George Mueller: "It has pleased the Lord to teach me a truth, the benefit of which I have not lost, for more than fourteen years. The point is this: I saw more clearly than ever that the first great and primary business to which I ought to attend every day was to have my soul happy in the Lord. The first thing to be concerned about was not how much I might serve the Lord, or how I might glorify the Lord; but how I might get my soul into a happy state, and how my inner man might be nourished.
For though I might seek to witness to the lost, or to benefit other believers, or to relieve the distressed, or in other ways seek to behave myself as it becomes a child of God in this world; nevertheless, if I myself am not happy in the Lord, and have not been nourished and strengthened in my inner man day by day, all of these other things might not be done in the right spirit."
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
To Live is Christ
To Live is Christ. Lord we repent. Your church is so far off. Help us this day to follow you. A world is dying yet we are barely doing anything to help. Consume us with your passion this day.
Thursday, March 05, 2009
The Reality of the Human Condition and the Church
If you a Christian and you think church is without problems, you are badly mistaken. It's like telling someone, "Believe in Jesus and life will be a bed of roses". It will not be. Life will still have its ups and downs, but Jesus will carry you safely through it all.
It is the same for the body of believers - the church. It will have its ups and downs. Why? Because ever since the fall of man, man has become the source of their own problems. Pride, anger, jealousy and everything wicked under the sun has blazed its way across the face of the earth; even the church. The devil has not stop prowling for victims to devour (1 Peter 5:8) and many have been eaten up. A church that is unable to recognize the devil's stroke behind every fights, quarrels and splits will stay that way forever - a defeated church. One that fights the flesh only and see not the wicked powers behind it (Eph 6:12)
My friends, factions are not something new in the 21st century. There was much division in the Corinthian church as described by Paul in his letter to them. It has happened then, and has been happening ever since. Have you not heard of factions and church splits? Humans are the cause of the problem. Or should I more accurately say, "UNGUARDED Christians" and "IMMATURE Christians" are the cause of such problems. We will be wise to first acknowledge the problem of fights and quarrels as a reality in a community of human beings - believers or not. And any Christian, whether mature or not, can fall victim into the ploy of the devil if he is unguarded. That is to say, he did not go before God with regards to what he is feeling, hearing, thinking and deciding when a matter gets really fiery. It is dangerous. An immature Christian can be worse off - he is easy meat for the devil's scheme because he is unable to distinguish the good from evil. (Heb 5:12-14)
Do not be mistaken. I am not saying those who are involved in a fight or quarrel are always doing wrong. There may be valid "fights", "quarrels" or "contention" (Gal 2:11, Acts 15) But many a times, church fights are unnecessary. What is worse, and the thing that saddens me most, are those who dragged themselves into the fray. By their own choice, they enter into the fight not knowing every detail, yet getting upset, angry and building hatred over a matter 'out-of-their-own-reach'. If hatred, bitterness and mistrust are the fruit you get in your involvement in a church fight, it is time to get out of it before you destroy yourself. You can be sure you have been sucked into it by your own self-righteousness and the devil. Do not give the devil a foothold(Eph 4:26-27)
Always guard your heart(Prov 4:23) and make every effort to live in peace with everyone (Rom 12:17-18, Heb 12:14). During a fight, show proper support to a brother by encouraging and spurring him to love and to do good works(Heb 10:24-25), and NOT "encourage" him by putting down other people and getting angry together with him - that doesn't help.
So then, let us not be foolish or ignorant of the devil's schemes(2 Cor 2:10-11). And do right in whatever situation, whether it be a church fight or a family quarrel(Phil 1:27). The Lord bless you.
It is the same for the body of believers - the church. It will have its ups and downs. Why? Because ever since the fall of man, man has become the source of their own problems. Pride, anger, jealousy and everything wicked under the sun has blazed its way across the face of the earth; even the church. The devil has not stop prowling for victims to devour (1 Peter 5:8) and many have been eaten up. A church that is unable to recognize the devil's stroke behind every fights, quarrels and splits will stay that way forever - a defeated church. One that fights the flesh only and see not the wicked powers behind it (Eph 6:12)
My friends, factions are not something new in the 21st century. There was much division in the Corinthian church as described by Paul in his letter to them. It has happened then, and has been happening ever since. Have you not heard of factions and church splits? Humans are the cause of the problem. Or should I more accurately say, "UNGUARDED Christians" and "IMMATURE Christians" are the cause of such problems. We will be wise to first acknowledge the problem of fights and quarrels as a reality in a community of human beings - believers or not. And any Christian, whether mature or not, can fall victim into the ploy of the devil if he is unguarded. That is to say, he did not go before God with regards to what he is feeling, hearing, thinking and deciding when a matter gets really fiery. It is dangerous. An immature Christian can be worse off - he is easy meat for the devil's scheme because he is unable to distinguish the good from evil. (Heb 5:12-14)
Do not be mistaken. I am not saying those who are involved in a fight or quarrel are always doing wrong. There may be valid "fights", "quarrels" or "contention" (Gal 2:11, Acts 15) But many a times, church fights are unnecessary. What is worse, and the thing that saddens me most, are those who dragged themselves into the fray. By their own choice, they enter into the fight not knowing every detail, yet getting upset, angry and building hatred over a matter 'out-of-their-own-reach'. If hatred, bitterness and mistrust are the fruit you get in your involvement in a church fight, it is time to get out of it before you destroy yourself. You can be sure you have been sucked into it by your own self-righteousness and the devil. Do not give the devil a foothold(Eph 4:26-27)
Always guard your heart(Prov 4:23) and make every effort to live in peace with everyone (Rom 12:17-18, Heb 12:14). During a fight, show proper support to a brother by encouraging and spurring him to love and to do good works(Heb 10:24-25), and NOT "encourage" him by putting down other people and getting angry together with him - that doesn't help.
So then, let us not be foolish or ignorant of the devil's schemes(2 Cor 2:10-11). And do right in whatever situation, whether it be a church fight or a family quarrel(Phil 1:27). The Lord bless you.
Sunday, March 01, 2009
When You Do Not Know
Have you ever felt helpless and frustrated at things that you cannot understand? Seasons of uncertainty is always annoying (It is really an understatement to use the word "annoying") The futility of our thoughts are beyond comprehension. Who is so clever and wise that he knows all things? No one. And therefore, when one gets stuck in a matter, the inability to decipher and understand it sets our emotions on a roller coaster. Frustration, confusion, self-doubts, distractions and what-have-you all pile in.
Therefore, it is expedient that one chuck the thought of having (an immediate) answer to his question aside. For what benefit will it reap if the time is not right for him to have the answer? Will he not be chasing after the wind? And will he not bring frustration upon himself over 'nothing'? Alas, not many are able to exercise great patience in such matters. We want an answer, and we want it now but we don't get it. How foolish it is to dig for one when the answer is in the air.
So it is easy to understand and it is easy for one to agree with the truth. But it is very difficult to be patient and live day by day without knowing. Accept your present circumstances and commit the matter to the Lord. He will know when to tell you the answer. Get your focus right.
Therefore, it is expedient that one chuck the thought of having (an immediate) answer to his question aside. For what benefit will it reap if the time is not right for him to have the answer? Will he not be chasing after the wind? And will he not bring frustration upon himself over 'nothing'? Alas, not many are able to exercise great patience in such matters. We want an answer, and we want it now but we don't get it. How foolish it is to dig for one when the answer is in the air.
So it is easy to understand and it is easy for one to agree with the truth. But it is very difficult to be patient and live day by day without knowing. Accept your present circumstances and commit the matter to the Lord. He will know when to tell you the answer. Get your focus right.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Develop Fruity Thinking
In his book, "S.U.M.O (Shut Up, Move On)", Paul McGee talks about the need to develop fruity thinking (*Phil 4:8) and went on to explain 4 types of faulty thinking. Top of the list is The Inner Critic
Excerpt from the book
"This is the voice inside your head that highlights your weaknesses and undermines your confidence. It is not the voice of encouragement to do better, it is the voice of condemnation. You make a mistake on Tuesday and ten days(or ten years)later you are still beating yourself up about it."
"The language of the Inner Critic includes... "I'm always getting it wrong.", "How could I have been so stupid?", "Why didn't you...", "That's typical of you.", "You always get that wrong"."
"The emotional intensity behind what you say to yourself determines whether the impact of the Inner Critic is that of the common cold (annoying but not life-threatening) or pneumonia (much more serious with potentially damaging consequences)"
"It's not simply what you say to yourself that matters. It's how you say it and how much you believe it that counts"
"We still need to have conversations with ourselves, but the voice we need to listen to is that of the Inner Coach (*the Holy Spirit). THis voice has your best interest at heart. It is for you. The Inner Critic (*Satan the accuser) condemns you. The Inner Coach encourages you and inspires you to improve, and in a few pages' time you will learn how to tune in to this voice. (*read His word, pray and listen to Him - in other words, have a Quiet Time)
"Points to Ponder:
Do you suffer from the Inner Critic? What phrases do you find your Inner Critic saying to you? In what situations do you find the Inner Critic speaks loudest? Does it happen more at work or at home?"
[End of Excerpt]
To Do: Reflect on the Points to Ponder. Answer yourself honestly. What are the triggers/patterns you recognize as the strongest 'entry' point for the Inner Critic to have a go at you and blast you to smithereens? Read Phil 4:8. What should you be thinking of and dwelling on? List them down, pray, and dwell on them.
Note: Asterisks are words added by me to Paul McGee's explanations.
Excerpt from the book
"This is the voice inside your head that highlights your weaknesses and undermines your confidence. It is not the voice of encouragement to do better, it is the voice of condemnation. You make a mistake on Tuesday and ten days(or ten years)later you are still beating yourself up about it."
"The language of the Inner Critic includes... "I'm always getting it wrong.", "How could I have been so stupid?", "Why didn't you...", "That's typical of you.", "You always get that wrong"."
"The emotional intensity behind what you say to yourself determines whether the impact of the Inner Critic is that of the common cold (annoying but not life-threatening) or pneumonia (much more serious with potentially damaging consequences)"
"It's not simply what you say to yourself that matters. It's how you say it and how much you believe it that counts"
"We still need to have conversations with ourselves, but the voice we need to listen to is that of the Inner Coach (*the Holy Spirit). THis voice has your best interest at heart. It is for you. The Inner Critic (*Satan the accuser) condemns you. The Inner Coach encourages you and inspires you to improve, and in a few pages' time you will learn how to tune in to this voice. (*read His word, pray and listen to Him - in other words, have a Quiet Time)
"Points to Ponder:
Do you suffer from the Inner Critic? What phrases do you find your Inner Critic saying to you? In what situations do you find the Inner Critic speaks loudest? Does it happen more at work or at home?"
[End of Excerpt]
To Do: Reflect on the Points to Ponder. Answer yourself honestly. What are the triggers/patterns you recognize as the strongest 'entry' point for the Inner Critic to have a go at you and blast you to smithereens? Read Phil 4:8. What should you be thinking of and dwelling on? List them down, pray, and dwell on them.
Note: Asterisks are words added by me to Paul McGee's explanations.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Gastric or Stomach Flu? Part 2
So what about Stomach Flu? Is it the same as gastritis(gastric pain)?
Stomach Flu
Stomach Flu is also known as Gastroenteritis. It is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, involving both the stomach and the small intestine and resulting in acute diarrhea.
Causes: The inflammation is caused most often by infection with certain viruses, less often by bacteria or their toxins, parasites, or adverse reaction to something in the diet or medication. Non-infectious causes can include seafood(shellfish) poisoning or heavy metals poisoning. Infectious causes include bacteria like Salmonella and E.Coli. It can also be cause by viruses.
Symptoms: Diarrhoea is very common and frequent. Sometimes there may be vomitting. There's also abdominal pain or cramps, and sometimes fever too.
Treatment: See a doctor immediately. Stomach Flu can be anything from common food poisoning to serious life-threatening infections such as E.Coli. Antibiotic will not work in cases of viral infection. Oral rehydration is very important, so make sure you sip water (use oral salts whenever available) frequently. Get plenty of rest and wait it out. Doctors may normally prescribe medication to curd the symptoms than to cure the problem itself. eg: anti-spasmotics for cramps, antinauseants for vomiting etc. A blood or stool test may be also taken to see if it's a serious infection (eg: parasitic).
Link:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gastroenteritis
CONCLUSION
If you're feeling an acute pain in the upper abdomen, and slightly to the left, most of the time it is gastritis. Vomitting is more common in gastritis than stomach flu. It can happen when we eat infrequent or unbalance meals.(eg: fasting in the morning and noon, and over-eating at night). It is a nagging pain. For stomach flu, diarrheoea is most common. Symptoms are akin to food poisoning. Lots of water loss, stomach cramps, possible fever, feeling really weak, and possible vomitting.
Stomach Flu
Stomach Flu is also known as Gastroenteritis. It is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, involving both the stomach and the small intestine and resulting in acute diarrhea.
Causes: The inflammation is caused most often by infection with certain viruses, less often by bacteria or their toxins, parasites, or adverse reaction to something in the diet or medication. Non-infectious causes can include seafood(shellfish) poisoning or heavy metals poisoning. Infectious causes include bacteria like Salmonella and E.Coli. It can also be cause by viruses.
Symptoms: Diarrhoea is very common and frequent. Sometimes there may be vomitting. There's also abdominal pain or cramps, and sometimes fever too.
Treatment: See a doctor immediately. Stomach Flu can be anything from common food poisoning to serious life-threatening infections such as E.Coli. Antibiotic will not work in cases of viral infection. Oral rehydration is very important, so make sure you sip water (use oral salts whenever available) frequently. Get plenty of rest and wait it out. Doctors may normally prescribe medication to curd the symptoms than to cure the problem itself. eg: anti-spasmotics for cramps, antinauseants for vomiting etc. A blood or stool test may be also taken to see if it's a serious infection (eg: parasitic).
Link:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gastroenteritis
CONCLUSION
If you're feeling an acute pain in the upper abdomen, and slightly to the left, most of the time it is gastritis. Vomitting is more common in gastritis than stomach flu. It can happen when we eat infrequent or unbalance meals.(eg: fasting in the morning and noon, and over-eating at night). It is a nagging pain. For stomach flu, diarrheoea is most common. Symptoms are akin to food poisoning. Lots of water loss, stomach cramps, possible fever, feeling really weak, and possible vomitting.
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