26 Nov 10, Friday is our CG fellowship night. We had a few new visitors that night. So we did a round of introduction of our name, how long we have been in our church and the best Christmas gift we received in the past.
Quite a number of us can't remember the Christmas gifts we received in the past. Our dear CGL gave the model answer; the best Christmas gift is Jesus. Elder brother M agreed, yes! Jesus, who born on Christmas day. Elder sister A agreed. In fact, all of us also agreed; no gift can be better than Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Sister R, a new visitor said her best Christmas gift is from her god-children; a calender with Christian painting.
For Sister N, her "memorable" gifts are recycle gifts from colleagues. Another memorable gift is the happiness and satisfaction of her family when they ate a Christmas turkey cooked by her. That is her very first turkey that she cooked, and her family like it very much.
Elder sister G remember her Christmas party with many guests. And the church youth came to do a play. To her, that is the best Christmas gift.
For Sister T, her best Christmas gift is a play she wrote for her church. The church performed the play and she managed to watch it despite of her busy schedule during that period.
For Sister G, her best gift is a clock in bath room.
For Sister A, her best gift is her JC friend became Christian in Christmas day.
In this Christmas, we are to write something nice about our CG mates. Hope that in this coming Christmas, it will become our memorable Christmas gift.
All of us had received the Bible study answers of last week. The following are some highlight.
Part 1 - Don't play with fire
Our Bible discussion leader, brother B start the class by lead us in play with fire... using candle.
Ms Sporty is good at it. She told us the middle of the fire flame is not hot. But on top of the flame, we will feel the heat.
Brother B told us to consider the fact that less than 1 second of flame and we can't take it. How much more is the Hell fire that burn forever and forever.
Because Hell is real, thus God needed to go through such a great sacrifice to send Jesus to die for us on the cross to redeem us.
Anger management
The Bible discussion lead to some share their honest feeling of those who bully us. That divert our conversation to anger management.
And the reason why we should not take revenge but leave it to God. Reason being, if we take our revenge, we will do it worse than God. It is alright to be angry but do not sin, and do not get angry till sun set.
Elder brother M find anger affects him in praying to God.
Sister Y, a counsellor, shared 4 pointers on Angry Management, that is REED:
R - Recognize your emotion
E - Express your anger to God
E - Evalution what causes you to be angry
D - Decide what to do; your choice
Part 2 - Don't play with your faith
Elder sister G shared that we should do good works out of a grateful heart.
Brother C shared the Bible NT story about the employer who pay employees same wages even though they started work at different time. It is up to God to reward. For us, don't think what kind of reward God will give us.
Sister L shared our reward is to make Father God happy. The greatest reward is our relationship with God.
Sister Y shared about the Prodigal Son in the Bible; the older brother who is already with God. Because of that relationship, we can ask for peace, our needs, etc. However, the older brother think of himself as a worker instead of a son.
Brother D, who was in sale last time. Told us an unforgettable statement that his boss told him, that is "If you surprise me (in sale figure), I will surprise you (in rewards). He felt that when we do the good works that God requires of us, He will also reward us with surprise.
Brother B concluded that Jesus died for all mankind. So we should treat our mankind well too.
We followed by recite memory verses.
A Child is born
That day is one day after Thanksgiving day. We had a new spiritual baby, sister S. Together, we prayed the sinner's prayer with her in receiving Jesus into her life. She testified that it is God who draw her to Him. Praise the Lord!
God is good. Every time we gathered together, He is glorified in our midst. Our heart is filled with thanksgiving because of His goodness.
I give thanks for this opportunity to record His faithfulness. Indeed, as the song that we sang on that night, indeed He is our wonderful God.
Thursday, December 02, 2010
Sunday, November 21, 2010
19 Nov 2010, Friday CG
19 Nov 10, Friday is our CG fellowship day. This is our first time that we went to sister Y's place; Pinnacle@Duxton on 45th floor. Thank to sister Y for her hospitality. She cooked Japanese curry. And gave us a choice of brown rice or noodle to go with the curry. Both the rice and the noodle go well with the curry, so quite a number of us help ourselves with both. Thank for her thoughtfulness. There is a scale of 5 on the strength of the curry spice, she choice 3, which is just nice.
After a delicious meal, we start our CG program. We had new visitor on that night, so elder sister G, the chair lady asked us to introduce ourselves and the favorite day of our week.
Saturday is the favorite day for quite a number of us as it is our rest day; the day that we can sleep in longer.
For a sister who is a nurse that do shift work, her favorite day is her rest day.
For ACGL, he said his favorite day is Friday because it is CG day. Some said he gave model answer.
Sister T said Monday is her favorite day. Monday is the first day of work week. Instead of feeling Monday blue, she chose to look at the day that she will zest up to work.
Elder brother M said Sunday is his favorite day as it is the day that he goes to church to worship God.
Some like Wednesday as after 2 more days, it will be their rest day.
CGL said her favorite day is Today. As tomorrow is unknown and yesterday had past. But she can make the best out of Today. Wow! What a profound answer.
After the introduction, we have our worship session and proceed with our Bible study and prayer for one another.
We also did our memory verse for the week; that is Isaiah 40:31
"but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
We had a great night. We most likely firm up our Christmas party on 19 Dec, Sunday afternoon as we agreed to help out as a CG on 18 Dec on a community event.
Thank God for being in our midst.
After a delicious meal, we start our CG program. We had new visitor on that night, so elder sister G, the chair lady asked us to introduce ourselves and the favorite day of our week.
Saturday is the favorite day for quite a number of us as it is our rest day; the day that we can sleep in longer.
For a sister who is a nurse that do shift work, her favorite day is her rest day.
For ACGL, he said his favorite day is Friday because it is CG day. Some said he gave model answer.
Sister T said Monday is her favorite day. Monday is the first day of work week. Instead of feeling Monday blue, she chose to look at the day that she will zest up to work.
Elder brother M said Sunday is his favorite day as it is the day that he goes to church to worship God.
Some like Wednesday as after 2 more days, it will be their rest day.
CGL said her favorite day is Today. As tomorrow is unknown and yesterday had past. But she can make the best out of Today. Wow! What a profound answer.
After the introduction, we have our worship session and proceed with our Bible study and prayer for one another.
We also did our memory verse for the week; that is Isaiah 40:31
"but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
We had a great night. We most likely firm up our Christmas party on 19 Dec, Sunday afternoon as we agreed to help out as a CG on 18 Dec on a community event.
Thank God for being in our midst.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
24 Sep 2010, Friday CG
During CG night, quite a number of new visitors join us. In total, there were 19 of us.
This was the first time, our young babe, Ms Unique (Only One) lead us in worship.
The ice-breaker question is “What is your greatest moment / experience in worship?”.
Everyone shared their greatest experience in worship. Some were on their trips, such as mission trip and Israel trip. Some were experience God during worship; such as God spoke to them in a personal manner. It is great to worship God for who He is, not on what He done.
Then we went into Bible discussion on Revelation 15. The theme is Worship.
As usual, after the discussion, on the following week, our ACGL will faithfully provide us the model answers. So let wait for the Revelation of 3Rs and 5Cs.
After the discussion, a visiting couple thanks us for visited them when the wife was hospitalized. In hearing their sharing, I appreciate our CGL in often sms us to pray for the needs of others that are in our church. She even organized for us to visit this couple. In her words and actions, she leads us in not just looking to our own problems and issues, but also the needs of others.
September is the birthday month of Ms Sporty and Ms Unique. We celebrated their birthday with a beautiful and delicious chocolate cake. Ms Sporty also brought back some delicious goodies from Taiwan and Thailand. Yummy.
We end our CG gathering with reciting the memory verse for the week, Matthew 6:33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
This was the first time, our young babe, Ms Unique (Only One) lead us in worship.
The ice-breaker question is “What is your greatest moment / experience in worship?”.
Everyone shared their greatest experience in worship. Some were on their trips, such as mission trip and Israel trip. Some were experience God during worship; such as God spoke to them in a personal manner. It is great to worship God for who He is, not on what He done.
Then we went into Bible discussion on Revelation 15. The theme is Worship.
As usual, after the discussion, on the following week, our ACGL will faithfully provide us the model answers. So let wait for the Revelation of 3Rs and 5Cs.
After the discussion, a visiting couple thanks us for visited them when the wife was hospitalized. In hearing their sharing, I appreciate our CGL in often sms us to pray for the needs of others that are in our church. She even organized for us to visit this couple. In her words and actions, she leads us in not just looking to our own problems and issues, but also the needs of others.
September is the birthday month of Ms Sporty and Ms Unique. We celebrated their birthday with a beautiful and delicious chocolate cake. Ms Sporty also brought back some delicious goodies from Taiwan and Thailand. Yummy.
We end our CG gathering with reciting the memory verse for the week, Matthew 6:33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
23 July 2010, Friday CG
It was a blessed night as we gathered together in the "House of Grace" to worship God, to study His word, to pray for one another that is in need and to fellowship. We also recited our Memory Verse as our discipline master, Elder sister A is in our midst.
Majority of us learn a new song title "At The Foot Of The Cross (Ashes To Beauty)"
Indeed, at the foot of the Cross, God will turn our ashes into beauty.
ACGL shared his kind of humor such as watching SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) and asked CGL to pray in Rap.
That night, ACGL led Bible study. At the start, we watch Revelation 7 video. ACGL added that Revelation 8 in YouTube is exciting. Then he gave us the background of Revelation 7 and post some questions to us.
Q1. OUR SECURITY: Why does God instruct the four angels to hold back the four winds until He has sealed His bondservants? (7:1-3)
Elder Brother M shared God wants to protect His people. It reminded him of Exodus 12 that talked about painted the door post with blood so that the household will be protected from death.
ACGL shared Ezekiel 9, that God is not protecting their life but their faith.
Q2. OUR SATISFACTION: What are the ultimate realities that give true satisfaction? How do they satisfy? (7:13-17) It may be helpful to answer this question by comparing the ultimate realities that give true satisfaction with their counterparts which are found in the world, which man thinks will satisfy him.
Elder Brother M shared answer is obvious in Revelation 7:15-17.
Sister T shared counterparts are like other gods, such as our computer, iPad, money and power.
Expand the question, what do man do when terrible or horrible thing happen in their life?
Answers by some of them. To be real on the suffering and pain. Acknowledge it. It is okay to ask God "Why". But it is the attitude in asking. However, we may not get the answers. Such as the story of Job in Bible.
Revelation 7:15-17 touch Sister T. To her, true satisfaction is in heaven where God is.
ACGL shared a quote "If we put joy in temporal things, our joy also will be temporal."
Q3. In your life right now, what give(s) you security and satisfaction? Are there changes that you need to make regarding this? If yes, what will you do to make the changes?
Elder sister A shared that we may not have tomorrow. Like the recent news about a guy was killed because the tree fell down.
Elder Brother M shared his satisfaction is in God, God's word, communion with God and music. And it is good that there is music in heaven.
Sister L shared that only God can truly satisfy us. Because man desire is a bottomless pit. If their have $1m, they will pursue the next.
A sister shared she works in an industry that sell expensive product to rich people. But she doesn't see that her clients are always happy.We agreed that money don't make us happy. The rich people may not be the happiest people. And there are people that have joy despite of their poverty. It is about being contented of what we have.
There were 2 announcements:
Elder sister A shared that our church need some volunteers to serve the community in need that stay around Woodlands area.
Deuteronomy 15:11 (NIV) There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land.
CGL shared that we need to look for new CG meeting place in the west as our previous one at west area is rented out to a family in our church who needed the place more than us. We know in God's time, He will provide.
For those that were absence, we miss you!
Majority of us learn a new song title "At The Foot Of The Cross (Ashes To Beauty)"
Indeed, at the foot of the Cross, God will turn our ashes into beauty.
ACGL shared his kind of humor such as watching SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) and asked CGL to pray in Rap.
That night, ACGL led Bible study. At the start, we watch Revelation 7 video. ACGL added that Revelation 8 in YouTube is exciting. Then he gave us the background of Revelation 7 and post some questions to us.
Q1. OUR SECURITY: Why does God instruct the four angels to hold back the four winds until He has sealed His bondservants? (7:1-3)
Elder Brother M shared God wants to protect His people. It reminded him of Exodus 12 that talked about painted the door post with blood so that the household will be protected from death.
ACGL shared Ezekiel 9, that God is not protecting their life but their faith.
Q2. OUR SATISFACTION: What are the ultimate realities that give true satisfaction? How do they satisfy? (7:13-17) It may be helpful to answer this question by comparing the ultimate realities that give true satisfaction with their counterparts which are found in the world, which man thinks will satisfy him.
Elder Brother M shared answer is obvious in Revelation 7:15-17.
Sister T shared counterparts are like other gods, such as our computer, iPad, money and power.
Expand the question, what do man do when terrible or horrible thing happen in their life?
Answers by some of them. To be real on the suffering and pain. Acknowledge it. It is okay to ask God "Why". But it is the attitude in asking. However, we may not get the answers. Such as the story of Job in Bible.
Revelation 7:15-17 touch Sister T. To her, true satisfaction is in heaven where God is.
ACGL shared a quote "If we put joy in temporal things, our joy also will be temporal."
Q3. In your life right now, what give(s) you security and satisfaction? Are there changes that you need to make regarding this? If yes, what will you do to make the changes?
Elder sister A shared that we may not have tomorrow. Like the recent news about a guy was killed because the tree fell down.
Elder Brother M shared his satisfaction is in God, God's word, communion with God and music. And it is good that there is music in heaven.
Sister L shared that only God can truly satisfy us. Because man desire is a bottomless pit. If their have $1m, they will pursue the next.
A sister shared she works in an industry that sell expensive product to rich people. But she doesn't see that her clients are always happy.We agreed that money don't make us happy. The rich people may not be the happiest people. And there are people that have joy despite of their poverty. It is about being contented of what we have.
There were 2 announcements:
Elder sister A shared that our church need some volunteers to serve the community in need that stay around Woodlands area.
Deuteronomy 15:11 (NIV) There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land.
CGL shared that we need to look for new CG meeting place in the west as our previous one at west area is rented out to a family in our church who needed the place more than us. We know in God's time, He will provide.
For those that were absence, we miss you!
Saturday, July 17, 2010
16 July 2010, Friday CG
On CG Friday night, 16 Jul, the CG entered the House of Grace where the Grace of God dwells. After the worship, we had Revelation 6 shown on video in a dramatize version. Then we started the Bible study led by Brother B.
The topic :When Things Fall Apart
The OBJECTIVE: To establish life anchor for adversities in life.
Brother B opened to the floor for sharing the adversities in our life.
Elder sister G shared about she had cancer growth when she was 16 years old. She was new to God then. But God saw her through. The cancer growth was removed. And 10 years ago, the Lord healed her slip disc condition through a successful operation. Before the operation, God flashed the word "resurrection" to her. This gave her courage to go for the operation. When other patients in the ward saw her speedy recovery, they found courage to go for the operation too.
Sister G shared that her current health trial is not as bad as back in year 2006. That time the illness dragged for few months and she was still weak after 1 year. But that time, the Lord assured her during a CG worship time, that even her parents forsake her, He will not forsake her. God is faithful. He is with her and helped her in time of needs.
This time, God is also gracious to her. Despite the pain and diarrhea due to food poisoning and not yet resolve, there are always areas to thank God for. She found it useful to focus on the attributes of God, the Word of God and also look to Jesus. Especially on Jesus nails pierced hands. In this trial, she found herself stronger than 4 years ago. The main reason for that strength is her growth and healing in Christ in this church that she joined 3 years ago. And the Lord also prepared her for this trial through Senior Pastor Edmund sermon title "Sermon on the Mount" which talked about radical discipleship.
Brother B shared that God improved his living condition during a difficult period when he was a student. And God healed his health condition as he prayed to God. He shared Romans 8:28 (ESV) "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." is a verse that encourage him.
Sister A also found Romans 8:28 speaks to her during her time of adversities.
Sister L shared that she like Romans 8:28 because she was born in 28th of August.
Elder sister G prayer make me feel that we should claim Psalm 23 into our life. To look to God who is in control.
It is complex to explain about suffering. Especially why good Christians suffer. Brother B shared 3 points on why Christians suffering:
1. Sin or lesson to learn
2. For other person. 2 Cor 1:3-5 (ESV)
"3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort,
4 who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
5 For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too."
3. Divine purpose. (Book of Job) Maybe only in heaven then we know the reason.
Elder brother M shared the verse 1 Peter 1:6-7(ESV) "6 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith-more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire-may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ."
He felt that trials are so that our faith proves to be real. And for God to receive glorify and honor.
He also shared 2 Cor 12:9(ESV) "But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me."
Sister M shared that Revelation gives her different perspective.
Brother S shared 1 Pet 5:6-11. Too long to copy, please refer to your Bible.
Brother B shared that at normal time our Bible knowledge may be just intellect. But in suffering, it involves emotion. Sing Christian songs and prayers helps. We end the Bible study with the song "Above All".
Many years ago, when I was vey sad and in tears in my bedroom, God used this song "Above All" to minister to me on how much He loves me. Jesus who died on the cross for our sake is truly above all.
Then we proceed with supper time. We celebrated the birthday of 1 brother and 2 sisters. The cake is lovely. We took video and group photos with the cake to celebrate this special day.
Oops... Without Elder sister A, the recite MV section is miss out. :O
The topic :When Things Fall Apart
The OBJECTIVE: To establish life anchor for adversities in life.
Brother B opened to the floor for sharing the adversities in our life.
Elder sister G shared about she had cancer growth when she was 16 years old. She was new to God then. But God saw her through. The cancer growth was removed. And 10 years ago, the Lord healed her slip disc condition through a successful operation. Before the operation, God flashed the word "resurrection" to her. This gave her courage to go for the operation. When other patients in the ward saw her speedy recovery, they found courage to go for the operation too.
Sister G shared that her current health trial is not as bad as back in year 2006. That time the illness dragged for few months and she was still weak after 1 year. But that time, the Lord assured her during a CG worship time, that even her parents forsake her, He will not forsake her. God is faithful. He is with her and helped her in time of needs.
This time, God is also gracious to her. Despite the pain and diarrhea due to food poisoning and not yet resolve, there are always areas to thank God for. She found it useful to focus on the attributes of God, the Word of God and also look to Jesus. Especially on Jesus nails pierced hands. In this trial, she found herself stronger than 4 years ago. The main reason for that strength is her growth and healing in Christ in this church that she joined 3 years ago. And the Lord also prepared her for this trial through Senior Pastor Edmund sermon title "Sermon on the Mount" which talked about radical discipleship.
Brother B shared that God improved his living condition during a difficult period when he was a student. And God healed his health condition as he prayed to God. He shared Romans 8:28 (ESV) "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." is a verse that encourage him.
Sister A also found Romans 8:28 speaks to her during her time of adversities.
Sister L shared that she like Romans 8:28 because she was born in 28th of August.
Elder sister G prayer make me feel that we should claim Psalm 23 into our life. To look to God who is in control.
It is complex to explain about suffering. Especially why good Christians suffer. Brother B shared 3 points on why Christians suffering:
1. Sin or lesson to learn
2. For other person. 2 Cor 1:3-5 (ESV)
"3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort,
4 who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
5 For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too."
3. Divine purpose. (Book of Job) Maybe only in heaven then we know the reason.
Elder brother M shared the verse 1 Peter 1:6-7(ESV) "6 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith-more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire-may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ."
He felt that trials are so that our faith proves to be real. And for God to receive glorify and honor.
He also shared 2 Cor 12:9(ESV) "But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me."
Sister M shared that Revelation gives her different perspective.
Brother S shared 1 Pet 5:6-11. Too long to copy, please refer to your Bible.
Brother B shared that at normal time our Bible knowledge may be just intellect. But in suffering, it involves emotion. Sing Christian songs and prayers helps. We end the Bible study with the song "Above All".
Many years ago, when I was vey sad and in tears in my bedroom, God used this song "Above All" to minister to me on how much He loves me. Jesus who died on the cross for our sake is truly above all.
Then we proceed with supper time. We celebrated the birthday of 1 brother and 2 sisters. The cake is lovely. We took video and group photos with the cake to celebrate this special day.
Oops... Without Elder sister A, the recite MV section is miss out. :O
Sunday, May 16, 2010
14 May 2010, Friday CG
On Friday night, we had Brethren style of worship. CGL & ACGL prepared the worship songs. CGL compressed the 10 pages of songs to 5 pages. We had a wonderful time of free worship. As we chose songs as the Spirit led, CGL busily look for the songs with chords for ACGL to play guitar for us. It is a beautiful picture to see CGL & ACGL support one another to enable us to have a good time of worship. There are times that the songs are not in the song list, but ACGL managed to play the guitar without the chords.
Thank you, CGL & ACGL for your servanthood leadership.
After worship, we watched a DVD video on Nick Vujicic, a man with no arms and legs. Although he is speaking to the youths, we are inspired by his sharing.
Some quotes from his sharing:
“If you put your happiness in temporary thing, your happiness will be temporary.”
“When people speak negatively to you about you, get a second opinion.”
You can read more about Nick Vujicic in his website www.lifewithoutlimbs.org
On 14 May 10, 5am, Dr Goh Keng Swee, late Deputy Prime Minister of Singapore died. He was 91. Dr Goh was a founding father of Singapore. He is a Christian. He is what some have called the “magic of Singapore success”.
He had done so much good for Singapore and leave behind a great legacy.
May we learn from him to live a selfless life and rise up to the occasions that God calls us to.
Thank you, CGL & ACGL for your servanthood leadership.
After worship, we watched a DVD video on Nick Vujicic, a man with no arms and legs. Although he is speaking to the youths, we are inspired by his sharing.
Some quotes from his sharing:
“If you put your happiness in temporary thing, your happiness will be temporary.”
“When people speak negatively to you about you, get a second opinion.”
You can read more about Nick Vujicic in his website www.lifewithoutlimbs.org
On 14 May 10, 5am, Dr Goh Keng Swee, late Deputy Prime Minister of Singapore died. He was 91. Dr Goh was a founding father of Singapore. He is a Christian. He is what some have called the “magic of Singapore success”.
He had done so much good for Singapore and leave behind a great legacy.
May we learn from him to live a selfless life and rise up to the occasions that God calls us to.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Song: To Keep Your Lovely Face
By Graham Kendrick, 1983
To keep Your lovely face
Ever before my eyes
This is my prayer
Make it my strong desire
That in my secret heart
No other love competes
No rival throne survives
And I serve only You
To keep Your lovely face
Ever before my eyes
This is my prayer
Make it my strong desire
That in my secret heart
No other love competes
No rival throne survives
And I serve only You
Description of Lord Jesus in Revelation 1:12-16 (NIV)
12 I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me. And when I turned I saw seven golden lampstands, 13 and among the lampstands was someone "like a son of man, "dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest. 14 His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire. 15 His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters. 16 In his right hand he held seven stars, and out of his mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance.
Last year when I re-visited Revelation, I thought the description of Lord Jesus is scary. But Holy Spirit revealed to me that Lord Jesus is good looking. The Creator of all things (
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Singlehood
10 Apr 10 Super Saturday
The myth every person must release: Singleness equates to loneliness.
1 Corinthians 7
Singlehood
Matthew 19:11-12
Jesus replied, "Not everyone can accept this word, but only those to whom it has been given. For some are eunuchs because they were born that way; others were made that way by men; and others have renounced marriage because of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it".
Firstly Singlehood by calling.
Jeremiah 16:1-2 Then the word of the LORD came to me: "You must not marry and have sons or daughters in this place".
Secondly Singlehood by circumstances.
Thirdly Singlehood by choice.
Define loneliness: sense of gloom, causing a depressing feeling of being alone.
If you feel lonely, it is a result of poor social skill.
Men and women are made differently. But we don’t need each other to complete us. We are complete on our own.
Colossians 2:9-10 For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority.
5 basic needs
1. Survival: To survive as individuals as a physiological need. Food, drink, shelter, comfort, safety, good health, reproduce.
2. To love and to belong: Relationships, social connections, give and receive affection, feel part of a group.
3. Power: To achieve, be competent, skilled, sense of self-worth.
4. Freedom: To be independent, to have choices, to be able to control and direct one’s life.
5. Fun: Find pleasure, to play, laugh, learn important life lessons from playing.
Comfortable in your own skin. You need to be comfortable to yourself, for others to be comfortable with you. Do things alone, such as have meal in restaurant, go for trip, go for tour, watch movie. Sunset walk with Jesus, holding His hand.
The Pitfalls
* Romanticize love.
* Hurry love. This will result in finding faults in the other person instead of working on the relationship.
* Find substitutes. Each person is unique. Don’t look for someone like your first love.
* Form unhealthy relationships. Don’t expect man to be like your girl friends.
* Compare.
The Posture
In God's Time He makes All Things Beautiful.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven:
Ecclesiastes 3:11a He has made everything beautiful in its time.
I have a LOT in life.
Psalms 16:5-6 LORD, you have assigned me my portion and my cup; you have made my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance.
Discover the secret of Contentment
Philippians 4:12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or In want.
Stay in the Cell Group, the God's community.
Discussion question:
Look through the 5 basic needs. Are your basic needs met?
Friday, April 02, 2010
Life is sweet because God is good
The photo showed the Wall Sticker that I did with my God on the wall of my living room. This is my first attempt to do Wall Sticker. So I prayed that God will guide my hands to do a good job. I am very happy with the result.
Life is sweet because God is good.
Everyday, I am very thankful because of having God in my life.
Every morning, my first greeting is “Good morning Father God. Good morning Lord Jesus Christ. Good morning Holy Spirit”.
Lately, I am blessed to listen to my church senior pastor, Rev Edmund Chan past preaching on the Sermon on the Mount series. My greatest blessing is to understand my God, Jesus Christ and His teachings better. I am blessed to be in this church that teach me the very Word of God that give me life.
From Pastor Edmund preaching, I know that indeed my God is my Strength, my Security and my Significant. I have no lack because of Him.
Actually, my God is also my Serenity, my Sufficiency, my Sanity and my Sweet.
Which version of God that you believe in?
One night in the past week, my neighbor, a pre-believer, came to me to ask for help on checking IRAS tax information on the internet. I don’t know how to help her as I am not familiar in searching for that piece of information. As she insisted, so I gave it a try. I went into IRAS website and I prayed openly in front of her for God to guide me to look for that information. God is good. He guided me in the right clicks and quickly we found the information.
After she got the information she wanted, I invited her for Easter Sunday service. She rejected with the reason that she prays to god (拜神的). The very next moment, she told me she easily get worry with problems. If she can’t solve it, she cannot sleep. I asked her, “Don’t you ask your god to help you?” She was silent.
I told her I give my problems to my God. My God is a big God that can help me in time of needs. I do not concern myself with who He sent to help me, or how He help me, as long as it is no longer a problem to me.
I shared with her that I was once with many concerns before I know my God. I reminded her that she saw that I prayed moment ago for God to help me to find information in the internet. I shared that my God is able to help in time of needs. At my door gate, I invited her again for Easter Sunday service, she told me she is going to clean her father’s tomb (清明).
After she left, a thought came to me, “How strange to believe in a god that can’t help her in time of needs; that she has to carry her many concerns till she cannot sleep and not cast it to her god.”
I know my God. My God is Strong to save. My God Loves and Cares for me. My God Listens when I talk to Him. My God is Sovereign that He discipline me for my own good. My God Sees the big picture and He did things for the greater good, not just for me alone.
When I lost sight of my God and become afraid with “What if…”, He reminded me "Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame." (Romans 10:11 (NIV))
Buy hope?
I often saw long queue to the Singapore Pool (Toto shop). It becomes even longer when the winning sum is huge. My ex-colleague once told me he went there to buy hope. From Monday to Sunday, except a rest day, there are different types of “hope” that he can buy.
One time, as usual during the Chinese New Year season, the newspaper said how many people had became overnight millionaires as they strike Toto. I shared that with a friend. She said become millionaire (with that amount) is not enough to buy a landed property (in Singapore). That dawn on me that if enough is not enough, we will never be enough (of wealth).
If only earthlings know that God is actually the everlasting Hope, instead of the Toto shop. Then the long queue should be to the church of God. And you don’t even need to buy Hope. It is so expensive that we cannot afford it. So God gives it to us FREE of charge.
Why so good when someone died?
Today is Good Friday.
Why is it Good when someone died?
It is Good for human race. If Jesus Christ, the Son of God, did not die for us, there is NO OTHER WAY for sinful men to connect to God the Heavenly Father.
My understanding of God and His teachings helps me in my work.
I understand the concept of “NO OTHER WAY”.
As a CAD Manager, people will ask me can the CAD software do this and that. Sometimes, they do not like the way the software achieve the intended result. But I had to tell them, there is “NO OTHER WAY” for this particular software. Period.
Worship a Living God
Easter Sunday is coming. We will celebrate Jesus resurrection.
Because Jesus lives forever, we are not worship a dead God, but a living God.
Because Jesus lives, we can face tomorrow.
Because Jesus is our living Hope, we live in victory.
Because Jesus guides our path, we lives with a purpose.
My friend, happy Easter.
Song:
Because He Lives by Gaither Vocal Band
Because He Lives with lyrics
Saturday, March 27, 2010
26 Mar 2010, Friday CG
Before going to CG
On Friday, before I knock off from work to go for CG gathering, I had a bad head ache. Then Sister A called and offered to buy dinner for me. Initially I declined as I intended to have my diet dinner. After I hang the phone, I realized I had to pick up a cake before 7pm, the shop closing time. I will be making a detour if I go for my diet dinner. As I had such a bad head ache, I don't think I can make it to walk the extra distance for dinner. So I called Sister A to help to buy dinner. She graciously agreed. God is truly a good God. Whether the issue is big or small, He will always bring people to help us in time of need.
In CG place
In the CG gathering place, we had a great time of sharing our lives together.
Sister J gave away her wrong size jean that she brought online. Younger brother M gave away a big T-shirt that his boss gave to him to a brother.
CG started
During CG time, Sister L update us about our Ms Zone Mentor delivery of her new born baby boy. On Thursday night, a group of us visit her after she delivered her baby safely. Initially, when the baby is 31 weeks in her womb, the feeding tube was stuck. So the baby did not have enough food and is under weight. We prayed and the baby weight increased. Then there are concerns that baby need to come out early due to the mother’s condition. Eventually, the baby was born at week 37, which is consider full term. And the baby weight 2.8kg, which is in the healthy range. Our God is indeed a good God who answers prayers. Issues in life is an opportunity for us to trust God and increase our faith in our mighty God. John 16:33
We shared our PDA opportunities. And also pray for our FRANS. Sister A shared her encounter with her niece. Sister L shared God goodness with her colleague.
In our "getting to know you" introduction, we are to introduce how many siblings we have, and the position that we are in. We found out that in our midst, we have 4 guys that are the youngest in their families, 4 oldest sisters, 3 middle child and a only son.
WORD - Post-Sermon Study of Revelation 1:4-8
1. Study opener – Share about someone whom you admire. What is it about him/her that inspires you?
Elder Sister G admires her grandfather for his 10 good characters. One of them is leadership. Another is self-control. He had diabetes in age 80 and he had good control of his diet. He died at the age of 97. Wah! He lived a long life. He even wrote a book to express his love for his wife. He is cool.
Sister L admires John the Baptist on his focus in pointing others to Jesus.
Sister S admires a Christian sister unwavering faith in God in spite of difficult situations in her life. That sister was a very gentle lady. At age 30, she was diagnosed with nose cancer. At the same year, her mother died. When she got cancer, she resigned to treat her cancer. The cancer treatment caused her to become physically weak. After the treatment, she went to do charity work. She spent her last 10 year sharing Christ with others. Faithfully bringing people to church despite of her health. She died of flu bug due to weak health. During her 3 days wake, many people attended her funeral. Many shared their testimonies about her. It was obvious that she was well love.
For myself, I admire Pastor Edmund Chan, our senior pastor. Recently I listen to his sermon that he preached in 1997 on the Sermon on the Mount series. Back then, he was about 38 years old. He explained the word of God clearly, practically and profoundly. He is faithful and consistent in his calling.
2. Look at verse 5a. Talk about one description of Jesus (faithful witness, firstborn from the dead, ruler of the kings on earth) that is personally meaningful for you.
Revelation 1:5a "and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth."
Brother M shared "the firstborn from the dead" is meaningful to him. He read to us some verses in Romans 6. He especially highlight the following verses:
"We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection." (Romans 6:4-5).
"In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus." (Romans 6:11).
3. Verses 5b-6 reveals two things that Jesus did for you, out of love. What are they & their significance for our lives?
Revelation 1:5b-6 “To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.”
A priest is to serve God. We are co-heirs with Jesus. Sister A shared that a priestly responsibility is to reconcile people to God.
Sister AM shared that 5 to 6 earthquakes had happened in this year. It is aptly on having sermons on Revelation. End time is really coming. Recently Her associate shared with her on the Discovery history channel talked about Moses parted the Red Sea. She shared to him that Bible is not just a history book, it also predicted what is going to happened in future. Refer to Matthew 24.
In our prayer time, we update one another of our prayer needs. And also not forgetting to pray for our FRANS.
Celebrate birthday
At supper time, they celebrated my birthday. I brought a Fruits Crêpe cake from GLACE that is located in Icon Village in Tanjong Pagar. The norm is the CG will buy a cake for the birthday boy or girl. But this cake is so good that I wanted to share the good news with them. Many tried and find it special. Their cake is good because they make it fresh and with good ingredients. Similarly, Jesus is like the cake, you must come and taste it. Then you can declare “The Lord is good.”
Last CG gathering in Cementi
This is the last time that we use Sister J’s place for CG gathering. Thank you Sister J for your hospitality. Hebrews 6:10
We end our gathering by taking some group photos in the place.
On Friday, before I knock off from work to go for CG gathering, I had a bad head ache. Then Sister A called and offered to buy dinner for me. Initially I declined as I intended to have my diet dinner. After I hang the phone, I realized I had to pick up a cake before 7pm, the shop closing time. I will be making a detour if I go for my diet dinner. As I had such a bad head ache, I don't think I can make it to walk the extra distance for dinner. So I called Sister A to help to buy dinner. She graciously agreed. God is truly a good God. Whether the issue is big or small, He will always bring people to help us in time of need.
In CG place
In the CG gathering place, we had a great time of sharing our lives together.
Sister J gave away her wrong size jean that she brought online. Younger brother M gave away a big T-shirt that his boss gave to him to a brother.
CG started
During CG time, Sister L update us about our Ms Zone Mentor delivery of her new born baby boy. On Thursday night, a group of us visit her after she delivered her baby safely. Initially, when the baby is 31 weeks in her womb, the feeding tube was stuck. So the baby did not have enough food and is under weight. We prayed and the baby weight increased. Then there are concerns that baby need to come out early due to the mother’s condition. Eventually, the baby was born at week 37, which is consider full term. And the baby weight 2.8kg, which is in the healthy range. Our God is indeed a good God who answers prayers. Issues in life is an opportunity for us to trust God and increase our faith in our mighty God. John 16:33
We shared our PDA opportunities. And also pray for our FRANS. Sister A shared her encounter with her niece. Sister L shared God goodness with her colleague.
In our "getting to know you" introduction, we are to introduce how many siblings we have, and the position that we are in. We found out that in our midst, we have 4 guys that are the youngest in their families, 4 oldest sisters, 3 middle child and a only son.
WORD - Post-Sermon Study of Revelation 1:4-8
1. Study opener – Share about someone whom you admire. What is it about him/her that inspires you?
Elder Sister G admires her grandfather for his 10 good characters. One of them is leadership. Another is self-control. He had diabetes in age 80 and he had good control of his diet. He died at the age of 97. Wah! He lived a long life. He even wrote a book to express his love for his wife. He is cool.
Sister L admires John the Baptist on his focus in pointing others to Jesus.
Sister S admires a Christian sister unwavering faith in God in spite of difficult situations in her life. That sister was a very gentle lady. At age 30, she was diagnosed with nose cancer. At the same year, her mother died. When she got cancer, she resigned to treat her cancer. The cancer treatment caused her to become physically weak. After the treatment, she went to do charity work. She spent her last 10 year sharing Christ with others. Faithfully bringing people to church despite of her health. She died of flu bug due to weak health. During her 3 days wake, many people attended her funeral. Many shared their testimonies about her. It was obvious that she was well love.
For myself, I admire Pastor Edmund Chan, our senior pastor. Recently I listen to his sermon that he preached in 1997 on the Sermon on the Mount series. Back then, he was about 38 years old. He explained the word of God clearly, practically and profoundly. He is faithful and consistent in his calling.
2. Look at verse 5a. Talk about one description of Jesus (faithful witness, firstborn from the dead, ruler of the kings on earth) that is personally meaningful for you.
Revelation 1:5a "and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth."
Brother M shared "the firstborn from the dead" is meaningful to him. He read to us some verses in Romans 6. He especially highlight the following verses:
"We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection." (Romans 6:4-5).
"In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus." (Romans 6:11).
3. Verses 5b-6 reveals two things that Jesus did for you, out of love. What are they & their significance for our lives?
Revelation 1:5b-6 “To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.”
A priest is to serve God. We are co-heirs with Jesus. Sister A shared that a priestly responsibility is to reconcile people to God.
Sister AM shared that 5 to 6 earthquakes had happened in this year. It is aptly on having sermons on Revelation. End time is really coming. Recently Her associate shared with her on the Discovery history channel talked about Moses parted the Red Sea. She shared to him that Bible is not just a history book, it also predicted what is going to happened in future. Refer to Matthew 24.
In our prayer time, we update one another of our prayer needs. And also not forgetting to pray for our FRANS.
Celebrate birthday
At supper time, they celebrated my birthday. I brought a Fruits Crêpe cake from GLACE that is located in Icon Village in Tanjong Pagar. The norm is the CG will buy a cake for the birthday boy or girl. But this cake is so good that I wanted to share the good news with them. Many tried and find it special. Their cake is good because they make it fresh and with good ingredients. Similarly, Jesus is like the cake, you must come and taste it. Then you can declare “The Lord is good.”
Last CG gathering in Cementi
This is the last time that we use Sister J’s place for CG gathering. Thank you Sister J for your hospitality. Hebrews 6:10
We end our gathering by taking some group photos in the place.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
19 Mar 2010, Friday CG
TGIF! Thank God is Friday!
We had a great time on our CG night.
Sustainability
Before everyone came, some of us discussed about diet and gym.
The key issue raised is about sustainability.
Sister G recently try out the Herbalife nutritional shake as one of her healthy meal during weekdays. The nutritional shake has less calories and thus able to help to reduce fat (weight) progressively. Sister J feels it unsustainable to take liquid food as she likes solid food.
Sister G feels it okay as she has exposure on taking liquid food.
Sister G recently signed up for a 1 year contract on FitnessFirst gym that is near her house. Sister J find it expensive as compare to her 3 years contract on C gym. Sister S said she sign up on C gym for 7 years but hardly use it. Even though the monthly cost is double, Sister G thinks it is okay as she is trying out on her commitment to exercise more regularly. The gym is nearby her house. It is more feasible for her to walk 7 mins to the gym than to go to another gym that needs to travel by MRT. The gym location save her travel time. So it is more feasible and sustainable in going to the gym.
We are different in perceptions about sustainability. Overall, it is a good pre-discussion before the Post-Sermon Discussion of Revelation Overview.
Discussion of Revelation Overview
a.
Point ONE: Blessed is the one who see! (Rev 1:1-2)
Question: Have you met Jesus lately?
Sister G shared on her recent experience in the WBTW (Women Breakthrough Weekends) organized by the church. She met Jesus, her God in WBTW. God through many ways, encourage her in giving her the opportunities to learn, to serve, to share and to give her testimony on stage to all the ladies there. She is very thankful to God’s encouragement.
Point TWO: Blessed is the one who DOES! (Rev 1:3)
Question: What motivate you to be a doer of the Word?
Brother M shared that Rev 1:3 has similarity with James 1:22-25
James 1:22-25 (NIV)
22Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror 24and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does.
He concludes that when we do what please God, He will bless us. He feels good when God said to him “Good and faithful servant”.
Brother C and Sister V find it a joy in obey God.
b. Share how you have been a messenger of the Gospel. How do you share the Gospel? When do you share?
Sister S shared her experience on “Don’t be afraid to ask and to invite your friends for Easter”.
Sister A shared on God’s given opportunities to share gospel to her student and relatives.
Brother C showed us on using EvangeCube to share the Gospel.
Sister G shared that there is even a kid version of EvangeCube. It is Kids' EE-Cube. A colorful, fun, interactive visual tool that flips and folds to reveal a clear Gospel message that equips kids to share with others.
c. Discuss what are your personal barriers to being a messenger of the Gospel.
The answers are:
* Fear of the response.
* Not sure how to approach it.
* Concerns that cannot answer the questions.
Brother M shared that few years ago when his mother was diagnosed with cancer, God gave him a dream. He knew from the dream that his mother barrier in receiving Christ was removed. And God wanted him to share the Gospel with her. His mother had been resistance on the Gospel and gave him a hard time in the past. But God made ways for him to share the Gospel with her. And she received Christ after his sharing.
Brother C shared about his grandmother conversion story. One day, she had a dream of her own mother that had passed away. In the dream, her mother was in a beautiful garden. She invited her daughter to come to heaven. When Brother C grandmother woke up from her dream, she asked “How to become a Christian?”
God does speak to us through dreams. There is more about this matter in the book, Surprised by the voice of God by Jack Deere.
Sister G shared that there are 2 conversions in the recent WBTW. One of the new babies said she no need to know everything to become Christian. Sister G agreed with her sharing as she found herself still learning as a Christian after 18 years of knowing Christ.
Someone shared that some pre-believers are put off by the inconsistency of Christians. However, Christians are not perfect. We are just sinner save by the grace of God.
I learn from the book, Healing for Damaged Emotions by David A. Seamands in regards of “imperfect” Christians. We may find Christian A behavior not acceptable and find Christian B more cultural. But when we knows their background and experiences that they gone through, we will know that Christian A has come a long way and has made great improvement. While Christian B is from a good family background and is not as transformed as Christian A.
We can’t judge a book by it cover. Only God knows who belong to Him.
Let us not be discouraged by the inconsistency of other Christians.
But look to God who is more than able to save us and help us to be a consistent Christian. That we may be a shining light for Him.
I am blessed to be in the CG that night and heard in first hand all the sharing.
The writing in here is summarized for quick reading.
Sharing on health product: camellia oil (苦茶油)
Notice some of us have stomach problem. Recently, I read a Chinese health food that shared that camellia oil is a healthy oil that is good for the stomach. I saw it being sold in an organic shop in Haborfront (near the food court). I think it is also being sold in Blife @37 Kreta Ayer Road
Wishing all of us healthy and strong for the Lord.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
George Mueller, a great man of prayer
Today I listened to Pastor Edmund Chan’s sermon from the Sermon on the Mount series.
The topic: Dealing With Retaliation. Scripture: Matthew 5:38-42 (NASB)
Pastor closed with a quotation from George Mueller.
He said the day George Mueller discovered himself was the day he died to self.
In surfing the net to know more about George Mueller. I came cross the same quotation in
http://realheroes.net/reformers/George_Mueller.html
His quote:
There was a day when I died, utterly died: died to George Mueller, his opinions, preferences, tastes and will; died to the world, its approval or censure; died to the approval or blame even of my brethren and friends. And since then, I have studied only to show myself 'approved unto God.’
The link give valuable inputs on prayer.
The topic: Dealing With Retaliation. Scripture: Matthew 5:38-42 (NASB)
Pastor closed with a quotation from George Mueller.
He said the day George Mueller discovered himself was the day he died to self.
In surfing the net to know more about George Mueller. I came cross the same quotation in
http://realheroes.net/reformers/George_Mueller.html
His quote:
There was a day when I died, utterly died: died to George Mueller, his opinions, preferences, tastes and will; died to the world, its approval or censure; died to the approval or blame even of my brethren and friends. And since then, I have studied only to show myself 'approved unto God.’
The link give valuable inputs on prayer.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
CG connect on 22 Jan 2010, Friday
Recently, I went through the Sermon on the Mount series that Pastor Edmund Chan preached on year 1997. I learnt from him that on Genesis 1 and 2, God did not just institute marriage, He also institute community. It is in God's community that we grow in loving God and one another despite of our differences.
On last Friday night, these little God's community went for outing together in China town. We intent to soak ourselves in the Chinese New Year mood. We had a sumptuous dinner at a Chinese restaurant in China Point. There were 18 of us. Out of which, 6 of them are new to some of us. We are glad that they can join us.
It was interesting to get to know the two colleagues of CH over the dinner table. One of them is a Saint... His name has the word Saint. Another has the name like the character in the Chinese Sword novels. It is in two characters.
After the dinner, we went for a walk in China Town. There is a lot of Chinese new year goods being sold. Quite a number of stalls are selling the same things. When we were to take group photos, a kind lady offered to take for us. So all of us are in the pictures. Looking forward to see the photos in Facebook.
My mobile battery was flat on that night, so I off my mobile phone. During the walk, I got attracted to sample some goodies in a stall and nearly lost the group. Thankfully brother Mature waited for me. He shared that sometimes even when we got lost from the group, some how there seen to be a leading within us to bring us back to the group. I agreed with him as this experience is not unusual to me. I know it is the work of the Holy Spirit in guiding our path.
After the walk, we decided to go for dessert. As it was around 10pm, the stall that we intended to go is closing. So we decided to check out on another stall. Ms Cheerful offered to go before us to check it out. Least we all walk unnecessary to another stall that is closing. Mr Patience offered to accompany her. Thankfully, the stall was still opened.
The dessert stall also sell some Chinese delicacy. Brother Mature brought some for his flat mates. I praised him for caring for his flat mates. He said in a way that mean it should be a natural act of thoughtfully since they are staying together.
Ms Speedy brought a Chinese lotus cold dish for her mother. She offered to let us try it. After seeing the positive response toward the dish, she decided to order one more extra for her mother. We are thankful for her generosity.
It was a simple and heart warming night. We are a group of ordinary people going for an ordinary outing. But our extra-ordinary God makes a different in our midst.
I just joined this group for about 2 months (started on mid Nov 2009). Their friendship and acceptance warms my heart. Without God, we are strangers who path may never meet. But because of Lord Jesus Christ, we received the promise of Heaven that we can never earn by ourselves (John 14:6), and a spiritual family who God is our Father.
On last Friday night, these little God's community went for outing together in China town. We intent to soak ourselves in the Chinese New Year mood. We had a sumptuous dinner at a Chinese restaurant in China Point. There were 18 of us. Out of which, 6 of them are new to some of us. We are glad that they can join us.
It was interesting to get to know the two colleagues of CH over the dinner table. One of them is a Saint... His name has the word Saint. Another has the name like the character in the Chinese Sword novels. It is in two characters.
After the dinner, we went for a walk in China Town. There is a lot of Chinese new year goods being sold. Quite a number of stalls are selling the same things. When we were to take group photos, a kind lady offered to take for us. So all of us are in the pictures. Looking forward to see the photos in Facebook.
My mobile battery was flat on that night, so I off my mobile phone. During the walk, I got attracted to sample some goodies in a stall and nearly lost the group. Thankfully brother Mature waited for me. He shared that sometimes even when we got lost from the group, some how there seen to be a leading within us to bring us back to the group. I agreed with him as this experience is not unusual to me. I know it is the work of the Holy Spirit in guiding our path.
After the walk, we decided to go for dessert. As it was around 10pm, the stall that we intended to go is closing. So we decided to check out on another stall. Ms Cheerful offered to go before us to check it out. Least we all walk unnecessary to another stall that is closing. Mr Patience offered to accompany her. Thankfully, the stall was still opened.
The dessert stall also sell some Chinese delicacy. Brother Mature brought some for his flat mates. I praised him for caring for his flat mates. He said in a way that mean it should be a natural act of thoughtfully since they are staying together.
Ms Speedy brought a Chinese lotus cold dish for her mother. She offered to let us try it. After seeing the positive response toward the dish, she decided to order one more extra for her mother. We are thankful for her generosity.
It was a simple and heart warming night. We are a group of ordinary people going for an ordinary outing. But our extra-ordinary God makes a different in our midst.
I just joined this group for about 2 months (started on mid Nov 2009). Their friendship and acceptance warms my heart. Without God, we are strangers who path may never meet. But because of Lord Jesus Christ, we received the promise of Heaven that we can never earn by ourselves (John 14:6), and a spiritual family who God is our Father.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
CG on 15 January 2010, Friday
Testimonies
Praise be to God who is with us. To Him who blesses us with His bountiful blessing. On last Friday, we had a great time gathered together to worship God and testified of His goodness.
The Bible discussion was base on last week sermon on “Transforming your values”.
Scripture: Philippians 3:4-21.
A question was posted on what we consider lost. And to share our testimonies.
Many Testimonies of God's provision was being shared. Our faith was lifted up and we praised God for His unchanging character of providing for His children.
One sister shared that she came from a poor family. Money was important to her. When God told her to give her saving to the church building fund, she cried for few days. Her husband was convicted and urged her to obey God. She finally did and she was glad that she obey. Her heart no longer tight fisted on money. That prepared her when God called her into full time church work with a much lower salary. And God was good to her. In that year she answered the call, her husband got 3 times salary increment in his company, which was rare. Recently, when God told her to give up her work to be a homemaker, she was ready to obey.
Another sister testified God's provision when she needed to forgo her degree holding job to become a homemaker to take care of her 3 young children for more than a decade. God provided on her husband single income. Now she is back to work force doing a meaningful job on part time basis.
And another sister shared on God challenged her to give all her bonus to the church building fund. That was her first bonus after few years not having bonus in her previous job. She struggled but she was glad when she obey. God poured His abundant blessing upon her. Blessing upon blessing. The blessings was not just in monetarily term, but also in other areas.
I experienced God blessings and provisions in many ways in my life. I can testify our God is no men debtor. When God wants us to "lost" something, it is for our own good. We need to release the things we hold tight in our hands so that God can pour his better blessing to us. Pastor Edmund preached about this last year; about a little girl that needs to trust her father's love; to give him the fake pearl, so that he can give her the real pearl.
God is good. And we can sing Thank You Lord (Don Moen Worship Video w/lyrics)
Truly in Him, we have the fullness of joy.
A brother shared that Philippians 3:7-8 is his favorite verse.
Philippians 3:7-8 But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ.
He and his household are ready to "lost" what they have in Singapore, to uproot themselves to a foreign land if God called them to.
As we lay ourselves at the feet of Jesus, it is okay to give up things for God.
In this specific season in life, what do God want you to do? in your quiet time, think about it.
Long time in Covenant
During our time together, we learnt that someone in our midst have been with our church, Covenant EFC for 22 years. Another 2 person have been with Covenant for 20 years. Covenant is truly a wonderful spiritual home.
Worth it to serve God?
Someone shared his struggles in serving God. Whether it is worth it to serve God.
A word of encouragement from the Bible; that it will be all worth it.
Hebrews 6:10 God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.
Coming events
Next Friday, 22 Jan 2010, we will have CG connect – a fun outing.
And in Feb 2010, we will have zone connect – another fun outing.
Yes! We are a fun CG. Come and have fun with us.
Wednesday, January 06, 2010
Jesus: A Purpose Driven Life
John 4:34 (NIV)
"My food", said Jesus, "is to do the will of him (Father God) who sent me and to finish his work.
Short, Sweet and Simple Statement.
This is food. This is life.
"My food", said Jesus, "is to do the will of him (Father God) who sent me and to finish his work.
Short, Sweet and Simple Statement.
This is food. This is life.
Prayer Watch
Focus: Praying with our Hand
Thumb's Up - "Thanksgiving!"
(1 Thess 5:16-18)
Index Finger - "Leaders"
Let's PRAY for the leaders in our lives. E.g. Husbands, fathers, church leaders, employers, teachers to have the Fear of the Lord & Wisdom (Prov 1:7), Salvation (1 Tim 2:4) and the Fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23).
Middle Finger - "Significant People"
PRAY 1 Cor 15:58 over those who have greatly blessed us by name. E.g. parents, mentor, friends, ... etc
Ring Finger - "Those in need"
PRAY Isa 41:10 for the elderly, the abandoned, prphans, divorced, abused, etc, that each one will earnestly seek the Lord, and be found by Him.
Little Finger - Self
PRAY and BELIEVE Isa 41:1-7 for yourself & for all of God's People.
Verses
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)
16 Be joyful always;
17 pray continually;
18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
Proverbs 1:7 (NIV)
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge,
but fools despise wisdom and discipline.
1 Timothy 2:4 (NIV)
who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.
Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV)
Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)
So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 4:1-7 (NIV)
1 In that day seven women
will take hold of one man
and say, "We will eat our own food
and provide our own clothes;
only let us be called by your name.
Take away our disgrace!"
2 In that day the Branch of the LORD will be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the land will be the pride and glory of the survivors in Israel. 3 Those who are left in Zion, who remain in Jerusalem, will be called holy, all who are recorded among the living in Jerusalem. 4 The Lord will wash away the filth of the women of Zion; he will cleanse the bloodstains from Jerusalem by a spirit of judgment and a spirit of fire. 5 Then the LORD will create over all of Mount Zion and over those who assemble there a cloud of smoke by day and a glow of flaming fire by night; over all the glory will be a canopy. 6 It will be a shelter and shade from the heat of the day, and a refuge and hiding place from the storm and rain.
Source: Covenant EFC
Thumb's Up - "Thanksgiving!"
(1 Thess 5:16-18)
Index Finger - "Leaders"
Let's PRAY for the leaders in our lives. E.g. Husbands, fathers, church leaders, employers, teachers to have the Fear of the Lord & Wisdom (Prov 1:7), Salvation (1 Tim 2:4) and the Fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23).
Middle Finger - "Significant People"
PRAY 1 Cor 15:58 over those who have greatly blessed us by name. E.g. parents, mentor, friends, ... etc
Ring Finger - "Those in need"
PRAY Isa 41:10 for the elderly, the abandoned, prphans, divorced, abused, etc, that each one will earnestly seek the Lord, and be found by Him.
Little Finger - Self
PRAY and BELIEVE Isa 41:1-7 for yourself & for all of God's People.
Verses
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)
16 Be joyful always;
17 pray continually;
18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
Proverbs 1:7 (NIV)
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge,
but fools despise wisdom and discipline.
1 Timothy 2:4 (NIV)
who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.
Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV)
Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)
So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 4:1-7 (NIV)
1 In that day seven women
will take hold of one man
and say, "We will eat our own food
and provide our own clothes;
only let us be called by your name.
Take away our disgrace!"
2 In that day the Branch of the LORD will be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the land will be the pride and glory of the survivors in Israel. 3 Those who are left in Zion, who remain in Jerusalem, will be called holy, all who are recorded among the living in Jerusalem. 4 The Lord will wash away the filth of the women of Zion; he will cleanse the bloodstains from Jerusalem by a spirit of judgment and a spirit of fire. 5 Then the LORD will create over all of Mount Zion and over those who assemble there a cloud of smoke by day and a glow of flaming fire by night; over all the glory will be a canopy. 6 It will be a shelter and shade from the heat of the day, and a refuge and hiding place from the storm and rain.
Source: Covenant EFC
Sunday, January 03, 2010
First Sunday Service of year 2010
Sunday Service
Communion
Today is our monthly holy communion.
Pastor Kai shared Deuteronomy 6:4-6 to us.
Deuteronomy 6:4-6
Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts.
It is okay to be honest with God that we do not love God as much as we want to. But pray to God to help us to love Him.
Communion is not about how much we love God, but reminds us, our God loves us so much.
Communion Song: Wonderful merciful Saviour
Membership Acceptance session
Today is a joy for me to see my good friend become a member of our church.
She grows progressively from a new believer 2 years ago, faithfully went through her new believer lessons, water baptism, involve in a CG, and now commit herself as a member of our church. Her life is a constant encouragement to me that it is all worth it to share Jesus with others. And to walk through the journey with them.
Pastor Kai shared that Covenant is not a perfect church. But he encouraged us to consider the 3 “C”s on whether to join the church as members:
1. C - Is Christ preached / exalted in the church?
2. C - Is there a Community that will love me and I can love
3. C - Is there a Calling for me to come to this church
Testimony
We heard an amazing testimony today shared by a pair of married couples.
They have 2 lovely children.
Husband story
The husband shared that he went for 8 Break through weekends (BTW) conducted by our church.
For the last Men BTW, God touched him and he cried everyday. God revealed to him that he had made his wife an idol in his heart. He seek the decisions of his wife instead of God. As God works in his life, God raise him up as the head of his house. Now, he will discuss with his wife, they will pray, and he decides.
For a man who willing to take leave and time off to go for so many BTW, to some degree, he is a man after God's own heart. This is admirable.
Wife story
His wife is a woman of courage to shared her story in order to give glory to God. In the last Marriage BTW, God convicted her heart when Pastor Edmund Chan post the question “Can a man loves two women at the same time?”.
She broke down and cried. In her 11 years of marriage, she had another man in her heart. Before her husband, she had an ex-boyfriend. That man meets all her requirements. But they did not proceed to marriage because that man cannot accept this woman’s mother. She constantly had this thinking, if that man come back to her, she will leave her husband for that man. God knows. And she repented. She kneeled before Pastor Edmund and her husband. She seek forgiveness from her husband and he forgave her. Now, he is the only man in her heart.
From the wife testimony, again we learn that the Lord knows the condition of our heart. The testimony is to encourage us; especially for those who need it. We can have 30+ of written and unwritten requirements of what we look for in a husband. And when we found such a man, everything we see in him is such a delight. But it is not God’s will! Oh, this truth may be like a sword that pierce your soul (idea from Luke 2:35) but nevertheless, it is still the truth.
To understand the heartbeat of God, God does not condemn the sin of this woman, but that the Lord has compassion for her. (John 3:17) Can you image the pain that she carry all this years? To hear the truth that is being preached so often on being faithful to your spouse, and yet inside her heart, she loves another man. When we know God and love God, we will know what is in our heart is wrong. So she is carrying at least two pains. One pain of not being with the man she loves. Another pain of the guilt of being unfaithful in her thoughts towards her husband.
The Lord has compassion for her, when the Lord convicted her of her sin, it is to deliver (save) her from her pains. That she can move on with her life, to do what is right, and to fully embrace the love that her husband is shower upon her.
God loves us and know what is best for us. Her husband may not meet all her requirements, but as shared during our lunch time by one sister, it is obvious that her husband really loves her.
In an “ideal” situation, a woman would marry because she loves the man. Correct? Why does she marry someone when her heart still love another man? So I seek the counsel of a wise mature lady that is in the HD (Healing and Deliverance) ministry. She would have see many cases and have some insights.
After talking to her, I learn 3 points:
1. Yes, the woman may have decided to move on and thus she married her husband.
2. And yes, it is wrong for her to have two men in her heart. Thus God deals with her on the issue.
3. And yes, for women in the similar situation, when you decided to have a relationship with another man that lead to marriage, when you decided to marry this man, you also decided to love and respect him (Ephesians 5:33). And let him be the head of you (Ephesians 5:23).
I feedback to Pastor Tony that the few testimonies that our church started to have during Sunday Service is encouraging. He said yes, every week, we will have testimony to give glory to God. So do send in your testimony to church if you have any.
Bulletin
This week bulletin has some great stuff and information.
In the section “Heartbeat this week”, Pastor Kai wrote “3 Questions For Personal Revival”. It is link to the Psalm 84 that he shared on dawn prayer.
Sermon
Hee… no sermon being shared in here. Buy or borrow the Sermon CD.
$5 per CD from the Resource center.
Lunch – catch a fish?
We had a great time laughing and sharing during our lunch in Causeway point.
Ms Sanguine said to one of the brothers that he is a good catch.
She said it is not a joke, it is a fact.
The brother said he is a Melancholy-Phlegmatic. I think he is a spirit-filled one. So he has the good sides of the temperaments and less of the bad sides of the temperaments.
As CGL is not in town, I have to submit to our ACGL. I can’t tell you which brother is Ms Sanguine refer to. Come to CG this Friday to check it out.
My Thanksgiving
IDT daily devotion has trained me in writing to God.
But I don’t write as often for others to read.
First, I don’t see myself good in writing.
And it takes time to write for others; with concern in language structure, formatting of the words. And to ensure the readers know what you are writing. I don’t have an editor to help me.
Thus it is a challenge for me to be a CG Scribe.
When sister S told me it is my turn to be CG Scribe on Jan 2010.
I asked what am I suppose to do.
I am thinking how much time am I suppose to put in to do this writing stuff.
If people miss the happening in the CG events, is that an issue?
Without knowing much in details, Holy Spirit told me, “Just say yes.”.
Lately, I start to realize one aspect of the heart of God. He brought events to happen in my life to reveal the condition of my heart. And yet He knows ultimately I will still say “yes” to Him.
Whatever God asks us to do, He will also provide the resources.
I thank God for providing me a helpful part-time maid. While I am writing, she is cleaning.
A lot of us are busy people.
We don’t have time to read long writing.
Holiday is over. At least for me…
I thank God for my busy and yet fulfilling job.
As I start work on Monday (4 Jan 2010), I will try to provide short, sweet and to the point summary for CG.
By the way, for those that is better in writing, feel free to give me pointers to improve my writing. To make it better for others to read
Easy reference
John 3:17 (NIV)
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
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.
Ephesians 5:23 (NIV)
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.
Communion
Today is our monthly holy communion.
Pastor Kai shared Deuteronomy 6:4-6 to us.
Deuteronomy 6:4-6
Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts.
It is okay to be honest with God that we do not love God as much as we want to. But pray to God to help us to love Him.
Communion is not about how much we love God, but reminds us, our God loves us so much.
Communion Song: Wonderful merciful Saviour
Membership Acceptance session
Today is a joy for me to see my good friend become a member of our church.
She grows progressively from a new believer 2 years ago, faithfully went through her new believer lessons, water baptism, involve in a CG, and now commit herself as a member of our church. Her life is a constant encouragement to me that it is all worth it to share Jesus with others. And to walk through the journey with them.
Pastor Kai shared that Covenant is not a perfect church. But he encouraged us to consider the 3 “C”s on whether to join the church as members:
1. C - Is Christ preached / exalted in the church?
2. C - Is there a Community that will love me and I can love
3. C - Is there a Calling for me to come to this church
Testimony
We heard an amazing testimony today shared by a pair of married couples.
They have 2 lovely children.
Husband story
The husband shared that he went for 8 Break through weekends (BTW) conducted by our church.
For the last Men BTW, God touched him and he cried everyday. God revealed to him that he had made his wife an idol in his heart. He seek the decisions of his wife instead of God. As God works in his life, God raise him up as the head of his house. Now, he will discuss with his wife, they will pray, and he decides.
For a man who willing to take leave and time off to go for so many BTW, to some degree, he is a man after God's own heart. This is admirable.
Wife story
His wife is a woman of courage to shared her story in order to give glory to God. In the last Marriage BTW, God convicted her heart when Pastor Edmund Chan post the question “Can a man loves two women at the same time?”.
She broke down and cried. In her 11 years of marriage, she had another man in her heart. Before her husband, she had an ex-boyfriend. That man meets all her requirements. But they did not proceed to marriage because that man cannot accept this woman’s mother. She constantly had this thinking, if that man come back to her, she will leave her husband for that man. God knows. And she repented. She kneeled before Pastor Edmund and her husband. She seek forgiveness from her husband and he forgave her. Now, he is the only man in her heart.
From the wife testimony, again we learn that the Lord knows the condition of our heart. The testimony is to encourage us; especially for those who need it. We can have 30+ of written and unwritten requirements of what we look for in a husband. And when we found such a man, everything we see in him is such a delight. But it is not God’s will! Oh, this truth may be like a sword that pierce your soul (idea from Luke 2:35) but nevertheless, it is still the truth.
To understand the heartbeat of God, God does not condemn the sin of this woman, but that the Lord has compassion for her. (John 3:17) Can you image the pain that she carry all this years? To hear the truth that is being preached so often on being faithful to your spouse, and yet inside her heart, she loves another man. When we know God and love God, we will know what is in our heart is wrong. So she is carrying at least two pains. One pain of not being with the man she loves. Another pain of the guilt of being unfaithful in her thoughts towards her husband.
The Lord has compassion for her, when the Lord convicted her of her sin, it is to deliver (save) her from her pains. That she can move on with her life, to do what is right, and to fully embrace the love that her husband is shower upon her.
God loves us and know what is best for us. Her husband may not meet all her requirements, but as shared during our lunch time by one sister, it is obvious that her husband really loves her.
In an “ideal” situation, a woman would marry because she loves the man. Correct? Why does she marry someone when her heart still love another man? So I seek the counsel of a wise mature lady that is in the HD (Healing and Deliverance) ministry. She would have see many cases and have some insights.
After talking to her, I learn 3 points:
1. Yes, the woman may have decided to move on and thus she married her husband.
2. And yes, it is wrong for her to have two men in her heart. Thus God deals with her on the issue.
3. And yes, for women in the similar situation, when you decided to have a relationship with another man that lead to marriage, when you decided to marry this man, you also decided to love and respect him (Ephesians 5:33). And let him be the head of you (Ephesians 5:23).
I feedback to Pastor Tony that the few testimonies that our church started to have during Sunday Service is encouraging. He said yes, every week, we will have testimony to give glory to God. So do send in your testimony to church if you have any.
Bulletin
This week bulletin has some great stuff and information.
In the section “Heartbeat this week”, Pastor Kai wrote “3 Questions For Personal Revival”. It is link to the Psalm 84 that he shared on dawn prayer.
Sermon
Hee… no sermon being shared in here. Buy or borrow the Sermon CD.
$5 per CD from the Resource center.
Lunch – catch a fish?
We had a great time laughing and sharing during our lunch in Causeway point.
Ms Sanguine said to one of the brothers that he is a good catch.
She said it is not a joke, it is a fact.
The brother said he is a Melancholy-Phlegmatic. I think he is a spirit-filled one. So he has the good sides of the temperaments and less of the bad sides of the temperaments.
As CGL is not in town, I have to submit to our ACGL. I can’t tell you which brother is Ms Sanguine refer to. Come to CG this Friday to check it out.
My Thanksgiving
IDT daily devotion has trained me in writing to God.
But I don’t write as often for others to read.
First, I don’t see myself good in writing.
And it takes time to write for others; with concern in language structure, formatting of the words. And to ensure the readers know what you are writing. I don’t have an editor to help me.
Thus it is a challenge for me to be a CG Scribe.
When sister S told me it is my turn to be CG Scribe on Jan 2010.
I asked what am I suppose to do.
I am thinking how much time am I suppose to put in to do this writing stuff.
If people miss the happening in the CG events, is that an issue?
Without knowing much in details, Holy Spirit told me, “Just say yes.”.
Lately, I start to realize one aspect of the heart of God. He brought events to happen in my life to reveal the condition of my heart. And yet He knows ultimately I will still say “yes” to Him.
Whatever God asks us to do, He will also provide the resources.
I thank God for providing me a helpful part-time maid. While I am writing, she is cleaning.
A lot of us are busy people.
We don’t have time to read long writing.
Holiday is over. At least for me…
I thank God for my busy and yet fulfilling job.
As I start work on Monday (4 Jan 2010), I will try to provide short, sweet and to the point summary for CG.
By the way, for those that is better in writing, feel free to give me pointers to improve my writing. To make it better for others to read
Easy reference
John 3:17 (NIV)
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
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.
Ephesians 5:23 (NIV)
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.
Saturday, January 02, 2010
Super Saturday: Who Am I
I respect Pastor Edmund Chan very much.
And I value his teaching.
He taught us, it is not the big thing or small thing that we do for God, but the God’s thing; and to do it faithfully.
This is my second January update as CG Scribe.
This afternoon is our first Super Saturday of year 2010.
Women’s plenary
For 2pm – 4pm, it is Plenary session and then break into small group discussion.
For Women’s plenary, our topic is “Who Am I?”
Basically, it is about our identity in Christ.
I will share what is not in the note but it is as helpful in understanding our identity in Christ.
The list is given by Dr. Neil Anderson in his book, Victory Over the Darkness.
He said “The more you reaffirm who you are in Christ, the more your behavior will begin to reflect your true identity!"
Expert advise: Do it in front of the mirror, speak the truth about yourself until the truth sink in to you.
The Twenty Cans Of Success by Dr. Neil Anderson is also encouraging. We “can” not because of who we are; but because He enables.
2 Peter 1:3 His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.
Prayer session
From 4pm – 6pm, it is prayer session.
For the monthly Super Saturday, we will be taught how to pray effectively.
What’s next
The next Super Saturday will be on 6 Feb 2010.
The next Women’s plenary topic is on “Where Do I Belong?”
Pre-believers are welcome to join us.
And I value his teaching.
He taught us, it is not the big thing or small thing that we do for God, but the God’s thing; and to do it faithfully.
This is my second January update as CG Scribe.
This afternoon is our first Super Saturday of year 2010.
Women’s plenary
For 2pm – 4pm, it is Plenary session and then break into small group discussion.
For Women’s plenary, our topic is “Who Am I?”
Basically, it is about our identity in Christ.
I will share what is not in the note but it is as helpful in understanding our identity in Christ.
The list is given by Dr. Neil Anderson in his book, Victory Over the Darkness.
He said “The more you reaffirm who you are in Christ, the more your behavior will begin to reflect your true identity!"
Expert advise: Do it in front of the mirror, speak the truth about yourself until the truth sink in to you.
The Twenty Cans Of Success by Dr. Neil Anderson is also encouraging. We “can” not because of who we are; but because He enables.
2 Peter 1:3 His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.
Prayer session
From 4pm – 6pm, it is prayer session.
For the monthly Super Saturday, we will be taught how to pray effectively.
What’s next
The next Super Saturday will be on 6 Feb 2010.
The next Women’s plenary topic is on “Where Do I Belong?”
Pre-believers are welcome to join us.
Friday, January 01, 2010
First dawn prayer in 2010
January 2010 is my turn to be CG Scribe.
Today, a big group of us had a great time starting our 1 January 2010 in attending 6am dawn prayer in our church in BPJ.
Pastor Kai shared on Psalm 84.
He told us to read and to ponder what God spoke to us through this Psalm.
He told us we are not just celebrating a new year but a new decade.
He mentioned that many big events had happened in the past 10 years.
Such as Y2K, 911, Tsunami and earth quake.
He asked us, “Where will you 10 years ago?”
“What will you be like 10 years later? If Jesus does not come back and you are still alive.”
“What do you looking forward to for the next 10 years?”
Then he led us to the message “What does God look for?”
1. Delighting heart (v1-4)
He asked, “Where is our heart?” “Is there an inner hunger for the Lord?”
The opposite of delighting heart is a distracted heart.
2. Determined heart (v5-6)
Christian life is not free from problems and challenges.
We will go through our “Valley of Baca”.
“Valley of Baca” is a painful place, where we have no idea and no answer.
We cannot run away from it. And we cannot avoid them.
But it is through it that we grow the most.
Remember, we are to “pass through the Valley of Baca”, not make your home in it.
We are to “set our hearts on pilgrimage” – God’s destiny for us.
The opposite of determined heart is despondent heart.
It starts by a distracted heart.
So the action plan is to have a delighting heart that will lead to a determined heart.
Tough times will come. Challenges ahead.
But pray that by God’s grace, we set our heart on pilgrimage. That we might appear before God.
3. Decisive heart (v10)
The opposite of decisive heart is disobedient heart.
I would rather be a insignificant, like doorkeeper in the house of my God. Than dwell in the comfort in the tents of the wicked.
You may asked “Isn’t decisive heart same as determined heart?”
“Determined” is on long term.
“Decisive” is on moment by moment, I make the decision to obey God.
Such as not to chose the handsome non-believer.
Three time the Psalm mentioned “Blessed”.
V4, v5 and v12.
Prayer
Make a decision to chose God when I am tempted.
In order to shine in the market place.
Make pure and steadfast decision to obey God.
Super Saturday
Then Pastor mentioned 2 Jan 2010 is our first Super Saturday.
We will meet in WDL from 2pm – 6pm.
Men topic: The journey that all men must go through
Women topic: Who Am I
By the way, our church in WDL sang the song “Who Am I” by Casting Crowns on two Sunday service in year 2009. I blog about the song.
Our first CG breakfast in year 2010
After our prayer meeting, we proceed to BP Plaza for our breakfast.
We had our breakfast in MacDonald where we had a good time taking photos, sharing our life and year 2010 plan.
Broken people
(updated information in 3 Jan 09)
In our breakfast, while 4 of us, all ladies, are chatting. Sister V talked about she noticed there are people in our church that are strange. Their life are not problem-free and yet there are joy in their countenance. And her friend told her many people in our church are broken people.
I don’t quite understand what it really mean.
Sister S said I will know when I am there.
I said I may be there but I don’t know.
She explained it means we had come to the end of our road, no more bright idea and just surrender to God.
I told her, “Oh I know. I am there. (nearly… completely…)”
After our breakfast, we proceed to BP bus terminal to part our ways.
A song from the Lord
At BP bus terminal when all of CG members had left, God brought this song to my mind.
Title: Find Us Faithful, by Steve Green.
The key lyrics are:
May the footprints that we leave
Lead them to believe
And the lives we live inspire them to obey
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful.
Today, a big group of us had a great time starting our 1 January 2010 in attending 6am dawn prayer in our church in BPJ.
Pastor Kai shared on Psalm 84.
He told us to read and to ponder what God spoke to us through this Psalm.
He told us we are not just celebrating a new year but a new decade.
He mentioned that many big events had happened in the past 10 years.
Such as Y2K, 911, Tsunami and earth quake.
He asked us, “Where will you 10 years ago?”
“What will you be like 10 years later? If Jesus does not come back and you are still alive.”
“What do you looking forward to for the next 10 years?”
Then he led us to the message “What does God look for?”
1. Delighting heart (v1-4)
He asked, “Where is our heart?” “Is there an inner hunger for the Lord?”
The opposite of delighting heart is a distracted heart.
2. Determined heart (v5-6)
Christian life is not free from problems and challenges.
We will go through our “Valley of Baca”.
“Valley of Baca” is a painful place, where we have no idea and no answer.
We cannot run away from it. And we cannot avoid them.
But it is through it that we grow the most.
Remember, we are to “pass through the Valley of Baca”, not make your home in it.
We are to “set our hearts on pilgrimage” – God’s destiny for us.
The opposite of determined heart is despondent heart.
It starts by a distracted heart.
So the action plan is to have a delighting heart that will lead to a determined heart.
Tough times will come. Challenges ahead.
But pray that by God’s grace, we set our heart on pilgrimage. That we might appear before God.
3. Decisive heart (v10)
The opposite of decisive heart is disobedient heart.
I would rather be a insignificant, like doorkeeper in the house of my God. Than dwell in the comfort in the tents of the wicked.
You may asked “Isn’t decisive heart same as determined heart?”
“Determined” is on long term.
“Decisive” is on moment by moment, I make the decision to obey God.
Such as not to chose the handsome non-believer.
Three time the Psalm mentioned “Blessed”.
V4, v5 and v12.
Prayer
Make a decision to chose God when I am tempted.
In order to shine in the market place.
Make pure and steadfast decision to obey God.
Super Saturday
Then Pastor mentioned 2 Jan 2010 is our first Super Saturday.
We will meet in WDL from 2pm – 6pm.
Men topic: The journey that all men must go through
Women topic: Who Am I
By the way, our church in WDL sang the song “Who Am I” by Casting Crowns on two Sunday service in year 2009. I blog about the song.
Our first CG breakfast in year 2010
After our prayer meeting, we proceed to BP Plaza for our breakfast.
We had our breakfast in MacDonald where we had a good time taking photos, sharing our life and year 2010 plan.
Broken people
(updated information in 3 Jan 09)
In our breakfast, while 4 of us, all ladies, are chatting. Sister V talked about she noticed there are people in our church that are strange. Their life are not problem-free and yet there are joy in their countenance. And her friend told her many people in our church are broken people.
I don’t quite understand what it really mean.
Sister S said I will know when I am there.
I said I may be there but I don’t know.
She explained it means we had come to the end of our road, no more bright idea and just surrender to God.
I told her, “Oh I know. I am there. (nearly… completely…)”
After our breakfast, we proceed to BP bus terminal to part our ways.
A song from the Lord
At BP bus terminal when all of CG members had left, God brought this song to my mind.
Title: Find Us Faithful, by Steve Green.
The key lyrics are:
May the footprints that we leave
Lead them to believe
And the lives we live inspire them to obey
Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful.
Start a new year with the promise keeping God
Matthew 1: The Genealogy of Jesus Christ
Verse 1 The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.
Lessons learnt:
Verse 1 Show the promise of God, from the line of Abraham, the starter of the Israel nation.
Verse 2 – 6, fourteen generations (v17)
Generations:
1. Abraham – starter of the promise through his tested obedient in willing to sacrifice Isaac, the promised son.
2. Isaac
3. Jacob – broken before God.
4. Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar – Judah sinned against God in his relationship with Tamar, his widow daughter-in-law. But he repented. When Joseph tricked his brothers and wanted to keep Benjamin as slave. Judah was willing to take his younger step-brother, Benjamin, place to be a slave on his behalf. He took responsibility for his word to his old father that he would take care of Benjamin and bring him back to his father safely. (Genesis 44)
5. Perez
6. Hezron
7. Ram, [Greek Aram; also verse 4]
8. Amminadab
9. Nahshon
10. Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab – Rahab was a prostitute, a non-Jew, that believed in God and took her covering under the God of Israel. Her whole family was spared when her country people was being killed by the Israelites.
11. Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth – Ruth, a faithful widow, a non-Jew, who loved her Jewish mother-in-law and took care of her. She brought herself under the shelter of the God of Israel.
She told her mother-in-law, Naomi this golden verse in the Bible, Ruth 1:16 But Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.”
12. Obed the father of Jesse
13. Jesse the father of David the king.
14. King David – a man that after God’s own heart. He is not perfect. But his heart is right before God. He repented when he did wrong. And he accepted the consequences of his sins. Thus he was made the greatest king of Israel. He was often the point of reference as an example of a good king that followed the heart of God. And God gave him the promise of his eternal kingship under his line. That turned out to be through Jesus.
The insight, instruction or inspiration I’ve gleaned...
When my heart wonders, God is the strength of my heart.
A habit of Bible reading is very good to our soul.
Today, God showed me He fulfilled His promises to those who is faithful to Him.
He keeps his promises to those who hearts are right with Him.
He forgives those who repented and accept the consequences of their sin.
He takes care of those that is under the shelter of His wings.
Amen!
It is wonderful to start a new year with the promise keeping God!
Verse 1 The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.
Lessons learnt:
Verse 1 Show the promise of God, from the line of Abraham, the starter of the Israel nation.
Verse 2 – 6, fourteen generations (v17)
Generations:
1. Abraham – starter of the promise through his tested obedient in willing to sacrifice Isaac, the promised son.
2. Isaac
3. Jacob – broken before God.
4. Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar – Judah sinned against God in his relationship with Tamar, his widow daughter-in-law. But he repented. When Joseph tricked his brothers and wanted to keep Benjamin as slave. Judah was willing to take his younger step-brother, Benjamin, place to be a slave on his behalf. He took responsibility for his word to his old father that he would take care of Benjamin and bring him back to his father safely. (Genesis 44)
5. Perez
6. Hezron
7. Ram, [Greek Aram; also verse 4]
8. Amminadab
9. Nahshon
10. Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab – Rahab was a prostitute, a non-Jew, that believed in God and took her covering under the God of Israel. Her whole family was spared when her country people was being killed by the Israelites.
11. Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth – Ruth, a faithful widow, a non-Jew, who loved her Jewish mother-in-law and took care of her. She brought herself under the shelter of the God of Israel.
She told her mother-in-law, Naomi this golden verse in the Bible, Ruth 1:16 But Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.”
12. Obed the father of Jesse
13. Jesse the father of David the king.
14. King David – a man that after God’s own heart. He is not perfect. But his heart is right before God. He repented when he did wrong. And he accepted the consequences of his sins. Thus he was made the greatest king of Israel. He was often the point of reference as an example of a good king that followed the heart of God. And God gave him the promise of his eternal kingship under his line. That turned out to be through Jesus.
The insight, instruction or inspiration I’ve gleaned...
When my heart wonders, God is the strength of my heart.
A habit of Bible reading is very good to our soul.
Today, God showed me He fulfilled His promises to those who is faithful to Him.
He keeps his promises to those who hearts are right with Him.
He forgives those who repented and accept the consequences of their sin.
He takes care of those that is under the shelter of His wings.
Amen!
It is wonderful to start a new year with the promise keeping God!
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