Mar 16, 2009

The Fountain of Joy

Everyone is seeking for happiness. But, what is Happiness?

Happy means enjoying, showing or marked by pleasure, satisfaction or joy. However, happiness can be subjective as it depends on our level of pleasure. Joy is the feeling of Great pleasure and happiness. It's more than happiness. Someone says that there is no happiness, just moments of happiness. Joy is exactly different. Joy is moulded in the furnace of life.

Q: Where is the source of joy?

God himself is the source of joy. The Bible says," All who seek the Lord shall find Him and shall praise His name. Their hearts shall rejoice with everlasting joy."
John 10:10 says, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."
Romans 8:38-39 says, "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height or depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the LOVE of GOD that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Isaiah 59:2 says, "But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear."
John 3:16 says, "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. For God did not send His son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him."

It is through the relationship between we and God that we can find the Anchor of our lives. Imagine one day, you heard somebody sighing and sitting dejectedly at a corner. You approached him to show your concern and the man asked you a question," Do you know where are you heading to?"
What will be your answer?

Christianity is about God and us, and our partnership on this earth. This eternally-bonded relationship will not take place if we refuse to listen to Him and turn back to Him. He is the Alpha and Omega, who are we? A lot of us find our lives miserable. We complain, we curse. We blame the people around us for our situation, while most of us will exclaim,"Oh GOD, why do you allow this thing to happen on me? Save me if you still love me." Search our hearts before asking God why. Each and everyone of us has our own missions, goals, targets, dreams and visions. They are important but, have we chosen the right path to travel on? Proverbs 16:25 says, "There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death." Our foolishness of shutting God's calling will lead us to damnation.
What about studies? Have we been giving glory to God through our studies as well? Or we fail every semester due to our responsibility at church? Are we embracing the right way to study in order to get all 7s, good grades or distinction? Proverbs 9:10 clearly tells us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; and knowledge of the Holy one is understanding". Chapter 3:5-6 says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." We need to have a vision with a mentor mentoring us. The most suitable mentor is not our brother or sister or even honey, but our God.
The same goes to the working groups. Are you gazing at the company's fund? Or even as a manager or business owner yourself, have you been adopting the right way in pursuing the wealth and prosperity of your firm? Have you been treating your workers well? Proverbs 10:2, "Ill-gotten treasures are of no value, but righteousness delivers from death." 10:9 says," The man if integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out."

In short, are we tired of our life? Do you feel like giving up of running a road that promises you nothing? Where can we find the everlasting joy if not from God? It's never too late. For those who are weary, here is an encouragement for you, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28. God's grace is abundant. 2 Corinthians 12:9 says, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."

Live a cheerful live by living in Him, with Him and by Him. His promises to us are beyond measurement. Leave our worries to Him, for He has promised us that, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7.

Point to Ponder: Jesus Christ is the fountain of joy.

Bible verse: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

Mar 13, 2009

Wisdom and Folly

Proverbs 7 basically is once again, warning against adulteress. An example is clearly provided where a prostitute is trying to seduce a youth who lacked judgment. It is said that persuasive words led him astray... all at once he followed her like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer stepping into a noose.... till an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare, little knowing it will cost him his life. Vs 21-23. Looking at the trend of the world at this moment, premarital sex, adulteress and random sex have been deeply rooted in our society telling the whole world that IT'S OK! Sex is enticing, very. The physical attraction between man and woman is far beyond measurement. Surveys found out that men think about sex (from time to time). Lust has been a major killer, and often, the finger is pointed at the women. Why do you want to wear in such a exposing and expressive way? You make me feel crazy. You are the source of my lustful thoughts. It's your fault! Guys will often deny and keep themselves blameless. On the other hand, women will say," Who ask you to look at me with lustful eyes? What's wrong with my dressing? Can't I have my freedom? Watch your steps man!"

The argument goes on. The cornerstone of the matter is, who is to blame for causing us to stumble? The answer is I, me and myself. Ponder upon God, seek His face and He will give us life. Seek His wisdom and fear Him, for the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Only by His grace, we can be saved. Seek His strength to cover us, to grant us the strength in overcoming all our weaknesses, with a humble heart, nothing is impossible.

Proverbs 8-10 talk about the importance of wisdom. Proverbs 10:12 says, "Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers over all wrongs." Recently I read about this particular testimony shared by a sister about the disagreement and misunderstanding between her parents which almost leads to break up. At the eleventh hour, God came to the rescue. Her mom came to know about God and since then, her life totally changed. It's love that covers up everything. It is love that leads to peace through forgiveness. She forgave her husband. Since then, her parents' relationship gradually healed. LOVE surpasses our understanding and knowledge. It is not what discussion, compensation, compromise, gift or any other things can bring about. Apparently, love is the key solution to vast problems in relationships. The simple philosophy is, love brings and binds people together, so love sustains everything. By taking a step back, utter a simple sorry and confession, control our nerve and emotion, it will be a breeze to solve all dissensions that have stirred up. Undeniably, it is always easier said than done. But with wisdom, impossible is nothing.

Tonight, as usual, I attended my badminton session at UQ. My Singaporean friend introduced me to his old friend. "Why not we have a game with him together later since both of you represented your high school in Singapore? Is he good?" I asked my friend. Unexpected, my friend shrugged me off. "I wont comment anything about him, you will know when you see him playing. He is my friend." My friend replied me.
Although it's just a short conversation, but I can see the wisdom my friend possesses. He is wise and has very good judgment. His refusal to comment about his old friend made him a man with wisdom, because he knows the word of God and he has applied it in his life!

In the past, a simple conversation with my friends will simply end up in gossiping. I can gossip about everything, from his great grandfather's business until his grandson's studies. I bragged and boasted. Apparently, that is another shameful piece of me in the past. Recalling back, I was wicked, especially in pursuing my desires and wants. I was competitive. I scared of losing. I sought for attention. I wanted praises. I was proud. I was self-centered. I wanted to be outstanding, to be better than others, to be a hero. I acted as Jekyll and Hyde. I was a masked man. You will never understand me and it will be your RED Letter day if you go against me. Woo! Am I horrible? Since deepening my walk with God, I see the changes, and I see the need to change. How many times I have sinned against Him, doing things unpleasing to His eyes, and shut the door off from God. I am not who I am. Who am I? I want to be different, an apple to His eyes, and a man of God. The bible says, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." Mathew 19:26. I am called to be the light and salt of the world, but what a rotten tomato I have been. I need renewal, I need to be revised, I need reformation and transformation. Gone is the old Sing Hoe, awaiting is a new life ahead for He has answered my call, and forgiven my sins.

This is my prayer:
Heavenly Father, may you show me the way and grant me the wisdom so that I can be wise in my all doings. Teach me your words Lord and destroy my wicked lips. No gossiping, no slandering. May your words be deeply rooted in my life and I will find the joy and excitement in my walk with you. Amen!

Mar 10, 2009

Life's Rejuvenation Station

Below is passage from Simple Living for you.

Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

The world retreat might bring to mind a vintage Hollywood war movie. In the din of the battlefield, the officer desires to maximize the possibility for success. Signaling for the bugle to be sounded, the officer leads his troops back from the battle into safety. He has ordered a strategic retreat to make new plans.

There are times when you also need to retreat to rest and plan strategy. Scheduling regular personal retreats is a proactive step that allows to evaluate activities, refocus on priorities, plan, and recharge. You first take stock of what condition you are already in, and you reflect. You then establish a plan to develop needed skills and strength and make practical plans to strengthen any areas of weakness. You spend time in prayer and Bible study, getting acquainted with how others have faced challenges in the past. When the day comes to put your plan into action, the challenge is much easier than it would have been had you not prepared yourself.

Before Jesus tackled the challenge of his ministry on earth, he retreated to the desert for forty days. Through fasting and prayer, Jesus was mentally and spiritually prepared to face the temptations he encountered there, as well as ready to begin the most difficult three years of his life. Throughout his ministry, he continued to make smaller retreats as needed.

You don't have to fast for forty days to take a personal retreat. Setting aside at least a two-hour block of time every month and one full day a year for prayerful reflection and planning should be adequate to help you get in shape for the relational, vocational, physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges that may lie ahead.

A retreat is a time to reflect on the past and plan for the future. Evaluate your strengths and weaknesses. Dream big dreams. With God's guidance, make a game plan.

One Final Thought
Regular retreats will give you the strength you need to charge ahead with confidence.

Thought for Simply Living
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. James 4:8

A humble knowledge of oneself is a surer road to God than a deep searching of the sciences. Thomas A Kempis

God gives me strength for the battle. He makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer. He helps me stand on the highest places. He trains my hands to fight every battle. My arms can bend a bow of bronze. Lord, you are like a shield that keeps me safe. You help me win the battle. You bend down to make me great. 2 Samuel 22:33-36

My great concern is not whether God is on our side, my great concern is the be on God's side. Abraham Lincoln

Remember...
- A retreat is a spiritual tool for preparing to meet a challenge.
- God and the Bible make the best mirror for personal reflection.
- A retreat affords an excellent opportunity to reflect on the past and plan for the future.
- God can only be our refuge if we choose to retreat to his presence.

Simplify...
Write down whatever God reveals to you so you can review it during future times of retreat.
Treat time for our personal retreat just as we would any other appointment - schedule it in advance and postpone only if necessary.
Let silence play a part in our retreat and wait patiently in expectation to hear from God.

Go off, find a place alone, and listen to the Lord. Todd Wetzel

Source: Simple Living For You

Mar 3, 2009

Proverbs 6

Proverbs 6 reminds me of my past and even my presence where my ego conquers me subconsciously. I am a competitive person and most of the times I could not afford to lose. For example, I will strive to the end to gain victory in whatever endeavours I participate including social games. I take everything hardly and I cant deny that I feel good and proud when I succeed. Sometimes, I will give numerous excuses for losing such as the weather is bad, the ball is lousy, my teammates lacked skills, etc. In times of victory, I am in seventh heaven and will keep recalling how good I am. Sometimes I will jeer and mock others for being less productive and underperformed. I tend to look at the negative side of others while on the other hand, thinking of how good I am. I am a fool. Proverbs 6 tells us that God hates seven types of people:
1. A lying tongue
2. Haughty Eyes
3. Hands that shed innocent blood
4. A heart that devises wicked schemes
5. Feet that are quick to rush into evil
6. A false witness who lies
7. A man who stirs up dissension among brothers

What sort of person I am, I sincerely know from the bottom heart. Proverbs tells us that the commands are a lamp and the teaching is a light and the corrections of discipline are the way to life. Proverbs 6:23. The second part of Proverbs 6 reminds me for being lustful. Hot chicks are mouth watering. Sexy body, curvaceous body line, luscious eyes, wow! Awesome! Irresistible! I have been telling myself that it's always nice to see. That's all. No second thought. It's right to admire, to exclaim, but it's lawfully wrong if we have second thought. But how many times I have hit the boundary? The bible tells us when we look at a woman with lustful eyes, we have committed adultery.

This is my prayer.
Dear God, I confess that I am sinner that I am proud of my success and capability. I would like to seek for your forgiveness and your mercy upon me, that your words will be rooted in my heart, lead me and guide me in my daily life. Lord, help me to learn to be humble, appraise and lift up others, look at their positive side and appreciate them. Lord, purify my heart, take away my lust so that I will keep my feet out from adultery. I pray that Lord you will continue to sustain me and be my strong refuge in my daily pursues, that I can live up to the image of Christ and be more like Jesus. Teach me your way Lord, show me your way. Open my eyes Lord, so that I can see and understand your will. Strengthen me and may I find peace in you. Thank you Lord for hearing my prayer, in Jesus most precious name I pray, Amen!

Another Station

It has been more than two weeks time since I landed on this piece of land called Brisbane. All the while it has been hectic from the rising sun till the end of the day. I have been trying to adapt myself to the life here, food, culture, ascent, and all the differences Aussie are having. Uni has been fantastic. My schedule is totally packed on Monday while it fades to the end of a week. Assignments and works are piling up since the very 1st week.

Since landing on Queensland, I have been attending two churches, namely Sherwood Methodist and Hope Brisbane. Both churches are unique in their own way and I love both. One is conventional while the other tends to be charismatic. Both pastors are good. I am still wondering to settle down on one church or attending both. If time allows, I would like to attend both as I personally feel that I have gained a lot since attending both churches as the messages are different and dynamic. Church friends have been awesome. I just adopted a mother and I bet the family here will be soon - complicated as compared to my family in Inti. Keeping my mind and spending my time at church activities are just part and parcel of my uni life. I have a plan. Although I know that my priority here is to study and graduate, I want to achieve something far beyond than that, either in my personal walk with God, my circle of friends, my course mates, my future working partners, my future rivals, and just all sorts of aspects. I want to equip myself with wide array of skills and knowledge and open my eyes to the enchanting world outside. Life in Uni is different. People say Uni life is the most wonderful period of time in a person's life. I just kicked off the starting line. It will be a distance run. Will it be amazing? Let's wait and see.

Mar 1, 2009

The Fear of God

What's to fear God? Is it a natural fear? Fear of things, become jobless, pressure? 2 Timothy 1:7 says that "For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power." Fear means being respectful yet submissive to a person or thing. So, what do we fear actually? Do we fear losing blessings from God or fear his final judgment?

Next, why do we have to fear God?
First and foremost, we fear God in order to know God. To fear the Lord is the beginning of everything. Proverbs 2:5 says that "If you understand the fear of the Lord, you will know God." Heaven = One + Big. Since ancient time, people recognize and believe that there is heaven. But what is the real Heavenly Kingdom?
Secondly, when we fear God, we will gain knowledge. Proverbs 9:10 says that "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." Apart from that, we will understand the will of God. How do we know how we should live, to do things, to act and to plan? As our life is short on this earth, we ought to seize every opportunity to live our life to the fullest to prepare ourselves to face God when the day comes. By fearing God, we will have a fortress, somebody that we can fully rely on. The bible says that "He who fears the Lord has a secure fortress and for his children it will be a refuge." Proverbs 14:26. Therefore, it is ultimately important for all parents to encourage and send their children to attend weekly Sundayschool or bible class. Prior to that, parents themselves should set their example by following the same path.
By fearing God, we will be delivered from troubles. Psalm 34:7 says that "The angel of the Lord encamps around those who FEAR Him, and He delivers them." How wonderful! We will lack nothing in fearing God. The bible promises us that we must fear the Lord, for those who fear Him lack nothing. Psalm 34:9
Another subsequent point is that we will be led by God when we fear Him. Psalm 25:12 tells us that "Who is the man that fears the Lord? He'll instruct him in the way chosen for him." In short, when we fear God, we will understand God's plan for us. In our daily living, we got to make a lot of decisions. We may make a big difference and have to face numerous consequences merely based on our one simple decision. Trust God that He will help us and assist us in solving our problems.
Besides, God is close to those who fear Him. Psalms 25:14 says that "The Lord confides in those who fear Him and He'll make them know His covenant." This includes His goodness and His grace. He who fears God will have longer days of life. Proverbs 10:27 mentions that the fear of the Lord adds length to life. Moving on, when a church fears God, we will see revival in churches. Please refer to Acts 9:31. By living in the fear of the Lord, churches have peace and remain united.
Last but not least, he who fears God is a blessed man. Psalm 128:4 tells us that "Thus is the man blessed who fears the Lord." Isaiah 33:6 says that "The fear of the Lord is the key to treasure." Proverbs 23:17 says that "Let not your heart envy sinners, but live in the fear of the Lord all the day long."
Therefore, it's important for each and everyone of us to fear God because of who He is and who we are. By fearing God, we will gain all the benefits as mentioned before and many more as being told in the Bible, the words of God. Amen!

Fear the Lord everyday,
Fear the Lord every moment,
Fear the Lord everywhere,
Fear the Lord in everything.