More over when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. - Matthew 6:16
Beloved child of the Lord, all your life, you have been eating at least two meals a day. Now is the time to fast. Fast before the Lord and let your life be blessed. Fast and let others around you be blessed too. Fasting does not mean that you get so busy, you do not find time to east. Fasting is not dieting and must not be mistaken as starvation. Fasting is the humbling of your soul before the Almighty God. It is denying ourselves in the body of getting involved with the things of God.
What does fasting do in the life of a believer?
- It humbles the soul before God.
- It chastens the soul before God. (Psalm 35:13)
- It crucifies the appetite and denies it so as to give that entire time to prayer (2 Samuel 12:16-23, Matthew 4:1-11)
- It manifests earnestness to the exclusion of all else (1 Corinthians 7:5)
- It shows obedience and gives rest to the digestive system. (Matthew 6:16-18, 9:15, Luke 5:33)
- It demonstrates the mastery of man over his appetite
- It aids in the resisting temptation.
- It helps us attain power over demons
- It develops faith
- It crucifies unbelief and aids in prayer (Matthew 7:14-21)
Fasting is not putting on a sorrowful countenance whereby we disfigure our face to show others we are fasting. The numerous blessings that comes from a true fasting restores good health and heals our body, soul and spirit.
Your righteousness and right relationship with God shall go before you, guiding you towards peace and prosperity. God's glory will be your rear guard. When you pray, God will hear your prayer. You will cry out to God and God will answer you. Your light will rise in darkness. Your obscurity and gloom will turn into brightness of the noonday. The Lord will guide you continually. He will satisfy you during drought and in dry places. He will make your bones strong. You will be like a watered garden. You will be like an unfailing spring of water. All your waste places will be come fertile. You will establish the foundation of many generations. You will be called the Repairer of the Breach and Restorer of Streets to Dwell in. The Lord will make you ride on the high places of the earth and feed you the heritage of Jacob your father.
Let us fast and come before the Lord.
- Daniel O.C
Sunday, 15 March 2009
Friday, 13 March 2009
Monday, 9 March 2009
15 MARCH 2009
- Barnabas P
- Kai Yew
- Peggy Tan, Gigi Lim, Colleen Chang
- Jun Fhui
- Jonathan Long
- Jaemy Choong
- Terry Choong
- Ken Fhui, Timothy Chang
- Tom C, Manjit Singh
Sunday, 8 March 2009
Sunday Sermon 8 March 2009
Speaker: Rev. Dr. Thomas Cheng
World Harvest Enterprise
World Harvest Enterprise
(12MB MP3 16KHz 16Kbps, 102 minutes)
The Passover
Jesus fulfilled the divinely ordained prophetic picture.
The Passover commemorated God's deliverance of the Israelites in Egypt, but it is also pointed to the coming Delivered and Saviour of all people - Jesus Christ.
More specifically, the New Testament identifies the Passover lamb, the young lamb sacrificed in place of the family's firstborn, as a type of the person and work of Jesus. (A type is a divinely ordained correspondence between a person, event, or institution and its antitype of fulfillment. Most biblical types are fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus.) Right at the beginning, Jesus' ministry, John the Baptist prophetically announced that Jesus was 'the Lam of God who takes away the sin of the world' (John 1:29). Furthermore, Paul wrote that 'Christ, our Passover, was sacrified for us' (1 Corinithians 5:7). Finally, Peter identified Jesus as the lamb without blemish and without spot' (1 Peter 1:1-16). All New Testament references allude to the Passover lamb.
The Passover lam had to be [1] without blemish, [2] male, and [3] young. [4] It had to be examined (four days from the selection to the sacrifice) and [5] It has to be slain in public. [6] None of its bones were to be broken. Finally [7] its blood on the Israelites' doorposts was a sign that God should pass over and not destroy that family's first born (Exodus 12:3-13,46; Numbers 9:12). In each particular, Jesus was the fulfillment of this divinely ordained type. Jesus was [1] sinless and perfect. In His humanity, He was both [2] a male and [3] somewhat young when He was slain. [4] He lived a meticulously examined life. [5] He died publicly, and despite the brutality of His death, [6] none of his bones were broken (John 19:36). Finally [7] Jesus' blood is the sign of Jesus' death. Through Jesus' death, we are saved from the coming judgement.
Romans 5:9 - Much more than, having now been justified by His blood we shall be saved from wrath through Him.
Ephesians 2:13 - But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
Colossians 1:14 - In whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sin.
Hebrews 9:22 - And according to the law almost all things are purified with blood, and without shedding of blood there is no remission.
Hebrews 10:19 - Therefore, brethen, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus.
1 John 1:7 - But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sings.
Revelations 1:5 - To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood.
-
The Passover commemorated God's deliverance of the Israelites in Egypt, but it is also pointed to the coming Delivered and Saviour of all people - Jesus Christ.
More specifically, the New Testament identifies the Passover lamb, the young lamb sacrificed in place of the family's firstborn, as a type of the person and work of Jesus. (A type is a divinely ordained correspondence between a person, event, or institution and its antitype of fulfillment. Most biblical types are fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus.) Right at the beginning, Jesus' ministry, John the Baptist prophetically announced that Jesus was 'the Lam of God who takes away the sin of the world' (John 1:29). Furthermore, Paul wrote that 'Christ, our Passover, was sacrified for us' (1 Corinithians 5:7). Finally, Peter identified Jesus as the lamb without blemish and without spot' (1 Peter 1:1-16). All New Testament references allude to the Passover lamb.
The Passover lam had to be [1] without blemish, [2] male, and [3] young. [4] It had to be examined (four days from the selection to the sacrifice) and [5] It has to be slain in public. [6] None of its bones were to be broken. Finally [7] its blood on the Israelites' doorposts was a sign that God should pass over and not destroy that family's first born (Exodus 12:3-13,46; Numbers 9:12). In each particular, Jesus was the fulfillment of this divinely ordained type. Jesus was [1] sinless and perfect. In His humanity, He was both [2] a male and [3] somewhat young when He was slain. [4] He lived a meticulously examined life. [5] He died publicly, and despite the brutality of His death, [6] none of his bones were broken (John 19:36). Finally [7] Jesus' blood is the sign of Jesus' death. Through Jesus' death, we are saved from the coming judgement.
Romans 5:9 - Much more than, having now been justified by His blood we shall be saved from wrath through Him.
Ephesians 2:13 - But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
Colossians 1:14 - In whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sin.
Hebrews 9:22 - And according to the law almost all things are purified with blood, and without shedding of blood there is no remission.
Hebrews 10:19 - Therefore, brethen, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus.
1 John 1:7 - But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sings.
Revelations 1:5 - To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood.
-
Monday, 2 March 2009
8 MARCH 2009
- Siow KW
- Peggy Tan
- Foong Yee, Hong Lu, Meng Fhui
- Lydia Sim
- Jocelyn Lee
- Nicholas
- Anna Sim
- Moses Tan, Colleen Chang
- Tommy Quek, Hiew FF
Sunday, 1 March 2009
Sunday Sermon 1 March 2009
Speaker: Pastor Dennis Balan
Full Gospel Assembly, USJ
(MP3 7MB, 16KHz, 16Kbps)
http://www.fileqube.com/file/zDrOdd176804
The Bible Keeps You Spiritually Strong
This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. - Joshua 1:8
In our lives we pay attention to so many things. If it is spending hours on the computer or learning about it, we have the time. Thought its something we started not too long ago we are almost familiar with everything about it. Food. There's no place we would not venture to go no matter how far or what time of the day it is, to fill our appetites. Sales! We may be regular visitors and know about all the items on sale, its price, the discount, when the best time to buy something is, and where to buy it. Fashion and makeup ! We may be expert on the products, brands, its use, and effects. Whatever interested us, we spend endless hours sleepless nights, abundance of money to keep our interests and develop it and we have all the knowledge of it at the tip of our fingertips.
To most of us our Bibles is precious and treasured especially on Sunday or the days we go to a meeting. Often after that, it is just a book which we keep at home and take when we feel convenient and spend a few drooping sleepy moments over it. And that's it! Ever since we were in Sunday School, we have heard of the prophets Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and all the minor prophets the Epistles and the book of Revelation. Most of us do not even know the names of some of the books of the Bible neither their exact locations in the bible.
Do we spend a day at least making an effort to know the contents of some books of the bible? We do not even ask the Holy Spirit who is the author of the bible for understanding but we look into it with our own minds and then a lot of it does not seem to make sense. We skip over what we 'think' is not important or leave it as the responsibility of the pastor of the church to expand it. But the word of God tells us, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God" (Matt 4:4, Deut. 8:3).
Do you read the Scriptures? If it is not even in your mind, how can you meditate on it day and night? That is the secret to make your way prosperous and have good success, the bibles tell us (Joshua 1:8).
Every word of God is important and as you give first place in your life to the things of God, see how refreshed and how blessed your life will be! Everyday you will see new revelations and new insights, which will give you plenty of food for thought. Do not waste your precious time in idleness or vain self-seeking pursuits but seek the Lord. Search His word for deeper understanding and He will reveal Himself to you in a special way through the help of the Holy Spirit.
- Daniel O.C
In our lives we pay attention to so many things. If it is spending hours on the computer or learning about it, we have the time. Thought its something we started not too long ago we are almost familiar with everything about it. Food. There's no place we would not venture to go no matter how far or what time of the day it is, to fill our appetites. Sales! We may be regular visitors and know about all the items on sale, its price, the discount, when the best time to buy something is, and where to buy it. Fashion and makeup ! We may be expert on the products, brands, its use, and effects. Whatever interested us, we spend endless hours sleepless nights, abundance of money to keep our interests and develop it and we have all the knowledge of it at the tip of our fingertips.
To most of us our Bibles is precious and treasured especially on Sunday or the days we go to a meeting. Often after that, it is just a book which we keep at home and take when we feel convenient and spend a few drooping sleepy moments over it. And that's it! Ever since we were in Sunday School, we have heard of the prophets Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and all the minor prophets the Epistles and the book of Revelation. Most of us do not even know the names of some of the books of the Bible neither their exact locations in the bible.
Do we spend a day at least making an effort to know the contents of some books of the bible? We do not even ask the Holy Spirit who is the author of the bible for understanding but we look into it with our own minds and then a lot of it does not seem to make sense. We skip over what we 'think' is not important or leave it as the responsibility of the pastor of the church to expand it. But the word of God tells us, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God" (Matt 4:4, Deut. 8:3).
Do you read the Scriptures? If it is not even in your mind, how can you meditate on it day and night? That is the secret to make your way prosperous and have good success, the bibles tell us (Joshua 1:8).
Every word of God is important and as you give first place in your life to the things of God, see how refreshed and how blessed your life will be! Everyday you will see new revelations and new insights, which will give you plenty of food for thought. Do not waste your precious time in idleness or vain self-seeking pursuits but seek the Lord. Search His word for deeper understanding and He will reveal Himself to you in a special way through the help of the Holy Spirit.
- Daniel O.C
Monday, 23 February 2009
1 MARCH 2009
- Liong KC
- Shankar R
- Siew Pin, Joycelyn C, Jun Fhui
- Grace Lee
- Meng Fhui
- Anna Sim
- Terry Choong
- Tian Sia, Jocelyn Lee
- Manjit Singh, Tom C.
Sunday, 22 February 2009
Bible Class - Book Of Acts
Commencing on 7 March 2009, Saturday
Time: 2.30pm
Venue: Basement Hospitality Room
This is a call for all those who have a desire to study the book seriously.
Kindly give your names to Sis Verni to enable us to oder the study books.
The church will subsidise half the cost of the study books).
Time: 2.30pm
Venue: Basement Hospitality Room
This is a call for all those who have a desire to study the book seriously.
Kindly give your names to Sis Verni to enable us to oder the study books.
The church will subsidise half the cost of the study books).
Sunday Sermon 22 Feb 2009
Speaker: Elder Lim Swee Boon
White Fields Assembly Seremban
( 4MB, 35minutes, 16Kbps, 16KHz Mono)
http://www.fileqube.com/file/SscOABbg175123
White Fields Assembly Seremban
( 4MB, 35minutes, 16Kbps, 16KHz Mono)
http://www.fileqube.com/file/SscOABbg175123
The Mosaic Covenant
God made a covenant with the entire nation of Israel
The arrival of the community of Israel at Mount Sinai was a momentous event that would shape their subsequent history. Encamped before this mountain, the Israelites encountered their God, who had recently delivered them from Egyptian slavery (Genesis 12:1-3, 12:13). At this mountain for the first time, God made a covenant with the entire nation of Israel (Exodus 19-24), usually referred to as the Mosaic covenant. He formalized His relationship with the Israelites with a suzerain-vassal (ruler-subject) treaty. That is, God came to the Israelites as the Great King and presented to them a binding treaty in which He would make certain promises to them and they would have certain obligations as His servants. This was not a treaty between equalsl it was a treaty between the superior King and His inferior servants. This type of covenant was common during this period of history between an overlord and his subjects. The overlord blessed and protected the people in exchange for loyalty and obedience.
In this treaty, God first reminded the Israelites of who He was and how He had acted in their behalf. He was their Saviour - the One who had snatched them from their oppressors (Exo. 19:4). And if they covenanted with Him, God promised to make the Israelites His 'special treasure' (Exo. 19:15). He would lavish special attention on them and make them 'a kingdom of priests and a holy nation' (Exo. 19:6). On the one hand, Israel would become holy - or distinct and separate from all other nations - because of this special relationship with God. But on the other hand, Israel, in its separation, was to be the means by which the other nations would learn of the living God. This nation of priests would leader others to a correct worship of the true God (Psalm 121:7).
As part of this treaty, God graciously instructed the Israelites on how they should live (Exo. 20). As a people who had relationship with the living God, the Israelites had to act a certain way - God's way. The Law was benevolent instruction from God Himself. It was God's direction, like an outstreched hand pointing out the way one should take o nthe road of life. The Israelites were in a most enviable position. God had demonstrated His love for them by saving them. He had shown His faithfulness His promises to their parents, Abaraham and Sarah. He had formalized His relationship with them in a treaty and promised to make them His special people. Finally He even gave them instructions for how to live. They were at peace with their Creator.
The arrival of the community of Israel at Mount Sinai was a momentous event that would shape their subsequent history. Encamped before this mountain, the Israelites encountered their God, who had recently delivered them from Egyptian slavery (Genesis 12:1-3, 12:13). At this mountain for the first time, God made a covenant with the entire nation of Israel (Exodus 19-24), usually referred to as the Mosaic covenant. He formalized His relationship with the Israelites with a suzerain-vassal (ruler-subject) treaty. That is, God came to the Israelites as the Great King and presented to them a binding treaty in which He would make certain promises to them and they would have certain obligations as His servants. This was not a treaty between equalsl it was a treaty between the superior King and His inferior servants. This type of covenant was common during this period of history between an overlord and his subjects. The overlord blessed and protected the people in exchange for loyalty and obedience.
In this treaty, God first reminded the Israelites of who He was and how He had acted in their behalf. He was their Saviour - the One who had snatched them from their oppressors (Exo. 19:4). And if they covenanted with Him, God promised to make the Israelites His 'special treasure' (Exo. 19:15). He would lavish special attention on them and make them 'a kingdom of priests and a holy nation' (Exo. 19:6). On the one hand, Israel would become holy - or distinct and separate from all other nations - because of this special relationship with God. But on the other hand, Israel, in its separation, was to be the means by which the other nations would learn of the living God. This nation of priests would leader others to a correct worship of the true God (Psalm 121:7).
As part of this treaty, God graciously instructed the Israelites on how they should live (Exo. 20). As a people who had relationship with the living God, the Israelites had to act a certain way - God's way. The Law was benevolent instruction from God Himself. It was God's direction, like an outstreched hand pointing out the way one should take o nthe road of life. The Israelites were in a most enviable position. God had demonstrated His love for them by saving them. He had shown His faithfulness His promises to their parents, Abaraham and Sarah. He had formalized His relationship with them in a treaty and promised to make them His special people. Finally He even gave them instructions for how to live. They were at peace with their Creator.
Monday, 16 February 2009
22 FEBRUARY 2009
- Caleb R
- Peter Long
- Shankar R, Jacquelina, Gigi Lim
- Lydia Sim
- Jonathan Long
- Jaemy Choong
- Anna Sim
- Richard, Joycelyn Choong
- Hiew FF, Tommy Quek
Sunday, 15 February 2009
The King of Israel
The people were following their neighbours.
Was it God's will for Israel to have a king? Certainly it was, for God had indicated that the kingship was part of His plan for Israel. Gen 49:10 predicted the coming of Messiah. The Scriptures in Deutronomy 17:14-20 anticipated the request the Israelites would make for a king. It gave the regulations that had to be followed. These limited the power and splendor of the future king. He would not be dependent on military power and riches. He was not to entangle the nation in political alliances that would expose Israel to pagan worship. Instead, he was exhorted to guide the nation into obedience to God's law. He is to be bound to God's instructions. He would not be a tyrant, but a king who would rule in accordance to God's revealed wil..
Although kingship for them was not wrong in itself, the way the Israelites were demanding it was wrong. The people clearly stated their motives for wanting a king. First, they wanted to follow the practices of the neighbouring nations (Deut. 8:5). Second, they wanted a king to lead them into battles (Deut. 8:20). BOth motives amounted to a rejection of the God of Israel as their King (Deut. 8:7) The Lord had demonstrated on numerous occasions that He would fight the Israelites' battles. From the miraculous collapse of Jericho's walls (Josh. 6:20) to Gideon's rout of the massive Midianite army (Judges. 7:19-22). God had delivered His people again and again from their enemies. Why did they need a king now to lead them into battles?
What is more, GOd had given the people His word, the prophets, and the judges to guide them. But as the tragic history of Judges demonstrates, the people ignored God's guidance and followed the practices of their neighbours (Judges 3:7). Now, once again, the people were following their neighbours instead of the living God and the word He had given them. Although Samuel clearly communicated God's warning to the people, they stubbornly preferred their will to God's.
In the end, God allowed the Israelites to have what they wanted. He gave them a king like those of the other nations. The tall and handsome Saul would have been the perfect choice for a king. But through Saul's tragic reign, God taught the Israelites that they needed a king who was not like the kings of the other nations. They needed a king who would obey God's word instead of following his own will - a king would trust in God instead of himself. In the shadow of Saul's mistakes, God trained young David to walk in His ways so that He could eventually lead the nation in reighteousness.
Was it God's will for Israel to have a king? Certainly it was, for God had indicated that the kingship was part of His plan for Israel. Gen 49:10 predicted the coming of Messiah. The Scriptures in Deutronomy 17:14-20 anticipated the request the Israelites would make for a king. It gave the regulations that had to be followed. These limited the power and splendor of the future king. He would not be dependent on military power and riches. He was not to entangle the nation in political alliances that would expose Israel to pagan worship. Instead, he was exhorted to guide the nation into obedience to God's law. He is to be bound to God's instructions. He would not be a tyrant, but a king who would rule in accordance to God's revealed wil..
Although kingship for them was not wrong in itself, the way the Israelites were demanding it was wrong. The people clearly stated their motives for wanting a king. First, they wanted to follow the practices of the neighbouring nations (Deut. 8:5). Second, they wanted a king to lead them into battles (Deut. 8:20). BOth motives amounted to a rejection of the God of Israel as their King (Deut. 8:7) The Lord had demonstrated on numerous occasions that He would fight the Israelites' battles. From the miraculous collapse of Jericho's walls (Josh. 6:20) to Gideon's rout of the massive Midianite army (Judges. 7:19-22). God had delivered His people again and again from their enemies. Why did they need a king now to lead them into battles?
What is more, GOd had given the people His word, the prophets, and the judges to guide them. But as the tragic history of Judges demonstrates, the people ignored God's guidance and followed the practices of their neighbours (Judges 3:7). Now, once again, the people were following their neighbours instead of the living God and the word He had given them. Although Samuel clearly communicated God's warning to the people, they stubbornly preferred their will to God's.
In the end, God allowed the Israelites to have what they wanted. He gave them a king like those of the other nations. The tall and handsome Saul would have been the perfect choice for a king. But through Saul's tragic reign, God taught the Israelites that they needed a king who was not like the kings of the other nations. They needed a king who would obey God's word instead of following his own will - a king would trust in God instead of himself. In the shadow of Saul's mistakes, God trained young David to walk in His ways so that He could eventually lead the nation in reighteousness.
Monday, 9 February 2009
15 FEBRUARY 2009
- Barnabas P
- Foong Yee
- Hong Lu, Ken Fhui, Lydia
- Jun Fhui
- Meng Fhui
- Kai Yew
- Terry Choong
- Moses
- Tom C, Manjit Singh
Sunday, 8 February 2009
Sunday Sermon 8 Feb 2009
Speaker: Pastor Thomas Samuel
Jesus Calls Prayer Tower, P.J
( 7MB, 52minutes, 16Kbps, 16KHz Mono)
http://www.fileqube.com/file/vthibj172325
Jesus Calls Prayer Tower, P.J
( 7MB, 52minutes, 16Kbps, 16KHz Mono)
http://www.fileqube.com/file/vthibj172325
King David As Priest
David was acting as a royal priest. - 1 Chronicles 15:25 to 16:1-3
David's actions on the day that the ark of the covenant was brought into Jerusalem were peculiar for a king. In the first place, David put on a a linen ephod. This fine garment represented God's presence among His people and was part of the uniform of the high priest (Ex.28:4; 1 Sam. 2:28). After celebrating before the Lord and offering sacrifices to Him, David blessed the people. Blessing the people after their participation in sacrificial worship was another task of the priest (Lev. 9:22,23; Num. 6:23). David's dress and behaviour on that day resembled that of a priest.
The author of Hebrews gives us some insight into what occured on that day, for he describes a priestly line different from Aaron's line - the priestly line of Melchizedek (Heb. 4:14-16; 7:20-28; 8:6). Like David, Melchizedek was a king, the king of Salem. But he was more than a king; he also functioned as a priest, one who blessed Abraham (Gen.14:18-20; Heb. 7:1-3). The Book of Hebrews identifies Jesus, a descendant of David's royal line, as a royal priest of the order of Melchizedek. Moreover, Jesus' priesthood is far superior to that of Aaron (Heb. 5:5-11; 6:13-20; 7:1-10). In the course of discussion, the author of Hebrews cites Pslam 110:4, a psalm of David:
"The Lord has sworn
And will not relent,
"You are a prieset forever
ACcording to the order of Melchizedek."
This psalm teahces that there would someday be a priest from a different line than Aaron's and who would be a priest forever. This is Jesus, the Son of David, as the author of Hebrews explains. Thus, when David took on some of the roles of a priest on this occasion, he was acting a a royal priest in the order of Melchizedek. He was anticipating the priestly role of the Second David, Jesus Christ, who now sits as High Priest at the right hand of God the Father:
"Now this is the main point of the things we are saying. We have such a High Priest, who is seated on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, a Minister in the sanctuary and the true tabernacle which the Lord erected, and not man." - Hebrews 8:1-2
David's actions on the day that the ark of the covenant was brought into Jerusalem were peculiar for a king. In the first place, David put on a a linen ephod. This fine garment represented God's presence among His people and was part of the uniform of the high priest (Ex.28:4; 1 Sam. 2:28). After celebrating before the Lord and offering sacrifices to Him, David blessed the people. Blessing the people after their participation in sacrificial worship was another task of the priest (Lev. 9:22,23; Num. 6:23). David's dress and behaviour on that day resembled that of a priest.
The author of Hebrews gives us some insight into what occured on that day, for he describes a priestly line different from Aaron's line - the priestly line of Melchizedek (Heb. 4:14-16; 7:20-28; 8:6). Like David, Melchizedek was a king, the king of Salem. But he was more than a king; he also functioned as a priest, one who blessed Abraham (Gen.14:18-20; Heb. 7:1-3). The Book of Hebrews identifies Jesus, a descendant of David's royal line, as a royal priest of the order of Melchizedek. Moreover, Jesus' priesthood is far superior to that of Aaron (Heb. 5:5-11; 6:13-20; 7:1-10). In the course of discussion, the author of Hebrews cites Pslam 110:4, a psalm of David:
"The Lord has sworn
And will not relent,
"You are a prieset forever
ACcording to the order of Melchizedek."
This psalm teahces that there would someday be a priest from a different line than Aaron's and who would be a priest forever. This is Jesus, the Son of David, as the author of Hebrews explains. Thus, when David took on some of the roles of a priest on this occasion, he was acting a a royal priest in the order of Melchizedek. He was anticipating the priestly role of the Second David, Jesus Christ, who now sits as High Priest at the right hand of God the Father:
"Now this is the main point of the things we are saying. We have such a High Priest, who is seated on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, a Minister in the sanctuary and the true tabernacle which the Lord erected, and not man." - Hebrews 8:1-2
Monday, 2 February 2009
8 FEBRUARY 2008
- Siow KW
- Kai Yew
- Hong Lu, Foong Yee, Colleen Chang
- Grace Lee
- Jonathan Long
- Jaemy Choong
- Terry Choong
- Ken Fhui, Joycelyn Choong
- Tommy Quek, Hiew FF
Sunday, 1 February 2009
Sunday Sermon 1 February 2009
Speaker: Bro. Barnabas Param
White Fields Assembly Seremban
( 8MB, 64minutes, 16Kbps, 16KHz Mono)
http://www.fileqube.com/file/zcxkawY170016
White Fields Assembly Seremban
( 8MB, 64minutes, 16Kbps, 16KHz Mono)
http://www.fileqube.com/file/zcxkawY170016
Sacrifice of Joy
God's command concerning sacrifices and offerings were given to people who were already in relationships with Him, who were already part of the covenant community, and who were already His people. Sacrifices and offerings to God were never to be understood as a means of salvation. Instead, God designed the sacrificial system in order to cultivate a consciousness of Himself among His people. First of all, the sacrifices provided a catalyst, an occasion for dealing with a person's sin and for restoring a person before God. Furthermore, these sacrifices cultivated the person's sense of perspective. The cleansing ritual of the priests who sacrificed the offerings pointed to God's holiness. God was infinitely greater than any one person and He certainly deserved everyone's gratitude and praise. A worshipper could physically express that praise to God through a fellowship offering. Of course, this sacrificial system was by no means cheap, all of the offerings were costly. But this fact impressed on the worshipper that only one's best could be given to God.
Sacrifices were not ends in themselves. God was primarily interested in the person. The mandatory sacrifices served to remind a worshiper of his or her relationship to God. A person who brought the right sacrifices, but who heart was far from God, would never please Him. The Old Testament writers stated again and again that God is more concerned with a person's heart [Gen 4:1-8, Ps 40:6-8; Isa 1:10-18; Mic 6:6-8]. Hosea recorded God's statement, "I desire mercy and not sacrifice" [Hoe 6:6; see Matt. 9:13, 12:7]. The animals and the grain, the oil and the wine and the incense and the ash - all were ultimately accompaniments to the presentation of oneself as a living sacrifice to God [Rom 12:2].
The sacrifices and offerings in the Old Testament pointed forward to the death of the Saviour, Jesus [Heb 9:26]. The blood of bulls and goats, the outpouring of wine, and the burning of oil had no power to overcome sin. Yet because Jesus is perfect and is God's only Son, His death atones for sins [Heb 10:1-10]. Because of His death, we can approach the holy God. The complex sacrificial system shows how all of life, with its different sphere and rhythms, belongs to God and can be lived with a sense of restoration and gratitude towards Him.
1 Samuel 15:22 - So Samuel said, "Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams.
Sacrifices were not ends in themselves. God was primarily interested in the person. The mandatory sacrifices served to remind a worshiper of his or her relationship to God. A person who brought the right sacrifices, but who heart was far from God, would never please Him. The Old Testament writers stated again and again that God is more concerned with a person's heart [Gen 4:1-8, Ps 40:6-8; Isa 1:10-18; Mic 6:6-8]. Hosea recorded God's statement, "I desire mercy and not sacrifice" [Hoe 6:6; see Matt. 9:13, 12:7]. The animals and the grain, the oil and the wine and the incense and the ash - all were ultimately accompaniments to the presentation of oneself as a living sacrifice to God [Rom 12:2].
The sacrifices and offerings in the Old Testament pointed forward to the death of the Saviour, Jesus [Heb 9:26]. The blood of bulls and goats, the outpouring of wine, and the burning of oil had no power to overcome sin. Yet because Jesus is perfect and is God's only Son, His death atones for sins [Heb 10:1-10]. Because of His death, we can approach the holy God. The complex sacrificial system shows how all of life, with its different sphere and rhythms, belongs to God and can be lived with a sense of restoration and gratitude towards Him.
1 Samuel 15:22 - So Samuel said, "Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams.
Monday, 26 January 2009
1 FEBRUARY 2009
- Liong KC
- Peggy Tan
- Siew Pin, Tian Sia, Meng Fhui
- Jessica Lee
- Jocelyn Lee
- Nicholas Teh
- Anna Sim
- Moses Tan, Jacquelina Lim
- Manjit Singh, Tom Cheryan
Sunday, 25 January 2009
Sunday Sermon 25 January 2009
Speaker: Bro. Chin Teng Lum
White Fields Assembly Seremban
( 6MB, 49minutes, 16Kbps, 16KHz Mono)
http://www.fileqube.com/file/gxdGIm168708
White Fields Assembly Seremban
( 6MB, 49minutes, 16Kbps, 16KHz Mono)
http://www.fileqube.com/file/gxdGIm168708
A New Culture
Outward purity would reflect inward purity
Israel was on the verge of a momentous occasion. Not only were they preparing to enter the Promised Land and conquer its inhabitants, they were also preparing to establish a brand new culture. The primary focus of this new culture would be on the living God. Every part of it would reflect His nature.
God's commandments gave the Israelites a concrete expression of how God wanted the people to live in. In short, He wanted a people that love and worshiped Him alone. By keeping a number of purity laws, the Israelites were to demonstrate their commitment to Him by keeping ritually clean. Ideally, this outward purity would reflect inward purity. Since God was perfect, He wanted His people to resist the immoral practises of the neighbouring nations. But He not only wanted them to resist evil, He also wanted them toe reflect His loving and compassionate nature by helping strangers, widows, orphans, and the poor. By following God's extensive instructions, the Israelites could establish their society on the just laws of the living God.
Many parts of the Israelites culture were distinctive in the ancient world - such as prohibitions against eating pork. These outward distinctive were a sign that Israelites were set apart to God's holy purposes. However, the most prominent distinctive was Israel's absolute allegiance to one God. Israel's entire society - its legal system, economic structure, family life and individual and communal ethics - reflected this allegiance. While the nations that surrounded Israel worshiped a variety of gods at numerous shrines located all over the landscape, the Israelites [ideally] worshiped one God in one place - the place He would choose.
In the Promised Land, God planned to bless the Israelites abundantly. In return, the Israelites were required to understand and acknowledge that He who created the heavens and the earth, alone is God Almighty. And God expected them to live responsibly in obedience and loyalty to Him alone, based upon love and fear, to walk in all His ways and to serve Him with all diligence.
This was to be their new culture, unlike any that preceded it.
Israel was on the verge of a momentous occasion. Not only were they preparing to enter the Promised Land and conquer its inhabitants, they were also preparing to establish a brand new culture. The primary focus of this new culture would be on the living God. Every part of it would reflect His nature.
God's commandments gave the Israelites a concrete expression of how God wanted the people to live in. In short, He wanted a people that love and worshiped Him alone. By keeping a number of purity laws, the Israelites were to demonstrate their commitment to Him by keeping ritually clean. Ideally, this outward purity would reflect inward purity. Since God was perfect, He wanted His people to resist the immoral practises of the neighbouring nations. But He not only wanted them to resist evil, He also wanted them toe reflect His loving and compassionate nature by helping strangers, widows, orphans, and the poor. By following God's extensive instructions, the Israelites could establish their society on the just laws of the living God.
Many parts of the Israelites culture were distinctive in the ancient world - such as prohibitions against eating pork. These outward distinctive were a sign that Israelites were set apart to God's holy purposes. However, the most prominent distinctive was Israel's absolute allegiance to one God. Israel's entire society - its legal system, economic structure, family life and individual and communal ethics - reflected this allegiance. While the nations that surrounded Israel worshiped a variety of gods at numerous shrines located all over the landscape, the Israelites [ideally] worshiped one God in one place - the place He would choose.
In the Promised Land, God planned to bless the Israelites abundantly. In return, the Israelites were required to understand and acknowledge that He who created the heavens and the earth, alone is God Almighty. And God expected them to live responsibly in obedience and loyalty to Him alone, based upon love and fear, to walk in all His ways and to serve Him with all diligence.
This was to be their new culture, unlike any that preceded it.
Thursday, 22 January 2009
Monday, 19 January 2009
25 JANUARY 2008 (CNY)
- Caleb Ramachandran
- Shankar Ramachandran
- Lydia Sim, Gigi Lim, Jacquelina Lim
- Jun Fhui
- Meng Fhui
- Anna Sim
- Terry Choong
- Tian Sia, Ken Fhui
- Hiew FF, Tommy Quek
Sunday, 18 January 2009
Sunday Sermon 18 January 2009
Speaker: Rev. Johnny Chan
Open Doors Malaysia
( 7MB, 69minutes, 16Kbps, 16KHz Mono)
http://www.fileqube.com/file/ZFbIuUu168699
Open Doors Malaysia
( 7MB, 69minutes, 16Kbps, 16KHz Mono)
http://www.fileqube.com/file/ZFbIuUu168699
Walk With Faith In Christ
As you have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught abounding in it with thanksgiving. - Colossians 2:6-7
How far have you progressed in knowing the Lord since your first experience of salvation? How much more sensitive are you to the Holy Spirit since you desired to walk anew in the spirit of crucifying the flesh?
The flesh does not desire the things of the spirit and hence you must willingly cultivate and focus yourself to look into the Word of God and have the deepest part of you constantly connected to Him. It is so easy to walk by sight, to be drawn away from your walk with the Lord, to be distracted by the lust of the flesh, and be subtly influenced to change the sides from walking in the light to darkness if you do not constantly seek the Lord and come to Him with every issue in your life.
David knew what it was to be drawn from the Lord by the desires of the flesh. Psalm 51, which he wrote following his falling away, is filled with sorrow fro sin and deep regret. It is clearly marked by his turning to the Lord with his whole heart. And He also instructed his son in the ways of God, "And you, Solomon, my son, know the God of your father [have personal knowledge of Him] and serve Him with a blameless heart and a willing mind. For the Lord searches all hearts and mind and understands all the wanderings of the thoughts. If you seek Him [inquiring for and of Him and requiring Him as your first and vital necessity] you will find Him; but if you forsake Him, He will cast you off forever! (1 Chronicles 28:9). Solomon, the wisest man on earth did not make inquiring of the Lord the first and vital necessity of his life. As a result, he was drawn away to follow other gods worshipped by his foreign wives. Solomon died with his heart turned away from God.
Do not depend on the arm of the flesh. Do not depend on your will-power or strength to keep you in the ways of the Lord. Constantly look unto Him and bring every issue in your life under the light of the Lord so that you will not be drawn away in a moment of weakness, or by the strange and subtle influences of the enemy and loose your precious salvation.
- Daniel O.C
How far have you progressed in knowing the Lord since your first experience of salvation? How much more sensitive are you to the Holy Spirit since you desired to walk anew in the spirit of crucifying the flesh?
The flesh does not desire the things of the spirit and hence you must willingly cultivate and focus yourself to look into the Word of God and have the deepest part of you constantly connected to Him. It is so easy to walk by sight, to be drawn away from your walk with the Lord, to be distracted by the lust of the flesh, and be subtly influenced to change the sides from walking in the light to darkness if you do not constantly seek the Lord and come to Him with every issue in your life.
David knew what it was to be drawn from the Lord by the desires of the flesh. Psalm 51, which he wrote following his falling away, is filled with sorrow fro sin and deep regret. It is clearly marked by his turning to the Lord with his whole heart. And He also instructed his son in the ways of God, "And you, Solomon, my son, know the God of your father [have personal knowledge of Him] and serve Him with a blameless heart and a willing mind. For the Lord searches all hearts and mind and understands all the wanderings of the thoughts. If you seek Him [inquiring for and of Him and requiring Him as your first and vital necessity] you will find Him; but if you forsake Him, He will cast you off forever! (1 Chronicles 28:9). Solomon, the wisest man on earth did not make inquiring of the Lord the first and vital necessity of his life. As a result, he was drawn away to follow other gods worshipped by his foreign wives. Solomon died with his heart turned away from God.
Do not depend on the arm of the flesh. Do not depend on your will-power or strength to keep you in the ways of the Lord. Constantly look unto Him and bring every issue in your life under the light of the Lord so that you will not be drawn away in a moment of weakness, or by the strange and subtle influences of the enemy and loose your precious salvation.
- Daniel O.C
Monday, 12 January 2009
18 JANUARY 2008
- Barnabas P
- Terry Choong
- Joycelyn Choong, Peggy Tan, Ken Fhui
- Lydia Sim
- Jonathan Long
- Jaemy Choong
- Anna Sim
- Richard, Colleen Chang
- Tom Cheryan, Manjit Singh
Sunday, 11 January 2009
Sunday Sermon 11 January 2009
Speaker: Elder John Lee (FGA Batu Pahat)
Title: The Apostolic Church
Session 1, Saturday 10 January 2009
(11MB, 16kbps ABR 16KHz Mono)
http://www.filefactory.com/file/a03c0f2/n/Elder_John_Lim_Session1_2009_01_10_mp3
Session 2, Saturday 10 January 2009
( 9MB, 16kbps ABR, 16KHz Mono)
http://www.fileqube.com/file/ToRrlIaqp168684
Session 3, Sunday 11 January 2009
( 8MB, 16kbps ABR, 16KHz Mono)
http://www.fileqube.com/file/dxWcAQxKJ168692
Session 4, Sunday 11 January 2009
( 8MB, 16kbps ABR, 16KHz Mono)
http://www.fileqube.com/file/NNmWNFs168693
Title: The Apostolic Church
Session 1, Saturday 10 January 2009
(11MB, 16kbps ABR 16KHz Mono)
http://www.filefactory.com/file/a03c0f2/n/Elder_John
Session 2, Saturday 10 January 2009
( 9MB, 16kbps ABR, 16KHz Mono)
http://www.fileqube.com/file/ToRrlIaqp168684
Session 3, Sunday 11 January 2009
( 8MB, 16kbps ABR, 16KHz Mono)
http://www.fileqube.com/file/dxWcAQxKJ168692
Session 4, Sunday 11 January 2009
( 8MB, 16kbps ABR, 16KHz Mono)
http://www.fileqube.com/file/NNmWNFs168693
Walk As Jesus Walked
But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. He who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk just as He walked. - 1 John 2:5-6
"What do you want to be when you grow up?" is a common question we ask our children when they are young. Many of your own aspirations may have changed or remained unfulfilled. For a Christian there is one goal to live up to daily. That is to be like Jesus: to conform your behaviour, deeds, words and your whole life to what the Lord had been teaching and practicing. You may be an authority on theological doctrines, know the Bible from cover to cover and participate in many seminars and spiritual meetings, yet if your life is not transformed to imitate the life of our Lord Jesus Christ, all will be in vain.
"The Holy Spirit wants to produce Christ-like individuals - not religious robots, not doctrinal champions, not evangelistic whirlwinds, but men who are like Jesus Christ," concludes George Verwer in his search for the heart of the New Testament message. Many non-Christians do not want to turn to the Lord because they see the life of Christians around them and are totally put off. What about you? Can those around you testify to the Christ-like nature in you? Or is there a world of difference to what you are and what you profess to be?
Paul was an imitator of Christ. In 1 Thessalonians 1:5-6, Paul said, "You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your good. And you (set yourselves to) become imitators of us and (through us) of the Lord Himself ..."
Will you renew your relationship with the Lord today and determine to transform yourself to be Christ-like? As you imitate the Lord Jesus, let your life influence the lives of others around you, so they too will be drawn to Him.
- Daniel O.C
"What do you want to be when you grow up?" is a common question we ask our children when they are young. Many of your own aspirations may have changed or remained unfulfilled. For a Christian there is one goal to live up to daily. That is to be like Jesus: to conform your behaviour, deeds, words and your whole life to what the Lord had been teaching and practicing. You may be an authority on theological doctrines, know the Bible from cover to cover and participate in many seminars and spiritual meetings, yet if your life is not transformed to imitate the life of our Lord Jesus Christ, all will be in vain.
"The Holy Spirit wants to produce Christ-like individuals - not religious robots, not doctrinal champions, not evangelistic whirlwinds, but men who are like Jesus Christ," concludes George Verwer in his search for the heart of the New Testament message. Many non-Christians do not want to turn to the Lord because they see the life of Christians around them and are totally put off. What about you? Can those around you testify to the Christ-like nature in you? Or is there a world of difference to what you are and what you profess to be?
Paul was an imitator of Christ. In 1 Thessalonians 1:5-6, Paul said, "You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your good. And you (set yourselves to) become imitators of us and (through us) of the Lord Himself ..."
Will you renew your relationship with the Lord today and determine to transform yourself to be Christ-like? As you imitate the Lord Jesus, let your life influence the lives of others around you, so they too will be drawn to Him.
- Daniel O.C
Monday, 5 January 2009
11 JANUARY 2008
- Siow KW
- Foong Yee
- Hong Lu, Siew Pin, Jun Fhui
- Jessica Lee
- Meng Fhui
- Kai Yew
- Terry C
- Moses Tan, Ken Fhui
- Tommy Q, Hiew FF
Sunday, 4 January 2009
A New Year, A New Beginning
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. - Genesis 1:1
The old year is past. A new year is beginning with new challenges. It is a year to rise up from sleep, slothfulness and slumber. It is a year to be motivated to do better than you have done before depending on the grace of God for it.
It is a year of healing and restoration in broken relationships, broken marriages, and broken homes. When life has lost its meaning, it is a time to see that it is God, reading His Word, heeding His voice and standing in the gap for intercession. This is a year of submission to the Holy Spirit. Let Him search your heart to break stubborn pride of self. Yield yourself completely to His control. Heed His voice and be used as a vessel for God's glory.
Declare this out loud:
This is a year of victory for me over all my weakness, over bad habits, uncontrollable sinful desire, laziness, wicked imaginations, unholy living, pride, strife, disobedience to God, following after vain unprofitable ambitions and aimless living without purpose. I will stand firm by my God I shall do valiantly. In His name I shall have victory. I shall rise in faith and soar to higher ground from where I once stood. I will believe for the impossible through my Lord in the mighty name of Jesus. When I go through trying situations, I will stand firm knowing that the Lord is with me and that He will not forsake me. I will not be a afraid for Jehovah is the one who holds me in His hands. I will not accept defeat, failure or loses, for victory and success are mine through Jesus Christ.
When I pass through the waters, I shall remember that the Lord is with me. When I cross the rivers, they shall not overflow me. When I walk through the fire, I shall not be burnt and neither shall the flame kindle upon me, for the Lord God the Holy One of Israel is my Saviour.
My house and I choose this day to fear the Lord and serve Him in sincerity and truth. I choose to obey the Lord and serve Him in sincerity and truth. I choose to obey the Lord and His Word, live by his commandments and walk in His will. I choose the things of God, wisdom and understanding that come from above. I pursue righteousness, faith, love, patience and meekness. I keep myself ready until the appearing of the Lord Jesus Christ which is very near. In Jesus' name, Amen.
When life has lost its meaning, it is a time to see that it is
God's love that brings true meaning, purpose and answers.
- Daniel O.C
Wednesday, 31 December 2008
Sunday, 28 December 2008
The Birth of Jesus Christ
And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. - Luke 2:7
We remember the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ into the world. He being in the form of God, yet humbled himself to take the form of man. There is only one reason why He left His home above. His divine form to take on the sinful and corrupt nature of man. You and me.
1 Peter 2:22-24 says of Him, "who had no sin neither was guile found in His mouth. Who when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, He threatened not; but committed Himself to Him that judgeth righteously; who His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree that we being dead to sins should live unto righteousness by whose stripes you were healed."
To have the righteous life you have to believe on the Lord Jesus. The Bible says in John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that he gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." No matter what your background is, what kind of life you have lived so long, the nature of your job, or the manner of life-style, what you have gained in your life in terms of riches or profit, if you want to saved you must believe on the Lord Jesus, you must call upon His name. Romans 10:13 says "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." "Neither is there salvation in any other for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved," Acts 4:12 tells us.
Jesus is the Son of God and beloved, His love knows no bounds. No one can love you like the way He does. In spite of the worst in you, He is the only One who is willing to extend His hands to raise your fallen shameful self unto Himself and hold you in His loving embrace. He is the only one who accepts you and loves you for who you are. He gave His life on the cross so that you can live. He gave Himself as an offering so that you would be acceptable before God. There is nothing that He does not know about you.
Come to Him today, call upon His name, confess the sinful deeds in your life and be set free. Only He is the answer to all the questions in your life. Only He can give you the peace that you have been seeking at all the wrong places. Only He can satisfy the cravings of your heart with His love and presence. He will fill all athe emptiness and give you true meaning to life today.
Consider yours ways. How unfruitful they have been! Don't you wish that you could live life all over again. Take courage and have hope, for now you can have a new life witout the remembrance of all the wicked past. You can have a new life without the guilt and shame because of what the Lord has done for you. All you have to do is confess, believe and pray in faith.
- Daniel O.C
We remember the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ into the world. He being in the form of God, yet humbled himself to take the form of man. There is only one reason why He left His home above. His divine form to take on the sinful and corrupt nature of man. You and me.
1 Peter 2:22-24 says of Him, "who had no sin neither was guile found in His mouth. Who when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, He threatened not; but committed Himself to Him that judgeth righteously; who His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree that we being dead to sins should live unto righteousness by whose stripes you were healed."
To have the righteous life you have to believe on the Lord Jesus. The Bible says in John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that he gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." No matter what your background is, what kind of life you have lived so long, the nature of your job, or the manner of life-style, what you have gained in your life in terms of riches or profit, if you want to saved you must believe on the Lord Jesus, you must call upon His name. Romans 10:13 says "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." "Neither is there salvation in any other for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved," Acts 4:12 tells us.
Jesus is the Son of God and beloved, His love knows no bounds. No one can love you like the way He does. In spite of the worst in you, He is the only One who is willing to extend His hands to raise your fallen shameful self unto Himself and hold you in His loving embrace. He is the only one who accepts you and loves you for who you are. He gave His life on the cross so that you can live. He gave Himself as an offering so that you would be acceptable before God. There is nothing that He does not know about you.
Come to Him today, call upon His name, confess the sinful deeds in your life and be set free. Only He is the answer to all the questions in your life. Only He can give you the peace that you have been seeking at all the wrong places. Only He can satisfy the cravings of your heart with His love and presence. He will fill all athe emptiness and give you true meaning to life today.
Consider yours ways. How unfruitful they have been! Don't you wish that you could live life all over again. Take courage and have hope, for now you can have a new life witout the remembrance of all the wicked past. You can have a new life without the guilt and shame because of what the Lord has done for you. All you have to do is confess, believe and pray in faith.
- Daniel O.C
4 JANUARY 2009
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2009!!
~~~
Liong KC
Peggy Tan
Terry C., Hong Lu, Foong Yee
-
Jessica Lee
Jocelyn Lee
-
Anna Sim
Jaemy Choong
-
Tian Sia
Manjit Singh, Hiew FF
~~~
Liong KC
Peggy Tan
Terry C., Hong Lu, Foong Yee
-
Jessica Lee
Jocelyn Lee
-
Anna Sim
Jaemy Choong
-
Tian Sia
Manjit Singh, Hiew FF
Saturday, 27 December 2008
Tuesday, 23 December 2008
28 DECEMBER 2008
Caleb R.
Kai Yew
Shankar R., Phoebe Sim
-
Grace Lee
Joseph Yap
-
Terry Choong
Anna Sim
-
Richard
Tom C., Tommy Quek
Kai Yew
Shankar R., Phoebe Sim
-
Grace Lee
Joseph Yap
-
Terry Choong
Anna Sim
-
Richard
Tom C., Tommy Quek
Sunday, 21 December 2008
25 DECEMBER 2008
CHRISTMAS DAY!!
Thursday
~~~
Barnabas P.
Shankar R.
Jaemy C., Richard, Foong Yee
-
Jun Fhui
Meng Fhui
-
Anna Sim
Kai Yew
-
Siew Pin
Hiew FF, Manjit Singh
Thursday
~~~
Barnabas P.
Shankar R.
Jaemy C., Richard, Foong Yee
-
Jun Fhui
Meng Fhui
-
Anna Sim
Kai Yew
-
Siew Pin
Hiew FF, Manjit Singh
Who Is Jesus Christ To You?
Therefore God also had highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus, every knee should bow, ... and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. - Philippians 2:9-11
Christmas is the time you can get so busy shopping, decorating, planning, packing etc. You may be so involved doing a lot that you lose focus of the main reason for the event: Jesus. When the season is over you might find yourself tired and dry after all the excitement that seemed to keep you happy. It might hit you hard only then, that during Christmas you never spend any time with Lord Jesus.
He is Prince of Peace who came to bring peace to your heart in the midst of your circumstances. John 14:27 says, "Peace I leave with you; My peace I now give and bequeath to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." Have you experienced that peace in Christ Jesus today?
He is the Redeemer. "But when the proper time had fully come, God sent His son ... that we might be adopted and have sonship conferred upon us. And because you are His sons, God has sent the (Holy) Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, Abba Father!" He redeemed us so that we can be sons! Are you a son of God? (Galations 4:4-6,9)
He is the Saviour. "... for He will save His people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21) He is your Saviour who saved you from sins. No animal offerings can take the place of the only Son of God through whom we have forgiveness of sins. He came to deliver us from darkness and bondage of the enemy. He paid the price of His own life that we might have fullness of life. Having turned away from your past dead way of human being" (Philippians 2:7)
Martha occupied herself and was busy and distracted with much serving when Jesus came to their house but Mary seated herself at the Lord's feet and was listening to His teaching. Jesus said that Mary had chosen the good portion which would not be taken away from her.
Who is Jesus to you? This is a question that you should sincerely ask yourself and only you can answer it yourself. Do not let Christmas be an event of celebration where Christ is not the centre and where you are distraceted with the fun of it, but like Mary have chosen the good portion of being found in the presence of the Lord?
Have you received Him today to make a fresh start for your life and a meaningful Christmas?
There can be no Christmas celebration without Christ.
Christmas is the time you can get so busy shopping, decorating, planning, packing etc. You may be so involved doing a lot that you lose focus of the main reason for the event: Jesus. When the season is over you might find yourself tired and dry after all the excitement that seemed to keep you happy. It might hit you hard only then, that during Christmas you never spend any time with Lord Jesus.
He is Prince of Peace who came to bring peace to your heart in the midst of your circumstances. John 14:27 says, "Peace I leave with you; My peace I now give and bequeath to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." Have you experienced that peace in Christ Jesus today?
He is the Redeemer. "But when the proper time had fully come, God sent His son ... that we might be adopted and have sonship conferred upon us. And because you are His sons, God has sent the (Holy) Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, Abba Father!" He redeemed us so that we can be sons! Are you a son of God? (Galations 4:4-6,9)
He is the Saviour. "... for He will save His people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21) He is your Saviour who saved you from sins. No animal offerings can take the place of the only Son of God through whom we have forgiveness of sins. He came to deliver us from darkness and bondage of the enemy. He paid the price of His own life that we might have fullness of life. Having turned away from your past dead way of human being" (Philippians 2:7)
Martha occupied herself and was busy and distracted with much serving when Jesus came to their house but Mary seated herself at the Lord's feet and was listening to His teaching. Jesus said that Mary had chosen the good portion which would not be taken away from her.
Who is Jesus to you? This is a question that you should sincerely ask yourself and only you can answer it yourself. Do not let Christmas be an event of celebration where Christ is not the centre and where you are distraceted with the fun of it, but like Mary have chosen the good portion of being found in the presence of the Lord?
Have you received Him today to make a fresh start for your life and a meaningful Christmas?
There can be no Christmas celebration without Christ.
Sunday, 14 December 2008
21 DECEMBER 2008
Dr. Siow KW
Peter Long
Jocelyn Lee, Peggy Tan
-
Lydia Sim
Jonathan Long
-
Terry Choong
Nicholas
-
Meng Fhui
Tommy Quek, Tom C.
Peter Long
Jocelyn Lee, Peggy Tan
-
Lydia Sim
Jonathan Long
-
Terry Choong
Nicholas
-
Meng Fhui
Tommy Quek, Tom C.
Place Christ Before All Else
But indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ. - Philippians 3:8
Have you been wanting to serve the Lord and do His work but have always felt hindered by your own inadequacies? Do you always keep your eyes on others or compare your abilities to others and think that you will never be able to be used for the Lord because of so many disadvantages in you?
You may be lacking in the outward advantages that you see in those around you. But the Lord determines each one to be used uniquely.
Peter and John were going to the temple to pray, when a man crippled from his birth was being carries to be laid at the gated called Beautiful to get for alms. Seeing Peter and John the man asked them to give him a gift. "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk," Peter said and took him by his right hand and lifted him up. He began to walk and leap and praise God. They were arrested and the next day stood before the council of magistrates, elders and Council. Peter spoke up with boldness and confidence for he was filled and controlled by the Holy Spirit (Acts 4:8). Verse 13 of the same chapter says, "Now when they saw the boldness and unfettered eloquence of Peter and John and perceived that they were unlearned and untrained in the schools (common men with no educational advantages), they marveled; and they recognised that they had been with Jesus."
"... they recognised that they have been with Jesus," that was it! Being with Jesus made the big difference in the life of these disciples and the council members recognised it. It was not the learning in the school or any other training that they had received that enabled them to stand up and speak the word of God with freedom, boldness and courage.
Beloved child of God, what you need in your life is to spend time with the Lord Jesus. In His presence you will be transformed. In His presence you will be equipped. In His presence you will be endued with power. The world will recognise the difference in you because they will see that you spend time with Jesus. Your disadvantages will be transformed to God's advantaes. You will be a mighty instrument in the hands of the Lord.
True disciples of Christ are those who consistently follow the footsteps of Christ our Master.
-Daniel O.C
Have you been wanting to serve the Lord and do His work but have always felt hindered by your own inadequacies? Do you always keep your eyes on others or compare your abilities to others and think that you will never be able to be used for the Lord because of so many disadvantages in you?
You may be lacking in the outward advantages that you see in those around you. But the Lord determines each one to be used uniquely.
Peter and John were going to the temple to pray, when a man crippled from his birth was being carries to be laid at the gated called Beautiful to get for alms. Seeing Peter and John the man asked them to give him a gift. "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk," Peter said and took him by his right hand and lifted him up. He began to walk and leap and praise God. They were arrested and the next day stood before the council of magistrates, elders and Council. Peter spoke up with boldness and confidence for he was filled and controlled by the Holy Spirit (Acts 4:8). Verse 13 of the same chapter says, "Now when they saw the boldness and unfettered eloquence of Peter and John and perceived that they were unlearned and untrained in the schools (common men with no educational advantages), they marveled; and they recognised that they had been with Jesus."
"... they recognised that they have been with Jesus," that was it! Being with Jesus made the big difference in the life of these disciples and the council members recognised it. It was not the learning in the school or any other training that they had received that enabled them to stand up and speak the word of God with freedom, boldness and courage.
Beloved child of God, what you need in your life is to spend time with the Lord Jesus. In His presence you will be transformed. In His presence you will be equipped. In His presence you will be endued with power. The world will recognise the difference in you because they will see that you spend time with Jesus. Your disadvantages will be transformed to God's advantaes. You will be a mighty instrument in the hands of the Lord.
True disciples of Christ are those who consistently follow the footsteps of Christ our Master.
-Daniel O.C
Sunday, 7 December 2008
14 DECEMBER 2008
Liong KC
Terry Choong
Tian Sia, Lydia Sim
-
Jessica Lee
-
Anna Sim
Jaemy Choong
-
Jocelyn Lee
Manjit Singh, Hiew FF
Terry Choong
Tian Sia, Lydia Sim
-
Jessica Lee
-
Anna Sim
Jaemy Choong
-
Jocelyn Lee
Manjit Singh, Hiew FF
God Will Guide You
But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth. - Acts 1:8
Does the way ahead of you look blocked? Have you come to a point here before you only see a sea, like the Red Sea, or a closed door, and there is no way for you to go through to make progress, to go ahead? Have you lost all hope that you will never make it?
Can you rejoice in a time like this knowing that the Lord your God is your Helper? Can you like the psalmist raise up your voice and say, "The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in Him, and I am greatly helped; therefore my heart greatly rejoice; and with my song will I praise Him" (Psalm 28:7).
Every way that is blocked ahead of you will be removed and a straight way made for you to pass through just like He did for the people of Israel across the Red Sea and River Jordan. If He is your help and shield and you trust do not lose hope for He who delivered His people, will deliver those whose eyes are upon Him. For He says in Isaiah 45:2, "I will go before thee, and make the crooked places straight: I will break on pieces the gates of brass, and cut in sunder the bars of iron."
The Lord, He is still the God of miracles and there you will see His hand in your situation, dividing your Red Sea to make a path, opening a closed door, making a way in your wilderness, if you will hold on and keep your trust in Him. When you have cast your burden onto the Lord, you need not worry about how the circumstances are going to fall into place to make a way for you through the wilderness. Or the sea, where naturally you cannot see some way.
Peter was held in prison by Herod who had earlier killed James. Four squads of soldiers kept watch over him. But prayer was made for him. Acts 12:5 says "The night before Herod was about to bring him forth, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, fastened with two chains, and sentries before the door were guarding the prison." No human barrier can stop the Lord from doing His miracle.
Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared, awakened Peter and told him to get up. And the chains fell off. Following the instructions of the angel, Peter followed him thinking that he was seeing a vision. They passed through the first guard and the second and the iron gate opened of its own accord and they walked on the street where the angel left him. Acts 12:11 says, "Then Peter came to himself and said, "Now I really know and am sure that the Lord has sent His angel and delivered me from the hand of Herod..."
Rejoice and praise the name of the Lord as you believe and look for your way, made straight through the sea, the wilderness and prison doors!
- Daniel O.C
Does the way ahead of you look blocked? Have you come to a point here before you only see a sea, like the Red Sea, or a closed door, and there is no way for you to go through to make progress, to go ahead? Have you lost all hope that you will never make it?
Can you rejoice in a time like this knowing that the Lord your God is your Helper? Can you like the psalmist raise up your voice and say, "The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in Him, and I am greatly helped; therefore my heart greatly rejoice; and with my song will I praise Him" (Psalm 28:7).
Every way that is blocked ahead of you will be removed and a straight way made for you to pass through just like He did for the people of Israel across the Red Sea and River Jordan. If He is your help and shield and you trust do not lose hope for He who delivered His people, will deliver those whose eyes are upon Him. For He says in Isaiah 45:2, "I will go before thee, and make the crooked places straight: I will break on pieces the gates of brass, and cut in sunder the bars of iron."
The Lord, He is still the God of miracles and there you will see His hand in your situation, dividing your Red Sea to make a path, opening a closed door, making a way in your wilderness, if you will hold on and keep your trust in Him. When you have cast your burden onto the Lord, you need not worry about how the circumstances are going to fall into place to make a way for you through the wilderness. Or the sea, where naturally you cannot see some way.
Peter was held in prison by Herod who had earlier killed James. Four squads of soldiers kept watch over him. But prayer was made for him. Acts 12:5 says "The night before Herod was about to bring him forth, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, fastened with two chains, and sentries before the door were guarding the prison." No human barrier can stop the Lord from doing His miracle.
Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared, awakened Peter and told him to get up. And the chains fell off. Following the instructions of the angel, Peter followed him thinking that he was seeing a vision. They passed through the first guard and the second and the iron gate opened of its own accord and they walked on the street where the angel left him. Acts 12:11 says, "Then Peter came to himself and said, "Now I really know and am sure that the Lord has sent His angel and delivered me from the hand of Herod..."
Rejoice and praise the name of the Lord as you believe and look for your way, made straight through the sea, the wilderness and prison doors!
- Daniel O.C
Sunday, 30 November 2008
7 DECEMBER 2008
Caleb R.
Peggy Tan
Hong Lu, Richard, Gigi Lim
-
Grace Lee
Joseph Yap
-
Terry Choong
Anna Sim
-
Moses Tan
Tom C., Tommy Quek
Peggy Tan
Hong Lu, Richard, Gigi Lim
-
Grace Lee
Joseph Yap
-
Terry Choong
Anna Sim
-
Moses Tan
Tom C., Tommy Quek
Time To Choose
And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your father served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. - Joshua 24:15.
Where are you going? Can you hear the still small voice? You can pretend you never heard and walk right into the jaws of sin. Turn back before it is too late. The Word of God says in James 1:14, "But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death." And "the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). Death stands before you with this mouth wide open and would you even without blinking your eyes walk right into its jaws?
Do not waver between good and evil, between sin and holiness, between light and darkness, between belonging to the Lord and Satan. You cannot stand with one foot on one side and one the other. For they are worlds apart. One is life and the other death. None of them merges into the other. There is a clear and distinct line drawn between them.
Do you remember the first time you were so nervous and afraid to do wrong? You wanted to hide from everyone, to be in the dark. You did not heed to the still small voice telling you to flee - to flee from lusts, feel from unrighteousness, flee from the works of the flesh, flee from the wickedness and bad company. You could see well that it would all bring ruin and destruction to your life. Still you went ahead. But now it has become so much a part of you that do those things which ought not to be done as if there were the right thing to do, because you have hardened your heart. You chose death instead of life, bondage to sin instead of being free in Christ.
Now however much you try to hide the wretchedness within you and act as if all is normal, you know very well that you are rotten on the inside. You are dying because of your sin, wrong choices, pursuing fleshy desires, giving in to wilful pleasures. You want to be free but you are not willing to give up your sinful ways of life.
Beloved, now is the time to decide. Do not say, "Let me hang in there a little longer just once more". Each time hell is closing up on you and it may be too late.
Call upon the name of the Lord and be saved. Come to Him with all your hopelessness, and wretchedness like the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-24) and say, "Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee". Seek forgiveness from the Lord and ask Jesus to be the Lord of your life. Do not look back or go to your old ways but walk in the newness of life that He gives you. Be a changed human being in Christ Jesus today.
Anyone who finds God finds life.
- Daniel O.C
Where are you going? Can you hear the still small voice? You can pretend you never heard and walk right into the jaws of sin. Turn back before it is too late. The Word of God says in James 1:14, "But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death." And "the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). Death stands before you with this mouth wide open and would you even without blinking your eyes walk right into its jaws?
Do not waver between good and evil, between sin and holiness, between light and darkness, between belonging to the Lord and Satan. You cannot stand with one foot on one side and one the other. For they are worlds apart. One is life and the other death. None of them merges into the other. There is a clear and distinct line drawn between them.
Do you remember the first time you were so nervous and afraid to do wrong? You wanted to hide from everyone, to be in the dark. You did not heed to the still small voice telling you to flee - to flee from lusts, feel from unrighteousness, flee from the works of the flesh, flee from the wickedness and bad company. You could see well that it would all bring ruin and destruction to your life. Still you went ahead. But now it has become so much a part of you that do those things which ought not to be done as if there were the right thing to do, because you have hardened your heart. You chose death instead of life, bondage to sin instead of being free in Christ.
Now however much you try to hide the wretchedness within you and act as if all is normal, you know very well that you are rotten on the inside. You are dying because of your sin, wrong choices, pursuing fleshy desires, giving in to wilful pleasures. You want to be free but you are not willing to give up your sinful ways of life.
Beloved, now is the time to decide. Do not say, "Let me hang in there a little longer just once more". Each time hell is closing up on you and it may be too late.
Call upon the name of the Lord and be saved. Come to Him with all your hopelessness, and wretchedness like the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-24) and say, "Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee". Seek forgiveness from the Lord and ask Jesus to be the Lord of your life. Do not look back or go to your old ways but walk in the newness of life that He gives you. Be a changed human being in Christ Jesus today.
Anyone who finds God finds life.
- Daniel O.C
Sunday, 23 November 2008
30 NOVEMBER 2008
Barnabas P.
Foong Yee
Terry Choong, Jocelyn Choong
-
Lydia Sim
Joseph Yap
-
Anna Sim
Kai Yew
-
Tian Sia
Manjit Sing. Hiew FF
Foong Yee
Terry Choong, Jocelyn Choong
-
Lydia Sim
Joseph Yap
-
Anna Sim
Kai Yew
-
Tian Sia
Manjit Sing. Hiew FF
Blessings of Obedience
Therefore know that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments. - Deuteronomy 7:9
Is your heart grieving over something which has happened in your life quite unexpectedly? Do you wish this accident which has been affecting you so much had never happened? Are you still battling with the reality of a painful incident?
Joseph's life was full of incidents which seemed more like accidents but through it all, the word of God says that, " ... the Lord was with him and made whatever he did to prosper" (Genesis 39:23). Joseph was loved more than all the other children which Jacod had and he gave him a special tunic. One day Jacob sent Joseph to see whether everything was all right with his brothers who were taking care of the flock at Shechem. Joseph's brothers who were jealous of him and envied him took this opportunity and conspired to kill him. However Rueben tried to deliver him and suggested that he be put in a pit which was empty. Later he was sold to the Ishmaelites while his tunic was dipped in the blood of a young goat. Jacob who saw this mourned his son for many days thinking that his son Joseph was dead. Though it seemed everything was against him, the Lord was preparing Joseph for something good.
Joseph sold to Potiphar found favour in his sight and was made supervisor over his house but soon he was accused by his master's wife which landed him in prison. "The Lord was with Joseph and showed him mercy and loving-kindness and gave favour in the sight of the warden in the prison. And the warden of the prison committed to Joseph's care all the prisoners.." says the word of God in Genesis 39:21.
The butler who had forgetten Joseph now remembered him to Pharoah and through the wisdom of God he interpreted the dream which none of Pharoah's magicians could interpret. Pharoah recognised that in Joseph was the spirit of God (Genesis 41:38-39). He said to Joseph, "For as much as (your) God has shown you all this, there is nobody as intelligent and discreet and understanding and wise as you are." Joseph was set over all the land of Egypt.
The Lord had chosen circumstances of his life and ordered his footsteps to work good both for himself, his whole family who later came and bowed before him and over the land of Egypt. If your likfe is surrendered into the hands of the Lord even the unexpected painful events, situations which shake you will all turn out to be those which mould you to be ready for something greater.
No destruction of the enemy can stop the good plans of God in your life!
As yourself: what kind of church would mine be if everyone is like me?
- Daniel O.C
Sunday, 16 November 2008
By Grace Through Faith
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God - Ephesians 2:8
"Why are you so fearful? Where is your faith (your trust, your confidence in Me - in My veracity and My integrity) ?" Jesus asked his disciples when they awakend Him in the midst of the storm in the lake of Galilee (Luke 8:25). And that is exactly how most of us behave when the storm winds and the raging waves surround us. We panic, runhere and there, call up the Pastor and every prayer warrior we konw, worry unceasingly about ourselves, instead of exercising our faith.
If you think to yourself that it's alright with you to be just an ordinary Christian attending church every Sunday and going about your way, then you are wrong. The Lord wants you to exercise your faith, to be an extraordinary person and live at a higher spiritual level each day. To every man is given a measure of faith and the Lord desires of you to daily increase your faith.
The Lord is looking for hearts who will step out in faith, believe Him and operate in His power. Sometimes people have so much faith in their prayerful Pastor, but make no effort to grow in their spiritual lives. Today the Lord is calling you to step out from your ordinary way of living, into the extraordinary, from the natural to the supernatural, from living by sight to living by faith.
The ten spies who went by sight and 'saw' the land, said. "we are not able", "they are stronger than we are". "all the people we saw in it are men of great stature (giants)", and "we were in our own sight as grasshoppers". But Caleb and Joshua who walked in faith said, ?we are well able to conquer it", "the Lord is with us", "they are bread for us", "their defense and the shadow (of protection) is removed from over them, but the Lord is with us", "fear them not". And the result was that only Caleb and Joshua who walked in faith entered the promised land (Numbers 13 & 14).
"For truly I say to you, if you have faith (that is living) like a grain of mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, move from here to yonder place and it will move, and nothing will be impossible to you." Jesus said in Matthew 17:20. Desire to be mountain movers and have faith like some of those found in Hebrews 1:1. Let your life be known as a man of great faith and a woman of great faith.
Love restrains you from doing evil and reaches out in selfless service to all.
- Daniel O.C
23 NOVEMBER 2008
Dr. Siow KW
Kai Yew
Shankar R., Peggy Tan
-
Jun Fhui
Meng Fhui
-
Terry Choong
Nicholas
-
Richard
Tom C., Tommy Quek
Kai Yew
Shankar R., Peggy Tan
-
Jun Fhui
Meng Fhui
-
Terry Choong
Nicholas
-
Richard
Tom C., Tommy Quek
Monday, 10 November 2008
WHEN I SAY I AM A CHRISTIAN (Maya Angelou)
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not shouting "I'm clean livin'."
I'm whispering "I was lost,
Now I'm found and forgiven."
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble
and need Christ to be my guide.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak
And need His strength to carry on.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed
And need God to clean my mess.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not claiming to be perfect,
My flaws are far too visible
But, God believes I am worth it.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I still feel the sting of pain.
I have my share of heartaches
So I call upon His name.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not holier than thou,
I'm just a simple sinner
Who received God's good grace, somehow!
-
Maya Angelou is hailed as one of the great voices of contemporary literature and as a remarkable Renaissance woman. Being a poet, educator, historian, best-selling author, actress, playwright, civil-rights activist, producer and director, Dr. Angelou continues to travel the world making appearances, spreading her legendary wisdom.
A mesmerizing vision of grace, swaying and stirring when she moves, Dr. Angelou captivates her audiences lyrically with vigor, fire and perception. She has the unique ability to shatter the opaque prisms of race and class between reader and subject throughout her books of poetry and her autobiographies.
Dr. Angelou has authored twelve best-selling books including I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, A Song Flung Up to Heaven and Even the Stars Look Lonesome
In 1981, Dr. Angelou was appointed to a lifetime position as the first Reynolds Professor of American Studies at Wake Forest University.
In January 1993, she became only the second poet in U.S. History to have the honor of writing and reciting original work at the Presidential Inauguration.
Dr. Angelou has been nominated for two Grammy Awards for "Best Spoken Word or Non Musical Album" for On The Pulse Of Morning (1993) and Phenomenal Woman (1995). In 2004, she received a Grammy Award nomination in the "Best Spoken Word Album" category for Hallelujah! The Welcome Table. Dr. Angelou has garnered over 50 honorary degrees from colleges and universities worldwide.
I'm not shouting "I'm clean livin'."
I'm whispering "I was lost,
Now I'm found and forgiven."
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble
and need Christ to be my guide.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak
And need His strength to carry on.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed
And need God to clean my mess.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not claiming to be perfect,
My flaws are far too visible
But, God believes I am worth it.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I still feel the sting of pain.
I have my share of heartaches
So I call upon His name.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not holier than thou,
I'm just a simple sinner
Who received God's good grace, somehow!
-
Maya Angelou is hailed as one of the great voices of contemporary literature and as a remarkable Renaissance woman. Being a poet, educator, historian, best-selling author, actress, playwright, civil-rights activist, producer and director, Dr. Angelou continues to travel the world making appearances, spreading her legendary wisdom.
A mesmerizing vision of grace, swaying and stirring when she moves, Dr. Angelou captivates her audiences lyrically with vigor, fire and perception. She has the unique ability to shatter the opaque prisms of race and class between reader and subject throughout her books of poetry and her autobiographies.
Dr. Angelou has authored twelve best-selling books including I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, A Song Flung Up to Heaven and Even the Stars Look Lonesome
In 1981, Dr. Angelou was appointed to a lifetime position as the first Reynolds Professor of American Studies at Wake Forest University.
In January 1993, she became only the second poet in U.S. History to have the honor of writing and reciting original work at the Presidential Inauguration.
Dr. Angelou has been nominated for two Grammy Awards for "Best Spoken Word or Non Musical Album" for On The Pulse Of Morning (1993) and Phenomenal Woman (1995). In 2004, she received a Grammy Award nomination in the "Best Spoken Word Album" category for Hallelujah! The Welcome Table. Dr. Angelou has garnered over 50 honorary degrees from colleges and universities worldwide.
Sunday, 9 November 2008
WHEN I SAY I AM A CHRISTIAN (Maya Angelou)
-
WHEN I SAY I AM A CHRISTIAN
by Maya Angelou
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not shouting "I'm clean livin'."
I'm whispering "I was lost,
Now I'm found and forgiven."
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I don't speak of this with pride.
I'm confessing that I stumble
and need Christ to be my guide.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not trying to be strong.
I'm professing that I'm weak
And need His strength to carry on.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not bragging of success.
I'm admitting I have failed
And need God to clean my mess.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not claiming to be perfect,
My flaws are far too visible
But, God believes I am worth it.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I still feel the sting of pain.
I have my share of heartaches
So I call upon His name.
When I say... "I am a Christian"
I'm not holier than thou,
I'm just a simple sinner
Who received God's good grace, somehow!
16 NOVEMBER 2008
Liong KC
Shankar R.
Hong Lu, Foong Yee
-
Jessica Lee
Joseph Yap
-
Anna Sim
Jaemy Choong
-
Siew Pin
Tommy Quek, Manjit Singh
Shankar R.
Hong Lu, Foong Yee
-
Jessica Lee
Joseph Yap
-
Anna Sim
Jaemy Choong
-
Siew Pin
Tommy Quek, Manjit Singh
The Servant of The Lord
Only fear the Lord, and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you. - 1 Samuel 12:24.
Are you serving the Lord? What is your reason to serve the Lord? Is it because you need the emotional satisfaction? Do you want to make yourself important in the eyes of others and does all the attention make you happy? Or perhaps you are looking for some personal gain?
"And now Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you but (reverently) to fear the Lord your God, to walk in His ways, and to love Him, and to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with your entire being." (Deuteronomy 10:12). If you are not true in serving the Lord with your whole heart and with your entire being and for the love of the Lord you will find yourself being bitter, unsatisfied and frustrated that your end was not met.
True service can only come from having a good, honest consistent walk with the Lord and by completely yielding yourself to the Lord without looking for any gain but out of love and gratitude. However hard you may try to cover up and hide your motives for serving the Lord, the word of God says that the Lord sees not as a man sees. "For the Lord sees not as man; for man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7).
Serving the Lord is a great honour no matter what ministry you are involved in. Most Christians like to be involved in those ministries where they are noticed failing to realise that their true rewards is in heaven not from man. Know the Lord God whom you serve. If you are involved in a ministry but not having an intimate relationship with the Lord, yours will be a job that is no different from others in the world. You will never experience the true joy of serving the Lord and when difficulties and trials come your way, you will easily get discouraged and want to quit.
The word of God encouraged us to "serve the Lord with gladness", "serve the Lord with reverent awe and worshipful fear","... offer to God pleasing service and acceptable worship".
What is teh quality of your service to the King of kings and the Lord of lords who gave Himself to die what you should live? The Lord is asking, "Whom shall I send and who will go for Us?" Like Isaiah, can you say, "Here I am, send me" and "I delight to do His will," like David, and serve Him with your whole heart and entire being?
Be a Christian today in words, deeds and actions.
- Daniel O.C
Are you serving the Lord? What is your reason to serve the Lord? Is it because you need the emotional satisfaction? Do you want to make yourself important in the eyes of others and does all the attention make you happy? Or perhaps you are looking for some personal gain?
"And now Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you but (reverently) to fear the Lord your God, to walk in His ways, and to love Him, and to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with your entire being." (Deuteronomy 10:12). If you are not true in serving the Lord with your whole heart and with your entire being and for the love of the Lord you will find yourself being bitter, unsatisfied and frustrated that your end was not met.
True service can only come from having a good, honest consistent walk with the Lord and by completely yielding yourself to the Lord without looking for any gain but out of love and gratitude. However hard you may try to cover up and hide your motives for serving the Lord, the word of God says that the Lord sees not as a man sees. "For the Lord sees not as man; for man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7).
Serving the Lord is a great honour no matter what ministry you are involved in. Most Christians like to be involved in those ministries where they are noticed failing to realise that their true rewards is in heaven not from man. Know the Lord God whom you serve. If you are involved in a ministry but not having an intimate relationship with the Lord, yours will be a job that is no different from others in the world. You will never experience the true joy of serving the Lord and when difficulties and trials come your way, you will easily get discouraged and want to quit.
The word of God encouraged us to "serve the Lord with gladness", "serve the Lord with reverent awe and worshipful fear","... offer to God pleasing service and acceptable worship".
What is teh quality of your service to the King of kings and the Lord of lords who gave Himself to die what you should live? The Lord is asking, "Whom shall I send and who will go for Us?" Like Isaiah, can you say, "Here I am, send me" and "I delight to do His will," like David, and serve Him with your whole heart and entire being?
Be a Christian today in words, deeds and actions.
- Daniel O.C
Friday, 7 November 2008
Sunday, 2 November 2008
9 NOVEMBER 2008
Caleb R.
Peggy Tan
Tian Sia, Phoebe Sim
-
Grace Lee
-
Terry Choong
Anna Sim
-
Meng Fhui
Hiew FF, Tom C.
Peggy Tan
Tian Sia, Phoebe Sim
-
Grace Lee
-
Terry Choong
Anna Sim
-
Meng Fhui
Hiew FF, Tom C.
Letting God Use You
"Are you called to help others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies, so that God will be glorified through Jesus Christ - to Him be glory and power forever and ever. Amen." - 1 Peter 4:11
Isn't it beautiful that God does not make us all conform to one pattern? There is only one way to salvation, but in other ways, such as the way we are introduced to Christ, He deals with each of us as individuals.
In His own healing ministry, Jesus once reached down and made mud and put it on a man's blind eyes. He said, "Go, wash in the pool of Siloam."
Another time, He just spoke the word and a man was healed many miles away. It was discovered later that at the very moment Jesus spoke the word, the man had been healed. On other occasions, He would go into a house and actually touch an individual, as in the case of Peter's mother-in-law.
Peter went one step further than praying in the name of Jesus. He become a point of contact. At the gate called Beautiful, he took a man by the right hand and lifted him up. Immediately, the man's feet and ankle bones received strength and he began to leap and walk.
After the man was healed, he did a terrible thing - he went in and completely disrupted an afternoon prayer service! He seemed to show no respect for the sanctity of the temple at all.
He went in there leaping and jumping and shouting and waving his arms, "I'm healed! I'm healed! I'm healed!"
This man, lame from his mother's womb. now just tore apart the afternoon prayer service! But what was the result? We read in the next chapter of the Bible (Acts 4) that five thousand men were added to the church that day - five thousand because of one miracle!
Not only were those five thousand saved that day but you can imagine the multiplication as they went out and got their relatives, they got their neighbours and brought them into this experience of salvation in Jesus Christ.
There's no telling how many people were won to Christ as a result of that one miracle. None of it would have happened if Peter had just said, "Well, it's just not this time. He does not have the faith. He must have sin in his life. There's something blocking his healing."
But Peter had gone the extra step and was the point of contact for a miracle that brought a great breakthrough to that area.
You must become a point of contact. You must let God use you. You cannot be timid. Christ Jesus' abundant life adds boldness to your personality.
Faith is a fact, but faith is an act. Faith without works is dead!
Be ready to act your faith!
Be a point of contact.
Isn't it beautiful that God does not make us all conform to one pattern? There is only one way to salvation, but in other ways, such as the way we are introduced to Christ, He deals with each of us as individuals.
In His own healing ministry, Jesus once reached down and made mud and put it on a man's blind eyes. He said, "Go, wash in the pool of Siloam."
Another time, He just spoke the word and a man was healed many miles away. It was discovered later that at the very moment Jesus spoke the word, the man had been healed. On other occasions, He would go into a house and actually touch an individual, as in the case of Peter's mother-in-law.
Peter went one step further than praying in the name of Jesus. He become a point of contact. At the gate called Beautiful, he took a man by the right hand and lifted him up. Immediately, the man's feet and ankle bones received strength and he began to leap and walk.
After the man was healed, he did a terrible thing - he went in and completely disrupted an afternoon prayer service! He seemed to show no respect for the sanctity of the temple at all.
He went in there leaping and jumping and shouting and waving his arms, "I'm healed! I'm healed! I'm healed!"
This man, lame from his mother's womb. now just tore apart the afternoon prayer service! But what was the result? We read in the next chapter of the Bible (Acts 4) that five thousand men were added to the church that day - five thousand because of one miracle!
Not only were those five thousand saved that day but you can imagine the multiplication as they went out and got their relatives, they got their neighbours and brought them into this experience of salvation in Jesus Christ.
There's no telling how many people were won to Christ as a result of that one miracle. None of it would have happened if Peter had just said, "Well, it's just not this time. He does not have the faith. He must have sin in his life. There's something blocking his healing."
But Peter had gone the extra step and was the point of contact for a miracle that brought a great breakthrough to that area.
You must become a point of contact. You must let God use you. You cannot be timid. Christ Jesus' abundant life adds boldness to your personality.
Faith is a fact, but faith is an act. Faith without works is dead!
Be ready to act your faith!
Be a point of contact.
MARTHA
Martha
by Max Lucado
Every church needs a Martha. Change that. Every church needs a hundred Marthas. Sleeves rolled and ready, they keep the pace for the church. Because of Marthas, the church budget gets balanced, the church babies get bounced, and the church building gets built. You don’t appreciate Marthas until a Martha is missing, and then all the Marys and Lazaruses are scrambling around looking for the keys and the thermostats and the overhead projectors.
Marthas are the Energizer bunnies of the church. They keep going and going and going. They store strength like a camel stores water. Since they don’t seek the spotlight, they don’t live off the applause. That’s not to say they don’t need it. They just aren’t addicted to it.
Marthas have a mission. In fact, if Marthas have a weakness, it is their tendency to elevate the mission over the Master. Remember when Martha did that? A younger Martha invites a younger Jesus to come for dinner. Jesus accepts and brings his disciples.
The scene Luke describes has Mary seated and Martha fuming. Martha is angry because Mary is, horror of horrors, sitting at the feet of Jesus. How impractical! How irrelevant! How unnecessary! I mean, who has time to sit and listen when there is bread to be baked, tables to be set, and souls to be saved? So Martha complained, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me alone to do all the work? Tell her to help me” (Luke 10:40).
All of a sudden Martha has gone from serving Jesus to making demands of Jesus. The room falls silent. The disciples duck their eyes. Mary flushes red. And Jesus speaks.
“Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things. Only one thing is important. Mary has chosen the better thing, and it will never be taken away from her” (Luke 10:41–42).
Apparently Martha got the point, for later we find her serving again.
“Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume” (John 12:2–3 NIV).
Is Mary in the kitchen? No she is worshiping, for that is what she loves to do. But this time Martha doesn’t object. She has learned that there is a place for praise and worship, and that is what Mary is doing. And what is Mary’s part in the dinner? She brings a pint of very expensive perfume and pours it on Jesus’ feet, then wipes his feet with her hair. The smell of the perfume fills the house, just like the sound of praise can fill a church.
An earlier Martha would have objected. Such an act was too lavish, too extravagant, too generous. But this mature Martha has learned that just as there is a place in the kingdom of God for sacrificial service, there is also a place for extravagant praise.
From
Cast of Characters
© (Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2008) Max Lucado
Now Available
by Max Lucado
Every church needs a Martha. Change that. Every church needs a hundred Marthas. Sleeves rolled and ready, they keep the pace for the church. Because of Marthas, the church budget gets balanced, the church babies get bounced, and the church building gets built. You don’t appreciate Marthas until a Martha is missing, and then all the Marys and Lazaruses are scrambling around looking for the keys and the thermostats and the overhead projectors.
Marthas are the Energizer bunnies of the church. They keep going and going and going. They store strength like a camel stores water. Since they don’t seek the spotlight, they don’t live off the applause. That’s not to say they don’t need it. They just aren’t addicted to it.
Marthas have a mission. In fact, if Marthas have a weakness, it is their tendency to elevate the mission over the Master. Remember when Martha did that? A younger Martha invites a younger Jesus to come for dinner. Jesus accepts and brings his disciples.
The scene Luke describes has Mary seated and Martha fuming. Martha is angry because Mary is, horror of horrors, sitting at the feet of Jesus. How impractical! How irrelevant! How unnecessary! I mean, who has time to sit and listen when there is bread to be baked, tables to be set, and souls to be saved? So Martha complained, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me alone to do all the work? Tell her to help me” (Luke 10:40).
All of a sudden Martha has gone from serving Jesus to making demands of Jesus. The room falls silent. The disciples duck their eyes. Mary flushes red. And Jesus speaks.
“Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things. Only one thing is important. Mary has chosen the better thing, and it will never be taken away from her” (Luke 10:41–42).
Apparently Martha got the point, for later we find her serving again.
“Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume” (John 12:2–3 NIV).
Is Mary in the kitchen? No she is worshiping, for that is what she loves to do. But this time Martha doesn’t object. She has learned that there is a place for praise and worship, and that is what Mary is doing. And what is Mary’s part in the dinner? She brings a pint of very expensive perfume and pours it on Jesus’ feet, then wipes his feet with her hair. The smell of the perfume fills the house, just like the sound of praise can fill a church.
An earlier Martha would have objected. Such an act was too lavish, too extravagant, too generous. But this mature Martha has learned that just as there is a place in the kingdom of God for sacrificial service, there is also a place for extravagant praise.
From
Cast of Characters
© (Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2008) Max Lucado
Now Available
Tuesday, 28 October 2008
YOUR PLACE IN GOD'S BAND
by Max Lucado
Two of my teenage years were spent carrying a tuba in my high school marching band. My mom wanted me to learn to read music, and the choir was full while the band was a tuba-tooter short, so I signed up. Not necessarily what you would describe as a call from God, but it wasn’t a wasted experience either.
I had a date with a twirler.
I learned to paint white shoe polish on school buses.
And I learned some facts about harmony that I’ll pass on to you.
I marched next to the bass-drum player. What a great sound. Boom. Boom. Boom. Deep, cavernous, thundering.
And at the end of my flank marched the flute section. Oh, how their music soared. Whispering, lifting, rising into the clouds.
Ahead of me, at the front of my line, was our first-chair trumpet. He could raise the spirit. He could raise the flag. He could have raised the roof on the stadium if we’d had one.
The soft flute
needs
the brash trumpet
needs
the steady drum
needs
the soft flute
needs
the brash trumpet.
Get the idea? The operative word is need. They need each other.
By themselves they make music. But together, they make magic.
Now, what I saw two decades ago in the band, I see today in the church. We need each other. Not all of us play the same instrument. Some believers are lofty, and others are solid. Some keep the pace while others lead the band. Not all of us make the same sound. Some are soft, and others are loud. And not all of us have the same ability. But each of us has a place.
Some play the drums (like Martha).
Some play the flute (like Mary).
And others sound the trumpet (like Lazarus).
Mary, Martha, and Lazarus were like family to Jesus. After the Lord raised Lazarus from the dead, they decided to give a dinner for Jesus. They decided to honor him by having a party on his behalf (see John 12:2).
They didn’t argue over the best seat. They didn’t resent each other’s abilities. They didn’t try to outdo each other. All three worked together with one purpose. But each one fulfilled that purpose in his or her unique manner. Martha served; she always kept everyone in step. Mary worshiped; she anointed her Lord with an extravagant gift, and its aroma filled the air. Lazarus had a story to tell, and he was ready to tell it.
Three people, each one with a different skill, a different ability. But each one of equal value.
From
Cast of Characters
© (Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2008) Max Lucado
Two of my teenage years were spent carrying a tuba in my high school marching band. My mom wanted me to learn to read music, and the choir was full while the band was a tuba-tooter short, so I signed up. Not necessarily what you would describe as a call from God, but it wasn’t a wasted experience either.
I had a date with a twirler.
I learned to paint white shoe polish on school buses.
And I learned some facts about harmony that I’ll pass on to you.
I marched next to the bass-drum player. What a great sound. Boom. Boom. Boom. Deep, cavernous, thundering.
And at the end of my flank marched the flute section. Oh, how their music soared. Whispering, lifting, rising into the clouds.
Ahead of me, at the front of my line, was our first-chair trumpet. He could raise the spirit. He could raise the flag. He could have raised the roof on the stadium if we’d had one.
The soft flute
needs
the brash trumpet
needs
the steady drum
needs
the soft flute
needs
the brash trumpet.
Get the idea? The operative word is need. They need each other.
By themselves they make music. But together, they make magic.
Now, what I saw two decades ago in the band, I see today in the church. We need each other. Not all of us play the same instrument. Some believers are lofty, and others are solid. Some keep the pace while others lead the band. Not all of us make the same sound. Some are soft, and others are loud. And not all of us have the same ability. But each of us has a place.
Some play the drums (like Martha).
Some play the flute (like Mary).
And others sound the trumpet (like Lazarus).
Mary, Martha, and Lazarus were like family to Jesus. After the Lord raised Lazarus from the dead, they decided to give a dinner for Jesus. They decided to honor him by having a party on his behalf (see John 12:2).
They didn’t argue over the best seat. They didn’t resent each other’s abilities. They didn’t try to outdo each other. All three worked together with one purpose. But each one fulfilled that purpose in his or her unique manner. Martha served; she always kept everyone in step. Mary worshiped; she anointed her Lord with an extravagant gift, and its aroma filled the air. Lazarus had a story to tell, and he was ready to tell it.
Three people, each one with a different skill, a different ability. But each one of equal value.
From
Cast of Characters
© (Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2008) Max Lucado
Sunday, 26 October 2008
2 NOVEMBER 2008
*23rd Church Anniversary*
Barnabas P.
Terry Choong
Richard, Peggy Tan
-
Lydia Sim
Joseph Yap
-
Anna Sim
Nicholas
-
Jocelyn Lee
Manjit Singh, Tommy Quek
Barnabas P.
Terry Choong
Richard, Peggy Tan
-
Lydia Sim
Joseph Yap
-
Anna Sim
Nicholas
-
Jocelyn Lee
Manjit Singh, Tommy Quek
Assured of God's Help
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you. I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. - Isaiah 41:10
Have you ever looked at someone special who has come across your path and wish you shared some kind of fellowship with that person or that you belonged to that particular individual?
The Lord Almighty says to you "... I have called you by your name; you are Mine" (Isaiah 43:1). You are called out, specially chosen, separated from all other people so that you will be the Lord's. And because of that you share a special relationship with your father in Heaven. You are no more an orphan, an outcast person without a name, identity or background. You do not have to look at others with deep longing in your heart and wish that you belonged. You have a belonging, with the Lord God. Your security is in Him.
Loneliness will not plague you neither will you feel that you are an object of scorn if you will fully realize the special relationship that you have been brought into by the blood of Jesus Christ. If the Lord is in all your thoughts and your eyes and mind are set upon Him you will never find that there are hours of boredom in your life. If you seek to separate yourself from every kind of activity to make a special time with the Lord God to build up that special relationship that you have with Him, and to enjoy His presence, you will find that there is never enough time.
In this world where everyone is chasing a great man or woman for an identify or relationship which will not last, the Lord calls out to you that you are His own. "And ye shall be holy unto me for I the Lord am holy and have severed you from other people that ye should be mine" (Leviticus 20:26).
You belong to the Lord, so separated yourself from everyone and everything that will contaminate your life. Will you turn and walk away from all the relationships and attachments of the past that has been destroying you? Will you surrender to the Lord memories that have been holding you in bondage?
Take hold of yourself and go to the feet of the Lord. The Lord God Almighty, the most high God is in the possessor of heaven and earth (Genesis 14:19). Will you give yourself over to Him to be His possession? Know that you have a place in the heart of the Almighty God. It is a place of refuge, a place of shelter, a place which no one can take away and a love which is special which no one break away.
There is your place of belonging which will last all eternity. There is your place of belonging which will last all eternity. There is your place of confidence and rest. Let your heart rest in the blessed love and sweet fellowship that will be yours when you abandon yourself wholly and cast yourself totally into the hands of the Lord.
There is no better resting place than at the feet of the Lord.
- Daniel O.C
Have you ever looked at someone special who has come across your path and wish you shared some kind of fellowship with that person or that you belonged to that particular individual?
The Lord Almighty says to you "... I have called you by your name; you are Mine" (Isaiah 43:1). You are called out, specially chosen, separated from all other people so that you will be the Lord's. And because of that you share a special relationship with your father in Heaven. You are no more an orphan, an outcast person without a name, identity or background. You do not have to look at others with deep longing in your heart and wish that you belonged. You have a belonging, with the Lord God. Your security is in Him.
Loneliness will not plague you neither will you feel that you are an object of scorn if you will fully realize the special relationship that you have been brought into by the blood of Jesus Christ. If the Lord is in all your thoughts and your eyes and mind are set upon Him you will never find that there are hours of boredom in your life. If you seek to separate yourself from every kind of activity to make a special time with the Lord God to build up that special relationship that you have with Him, and to enjoy His presence, you will find that there is never enough time.
In this world where everyone is chasing a great man or woman for an identify or relationship which will not last, the Lord calls out to you that you are His own. "And ye shall be holy unto me for I the Lord am holy and have severed you from other people that ye should be mine" (Leviticus 20:26).
You belong to the Lord, so separated yourself from everyone and everything that will contaminate your life. Will you turn and walk away from all the relationships and attachments of the past that has been destroying you? Will you surrender to the Lord memories that have been holding you in bondage?
Take hold of yourself and go to the feet of the Lord. The Lord God Almighty, the most high God is in the possessor of heaven and earth (Genesis 14:19). Will you give yourself over to Him to be His possession? Know that you have a place in the heart of the Almighty God. It is a place of refuge, a place of shelter, a place which no one can take away and a love which is special which no one break away.
There is your place of belonging which will last all eternity. There is your place of belonging which will last all eternity. There is your place of confidence and rest. Let your heart rest in the blessed love and sweet fellowship that will be yours when you abandon yourself wholly and cast yourself totally into the hands of the Lord.
There is no better resting place than at the feet of the Lord.
- Daniel O.C
Thursday, 23 October 2008
HE IS WAITING IN THE MIDST OF THE STORM
by Max Lucado
Peter knows he is in trouble.
The winds roar down onto the Sea of Galilee like a hawk on a rat. Lightning zigzags across the black sky. The clouds vibrate with thunder. The rain taps, then pops, then slaps against the deck of the boat until everyone aboard is soaked and shaking. Ten-foot waves pick them up and slam them down again with bonejarring force.
These drenched men don’t look like a team of apostles who are only a decade away from changing the world. And you can be sure of one thing. The one with the widest eyes is the one with the biggest biceps—Peter. He’s seen these storms before. He’s seen the wreckage and bloated bodies float to shore. He knows what the fury of wind and wave can do. And he knows that times like this are not times to make a name for yourself; they’re times to get some help.
That is why, when he sees Jesus walking on the water toward the boat, he is the first to say, “Lord, if it’s you … tell me to come to you on the water.” (Matthew 14:28)
He is aware of two facts: He’s going down, and Jesus is staying up. And it doesn’t take him too long to decide where he would rather be.
Perhaps a better interpretation of his request would be, “Jeeeeeeeesus. If that is you, then get me out of here!”
“Come on” is the invitation.
And Peter doesn’t have to be told twice. It’s not every day that you walk on water through waves that are taller than you are. But when faced with the alternative of sure death or possible life, Peter knows which one he wants.
The first few steps go well. But a few strides out onto the water, and he forgets to look to the One who got him there in the first place, and down he plunges.
Peter’s response may lack class—it probably wouldn’t get him on the cover of Gentleman’s Quarterly or even Sports Illustrated—but it gets him out of some deep water:
“Help me!”
And since Peter would rather swallow pride than water, a hand comes through the rain and pulls him up.
The message is clear.
As long as Jesus is one of many options, he is no option. As long as you can carry your burdens alone, you don’t need a burden bearer. As long as your situation brings you no grief, you will receive no comfort. And as long as you can take him or leave him, you might as well leave him, because he won’t be taken half-heartedly.
But when you mourn, when you get to the point of sorrow for your sins, when you admit that you have no other option but to cast all your cares on him, and when there is truly no other name that you can call, then cast all your cares on him, for he is waiting in the midst of the storm.
From
The Applause of Heaven
© (Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1999) Max Lucado
Peter knows he is in trouble.
The winds roar down onto the Sea of Galilee like a hawk on a rat. Lightning zigzags across the black sky. The clouds vibrate with thunder. The rain taps, then pops, then slaps against the deck of the boat until everyone aboard is soaked and shaking. Ten-foot waves pick them up and slam them down again with bonejarring force.
These drenched men don’t look like a team of apostles who are only a decade away from changing the world. And you can be sure of one thing. The one with the widest eyes is the one with the biggest biceps—Peter. He’s seen these storms before. He’s seen the wreckage and bloated bodies float to shore. He knows what the fury of wind and wave can do. And he knows that times like this are not times to make a name for yourself; they’re times to get some help.
That is why, when he sees Jesus walking on the water toward the boat, he is the first to say, “Lord, if it’s you … tell me to come to you on the water.” (Matthew 14:28)
He is aware of two facts: He’s going down, and Jesus is staying up. And it doesn’t take him too long to decide where he would rather be.
Perhaps a better interpretation of his request would be, “Jeeeeeeeesus. If that is you, then get me out of here!”
“Come on” is the invitation.
And Peter doesn’t have to be told twice. It’s not every day that you walk on water through waves that are taller than you are. But when faced with the alternative of sure death or possible life, Peter knows which one he wants.
The first few steps go well. But a few strides out onto the water, and he forgets to look to the One who got him there in the first place, and down he plunges.
Peter’s response may lack class—it probably wouldn’t get him on the cover of Gentleman’s Quarterly or even Sports Illustrated—but it gets him out of some deep water:
“Help me!”
And since Peter would rather swallow pride than water, a hand comes through the rain and pulls him up.
The message is clear.
As long as Jesus is one of many options, he is no option. As long as you can carry your burdens alone, you don’t need a burden bearer. As long as your situation brings you no grief, you will receive no comfort. And as long as you can take him or leave him, you might as well leave him, because he won’t be taken half-heartedly.
But when you mourn, when you get to the point of sorrow for your sins, when you admit that you have no other option but to cast all your cares on him, and when there is truly no other name that you can call, then cast all your cares on him, for he is waiting in the midst of the storm.
From
The Applause of Heaven
© (Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1999) Max Lucado
Sunday, 19 October 2008
26 OCTOBER 2008
Dr. Siow KW
Foong Yee
Hong Lu, Richard, Gigi Lim
-
Jun Fhui
Meng Fhui
-
Terry Choong
Kai Yew
-
Moses Tan
Tom C., Hiew FF
Foong Yee
Hong Lu, Richard, Gigi Lim
-
Jun Fhui
Meng Fhui
-
Terry Choong
Kai Yew
-
Moses Tan
Tom C., Hiew FF
Reaching Beyond Our Grasp
"Where there is no revelation (or prophetic vision), the people cast off restraint." - Proverbs 29:18
There is a difference between holding on to a principle and having a vision. A principle does not come from moral inspiration, but a vision does. People who are totally consumed with idealistic principles rarely do anything. A person's own idea of God and His attributes may actually be used to justify and rationalize his deliberate neglect of his duty. Jonah tried to excuse his disobedience by saying to God. ".. I know that You are a gracious and merciful God, slow to anger and abundant in loving kindness, One who relents from doing harm" (John 4:2). I too may have the right idea of God and his attributes, but that may be the very reason why I do not do my duty. But wherever there is vision, there is also a life of honesty and integrity, because the vision gives me the moral incentive.
Our own idealistic principles may actually lull us into ruin. Examine yourself spiritually to see if you have vision, or only principles.
Ah, but a man's reach should exceed his grasp, or what's a heaven for?
"Where there is no revelation (or prophetic vision).." Once we lose sight of God, we begin to be reckless. We cast off certain restraints from activities we know are wrong. We set prayer aside as well and cease having God's vision in the little things of life. We simply begin to act on own initiative. If we are eating only out of our own hand, and doing things solely on our own initiative without expecting God to come in, we are on a downward path. We have lost the vision. Is our attitude today an attitude that flows from our vision of God? Are we expecting God to do greater things than He has ever dine before? Is there a freshness and a vitality in our spiritual outlook?
"I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision". - Acts 26:19
"It is essential that we live and 'walk in the light' of God's vision for us." - 1 John 1:7
There is a difference between holding on to a principle and having a vision. A principle does not come from moral inspiration, but a vision does. People who are totally consumed with idealistic principles rarely do anything. A person's own idea of God and His attributes may actually be used to justify and rationalize his deliberate neglect of his duty. Jonah tried to excuse his disobedience by saying to God. ".. I know that You are a gracious and merciful God, slow to anger and abundant in loving kindness, One who relents from doing harm" (John 4:2). I too may have the right idea of God and his attributes, but that may be the very reason why I do not do my duty. But wherever there is vision, there is also a life of honesty and integrity, because the vision gives me the moral incentive.
Our own idealistic principles may actually lull us into ruin. Examine yourself spiritually to see if you have vision, or only principles.
Ah, but a man's reach should exceed his grasp, or what's a heaven for?
"Where there is no revelation (or prophetic vision).." Once we lose sight of God, we begin to be reckless. We cast off certain restraints from activities we know are wrong. We set prayer aside as well and cease having God's vision in the little things of life. We simply begin to act on own initiative. If we are eating only out of our own hand, and doing things solely on our own initiative without expecting God to come in, we are on a downward path. We have lost the vision. Is our attitude today an attitude that flows from our vision of God? Are we expecting God to do greater things than He has ever dine before? Is there a freshness and a vitality in our spiritual outlook?
"I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision". - Acts 26:19
"It is essential that we live and 'walk in the light' of God's vision for us." - 1 John 1:7
Saturday, 18 October 2008
HE CAN HEAL THE HURT
by Max Lucado
Grudge is one of those words that defines itself. Its very sound betrays its meaning.
Say it slowly: “Grr-uuuud-ge.”
It starts with a growl. “Grr …” Like a bear with bad breath coming out of hibernation or a mangy mongrel defending his bone in an alley. “Grrr …”
Remove a GR from the word grudge and replace it with SL and you have the junk that grudge bearers trudge through. Sludge. Black, thick, ankle-deep resentment that steals the bounce from the step. No joyful skips through the meadows. No healthy hikes up the mountain. Just day after day of walking into the storm, shoulders bent against the wind, and feet dragging through all the muck life has delivered.
Is this the way you are coping with your hurts? Are you allowing your hurts to turn into hates? If so, ask yourself: Is it working? Has your hatred done you any good? Has your resentment brought you any relief, any peace? Has it granted you any joy?
Let’s say you get even. Let’s say you get him back. Let’s say she gets what she deserves. Let’s say your fantasy of fury runs its ferocious course and you return all your pain with interest. Imagine yourself standing over the corpse of the one you have hated. Will you now be free?
The writer of the following letter thought she would be. She thought her revenge would bring release. But she learned otherwise.
"I caught my husband making love to another woman. He swore it would never happen again. He begged me to forgive him, but I could not—would not. I was so bitter and so incapable of swallowing my pride that I could think of nothing but revenge. I was going to make him pay and pay dearly. I’d have my pound of flesh.
I filed for divorce, even though my children begged me not to.
Even after the divorce, my husband tried for two years to win me back. I refused to have anything to do with him. He had struck first; now I was striking back. All I wanted was to make him pay.
Finally he gave up and married a lovely young widow with a couple of small children. He began rebuilding his life—without me.
I see them occasionally, and he looks so happy. They all do. And here I am—a lonely, old, miserable woman who allowed her selfish pride and foolish stubbornness to ruin her life."
Unfaithfulness is wrong. Revenge is bad. But the worst part of all is that, without forgiveness, bitterness is all that is left.
The state of your heart dictates whether you harbor a grudge or give grace, seek self-pity or seek Christ, drink human misery or taste God’s mercy.
No wonder, then, the wise man begs, “Above all else, guard your heart.”
David’s prayer should be ours: “Create in me a pure heart, O God.”
From
The Applause of Heaven
© (Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1999) Max Lucado
Grudge is one of those words that defines itself. Its very sound betrays its meaning.
Say it slowly: “Grr-uuuud-ge.”
It starts with a growl. “Grr …” Like a bear with bad breath coming out of hibernation or a mangy mongrel defending his bone in an alley. “Grrr …”
Remove a GR from the word grudge and replace it with SL and you have the junk that grudge bearers trudge through. Sludge. Black, thick, ankle-deep resentment that steals the bounce from the step. No joyful skips through the meadows. No healthy hikes up the mountain. Just day after day of walking into the storm, shoulders bent against the wind, and feet dragging through all the muck life has delivered.
Is this the way you are coping with your hurts? Are you allowing your hurts to turn into hates? If so, ask yourself: Is it working? Has your hatred done you any good? Has your resentment brought you any relief, any peace? Has it granted you any joy?
Let’s say you get even. Let’s say you get him back. Let’s say she gets what she deserves. Let’s say your fantasy of fury runs its ferocious course and you return all your pain with interest. Imagine yourself standing over the corpse of the one you have hated. Will you now be free?
The writer of the following letter thought she would be. She thought her revenge would bring release. But she learned otherwise.
"I caught my husband making love to another woman. He swore it would never happen again. He begged me to forgive him, but I could not—would not. I was so bitter and so incapable of swallowing my pride that I could think of nothing but revenge. I was going to make him pay and pay dearly. I’d have my pound of flesh.
I filed for divorce, even though my children begged me not to.
Even after the divorce, my husband tried for two years to win me back. I refused to have anything to do with him. He had struck first; now I was striking back. All I wanted was to make him pay.
Finally he gave up and married a lovely young widow with a couple of small children. He began rebuilding his life—without me.
I see them occasionally, and he looks so happy. They all do. And here I am—a lonely, old, miserable woman who allowed her selfish pride and foolish stubbornness to ruin her life."
Unfaithfulness is wrong. Revenge is bad. But the worst part of all is that, without forgiveness, bitterness is all that is left.
The state of your heart dictates whether you harbor a grudge or give grace, seek self-pity or seek Christ, drink human misery or taste God’s mercy.
No wonder, then, the wise man begs, “Above all else, guard your heart.”
David’s prayer should be ours: “Create in me a pure heart, O God.”
From
The Applause of Heaven
© (Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1999) Max Lucado
Wednesday, 15 October 2008
Prophetic Ministry in The New Testament
DATE: Saturday 18th to Sunday 19th October 2008
VENUE: English Church Sanctuary,
SPEAKER: Pastor Beniah Naresh
- He is in ordained ministry for the last 15 years.
- He exercises a teaching ministry with a prophetic edge.
- He holds a Bachelors Degree in Financial Accounting, Masters in Business Administration, and Masters in - Theology.
- He has ministered to churches, conferences, camps and public meetings in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United States.
- He ministers fluently in English and Bahasa Malaysia/Indonesia.
- He is the author of the book, Speak Lord, for Your Servant Hears.
SESSIONS AND TOPICS
Saturday, 18 October 2008:
Session 1: 7.15pm to 8.45pm
a) Prophetic Church or Prophetic Personalities?
b) New Testament Prophetic Office: A Chip Off the Block?
Sessions 2: 9.00pm to 10.30pm
a) What is New Testament Prophetic Ministry?
b) The Difference Between Prophetic Gift and Prophetic Office
Sunday, 19 October 2008
Session 3: 9.00am to 11.00am
a) Incorporating Prophetic Ministry in the Local Church
b) Mature Exercise of Prophetic Ministry
Session 4: 11.30am to 1.00pm
a) Sharpening The Prophetic Gift
b) Questions and Answers.
VENUE: English Church Sanctuary,
SPEAKER: Pastor Beniah Naresh
- He is in ordained ministry for the last 15 years.
- He exercises a teaching ministry with a prophetic edge.
- He holds a Bachelors Degree in Financial Accounting, Masters in Business Administration, and Masters in - Theology.
- He has ministered to churches, conferences, camps and public meetings in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United States.
- He ministers fluently in English and Bahasa Malaysia/Indonesia.
- He is the author of the book, Speak Lord, for Your Servant Hears.
SESSIONS AND TOPICS
Saturday, 18 October 2008:
Session 1: 7.15pm to 8.45pm
a) Prophetic Church or Prophetic Personalities?
b) New Testament Prophetic Office: A Chip Off the Block?
Sessions 2: 9.00pm to 10.30pm
a) What is New Testament Prophetic Ministry?
b) The Difference Between Prophetic Gift and Prophetic Office
Sunday, 19 October 2008
Session 3: 9.00am to 11.00am
a) Incorporating Prophetic Ministry in the Local Church
b) Mature Exercise of Prophetic Ministry
Session 4: 11.30am to 1.00pm
a) Sharpening The Prophetic Gift
b) Questions and Answers.
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