Sunday 30 September 2007

Give Glory To Jesus

Psalm 75:1 (NIV)
We give thanks to you, O God,
we give thanks, for your Name is near;
men tell of your wonderful deeds.

Open The Eyes Of My Heart

Verse
To see You
high and lifted up
shining in the light of Your glory
Pour out Your power and love
As we sing
Holy holy holy

Bridge
Holy holy holy
Holy holy holy
Holy holy holy
I want to see You

Chorus
Open the eyes of my heart Lord
Open the eyes of my heart
I want to see You
I want to see You

Don't Row

(View Daily Bread)
Ephesians 3:14-21 (NIV)
A Prayer for the Ephesians

14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
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Saturday 29 September 2007

Magic-Marker Wisdom

(View Daily Bread)
Ephesians 5:8-21 (NIV)
8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10 and find out what pleases the Lord. 11 Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. 12 For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. 13 But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, 14 for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said:

"Wake up, O sleeper,
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you."

15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. 18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. 19 Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

21 Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.
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Friday 28 September 2007

Looking Out For Others

(View Daily Bread)
Philippians 2:3-8 (NIV)
3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4 Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

5 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:

6 Who, being in very nature God,
did not consider equality with God something to be grasped,
7 but made himself nothing,
taking the very nature of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
8 And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
and became obedient to death—
even death on a cross!
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Thursday 27 September 2007

Sowing And Reaping

(View Daily Bread)
Galatians 6:7-9 (NIV)
7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
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Wednesday 26 September 2007

Jesus Sets Us Free

(View Daily Bread)
Galatians 5:1-6 (NIV)
Freedom in Christ

1 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

2 Mark my words! I, Paul, tell you that if you let yourselves be circumcised, Christ will be of no value to you at all. 3 Again I declare to every man who lets himself be circumcised that he is obligated to obey the whole law. 4 You who are trying to be justified by law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace. 5 But by faith we eagerly await through the Spirit the righteousness for which we hope. 6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.
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Lord Jesus, the devil lays traps all around in my daily life to stumble, ensnare, trick, divert, lure or entice me away from You. However, I can rejoice today because of the works that You had accomplished on the cross at Calvary, which gives me mighty confidence and sets my path straight towards You.

By Your precious blood I am cleansed and set free, forgiven from all my past transgressions.

O Lord, You deserve all the praise of the earth, and I give You thanks for all eternity. My confidence I set in You entirely. Sins will have no hold against me, I will be able to rise up against temptations, and I know that I am more than a conqueror through You who love me.
Romans 8:35, 37 (NIV)
35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? ... 37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.

Tuesday 25 September 2007

Mosquito Paradise

(View Daily Bread)
2 Chronicles 34:14-21 (NIV)
The Book of the Law Found

14 While they were bringing out the money that had been taken into the temple of the Lord, Hilkiah the priest found the Book of the Law of the Lord that had been given through Moses. 15 Hilkiah said to Shaphan the secretary, "I have found the Book of the Law in the temple of the Lord." He gave it to Shaphan.

16 Then Shaphan took the book to the king and reported to him: "Your officials are doing everything that has been committed to them. 17 They have paid out the money that was in the temple of the Lord and have entrusted it to the supervisors and workers." 18 Then Shaphan the secretary informed the king, "Hilkiah the priest has given me a book." And Shaphan read from it in the presence of the king.

19 When the king heard the words of the Law, he tore his robes. 20 He gave these orders to Hilkiah, Ahikam son of Shaphan, Abdon son of Micah, Shaphan the secretary and Asaiah the kings's attendant: 21 "Go and inquire of the Lord for me and for the remnant in Israel and Judah about what is written in this book that has been found. Great is the Lord's anger that is poured out on us because our fathers have not kept the word of the Lord; they have not acted in accordance with all that is written in this book."
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Lord Jesus I want to thank You for being the living Word of God, for You showed the world of the Father's great love for all of humanity. Through Your leading examples, I learnt how to be a better person, loving and patient, gentle and caring. All praise be unto You Lord.

Thank You Lord for Your transforming Words. Your love letter I hold dear every day. Though I've only read through bits and pieces daily, I can already feel Your mighty works in me. How much more will I be transformed, if I commit myself to read the entire Bible?

Thank You sweet Father for Your precious living Word. I seek Your teachings daily, and may it resound in my head all day long. I pray for strength for my journey with You, and I pray for Your wisdom that I may read and understand the transforming Scripture that You have prepared for me.
Psalm 16:8 (NIV)
I have set the LORD always before me.
Because he is at my right hand,
I will not be shaken.

Monday 24 September 2007

All Rise

(View Daily Bread)
Mark 2:1-12 (NIV)
Jesus Heals a Paralytic

1 A few days later, when Jesus again entered Capernaum, the people heard that he had come home. 2 So many gathered that there was no room left, not even outside the door, and he preached the word to them. 3 Some men came, bringing to him a paralytic, carried by four of them. 4 Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus and, after digging through it, lowered the mat the paralyzed man was lying on. 5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Son, your sins are forgiven."

6 Now some teachers of the law were sitting there, thinking to themselves, 7 "Why does this fellow talk like that? He's blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?"

8 Immediately Jesus knew in his spirit that this was what they were thinking in their hearts, and he said to them, "Why are you thinking these things? 9 Which is easier: to say to the paralytic, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Get up, take your mat and walk'? 10 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins ..." He said to the paralytic, 11 I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home." 12 He got up, took his mat and walked out in full view of them all. This amazed everyone and they praised God, saying, "We have never seen anything like this!"
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Last Thursday, my cell group leader, Min Shiung, was asking around if anyone was interested in leading praise and worship for our next gathering. I felt a small tug in my heart, but procrastinated to action upon it for I have never lead praise and worship before.

I was supposed to reply him yesterday regarding my decision, but apparently I have yet to reply since I’m not exactly prepared for it. This matter seems to present itself as quite a huge mental block for me.

Thank You O Lord, because this message today brings me courage. You called me to do something, and I really should not hide behind and shun the responsibility. Even though I may not sing well, or even if it's the first time that I'm leading, these reasons do not matter. What matters most is that I rise up and do the things that You called me to do, and faithfully do what pleases You.

Lord I believe through this experience You will teach me things that I will have otherwise not experienced. I believe that You will guide and strengthen me through, and prepare me to serve You in greater things in the future.

Sunday 23 September 2007

A Voice For Worship

Verse 1
Lord You give me a voice for worship
A heart that's seeking to honor You
Draw me closer in adoration
And lead this nation to worship You

Verse 2
Lord I thank You for every moment
Everyday I can bless Your name
Lord I give You my voice for worship
Songs of praise to Your holy name

Chorus
He's put a new song in my mouth
A song of praise to our God
Many will see it and fear
And put their trust in Him
So let the song begin
Let it rise from deep within
My (Your) heart unto Him

Verse 3
I will sing to the Lord forever
And I will boldly proclaim His Word
There is no higher name in Heaven
There is no greater name on earth

Bridge
Jesus is Lord
Jesus is Lord

He Knows My Name

(View Daily Bread)
John 10:1-4 (NIV)
The Shepherd and His Flock

1 "I tell you the truth, the man who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. 2 The man who enters by the gate is the shepherd of his sheep. 3 The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.
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Thank You Lord for loving me. I feel so loved every time I think about how You made me to be who I am today. You thought about me, and planned my life down to the minutest intricacies, even before I was conceived by my mother. After I was born, and even till today, You still take care of me, and watch every route that I take.

Thank You Lord for loving me. Let me always be attentive and listen to Your Words Father, for Your Words mean more than any other earthly things. The devil has many temptations installed to distract me away from You, but I thank You Lord for always being patient with me, calling me back to You each and every time.

I love my name, because You know it, and that's how You call me. Lead me towards You O Lord, and I know I will find everything that I ever need in You. Help me to conquer in every temptation that is set before me, so that I may live a victorious life that reflects Your glory.

Thank You Lord for knowing my name.
John 3:16 (NIV)
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Psalm 139:17-18 (NIV)
17 How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!
18 Were I to count them,
they would outnumber the grains of sand.
When I awake,
I am still with you.
John 10:3 (NIV)
The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.

Saturday 22 September 2007

Wandering From Wisdom

(View Daily Bread)
1 Kings 3:4-15 (NIV)
Solomon Asks for Wisdom

4 The king went to Gibeon to offer sacrifices, for that was the most important high place, and Solomon offered a thousand burnt offerings on that altar. 5 At Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon during the night in a dream, and God said, "Ask for whatever you want me to give you."

6 Solomon answered, "You have shown great kindness to your servant, my father David, because he was faithful to you and righteous and upright in heart. You have continued this great kindness to him and have given him a son to sit on his throne this very day.

7 "Now, O Lord my God, you have made your servant king in place of my father David. But I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties. 8 Your servant is here among the people you have chosen, a great people, too numerous to count or number. 9 So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?"

10 The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for this. 11 So God said to him, "Since you have asked for this and not for long life or wealth for yourself, nor have asked for the death of your enemies but for discernment in administering justice, 12 I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be. 13 Moreover, I will give you what you have not asked for - both riches and honor - so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings. 14 And if you walk in my ways and obey my statues and commands as David your father did, I will give you a long life." 15 Then Solomon awoke - and he realized it had been a dream.

He returned to Jerusalem, stood before the ark of the Lord's covenant and sacrificed burnt offerings and fellowship offerings. Then he gave a feast for all his court.
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Friday 21 September 2007

Father, Forgive Them

(View Daily Bread)
Luke 23:32-38 (NIV)
32 Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed. 33 When they came to the place called the Skull, there they crucified him, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left. 34 Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.

35 The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at him. They said, "He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Christ of God, the Chosen One."

36 The soldiers also came up and mocked him. They offered him wine vinegar 37 and said, "If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself."

38 There was a written notice above him, which read: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.
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Thursday 20 September 2007

A Walk In The Park

(View Daily Bread)
Ephesians 5:1-14 (NIV)
1 Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a man is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7 Therefore do not be partners with them.

8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10 and find out what pleases the Lord. 11 Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. 12 For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. 13 But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, 14 for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said:

"Wake up, O sleeper,
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you."
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Lord Jesus, the title of this blog is “Walking with Christ”, which I meant it to be a record of my daily journey with You. I had hoped that through this, I can have a closer walk with You. After reading this message today, and reflecting on what had me worried recently, I found that I am still lagging in steps with You.

Take today for example. I was feeling pretty low emotionally and spiritually, because some things that I had planned in mind did not go smoothly. Even at this point in time, I can't even be sure if they really did not go smoothly. I allowed assumptions and speculations to cloud my judgment and worse, clouded You from my sight.

Throughout today's experience, it did not occur to me that the best way to calm my heart down, to settle my emotions, to stabilise my thoughts, is to actually pray to You. All that was needed was to seek You first, but amidst my raging emotions, I couldn't see.

Father God, I thank You for the good works that You have started in me, and I know that You will finish them before Lord Jesus comes again, to bring me to You. I pray for a closer walk with You, to understand Your Word better, and learn to place my reliance entirely on You.

No matter how plans or hopes are dashed, help me stay close to You, and keep in steps with You. In faith, I know that You prepared all things to happen to shape me into a better person, into one who is capable to strengthen and expand Your kingdom.

Help me learn how to be a good servant O Lord, and walk a way that's pleasing in Your sight.

Wednesday 19 September 2007

The Faithfulness Of God

(View Daily Bread)
Mark 11:20-26 (NIV)
The Withered Fig Tree

20 In the morning, as they went along, they saw the fig tree withered from the roots. 21 Peter remembered and said to Jesus, "Rabbi, look! The fig tree you cursed has withered!"

22 "Have faith in God," Jesus answered. 23 "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. 24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. 25 And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins. 26 But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father who is in heaven forgive your sins."
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Father God, to have absolute faithfulness in You and none from myself is something that is not easily done. I have tried to hand over my entire heart over to You but certain things seem too hard to let go. Help me learn to have faith in Your faithfulness Lord. Help me learn to let go.

Another thing that I seem to lack in faith; very rarely will I pray for healing for myself. I'm not too sure what may be the exact reason behind it. Is it that I don't believe that You will heal me? Or is it that I fear if the healing does not come quickly, I might lose faith? There seems to be too many reasons for this.

Yet, with today's Scriptural reading, I want to start to flex my faith muscles for You. I pray for the healing of my left sprained ankle Father. It was a very bad sprain which was more than two months ago, and it still hurt badly whenever I walk. By Your Word, I trust in Your faithfulness that I WILL be healed. I believe on Your healing on this injury Father.

I keep my faith in You O Lord, and I can’t wait to share about Your great healing of my ankle!

Tuesday 18 September 2007

Message From The Sky

(View Daily Bread)
Psalm 19 (NIV)
For the director of music. A psalm of David.

1 The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
2 Day after day they pour forth speech;
night after night they display knowledge.
3 There is no speech or language
where their voice is not heard.
4 Their voice goes out into all the earth,
their words to the ends of the world.

In the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun,
5 which is like a bridegroom coming forth from his pavilion,
like a champion rejoicing to run his course.
6 It rises at one end of the heavens
and makes its circuit to the other;
nothing is hidden from its heat.

7 The law of the Lord is perfect,
reviving the soul.
The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy,
making wise the simple.
8 The precepts of the Lord are right,
giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the Lord are radiant,
giving light to the eyes.
9 The fear of the Lord is pure,
enduring forever.
The ordinances of the Lord are sure
and altogether righteous.
10 They are more precious than gold,
than much pure gold;
they are sweeter than honey,
than honey from the comb.
11 By them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward.

12 Who can discern his errors?
Forgive my hidden faults.
13 Keep your servant also from willful sins;
may they not rule over me.
Then will I be blameless,
innocent of great transgression.

14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be pleasing in your sight,
O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.
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O Lord it's been such a long time since I took time away to truly marvel at Your creation! My last remembrance of beautiful things was during my trip to Canada. The mountains, waterfalls, rivers, snow, hoodoos, Your works are as beautiful and breathtaking as they are amazing! All I could do was just to stand and admire Your marvelous works.

Recently Father, I yearn to go on another trip to somewhere else. The need to travel somewhere, where I can be still and quiet, and listen to Your Words and enjoy Your presence, is growing from within. I need a place where I can just be with You Lord. To be in Your presence is all I seek and long for.

Monday 17 September 2007

A New Friend

(View Daily Bread)
John 15:9-17 (NIV)
9 "As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. 10 If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father's commands and remain in his love. 11 I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. 12 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command. 15 I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. 16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. 17 This is my command: Love each other. ..."
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Lord Jesus, the past week had not been a spiritual week for me, for I was engulfed in intense work. I was so busy till I did not spend proper and quality time with You.

Today's message came at just the right point in time, to remind me of Your presence, and Your ever outstretched hand that is ever prepared to pull me up if I’m down. Lord thank You for the wonderful blessings You have lay in my life, in all the things that I engage in, whether they work out or not. For I believe there is a learning lesson in everything that You prepared for me.

It really feels good today Lord, to be back at Your Word, listening to Your teachings, and allowing myself to be soaked in Your presence. Thank You for this well of peace that springs from within my heart Lord. I’m good with You.

After a full seven days of hectic work this week, I really seek Your renewal of my strength, for I am weak right now. I know You will give me rest, for I am really tired from late nights and stress from my job as well.

Whatever comes my way, I just want to declare, that I love You Lord, for always being so patient with me.

Sunday 16 September 2007

You Are Holy Lord

Verse
You are holy Lord
You are holy Lord
Worthy of honor and praise

You are holy Lord
You are holy Lord
Worthy of honor and praise

Chorus
You are worthy
Full of glory
God Almighty
and we give You praise

You are worthy
Full of glory
God Almighty
and we give You praise

Bridge
You are worthy of all honor
Full of glory
Full of power
God Almighty
God of victory
We give You praise

My Refuge

Psalm 61:3-4,8 (NIV)
3 For you have been my refuge,
a strong tower against the foe.

4 I long to dwell in your tent forever
and take refuge in the shelter of your wings.
Selah

8 Then will I ever sing praise to your name
and fulfill my vows day after day.

Music Inside

(View Daily Bread)
Psalm 98 (NIV)
A psalm.

1 Sing to the Lord a new song,
for he has done marvelous things;
his right hand and his holy arm
have worked salvation for him.
2 The Lord has made his salvation known
and revealed his righteousness to the nations.
3 He has remembered his love
and his faithfulness to the house of Israel;
all the ends of the earth have seen
the salvation of our God.

4 Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth,
burst into jubilant song with music;
5 make music to the Lord with the harp,
with the harp and the sound of singing,
6 with trumpets and the blast of the ram's horn -
shout for joy before the Lord, the King.

7 Let the sea resound, and everything in it,
the world, and all who live in it.
8 Let the rivers clap their hands,
let the mountains sing together for joy;
9 let them sing before the Lord,
for he comes to judge the earth.
He will judge the world in righteousness
and the peoples with equity.
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Saturday 15 September 2007

The Pharmacist

(View Daily Bread)
2 Samuel 12:1-14 (NIV)
Nathan Rebukes David

1 The LORD sent Nathan to David. When he came to him, he said, "There were two men in a certain town, one rich and the other poor. 2 The rich man had a very large number of sheep and cattle, 3 but the poor man had nothing except one little ewe lamb he had bought. He raised it, and it grew up with him and his children. It shared his food, drank from his cup and even slept in his arms. It was like a daughter to him.

4 "Now a traveler came to the rich man, but the rich man refrained from taking one of his own sheep or cattle to prepare a meal for the traveler who had come to him. Instead, he took the ewe lamb that belonged to the poor man and prepared it for the one who had come to him."

5 David burned with anger against the man and said to Nathan, "As surely as the LORD lives, the man who did this deserves to die! 6 He must pay for that lamb four times over, because he did such a thing and had no pity."

7 Then Nathan said to David, "You are the man! This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'I anointed you king over Israel, and I delivered you from the hand of Saul. 8 I gave your master's house to you, and your master's wives into your arms. I gave you the house of Israel and Judah. And if all this had been too little, I would have given you even more. 9 Why did you despise the word of the LORD by doing what is evil in his eyes? You struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword and took his wife to be your own. You killed him with the sword of the Ammonites. 10 Now, therefore, the sword will never depart from your house, because you despised me and took the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be your own.'

11 "This is what the LORD says: 'Out of your own household I am going to bring calamity upon you. Before your very eyes I will take your wives and give them to one who is close to you, and he will lie with your wives in broad daylight. 12 You did it in secret, but I will do this thing in broad daylight before all Israel.' "

13 Then David said to Nathan, "I have sinned against the LORD."

Nathan replied, "The LORD has taken away your sin. You are not going to die. 14 But because by doing this you have made the enemies of the LORD show utter contempt, the son born to you will die."
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Friday 14 September 2007

Name Upon Name

(View Daily Bread)
Matthew 1:1-16 (NIV)
The Genealogy of Jesus

1 A record of the genealogy of Jesus Christ the son of David, the son of Abraham:

2 Abraham was the father of Isaac,
Isaac the father of Jacob,
Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers,
3 Judah the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar,
Perez the father of Hezron,
Hezron the father of Ram,
4 Ram the father of Amminadab,
Amminadab the father of Nahshon,
Nahshon the father of Salmon,
5 Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab,
Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth,
Obed the father of Jesse,
6 and Jesse the father of King David.

David was the father of Solomon, whose mother had been Uriah's wife,
7 Solomon the father of Rehoboam,
Rehoboam the father of Abijah,
Abijah the father of Asa,
8 Asa the father of Jehoshaphat,
Jehoshaphat the father of Jehoram,
Jehoram the father of Uzziah,
9 Uzziah the father of Jotham,
Jotham the father of Ahaz,
Ahaz the father of Hezekiah,
10 Hezekiah the father of Manasseh,
Manasseh the father of Amon,
Amon the father of Josiah,
11 and Josiah the father of Jeconiah and his brothers at the time of the exile to Babylon.

12 After the exile to Babylon:
Jeconiah was the father of Shealtiel,
Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel,
13 Zerubbabel the father of Abiud,
Abiud the father of Eliakim,
Eliakim the father of Azor,
14 Azor the father of Zadok,
Zadok the father of Akim,
Akim the father of Eliud,
15 Eliud the father of Eleazar,
Eleazar the father of Matthan,
Matthan the father of Jacob,
16 and Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
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Thursday 13 September 2007

The Horse And His Boy

(View Daily Bread)
Proverbs 16:18-25 (NIV)
18 Pride goes before destruction,
a haughty spirit before a fall.

19 Better to be lowly in spirit and among the oppressed
than to share plunder with the proud.

20 Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers,
and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord.

21 The wise in heart are called discerning,
and pleasant words promote instruction.

22 Understanding is a fountain of life to those who have it,
but folly brings punishment to fools.

23 A wise man's heart guides his mouth,
and his lips promote instruction.

24 Pleasant words are a honeycomb,
sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

25 There is a way that seems right to a man,
but in the end it leads to death.
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Wednesday 12 September 2007

Making A Masterpiece

(View Daily Bread)
2 Corinthians 5:12-21 (NIV)
The Ministry of Reconciliation

12 We are not trying to commend ourselves to you again, but are giving you an opportunity to take pride in us, so that you can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than in what is in the heart. 13 If we are out of our mind, it is for the sake of God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. 14 For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. 15 And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.

16 So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! 18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19 that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 20 We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. 21 God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
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Tuesday 11 September 2007

Living with Purpose

Day Forty
Thinking about My Purpose


Points to Ponder: Living with purpose is the only way to really live.

Verse to Remember: "For David ... served the purpose of God in his own generation." Acts 13:36 (NASB)

Question to Consider: When will I take the time to write down my answers to life's five great questions? When will I put my purpose on paper?

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What Is a Life Purpose Statement?
  • It's a statement that summarizes God's purposes for your life.

  • It's a statement that points the direction of your life.

  • It's a statement that defines "success" for you.

  • It's a statement that clarifies your roles.

  • It's a statement that expresses your shape.


Life's Five Greatest Questions
  • What will be the center of my life?

    • This is the question of worship.

    • Who are you going to live for?

    • What are you going to build your life around?

  • What will be the character of my life?

    • This is the question of discipleship.

    • What kind of person will you be?

  • What will be the contribution of my life?

    • This is the question of service.

    • What will be your ministry in the Body of Christ?

    • What would be your best role in the family of God?

    • How can you make a difference?

    • Is there a specific group in the Body that I am shaped to serve?

  • What will be the communication of my life?

    • This is the question of your mission to unbelievers.

  • What will be the community of my life?

    • This is the question of fellowship.

    • How will you demonstrate your committment to other believers and connection to the family of God?

    • Where will you practice the "one another" commands with other Christians?

    • To which church family will you be joined as a functioning member?

Lead Them To The Cross

(View Daily Bread)
1 Corinthians 1:18-25 (NIV)
Christ the Wisdom and Power of God

18 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 19 For it is written:

"I will destroy the wisdom of the wise;
the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate."

20 Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? 21 For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. 22 Jews demand miraculous signs and Greeks look for wisdom, 23 but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, 24 but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 25 For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength.
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Monday 10 September 2007

Balancing Your Life

Day Thirty-nine
Thinking about My Purpose


Points to Ponder: Blessed are the balanced.

Verse to Remember: "Live life with a due sense of responsibility, not as those who do not know the meaning of life but as those who do." Ephesians 5:15b (Ph)

Question to Consider: Which of the four activities will I begin in order to stay on track and balance God's five purposes for my life?

__________________________________________________________

God's five purposes for your life:
  1. "Love God with all your heart": You were planned for God's pleasure, so your purpose is to love God through worship.

  2. "Love your neighbor as yourself": You were shaped for serving, so your purpose is to show love for others through ministry.

  3. "Go and make disciples": You were made for a mission, so your purpose is to share God's message through evangelism.

  4. "baptize them into ...": You were formed for God's family, so your purpose is to identify with his church through fellowship.

  5. "teach them to do all things ...": You were created to become like Christ, so your purpose is to grow to maturity through discipleship.

Four important activities for purpose-driven living.
  • Talk it through with a spiritual partner or small group.

  • Give yourself a regular spiritual check-up.

  • Write down your progress in a journal.

  • Pass on what you know to others.

Job's Birthday

(View Daily Bread)
Job 3 (NIV)
Job Speaks

1 After this, Job opened his mouth and cursed the day of his birth. 2 He said:

3 "May the day of my birth perish,
and the night it was said, 'A boy is born!'
4 That day - may it turn to darkness;
may God above not care about it;
may no light shine upon it.
5 May darkness and deep shadow claim it once more;
may a cloud settle over it;
may blackness overwhelm its light.
6 That night - may thick darkness seize it;
may it not be included among the days of the year
nor be entered in any of the months.
7 May that night be barren;
may no shout of joy be heard in it.
8 May those who curse days curse that day,
those who are ready to rouse Leviathan.
9 May its morning stars become dark;
may it wait for daylight in vain
and not see the first rays of dawn,
10 for it did not shut the doors of the womb on me
to hide trouble from my eyes.

11 "Why did I not perish on birth,
and die as I came from the womb?
12 Why were there knees to receive me
and breasts that I might be nursed?
13 For now I would be lying down in peace;
I would be asleep and at rest
14 with kings and counselors of the earth,
who built for themselves places now lying in ruins,
15 with rulers who had gold,
who filled their houses with silver.
16 Or why was I not hidden in the ground like a stillborn child,
like an infant who never saw the light of day?
17 There the wicked cease from turmoil,
and there the weary are at rest.
18 Captives also enjoy their ease;
they no longer hear the slave driver's shout.
19 The small and the great are there,
and the slave is freed from his master.

20 "Why is light given to those in misery,
and life to the bitter of soul,
21 to those who long for death that does not come,
who search for it more than for hidden treasure,
22 who are filled with gladness
and rejoice when they reach the grave?
23 Why is life given to a man
whose way is hidden,
whom God has hedged in?
24 For sighing comes to me instead of food;
my groans pour out like water.
25 What I feared has come upon me;
what I dreaded has happened to me.
26 I have no peace, no quietness;
I have no rest, but only turmoil."
__________________________________________________________

Lord, it's so hard to keep watch on You when everything in our life is in a mess. Things does not go right, unanswered prayers, piling problems, increasing stress, rising pressures, revisiting sins, shaken faith, and we just feel like giving up. It's so difficult to stay positive and focused that You are near when everything seems to be shutting down.

I admit Father, that I don't have the kind of faith of Your great servants have. I am just an ordinary person, doing ordinary things, and may fall into depression if all that I believe in come crashing down onto me someday. I can’t imagine the state I will be in if I’m placed in Job’s shoes.

But Father God, I am comforted after reading today's message. Even if I suffer, fall, bruise, or hurt till more than I can bear, I can be assured that You will use it for my ultimate good. I do not know Your plans for Your ways are higher than mine.

You are my ultimate comforter and provider, and I can be assured Your love will never fail. May this entry reminds myself of my own faith, so that in times of trouble, I know that You are still walking with me, even if I do not feel You. All praises be unto You Father.

Sunday 9 September 2007

How Great Is Our God

Verse 1
The splendor of a king
clothed in majesty
Let all the earth rejoice
All the earth rejoice

He wraps Himself in light
And darkness tries to hide
and trembles at His voice
Trembles at His voice

Chorus
How great is our God
sing with me
How great is our God
and all will see how great
How great is our God

Verse 2
Age to age He stands
And time is in His hands
Beginning and the end
Beginning and the end

The Godhead
Three in One
Father Spirit Son
The Lion and the Lamb
The Lion and the Lamb

Bridge
Name above all names
Worthy of our praise
My heart will sing
How great is our God

Anywhere With Jesus

(View Daily Bread)
Exodus 33:12-17 (NIV)
Moses and the Glory of the Lord

12 Moses said to the Lord, "You have been telling me, 'Lead these people,' but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. You have said, 'I know you by name and you have found favor with me.' 13 If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people."

14 The Lord replied, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest."

15 Then Moses said to him, "If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here. 16 How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth?"

17 And the Lord said to Moses, "I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am pleased with you and I know you by name."
__________________________________________________________

Indeed Lord, if You walk with us, how can we be shaken? You're wiser and more powerful than anything that walks this earth, be it a human or beast. You're in absolute control of every single living thing and situation, and we all live under Your loving shelter.

Lord I'm in the midst of a very hectic working period at the moment, and though I feel tired and problems seem to close in from around me, I know I can trust in You. May I find grace in Your eyes, and You'll walk with me through this dire period. The things being laid in front of me seem very challenging, and with the deadline, even impossible to a certain extent, but Lord I place myself entirely in Your hands, and I submit to Your will.

Strengthen my heart for whatever that lay ahead of me Father. Thank You loving Father.

Saturday 8 September 2007

Doing What's Right

(View Daily Bread)
Psalm 15 (NIV)
A psalm of David.

1 Lord, who may dwell in your sanctuary?
Who may live on your holy hill?

2 He whose walk is blameless
and who does what is righteous,
who speaks the truth from his heart
3 and has no slander on his tongue,
who does his neighbor no wrong
and casts no slur on his fellowman,
4 who despises a vile man
but honors those who fear the Lord,
who keeps his oath
even when it hurts,
5 who lends his money without usury
and does not accept a bribe against the innocent.

He who does these things
will never be shaken.
__________________________________________________________

Lord, guide me to live a life of honesty and righteousness. Help me not deny troubles that I cause, lie to others to get away from punishment, or shrug away responsibilities that are due from me. I know that by living a life that is upright, I can be a mirror to reflect to the world the works You are doing in me.

Let me be a showcase of the best of You O Lord, through daily communion with You. Knowing Your Word is not enough, I know I have to carry out actions by faith according to Your teachings, and learn by practice. May I do what's right in Your eyes, and that I'll find favour from You.

Your praises is all I seek. Thank You Father.

Friday 7 September 2007

Common Sense

(View Daily Bread)
Proverbs 1:20-33 (NIV)
Warning Against Rejecting Wisdom

20 Wisdom calls aloud in the street,
she raises her voice in the public squares;
21 at the head of the noisy streets she cries out,
in the gateways of the city she makes her speech:

22 "How long will you simple ones love your simple ways?
How long will mockers delight in mockery
and fools hate knowledge?
23 If you had responded to my rebuke,
I would have poured out my heart to you
and made my thoughts known to you.
24 But since you rejected me when I called
and no one gave heed when I stretched out my hand,
25 since you ignored all my advice
and would not accept my rebuke,
26 I in turn will laugh at your disaster;
I will mock when calamity overtakes you -
27 when calamity overtakes you like a storm,
when disaster sweeps over you like a whirlwind,
when distress and trouble overwhelm you.

28 "Then they will call to me but I will not answer;
they will look for me but will not find me.
29 Since they hated knowledge
and did not choose to fear the Lord,
30 since they would not accept my advice
and spurned my rebuke,
31 they will eat the fruit of their ways
and be filled with the fruit of their schemes.
32 For the waywardness of the simple will kill them,
and the complacency of fools will destroy them;
33 but whoever listens to me will live in safety
and be at ease, without fear of harm."
__________________________________________________________

To Gain A Heart Of Wisdom:
  • Ask God for it.
    James 1:5 (NIV)
    If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
  • Read regulary from the Proverbs.

  • Seek out godly counsel.
    Proverbs 11:14 (NIV)
    For lack of guidance a nation falls,
    but many advisers make victory sure.
    Proverbs 15:22 (NIV)
    Plans fail for lack of counsel,
    but with many advisers they succeed.
    Proverbs 19:20 (NIV)
    Listen to advice and accept instruction,
    and in the end you will be wise.
Lord I come to You in humility. I can never be wise unless with Your wisdom. I can never know unless with Your knowledge. I can never understand unless with Your understanding.

With each passing day Father, I live to seek Your way. I pray for Your blessings of wisdom, so that I may be filled with knowledge and a better understanding of Your plans. Having common sense of the world is good, but having common sense to do good make sense of the world.

Teach me and guide my way Father God. I'm weak and I need Your strength. I'm easily lost without You. You are the Rock which I lay my foundation on, where I pray to gain a heart of wisdom. Thank You Father. I love You Lord.

Becoming a World-Class Christian

Day Thirty-eight
Thinking about My Purpose


Points to Ponder: The Great Commission is my commission.

Verse to Remember: "Send us around the world with the news of your saving power and your eternal plan for all mankind." Psalm 67:2 (LB)

Question to Consider: What steps can I take to prepare to go on a short-term missions experience in the next year?

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How to Think Like a World-Class Christian
  • Shift from self-centered thinking to other-centered thinking.

  • Shift from local thinking to global thinking.

  • Shift from "here and now" thinking to eternal thinking.

  • Shift from thinking of excuses to thinking of creative ways to fulfill your commission.

Thursday 6 September 2007

The Planting

(View Daily Bread)
1 Corinthians 15:42-53 (NIV)
42 So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; 43 it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; 44 it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body.

If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. 45 So it is written: "The first man Adam became a living being"; the last Adam, a life-giving spirit. 46 The spiritual did not come first, but the natural, and after that the spiritual. 47 The first man was of the dust of the earth, the second man from heaven. 48 As was the earthly man, so are those who are of the earth; and as is the man from heaven, so also are those who are of heaven. 49 And just as we have borne the likeness of the earthly man, so shall we bear the likeness of the man from heaven.

50 I declare to you, brothers, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. 51 Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed - 52 in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. 53 For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality.
__________________________________________________________

O Lord, how joyful it is that all believers' lives are made eternal! As I look towards your second coming, let me spread the Good News to more people who do not know You Father. The day when we're all caught up to be with You and blooming in Your glory shall be the day that I focus my daily living on.

Wednesday 5 September 2007

Sharing Your Life Message

Day Thirty-seven
Thinking about My Purpose


Points to Ponder: God wants to say something to the world through me.

Verse to Remember: "Be ready at all times to answer anyone who asks you to explain the hope you have in you, but do it with gentleness and respect." 1 Peter 3:15b-16 (TEV)

Question to Consider: As I reflect on my personal story, who does God want me to share it with?

__________________________________________________________

Your Life Message has four parts to it:
  • Your testimony: the story of how you began a relationship with Jesus

  • Your life lessons: the most important lessons God has taught you

  • Your godly passions: the issues God shaped you to care about most

  • The Good News: the message of salvation

Tuesday 4 September 2007

Getting Through

(View Daily Bread)
Psalm 46 (NIV)
For the director of music. Of the Sons of Korah. According to alamoth. A song.

1 God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their surging.
Selah

4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy place where the Most High dwells,
5 God is within her, she will not fall;
God will help her at break of day.
6 Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall;
he lifts his voice, the earth melts.

7 The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Selah

8 Come and see the works of the Lord,
the desolations he has brought on the earth.
9 He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth;
he breaks the bow and shatters the spear,
he burns the shields with fire.
10 "Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth."

11 The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Selah
__________________________________________________________

Lord Jesus I thank You for opening up the way and the direct line to call to our Father God. By humans' own strength, neither any who had lived nor is any who is living able to do that, none except You.

How great it is to know that God is always at the other end of the line, listening to my prayers attentively, leading me by the Spirit, teaching me with wisdom and loving me with grace. Father I know You are tireless, and You gladly receive our calls any time of the day, any day of the week.

Thank You Father, for receiving my calls every time. Thank You for hearing my cry for help when I'm desperately in need. Thank You for listening to my joy when I'm elated. Thank You for Your patience even when I was complaining or saying something utterly boring. Thank You for embracing me even though I was lost. Thank You Father for loving me, just the way I am. Thank You.

Made for a Mission

Day Thirty-six
Thinking about My Purpose


Points to Ponder: I was made for a mission.

Verse to Remember: "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)

Question to Consider: What fears have kept me from fulfilling the mission God made me to accomplish? What keeps me from telling others the Good News?

__________________________________________________________

The Importance of Your Mission
  • Your mission is a continuation of Jesus' mission on earth.

  • Your mission is a wonderful privilege.

  • Your mission has eternal significance.

  • God's timetable for history's conclusion is connected to the completion of our commission.

My Prince

(View Daily Bread)
Ephesians 5:22-33 (NIV)
Wives and Husbands

22 Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. 24 Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.

25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her 26 to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, 27 and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. 28 In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church - 30 for we are members of his body. 31 "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh." 32 This is a profound mystery - but I am talking about Christ and the church. 33 However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.
__________________________________________________________

Dave Branon shared about how a husband can continue to love his wife in a more princely way:
Listen - enjoy those tender times when she can unburden her heart without fear.
Love life - find ways to add fun to your marriage.
Lead spiritually - guide the way into prayer and intimate fellowship with the Lord.

I always love to see elderly couples who still hold hands together when they walk in the streets. It's such a loving and warming sight to behold. No matter how slowly they may be walking, they support each other, enjoy each other’s presence, and nothing on earth seem to bother them or take away their attention.

Yet in recent trend, the divorce rates of young couples are spiking up, usually due to excessive quarreling, no communication, or any other kinds of problems. Marriage even got coined the term, "the tomb of love". It's a sad fact that people no longer believes in love anymore.

In my opinion, true love does exist. All it takes is that extra effort from both sides, to listen to each other’s problems and to understand what they are going through. I’m not a love expert myself, but I believe that when God is in the centre of focus in the relationship, nothing is too big that He cannot handle.

Lord I pray for love and peace in all of Your children’s hearts. I know we are all precious in Your eyes and You prepared so much happiness that we can never imagine for us. Even though relationships with our partners may fail, as long as we turn the problems to You, You will carry our burdens as You have promised. For that, I'm comforted Lord.

Guide us and give us hope when everything around seems hopeless and irreversible. By Your grace Father, everything is possible. Nothing is too late. Let us learn to turn to You and seek Your counsel before turning towards our partners in senseless anger.

I rest my faith entirely in You Lord.

James 1:19-20 (NIV)
My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.
Ephesians 5:33 (NIV)
However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.

Monday 3 September 2007

God's Power in Your Weakness

Day Thirty-five
Thinking about My Purpose


Points to Ponder: God works best when I admit my weakness.

Verse to Remember: "My grace is sufficient for you, my power is made perfect in weakness." 2 Corinthians 12:9a (NIV)

Question to Consider: Am I limiting God's power in my life by trying to hide my weaknesses? What do I need to be honest about in order to help others?

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Will Work For Friends

(View Daily Bread)
Acts 4:32-37 (NIV)
The Believers Share Their Possessions

32 All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had. 33 With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all. 34 There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales 35 and put it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need.

36 Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means Son of Encouragement), 37 sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles' feet.
__________________________________________________________

Having close relationships with friends are important. Close bonds strengthen us, and encourages one another in times of trouble and faithlessness. However, I used to be a loner.

I believed that I could do all things by myself, and thus I rarely sought help from peers. Life in turn had quite a couple of struggles here and there, but I stubbornly held on to what I believe. I had to be independent. I believed that being dependent on people is a sign of weakness, and can be a fatal mistake especially when peers fail to deliver what they promised.

God must have touched my heart at a time when I did not realise. Unclear since when, I started to build quality friendships starting with a friend, who is now my best friend and fellow sister in Christ, sister Seth. Now I have friends who I can speak to, share my heart with, and siblings in Christ who encourages and prays for me. Such things would not have been possible unless through the transformation power of Christ. I'm absolutely certain that my old way of thinking was wrong.

Humans need relationships to grow. Whatever is the outcome of invested relationships, always keep your trust in the Lord, for our Almighty God will be able to use whatever experiences for His intended good. I will work for friends, and I believe that I will bring God pleasure when I serve in His will.

Sunday 2 September 2007

Quiet, Please

(View Daily Bread)
1 Kings 19:1-12 (NIV)
Elijah Flees to Horeb

1 Now Ahab told Jezebel everything Elijah had done and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword. 2 So Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah to say, "May the gods deal with me, be it ever so severely, if by this time tomorrow I do not make your life like that of one of them."

3 Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, 4 while he himself went a day's journey into the desert. He came to a broom tree, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. "I have had enough, LORD," he said. "Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors." 5 Then he lay down under the tree and fell asleep.

All at once an angel touched him and said, "Get up and eat." 6 He looked around, and there by his head was a cake of bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again.

7 The angel of the LORD came back a second time and touched him and said, "Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you." 8 So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God. 9 There he went into a cave and spent the night.

The LORD Appears to Elijah

And the word of the LORD came to him: "What are you doing here, Elijah?"

10 He replied, "I have been very zealous for the LORD God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too."

11 The LORD said, "Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by."

Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. 12 After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.
__________________________________________________________

We are living in a very busy and hectic world where time is money. From our waking moment we rush to work. At work, we rush our job so that we may go home on time. At home, we rush to finish any miscellaneous tasks in order to sleep. The next morning the cycle repeats!

We rush to live, we live to rush.

However, today's message reminds me of this year's Labour Day, when sister Raphaela invited me to the Parish Retreat at her church. In a typical morning, we were guided to do not-so-typical things.

We were told to keep quiet, absolute utter silence. Apart from our speech silence, we were also told to keep our mind activities down to nothingness. It was so hard! My mind was so occupied with my daily rush-ins and rush-outs, it was near impossible. After I manage to calm down a little, I have to focus again to prevent myself from falling asleep.

However at a certain point, when I could really focus on keeping my mind blank, I felt a great peace overwhelming my entirety, just as if God touched me. I heard a gentle whisper, telling me “I’m glad you came”. Even up till today I’m still wondering if I imagined that whisper up, but that sense of peacefulness was so irrefutable I’m sure it’s Him. That experience left me a deep impact.

When was the last time when you left a silent period after you prayed, for God to speak to you? Why not start today, by leaving some room after your prayer and listen attentively and patiently for God's whisper.

Ask, And Be Blessed

Matthew 18:19-20 (KJV)
Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

Saturday 1 September 2007

Refusing Help

(View Daily Bread)
2 Kings 5:9-14 (NIV)
9 So Naaman went with his horses and chariots and stopped at the door of Elisha's house. 10 Elisha sent a messenger to say to him, "Go, wash yourself seven times in the Jordan, and your flesh will be restored and you will be cleansed."

11 But Naaman went away angry and said, "I thought that he would surely come out to me and stand and call on the name of the LORD his God, wave his hand over the spot and cure me of my leprosy. 12 Are not Abana and Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, better than any of the waters of Israel? Couldn't I wash in them and be cleansed?" So he turned and went off in a rage.

13 Naaman's servants went to him and said, "My father, if the prophet had told you to do some great thing, would you not have done it? How much more, then, when he tells you, 'Wash and be cleansed'!" 14 So he went down and dipped himself in the Jordan seven times, as the man of God had told him, and his flesh was restored and became clean like that of a young boy.
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Too many a times have I found myself acting similarly like Naaman. Memories served well to remind myself that there were many instances where I had rejected sound advice or kind help, and landed myself deep in struggles in numerous areas of my life.

My pride and stubbornness is often a fatal block in getting things done, yet few are the times when I have the ability to recognise it. Having confidence is a good thing, but being conceited is a total different issue altogether.

Lord I pray for the gift of Your wisdom, that in times of troubles when I’m so blinded with my own things and unable to see the greater picture, let me not turn a deaf ear to the sound advice that the people around me provides.

Man is not created to live alone, and Father I’m thankful for the patient friends that You have blessed me with, who kept going with me regardless of the number of times that I failed. All praises to You O Lord.