From the very day we have chosen to accept Christ as our savior, we have been given the responsibilities and duties that a Christian should abide with. Our lives are no longer ours, but as a service to God. Our God is a merciful, understanding the weakness of our flesh and always there to support us when in need. However let us not forget that He expects us to place Him above all, to love him with all our heart, will and to the best of our ability.
The service that is mentioned earlier does not restrict to our roles as members or leaders in church or fellowship. The service is a 24/7, full time commitment with our entire lives. Every thought that goes through our minds, every word we speak, actions we take. In the world of temptations, confusion, bombardments of various theologies, we have to know where our stand lies.
Ever had difficulty preaching to a friend about God? Dumbfounded by some questions and theories that questions the basis of your faith? Finding it hard to resist any worldly temptations? Basically it is not enough to simply have a faith the size of a pea. It is not enough to have a shallow understanding of the very faith that you depend on with your life.
It is a quest that we are all on, to fight the spiritual battle. Our faith is real, something that requires real time actions. To equip ourselves, we would all need to read the bible.
I believe there shouldn't be any debates regarding this topic. It isn't so much of a should or should not. It is more like an impossible task to most people. Some have even resorted to undermining the importance of reading the Bible. However I would assume that there are no such people within the fellowship. The purpose of this post isn't to convince you that reading the bible is good and should be done. If necessary, another post titled "Importance of reading the Bible" would be posted soon. With regards to the reading of the bible, many have tried and failed. Resigned to failure of the tremendous task of reading the word of God.
Too boring (You probably don't read much do you). Too repetitive. Too thick (Note that there are mini sized bibles that is thinner than your average text material). No time (And why are you reading this online? What are you doing online anyway? Chatting? Checking your face book account?) Can't read. (Alright and what exactly are you doing now?) The list of excuses goes on. For more, kindly post your own at the end of this post.
I can assure you that it is not an impossible task. According to research, it takes 70 hours to finish reading the bible at an average speed. (This is based on a pastor who preached in my church earlier this year.) Alright I’ll assume that you read at a crawling pace. Let’s say 140 hours. This breaks down to 23 minutes a day for a year. Alright you have a really short attention span. Take two years then. Maybe three. The point is, set a goal to achieve.
If anyone here feels that the bible is too dry, in the sense that you find it too bland for your taste, there are always materials to make your quest much more interesting. I am currently using a Chinese bible with sub notes at the side, maps, and character analysis to aid with my reading. There are also guide books (similar to Final Fantasy) as well. All these will be recommended when you....
Join the bible study group. I understand that perhaps some of us just don't like doing something alone. Alright the bible study group's objective is to allow you to have accountability and companions on the similar quest to have a constant habit of reading the bible and hence doing quiet time. Take note that the bible study group is not group tuition, where you would attend class each week for 1 and a half hours such that you can read the bible together. It is more like an informal group setting, where we meet up on certain regularity (depending on the numbers in the group and the needs of everyone) to share on what we have learnt and provide support to one another. This means that the support can be done anytime, anywhere such as through SMS, Emails, when you meet during fellowship etc. Isn't it great that we now have another topic to talk about, other than the clothes we wear and the hairstyles we have?
This is in no way a desperate call for people to join this study group. Even if there is just one person out there who feels that YES THIS IS MY CALLING, I NEED TO JOIN NOW, it is fine. If there is no one, it's alright too. Just remember, the battle has already been won, it just depends if we are willing to submit and commit to following Christ. Just as the 603550 men fit for battle, (not counting the women and children and other men not fit for battle which would have amounted to a population of at least 2 million) were afraid of fighting for the promised land when they left Egypt and resulted in 40 years in the wilderness, your actions now would result in a similar result. Choose your path wisely or risk resulting in entering spiritual wilderness.
If you are interested in joining the bible study group, kindly approach me, Cheehan during fellowship.
To end, there was a survey done by American adults with regards to their knowledge on Christianity. The results were appalling. Here are some of the results.
- 60% can’t name five of the ten commandments
- 50% of high school seniors think Sodom and Gomorrah were married. (These are the two cities destroyed by God in Genesis because they were filled with sin)
- Only one third know that Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount.
- Fewer than half can identify Genesis as the first book of the Bible
[Cheehan]
Monday, March 31, 2008
Bible study group
bible study group
From the very day we have chosen to accept Christ as our savior, we have been given the responsibilities and duties that a Christian should abide with. Our lives are no longer ours, but as a service to God. Our God is a merciful, understanding the weakness of our flesh and always there to support us when in need. However let us not forget that He expects us to place Him above all, to love him with all our heart, will and to to the best of our ability.
The service that is mentioned earlier does not restrict to our roles as members or leaders in church or fellowship. The service is a 24/7, full time commitment with our entire lives. Every thought that goes through our minds, every word we speak, actions we take. In the world of temptations, confusion, bombardments of various theologies, we have to know where our stand lies.
Ever had difficulty preaching to a friend about God? Dumbfounded by some questions and theories that questions the basis of your faith? Finding it hard to resist any worldly temptations? Basically it is not enough to simply have a faith the size of a pea. It is not enough to have a shallow understanding of the very faith that you depend on with your life.
It is a quest that we are all on, to fight the spiritual battle. Our faith is real, something that requires real time actions. To equip ourselves, we would all need to read the bible.
I believe there shouldn't be any debates regarding this topic. It isn't so much of a should or should not. It is more like a impossible task to most people. Some have even resorted to undermining the importance of reading the Bible. However I would assume that there are no such people within the fellowship. The purpose of this post isn't to convince you that reading the bible is good and should be done. If necessary, another post titled "Importance of reading the Bible" would be posted soon. With regards to the reading of the bible, many have tried and failed. Resigned to failure of the tremendous task of reading the word of God.
Too boring( You probably don't read much do you). Too repetitive. Too thick( Note that there are mini sized bibles that is thinner than your average text material). No time( And why are you reading this online? What are you doing online anyway. Chatting? Checking your facebook account?) Can't read. ( Alright and what exactly are you doing now?) The list of excuses goes on. For more, kindly post your own at the end of this post.
I can assure you that it is not an impossible task. According to research, it takes 70 hours to finish reading the bible at an average speed. ( this is based on a pastor who preached in my church earlier this year.) Alright i'll assume that you read at a crawling pace. Lets say 140 hours. This breaks down to 23 minutes a day for a year. Alright you have a really short attention span. Take two years then. Maybe three. The point is, set a goal to achieve.
If any one here feels that the bible is too dry, in the sense that you find it too bland for your taste, there are always materials to make your quest much more interesting. I am currently using a chinese bible with subnotes at the side, maps, character analysis to aid with my reading. There is also guide books( similar to Final Fantasy) as well. All these will be recommended when you....
Join the bible study group. I understand that perhaps some of us just don't like doing something alone. Alrights the bible study group's objective is to allow you to have accountability and companions on the similar quest to have a constant habit of reading the bible and hence doing quiet time. Take note that the bible study group is not a group tuition, where you would attend class each week for 1 and a half hours such that you can read the bible together. It is more like an informal group setting, where we meet up on a certain regularity ( depending on the numbers in the group and the needs of everyone) to share on what we have learnt and provide support to one another. This means that the support can be done anytime, anywhere such as through SMS, Emails, when you meet during fellowship etc. Isn't it great that we now have another topic to talk about, other than the clothes we wear and the hairstyles we have.
This is in no way a desperate call for people to join this study group. Even if there is just one person out there who feels that YES THIS IS MY CALLING, I NEED TO JOIN NOW, it is fine. If there is no one, it's alright too. Just remember, the battle has already been won, it just depends if we are willing to submit and commit to following Christ. Just as the 603550 men fit for battle, (not counting the women and children and other men not fit for battle which would have amounted to a population of at least 2 million) were afraid of fighting for the promised land when they left Egypt and resulted in 40 years in the wilderness, your actions now would result in a similar result. Choose your path wisely or risk resulting in entering spiritual wilderness.
If you are interested in joining the bible study group, kindly approach me, Cheehan during fellowship.
To end, there was a survey done by American adults with regards to their knowledge on Christianity. The results were appalling. Here are some of the results.
- 60% cant name five of the ten commandments
- 50% of high school seniors think Sodom and Gomorrah were married.( these are the two cities destroyed by God in Genesis because they were filled with sin)
- only one third know that Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount.
- Fewer than half can identify Genesis as the first book of the Bible
[Cheehan]
The service that is mentioned earlier does not restrict to our roles as members or leaders in church or fellowship. The service is a 24/7, full time commitment with our entire lives. Every thought that goes through our minds, every word we speak, actions we take. In the world of temptations, confusion, bombardments of various theologies, we have to know where our stand lies.
Ever had difficulty preaching to a friend about God? Dumbfounded by some questions and theories that questions the basis of your faith? Finding it hard to resist any worldly temptations? Basically it is not enough to simply have a faith the size of a pea. It is not enough to have a shallow understanding of the very faith that you depend on with your life.
It is a quest that we are all on, to fight the spiritual battle. Our faith is real, something that requires real time actions. To equip ourselves, we would all need to read the bible.
I believe there shouldn't be any debates regarding this topic. It isn't so much of a should or should not. It is more like a impossible task to most people. Some have even resorted to undermining the importance of reading the Bible. However I would assume that there are no such people within the fellowship. The purpose of this post isn't to convince you that reading the bible is good and should be done. If necessary, another post titled "Importance of reading the Bible" would be posted soon. With regards to the reading of the bible, many have tried and failed. Resigned to failure of the tremendous task of reading the word of God.
Too boring( You probably don't read much do you). Too repetitive. Too thick( Note that there are mini sized bibles that is thinner than your average text material). No time( And why are you reading this online? What are you doing online anyway. Chatting? Checking your facebook account?) Can't read. ( Alright and what exactly are you doing now?) The list of excuses goes on. For more, kindly post your own at the end of this post.
I can assure you that it is not an impossible task. According to research, it takes 70 hours to finish reading the bible at an average speed. ( this is based on a pastor who preached in my church earlier this year.) Alright i'll assume that you read at a crawling pace. Lets say 140 hours. This breaks down to 23 minutes a day for a year. Alright you have a really short attention span. Take two years then. Maybe three. The point is, set a goal to achieve.
If any one here feels that the bible is too dry, in the sense that you find it too bland for your taste, there are always materials to make your quest much more interesting. I am currently using a chinese bible with subnotes at the side, maps, character analysis to aid with my reading. There is also guide books( similar to Final Fantasy) as well. All these will be recommended when you....
Join the bible study group. I understand that perhaps some of us just don't like doing something alone. Alrights the bible study group's objective is to allow you to have accountability and companions on the similar quest to have a constant habit of reading the bible and hence doing quiet time. Take note that the bible study group is not a group tuition, where you would attend class each week for 1 and a half hours such that you can read the bible together. It is more like an informal group setting, where we meet up on a certain regularity ( depending on the numbers in the group and the needs of everyone) to share on what we have learnt and provide support to one another. This means that the support can be done anytime, anywhere such as through SMS, Emails, when you meet during fellowship etc. Isn't it great that we now have another topic to talk about, other than the clothes we wear and the hairstyles we have.
This is in no way a desperate call for people to join this study group. Even if there is just one person out there who feels that YES THIS IS MY CALLING, I NEED TO JOIN NOW, it is fine. If there is no one, it's alright too. Just remember, the battle has already been won, it just depends if we are willing to submit and commit to following Christ. Just as the 603550 men fit for battle, (not counting the women and children and other men not fit for battle which would have amounted to a population of at least 2 million) were afraid of fighting for the promised land when they left Egypt and resulted in 40 years in the wilderness, your actions now would result in a similar result. Choose your path wisely or risk resulting in entering spiritual wilderness.
If you are interested in joining the bible study group, kindly approach me, Cheehan during fellowship.
To end, there was a survey done by American adults with regards to their knowledge on Christianity. The results were appalling. Here are some of the results.
- 60% cant name five of the ten commandments
- 50% of high school seniors think Sodom and Gomorrah were married.( these are the two cities destroyed by God in Genesis because they were filled with sin)
- only one third know that Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount.
- Fewer than half can identify Genesis as the first book of the Bible
[Cheehan]
Monday, March 24, 2008
YOu might be real surprise to see me writing a post here~ yes i have finally figured out how to blog~
Just wanna share with u guys a song. Some of u might have received it via email but its good to keep it here right? ^.^
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0HRYdPre45k
我的天父 可否让我好好地谈恋爱
不再流泪 不再伤痛 不再聚合又在分开
我的天父 我只想要安稳找个人来爱
请让我知道 那个人在不在
我的孩子 难道你忘记我就是爱
学懂爱我 学懂爱你自己 你就懂好好恋爱
我的孩子 何不尝试 安静地慢慢去等待
你就会知道 那个人在不在 ...
Look at the lyrics, isn't it just so well- written? I really think that this is a wonderful song isn't it?
Recently, someone asked me a question which really triggered my thoughts. 'Aren't christian supposed to be good? Then why are some not?' was what was thrown at me. For a moment, i was dumb. Yes aren't we supposed to be good? Then why aren't we? Are we the salt of the earth light of the world? Then why would someone ask me such a question... like that!? This just reminded me of the our humanity. The teaching of the bible is true and with no mistake. We who believe in the bible are supposed to be more like jesus Christ. But we all know, its hard and definitely takes time. However, what most people see is not the bible but the people believing in it. It is evident that in their mindset, Christians are expected to be good. (U can disagree with me) If not why do we always get the more stares and criticism when we did something wrong just like other non-christians did? True enough, they do have expectations of us, be it said or unsaid. So we'll have ask ourselves, are we up to it? Of course, we don't live to live up to their expectations but God's. However, if we can't even prove to them that we can live a reborn life being a christian, why should they? Many a time, when we emphasize so much on spreading the gospel to non- believers(not to say that its not important), we often neglected the fact that actions speak louder than words. I am sure friends around can see and feel how u are as a person. How great will it be if they can associate your great actions to Christianity? If the gospel is the seed we wish to plant in your friends' heart, i would say our actions is the water and nutrients the seed need to grow. Let's all work together and tell the people around us that God is love and we are reborn by his love, not only through words but by our lives!
^j^
Just wanna share with u guys a song. Some of u might have received it via email but its good to keep it here right? ^.^
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0HRYdPre45k
我的天父 可否让我好好地谈恋爱
不再流泪 不再伤痛 不再聚合又在分开
我的天父 我只想要安稳找个人来爱
请让我知道 那个人在不在
我的孩子 难道你忘记我就是爱
学懂爱我 学懂爱你自己 你就懂好好恋爱
我的孩子 何不尝试 安静地慢慢去等待
你就会知道 那个人在不在 ...
Look at the lyrics, isn't it just so well- written? I really think that this is a wonderful song isn't it?
Recently, someone asked me a question which really triggered my thoughts. 'Aren't christian supposed to be good? Then why are some not?' was what was thrown at me. For a moment, i was dumb. Yes aren't we supposed to be good? Then why aren't we? Are we the salt of the earth light of the world? Then why would someone ask me such a question... like that!? This just reminded me of the our humanity. The teaching of the bible is true and with no mistake. We who believe in the bible are supposed to be more like jesus Christ. But we all know, its hard and definitely takes time. However, what most people see is not the bible but the people believing in it. It is evident that in their mindset, Christians are expected to be good. (U can disagree with me) If not why do we always get the more stares and criticism when we did something wrong just like other non-christians did? True enough, they do have expectations of us, be it said or unsaid. So we'll have ask ourselves, are we up to it? Of course, we don't live to live up to their expectations but God's. However, if we can't even prove to them that we can live a reborn life being a christian, why should they? Many a time, when we emphasize so much on spreading the gospel to non- believers(not to say that its not important), we often neglected the fact that actions speak louder than words. I am sure friends around can see and feel how u are as a person. How great will it be if they can associate your great actions to Christianity? If the gospel is the seed we wish to plant in your friends' heart, i would say our actions is the water and nutrients the seed need to grow. Let's all work together and tell the people around us that God is love and we are reborn by his love, not only through words but by our lives!
^j^
The Room
This would be a long message, but it is really worth your time. I took this from a book by Christian author Joshua Harris. This is a real account of what he dreamt of one night.
“The Room”
I found myself in a room. There were no distinguishing features save for the one wall covered with small index-card files.
They were like the ones in libraries that list titles by author or subject. These files, are stretched from floor to ceiling and seemingly endlessly in either direction. As I drew close to the wall of files, the first to catch my attention reads “Girls I have liked”. I opened it and was shocked to realize that I recognized the names written on each one.
And then without being told, I knew exactly where I was. This lifeless room was a catalog system for my life. Here were written the actions of my every moment, big and small, in a detail my memory couldn’t even match.
I began randomly opening file, exploring their contents. Some brought sweet memories; others a sense of shame and regret so intense that I would look over my shoulder to see if anyone was watching.
The titles of the files ranged from mundane to the outright weird: “Books I have read”, “Lies I have told”, “Comfort I have give”. Some were as detailed as “Things I have yelled at my brothers”. I never ceased to be surprised by the contents. Often there were more cards I expected or fewer cards then I hoped.
I also realized actually each and every card was written in my own handwriting, each signed with my signature.
When I came to a file named “Lustful thoughts”, I felt a chill run through my body. I pulled the file out only an inch, not willing to test its size. I felt sick to think that such a moment had been recorded.
Suddenly I felt an almost animal range. “No one must ever see these cards, this room! I have to destroy them!” In an insane frenzy I yanked the file out. I had to burn the cards! But I don’t seem to dislodge a single card. I became desperate and pulled out a card, only to find it as strong as steel when I tried to tear it.
Defeated and utterly helpless, I returned the file to its slot. Leaning my forehead against the wall, I let out a long self-pitying sigh. And then I saw it. The title bore “People I have shared the gospel with.” The handle was brighter then those around it, newer, almost unused. I pulled on its handle; I could count the cards it contained on one hand.
And then the tears came. I began to weep. Sobs so deep that the hurt started in my stomach and shook through me. I fell on my knees and cried. I cried out of shame, from the overwhelming shame of it all. No one must ever, ever know of this room. I must lock it up and hide the key.
But then as I pushed away the tears, I saw HIM. No, please, not Him. Not here, Oh no, please, anyone but Jesus.
I watched helplessly as He began to open the files and read the cards. I couldn’t bear to watch His response. When I look at His face, I saw a sorrow deeper than my own. Why did He have to read every card?
Finally He turned and looked at me from across the room with pity in His eyes. I dropped my head, covered my face with my hands, and began to cry again. He walked over and put His arm around me. He could have said so many things. But He didn’t say a word. He just cried with me.
Then He got up and walked back to the wall of files. Starting at one end of the room, He took out a file and, one by one, began to sign His name over mine on each card.
“NO!!” I shouted, rushing to Him. All I could find to say was “No!! No!!” as I pulled the card from Him. His name shouldn’t be on these cards. But there it was, written in red, so rich, so dark, so alive. The name of Jesus covered mine. It was written with His very own blood.
He gently took the card back. He smiled a sad smile and continued to sign the cards. I don’t think I’ll ever understand how He did it so quickly, but the next instant it seemed I heard Him close the last file and walk back to my side. He placed His hand on my shoulder and said, “It is finished.”
I stood up, and He led me out of the room. There was no lock on its door. There were still cards to be written.
This really touched me so much. It give me a new meaning of Jesus took away my sin. It always seems so far away from me. But after seeing this, I realize that oh no, He not only will take away my sin, He replace Himself for every single one of my very sinful sins. Such a pure and holy God replace my sin!!!! Who can ever do this??!!
There is no one, but Jesus. All we have to do is believe.
Vivian
“The Room”
I found myself in a room. There were no distinguishing features save for the one wall covered with small index-card files.
They were like the ones in libraries that list titles by author or subject. These files, are stretched from floor to ceiling and seemingly endlessly in either direction. As I drew close to the wall of files, the first to catch my attention reads “Girls I have liked”. I opened it and was shocked to realize that I recognized the names written on each one.
And then without being told, I knew exactly where I was. This lifeless room was a catalog system for my life. Here were written the actions of my every moment, big and small, in a detail my memory couldn’t even match.
I began randomly opening file, exploring their contents. Some brought sweet memories; others a sense of shame and regret so intense that I would look over my shoulder to see if anyone was watching.
The titles of the files ranged from mundane to the outright weird: “Books I have read”, “Lies I have told”, “Comfort I have give”. Some were as detailed as “Things I have yelled at my brothers”. I never ceased to be surprised by the contents. Often there were more cards I expected or fewer cards then I hoped.
I also realized actually each and every card was written in my own handwriting, each signed with my signature.
When I came to a file named “Lustful thoughts”, I felt a chill run through my body. I pulled the file out only an inch, not willing to test its size. I felt sick to think that such a moment had been recorded.
Suddenly I felt an almost animal range. “No one must ever see these cards, this room! I have to destroy them!” In an insane frenzy I yanked the file out. I had to burn the cards! But I don’t seem to dislodge a single card. I became desperate and pulled out a card, only to find it as strong as steel when I tried to tear it.
Defeated and utterly helpless, I returned the file to its slot. Leaning my forehead against the wall, I let out a long self-pitying sigh. And then I saw it. The title bore “People I have shared the gospel with.” The handle was brighter then those around it, newer, almost unused. I pulled on its handle; I could count the cards it contained on one hand.
And then the tears came. I began to weep. Sobs so deep that the hurt started in my stomach and shook through me. I fell on my knees and cried. I cried out of shame, from the overwhelming shame of it all. No one must ever, ever know of this room. I must lock it up and hide the key.
But then as I pushed away the tears, I saw HIM. No, please, not Him. Not here, Oh no, please, anyone but Jesus.
I watched helplessly as He began to open the files and read the cards. I couldn’t bear to watch His response. When I look at His face, I saw a sorrow deeper than my own. Why did He have to read every card?
Finally He turned and looked at me from across the room with pity in His eyes. I dropped my head, covered my face with my hands, and began to cry again. He walked over and put His arm around me. He could have said so many things. But He didn’t say a word. He just cried with me.
Then He got up and walked back to the wall of files. Starting at one end of the room, He took out a file and, one by one, began to sign His name over mine on each card.
“NO!!” I shouted, rushing to Him. All I could find to say was “No!! No!!” as I pulled the card from Him. His name shouldn’t be on these cards. But there it was, written in red, so rich, so dark, so alive. The name of Jesus covered mine. It was written with His very own blood.
He gently took the card back. He smiled a sad smile and continued to sign the cards. I don’t think I’ll ever understand how He did it so quickly, but the next instant it seemed I heard Him close the last file and walk back to my side. He placed His hand on my shoulder and said, “It is finished.”
I stood up, and He led me out of the room. There was no lock on its door. There were still cards to be written.
This really touched me so much. It give me a new meaning of Jesus took away my sin. It always seems so far away from me. But after seeing this, I realize that oh no, He not only will take away my sin, He replace Himself for every single one of my very sinful sins. Such a pure and holy God replace my sin!!!! Who can ever do this??!!
There is no one, but Jesus. All we have to do is believe.
Vivian
Sunday, March 23, 2008
“It’s Hard” VS “I Can’t”
I was reading a great book and one of the chapters is called “what kids need to understand”. And I applied the same theory into the lives of Christianity. Here it is:
What Christians Need to Understand
“It’s Hard” VS “I Can’t”
Each of us should carry his own load. (Gal 6:5)
One aspect of learning to take responsibility for a Christian to understand that being unable differs from being uncomfortable. Sometimes, we see the two as one. Therefore, what we don’t enjoy, we think we can’t do. Thinking that we can’t do, we will either give up difficult things because they are too hard, charm someone else into doing them for ourselves, or find shortcuts like cheating on exams.
Alright, let’s honestly ask ourselves. Have I ever say such things: I can’t read finish the bible, that’s impossible! OR I can’t come wake up for Sunday Service, I am dead tired OR I can’t come for bible study, it’s too boring for me OR I can’t serve, I am too busy.
Part of growing up as a Christian is learning what we are responsible for our own spiritual life. Searching for God’s will and learning His words are definitely what each of us is responsible for. No one can do it for us. However, there’re certainly things and problems with which we do need help, problems such as spiritual war, experiencing emotional crisis and such.
But even in these crisis situations, a Christian must still learn responsibility. He or She still has tasks. Here are the tasks:
1) Being honest and humble enough to realize you have a problem instead of being proud or denying the problem.
2) Taking initiative to ask for help from others instead of withdrawing, or hoping it will go away.
3) Picking trustworthy people of character you can ask for help
4) Doing your part to solve the problem
5) Valuing and appreciating the help that’s given
6) Learning from the experiences so that you don’t repeat them.
This is the bad news in life: Even when we are unable to help ourselves, we still have a job to do. If you are hit by car, you’re a victim - but you still have to hobble to the physical therapist and do the exercises. There’re very few things in life in which we has no responsibility at all. Yeah, it’s unfair. But well, one thing we can be sure of is that God will give us the strength to bear our own responsibilities.
So now let me say my final line, let us all encourage each other, to take responsibility in our own spiritual growth.
NOW let us say “Although it is difficult, but I will still do it to glorify God.”
Posted by The Old One
Inspired from the book “Boundaries with Kids” by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend
What Christians Need to Understand
“It’s Hard” VS “I Can’t”
Each of us should carry his own load. (Gal 6:5)
One aspect of learning to take responsibility for a Christian to understand that being unable differs from being uncomfortable. Sometimes, we see the two as one. Therefore, what we don’t enjoy, we think we can’t do. Thinking that we can’t do, we will either give up difficult things because they are too hard, charm someone else into doing them for ourselves, or find shortcuts like cheating on exams.
Alright, let’s honestly ask ourselves. Have I ever say such things: I can’t read finish the bible, that’s impossible! OR I can’t come wake up for Sunday Service, I am dead tired OR I can’t come for bible study, it’s too boring for me OR I can’t serve, I am too busy.
Part of growing up as a Christian is learning what we are responsible for our own spiritual life. Searching for God’s will and learning His words are definitely what each of us is responsible for. No one can do it for us. However, there’re certainly things and problems with which we do need help, problems such as spiritual war, experiencing emotional crisis and such.
But even in these crisis situations, a Christian must still learn responsibility. He or She still has tasks. Here are the tasks:
1) Being honest and humble enough to realize you have a problem instead of being proud or denying the problem.
2) Taking initiative to ask for help from others instead of withdrawing, or hoping it will go away.
3) Picking trustworthy people of character you can ask for help
4) Doing your part to solve the problem
5) Valuing and appreciating the help that’s given
6) Learning from the experiences so that you don’t repeat them.
This is the bad news in life: Even when we are unable to help ourselves, we still have a job to do. If you are hit by car, you’re a victim - but you still have to hobble to the physical therapist and do the exercises. There’re very few things in life in which we has no responsibility at all. Yeah, it’s unfair. But well, one thing we can be sure of is that God will give us the strength to bear our own responsibilities.
So now let me say my final line, let us all encourage each other, to take responsibility in our own spiritual growth.
NOW let us say “Although it is difficult, but I will still do it to glorify God.”
Posted by The Old One
Inspired from the book “Boundaries with Kids” by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend
Friday, March 21, 2008
Things to do before CAs/Mid-terms/Exams
I believe everyone has had the experience of sitting for exams. It's interesting to see what people do just right before the exams, their expressions on their faces, etc. In my faculty, what we see most commonly is most people frantically flipping through their notes last minutes, not because they have not read it for the nth time, but maybe because they do not want to miss out any detail which might just have the slightest remotest chance of coming out in the exam. People would also be busy trying to clarify any last-minute doubts with classmates. Quite a tense atmosphere.
I am blessed that there is a Christian fellowship within this faculty and community of mine. We made it a point to gather half an hour before the reporting time for exam, just like everyday before the start of lecture, to praise and worship the Lord, to pray and to entrust the entire day into His hands.
A friend shared something very interesting and true, and I hope that as most of us students continue to face exams and tests, (or even as people who are facing challenges and struggles as we work), we'll keep this in mind.
I am blessed that there is a Christian fellowship within this faculty and community of mine. We made it a point to gather half an hour before the reporting time for exam, just like everyday before the start of lecture, to praise and worship the Lord, to pray and to entrust the entire day into His hands.
A friend shared something very interesting and true, and I hope that as most of us students continue to face exams and tests, (or even as people who are facing challenges and struggles as we work), we'll keep this in mind.
"Even as we draw close to the exams, let us remember that what we need to mug the most isn't our textbooks, lecture notes or summaries. What we should be mugging most is the bible, for that is the source of our strength, peace and wisdom."
Monday, March 17, 2008
Heart of Worship
When the music fades
All is stripped away
And I simply come
Longing just to bring
Something that's of worth
That will bless Your heart
I'll bring You more than a song
For a song in itself
Is not what You have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You're looking into my heart
Chorus: I'm coming back to the heart of worship
And it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
I'm sorry, Lord,
for the thing I've made it
When it's all about You,
It's all about You, Jesus
King of endless worth
No one could express
How much You deserve
Though I'm weak and poor
All I have is Yours
Every single breath
I'll bring You more than a song
For a song in itself
Is not what You have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You're looking into my heart
LET US ALL WORSHIP FOR GOD AND GOD ONLY
God... u there?
what happens when u become too comfortable living in your perfect life as a christian? i believe all of us have experienced comfortable living and tend to take God's grace in our lives for granted... at least for me, i experienced it
was overwhelmed by this awesome God 5 years back and devoted my life to him.. but after attending services and even taking up commitment to join Sing Shen, his presence drifted from me... i was still attending church.. still having fun in Glowing, still singing for church services... but when i put myself at ground zero and looked down at myself, it was clear that i drifted from God... the motive and passion to burn for him was missing.. why???
it's human nature to feel that God left us... and den grumble about how God "forgot about us" or, "is not listening to me"... but hey... it's the other way around!!!
there's this inspiring story i read during my devotion...
imagine u're a little boy holding mummy's hand and is at the escalator... when mummy steps up the escalator, the little boy decides to see what will happen if he just stay put at the bottom of the escalator... watching mummy on the escalator going higher, he watches and laugh.. until mummy was too far, fear sits in and the boy cries in loneliness.. a kind stranger walks pass and helped the escalator up... up there, the boy realised mummy's still at the top of the escalator!!!!
sometimes... it's us that make decisions that make us look away from God and walk in the other direction... although we might not see it initially, but we must know that it's us that walk away from God, and not him forsaking us! this is v v v v impt! cos he'll always be there at the top of the escalator waiting for us to go back! all u need to do is realise that crying at the bottom of the escalator is pointless and step up! he's waiting!
wishing all a spark in their spiritual passion!!!! let it burn!
jason
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
how old are you???
was travelling to SSDC for my final theory test yst, (although i failed), but learnt something on my trip there...
the walk to ssdc was a distance, and i was in the big crowd that was heading to the driving centre... beside me was a office lady, a malay girl, a uncle, a bangala, and a tai tai... it was pretty obvious all of us were walking with the same aim, to get to ssdc, to get a license...
among the crowd, i felt very young cos i am getting a license at 21 (although i'm 3 yrs late), but others were grown up working adults... den it striked me that it doesnt matter how old are you to get a license (of course u have to be 18), but it's all about your decision to commit into getting a license and going for classes, tests... it's up to you, u might take it up at 18, or u might do so when u're 38, but eventually it's the same license! it doesnt mean that if i'm 20, i'm a lousy driver, or if i'm older, i'm better... it's all about you TAKING A STEP to go for a license...
here's the challenge... if i'm a christian that grew up in a christian family, does that make me spiritually strong? if i'm a new believer that seeks God in my daily life, does that make me lesser than a born christian? i guess my point is that sometimes one might deceive oneself that by being a christian and attending church for so many years it would make him a spiritual and committed christian... it all runs down to the time when you realise the need to commit into leading a Godly life, and serving Him with your gifts with right motives... no matter how old u are... after all it doesnt matter when u believe in christ, how long u have been a christian.. it's about THE THINGS U DID when u are a christian!
just to share a random thought~
p.s. do share your QT thoughts in here! :)
jason
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Glowers' Birthdays Presents Budget
okay i should be the first to blog a NSS (Not-So-Serious) post.
haha.
& i think we should add a tagboard.
(LOOK AT THE TEMPLETE. i'm pretty sure someone with initials Z.Y chose it.HAH)
anyway, for those who doesn't know.
our birthdays' presents (unofficial) budget for 2008 would be as follow:
21st birthday - SGD$6.00 (Per Glower)
regular birthdays - SGD$3.00 (Per Glower)
& the reason why Glowing is going through an economic crisis this year,
would be mainly the fact that a lot of people are turning 21!
so please understand,
why the usual people would ask you for money every now & then.
& note that these are the people,
who don't mind the effort to buy the present,
& takes the initiative to collect the money.
so the very least you can do,
is to pay them promptly.
i'm sure that everyone loves to receive presents on their birthdays,
including YOU!
so despite how cash-tight you may be to cover for you own expenses,
or how reluctant you are to take out money from your wallet,
do think a little more for each other.
<3
Glowing is filled with God's unlimited love,
so why not spread the love around?
Xiwennnnnnnn.
haha.
& i think we should add a tagboard.
(LOOK AT THE TEMPLETE. i'm pretty sure someone with initials Z.Y chose it.HAH)
anyway, for those who doesn't know.
our birthdays' presents (unofficial) budget for 2008 would be as follow:
21st birthday - SGD$6.00 (Per Glower)
regular birthdays - SGD$3.00 (Per Glower)
& the reason why Glowing is going through an economic crisis this year,
would be mainly the fact that a lot of people are turning 21!
so please understand,
why the usual people would ask you for money every now & then.
& note that these are the people,
who don't mind the effort to buy the present,
& takes the initiative to collect the money.
so the very least you can do,
is to pay them promptly.
i'm sure that everyone loves to receive presents on their birthdays,
including YOU!
so despite how cash-tight you may be to cover for you own expenses,
or how reluctant you are to take out money from your wallet,
do think a little more for each other.
<3
Glowing is filled with God's unlimited love,
so why not spread the love around?
Xiwennnnnnnn.
"GIVE"
After our meaningful discussion today, a thought came to my mind and imprint in my heart. The main word that describe the whole chunk of thoughts is just simply "GIVE".
We can GIVE without LOVE but we can't LOVE without GIVING. (This meaningful phrase is obviously not from me.haha!It's from some other people that said this and got printed in daily bread.) Jesus's greatest commandment was simply "LOVE the Lord" and " LOVE your neighbors". Well, "LOVE" is always a big word but " GIVE" is really the action to show it.
In glowing 's focus's context, I think "GIVE" is very relevant as well. We have 5 aims. Worship, Discipleship, Fellowship, Ministry and Evangelism.
Worship:- It's a way that we "GIVE" thanks to God and "GIVE" a living testimonial about Jesus to the people around us using our lives.
Discipleship:- This is the part where we "GIVE" up our own sins,desires,wants and pick up what Jesus had wanted us to be.
Fellowship:- This is where we can "GIVE" to each other. If we were to be alone, there would be no one for us to give. Therefore, God put is in a fellowship to learn to "GIVE" to each other. In Acts, fellowship of the christians did not mean meeting on everyday saturday for two hours. Their fellowship wasliving together and giving all that they have to the fellowship and share among everybody.
Ministry:- This is where we "GIVE" our services to the church using our gifts that God had placed in us.
Evangelism:-This is where we "GIVE" to the non-believers, and even people that we may not even know. Some people even have to "GIVE" their lives just for this sake. God "GAVE" his only son to us, and that's where we learn from Him, to GIVE.
Back to our fellowship context, there might be a thousand and one things that do not match our needs or satisfied our desire. Therefore, if we focus on what we can get and receive from the fellowship and church, it will never ever be enough. There are too many needs out there to satisfied and our owns are often least attended to. However, at the same time, since there are so many needs out there, when we focus on what we can "GIVE", we will never be lack of chances and opportunities to do so. So if you are feeling left out in the fellowship or feeling irrelevant to the fellowship, maybe it's time to change a perspective. A person can only be committed and involved when he/she starts to "GIVE". So next time, instead of asking " What can I receive from the fellowship?", we can start asking "What can I GIVE to the fellowship?"
Sorry for the long winding blog entry.haha!But well, FREEDOM OF SPEECH!
We can GIVE without LOVE but we can't LOVE without GIVING. (This meaningful phrase is obviously not from me.haha!It's from some other people that said this and got printed in daily bread.) Jesus's greatest commandment was simply "LOVE the Lord" and " LOVE your neighbors". Well, "LOVE" is always a big word but " GIVE" is really the action to show it.
In glowing 's focus's context, I think "GIVE" is very relevant as well. We have 5 aims. Worship, Discipleship, Fellowship, Ministry and Evangelism.
Worship:- It's a way that we "GIVE" thanks to God and "GIVE" a living testimonial about Jesus to the people around us using our lives.
Discipleship:- This is the part where we "GIVE" up our own sins,desires,wants and pick up what Jesus had wanted us to be.
Fellowship:- This is where we can "GIVE" to each other. If we were to be alone, there would be no one for us to give. Therefore, God put is in a fellowship to learn to "GIVE" to each other. In Acts, fellowship of the christians did not mean meeting on everyday saturday for two hours. Their fellowship wasliving together and giving all that they have to the fellowship and share among everybody.
Ministry:- This is where we "GIVE" our services to the church using our gifts that God had placed in us.
Evangelism:-This is where we "GIVE" to the non-believers, and even people that we may not even know. Some people even have to "GIVE" their lives just for this sake. God "GAVE" his only son to us, and that's where we learn from Him, to GIVE.
Back to our fellowship context, there might be a thousand and one things that do not match our needs or satisfied our desire. Therefore, if we focus on what we can get and receive from the fellowship and church, it will never ever be enough. There are too many needs out there to satisfied and our owns are often least attended to. However, at the same time, since there are so many needs out there, when we focus on what we can "GIVE", we will never be lack of chances and opportunities to do so. So if you are feeling left out in the fellowship or feeling irrelevant to the fellowship, maybe it's time to change a perspective. A person can only be committed and involved when he/she starts to "GIVE". So next time, instead of asking " What can I receive from the fellowship?", we can start asking "What can I GIVE to the fellowship?"
Sorry for the long winding blog entry.haha!But well, FREEDOM OF SPEECH!
Saturday, March 1, 2008
"What do you want me to do for you?"
This is a question that Jesus asked the blind beggar in Luke 18:35-43, and this is a question that Jesus continues to ask us today. Just like a loving father would ask his children, God wants to be there for us whenever we have issues to resolve, problems to overcome.
Have we ever thought that anything was too trivial, "This is too childish to ask of God, better not ask."?
Have we ever thought that anything was too difficult, "This problem is too complicated, doubt God will be able to provide a way out anyway."?
Have we ever thought that anything was too ridiculous, "This request is totally absurd, think it's just my wishful thinking, God won't entertain one lah."?
But indeed, God is asking us, "What do you want me to do for you?" Let us never try to perceive the power of God and what He can do with our extremely limited human minds. If something seems an impossibility, it is the very thing which we have to ask for. While ultimately, whether it is the will of the Lord to accomplish what we ask of Him is His authority, let us ask God with the innocence of a child and maturity of the spirit what we'd like of Him to do for us.
"Lord, I pray that I grow to be more like you." Sounds impossible? This is precisely what we can ask for. God is glorified by doing the impossible for us.
"And Jesus said to him, 'Recover your sight, your faith has made you well.' And immediately he covered his sight and followed him, glofriying God. And all the people, when they saw it, gave praise to God." ~ Luke 18:42-43
Have we ever thought that anything was too trivial, "This is too childish to ask of God, better not ask."?
Have we ever thought that anything was too difficult, "This problem is too complicated, doubt God will be able to provide a way out anyway."?
Have we ever thought that anything was too ridiculous, "This request is totally absurd, think it's just my wishful thinking, God won't entertain one lah."?
But indeed, God is asking us, "What do you want me to do for you?" Let us never try to perceive the power of God and what He can do with our extremely limited human minds. If something seems an impossibility, it is the very thing which we have to ask for. While ultimately, whether it is the will of the Lord to accomplish what we ask of Him is His authority, let us ask God with the innocence of a child and maturity of the spirit what we'd like of Him to do for us.
"Lord, I pray that I grow to be more like you." Sounds impossible? This is precisely what we can ask for. God is glorified by doing the impossible for us.
"And Jesus said to him, 'Recover your sight, your faith has made you well.' And immediately he covered his sight and followed him, glofriying God. And all the people, when they saw it, gave praise to God." ~ Luke 18:42-43
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