He will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work. – 2 Timothy 2:21
The word hallow isn’t used much anymore, and when it is, the uses have a broad range of meaning. Christians use the word when we say the Lord’s prayer, as in “Hallowed be Thy name.” Often the word is associated with the last day of October, which we in the US refer to as Halloween, a shortened form of All Halllow’s Eve.
In Scripture, the word hallow is a synonym for the word sanctify. When we hallow or sanctify something, we set it apart as being holy.
The name of God is not the only thing that we are to hallow. We too are to be hallowed. Paul urged Timothy to be a vessel sanctified and useful for God by pursuing “righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart” and by avoiding “foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife” (2 Tim. 2:21-23).
On this last day of October, children in the US will be carrying bags filled with sweets. Thinking of them can remind us to ask: “What is filling the vessel of my life? Is it a bitter attitude that leads to foolish disputes and strife, or is it a sweet spirit that leads to righteousness, faith, love, and peace?”
We can hallow today, and every day, by setting ourselves apart for God to be used by Him. Julie Ackerman Link
Lord, may our lives be set apart
And useful in Your hands,
Pursuing righteousness and faith
As we fulfill Your plans. – Sper
A Christian’s greatest joy is to be used by God.
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2 Timothy 2:19-26
However God’s firm foundation stands, having this seal, “The Lord knows those who are his,” and, “Let every one who names the name of the Lord depart from unrighteousness.” Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of clay. Some are for honor, and some for dishonor.
If anyone therefore purges himself from these, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, and suitable for the master’s use, prepared for every good work. Flee from youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace with those who cal on the Lord out of a pure heart. But refuse foolish and ignorant questionings, knowing that they generate strife.
The Lord’s servant must not be quarrel, but be gentle towards all, able to teach, patient, in gentleness correcting those who oppose him: perhaps God may give them repentance leading to a full knowledge of the truth, and they may recover themselves out of the devil’s snare, having been taken captive by him to his will.
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Saturday, October 31, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
Be A Stander
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. – Proverbs 17:17
Western novelist Stephen Bly says that in the days of America’s Old West there were two types of friends (and horses): runners and standers. At the first sign of trouble, the runner would bolt – abandoning you to whatever peril you were facing. But a stander would stick with you no matter the circumstances. Unfortunately, you wouldn’t know which kind of friend you had until trouble came. And then it was too late – unless your friend was a stander.
Rather than being concerned with what kind of friends we have, however, we ought to consider what kind of friends we are. In the final days of Paul’s ministry, as he awaited death, some who had ministered with him turned into runners and abandoned him to face execution alone. In his last letter, he listed some (like Demas) who had run off, then simply stated, “Only Luke is with me” (2 Tim. 4:11). Luke was a stander. While undoubtedly disappointed by those who had deserted him, Paul must have been deeply comforted to know he was not alone.
Proverbs tells us that “a friend loves at all times” (17:17). During times of adversity, we need friends we can rely on. When the people we know face trouble, what kind of friend will we be – a runner or a stander? – Bill Crowder
Dear Lord, help us to be the kind of friend who doesn’t run when our friends are in need.
Give us the courage to stand by them, the wisdom to know what to say,
And the ability to serve them. Amen.
A true friend stand with us in times of trial.
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2 Timothy 4:9-18
Be diligent to come to me soon, for Demas left me, having loved this present world, and went to Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for ministering. But I sent Tychicus to Ephesus.
Bring the cloak that I left at Troas with Carpus when you come, and the books, especially the parchments. Alexander, the coppersmith, did much evil to me. The Lord will repay him according to his works, of whom you also must beware; for he greatly opposed our words.
At my first defense, no one came to help me, but all left me. May it not be held against them. But he Lord stood by me, and strengthened me, that through me the message might be fully proclaimed, and that all the Gentiles might hear; and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.
And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me for his heavenly kingdom; to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
Western novelist Stephen Bly says that in the days of America’s Old West there were two types of friends (and horses): runners and standers. At the first sign of trouble, the runner would bolt – abandoning you to whatever peril you were facing. But a stander would stick with you no matter the circumstances. Unfortunately, you wouldn’t know which kind of friend you had until trouble came. And then it was too late – unless your friend was a stander.
Rather than being concerned with what kind of friends we have, however, we ought to consider what kind of friends we are. In the final days of Paul’s ministry, as he awaited death, some who had ministered with him turned into runners and abandoned him to face execution alone. In his last letter, he listed some (like Demas) who had run off, then simply stated, “Only Luke is with me” (2 Tim. 4:11). Luke was a stander. While undoubtedly disappointed by those who had deserted him, Paul must have been deeply comforted to know he was not alone.
Proverbs tells us that “a friend loves at all times” (17:17). During times of adversity, we need friends we can rely on. When the people we know face trouble, what kind of friend will we be – a runner or a stander? – Bill Crowder
Dear Lord, help us to be the kind of friend who doesn’t run when our friends are in need.
Give us the courage to stand by them, the wisdom to know what to say,
And the ability to serve them. Amen.
A true friend stand with us in times of trial.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
2 Timothy 4:9-18
Be diligent to come to me soon, for Demas left me, having loved this present world, and went to Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for ministering. But I sent Tychicus to Ephesus.
Bring the cloak that I left at Troas with Carpus when you come, and the books, especially the parchments. Alexander, the coppersmith, did much evil to me. The Lord will repay him according to his works, of whom you also must beware; for he greatly opposed our words.
At my first defense, no one came to help me, but all left me. May it not be held against them. But he Lord stood by me, and strengthened me, that through me the message might be fully proclaimed, and that all the Gentiles might hear; and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.
And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me for his heavenly kingdom; to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
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Lost And Found
This is my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found. – Luke 15:24
A Wall Street Journal article by Jennifer Saranow chronicled the extraordinary efforts of middle-aged American men who are trying to find the favorite car they once owned and loved, but lost. They are searching on-line car ads, phoning junkyards, and even hiring specialists who charge $400 an hour to help them search for an automobile that once symbolized their youth. These men want the actual car they owned, not one just like it.
Some would call their efforts frivolous – a waste of time and money. But the value of a car, like many things, is in the eye of the beholder.
In Luke 15, people who were despised by their society came to hear Jesus. But some religious leaders complained, “This Man receives sinners and eats with them” (v.2). To affirm how valuable these “sinners” are to God, Jesus told three memorable stories about a lost sheep (w. 4-7), a lost coin (w.8-10), and a lost son (w. 11-32). Each parable records the anguish of losing, the effort of searching, and the joy of finding something of great worth. In every story, we see a picture of God, the loving Father, who rejoices over every lost soul who is found.
Even is you feel far from God today, you are highly valued by Him. He’s searching for you. – David C. McCasland
I once was lost, but now I’m found;
Praise God! Christ died for me;
He valued me, redeemed my soul;
From sin, He set me free. – Sper
Those who have been found should seek the lost.
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Luke 15:4-24
When he has found it, he carries it on his shoulders, rejoicing. When he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoicing with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!’ I tell you that even so there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents, than over ninety-nine righteous people who need no repentance.
Or what woman, if she had ten drachma coins, if she lost one drachma coin, wouldn’t light a lamp, sweep the house, and seek diligently until she found it? When she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbours, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the drachma which I had lost.’ Even so, I tell you, there is joy in presence of the angels of God over one sinner repenting.”
He said, “A certain man had two sons. The younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of your property.’ He divided his livelihood between them. Not many days after, the younger son gathered all of this together and traveled into a far country. There he wasted his property with riotous living. When he had spent all of it, there arose a severe famine in that country, and he began to be in need. He went and joined himself to one of the citizens of that country, and he sent him into his fields to feed pigs.
He wanted to fill his belly with the husks that the pigs ate, but no one gave him any. But when he came to himself he said, ‘How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough to spare, and I’m dying with hunger! I will get up and go to my father, and will tell him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in your sight. I am no more worthy to be called your son. Make me as one of your hired servants.”’ “He arose, and came to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him, and was moved with compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in your sight. I am no longer to be called your son.’ “But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring out the best robe, and put it on him. Put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. Bring the fattened calf, kill it, and let us ear, and celebrate; for this, my son, was dead, and is alive again. He was lost, and is found,’ They began to celebrate.
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Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Almost-Perfect Disguise
The accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down. – Revelation 12:10
Radovan Karadzic, once the leader of the Bosnian Serbs and accused of genocide, had been one of the most wanted men in the world. By growing a long, white beard, carrying false papers, and practicing alternative medicine, he fooled everyone – for a while. After 13 years in hiding, he was finally arrested.
The Bible tells us that Satan is also in the business of fooling people with disguises. Right from the beginning of human history, he pretended to be an enlightened advisor, telling Eve that God was not honest with her (Gen. 3:4). He “masquerades as an angel of light” (2 Cor. 11:14 NIV), but the Lord Jesus Christ has unmasked him as “a liar and the father of it” (John 8:44).
People often err at two extremes in their view of Satan. Some dismiss him while others attribute more power to him than he deserves. Let us not be deceived. Satan is powerful as the “god of this age” (2 Cor. 4:4). But Chirstians need not cower before him in fear, because “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4). The day is coming when Satan will be cast into the lake of fire (Rev. 20:10).
Until that day, let’s not be deceived but rather live godly lives that reflect the image of Christ, for He is “a man of truth; there is nothing false about Him” (John 7:18 NIV). – C. P. Hia
In our day-to-day existence,
Evil often wears a mask;
Trust the Lord for true discernment –
He gives wisdom when we ask. – Hess
Satan offers nothing but tricks and deceit.
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Revelation 12:7-12
There was war in the sky. Michael and his angels made war on the dragon. The dragon and his angels made war. They didn’t prevail, neither was a place found for him any more in heaven. The great dragon was thrown down, the old serpent, he who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world. He was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.
I heard a loud voice in the heaven, saying, “Now is come the salvation, the power, and the Kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ; for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them before our God day and night.
They overcame him because of the Lamb’s blood, and because of the word of their testimony. They didn’t love their life, even to death. Therefore rejoice, heavens, and you who dwell in them. Woe to the earth and to the sea, because the devil has gone down to you, having great wrath, knowing that he has but a short time.”
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
I think the Satan had started disturb me now... anyway, I have Jesus Christ with me... therefore I dont have to worry about it...
I did heard someone fall sick after baptism... and I really not feeling well last saturday which is the day I am gonna baptism... actually I was quite well in the morning... but start feeling hot and not comfortable when stepped into church...
At first I don't really pay attention... but after that I think of someone did experienced this before... so I just tell Dad that I know He is God... and I just need to be still... I was continued with that... but thank God! I feel like normal right before an hour before I get baptism... :) and well for then...
However, there is somemore... it was happened today and also last week... about 2 days before i get baptism... accident on road... the first time was I totally din't saw the car... when i pass half then I see the car at the other side... and it was about crashing on me... kinda scary... but i just quickly walk through the road after shock for a while...
Today's is like... the bus stop in the middle of the road... then i get off the bus... when i just out of the bus, a motorcycle stopped right in front of me... where also almost crash on me... it is kinda scary too... but thank God... He had help me... place me safe... therefore I can type words here... :P
I don't know either there are something else... but I believe Dad will protect me... as when Satan said to Jesus last time, jump off and Father will protect you... I know no matter how worse it is... nothing is too hard for my Dad... :)
Radovan Karadzic, once the leader of the Bosnian Serbs and accused of genocide, had been one of the most wanted men in the world. By growing a long, white beard, carrying false papers, and practicing alternative medicine, he fooled everyone – for a while. After 13 years in hiding, he was finally arrested.
The Bible tells us that Satan is also in the business of fooling people with disguises. Right from the beginning of human history, he pretended to be an enlightened advisor, telling Eve that God was not honest with her (Gen. 3:4). He “masquerades as an angel of light” (2 Cor. 11:14 NIV), but the Lord Jesus Christ has unmasked him as “a liar and the father of it” (John 8:44).
People often err at two extremes in their view of Satan. Some dismiss him while others attribute more power to him than he deserves. Let us not be deceived. Satan is powerful as the “god of this age” (2 Cor. 4:4). But Chirstians need not cower before him in fear, because “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4). The day is coming when Satan will be cast into the lake of fire (Rev. 20:10).
Until that day, let’s not be deceived but rather live godly lives that reflect the image of Christ, for He is “a man of truth; there is nothing false about Him” (John 7:18 NIV). – C. P. Hia
In our day-to-day existence,
Evil often wears a mask;
Trust the Lord for true discernment –
He gives wisdom when we ask. – Hess
Satan offers nothing but tricks and deceit.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Revelation 12:7-12
There was war in the sky. Michael and his angels made war on the dragon. The dragon and his angels made war. They didn’t prevail, neither was a place found for him any more in heaven. The great dragon was thrown down, the old serpent, he who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world. He was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.
I heard a loud voice in the heaven, saying, “Now is come the salvation, the power, and the Kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ; for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them before our God day and night.
They overcame him because of the Lamb’s blood, and because of the word of their testimony. They didn’t love their life, even to death. Therefore rejoice, heavens, and you who dwell in them. Woe to the earth and to the sea, because the devil has gone down to you, having great wrath, knowing that he has but a short time.”
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
I think the Satan had started disturb me now... anyway, I have Jesus Christ with me... therefore I dont have to worry about it...
I did heard someone fall sick after baptism... and I really not feeling well last saturday which is the day I am gonna baptism... actually I was quite well in the morning... but start feeling hot and not comfortable when stepped into church...
At first I don't really pay attention... but after that I think of someone did experienced this before... so I just tell Dad that I know He is God... and I just need to be still... I was continued with that... but thank God! I feel like normal right before an hour before I get baptism... :) and well for then...
However, there is somemore... it was happened today and also last week... about 2 days before i get baptism... accident on road... the first time was I totally din't saw the car... when i pass half then I see the car at the other side... and it was about crashing on me... kinda scary... but i just quickly walk through the road after shock for a while...
Today's is like... the bus stop in the middle of the road... then i get off the bus... when i just out of the bus, a motorcycle stopped right in front of me... where also almost crash on me... it is kinda scary too... but thank God... He had help me... place me safe... therefore I can type words here... :P
I don't know either there are something else... but I believe Dad will protect me... as when Satan said to Jesus last time, jump off and Father will protect you... I know no matter how worse it is... nothing is too hard for my Dad... :)
Monday, October 26, 2009
Is That Jesus?
Whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. – Romans 8:29
As I walked into church one Sunday morning, a little boy looked at me and said to his mother, “Mom, is that Jesus?” Needless to say, I was curious to hear her response. “No,” she said, “that’s our pastor.”
I knew she would say no, of course, but I still wished she could have added something like, “No, that’s our pastor, but he reminds us a lot of Jesus.”
Being like Jesus is the purpose of life for those of us who are called to follow Him. In fact, as John Stott notes, it is the all-consuming goal of our past, our present, and our future. Romans 8:29 tells us that in the past we were “predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son.” In the present, we “are being transformed into the same image” (the likeness of Christ), as we grow from “glory to glory” (2 Cor. 3:18). And, in the future, “we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is” (1 John 3:2).
Being like Jesus is not about keeping the rules, going to church, and tithing. It’s about knowing His forgiveness, and committing acts of grace and mercy on a consistent basis. It’s about living a life that values all people. And it’s about having a heart of full surrender to the will of our Father.
Be like Jesus. You were saved for it! – Joe Stowell
Be like Jesus – this my song –
In the home and in the throng;
Be like Jesus all day long!
I would be like Jesus. – Rowe
Live in such a way that others see Jesus in you.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Romans 8:26-29
In the same way, the Spirit also helps our weaknesses, for we don’t know how to pray as we ought. But the Spirit himself makes intercession for us with groanings which can’t be uttered. He who searches the hearts knows what is on the Spirit’s mind, because he makes intercession for the saints according to God.
We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose. For whom he foreknew, he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
it is the time where we are glorify the God... "Are you Jesus?"... of course the answer is not... but, that means we looks like Jesus... and show people how Jesus act like or people will think of Jesus when seeing us...
it is a long long way for me to be getting liking Jesus... Dad, help me... I had just baptist... I know I had swear... and I will be confirm again this saturday... may Lord help me... I need to show people how Jesus act like... i cant make 100%... but at least i can do all my best to make it... and people will think of Him...
As I walked into church one Sunday morning, a little boy looked at me and said to his mother, “Mom, is that Jesus?” Needless to say, I was curious to hear her response. “No,” she said, “that’s our pastor.”
I knew she would say no, of course, but I still wished she could have added something like, “No, that’s our pastor, but he reminds us a lot of Jesus.”
Being like Jesus is the purpose of life for those of us who are called to follow Him. In fact, as John Stott notes, it is the all-consuming goal of our past, our present, and our future. Romans 8:29 tells us that in the past we were “predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son.” In the present, we “are being transformed into the same image” (the likeness of Christ), as we grow from “glory to glory” (2 Cor. 3:18). And, in the future, “we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is” (1 John 3:2).
Being like Jesus is not about keeping the rules, going to church, and tithing. It’s about knowing His forgiveness, and committing acts of grace and mercy on a consistent basis. It’s about living a life that values all people. And it’s about having a heart of full surrender to the will of our Father.
Be like Jesus. You were saved for it! – Joe Stowell
Be like Jesus – this my song –
In the home and in the throng;
Be like Jesus all day long!
I would be like Jesus. – Rowe
Live in such a way that others see Jesus in you.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Romans 8:26-29
In the same way, the Spirit also helps our weaknesses, for we don’t know how to pray as we ought. But the Spirit himself makes intercession for us with groanings which can’t be uttered. He who searches the hearts knows what is on the Spirit’s mind, because he makes intercession for the saints according to God.
We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose. For whom he foreknew, he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
it is the time where we are glorify the God... "Are you Jesus?"... of course the answer is not... but, that means we looks like Jesus... and show people how Jesus act like or people will think of Jesus when seeing us...
it is a long long way for me to be getting liking Jesus... Dad, help me... I had just baptist... I know I had swear... and I will be confirm again this saturday... may Lord help me... I need to show people how Jesus act like... i cant make 100%... but at least i can do all my best to make it... and people will think of Him...
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Five People You Meet In Heaven
We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ. – 2 Corinthians 5:10
Mitch Albom, author of The Five People You Meet in Heaven, said that he hot the idea for his book when he speculated: What would heaven be like if it were a place where some of the people you impacted on earth explained your life when you met them in heaven?
Albom’s book does give insight into how we unintentionally affect others’ lives. But for the Christian, our ultimate joy in eternity does not stem from other people but from our Lord and Savior. Heaven is a real place that Jesus is now preparing for us. And when we get there, we’ll rejoice to meet the living Christ (John 14:2-3; 2 Peter 3:13).
This encounter with Jesus, however, will also include accountability for the life we lived on earth. Believers are told: “We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad” (2 Cor. 5:10). His wise and just evaluation will show us how well we have loved God and our neighbor (Matt. 22:37-40).
We don’t know who will be the first five people we meet in heaven. But we do know who the first One will be – the Lord Jesus. – Dennis Fisher
When we stand with Christ in glory,
Looking o’er life’s finished story,
Then, Lord, shall I fully know –
Not till then – how much I owe. – McCheyne
To be with Jesus forever is the sum of all happiness.
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2 Corinthians 5:6-11
Being therefore always of good courage, and knowing that, while we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord; for we walk by faith, not by sight. We are of good courage, I say, and are willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be at home with the Lord.
Therefore also we make it our aim, whether at home or absent, to be well pleasing to him. For we must all be revealed before the judgment seat of Christ; that each one may receive the things in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.
Knowing therefore the fear of the Lord, we persuade men, but we are revealed to God; and I hope that we are revealed also in your sonsciences.
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Just got baptism last night... kinda happy... and I know it is a new turning point for me... for i had swear in front of people that i will follow Jesus till the end... and be a good courage to other... for this will glorify His name...
I feel sad for my past, however, these all those which i learn and experience and will be useful in the future... no matter it is for counsel session or warn for my own...
I had admit all my sins yesterday... and i told myself and also Father, that I will not be the same anymore... but improve my first impression... and do His works... which given me periods ago...
Everything are old... but I am new now... I want to appreciate this blessing well in my whole life time... nothing to be worry or doubt anymore... I am belongs to Jesus Christ... He is my Lord... my Savior!...
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Secrets Exposed
I acknowledged my sin to You, and iniquity I have not hidden… And You forgave the iniquity of my sin. – Psalm 32: 5
For many years, Lake Okeechobee hid its secrets in thick waters and layers of muck. But in 2007, drought shrank the Florida lake to its lowest level since officials began keeping records in 1932, unveiling hundreds of years of history. Raking through the bottom of the lake, archaeologists found artifacts pottery, human bone fragments, and even boats.
After King David committed adultery with Bathsheba and planned the death of her husband, Uriah, he covered his sins by denying them and not confessing them. He probably went many months conducting business as usual, even performing religious duties. As long as David cloaked his sinful secrets, he experienced God’s crushing finger of conviction and his strength evaporated like water in the heart of summer (Ps. 32:3-4).
When the prophet Nathan confronted David about his sin, God’s conviction was so great that David confessed his sins to God and turned away from them. Immediately the Lord forgave David and he experienced His mercy and grace (2 Sam. 12:13; Ps. 32:5; Ps. 51).
Let’s be careful not to hide our sin. When we uncover our sins by confessing them to God, we are covered with His forgiveness. – Marvin Williams
Lord, help me to expose my sin,
Those secret faults that lurk within;
I would confess them all to Thee;
Transparent I would always be. – D. De Haan
Give God what He desires most – a broken and repentant heart.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Psalm 32: 1-7
Blessed is he whose disobedience is forgiven, Whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man to whom Yahweh doesn’t impute iniquity, In whose spirit there is no deceit. When I kept silence, my bones wasted through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy on me. My strength was sapped in the heat of summer. Selah.
I acknowledge my sin to you. I didn’t hide my iniquity. I said, I will confess my transgressions to Yahweh, And you forgave the iniquity of my sin. Selah.
For this, let everyone who is godly pray to you in a time when you may be found. Surely when the great waters overflow, they shall not reach to him. You are my hiding place. You will preserve me from trouble. You will surround me with songs of deliverance. Selah.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
i seems like used to be telling lies when the situation dont allow me to say the truth... and i always think that this will only make the thing simple...
however, actually i am liying the God... HE do knows everything... nothing can be hide from Him... but who shall be the one to confess... it is me... tired to telling lies... and the shame of it...
Anyway... I am gonna to be baptist.... i think it is a very good turning point for me to restart everything... I will only have one chance... once lost it means nothing left... I mean is the first memory... I would like to have a good memory of gift which i give to Dad... He is worth for everything...
For many years, Lake Okeechobee hid its secrets in thick waters and layers of muck. But in 2007, drought shrank the Florida lake to its lowest level since officials began keeping records in 1932, unveiling hundreds of years of history. Raking through the bottom of the lake, archaeologists found artifacts pottery, human bone fragments, and even boats.
After King David committed adultery with Bathsheba and planned the death of her husband, Uriah, he covered his sins by denying them and not confessing them. He probably went many months conducting business as usual, even performing religious duties. As long as David cloaked his sinful secrets, he experienced God’s crushing finger of conviction and his strength evaporated like water in the heart of summer (Ps. 32:3-4).
When the prophet Nathan confronted David about his sin, God’s conviction was so great that David confessed his sins to God and turned away from them. Immediately the Lord forgave David and he experienced His mercy and grace (2 Sam. 12:13; Ps. 32:5; Ps. 51).
Let’s be careful not to hide our sin. When we uncover our sins by confessing them to God, we are covered with His forgiveness. – Marvin Williams
Lord, help me to expose my sin,
Those secret faults that lurk within;
I would confess them all to Thee;
Transparent I would always be. – D. De Haan
Give God what He desires most – a broken and repentant heart.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Psalm 32: 1-7
Blessed is he whose disobedience is forgiven, Whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man to whom Yahweh doesn’t impute iniquity, In whose spirit there is no deceit. When I kept silence, my bones wasted through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy on me. My strength was sapped in the heat of summer. Selah.
I acknowledge my sin to you. I didn’t hide my iniquity. I said, I will confess my transgressions to Yahweh, And you forgave the iniquity of my sin. Selah.
For this, let everyone who is godly pray to you in a time when you may be found. Surely when the great waters overflow, they shall not reach to him. You are my hiding place. You will preserve me from trouble. You will surround me with songs of deliverance. Selah.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
i seems like used to be telling lies when the situation dont allow me to say the truth... and i always think that this will only make the thing simple...
however, actually i am liying the God... HE do knows everything... nothing can be hide from Him... but who shall be the one to confess... it is me... tired to telling lies... and the shame of it...
Anyway... I am gonna to be baptist.... i think it is a very good turning point for me to restart everything... I will only have one chance... once lost it means nothing left... I mean is the first memory... I would like to have a good memory of gift which i give to Dad... He is worth for everything...
Close On His Heels
Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men. – Matthew 4:19
Stan and Jennifer were speaking at a mission conference in Marion, North Carolina, after their first term of service on the field.
Jennifer told of a Bible study she had held with one woman. The two were discussing Matthew 4:19, and the woman told Jennifer about a word in her native language, which means follow. She said, “It is the word for following closely, not at a distance.”
To illustrate, Jennifer held up slippers used by the native women, showing one far behind the other. Then she moved one slipper right up against the back of the other one, and said that the word means “to follow right on one’s heels.” It suggest that we are to follow Jesus as closely as possible.
Later, when Jennifer was reading over the journal she had been keeping, she was surprised to see that she had often questioned, “Is Jesus enough?” She had been working her way through culture shock, loneliness, illness, and childlessness. At times she had felt far from Christ. But when through prayer and faith she had drawn as close to Him as she could, walking “right on His heels,” He had calmed her soul, restored her strength, and given her peace.
Are you feeling far from the Lord – empty, weak, and afraid? It’s time to follow close on His heels. – David C. Egner
God, give me the faith of a little child!
A faith that will look to Thee –
That never will falter and never fail,
But follow Thee trustingly. – Showerman
The closer we walk with God, the clearer we see His guidance.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Matthew 4:18-25
Walking by the sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers: Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew, his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. He said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers for men.” They immediately left their nets and followed him.
Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets. He called them. They immediately left the boat and their father, and followed him.
Jesus went about in all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and every sickness among the people. The report about him went out into all Syria. They brought to him all who were sick, afflicted with various diseases and torments, possessed with demons, epileptics, and paralytics; and he healed them.
Great multitudes from Galilee, Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea and from beyond the Jordan followed him.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
Almost 2 years... since I had become a Christian... and tomorrow... or i should say it today.... I will get baptism... but, I feel like I am not really ready yet...
I dont think I am strong enough... or matured enough to follow Jesus Christ... He is so good... giving me all the stuffs that I want... blessing me so much... which I am not good enough to own them...
I have a feel like wanna apologize to everyone... I am so sorry to them... they have high expectation on me... helping me here and there... yet I am so naughty to play around... I didnt achieve their expectation... really sorry for this....
Maybe is because I am too fine enough... God is too good to me... but I didnt appreaciate it... T,T ... Dad... I miss you... where are you.... i want your arms... T,T .... pls be with me... I need You... You are my everything... let me feel that you are here...
How to follow you? i may did something bad... but please dont let me alone... help me to walk with you... I need some time to catch up your steps... today onwards... I want to become someone who can be use to glorify your name! whatever I did, I want it to be nice for you and people... just to pleases you and holify myself for your usage... Dad, I need you... Help me!
Stan and Jennifer were speaking at a mission conference in Marion, North Carolina, after their first term of service on the field.
Jennifer told of a Bible study she had held with one woman. The two were discussing Matthew 4:19, and the woman told Jennifer about a word in her native language, which means follow. She said, “It is the word for following closely, not at a distance.”
To illustrate, Jennifer held up slippers used by the native women, showing one far behind the other. Then she moved one slipper right up against the back of the other one, and said that the word means “to follow right on one’s heels.” It suggest that we are to follow Jesus as closely as possible.
Later, when Jennifer was reading over the journal she had been keeping, she was surprised to see that she had often questioned, “Is Jesus enough?” She had been working her way through culture shock, loneliness, illness, and childlessness. At times she had felt far from Christ. But when through prayer and faith she had drawn as close to Him as she could, walking “right on His heels,” He had calmed her soul, restored her strength, and given her peace.
Are you feeling far from the Lord – empty, weak, and afraid? It’s time to follow close on His heels. – David C. Egner
God, give me the faith of a little child!
A faith that will look to Thee –
That never will falter and never fail,
But follow Thee trustingly. – Showerman
The closer we walk with God, the clearer we see His guidance.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Matthew 4:18-25
Walking by the sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers: Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew, his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. He said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers for men.” They immediately left their nets and followed him.
Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets. He called them. They immediately left the boat and their father, and followed him.
Jesus went about in all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and every sickness among the people. The report about him went out into all Syria. They brought to him all who were sick, afflicted with various diseases and torments, possessed with demons, epileptics, and paralytics; and he healed them.
Great multitudes from Galilee, Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea and from beyond the Jordan followed him.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
Almost 2 years... since I had become a Christian... and tomorrow... or i should say it today.... I will get baptism... but, I feel like I am not really ready yet...
I dont think I am strong enough... or matured enough to follow Jesus Christ... He is so good... giving me all the stuffs that I want... blessing me so much... which I am not good enough to own them...
I have a feel like wanna apologize to everyone... I am so sorry to them... they have high expectation on me... helping me here and there... yet I am so naughty to play around... I didnt achieve their expectation... really sorry for this....
Maybe is because I am too fine enough... God is too good to me... but I didnt appreaciate it... T,T ... Dad... I miss you... where are you.... i want your arms... T,T .... pls be with me... I need You... You are my everything... let me feel that you are here...
How to follow you? i may did something bad... but please dont let me alone... help me to walk with you... I need some time to catch up your steps... today onwards... I want to become someone who can be use to glorify your name! whatever I did, I want it to be nice for you and people... just to pleases you and holify myself for your usage... Dad, I need you... Help me!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Failing Memory
Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things, and revive me in Your way. – Psalm 119:37
A New York Times article linked the increase of computer storage with the decrease of data in the human brain. Our electronic aids now remember phones numbers, driving directions, and other information we used to learn by repeated use. In schools, memorization and oral recitation are disappearing from the curriculum. We have become, according to the Times, “product of a culture that does not enforce the development of memory skills.”
Yet never have was as followers of Christ been in greater need of hiding God’s Word in our hearts (Ps. 119:9-11). Scripture memory is more than a helpful mental exercise. The goal is to saturate our minds with God’s truth so that our lives will conform to His ways. The psalmist wrote: “Teach me, O Lord, the way of Your statutes, and I shall keep it to the end… Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things, and revive me in Your way” (Ps. 119:33,37).
Why not begin committing Scripture to memory? Daily consistency and review are keys to success. And just like physical exercise, this spiritual discipline is enhanced when done with a small group or with a friend.
Let’s not forget to remember and follow the life-giving wisdom of God’s Word. – David C. McCasland
God’s Word will change your life
If you will do your part
To read, to study, and obey,
And hide it in your heart. – Sper
Let the Bible fill your mind, rule your heart, and guide your life.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Psalm 119:33-40
Teach me, Yahweh, the way of your statutes. I will keep them to the end. Give me understanding, and I will keep your law. Yes, I will obey it with my whole heart. Direct me in the path of your commandments, For I delight in them.
Turn my heart toward your statutes, Not toward selfish gain. Turn my eyes away from looking at worthless things. Revive me in your ways. Fulfill your promise to your servant, That you may be feared.
Take away my disgrace that I dread, For your ordinances are good. Behold, I long for your precepts! Revive me in your righteousness.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
yea... i almost had forget how much Jesus had suffered for me 2000 years ago... I always thank God for given me a good memory... which i can memorize things easily... but now, i have to apologize for not using good of it...
may God forgive me... i will be baptist this coming saturday night... however, the god-parents which i chosen have trouble and cant attend... two among three... i started wondering is it God's plan for not letting me to baptist now? or the one i choose is not suitable?... anyway, my God-parents now is Pastor Grace, Joanne, and Edwin... three of them... 2 is my leader in cell group, and another is our youth pastor... :P
i do let God work now.... if this is not the person he prefer for me, I know He will change it... who let the goat go out from him, he will be leading them in front... and i am thinking now, who is my earthly leader... beside Father in heaven?...
Dad, I know you are in your work... this morning I almost get crash by car... but you had protected me well.... I got no harm... thank you... and now, I do waiting for your preparation... You will always surprise me... I am waiting for You... :)
A New York Times article linked the increase of computer storage with the decrease of data in the human brain. Our electronic aids now remember phones numbers, driving directions, and other information we used to learn by repeated use. In schools, memorization and oral recitation are disappearing from the curriculum. We have become, according to the Times, “product of a culture that does not enforce the development of memory skills.”
Yet never have was as followers of Christ been in greater need of hiding God’s Word in our hearts (Ps. 119:9-11). Scripture memory is more than a helpful mental exercise. The goal is to saturate our minds with God’s truth so that our lives will conform to His ways. The psalmist wrote: “Teach me, O Lord, the way of Your statutes, and I shall keep it to the end… Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things, and revive me in Your way” (Ps. 119:33,37).
Why not begin committing Scripture to memory? Daily consistency and review are keys to success. And just like physical exercise, this spiritual discipline is enhanced when done with a small group or with a friend.
Let’s not forget to remember and follow the life-giving wisdom of God’s Word. – David C. McCasland
God’s Word will change your life
If you will do your part
To read, to study, and obey,
And hide it in your heart. – Sper
Let the Bible fill your mind, rule your heart, and guide your life.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Psalm 119:33-40
Teach me, Yahweh, the way of your statutes. I will keep them to the end. Give me understanding, and I will keep your law. Yes, I will obey it with my whole heart. Direct me in the path of your commandments, For I delight in them.
Turn my heart toward your statutes, Not toward selfish gain. Turn my eyes away from looking at worthless things. Revive me in your ways. Fulfill your promise to your servant, That you may be feared.
Take away my disgrace that I dread, For your ordinances are good. Behold, I long for your precepts! Revive me in your righteousness.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
yea... i almost had forget how much Jesus had suffered for me 2000 years ago... I always thank God for given me a good memory... which i can memorize things easily... but now, i have to apologize for not using good of it...
may God forgive me... i will be baptist this coming saturday night... however, the god-parents which i chosen have trouble and cant attend... two among three... i started wondering is it God's plan for not letting me to baptist now? or the one i choose is not suitable?... anyway, my God-parents now is Pastor Grace, Joanne, and Edwin... three of them... 2 is my leader in cell group, and another is our youth pastor... :P
i do let God work now.... if this is not the person he prefer for me, I know He will change it... who let the goat go out from him, he will be leading them in front... and i am thinking now, who is my earthly leader... beside Father in heaven?...
Dad, I know you are in your work... this morning I almost get crash by car... but you had protected me well.... I got no harm... thank you... and now, I do waiting for your preparation... You will always surprise me... I am waiting for You... :)
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
How To Help Those Who Hurt
Now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love. – 1 Corinthians 13:13
When I have asked suffering people, “Who helped you?” not one person has mentioned a PhD from a prestigious seminary or a famous philosopher. All of us have the same capacity to help those who hurt.
No one can package or bottle the “appropriate” response to suffering. If you go to the suffers themselves, some will recall a friend who cheerily helped distract them from their illness. Others think such an approach insulting. Some want honest, straightforward talk; others find such discussion unbearably depressing.
There is no magic cure for a person in pain. Mainly, such a person needs love, for love instinctively detects what is needed. Jean Vanier, who founded the L’Arche movement for the developmentally disabled, says: “Wounded people who have been broken by suffering and sickness ask for only one thing: a heart that loves and commits itself to them, a heart full of hope for them.”
Such a love may be painful for us. Bt real love, the apostle Paul reminds us, “Bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1 Cor. 13:7).
As is so often His pattern, God uses very ordinary people to bring about His healing. Those who suffer don’t need our knowledge and wisdom, they need our love. – Philip Yancey
O brother man, fold to thy heart thy brother!
Where pity dwells, the peace of God is there,
Each smile a hymn, each kindly deed a prayer. – Whittier
They do not truly love who do not show their love. – Shakespeare
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
1 Corinthians 13
If I speak with the languages of men and of angels, but don't have love, I have become sounding brass, or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but don't have love, I am nothing. If I dole out all my goods to feed the poor, and if I give my body to be burned, but don't have love, it profits me nothing.
Love is patient and is kind; love doesn't envy. Love doesn't brag, is not proud, doesn't behave itself inappropriately, doesn't seek its own way, is not provoked, takes no account of evil; doesn't rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will be done away with. Where there are various languages, they will cease. Where there is knowledge, it will be done away with. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part; but when that which is complete has come, then that which is partial will be done away with.
When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I felt as a child, I thought as a child. Now that I have become a man, I have put away childish things. For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face.
Now I know in part, but then I will know fully, even as I was also fully known. But now faith, hope, and love remain--these three. The greatest of these is love.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
When I have asked suffering people, “Who helped you?” not one person has mentioned a PhD from a prestigious seminary or a famous philosopher. All of us have the same capacity to help those who hurt.
No one can package or bottle the “appropriate” response to suffering. If you go to the suffers themselves, some will recall a friend who cheerily helped distract them from their illness. Others think such an approach insulting. Some want honest, straightforward talk; others find such discussion unbearably depressing.
There is no magic cure for a person in pain. Mainly, such a person needs love, for love instinctively detects what is needed. Jean Vanier, who founded the L’Arche movement for the developmentally disabled, says: “Wounded people who have been broken by suffering and sickness ask for only one thing: a heart that loves and commits itself to them, a heart full of hope for them.”
Such a love may be painful for us. Bt real love, the apostle Paul reminds us, “Bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1 Cor. 13:7).
As is so often His pattern, God uses very ordinary people to bring about His healing. Those who suffer don’t need our knowledge and wisdom, they need our love. – Philip Yancey
O brother man, fold to thy heart thy brother!
Where pity dwells, the peace of God is there,
Each smile a hymn, each kindly deed a prayer. – Whittier
They do not truly love who do not show their love. – Shakespeare
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
1 Corinthians 13
If I speak with the languages of men and of angels, but don't have love, I have become sounding brass, or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but don't have love, I am nothing. If I dole out all my goods to feed the poor, and if I give my body to be burned, but don't have love, it profits me nothing.
Love is patient and is kind; love doesn't envy. Love doesn't brag, is not proud, doesn't behave itself inappropriately, doesn't seek its own way, is not provoked, takes no account of evil; doesn't rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will be done away with. Where there are various languages, they will cease. Where there is knowledge, it will be done away with. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part; but when that which is complete has come, then that which is partial will be done away with.
When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I felt as a child, I thought as a child. Now that I have become a man, I have put away childish things. For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face.
Now I know in part, but then I will know fully, even as I was also fully known. But now faith, hope, and love remain--these three. The greatest of these is love.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
Monday, October 19, 2009
Retirement Time
Whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. – Matthew 16:25
After working for 40 years as a teacher, Jane Hanson retired. She and her husband were looking forward to the arrival of their first grandchild.
Retirement is that time of life when many people simply relax, travel, or enjoy hobbies. But Jane heard about a ministry to at-risk youth in a city near her home, and she knew she had to get involved. “I realized there are kids just waiting, and I could make a difference,” she said. She began teaching English to a young Liberian man who had been forced to flee his home country because of civil war. Though he was in a safe environment, he didn’t understand the new language. Of this ministry opportunity, Jane said with a smile, “I could just go shopping to stay busy, but what fun would that be?”
Jane is making a difference. Perhaps she has learned a little of what Jesus meant when He said, “Whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it” (Matt. 16:25). Giving ourselves to the Lord through helping others takes self-denial, yet one day Jesus will reward that effort (v.27).
Let’s follow Jane’s example of love for God and others – no matter what our stage of life may be. 16:24-28
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If anyone desires to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, and whoever lose his life for my sake will find it.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
Retire? do nothing... or whatever desired... :P
Actually for me, I am still young, but I think I also have this experience soon... or even now... which is my post in clubs... :) I am a last year student in high school... therefore, no matter how many post I did hold, it is time to let go... however, I still can go back and help some... erm... like cheerleading... which is for next year... teacher wanted me to go back for leading... :P
Leaving the school soon... feel like something left there... anyway, I had my 7 years there since 13 years old for form 1... of course I will have a memory and record there... and I think the teachers will remember me for not passing up homeworks... :P
I am still at a stage of end spring and early summer... there is still alot of experiences waiting for me... but I had experiences retirement time... :P
After working for 40 years as a teacher, Jane Hanson retired. She and her husband were looking forward to the arrival of their first grandchild.
Retirement is that time of life when many people simply relax, travel, or enjoy hobbies. But Jane heard about a ministry to at-risk youth in a city near her home, and she knew she had to get involved. “I realized there are kids just waiting, and I could make a difference,” she said. She began teaching English to a young Liberian man who had been forced to flee his home country because of civil war. Though he was in a safe environment, he didn’t understand the new language. Of this ministry opportunity, Jane said with a smile, “I could just go shopping to stay busy, but what fun would that be?”
Jane is making a difference. Perhaps she has learned a little of what Jesus meant when He said, “Whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it” (Matt. 16:25). Giving ourselves to the Lord through helping others takes self-denial, yet one day Jesus will reward that effort (v.27).
Let’s follow Jane’s example of love for God and others – no matter what our stage of life may be. 16:24-28
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If anyone desires to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, and whoever lose his life for my sake will find it.
For what will it profit a man, if the gains the whole world, and forfeits his life? Or what will a man give in exchange for his life? For the Son of Man will come in the glory of his Father with his angels, and then he will render to everyone according to his deeds.
Most assuredly I tell you, there are some standing here who will in way taste of death, until they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom.– Anne Cetas
Oh, let us be faithful to Jesus,
The faith we confessed let’s renew,
And ask Him this question each morning:
“Lord, what will You have me to do?” – Pangborn
Working for the Lord – His retirement plan is out of this world.
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Matthew 16:24-28
Oh, let us be faithful to Jesus,
The faith we confessed let’s renew,
And ask Him this question each morning:
“Lord, what will You have me to do?” – Pangborn
Working for the Lord – His retirement plan is out of this world.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Matthew 16:24-28
Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone desires to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, and whoever will lose his life for my sake will find it.
For what will it profit a man, if he gains the whole world, and forfeits his life? Or what will a man give in exchange for his life? For the Son of Man will come in the glory of his Father with his angels, and then he will render to everyone according to his deeds.
Most assuredly I tell you, there are some standing here who will in no way taste of death, until they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom."
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Retire? do nothing... or whatever desired... :P
Actually for me, I am still young, but I think I also have this experience soon... or even now... which is my post in clubs... :) I am a last year student in high school... therefore, no matter how many post I did hold, it is time to let go... however, I still can go back and help some... erm... like cheerleading... which is for next year... teacher wanted me to go back for leading... :P
Leaving the school soon... feel like something left there... anyway, I had my 7 years there since 13 years old for form 1... of course I will have a memory and record there... and I think the teachers will remember me for not passing up homeworks... :P
I am still at a stage of end spring and early summer... there is still alot of experiences waiting for me... but I had experiences retirement time... :P
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Teach Your Children Well
You shall teach [God’s Word] to your children… when you sit in your way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. – Deut. 11:19
The Sleeping Beauty Waltz, the 1812 Overture, and The Nutcracker Suite were all part of the music of my childhood.
Sometimes a narrator told stories or – as in the case of Tubby the Tuba and Peter and the wolf – introduced my sisters and me to the sounds of different instruments. In their desire to pass on their love for music, my parents used this method as a teaching tool. It worked! Weaving the classic tales with classical tunes made a powerful impact on us.
When an adult wants to impart important information to a child, it’s often best related in a story because it is more easily understood and enjoyed. Telling children the stories in God’s Word is especially crucial because the Bible’s enduring truth can shape character and show consequences of actions (1. Cor. 10:11). Tiny seeds of faith can be cultivated in fertile soil and help children to see how God has worked in the lives of His followers throughout history. Bible stories also show how God is intimately involved in our lives.
What we have seen God do for us and what He has done for His people throughout history must be passed on to the next generation (Deut. 11:1-21). Their future depends on it. Teach your children well. – Cindy Hess Kasper
Tell me the story of Jesus,
Write on my heart every word;
Tell me the story most precious,
Sweetest that ever was heard! – Crosby
The character of your children tomorrow depends on what you put into their hearts today.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Deuteronomy 11:13-21
It shall happen, if you shall listen diligently to my commandments which I command you this day, to love Yahweh your God, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul, that I will give the rain of your land in its season, the former rain and the latter rain, that you may gather in your grain, and your new wine, and your oil. I will give grass in your fields for your cattle, and you shall eat and be full.
Take heed to yourselves, lest your heart be deceived, and you turn aside, and serve other gods, and worship them; and the anger of Yahweh be kindled against you, and he shut up the sky, so that there shall be no rain, and the land shall not yield its fruit; and you perish quickly from off the good land which Yahweh gives you.
Therefore shall you lay up these my words in your heart and in your soul; and you shall bind them for a sign on your hand, and they shall be for symbols between your eyes. You shall teach them your children, talking of them, when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise up.
You shall write them on the door-post of your house, and on your gates; that your days may be multiplied, and the days of your children, in the land which Yahweh swore to your fathers to give them, as the days of the heavens above the earth.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
I have no child... but i think i can apply this to kids... which today the church will have an activity for family... and i can join the kids.... :P like i am still young... :P
erm... however, i quiet worry about this... i dont have a good pressure... may God help me later if any of those kids need to be teach, pls let me calm down... and talk to them properly... no use to shout and scold them... they will cry more loud and also do not show a good example to them...
Father! I need you.... for everything... and also pray for the whether today... and safety for everyone... either kids or parents... and help the helpers to arrange the games properly so that kids may have fun and have a happy memory in the future... thanks God for everything which supplied... and all those leaders who had spent time on this activity... Father Lord, pls bless them!
The Sleeping Beauty Waltz, the 1812 Overture, and The Nutcracker Suite were all part of the music of my childhood.
Sometimes a narrator told stories or – as in the case of Tubby the Tuba and Peter and the wolf – introduced my sisters and me to the sounds of different instruments. In their desire to pass on their love for music, my parents used this method as a teaching tool. It worked! Weaving the classic tales with classical tunes made a powerful impact on us.
When an adult wants to impart important information to a child, it’s often best related in a story because it is more easily understood and enjoyed. Telling children the stories in God’s Word is especially crucial because the Bible’s enduring truth can shape character and show consequences of actions (1. Cor. 10:11). Tiny seeds of faith can be cultivated in fertile soil and help children to see how God has worked in the lives of His followers throughout history. Bible stories also show how God is intimately involved in our lives.
What we have seen God do for us and what He has done for His people throughout history must be passed on to the next generation (Deut. 11:1-21). Their future depends on it. Teach your children well. – Cindy Hess Kasper
Tell me the story of Jesus,
Write on my heart every word;
Tell me the story most precious,
Sweetest that ever was heard! – Crosby
The character of your children tomorrow depends on what you put into their hearts today.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Deuteronomy 11:13-21
It shall happen, if you shall listen diligently to my commandments which I command you this day, to love Yahweh your God, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul, that I will give the rain of your land in its season, the former rain and the latter rain, that you may gather in your grain, and your new wine, and your oil. I will give grass in your fields for your cattle, and you shall eat and be full.
Take heed to yourselves, lest your heart be deceived, and you turn aside, and serve other gods, and worship them; and the anger of Yahweh be kindled against you, and he shut up the sky, so that there shall be no rain, and the land shall not yield its fruit; and you perish quickly from off the good land which Yahweh gives you.
Therefore shall you lay up these my words in your heart and in your soul; and you shall bind them for a sign on your hand, and they shall be for symbols between your eyes. You shall teach them your children, talking of them, when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise up.
You shall write them on the door-post of your house, and on your gates; that your days may be multiplied, and the days of your children, in the land which Yahweh swore to your fathers to give them, as the days of the heavens above the earth.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
I have no child... but i think i can apply this to kids... which today the church will have an activity for family... and i can join the kids.... :P like i am still young... :P
erm... however, i quiet worry about this... i dont have a good pressure... may God help me later if any of those kids need to be teach, pls let me calm down... and talk to them properly... no use to shout and scold them... they will cry more loud and also do not show a good example to them...
Father! I need you.... for everything... and also pray for the whether today... and safety for everyone... either kids or parents... and help the helpers to arrange the games properly so that kids may have fun and have a happy memory in the future... thanks God for everything which supplied... and all those leaders who had spent time on this activity... Father Lord, pls bless them!
Saturday, October 17, 2009
On Shoulders Of Giants
As I was with Moses, so I will be with you. – Joshua 1:5
Giants hold a special place in our lore – both historical and literary. From the real giant Goliath to the fictional giant of Jack and the Beanstalk fame, we are fascinated by these larger-than-life characters.
Sometimes we use the word giant to honor ordinary-size people who have done extraordinary things. One example is the 17th-century physicist Sir Isaac Newton. A committed Christian, he credited his success to other “giants” who had gone before. “If I have seen a little further,” he said, “it is by standing one the shoulders of giants.” Indeed, Newton became a giant on whose shoulders later scientist stood – even as they used his observations in the conquest of space flight.
When God commanded Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, Joshua certainly had a giant’s shoulders to stand on. He had watched Moses’ leadership for 40 years, and now he would put what he had learned into action.
Joshua had another advantage – his walk with God sustained his life’s mission. Therefore, he had both Moses’ example and God’s promised presence as he led Israel.
Looking for help as you face the future? Look for a giant to follow. And never underestimate the importance of your walk with God. – Dennis Fisher
There is a destiny that makes us brothers:
None goes his way alone;
All that we send into the lives of others
Comes back into our own. – Markham
A good example is someone who know the way, goes the way, and shows the way.
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Joshua 1:1-9
Now it happened after the death of Moses the servant of Yahweh, that Yahweh spoke to Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ minister, saying, Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, you, and all this people, to the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel.
Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread on, to you have I given it, as I spoke to Moses. From the wilderness, and this Lebanon, even to the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and to the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your border.
There shall not any man be able to stand before you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will not fail you, nor forsake you. Be strong and of good courage; for you shal cause this people to inherit the land which I swore to their fathers to give them.
Only be strong and very courageous, to observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded you: don’t turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go.
This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate thereon day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall have good success.
Haven’t I commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; don’t be afraid neither be dismayed: for Yahweh your God is with you wherever you go.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...yeah... Father Lord is my giant... which i can sit on His shoulder... and look further... maybe if i depends on someone else... the person may gone... but if i look forward to God, i know He will never ever leave me alone...
be strong and of good courage... this is the message that i got today... when i have a giant support, what else i need to scared of? nothing! and i think it is time for me to really think about my study... which i had leave it a period...
no matter what happen in the future... i know God will still prepare me whatever i need... no one else can have this for me... it may seems like difficult and hard... but i know God is be with me... as He was with Moses and Joshua...
Friday, October 16, 2009
The Defeat Of Death
Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. – 1 Corinthians 15:57
Christian faith ought to make a difference in how we live from day to day. But the final test of our trust in the gospel is how we react in the face of death. When we attend a memorial service for a departed friend who loved the Lord Jesus, we gather to honor a believer whose stalwart trust has richly blessed the lies of those who knew him. The words spoken are more an expression of praise to God than a tribute to an admired fellow pilgrim. The service is a God-glorifying testimony to our Savior’s victory over death and the grave ( 1 Cor. 15:54-57).
How different from the funeral service of Charles Bradlaugh, a belligerent British atheist. Writer Arthur Porritt recalls: “No prayer was said at the grave. Indeed, not a single ward was uttered. The remains, placed in a light coffin, were lowered into the earth in a quiet unceremonious fashion as if carrion were being hustled our of sight… I came away heart-frozen. It only then dawned on me that loss of faith in the continuity of human personality after death gives death an appalling victory.
Christians, however, believe in a face-to-face fellowship with our Lord after death and the eventual resurrection of our bodies (1 Cor. 15:42-55; 1 Thess. 4:15-18). Does your faith rejoice in victory over death? – Vernon C. Grounds
From earth’s wide bounds and oceans’s farthest coast,
Through gates of pearl stream in the countless host,
Singing to Father, Son, and Holy Ghost – Alleluia! Alleluia! – How
Because Christ is alive, we too shall live.
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1 Thess. 4: 15-18
For this we tell you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left to the coming of the Lord, will in no way precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with God’s trumpet.
The dead in Christ will rise first, then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air. So we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore comfort one another with these words.
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Death is like how... i dunno... but will my death bring any affection to other? not sure... I would like to have someone to be care for me... but i dont want these people be sad for me...
when the day come... i think i will let it be whatever it is... while i have no way to change it either better or worst... maybe the most nervous part is when facing to God... Hard to believe... but it is true...
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Conflict Resolution
I implore Euodia and I implore Syntyche to be the same mind in the Lord. – Philippians 4:2
Today is observed in many countries as International Conflict Resolution Day. Its purpose is to encourage people to use mediation and arbitration rather than the legal system to settle their differences. Because we as followers of Christ are not immune to conflict, we need to learn how to resolve our disagreements in ways that honor the Lord.
It has been said that “church fights are the worst fights,” perhaps because they break out among people who profess to believe in unity and love. Many Christians have been so hurt by a fellow believer that they walk away from the church and never return.
Euodia and Syntyche are mentioned by name in the Bible and urged to resolve their differences: “Be of the same mind in the Lord” (Phil. 4:2). Instead of leaving them alone to settle their dispute, Paul appealed to a trusted fellow worker to “help these women who labored with me in the gospel” (v.3). In this same context, Paul urged the Philippians to bring their requests to God, nothing that prayer brings the peace of God (v.7) and a sense of His abiding presence (v.9).
Fractured relationships in a Christian community are a community responsibility. In the midst of hurts and differences, we can encourage, listen, and pray. – David C. McCasland
Forgiveness is the glue that repairs broken relationships.
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Philippians 4:1-9
Therefore, my brothers, beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand firm in the Lord, my beloved. I exhort Euodia, and I exhort Syntyche, to think the same way in the Lord. Yes, I beg you so, true yoke-fellow, help these women, for they labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.
Rejoice in the Lord always! Again I will say, Rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honorable, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are good report; if there is any virtue, and if there is any praise, think about these things.
The things which you learned, received, heard, and saw in me: do these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
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Kinda right... it is the lesson I am having now... since last year... when there is a competition, i will love to get a good result... but, my experience tell me now, they are not looking for good or bad... but how special you are... sometimes it may be the one u think is worst who got 1st...
and now... STPM is just around the corner... nervous... and wanna try to avoid it... i know it is not the right way... but i just let it be... T,T ... have no idea what to do now... the future is blur... no direction, no where to be...
i know i should come back... back to Father's arms... after cried, face to study... it is my responsible to get a good result... in order to use it to glorify Him... Dad... help me... maybe i need some impact... for me to jump up and go on study... i never forget my aim for this year... 4 flat and band 6... thats my target... the highest for Him...
Today is observed in many countries as International Conflict Resolution Day. Its purpose is to encourage people to use mediation and arbitration rather than the legal system to settle their differences. Because we as followers of Christ are not immune to conflict, we need to learn how to resolve our disagreements in ways that honor the Lord.
It has been said that “church fights are the worst fights,” perhaps because they break out among people who profess to believe in unity and love. Many Christians have been so hurt by a fellow believer that they walk away from the church and never return.
Euodia and Syntyche are mentioned by name in the Bible and urged to resolve their differences: “Be of the same mind in the Lord” (Phil. 4:2). Instead of leaving them alone to settle their dispute, Paul appealed to a trusted fellow worker to “help these women who labored with me in the gospel” (v.3). In this same context, Paul urged the Philippians to bring their requests to God, nothing that prayer brings the peace of God (v.7) and a sense of His abiding presence (v.9).
Fractured relationships in a Christian community are a community responsibility. In the midst of hurts and differences, we can encourage, listen, and pray. – David C. McCasland
Forgiveness is the glue that repairs broken relationships.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Philippians 4:1-9
Therefore, my brothers, beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand firm in the Lord, my beloved. I exhort Euodia, and I exhort Syntyche, to think the same way in the Lord. Yes, I beg you so, true yoke-fellow, help these women, for they labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.
Rejoice in the Lord always! Again I will say, Rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honorable, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are good report; if there is any virtue, and if there is any praise, think about these things.
The things which you learned, received, heard, and saw in me: do these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
Kinda right... it is the lesson I am having now... since last year... when there is a competition, i will love to get a good result... but, my experience tell me now, they are not looking for good or bad... but how special you are... sometimes it may be the one u think is worst who got 1st...
and now... STPM is just around the corner... nervous... and wanna try to avoid it... i know it is not the right way... but i just let it be... T,T ... have no idea what to do now... the future is blur... no direction, no where to be...
i know i should come back... back to Father's arms... after cried, face to study... it is my responsible to get a good result... in order to use it to glorify Him... Dad... help me... maybe i need some impact... for me to jump up and go on study... i never forget my aim for this year... 4 flat and band 6... thats my target... the highest for Him...
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Be still
Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth! – Psalm 46:10
As I sat in the dentist’ chair, I braced myself for the drilling that would begin my root canal. I was ready for the worst, and my body language and facial expression exposed my sense of dread. The dentist looked at me and smiled, saying, “It’s okay, Bill. Try to relax.”
That isn’t easy to do. It is actually very difficult to try (requiring effort and exertion) to relax (requiting an absence of effort and exertion). Try and relax just don’t seem to fit together – not only in the dentist’s chair, but in the spiritual realm as well.
Far too often I don’t limit my efforts of resistance to visits at the dentist’s office. In my relationship with Christ, I find myself not pressing for God’s purpose but for my own interests. In those moments, the hardest thing for me to do is “try to relax” and genuinely trust God for the outcome of life’s trials.
In Psalm 46:10, we read, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” In the moments when my heart is anxious, this verse reminds me to “be still, and know.” Now, if I can only put that into practice and rest confidently in His care, I’ll be at peace. – Bill Crowder
Lord, we know that true rest can be found only in You.
Help us to end our striving and to trust that You will provide.
In Your loving arms we find rest. Amen.
God knows the future, so we are safe in His hands.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Psalms 46
God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we won’t be afraid, though the earth changes, Though the mountains are shaken into the heart of the seas; Though the waters of it roar and are troubled, Though the mountains tremble with their swelling. Selah.
There is a river, the streams of which make the city of God glad, The holy place of the tents of the Most High. God is in her midst. She shall not be moved. God will help her at dawn. The nations raged. The kingdoms were moved. He lifted his voice, and the earth melted. Yahweh of Hosts is with us. The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.
Come, see Yahweh’s works, What desolations he has made in the earth. He makes wars cease to the end of the earth. He breaks the bow, and shatters the spear. He burns the chariots in the fire. “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted in the earth.” Yahweh of Hosts is with us. The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
Hide me now Under your wings
Cover me within your mighty hand
When the oceans rise and thunders roar
I will soar with you above the storm
Father you are king over the flood
I will be still and know you are God
Find rest my soul In Christ alone
Know his power In quietness and trust - Still, Hillsong
I woke up this morning with a dream... which my next block was on fire... erm... after get inform, i quickly pack my clothes... and speak in tongue while moving around... usually the next block won't that easy get on fire, however, just stand by for the worst... Meanwhile, there is a man in house, which I called him "dad"... He was so calm... as is like it is not our business...
When I recall it now, I think that it is God who protecting me all the time... He just want to tell me "Be still, and know I am God"... He is in charge of everything and these earthly stuffs is only a mere percent...
I also wonder, how come I cannot totally rely on God? I should just sit down and pray! no matter for my own or those house who on fire... God is listen to prayers... it is the power He gave us... well, I think maybe it is my true and real reaction when there is nothing else to look at...
Something wrong... well... forget about it! I just want to thank God now... which He gave me a dream to experience Him... when my days is quiet boring, didn't go out any where to do something for Him... what more to experience Him?
As I sat in the dentist’ chair, I braced myself for the drilling that would begin my root canal. I was ready for the worst, and my body language and facial expression exposed my sense of dread. The dentist looked at me and smiled, saying, “It’s okay, Bill. Try to relax.”
That isn’t easy to do. It is actually very difficult to try (requiring effort and exertion) to relax (requiting an absence of effort and exertion). Try and relax just don’t seem to fit together – not only in the dentist’s chair, but in the spiritual realm as well.
Far too often I don’t limit my efforts of resistance to visits at the dentist’s office. In my relationship with Christ, I find myself not pressing for God’s purpose but for my own interests. In those moments, the hardest thing for me to do is “try to relax” and genuinely trust God for the outcome of life’s trials.
In Psalm 46:10, we read, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” In the moments when my heart is anxious, this verse reminds me to “be still, and know.” Now, if I can only put that into practice and rest confidently in His care, I’ll be at peace. – Bill Crowder
Lord, we know that true rest can be found only in You.
Help us to end our striving and to trust that You will provide.
In Your loving arms we find rest. Amen.
God knows the future, so we are safe in His hands.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Psalms 46
God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we won’t be afraid, though the earth changes, Though the mountains are shaken into the heart of the seas; Though the waters of it roar and are troubled, Though the mountains tremble with their swelling. Selah.
There is a river, the streams of which make the city of God glad, The holy place of the tents of the Most High. God is in her midst. She shall not be moved. God will help her at dawn. The nations raged. The kingdoms were moved. He lifted his voice, and the earth melted. Yahweh of Hosts is with us. The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.
Come, see Yahweh’s works, What desolations he has made in the earth. He makes wars cease to the end of the earth. He breaks the bow, and shatters the spear. He burns the chariots in the fire. “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted in the earth.” Yahweh of Hosts is with us. The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
Hide me now Under your wings
Cover me within your mighty hand
When the oceans rise and thunders roar
I will soar with you above the storm
Father you are king over the flood
I will be still and know you are God
Find rest my soul In Christ alone
Know his power In quietness and trust - Still, Hillsong
I woke up this morning with a dream... which my next block was on fire... erm... after get inform, i quickly pack my clothes... and speak in tongue while moving around... usually the next block won't that easy get on fire, however, just stand by for the worst... Meanwhile, there is a man in house, which I called him "dad"... He was so calm... as is like it is not our business...
When I recall it now, I think that it is God who protecting me all the time... He just want to tell me "Be still, and know I am God"... He is in charge of everything and these earthly stuffs is only a mere percent...
I also wonder, how come I cannot totally rely on God? I should just sit down and pray! no matter for my own or those house who on fire... God is listen to prayers... it is the power He gave us... well, I think maybe it is my true and real reaction when there is nothing else to look at...
Something wrong... well... forget about it! I just want to thank God now... which He gave me a dream to experience Him... when my days is quiet boring, didn't go out any where to do something for Him... what more to experience Him?
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Olympic Extravaganza
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. – Matthew 5:16
The opening ceremony of the Beijing Summer Olympics on August 8, 2008, impressed the world. I saw it on TV as more than 90,000 people watched it live in the Bird’s Nest Stadium in Beijing. It was inspiring to hear about China’s 5,000 years of history and the inventions she had contributed to the world: paper-making, movable-type printing, the compass, and fireworks.
The Queen of Sheba was greatly impressed by what she saw during her visit with Solomon (1 Kings 10:4-5). The sights of Jerusalem so overwhelmed her that she exclaimed, “The half was not told me” (v.7). Above all, she was convinced that the subjects of Solomon were happy because they continually stood before him and heard is wisdom (v.8). She concluded by praising Solomon’s Lord for making him king so he would “do justice and righteousness” (v.9).
Solomon’s impact on his people made me wonder about our contribution to the world. We’re not concerned about impressing others with our possessions or abilities, but we all should want to make a difference in the lives of people. What if there was one thing each of us did today that caused people to praise the Lord? – C. P. Hia
This is the wish I always wish,
The prayer I always pray:
Lord, may my life help others
It touches on the way. – Anon
Christians are windows through which Jesus can shine.
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1 Kings 10:4-10
When the queen of Sheba had seen all the wisdom of Solomon, and the house that he had built, and the food of his table, and the sitting of his servants, and the attendance of his ministers, and their clothing, and his cup bearers, and his ascent by which he went up to the house of Yahweh; there was no more spirit in her.
She said to the king, It was a true report that I heard in my own land of your acts, and of your wisdom. However I didn’t believe the words, until I came, and me eyes had seen it: and, behold, the half was not told me; your wisdom and prosperity exceed the fame which I heard.
Happy are your men, happy are these your servants, who stand continually before you, [and] who hear your wisdom. Blessed be Yahweh your God, who delighted in you, to set you on the throne of Israel: because Yahweh loved Israel forever, therefore made he you king, to do justice and righteousness.
She gave the king one hundred twenty talents of gold, and of spices very great store, and precious stones: there came no more such abundance of spices as these which the queen of Sheba gave to king Solomon.
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Erm... kinda sad of this... I seems like never done anything good for my Lord... :(
Yeah... I got my salvation last year... it had been one year plus of becoming a Christian... but I seems like never did something to God... erm... well, if those small and little stuffs counted, then I too did something... ;p
For example like help do the power point for the worship, help on Christian fellowship's Club's T-shirt design... and o ya! i had contribte myself for every youth gathering on Saturday which I stand for one of the number among them... :P
If like something on study... I guess I had once... which I really did a prayer... and I got a better result in examination... and I won a glass of milk tea pearl! :P haha... I bet with my friend, if anyone got a better result, another person have to spend drink... :P After that I borrow my friend a book of prayer for exam/study...
I also got the first place for General Bible Knowledge Examination... erm... well, that makes me have some extra marks for my co-cum result... :P thanks God for that!
All I did is not something which really big matter... but I think these small stuffs can make God happy too... :P and also glorify my Lord's name highly... as I can contribute something... (If all these counted as "Contribution" lar... )
Monday, October 12, 2009
Details, Details
In everything give thanks. – 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Details make a difference. Ask the man from Germany who planned to visit his fiancée for Christmas but ended up in snowy Sidney, Montana, instead of Sunny Sydney, Australia.
Prepositions in our language seem like insignificant details, but they can make a big difference. The words “in” and “for” are an example.
The apostle Paul wrote, “In everything give thanks” (1 Thess. 5:18). That doesn’t mean we have to be thankful for everything. We need not be thankful for the bad choices someone makes, but we can be thankful in the circumstances because the Lord can use the resulting difficulties for good.
The letter to Philemon illustrates this idea. Paul was imprisoned with Onesimus, a runaway slave. He certainly didn’t have to give thanks for his bad situation. Yet his letter is full of gratitude because he knew that God was using it for good. Onesimus had become something more than a slave; he was now a beloved brother in the Lord (v.16).
Knowing that God can use all things for good is more than enough reason to give thanks in everything. Giving thanks in difficult circumstances is a small detail that makes a big difference. – Julie Ackerman Link
Father, thank You that in every trial, challenge, and difficulty,
You are behind the scenes working things out for our good.
Help us to see Your hand in everything. Amen.
God has not promised to keep us from life’s storms, but He will keep us through them.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Philemon 1:4-16
I thank my God always, making mention of you in my prayers, hearing of your love, and of the faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all the saints; that the fellowship of your faith may become effective, in the knowledge of every good thing which is in us in Christ Jesus. For we have much joy and comfort in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother.
Therefore, though I have all boldness in Christ to command you that which is appropriate, yet for love’s sake I rather beg, being such a one as Paul, the aged, but also a prisoner of Jesus Christ. I beg you for my child, whom I have become a father of in my chains, Onesimus, who once was useless to you, but now is useful to you and to me.
I am sending him back. Therefore receive him, that is, my own heart, whom I desired to keep with me, that on you behalf he might serve me in my chains for the gospel. But I was willing to do nothing without your consent, that your goodness would not be as of necessity, but of free will.
For perhaps he was therefore separated from you for a while, that you would have him forever, no longer as a slave, but more than a slave, a beloved brother, especially to me, but how much rather to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
This seems like another verse... "Be loyal in small thing, and so for big stuff"... be concern on little matter, and it will bring a big different...
We may not thank a lot of stuff which we think that is worth... but actually for those tiny stuff we should... no big matter without these small small thing...
For Lord is handling everything... why not do our own part and so waiting for a bigger responsible? He knows our weakness, our limit... the situation may seems hard, but sure it can be overcome if it is God's will for us...
Details make a difference. Ask the man from Germany who planned to visit his fiancée for Christmas but ended up in snowy Sidney, Montana, instead of Sunny Sydney, Australia.
Prepositions in our language seem like insignificant details, but they can make a big difference. The words “in” and “for” are an example.
The apostle Paul wrote, “In everything give thanks” (1 Thess. 5:18). That doesn’t mean we have to be thankful for everything. We need not be thankful for the bad choices someone makes, but we can be thankful in the circumstances because the Lord can use the resulting difficulties for good.
The letter to Philemon illustrates this idea. Paul was imprisoned with Onesimus, a runaway slave. He certainly didn’t have to give thanks for his bad situation. Yet his letter is full of gratitude because he knew that God was using it for good. Onesimus had become something more than a slave; he was now a beloved brother in the Lord (v.16).
Knowing that God can use all things for good is more than enough reason to give thanks in everything. Giving thanks in difficult circumstances is a small detail that makes a big difference. – Julie Ackerman Link
Father, thank You that in every trial, challenge, and difficulty,
You are behind the scenes working things out for our good.
Help us to see Your hand in everything. Amen.
God has not promised to keep us from life’s storms, but He will keep us through them.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Philemon 1:4-16
I thank my God always, making mention of you in my prayers, hearing of your love, and of the faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all the saints; that the fellowship of your faith may become effective, in the knowledge of every good thing which is in us in Christ Jesus. For we have much joy and comfort in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother.
Therefore, though I have all boldness in Christ to command you that which is appropriate, yet for love’s sake I rather beg, being such a one as Paul, the aged, but also a prisoner of Jesus Christ. I beg you for my child, whom I have become a father of in my chains, Onesimus, who once was useless to you, but now is useful to you and to me.
I am sending him back. Therefore receive him, that is, my own heart, whom I desired to keep with me, that on you behalf he might serve me in my chains for the gospel. But I was willing to do nothing without your consent, that your goodness would not be as of necessity, but of free will.
For perhaps he was therefore separated from you for a while, that you would have him forever, no longer as a slave, but more than a slave, a beloved brother, especially to me, but how much rather to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
This seems like another verse... "Be loyal in small thing, and so for big stuff"... be concern on little matter, and it will bring a big different...
We may not thank a lot of stuff which we think that is worth... but actually for those tiny stuff we should... no big matter without these small small thing...
For Lord is handling everything... why not do our own part and so waiting for a bigger responsible? He knows our weakness, our limit... the situation may seems hard, but sure it can be overcome if it is God's will for us...
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Go Beyond Reading
As the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness… longsuffering. – Colossians 3:12
Pastor, where are the Our Daily Bread devotionals?” The words come harshly – almost in anger. The latest edition had not yet been placed in the rack outside the church auditorium. This led at least one reader to confront the pastor about their absence. Although it was not his responsibility to distribute the booklets, he felt terrible about the way this parishioner had reprimanded him for not making sure the devotional guides were there on time.
When I heard this, I was struck by the irony of this situation. Devotional booklets are meant to encourage Christian growth and godly grace. And as followers of Christ who read devotional materials, we hope we are moving toward spiritual maturity that leads to “tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering” – qualities Paul says we should “put on” (Col. 3:12).
Our spiritual disciplines – reading God’s Word along with accompanying study or devotional materials, prayer, and worshiping together – should not be ends in themselves. Instead, those actions are means to becoming more Christlike, more godly, more Spirited. Our spiritual practice should lead to having the “Word of Christ dwell in [us] richly” (3:16). That will show in everthing we do and say. – Dave Branon
I want my heart to be in true with God,
In every stage of life may it ring true;
I want my thoughts and words to honor Him,
Exalting Him in everything I do. – Hess
Bible study is not merely to inform us – it’s meant to transform us.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Colossians 3:12-17
Put on therefore, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, humility, and perseverance; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, if any man has a complaint against any; even as Christ forgave you, so you also do.
Above all these things, walk in love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing with grace in you heart to the Lord.
Whatever you do, in word or in deed, do all in the name of Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father, through him.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
It seems like it had become a responsible to read through the devotion material everyday... although we know that we no need to pass up a report to other but God, however, no many people is having beyond reading... means they might read it, but who knows they did pray and act it out or not?
Well, I seems like one of them... just read through... well, will think of what Christ gonna talk to me, what is the topic for today... something new for me to learn or just to remind me of something...
If someone had go through my blog, they might be realize that I used to post the daily bread devotion on my blog... dunno is this count illegal? :p ... however, I had used to stop for months... just don't have the willingness anymore to do it... of course, I didn't have devotion anymore since then... well, now is a return...
Pastor, where are the Our Daily Bread devotionals?” The words come harshly – almost in anger. The latest edition had not yet been placed in the rack outside the church auditorium. This led at least one reader to confront the pastor about their absence. Although it was not his responsibility to distribute the booklets, he felt terrible about the way this parishioner had reprimanded him for not making sure the devotional guides were there on time.
When I heard this, I was struck by the irony of this situation. Devotional booklets are meant to encourage Christian growth and godly grace. And as followers of Christ who read devotional materials, we hope we are moving toward spiritual maturity that leads to “tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering” – qualities Paul says we should “put on” (Col. 3:12).
Our spiritual disciplines – reading God’s Word along with accompanying study or devotional materials, prayer, and worshiping together – should not be ends in themselves. Instead, those actions are means to becoming more Christlike, more godly, more Spirited. Our spiritual practice should lead to having the “Word of Christ dwell in [us] richly” (3:16). That will show in everthing we do and say. – Dave Branon
I want my heart to be in true with God,
In every stage of life may it ring true;
I want my thoughts and words to honor Him,
Exalting Him in everything I do. – Hess
Bible study is not merely to inform us – it’s meant to transform us.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Colossians 3:12-17
Put on therefore, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, humility, and perseverance; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, if any man has a complaint against any; even as Christ forgave you, so you also do.
Above all these things, walk in love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing with grace in you heart to the Lord.
Whatever you do, in word or in deed, do all in the name of Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father, through him.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
It seems like it had become a responsible to read through the devotion material everyday... although we know that we no need to pass up a report to other but God, however, no many people is having beyond reading... means they might read it, but who knows they did pray and act it out or not?
Well, I seems like one of them... just read through... well, will think of what Christ gonna talk to me, what is the topic for today... something new for me to learn or just to remind me of something...
If someone had go through my blog, they might be realize that I used to post the daily bread devotion on my blog... dunno is this count illegal? :p ... however, I had used to stop for months... just don't have the willingness anymore to do it... of course, I didn't have devotion anymore since then... well, now is a return...
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Speaking The Truth
He sent prophets to them… but they would not listen. – 2 Chronicles 24:19
In the novel To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch is a respected small-town lawyer in the segregated South during the 1930s. When he takes on a case that pits an innocent black man against two dishonest white people, Atticus knows he will face terrible prejudice from the jury. But his conscience compels him to speak the truth boldly in the face of opposition.
During Christ’s ministry on earth, His message also resulted in angry opposition (Luke 4:21-30). Yet, in the sovereignty of God, the terrible miscarriage of justice that sentenced Jesus to death on the cross purchased our redemption. Now, as representatives of the risen Christ in this world, we are to promote reconciliation, justice, and integrity (Mic. 6:8; 2 Cor. 5:18-21). And in so doing, this may mean speaking the truth in the face of opposition. This is the charge to every believer until that day when Christ sets all things right (Rev. 20:11-15). – Dennis Fisher
The life that counts must toil and fight,
Must hate the wrong and love the right;
Must stand for truth, by day, by night –
This is the life that counts. – Anon
It’s better to declare the truth and be rejected than to withhold the truth just to be accepted.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
2 Chronicles 24:15-22
But Jehoiada grew old and was full of days, and he died; one hundred thirty years old was he when he died. They buried him in the city of David among the kings, because he had done good in Israel, and toward God and his house.
Now after the death of Jehoiada came the princes of Judah, and made obeisance to the king. Then the king listened to them. They forsook the house of Yahweh, the God of their fathers, and served the Asherim and the idols: and wrath came on Judah and Jerusalem for this their guiltiness.
Yet he sent prophets to them, to bring them again to Yahweh; and they testified against them: but they would not give ear. The Spirit of God came on Zechariah the son of Jehoiada the priest; and he stood above the people, and said to them, Thus says God, Why disobey you the commandments of Yahweh, so that you can’t prosper? Because you have forsaken Yahweh, he has also forsaken you.
They conspired against him, and stoned him with stones at the commandment of the king in the court of the house of Yahweh. Thus Joash the king didn’t remember the kindness which Jehoiada his father had done to him, but killed his son. When he died, he said, Yahweh look on it, and require it.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
This passage makes me think of a Bible story... which is about a rich and a poor man... the rich man asked Abraham send him to his family therefore they won't suffer like him now in the future... however, the answer he got is "If they don't want to listen, no matter what they won't too"...
Is like we had set a standard of being know of God... always thinking "if God..., then..." we never think of actually He had reveal to us even using a more different way, and which can show up His glory, to us.
No matter where we are, people used to follow and accept the environment... although it is wrong... I saw a phrase yesterday... "It's right to be wrong!"... the world had changed... meanwhile, it is also more closer to the end... Someone said, we are to be die since the moment we were born... :P
Well, what I want to say here is, since we all do not know when are we going to be die or move to another space, why dont we use this limited time to do something meaningful?
Someone may think of it is wierd to be doing someting outstanding than other, however, in other word mean that person is a leader! Hey! Let's pick up our Christian's responsibility to show the world what is "RIGHT"!!!
We have nothing to scared of if we scared of God... :) ... Let's "Speak Out The Truth!" gambteh!!
In the novel To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch is a respected small-town lawyer in the segregated South during the 1930s. When he takes on a case that pits an innocent black man against two dishonest white people, Atticus knows he will face terrible prejudice from the jury. But his conscience compels him to speak the truth boldly in the face of opposition.
During Christ’s ministry on earth, His message also resulted in angry opposition (Luke 4:21-30). Yet, in the sovereignty of God, the terrible miscarriage of justice that sentenced Jesus to death on the cross purchased our redemption. Now, as representatives of the risen Christ in this world, we are to promote reconciliation, justice, and integrity (Mic. 6:8; 2 Cor. 5:18-21). And in so doing, this may mean speaking the truth in the face of opposition. This is the charge to every believer until that day when Christ sets all things right (Rev. 20:11-15). – Dennis Fisher
The life that counts must toil and fight,
Must hate the wrong and love the right;
Must stand for truth, by day, by night –
This is the life that counts. – Anon
It’s better to declare the truth and be rejected than to withhold the truth just to be accepted.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
2 Chronicles 24:15-22
But Jehoiada grew old and was full of days, and he died; one hundred thirty years old was he when he died. They buried him in the city of David among the kings, because he had done good in Israel, and toward God and his house.
Now after the death of Jehoiada came the princes of Judah, and made obeisance to the king. Then the king listened to them. They forsook the house of Yahweh, the God of their fathers, and served the Asherim and the idols: and wrath came on Judah and Jerusalem for this their guiltiness.
Yet he sent prophets to them, to bring them again to Yahweh; and they testified against them: but they would not give ear. The Spirit of God came on Zechariah the son of Jehoiada the priest; and he stood above the people, and said to them, Thus says God, Why disobey you the commandments of Yahweh, so that you can’t prosper? Because you have forsaken Yahweh, he has also forsaken you.
They conspired against him, and stoned him with stones at the commandment of the king in the court of the house of Yahweh. Thus Joash the king didn’t remember the kindness which Jehoiada his father had done to him, but killed his son. When he died, he said, Yahweh look on it, and require it.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
This passage makes me think of a Bible story... which is about a rich and a poor man... the rich man asked Abraham send him to his family therefore they won't suffer like him now in the future... however, the answer he got is "If they don't want to listen, no matter what they won't too"...
Is like we had set a standard of being know of God... always thinking "if God..., then..." we never think of actually He had reveal to us even using a more different way, and which can show up His glory, to us.
No matter where we are, people used to follow and accept the environment... although it is wrong... I saw a phrase yesterday... "It's right to be wrong!"... the world had changed... meanwhile, it is also more closer to the end... Someone said, we are to be die since the moment we were born... :P
Well, what I want to say here is, since we all do not know when are we going to be die or move to another space, why dont we use this limited time to do something meaningful?
Someone may think of it is wierd to be doing someting outstanding than other, however, in other word mean that person is a leader! Hey! Let's pick up our Christian's responsibility to show the world what is "RIGHT"!!!
We have nothing to scared of if we scared of God... :) ... Let's "Speak Out The Truth!" gambteh!!
Friday, October 9, 2009
Sorry About The Tears
[Jesus] groaned in the spirit and was troubled. – John 11:33
My friend was making a major change in her life – she was leaving her employer of 50 years for a new venture. She cried when she said her goodbyes. And as she did, she frequently said, “Sorry about the tears.”
Why do we sometimes feel the need to apologize for crying? Perhaps we look at tears as showing a weakness in our character or a vulnerability we don’t like. Maybe we’re uncomfortable or think our tears are making others uncomfortable.
Our emotions, however, are God-given. They’re a characteristic of our having been made in God’s image (Gen. 1:27). He grieves. In Genesis 6:6-7, He was sorrowful and angry about His people’s sin and the separation it caused between Him and them. Jesus, God in the flesh, joined His riends Mary and Martha in grieving over the loss of their brother Lazarus (John 11:28-44). “He groaned in the spirit and was troubled” (v.33). He “wept” (v.35). “Jesus, again groaning in Himself, came to the tomb” (v.38). I doubt that He apologized.
Someday when we get to heaven, there will be no more sorrow or separation or pain, and God will wipe away every tear from our eyes (Rev. 21:4). In the meantime, the tears may flow. No apologies needed. – Anne Cetas
He knows our burdens and our crosses,
Those things that hurt, our trials and losses,
He cares for every soul that cries,
God wipes the tears from weeping eyes. – Brandt
If you doubt that Jesus cares, remember His tears.
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John 11:32-44
Therefore when Mary came to where Jesus was, and saw him, she fell down at his feet, saying to him, “Lord, if you would have been here, my brother wouldn’t have died.” When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews weeping who came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled, and said, “Where have you laid him?” They told him, “Lord, come and see.”
Jesus wept. The Jews therefore said, “See how much affection he had for him!” Some of them said, “Couldn’t this man, who opened the eyes of him who was blind, have also kept this man from dying?” Jesus therefore, again groaning in himself, came to the tomb. Now it was a cave, and a stone lay against it.
Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” Martha, the sister of him who was dead, said to him, “Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days.” Jesus said to her, “Didn’t I tell you that if you believed, you would see God’s glory?”
So they took away the stone from the place where the dead man was lying. Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, “Father, I thank you that you listened to me. I knoow that you always listen to me, but because of he multitude that stands around I said this, that they may believe that you sent me.”
When he had said this, he cried with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” He who was dead come out, bound hand and foot with wrappings, and his face was wrapped around with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Free him, and let him go.”
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...When there are some special service, some people ignore to go out and have prayer... maybe they scared of what they may do later on... however, how many of us can really show out our true emotion?
We had used to control our own emotion... no matter it is good or bad mood, we will always have the most suitable appearance in all the time... when days goes on, it seems to be bored and it is hard to let other touch deep of our heart...
We may feeling shame of it... is like, if I go out for prayer, it means I am someone in need, and people will look down of me... Oh! come on! God are calling us! wanting us to rest in Him! whats wrong to cry in the arms of Father??!!
Crying is also an expression of our true emotion... usually after crying i do feel better... why dont you try too?
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Déjà vu All Over Again
After these things Jesus showed Himself again to the disciples at the Sea of Tiberias. – John 21:1
Baseball legend Yogi Berra is known for his oft-repeated quips like, “It ain’t over till it’s over” and “It’s like déjà vu all over again!”
I wonder if the disciples felt déjà vu when they saw Jesus standing by the shore (John 21). Discouraged and distracted by their own needs in the shadow of Peter’s denial and their desertion of Jesus, they had abandoned their calling to follow Jesus and returned to their previous occupation – fishing.
Then, after a fruitless night of fishing, a voice from the shore called out, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some” (John 21:6). When they did, the nets were so full that they couldn’t be dragged in. No doubt their minds raced back to their first encounter with Jesus – when He showed up on the shore of their careers and, after another miraculous catch of fish, called them to leave their nets and follow Him (Luke 5:1-11).
Like the disciples, we may want to return to our own agendas when we get discouraged in our walk with Jesus. But then Jesus shows up again on the shore of our lives to extend forgiveness and to draw us back to those moments when He first called us.
It’s like déjà vu all over again! – Joe Stowell
Son of the living God! Oh, call us
Once and again to follow Thee;
And give us strength, whate’er befall us,
Thy true disciples still to be. – Martin
Jesus calls us to follow Him – and repeats His call when necessary.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
John 21:1-14
After these things, Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias. He revealed himself this way. Simon Peter, Thomas called Didymus, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. Simon Peter said to them, “I’m going fishing.” They told him, “We are also coming with you.”
They immediately went out, and entered into the boat. The night, they caught nothing. But when day had already come, Jesus stood on the beach, yet the disciples didn’t know that it was Jesus. Jesus therefore said to them, “Children, have you anything to eat?” They answered him, “No.” He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.”
They cast it therefore, and now they weren’t able to draw it for the multitude of fish. That disciple therefore whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It’s the Lord!” So when Simon Peter heard it was the Lord, he wrapped his coat around him (for he was naked), and threw himself into the sea. But the other disciples came in the little boat (or they were not far from the land, but about two hundred cubits away), dragging the net full of fish.
So when they got out on the land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid on it, and bread. Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish which you have just caught.” Simon Peter went up, and drew the net to land, full of great fish, one hundred fifty-three; and even though there were so many, the net wasn’t torn.
Jesus said to them, “Come and eat breakfast.” None of the disciples dared inquire of him, “Who are you?” knowing that it was the Lord. The Jesus came and took the bread, gave it to them, and the fish likewise. This is now the third time that Jesus was revealed to his disciples, after he had risen from the dead.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
When day goes on... we seems to be forgetting the moment when we got the call... well, not all the call are going to be whole life long... but for those who is... let's be patient of it...
Calling from God never changed... for all the Christian, our calling is to spread the gospel around the world... (:P i never really did it... )... well, some of the calling is like just for some period... it may takes an hour or days or months... depends... and those whole life one... erm... pastor? I guess...
Nowadays, most of us are rushing from task to task... and bored of the work in the end of the day... and also lost the touched feel as first time the calling came... it is too easy to lost the fire... therefore we should always recall the reason for us to doing something...
When we are down in mood... let's think of Lord's love... His care... His call... He still do love us...
Baseball legend Yogi Berra is known for his oft-repeated quips like, “It ain’t over till it’s over” and “It’s like déjà vu all over again!”
I wonder if the disciples felt déjà vu when they saw Jesus standing by the shore (John 21). Discouraged and distracted by their own needs in the shadow of Peter’s denial and their desertion of Jesus, they had abandoned their calling to follow Jesus and returned to their previous occupation – fishing.
Then, after a fruitless night of fishing, a voice from the shore called out, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some” (John 21:6). When they did, the nets were so full that they couldn’t be dragged in. No doubt their minds raced back to their first encounter with Jesus – when He showed up on the shore of their careers and, after another miraculous catch of fish, called them to leave their nets and follow Him (Luke 5:1-11).
Like the disciples, we may want to return to our own agendas when we get discouraged in our walk with Jesus. But then Jesus shows up again on the shore of our lives to extend forgiveness and to draw us back to those moments when He first called us.
It’s like déjà vu all over again! – Joe Stowell
Son of the living God! Oh, call us
Once and again to follow Thee;
And give us strength, whate’er befall us,
Thy true disciples still to be. – Martin
Jesus calls us to follow Him – and repeats His call when necessary.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
John 21:1-14
After these things, Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias. He revealed himself this way. Simon Peter, Thomas called Didymus, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. Simon Peter said to them, “I’m going fishing.” They told him, “We are also coming with you.”
They immediately went out, and entered into the boat. The night, they caught nothing. But when day had already come, Jesus stood on the beach, yet the disciples didn’t know that it was Jesus. Jesus therefore said to them, “Children, have you anything to eat?” They answered him, “No.” He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.”
They cast it therefore, and now they weren’t able to draw it for the multitude of fish. That disciple therefore whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It’s the Lord!” So when Simon Peter heard it was the Lord, he wrapped his coat around him (for he was naked), and threw himself into the sea. But the other disciples came in the little boat (or they were not far from the land, but about two hundred cubits away), dragging the net full of fish.
So when they got out on the land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid on it, and bread. Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish which you have just caught.” Simon Peter went up, and drew the net to land, full of great fish, one hundred fifty-three; and even though there were so many, the net wasn’t torn.
Jesus said to them, “Come and eat breakfast.” None of the disciples dared inquire of him, “Who are you?” knowing that it was the Lord. The Jesus came and took the bread, gave it to them, and the fish likewise. This is now the third time that Jesus was revealed to his disciples, after he had risen from the dead.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
When day goes on... we seems to be forgetting the moment when we got the call... well, not all the call are going to be whole life long... but for those who is... let's be patient of it...
Calling from God never changed... for all the Christian, our calling is to spread the gospel around the world... (:P i never really did it... )... well, some of the calling is like just for some period... it may takes an hour or days or months... depends... and those whole life one... erm... pastor? I guess...
Nowadays, most of us are rushing from task to task... and bored of the work in the end of the day... and also lost the touched feel as first time the calling came... it is too easy to lost the fire... therefore we should always recall the reason for us to doing something...
When we are down in mood... let's think of Lord's love... His care... His call... He still do love us...
Understand One Another
Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out. – Proverbs 20:5
One of the best way for a man to love his wife is to understand her. Peter explains that it is imperative for a husband to “dwell with [his wife] with understanding” (1 Peter 3:7).
This principle works both ways. Husbands want to be understood as well. Actually, we al do. Everyone, married or not, longs to be understood by others at the deepest possible level. We’re born with that need, and we never seem to outgrow it.
It’s feeble avoidance to say we can’t understood one another. We can and we must. It takes time – time spent in one another’s presence asking questions, listening intently, then asking again. It’s as simple and as difficult as that. No one, of course, can fully plumb the mystery of another person’s heart, but we can learn something new every day. The wise man of Proverbs called understanding “a wellspring of life” (16:22), a deep source of wisdom to all who seek it.
Again, I say, understanding takes time – one of the most precious gifts we can give to others. How we choose to spend our time is the surest indicator of how much we care for those we love.
Ask the Lord today to give you the grace to take the time to understand the important people in your life. – David H. Roper
To those whose lives we touch in life,
To whom our love we would impart,
The greatest gift that we can give
May be an understanding heart. – Branon
Listening is an open door to understanding.
^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^ ... ^.^
Proverbs 16:16-22
How much better it is to get wisdom than gold! Yes, to get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver. The highway of the upright is to depart from evil. He who keeps his way preserves his soul.
Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall. It is better to be of a lowly spirit with the poor, Than to divide the plunder with the proud. He who heeds the Word finds prosperity.
Whoever trust in Yahweh is blessed. The wise in heart shall be called prudent. Pleasantness of the lips promotes instruction. Understanding is a fountain of life to one who has it, But the punishment of fools is their folly.
... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...To understand one another, time spent is the key... even for our closest one... many of us treat our friends much better than our family... how could this be happened?
We always says that our family don't understand us, yet those spent only few hours with you per week or every month understand us??!! Family is the one who with us most of our time... unless you are orphanage or they are busy working... that's different story! But for most of us, we are all under our parents wings...
Maybe it is too close... we usual seeing sisters argue among themselve... well, this often happen to be sisters... not brothers... they will get angry just for some little stuff... maybe they think each other should know what they one... or she should know my mind... too much "she should" for this and that... however, even it is our best friend, we never say so...
Well, I just watched a movie... is about family love... the daughter complained that her mother do not understand her heart... then the mother says, "then do you understand my heart?"... it is a big question mark... parents had walked through what we are having now... they just want to guide us and protect us from harm... but we always think that their mind is out-dated... not suitable to be apply nowadays...
However, there are something that never change in this world no matter how many years had gone!... for example... the love of God... He never changed His mind to love his creature... Parents is always caring for their children in whatever situation... the world is still rushing for money... :P
It is something that never change... Let's say the word "FAMILY"... it do stand for... "Father And Mother I Love You"!!!... great right? a house is build by man's hands... but a home is built by man's hearts...
The things is just right there... go and catch it... before it is too late... whenever we are tired... home and family is our special energitic medicine... :P
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